Montserrado County, Liberia - Montserrado County Consultation intended for the formulation of the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development, Public Sector Investment Program (PSIP), and County Development Agendas (CDAs), concluded on Thursday, August 15, 2024, with an inspiring display of community involvement and commitment to national development.
Speaking at the climaxed, Deputy Minister for Budget & Development Planning at the Ministry of Finance & Development Planning (MFDP), Tanneh G. Brunson, disclosed President Joseph Nyumah Boakai's vision for inclusive development.
“President Boakai is committed to shifting away from traditional top-down planning approaches. His directive to the Ministry of Finance & Development Planning is clear: we must involve citizens in shaping our development plans.
This consultation process is a testament to our commitment to ensuring that our development priorities reflect the voices and needs of the people,” she stated.
Over the past three and a half weeks, the government has actively engaged with a diverse range of citizens across all 15 counties, including civil society organizations, to gather input on their development priorities. Concurrently, discussions are ongoing with the eleven budget sectors to outline the country’s direction for the next five years.
The Deputy Minister stressed the importance of these consultations in the context of the ongoing Local Government Act roll-out.
“The devolution of decision-making to local levels is crucial for effective governance.
The County Development Agendas and county budgets will play a significant role in bringing decision-making closer to the people, enhancing decentralization, and improving the quality of life in communities, especially those distant from major economic hubs.”
The Deputy Minister expressed gratitude for the enthusiasm and dedication demonstrated by all participants.
“The level of engagement from Liberians across various sectors has been truly inspiring. It reflects a collective commitment to rally around our government and contribute to our country’s progress.”
In his remarks, Dr. Peter Lugala Clement, UN Proxy for the UN Resident Representative, praised the Liberian Government’s commitment to transformative change.
“The ARREST Agenda, PSIP, and CDAs represent a bold vision for Liberia’s future.
These initiatives will identify development patterns and contribute to sustainable development and peace in the country", Clement said.
Additionally, Romeo R. Clarke, Sr., the Mayor of Arthington City, underscored the locals priorities, expressing the need for infrastructure improvements, education, and healthcare.
“For District 17 and beyond, roads, education, and health services are critical.
We urge the government to prioritize these areas, starting with road development to connect key areas and enhance economic opportunities.”
Moreover, Acece B. Wesseh, a Paynesville City representative, said that sanitation and health were vital issues that should be considered.
“We need safe drinking water, improved waste collection, and better healthcare facilities. Additionally, expanding TVET institutions in Paynesville to accommodate out-of-school youth is essential for addressing educational gaps.”
The inputs gathered from these consultations will be consolidated and presented back to the communities for validation, ensuring that citizen perspectives are accurately reflected in the final development documents.