Saamoi Champions Youth Economic Inclusion Initiative

Henry F. Saamoi, Executive Governor of the Central Bank of Liberia, has described youth inclusion in economic governance as “a national necessity” during the official launch of the Liberia National Student Economic Hub at the University of Liberia in Monrovia.

Speaking at the launch ceremony on May 19, 2026, Governor Saamoi praised the initiative as a timely and strategic platform designed to place young Liberians at the center of national economic discussions, innovation, and solution-building efforts.

The launch event brought together students, government officials, development partners, academics, and stakeholders under the theme, “Collaborating for Solutions: Youth Perspectives on Liberia’s Economic Future.”

Addressing participants, Governor Saamoi stressed that Liberia’s youthful population should be viewed as one of the country’s greatest economic advantages rather than a developmental burden.

“More than 60 percent of Liberia’s population is under the age of 35, making our youth not only a demographic reality but a decisive economic force. Young people must not only be viewed as future leaders, but as present contributors to economic policy, innovation, entrepreneurship, and national development,” he added.

According to organizers, the Liberia National Student Economic Hub seeks to promote youth participation in economic governance, policy awareness, innovation, and collaborative problem-solving as Liberia pursues inclusive and sustainable economic transformation.

Governor Saamoi emphasized that initiatives such as LNESH are increasingly important amid global economic uncertainty and rapidly evolving financial systems.

He pointed to mounting international challenges including inflationary pressures, climate vulnerabilities, technological disruptions, and shifting global financial trends as reasons why Liberia must invest more heavily in youth engagement and economic preparedness.

The Central Bank Governor also highlighted several ongoing reforms being implemented by the Central Bank of Liberia aimed at modernizing the country’s financial system.

According to him, the Bank is currently strengthening payment systems, expanding digital financial services, promoting financial literacy, and deepening financial inclusion across Liberia.

Saamoi further disclosed that efforts are underway to improve access to financing opportunities for young entrepreneurs, innovators, and small businesses as part of broader economic empowerment strategies.

He stressed that the ultimate goal is to build a modern, inclusive, and technology-driven financial system capable of supporting long-term economic resilience and opportunity creation nationwide.

The Governor commended the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning for supporting the initiative and acknowledged the presence and contributions of several international development partners. Among the institutions recognized were the World Bank, United Nations Development Programme, European Union, and the African Development Bank.

Saamoi noted that collaboration between government institutions, development partners, and academic communities remains essential to preparing Liberia’s next generation of economic leaders and policymakers.

Economic analysts say youth empowerment and skills development have increasingly become central priorities for Liberia as authorities seek to address unemployment, economic vulnerability, and limited professional opportunities for young people.

Liberia continues to face significant development challenges, including infrastructure deficits, fiscal pressures, and limited access to quality employment opportunities for its growing youth population.

Public policy experts argue that involving young people in economic planning and governance processes can help strengthen innovation, improve policy responsiveness, and promote long-term national stability.

Observers also note that the growing emphasis on digital finance and financial inclusion reflects broader efforts across Africa to modernize banking systems and expand economic participation through technology-driven solutions.

For many students attending the launch, the Liberia National Student Economic Hub represents a rare opportunity to directly engage with policymakers, financial experts, and development institutions on issues affecting Liberia’s economic future.

As Liberia continues to pursue economic recovery and institutional strengthening, officials say empowering young people with knowledge, innovation skills, and leadership opportunities will remain critical to achieving sustainable national development.

Participants described the initiative as both educational and inspirational, particularly for students seeking careers in economics, finance, entrepreneurship, and public policy.