Liberia: FrontPageAfrica Releases 2021 Evaluation of State Owned Enterprises and Integrity Institutions

PUBLIC PROCUREMENT CONCESSIONS COMMISSION

THE LOWDOWN: The Public Procurement and Concessions Commission (PPCC) was created by an Act of the National Legislature in September 2005 to oversee all public procurement and concessions processes in Liberia. It has the core objective to ensure the economic and efficient use of public funds through public procurement and to ensure that public procurement and concession processes are conducted in a fair, transparent and non-discriminatory manner to ensure value for the use of public funds.   

Liberia, like most countries require the procuring authority to issue public tenders if the value of the procurement exceeds a certain threshold.

Over the course of the year under review, the PPCC under the leadership of Attorney J. Roseline Nagbe Kowo, like most integrity institutions, was faced with numerous challenges in regulating tenders as procurement entities largely fail to follow procedures outlined in the Amended and Restated PPCC Act of 2010.

The current government, like its predecessor  faced the daunting task of dealing with officials violating public financial management law which all government ministries and agencies are required to abide by. The PFM Section 24. Contracts and Procurement states: “All purchases of goods and services from suppliers, including capital investments, shall comply with the provisions prescribed in the Public Procurement and Concessions Act of 200t, as amended, and its enabling regulations.”

Ironically, Liberia is still plagued by corruption, poor governance, and misuse of public resources mired in a system where procurement rules are often ignored.

As a result, government continue to encounter abuse of resources to the detriment of those languishing at the bottom of the economic ladder.

All this point  to poor performance for Liberia’s rank in Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index  Corruption Rank in Liberia remained unchanged at 137 in 2020 from 137 for the year and Liberia continues to perform poorly on three aspects of governance: control of corruption, government effectiveness, and rule of law, leading to loss of key funding like the Millennium Challenge Corporation program.

2021 HIGH: During the course of the year under review, the PPCC conducted Compliance Monitoring Visitations to Procuring and Concession granting entities. This activity in geared at ensuring public procurement entities are abiding by the governing procurement and concessions law. The PPCC under the leadership commenced this activity, annual monitoring visits to procuring entities and is expected to be done annually. The rationale is, when Head of entities and their practitioners are aware that their activities will be observed regularly, their motivation to do the right thing will be enhanced.

The PPCC also undertook Mobile Training for Procurement Practitioners and Procurement Committees-“Taking Training to your doorsteps”

There have been numerous activities directed an ensuring that public officials, heads of entities and procurement practitioners conduct procurement activities with adherence to procurement procedures. The PPCC recently commenced an innovative form of training for Procurement Committees and practitioners in procuring entities.  The PPCC takes the training at each procuring entity, meeting with the Procurement Committee and Head of entity, to discuss rudimentary procurement and concessions processes and the cardinal importance of ensuring compliance.

Additionally, the PPCC  unveiled a robust engagement with Private Sector, Civil Society and the Media to covey awareness and the importance of procurement laws compliance.

Strong Media and Civil Society Engagement by the PPCC, directed at creating awareness on the operations of the PPCC and the procurement laws, and contributory roles of the media and civil society, that would foster national compliance for national development.

The Private Sector also were trained on the bidding processes and other procedures that will create access and participation in bidding processes for transparency and accountability. The pursuit of these tenets will eventually lead to reduction in waste and abuse of limited public resources and ultimately ensure that the Government of Liberia, public officers and private sector players are in adherence to the objections of the Public Procurement & Concessions Act of Liberia. Engagements of such, were held in Monrovia and Margibi Counties.

Regarding the enforcement of the law, the PPCC pressed for full Disclosure of Contract Awards by Procuring and Concession Granting Entities.

Enforcing full disclosure and submission of final signed documents, for subsequent upload on the PPCC’s website for the consumption of the public as well as relevant stakeholders, is important for transparency and accountability. The PPCC has instituted a mandatory requirement of accountability for all procuring entities submit contracts awards reports of past a Fiscal Year on their procurement activities prior before any approval of all activities planned for an upcoming. This obligation, previously overlooked by most procuring entities, is now being obeyed by past non-compliant entities and such proof is manifested on the contracts’ awards information on the PPCC’s website. The same will continue for the new calendar year 2022. All uploads are currently visible on the Commission’s website: www.ppcc.lr for the public consumption.

The Commission is currently conducting initial activities for the rollout of eProcurement in Liberia with financial assistance from the World Bank and African Development Bank and support from the GOL.  E-Procurement, in this context, is the migration of manual procurement and concessions processes to digital process, which when established will bring more openness, efficiency and accountability to public procurement in Liberia, thus, engendering improved public perception towards public procurement activities. A Comprehensive E-procurement Training was done in Dubai, UAE as preparations for E-procurement implementation.

The PPCC is carrying on robust scrutiny and leaves no stone unturned when reviewing executed procurement procedures and recommended contract awards sent by procuring entities. The hall mark of the review is abidance by the pre-determined criteria set by entities, authentication of bidding procedures, etc. Procuring Entities that go contrary to their own pre-determined criteria and the procurement procedures are duly cautioned. This is presently a strong trait of the PPCC, as a way to ensure national compliance for national development

The Commission, during the year under review also Increased Equality and Access in Public Procurement by ensuring that parity and quality relating to participation of women owned business in public procurement processes. There is a gender responsive survey is ongoing in the various counties, including Montserrado, Bomi, Lofa, Grand Bassa, Nimba, Zwedru to gather information and data. Subsequently the engagements with stakeholders. The PPCC is also collaborating with the UN Women on this activity.

Preliminary preparations are ongoing to commence the review of the Public Procurement Concession act 2010. This is progressive approach to strengthen the procurement and concessions laws that will overall improve compliance. The consideration of the existing challenges that are preventing compliance, and what strengthened procedure can be inculcated to meet up to the objectives of Transparency, Accountability and foremost Value for Money Principles. The kick-off to the Amendment process will commence the holding of Public Procurement and Concessions Annual Forum, December 1-3, 2021.

The Commission is in the process of establishing a Public Procurement Practitioner Database, a database for individuals in the public procurement profession in Liberia. This is intended to assess the impact of the diverse public procurement trainings, create avenue for knowledge sharing amongst public procurement practitioners and improve professionalization of public procurement in Liberia.

Due diligence visitations on PPCC vendors register was a major component of the commission’s work during the year.  Other activities undertaken include the recent visitations and survey of the Liberia Market (mainly Monrovia and its environs by the PPCC; this is intended to update the Commission Online Vendor Registrar: www.ppcc.gov.lr/vr a portal that host information on registered businesses operating in Liberia, eligible to do business with Government entities and those eligible to benefit from the Small Business Empowerment Act

2021 LOW: Despite the inroads being made, the commission has a lot of challenges including funding and Logistical Support to wholesomely implement compliance monitoring mandates, additional Staff to implement work responsibilities and the slow-paced compliance posture of some procuring entities.

GRADE: A

2022 OUTLOOK: Ignoring the Public Finance Management Law should not enter the new year. Will donors take note and increase funding for the procurement commission?

LIBERIA PETROLEUM REFINERY CORPORATION

THE LOWDOWN: The Liberia Petroleum Refining Company (LPRC) is a State-owned entity, wholly owned by the Government of Liberia (GOL), with the mandate to procure and supply quality petroleum and petroleum related products to the Liberian market. The LPRC is certainly a business entity engaged in profit making activities. It has every power which a corporation now or hereafter organized under the Liberian Business Corporation Act may have.

The state-owned enterprise  endured a somewhat rugged year under review as commuters and motorists experienced firsthand the devastating consequences of a somewhat flawed system the from time and time again exposed the weaknesses that often lead to shortage of petroleum products on the market.

In February, during one of those shortages, the United States Department of State Bureau of Consular Affairs issued a security alert, warning travelers of possible congestion and delays due to a scarcity of commercially-available gasoline in the country of 4.8 million people.

At the time of the shortage the LPRC was accused of underestimating the amount of its supplies by millions of gallons. The issue was also complicated by the fact that the port of Monrovia had not been dredged since 2017, resulting to an accumulation of silt and detritus which caused the water to be very shallow, rendering large fuel tankers unable to dock. The crisis prompted gas stations to ration their reserves as motorists queued up for days due to the shortage.

Shortages such as what was experienced in January often lead to increase in cost of transportation and basic commodities on the market.

As a part of an extremely challenging economic environment in the global petroleum market, where competition keep us on our toes, we’re proud to share these remarkable and transformation achievements. As a company, we’re currently witnessing a considerable transformation which is aimed at optimizing and improving the system and service render to our customers.

2021 HIGHS: Under the leadership of Managing Director Madam Marie Urey Coleman, the LPRC successfully completed Phase 1 of the Rehabilitation and Expansion Project aims at setting up a high-profile storage facility for the Liberian market current and future demand.

Additionally, the petroleum entity increased storage capacity at the Product Storage Terminal (PST) from 61,431 metric tons or (16,217,784.00 US gallons) to 70,644 metric tons or (18,650,016.00 US gallons). This includes six (6) storage tanks of various products. Note at the end of Phase, we will further increase the capacity to 91,422 metric tons.

Prior to Phase 1 rehabilitation of the PST, LPRC undesirable operated a 100%, manual system of loading petroleum product into the petroleum truck at the gantry – with only four (4) loading pumps, with two allocated each for AGO and PMS. It took approximately 30-35 minutes to manually load a 5,000 gallons US tanker truck.

As a result of the new Semi-Automated Operational System, we now have nine loading pumps. with four allocated each for PMS and AGO, and one for JET-Fuel. Furthermore, instead of 30 to 35 minutes to load a 5,000 US tanker truck, it will now take only 10 minutes. The new central control room with 6 monitors inter-connected to the new loading gantry, has the capability to produce accurate information on the amount of product being loaded, the gauges of each tank, the discharge rate.

During the year under review, the entity installed the first ever Weighbridge. The primary purpose of the weighbridge is to identify the weight of all tanker trucks scheduled for loading and simultaneously, the weight of their product. Prior to loading, the tanker truck will be weight. Immediately afterwards, the information and capacity of the truck will be captured on the monitor station in the booth and transmitted to the control room.

After the lifting of the product at the new semi-automatic loading gantry, the trucks will again be weight and the information transmitted to the Control Room. By weighing the tanker truck both empty and when loaded, the product carried by the truck can be calculated. In other words, This will ensure the accuracy of product in the tanker truck intended to be transport to the scheduled destination.

The company also undertook the reinforcement of the Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) Standards. In the unfortunately event of a fire outbreak, the  LPRC currently have a new firefighting hydrant control system and water tanks in the tank farm, capable of effectively combating any fire. The system also has the ability to accurately detect the existence of fire within the tank farm. As part of the transformational process, there are nine centrifugal pumps station at our new product pumps house. There is also an oil water separator in the tank farm, with the capability to separate the products from pure water in the unlikely events of spillage, either from the tanks or pipelines.

2021 LOWS: In May, the grounds of the company was the scene of gangsterism when two senior members of the LPRC Management staff got into a fistfight resulting in a severe injury which left at least one employee tooth broken.

According to eyewitnesses, the commotion ensued between former Liberian comedian, now Manager of Operation, Ismael T. Sheriff AKA Tamba Mayonnaise, and Assistant Director for Security Syvaniuos Blamoh, over supremacy to allow petroleum tankers loaded with petroleum products to leave the LPRC premises after regular working hours.

Video footage captured by eyewitnesses showed a heavily charged environment with bitter exchanges and the display of a firearm by Assistant Security Director, Blamoh.

An employee identified only as Rufus in the video footage received a disproportionate blow in the mouth leaving him with a broken tooth after he sought to intervene in bringing the situation under control. Another staff was heard in the video threatening to forward the Video to LPRC Managing Director Mrs. Marie Urey Coleman, for acts of disservice to the noble institution which encourages professionalism.

GRADE: B –

2022 OUTLOOK: Will the coming year be free of petroleum shortage on the market?

LIBERIA PETROLEUM REGULATORY AUTHORITY

THE LOWDOWN: The LPRA was established through an Act of the Legislature, following an aggressive reform program within the petroleum sector, as an independent regulatory entity of government. The Authority is principally authorized to conduct a technical evaluation of the areas to be opened up for petroleum operations, supervise and manage bid rounds and all other associated processes, enter into petroleum agreements and monitor petroleum operations, supervise petroleum data storage, and assist the Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA) in collecting lawful revenue accruing to the state under all petroleum-related agreements or licenses. 

Director-General Archie N. Donmo, during the course of the year under review pledged to work toward ensuring Liberia is part of the Transformed Atlantic Margin where the Cretaceous plays have been the subject of previous exploration and discoveries. Initial results from exploration programs offshore Liberia reveal the existence of two active petroleum systems- The Upper Cretaceous and Lower Cretaceous. This geological position makes the country suitable for doing business with a high probability of discovery.

Liberia, still recovering from the aftermath of the deadly Ebola crisis and the ongoing Covid 19 pandemic has been trying to get back in the game and looking to recommence active programs within the Liberia basin.

