President Joseph Nyuma Boakai on Tuesday chaired the National Steering Committee to officially endorse the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development (AAID) as the new Liberia National Development Plan signaling a new chapter in Liberia’s development journey.
Addressing a diverse gathering of government officials, development partners, private sector representatives, and civil society leaders, President Boakai outlined his Administration’s bold vision to tackle Liberia’s most pressing challenges through inclusive, transformative strategies.
In his remarks, President Boakai emphasized the importance of the AAID and the accompanying County Development Agendas (CDAs) as instruments to combat multidimensional poverty, improve livelihoods, and foster equitable progress across the nation.
“This is a defining moment for Liberia,” said President Boakai, adding, “The ARREST Agenda represents a comprehensive strategy to address food insecurity, inadequate access to essential services, governance issues, and economic stagnation.”
He further that, “Together, we will transform our nation into one that offers hope, prosperity, and equality for all.”
The ARREST Agenda prioritizes six critical development drivers: agribusiness—boosting food security and creating sustainable jobs; roads and infrastructure—enhancing connectivity and economic access; rule of law and governance—strengthening institutional trust and combating corruption; education and human capital development—empowering Liberians, especially the youth, with skills and knowledge; sanitation—ensuring access to clean water and improved public health; and tourism—leveraging Liberia’s natural beauty and cultural heritage to diversify the economy.
The President highlighted the role of collaboration in achieving the AAID’s ambitious goals, calling on all stakeholders—including the government, private sector, development partners, civil society, and Liberians in the diaspora—to actively participate in the agenda’s implementation.
“Liberia’s development is a collective responsibility. The success of the ARREST Agenda depends on how well we work together, use our limited resources effectively, and remain accountable to our citizens,” he stated.
President Boakai also underscored the importance of involving Liberia’s youth, describing them as critical drivers of innovation, entrepreneurship, and social progress.
“To our young people, you are the enablers of change. We are committed to equipping you with the tools to lead our country into a brighter future,” he assured.
The endorsement of the AAID and CDAs comes as Liberia prepares for the 2025 fiscal year and positions the agenda as a cornerstone of Vision 2030. President Boakai pledged that these plans would remain dynamic and responsive, adapting to the evolving needs of the Liberian people while staying aligned with the nation’s broader goals of prosperity, sustainability, and inclusivity.
The President closed with a call to action for unity and collective effort: “Let us dare to Think Liberia, Love Liberia, and Build Liberia,” the Liberian Chief Executive implored.