President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has restructured the Liberia Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (LEITI) by appointing a new Multi-Stakeholder Group (MSG) to oversee its operations. The appointments announced through an Executive Mansion statement on Thursday, January 9, 2024, following wide-ranging consultations to adhere to the LEITI Act of 2009 and the global Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) Standard.
The EITI, an internationally respected framework, is designed to ensure transparency and accountability in the management of oil, gas, and mining resources. Liberia’s adoption of this standard underscores its commitment to improving public access to extractive sector data, promoting responsible resource management, and enhancing the understanding of extractive contracts and licenses.
The MSG comprises representatives from various sectors, including civil society, private industry, government institutions, and international organizations. Among the notable appointees are Cecelia Danuweli of Publish What You Pay – Liberia, Michael V. Suah of the Liberia Chamber of Mines, and Rudolph J. Merab Sr. from the Forestry Development Authority. Observers include representatives from the U.S. Embassy and GIZ, while legislative voices like Honorable Sam P. Jallah and Senator Abraham D. Dillon also form part of the team.
President Boakai has named Honorable Wilmot J. M. Paye, Minister of Mines and Energy, as Chairperson of the MSG, with Honorable Augustine K. Ngafuan, Minister of Finance and Development Planning, serving as Co-Chairperson. The MSG members will hold their positions for a three-year term, during which they are tasked with critical responsibilities. These include ensuring Liberia’s adherence to EITI standards, addressing issues flagged in the previous validation process, and preparing for the following EITI review slated for January 2026.
President Boakai highlighted the strategic importance of the LEITI in fostering accountability and public trust within Liberia’s resource-rich extractive sector. He described the initiative as a global responsibility and a crucial tool for advancing sustainable development.
“The effective implementation of the EITI Standard is not just a global obligation but a strategic imperative for Liberia’s sustainable development,” President Boakai stated.
Boakai reiterated his administration’s focus on using Liberia’s natural wealth to attract ethical investments, bolster domestic resource mobilization, and secure long-term benefits for future generations. He called on the newly appointed MSG to act with diligence and professionalism in addressing challenges and reinforcing Liberia’s reputation as a leader in resource transparency.
This initiative comes at a critical juncture as Liberia seeks to rebuild confidence in its governance of natural resources. Implementing LEITI’s mandate is essential for attracting investors and ensuring that the country’s wealth translates into tangible improvements for its citizens. Observers have commended the President’s appointments as a positive step but stress the need for sustained efforts to address systemic issues in the extractive sector.
