Liberia’s Finance Minister, Augustine Ngafuan, has revealed that the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has halted funding for development projects worth $51 million. The freeze threatens critical sectors, including health, education, elections, and domestic revenue mobilization.
Speaking before the Liberian Senate Ad Hoc Committee, Ngafuan detailed the growing impact of the funding cuts, with three additional projects recently confirmed as canceled. He warned that the loss of USAID support could disrupt essential services and slow Liberia’s development efforts.
The reasons behind USAID’s decision remain unclear, but government officials have pledged to engage with U.S. authorities to resolve the issue. Meanwhile, concerns are mounting over how the government will fill the funding gap and maintain ongoing programs.
As Liberia navigates this financial challenge, experts urge swift diplomatic negotiations to restore funding and safeguard vital public services. The Senate committee is expected to continue its inquiry into the funding freeze in the coming weeks.
