198 TILG Liberia ceo networks

Liberia is Africa's oldest republic, but it became known in the 1990s for its long-running, ruinous civil war and its role in a rebellion in neighbouring Sierra Leone.

Although founded by freed American and Caribbean slaves, Liberia is mostly inhabited by indigenous Africans, with the slaves' descendants comprising 5% of the population.

Around 250,000 people were killed in Liberia's civil war and many thousands more fled the fighting.

Big programmes are under way to address the shortage of electricity and running water. Corruption is rife and unemployment and illiteracy are endemic.

The Beautiful Liberia You Have to Visit to appreciate

The Republic of Liberia
Capital: Monrovia
Population 4.2 million
Area 99,067 sq km (38,250 sq miles)
Languages English, 29 African languages belonging to the Mande, Kwa or Mel linguistic groups
Major religionsChristianity, Islam, indigenous beliefs
Life expectancy 56 years (men), 59 years (women)
Currency Liberian dollar

TRAVEL & ECONOMY

Liberia is one of the poorest countries in the world, and its economy is extremely underdeveloped, largely due to the First Liberian Civil War in 1989-96. The civil war destroyed much of Liberia's economy, especially the infrastructure in and around Monrovia.