The Political Leader of the Movement for Progressive Change (MPC), Mr. Simeon Freeman, is calling for urgent national action to tackle unemployment, strengthen local industries, and reduce Liberia’s heavy dependence on imported goods, especially in the health sector.
Speaking during an appearance on The OK Conversation, a popular national talk show, Mr. Freeman highlighted the importance of creating job opportunities for young people as a key step toward addressing some of Liberia’s most pressing development challenges.
He noted that joblessness among the youth is contributing to a high rate of urban migration, which he said is putting increasing pressure on Monrovia and other major cities.
“Too many of our young people are leaving rural areas and coming to the city because there are no jobs back home,” Freeman stated. “This is creating an imbalance and making it difficult for national development to take place across the country.”
Freeman pointed out that while people are moving to the capital in search of better living conditions, the lack of proper infrastructure and employment opportunities in urban areas has led to overcrowding and hardship for many.
He believes this internal migration could be reversed by investing in agriculture, industry, and small businesses in rural communities.
Freeman also stressed the need to strengthen Liberia’s industrial sector to boost the economy and reduce reliance on imported goods. He raised concerns about the country’s heavy dependence on foreign-made products, particularly in the pharmaceutical industry.
“We cannot continue to import all of our drugs,” Freeman said. “We need to start producing basic medicines here in Liberia. This will not only create jobs but also ensure that essential drugs are available and affordable.”
The MPC leader called on the government and private sector to support local manufacturing and invest in technology and training to help Liberians develop the skills needed for industrial growth.
While outlining these challenges, Freeman did acknowledge some signs of positive economic growth. He specifically mentioned improvements in the mining and agriculture sectors, which he said are showing promise and have the potential to contribute meaningfully to national development.
However, he cautioned that such progress must be balanced with real investment in job creation and self-reliance, especially in rural areas.
“We are seeing growth in sectors like mining and agriculture, but that growth must be inclusive. It must translate into better lives for ordinary Liberians,” he added.
Freeman’s comments come at a time when Liberia is grappling with high youth unemployment, economic uncertainty, and ongoing debates about how to reduce poverty and achieve long-term development.
His message was clear: if Liberia is to move forward, there must be a national commitment to creating jobs, building industries, and supporting local innovation.
