By: Akoi M. Baysah, Jr.
Following a high-level engagement with the Task Team of the African Development Bank, the Liberia Special Economic Zones Authority (LSEZA) has reaffirmed its commitment to driving Liberia’s industrialization agenda.
The meeting, held Tuesday, underscored the growing partnership between LSEZA and AfDB, with both institutions highlighting progress made in laying the groundwork for the establishment of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) across Liberia.
Speaking during the engagement, LSEZA officials expressed gratitude to the AfDB for its sustained support, particularly in helping to establish the Authority’s office and administrative systems.
The Authority noted that such foundational assistance has strengthened its capacity to effectively coordinate and implement SEZ-related initiatives nationwide.
“We appreciate the African Development Bank for its unwavering support, which has been critical in positioning LSEZA to deliver on its mandate,” the Authority said.
Key discussions centered on developments at the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) project in Buchanan, Grand Bassa County.
LSEZA disclosed that more than 210 hectares of land have already been secured and fenced, while access roads to the site are under construction.
Efforts are also underway to ensure stable electricity supply, considered essential for attracting investors and supporting industrial operations.
According to LSEZA, these milestones represent major steps toward operationalizing the zone and unlocking opportunities for agro-processing, value addition, and job creation.
The AfDB Task Team welcomed the progress, describing it as encouraging and indicative of strong leadership and coordination by LSEZA.
The Bank recommitted to supporting Liberia’s economic transformation, particularly through initiatives that promote private sector investment and industrial expansion.
Both sides also explored avenues for strengthening collaboration, including the introduction of innovative financing mechanisms, development of a competitive incentive framework, and targeted strategies to attract both local and international investors.
The partnership between LSEZA and AfDB is essential to Liberia’s long-term development ambitions, as Special Economic Zones are expected to serve as hubs for industrial growth, export promotion, and employment generation.
