By Bill W. Cooper
The Liberian government has announced its ambition to boost electricity access from 33% to 75% by mobilizing US$2.1 billion from international partners, aiming to enhance infrastructure and expand renewable energy projects, addressing the country’s energy deficit.
Finance and Development Planning Minister Augustine K. Ngafuan, on behalf of the government, also emphasized the importance of international partnerships and investments to achieve sustainable energy solutions for all Liberians.
The Minister further asserted that the initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance road infrastructure, thereby fostering investment and creating job opportunities for Liberians across the country.
Liberia has faced severe electricity problems due to the near complete destruction of its power infrastructure, including the Mount Coffee Hydropower Plant, since the end of the country’s 14-year civil conflict, leaving most of the population with no access to electricity.
This situation has also forced reliance on expensive, inefficient private generators to power homes and businesses, thus significantly hampering economic recovery and development efforts in the post-conflict period.
But delivering a speech to graduates of the Banking Institute of Liberia recently, Minister Ngafuan underscored the significance of improving access to electricity, which he identified as a key obstacle to economic growth in the country.
This, the Minister noted, “If we want the economy to expand, we must reduce that burden. Currently, only 33% of Liberians have access to electricity and to address this issue, a robust energy infrastructure is foundational for business success.”
According to him, the government’s ARREST development plan, which spans over five years aims to secure the mentioned funding to significantly improve energy access, as it is expected to facilitate business expansion across the nation.
Recognizing the challenges but encouraging the graduates as new professionals to focus on the positive developments of Liberia, the Minister cautioned, “I want us to be a little positive about our country.”
He assured the government’s commitment to creating job opportunities and addressing critical issues like road infrastructure, and asserted, “We envision that people will soon drive from Monrovia to Cape Palmas on asphalt pavement.”
Minister Ngafuan further highlighted the government’s ability to overcome the many challenges being confronted with and described the current situation as a “tertiary development” with a commitment to remain focused despite potential distractions that could impact progress.
Addressing the importance of integrity among the graduates, Minister Ngafuan urged them to uphold the value of integrity, professionalism and honesty, something he said will play a pivotal role in their future career success.
He warned, “Integrity is that character that will take you beyond. You may have networks and friendships, but your ability to remain in any working environment will be based on the integrity you carry with you.”
Meanwhile, Ngafuan, also highlighted Liberia’s participation in a recent Energy Summit in Tanzania, presenting the Liberia Energy Compass as part of their strategy to build a sustainable energy framework.
He acknowledged public skepticism regarding the effectiveness of such international engagements but explained that these efforts are vital for long-term development and improvement of the country’s infrastructure deficit, especially electricity.
The Minister revealed that with his vision focused on connectivity through energy, infrastructure, and employment, President Joseph Boakai remains optimistic that his administration will achieve its goals and bring about substantial change for the country and its people.
