In a letter addressed to Senate President Pro-Tempore Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence, Senator Snowe cited recent public statements allegedly made by Finance and Development Planning Minister Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan, suggesting that harmonized salary structures at certain government institutions have been reversed.

According to the senator, the reported action affects several autonomous and integrity institutions, including the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC), the General Auditing Commission (GAC), and the Judiciary.

He warned that such a move, if confirmed, could undermine legislative authority and violate existing laws governing public sector compensation.

Snowe stressed that the Act to Establish the National Remuneration Standardization of 2019 remains legally binding, noting that it has not been repealed, amended, or modified by the Legislature.

He argued that the law provides the statutory framework for salary harmonization across public institutions and does not grant unilateral powers to the Executive Branch or its agencies to reverse the policy.

The senator further pointed to potential implications for budgetary compliance, cautioning that any deviation from approved remuneration structures without legislative approval could amount to a breach of the budget process.

Snowe’s letter comes amid growing public debate over government pay policies and the autonomy of integrity institutions. The matter is expected to trigger further scrutiny within the Senate, including possible hearings or engagement with the Ministry of Finance for clarification.

As of press time, the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning had not publicly responded to the concerns raised by Senator Snowe.

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Delivering a rousing keynote address at the opening ceremony, the Executive Governor of the Central Bank of Liberia declared the gathering a defining moment for West Africa’s financial future, emphasizing that the region now stands at a critical crossroads where cooperation, innovation, and regulatory excellence must converge to safeguard economic stability and unlock shared prosperity.

Speaking on behalf of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, the Government and People of Liberia, the CBL Governor Henry Saamoi warmly welcomed senior financial supervisors, directors general of WAMI, WAIFEM, and WAMA, banking supervision heads from WAMZ member states, and representatives of the media, describing Liberia as “honored and proud” to host such a strategic regional engagement.

 “This meeting is not merely procedural—it is transformational,” the Governor said, stressing that the presence of supervisors from across the sub-region reflects a deepening commitment to regional integration, macroeconomic convergence, and the ECOWAS vision of a unified and resilient monetary system.

Supervisors as Architects of Trust

The Governor underscored the pivotal role of supervisors as guardians of financial stability, noting that their work directly impacts entrepreneurs seeking capital, families protecting their savings, and nations trading across borders with confidence.

In a region where banking groups and financial risks transcend national boundaries, he emphasized that isolated supervision is no longer sufficient.

“The College of Supervisors is no longer optional—it is a financial stability imperative,” he declared, describing CSWAMZ as a cornerstone of regional financial governance that enables early risk detection, coordinated responses, joint inspections, crisis preparedness, and systemic stability across the WAMZ.

Liberia’s Reform Momentum Gains Regional Spotlight

Positioning Liberia as a reform-driven economy, the Governor outlined sweeping measures undertaken by the Central Bank of Liberia to strengthen financial resilience, modernize infrastructure, and deepen financial inclusion—aligned with ECOWAS convergence benchmarks, the WAMZ framework, and global best practices.

Among the headline reforms is a phased increase in banks’ minimum capital requirement from US$10 million to US$15 million between 2026 and 2028, a bold move aimed at strengthening balance sheets, supporting prudent risk-taking, and expanding responsible credit to fuel private-sector-led growth.

Liberia has also made remarkable strides in digital finance. The successful 2025 launch of the Inclusive and Instant Payment System (IIPS) achieved nationwide interoperability in record time, dramatically improving transaction efficiency, security, and access to formal financial services.

This, combined with the ongoing rollout of the National Electronic Payments Switch, is laying the foundation for a modern digital financial ecosystem—one expected to push financial inclusion beyond 70 percent by 2029.

On the legal front, the enactment of the Bank-Financial Institutions and Bank-Financial Holding Companies Act, 2025—fully aligned with the WAMZ Model Banking Act—was hailed as a landmark achievement.

Authorities say the law strengthens consolidated supervision, corporate governance, capital adequacy, risk management, and resolution planning, while complementary reforms are advancing AML/CFT oversight, cybersecurity supervision, and operational resilience.

Facing Challenges with Resolve

While acknowledging persistent challenges such as elevated non-performing loans (NPLs), Governor Saamoi highlighted notable progress, with NPLs declining from 17.9 percent at end-2024 to an estimated 12.58 percent in 2025.

He announced intensified supervisory enforcement and a forthcoming national NPL resolution forum aimed at delivering sustainable, market-based solutions.

