MONROVIA, LIBERIA – The American Business Association in Liberia, Inc. (ABAIL) inducted its newly elected officers and Board of Directors on Thursday, August 20, 2026, at the Royal Grand Hotel, marking a renewed chapter in the Association’s efforts to strengthen commercial relations between Liberia and the United States.
Led by President Abraham Avi Zaidenberg, the newly inducted leadership will guide ABAIL as it rebuilds its institutional presence, expands its membership, develops partnerships, and advocates for an enabling business and investment environment in Liberia.
The ceremony, held under the theme “Building Bridges, Creating Opportunities, Strengthening U.S.-Liberia Business for a Prosperous Future,” brought together senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, business leaders, development partners, ABAIL members, and other representatives of Liberia’s private sector.
Originally established in 2001, ABAIL previously served as a platform for strengthening commercial relations between Liberia and the United States. After a period of inactivity, the Association has been reestablished to renew that mission and respond to the evolving needs of American-linked businesses operating in Liberia.
The officers inducted during the ceremony were Abraham Avi Zaidenberg, President; Robena Lewis-Vincent, Vice President; Samuel Mbock, Secretary General; Benjamin O. Solanke, Treasurer; and Josephine N. Dunbar, Financial Secretary.
The Association’s seven-member Board of Directors is led by Henrique Caine, Chair; William Saamoi, Jr., Vice Chair; and Tupin Morgan, Secretary. The other members of the Board are Daniel Dogba, Laureine Guilao, George Wallace, and Giorgio Haddad.
In his induction address, President Zaidenberg said ABAIL’s return represents more than the installation of a leadership team. It signals the renewal of an institution committed to expanding commercial ties, encouraging responsible investment, and creating opportunities for Liberian and American businesses.
“ABAIL will serve as a bridge, connecting Liberian businesses with American businesses, linking investors with opportunities, and fostering meaningful dialogue between the private sector and government,” Zaidenberg said. “We believe that strong partnerships create stronger economies, and that when businesses grow responsibly, communities prosper.”
President Zaidenberg pledged that ABAIL will serve as a trusted and constructive partner to the Government of Liberia by supporting initiatives that improve the investment climate, create jobs, empower entrepreneurs, and promote sustainable economic growth.
He also called on ABAIL’s leadership and membership to build an institution known for integrity, professionalism, innovation, and service while supporting small and medium-sized enterprises, mentoring emerging business leaders, and promoting responsible private-sector leadership.
“Let us build bridges where others see barriers. Let us create opportunities where others see challenges. And let us strengthen the partnership between Liberia and the United States in ways that promote investment, create jobs, and improve the lives of our people,” Zaidenberg said.
ABAIL will promote trade, investment, and commercial relations between Liberia and the United States; advocate for the interests of its members; and facilitate dialogue among businesses, government institutions, development partners, and other stakeholders. The Association will also support responsible business practices, workforce development, innovation, corporate social responsibility, and sustainable private-sector growth.
The occasion was also graced by Vice President Jeremiah Koung, who, in a brief statement, wished for stronger business ties and cooperation between Liberia and America.
Delivering the keynote address, Liberia’s Minister of Finance and Development Planning, Hon. Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan, underscored ABAIL’s importance to Liberia’s economic growth and described the Association as a tangible representation of the longstanding friendship between Liberia and the United States.
“The establishment of the American Business Association in Liberia, and the subsequent induction of its inaugural leadership, is a manifestation of America’s and its people’s perennial support and commitment to efforts aimed at spurring growth and boosting trade and commerce in Liberia,” Minister Ngafuan said. “Congratulations to ABAIL, congratulations to Mr. Zaidenberg, and congratulations to the entire leadership and membership. Let us work together, moving hand in hand, for Liberia’s economic viability.”
The induction marks a renewed chapter for ABAIL and its members. Through collaboration, advocacy, policy dialogue, and practical initiatives, the Association aims to expand commercial opportunities and contribute to Liberia’s sustainable economic development.
About ABAIL
The American Business Association in Liberia, Inc. (ABAIL) is a non-governmental, non-political, and non-sectarian private-sector organization that promotes U.S.-Liberia trade and investment, member collaboration, business advocacy, policy dialogue, responsible corporate citizenship, and sustainable private-sector development.
