Liberia’s Finance and Development Planning Minister, Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan, has given strong assurances that the government remains firmly on course to meet its fiscal targets, despite global and domestic economic headwinds.
Speaking during a one-day “Revenue Dive” session at the Ministry of Finance, Minister Ngafuan commended the Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA) for exceeding expectations in domestic revenue collection during one of the most turbulent financial periods in recent history.
“Last year was extremely challenging, but we managed to raise LRD 698 million in domestic revenue; slightly above our target. This is a historic achievement,” Ngafuan told participants.
A Historic Revenue Performance
According to the minister, the national budget stood at LRD 738 million, with projections of LRD 690 million from domestic sources and LRD 40 million from external financing. Despite the hurdles, the LRA surpassed the domestic revenue target, a feat Ngafuan described as a testament to the resilience and dedication of the authority’s workforce and partners.
“This success is commendable and demonstrates the determination of our revenue authority to deliver for the Liberian people,” he emphasized.
Aid Cuts Cast Shadows
However, Minister Ngafuan admitted that the current fiscal year has been severely impacted by aid reductions, particularly from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
“Out of 39 aid-supported projects, only five were retained. USAID is Liberia’s second-largest donor, and such a significant reduction presents a gloomy picture for our economic outlook,” he disclosed.
Despite this setback, the minister likened the situation to a turbulent flight.
“A good pilot never promises a smooth flight but ensures the plane lands safely. We asked our people to fasten their seatbelts, and even in that storm, we hit and went above our revenue target. That is worth celebrating.”
Accountability and Public Scrutiny
Ngafuan also responded to criticism against government financial technicians, stressing that scrutiny; whether fair or harsh, reflects the strength of Liberia’s democracy.
“Yes, we are criticized, sometimes unfairly, but we are not deterred. We remain focused on our duties as public servants, delivering results for the Liberian people,” he stated.
Raising the Bar for Service
The Finance Minister urged the LRA and all public financial managers to understand that success brings heightened expectations.
“The reward for doing well is the responsibility to do even more. That is why we are here to remind and empower you to keep pushing harder.”
He concluded by reminding his team that their work directly impacts the lives of over five million Liberians across all 15 counties.
“Let us take our responsibilities seriously. Sometimes the compensation does not match the burden of our duties, but we are here to serve. That is the true essence of public service,” Minister Ngafuan added.
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