—- Says, “A Nation that Understands its History is Better Prepared to Shape its Future”
BOAKAI UNVEILS HISTORIC PLAN TO RECLAIM LIBERIA’S PAST
National Historical Recovery Initiative Launched as Dr. Brewer Urges Liberians to Embrace Their Shared Heritage
By: Andrew B Weah
BUCHANAN, Grand Bassa County – July. 28, 2026 — a President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. has launched an ambitious national initiative aimed at recovering, preserving, and promoting Liberia’s historical heritage, describing the effort as a critical step toward strengthening national identity and preparing future generations to build a stronger Republic.
The announcement came during Liberia’s 179th Independence Day celebration in Buchanan, where the President unveiled the National Historical Recovery and Repatriation Initiative, a program designed to reclaim Liberia’s documentary heritage, modernize cultural institutions, and ensure that Liberians take the lead in telling their own story.
“A nation that understands its history is better prepared to shape its future,” President Boakai declared before a gathering of government officials, diplomats, traditional leaders, development partners, and citizens from across the country.
The initiative will seek partnerships with international universities, archives, museums, libraries, and cultural institutions to obtain copies of historical records relating to Liberia that are currently housed abroad. The government also plans to digitize and preserve historical materials while expanding public access to the nation’s archives.
As part of the initiative, President Boakai announced plans to modernize the National Archives and the National Museum through infrastructure upgrades, digital preservation systems, and improved accessibility for researchers, students, and the public.
The President further directed the creation of an intergovernmental technical committee tasked with recommending the restoration and modernization of the historic Kendeja Cultural Center, once regarded as a key institution for preserving Liberian culture and heritage.
In another significant announcement, Boakai disclosed plans to revive the National History Project recommended by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC). The project, he said, will be led by Liberian historians and scholars and protected from political interference.
“History should never be written through the lens of political convenience,” the President emphasized.
The Independence Day celebration was held under the theme, “Strengthening National Identity Through Liberian-Led Historical Narratives,” a message that resonated throughout the day’s activities.
Meanwhile, National Orator Dr. Herbert Brewer used his Independence Day address to call on Liberians to reject historical shame and embrace the nation’s rich and complex story.
“Never be ashamed of your history; it is a shared inheritance. Claim it. Be proud of it,” Dr. Brewer declared.
Speaking at the Unification Pavilion in Buchanan, the National Orator described Liberia’s history as one of the nation’s greatest assets and urged citizens to view it as a source of unity, purpose, and national renewal.
Dr. Brewer noted that Liberia’s declaration of independence on July 26, 1847, was not only a defining moment for the country but also a milestone in global history. He said Liberia demonstrated to the world that people of African descent possessed the ability and right to govern themselves through a constitutional republic.
He acknowledged both the achievements and shortcomings of Liberia’s historical journey, stressing that every generation has a responsibility to strengthen the Republic it inherits.
The National Orator also paid tribute to Indigenous communities, returning descendants of Africa, and early national leaders whose sacrifices and leadership contributed to the establishment and survival of the Liberian state.
According to Dr. Brewer, Liberia’s story did not begin with independence. He highlighted the existence of thriving African societies on Liberian soil long before the founding of the Republic, noting that these communities played a crucial role in shaping the nation’s identity.
He further reminded citizens that Liberia remained one of only two African countries to maintain internationally recognized sovereignty during the Scramble for Africa, describing the achievement as a testament to the resilience and determination of the Liberian people.
Addressing young people, Dr. Brewer challenged them to preserve the nation’s history and values while building upon the sacrifices of previous generations.
He concluded by urging Liberians to strengthen national unity and leave behind a country better than the one they inherited.
The combined messages from President Boakai and National Orator Brewer highlighted a renewed national commitment to reclaiming Liberia’s historical narrative, preserving its cultural heritage, and fostering a stronger sense of national identity as the country approaches its bicentennial.
For many observers, the launch of the National Historical Recovery and Repatriation Initiative represents one of the most significant cultural and historical preservation efforts undertaken by the Liberian Government in recent decades, signaling a determination to ensure that Liberia’s past remains a guiding force for its future.
