LRRRC Executive Director Presents Report to President Boakai on the Influx of Burkinabè in Liberia.
Cllr. Bangalu informed the President that approximately 140,000 Burkinabè nationals are currently residing in Grand Gedeh and River Gee Counties, with the majority engaged in mining and agricultural activities. He described the influx as an alarming national concern that is placing increasing pressure on local resources and posing significant security and humanitarian challenges.
“Without a coordinated response, this situation could overwhelm communities already facing limited infrastructure and services,” Cllr. Bangalu said.
President Boakai received the report and directed that it be elevated to the Cabinet for broader national security and policy deliberations.
Cllr. Bangalu noted that implementing the report’s recommendations will require close collaboration between the Government of Liberia and international partners. He disclosed that a stakeholders’ meeting with donor partners is expected to be convened to review the findings and explore support mechanisms for effective implementation.
He emphasized that while some recommendations require immediate attention, a strategic and coordinated approach supported through national budgetary allocations and international partnerships remains critical to preventing further strain on host communities.
The LRRRC Executive Director acknowledged that the report was the result of a joint field assessment mission conducted by the LRRRC in collaboration with the French Embassy, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the United Nations Human Rights Office, the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and the Liberia Immigration Service.
The presentation meeting was attended by French Ambassador Isabelle Le Guellec, Liberia Immigration Service Commissioner General Elijah F. Rufus, UNFPA Country Representative Dr. Mady Biaye, Head of the United Nations Human Rights Office Christian Mukosa, and Acting Chief of Mission of the International Organization for Migration, Lenaud Serge Desire.
Cllr. Bangalu expressed appreciation for their collaboration throughout the assessment process and voiced confidence that, with sustained support from national and international partners, the report’s recommendations would be progressively implemented to help stabilize the situation and strengthen support for affected communities.
