By Grace Q. Bryant
The Government of Liberia is set to unveil its US$8.4 billion National Development Plan, a transformative initiative aimed at driving economic and social growth across the nation over the next five years.
The plan, which spans all 15 counties, will be launched in Buchanan, Grand Bassa County, on Wednesday, January 15, 2025.
Each county will be introduced to its specific development plan, outlining the priorities for infrastructure, education, and economic growth in those areas.
“We’ve crafted not just a national plan but 15 county development agenda. This is a comprehensive approach that ensures every region in Liberia benefits from this historic development initiative,” said Minister Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan.
From road infrastructure in Grand Kru to economic empowerment programs in Lofa, the county-specific plans reflect extensive consultations with local stakeholders.
The announcement was made by Minister Ngafuan during a regular press briefing at the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs, and Tourism in Monrovia on January 14, 2025.
The launch event will be presided over by President Joseph Boakai, with the attendance of international partners, government officials, business leaders, civil society representatives, and local community stakeholders.
Minister Ngafuan emphasized that the National Development Plan represents a strategic blueprint for Liberia’s future, focused on fostering inclusive growth and development. “This plan is not just a vision for Liberia’s growth; it is a collective commitment to advancing the well-being of every citizen,” Ngafuan said.
The plan will address several key areas of national development through six strategic pillars: Economic Transformation, Infrastructure Development, Rule of Law, Governance and Anti-Corruption, Environmental Sustainability and Human Capital Development.
He further explained that the National Development Plan will also include county-specific development agenda, ensuring that the needs and aspirations of all 15 counties are incorporated.
Minister Ngafuan highlighted that each county’s agenda is the result of extensive consultations with local stakeholders, allowing communities to have a direct say in their development priorities.
“Every county now has its own development agenda. This ensures that the plans we put in place reflect the needs and desires of the people who live in these areas,” he said.
The total cost of the National Development Plan is US$8.4 billion, to be financed through a combination of government resources, partner support, and private sector investment.
“We have worked tirelessly to ensure this plan reflects the needs of our people. Now, we are calling on our partners to join us in realizing this vision,” Ngafuan stated.
Minister Ngafuan stressed that Liberia will work closely with its international partners to ensure their aid aligns with the country’s development priorities.
“We are not simply inviting partners to assist us. We want their contributions to complement and strengthen our own national plan,” Ngafuan said.
He noted that access to electricity in Monrovia and surrounding areas has expanded; thanks to substantial investments and international partnerships, citing a recent visit from a World Bank delegation to Liberia’s hydroelectric plants as evidence of the sector’s transformative potential.
Ngafuan therefore called on Liberians to unite behind the plan, focusing on national growth rather than political divisions. “We must prioritize narratives that foster unity and progress. Let’s report not only the challenges but also the successes, as this plan is about building a better Liberia for all,” he urged.
According to him, the National Development Plan will set the foundation for Liberia’s growth over the next five years. Through a combination of strategic vision, focused investment, and collaboration with international partners, Liberia is poised to achieve significant progress in key sectors that will improve the lives of all its citizens.
