Monrovia, Liberia, December 16, 2024, The Deputy Minister for Administration, Ministry of Commerc & Industry, Hon. Scholastica T. Nyenkan-Nimley, has called on MSMEs of Liberia to transform their ideas into concrete initiatives, urging a focus on action-driving growth she made the statement during the just ended MSMEs conference.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the MSMEs conference, which was hosted after a six-year hiatus, Madam Nimley emphasized the need to move beyond conceptual discussions. “Our vision must not remain just in our heads,” but, “We expect to progress from one level to another, translating what we’ve learned into tangible actions that foster growth and development.”

The SME conference, was first hosted in 2013 up to 2016. Since 2017, there has been no conference hosted. The conference brought together entrepreneurs, stakeholders, government officials to discuss pressing issues affecting small businesses and explore avenues for economic transformation. This year’s theme focuses on innovation, youth engagement, environmental protection, and productivity in agriculture and tourism.

The Acting Minister reflecting on the quick planning process, acknowledged the challenges faced during the organization of the event. “Some of us were optimistic, while others were pessimistic,” Madam Minister admitted. “However, The Minister is committed in reassuring her colleagues that it would work. “Today I am pleased to inform you that the conference has proven to be a success.”

This three-day’s event concluded an insightful panel discussions, product exhibitions, and awards for outstanding entrepreneurs, culminating in an evening of celebration. The Acting Minister of Commerce & Industry expressed her hope that participants would leave the conference with renewed determination to implement their business visions.

“Eradicating poverty and inequality through strategic initiatives remain our goal. We want to see discussion here base on ideas that would eventually turned into realities and brings positive attitude will have impact on communities,” the Minister said. “Next year, I look forward to hearing success stories from participants who have grown from micro to small and even medium enterprises this remains our goal.”

Meanwhile the Deputy Minister for Small Business Administration, Hon. Benedict Dolo, in his closing remarks celebrated successful revival of the conference. He added this is start of many more to come. Announcing plans for more impactful MSMEs conference next year November. He Dolo commended the, stakeholders, the Media institution and the entrepreneurs for ensuring the success of the conference.

Engagement over the past three-days had been incredible, and optimistic about the future of the SME’s in Liberia, as the conference wrapped up the Acting Minister urged participants to celebrate their collective achievements and embrace the opportunities ahead. “We only came here to celebrate,” she said with enthusiasm. “Let us enjoy food, drink, and dance together as we mark this momentous occasion.” 15 Liberian-owned businesses benefited cash, tax clearance, business registration certificate and other none cash prizes during the just-ended MSME conference and Trade Fair, organized by the Ministry of Commerce in collaboration with partners.

The MSME conference highlighted the resilience and innovation of Liberia’s small business sector, with participants inspired to drive economic growth and foster sustainable development in the years ahead.