Africa-Press – Liberia. Hope for Young People Inc., a nonprofit championing youth empowerment, has lauded the Government of Liberia and the African Development Bank (AfDB) for launching the Youth Entrepreneurship Investment Bank (YEIB) — a groundbreaking $17.8 million initiative aimed at transforming Liberia’s youth development and entrepreneurship landscape.
The YEIB, launched on July 22, 2025, by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai and AfDB President Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, is the first of its kind in Liberia and on the African continent. The initiative is expected to support over 150 youth-led businesses, unlock $500 million in youth-targeted financing, and create thousands of sustainable jobs for Liberians aged 18 to 35.
In a statement, Hope for Young People Inc. welcomed the initiative as a “game-changer” for young Liberians.
“This is more than a financial commitment; it is the beginning of a new era of opportunity and dignity for Liberia’s youth,” the organization said.
The nonprofit extended special recognition to Finance Minister Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan for his “exceptional leadership and tireless advocacy,” which it credited for securing Liberia’s selection for the initiative.
“Minister Ngafuan has once again demonstrated what it means to lead with purpose, vision, and patriotism,” said Thomas Tamba Bundoo, Founder and Executive Director of Hope for Young People Inc.
The organization also thanked Dr. Adesina for choosing Liberia for the pilot program and praised President Boakai for embracing the opportunity and reaffirming his commitment to youth development.
The Youth Bank, according to Bundoo, offers young Liberians access to capital, jobs, and the tools to transform ideas into industries.
“To the youth of Liberia: this is your moment,” Bundoo declared. “Let us reject violence, drug abuse, and unproductive behavior, and instead channel our energy into innovation, entrepreneurship, and service.”
Hope for Young People Inc. reaffirmed its commitment to working with the government and development partners to ensure the success of the Youth Bank and to guarantee that “no young Liberian is left behind.”
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