The IMF’s latest Public Investment Management Assessment update found that while the country has made modest progress since 2016, significant weaknesses remain in project appraisal, selection and implementation. The report noted that infrastructure investment is critical as Liberia continues its post-conflict recovery and seeks to accelerate development.
The assessment, conducted at the request of Liberia’s Ministry of Finance and Development Planning, evaluated the efficiency of institutions responsible for planning, allocating and executing public investment. It also examined how climate considerations are integrated into infrastructure planning.
According to the findings, Liberia performs broadly in line with other sub-Saharan African countries, with stronger performance in the planning stage of the investment cycle. However, weaknesses were identified in project implementation, including procurement processes and monitoring of ongoing projects. The IMF warned that the total cost of completing existing projects is not fully tracked, making it difficult to determine fiscal space for new initiatives.
Public investment in Liberia remains heavily dependent on external funding, which the IMF said underscores the need for stronger coordination between domestic authorities and development partners to ensure effective prioritisation and execution.
The report also highlighted Liberia’s vulnerability to climate change, describing the country as one of the most exposed and least prepared globally. Despite this, it noted progress in climate planning and risk management, supported by technical assistance from international partners.
To address the challenges, the IMF recommended strengthening scrutiny of major projects to ensure they deliver value for money and are fully developed before inclusion in the budget. It also called for improved oversight of public-private partnerships, faster adoption of digital procurement systems, and better tracking of climate-related spending.
The IMF said implementing these measures could enhance infrastructure governance, improve economic resilience and support Liberia’s long-term development goals.
–IMF/ChannelAfrica–
