ADNews-Monrovia: In a bid to reassure Liberians of peace and stability amid rumors of conflict near the Liberian-Guinean border, Brigadier General Davidson F. Forleh, Chief of Staff (COS) of the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL), urged citizens to remain calm, declaring, “There is no war coming to Liberia.” His remarks came as part of a three-day confirmatory aerial patrol visit to key counties in Liberia, conducted with U.S. Ambassador Mark Toner. The visit was intended to strengthen bilateral security cooperation and reinforce Liberia’s commitment to maintaining peace.
This aerial patrol, which covered Maryland, Grand Gedeh, Sinoe, and Lofa counties, took place from November 20 to 22, 2024. The AFL requested the assistance of U.S. military personnel to conduct these aerial patrols across strategic locations, with the aim of bolstering border security and addressing cross-border threats. The visit also marked a continued effort to enhance relations between Liberia and the United States, as well as to support Liberia’s security forces in maintaining stability.
Strengthening Local Security and Cooperation
The delegation, led by Brig Gen Forleh and Ambassador Toner, also included key AFL officials such as Colonel Joseph Tamba Gayflor, Assistant Chief of Staff for Operations, and the AFL’s Defense Attaché. Their mission was to assess border security efforts, engage with local leaders, and identify areas where security and infrastructure improvements could foster peace and economic growth. The visit highlighted the importance of building trust among local communities, reinforcing U.S.-Liberia partnerships, and supporting international cooperation in security matters.
On the first day of the patrol, the delegation visited Harper, Maryland County, where they were welcomed by local officials. They toured key facilities, including the JJ Dossen Hospital, Tubman University, and the Cavalla River Crossing Point. During a meeting with the local Joint Security Team, the delegation discussed ongoing security concerns between Liberia and the neighboring Ivory Coast. The COS also visited the Harper Port, where he highlighted the need for a stronger Coast Guard presence to counter piracy in the Gulf of Guinea.
According to the press release posted on AFL Socia Media’s Facebook handle, the Chief of Staff emphasized the importance of interagency cooperation and discussed future initiatives, including joint border operations with the Ivory Coast and the planned Exercise WATCH OVER VIII. He also addressed the challenges faced by Maryland’s Joint Security Team, which include shortages in manpower, logistics, communication, and road conditions.
Addressing Security Concerns in Grand Gedeh and Sinoe
On November 21, 2024, the delegation traveled to Zwedru, Grand Gedeh County, where they met with local authorities. The COS commended the cooperation between the AFL and county officials and emphasized the need for heightened security vigilance in the region. He also toured the county’s correctional facility, where officials outlined several challenges, including inadequate vehicles, poor medical care for inmates, and the need for security infrastructure improvements.
Later that day, the delegation visited Greenville, Sinoe County, where they met with county leaders and discussed the security situation. The COS reiterated the importance of deploying the Liberia Coast Guard to address maritime piracy. During a tour of the Greenville Sea Port, he emphasized the strategic importance of securing Liberia’s maritime borders to prevent illicit activities.
Concluding Visit to Lofa County
On the final day of the patrol, November 22, 2024, the delegation arrived in Voinjama, Lofa County. The COS addressed local authorities, reinforcing his earlier message that the substantial military presence in the area was part of routine border patrols, intended to ensure the safety and security of the region. The COS visited both the Lofa Community College and the county hospital, where he was briefed on several ongoing challenges, including limited medical supplies, staff shortages, and outdated infrastructure.
At the hospital, the COS committed to addressing the shortage of beds and improving healthcare delivery in the region. He also visited Lofa Community College, where he praised the institution’s expansion to offer bachelor’s degrees but acknowledged the challenges the school faced, including inadequate funding and staffing. The COS assured local authorities that these issues would be raised with higher authorities for resolution.
In his remarks, the COS encouraged the youth of Lofa to stay focused on their education and avoid the pitfalls of drug abuse, urging them to “take your future into your hands.”
A Force for Good
Throughout the three-day visit, the Chief of Staff reiterated the commitment of the Armed Forces of Liberia to support peace and security across the country. He also emphasized the importance of strengthening ties with Liberia’s international allies, particularly the United States, as a means of ensuring long-term stability and prosperity for Liberia and its people.
The AFL remains dedicated to its mission of being “A Force for Good,” ensuring that security, cooperation, and mutual support remain central to Liberia’s ongoing development and peace-building efforts.
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