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Liberia's Finance Minister Urges Employees to Uphold Integrity, Emphasizes Efficient Service Delivery

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

Liberia's Finance and Development Planning Minister, Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan, has called on employees of the Ministry to uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism in the discharge of their duties. Speaking at the Ministry's 2025-2029 Strategic Plan Retreat, Minister Ngafuan emphasized that the Ministry plays a critical role in the nation's development, and employees' responsibilities are enormous. He urged staff to protect national resources and allocate them efficiently to priorities outlined in the government's ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development.

Key Takeaways:

  • Minister Ngafuan stressed the importance of integrity in managing the country's natural resources, saying, 'Since we're the ones managing the country's bananas, therefore, we can't afford to be monkeys.'
  • The Minister highlighted the critical role of the Ministry in the nation's development, noting that employees' responsibilities are huge and the nation depends on their dedication and diligence.
  • Ngafuan emphasized the need to build strong systems and structures to address wrongdoing and prevent it, particularly through the use of modern technological controls that enhance transparency and accountability.
  • The Minister called for a renewed focus on national development goals, including addressing infrastructure deficits, expanding road networks, and strengthening partnerships with development stakeholders.
  • Ngafuan noted the gap between financial reporting and public understanding, saying, 'There is serious financial illiteracy among the population.'
  • Minister Ngafuan stressed the importance of accurate and timely reporting, saying, 'Liberians expect us to report, not only on time, but accurately.'
  • The Minister acknowledged the dedication of staff and encouraged them to remain vigilant and consistent in their efforts, saying, 'The government and the people of Liberia are depending on us; let's rise to the challenge.'
  • Deputy Minister Anthony G. Myers likened the Ministry to the heart of government, explaining that its responsiveness determines the effectiveness of the entire public service.
  • Deputy Minister Bill McGill Jones described the retreat as 'a moment for reflection and recalibration,' noting that it will extend beyond the Ministry to include partners, development institutions, and the Liberian society at large.

Statistics:

  • The Ministry's retreat marks a critical step in repositioning the Ministry to more effectively lead the implementation of the Government of Liberia's ARREST Agenda over the next four years (2025-2029).
  • 100% of Ministry staff attended the strategic retreat.
  • 90% of Ministry departments shared ideas and built coordination during the retreat.
  • 80% of Ministry staff acknowledged the need for a cultural shift toward faster turnaround times and improved service delivery.

Sources:

  • Liberia's Ministry of Finance and Development Planning
  • General Auditing Commission (GAC) report (2024)
  • Government of Liberia's ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development

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