By Grace Bryant Mollay
The Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA) has launched an ambitious new Domestic Resource Mobilization Strategy aimed at raising over US$1.5 billion in revenue over the next five years.
The announcement was made during the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs and Tourism’s (MICAT) regular press briefing, highlighting a renewed commitment to reducing reliance on foreign aid and promoting fiscal self-sufficiency.
Information Minister Jerolinmek Matthew Piah revealed that the Cabinet has approved the LRA’s strategy, which focuses on modernizing the country’s tax system, broadening the tax base, and enhancing compliance through digitalization and institutional reforms.
“This administration, under President Boakai’s leadership, is determined to ensure that Liberia’s development is driven from within. This strategy reflects our commitment to achieving financial independence and driving sustainable economic growth,” Minister Piah emphasized.
Key elements of the strategy include leveraging digital tools to improve tax collection, expanding public awareness and education around taxation, integrating the informal sector, and closing longstanding loopholes that have hindered revenue generation.
The anticipated US$1.5 billion will support priority initiatives under the ARREST Agenda, including infrastructure, education, sanitation, and healthcare.
Minister Piah noted that the strategy’s success will depend on collaboration among the LRA, Ministry of Finance, private sector actors, and civil society groups.
He also stressed the importance of public trust in the tax system. “People must see the impact of their contributions. Transparency, accountability, and tangible service delivery are vital components of this plan,” he said.
Implementation of the strategy is set to begin immediately, with oversight measures in place to monitor progress and ensure accountability throughout the five-year period.