Over the course of the year under review the LPRA continued to reach out to partners in hopes of   developing the sector which from all indication, is beneficial to the government and people of Liberia, investors, and the entire sub-region.

2021 HIGH:  During the course of the year under review, the LPRA, in collaboration with the National Oil Company of Liberia (NOCAL) offered 33 offshore blocks for direct negotiations. They included: Blocks LB-1 to LB-33 cover the offshore Harper and Liberia basins.

LPRA was forced to face the reality that the Covid pandemic had taken its toll as the bid rounds struggled to yielded positive responses. This led the government to indefinitely suspend the 2020 round and the switch to direct negotiations.

Even after the bid rounds were extended, LPRA struggled to get anyone interested.

The extension was aimed at allowing interested parties the opportunity to absorb the shock of the virus and low prices while reanalyzing their investment portfolio.

During the year under review, the LPRA also announced new changes to the commercial terms as a mean of incentivizing investment in Liberia. These changes include the adjustment of requirements for signature bonus from a minimum of 8 million United States Dollars payable in one tranche to a more flexible option. Under this new adjustment, there will be no minimum requirement thereby allowing companies to submit bids describing their proposal for signature bonus. The. Move was aimed at allowing the industry to determine the signature value for each block based on submissions. In addition to designating the signature bonus as a biddable item,

Following a vigorous evaluation of Liberian companies who applied to be pre-qualified for the country’s ongoing Offshore License Round for the Harper Basin, The LPRA pre-qualified Seven (7) Liberian Companies. Nine (9) companies expressed interest to be pre-qualified but the evaluation panel denied two companies for lack of legal and financial competence.

According to the LPRA, the pre-qualification of Liberian companies is in line with the New Petroleum Law of Liberia which sets aside a mandatory minimum 5% equity interest in all petroleum agreements to companies owned by natural persons of Liberian citizenship. The list of Liberian companies that has been pre-qualified by the LPRA will be submitted to qualified international bidders for possible partnership in fulfillment of the amended petroleum law. Nine oil offshore blocks which have been unexplored and undrilled in the Harper Basin are being offered for biding. The Bid Round runs from April 2020-February 2021.

2021 LOW: While seismic data analysis showed that Liberia stands the possibility of discovering billions of barrels of oil in its Harper Basin, the basin contained nine offshore undrilled oil blocks that still remained untapped.

Ironically, the increasing demand to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and achieve the goals of the Paris Agreement and the global commitment to reaching these goals made the oil and gas industry unattractive as many investors are now shifting their investments towards clean renewable energy. The impact of the current COVID pandemic and the huge decline in the price of crude oil has only exacerbated an already damming situation.

According to global energy experts, particularly the International Energy Agency (IEA), what this means is that in the next 10 to 30 years, most of the crude oil beneath the earth would have to remain untapped.. In order to achieve net zero emissions by 2050, the IEA suggests that there should be ZERO investment in new oil and gas project.

Additionally, the oil and gas industry, from extraction to transportation to refining, is no longer the hugely profitable and financially stable enterprise it has always been. Over the past decade, the industry’s returns on investments have sagged, revenues and cash flows have withered, bankruptcies have abounded, stock prices have fallen, massive capital investments have been written off as worthless and fossil fuel investors have lost hundreds of billions of dollars.

GRADE: C+

2022 OUTLOOK: How far away is Liberia from commercial drill? Is there light at the end of the tunnel for the rapidly shrinking sector?

NATIONAL OIL COMPANY OF LIBERIA (NOCAL)

THE LOWDOWN: NOCAL has a simple mandate under the New Petroleum Law of 2014: To delineate, establish, and issue licenses for particular areas, fields, and blocks in order to effectively undertake and/or facilitate the exploration and establishment of the country’s liquid and gaseous hydrocarbons deposits, both on land and in our sovereign waters. Over the years,  NOCAL has embarked upon a vigorous seismic data promotion and marketing campaign to encourage new exploration for our customers and to play a very important role in achieving Liberia’s Pro-poor Agenda for Prosperity and Development by managing Liberia’s petroleum potential in a responsible, transparent, and ethical manner.

During the course of the year under review, CEO Saifual Mai Gray emphasized the entity’s clear mission to develop Liberia’s hydrocarbon potential for national self-sufficiency and sustainable development.

For seventy years, Liberia has been trying to drill for oil but repeatedly coming up short with the lucrative commercial quantity it desires to take it over the top.

To date, 17 wells have been drilled mainly from the mid- 1970s to late 1980s and again from 2011 to 2016. Exploration in the Liberia happened in two distinct eras. The first was the legacy era that consisted of two stages; the speculative stage and the Shelf-focused exploration stage. The second era considered the “Modern Era” focused largely on deep-water exploration, reform, and consolidation of the industry in Liberia. All of the exploration activities have occurred exclusively in the Liberia Basin offshore sector. Between the periods in which exploratory activities occurred, there was also a period of non-exploration activity known as the Great Hiatus. However, the Harper Basin and the Onshore Roberts/Bassa Basin have never been explored.

Prior to the ushering of the George Weah-led government the Liberian economy had undergone many economic challenges. President Weah, upon assuming command of the state acknowledged  that shocks from the deadly Ebola crisis, the dwindling prices of exports such as Iron Ore and Rubber, and the reduction in foreign investments to the country amounted to loss of critical government revenues.

According to President Weah, the social imperatives upon which his government is built; the promise of economic security for all Liberians, the construction of roads and civil infrastructure, the funding of free and quality primary and tertiary education, providing quality health care, offering electricity for all, and fighting corruption, are promises that must be brought to fruition.

It is in this light that the administration sought to  pursue the goals under the framework of The Pro-Poor Agenda for Prosperity and Development (PAPD) which offers Liberians opportunities for prosperity, unity and peace. This is where President Weah believes the Oil and Gas sector through NOCAL can come in handy, and translate to the fulfillment of the ultimate long-term desire of investors for contract sanctity, contract security, and an unhindered return-on-investment.

For President Weah, the oil & gas sector offers many opportunities for investors and partners.

Unfortunately, the COVID pandemic has not been friendly to a government in dire need of economic joit.

2021 HIGH: During the course of the year under review, the National Oil Company of Liberia (NOCAL) carried out a number of activities. Despite the nagging effects of the Covid-19 Pandemic on the global economy, NOCAL managed to make some strides toward developing the workings of the oil and gas sector and improving the livelihood of the Liberian people.

During that period, the oil and gas sector in Liberia was in the midst of conducting the 2020 Harper Basin License Round. During the period of the round, NOCAL worked closely with the Liberia Petroleum Regulatory Authority (LPRA) to provide technical support for the process.

The round was opened on April 10, 2020 and was intended to run up to February 28, 2021, where nine blocks were offered in the Harper Basin. Due to the ongoing impact of the pandemic which affected most of the workings of the industry, the round was extended to close on May 31st 2021. NOCAL enhanced the promotion of the License Round by working with Africa Energy Partners (AEP) to get International Oil Companies (IOCs) have more interest in the process.

In spite of the devastating effect of the Covid-19 on the industry and the negative outcome of the 2020 Harper Basin License Round, NOCAL again provided full support to the LPRA as the decision was reached for the Liberia to transition to Direct Negotiations as a means to get companies to come into our basins. Presently, thanks to NOCAL, all needed data (seismic and well) are available and the stage is set for companies to come into any of our thirty-three (33) offshore blocks for exploration.

Secondly, in May 2021, NOCAL finally launched the newly renovated and expended intensive care and trauma units of the JFK Memorial Hospital. This renovation was done through a partnership with NOCAL’s long-time partner and data-broker, TGS. The President described the upgrading of the ICU and trauma facilities as a huge boost to the country’s fragile health sector.

Also, NOCAL was able to secure an allocation of crude oil from the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) in a Government-to-Government bilateral arrangement. This will go a long way to help boost the economy of the country.

Furthermore, NOCAL has signed a Cooperation Agreement with the Government of Morocco through its Ministry of Energy, Mines and Environment in June 2021. This agreement is geared towards improving workings of upstream petroleum sector and sharing information in the area of hydrocarbon exploration.

2021 LOW: Liberia was once poised to be on par with Ghana and other regional countries showing promise for oil exploration. With signs and question marks over the profitability of the sector and the stark reality of the world’s transition to clean sustainable energy, where does that leave Liberia?

Besides the deadly Covid Pandemic, companies lured toward looking at Liberia were forced to rethink. Some supermajors, including BP and Shell, announced major cuts to their exploration program in the frontier region. This fast-growing call for the energy transition hindered oil companies from competing with each other in frontier regions. The onus then shifted to LPRA and the Government to devise new ways in attracting international investment in the sector.

This caused the government to explore direct negotiations. Up to 33 blocks within the offshore Liberia acreage, including the Harper and Liberia Offshore Basins, for Direct Negotiations. However, there is yet to be an expressed interest since the direct negotiation process was opened on June 1, 2021.

GRADE: B

2022 OUTLOOK: All eyes are on NOCAL and the LPRA to see if they can once again generate interest in Liberia’s oil and gas sector.

NATIONAL HOUSING AUTHORITY

THE LOWDOWN: The government agency created by an Act of Legislature in 1960 intended to provide low-income and affordably housing for those languishing at the bottom of the economic ladder is one of the poorly-funded government institutions.

Managing Director Celia Cuffy- Brown, has been advocating that the entity needs more support to carry out its plan for the development of modern cities.

The Weah administration, through the implementation of the Pro-Poor Agenda for Prosperity and Development (PAPD) places Housing amongst its main priorities and facilitates a systematic shift from conventional housing solutions for the affluent, middle income and low-income earners.

Under Cuffy-Brown’s watch, the NHA has been able to commence the construction of 5,000 housing units along the Monrovia-Roberts field highway. A total of 61,000 units is to be delivered within a five-year period, terming it as a milestone that is the highest since the establishment of the NHA.

The NHA boss has however realized that the housing is growing at an alarming rate, but to date, the NHA has managed to construct 2,180 housing units across the country.

The National Housing Authority was established by an Act of the National Legislature on April 7, 1960 with the mandate to initiate plans and implement housing development programs nationwide.

2021 HIGH: With very little money from the national government, the NHA is barely getting by.

Despite the challenges, MD Cuffy Brown managed to team up with investors to jumpstart portion of 5000 middle-class housing estates which are are being built opposite Schefflin, Jungle Farm, off RIA Highway. The homes also include a modern mall being built opposite Schefflin.

The NHA brought on Tilgent Capital Trust to the table and they have teamed up with the Liberian Bank for Development and Investment (LBDI)I Bank to provide mortgage loans through salary deduction for those who cannot afford to make cash or down payment.  

Tilgent Africa, a subsidiary has signed a housing contract with NHA to start construction of a Mini City. Other investors have also signed up with NHA to build houses within the 15 counties.

According to Cuffy-Brown, Investors from Burkina Faso also started a housing estate in front of the Schefflin Barracks also but left due to Covid and are now back to complete. “It took us two years to source money from the government to resume the VOA Project for West Point displaced people – and that project has resumed.

With only $40,000 in the budget for operations from the national government, the NHA is forced to turn to investors to make things happen. “My determination is to team up with investors for Profit Sharing while bulk of the benefit goes to Liberians to meet their housing needs,” Cuffy Brown says.  “Jobs are created through massive constructions, Mortgages goes to our banks, buying houses is made easier for citizens, taxes go to government, utilities such as water and light also goes to government’s public corporation.”

For the NHA boss, building mini cities cut now land litigation and bring in uniformity and increase value to homes.

2021 LOW: During the course of the year under review, the NHA came under fire over the suspension of some 118 permanent employment contracts for time indefinite without salary, on grounds that the entity was faced with financial constraints and consequently unable to maintain the workers for now.

The NHA, through its Managing Director Cuffy Brown appeared to be defiant over the reinstatement, stating that the employees who claimed that their contracts were illegally suspended, and the payment of their 11-months salary arrears owed by the entity, in keeping with a mandate from the Ministry of Labour.

On April 13, 2021, the aggrieved employees, through the Weah and Associate Law Offices filed a formal complaint against the NHA to the Ministry of Labour seeking its intervention.

In their complaint filed, the aggrieved workers claimed that the NHA illegally suspended their employment, depriving them of their just monthly salaries.

The dismissed staffers termed the management’s alleged action not to pay their over 11-months each salary arrears as “gross abuse of power and bad labour practice”.

They pointed out that the alleged decision taken by the authorities of the NHA has left them and their respective families “destitute as every effort by them to return to work, as well as to receive their salary arrears has proven futile and their plights continue to be ignored by the management”.

During the year under review, FrontPage Africa managed to obtain a copy of the investigative report from the Ministry of Labour on the claims raised by the aggrieved NHA workers.

The report was signed by the Assistant Minister for Trade Union Affairs and Social Dialogue, Hon. Gonsan-Zeo Mensah and Deputy Labour Minister for Man Power and Planning, Hon. Hannah M. Karbo.

In her defense, the NHA boss, Cuffy Brown said the information being circulated in the media by the FPA is misleading, and has no iota of truth, but rather intended to damage the hard-earned reputation of individuals who are performing their respective duties well in government.

