Legislative Issues

# Liberia's Housing Market: Rental Demand, Affordability & Real Estate Investment Opportunities What kind of housing do Liberians actually want? How much rent can families realistically afford? What amenities matter most when choosing where to live? And where are the biggest opportunities for investors seeking long-term rental income in one of West Africa's fastest-growing urban markets? Join the Africa Development & Capital Forum for a special presentation examining Liberia's housing market through ongoing market research, resident feedback, and real-world development opportunities. This event will explore what Liberian residents are saying about housing affordability, rental demand, infrastructure needs, and community preferences—and what those findings mean for investors, developers, entrepreneurs, and members of the African diaspora interested in participating in Africa's growth. While many discussions about African real estate focus on broad economic trends, this session takes a different approach: listening directly to the people who will ultimately live in these communities. Through ongoing housing market research in Monrovia and surrounding areas, clear patterns are emerging regarding affordability, household needs, infrastructure priorities, and the types of housing that remain underserved. ## What You'll Learn ### The State of Housing Demand in Liberia Liberia continues to experience rapid urban growth while facing significant housing challenges. We'll examine: * Current housing conditions * Rental market dynamics * Population and urbanization trends * The gap between housing supply and demand * Opportunities created by unmet demand ### What Residents Actually Want in a Community Many developments fail because they are designed around assumptions rather than market realities. We'll discuss what residents consistently identify as priorities, including: * Reliable electricity * Running water * Internet connectivity * Security * Recreational spaces * Retail and commercial amenities * Family-friendly environments These insights provide valuable guidance for anyone considering future housing developments. ### Housing Affordability and Market Opportunities One of the most important questions for any developer or investor is affordability. This presentation will examine: * Rental affordability trends * Pricing realities in the market * Underserved renter segments * Opportunities for workforce and affordable housing * Balancing affordability with investment returns ### Building a Sustainable Rental Community We'll also discuss the concept currently being explored through Minzo Africa's market research: A modern residential community featuring: * Apartment buildings * Single-family homes * Reliable utilities * High-speed internet * Shopping and commercial services * Community spaces * Safe and well-managed infrastructure The discussion will focus on how market research can help determine the right mix of housing types, pricing strategies, and amenities before construction begins. ### Opportunities for Investors and the African Diaspora As housing demand continues to grow across West Africa, many investors are looking for opportunities that combine financial returns with meaningful community impact. Topics will include: * Rental income opportunities * Buy-and-hold investment models * Mixed-income community development * Diaspora participation in African real estate * Market risks and considerations * Long-term growth potential ## Who Should Attend? This event is ideal for: * Real estate investors * African diaspora professionals * Entrepreneurs * Developers * Community leaders * Students and researchers * Anyone interested in Africa's housing and economic future No prior real estate experience is required. ## Why Attend? The most successful real estate investments begin with understanding the market. This event offers a unique opportunity to explore emerging housing trends in Liberia, learn what residents actually want, and discuss practical opportunities for creating communities that are both financially sustainable and socially impactful. Whether you're considering future investments, exploring development opportunities, or simply interested in Africa's growth story, you'll leave with valuable insights into one of West Africa's most important and underserved markets. ## Event Details Date: Tuesday, June 2, 2026 Time: 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM Location: Benning / Dorothy I. Height Neighborhood Library 3935 Benning Road NE Washington, DC 20019 Cost: Free Registration Required Come learn what the market is telling us—and what it could mean for the future of housing in Liberia.

Brisk, 3- to 4-mile urban hike starting and ending at Roofer's Union in Adams Morgan. We will hike down toward Rock Creek Park, take Klingle Valley Trail up toward the Cathedral before turning back to Roofer's Union for drinks and food at their rooftop bar. Closest metro Woodley Park.

