Liberia honours maritime and telecom pioneer abraham avi zaidenberg with nation’s highesta award

Abraham Avi Zaidenberg, a longtime development partner and Executive Managing Director of the Liberia International Ship and Corporate Registry Trust Company (LISCR).

At a formal ceremony held at the EJS Ministerial Complex in Congo Town on Thursday, July 24, Mr. Zaidenberg was named Knight Grand Commander in the Humane Order of African Redemption, acknowledging over two decades of exceptional contributions to Liberia’s development.

President Boakai praised Zaidenberg’s legacy of impact across multiple sectors, saying, “His exceptional service reflects a spirit of innovation, excellence, and unwavering commitment to Liberia’s progress.”

Born on July 23, 1956, and holding both American and Israeli citizenship, Zaidenberg began his professional journey in Israel, later settling in the United States before making Liberia his second home in 1999. Since then, his work has transformed several sectors of the Liberian economy.

As the Executive Managing Director of LISCR, Zaidenberg led a historic turnaround of Liberia’s maritime registry. When LISCR took over during the aftermath of the civil war, only 1,400 vessels were registered.

Today, the Liberian flag flies over more than 6,000 vessels—making it the largest ship registry in the world. Under his leadership, LISCR spearheaded a sweeping digital reform, streamlining operations and increasing global competitiveness.

From 2004 to 2015, Zaidenberg chaired Cellcom Telecommunications Inc., a company that revolutionized telecom access in Liberia.

Under his watch, SIM card prices dropped from $65 to $1, scratch cards became universally accessible, and 3G/4G technology was introduced—bringing connectivity to ordinary Liberians nationwide.

In education, he oversaw LISCR’s takeover of the Liberia Maritime Training Institute (LMTI), which now provides free maritime education to Liberian cadets.

Graduates are placed on international shipping vessels, and the institute is set to evolve into a full-fledged maritime university.

Beyond business, Zaidenberg’s passion for sports development is evident. As chairman of LISCR Football Club since 2001, he has propelled the team to multiple championship wins.

He has also supported the Liberia National Football Team and the National County Sports Meets, helping to foster unity through sport.

His influence extends internationally. He owns Golden Sun Jewelry, a major retail chain in Israel, and is co-owner of Hapoel Tel Aviv, a premier Israeli basketball team.

He also co-owns the Telecom International Alliance (TIA), which supports gateway monitoring in Liberia.

Zaidenberg is a former president of the Rotary Club of Liberia (2003–2004) and holds the title of Honorary Deputy Grand Master of Masons in the Republic of Liberia.

President Boakai’s recognition underscores Zaidenberg’s enduring legacy as a catalyst for innovation, philanthropy, and national advancement—an individual whose vision and dedication have left a lasting mark on Liberia’s development journey.