ROTARIAN, RETIRED STATE DEPARTMENT DIPLOMAT
CONTINUES INTERNATIONAL SERVICE

Muskogee, OK- On September 8, 2009, Dr. Wilbur G. Thomas returned to Africa as part of a State Department program to assist the government and citizens of Liberia (West Africa). Dr. Thomas will serve as the Principal Advisor to the Minister of Agriculture in Monrovia, Liberia to implement Liberia's portion of the $20 billion pledged at the L'Aquila G8 and G20 Summits. His expertise in agricultural developmental programs coupled with his extensive knowledge of Africa and African cultures will assist the Government of Liberia attain objectives of their Poverty Reduction Strategy (PRS) of which are increased economic growth and food security.
"Muskogee and the Rotary Club of Muskogee has already learned much from Dr. Thomas and he continues to enrich our understanding of Africa, its needs and its rich culture. We look forward to updates about his experiences during the months he is again in Africa, in support of National interests and initiatives," said Hershel McBride, President of the local Rotary club.
Dr. Thomas, who spent over 22 years of his State Department career on the African continent and was recalled to service for this work expects to spend a minimum of eight months in Liberia. Dr. Thomas commented, "I am pleased to take up this challenge on behalf of the U.S, in particular because I know this part of the world and agriculture is one of my areas of expertise." "This work came about as part of a series of initiatives for Liberia that have been pressed for by Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton and President Barack Obama. It is an honor to be called to be part of a major U.S. foreign policy initiative and development program."
Dr. Thomas has been living in Muskogee since 1998. In his retirement, he has continued his life of service
through the local, national and international service of Muskogee Rotary.