Africa-Press – Liberia. In a bold and optimistic declaration, Liberia’s Minister of Finance and Development Planning, Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan, has affirmed the government’s commitment to driving national development despite prevailing challenges.
Speaking during the official launch of the Payzaza Initiative, Minister Ngafuan likened the government’s approach to “lighting the candles” in the midst of darkness, emphasizing the administration’s determination to move the country forward with innovation, infrastructure, and inclusive economic growth.
Minister Ngafuan highlighted the importance of embracing technology as a critical driver of economic expansion, particularly for Liberia’s youth.
“This initiative is not just beneficial for the government, it’s an opportunity for young people and a game changer for the national economy,” he said.
He stressed that Liberia must adapt to the demands of the digital era, noting the global shift into the age of artificial intelligence.
“The world is in the Artificial Generation age. Liberia cannot afford to be left behind. It’s time to leapfrog,” he added.
Ngafuan emphasized the importance of building efficient systems that save time and increase business profitability.
“When our systems are seamless, businesses thrive. Time and speed are key to profitability, and efficiency remains at the heart of it all,” the Minister stated.
He praised the digital thinkers and entrepreneurs helping Liberia “light the darkness” and reiterated the government’s focus on accelerating progress across various sectors.
According to the Finance Minister, tangible changes are already taking place across the country.
He cited road expansion projects, newly electrified homes, and evidence of physical development particularly in the southeastern region.
“New homes are getting light. Roads are being rehabilitated. You may not see all the changes, but they are real and happening,” Ngafuan assured.
As part of upcoming infrastructure initiatives, Minister Ngafuan revealed plans to launch what he described as the “Positive Octopus”, a nationwide road rehabilitation project led by the Ministry of Public Works, beginning mid October.
“This is a massive, coordinated road effort. We are targeting every region to ensure connectivity and access,” he noted.
Addressing Liberia’s national budget, Minister Ngafuan confirmed that the FY2025 budget will be submitted by October 31, with a target of USD 880 million.
“We are knocking on doors, and I wouldn’t be surprised if we exceed this year’s target by next year,” he remarked confidently.
One of the most impactful outcomes of the current budget, the Minister noted, is a direct benefit to over 28,000 public servants across the country.
He named the affected sectors as; Police officers, Health workers, Judges and magistrates, Associate justices among others.
Civil servants now receive a minimum salary of USD 150, with plans under President Joseph Boakai’s administration to increase average salaries to between USD 350–500.
“We are underwriting the cost of police insurance and increasing salaries across the board.
This is how we build trust and commitment,” he stated.
Minister Ngafuan credited the progress made so far to the visionary leadership of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai and the collaboration with key stakeholders including the private sector, central banking authorities, and tech entrepreneurs.
“We are lighting the candles despite the turbulence. Our success is a result of strong leadership and national teamwork,” he emphasized.
He also lauded the Central Bank of Liberia for its collaborative role in ensuring financial and operational efficiency.
As part of ongoing reforms, the Finance Ministry is working to modernize and enhance revenue collection systems, an effort the Minister said will improve service delivery and economic stability.
“When our revenue systems improve, the economy becomes more resilient. We are not just building for today, we are preparing for tomorrow,” he noted.
Minister Ngafuan urged participants and innovators behind the Payzaza initiative to remain deeply committed and solution oriented.
“Don’t be a shadow root. Be a deep root to support employment, business growth, and national efficiency,” he urged.
Minister Ngafuan’s remarks reflect a forward looking vision that embraces innovation, infrastructure, and inclusive economic development.
Despite challenges, the message is clear: Liberia is on the path of transformation and the candles are being lit.
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