MONROVIA, LIBERIA – SATURDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2024 – The United States Embassy in Liberia has praised President Joseph Boakai for his renewed commitment to modernizing Liberia’s rail infrastructure through the establishment of the National Railway Authority (NRA). This move, formalized by Executive Order No. 136, signed on October 10, 2024, is expected to play a pivotal role in driving economic growth, especially within the mining sector, while also improving passenger and goods transportation across the country.
The NRA will be responsible for overseeing Liberia’s National Rail Assets, ensuring fair, safe, and efficient use of the infrastructure by all stakeholders. According to a statement from the Executive Mansion, the establishment of the NRA is aimed at regulating access to rail systems, creating equitable opportunities for businesses, and developing a robust rail network that benefits the Liberian economy.
The creation of the NRA comes after the expiration of Executive Order No. 112, issued in October 2022, which had set the framework for rail development but lacked legislative backing. The National Rail Authority Act, which was intended to formalize the Authority’s creation, has yet to be passed by the National Legislature, prompting President Boakai to take immediate action by extending the provisions of the previous order.
Under Executive Order No. 136, the National Railway Authority is tasked with developing policies and governance rules for managing both above-rail and below-rail infrastructure. The goal is to ensure that Liberia’s rail assets are utilized efficiently and equitably by all stakeholders. To guarantee safe and efficient rail operations, the NRA will hire qualified regulators to oversee the development and use of rail systems, ensuring that all eligible users have fair access to these critical resources.
The NRA will be staffed with key officials, including a Managing Director, Deputy Managing Director for Administration, and Deputy Managing Director for Operations, all of whom will be appointed by President Boakai. These officials will spearhead the management of the nation’s rail systems and ensure the NRA operates in line with international best practices. The operations of the NRA will be sustained by fees levied on users of Liberia’s National Rail Assets, creating a sustainable financial model for rail infrastructure development.
Additionally, the NRA will be responsible for drafting the National Rail Authority Act, which will be submitted to the National Legislature for passage into law. This legislation will formalize the Authority’s role in managing and regulating Liberia’s rail infrastructure. Any conflicts arising from the implementation of this Executive Order will be resolved through arbitration under the rules of the Liberian Chamber of Commerce, ensuring legal clarity and fairness in the resolution process.
President Boakai reaffirmed that the Government’s commitment to fair and well-regulated rail infrastructure is critical to driving national development while respecting existing agreements with eligible users. He emphasized that this move aligns with Liberia’s broader goal of building a rail system that not only supports the country’s booming mining industry but also enhances economic activity through improved transportation networks.
“The extension of Executive Order No. 136 stresses the Government’s dedication to fostering a robust rail infrastructure that serves as a cornerstone of Liberia’s economic growth and public benefit,” the press statement concluded.
The U.S. Embassy’s support for the initiative reflects international confidence in Liberia’s potential for economic expansion through improved infrastructure. With mining operations and other industries reliant on efficient transportation, the NRA is expected to streamline access to these vital resources, promoting fair competition and boosting investor confidence.
As Liberia advances with this significant infrastructure project, the establishment of the NRA is seen as a crucial step in transforming the country’s transport sector, positioning the nation for sustained economic development.
