By Grace Q. Bryant
The Government of Liberia, in collaboration with the World Bank and other key stakeholders, has launched a US$ 30 million initiative aimed at enhancing institutional capacity and improving service delivery across critical government sectors.
The Governance Reform and Accountability Transformation (GREAT) Project is set to run from June 12, 2025, to November 30, 2030.
It seeks to expand access to digital public services, improve tax revenue collection, and strengthen transparency and accountability within government institutions.
Speaking at the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs, and Tourism (MICAT) regular press briefing on Thursday, March 20, 2025, Deputy Information Minister Daniel Sando described the initiative as a significant step toward better governance in Liberia.
“This project is designed to modernize public service delivery, ensuring that essential government functions operate efficiently and transparently,” Minister Sando stated.
He further disclosed that the initiative is funded by the International Development Association (IDA) of the World Bank, reinforcing the international community’s support for Liberia’s governance reforms.
“This initiative will improve tax revenue collection, modernize digital public services, and increase transparency in government spending,” Minister Sando said.
Meanwhile, The GREAT Project is expected to play a crucial role in advancing digital transformation within public institutions, improving government revenue mobilization, and fostering greater accountability in service delivery across the country.
Sando laid out a transformative agenda aimed at strengthening the country’s global presence while tackling pressing national challenges.
The program will benefit key institutions, including: Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications, Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA), National Identification Registry, Public Procurement and Concessions Commission and Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC)
At the heart of Liberia’s diplomatic efforts is its campaign for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
Minister Sando described this bid as a historic opportunity to elevate Liberia’s international standing and contribute meaningfully to global discussions on peace, security, and sustainable development.
“This is not about a political administration; it is about securing Liberia’s future and asserting our role in global decision-making,” Sando stated.
With former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf playing a key role in garnering international support, Liberia has been reaching out to regional allies and global partners in anticipation of the UN vote in June.
A seat on the Security Council would mark a significant milestone in Liberia’s diplomatic evolution, reinforcing its role as a stabilizing force in Africa and beyond.
On the domestic front, Minister Sando highlighted the government’s intensified crackdown on drug trafficking; a crisis that has deeply affected Liberian youth.
A recent operation in Lofa County led to the seizure of illicit drugs valued at over US$777,200, a major victory in the fight against narcotics.
Conducted by the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) in collaboration with local law enforcement, the raid resulted in multiple arrests and ongoing investigations.
He stressed the urgent need to shield Liberia’s youth from the growing drug epidemic. “The government is serious about eliminating the illegal drug trade.”
He cited alarming statistics showing that more than 50% of school-aged children between 15 and 17 have been exposed to drugs—an issue that threatens the nation’s future.
Calling for greater community involvement, Minister Sando urged citizens to report suspicious activities, emphasizing that tackling drug abuse requires a collective effort.
In a bid to enhance government efficiency, Liberia has launched the Governance Reform, Accountability, and Transformation Project, a partnership with the World Bank. Slated to begin in June 2025, this initiative aims to modernize Liberia’s public sector, boost transparency, and improve service delivery.
Recognizing the need for better public health infrastructure, Minister Sando announced new sanitation and waste management initiatives, particularly in Monrovia.
The government, in collaboration with the Liberia Water and Sewer Corporation and the Ministry of Public Works, embarked on major drainage and sewage rehabilitation projects under the World Bank’s Urban Resilience Program.
“Monrovia’s waste management challenges and flooding issues require urgent attention. These projects are a step toward creating cleaner and healthier communities,” he said.
Minister Sando emphasized that Liberia’s progress depends on the active participation of its people.
“This is a critical moment for our country. Liberia’s future depends on the collective efforts of the government, civil society, and the people. Together, we can create a safer, stronger, and more prosperous nation for the next generation,” he noted.
