Nairobi, Kenya– Liberia stood tall among African nations this week as policymakers, development partners and youth leaders gathered in Nairobi for the Jobs for Youth in Africa Community of Practice (COP) 2026.
By Jaheim T. [email protected]
The high-level forum, hosted by the World Bank in collaboration with Kenya’s State Department for Youth Affairs and Creative Economy, became a stage for Liberia to highlight its progress in tackling youth unemployment while calling for stronger continental partnerships.
Representing Liberia, Deputy Youth and Sports Minister Alphonso Belleh underscored the transformative impact of the Recovery of Economic Activity for Liberian Informal Sector Employment (REALISE) Project.
Funded by the World Bank at US$10.6 million, the initiative has already generated more than 30,000 direct jobs in 2025, targeting vulnerable groups in the informal sector battered by the COVID-19 crisis. With its focus on small business grants, temporary employment, and agricultural support, REALISE is projected to reach 45,650 individuals by 2027.
Belleh described the project as a “major step toward unlocking the potential of Liberia’s young workforce,” emphasizing that entrepreneurship and skills development are central to the country’s recovery and growth.
Liberia’s delegation also unveiled an ambitious new initiative – the Youth Empowerment Zone, a digital platform designed to connect young people with jobs, training, and mentorship.
The platform aims to prepare Liberia’s youth for a labor market increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence and digital technologies.
Delegates explained that the platform will serve as an interactive hub where young Liberians can access opportunities, engage with national programs, and contribute to development initiatives.
The vision is clear: ensure that Liberia’s youth are not left behind as global employment patterns shift toward innovation and technology.
Beyond digital skills, Liberia pressed for expanded collaboration with the World Bank to strengthen its creative industry sector. Belleh argued that music, film, fashion, digital media, and cultural arts hold immense potential to generate sustainable jobs while promoting Liberia’s cultural identity.
This call resonated with discussions across the forum, where delegations from Kenya, Ghana, Mali, and Ethiopia shared strategies for integrating innovation into national job creation policies.
The Nairobi gathering also marked a symbolic transition, as Kenya assumed chairmanship of the Jobs for Youth in Africa COP from Rwanda, reinforcing the collective commitment of African nations to tackle youth unemployment.
Liberia used the opportunity to deepen ties with fellow countries, positioning itself as an active partner in continental youth development.
The delegation expressed gratitude to the World Bank and the REALISE Project team for supporting Liberia’s participation, while acknowledging the leadership of Minister Cornelia Kruah, who entrusted the team to represent the nation at this international stage.
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