On Saturday, October 29, 2016, President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf turned 78. Scores of government officials, led by Vice President Joseph Boakai, family members, foreign diplomats, and well-wishers joined the Liberian President, also Chairperson of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of ECOWAS, to celebrate her 78^th birthday. It was celebrated in Jullijuah, Bomi County, in Western Liberia.

Many activities marked the event. Part of them was the graduation of 55 students from the Julijuah Vocational Training Center, under the auspices of the Liberian  Ministry of Youth and Sports which held the next day. The school has direct support from the President.

Montserrado County Representative Edwin Melvin Snowe, Jr, also a member of the ECOWAS Parliament, served as the guest speaker with the theme, ‘A Man Is A Product Of His Own Environment..

Presidential Press Secretary Jerolinmek Piah described the President as “an inspirational leader who is propelling the nation towards more development.”

Talking on State Radio ELBC, Piah said members of the Cabinet remained appreciative about the good work and development achievements of the Liberian leader and as such, they are planning a day-long picnic to celebrate with her.

He said it is the pleasing desire of cabinet members to gather with the President on Saturday in commemoration of her birthday, adding, “This comes from the heart and soul of every cabinet member.”

According to Piah, members of the cabinet, well-wishers and other officials of government are grateful that President Sirleaf is not only blessed with a wealth of age, but with good health and strength as well.