Monrovia/Paris – Liberia and France have agreed on an ambitious roadmap to deepen cooperation in youth empowerment and sports development, following high-level talks between Cornelia Wonkerleh Kruah and Marina Ferrari in Paris.
The April 30, 2026 meeting, held at the French Ministry of Sports, Youth and Community Life, reaffirmed growing bilateral ties and set the stage for implementing a cooperation agreement signed in October 2025. The pact aligns with the broader vision of Presidents Joseph Nyuma Boakai and Emmanuel Macron to expand collaboration across key sectors.
Joint Working Group, Exchange Program
At the center of the discussions was the decision to establish a Joint Technical Working Group comprising officials from both countries. The body will identify priority areas and drive implementation of joint initiatives in youth and sports.
Both sides also committed to launching a Youth and Sports Exchange Program, aimed at promoting cultural exchange, skills development, and capacity building for young people and sports professionals in Liberia and France.
Funding and Infrastructure Development
France signaled plans to engage the French Development Agency to explore funding opportunities, particularly for sports-related projects in Liberia. Focus areas include improving infrastructure in schools and communities.
Liberia was encouraged to continue developing a comprehensive national sports infrastructure strategy, prioritizing equitable access to facilities across counties and ensuring sustainable maintenance plans—with targeted support expected from France.
Boosting Participation, Women in Sports
The two countries also agreed to promote greater youth participation in sports, balancing traditional athletics with the rising popularity of digital sports and esports.
Advancing women’s participation emerged as a key priority, with both governments pledging to share expertise and best practices to expand opportunities for women and girls in sports.
Potential Entry into HAVOBA Program
France further indicated its openness to including Liberia in the next phase of the HAVOBA (Handball, Volleyball, Basketball) program—an initiative that could position Liberia among the first English-speaking African countries to benefit.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
In a sign of strengthening relations, Minister Ferrari accepted an invitation to visit Liberia, with a formal invitation expected soon.
Officials say the outcomes of the Paris meeting mark a significant step toward translating diplomatic engagement into concrete action, with both nations committing to empower youth and advance sports development for mutual benefit.
