By Laurina B. Lormia
President Joseph Boakai is calling on stakeholders, the private sector, development partners, civil society, and Liberians to actively participate in the agenda’s implementation.
This strategic initiative signals a fresh approach, focusing on inclusive growth and sustainable progress across Liberia.
The program held on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, in Monrovia, was aimed at tackling Liberia’s most pressing challenges through inclusive, transformative strategies.
President Boakai led the National Steering Committee’s meeting where the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development (AAID) was officially endorsed as the new Liberia National Development Plan, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s development trajectory.
Making remarks, President Boakai emphasized the importance of the AAID and the accompanying County Development Agendas (CDAs) as instruments to combat multidimensional poverty, improve livelihoods, and foster equitable progress across the nation.
According to him, Liberia’s development is a collective responsibility and the success of the ARREST Agenda depends on how well we work together, use our limited resources effectively, and remain accountable to our citizens.
He added that the ARREST Agenda focuses on six key development drivers: Agribusiness, aimed at boosting food security and creating sustainable jobs; Roads and Infrastructure, which enhance connectivity and economic access; and Rule of Law and Governance, which work to strengthen institutional trust and combat corruption.
“The ARREST Agenda also emphasizes Education and Human Capital Development, empowering Liberians, especially youth, with essential skills and knowledge; Sanitation, ensuring access to clean water and improved public health; and Tourism, leveraging Liberia’s natural beauty and cultural heritage to diversify the economy,” he stressed.
“This is a defining moment for Liberia,” said President Boakai, adding, “The ARREST Agenda represents a comprehensive strategy to address food insecurity, inadequate access to essential services, governance issues, and economic stagnation.”
He further that, “Together, we will transform our nation into one that offers hope, prosperity, and equality for all.”
President Boakai also underscored the importance of involving Liberia’s youth, describing them as critical drivers of innovation, entrepreneurship, and social progress.
“To our young people, you are the enabler of change. We are committed to equipping you with the tools to lead our country into a brighter future,” he assured.
Meanwhile, the endorsement of the AAID and CDAs comes as Liberia prepares for the 2025 fiscal year and positions the agenda as a cornerstone of Vision 2030.
President Boakai pledged that these plans would remain dynamic and responsive, adapting to the evolving needs of the Liberian people while staying aligned with the nation’s broader goals of prosperity, sustainability, and inclusivity.
