World Bank vice president praises Liberia for longstanding partnership

Monrovia – The World Bank Vice President for Western and Central Africa, Ousmane Diagana, has commended the Government and people of Liberia for their enduring partnership with the World Bank. During an official visit to the country, Mr. Diagana emphasized the importance of this collaboration, which has spanned decades, in advancing Liberia’s development across various sectors.

Leading an 18-member delegation, Mr. Diagana is in Liberia to assess key sectors and reinforce ties. On Monday, the delegation met with President Joseph Boakai at the Executive Mansion, where discussions focused on Liberia’s development progress and the World Bank’s pivotal role in supporting the nation’s priorities.

At the Ministry of Finance, Mr. Diagana highlighted the mission of his visit, stating, “Our goal is to deepen our partnership and establish a new country strategy, building on the strong relationship we have cultivated over the years.”

As part of the visit, the delegation will tour key World Bank-funded projects on Tuesday, including the Mount Coffee Hydro Power Plant and Afropa Factory Liberia, Inc. These projects underscore the Bank’s commitment to enhancing energy access and fostering private sector development, which are vital to Liberia’s economic growth.

Finance Minister Augustine Ngafuan welcomed the delegation, expressing gratitude for the World Bank’s sustained support. He highlighted the Bank’s contributions to critical areas such as energy, infrastructure, and governance. Minister Ngafuan also briefed the delegation on the upcoming launch of Liberia’s National Development Agenda, scheduled for Wednesday in Buchanan, Grand Bassa County.

“The World Bank has been instrumental in advancing Liberia’s development objectives. Your support in energy, health, agriculture, and education has been transformative, and we look forward to continued collaboration,” Minister Ngafuan said.

The World Bank has been a trusted development partner to Liberia since 1962. Its current portfolio includes 19 active projects valued at $922 million, focusing on crucial sectors such as infrastructure, health, agriculture, education, social protection, governance, water, women’s empowerment, and financial inclusion.