Ambassador Joseph F. Johnson, a prominent Liberian figure, recently inspired the alumni of the College of West Africa (CWA) with a powerful speech. His heartfelt and visionary address resonated far beyond the institution’s walls, calling for rebuilding, renewal, and the restoration of core values. Discover the highlights of this intervention that places the future of CWA and Liberia at the heart of its concerns.
A Remarkable Speech at the 2026 CWA Global Alumni Congress
From his diplomatic office in Rabat, His Excellency Joseph F. Johnson, Liberia’s Ambassador to Morocco and a 1984 graduate of the College of West Africa (CWA), delivered a stirring speech at the CWA Global Alumni Convention. Hundreds of participants connected virtually to follow this intervention under the theme: “Rebuild, Renew, Restore”.
Tribute and Vision
Ambassador Johnson paid tribute to the historical figures of the institution, while particularly praising the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sara Beysolow Nyanti, for restoring Liberia’s diplomatic credibility on the international stage. He reminded that rebuilding is not limited to infrastructure but involves establishing a quality standard that reflects CWA’s dignity.
“How can CWA become a beacon for technological diplomacy, digital literacy, scientific discovery, ethical leadership, and integrity in Africa?” he challenged the alumni.
Memories and Call to Action
Recalling his years spent in the halls of CWA (1982–1984), the Ambassador paid a moving tribute to market mothers and hardworking parents who sacrificed everything for their children’s education. He reminded that the true measure of CWA’s success has never been titles, but constant and dedicated service.
Drawing on the prophetic promise of Joel 2:25 regarding the restoration of years devoured by the “locusts,” he defined the “modern locusts” as failing schools, broken infrastructure, lowered standards, and lost opportunities due to neglect and greed.
The Challenge of the New Generation
In a powerful message, the Ambassador urged the alumni and the new generation to rise to the challenge:
“Every generation faces its own challenge. Yours is to stop the invasion — to stop the forces destroying trust, excellence, opportunity, integrity, and hope. The future is not waiting for someone else. It is waiting for you.”
This speech, full of passion and vision, connects CWA’s heritage to Liberia’s future. It calls on the alumni to become the generation that rebuilds the standard, renews the mindset, and restores integrity, so that CWA remains a symbol of dignity and leadership in Africa.
