A Message from the Minister of Internal Affairs

Today, as never before, development rests in the hands of the Liberian people. Citizens from all walks of life and all parts of Liberia’s 15 counties came together to voice their opinions, express their hopes for a better future and determine the path to get them there.

These County Development Agendas were produced with and by the people and reflect their good sensibilities and judgment. The Government of Liberia is making headway in the effort to transform how it represents and interacts with citizens. The national Poverty Reduction Strategy, which was produced through extensive consultations with the people, will guide national development 2008-2011. It establishes a new framework for action and partnership between Government, civil society, the private sector and the donor community. For the first time, a significant national strategy was developed in response to the needs and aspirations of the people. This is just the beginning of a new relationship between the Government and citizens.

Development is not easy. It will take many years of focused work to realize our dreams of a more prosperous country where our children and grandchildren all can live healthy, productive lives in a safe and peaceful environment. Success rests on three important factors: the soundness of our strategy, the resources to support our work, and importantly the drive of our people to achieve the goals we’ve set forth.

This document lays out the right strategy, and I appeal to our donors to provide us with the necessary support. But the real work is left to us, the Liberian people, and we must rise together to meet the challenges ahead of us.


Ambulai B. Johnson, Jr.
Minister of Internal Affairs