A high-level delegation from the United States Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), led by Carrie Monahan, Managing Director for Africa, has arrived in Liberia to discuss development cooperation and explore the possibility of a second compact agreement. The visit is part of preparations ahead of the December MCC Board meeting, where Liberia will be considered for further partnership.
At Roberts International Airport, Liberia’s Minister of Finance and Development Planning, Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan, welcomed the delegation on behalf of President Joseph Nyumah Boakai, Vice President Jeremiah Koon, and Liberians who have benefited from previous MCC initiatives.
“We want to welcome you wholeheartedly to Liberia,” said Minister Ngafuan. “Your first compact support brought transformative change, particularly the rehabilitation of the Mount Coffee Hydropower Plant—the single largest source of power in Liberia today. Development unites us as a nation, regardless of tribe, religion, or political affiliation. We are committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure that Liberia continues to progress.”
Minister Ngafuan reiterated the government’s commitment to cooperate fully with the MCC team and expressed determination to advance actions that would strengthen Liberia’s eligibility for a second compact.
During her remarks at the ceremony, Monahan highlighted the strong relationship between MCC and Liberia. “We recognize the government and people of Liberia as strong partners,” she said. “The U.S. is proud of the progress and partnership developed through the first compact, and we look forward to building on that success.”
The focus of this MCC visit includes conducting an analysis aimed at identifying barriers to economic growth in Liberia. The team will meet with officials from government agencies, private sector organizations, civil society groups, and diplomatic representatives as part of a comprehensive consultation process.
Should a second compact be approved by MCC’s Board later this year, it would aim at supporting sectors identified as priorities for economic development while strengthening U.S.–Liberia trade relations.
Liberia previously implemented its first MCC compact between 2016 and 2021 with $257 million in grant funding. That program led to projects such as rehabilitating Mount Coffee Hydropower Plant—now a major electricity source—strengthening operations at the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC), and implementing reforms intended to improve governance transparency and accountability.
Minister Ngafuan concluded: “The more we can do for our people, the stronger our unity as a nation. Liberia remains fully committed to this partnership and to building a brighter future together.”