She said when people make bad managerial decision it doesn’t only affect entity but affect the government and those who are aggrieved, recounting that when she got appointed as Managing Director of the National Housing Authority (NHA), the first thing she did was to peruse employees’ payroll and financial records, stressing that she met in the coffers of the entity US$341.00.00 with LD11,600.00, and US$50,000.00 in escrow account, this she noted was the only money left in the account of the NHA.

GRADE: C+

2022 OUTLOOK: Will the housing agency see more funding in the national budget to bolster its operations in the coming year?

NATIONAL INVESTMENT COMMISSION

THE LOWDOWN: The NIC  is the Government of Liberia agency responsible for investment promotion, generation, and facilitation. It was established by the Legislature on September 6, 1979, and amended in 2010, with the mandate to promote Liberia’s investment opportunities; attract and support the growth of value-added foreign direct investments (FDIs), and advocate for and strengthen the domestic private sector.

The NIC under the leadership of Molewuleh B. Gray, chaired the Inter-Ministerial Concession Committee (IMCC) which receives reports of Technical Committees on Tender Evaluations and negotiates concession contracts which are subject to the approval of the cabinet. NIC also chairs the Board of Commissioners’ meeting which approves investment incentive contracts above the US$10 million.

According to the World Bank Doing Business Report, Liberia ranks 184th out of 190 economies in trading across borders, 184th in dealing with construction permits, and 180th in registering property.  Corruption is endemic in Liberia. The 2019 Transparency International Corruption Perceptions Index ranks Liberia at 137th out of 180, down from 120th in 2018. More promisingly, the Doing Business Report ranked Liberia as 75th in starting a business and 76th in paying taxes.

In 2018, the Government of Liberia formed a Business Climate Working Group (BCWG) in 2018 to improve the investment climate.  The BCWG held several fora, including one in May 2019 entitled “Resolving Constraints to Trading Across Borders.” With the implementation of an IMF-supported program to improve fiscal and monetary policies, Liberia may soon experience a more favorable environment for private investment.  The business climate could also improve with increased collaboration between business chambers, industry associations and the Liberian government, as well as through continued and persistent efforts of international donors.

Following frequently lengthy negotiations with the government, investors developing long term concessions for agricultural or extractive businesses report facing resistance from local communities, which claim the government has not consulted with them about land use.  Further, communities and employees expect concessionaires and other private investors to provide significant support including education, healthcare, and housing.

2021 HIGH: During the course of the year under review, the NIC as the premier investment promotion agency of the Government of Liberia continues to promote investment in all sectors of the economy, especially, in those sectors that are not prohibited by law. The period in retrospect, January–November 2021, witnessed a shift in the approach of the Commission’s investor targeting initiative which was challenged by the COVID-19 global outbreak. The investment landscape was adversely impacted as some international investors looking to do business in Liberia had to delay investment decisions in favor of the country. The second wave of the pandemic severely disrupted the investment promotion drive of the Commission.

Accordingly, the Commission responded by reducing the number of staff at work, promoting social distancing, regularly sanitizing the work environment and encouraging testing among employees. These measures helped to secure a safe and productive work environment during the peak of the second wave. The Commission remained actively engaged with potential investors and domestic businesses leveraging various online platforms. Also, information adequate to navigate the investment corridor was disseminated to potential investors in a timely manner. Large projects with concession procurement considerations as well as the award and monitoring of special investment incentives were amongst critical activities spearheaded by the Commission.

These efforts exerted have not been without tangible results despite serious global economic constraints. To date, the combined total of the investment size of the five (5) concession agreements signed is One billion three hundred million United states dollars (1,300,000,000) and a total of Two thousand six hundred fifty (2,650) estimated direct and One thousand (1000) indirect jobs created.  Besides, the NIC processed thirteen (13) special investment incentive applications with a total proposed investment size of forty eight million one hundred-eighty thousand, five hundred thirty one (48,180,531.00) United States dollars and a total proposed employment of one thousand, eight hundred twenty three (1,823) comprising one thousand seven hundred twenty five (1,725) Liberians and ninety eight expatriates in consonance with Section 16 of the Liberia Tax Amendment Act of 2021. Out of the thirteen (13) recommended to the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning, nine (9) companies have been certificated while four (4) companies are pending certification.

Consequently, modalities to consummate business propositions or secure business deals are being worked out in collaboration with relevant public institutions. The Inter-Ministerial Concessions Committee (IMCC) is chaired by the NIC. The Commission led the IMCC in negotiating concessions agreements and resolving several critical issues affecting the business environment. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, the NIC is exploring alternative avenues to ensure better investor care, more targeted information dissemination, better investment promotional strategy and materials, and strategic digital marketing campaign to attract potential investors in Liberia. Additionally, investment interests in Liberia across all sectors of the economy are expected to increase given the invention and distribution of COVID-19 vaccines globally.

According to the NIC, the day-to-day operations of the Commission are well on course despite prolonged disruption caused by the global pandemic.

The Commission was able to maintain an active but reduced workforce in compliance with health regulations. Collectively, the institution made significant strides as indicated below: The Commission executed the 2020/21 fiscal year budget in line with the Public Financial Management Act, as well as commenced the faithful execution of the 6-month Special Budget 2021; The Commission submitted quarterly financial reports and an annual financial report for FY2020/21 to the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning; Two employees (male and female returned to work after completing their studies in China- Master in Tourism Management and the other Master in International Business (MIB).

In the past year, the Commission increased the volume and quality of new domestic and foreign investments in Liberia through research and contacts with existing investors, identified investment opportunities and worked with investors (national & international) and local businesses to take advantage of opportunities.

In this light, Commissioner-General is leading Liberia’s participation at the EXPO 2020 Dubai where investment opportunities are showcased on the world’s stage.

The NIC also developed a new website with support from the African Development Bank (AfDB) and released the Investor’s Guide: the 5th edition of Invest Liberia, the official investor’s guide for Liberia, was published and circulated locally and globally.

On September 28, 2021 the NIC became a Member of (WAIPA) the World Association of Investment Promotion Agencies (WAIPA). WAIPA offers unlimited investment opportunities to its member and provides networking as well.

The commission also participated in the UK-Liberia Forum, a transition & countdown to COP26 where the NIC featured some of the investment opportunities on solar, sustainable biomass, marine resources, energy efficiency and infrastructure. This was made possible through coordination with our foreign mission in the United Kingdom.

On June 30, 2021 a USA-Liberia Forum was organized by the Liberian Embassy near Washington DC in collaboration with the NIC. The National Investment Commission presented investment opportunities to potential investors virtually.

On the negotiation of concessions, the NIC Act of 2010 provides that the Commission functions as an “investment promotion agency”. Accordingly, the Public Procurement and Concessions Act of 2005 empowers the Commission to “chair and lead all concession negotiations.” In consonance with this mandate, the NIC led the Inter-Ministerial Concessions Committee (IMCC) in concluding five (5) concession agreements.  The total investment value of these agreements is US$1,300,000,000.00 (One Billion, Three Hundred Million United States Dollars) and job creation amounts to an estimated total of 3,650.

The five (5) concession agreements include Arcelor Mittal Liberia, Modern Mills, Bao Chico, Electronic Fiscal Device System/TRACOM, and Ducor Intercontinental Hotel.

Arcelor Mittal Liberia (AML): AML is a United Kingdom-based company operating in Liberia in Grand Bassa, Nimba and Bong counties with a 25-year tenure. Under the recently signed amendment, AML will invest an additional US$800,000,000 (Eight Hundred Million United States Dollars). The company’s mineral development agreement with the Government of Liberia, which was signed on September 10, 2021, is pending ratification. The amendment allows Arcelor Mittal Liberia to significantly ramp up production of premium iron ore, expand the existing rail and port facilities and generate over 1000 new jobs. The Company will invest approximately $0.8 billion in the new expansion program. The expansion project includes the construction of a new concentration plant and the substantial expansion of mining operations, with the first concentrate expected in late 2023, ramping up to 15 million tonnes per annum (‘mtpa’). AML’s phase 2 project will create additional 2000 indirect jobs and 1000 direct jobs.

Modern Mills (MM): MM is a domestic business enterprise operating in Montserrado County for the manufacturing and processing of flour. The company’s current investment size is US$40.5 million. The group has a signed agreement with the Government of Liberia.

Bao Chico (BC): Bao Chico Resources Liberia Ltd (Bao Chico) is a wholly owned subsidiary of Bao Chico Resources Ltd based in Hong Kong. The Company has been exploring for Iron-ore in Gbarpolu County since 2005. Following the conclusion of a Pre-Feasibility Study, the Company engaged the Government for a Mineral Development Agreement. On August 9., 2021, the company signed a mineral development agreement with the Government of Liberia for 25 years’ tenure and an investment value of US$500,000,000.00(Five Hundred Million United States Dollars). 300 direct jobs to be created.

TRACOM/Electronic Fiscal Device System (EFDS): Tracom is a Kenyan company which has a 7-year agreement with the Government of Liberia to enhance trade and revenue collection through the introduction of an electronic fiscal device system. The group has an investment size of Twelve million seven hundred thousand United states dollars ($12.700,000).

Ducor Intercontinental Hotel: Ducor Intercontinental Hotel has been leased by the Government of Liberia to a Libyan company for Sixty (60) years. The Government stands to receive One hundred fifty thousand United states dollars ($150,000.00) annually for the duration of the lease agreement. The old structure will be demolished and a new one erected under said lease agreement. 150 direct jobs to be created.

Additionally, the NIC processed thirteen (13) special investment incentive applications with a total proposed investment size of Forty-Eight million one hundred-eighty thousand, five hundred thirty-one United States dollars ($48,180,531.00) and a total proposed employment of one thousand, eight hundred twenty-three (1,823) comprising one thousand seven hundred twenty-five (1,725) Liberians and ninety-eight expatriates in consonance with Section 16 of the Liberia Tax Amendment Act of 2021. Out of the thirteen (13) recommended to the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning, nine (9) companies have been certificated while four (4) companies are pending certification. The details are as follows: below:

Consolidated Group, Inc.: a Liberian telecommunications technology enterprise (DSTV) with an investment size of $6,221,523.00 and total potential job creation of 134 persons.

Mayouba and Sons, Inc. Br#11: a Liberian manufacturing company (nails and roofing sheets) with an investment size of US$2,327,034.00 and total potential job creation of 75 persons.

Fouani Brothers Corporation:  a foreign manufacturing (biscuits) company with an investment size of US$2,719,917.00 and potential job creation of 46.

Fouani Brothers Corporation:  a foreign manufacturing (cartons) company with an investment size of US$1,338,706.00 and total potential job creation of 75.

Fouani Brothers Corporation: a foreign manufacturing (salt) company with an investment size of $3,421,585.00 and total potential job creation of 30 staff.

Liberian American Poultry: is a foreign-owned poultry (eggs/chickens) company with an investment size of $3,116,386.00 and employment of 75 staff.

Lotus Petro-Chem, LLC:  a foreign owned manufacturing (automotive products) enterprise with an investment size of $2,607,047.00 and potential job creation of 60.

Mamaka & Sons, Inc.:  a Liberian-owned manufacturing (sanitary materials) company with investment amounting to $4,203,753.00 and employment of 80 persons.

SOLE LLC:  a foreign-owned manufacturing (juices) company having an investment valued at $5,590,110.00 and employment opportunities up to 78 staff.

Special Agro-industrial Processing Zone Project

During the period under review the NIC in collaboration of relevant Government institutions succeeded in having African Development Bank (AfDB) Board approve a Fifteen Million United states dollars ($15,000,000) loan and grant for the implementation of a Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone (SAPZ) Buchanan, Grand Bassa County. It is the initial phase of the Special Economic Zone (SEZ) Project. The above amount comprises Two million four hundred thousand United states dollars ($2,400,000) as grant and the remaining Twelve million six hundred thousand United states dollars ($12,600,000) as loan which has to be ratified by the Legislature.

Technical and Legal Assistance

The Commission secured financial and technical support from a number of partners during the period in retrospect. These include the below.

Connex G7: The Government through the National Investment Commission (NIC) has written CONNEX for advisory support to aid in the negotiation process of key projects: Arcelor Mittal Liberia, TAWANA Resources, Nimba Rubber Incorporated, and Request for shared infrastructure. The advisory support on the Nimba project was approved by CONNEX and this support covers technical, legal, rail, port and mines.

GIZ: The NIC secured support from the Government of Germany through GIZ to sponsor a study on the creation of a Local Content Supplier Development Program for the mining sector. Findings from the study were validated by stakeholders virtually. The NIC with strong support from GIZ is leading the development of an online Procurement Supplier Portal that will link multinationals to domestic businesses.

Currently, the NIC is working on twenty-four (24) concessions related initiatives and two (2) projects all of which are ongoing and hold great promise in delivering sustainable economic transformation and improvement in the lives of Liberians.

