Introduction
This advocacy brief outlines the critical importance of legislating a National Master Development Plan (NMDP) to ensure long-term stability, coordinated growth, and sustainable development in Liberia. It calls on national stakeholdersโincluding lawmakers, civil society, and development partnersโto support the formal adoption of a legally binding master plan.
Why a Legislated National Master Development Plan Matters
- Legal Continuity and Policy Stability
By enshrining the development plan in law, Liberia ensures it remains binding across political transitions. This prevents sudden shifts in policy direction and sustains progress. - Budget Alignment and Development Efficiency
Legislation requires all ministries and agencies to align their budgets and activities with the national plan, avoiding duplication and improving coordination. - National Unity and Vision
A legislated plan serves as a unifying blueprint for all Liberians, aligning development goals across counties and sectors and fostering inclusive national identity. - Attracting Investment and Donor Confidence
A clear, legislated development framework signals to investors and donors that Liberia is serious about development, boosting funding and private sector engagement. - Accountability and Measurable Impact
The law can define specific targets, performance indicators, and enforcement mechanisms, empowering Parliament and civil society to track progress and demand results. - Decentralization and Regional Development
A national plan ensures equitable development by mandating inclusion of all counties and aligning local plans with national priorities. - Sustainability and Resilience
Legislation can mandate integration of climate adaptation, disaster preparedness, and environmental protection into national planning.
Call to Action
We urge the Liberian Legislature, in collaboration with national planning authorities and civil society, to draft, review, and pass a National Master Development Plan Act. This law will secure Liberiaโs long-term development vision, improve governance, attract investment, and protect our nationโs resources and future generations.
