Exposing The Deception: How Some Religious Leaders Mislead Liberians About Poverty And Unemployment

By Omari Jackson
In Liberia today, thousands of people struggle with unemployment and economic hardship. Instead of addressing the real causes—such as government inefficiency, corruption, and a poor business climate—some religious leaders have chosen to mislead their congregations. They claim that “Goliaths” or unseen spiritual enemies are responsible for their followers’ inability to secure jobs or improve their financial status. This dangerous narrative shifts blame from systemic issues to superstition, leaving people trapped in a cycle of poverty and hopelessness.
The Dangerous Influence of False Doctrines
Many churches in Liberia have become centers of emotional manipulation rather than places of empowerment. Instead of teaching their members skills, financial literacy, or resilience, some pastors encourage endless fasting, night vigils, and “deliverance prayers” as the primary solutions to unemployment. They preach that people are jobless because “witches in their families” or “hidden enemies” are blocking their success.
This message does two things:

1. It shifts focus from real solutions. Instead of looking for work, learning new skills, or engaging in entrepreneurship, people waste precious time chasing imaginary enemies.
2. It allows those in power to escape accountability. If unemployment is the fault of “spiritual forces,” then the government and business community bear no responsibility for the lack of job opportunities.
   The Real Reasons Behind Liberia’s Job Crisis
   The truth is that Liberia’s job crisis has nothing to do with supernatural enemies. Here are the actual reasons why many Liberians struggle to find work:
   A Lack of Government Leadership in Job Creation: The Liberian government has done little to create jobs or encourage foreign investment. There are no major public works projects, and the private sector is suffocating under high taxes and regulatory bottlenecks.
   Corruption and Bribery: Many businesses are unable to operate because they must pay bribes at every stage—whether it’s to get a business license, secure contracts, or import goods. This discourages entrepreneurship and prevents job creation.
   A Poor Business Climate: Liberia lacks the infrastructure necessary for businesses to thrive. Unstable electricity, bad roads, and poor internet connectivity make it difficult for companies to operate efficiently.
   Low Skill Levels: Many job seekers do not have the necessary skills to compete in the modern job market, yet few educational or vocational programs exist to address this gap.
   A Practical Path Forward
   Liberians do not need more “spiritual warfare” against imaginary enemies—they need real, actionable solutions. Here’s what needs to be done:
   For the Government:
3. Prioritize Job Creation: Invest in infrastructure, agriculture, and industries that can employ large numbers of people.
4. Fight Corruption: Reduce bribery and make it easier for businesses to operate without illegal fees.
5. Support Local Businesses: Provide tax incentives and micro-loans to small entrepreneurs.

For the People:

1. Develop Marketable Skills: Instead of waiting for “divine intervention,” invest in learning practical skills like carpentry, technology, agriculture, and business management.
2. Embrace Entrepreneurship: Even in a bad economy, small businesses can thrive. Selling goods, offering services, and engaging in online commerce are all viable options.
3. Hold Leaders Accountable: Instead of blaming witches, pressure the government to create policies that encourage job growth.
   For Religious Leaders:
4. Preach Responsibility, Not Fear: Teach members how to navigate economic realities instead of promoting superstition.
5. Invest in Community Development: Churches can provide vocational training and support for local businesses.
6. Encourage a Culture of Hard Work: God helps those who help themselves—prayer should go hand in hand with effort.
   Liberia’s unemployment crisis is a direct result of poor leadership, corruption, and a weak business environment—not “Goliaths” or unseen spiritual forces. As long as some religious leaders continue to mislead their followers, many Liberians will remain in poverty. It is time for a change in mindset. The country needs a shift from superstition to reality, from endless prayers to practical action. Only then will Liberia’s people truly prosper.