Ongoing Concessions Related Initiatives include: Bea Mountain, which signed a 25-year mineral development agreement with the Government of Liberia in 2001. Said agreement was not ratified until 2013. Following 8 years into the restated agreement, the company requested a review of its 2013 concession agreement to provide for further fiscal, technical and legal changes to the agreement. The agreement was amended, restated and negotiated.

China Union: China Union is an existing mineral development agreement operator in Liberia which came into effect in 2010. Due to the decline in the price of iron ores worldwide the company became dormant like most mining companies.

Putu Iron Ore Mining (PIOM): The Government of Liberia signed a Tripartite Memorandum of Understanding with Severstal and Iron Ore Group that will ensure the transfer of the Putu Iron Ore Asset from Severstal to IOG, and the development of the Putu Mines.

Western Cluster Liberia (WCL): WCL has an existing mineral development agreement with the Government since 2011. However, due to infrastructural challenge, and reduced iron ore price, the company has been unable to commence mining operations. Recently, the group restated its request to the Government to amend its 2013 mineral development agreement irrespective of its financial obligations under the current agreement. The Government is reviewing the company’s request and at the same time determining their liabilities.

Sloway Mining: Sloway Mining is an exploration Company in Nimba County. Following the completion of exploration work, the group requested for a mineral development agreement. The Government needs technical, legal and financial support to properly negotiate such agreement with the company.

HPX: HPX has proposed to develop 60 metric tons per annum deep water port in Buchanan, Grand Bassa County. The Cabinet has endorsed the proposal for a sole source procurement process. The group has also submitted to the Government a proposal to upgrade the existing rail for the transshipment of its ores from the Republic of Guinea through Liberia. Additionally, HPX has submitted an MOU to conduct a baseline empirical study on the capacity of the existing rail.

Zali Mining: Zali Mining is a Guinea-based company approved by the Guinean Authority to use Liberia as a corridor to export Guinea-based iron ore. The Government of Liberia and the company are to sign a track access agreement following the review of AML mineral development agreement.

NERON:  is an Israel-based company, and one of the companies approved by the Guinea Authority to use Liberia as the corridor for the export of Guinea-based iron ores. The Government and the company are to sign a track access agreement following the review of AML mineral development agreement.

Sama Resources/SRG: Sama Resources/SRG is one of the companies approved by the Guinean Authority to use Liberia as the corridor to export Guinea-based iron ore. The Government and company are to sign a track access agreement.

Al Khaldiya Mining Limited: This is one of the companies approved by the Guinean Authority to use Liberia as the corridor to export Guinea-based iron ores. The Government and company are to sign a track access agreement.

Thelo DB/AFREXIM Bank: Thelo DB has submitted a pre-feasibility study for the expansion of the existing rail and construction of an integrated rail system. The pre-feasibility study was submitted for the IMCC’s approval. Accordingly, the IMCC is to commence the procurement process for sole source method. Thelo DB is doing a full analysis to address the financing of the project.

National Single Window (NSW): The NSW will improve interactions between and amongst public institutions; enhance the implementation of customs management system, etc. The IMCC completed the procurement process and selected Webb Fontaine as the most responsive bidder for the NSW project. The IMTC-Technical Team has completed the evaluation of the group’s financial model. The Team requested the group to set the Freight-on-Board (FOB) at 0.3% per applicable law. Accordingly, the Government has requested the company to conform.

Destination Inspection (DI) & Verification of Conformity (VOC): As per the World Trade Organization (WTO) requirement and WCO membership, Liberia is obliged to transition to a DI Regime to enhance its international trade. This agreement has been signed and the LRA and MedTech has begun implementation to ensure that inspection of imports is done at Liberia’s ports of entry.

Hotel Africa: A potential investor has expressed interest in developing a portion of the hotel facility. Liberia Land Authority (LLA) has provided a mini-budget to conduct a survey of the said area.

Lottery: His Excellency George Manneh Weah, President of the Republic of Liberia, constituted an IMCC for the procurement and award of the Lottery Gaming Service.

 Postal Financial Services: This project seeks investors for possible partnership in the provision of electronic money transfer (domestic and international) and other financial service products at the Ministry of Post and Telecommunication (MPT). The MPT has recommended that the project be sole sourced. MPT is to present the project to the Cabinet for endorsement as sole source. When endorsed, the Cabinet’s resolution will be submitted to the Public Procurement Concessions Commission (PPCC).

Cemenco: Cemenco submitted a request for a 15-year long-term incentive. The Inter-Ministerial Technical Committee (IMTC) commenced evaluation of Cemenco’s submission. The group requested Cemenco to submit audit reports for the two prior short-term investment incentives granted.

Liberia National Gold Refinery (LNGR): A 15-year investment incentive proposal for refining gold in Liberia was submitted by LNGR. The investment incentive agreement was signed and submitted to the investor for signature.

Sime Darby: Sime Darby Concession Agreement was signed in 2009 for 220,000 hectares of land at the old Guthrie Rubber Plantation for the cultivation of oil palm and tuber trees, and subsequent production of oil palm and rubber products for use in Liberia and/or export. The group transferred its concession agreement to Mano Industries Limited, a company based in Liberia. The Sale & Purchase Agreement has been signed for MANCO to manage the plantation. Mano has requested an amendment to the concession agreement seeking fiscal relief and change of name. The Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA) is reviewing Sime Darby’s liabilities, and has requested Mano to provide information on its Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) to the Government.

Nimba Rubber Incorporated (NRI): The National Investment Commission (NIC) contracted CROWE, an auditing firm, to audit NRI to established all of its liabilities to the Government of Liberia. The audit has been duly conducted.

LIBINCO: The Government of Liberia and the Liberian Operations Inc. (LIBINCO) entered in to a concession agreement in 1965 for the development of oil palm and other related agricultural products on a tract of land situated in Grand Bassa County. This year the company requested for fiscal relief/amendment to its existing concessions agreement in order to reduce losses from its operations. The NIC has requested the LRA to conduct preliminary audit of the company’s operations prior to its request for fiscal relief.

Liberia Agriculture Company (LAC): In 2012 the Government requested LAC to provide a business and development plan. LAC presented a 10-year development plan under which it plans to expand the amount of land used for rubber and palm oil production up to approximately 50,000 hectares of land. This requires an investment of One hundred thirty-three million ($133,000,000) over ten years. The Government requires technical, legal and financial support to review and amend the concession agreement. The IMCC through the LLA will conduct a Free Prior Informed Consent (FPIC) process for the acquisition of additional land for LAC.

The Commission is working on two (2) ongoing PSIP projects. They include the following to wit::

The National Investment Fund Policy: The first draft is completed pending review and inputs from other relevant MACs. Circulated to the Economic Management Team for inputs.

United Development Programme (UNDP) Phase II of the Private Sector Development Program: The Commission is working with the UNDP to determine its role in Phase II of this project.

2021 LOW: Despite recurringly trumpeting Liberia as open for business, lingering challenges continue to hurt the climate. The economy for example remains extremely underdeveloped, largely due to the First Liberian Civil War (1989–1996). … Liberia is richly endowed with water, mineral resources, forests, and a climate favorable to agriculture, but poor in human capital, infrastructure, and stability. Domestically, the service sector, particularly wholesale and retail trade, and the hospitality industry continue to struggle with Inflation persistently in decline.

During the course of the year under review, President Pro-Tempore of the Liberian Senate, Albert T. Chie challenged the NIC and its partners to continuously play a major role in the economic transformation of the Country by aggressively promoting investment opportunities, and supporting the growth of foreign direct investment.

During the second Liberia Business and investment Forum (LIBIF), a virtual event in Washington D.C, in June, Pro-Temp Chie said the NIC should advocate for, and strengthen the domestic private sector; and to ensure that the economic and social development objectives of the people of Liberia are achieved by and through favourable investment environment that guarantees security.

GRADE: B+

2022 OUTLOOK: Despite the COVID 19 pandemic impact, the NIC is exploring alternative avenues such as better investor care, more targeted information, better promotional materials, and strategic digital marketing campaign to attract potential investors in Liberia. Discussions and negotiations are in advance stages with about twenty-four (24) potential investors and are expected to be consummated in the upcoming year, and this will lead to an increase in revenue generation and job creation. Additionally, investment interests in Liberia across all sectors of the economy are expected to increase given the invention and distribution of COVID-19 vaccines globally. The outlook for 2022 looks promising as the economy has stabilized and growth projected from 3.6% in 2021 to 4.7% in 2022.

LIBERIA ELECTRICITY CORPORATION

THE LOWDOWN: The entity tasked with the responsibility of increasing reliable access to affordable electricity throughout the country , in the quickest, most prudent and sustainable manner possible  continues to be a sore in flesh of Liberia’s post-war recovery.

During the course of the year under review, access to electricity remained a major challenge for Liberia’s economic recovery despite recent efforts by the government to reform the sector.

The LEC is a public utility created in 1973 by the Government of the Republic of Liberia through an act of Legislature with a mandate to produce and supply economic and reliable electric power to the entire nation, while at the same time maintaining the corporation financial viability.

From 1973 until late 1989, Liberia’s electricity service was largely limited to the capital of Monrovia and environs; around 35,000 customers—almost 13 percent of the population—were served by 1989. LEC also handled the electricity supply of rural areas outside Monrovia through 10 small isolated power systems with a total installed capacity of 13 MW. The remainder of Liberia’s electricity infrastructure was almost entirely destroyed during the periods of civil unrest in Liberia. Efforts have been underway since 2006 in order to restore the Monrovia grid, expand the mini-grid, and expand stand-alone power systems in the interior.

2021 HIGH: During the course of the year under review, Liberia’s efforts to transform the lives of poor people have received a huge boost with financing approved today by the World Bank. Two new operations were launched to increase access to sustainable, reliable and affordable energy, and boost economic recovery by providing employment opportunities and business skills training to vulnerable Liberians.

Funded by the International Development Association IDA, these projects aims at improving Liberia’s economy and helping to build resilience for vulnerable households that are greatly at risk of falling into poverty due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Poverty remains widespread in Liberia and is now on the rise. An estimated 44% of Liberians were living with less than $2 a day in 2016 and is now projected to reach 52% in 2021. Access to healthcare, education, and basic utilities like energy, are also particularly low compared to the rest of the region.

“Given the devastating impact of Covid-19 on the economy and people’s livelihoods, improved energy access will  stimulate inclusive economic growth while support to the informal sector will help the most vulnerable Liberians to recover from the loss in incomes,” said Khwima Nthara, World Bank Country Manager in Liberia.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating impact on Liberia’s economy and people’s livelihoods and poses a major threat going forward. When the global pandemic emerged in early 2020, Liberia was already facing a challenging domestic and external environment. Weak consumption and declining output had caused the Liberian economy to contract by an estimated 2.3 percent in 2019 and a further 2.9 percent in 2020. According to the High-Frequency Phone Survey of Households conducted by the Liberia Institute of Statistics and Geo-Information Services, more than 70 percent of households reported experiencing food shortage and increased food prices. This call for a comprehensive response focusing both on the need to protect the poor and vulnerable in the short term, as well as support economic recovery in the medium term.

2021 LOW: International stakeholders were particularly concerned about the state of the electricity crisis in Liberia. In August, the United States Ambassador, Michael McCarthy told a news conference in Monrovia that the US Government and other partners have contributed US$257 million to Liberia’s Energy Sector to rehabilitate the Mount Coffee Dam and restore power, but lamented: “If power theft and corruption continues in Liberia, the country will lose donors’ support.”

The US envoy declared that the LEC has lost US$220 million to technical and commercial losses and unpaid bills. He lamented “Nowhere in the world is electricity-free. I pay an electric bill at my home in the United States.” Ambassador Michael McCarthy’s revelation is evidence that the horrendous energy sector in Liberia has become a source of national embarrassment and is arguably the most debilitated sector of the Liberian economy.

Also during the year, the head of delegation of the European Union Mission in Liberia, Amb. Laurent Delahousse, made a resounding call on the Government of Liberia to draw up a master plan for the electricity sector. The energy sector is viewed as one of the areas with huge potential that could boost Liberia’s economy in its post war recovery and reconstruction drive if managed properly. It has received massive support in hundreds of millions of dollars from Liberia’s partners including the EU and the United States.

Addressing the Ministry of Information regular press briefing, Amb. Delahousse said addressing the electricity challenge in Liberia requires a joint exercise involving the Government of Liberia, the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC), the people of Liberia and the international donor community.

The Government, he said should craft a master plan to clearly spell out its strategies for the energy sector. “We are calling Liberia to define, under the leadership of His Excellency President George Manneh Weah and the Honorable Minister of Mines and Energy, a master plan for the development of its power sector,” Amb. Delahousse said.

The strategies, he said, should include new generation capacities to meet the expected increase in power consumption; ambitious use of Liberia’s assets for renewable energy such as hydro and solar power; sustainable participation to the regional network offered by the CSLG line, strengthening of the client base through the connection of more Liberian businesses, delivery of power to many  more Liberian households and families, and bringing the tariff of electricity, which is exceptionally high in Liberia, to levels more affordable for ordinary Liberian families.

