..Unveils National Development Plan 2025–2029 and County Agendas
By Amos Harris
President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has unveiled the $8.4 billion ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development (AAID), Liberia’s fourth post-conflict National Development Plan, alongside the 15 County Development Agendas (CDAs).
Speaking at the launch event in Buchanan, Grand Bassa County, on the 15 of January 2025, President Boakai hailed the initiative as a pivotal step in realizing the Liberia 2030 Vision.
The AAID, which spans 2025 to 2029, serves as a roadmap for addressing the nation’s challenges while propelling Liberia toward lower-middle-income status by 2030.
Building on earlier initiatives such as the Poverty Reduction Strategy, Agenda for Transformation and Pro-Poor Agenda for Prosperity and Development, it focuses on inclusiveness, sustainability, governance, justice, and equality.
Despite its rich natural resources, Liberia continues to grapple with high unemployment, low literacy rates, widespread poverty, and inadequate infrastructure. These challenges have hindered progress, fueled inequality and created instability.
“This is not just a plan; it is a bold commitment to secure a brighter future for every Liberian,” President Boakai emphasized.
The AAID outlines ambitious programs to tackle multidimensional poverty, focusing on modernizing infrastructure, revitalizing the economy, improving healthcare and enhancing education.
It prioritizes the inclusion of women, youth, and vulnerable populations in Liberia’s development journey.
The AAID and CDAs were developed through extensive consultations across Liberia’s 136 administrative districts, 15 counties and 11 budget sectors.
Farmers, entrepreneurs, youth, diaspora members, and individuals with disabilities were among the stakeholders who contributed to the plan.
President Boakai highlighted the importance of peace, reconciliation, and digital transformation in fostering sustainable growth and national unity.
“Our young and dynamic population provides a demographic dividend that, when effectively harnessed, can drive sustainable and inclusive growth.
Our abundant natural resources, strategic location, and cultural heritage position us as a hub for trade, tourism, and investment,” the President remarked.
Aligned with international frameworks such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Africa’s Agenda 2063 and ECOWAS Vision 2050 the AAID addresses corruption, governance gaps, and limited access to education and healthcare.
A National Steering Committee, chaired by President Boakai, will oversee implementation, supported by the UN country team and technical coordination teams.
Transparency and accountability are prioritized through a robust monitoring and evaluation system.
President Boakai urged government institutions and development partners to align their budgets and operational frameworks with the AAID and CDAs.
“This is not just a government plan; it is an agreement with the Liberian people and our development partners. Together, we can transform the aspirations of the AAID into reality,” he said.
The President reaffirmed the government’s commitment to adaptability, ensuring that the AAID and CDAs evolve to meet emerging challenges and opportunities.
As Liberia embarks on this ambitious development path, President Boakai called for unity and determination.
“Let us move forward with hope, purpose, and the unyielding belief that Liberia’s best days lie ahead,” he concluded.
The ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development represents more than just a strategy it is a transformative vision for a resilient and prosperous Liberia.
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