LRRRC Warns President Boakai of Rising Burkinabè Influx in Southeastern Liberia
MONROVIA, Liberia – The Executive Director of the Liberia Refugee Repatriation and Resettlement Commission (LRRRC), Cllr. Jeror Cole Bangalu, has presented a joint assessment report to President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., highlighting concerns over a growing influx of Burkinabè nationals into southeastern Liberia.
According to the report, approximately 140,000 Burkinabè nationals are currently residing in Grand Gedeh and River Gee Counties, with many engaged in mining and agricultural activities. The assessment warns that the increasing population could place significant pressure on local resources while creating potential security and humanitarian challenges.
“Without a coordinated response, this situation could overwhelm communities already facing limited infrastructure and services,” Cllr. Bangalu said.
The report was presented to President Boakai on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at the Executive Mansion. Following the presentation, the President directed that the findings be elevated to Cabinet level for broader national security and policy discussions.
Cllr. Bangalu noted that implementing the report’s recommendations will require close cooperation between the Government of Liberia and international development partners. He disclosed that a stakeholders’ meeting with donor partners is expected to be convened to review the findings and identify support mechanisms for implementation.
According to the LRRRC Executive Director, some recommendations require immediate intervention, while long-term solutions will depend on strategic planning, national budgetary support, and sustained international collaboration.
Joint Assessment Mission
The assessment was conducted jointly by the LRRRC, the French Embassy, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the United Nations Human Rights Office, the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and the Liberia Immigration Service.
The presentation meeting was attended by French Ambassador Isabelle Le Guellec, Liberia Immigration Service Commissioner General Elijah F. Rufus, UNFPA Country Representative Dr. Mady Biaye, Head of the United Nations Human Rights Office Christian Mukosa, and Acting Chief of Mission of the International Organization for Migration, Lenaud Serge Desire.
Cllr. Bangalu thanked all participating institutions for their collaboration throughout the assessment process and expressed confidence that continued support from national and international partners would help address the challenges identified in the report and strengthen assistance to affected communities.
Key Findings
- Approximately 140,000 Burkinabè nationals are reportedly residing in Grand Gedeh and River Gee Counties.
- Most migrants are engaged in mining and agricultural activities.
- The report highlights growing pressure on local resources and services.
- Government and international partners are expected to discuss implementation of recommendations.
- President Boakai has referred the matter for Cabinet-level consideration.
Source: Liberia Refugee Repatriation and Resettlement Commission (LRRRC)