A team from the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), led by Carrie Monahan, Managing Director for Africa, has started an assessment in Liberia to analyze constraints to economic growth. This evaluation is part of the process to determine Liberia’s eligibility for a second MCC Compact.
The MCC delegation began its visit with a meeting at the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning. During the meeting, Monahan expressed gratitude for the reception received in Liberia and underlined the importance of ongoing cooperation between MCC and the country. “On behalf of the Millennium Challenge Corporation, I would like to thank all of you for the very warm welcome we have received since we arrived in Liberia,” said Monahan. “From the moment we landed on Monday, the Minister personally welcomed us, and our visit so far has been truly remarkable.”
Monahan also acknowledged the Ministry’s efforts in organizing meetings and stated that her team was eager to engage with various Liberian development institutions. “For some members of our delegation, this is their first time in Liberia; for others, it is a return visit. Either way, we are all looking forward to learning more about your beautiful country.”
The timing of this visit coincides with preparations by MCC’s Board of Directors for its December meeting, where they will consider whether Liberia qualifies for a second Compact. Monahan noted: “We are extremely proud of the long history of partnership between our two countries and the important work we accomplished together during Compact One. The fact that MCC’s Board is considering Liberia for a second Compact is a strong testament to the results we achieved together.” She added that this reflects Liberia’s leadership and commitment to reform.
Throughout their stay, MCC representatives plan to meet with stakeholders from government ministries such as Foreign Affairs, Mines and Energy, Commerce and Industry; agencies including the National Investment Commission and Central Bank; as well as organizations like LISGIS, LEITI, LIMPAC at Finance and Development Planning, Liberia Revenue Authority, Special Economic Zone Authority, Chamber of Commerce, among others. The findings from these engagements will help shape any potential new Compact if Liberia is selected.
“Our team is here this week because, as your Minister noted, MCC’s Board of Directors will meet in December to decide on Liberia’s eligibility for a second Compact,” Monahan said.
Acting Minister of Finance and Development Planning Anthony G. Myers thanked President Donald Trump and the U.S. Government for reconsidering Liberia for another MCC Compact. He mentioned that preparations had begun before a pause earlier in the year and welcomed renewed discussions.
Myers expressed hope that Liberia would be chosen again due to its established relationship with both MCC and the United States. He pointed out that understanding economic challenges was key not only for development but also social progress and trade.
The Constraints to Growth Analysis conducted by MCC forms part of its evidence-based approach designed to ensure that investments address major barriers to economic growth and poverty reduction.