Minister Ngafuan Calls for Strategic Alignment of Programs with Liberia’s ARREST Agenda and County Development Agendas

Monrovia, Liberia – Finance and Development Planning Minister Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan has called on all development partners to align their programs with Liberia's ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development (AAID) and the 15 County Development Agendas (CDAs), underscoring the importance of a unified approach in achieving tangible outcomes for the Liberian people.

 Minister Ngafuan made the remarks during a special address at the opening of the Government of Liberia and United Nations Strategic Policy Dialogue in Monrovia. 

 

He emphasized that Liberia has transitioned to program-based planning and budgeting, focusing on outcomes that will yield significant benefits for citizens across the country.

 

On behalf of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Minister Ngafuan extended heartfelt gratitude to the United Nations and all development partners for their continuous support. He noted that the ongoing collaboration and shared vision between the Government of Liberia and international partners are vital to achieving a prosperous future for the nation.

 

“We are committed to the vision of a developed and prosperous Liberia,” 

 

Minister Ngafuan affirmed, reiterating the Government’s unwavering focus on Liberia's long-term development goals.

 

The Minister also expressed deep appreciation for the UN’s pivotal role in organizing the Joint Strategic Policy Dialogue, which marks a critical step in advancing Liberia’s development agenda. 

 

He highlighted the progress made through the endorsement of the AAID and CDAs by Liberia’s National Coordination Committee and National Steering Committee, which is chaired by President Boakai

 

“Development is a diverse phenomenon,” Minister Ngafuan stated, acknowledging that while different perspectives on development exist, there is a shared goal to create meaningful, impactful, and transformative solutions for Liberia’s future. He emphasized that credible data and broad-based consultations must inform this collective effort.

 

Minister Ngafuan also demonstrated the Government’s commitment to the AAID and CDAs by aligning Liberia’s 2025 Draft National Budget with these frameworks. 

 

The budget allocates US$106 million for key public sector programs, with plans to increase funding as fiscal space expands.

In line with Liberia’s strategic priorities, 

 

Minister Ngafuan emphasized the alignment of the AAID with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Africa’s Agenda 2063. 

 

Notably, 83% of interventions in the AAID align with the SDGs, focusing on SDG 8 (Economic Growth), SDG 4 (Quality Education), and SDG 16 (Peace and Justice). 

 

These priorities, including education, digital connectivity, and job creation, are intended to drive long-term prosperity and sustainability for Liberia.

 

The Minister also provided an overview of Liberia’s National Development Plan (NDP), which is estimated to cost USD 8.4 billion. Key investments in human capital, infrastructure, and economic transformation make up the bulk of the financing requirements. 

 

The governmentt has committed to securing USD 5.06 billion, representing over 60% of the total financing, while also seeking international partnerships to meet the remaining financing needs.

 

Reaffirming Liberia’s commitment to transparency and effective resource mobilization, Minister Ngafuan assured stakeholders that the government would continue to work towards strengthening public financial management systems. He also encouraged the exploration of innovative financing sources through the integrated National Financing Framework, which will support the country's development goals.

 

Minister Ngafuan concluded by urging all partners to align their programs with Liberia’s development priorities, ensuring that together, Liberia will achieve its vision of a brighter and more prosperous future for all.