By Precious D. Freeman
The Director for Sustainable Finance, Jobs, and Growth at the European Commission, Erica Gerretsen, has reaffirmed the European Union’s (EU) commitment to supporting Liberia’s economic development, job creation, and social progress through grant funding and investment initiatives.
Speaking on OK FM’s Morning Rush, Gerretsen emphasized the EU’s role in working with Liberia’s government, private sector, and civil society to foster economic growth.
She highlighted the Global Gateway Initiative, which promotes financing, technical assistance, and vocational training to create sustainable jobs.
Gerretsen pointed out Liberia’s vocational education and training programs, such as those at Booker Washington Institute (BWI), which equip young people, including women, with technical skills for employment.
She noted that the EU is working alongside Sweden and other development partners to enhance Liberia’s business environment and investment climate.
On social issues, Gerretsen commended Liberia’s efforts to combat female genital mutilation (FGM), particularly in Montserrado County, where traditional leaders have shown commitment to ending the practice.
She emphasized that FGM “has to be banned” and praised Liberia’s progress in adopting a “tradition without mutilation” approach.
She also announced new EU-funded programs aimed at addressing gender-based violence (GBV), building on past initiatives such as the Spotlight Initiative with the United Nations.
Gerretsen disclosed that the EU is investing €296 million (approximately $308 million) in Liberia for the period 2021–2027, with €56 million allocated directly to the state budget to support government-led initiatives.
She stressed that all EU funding is grant money, not loans, ensuring sustainable development without increasing Liberia’s debt burden.
She acknowledged challenges such as corruption and public finance management but emphasized that EU support is aligned with Liberia’s national policies and reform strategies, particularly in agriculture, education, sanitation, tourism, and the rule of law.
Gerretsen underscored the importance of private sector investment in Liberia’s development.
She noted that the Global Gateway Initiative seeks to create opportunities for Liberian and European businesses to collaborate on investments that generate jobs and boost economic growth.
The EU, she explained, works with development finance institutions, including the European Investment Bank, to leverage additional funding beyond grants.
This blended financing approach helps mobilize private sector capital for Liberia’s long-term development.
Reaffirming the EU’s dedication to Liberia, Gerretsen stated, “The EU is a stable partner-we are here to stay.”
She emphasized that all EU-backed projects are designed to align with Liberia’s needs, ensuring long-lasting impact. As part of her visit, Gerretsen also signed two new EU-funded agreements with Liberia’s Ministry of Finance, reinforcing the EU’s commitment to economic growth, governance, and social development.
