(Dispatch, Liberia Permanent Mission to IMO, Wednesday, April 23, 2025). The Republic of Liberia has once again demonstrated its leadership at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) by fully settling its 2025 contributions amounting to £5.5 million (US$7.1 million). This payment represents Liberia’s assessed share of the IMO’s £37.5 million budget for 2025, as approved by the Organization’s 33rd Assembly session in December 2023 through Resolution A.1179(33).

Liberia’s prompt settlement of its financial obligations reaffirms the country’s unwavering commitment to the mission and work of the IMO, particularly in ensuring that international shipping is safe, secure, and environmentally responsible.

With this full payment, Liberia retains its full voting rights at all IMO meetings and is not subject to Article 61 of the IMO Convention, which restricts voting rights for members with outstanding contributions. This action further strengthens Liberia’s campaign for re-election to Category A of the IMO Council during the upcoming 34th Assembly session later this year.

Given Liberia’s significant contribution—approximately 15% of the IMO’s total annual budget—the country's bid for a seat on the IMO Council remains strong. This also enhances Liberia’s international reputation as a responsible and reliable member of the global community, especially as the country advocates for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council. Liberia's active role in the IMO underscores its importance to global trade, considering that 80% of international commerce is conducted via the sea.

The Commissioner/CEO of the Liberia Maritime Authority, Cllr. Neto Zarzar Lighe, Sr., reaffirms Liberia’s continued dedication to the IMO, including the timely payment of dues and other contributions that support the Organization’s forward drive. He emphasized Liberia’s determination to help ensure that global shipping continues to progress to greater heights.

By Gola Traub

Maritime transport runs as the lifeblood of global trade, but the penchant for globalization to erase national barriers and create competitive labor markets of all sorts - and the desire of some ship owners for a more lax and cheaper operating regime has brought a huge and growing sector of the ocean transport business into direct conflict with Western traditional maritime powers. 

By Gola Traub

Telling a long, serpentine but successful story in an abridged form tends to prove challenging, intimidating, if not plainly impossible. This piece, however, attempts to do just that – narrate Liberia’s maritime story in a truncated form – a brief history that covers the evolution of the Liberia Open Registry from 1948 to 2011. (2012 up to 2019 – and the “best way forward” will be tackled in the next edition of the Marine Monitor.)

Credit: Cruise Mapper

By:  Gola Traub

Since its inception, the business philosophy – the fundamental principle that underpins the formation and operation of the open registry model – has been fiercely and relentlessly impugned as a poor-quality business model designed to steal Westerners’ jobs and avoid stringent international shipping regulations. Seemingly, however, nothing could be further from the truth.

The Free Port of Monrovia - Courtesy of Michael Roberts - LiMA

Written By: Gola Traub

Introduction

COVID-19, along with Vladimir Putin’s war in Ukraine, has spotlighted the indispensable role that seaports and their accompanying logistical chains play in the global economy. It has also focused minds on the need for investments in efficient port management governance.

The Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA) proudly unveils its Service Delivery Charter (SDC) in line with H.E. President Joseph N. Boakai, Sr.'s Performance Management and Compliance System (PMCS).

This SDC reaffirms our commitment to efficient, transparent, and citizen-centered service delivery in the Liberian maritime sector.

It outlines the standards, timelines, and expectations that guide our interactions with stakeholders, ensuring accountability and continuous improvement in all that we do.

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See full document here: https://lima.gov.lr/index.php/resources/document-publications/22-lima-service-delivery-charter/file

Seoul, South Korea — The Commissioner/CEO of the Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA), Cllr. Neto Zarzar Lighe, Sr., held high-level discussions on Thursday with executives of Make Group in Seoul, South Korea.

The meeting, held at Make Group’s corporate office in Seoul, focused on plans for the construction of a dry dock facility in Liberia, the development of small- and medium-sized vessels, and the introduction of modern ferry operations. These initiatives are expected to improve vessel maintenance, promote coastal connectivity, and enhance regional transport efficiency.

“Partnerships like these are essential for unlocking Liberia’s maritime potential and creating thousands of jobs,” said Cllr. Lighe, Sr. “We are looking to South Korea not only for investment, but also for knowledge-sharing and long-term cooperation that can drive sustainable development. This reflects our government’s commitment to unlocking the Blue Economy and positioning Liberia as a strategic maritime hub in West Africa.”

The discussions follow an initial engagement held at the Liberia Maritime Authority Headquarters in Monrovia on February 26, 2025, where both parties explored investment opportunities to strengthen Liberia’s maritime infrastructure, enhance workforce capacity through training, and expand inland water transport services.

