Humanitarian Urges Duty-Free Aid

Aryea Kolubah, a Liberian humanitarian and CEO of the Help for A Million Project, is calling on the Government of Liberia (GoL) to grant duty-free privileges for charitable shipments sent by Liberians, particularly those in the diaspora engaged in humanitarian work.

Kolubah made the appeal during a donation dedication ceremony, highlighting the growing challenges faced by Liberians abroad seeking to support vulnerable communities back home.

“High duties, bureaucratic hurdles, and lack of clear information make it difficult for us to deliver assistance effectively. Those of us working to help the needy are motivated by duty, not profit,” Kolubah said.

The humanitarian emphasized that easing shipment processes would encourage more Liberians overseas to participate in charitable efforts and strengthen ties with local communities in need.

Kolubah cautioned that without a favorable policy environment, the momentum of diaspora giving could decline.

“If these barriers persist, we risk losing a vital connection between Liberians abroad and those they aim to support,” he warned.

The donation event, organized by the Help for A Million Project, was warmly received by representatives of the 15 beneficiary organizations, who expressed deep appreciation for the support.

“These items are essential for our daily operations and the care of the vulnerable groups we serve,” said one institutional representative, noting that the assistance directly impacts children, families, and marginalized communities.

Kolubah’s call to action underscores the critical role of the Liberian diaspora in sustaining humanitarian initiatives, especially amid the country’s ongoing development challenges.

Since its inception in 2024, Help for A Million has conducted 22 humanitarian projects valued at over $300,000, demonstrating consistent commitment to supporting local communities.

The latest donation drive is valued at $200,000 and targets 15 non-profit organizations, including orphanages, schools, and rehabilitation centers, providing essential supplies such as food, clothing, footwear, and computers.

Among the beneficiaries are the Boys and Girls Club, My Brother’s Keeper Orphanage, and Wisdom International School in Margibi County.

Kolubah stressed that removing excessive fees and bureaucratic barriers is not merely an administrative issue but a moral imperative to support those in need.

“Diaspora Liberians are a lifeline for many vulnerable people. Facilitating their efforts will multiply the impact of humanitarian aid across the country,” he said.

Officials from the receiving organizations noted that the donations would directly improve operational efficiency, education access, and welfare services for their communities.

Kolubah also highlighted the importance of government recognition and support for individuals and organizations that contribute to national development through charitable work.

“Policies that ease the flow of humanitarian shipments will encourage more donations, increase transparency, and ensure that aid reaches the intended recipients promptly,” he said.

The Help for A Million Project’s consistent outreach demonstrates the potential of public-private collaboration in addressing social needs and alleviating poverty in Liberia.

Kolubah concluded by reiterating his appeal to the government to create an enabling environment for humanitarian shipments, emphasizing that such measures would strengthen the impact of the diaspora and support the country’s most vulnerable populations.

With ongoing development challenges and a growing reliance on diaspora contributions, Kolubah’s advocacy highlights the urgent need for Liberia to reform shipment and duty policies for charitable initiatives.