The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Government of Liberia (GOL) signed Amendments 14 and 15 to the Development Objective Grant Agreement (DOAG) on Wednesday to enhanced the West African nation’s development programs.
This amendment brings an additional US$114.4 million to the original agreement, reflecting a deepening partnership between the two nations.
At the signing ceremony held in Monrovia, Liberia’s Finance and Development Planning Minister Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan emphasized the importance of the amendments in strengthening the historic ties between the United States and Liberia. “This agreement represents a reliable partnership, supporting various aspects of our national development,” he stated.
The new funding will be allocated towards crucial reforms in health and education and is designed to provide essential services to Liberians. Minister Ngafuan outlined that the agreement would focus on three main thematic areas: market-driven inclusive economic growth for job creation, effective governance through reforms and accountability, and fostering a healthy, educated, and productive population.
“Our development strategy is rooted in investing in sectors where we can maximize potential and create jobs, especially in the private sector,” Ngafuan added. He underscored the need for accountability in public sector institutions to ensure that resources are utilized effectively for the benefit of all Liberians.
United States Ambassador to Liberia Mark Toner echoed Minister Ngafuan’s sentiments, highlighting the US government’s commitment to advancing Liberia’s development. He noted that since the launch of the $640 million five-year Development Objective Agreement in May 2020, significant progress has been made, necessitating this new addition of US$114.4 million, raising the total assistance to approximately US$489 million.
“This signing marks a new chapter in Liberia’s journey toward growth and prosperity,” Ambassador Toner stated. He detailed that the new funding would facilitate training for teachers, deliver essential healthcare supplies to underserved communities, and expand economic opportunities in agriculture.
Ambassador Toner reassured that both governments are dedicated to ensuring that each dollar spent translates into sustainable positive outcomes for the Liberian populace.
However, he also acknowledged ongoing challenges, such as corruption and limited capacity within local institutions, urging the need to strengthen existing frameworks to address these issues effectively.
The signing ceremony took place at the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning and was attended by key officials, including USAID Mission Director Jim Wright and Deputy Justice Minister for Codification, Cllr. Cora N. Konuwa, along with other representatives from the US Embassy and the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning.
