The government has announced plans to host a high-level retreat focused on the implementation of the African Agenda for Inclusive Development (AAID).
The event is a strategic move to advance the country’s national development goals. It aims at mobilizing resources and strengthening collaboration between the government, international partners and the private sector.
Deputy Finance Minister for Economic Management, Dehpue Zuo, made the announcement on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at the Ministry of Information’s regular press briefing.
According to Mr. Zuo, the AAID roadmap will be financed through a diversified funding structure: 30 percent from international partners, another 30 percent from the private sector, 10 percent from donor communities and the remaining from the government.
“We are looking for compassionate and collaborative approach to chart the way forward for the AAID to the extent that the private sector will be instrumental in ensuring inclusive and sustainable growth,” Zuo said.
He added that the upcoming retreat will serve as a platform to align donor support with Liberia’s national development priorities, focusing on innovative financing and partnership strategies.
Mr. Zuo also said adjustments in the proposed 2025 national budget, allocations in health and education have been slightly reduced, “but the government remains firmly committed to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).”
“The government is open to partnerships and is committed to working with every sector to ensure sustainable development and prosperity for the country,” Zuo added, extending appreciation to international and donor partners for their continued support.
In a significant diplomatic and economic milestone, the government has secured fresh commitments from the Kuwaiti Fund for Arab Economic Development and allied institutions to finance a critical segment of the Gbarnga–Mendikorma highway.
The deal was sealed during high-level talks in Kuwait City over the weekend, led by Finance Minister Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan.
The Arab coalition of lenders includes the Saudi Fund for Development, the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA), the OPEC Fund for International Development (OFID) and the Abu Dhabi Fund.
The targeted 114-kilometer stretch—from Salayea to Voinjama in Lofa County, is considered one of the country’s most vital regional road corridors.
The funding will cover US$65 million for paving a 50-kilometer segment from Konia to Voinjama and US$11 million for upgrading 81 kilometers with enhanced asphalt.
The negotiations also led to a debt restructuring agreement on a US$6.7 million loan from the Kuwaiti Fund.
This agreement lifts a suspension imposed in 2023 after Liberia defaulted on a US$14 million loan linked to the National Port Authority.
With the suspension lifted, previously withheld funds will now be released to contractors, enabling the resumption of construction on the Gbarnga–Salayea segment.
UN Resident Coordinator Christine Umutoni, expressed optimism about Liberia’s future.
Umutoni acknowledged the current economic challenges, but remained confident in the country’s resilience and progress.
“Liberia will pass through these challenges and move forward,” the female diplomat said, stressing the vital role of the private sector in driving inclusive growth.
She called for continued collaboration between the government and development partners.
“The initiative will not only enhance partnerships, but also provide a platform to highlight the experiences and contributions of all stakeholders,” Umutoni added.
Meanwhile, Swedish Ambassador Kari Backeus has reaffirmed his country’s long-standing partnership with Liberia, pledging continued support across all sectors.
“The retreat on Thursday strengthens the collaboration between Liberia and the Swedish Government,” the Ambassador said, underscoring Sweden’s commitment to boosting development cooperation.