Busan, South Korea – April 8, 2025 – Cllr. Neto Zarzar Lighe, Sr., Commissioner/CEO of the Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA), joined maritime industry leaders in Busan, South Korea, to commemorate the naming of Sea Admiral Monrovia— the latest tanker commissioned by the Greece-based J. Laliotis Maritime Group.

The ceremony, held at the K Shipbuilding Yard, marked the official christening of the 49,650-deadweight-ton (DWT) vessel, designated Hull No. S1952. The Sea Admiral Monrovia, a versatile crude/product oil and chemical tanker, is the newest addition to the J. Laliotis fleet operating under Liberia’s registry — the world’s largest open ship registry.

Addressing dignitaries and shipping executives at the event, Commissioner Lighe, Sr. highlighted the strategic relationship between the Liberian Registry and one of its most valued clients. “Today is not merely about the christening of a vessel; it symbolizes the enduring strength and continued growth of the partnership between our two institutions,” he said. “The J. Laliotis Group’s commitment to operating a robust fleet under the Liberian flag is a testament to our shared dedication to global maritime safety, innovation, and environmental sustainability.”

The J. Laliotis Maritime Group, a longstanding Greek shipping powerhouse, has played a key role in Liberia’s shipping success story, with vessels sailing under the Liberian flag for decades. The latest addition to their fleet reflects both the group's forward-thinking investment strategy and the resilience of Liberia’s maritime administration.

Cllr. Lighe, Sr. praised the company’s pursuit of modern tonnage and its focus on acquiring both newbuildings and high-performing second-hand vessels. “This kind of foresight advances not only your commercial competitiveness but also the mission we share — creating a sustainable, safe, and economically impactful maritime industry,” he noted.

Monrovia, Liberia – The Commissioner/CEO of the Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA), Cllr. Neto Zarzar Lighe, Sr., on Monday, March 3, 2025 delivered an inspiring keynote address at the graduation ceremony of the Gabriel L. Dennis Foreign Service Institute (FSI) at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The ceremony, held at the C. Cecil Dennis Auditorium, marked the transition of a new generation of diplomats, negotiators, and global representatives into Liberia’s foreign service.

In his address, Commissioner/CEO Lighe, Sr. emphasized the crucial role that diplomacy plays in shaping Liberia’s future, urging the graduates to embrace their responsibilities with integrity, adaptability, and a commitment to national development. “You, the new cohort of diplomats, are poised to become the stewards of Liberia’s place in the world,” he stated. “You will carry our hopes, our values, and our dreams as you represent us on the global stage.”

Highlighting the dynamic challenges of modern diplomacy, Commissioner/CEO Lighe, Sr. underscored the importance of understanding global power shifts, technological advancements, and climate change. He urged the graduates to advocate for sustainable development and actively engage in international cooperation. “The world is evolving at a breathtaking pace, and Liberia’s voice must be strong, clear, and strategic in global discussions,” he noted.

The Liberia Maritime Authority Commissioner/CEO also stressed the significance of multilateralism, particularly as Liberia seeks a seat on the United Nations Security Council and aims to retain its Category “A” membership on the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council. He called on the graduates to support Liberia’s diplomatic aspirations, leveraging their training to navigate complex negotiations and strengthen the nation’s global standing.

Commissioner/CEO Lighe, Sr. further encouraged the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to actively integrate FSI graduates into Liberia’s foreign service, providing them with opportunities for professional growth and international exposure. “The Ministry should endeavor to provide opportunities for graduates to gain experience in different areas of foreign service, ensuring that they are well-equipped to represent Liberia at bilateral and multilateral forums,” he urged.

Thursday, February 27, 2025 Monrovia, Liberia – Liberia and Sierra Leone have taken a significant step toward enhancing maritime governance and regional cooperation by signing a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening their maritime sectors.

The agreement, signed today at the headquarters of the Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA) in Monrovia, establishes a framework for capacity building, technology exchange, and improved maritime governance between the two West African nations.

The Commissioner/CEO of the Liberia Maritime Authority, Cllr. Neto Zarzar Lighe Sr., and the Executive Director of the Sierra Leone Maritime Administration, Dr. Daniel Kaitibi, signed the agreement on behalf of their respective countries, marking a new era of collaboration in the maritime industry.

Addressing the program, Commissioner/CEO Lighe Sr. welcomed the Sierra Leonean delegation, underscoring the deep historical and cultural ties between the two nations. He emphasized the importance of maritime cooperation in improving livelihoods and fostering sustainable development. "The purpose of this partnership is to enhance capacity building and technology transfer while strengthening the maritime industries of both nations," he said. "Collaboration in these areas will ensure that our maritime sectors become more robust and resilient."