GRADE: C

 
2022 OUTLOOK: The electricity tariff in Liberia is still among the highest in the world. What efforts are being made to improve energy access for Liberians, local businesses, and essential services across the country? Is Affordable energy on the horizon? When Will electricity be available to all?

NATIONAL PORT AUTHORITY

THE LOWDOWN: The gateway to Liberia is the state-owned corporation responsible for managing, planning and building all public ports in Liberia. The NPA system comprises of four ports: Freeport of Monrovia, Port of Buchanan, Port of Greenville, and Port of Harper.

During the course of the year under review, Managing Director Bill Twehway was keen to see his administration committed to ensuring the Port of Monrovia operates in a safe and efficient manner and the partnership between the Maritime Authority, APM Terminals Liberia and International agencies play important role in ensuring that Port of Monrovia retains is position as the gateway for commerce for Liberia.”   APM Terminals operates a multi-purpose port in the Freeport of Monrovia, the gateway to the Liberian economy.

The NPA, during the year under review, was badly hit by host of war and post war effects – coupled  with  serious quagmires  that caused poor  infrastructural wreck that hampered smooth delivery of needed supplies  for economic growth and development.  As a result of the effects of the  war, the main flagship dock- the Freeport of Monrovia became a work environment of  a near  neglect with host of mis shift offices – most of  which were housed in abundant containers and  shabby buildings. 

2021 HIGH: Under the watch of Managing Director Bill Twehwy, the entity saw the construction of the first-ever  modern multipurpose state-of-an Art corporate office, changing the old narrative −wherein, most offices at the country’s principal seaport were  hosted in gargantuan containers and dilapidated  buildings.

During the course of the year under review, the Twehway’s administration made payments to secure the first 175 acres of land and at the same time settled some crops owners.  As part of this initiative, a completive bidding process is being finalized by the Port Management consistent  with Public Procurement  and  Concession PPCC Protocols. This will allow the deforestation/clearing of the land so as to  pave  the way for the construction of the  Dry Dock. When completed, the Inland Port will generate huge revenue, create thousands of jobs and set the stage for competitive trade to further enhance economic viability.

 
In fulfillment of the  necessity to further deepen the navigational channel of the Freeport of Monrovia which would effectively address other critical factors responsible for the quick buildup of silt over a short period, the Bill Twehway administration acted expeditiously by the  removal of a  total sum of 510, 193 Cubic meters of dirt from within and around the navigation waterway.  This exercise otherwise known as dredging,  achieved  the actual depth of 13.5 meters. at a minimum cost compared to other dredging within the Port’s region.  For this reason, Throughput and quick turnaround time have been very Impressive at the Freeport.

On Budgetary Suppor, a record figure of US$5 to 7 million in direct support was submitted to the National Budget. This, by all indications, signaled support to the overall objectives of President Weah’s Pro poor agenda for development and Prosperity.  It is  gathered that the NPA has also made immense  contribution to several Presidential projects: i.e the New Kru Town Housing and the Old Market et al.    

Consistent with the need for  manpower development as a requirement  to hone employees  potential for effective performance of their duties and functions, a host of employees of the NPA have  obtained professional certificates  and diploma in specialized port related courses  abroad. The NPA Management has reported that a host of their stafff were sent to the United States of America, Egypt, Toga etc, adding that Most of them are currently contributing to their respective departments in a positive way.   In the same vein, at least two thousand additional staff have been employed at the National Port Authority by Bill Twehway. This,  according to the Port’s Management,  is meant to provide job security for the ordinary Liberians − most of whom were long term contractors at various ports for many years without permanent employment status. 

As port of the NPA’s  Strategic vision to unlock the full potential of the out station  Ports : especially  Harper and Greenville,  progressive works are being done on the   refurbishment projects  which include a brand new multipurpose office complex and Petroleum storage facilities at those  two ports under the direct supervision of the Bill Twehway administration . This is critical to help address the age-old constraints associated with the supply of petrol products to major southeastern counties: Maryland, River Gee, Grand Kru, Grand Gedeh et al;

2021 LOW:  During the year under review, port users protested against APM Terminals, saying that the company is inefficient. APM Terminals is an international container terminal operating company.

The protesters cited limited manpower and equipment as gaps in the company’s operations which results in delays in removal of cargos and high tariffs.

Addressing the issue, the port authority called on the company to address the concerns of port users, saying that failure to do so would amount to economic sabotage. Citizens complain that delays in releasing goods and high charges on cargos are resulting in soaring prices of basic goods and commodities on the local market.

During the past year, the NPA was also drawn into a major controversy when the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) interrogated NPA MD Twehway, over his alleged connection to the dubious transfer of US$300,000 from the Port of Buchanan by the then Manager and the awarding of a contract to a company which his brother had 50 percent shares.

While the LACC will not give details of its investigation on Tuesday, the NPA has continuously said Mr.
Twehway has never been involved in any act of corruption at the NPA. However, Mr. Charles MacArthur D. Gull, the former manager at the Port of Buchanan who is at the center stage of the US$300,000 transfer disclosed that he was going to expose all those behind the transfer and other illicit acts that took place at the port. He posted to Facebook: “It is about time I speak and make clarity about the entire allegation. I had no option than accepting under duress, fear of death, being in imminent danger,” he said.

The port management was also taken to task when the Chair of the Senate Committee on Defense, Security, Intelligence, and Veterans Affairs, Senator Stephen J.H. Zargo, blamed the Management for poorly handling circumstances surrounding the sinking of the vessel Niko Ivanka in Liberian waters on July 17, 2021, leaving about a dozen persons drowned, including eight staff of the West African Examination Council (WAEC) Monrovia Office.

The Liberia Maritime Authority in collaboration with Liberia National Cost Guard rescued about 11 persons, including the two Chinese captains that led the voyage. But the committee, which conducted its own investigation, says the NPA “blundered and didn’t do its job well.”

Senator Zargo explained that the vessel, which Liberia’s Maritime Commissioner Lenn Eugene Nagbe said was never registered or authorized to sail, did not have an Automatic Information System (AIS) to ensure tracking in case of distress, and that the NPA itself never had a record of people onboard.

Presenting findings to the Senate during a session in the chamber on Tuesday, August 17, Zargo lauded the Defense committee for a job well done, noting that through its intervention they were able to rescue some people that were onboard the vessel.

He quoted the Minister of Defense Daniel Ziankan as saying it was difficult for them to locate the vessel during the rescue mission due to lack of an Automatic Information System.

Zargo detailed that during the investigation, the Maritime Boss didn’t turn out on grounds that he (Commissioner Nagbe) received the communication late, while the Managing Director of the National Port Authority Bill Tweahway had little or no knowledge of the vessel or how many persons were on board.

However, the NPA management last week announced the suspension of the Pier Supervisor at the Freeport of Monrovia George D. McGill for allegedly authorizing the sailed of the vessel. The NPA said Mr. McGill has been turned over to the Ministry of Justice for further interrogation.

“George D. McGill is the Pier Supervisor at the Port of Monrovia, he, without approval and notification of the management, allowed the sailing of the wrecked vessel. And so the NPA constituted an internal committee and the committee has established that he did that without the approval of the NPA”, said the director of public affairs at the NPA, Malcolm Scott in a news conference.

Neither the Maritime Authority nor the NPA management seems willing to accept responsibility for the disaster that led to the loss of lives and indefinite suspension of the 2021 West African Senior School Certificate Exam by the WAEC Monrovia Office.

Ironically, neither the Maritime Authority nor the NPA management have accepted responsibility for the disaster that led to the loss of lives and indefinite suspension of the 2021 West African Senior School Certificate Exam by the WAEC Monrovia Office.

GRADE: B-

2022 OUTLOOK: Will the fugitive Charles Gull resurface in the new year? How will the port management recover from the fallout of the entire saga?

LIBERIA MARITIME AUTHORITY

THE LOWDOWN: The authority tasked with building a vibrant domestic maritime program that is financially self-sustaining, internationally compliant and effective in protecting Liberia’s maritime domain, endured a tough year. Despite the unprecedented disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and its consequential economic fallouts, the overall performance of the Liberia Maritime Authority for the reporting period was positive. Many milestones were achieved and the capacity and focus of the Authority in achieving its statutory mandate were significantly enhanced.

The Liberian Maritime Program was established in 1948 with strong support from the United States of America.  In 1949, Liberia became a founding member of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and has over the years played a critical role in promulgating maritime safety, security and environmental protection. The Bureau of Maritime Affairs (BMA) administered the program under the supervision of the Ministry of Finance and later the Ministry of Transport. With the passage of Liberia Maritime Authority Act of 2010, the BMA then transitioned into the Liberian Maritime Authority (LiMA); a public corporation with greater responsibility of managing all commercial activities within the maritime domain of Liberia.  The rational for this transition was to diversify the Authority’s activities from its long-standing focus of being a nation with a leading maritime shipping and corporate registry program, to a nation that strategically focuses on building and, or supporting enterprises across the domestic maritime domain for greater economic and social benefits to the Nation and its People.   

The Liberian Maritime Program is currently recognised as the second largest ship registry in the world.   Its activities are governed by the Liberia Maritime Laws [Title 21 of the Liberian Code of Laws revised], with a mandate to regulate all foreign and domestic waterborne commerce, enforce maritime treaties, including Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS); Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL); the Standards for Training, Certification and Watch-keeping for Seafarers (STCW) and the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC).

Hence, with over seven decades of international maritime presence, we are poised to fully explore the coastal resources and vast biodiversity that exists within our domestic maritime domain.

2021 HIGH: During the course of the year under review, the LMA, for the first time in more than 70 years, completed and moved in its modern Corporate Headquarters located in Monrovia, bringing an end many decades of leasing private buildings as its offices.

Also, during year, the International Registry performed satisfactorily with Liberia maintaining its status as the second largest registry in the world and the largest white-listed registry globally.

As of November 2021, there were 4,965 vessels in the International Registry. This represents a 6.1 percent growth, compared to the previous year. From 2016 to 2021, a period of 5 years, the number of vessels in the International Registry has increased by 22 percent.

As of November 2021, the total gross registered tonnage of vessels registered in the International Registry was 210,753,046. Compared to 2020, there was an increase of 10.2 percent. Between 2016 and 2021, the total GRT of the International Registry increased from 144,813,549 to 210,753,046 representing a 45.5 percent increase. The International Registry also continues to serve as a source of employment for thousands of seafarers globally. As of November 2021, there were 322,978 licensed seafarers in the Registry

In the midst of the challenges posed by COVID 19, the Authority is pleased to report that as of November 2021, the International Registry contributed a total of US$13,834,236 as the Government of Liberia Share of net program revenues with US$6 million directly deposited in the Consolidated Fund as Maritime Contribution to the National Budget. These figures are reliably certain to increase since a lot of lump sum payments are made in December. And for the past 16 years, the Program has contributed more than US$263 million to the Government of Liberia

The Port State Control Building of the Liberia Maritime Authority located in the Freeport of Monrovia is about 85 percent complete at the time of reporting

During the year, the LMA enhanced its regulatory effectiveness through the drafting and completion of vital maritime instruments for the effective regulation of the sector. This includes the amending of the National Maritime Law of Liberia, the National Maritime Strategy, the Oil Spill Response Contingency Plan and others

The LMA also achieved various milestones in the area of capacity building. The Authority is presently sponsoring 17 students at the Regional Maritime University in Ghana. The students are studying in various specialized fields including Marine Engineering, Nautical Science, Marine, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, etc. Also, during the period completed 3 employees completed their master’s studies at the World Maritime University in Sweden. The students obtained master’s degrees in Maritime Law and Policy, Shipping Management and Logistics, and Maritime Safety and Environmental Administration. The Authority is presently sponsoring additional 3 students at the World Maritime University and another student in the Netherlands

The authority also increased presence at the Ports of Buchanan, Sinoe and Maryland. The Authority has increased its port state control presence at the above mentioned ports. This is intended to ensure maritime safety and security and the protection of the marine environment in those ports.

In addition, the authority increased Port State Control Inspections. During the period, the Authority conducted Port State Control 367 Inspections, totaling over 8.72 million Gross Tons,

The authority also improved service delivery through the drafting of a Maritime Service Delivery Charter and the drafting of a Maritime Investment Guide and the process of automating the domestic vessel registration process commenced with the software already designed and developed.

During the year, the authority enhanced and Increased Navigational Safety & Maritime Security in Liberia’s jurisdictional waters and ports. This includes increased monitoring and follow-ups on Port State Control (PSC) inspection and detention. It also includes increased monitoring and alertness of suspicious activities against vessels within the port limits of Liberia through radio checks every three hours.

2021 LOW: There were a lot of blames to go around during the course of the year under review when at least seven people went missing after a cargo ship that had been barred from sailing sank off the coast of Liberia.

The Liberian-registered Niko Ivanka left the capital Monrovia in Mid-July for a port in the country’s south, despite being under a Liberia Maritime Authority detention order for failing to meet basic safety requirements.

