President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has renewed his appeal for national unity in implementing the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development (AAID) and the 15-County Development Agendas (CDAs). At the launch event held on January 15, 2025, in Buchanan, Grand Bassa County, President Boakai stressed the critical importance of collective effort to overcome Liberia’s enduring challenges.
The $8.38 billion initiative is central to advancing Liberia’s Vision 2030, which seeks to address pressing national issues. Speaking to a diverse audience, the President described the plan as more than a roadmap. “This is not just a plan; it is a shared vision, a bold commitment, and a renewed sense of purpose to secure a brighter future for every Liberian,” he declared.
President Boakai outlined the key issues plaguing Liberia, including unemployment, illiteracy, poverty, inadequate infrastructure, and systemic inequality. He emphasized that these challenges have perpetuated instability and hindered progress, despite the nation’s abundant resources. “Our nation is rich in resources, yet we continue to face significant hurdles. To overcome these, we must take deliberate, united actions,” he said.
The AAID and CDAs are the result of extensive consultations with stakeholders across Liberia’s 136 administrative districts, 15 counties, and 11 budget sectors. The process incorporated input from farmers, entrepreneurs, youth, individuals with disabilities, and members of the diaspora. President Boakai underscored the importance of inclusivity in shaping the agenda, which prioritizes peace, reconciliation, digital transformation, and equal opportunities.
“This initiative reflects the aspirations of Liberians from all walks of life,” he said, emphasizing that no one would be left behind. The agenda focuses on critical areas such as infrastructure modernization, good governance, economic revitalization, and citizen empowerment.
Infrastructure improvements will target roads, energy, and technological advancements, while good governance will emphasize transparency and justice. Economic revitalization aims to leverage natural resources, trade, and investments for sustainable growth. Citizen empowerment includes expanding access to education, healthcare, and opportunities for women and youth.
A National Steering Committee, chaired by President Boakai, will oversee the implementation of the AAID to ensure transparency and measurable outcomes. The plan aligns with international frameworks such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, Africa’s Agenda 2063, and ECOWAS Vision 2050, ensuring Liberia’s participation in global and regional development efforts.
“This is our moment to transform Liberia. Together, we will turn this vision into reality and create a nation where no one is left behind,” President Boakai said. He called on all Liberians to embrace the shared commitment to “Think Liberia, Love Liberia, and Build a Great Liberia.”
The ARREST Agenda is Liberia’s fourth post-conflict National Development Plan. It builds on previous initiatives, such as the Poverty Reduction Strategy and the Pro-Poor Agenda for Prosperity and Development, with a focus on inclusivity, sustainability, and governance.