Broader constraints—ranging from limited long-term financing to exposure to global shocks—were framed not as setbacks, but as a compelling case for deeper regional cooperation, joint stress testing, crisis simulations, and harmonized resolution planning.

Strong Macroeconomic Signals Boost Investor Confidence

The CBL Governor also featured Liberia’s improving macroeconomic outlook during his keynote address.

He said real GDP growth reached 5.1 percent in 2025, inflation fell sharply to 4.0 percent, and foreign reserves strengthened.

According to him, under the IMF-supported program, all performance criteria were met, while ECOWAS convergence assessments confirmed progress on key benchmarks.

“These outcomes are not abstract numbers,” the Governor noted. “They are delivering real dividends—jobs, energy access, infrastructure, and stronger human capital—while reinforcing Liberia’s attractiveness to investors and development partners.”

A Call to Leadership and Unity

The governor reminded participants that supervisors are more than regulators—they are architects of trust and leaders of change whose decisions will shape the financial future of millions across West Africa.

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The ceremony, held in Conakry, marks the formal commencement of Ambassador Gizzie’s tenure as Liberia’s Chief Diplomatic Representative to Guinea and signifies the full restoration of Liberia’s ambassadorial presence in the neighboring country since 2019.

During the presentation, Ambassador Gizzie conveyed the warm greetings and best wishes of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., reaffirming Liberia’s commitment to strengthening the historic bonds of friendship, cooperation, and mutual respect between the two West African nations.

He emphasized Liberia’s dedication to promoting regional peace and security, deepening bilateral cooperation, and advancing economic and social development through enhanced people-to-people exchanges, trade relations, and economic integration.

“The enduring bond between Liberia and Guinea continues to facilitate the free movement of goods, services, and persons across our shared borders — fostering vibrant economic and diplomatic collaboration,” Ambassador Gizzie noted.

He also expressed appreciation to the Government and People of Guinea for their continued cooperation and partnership in pursuit of shared goals of peace, stability, and regional growth.

In his response, President Doumbouya welcomed Ambassador Gizzie and expressed his Government’s readiness to work closely with him to further consolidate the longstanding relationship between Liberia and Guinea.

The Guinean leader also commended Liberia for restoring full diplomatic representation at the ambassadorial level, describing it as a significant step toward deepening bilateral ties.

The two leaders reaffirmed their countries’ shared commitment to regional solidarity, cooperation, and development within the framework of the Mano River Union and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

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According to the Bank, commercial banks maintain sufficient liquidity to meet all customer demands, including government salaries, private sector transactions, and settlements.

Addressing recent concerns about a supposed “Liberian dollar shortage,” the CBL emphasized that these claims do not reflect the true financial situation. As of September 3, 2025, commercial banks held L$1.65 billion in vault cash, while the Bank’s reserves remain strong.

Excess reserves at commercial banks have nearly doubled compared to September 2024, reaching L$2.02 billion, highlighting robust liquidity across the system.

The Central Bank attributed rumors of scarcity to speculation, hoarding, and misinterpretation, stressing that these do not represent Liberia’s actual financial conditions, which remain stable and resilient.

Alongside stable liquidity, the Liberian dollar has sharply appreciated against the U.S. dollar. On September 8, 2025, the exchange rate was L$180.00 to US$1.00 (buying), compared to L$201.08 at the end of August—a 10.5 percent increase in just one week.

A CBL market survey on September 9 recorded rates of L$182.94 (buying) and L$184.94 (selling).

The appreciation is attributed to a combination of economic policies and structural reforms. The CBL has maintained a tight monetary stance since April 2025, holding the Monetary Policy Rate at 17.25 percent and sterilizing over L$13 billion to stabilize the foreign exchange market.

Strong remittance inflows totaling US$425.9 million in the first half of 2025, coupled with expanded economic activity outside Monrovia due to improved road infrastructure, have further reinforced the currency.

Inflation has also declined from 13.1 percent in February 2025 to 7.4 percent in July, with further reductions projected.

Structural improvements, including better road connectivity, expanded domestic energy, and increased agricultural productivity, are easing inflationary pressures. Reduced fiscal deficits and the use of the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) for cross-border trade are also boosting confidence in the Liberian dollar.

CBL Executive Governor Henry F. Saamoi reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to financial stability, stating:
“There is no shortage of Liberian dollars in the financial system. The recent appreciation of the currency reflects sound policy measures, structural improvements, and improving economic fundamentals. The Central Bank remains vigilant in safeguarding exchange rate stability, ensuring liquidity, and building confidence in the economy.”

