The National Housing Authority (NHA) is seeking $3.5 million to construct 500 new housing units as part of its ongoing efforts to reduce Liberia’s housing deficit.
Managing Director Florence Geegbae emphasized the urgent need for funding, stating that financial support is crucial to accelerating construction projects and addressing the country’s growing demand for affordable housing.
Geegbae outlined the strides made since taking over at the NHA, noting that significant improvements have been made in administration, facility rehabilitation, and land acquisition. She described the agency’s headquarters as being neglected when she assumed office, prompting an immediate renovation project. A construction company was contracted to rehabilitate two buildings, improving office conditions and ensuring a more efficient working environment.
Beyond physical improvements, she implemented procurement policies, service delivery frameworks, and human resource management guidelines to enhance operational efficiency. According to her, these structural changes were necessary because such policies were nonexistent before her tenure.
Despite these gains, Geegbae pointed to inadequate budgetary allocations as a major obstacle. The 2024 national budget provided the NHA with only $24,000, which she described as grossly insufficient for large-scale housing development. While the 2025 budget increased slightly to just over $40,000, it remains far below the amount required to fund meaningful housing projects.
The NHA has secured more than 1,025 acres of land across Grand Bassa, Margibi, Montserrado, and Bomi counties in collaboration with the Liberia Land Authority. Surveys have already been completed in three of the counties, and efforts are underway to obtain legal deeds for these properties. Reclaiming government land from illegal occupants has also been a priority, with some properties already recovered through legal channels. One disputed parcel of land near the Beyan Kesselly Barracks, which had been sold to a foreign investor, remains under investigation by the Ministry of Justice.
Interest from private investors in partnering with the NHA has been growing, with thirty potential buyers already in discussions. Six major projects have been designated key initiatives and technical proposals are being developed. Talks with the Liberia Bank for Development and Investment and Republic Bank of Ghana are also ongoing to establish mortgage financing options.
Despite these efforts, Geegbae underscored that the NHA’s ambitious housing agenda cannot proceed without the necessary funding. The agency has developed several business proposals but lacks the financial backing to implement them. She stressed that securing $3.5 million would allow for the construction of 500 homes, significantly alleviating the housing shortage.
The NHA’s vision for affordable housing remains dependent on securing adequate resources. While progress has been made in acquiring land, engaging investors, and implementing key policies, the lack of funding threatens to stall development.
