A Strategic Shift Toward National Progress: The launch of the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development (AAID) and the 15 County Development Agendas (CDAs) by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai in Buchanan, Grand Bassa County, has introduced an ambitious pathway toward national transformation. As Liberia’s fourth post-conflict National Development Plan, this framework is more than just a policy document—it is a rallying cry for a nation eager to turn its aspirations into achievements. By building on the lessons of the Poverty Reduction Strategy, the Agenda for Transformation, and the Pro-Poor Agenda for Prosperity and Development, the ARREST Agenda promises to address deep-seated challenges that have long plagued the nation’s development efforts.
What sets the ARREST Agenda apart is its clear focus on inclusivity. Unlike past initiatives, which often fell short in addressing the needs of marginalized communities, this agenda prioritizes the equitable distribution of resources and opportunities. It ensures that every Liberian benefits from the country’s progress regardless of location or socioeconomic status. However, turning this vision into reality will require strategic planning, unwavering commitment, and practical implementation from the Boakai administration.
Liberia’s Vision 2030 outlines an ambitious future, and the ARREST Agenda serves as its practical roadmap. The country cannot afford another cycle of unfulfilled promises and wasted resources. President Boakai and his team must go beyond launching this initiative and demonstrate the political will to follow through, ensuring tangible outcomes that citizens can see and feel daily.
Bridging Local Needs with National Goals: The ARREST Agenda’s hallmark is its emphasis on decentralization through the 15 County Development Agendas. By tailoring development plans to each county’s unique strengths and challenges, this approach recognizes that Liberia’s diversity is an asset, not an obstacle. Counties like Grand Bassa, with its coastal economy, and Nimba, rich in mineral resources, require distinct strategies to maximize their potential.
The CDAs aim to tackle long-standing disparities that have hindered balanced growth across Liberia. Rural communities have often been left behind in national development conversations, leading to uneven access to infrastructure, healthcare, and education. By focusing on localized development, the government can bring meaningful change to the counties, empowering residents to take charge of their futures.
For example, investments in modern farming techniques and value chains in agricultural counties like Bong and Lofa could transform these regions into food baskets for the nation. Meanwhile, urban areas like Montserrado require enhanced infrastructure to support their rapidly growing populations. The CDAs provide a framework to address these specific needs systematically.
However, the success of this decentralized approach depends on the effective management of resources and strong local governance. County authorities must have the necessary skills, tools, and accountability mechanisms to implement these agendas. The central government, on its part, must ensure timely disbursement of funds and monitor progress to prevent misuse and inefficiency.
Ensuring Government Accountability and Citizen Engagement: While the ARREST Agenda and the CDAs present a promising vision, their success ultimately hinges on the active involvement of all stakeholders. For too long, development initiatives in Liberia have faltered due to corruption, bureaucratic inertia, and lack of citizen engagement. To break this cycle, the Boakai administration must prioritize transparency and accountability at every level.
One immediate step the government could take is to establish an independent monitoring body to oversee the implementation of the ARREST Agenda and the CDAs. Such a body, comprising representatives from civil society, the private sector, and international partners, could provide impartial assessments and hold officials accountable for their performance.
Citizens also have a critical role to play. Community-based organizations, traditional leaders, and youth groups must be empowered to participate in development discussions and monitor projects in their areas. When people feel ownership of the process, they are more likely to support and sustain the outcomes.
Additionally, Liberia’s international partners must be engaged strategically. Development agencies and donor organizations can provide financial support and technical expertise to strengthen the capacity of local institutions. However, these partnerships must be built on mutual respect and a commitment to Liberia’s long-term goals.
A Path Forward for Liberia: The ARREST Agenda and the County Development Agendas represent a unique opportunity for Liberia to chart a new course toward inclusive growth and national unity. By addressing historical inequities and prioritizing local empowerment, these initiatives can potentially transform Liberia’s development landscape.
However, this journey will not be easy. It demands a sustained commitment from the Boakai administration, backed by robust oversight and active citizen participation. Every Liberian, from government officials to community members, has a role in ensuring this ambitious vision translates into real progress.
President Boakai’s leadership will be judged not by the promises made during the launch but by the tangible results achieved in the years to come. With the right mix of vision, action, and accountability, the ARREST Agenda can become a defining legacy for his administration and a turning point for Liberia. This is a moment for collective action and must not be wasted.