This event is for volleyball beginners who want an opportunity to practice, play, and gain experience in a relaxed, low pressure environment. Whether you're trying volleyball for the first time or still developing confidence in the basics, you'll find this event welcoming, supportive, and beginner-friendly. Level: Beginners Cost: Free Field Type: Outdoor grass Format: 6x6 The focus will be on getting 3 touches on the ball, learning through play, and having fun with others who are also new to the game. Come enjoy some casual volleyball, meet new people, and have fun! **Smiley Social documents:** 1. [Group Rules](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HrG35p_0M08leRvCp8XWG3CMkr_GL928XFabl5T6Dvg) 2. [Liability Waiver](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1W2mq-7m99lmvd7gdWYaSUFtvVg4UGnzV6koafAbHmco) 3. [Volleyball Levels](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/)

**This talk has completely sold out in advance and no additional tickets will be available at the door.** [Profs and Pints DC](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“Inside the World Cup,”** a scholarly look at preparation for the upcoming soccer tournament and at the likely impact of major global sports events soon to be staged in the United States, with Matt Winkler, founder of American University’s online master’s program in sports analytics and management and former sports executive. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/dc-world-cup](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/dc-world-cup) .] The FIFA World Cup 2026 will soon take place in several cities throughout the U.S., Canada and Mexico. Come to Profs and Pints to get an industry insider’s perspective on it and other global sports events being hosted by American cities, including the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles and the 2034 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City. Learn about the preparation for these events, about their projected economic and cultural impact, and about remaining uncertainties surrounding them with Matt Winkler, a scholar and teacher of sports management and business with years of experience working with the World Cup, the Olympics, and various professional sports leagues. He’ll discuss issues related to the FIFA World Cup’s governance, site preparation, security, fan management, and tourist visas, and he’ll weigh how the $13 billion dollars in revenue projected to be generated by the tournament compares to the costs of staging 104 games between 48 countries. He’ll delve into how the tournament symbolizes a pivotal moment in the evolution of soccer in America, with global games broadcast all over American television channels and streaming services. You’ll learn how the 1994 World Cup in the United States significantly boosted soccer’s popularity—leading to increased youth participation and the establishment of Major League Soccer—and how the sport has continued to rapidly gain traction here in recent years. We’ll consider how the World Cup marks the beginning of an unprecedented run of major global sports events in the U.S., including not just summer and winter Olympics but, in 2031, the U.S.-hosted FIFA Women’s World Cup and 2033 men’s and women’s rugby World Cups. Among the questions Winkler will tackle: How will the U.S.-Israel attacks on Iran affect the World Cup? How will tickets sell, and at what price? (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. The talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image: Soccer being played in New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium, one of the venues hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

**💃 Ready to Try Something New? Join AM Salsa Dance This October!** **AM Salsa Dance is excited to launch a 4-week Beginner Salsa Dance Series starting Tuesday April 7th! Whether you're completely new to salsa or looking to refresh your basics, this series is perfect for adults ready to step onto the dance floor with confidence.** **🕺 What to Expect** **✔️ Fundamental Cuban salsa footwork to get you moving** **✔️ Step-by-step partner dancing techniques** **✔️ Learn timing, rhythm, and styling tips** **✔️ Supportive, welcoming environment — no partner needed!** **📌 Class Details** **📍 Location: Maryland Youth Ballet, 926 Ellsworth Dr, Silver Spring, MD 20910** **🗓 Dates: Tuesday — April 7, 14, 21, & 28 **⏰ Time: 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM** **💰 Cost:** * **$60 for the full 4-week series (1.5 hours of instruction)** * **$18 per drop-in class (if space is available)** **🔐 No Walk-Ins — Registration is required!** **Each class builds on the previous one, ensuring you progress with structure and support.** **💳 Payment Options:** * **Cash at the venue** * **PayPal / Cash App / Zelle / Venmo: 301-675-4565** * **💻 [Pay for All 4 Classes – $60] https://square.link/u/yqQ4LTDo** * **💻 [Pay for One Class – $18](https://checkout.square.site/merchant/KD199AS6SCJ1E/checkout/GCZWPFOWDAOSNUYMCHZBDWLM)** **🙋 Have Questions?** **📧 Email:** amsalsadance@gmail.com **📞 Phone: 301-675-4565** **🌐 Website: [www.amsalsa.com](http://www.amsalsa.com)** **🎉 Don’t miss this opportunity to kickstart your salsa journey!** **In just one month, you’ll gain the foundation to dance with confidence, meet new people, and have fun doing it. Let’s dance, Silver Spring! 💃🕺** **💃

The first band at Brookside Gardens summer twilight concert series is the Olney Big Band. The Band specializes in performance of classic swing, dance and jazz music from the Big Band Era of the ‘30s and ‘40s in addition to arrangements from the '50s to present day. Bring a chair.

