Liberia Secures US$125 Million World Bank Deal to Expand Solar Energy, Broadband Access, and Southeast Roads Under ARREST Agenda
BY: Margret Nyumah
HARRISBURG, Montserrado County — The Government of Liberia and the World Bank signed three financing agreements totaling US$125 million to expand renewable energy, strengthen digital connectivity, and improve road infrastructure across the country.
The agreements cover additional funding for the Regional Emergency Solar Power Intervention Project [RESPITE], the Western Africa Regional Digital Integration Program [WARDIP 2], and the Southeastern Corridor Road Asset Management Project [SECRAMP].
Speaking at the ceremony in Harrisburg, Minister of Finance and Development Planning Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan described the deal as a major milestone in Liberia’s development agenda.”
He thanked the World Bank for its continued support and commended Country Manager Georgia Wallen for her role in securing the financing.
Ngafuan said the investments align with the government’s ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development, noting that energy, digital access, and roads are critical to driving economic growth, creating jobs, and improving living standards.
Breakdown of Financing:
Energy – US$57 million | RESPITE Additional Financing
Funds will expand Liberia’s solar infrastructure, including increasing the national solar park from 20 megawatts to 30 megawatts, upgrading the Mount Coffee Hydropower Plant, and deploying battery storage systems to improve electricity reliability.
Digital – US$50 million | WARDIP 2
The allocation targets expansion of broadband access, cybersecurity strengthening, digital governance reforms, and support for innovation, entrepreneurship, e-commerce,
and digital payment systems.
Roads – US$18 million | SECRAMP Second Additional Financing
Additional financing will complete works along the Ganta–Tappita corridor in southeastern Liberia, aimed at reducing travel time, facilitating trade, and improving access to markets and essential services.
World Bank Reaffirms Commitment:
World Bank Country Manager Georgia Wallen reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to Liberia’s development priorities.
Officials said the three agreements underscore Liberia’s focus on infrastructure development, energy access, digital transformation, and inclusive economic growth.