From Decline to Progress: Key Takeaways from Boakai’s State of the Nation Address

A Commentary By Julius T. Jaesen, II
democracywatch2021@gmail.com

President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s State of the Nation Address, delivered to the 55th Legislature on January 27, 2025, stands as a panacea of hope for Liberia, resonating deeply with citizens yearning for transformative leadership. Through his ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development, the President presented an ambitious yet pragmatic framework to rebuild the nation from years of economic stagnation and governance failures under the previous administration. This analysis highlights the economic and political benefits embedded in his address, illustrating a path toward national recovery and sustainable development.

President Boakai’s acknowledgment of the dire state of the economy upon assuming office cannot be overstated. The challenges of soaring inflation, an unsustainable debt burden, a dwindling current account, and widespread fiscal mismanagement were stark reminders of the neglect under former President George Weah. By taking decisive action to stabilise the economy, President Boakai has ushered in renewed confidence. Key accomplishments, such as reducing inflation to 7.7%, increasing GDP growth to 5.1%, and securing $734 million in domestic revenue—the highest in Liberia’s history—signal that the administration is reversing years of economic decline. These gains are not just statistics; they represent tangible benefits for ordinary Liberians, from better access to services to greater economic opportunities.

The ARREST Agenda’s focus on infrastructure paints a picture of the administration’s commitment to addressing long-standing disparities between urban and rural Liberia. The rehabilitation of 783 kilometers of major road networks and advancements in projects like the Roberts International Airport and regional connectivity initiatives demonstrate a keen understanding of infrastructure as the backbone of economic growth. Improved roads reduce transport costs and bolster commerce, while investments in renewable energy, such as the ongoing solar power plant in Harrisburg, pave the way for sustainable energy access, which will empower agriculture, education, and healthcare. By electrifying 100,000 households annually, the administration is setting the stage for a more equitable distribution of resources.

President Boakai’s emphasis on agriculture is another cornerstone of his address, signaling a shift toward self-reliance and food security. By doubling rice cultivation to 6,000 hectares and mechanising farming processes, the government seeks to reduce dependency on imports and enhance local production. This strategic approach doesn’t only safeguards Liberia’s food sovereignty but it also stimulates rural employment and exports. Complementing these efforts are significant investments in value chains for cocoa, oil palm, and cassava, sectors capable of generating substantial foreign exchange and reducing poverty in farming communities.

In education, the President’s reforms, including the $75 million foundational learning project and efforts to modernise tertiary institutions like the University of Liberia, are transformative. They represent a deliberate attempt to prepare Liberia’s youth to compete in a globalised economy. Similarly, the health sector is witnessing a renaissance, with the establishment of regional diagnostic centers, a state-of-the-art cardiothoracic facility at JFK, and expanded maternal and child health programs. These interventions showcase a government that prioritises human capital, recognising it as the cornerstone of national progress.

The administration’s focus on governance, transparency, and accountability sets a new standard for Liberia. The removal of ghost names from payrolls and the promotion of audits in key institutions reflect a genuine commitment to prudent resource management. These reforms restore public trust, an essential ingredient for sustaining Liberia’s fragile democracy. Moreover, the proposed reforms in land governance, alongside the issuance of deeds for nearly one million acres, offer hope for resolving long-standing land disputes and promoting equitable access to land—a vital resource for economic empowerment.

Internationally, Liberia’s re-engagement with bilateral and multilateral partners underlines a return to responsible leadership. Securing $210 million from the IMF’s Extended Credit Facility and commitments from the EU, USAID, and the African Development Bank demonstrate the international community’s confidence in President Boakai’s administration. These partnerships not only bolster the fiscal space but also enable investments in critical areas like health, education, and infrastructure.

The future under the ARREST Agenda is promising. The planned $8.4 billion development plan aligns Liberia with its Vision 2030 goals, laying the foundation for a diversified and resilient economy. By prioritising agriculture, road development, governance reforms, and human capital, the agenda presents a holistic framework to propel Liberia toward lower-middle-income status.

The ARREST Agenda also shows the importance of fostering an inclusive economy by tapping into Liberia’s untapped potential across diverse sectors. The planned establishment of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) holds the promise of transforming Liberia into a regional hub for trade and investment. These zones will not only attract foreign direct investment but also catalyse local entrepreneurship, providing a dynamic environment for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to flourish. By simplifying regulations and reducing bureaucratic hurdles, the government is creating fertile ground for private-sector-driven growth, ensuring that wealth generation benefits Liberians at all levels of society.

Furthermore, the administration’s strides in digital transformation signal a bold step toward positioning Liberia as a 21st-century economy. Initiatives such as interconnectivity for mobile money services, the rollout of Starlink internet access in rural areas, and training programs for young Liberians in digital skills are transformative. These interventions will bridge the digital divide, enabling citizens in the most remote corners of the country to access education, health services, and economic opportunities. This drive to modernise telecommunications and connectivity reflects a government focused on preparing Liberia for a knowledge-based global economy.

On a broader societal level, President Boakai’s approach to tackling entrenched inequalities through social protection programs highlights a vision of equity. Initiatives such as cash transfers to vulnerable households and targeted gender empowerment programs are not just social policies—they are economic interventions aimed at breaking the cycle of poverty. By lifting marginalised groups, particularly women and children, the government is unlocking the potential of millions of Liberians, creating a more productive and harmonious society.

Finally, the emphasis on regional cooperation and international diplomacy in the ARREST Agenda presents Liberia as a proactive player on the global stage. Liberia’s leadership role in initiatives like the Mano River Union revitalisation and its bid for a seat on the United Nations Security Council reflect a nation reclaiming its historical standing. These efforts not only enhance Liberia’s geopolitical clout but also open doors for economic partnerships that can fuel the country’s development goals.

The holistic and visionary nature of the ARREST Agenda encapsulates a Liberia poised for a renaissance. It embodies a commitment to sustainable development, inclusion, and good governance—a blueprint for turning Liberia’s immense potential into enduring prosperity.

In sum, President Boakai’s address paints a picture of determination, progress, and renewed hope. His administration’s clear vision and tangible actions offer a roadmap for reversing decades of neglect and setting Liberia on a path to sustainable development. The address reflects a leader deeply committed to restoring the dignity and prosperity of Liberia, assuring citizens that a brighter, more inclusive future is within reach. With the ARREST Agenda at its core, Liberia can confidently look forward to achieving the transformative change it has sought for nearly two centuries.