Finance and Development Planning Minister Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan has lauded the World Bank as Liberia’s most significant multilateral partner, emphasizing the institution’s vital role in the country’s post-war recovery and development journey.
On Monday, January 13, 2025, at the Ministry of Finance in Monrovia, Ngafuan highlighted the World Bank’s unparalleled contributions across diverse sectors, describing its involvement as indispensable in shaping Liberia’s progress.
He noted that the visit by a World Bank delegation coincided with the country’s preparations to launch its ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development (AAID) and the County Development Agenda, both of which aim to accelerate national growth.
Ngafuan acknowledged the World Bank’s commitment to aligning its new program with Liberia’s ambitious development agenda. He stressed that the Bank’s influence extends far beyond infrastructure, underscoring its pivotal support in health systems, education, agriculture, social protection, governance, water and sanitation, and women’s empowerment.
Tracing the partnership to its origins, Ngafuan pointed out that the World Bank has been a steadfast ally since 1962, with its current portfolio featuring 19 active projects valued at $922 million. He particularly commended the Bank’s role in the energy sector, highlighting Liberia’s progress in achieving 33% energy access and expressing optimism about meeting the target of 80% access with continued support.
The Minister also referenced the Bank’s $40 million budget support in December, half allocated for disaster management efforts. He assured the delegation of Liberia’s dedication to timely project implementation and pledged close collaboration with the World Bank to ensure efficiency and effectiveness.
During his visit, World Bank Vice President for Western and Central Africa, Ousman Diagana, affirmed the institution’s commitment to Liberia, stressing the importance of regular engagement with policymakers and citizens. Diagana noted that the delegation’s visit aimed to strengthen partnerships and support the ARREST Agenda, among other initiatives.
During the visit, the delegation inspected key projects, including the Mount Coffee Hydro Power Plant and Afropa Factory Liberia, Inc. operations, a private-sector initiative supported by the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the World Bank Group’s private-sector arm. These projects emphasize the Bank’s investment in energy access and private enterprise growth in Liberia.
During meetings with President Joseph N. Boakai and senior officials, discussions centered on the World Bank Group’s ongoing engagement in Liberia over the next five years. Diagana reaffirmed the Bank’s dedication to advancing Liberia’s development priorities, highlighting its role as a steadfast partner in the nation’s quest for sustained growth and prosperity.