The vessel sent out a distress signal that afternoon notifying the coast guard that it had taken on water, Maritime Commissioner Lenn Eugene Nagbe told a news conference. By the time authorities arrived, it had already partially sunk. “We are commissioning an investigation into how a vessel that was detained for failure to meet rudimentary safety requirements managed to get on the sea with passengers and cargo. That investigation is subsidiary to the ongoing search and rescue effort.”

The ship’s manifest showed 18 people on board at the time of departure but authorities suspect that more could have been on board, given that the vessel was not licensed to carry passengers in the first place, Tonpoe said.

Ironically, neither the Maritime Authority nor the NPA management have accepted responsibility for the disaster that led to the loss of lives and indefinite suspension of the 2021 West African Senior School Certificate Exam by the WAEC Monrovia Office.

GRADE: B

2022 OUTLOOK: With the Liberian Registry becoming the preferred tanker flag in the world, with the recent addition of 2.7 million gross tonnes of new tankers, how close is the former world number to returning to its pre-civil war record?

LIBERIA TELECOMMUNICATIONS AUTHORITY

THE LOWDOWN:  The LTA has been the driving behind Liberia’s rapidly growing telecommunications sector. The regulatory and competition authority is charged with the statutory responsibility to ensure a vibrant telecommunications sector in Liberia. The LTA was created by the Telecommunications ACT of 2007 (Telecom Act 2007), which repealed in its entirety Act No. 18 of the erstwhile National Transitional Legislative Assembly of Liberia creating an Interim Framework for Telecommunications Regulation in September 2005.

Over the course of the year under review, the LTA, amid challenges, worked to provide leadership in the creation of a vibrant socioeconomic environment, through the effective use of telecommunications and Information Communications Technologies (ICT).

The LTA’s regulatory responsibility include ensuring that the telecommunications sector is competitive.  Today, the main players include two private Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) network operators, Lonestar Cell MTN and Orange Liberia (formerly Cellcom).  Both invest in network infrastructure and services.  They use GSM, 3G/4G, and WiMAX technology to provide a wide array of services including voice/SMS, fixed-wireless, and mobile data/internet services to the mass market, and value-added services for government and private sector organizations.  The GSM network operators compete for customers by offering services over their wireless networks.  Competition between them led to price reductions for voice and data services and prompted the regulator to establish a tariff floor. 

Mobile and internet use continues to grow due to increased investment by the GSMs throughout the country.  According to the Digital Liberia 2020 report, mobile connections increased by 995,000 or 32 percent between January 2019 and January 2020.  The report said that in January 2020 there were 4.13 million connections; increases in mobile connections are spiked by many people, mainly the wealthy, having multiple connections.  Internet penetration was 12 percent in January 2020, equating to 624,000 internet users in the country.  In the mobile sector, competition led to some of the lowest call prices in Africa, but with the price floor, prices have increased to a minimum of $0.0156 per minute for a voice call and $0.0218 per megabyte for data.   

The telecommunications sector continues to experience substantial improvement through international fiber optic submarine cable, benefitting more than 80 commercial and diplomatic locations.  Moving beyond these clients, however, would require considerable investment in domestic fixed-line infrastructure. 

The Liberian government, in partnership with U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and Google, continues to invest in building a fiber ring around Monrovia and its environs to increase broadband penetration.  In 2017, Google entered a joint venture with Mitsui & Co (Japan), Convergence Partners (South Africa), and the World Bank International Finance Corp. to create an independent company called CSquared to complete this project.  CSquared signed a licensing agreement with Liberia Telecommunications Authority in 2021.  When complete, the quality of internet service and accessibility to rural areas will increase internet subscribers.  However, mobile operators face major constraints including the high cost of electricity, poor national infrastructure such as roads, high taxation including import duties and tariffs, an insufficient customer base, inadequate skilled manpower, problems in ensuring network security, and the high cost of network operations and maintenance.

2021 HIGH: The leadership of Acting Chair, Edwina Crump Zackpah over the past year saw the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA) surpass budgetary targets to maintain its status as one of the highest contributors to the Government of Liberia’s revenues.

Within just a year of assuming the helm at the LTA, Edwina Zackpah has brought stability to the telecommunications sector after the turmoil of consumer price increases and network operator resistance experienced over previous years. At the same time, she has successfully steered the LTA to implement a number of critical regulatory interventions in the interest of consumers and in compliance with Regional and international conventions.

Among notable achievements was the revision and piloting of the SIM Card Regulation which requires telephone users to register their number using a national identification card. Madam Zackpah and the LTA led the National Identification Registry and network operators in successfully testing this system over the past year. SIM card registration is a measure to prevent telecoms fraud, and is a key step towards the digital transformation of Liberia.

Bringing order to what had previously been a chaotic regulatory regime for FM radio stations is another hallmark of the actions taken by the LTA in the past year. As LTA Acting Chairperson and Commissioner for Licensing & Regulation, Madam Zackpah drove the passage of the FM Regulations to prevent frequency interference and provide regulatory standards for the mushrooming FM radio industry.

Over the past year, the Zackpah leadership at the LTA also took action to increase the access of students to the internet by granting a license to the Liberia Research and Education Network (LREN). LREN aims to support the country’s educational system by providing affordable Internet Broadband services for research and educational institutions.

Another important milestone of the Zackpah administration at the LTA has been the granting of a nation-wide infrastructure license to CSquared to permit the private company to roll out fiber optic telecommunications cables to parts of the country with little or no telephone and internet connection. The CSquared license is in line with Liberia’s revised ICT Policy which seeks the economic transformation of Liberia through the use of broadband technology.

The long-planned construction of a corporate office building for the LTA took a giant leap forward in the past year when the Zackpah-led LTA acquired 7.4 acres of land in the Shiefflin area and launched the procurement proceeding to design and build the LTA headquarters.  Actual construction is expected to begin in 2022.

2021 LOW: The LTA has been under fire over the controversial decision to begin issuing five-year licenses to FM radio stations, replacing one-year licenses issued under the old regulatory regime. Radio operators have called the related fees onerous, but the LTA’s chairwoman defended the new regulatory regime in August, saying it was meant to ensure stability and regulatory compliance. The original announcement came a day after a civil court restored the license of Punch FM, which was suspended in 2018; Punch FM’s operators alleged that it was targeted for its presumed antigovernment stance.

During the year under review, the government warned the managements of Sky Communications and Radio Bushrod (D15 Radio) against relaying in the future the broadcast of Mr. Henry Costa, who is currently a fugitive from Liberian justice. The warning was given by Information Minister Ledgerhood J. Rennie during a meeting intended to discuss Sky Communications and D-15’s decision to broadcast a program of Henry Costa against the expressed interdiction of the government of Liberia.

GRADE: B+

2022 OUTLOOK: How is the new five-year license regime faring? What will happen in the coming year?

NATIONAL ELECTIONS COMMISSION

THE LOWDOWN: The autonomous agency tasked with supervising the national elections had a rugged year under review.

The NEC’s duties include: administering and enforcing all laws relative to the conduct of elections throughout Liberia and submitting an annual report on the general operation of the Commission to the National Legislature and the President of Liberia, while it has the right to propose amendment to, and repeal of, any provision of the Election Law to the National Legislature and to formulate and enforce guidelines (or regulations) controlling the conduct of all elections for elective public offices.

The Constitution affords the NEC a prominent role in hearing and adjudicating electoral complaints and appeals (hereafter, ‘election disputes’). An amendment to the NEL adopted in 2014 provides that “A voter, candidate or a registered political party may file a complaint with the Commission alleging that an offence against the Constitution or the Elections law or a violation of a regulation issued by the Commission has occurred in connection with the administration of an election, during any stage of the election.”

In addition, Article 83(c) of the Constitution provides that “Any party or candidate who complains about the manner in which the elections were conducted or who challenges the results thereof shall have the right to file a complaint with the Elections Commission” and that “Any political party or independent candidate affected by such decision shall not later than seven days appeal against it to the Supreme Court.” These provisions establish a broad accountability mechanism such that the legality of virtually all NEC decisions and the actions of its staff can be challenged, in the first instance to the NEC, and subsequently to the final arbiter, the Supreme Court.

Much of the emphasis for NEC over the past year centered around the issue of biometric voter registration. During the year, NEC’s Chairperson Davidetta Browne-Lansanah made a request to her counterparts in Nigeria as she sought to learn more about how to integrate biometric technology into Liberia’s voter registration process and deal with the technology’s potentially high cost.

A key concern for the Senate has been on the cost of the NEC’s proposed biometric voter registration system as a barrier to its adoption.

2021 HIGH: During the year under review, the Legal Section of NEC presented a draft Proposed Hearing Procedures document to the seven-member -Board of Commissioners, (BOC) for endorsement.

The ceremony took place in Ganta City, Nimba County at the end of a three-day deliberation which commenced on Monday, 18th October 2021. The National Elections Commission streamlined its hearing procedure aiming to conform to the timeframe for hearing of election cases within the constitution and other statutes as a matter of law.

A year earlier, during the conduct of the 2020 Special Senatorial Elections and Referendum, the NEC faced numerous challenges that led to the slow adjudication of cases by the Commission.

The NEC Legal Section, with funding by the Commission, is conducting the 4-day Legal Forum focusing on the Proposed Hearing Procedures, Election Cases, and Training in Ganta, in Nimba County, ahead of the conduct on the 16 November 2021 Representative By-elections to be in Bong, Bomi, Grand Gedeh, and Nimba Counties. 35 participants including BOC members, the former Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of Liberia, M. Wilkins Wright, Deputy Justice Minister, Cllr. Nyenati Tuan and Senior Technicians of NEC are participating in the Ganta Legal Forum

During the year, NEC held four by-elections in four counties which include Bomi, Bong, Grand Gedeh and Nimba Counties with some 33 candidates contesting. Bearing a few glitches all four elections were free of irregularities.

Also during the year, the NEC chair led a four-member high power delegation from the Liberia National Electoral Commission (NEC) to complete a study tour of Ghana’s electoral system ahead of their elections in 2023.

The team visited Ghana to learn about the usefulness of the biometric system, cost implications in setting up the process, and to explore the possibility of resource and technology sharing between the two countries.

2021 LOW: The departing year ended on a rather sour note for the election body as it struggled to justify payment of US$182,320 for facial 20 facial recognition thermometers. The Public Procurement Concession Commission (PPCC) distanced itself from the approval of said contract, putting NEC in a difficult position. The thermometers were rented from Tuman Enterprise by the NEC to be used during the just-ended by-elections in Nimba, Grand Gedeh, Bong and Bomi Counties.

The thermometers were used to perform non-contact automatic body temperature detection, brush human face, and perform high-precision infrared human temperature acquisition, and high effect.

The actual price of the non-contact face recognition thermometer cost at most US$1,300, however, it is baffling how the NEC rented each piece for US$9,166.

This has raised eyebrows and subjected all the commissioners of the Elections Commission to investigation by the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC).

Sources within the LACC informed FrontPageAfrica the NEC Chairperson admitted to investigators that the company from which the special thermometers were rented belong to her brother. She reportedly added that PPCC approved the rental, thereby, the contract went through due process.

GRADE: C –

2022 OUTLOOK: Further probe into the issue of the controversial thermometer could prove costly for NEC and its chair.

NATIONAL FISHERIES AND AQUACULTURE AUTHORITY

THE LOWDOWN: Liberia’s overall fisheries sector goal is: Sustainably managed and economically viable fisheries that generate prosperity for the present and generations. NaFAA was created by an Act of National Legislation on October 9, 2017. It functions as a fully-fledged autonomous body pursuant to the Public Authorities Law of the Republic of Liberia. NaFAA has its roots in the erstwhile Bureau of National Fisheries, which operated as a unit within the department of Technical services of the Ministry of Agriculture from 1956 to 2017.

The entity is responsible to harmonize the varied and numerous long-term expectations of the primary, secondary and tertiary stakeholders, and recognizing the strengths, weakness, opportunities, and threats of the fisheries sector.

Among NaFAA’s tasks, it is also responsible for providing increased profitable fisheries employment opportunities while offering an enabling environment for upgrading technical skills for enhanced value-added fisheries vocations; engaging participatory fisheries management institutions based on community and stakeholder structures for the creation of opportunities for socio-economic development; contributing to Gross Domestic Product, national food and nutritional security and improving living conditions, by upgrading and adopting appropriate, modern and efficient fisheries capabilities for increased fish production while reducing losses through illegal fishing; and deriving net benefits from a vibrant fish trade supported by, value addition systems and fisheries infrastructure for fish landing and export, as well as efficient fishing input supply and distribution systems.

In order to facilitate the attainment of the overarching vision of the sector, Government, as essential operational actions, will promote: an improved institutional and legislative framework for fisheries management; adaptive research; community and stakeholder participation in capture and culture-based fisheries management and development; effective international, regional, sub-regional and bilateral cooperation for fisheries management; enhanced monitoring, control, and surveillance capabilities; and improve fish quality and value addition technologies for enhanced economic returns in fisheries.