Leading the Sierra Leone Maritime Administration (SLMA) delegation was Executive Director Hon. Daniel Kaitibi, accompanied by Hon. Madam Bintu Myers, Chair of the Board of Directors and other senior officials. 

Monrovia, Liberia January 30, 2025 - The Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA) proudly unveils its Service Delivery Charter (SDC) in line with H.E. President Joseph N. Boakai, Sr.'s Performance Management and Compliance System (PMCS).

This SDC reaffirms our commitment to efficient, transparent, and citizen-centered service delivery in the Liberian maritime sector.

Explore our services and stay informed!

Subject: Authorization Requirement for Vessel Construction and Marine-Related Activities

The Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA), in keeping with its statutory mandate to administer, promote, regulate, and enforce policies, strategies, laws, and regulations for the growth and development of the maritime sector, hereby informs the general public that
all individuals, entities, or organizations intending to engage in the construction of seagoing vessels, platforms, docks, or any other marine-related infrastructure are required to obtain prior written approval from the Liberia Maritime Authority before initiating any such activities.

This requirement ensures compliance with internationally recognized standards for maritime safety, environmental protection, and sustainable development of Liberia’s maritime sector.

Failure to obtain the requisite authorization will result in administrative actions, including but not limited to issuance of Cease-and-Desist orders, Cancellation of approvals, Revocation of licenses, and imposition of fines and/or penalties as deemed appropriate by law.

To obtain prior approval, applicants must submit a formal request to LiMA, including detailed project plans and specifications. These requirements are geared at ensuring alignment with established maritime regulations and international standards.

Monrovia, Liberia, December 16, 2024 - The African Union Inter-African Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR) in collaboration with the Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA) today opens a three-day National Broad-Based Stakeholders’ Consultation and Final Validation Workshop for Liberia’s National Blue Economy Strategy in Monrovia.

The validation workshop follows a National Stakeholders Consultative Workshop held in September 2024 and is organized by the African Union Inter-African Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR) with funding from the Kingdom of Norway. It aligns with the African Union’s Agenda 2063, particularly Goal 6: “Blue/Ocean Economy for Accelerated Economic Growth.”

The workshop brings together a wide range of stakeholders, including technical experts from the Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA), National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA), Ministry of Mines and Energy (MME), Liberia Petroleum Refining Company (LPRC), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Liberia Water and Sewer Corporation (LWSC), Ministry of National Defense (MOD), universities, civil society, the private sector, and many other key relevant agencies. Participants will enrich and validate the draft strategy, which focuses on sustainability, economic growth, inclusivity, innovation, and international cooperation.

Delivering the opening remarks on behalf of Cllr. Neto Zarzar Lighe, Sr., Commissioner/CEO of the Liberia Maritime Authority, Hon. John F. Harvey, Deputy Commissioner for Vessel Registration, emphasized the importance of the strategy in Liberia’s development and thanked the Kingdom of Norway for their support.

“Liberia’s oceans, rivers, and lakes are vital to our livelihoods and national prosperity. The Blue Economy is a cornerstone for sustainable development, and this workshop is critical to ensuring the strategy is inclusive, practical, and impactful,” he said.

Marshall City, Liberia — In a landmark achievement for Liberia’s maritime sector, 13 graduates have become the nation first certified Marine Engineer Officers Class-3, marking a new chapter in the country’s global maritime prominence. Held Thursday, November 28, 2024 at the Liberia Maritime Training Institute (LMTI) in Marshall City, the graduation ceremony drew top government officials, maritime stakeholders, and international partners. The event celebrated not just the individual successes of the graduates but a broader vision for Liberia as a leader in global maritime industry.

The Certificate of Competence (CoC) program, equips graduates with the technical knowledge and certification to assume critical roles aboard ships, such as Chief Engineer and Second Engineer. This initiative marks a shift in the nation's maritime landscape, positioning Liberia as not only a leading flag state but also a labor-supplying nation for the maritime industry.

The Commissioner of the Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA), Cllr. Neto Zarzar Lighe, Sr., called the occasion transformative. “This moment demonstrates our commitment to making seafaring a viable subsector of Liberia's economy,” he declared. “Today’s graduates are pioneers, paving the way for more Liberians to excel in maritime careers. Liberia is moving beyond being just a flag state—we are becoming a significant labor-supplying state for the global maritime industry.” He urged the graduates to embody integrity and excellence as they embark on their careers as their success is expected to inspire future cadets and reinforce Liberia’s reputation as a nation of maritime excellence. The Liberia Maritime Training Institute is at the heart of this transformation.

