Minneapolis – The Association of Liberian Journalists in the Americas (ALJA) has congratulated the Government of Liberia, under the leadership of President Joseph Boakai, on Liberia’s qualification for a Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Compact Grant which positions the country to receive up to $500 million in development funding from the United States Government
ALJA acknowledges that the MCC Grant, which could have transformative impacts on the country’s future, marks a significant turning point in the nation’s governance and reform journey. Achieving this milestone required Liberia to meet stringent benchmarks across several sectors, including the rule of law, fiscal management, trade policy, and anti-corruption efforts. These reforms reflect the government’s commitment to fostering good governance, promoting transparency, and creating the foundation for sustainable development.
In a release, ALJA says the MCC Compact Grant represents a unique opportunity for Liberia to address critical development challenges. If finalized, the grant is expected to focus on key sectors such as infrastructure development, energy access, and economic diversification. These areas are essential for enhancing the country’s global competitiveness, creating jobs, and reducing poverty. ALJA views this achievement not only as a reflection of the government’s determination but also as an opportunity for the Liberian people to experience tangible improvements in their daily lives and livelihoods.
ALJA further states that President Boakai’s leadership, encapsulated in the Arrest Agenda for Inclusive Development, has been pivotal in meeting the MCC Scorecard’s rigorous standards. The ARREST Agenda emphasizes inclusive governance, national unity, and systematic reform, ensuring that all Liberians benefit from development initiatives. This focus on inclusivity, combined with targeted efforts to improve governance, has played a crucial role in rebuilding international trust and attracting vital development support. ALJA commends the administration for its resilience and dedication to achieving these benchmarks despite the challenges posed by systemic issues and external pressures.
While this achievement is worthy of celebration, ALJA underscores the importance of sustained efforts to ensure that Liberia maximizes the benefits of the MCC Compact Grant. Specifically, ALJA urges the Government of Liberia to Deepen Anti-Corruption Measures by ensuring that resources from the grant are transparently allocated and managed, with robust oversight mechanisms in place as well as Strengthen Institutional Frameworks by building the capacity of public institutions to effectively implement and monitor MCC-funded projects.
The Liberian Diaspora based advocacy organizations also wants government to engage civil society and citizens to promote broad-based participation in planning and executing development initiatives and ensuring that all Liberians feel the impact of these investments while at the same time maintaining progress on MCC Indicators by focusing on long-term reforms to ensure continued eligibility for MCC funding in the future.
At the same time, ALJA calls on Liberians at home and abroad to unite in support of this achievement and work collectively toward consolidating the gains made. “Diaspora Liberians, in particular, have a vital role to play in advocating for sustained reforms, investing in local initiatives, and holding leaders accountable,” a release signed by ALJA President Joey Kennedy concluded.
As a media advocacy organization, ALJA remains steadfast in its mission to promote good governance, press freedom, and the rule of law in Liberia. ALJA says it will continue to support development efforts in Liberia and hold stakeholders accountable for ensuring that the MCC Compact Grant translates into real, transformative progress for all Liberians.
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