By: Emmanuel Kofa Sarkoh, Intern Reporter
Monrovia, Liberia – The newly appointed Finance Minister, Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan, has delivered an inspiring message of hope for Liberia’s economic development during his official turnover ceremony held on Monday, September 16, 2024, at the ministry’s conference hall.
Ngafuan, who previously served as Finance Minister from 2008 to 2012, outlined his vision for Liberia’s development and the ministry’s vital role in realizing the ambitions of every citizen.
The new Finance Minister emphasized that the future of Liberia depends on enabling its people to achieve their dreams and aspirations.
“Every citizen, whether in or out of Monrovia, has ambitions for the future, and it’s the responsibility of the Ministry of Finance to help them realize those dreams,” he emphasized while delivering his turnover message.
Ngafuan noted that his return to the ministry is a fulfillment of God’s will, with a focus on developing Liberia rather than just engaging in political ambitions.
He promised to instill a strong financial performance culture within the ministry, working closely with administrators and deputies to ensure that civil servants are protected through a system based on productivity.
“Creating a performance management culture is necessary. And through productivity, it will be beneficial to the Liberian people,” he emphasized.
The Finance Minister also stressed the critical role of integrity in the ministry’s operations.
According to him, there are three key qualities that will guide the hiring of staff: qualifications, competency, and integrity, emphasizing that integrity is non-negotiable.
“If you don’t have integrity, you become a danger to the state,” the new Finance Minister emphasized.
Ngafuan’s return comes after a 12-year absence, following his previous service as Finance Minister from 2008 to 2012. He succeeds former minister Boimah S. Kamara, who resigned citing health issues.
Anthony Myers, who now serves as Minister of Fiscal Affairs, was acting as Finance Minister in the absence of Minister Ngafuan.
The Minister of Finance also called for stronger collaboration with international stakeholders and partners, urging them to act with “deliberate speed” to achieve positive outcomes.
He pointed out the need for reform in relation to budget allotment and expenditure, noting that operational efficiency would be a priority.
He acknowledged the weight of responsibility on President Joseph Boakai and Vice President Jeremiah Koung as elected leaders, stating that it is the duty of appointees like himself to deliver on the promises made by President Boakai to the Liberian people.
