President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. has launched a sweeping reform agenda with the signing of Executive Order No. 163, establishing the National Digitalization and Modernization Initiative (NDMI) and the Office of Technology, Digitalization and Innovation (OTDI). The move marks a historic step toward transforming Liberia’s governance framework and positioning the nation for a digital future.
Signed on April 22, 2026, the Executive Order mandates a Whole-of-Government modernization drive, requiring ministries, agencies, and commissions to adopt secure, interoperable, and standards-based digital systems. The newly created OTDI, operating under the Office of the President, will serve as the central authority for digital governance, enterprise architecture, and cybersecurity.
The initiative seeks to eliminate waste, reduce fragmentation, and improve efficiency, while delivering faster, more transparent services to citizens. Modern digital systems, the Order stresses, are vital for prudent resource management and for rebuilding public trust in government institutions.
Key Provisions of the Order: Digitization of public services and secure data exchange across government systems and consolidation of shared digital platforms to cut costs and strengthen interoperability.
OTDI authority to set technical standards, maintain a national inventory of systems, and issue Technical Clearance for ICT investments.
Cybersecurity protections mandated for all government systems, coordinated with the Ministries of Posts and Telecommunications and Justice.
Privacy safeguards, ensuring compliance with constitutional guarantees and sectoral laws.
Oversight will be provided by a Digital Government Steering Committee, chaired by the Minister of State for Presidential Affairs, tasked with ensuring accountability and high-level monitoring.
The Order clarifies that it does not override existing legislation, respecting the independence of institutions such as the Central Bank of Liberia and the Liberia Revenue Authority. ICT procurement remains subject to the Public Procurement and Concessions Act.
Executive Order No. 163 takes immediate effect and will remain in force for one year. Within 180 days, OTDI must deliver a prioritized implementation roadmap, including the first releases of the Government Enterprise Architecture Framework and the Government Interoperability Framework.
For the Boakai Administration, this landmark directive is more than a policy—it is a cornerstone of governance reform, laying the foundation for e‑government, digital identity systems, and 21st‑century service delivery in Liberia.