Monrovia, Liberia – The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has commenced the second phase of its mandatory Member State Audit Scheme (IMSAS) in Liberia. This follows the recent audit of Liberia's flag state regime conducted in the United States. The audit began on Monday at the Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA) headquarters in Monrovia, marking a major step in compliance with international maritime obligations.

The IMO Member State Audit Scheme (IMSAS), initially established as a voluntary initiative in 2006, became a mandatory treaty obligation in January 2016. The scheme aims to assess the legislative, administrative, and technical frameworks of Member States, focusing on key areas such as maritime safety, environmental protection, and the welfare of seafarers. Its primary objective is to promote the consistent and effective implementation of applicable IMO instruments, while also assisting Member States in enhancing their capabilities and overall performance in meeting their obligations under these instruments.

Deputy Commissioner for Domestic Vessel Registration and Safety at LiMA, Hon. John F. Harvey, hailed the audit as a milestone for the country. "This IMSAS Audit plays a crucial role in ensuring that IMO member states are effectively implementing international maritime regulations and standards. It fosters collaboration, best practices, and mutual support, which are vital for strengthening global maritime governance," he said.

Hon. Harvey expressed optimism that Liberia would meet expectations, noting the tireless efforts of stakeholders in building a robust maritime framework. He extended a warm welcome to the IMO audit team, led by Mr. Italo D’Amico, and commended their commitment to fostering maritime excellence.

Mr. Italo D’Amico, leader of the Audit team, emphasized the importance of cooperation among Liberian stakeholders. “With the support and collaboration of everyone involved in Liberia’s maritime administration, we hope this audit process will be seamless and will help elevate the nation’s maritime sector,” he remarked.

The Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA), under the leadership of Commissioner/ CEO, Clir Netto Zarzar Lighe, Sr., in collaboration with other Government entities has formally validated and approved the National Maritime Strategy (NMS) of Liberia for the next five years. The NMS, which contains three cardinal pillars of Collaboration, Innovation and Partnerships, brings to the fore the whole-of-government approach to ensuring that Liberia fully meets its national and international obligations in maritime governance.

Monrovia – The Regional Maritime University (RMU) continued its Board of Governors’ Meeting in Monrovia on Friday with the Ceremonial  opening, drawing ministers and officials from member states. In attendance were dignitaries including Sierra Leone’s Minister of Transport, Mr. Alhaji Fanday Turay, Cameroon’s Minister of Transport, Hon. Jean Ernest Massena Ngalle Bibehe, Ghana’s Minister of Transport, Hon. Kwaku Ofori Asiamah, and the Maritime Organization of West and Central Africa (MOWCA) Secretary-General Dr. Paul Adalikwu, who praised Liberia’s warm hospitality.

Addressing attendees, Dr. Adalikwu noted Liberia’s unique status as Africa’s only nation in Category A according to the International Maritime Organization standards—a designation for countries with substantial international shipping interests. He expressed hope that Liberia’s influence would engender strategic decisions that would enhance RMU’s global standing.

Speaking at the opening, Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA) Commissioner/CEO Cllr. Neto Zarzar Lighe Sr., reaffirmed Liberia's commitment to the university, underscoring the importance of sustained support from member states. He called for a collective investment to strengthen RMU’s infrastructure and curriculum. Commissioner Lighe, Sr. stressed that strengthening RMU is vital to maintaining global competitiveness in maritime education and meeting rising industry standards.

The meeting marked a milestone for Liberia’s maritime cluster and industry, and it is expected to guide strategic decisions in developing RMU as a leading institution in Africa’s maritime educational sector.

Monrovia, Liberia — The 32nd Board of Governors meeting of the Regional Maritime University (RMU) officially commenced today, November 5, 2024, at 9:00 AM at the EJS Ministerial Complex in Monrovia, Liberia. The gathering brings together maritime leaders from the five founding member states—Cameroon, The Gambia, Ghana, Liberia, and Sierra Leone—who will discuss key strategies for advancing the region’s maritime sector.

The day began with a Committee of Experts meeting where industry professionals delved into pressing issues and policies aimed at enhancing the RMU’s operations and efficiency over the next six months. On Friday, November 8, the official Board of Governors meeting will be chaired by Sierra Leone’s Minister of Transport and Aviation, Mr. Alhaji Fanday Turay, who serves as the Chancellor and Board Chairman.

As the RMU’s highest policy-making body, the Board of Governors, made up of ministers and heads of maritime agencies, will review ongoing initiatives and guide the future direction of the University. Established in 1983, the RMU is a key player in fostering regional cooperation and capacity-building in West Africa’s maritime industry.