2021 HIGHS: During the course of the year under review, NaFAA  signed a US$40million agreement with the World Bank for an investment in fisheries infrastructures which include a modernized industrial fishing port with processing facilities as well as the construction of five landing and storage facilities within densely populated fishing counties of Liberia affecting at least 300, 000 vulnerable and indigenous fisher folks thereby increasing their daily earnings.

The entity also received a consignment of high technology and sophisticated laboratory equipment under the Icelandic agreement signed in 2019 for the establishment of a National Competent Fish Laboratory for certification and testing of fish product for imports and exports to international markets

Additionally, NaFAA received a consignment of 420 pieces of Yamaha Outboard Motor engine from the Japanese Government for free distribution to local fishermen which will increased local production by at least 40% thereby making fresh fish available on the local market so as reduce our fish consumption deficit and enhance the fish dietary protein supply for the greater population.

The entity also attracted new private participations and investments in the sector with regards to the experimental shrimp fishing for the purpose of acquiring scientific data which is geared towards reopening of the Shrimp Fisheries Program which has huge untapped potential with prospects of attracting millions in the economy.

NaFAA, during the course of the year under review, developed and adopted a five years Fisheries Strategy Policy document mapping out both short-term, medium and long-term goals of the sector with a five-year operational manual to govern the operations of the sector.

The entity also received two (2) forty (40) feet containers of standardized fishing net for free distribution to local fishermen to promote responsible fishing and protect the marine environs, particularly against fishing juvenile fish species and against ghost fishing. This initiative will support sustainable fishing and strengthen food security system of the country

The entity also officially launched an official national uniform for Liberia’s fisheries inspectorate program; for the purpose of manning fisheries personnel at all exit and entry point with respect to the regulatory function as inscribed in the 2019 fisheries law of Liberia so as to ensure that quality standards are applied on imports and exports of fish products.

In addition, NaFAA received and distributed fish handling, processing, storage and transportation equipment from the FAO to the Women in Fisheries (Fish Mongers) in a effort to reduce post-harvest loss and improve the quality of fish on the local market. The equipment included, solar powered Freezers, tricycles, cutting tables and other utensils, aprons and safety gears.

Commence the implementation of a joint project with the FAO to construct two fish markets in Monrovia and Buchanan cities respectively as well as supply additional fish handling equipment, improve fish mongers (women) capacity in learning new skills and techniques in fish processing. The Project will also introduce a new smoke oven technology the  FAO-Thiaroye Technique (FTT) smoke oven, which is environmentally friend and healthy for the women.

NaFAA also signed a US&3.6 M with the FAO for the construction of landing and storage facilities in Grand Bassa County and additional 300 Outboard Motor engine to enhance fish catch production of local kru canoes, additional fish handling and processing equipment for fish mongers (women) in order to empower them and increase value addition to the product. The project will also support an integrated rice -fish farming activity.

2021 LOW: During the course of the year under review, NaFAA  came under fire from  a fisheries watchdog group which accused a Senegalese-Spanish company of plundering valuable Liberian shrimps that retail for around $80 per kilogram, using an experimental licence intended for research purposes.

Brussels-based Coalition for Fair Fisheries Arrangements (CFFA) said three bottom trawlers belonging to SOPERKA S.A., a subsidiary of the Spanish Grupo Pereira, were taking advantage of the license to pay fewer taxes and that Liberia was potentially losing millions of dollars in profits.

Authorities of the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority, NaFAA has lifted a temporary ban on Beach Seine or (draw-way) fishing which is highly prohibited according to the Fisheries law of Liberia.

The Director General of NaFAA explained that the temporary lifting of the ban on Beach Seine fishing across Liberia’s coastal waters is a result of a consultative meeting held recently with the leadership of Beach seine fishermen in on Bushrod Island.

According to Glassco during the consultative meeting, the Beach-Scene fishermen leadership appealed for a grace period of one year beginning July 2021-July 2022, at which time they promised to transition from such fishing method into a more productive and internationally acceptable fishing method.

GRADE: B +

2022 OUTLOOK: How much impact will the World Bank US$40 million financing have on the fisheries sector management; more importantly, how will it enhance the livelihoods of targeted beneficiaries and increase Government revenues?

LIBERIA TELECOMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION (LIBTELCO)

THE LOWDOWN: Much of Liberia’s telecommunications infrastructure ruined as a result of years of civil war has been steadily resurging over the past decade.

There are two mobile operators – MTN Liberia, majority owned by MTN Group, and Orange Liberia, the local unit of Orange Group. Both have steadily invested in network infrastructure while MTN Liberia has been active in promoting its m-money services in a country where most people are un-banked. Competition between these operators has led to a reduction in pricing for voice and data services, and since this impacted on tax revenue the regulator was prompted in mid-2019 to impose a tariff floor.

Today, internet services are available from a number of wireless ISPs as well as the mobile operators. The high cost and limited bandwidth of connections means that internet access is expensive and penetration rates are very low. Although additional bandwidth is available from an international submarine cable, considerable investment is still needed in domestic fixed-line infrastructure before end-users can make full use of the cable.

Over the past twelve months, LIBTELCO recorded more than 4.13 million connections and saw an increase in mobile connections. Additionally, internet penetration was 12 percent over the course of the year equating to 624,000 internet users in the country.  In the mobile sector, competition led to some of the lowest call prices in Africa, but with the price floor, prices have increased to a minimum of $0.0156 per minute for a voice call and $0.0218 per megabyte for data.   

Overall, the sector appears to be experiencing substantial improvement through international fiber optic submarine cable, benefitting more than 80 commercial and diplomatic locations.  Moving beyond these clients, however, would require considerable investment in domestic fixed-line infrastructure. 

2021 HIGH: The signing of a partnership agreement with Csquared, granting the company a license to deployed fiber optic cables across the country.

Research has shown that despite it relatively small population, Liberia has an active and competitive telecommunications sector. 

The year also saw LIBTELCO being granted a five-year tax break by the House of Representatives. In September, the House voted overwhelmingly in favour of passing the ‘Act to award the tax Incentives as a Government Owned Entity’. Only three members of the House abstained, arguing that the Act should have been sent to committee first, in order to carry out an in-depth cost analysis before allowing its passage.

According to TeleGeography’s GlobalComms Database, in October 2020 national regulator the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA) issued a mobile network services licence to state-owned LIBTELCO, allowing it to offer GSM-based services. The Monrovia-based company has been focusing on the deployment of its fibre-optic network to homes, businesses and educational institutions, but will now be able to join incumbent operators Lonestar Cell-MTN and Orange Liberia in the domestic market, offering a range of voice and mobile data services.

A year earlier, in August 2020 the lower House voted to amend the Telecommunications Act of 2007 to expand the functions of LIBTELCO to become a GSM operator. The report noted that the amendment effectively expanded the Libtelco’s functions and role as a ‘revenue operator, to contribute towards the national budget’. The committee had concluded: ‘The amendment of those provisions of the Telecommunications Act of 2007 as cited herein will enable the Government-owned Corporation ‘LIBTELCO’ to provide world-class telecommunications products and services at cheaper, affordable prices for all Liberians that will enable growth of various sectors, such as education, healthcare, banking, energy and serving the masses, at large, for a sustainable economic growth of our society.’

2021 LOW: During the course of the year under review, IT experts at a two – day technology symposium under the auspices of African Virtual Campus (AVC – Global) in collaboration with Cuttington University, stressed the need for Liberia to embrace a culture of cyber security in order to effectively confront potential cyber security risks that may come along with the increasing utilization of technological programs in the business sector, academia, governance and security in the country. In a keynote address, Cllr. Oswald Tweh said “innovation breeds business,” and since technology paves the way, it can be safely said that business needs technology to be sustained.

Tweh said technology in business is a necessity, explaining that as the years go by, the world is leaning more and more toward technology, making it almost impossible to separate the two from each other.

The call came amid serious concerns that LIBTELCO was potentially a llow​ fraud risk ISP, meaning that web traffic from this ISP potentially poses a low​ risk of being fraudulent.

According to Scamalytics, which monitors risk to ISPs, LIBTELCO operate 8,171 IP addresses, some of which are running public proxies. “They manage IP addresses for organisations including Liberia Telecommunication Corporation. Scamalytics see low levels of web traffic from this ISP across our global network, little​ of which is, in our view, fraudulent. We apply a risk score of 3/100 to Liberia Telecommunications Corporation (libtelco), meaning that of the web traffic where we have visibility, approximately 3% is suspected to be potentially fraudulent,” the group noted.

GRADE: B-

2022 OUTLOOK: Despite the fiber optic cable, some consumers continue to experience faulty internet. Will LIBTELCO and the LTA get to the bottom of the inconsistencies?

NATIONAL TRANSIT AUTHORITY

THE LOWDOWN: With the ever-rising cost of gasoline and fuel on the Liberian market, thousands of commuters rely heavily on public transport – mainly public buses – as the most affordable means of transportation in the capital and inter-county. Hence, the relevance of the National Transit Authority.

The National Transit Authority (NTA) was established in the city of Monrovia, by the Government of Liberia through legislative enactment on September 11, 2008 and approved into law by former President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf on March 24, 2009.  The NTA has its root in the erstwhile Monrovia Transit Authority (MTA), created in 1977 as a department of the Monrovia City Corporation (MCC) to provide affordable mass transit service to the residents of Monrovia.

The Sirleaf government envisioned that to holistically address the challenge of poverty in Liberia it was important to decentralize governance and all services appertaining there from. 

Significantly, the remodeling of the MTA into the NTA sought to decentralize the provision of affordable, convenient and reliable mass transit services to citizens throughout the length and breadth of our country.  The government was confident this policy would facilitate the safe movement of people and goods within and out of the country at affordable cost and would further expand and enhance our national development agenda – to reduce poverty, create more jobs and stimulate domestic trade and commerce.

The framers envisaged that the NTA will grow into a viable and sustainable public transportation outlet for the people of Liberia.  It is also expected that the NTA shall endeavor overtime to establish subsidiaries in other parts of the country as and when appropriate and shall encourage private participation of small, medium and large transport companies to promote an efficient and effective mass transit system in Liberia.

 2021 HIGH: The NTA in an effort to address transportation constraints in 2021 increased its round town buses from 10 to 25, especially in the morning hours to help students, marketers, workers, etc.

Plans were disclosed to reduce transport fares on the NTA buses at various pickup points.

The NTA has managed to put up 11 buses running daily in counties such as Cape Mount, Grand Bassa, Nimba, Bong, and Margibi. Grand Gedeh and Lofa County benefit most during the dry season when the road condition is good.

2021 LOW: Reports of corruption, nepotism, salary discrepancies, accidents blemished the 2021 performance of the National Transit Authority.

In July this year, disenchanted workers and contractors of the NTA gathered in front of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where the temporary office of the President is, to demand their four months’ salary arrears.

The workers said, they had worked for four months without being paid. They cried out to President Weah to remove the Managing Director of the NTA, Mr. Herbie Tecombla McCauley.

Veronica Doe, an employee of the NTA as Conductor, said their action to protest is due to the constraints they have been faced with at the entity for the past three years and the Managing Director’s alleged refusal to pay their Daily Sustenance Allowance and salary for four months.

The aggrieved employee claimed that the Managing Director was directly involved with collecting fares generated from the buses by demanding the conductors to transfer the funds to his mobile money number. He was also accused of hiring and paying his daughter, Tracy McCauley, US$750.00 while conductors are paid L$22,000 (US$150.00) which barely came on time.

McCauley denied the claims but he was subjected to an investigation by the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission.

He later expresssed regret and apologized for the incident which led to the paralyzing of normal operations of public transportation service across the country. He admitted to “issues” being at the entity but disclosed that the management team has been striving to address those issues.

In early October, NTA Bus No. 5138 left Monrovia on Tuesday at 8:00am and headed for Ganta, Nimba County.The bus crew consisted of Mr. Robert F. Lamie (driver) and Saymon Jarwleah (conductor). The bus departed Red Light with 68 passengers, including women and children.

 Bus No. 5138 left Monrovia on Tuesday at 8:00am and headed for Ganta, Nimba County.The bus crew consisted of Mr. Robert F. Lamie (driver) and Saymon Jarwleah (conductor). Bus No. 5138departed Red Light with 68 passengers, including women and children but was involved in a tragic accident when it skidded off the road around Zeanzue severely injuring six people.

GRADE: D

2022 OUTLOOK: As 2022 brings us closer to the political season, there is an outlook for the NTA to grant political parties the equal use of NTA buses to commute supporters for their rallies. The NTA must do more to increase its daily fleet.

LIBERIA CIVIL AVIATION AUTHORITY

THE LOWDOWN: Making aviation safe and expanding the provision of quality aviation services in Liberia remains cardinal to increasing the daily flights and encouraging new airlines to fly to the country. This is why the Liberia Civil Aviation Authority (LCAA) comes in with the provision of quality service and productivity by providing innovative technical regulatory supervision geared towards the promotion of a safe civil aviation sector as well as place high-value in fostering teamwork, training and continuous improvement in the level of professionalism commensurate with ICAO’s standards.

