Monrovia, Liberia – Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung has called for greater national efforts to preserve Liberia’s cultural heritage, emphasizing that its history, traditions, and artistic expressions are vital to its identity and future development.
Addressing dignitaries at the official opening of the Arts and Culture Galleries at the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs, and Tourism, Koung stressed the urgent need to protect Liberia’s rich traditions from being eroded. He noted that preserving cultural heritage goes beyond documentation—it requires active promotion, education, and integration into national policies. He urged stronger collaboration between the government, educational institutions, and cultural organizations to ensure that Liberian youth appreciate and uphold their heritage.
Information Minister Jerolinmek Matthew Piah described the new galleries as a major step toward revitalizing Liberia’s cultural sector, which has suffered from years of neglect. He pointed out that arts and culture are not just about historic preservation but also serve as a catalyst for national pride, tourism, and economic growth. He also pushed for the reactivation of the National Culture Center, arguing that it remains a crucial institution in preserving traditional practices and historical narratives.
Senator Abraham Darius Dillon of Montserrado County, who chairs the Senate’s Committee on Information, Broadcasting, and Tourism, pledged legislative support for increased funding to the cultural and tourism sectors. He emphasized that sustained investment in these areas could create opportunities for local artists, historians, and cultural practitioners while boosting national development.
The unveiling ceremony drew a high-profile audience, including government officials, lawmakers, diplomats, and cultural advocates, reflecting broad support for strengthening Liberia’s cultural institutions. The event marked a renewed commitment to safeguarding Liberia’s artistic legacy and ensuring that future generations inherit a well-preserved national identity.
