LRA Highlights Infrastructure, Logistics, and Manpower Challenges in Nationwide Assessment, Calls for Increased Funding

-Communications Manager D. Kaihenneh Sengbeh says improvements in roads and operational support are critical for boosting domestic revenue as the agency tours Tax and Customs offices across Liberia

MONROVIA – The Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA) is undertaking a nationwide needs assessment of its Tax Business Offices (TBOs) and Customs Business Offices (CBOs) to catalog critical challenges and identify areas for investment that could significantly boost domestic revenue.

Speaking on the ongoing exercise, D. Kaihenneh Sengbeh, Communications Manager at the LRA, said the agency is evaluating equipment, logistics, staff status, and welfare to inform next year’s national budget. “So far, poor infrastructure, limited logistics, and manpower gaps are topping the list of concerns,” he noted.

The assessment has already covered Grand Bassa and Rivercess Counties, with the team arriving recently in Greenville, Sinoe County. Sengbeh highlighted one encouraging sign: taxpayers’ money is contributing to improved roads, easing travel and movement of goods compared to previous years.

From southeastern Liberia, the LRA team plans to move through northwestern and northern regions before concluding in western Liberia. Sengbeh expressed optimism that the 2026 national budget will enable the agency to address these challenges and make critical investments in its offices. “We remain committed to growing domestic revenue to billions and beyond — and we believe it is possible with the right investments,” he said.

The LRA’s Commissioner General, Dorbor Jallah, also weighed in during a media engagement with talk show hosts and newspaper editors at the Farmington Hotel in Robertsfield, Margibi County. He said that despite overperforming last fiscal year by generating nearly $10 million above projections, those responsible for budget allocation reduced the LRA’s budget by $4 million.

“Now, that’s the paradox,” Jallah said. “You would think that by doing well, the people who are allocating the resources would give you more money. Well, no. You do well, but they cut you. But even with the cut, I’ve always told my team: let’s keep our eyes on the ball.”

The Commissioner General stressed the need for strategic investments to enhance the LRA’s capacity. He explained that a proposed additional $21 million allocation to the LRA could make it generate an extra $180.5 million in revenue, offering an almost nine-fold return on investment. “Part of the plan is to engage with the media to educate the public about taxes and ensure that people understand the system,” Jallah said.

As Liberia continues to rebuild and expand its economic base, the LRA’s ongoing assessment and advocacy for increased investment aim to strengthen its capacity to collect revenue efficiently, address operational gaps, and support national development goals.