A high-level delegation from the World Bank Group, led by Vice President for Western and Central Africa, Ousmane Diagana, and accompanied by Ethiopis Tafara, Regional Vice President for MIGA and Chief Finance, Risk, Legal and Sustainability Officer, is scheduled to visit Liberia from January 13th to 14th, 2025. This visit signifies the World Bank’s continued commitment to Liberia’s development and will focus on strategizing the institution’s engagement in the country for the next five years. The delegation will engage with President George Weah, senior government officials, and the Development Trust Fund Partnership Council to discuss the future of their collaborative efforts.
The World Bank Group’s engagement in Liberia spans a wide spectrum of development priorities, reflecting a comprehensive approach to supporting the nation’s progress. Key areas of focus include infrastructure development, particularly in roads and energy, which are crucial for economic growth and improved living standards. Health systems strengthening and disease surveillance are also prioritized, recognizing the importance of a robust healthcare system for human capital development and overall societal well-being. The World Bank’s portfolio further encompasses support for agriculture and fisheries, aiming to enhance food security and rural livelihoods. Education, a cornerstone of human development, is another key area of investment, alongside social protection programs designed to provide safety nets for vulnerable populations. Furthermore, the Bank supports initiatives in governance, water resources management, women’s empowerment, and financial sector development, all contributing to a holistic approach to sustainable development.
The delegation’s visit will also include site visits to key projects, including the Mount Coffee Hydro Powerplant and Afropa Factory Liberia, Inc. These visits serve to highlight the tangible impact of World Bank Group investments on the ground. The Mount Coffee Hydro Powerplant exemplifies the Bank’s commitment to supporting Liberia’s energy sector and its pursuit of ambitious energy access goals. This investment aligns with the broader global agenda of sustainable development and access to reliable and affordable energy. The visit to Afropa Factory Liberia, Inc. showcases the World Bank Group’s focus on private sector development, recognizing its vital role in driving economic growth and job creation. Afropa, a leading Liberian conglomerate with diversified interests in automotive trading, real estate, fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), and beverages, represents a successful example of private sector engagement in the country.
The World Bank’s partnership with Liberia, established in 1962, reflects a long-standing commitment to the country’s development journey. The current portfolio comprises 19 active projects, totaling US$922 million, demonstrating the substantial investment the Bank has made in Liberia’s future. These projects address critical needs across various sectors, contributing to a multi-pronged approach to development challenges. The focus on infrastructure, health, agriculture, education, social protection, governance, water resources, women’s empowerment, and finance underscores the Bank’s comprehensive strategy to support Liberia’s progress towards sustainable development.
The upcoming visit by the World Bank delegation marks a crucial moment for reaffirming the partnership and charting the course for future collaboration. The discussions with government officials and the visit to project sites will provide valuable insights into the progress achieved so far and the challenges that remain. This collaborative approach, involving dialogue and on-the-ground assessment, is essential for ensuring that the World Bank’s support effectively addresses Liberia’s specific needs and contributes meaningfully to its development goals.
The World Bank’s continued engagement in Liberia signifies its belief in the country’s potential and its commitment to supporting its journey towards sustainable development. The visit of the high-level delegation underscores the importance of partnership and collaboration in achieving these shared goals. The planned discussions and project visits will not only showcase the impact of past investments but also pave the way for a more impactful and strategically aligned partnership in the years to come. This collaborative approach, coupled with the World Bank’s long-standing commitment and substantial investment, positions Liberia for continued progress and a brighter future.
