Deputy Finance Minister for Budget and Development Planning, Tanneh G. Brunson, has emphasized the importance of an inclusive consultative process across all counties in Liberia to achieve a comprehensive National Development Roadmap for the country.
Speaking at a two-day Orientation Workshop for County Authorities on the National and County Development Planning Processes, held by the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning in Ganta City, Nimba County, from June 13-14, 2024.
Brunson emphasized that the benefits of this approach include strengthening the country’s democratic culture and involving local beneficiaries in the development agenda, among other advantages.
The workshop, fully funded by the Swedish Government and facilitated by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), aimed to foster collaboration and build synergy among county consultation teams to enhance their output.
Minister Brunson clarified roles and responsibilities within county leadership regarding the development of the National Development Plan/ ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development (AAID) and County Development Agendas (CDAs), intended for district and county consultations to strengthen local leaders’ capacity to effectively perform their duties.
Brunson stated that incorporating views from all counties, including input from local authorities, youths, women, civil society organizations, and the media, is crucial for the National Development Plan.
She emphasized that the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development (AAID) would require strong coordination mechanisms at both national and sub-national levels.
“The ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development (AAID) will need robust coordination at both national and sub-national levels,” she asserted.
Brunson expressed gratitude to the Swedish Government and other development partners for supporting the ongoing planning process for the National Development Plan.
For her part, Christine Umutoni, United Nations Resident Coordinator and co-chair on the steering committee of the National Development Plan, reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to providing technical and financial support to Liberia’s development agenda/ ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development and impartial fulfillment of Vision 2030.
