MONROVIA, LIBERIA – President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has revamped the Liberia Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (LEITI) by appointing a new Multi-Stakeholder Group (MSG) to oversee its operations. The announcement, made on Thursday, January 9, 2024, through an Executive Mansion statement, follows extensive consultations aimed at ensuring compliance with the LEITI Act of 2009 and the global Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) Standard.
The EITI framework, globally recognized for promoting transparency and accountability in managing oil, gas, and mining resources, forms the foundation of Liberia’s efforts to improve governance in its extractive sector. Liberia’s adherence to the standard reflects its commitment to enhancing public access to data, promoting ethical resource management, and clarifying contracts and licenses within the sector.
The newly appointed MSG includes representatives from civil society, government, private industry, and international observers. Key appointees include Cecelia Danuweli from Publish What You Pay – Liberia, Michael V. Suah of the Liberia Chamber of Mines, and Rudolph J. Merab Sr. from the Forestry Development Authority. Legislative members such as Honorable Sam P. Jallah and Senator Abraham D. Dillon also join the group, alongside observers from the U.S. Embassy and GIZ.
President Boakai named Mines and Energy Minister Wilmot J. M. Paye as Chairperson of the MSG, with Finance and Development Planning Minister Augustine K. Ngafuan serving as Co-Chairperson. Tasked with a three-year mandate, the MSG will focus on aligning Liberia with EITI standards, addressing issues raised in previous evaluations, and preparing for the next EITI review scheduled for January 2026.
In his remarks, President Boakai underscored the significance of LEITI in fostering accountability and public confidence in Liberia’s resource-rich extractive industries. He emphasized that the initiative is both a global responsibility and a strategic tool for sustainable development.
“The effective implementation of the EITI Standard is not just a global obligation but a strategic imperative for Liberia’s sustainable development,” Boakai stated, urging the MSG to act with diligence and professionalism in addressing the challenges ahead.
The President highlighted his administration’s dedication to leveraging Liberia’s natural resources to attract responsible investments, boost domestic resource mobilization, and secure long-term benefits for future generations. He stressed the importance of transforming the extractive sector into a catalyst for economic growth and public trust.
