Liberian businesswomen protest port delays
Hundreds of women marched to the Capitol Building demanding government action on shipping and port charges.
Liberian businesswomen protested at the Capitol Building on Tuesday, November 3, against prolonged shipping delays and excessive port charges. They warned that their businesses are on the verge of collapse due to these issues, which also include alleged violations of Liberia’s Liberianization Policy. The women, many dressed in white, carried placards highlighting their plight and demanding urgent government intervention.
Protesters accused shipping companies like Maersk Line of significant cargo delivery delays, leading to expired delivery orders and mounting bank loan obligations. Madam Matherline Nimely stated that shipments from Asia now take six to seven months to arrive in Monrovia, preventing inventory replenishment. She explained that entrepreneurs face high-interest payments on loans secured with their properties while their goods remain stranded.
Legislators, including Representative Prince Toles and Senator Abraham Darius Dillon, received the petition and pledged to examine the concerns. They assured the businesswomen that legislative efforts to address shipping and port challenges were already underway, with invitations extended to relevant stakeholders. The lawmakers stated they would act on the presented document.
Why it mattersLiberian businesswomen are suffering from prolonged shipping delays and high port charges that threaten their investments and livelihoods.