House Reviews AfDB Loan Agreement By Fiona Benson Kollie

The Chairman of the House Committee on Ways, Means, Finance, Budget & Development Planning, Representative P. Mike Jurry, has emphasized the national significance of a loan agreement between the Republic of Liberia, the African Development Bank, and the African Development Fund.

Speaking at a public hearing embedded in the FY 2025 first-quarter revenue and expenditure performance review on Friday, June 20, 2025, Representative Jurry underscored that although the agreement will be implemented by designated government institutions, its impact spans the entire nation.

“We invited the media and all key partners because this loan affects every Liberian,” he declared. “Although specific ministries and institutions will implement the agreement, the benefits and responsibilities are nationwide.”

The public hearing brought together officials from the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning, the Ministry of Mines and Energy, the Liberia Revenue Authority, and representatives from civil society organizations—all of whom received and reviewed the loan documentation ahead of the hearing.

In a  display of inter-institutional backing, these stakeholders voiced their support for legislative ratification of the agreement, emphasizing its critical role in advancing Liberia’s national development priorities.

Civil society participants also welcomed the inclusive nature of the hearing, stating it provided an opportunity for public input and transparency in national borrowing decisions.

Chairman Jurry noted that ensuring civil society’s involvement is key to reinforcing confidence and ensuring the loan’s obligations are clearly understood.

Meanwhile, the loan agreement is expected to catalyze key development projects and will undergo further legislative review before potential ratification.