27 C
Liberia
Saturday, February 8, 2025

Tel/WhatsApp +231 888178084 |onlinenewsverity@gmail.com

Tipme Ads

Boakai Unveils Ambitious Goals in Second National Address

Monrovia, Liberia – Addressing the nation before a joint session of the 55th Legislature on January 27, 2025, President Joseph Nyuma Boakai painted an optimistic picture of Liberia’s future while reflecting on the progress achieved during his first year in office. Under the theme “Rescue to Development: Implementing the ARREST Agenda,” the President emphasized his administration’s determination to address longstanding challenges and foster inclusive growth.

The President began by praising Liberians for their resilience, highlighting their unity and perseverance despite adversity. He urged citizens to remain committed to national peace and stability as the cornerstone of progress. He described the fire that damaged the Capitol Building as a symbolic reminder of the country’s ability to overcome difficulties.

Reviewing his administration’s performance, President Boakai detailed accomplishments that stemmed from an initial 100-day plan. He cited strides in public accountability, infrastructure, health care, and education, emphasizing that significant progress was achieved despite constrained resources. According to him, the nation has already begun to emerge from the economic and social difficulties it faced upon his inauguration.

Economic recovery emerged as a central theme of the address. The President inherited a struggling economy marked by steep debt, inflation, and unemployment. However, he reported a GDP growth rate of 5.1% in 2024, a decline in inflation to 7.7%, and an increase in international reserves to $458.9 million. Projecting further growth of 5.8% in 2025, Boakai credited these improvements to targeted investments and international partnerships, particularly with organizations like the World Bank and USAID.

President Boakai also commended the Legislature for passing critical laws during the previous year, including a spending measure that allocated $41.3 million to address urgent national priorities. He urged lawmakers to expedite pending legislation such as the Presidential Transition Bill and the National Tourism Bill. Additionally, he unveiled proposals aimed at youth empowerment, including a nationwide service program and vocational training initiatives.

Turning to governance, the President announced plans to introduce reforms in state-owned enterprises through a proposed oversight authority. These changes aim to improve transparency and efficiency across public institutions. He also reported record-breaking revenue collections of $734 million in 2024, attributing the milestone to tax reforms and modernization efforts like the introduction of the Value-Added Tax system.

Highlighting infrastructure as a pillar of his ARREST Agenda, President Boakai discussed advancements in road rehabilitation, county development funds, and airport improvements. He disclosed that talks were underway with Qatar Airways to expand Liberia’s international connectivity. Addressing the rising cost of living, he pointed to reduced prices of essential goods such as rice and petroleum as evidence of his administration’s commitment to easing the economic burdens of ordinary citizens.

The President also reaffirmed his commitment to fiscal responsibility through the International Monetary Fund’s Extended Credit Facility program and outlined plans to transition Liberia toward a cashless economy. This, he noted, would be achieved through digital payment systems aimed at modernizing financial transactions and improving accountability.

In matters of governance and accountability, Boakai highlighted the establishment of the Office of War and Economic Crimes Courts and the proposed creation of an independent commission to oversee the insurance sector. He also announced that negotiations with international investors could result in $3 billion worth of new projects in agriculture, mining, and energy.

Education featured prominently in his address, with the President pledging to submit legislative proposals to strengthen the sector. He underscored the importance of vocational training in equipping young people with skills to meet the demands of the labor market and combat unemployment.

Concluding his remarks, President Boakai called for collaboration among the executive, legislative, and judicial branches to ensure the nation’s progress. He urged all Liberians to embrace a spirit of unity and optimism, inviting skeptics to support the administration’s developmental agenda for the good of the country. With Liberia’s future firmly anchored in hope and resilience, Boakai assured citizens of his commitment to delivering a brighter tomorrow.

Related Articles

Stay Connected

26,250FansLike
115FollowersFollow
153SubscribersSubscribe
- Advertisement -spot_img

Latest Articles

Open chat
Powered by VERITY NEWS
Hello
Can we help you?