The 2025 Liberia Diaspora Annual Return Committee has officially released the full calendar for this year's national homecoming festivities, unveiling an ambitious three-week program aimed at strengthening national unity, boosting investment, and reconnecting Liberia with its millions-strong Diaspora across the world.
Held under the theme "Our Liberia, One People," the 2025 edition is poised to be the most expansive yet, with organizers projecting a 30-40% increase in Diaspora attendance compared to previous years reflecting a growing appetite for cultural reconnection and renewed participation in Liberia's development agenda.
A National Homecoming to Reinforce Unity and Identity
According to the Committee's Communications Chair, Madam Urey, this year's theme underscores a national call to unity at a time when Liberia is working to consolidate peace and rebuild public trust.
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"This year's edition emphasizes reconnecting Liberians in the Diaspora with their homeland, strengthening the ties between local communities and the global Liberian family, as well as the wider African Diaspora," she said during a press conference in Monrovia.
She described the Annual Return as "a bridge between Liberia and its global citizens," promoting cultural exchange, encouraging investment, and celebrating Liberia's rich heritage.
Elaborating on the theme, she noted:
"'Our Liberia, One People' is a call for ownership, responsibility, pride, and nation-building.
It highlights unity beyond tribe, region, religion, or political affiliation. Liberia's greatest strength lies in its diversity", she added.
Boakai Administration Prioritizes Diaspora Inclusion
Also speaking at the press briefing, Erasmus Williams, head of the Diaspora Affairs Office, emphasized that President Joseph Nyuma Boakai is "direct and intentional" about promoting inclusivity particularly the involvement of Liberians abroad in governance and nation-building.
He described Diaspora Liberians as "key partners in the rebuilding process," noting that they contribute an estimated US$350-400 million annually in remittances one of Liberia's largest economic lifelines.
Williams urged Liberians worldwide to "come home and be part of this year's transformative edition."
Key Events on the 2025 Diaspora Annual Return Calendar
Committee Chair Dr. Clarice Kula outlined a detailed calendar of events spanning culture, policy, investment, health, reconciliation, and youth empowerment.
December 12, 2025: Presidential Welcome Ceremony
President Boakai will formally open the Annual Return with an official State welcome for the global Diaspora community.
December 17: Liberia Diaspora Investment Summit
National Investment Commission representative Dan Maxwell Jr. said the Summit is a continuation of the September 24-26, 2025 Diaspora Conference held in Washington D.C.
The Summit will focus on:
Liberia's current investment climate
Comparing Reforms implemented over the past 2-4 years to now
New investment incentives for Diaspora Liberians
Sector-specific opportunities including agriculture, tourism, health, ICT, infrastructure, and manufacturing
"We want to see Liberian enterprises connect with Diaspora professionals and Diaspora capital," Maxwell stressed, emphasizing that investment linkages are central to the country's economic revival.
Participants will include the Liberia Business Association, the Ministry of Health, as well as clinicians, entrepreneurs, and financial experts, he noted.
December 18: Peace and Reconciliation Dialogue
In partnership with the International Migration Organization (IMO), UN agencies, traditional leaders, and community stakeholders, the forum will address reconciliation, social cohesion, and the future of inclusive nation-building.
December 20: Diaspora Heritage Awards
A night dedicated to honoring Liberians both at home and abroad who are elevating the country's image globally.
"It is going to be an amazing celebration of those making Liberia proud," Dr. Kula said.
December 21: Children's Celebration Day
Over 500 children from orphanages will be fed, entertained, and presented with Christmas gifts.
Dr. Kula called on participants to "support and celebrate the children who represent Liberia's future."
December 22: Health Investment Forum
The one-day forum will address critical health sector challenges, including drug abuse, mental health, human resource shortages, healthcare financing and emergency response gaps.
Discussions will explore how Diaspora medical professionals and investors can help strengthen the system.
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December 30: The Diaspora Unity March
A large family-friendly parade and cultural festival will bring together Liberians from all backgrounds for a day of reflection, networking, and national solidarity.
January 2026: Closing Ceremony: The Annual Return officially concludes in early January 2026 with community engagements and cultural showcases.
A Growing Movement for National Renewal
Launched to strengthen Liberia's post-war identity, the Diaspora Annual Return has evolved into a major national platform for cultural revival, economic collaboration, and reconciliation.
With millions of Liberians living across the United States, Europe, Australia, and West Africa and contributing significantly to national GDP, the government hopes the Annual Return will become a major driver of development.
Organizers say this year's expanded program reflects a renewed commitment to unity and growth.
"The Diaspora Annual Return is about reconnection, reconciliation, and recommitment to building a prosperous Liberia for all," Madam Urey concluded.