This year’s meeting, hosted by Liberia, marks a significant moment for the country, underscoring its ongoing commitment to regional maritime cooperation. The Liberia Maritime Authority is expected to play a central role in the discussions, further solidifying the nation’s position as a leader in maritime affairs.

Monrovia, October 14, 2024 – The Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA) in collaboration with the National Port Authority (NPA) today kicked off a five-day workshop to boost Liberia’s oil-spill response preparedness. The workshop, running from October 14-18 at A'la Lagune in Monrovia, aims to strengthen Liberia’s collaboration with international partners to mitigate environmental risks and enhance national capacity for spill prevention and response.

Speaking at the opening, Liberia Maritime Authority Commissioner/CEO Cllr. Neto Zarzar Lighe Sr. expressed gratitude to NPA for co-sponsoring the workshop and acknowledged the contributions of various partners and stakeholders, including Anaïs Guillou, GIWACAF Project Manager, Marittima Ltd technical consultants and Facilitators Ms Nicky Cariglia and Julke Brandt. He emphasized the importance of environmental protection and the need for robust preparedness measures. "Oil spills pose a serious threat to our marine environment, coastal communities, and the overall health of our oceans. This workshop is a critical step in strengthening our national capacity to respond effectively," he said.

LiMA - EU

Monrovia, Liberia, October 8, 2024 – The Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA) is exploring a new partnership with the European Union (EU) aimed at enhancing port safety and security in the country. Commissioner Cllr. Neto Zarzar Lighe, Sr., Tuesday, October 8, 2024 held discussions with an expert mission from the French and Belgian Technical Cooperation agencies: Expertise France and Enabel, to potentially integrate Liberia's seaports into an EU-funded project on port safety.

The proposed project would focus on building Liberia’s capacity in cybersecurity, handling dangerous goods, and enhancing Port State Control personnel capabilities—key areas identified by LiMA as critical to maintaining the country’s maritime security. Liberia is a major maritime stakeholder globally and within the Gulf of Guinea region.

During the meeting, Commissioner Lighe, Sr. emphasized Liberia’s eagerness to strengthen its maritime security infrastructure. "The support of the European Union through this new project would prove pivotal to our vision for the safety of seagoing activities," he said. He also highlighted LiMA’s strategic goal of increasing Liberia’s representation at the World Maritime University (WMU), seeking more opportunities for young Liberians to benefit from advanced maritime education.

Beijing, China – September 25, 2024 – The Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA) reaffirmed its dedication to advancing sustainable maritime transport at the Global Sustainable Transport Forum 2024 (GSTF-2024) hosted by the Ministry of Transport of the People's Republic of China in Beijing under the theme, "Sustainable Transport: Connecting the World through Logistics".

Addressing the GSTF-2024 on Wednesday, Commissioner/CEO Cllr. Neto Zarzar Lighe, Sr., emphasized Liberia’s pivotal role in the global maritime sector and outlining the nation's commitment to enhancing sustainability in international shipping.

In his speech, Commissioner Lighe, Sr. expressed his appreciation to the People’s Republic of China for its enduring partnership, particularly through the recent renewal of the Liberia-China Maritime Transport Agreement. This bilateral agreement is expected to further strengthen cooperation and ties between the two nations, advancing sustainable maritime trade and fostering economic growth.

He highlighted that 80% of global trade is facilitated by maritime transport, underscoring its indispensable role in maintaining global commerce. He called for the international maritime community to adopt energy-efficient technologies and promote the use of alternative fuels to reduce environmental impacts.

“Sustainable transport requires us to move people and goods without depleting the natural resources of our environment,” said Commissioner Lighe, Sr. “This means deploying energy-efficient technologies across all modes of transport, especially in the maritime sector, which remains the most efficient and essential to global trade.”

According to a dispatch issued by the Permanent Mission this evening, The Liberia Permanent Mission to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) London, United Kingdom has had a high-level meeting with the Officials of the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) on tackling the issue of "dark fleets" or "shadow fleets" in the realm of international shipping.

Beijing, China – Liberia and China have signed a Maritime Transport Agreement following high-level bilateral talks between the Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA) delegation, led by Commissioner/CEO Cllr. Neto Zarzar Lighe, Sr., and the Ministry of Transport of the People’s Republic of China. The signing ceremony, which took place in Beijing, marks a milestone in the partnership between the two nations. Both Liberia and China emphasized the importance of maritime transport to their socio-economic development and affirmed their commitment to fostering stronger ties in the sector.

The Liberia Maritime Authority and the Ministry of Agriculture signed a Communique to collaborate and cooperate for the effective imlementation of both parties' statutory mandates on Thursday, April 13, 2017 .