Liberia: New Chamber of Commerce President Pledges Integrity, Transparency and Inclusivity

The new president of the Liberia Chamber of Commerce (LCC), Natty B. Davis, II, has pledged to lead the institution with integrity, transparency, and inclusiveness.

Addressing members of the business community at his induction ceremony recently in Monrovia, Davis assured them of his dedication to maintaining a dynamic and responsive Chamber, which he intends to align with the needs and aspirations of all its members.

“As your president, my commitment is to lead with integrity, transparency, and inclusiveness,” Davis, a former Chairman of Liberia’s National Investment Commission (NIC), said.

Emphasizing the pivotal role of the private sector in driving economic growth and employment creation, Mr. Davis pledged the Chamber’s support to the government by facilitating policy dialogue between the public and private sectors. 

He underscored the importance of collaboration in fostering a robust and sustainable economic future for Liberia.

“Today marks a pivotal moment in our journey towards fostering a robust and sustainable economic future for Liberia,” the LCC president said.

“As I stand here, humbled and honored by your trust in electing me as your president. I am filled with a sense of responsibility and optimism. Our nation, rich in resources and potential, stands on the cusp of a new era of growth and prosperity.”

Highlighting his vision for the Chamber, Davis outlined flagship initiatives aimed at enhancing trade facilitation, promoting alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, and strengthening the Standards Authority. 

He also stressed the importance of expanding and diversifying the Chamber’s revenue base while building the capacity of its Secretariat.

In a spirit of collaboration, Davis extended an invitation to government partners, local and international businesses, development partners, and stakeholders to join hands in advancing the Chamber’s mission. 

Together, he emphasized, they can create an environment conducive to entrepreneurship, innovation, and global competitiveness.

Davis revealed that the Chamber had developed a three-year strategic plan for 2024-2026, prioritizing institutional building, implementing trade protocols, empowering women and youth in trade, and enhancing revenue growth.

Davis reiterated his commitment to championing the interests of the business community, facilitating opportunities for growth and development, and fostering closer collaboration between the private sector and government agencies. 

With a clear vision and strategic plan in place, the Liberia Chamber of Commerce under Davis's leadership looks poised to play a significant role in driving Liberia's economic advancement in the coming years. 

He called upon each member of the LCC to be active participants in this shared vision. 

Cllr. N. Oswald Tweh, outgoing president of the Chamber, acknowledged the members of the LCC for allowing him to serve as president of the institution for the past two years. 

According to Tweh, he strived to serve them faithfully and diligently, a stewardship that brought credit to the Chamber.  

He further said that during his administration, he promised the members of the LCC that he was going to try his utmost best to justify and make the institution a vibrant one. 

“Now that our two year tenure is out, now allow me to say thank you for allowing me to serve as your president,” Cllr. Tweh acknowledged Chamber members.

He also expressed gratitude to the executive councils for the cooperation and assistance rendered him during his tenure.

However, Tweh disclosed that there is so much that needs to be done to help improve the Liberian economy.

“We are at a critical junction, and Liberia has a serious economic problem, businesses are barely surviving and huge investments are almost non-existent,” he said.

“Hence, we must make a determination and exert efforts to improve our economy and ensure a sustained economic recovery.”

Cllr. Tweh indicated that as he passed the mantle of authority to the new administration, he is confident that the new officers under the leadership of Natty B. Davis, will represent them well in the coming years and will keep the Chamber stronger and more active. 

He assured the new administration of his full support and cooperation. 

Meanwhile, the newly installed Executive Council members of the Liberia Chamber of Commerce 2024-2026 include, O. Natty B. Davis, II, President; Mr. Ahmed S. Wazni, 1st Vice President; Mrs. Jefyne Togba, 2nd Vice President; Atty. Oliver N. Rogers, II, Auditor; and Mr. Nathaniel E. Kevin, Treasurer. 

Arbitration Committee: Cllr. Benedict F. Sannoh, Chairman; Mr. T. Nelson Williams II, Member; and Mr. Paulo Hermenegildo, Member, 

Members of the Chamber’s Executive Council include, Mr. Shankar Jhamnani, Mr. John B.S. Davis, Mr. Jerry T. Taylor, Mr. Jaspal Singh, Mrs. Laureine G. Housseini, Mrs. Vida M. Mensah, Ms. Amanda M. Hill, and Mr. Ikenna Anekwe.