2021 HIGH: In September 2021, the Liberia Civil Aviation Authority, the Ministry of Transport, and the Banjul Accord Group Accident Investigation Agency signed a resolution to establish an Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) in Liberia by July 2022. It also advocates for the execution of the AAIB ACT of 2019, which will see the independent AAIB operate more effectively.

This development came after the conclusion of a two-day joint meeting of the Ministry of Transport (MOT), the Liberian Civil Aviation Authority (LCAA), the Roberts Flight Information Region (RFIR), and the Banjul Accord Group Accident Investigation Agency (BAGAIA) in Monrovia on September 16-17, 2021, according to a press release issued by the LCAA.

The resolution was reached after extensive stakeholder negotiations involving the four parties, the Liberia Airport Authority, and others interested in Liberia’s aviation business. The two-day discussions were led by BAGAIA’s Commissioner, Engineer Charles Irekefe Erhueh, along with technical team members from the LCAA, MOT, and RFIR. BAGAIA is an international organization that assists African member states in conducting independent investigations of aircraft accidents and incidents in accordance with international standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). The Bureau will be known as the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB-Liberia) once it is created.

The resolution also directs the Minister of Transportation to put in place measures that will allow the Liberia Civil Aviation Authority (LCAA) to assist the newly established Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB-Liberia) in clearing outstanding fees and obligations to BAGAIA, with the Bureau’s subsequent payment of the subscription being budgeted for. It further states that the Minister of Transport, in collaboration with the Director-General of the Liberia Civil Aviation Authority will contact the International Air Transport Association (IATA) to discuss levying fees on tickets as a manner of funding the AAIB-Liberia.

During the year under review the LCAA began to make frantic efforts to ensure that Liberia regained its status to register aircrafts. This meant meeting all the safety and security standards and upholding international practices in keeping with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards.

2021 LOW: The Liberia Civil Aviation Authority came under criticism from aviation experts and pundits for endorsing a decision by President George Weah to build a mini-stadium right under the nose of the James Payne Spriggs Field. Many argued that this breached of the standards of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the global body which creates regulations for aviation safety, security, efficiency and regularity and environmental protection. The organization also regulates operating practices and procedures covering the technical field of aviation.

The space on which the mini-stadium is being built for the Invincible 11, the former team of President Weah, had been reserved for years for airport use.

Over the years, previous governments had been randomly clearing the area and asking residents encroaching on or around the space because it is reserved for aborting planes taking off and landing.

But the LCAA argued that all precautionary measures have been put in place to ensure a safe distance from the James Spriggs Payne Airport and the Invincible Park being undertaken by the George Weah-led government.

There have been atleast five air crash incidents closed to the airport since 1951.

Section 3.5.1 of the Annex 14 to the ICAO convention insists that airport runway end safety areas be provided at each end of a runway strip. The standards state hat a runway end safety area shall extend from the end of a runway strip to a distance of at least 90 meters. “If an arresting system is installed, the above length may be reduced, based on the design specification of the system, subject to acceptance by the State.”

The standards insists that the runway end safety area be as far as practicable and extend from the end of a runway strip to a distance of at least:  240 meters or a reduced length when an arresting system is installed.

The ICAO further recommends that the width of a runway end safety area should, wherever practicable, be equal to that of the graded portion of the associated runway strip, which is why the space now being used as a sports park poses serious risks to safety of air travelers.

GRADE: C-

2022 OUTLOOK: As the Invincible 11 Park nears completion, there are expectations on the safety measures that would be put in place by the LCAA to ensure the safety of aircrafts that may use the James Spriggs Payne Airport and users of the park. There is also the need for the improvement of aviation services that would attract more airlines to the country.

LIBERIA LAND AUTHORITY

THE LOWDOWN: One of the critical constraints to Liberia’s sustained and inclusive growth is its land ownership which has a complex history with land rights alternating between individuals, communities and the GoL. Less than 20 percent of the country’s total land is formally registered.

The Commission is to propose, advocate and coordinate reforms of land policy, laws and programs in Liberia. It does not have adjudicatory or implementation role.

The goal of the Commission is to develop a comprehensive national land tenure and land use system that will provide equitable access to land and security of tenure so as to facilitate inclusive, sustained growth and development, ensure peace and security, and provide sustainable management of the environment.

As the one-stop-shop for land matters in Liberia, the Act, provides LLA with three key functions, which are summarized below:

Land governance functions include the control and management, in the interest of equitable development, access to and use of Public and Government Land except for Reserves, Protected Areas, Proposed Protected Areas, and Diplomatic Missions;

Land administration functions include administering the deed registry and land registry systems; establishing standards and regulating survey and mapping services; administering public survey and mapping services, and the national cadastre, promoting and regulating the proper development of private surveying profession, and therefore under no condition shall a surveyor or other staff of the Authority engage in the survey of private land or in the survey of communal land in a private capacity; value land and buildings for the Authority’s land registry system; implement programs in support of property rights, including those of customary land owing communities; and adjudicate disputes arising in the context of systematic land registration.

Land use and management functions include to promote, support and ensure the development of land use management plans and zoning schemes and their implementation through counties, districts and other local government structures (clans, etc.)

2021 HIGH: During the course of the year, the Liberia Land Authority was robust carrying out regional awareness on land rights issues, especially on women’s land ownership.

Liberia Land Authority has also certificated several communities across the country that have completed Community Self-Identification (CSI) process.

In September this year, the LLA conducted its first ever nationwide sensitization, education and information campaign on the Land Rights Act (LRA) and LLA Act (LLAA) since the enactment of the two laws in 2016 and 2018.

The robust land rights awareness being conducted by the LLA has been very significant in helping reduce the rate of land dispute in the country.

The awareness activities covered several districts, communities and schools within the counties. The awareness were intended to inform, sensitise and educate our people of their rights and responsibilities as it is enshrined within the Liberia Rights Act and the LLA Act.

The LLA Chairman, Atty. J. Adams Manobah asserts that ethical reforms in implementing Public Policy and Law can shape Land Registration in the economy to ensure Better Business Climate.

The LLA Chairman made the statement on Wednesday, June 9, 2021 at the 4th National Judicial Conference in Monrovia, under the theme “The Law, Public Policy and the Economy’’ with his focus on “Building a Modern and Transparent Land Title Registry”.Addressing the conference which had Judges, Lawyers, Law Makers, Policy Makers, Government officials, amongst others in attendance, Atty. Manobah said the land service delivery system still needs policy, legal, institutional, technological implementation enforcement and ethical reforms to ensure a secured and transparent Land Registry which support a competitive Business Climate.

The LLA Chairman further stated that an enhanced understanding and appreciation of how a modern and transparent Land Registry can improve doing business to ensure economic growth and development must be embraced by all. He called on key actors in the land service delivery framework to collaborate in order to improve doing business.

2021 LOW: Many believe that the LLA failure to proactively intervene in the Gayea and Gblor Clans land conflict led to the situation degenerating into violence that claimed the life of one person, and injuries of several others.

Tensions flared up when the Gayea clan sought to claim their rights under the Land Rights Act to part of the 11,957-hectare forestland that lies on the fringes of the Gio National Forest and stretches along the banks of the Cestos River at the Liberia-Ivory Coast border.

The clan says it wants to make a deal with logging companies to extract timber from the forest. They say they want to use the funds to improve the only clinic serving the entire population, upgrade the school, provide hand pumps and build roads linking the clan with other settlements.

The Gayea clan also says it wants to conserve a portion of its forest. The clan had worked with Parley Liberia, a civil society organization that is guiding a number of communities in Nimba, Lofa, and Bong Counties to legally own their lands. It had completed all the first two of the five steps required by the Act to claim customary land title: it self-identified itself and completed participatory mapping of its land. But when it came to step 3, harmonizing its boundaries with its neighbors, the problems began.

Gblor protested that it would not accept the demarcation decided through the PROSPER project. Elder John Miah of Gboutuo, a boundary town in Gblor Clan, says his people were fooled by Gayean leaders during the 2014 negotiation.

But Gayea Clan elder Bah claims that during the demarcation, both parties agreed with the boundary that was drawn up. He points as evidence to the monument erected at the starting point of the boundary and the resolution signed.

GRADE: C

2022 OUTLOOK: In addition to the massive awareness being carried out by the Liberia Land Authority, there is the need for the LLA to be more proactive in engaging averting land conflicts by playing its mediating role and bringing actors to the table or taking them through the legal system and engaging the courts to fast track cases that have the propensity of escalating into a dispute if not speedily handled.

FOREST DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY

THE LOWDOWN: In the midst of global discussions to curtail climate change, Liberia’s forests are becoming the pride of the world in the combat of climate, hence the role of the Forestry Development Authority in this fight cannot be overemphasized.

The Forestry Development Authority is a semi-public autonomous corporation created by an act of the legislature on December 20, 1976, with the mandate to sustainably manage and conserve the forests and related resources of the country for the benefit of present and future generations.

Liberia’s forests provide a wide range of significant benefits to the Liberian people and the international community, such as habitat for globally important biodiversity, a range of ecological services, ecotourism potential, timber and non-timber forest products and significant revenue for the country from commercial forestry development. To put it in perspective: Only one-tenth of West Africa’s original Upper Guinean rainforest remains, and 40 percent of that is in Liberia. Kept intact, this extensive forest has the incredible opportunity to help mitigate climate change.

2021 HIGH: In June this year, the FDA recommenced the training on Field Activities for the Implementation of The VPA and Support Unit.

Liberia in 2013 ratified a Voluntary Partnership Agreement (VPA) with the European Union (EU) in the context of EU’s Action Programme Forest Law Enforcement, Governance and Trade (FLEGT). This programme aims at reducing illegal logging by strengthening sustainable and legal forest management, improving governance and promoting trade of legally produced timber. To further strengthen Liberia’s ability to comply with the Agreement, the VPA Support Unit (VPA-SU) was launched in 2013 with the primary function to build the capacity of key stakeholder groups playing a direct role in the implementation of the VPA, including the Forest Development Authority (FDA), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Ministry of Labor (MoL), among others. The first 5-year phase of the Support Unit, which ended in September 2018, gave tremendous support to these stakeholders and other actors including infrastructure, furniture, equipment, improving systems, and manpower development.

The capacity building activities have strengthened the participants’ ability (i) to conduct inspections using the Inspection Checklist of the Code of Forest Harvesting Practices and to identify non-compliances in logging operations; (ii) to improve the knowledge and competence in log scaling and volume calculations, and the essentiality of the Chain of Custody System; (iii) to enhance the understanding and use of LiberTrace (a software for verification of legality, traceability and fiscality of the logs being exported from Liberia); and (iv) to strengthen field reporting skills.

The opening of a state-of-the-art chimpanzee sanctuary and conservation center in May this year in Charlesville, Margibi County was a result of the sustained collaborative efforts of Liberia Chimpanzee Rescue & Protection (LCRP), the Forestry Development Authority (FDA) and many key partners and supporters from both in and outside of Liberia.

The event served to further promote initiatives to save this critically endangered species and promote national and regional conservation as well as community development and tourism in the country.    

The FDA has been working assiduously hard with Fauna and Flora International (FFI) and the Skills and Agricultural Development to make Wonegizi in Lofa County Poised for Gazzettement

The Forestry Development Agency was appointed chair of the EU US$125,000

 International Support for Mangrove Forests Conversation.

The Liberia platform shall coordinate and monitor all projects activities, serve as lead advocate for the project, serve as decision-making platform on the review and validation of project outcome and the exchange of experiences to ensure cross fertilization of ideas that will support project success. 

2021 LOW: Civil society groups say logging companies are exploiting weak monitoring and enforcement of Liberia’s forestry laws. A new briefing highlights the illegal harvest of as much as 14,000 cubic meters (494,000 cubic feet) of timber in Grand Bassa county; despite knowing about the case for more than two years, the authorities have taken no action.

In July 2020, investigators from the Independent Forest Monitoring Coordination Mechanism (IFMCM), a group of seven Liberian civil society organizations to which SDI belongs, found stocks of logs marked “TTC/RGI” and “FGL,” 6 kilometers (4 miles) south of a concession area known as TSC-A2. TTC refers to the Tarpeh Timber Company; RGI and FGL to logging companies subcontracted to harvest timber from TSC-A2, TTC’s concession in Grand Bassa.

The logs were also tagged with Forest Development Authority barcodes, indicating they had been entered into the chain of custody meant to ensure only legally harvested timber can be exported.

IFMCM’s investigation confirmed an earlier finding French sustainable development consultancy SOFRECO, which alerted the Liberian government to potential illegal logging in Grand Bassa in November 2019. SOFRECO was part of a consortium hired to improve management and verification of legal timber sales as part of the Liberia-EU Voluntary Partnership Agreement.

GRADE: C

2022 OUTLOOK: With the position Liberia has taken in the combat of climate change, it is imperative that the Forestry Development Authority be proactive in enforcing forestry laws and combat illegal logging and mining in Liberian forests. If Liberia is to achieve its expectations of the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) as determined by the Environmental Protection Agency, the FDA must be proactive in protecting forest reserves and ensuring that illegal logging activities are minimized to the lowest if not stopped totally.