The signing of the US$114.4m agreement is a significant move aimed at bolstering Liberia’s development drive.
By Lewis S. Teh
Monrovia, November 14, 2024: The Government of Liberia and the United States government have signed a US$114,488,125.00 grant agreement.
The United States Agency for International Development ( USAID) represented the U.S. government at the signing on Wednesday, November 13, 2024.
The signing ceremony took place at the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning in Monrovia.
The ceremony witnessed the signing of two agreements for Amendments 14 and 15 to the Development Objective Grant Agreement (DAOG).
The signing was an addition to the 2020 DAOG, a significant move aimed at bolstering Liberia’s development drive.
The Amendments, according to both countries, will see an additional US$114,488,125.00 to the DAOG of 2020.
Liberia’s Finance Minister Augustine K. Ngafuan, remarking at the signing ceremony, said the agreement marks another step in the historic bilateral relationship between Liberia and the United States.
Minister Ngafuan highlighted their commitment to addressing pressing development challenges.
Minister Augustine expressed optimism about future collaborative efforts.
He reaffirmed the necessity of such partnerships as Liberia navigates significant developmental obstacles.
“The Government of the United States, through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), has proven to be a steadfast and reliable partner,” said Ngafuan.
As Liberia’s largest bilateral partner, the U.S. has played a crucial role in various aspects of national development.
In May 2020, Liberia and the U.S. signed a five-year Development Objective Grant totaling $640 million.
It focused on health, education, governance, and economic prosperity.
According to Minister Ngafuan, the signing included Amendments 14 and 15 with a cumulative incremental value of $1,0045 billion.
These amendments aim to enhance funding and refine the user contributions to areas such as health and education, significantly benefiting Liberians.
The MFDP Boss, however, said the investments outlined in the agreement are designed to drive inclusive economic growth, create jobs, promote effective governance, and facilitate essential services across the nation.
He revealed that the health sector will receive particular attention, with 55 ongoing projects aimed at supporting Liberia’s health policy and enhancing essential health services.
Minister Ngafuan emphasized the importance of a sustainable development approach, highlighting the need for investments in the domestic economy that can generate employment opportunities, especially in the private sector.
He noted that accountability and transparency in public sector institutions are critical for ensuring resources effectively benefit the populace.
“We are excited to be signing this agreement today,” Minister Ngafuan stated.
He expressed gratitude to the teams that have worked diligently to secure increased support for Liberia.
The Finance Minister acknowledged the profound impact these agreements will have on the lives of the Liberian people.
He further emphasized the government’s commitment to further collaborations that will improve the nation’s welfare.
As Liberia gears up for a brighter future, this partnership underscores the importance of international cooperation in overcoming developmental challenges and fostering a more prosperous nation.
For his part, US Ambassador accredited to Liberia Mark C. Toner disclosed that the agreement established between the U.S. government and the Government of Liberia underscores a mutual commitment to advancing the country’s development.
In his address, Ambassador Toner emphasized the importance of this agreement, which adds to a broader $640 million five-year development objective launched in May 2020.
With this latest infusion of funding, the total contributions from the U.S. to Liberia now reach approximately $489 million.
“This funding is more than just financial support; it embodies our unwavering commitment to Liberia’s future,” the ambassador stated.
“Today, we celebrate not only an addition to our financial contributions but also the shared values that unite our nations.”
The US ambassador continued that the allocated funds aim to bolster the Liberian government’s initiatives in essential sectors such as health, education, and inclusive economic growth.
Specific plans include training teachers, delivering health commodities to communities, and expanding economic opportunities within the agriculture sector.
While expressing hope for the future, the US Ambassador also acknowledged the challenges, including corruption and capacity constraints.
“Together, we must reinforce the necessary structures to confront these challenges,” he urged.
“Together, we are laying the groundwork for a brighter future—one that fosters hope, opportunity, and growth in Liberia,” he said.
This agreement is a testament to the strong ties between the United States and Liberia, marking a new chapter in their enduring partnership.
USAID Mission Director Jim Wright and Deputy Justice Minister for Codification Cllr. Cora N. Konuwa attended the signing ceremony.
Others attending were Deputy and Assistant Ministers of the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning and Officials of the US Embassy near Monrovia.