The Bank urged the public to remain calm, avoid panic-driven transactions, and resist acting on unverified rumors that could create unnecessary market pressure.

The CBL reaffirmed its pledge to maintain macroeconomic stability, adequate liquidity, and public confidence in the Liberian dollar.

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In a press statement released Monday, Rep. Bility said the policy, communicated by the Liberia Petroleum Refining Company (LPRC), introduces new “technical cost lines” that make LPRC the direct beneficiary of the cuts.

He described the action as a deliberate attempt to weaken Liberian ownership and centralize power in the hands of a few.

“The net effect of this policy is to effectively shut down Liberian-owned petroleum terminals,” Bility warned. “This decision not only threatens our energy security, but also undermines jobs and families, as terminal operators cannot remain in business under such conditions.”

The lawmaker emphasized that Liberian petroleum terminal operators have invested millions of dollars in infrastructure, technology, and workforce development over the past 15 years, contributing significantly to market stability and job creation.

He argued that the new policy disregards those investments and runs counter to the government’s responsibility to create an enabling environment for private sector growth.

“No responsible government would sacrifice its own citizens’ businesses under the pretense of price relief,” Bility stated. “The petroleum terminal business is one of the few sectors built and sustained exclusively by Liberians.”

Bility, who is also the owner of Srimex Oil and Gas Company, urged the government to immediately halt the policy and instead hold transparent consultations with petroleum terminal operators.

He maintained that reforms in the sector should strengthen local businesses and benefit the Liberian people, not advance narrow political interests.

The post Rep. Musa Bility Raises Alarm Over Gov’t Decision to Slash Petroleum Storage Fees first appeared on OK FM.

The project, funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and implemented by the Government of Liberia through the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) with technical support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), seeks to strengthen community resilience against climate change and environmental hazards.

Community Participation and Benefits

During a field visit on Thursday, September 4, 2025, EPA Executive Director Dr. Emmanuel Urey Yarkpawolo and UNDP Deputy Country Representative Louis Kuukpen toured affected areas including Seebeh, Bannah, and Downtown Greenville.

Authorities confirmed that 44 locals will be recruited to work on the project, with 50% of the workforce drawn from Bannah Community, 25% from Seebeh and Downtown Greenville, and the remaining 25% from other coastal counties.

The rocks being used for the revetment are mined from Bannah Community, which has received US$25,000 as compensation for its resources.

EPA Commends Communities

Dr. Yarkpawolo praised residents for their cooperation and urged them to view the project as a collective mission to safeguard Greenville.

“You have been very supportive, and we say thank you. Rocks are already being crushed and transported to erosion sites. This project is about saving Greenville, not just creating jobs,” he told residents.

Explaining the broader causes of coastal erosion, Dr. Yarkpawolo pointed to industrial pollution from wealthier nations as a major driver of climate change.

“As ice melts in the North and South Poles, ocean levels rise, increasing erosion. Poor countries like Liberia are left most vulnerable,” he said.

UNDP Reaffirms Support

UNDP’s Louis Kuukpen said the agency’s involvement reflects its commitment to protecting vulnerable communities.

“This project is made possible by the Global Environment Facility and UNDP because we want to protect coastal communities from sea erosion. We thank you for your cooperation and encourage you to continue supporting the work,” he told residents.

Kuukpen disclosed that the Greenville Sea Revetment Project is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.

Technical Details

According to Princess Blango-Doyah, EPA’s Project Manager for the Sinoe Coastal Project, vendors have been hired to crush and haul rocks, while engineering firms are finalizing designs. Actual construction is set to begin in October 2025.

Chief Technical Advisor Engineer Anthony Nimely Chea Jr. revealed that the revetment will span 1.5 kilometers — including 800 meters in Downtown Mississippi, Greenville, and 700 meters in Seebeh Community.

An additional five wave-deflecting structures will be built near Downtown Mississippi to reduce pressure on the shoreline.

He added that, with proper maintenance, the sea defense structure could last between 25 and 50 years.

A Wall of Hope

For communities living under constant threat from the encroaching sea, the Greenville Revetment Project represents more than just a construction effort — it is a lifeline.

With international support, government leadership, and local participation, Greenville is taking its boldest step yet to withstand the destructive waves of the Atlantic.

