Gbarpolu County Senator Amara Mohammed Konneh has sounded a strong call for a critical national conversation around Liberia’s longstanding system of investment incentives, warning that perpetual tax exemptions and concessions to companies may be undermining the country’s fiscal sustainability and development goals.
In a communication to Senate President Pro Tempore Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence and his fellow lawmakers, Senator Konneh expressed concerns about the continuing relevance and effectiveness of incentives that were initially introduced in the aftermath of Liberia’s civil conflict.
These incentives—which include tax breaks, royalty reductions, and special concessions—were aimed at attracting foreign investment and jumpstarting economic recovery after years of war and economic collapse.
However, Konneh argued that Liberia’s evolving development landscape now demands a reassessment of these policies. “While they have facilitated capital inflows,” he noted, “persistent revenue performance challenges limit our capacity to finance vital public sector investments and invest in Liberians.”
The senator pointed to growing concerns over non-compliance among companies benefiting from these incentives, questioning whether the current framework is producing tangible economic benefits. He emphasized that unless the government ensures accountability and proper oversight, these waivers risk becoming loopholes for revenue loss rather than tools for national growth.
At the center of his concerns is the National Bureau of Concessions (NBC), the agency charged with monitoring and enforcing concession agreements. According to Konneh, delays in NBC’s review processes and its inability to ensure that companies fulfill their commitments in return for tax incentives have created significant oversight gaps. These lapses, he warned, are contributing to economic losses and could compromise Liberia’s long-term fiscal resilience.
To tackle these challenges, Senator Konneh is calling for a formal Senate-led review session, to be conducted in collaboration with key executive agencies. He proposes the formation of a special committee, supported by the Senate consultant, to assess Liberia’s investment incentive structure—both in terms of economic outcomes and fiscal implications.
He recommended that the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning, the Liberia Revenue Authority, the National Investment Commission, and the National Bureau of Concessions be invited to provide insights. Additionally, the Ministries of Mines & Energy, Agriculture, and the Forestry Development Authority should contribute data on existing and dormant concessions, and offer perspectives on sector-specific impacts.
“This is an opportune moment for us to engage in a comprehensive review of Liberia’s investment incentives,” Konneh stated, pointing to the expiration of certain current waivers and the possible ratification of new agreements during the 55th Legislative Session. He believes the review could help strengthen compliance mechanisms, enhance revenue generation, and reduce dependence on declining foreign aid.
The senator concluded his communication by urging the Legislature to act decisively and proactively. With the global economic landscape undergoing seismic shifts, he said, Liberia must be strategic in safeguarding its economic future through policies that are “thoughtfully crafted, sustainable, and adaptable.”
Konneh’s call for reform could mark a turning point in how Liberia balances investor appeal with national interest and financial self-reliance.
