President Boakai Unveils Civil War Memorial Prototype, Renews Commitment to Peace and National Reconciliation
The unveiling of the prototype of Liberia’s Civil War Memorial Wall, held under the theme, “Honoring the Past, Celebrating Peace, and Inspiring the Next Generation,” represents an important national initiative aimed at remembering the thousands of Liberians who lost their lives during the civil conflicts, while recognizing the suffering endured by families and communities affected by the war. The project is expected to commence in mid-2027 on Bali Island in Monrovia.
Addressing the gathering in the Parlors of the Executive Mansion, President Boakai stressed that the memorial is not merely the unveiling of a physical structure but an opportunity for the country to openly acknowledge its painful history with dignity and compassion.
The President added that the memorial would stand in honor of every Liberian life lost during the civil wars, including mothers, fathers, children, relatives, friends, and countless others whose names may never be known. He assured families of the victims that their loved ones would not be forgotten, emphasizing that the country owes them truth, remembrance, and a future free from the suffering they endured.
President Boakai also commended survivors for their resilience, describing their determination to rebuild their lives, homes, and communities as an important foundation for the peace Liberia enjoys today. He noted that their experiences demonstrate the power of forgiveness and the importance of choosing reconciliation over division and vengeance.
The President cautioned, however, that a memorial alone cannot heal a nation, emphasizing that lasting reconciliation depends on the actions of citizens and their commitment to dialogue, justice, unity, and peaceful coexistence. He urged Liberians at home and abroad to become active builders of peace in their families, communities, counties, and across the country.
President Boakai further disclosed that the memorial initiative is closely connected to the work of the Liberia Peace, Reconciliation, and Memorial Museum, the Steering Committee of which is expected to convene from November 16 to 18, 2026. The initiative is intended to preserve the country's history, educate future generations about the civil conflicts, and promote a lasting culture of peace and harmony.
Delivering remarks on Liberia's Road to the Presidency of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), at the unveiling ceremony, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Madam Sara Beysolow Nyanti, noted that the construction of the country's first Civil War Memorial Wall signals Liberia's commitment to advancing global peace and security.
She noted that the initiative also reinforces the youth and security agenda by seeking to prevent young people from being drawn into extremism, armed factions, or other activities that could threaten national stability. She emphasized the importance of creating opportunities for young Liberians to prosper at home as a means of fostering sustainable peace and development.
For his part, Chairman of the ECOMOG Memorial Committee, Major General (Retired) Daniel Dee Ziankahn, Jr., underscored the importance of documenting significant historical events that have shaped Liberia's national experience.
He asserted that the initiative would provide an opportunity to collect and preserve historical accounts reflecting the country's journey through conflict, peace, reconciliation, and healing, including other major events that have shaped its history.
The Liberian Leader acknowledged the contributions of international partners, diplomatic representatives, and members of the Memorial Committee for their continued support of Liberia's recovery and reconciliation efforts. He expressed appreciation to international partners for standing with the country during its years of conflict and continuing to support its journey toward peace.
The President concluded by calling on all Liberians to embrace the memorial as a national promise to future generations that the country will never again return to war. He stressed that remembrance must be accompanied by justice, unity, and a collective commitment to lasting peace.
Other speakers at the unveiling ceremony included representatives of the Inter-Religious Council of Liberia, the Federation of Liberian Youths (FLY), and the Traditional Chiefs & Elders of Liberia, who all embraced the initiative aimed at fostering reconciliation and peace.
