Liberia Secures $125m Boost for Energy, Digital Connectivity

Liberia has signed a series of major financing agreements with the World Bank to accelerate development across energy, digital connectivity, and transport infrastructure, in a move aimed at supporting long-term economic transformation and regional integration.

The signing ceremony was held at the Mount Coffee Hydropower Complex shortly after President Joseph Nyuma Boakai officially commissioned a newly completed 20-megawatt solar photovoltaic power plant, marking a significant milestone in the country’s clean energy expansion efforts.

Key Agreements Signed

The agreements cover three major development initiatives:

• Western Africa Regional Digital Integration Program (WARDIP 2)
• Regional Emergency Solar Power Intervention Project (RESPITE) Additional Financing
• Southeastern Corridor Road Asset Management Project (SECRAMP) Second Additional Financing

The documents were signed by Liberia’s Minister of Finance and Development Planning, Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan, alongside World Bank Country Manager Georgia Wallen, in the presence of President Boakai.

Expanding Digital Connectivity

Under WARDIP 2, Liberia will receive US$50 million to strengthen its digital ecosystem. The funding will support expanded broadband access, improved cybersecurity and digital governance frameworks, and the promotion of digital entrepreneurship and innovation.

It will also advance e-commerce and digital payment systems, while contributing to the development of a single digital market across West Africa.

Boosting Renewable Energy Capacity

An additional US$57 million has been allocated to the RESPITE project to expand renewable energy infrastructure. This includes increasing the Mount Coffee Solar Park capacity from 20MWp to 30MWp, deploying battery energy storage systems, and upgrading the national electricity network.

The investment is expected to improve energy reliability and support Liberia’s transition toward cleaner power sources.

Strengthening Regional Transport Links

The SECRAMP project will receive US$18 million in additional financing to complete ongoing works along the 100-kilometre Ganta–Tappita corridor. The road project is expected to enhance connectivity in southeastern Liberia, reduce transport costs, and improve access to markets, trade routes, and essential social services.

Government Commitment to Inclusive Growth

President Boakai welcomed the agreements and thanked the World Bank for its continued support, noting that the investments align with the government’s ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development.

He said the projects represent strategic investments that will strengthen infrastructure, expand access to clean energy, accelerate digital transformation, and promote inclusive economic growth.

The President reaffirmed government’s commitment to working closely with development partners to ensure effective implementation and delivery of benefits to all Liberians.

//Staff writer