By Laurina B Lormia
The National Road Fund (NRF) has received a major boost in its reform journey as two prominent African Road Fund executives, Mohamed Kallon of Sierra Leone and John Ali Ipinge of Namibia.
This visit underscores growing regional support for Liberia’s transition from a first-generation to a second-generation Road Fund model.
Making remarks, National Road Fund Manager, Joseta Neufville-Wento, emphasized that the presence of Kallon and Ipinge symbolizes regional solidarity and offers a wealth of knowledge that will guide Liberia’s path to reform.
Wento also expressed heartfelt appreciation to the visiting CEOs adding, “We are deeply honored by their presence, their experiences will play a crucial role in shaping a stronger, more accountable road financing system for Liberia.”
However, the visiting CEOs bring valuable experience to the table. Namibia operates a third-generation Road Fund with a strong focus on Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) and no government interference, generating over US$200 million annually while, Sierra Leone on the other hand, exemplifies the second-generation model Liberia is aspiring to adopt.
Liberia’s NRF is currently the only first-generation fund in Africa, it operates under significant government oversight with limited autonomy.
Its Revenues are mainly drawn from fuel levies and, more recently, vehicle registration fees.
Furthermore, plans are underway to shift to a more modern, autonomous model that promotes transparency, efficiency, and sustainability.
To support this effort, the African Development Bank has engaged a legal consultant to review the NRF’s governing legislation, an essential step toward implementing the second-generation structure.
This model would bring greater independence, a broader revenue base including axle load and toll charges, and more inclusive governance.
As Liberia looks to modernize its road fund, the collaboration with regional counterparts is expected to accelerate the transformation, paving the way for a more accountable and robust infrastructure financing system.
NRF Gears Up For Major Reform
