Liberia Secures US$361,151 ATU Debt Waiver, Restores Voting Rights
The milestone was achieved during the 7th Ordinary Session of the ATU Conference of Plenipotentiaries (CPL-26) in Abuja, Nigeria, where the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA), led by Chairman Clarence K. Massaquoi, successfully negotiated the waiver of legacy debts dating back to 1982 and arranged payment of Liberia’s current obligations.
Liberia has secured a US$361,151.36 waiver of decades-old arrears owed to the African Telecommunications Union (ATU), restoring the country’s full voting rights and financial standing within the continental telecommunications body. The milestone was achieved during the 7th Ordinary Session of the ATU Conference of Plenipotentiaries (CPL-26) in Abuja, Nigeria, where the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA) , led by Chairman Clarence K. Massaquoi, successfully negotiated the waiver of legacy debts dating back to 1982 and arranged payment of Liberia’s current obligations.
With its voting rights restored, Liberia actively participated in decisions shaping Africa’s digital future, including the adoption of the 2026 Abuja Declaration on Meaningful Connectivity, which commits member states to expanding affordable broadband, strengthening cybersecurity, promoting digital literacy, and accelerating investment in digital infrastructure across the continent. Liberia also deposited its Instrument of Ratification of the ATU Constitution and Convention, reaffirming its commitment to the Union’s governing framework and continued regional cooperation. During the conference, Chairman Massaquoi also successfully sought clarification on the interpretation of a “simple majority” in the Union’s election procedures. The motion, seconded by Uganda, was adopted and resulted in an adjustment to the ATU’s voting process.
On the sidelines of the conference, the LTA delegation held bilateral meetings with the ATU Secretariat, the International Telecommunication Union, regional regulators, and development partners to strengthen collaboration and promote investment opportunities in Liberia’s telecommunications sector. The conference concluded with the election of Kezias Kazuba Mwale of Zambia as the ATU’s next Secretary General. Liberia reaffirmed its commitment to working with the ATU and its partners to advance an inclusive, secure, and digitally connected Africa.
