- The World Bank’s management has committed to providing US$490 million to support the Boakai-Koung-led government’s ARREST Agenda.
- In addition to the $490 million pledge, the World Bank has also approved a $40 million Development Policy Financing (DPF) package designed to promote inclusive growth, fiscal sustainability, and climate resilience.
The World Bank’s management has committed to providing US$490 million through its upcoming Country Program Framework (CPF) to support the Boakai-Koung-led government’s ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development, signalling a major boost to Liberia’s development priorities.
The new Country Framework, expected to be presented to the World Bank Board at the end of this month, targets key sectors including energy, education, agribusiness, and digital transformation. Under the energy component, the initiative aims to increase electricity access in Liberia from 33 per cent to 75 per cent, a move that is expected to significantly reduce electricity costs and expand national access to power.
The announcement was made by World Bank Vice President Ousman Diagana during a high-level meeting with the Liberian delegation led by Finance and Development Planning Minister Hon. Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan, on the margins of the IMF/World Bank Spring Meetings.
The ARREST Agenda, launched in January 2025, stands for Agriculture, Roads, Rule of Law, Education, Sanitation, and Tourism. The Liberian government believes these pillars will drive sustainable growth and improve Liberians’ living standards. The World Bank’s investment is expected to accelerate progress in these areas, providing critical support for infrastructure, governance, and climate resilience.
In addition to the $490 million pledge, the World Bank has also approved a $40 million Development Policy Financing (DPF) package, designed to promote inclusive growth, fiscal sustainability, and climate resilience.
A notable feature of this financing is a $20 million Catastrophe Deferred Drawdown Option (CAT-DDO), which provides emergency funds in case of natural disasters or health crises, a crucial safeguard for a country vulnerable to climate shocks and disease outbreaks.
World Bank officials emphasised that the funding is not just about financial support but also about partnership and long-term impact. “Liberia has shown a strong commitment to reform and development,” said Pierre Laporte, World Bank Country Director for Liberia. “Our goal is to ensure these investments translate into real improvements in people’s lives.”