By Bill W. Cooper
Commerce and Industry Minister Designate Magdelane Dagoseh has assured Liberians of her commitment to continuing the strategic initiatives laid out by her predecessor, former Minister Amin Modad.
Madam Dagoseh, who once served as Deputy Gender Minister during the administration of former President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf also emphasized the importance of continuity in achieving measurable economic progress, in-line with the government’s agenda.
She asserted, “We recognize that the previous minister, our friend and brother, established a series of plans with both short and long-term targets aimed at achieving measurable progress,” she noted.
“We respect the foundation laid by his (former Minister Amin Modad) efforts and understand the importance of continuity and strategic alignment that will drive meaningful outcomes for the betterment and growth of Liberia,” she intoned.
Recently, President Joseph Boakai took a bold step by appointing former Deputy Gender Minister, Magdalene Dagoseh as the new Minister of Commerce pending confirmation by the Liberian Senate.
However, her appointment followed former Minister Modad’s resignation that stemmed from a reported fallout with President Boakai related to improper financial practices, misuse of funds intended for medical technology to buy a luxury vehicle among others.
President Boakai, in a statement of acceptance of the Minister’s resignation, acknowledged Modad’s contributions to the Ministry but emphasized that the decision to make such a purchase reflected poor judgment and a lack of sensitivity to Liberia’s current economic challenges.
With the ministry in dire need of a leader who can bring transparency and accountability, Madam Dagoseh steps into her role with a mandate to restore public trust in the MOCI, that has been faced with intense allegations of corruption during Modad’s tenure.
Dagoseh is also expected to implement a fresh strategy that will not only rehabilitate the ministry’s reputation but also focus on advancing Liberia’s economic interests amidst the pressing economic challenges.
Her efforts will be aimed at fostering trade opportunities and establishing a stable and competitive market environment, ultimately promoting business development and attracting investments that align with the government’s broader ARREST agenda.
Appearing before the Senate’s Commerce Committee, Mrs. Dagoseh acknowledged the groundwork established by Modad, while highlighting her intention to review and align the existing strategies with her vision to ensure they deliver tangible economic benefits.
She emphasized her dedication to promoting trade, supporting industrial growth, and safeguarding consumers’ interests, ensuring that Liberians take ownership of their economy.
The MOCI Minister-Designate then expressed her readiness to collaborate closely with the Senate for oversight and guidance to foster a transparent and supportive environment for economic activities.
She added, “As we strive to transform the Commerce and Industry Ministry, I look forward to the Senate’s support in implementing policies that will drive sustainable economic growth, thereby making Liberia a more competitive player in regional and global markets.”
Meanwhile, the committee, presided over by Bomi County Senator Alex Tyler, is expected to deliberate on her nomination and report to the Senate plenary for legislative action.
