In a joint sectoral portfolio review held by the Government of Liberia (GoL), World Bank Liberia Country Manager Georgia Wallen emphasized the urgency to depart from traditional methods and maximize the impact of development assistance. Quoting World Bank President Ajay Banga, Ms. Wallen stressed the importance of avoiding delayed development, stating, “Development delayed is development denied.” She urged the participants to approach the next six years with a strong sense of urgency to achieve the national vision, “Liberia Rising 2030,” and fulfill the Sustainable Development Goals.
Ms. Wallen underscored the need for value for money and the effective utilization of concessional financing. The World Bank has committed $1 billion to various sectors, including agriculture, energy, health, education, social protection, water, and roads. This commitment aligns with the ARREST agenda (Agriculture, Roads, Rule of Law, Education, Sanitation, and Tourism) of the Liberian Government and supports the forthcoming National Development Plan.
Highlighting the scarcity of taxpayer dollars, Ms. Wallen noted that the International Development Association (IDA) provides most of the World Bank financing to Liberia. Consequently, she stressed the importance of critically examining underperforming areas and the potential to redirect limited resources to higher priority sectors.
Speaking at the GoL Joint Portfolio Review, Ms. Wallen called upon the participants to prioritize the well-being of the Liberian people in their discussions. While measuring progress through disbursement rates and other indicators is crucial, the ultimate measure of success lies in the number of people reached, particularly the poor and vulnerable. Ms. Wallen urged the participants to consider the impact of engagements in sectors such as energy, education, and health, questioning how many individuals benefit from access to electricity, safe education, and essential healthcare services.
Ms. Wallen emphasized the importance of urgency, value for money, and keeping the welfare of the Liberian people at the forefront. These factors will contribute to an effective portfolio review. The Joint Portfolio Review brought together representatives from the Government of Liberia, Development Partners, and non-state actors.