Join us at Don Taco in Old Town Alexandria for our Taco Thursday Happy Hour! Connect with fellow Libertarians in Northern Virginia and the wider DC area for good conversation, drinks, and tacos! We will have a large table in the **upstairs bar area** of Don Taco reserved for us. The Libertarian Party of Northern Virginia is your local affiliate of the national Libertarian Party. Since 1971, the Libertarian Party has been fighting for personal freedom, economic freedom, and peaceful foreign policy. We run candidates for office, advocate for liberty in our community through our presence at local fairs and festivals, and connect fellow DC area libertarians through events like these.

💃 Beginner-Friendly Dance Fitness Get ready to move, sweat, and have fun! This high-energy class blends Brazilian Carnival vibes with global street dance for a full-body workout that doesn’t feel like one. ✨ No experience needed ✨ No partner required ✨ Just come ready to move and enjoy the music Expect a fun, welcoming environment where you can let go, build confidence, and leave feeling amazing. 📍 Location: Salsa With Silvia (Bethesda) – Studio B ⏰ Please arrive 5–10 minutes early 💵 Drop-in: $12 (pay at the door or message for details) 🔗 More info + schedule: https://fitnesswithmikissz.com/connect-with-miki Let’s sweat, dance, and make it a vibe 🔥

[Profs and Pints Northern Virginia](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy,”** on findings, debates and trends in the use of psychedelic substances to treat trauma and other conditions, with Whitney Marris, instructor at the University of Buffalo’s School of Social Work, certified psychedelic-assisted therapy facilitator, and consultant to clinical trials. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-psychedelic-assisted-therapy](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-psychedelic-assisted-therapy) .] Psychedelics are rapidly moving from the margins into the mainstream, and questions abound as the sociocultural and legal landscapes surrounding them shift. President Trump’s recent executive order expanding access to psychedelic drugs for certain conditions and accelerating research on them has both heightened interest and added to confusion. Learn more about the so-called “Psychedelic Renaissance,” and get help separating the hope from the hype surrounding it, with Whitney Marris, a leading trainer and facilitator of psychedelic therapy who has used it to treat trauma survivors, military veterans, and people with cancer. She’ll present foundational information on what we know about how psychedelics work. You’ll learn how psychedelic-assisted therapy differs from “trip sitting” and about what we know about the effects of “microdosing” versus “macrodosing.” We’ll examine what has been demonstrated to be helpful versus harmful before, during, and after a dosing session intended to support significant, sustainable change. Marris also will discuss the historical and cultural context of the use of psychedelic medicines for healing, and she’ll describe the ethical challenges that arise as such practices move from counterculture to clinic. We’ll look at emerging and evolving findings in the field, as well as at the roles being played by various financial interests and ideologies in determining the direction of psychedelic-assisted therapy and research on its outcomes. Attendees will gain an awareness of the need for new professional standards and regulatory guardrails related to such work, and they’ll leave knowing key questions to ask potential providers of psychedelic-assisted therapy. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. The talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image by Canva.

Meet in the parking lot of the Handy Bikes Service Center. At the start of each ride, we'll go over introductions to have a sense of participants' cycling experience. Over the course of our rides, we'll address the following: group riding dynamics; safety (ABC check & trail hazards); gear shifting; hill climbing; audible and hand communication within the group, with other trail users, and automobile drivers; what to bring on each ride; etc... Bring your questions, water & a snack. When it starts getting dark earlier, we'll need lights as well. Helmets a MUST. If you can, and especially if you've had issues with your bike, come a bit early to have it looked at ahead of the ride. PS - all levels are welcome to join, however, be mindful that if you are an experienced rider, please be prepared to ride at the pace of the newest rider in the group. Each week, depending on who's in attendance, and participants' riding ability/comfort level, we may do skills practice as a group in the parking lot or at the west end of Wheeler Ave. Once everyone is comfortable, we'll go for a ride on local trails and neighborhood streets and finish back at the shop. Happy Pedaling !! \~Maya