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In Monrovia, the capital, men, women, and young people dressed in black marched through the streets holding placards with bold anti-drug messages. Their message is clear: the country’s drug crisis is spiraling out of control, and immediate, decisive action is needed.

The protesters are demanding stronger government intervention to curb the rise in drug abuse and trafficking, which they say is destroying the future of Liberia’s youth.

The issue has sparked alarm nationwide, as increasing numbers of young Liberians fall prey to dangerous substances in a country still rebuilding after years of civil conflict.

Calls echoed through the streets for more support to the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA), tougher border security, and stricter punishment for drug dealers and traffickers.

President Joseph Boakai, who has identified drug control as one of his administration’s top priorities, welcomed the protest and praised citizens for taking a stand.

In a statement, he vowed to introduce additional strategies to confront the crisis and reaffirmed his government’s commitment to fighting the scourge.

“This is a fight we must face together,” the President said. “We cannot allow drugs to steal the future of our nation. The voices of our people are loud and clear, and we will respond.”

The protest is being hailed as one of the largest civic demonstrations in Liberia in recent years, reflecting the urgency and frustration felt by many.

As the rain intensifies organizers are expressing hope that their message will struck a chord—and that action will follow.

The post Liberians Defy Heavy Rain to Demand Action Against Illicit Drugs first appeared on OK FM.

He emphasized that leveraging digital tools and innovation is essential for improving the quality and accessibility of education across West Africa.

Speaking on the third day of the ECOWAS Parliament Joint Committee’s delocalized meeting in Dakar, Diouf highlighted the potential of educational technology (EdTech) and artificial intelligence (AI) to transform learning systems in the region.

Technology as a Catalyst for Educational Reform

Diouf stressed that information and communication technology (ICT) must be viewed not just as a tool, but as a strategic asset in overhauling the region’s education sector. “By modernizing how we teach and learn, we can empower educators and learners, and close the digital divide that holds back our progress,” he said.

The meeting, which brings together members of committees on Education, Science and Culture, Health, Telecommunications, and Information Technology, focuses on ways to incorporate EdTech and AI into education policy across ECOWAS member states.

Call for Regional Collaboration and Research

During his presentation titled “The Role of the ECOWAS Parliament in Supporting EdTech and Innovation,” Diouf proposed a comprehensive regional study to examine how digital tools are being introduced at all levels of education—from early childhood to tertiary institutions. He argued that such research should inform future policies and guide the design of teacher training programs, curricula, and support systems for learners.

“It’s time for ECOWAS to champion a coordinated response to digital education,” Diouf noted. “This includes investing in teacher capacity-building, updating training models, and creating support mechanisms that can be shared across borders.”

Key Recommendations to ECOWAS Parliament

Diouf outlined several strategic actions for the Parliament:

• Develop a harmonized framework for integrating EdTech into national education systems.
• Standardize teacher training programs and learning materials across the region.

Promote research partnerships and encourage innovation within the education sector

The post Time to Digitize Education: Former MP Pushes ECOWAS Toward Innovation first appeared on OK FM.

This initiative aims to provide a better understanding of disparities in EdTech deployment across the region.
Presenting at the ongoing delocalized meeting of the Joint Committee on Education, Science and Culture, Health, Telecommunications, and Information Technology, Dr. Kassam emphasized the importance of gathering information on digital education investments from government sources, the private sector, and international donors.
“Conduct a detailed mapping of national digital learning platforms in each West African country, enabling a better understanding of disparities in EdTech deployment. Particular attention should be paid to gathering information regarding investments in digital education and EdTech from governmental sources, private sectors, and international donors,” he said.

Prioritizing EdTech in the ECOWAS Region

Presenting under the theme “Prioritizing Education Technology and Innovation in the ECOWAS Region”, Dr. Kassam encouraged authorities to further explore the impact of EdTech on the learning outcomes of vulnerable demographic groups. He noted EdTech’s vital role in both pre-service and in-service teacher training.
A member of the Plateau State House of Assembly representing Kanke State Constituency, Dr. Kassam also stressed the importance of investing in digital infrastructure—particularly power and internet connectivity—to support schools in the region.

“Further explore the impact of EdTech on the learning outcomes of vulnerable demographic groups, recognizing its potential role in both pre-service and in-service teacher training. Prioritize education technology and innovation in the ECOWAS region through key strategies,” he added.

