MONROVIA, Sept. 10 -- Liberian entrepreneur and jeweler Samuel Koimene says his recent meeting with President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has reinforced his conviction that Liberians living abroad must become more actively involved in the country's development through investment, knowledge transfer, and partnerships with local stakeholders.

By Francis G. Boayue

Koimene's meeting with President Boakai in Monrovia followed an earlier encounter with the Liberian leader in Sacramento, California, where he presented customized watches to President Boakai and First Lady Kartumu Yarta Boakai.

According to Koimene, the subsequent meeting in Liberia provided an opportunity to discuss the country's development challenges and the potential role of Liberi...