By Grace Q. Bryant
The Government of Liberia says it has achieved over 60 percent of promises captured in its 100-days deliverables.
With this rating by the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning over the weekend, the editorial team of this paper will delve into the achievements and its significance in the coming days.
However, the Deputy Minister for Fiscal Affairs at the Ministry of Finance, Anthony Myers, said of 87 interventions outlined by the Boakai’s Administration, about 64 percent was completed in its 100 days while over 23 percent is still in progress.
Addressing a Ministry of Information special Press conference on Friday, he boasted that as per the performance standard of the ARREST agenda, the Government has worked out key modalities in the areas of roads rehabilitation, the fight against drug abuse and healthcare, among others.
Deputy Minister Myers said further that the Boakai-led government has made key progress in combating illicit substances through the Liberia Drugs Enforcement Agency; evidenced by the tracking over 200 suspected drug dealers in its first 100 days, stating that it indicates the government’s robust fight against substance abuse.
According to him, key strides were made in the Education sector by settling some arrears to ensure that the government keeps in good standing with the West Africa Examination Council (WEAC) to enable senior students participate in the Examination.
He maintained that the remaining 23 percent or 26 percent are ongoing interventions noting, “Let me give some of the key achievements across various sectors. The ARREST agenda, in Agriculture, the census and data collection was completed and the national agriculture development was crafted and is awaiting validation. So, it was completed in time,” he bragged.
“Road infrastructure, critical spots across the country are currently and aggressively being worked on, easing the movement of people,” Deputy Minister Myers disclosed.
Meanwhile, Naymote Partners emphasized the importance of ongoing monitoring and accountability to ensure the government remains transparent, efficient, and responsive to the needs of the Liberian populace.
In sectors like telecommunications, aviation, and agriculture, notable progress has been observed, Jarwolo points out.
“For instance, agricultural initiatives include restructuring governance boards and devising plans for equipment mobilization, while the telecommunications sector saw the revival of the e-Liberia website for improved public service access,” he said.
Infrastructure Development and Public Works Initiatives:
Jarwolo said notable progress has been made in road infrastructure projects across the country.
“Additionally, vital drainage cleaning exercises are underway in central Monrovia and other areas, enhancing urban resilience and mitigating flood risks,” he stated.
Telecommunications Advancements:
Naymote noted that the reactivation of the e-Liberia website and LTC’s introduction of a 24-bandary management system signify significant advancements in digital services and revenue generation.
Jarwolo noted, “Together with the constitution of a committee to review contracts and partnerships, and the introduction of new Quality of Services Regulations, the government has ‘completed’ 4 out of 11 initiatives committed to fulfilling within the first 100 days in Office.”
Education, gender, youth, and social protection initiatives:
“We commend the President for setting aside a date for the conduct of the national county sports meet,” expresses Jarwolo.
“However, despite the government’s reaffirmed dedication to narrowing the education gap among the youth population, no action has been taken to optimize the free tuition program, settle outstanding scholarships for local and international students, or complete the construction of 25 schools that are nearing completion,” he said.
Healthcare and Public Safety
“Overall, the government is making attempts to achieve all commitments made in this deliverable cluster,” notes Jarwolo.
Jarwolo highlights, “President Boakai’s announcement of tough anti-drug measures underscores the administration’s resolve to combat substance abuse effectively, safeguarding the well-being of Liberian citizens.”