Leveraging Technology for Access and Quality

Dr. Kassam recommended leveraging various platforms—such as radio, television, mobile phones, and online tools—to expand educational access throughout the sub-region. He emphasized the role of universities in driving economic transformation by strengthening innovation and entrepreneurship activities.
He further called for collaboration between the private sector and international partners to support innovation and entrepreneurship efforts in West Africa.
As the ECOWAS Parliament continues to address challenges confronting EdTech adoption in schools, Dr. Kassam underscored the need for regular assessments to evaluate the effectiveness of educational investments.

Challenges in ECOWAS Schools

Dr. Kassam acknowledged the significant challenges limiting innovation and widespread adoption of EdTech within the region’s education systems. He advocated for policies focused on education quality—rather than political interests—to ensure sustainability, promote stakeholder collaboration, and secure increased funding for EdTech initiatives.

“This approach will allow governments to overcome structural obstacles and improve teacher training, facilitating successful implementation across schools in West Africa,” he noted.
Dr. Kassam also stressed the importance of providing supportive infrastructure—such as electricity, internet connectivity, and digital devices—for EdTech to meaningfully improve education quality across ECOWAS.

The Role of AI in Regional Development

In another presentation, Mawuli Amoa, Acting Principal Program Officer for Telecoms and Post Policy and Regulation, highlighted the need for a dedicated Artificial Intelligence (AI) policy in West Africa.
He emphasized AI’s transformative potential across key sectors, including healthcare, finance, public service delivery, and education.

Mr. Amoa advocated for the responsible use of AI to address regional challenges such as climate change, food security, and regional security concerns. He also urged governments to mitigate risks associated with AI—such as job displacement, privacy violations, manipulation, and biased decision-making.
“AI has transformative power in key sectors like healthcare, finance, public service delivery, and education. The use of AI can offer solutions to regional challenges, but proper governance is needed to mitigate associated risks,” he said.

He stressed the importance of “locally led” AI policies that reflect regional values, contexts, and knowledge systems—rather than uncritically adopting external frameworks.

Opportunities for West Africa

Speaking on the theme “Artificial Intelligence for Education and Skills Development in West Africa”, Mr. Amoa called on leaders to strengthen standards for data management and to build a robust regional governance ecosystem.
“Improved data infrastructure and clear guidance for data access are needed,” he said.
He further emphasized the need to upskill the region’s AI talent pool and integrate AI education into curricula to build a future-ready workforce.

Looking Ahead

Members of the Joint Committee were deeply engaged by the presentations, which addressed the fundamental challenges confronting EdTech in West Africa.
Day three of the delocalized meeting will explore “The Role of ECOWAS Parliament in Advancing Regional EdTech and Innovation Policy.”

The post Bridging the Digital Divide: New Push for Education Technology in ECOWAS Schools first appeared on OK FM.

The session is centered on “Prioritizing Education Technology and Innovation in the ECOWAS Region” and serves as a platform to discuss how digital tools and AI can reshape learning systems.
The Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, Hadja Memounatou Ibrahima, speaking through her deputy Adjaratou Coulibaly, highlighted the pressing need for a comprehensive legal structure to guide AI deployment across member states.

She emphasized that digital transformation in education should be a central goal, aligned with both the ECOWAS Parliament’s mission and the expectations of West African citizens. According to Ibrhima, modern educational models are essential for the region to keep pace with global technological advancements.
According to the 2003 Protocol on Education and Training adopted in Dakar, she pointed out that while the region is rich in youth and cultural diversity, its education systems still face hurdles.

Infrastructure deficits, unequal digital access, and lagging policy implementation in some countries were identified as key barriers.
“Access to digital tools in schools must become the norm if Africa intends to compete in the global knowledge economy,” she stated. She also posed thought-provoking questions about the ethical and human dimensions of AI in classrooms, asking how education systems can remain human-centered even as AI becomes more prominent.
Senegal’s Minister of National Education, Moustapha Guirassy, echoed these sentiments while urging African nations to take charge of AI innovation rather than merely consuming technologies developed elsewhere.
He revealed that Senegal has earmarked over 1,100 billion CFA francs for education, with 130 billion dedicated specifically to digital education reforms.

According to Guirassy, AI is already influencing Senegalese education tools that track academic performance, while both teachers and students are being introduced to AI and algorithmic thinking.
He proposed a regional agreement—a West Africa AI Pact—focused on ethical government, local language integration, and long-term strategy for AI in schools.
As discussions continue in Dakar, participants aim to draft actionable regional policies to ensure that technology uplifts education without leaving any child behind.

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