New IMF Representative Welcome
In continuation of his engagements with international partners, Liberia’s Finance Minister, Augustine K. Ngafuan, hosted a meeting with the new International Monetary Fund (IMF) Country Representative to Liberia, Joel C. Okwnekei. During the courtesy call on Tuesday at the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning (MFDP), Mr. Okwnekei expressed his enthusiasm for collaborating with the Ministry in advancing reforms aimed at stimulating economic growth. According to a press release from the MFDP, dated September 25, Mr. Okwnekei assured the public that the IMF is committed to supporting Liberia in tackling the nation’s economic challenges through these critical reforms. Mr. Okwnekei also highlighted the importance of these initiatives in positioning Liberia within the IMF’s Extended Credit Facility (ECF) program, citing that after the IMF’s Annual Meetings in Washington, D.C. which has been scheduled for October 21-26, a follow-up mission will visit Liberia from November 16-19, 2024. In response, Minister Ngafuan thanked the IMF for its longstanding partnership, which according to him has consistently financed and facilitated impactful development projects across Liberia. He encouraged the new IMF Country Representative to foster relationships with key stakeholders and urged the IMF to continue supporting capacity-building programs for MFDP staff to enhance national development and economic growth across all sectors. LINA