Joseph Nyumah Boakai, born on November 30, 1944, is a prominent Liberian politician and the president-elect of Liberia. He previously served as the 29th vice president of Liberia from 2006 to 2018 under President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. Boakai, a member of the Kissi ethnic group, has had a diverse career in both the public and private sectors.

Boakai's early life traces back to the remote village of Worsonga in Foya District, Lofa County. Born into the Kissi ethnic group, he is married to Kartumu Boakai, and the couple has four children. Boakai is known for his philanthropic efforts, including personally financing a rural village road construction, supporting the construction of a school and clinic, and involvement in rural electrification projects.

In his educational journey, Boakai attended primary and high school in Sierra Leone and Liberia before graduating from the College of West Africa. He furthered his studies at the University of Liberia, earning a bachelor's degree in business administration in 1972.

Boakai's political career encompasses various roles, including serving as the Minister of Agriculture from 1983 to 1985 under President Samuel Doe. He held key positions in institutions such as the Liberia Finance and Trust Corporation, Star Radio, and Liberia Baptist Theological Seminary. Boakai's involvement extended to the Liberia National Lotteries, Liberia Marketing Association, Liberia Agency for Community Empowerment, and the National Commission on Disarmament Demobilization Resettlement and Reintegration during his tenure as vice president.

As a private entrepreneur, Boakai is the owner of LUSU Resource Corporation and co-owner of AGROMACHINES Liberia. He has engaged in various consultative roles, including Chief Technical Advisor on Agriculture Policy for the Ministry of Agriculture.

Boakai's political ambitions led him to run for the Liberian presidency in 2017, where he faced George Weah. Despite a loss in the run-off, Boakai remained active in Liberian politics, expressing gratitude to his supporters and encouraging collaboration with the new government. In a turn of events, he defeated George Weah in the 2023 presidential election.

Apart from his political pursuits, Boakai is an active member of the Baptist faith, serving as a deacon at the Effort Baptist Church. He remains dedicated to community development, education, and philanthropy, showcasing a commitment to the betterment of Liberia and its people.

Reference.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joseph_Boakai