Rédaction Africa Links 24 with New Dawn
Published on 2024-03-05 10:38:31
The recent signing of two loan agreements between the Government of Liberia and the African Development Bank in Monrovia, totaling US$40 million, is a significant step towards enhancing road infrastructure and promoting inter-community trading within the Mano River Union Basin. This news has been met with great enthusiasm and commendation.
The lack of road connectivity among the member countries of the Mano River Union has long been a pressing issue, hindering both cross-border movement and trade. This has had detrimental effects on the citizens of the subregion, leading to increased poverty, suffering, and health challenges.
The loans provided under these agreements are earmarked for the upgrading of 48.5 kilometers of roads in Liberia and 39 kilometers of roads in Sierra Leone. Additionally, feasibility studies will be conducted for an additional 97 kilometers of roads in Liberia. These initiatives aim to improve infrastructure and facilitate economic growth within the region.
Liberia and Sierra Leone are founding members of the Mano River Union, a subregional bloc established by Guinea and Liberia, with Ivory Coast later joining as a member. These countries collaborate in various areas, including security, economic cooperation, and fostering good neighborly relations.
The Minister of Finance and Development Planning of Liberia, Boimah Kamara, hailed the agreements as a landmark effort to provide much-needed infrastructure support for Liberia. He emphasized the importance of creating an enabling environment for growth and development in the country.
The Country Manager of the African Development Bank, Benedict Kanu, highlighted the significance of the agreements in promoting regional integration and trade within the Mano River Union Basin. The timely implementation of these programs is crucial for the economic development of the region.
President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has demonstrated a strong commitment to improving road connectivity in Liberia. He has set ambitious goals for road infrastructure development, including a 100-day deliverable plan to ensure all major primary corridors in the country are accessible and functional.
The partnership between the Government of Liberia and the African Development Bank signifies a collective effort to enhance movement and trade within the Mano River Union Basin. This aligns with President Boakai’s vision of improving road infrastructure across the country to stimulate economic activities and promote accessibility.
Overall, the signing of these loan agreements is a promising step towards addressing the challenges of road connectivity and promoting economic growth in the region. The commitment of both the government and international partners bodes well for the future development of Liberia and its neighboring countries.
Read the original article on The Newdawn Liberia
