MONROVIA, LIBERIA-The United States Government, through its mission near Monrovia, has handed over several materials to the Ministry of National Defense.

The materials which worth over one-hundred-thousand United States Dollars, include spare parts and engines, and are to be used by the Coast Guards of Liberia for marine operations.

During the presentation on Thursday, June 17, 2021, US Ambassador Michael McCarthy said:” The equipment are intended to increase the operation readiness of the Liberian Coast Guard.”

Ambassador McCarthy said that improving the Liberian Coast Guard fleet, the US Government hopes its contribution will be towards the long time success of an important Liberian Force for good.

He said the US Government remains committed to continuing the development of a stronger Coast Guard that is capable of patrolling and protecting all of Liberia’s territorial waters.

Ambassador McCarthy, however, said:” The US Government looks to the Government of Liberia to reciprocate the US investment, by providing sufficient funding to operate the patrol crafts and equipment provided.”

He further urged the Liberian Government to backfill the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) with new recruits, to cover any gap created in the force.

Meanwhile, the Chief of Office Staff of the AFL, Major General Prince C. Johnson III, has praised the continuous partnership of the US Government aimed at improving the Liberia Army.

Major General Johnson said:” The provision of the equipment will further strengthen and increase the ability of the Liberian Coast Guard in combating maritime crimes.”

For his part, Deputy Defense Minister for Operations, Prince Vincent, wants the US Government provide more training opportunities for personnel of the Liberian Maritime, the Coast Guard, and the Armed Forces of Liberia.

Deputy Minister Vincent further appealed for the reactivation of all maritime, Coast Guard, and Army programs that were halted because of COVID-19, once the COVID-19 situation subsides.

By: Kolubah Zayzay