Monrovia – The newly inducted President of the Concerned Liberian International Business Organization (COLINBO), Moses Chayee, has named bureaucracy, the inconsistent enforcement of laws and corruption as main factors strangulating the growth and development of Liberian-owned businesses operating in the country.
By Obediah Johnson
Founded in 2005, COLINBO unites indigenous Liberian entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals across the 15 counties in Liberia. It continues to serve as a beacon of hope, a platform for advocacy, and a force for national development.
Speaking during an induction ceremony held in Monrovia over the weekend, Chayee stated that these regulatory and governance issues are impediments creating an uncertain business climate in Liberia.
He added that the lack of access to finance and infrastructure deficiencies are additional issues hampering the growth and development of Liberian owned-businesses.
He disclosed that limited access to credit, high interest rates, and underdeveloped capital markets have stifled Liberian businesses.
Chayee maintained that poor road networks, unreliable electricity, and inefficient ports continue to raise operating costs.
He said from arbitrary tariffs to unreliable infrastructure, Liberian businesses carry burdens that foreign competitors often do not.
He observed that investor confidence continues to be undermined, while illicit financial flows continue to drain national wealth.
Chayee termed it a “national crisis” World Bank’s 2018 Report, which amongst other things, claimed that “the Liberian economy remains largely foreign-owned, with limited indigenous participation in major sectors such as commerce, construction, and extractives.”
He pointed out that the Liberian economy cannot grow in silence, noting that, “we must be a strong voice for our members.”
Chayee observed that despite these obstacles, COLINBO would navigate financial obstacles through creative funding strategies—microfinance, impact investment, and better-prepared business plans.
He said the institution would mitigate infrastructure limitations by embracing renewable energy, improving logistics, and using technology to overcome physical barriers.
He vowed to address regulatory complexities by engaging government, demanding transparency, and building partnerships that foster accountability.
“We will work closely with government and international partners to push for policies that remove barriers, lower the cost of doing business, strengthen infrastructure, and create a fair and transparent operating environment.”
Chayee maintained that CONLINBO would also
build resilience and capacity by training its workforce, diversifying supply chains, and preparing for risks.
According to him, the organization would embrace partnerships and technology by forming alliances, leveraging innovation, and expanding into global markets.
“I make a passionate appeal to the Government of Liberia and to our development partners: support Liberian-owned businesses not with rhetoric, but with policies, programs, and finance that make real impact. Create an enabling environment where Liberians are not spectators, but architects and beneficiaries of wealth creation in their own land.”
Chayee observed that the future of Liberia’s economy cannot be outsourced, but must be built by Liberians, for Liberians, with Liberians at the center of enterprise and innovation
Speaking further, Chayee committed to strengthen COLINBO as a bridge between the private sector, government, and international partners; to champion policies that empower Liberian-owned businesses; and to create opportunities that uplift Liberians, especially women and youth, in enterprise and innovation.
He added that his vision would rest on defining pillars including Unity, Growth, and Advocacy.
“Our collective strength is far greater than the sum of our individual efforts. When we speak with one voice, our message resonates with clarity and power. COLINBO will foster collaboration between small, medium, and large businesses, creating platforms for mentorship, networking, and shared learning. Let us rise beyond competition and embrace cooperation, for when one Liberian business succeeds, we all succeed.”
Chayee observed that the global economy is evolving at a rapid pace, and Liberia must not be left behind.
He, however, vowed to support start-ups and entrepreneurs, embrace innovation and digital transformation, and open new markets for Liberian goods and services both at home and abroad.
He maintained that COLINBO will work to ensure that every member has access to the tools, resources, and knowledge needed to thrive in the modern marketplace.
“ I pledge to lead with transparency, accountability, and action-oriented leadership.
Together, we will build a stronger, more united COLINBO—one that not only delivers value to its members, but also contributes meaningfully to the transformation of Liberia’s private sector.”
He said Liberia’s future will not be written by chance, but by choice and it will be defined by the boldness of entrepreneurs, the wisdom of policymakers, and the unity of our people.
“Let us therefore rise to this challenge—with COLINBO serving as a catalyst for progress, prosperity, and pride in Liberian business.”
Meanwhile, those inducted to steer the affairs of COLINBO include: Mr. Michael K. Johnson (Vice President for Administration), Mr. George W. Kumakeh (Vice President for Operations), Mr. Kusee L. Armstrong (Secretary) and Abigail Todd (Financial Secretary).
Others are: Cita Willie (Treasurer), Rev. Jason F. Cassell, Mr. John Beyan Sumo and Ansu V. Trawally.
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