The Ministry of National Defense and the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) have secured over US$20 million worth of essential logistics equipment from the African Union (AU), marking a significant boost to the country’s military capabilities and regional security commitments.
This substantial aid package is the culmination of ongoing diplomatic and military efforts initiated in 2018 by Brigadier General Davidson F. Forleh, now the Chief of Staff of the AFL. During his tenure as Liberia’s Defense Attaché and chairman of the Military Staff Committee on the Peace and Security Council at the AU, Forleh advocated vigorously for logistical support, which has now resulted in this major contribution.
Comprehensive Equipment Package
The logistics equipment, previously donated to the AU by the Chinese Government, includes cargo trucks, military protective assault vehicles, armored personnel carriers, combat jeeps, bulldozers, cranes, fuel tanks, fire trucks, and mounted weapon systems, along with spare parts and other materials. Valued at exactly $20,601,529.46, this equipment will significantly enhance the AFL’s capabilities in troop transportation, field operations, disaster relief, and international peacekeeping missions.
The decision to allocate this equipment to Liberia was confirmed during the 38th Ordinary Session of the AU Assembly of Heads of States in February 2024 in Addis Ababa. Liberia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Honorable Madam Sara Beysolow Nyanti, represented President Joseph Nyuma Boakai at the session, where the AU’s commitment was initially disclosed. This commitment was further solidified at the 16th Ordinary Session of the AU’s Specialized Technical Committee on Defense, Safety, and Security in June 2024.
Brigadier General Forleh and officials from the Ministry of National Defense are scheduled to travel to Cameroon to inspect the equipment before its shipment to Liberia. The Liberian government will handle the delivery, expected within the next two months. The equipment’s arrival will strategically enhance the readiness and operational efficiency of the AFL across its bases.
Brigadier General Forleh expressed his gratitude towards the AU, noting, “This vital contribution will greatly improve our logistical capabilities, enabling us to better fulfill our mandate of protecting Liberia’s sovereignty, contributing to international peacekeeping efforts, and responding effectively to national emergencies.”
The Minister of National Defense, Brigadier General Geraldine J. George (Retired), also highlighted the achievement, stating, “This is a milestone for the AFL, made possible by the strong commitment of our government and the African Union. I want to especially thank His Excellency the President and the Minister of Foreign Affairs for their pivotal roles in securing these vital resources.”
Meanwhile, in February last year, Osprea Logistics likely delivered 50 Mamba armoured vehicles to Liberia for use them in peacekeeping missions.