President Joseph Nyuma Boakai emphasized Liberia’s dedication to sustainable development during a crucial meeting with a high-ranking World Bank delegation at the Executive Mansion on Monday, January 13, 2025. The meeting was a platform to discuss Liberia’s developmental priorities and the World Bank’s commitment to supporting the nation’s growth.
The delegation, led by Finance and Development Planning Minister Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan, included Mr. Ousmane Diagana, the World Bank Vice President for Western and Central Africa. Mr. Diagana was introduced as a vital partner in Liberia’s ongoing efforts to address economic challenges and promote progress.
Issues of economic recovery, infrastructure expansion, and strategies to combat poverty were central to the discussions. President Boakai sincerely appreciated the World Bank’s consistent backing, emphasizing his administration’s focus on inclusive policies to foster long-term sustainability and growth.
“This collaboration is essential for Liberia’s journey toward economic transformation,” President Boakai stated. “Our administration remains committed to implementing policies that uplift every Liberian while ensuring our growth is both inclusive and sustainable.”
The delegation’s two-day visit has a packed agenda. It includes consultations with senior Liberian officials and site tours of key projects. Notable stops include the Mount Coffee Hydro Plant, a symbol of Liberia’s renewable energy ambitions, and Afropa Factory Liberia, Inc., a key player in the country’s industrial development.
During the meeting, Mr. Diagana lauded Liberia’s achievements under the ARREST Agenda—a framework President Boakai introduced to revitalize key sectors. He highlighted the World Bank’s dedication to partnering with Liberia to pursue transformative and impactful development.
“We are honored to collaborate with Liberia at all levels of government,” Mr. Diagana remarked. “Our shared vision is to drive transformative growth and ensure development that impacts the lives of all Liberians.”
The World Bank delegation also unveiled its new five-year strategic plan for Liberia. This comprehensive framework aligns with the government’s priorities, emphasizing infrastructure, economic diversification, and social inclusion as critical areas for investment.
Liberia’s partnership with the World Bank has been a cornerstone of the country’s development trajectory, providing support in areas ranging from education and healthcare to energy and agriculture. The discussions and site visits during this visit are expected to strengthen that collaboration and pave the way for future projects that align with Liberia’s developmental goals.
The visit comes at a critical juncture for Liberia as the country continues its recovery from economic shocks and strives to achieve sustainable growth. With the backing of the World Bank and other international partners, President Boakai’s administration is working to solidify its development agenda and create lasting impacts for the Liberian people.
