By: Julius Konton
Liberia’s Minister of Finance and Development Planning, Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan, has called on public sector employees to uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism, stressing that efficient service delivery begins with ethical leadership and sound financial literacy.
Speaking during a two day strategic planning retreat themed “Transforming Priorities into Strategies: Pathway to Efficient Service Delivery”, Minister Ngafuan laid out a compelling vision for reform and performance within the Ministry.
“We Must Be Custodians, Not Consumers”, A Call for Ethical Stewardship
Addressing senior staff and employees, Ngafuan emphasized that as custodians of the nation’s financial resources, integrity must be non negotiable.
“We have to protect the nation’s resources and ensure they are directed toward national priorities outlined in the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development,” he said.
Ngafuan noted that systems and structures must be built not only to punish wrongdoing but to prevent integrity breaches through modern technological controls.
No Room for ‘Monkeys in Charge of Bananas’
In a moment of pointed metaphor, the Minister reminded staff of their responsibility:
“You are the ones taking care of the country’s bananas, so don’t be the monkeys,” he said, warning against misuse of entrusted resources.
He urged employees to stay focused on national development targets, such as closing infrastructure gaps, improving road networks, and enhancing government partnerships.
Bridging the Financial Literacy Gap
Highlighting a pressing issue, Ngafuan addressed the growing disconnect between financial reporting and public understanding, which he believes contributes to mistrust in government institutions.
“There is serious financial illiteracy among the population,” he warned. “Even those of you who are working diligently are often misjudged due to a lack of understanding of financial processes.”
He cited the 2024 audit report, which received a qualified opinion, noting that public misinterpretation stemmed largely from misunderstanding technical audit language.
Accurate Reporting Builds Public Trust
To counter misinformation and enhance transparency, Ngafuan said accurate and timely reporting must be a core pillar of the Ministry’s strategy.
“Liberians expect us to report, not only on time, but accurately,” he emphasized. “Our stakeholders, including citizens and development partners, rely on us to communicate clearly.”
Reports such as the Open Budget Initiative and Citizens’ Budget were singled out as critical tools in building public trust and increasing citizen engagement.
Boosting Efficiency and Ending Delays
The Minister also took aim at internal inefficiencies, pushing for a cultural shift toward faster turnaround times, improved service delivery, and reduced dependency on expeditors.
“There are too many unapproved delays. I want things to move , and move fast with efficient systems in place,” he declared.
He believes the Ministry has the capacity to streamline operations and reduce bottlenecks if the team remains committed and responsive.
Recognizing Hard Work, But Demanding More
Ngafuan closed the retreat by acknowledging the hard work of his staff while encouraging them to remain vigilant and consistent.
“The government and the people of Liberia are depending on us,” he said. “Let’s rise to the challenge.”
About the Retreat
The strategic planning session was designed to align internal operations with the government’s ARREST Agenda, focusing on Accountability, Reconciliation, Reform, Empowerment, Stabilization, and Transformation.
With renewed calls for integrity, accuracy, and efficiency, Minister Ngafuan has drawn a clear roadmap for a stronger, more trusted Ministry of Finance in Liberia.
