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Liberia – Liberia’s official language is English, stemming from its colonization in the 1820s by freed slaves who left the United States. There are more than 30 indigenous languages also spoken in this small country. Liberia’s government is very similar to that of the United States, but it is an extremely poor nation that is still recovering from the effects of past civil wars and economic turmoil. Many families do not have access to electricity, and hunger and lack of proper sanitation are also problems for many people. About 85% of the country is Christian, with public schools offering non-mandatory Bible study classes. Another 12% of the population is Muslim. Traditional Liberian music is similar to other West African nations, with heavy use of drums and vocal harmonies. Popular forms of music include Hipco and Highlife. Another aspect of Liberian culture are the wooden masks, carvings and wood sculptures produced by many artists. Quilts are also popular craft items (a lasting influence from the United States).
Currently there are two districts in Liberia: the Bushrod Island District and the Monrovia District, composed of more than 2,000 members in nine congregations.
“There are only branches here. The church is getting stronger but still has its struggles. Most of the members are willing to help. they just don’t know how. Members in different areas work with missionaries a lot, or a little….depending on the area.”
Liberian cuisine heavily incorporates rice, the country’s staple food. Other ingredients include cassava, fish, bananas, citrus fruit, plantains, coconut, okra and sweet potatoes. Heavy stews spiced with habanero and scotch bonnet chillies are popular and eaten with fufu. Liberia also has a tradition of baking imported from the United States that is unique in West Africa.
Both private taxis and minibuses run in the city, and are supplemented by larger buses run by the Monrovia Transit Authority.
Be sure to be in your apartment before dark, and always stay with your companion. Don’t drink from sachet waters, the water is unsafe so always drink from your filtered water bottle. Also do not be out on the street after 7pm
Soccer is a major part of the culture. Monrovia has one of the largest sports arenas in the world!
July 26th is their Independence Day. They don’t celebrate too much. Unless you are on the beach at that time, then there is celebrating.
While the official language is English, Liberians often combine several languages into a hybrid Kreyol language. It can be difficult to understand at first, but after some time it will be easily picked up.
Be sure and bring short-sleeved shirts for the heat and a good rain jacket.
Another missionary advised, “Shower Shoes and Sandals to wear around the apartment. Sandals even if you don’t want to you will want some later on. Essential Oils.”
Liberia is a religious place. They believe that with the help of God, they will be able to rebuild Monrovia into a flourishing and great city.
Mailing to Liberia
Mail takes anywhere from 1 week to 5 months depending if things get lost or not. Most of the time it makes it just fine. Usually the packages are opened before the missionary receives them so don’t mail anything that you would be devastated to lose.
“I love Liberia! It is an experience of a life time!”
PO Box 1905, 1000 Monrovia, 10
UPS & DHL only:
Behind Old Budget Bureau, Redemption
1000 Monrovia, 10
What items were hard to get or not available?
“Nice, sturdy shoes and clothing. So be sure to bring those items.”
What did you eat the most of?
“Egg sandwiches and rice.”
“Rice, Bread, eggs, pasta, beans and biscuits. Really…..mostly rice.”
What is the craziest thing you ate?
“Dried fish, scales and all”
“Cow tongue, Pig Feet, Chicken Feet, fish eyes and meat that I still don’t know what it was.”
What was most surprising about the culture?
“Liberian people are so friendly! They all act like they know each other. I probably say yello (hello in Liberia) to about everyone that walks past. Its amazing at how friendly and happy they all are.”
“Lots of blacks. 🙂 Lots of Rice. The Poverty/unemployment rate, and how very friendly they are. They are very hospitable. They respect missionaries and want to do what they can for us.”
What advice would you give to someone going to this Mission?
“Obey the rules, understand the gospel, and love the people”
“Be EXCITED for an adventure and be ready for change. Don’t pass up the opportunity to live here for two years. it will change your whole out look on life. Gives you a better view of how others live. BE OBEDIENT and the lord will protect you. Lots of things can happen here, so if you are disobedient you’re more susceptible to those things. Be excited and don’t be to stressed. If you worry to much, you will miss all the experiences. Take one step at a time and trust in God. Be Humble.”
What do you wish you had known before you served?
“Always carry extra toilet paper.”
“They make Liberia sound sketchier then it really is. If you are obedient and mindful of your situation, It really isn’t as scary as they say. And…. Your Taste buds will change. You will love the food!”