Barcolleh Poronpyae, widely known as Pumpay, has been appointed Creative Economy Manager at the Liberia National Tourism Authority (LNTA), marking a new phase in the country’s efforts to strengthen its cultural and creative industries.
The appointment places Mr Poronpyae at the centre of plans to develop and position Liberia’s creative economy, spanning arts, music, fashion, film, media, digital content and cultural heritage, as part of a broader tourism and national branding strategy.
Officials say the role goes beyond policy coordination, focusing instead on turning creativity into a viable economic driver that can support job creation, attract visitors and project Liberia’s identity internationally.
Liberia’s creative sectors have long been recognised for their richness and diversity, but industry observers note that limited structure and access to opportunity have often constrained growth. The LNTA believes the new role will help address this gap by connecting creatives with institutions, markets and platforms beyond the country’s borders.
Under Mr Poronpyae’s leadership, the authority says it aims to create stronger links between culture and commerce, while encouraging collaboration across the creative value chain. The intention is to ensure that artists and cultural practitioners are not only visible, but also economically empowered.
In a statement welcoming the appointment, the LNTA described the move as part of a wider push to place creativity at the heart of tourism development and national storytelling.
Mr Poronpyae is expected to work closely with artists, filmmakers, designers, musicians, writers and cultural custodians, as well as public and private sector partners, to shape a more coordinated creative economy.
The appointment has been welcomed by figures within Liberia’s creative community, many of whom see it as an opportunity for greater inclusion and global exposure.
The LNTA says the initiative reflects growing international interest in Liberia’s cultural narrative, as the country seeks to tell its story more boldly and authentically on the world stage.
