President Joseph Boakai, Liberia’s septuagenarian leader, has once again embarked on an international engagement, this time attending the 2024 World Food Forum in Rome, Italy. The event is hosted by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
Concerns over President Boakai’s ability to travel frequently, due to his age, were raised during the 2023 General Elections. Many questioned whether the former Vice President, now President, would have the stamina to represent Liberia on the global stage.
At the outset of his presidency, Boakai was notably absent from key international events, including the African Union and ECOWAS Summits, both held in February. His conspicuous absence from these high-level meetings, without any official explanation, sparked concerns about his health and fitness for the demanding role of head of state.
However, those concerns seem to have eased as the President has since engaged in multiple international trips during his first year in office. His trip to Rome follows recent visits to China, South Korea, and his participation in the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.
According to reports from Rome, President Boakai was received with full honors upon his arrival, greeted by members of the Italian government, Vatican officials, including Head of Protocol Javier D. Fernander, FAO’s representative to Liberia Bintia Stephen Techcaya, and Liberia’s Ambassador to Italy, Andrew Kronyanh, along with a team from the Liberian Embassy.
Accompanying President Boakai are several senior government officials, including Minister of Agriculture Alexander Nuetah, Minister of Information Jerolimek Piah, and Chief of Protocol Ambassador Antoinette Wolo, along with staff from the Ministry of State for Presidential Affairs.
During the World Food Forum, President Boakai is scheduled to deliver a keynote address, highlighting Liberia’s commitment to global food security and its efforts in agricultural development. He is also set to meet with key international leaders, including the Director-General of FAO and the heads of the World Food Programme (WFP) and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).
In addition to his engagements at the forum, the President’s itinerary includes a meeting with Pope Francis and Italy’s Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni. Discussions are expected to focus on Italy’s “Piano Mattei” initiative for Africa. Before his return to Liberia, President Boakai will also meet with the Liberian community in Italy and participate in World Food Day celebrations on October 16.
As the President tours the World over, there are multiple domestic unresolved issues back Home. The selection of a head of the Office of War Crimes, Assets Recovery, Corruption Allegations over Past and Present Government Officials, Bad Roads, and most importantly the harsh economic conditions Liberians are facing. It is the optimism of many Liberians that these issues will be addressed before the close of next year.
