Liberia’s selection to host the 23rd Annual Conference and General Assembly of the African Forum for Utility Regulators (AFUR) in March 2027 marks a significant milestone for the nation’s burgeoning energy sector. This prestigious event, secured during the 21st AFUR Conference held in Douala, Cameroon in March 2025, underscores Liberia’s growing influence and commitment to advancing utility regulation and innovation on the African continent. The Liberia Electricity Regulatory Commission (LERC), a relatively young regulatory body, played a pivotal role in securing this bid, demonstrating its dedication to fostering a dynamic and robust energy landscape in Liberia. Hosting the conference will provide a unique opportunity for Liberia to showcase its progress in electricity sector reform and to collaborate with other African nations in shaping the future of utility regulation.
The 21st AFUR Conference, themed “The Use of Intelligent Technologies in Utilities – How Does the Regulator Promote Innovation while Protecting Consumers,” provided a crucial platform for exchanging knowledge and best practices among regulators, policymakers, and industry leaders. The conference explored the transformative potential of technologies such as artificial intelligence, smart grids, and data analytics in enhancing utility services while safeguarding consumer interests. LERC’s active participation, including presentations and bilateral meetings, highlighted Liberia’s commitment to adopting these cutting-edge technologies to modernize its energy infrastructure. The conference served as a valuable learning experience for the LERC delegation, providing insights that will inform the development of a more efficient and inclusive energy sector in Liberia.
The LERC delegation, led by Chairman Claude J. Katta and including Commissioner Amara M. Kamara, Managing Director Augustus V. Goanue, and Engineer Abu Dekontee Sanso, actively engaged with counterparts from across Africa, sharing Liberia’s experiences in utility regulation and exploring opportunities for collaboration. Managing Director Goanue’s presentation showcased LERC’s remarkable progress since its establishment, emphasizing its contributions to Liberia’s electricity market reform. He highlighted the Commission’s impressive climb in the African Development Bank’s Electricity Regulatory Index, reaching the 10th position out of 43 member states, a significant improvement from its 37th ranking in 2021. This achievement reflects the LERC’s commitment to establishing a strong and effective regulatory framework.
LERC’s active involvement in the West African regional electricity market reform further underscores its dedication to regional cooperation and integration. The Commission’s participation in various committees of the ECOWAS Regional Electricity Regulatory Authority (ERERA) demonstrates its commitment to harmonizing regulatory practices and promoting cross-border electricity trade within the West African region. This collaborative approach is crucial for accelerating the development of a robust and interconnected regional electricity market, fostering economic growth and enhancing energy access across West Africa.
The bilateral meetings held by the LERC delegation with other African regulatory bodies provided valuable opportunities for knowledge sharing and the establishment of strategic partnerships. These discussions focused on strengthening regulatory frameworks, promoting best practices, and facilitating the adoption of intelligent technologies in the utility sector. By leveraging the expertise and experience of other African regulators, LERC aims to enhance its regulatory capacity and accelerate the modernization of Liberia’s energy sector. These collaborations will play a crucial role in driving innovation and ensuring the sustainable development of Liberia’s energy infrastructure.
Securing the hosting rights for the 23rd AFUR Conference signifies Liberia’s growing prominence in the African energy landscape and its commitment to fostering regional cooperation in utility regulation. This event will provide a valuable platform for sharing Liberia’s experiences, showcasing its progress, and collaborating with other African nations to address the challenges and opportunities in the utility sector. Hosting the conference will also boost Liberia’s international profile, attracting investment and expertise to support the development of its energy sector. The LERC’s commitment to innovation, regional integration, and strengthening regulatory frameworks positions Liberia as a key player in shaping the future of Africa’s energy landscape.
