By: Julius Konton
The Minister of Finance and Development Planning (MFDP), Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan, has reaffirmed government’s commitment to reform infrastructure development and public-sector.
According to a release, Ngafuan gave the assurance following a high-level engagement with community leaders in Foya District, Lofa County.
While en-route to inspect the Mendikorma customs and immigration post, a critical border facility facilitating cross-border trade, Mr. Ngafuan made an unscheduled stop in Foya City, where he hosted an hour-long town hall meeting.
The engagement brought together district authorities, including the Commissioner, City Mayor and Statutory Superintendent.
Ngafuan described the reception as “overwhelming and deeply encouraging,” noting that the meeting was organized on a very short notice, underscoring the strong relationship between the government and local communities.
Road Infrastructure Tops Development Agenda
At the center of discussions was the long-anticipated pavement of the Mendikorma–Voinjama road, a vital
corridor linking Liberia to Sierra Leone and the Republic of Guinea.
Stakeholders unanimously identified the highway as Foya District’s most urgent development priority, citing its potential to transform trade, agriculture, education, and healthcare delivery.
The district lies along one of Liberia’s busiest informal trade routes, where thousands of farmers and traders rely on seasonal roads that become nearly impassable during the rainy season.
According to development assessments, poor road conditions increase transportation costs by up to 30–40 percent, significantly limiting market access for agricultural produce.
Minister Ngafuan assured residents that the Boakai administration, has mobilized funding for the project and that construction works will commence shortly, marking a major step toward improving regional connectivity and border trade efficiency.
Payroll Expansion and Governance Reforms
Beyond infrastructure, community leaders raised concerns about the incomplete migration of chiefs, local government workers, and health and education volunteers onto the payroll, a longstanding issue affecting service delivery and local governance.
In response, Ngafuan disclosed that budgetary allocations have already been made to address these gaps, with additional personnel scheduled for payroll integration beginning this year (2026).
The move aligns with government’s broader public-sector reform agenda aimed at strengthening decentralization and accountability.
As Liberia continues to pursue post-conflict reconstruction and economic recovery, engagements such as the Foya town hall underscore government’s emphasis on inclusive development, citizen participation, and regional balance.