Come check out the DC Rocker's Summer Showcase at Tommy Joe's in Bethesda. Five fantastic bands playing a mix of originals and rock covers. Admission is free, the food is great, and the crowd will be fun! 3 pm Shee's Unhinged 4 pm Neil Petty & The Horsebreakers 5 pm The Skinner Principle 6 pm Southfield 7 pm Hard Raki

Please join us for a 30 (or 20 mile) round trip bike ride along the picturesque Anacostia River Trail. There are two starting points available: [Lake Artemesia in Berwyn Heights, MD](https://maps.app.goo.gl/cLNfkkGEHhqCC75A7) (long route) or at [Bladensburg Waterfront Park](https://maps.app.goo.gl/5bTL5icqt3T7HU9i8) (short route). We will ride to Washington, DC's bustling Navy Yard neighborhood. At Navy Yard we will stop for a refreshment after which we will turn around and make our way back to our starting points. **LONG** **Route**: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/e1gTC2KG6ErEJ66m6](https://maps.app.goo.gl/e1gTC2KG6ErEJ66m6) Meeting time: **9:00 am** Meeting Point: [Parking lot at Lake Artemesia ](https://goo.gl/maps/6BA5SoNNHQfmBFNp8) Length: 30 miles Difficulty level: **hard** Elevation change: 105 ft up and 135 ft down Bike time: \~4 hours at moderate pace (\~10 mph) Total time: \~5 hours (including stops). Biking surface: All paved trail and city streets Note: please let the organizers know if you are opting for the short route. **SHORT** **Route**: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/JCAmpRc4bxskTzDj9](https://maps.app.goo.gl/JCAmpRc4bxskTzDj9) Meeting time: **9:30 am** Meeting Point: [Bladensburg Waterfront Park](https://maps.app.goo.gl/5bTL5icqt3T7HU9i8) Length: 20 Miles Difficulty level: Moderate Elevation change: 85 ft up and 89 ft down Bike time: \~3 hours at moderate pace (\~10 mph) Total time: \~4 hours (including stops). Biking surface: All paved trail and city streets **Metro Accessibility**: the trail should be accessible from two metro stations. Please note that these are **NOT** tried and tested - so please keep ample time to check them out. Also let the organizers know if you are opting for any of these so that the rendezvous can be coordinated. \- College Park on Green Line\. The trail should be reachable via this approximate [route](https://maps.app.goo.gl/cvyUNFzR7bP4fu3bA). Meeting time: 8:45 am. \- Deanwood on Orange Line\. This is station is neear Kennilworth Park\. The trail should be reachable via this approximate [route](https://maps.app.goo.gl/iHTwXHs5ae91gi5w5). Meeting time: 9:15 am. Break at mid point: [Toastique, Navy Yard](https://maps.app.goo.gl/YLrLWJYysxwiRQUMA) Weather: we will not be riding in rain or windy conditions so stay tuned for Comments on this page. *For important updates, regularly monitor the "Comments" section on this page (below).* *Don't be a no show! If your plans change, update your RSVP.* \*When you sign up to join, you automatically acknowledge [VSDC Activity Liability Waiver](https://vsdc.org/activity-waiver/). *Please also view and abide by the RULES listed below* RULES * Pets are not allowed * Use of intoxicants such as alcohol, cigarettes and/or illegal substances is banned during this event. * Practice safe biking habits including: * Wearing a bike helmet * Keeping a safe distance between each other (bikes don't have brake lights and tailgating can easily result in crashes) * Avoid side by side riding unless the road gives us ample opportunity By coming to this event, we expect you to follow the code of conduct found at [Policies - VSDC - Veg Society of DC](https://vsdc.org/policies/). **VSDC: More Than A Meetup** We are so glad to have you as part of The Veg Society of DC Vegan Meetup group, and we enjoy seeing you at our events. Did you know that [VSDC](https://vsdc.org/) is a nonprofit organization with membership benefits? With VSDC membership, you will save money at area restaurants and businesses, attend VSDC member-only events, and, most importantly, support us as a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle. The membership fee is minimal, but the impact is significant! [Become a member of VSDC](https://vsdc.org/membership/). **VSDC. Creating communities. For your health, the animals, and the planet.**

