MONROVIA, Liberia – In a passionate address to the nation, Senator Amara Mohammed Konneh has commended the Government of Liberia for unveiling a draft budget that exceeds $1 billion for the first time in the country’s history. This significant milestone reflects not only fiscal expansion but also an increasing confidence in the country’s public financial management systems, according to the senator.
Speaking to his fellow Liberians via his Facebook page, Konneh expressed gratitude to President Joseph Nyuma Boakai and Finance and Development Planning Minister Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan for their leadership in this achievement. However, he emphasized the need for a disciplined approach to ensure that the budget aligns with Liberia’s development goals, particularly in the education and health sectors.
As a former Finance Minister and a member of the Senate’s Ways and Means, Finance, and Budget Committee, Konneh is committed to a fair and comprehensive assessment of the draft budget. He pointed out that while the FY2026 budget represents a substantial increase, it also reveals initial contradictions that could undermine its credibility and impact.
Highlighting Funding Gaps and Strategic Focus
The senator raised concerns about the budget’s alignment with the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development (AAID), which outlines a critical investment need of $1.68 billion across priority sectors. The proposed budget allocates only $594 million, creating a significant funding gap of $1.08 billion. This disparity highlights a disconnect between Liberia’s ambitious development objectives and its fiscal realities, a challenge that the legislature must address urgently.
Furthermore, Konneh noted that external financing constitutes a large portion of the funding, with $313 million sourced from development partners compared to $281 million from domestic sources. This reliance on external support raises questions about national ownership and the sustainability of development efforts.
Addressing Sectoral Disparities
The senator also pointed to troubling trends in budget allocations for key sectors. Social Development Services have seen a decline, with a negative growth rate that threatens the well-being of vulnerable populations. He referenced recent protests by disabled Liberians demanding attention to their needs, underscoring the urgency for the FY2026 budget to prioritize inclusivity.
In terms of health and education, while the proposed allocations of $101.7 million and $132.9 million represent increases, they remain insufficient compared to the overall budget growth. Health spending, at just $19.37 per capita, is far below global benchmarks, and significant disparities exist between counties, exacerbating regional inequalities. The education sector is similarly experiencing uneven growth, with rural areas receiving disproportionately low funding, limiting access to quality education for many children outside the capital.
Security Sector Investment and Fiscal Responsibility
The senator also raised concerns about the increasing allocation to the security sector, which has seen a 38% rise. He stressed that while security is essential, it should not come at the expense of foundational services such as health and education, which are crucial for long-term stability and development.
In terms of fiscal management, Konneh highlighted the need for better governance of state-owned enterprises (SOEs) to ensure they contribute effectively to the national budget. He called for transparency in SOE revenues and their integration into the budget to enhance fiscal space and support development goals.
A Call to Action for Legislative Colleagues
Looking forward, Senator Konneh urged his colleagues in the legislature to realign the budget with AAID priorities, strengthen domestic contributions to development, and ensure that local businesses benefit from government procurement. He emphasized that fostering the growth of Liberian entrepreneurs is vital for economic growth and prosperity.
As the nation prepares for the FY2026 budget, Konneh’s message resonates with the importance of collaboration across the political spectrum to ensure that the budget serves all Liberians equitably. He expressed confidence that, with the right approach, the budget can be a tool for transformative development, paving the way for a brighter future for Liberia.
Senator Konneh concluded his address with a strong reminder: “Every single aspect of our country and our future depends on getting the FY26 budget right.” The call to action is clear, and the coming weeks will be critical as discussions around the budget unfold in the legislature.
