Published: July 19, 2024
Monrovia – President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has formally initiated the development of the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development (AAID), which includes the Public Sector Investment Plan (PSIP) and the fifteen County Development Agendas (CDAs).
The launch took place during a meeting of the National Steering Committee at the Ellen Johnson Ministerial Complex on Monday, July 18, 2024. President Boakai emphasized the importance of stakeholder collaboration to ensure a unified vision for Liberia’s future. “Crafting these plans involves engaging development partners and stakeholders to chart a strategic course for Liberia over the next five years,” said President Boakai. He stressed the need for comprehensive societal engagement to collectively determine the nation’s direction, reassuring Liberians of his government’s commitment to elevating the country to greater heights. “We must tailor the economy to benefit ordinary Liberians, particularly through investments in agriculture and other key sectors. It’s time to see Liberians become millionaires through their investments,” he declared.
Acting Minister of Finance and Development Planning, Anthony G. Myers, expressed appreciation for the stakeholders’ participation in crafting the AAID. He outlined the AAID as a five-year medium-term strategy from 2025 to 2029, encompassing a National Development Plan, a Sector Investment Plan (PSIP), and specific development agendas for each of Liberia’s fifteen counties. Minister Myers highlighted the significance of the National Steering Committee meeting in updating stakeholders on the planning process and emphasized the importance of consolidating support from all stakeholders, including political backing, resource allocation, and technical expertise.
Minister Myers announced the engagement of two local consultancy firms to collaborate with Ministry of Finance and Development Planning (MFDP) technicians in formulating the AAID. Additionally, four vehicles were procured to enhance national and sub-national coordination efforts. Sector engagements at the national level were scheduled to commence by July 19, 2024, with consultations at the county and district levels starting on July 22, 2024, spanning 25 days. These consultations are crucial for gathering input and ensuring the AAID reflects the diverse needs and aspirations of Liberian communities.
Dr. Peter-Lasuba Clement, the United Nations Representative, commended President Boakai for his leadership in advancing the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development (AAID) and its County Development Agendas (CDAs). Dr. Clement emphasized the importance of mutual accountability among key stakeholders, including the Government of Liberia, the United Nations, and development partners. He highlighted the significance of inclusive processes in the AAID and CDAs, stressing principles such as diversity, equity, human rights integration, gender equality, women’s empowerment, social protection, youth employment, and nutrition.
“Inclusive growth aims to strengthen local communities, support marginalized groups, reduce disparities, and promote equitable and sustainable development at both the county and national levels,” stated Dr. Clement. The proactive steps taken by the Liberian government to develop a robust framework for inclusive development through the AAID ensure comprehensive engagement and effective implementation at all levels of governance.
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