Join Guest Host Jeff and the group as we get together to see the historical drama, PRESSURE! Brendan Frasier, Andrew Scott and Kerry Condon star in this film about the tense and dramatic days leading up to the D-Day invasion! Here are details, a trailer and our plan for this event: DESCRIPTION: The film follows General Dwight D. Eisenhower and Captain James Stagg n the tense 72 hours before D-Day. With the fate of the free world in the balance, they face an impossible choice: launch the largest and most dangerous seaborne invasion in history or risk losing the war altogether. It is directed by Anthony Maras and based on David Haig’s 2014 stage play. The film stars Brendan Fraser, Andrew Scott, Kerry Condon, Chris Messina and Damian Lewis. TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xcPgrKoXe_c BUZZ & ACCLAIM: Critic and audience reviews have been outstanding for a pressure-packed film that earns its name – but also provides superb performances! Reviews call the film a “smart,” “gripping,” “tense,” and “thrilling!” It’s “quality acting” and “fascinating true story” make this one you won’t want to miss! PLAN: Details have been confirmed for this event! Please purchase your ticket for the 6:10pm showing and meet Jeff and the group in the bar area starting at 5:45pm! Advance ticket purchase is advised! Once you have yours, please list your seat number in the Comments below. Join Marcus Rewards (FREE) and purchase via the app and tickets are just $6 with no ticketing fee! Plus a free popcorn at the show! Look forward to seeing you there, Jeff P.S. from Dan: THANK YOU to Jeff for hosting this event!

Join us for our Summer Session of Peer To Peer Class dates June 16 - Aug. 4, 2026 Register today at: https://namifranklincounty.org/peer-to-peer/

We meet to learn and practice American Sign Language and to grow our familiarity with Deaf culture. Facilitated by hearing folks (with a connection to a professional interpreter) using Deaf-created content. People of all ASL skill levels are welcome! As we learn, we hope to connect more with the Deaf community in Central Ohio. Join us as you're able! Come regularly or just once - whatever you're looking for! Each meetup will explore different topics related to ASL/Deaf culture, and will feature time to practice conversation with one another. Just bring yourself and a willingness to learn!

Summer Session, Thursdays, June 4 - July 23, 2026, from 6 to 8:30pm ET **NAMI Family-to-Family** is a free, eight-week program for family members, caregivers, and partners of individuals living with mental illness. NAMI Family-to-Family provides information about anxiety, depressive disorders, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and other mental health conditions. Other topics covered include communication, problem solving, treatment, and recovery.

Unshackled will be one of the largest The Prisoners wines tasting in the nation this Thursday, hosted by Stuart, in my absence. The Prisoner Wines have several dozen white and red blended wines using unusual combinations that are very different than traditional blends from Bordeaux or The Rhone regions. ***The Prisoner Red Blend*** is comprised of Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon Petit Sirah, Syrah, Merlot, and Malbec. ***Saldo***, in the $30 range, has Petite Sirah, Grenache, Syrah, Mataro, Verdelho, and Cabernet Sauvignon. ***The Prisoner Chardonnay*** has, Chardonnay, Viognier and Gewürztraminer. You get the idea: no traditional limits in blending grapes. I will get a table for people to gather. It will be crowded, so be patient with this very popular. Feel free to bring your own food as it is welcomed at this local gem or order from the newly opened Worthington Inn, or local favorites such as Dewey's, Everest, Jet, Worthington Tavern and The Whitney. Each person pays their tasting fee, typically $15, and gets their wine glass, then approximately five pours of the wines being served. **Parking is tough**. Try the second lot behind House Wine accessed by the land by the back parking lot or the municipal lot one block north of House Wine. **Waiver and Liability and Attendance Policy.** Participation by you and your guests means you agree to the Waiver of Liability and Attendance Policies on our Group Page. People who have two more or Attendance policy violations are subject to removal from the group.

In the year 2044, in the age of AI, a woman named Gabrielle (Seydoux) tries to purify her DNA by purging the inherited memories of her past lives. She (re)lives her life in 1910 Paris and 2014 Los Angeles, and as the procedure goes on, the lines between her worlds become blurred. These three timelines have a lot of connective tissue holding them together; certain symbols and motifs appear repeatedly, not to mention Mackay’s Louis, a figure whom Gabrielle seems drawn to in each lifetime. *The Beast / La Bête* can be streamed for free on Kanopy or the Criterion Channel. It's also available for rent on Amazon Prime, AppleTV and YouTube.