NATIONAL NEWS
MONROVIA – President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. on Friday witnessed the signing of financing agreements valued at US$125 million between the Government of Liberia and the World Bank to support major investments in digital connectivity, renewable energy, and road infrastructure, underscoring the administration’s commitment to accelerating national development.
By: Trokon S. Wrepue – trokon1992seokin@gmail.com
The signing ceremony was held at the Mount Coffee Hydropower Complex shortly after President Boakai officially commissioned and switched on the country’s newly completed 20-megawatt Solar Photovoltaic Power Plant. The solar facility represents a significant milestone in Liberia’s efforts to increase access to clean, reliable, and sustainable energy while strengthening the nation’s electricity generation capacity.
The financing package covers three major projects: the Western Africa Regional Digital Integration Program (WARDIP 2), the Regional Emergency Solar Power Intervention Project (RESPITE) Additional Financing, and the Southeastern Corridor Road Asset Management Project (SECRAMP) Second Additional Financing.
Together, the projects are expected to drive economic growth, improve infrastructure, and enhance regional integration.
Minister of Finance and Development Planning Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan signed the agreements on behalf of the Government of Liberia, while World Bank Country Manager Georgia Wallen signed on behalf of the World Bank.
President Boakai observed the signing and praised the World Bank for its continued support of Liberia’s development agenda, emphasizing the importance of strategic partnerships in addressing the country’s infrastructure and economic challenges.
Under the agreements, Liberia will receive US$50 million through WARDIP 2 to expand broadband internet access and strengthen digital connectivity across the country.
The project will also support cybersecurity initiatives, improve digital governance systems, promote entrepreneurship and innovation in the technology sector, facilitate e-commerce and digital payment platforms, and advance the creation of a Single Digital Market within the West African region.
The World Bank has also approved an additional US$57 million under the RESPITE Project to expand Liberia’s renewable energy infrastructure. The funding will support the enlargement of the Mount Coffee Solar Park from its current 20-megawatt capacity to 30 megawatts, the installation of battery energy storage systems, and improvements to the national electricity grid.
Officials believe the investment will enhance energy reliability, increase electricity access, and strengthen the country’s transition toward renewable energy sources.
Meanwhile, US$18 million in second additional financing has been allocated to the Southeastern Corridor Road Asset Management Project.
The funding is intended to facilitate the completion of ongoing construction works along the strategic 100-kilometer Ganta-Tappita corridor, a key transportation route connecting communities and economic centers in southeastern Liberia.
The project is expected to improve road conditions, reduce travel times and transportation costs, stimulate trade and commerce, and enhance access to healthcare, education, and other essential services.
Speaking at the event, President Boakai noted that the three initiatives are closely aligned with his administration’s ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development.
He described the investments as critical interventions that will strengthen national infrastructure, improve energy security, accelerate digital transformation, and create opportunities for inclusive economic growth throughout Liberia.
The President stressed that improving access to electricity, digital services, and transportation infrastructure remains central to the government’s efforts to boost productivity, attract investment, create jobs, and improve the quality of life for Liberians.
Mr. Boakai added that sustained investment in these sectors is necessary to position Liberia for long-term economic competitiveness within the region.
President Boakai concluded by reaffirming his government’s commitment to working closely with development partners to ensure the effective implementation of the projects.
He expressed confidence that the investments will deliver lasting benefits to communities across the country and contribute significantly to Liberia’s development aspirations.
