Ex-Public Works Minister Calls for Inclusive Approach to Liberia’s Infrastructure Development

MONROVIA, LIBERIA: Former Minister of Public Works, Ruth Coker-Collins, stressed the need for government-private experts collaboration towards transforming the infrastructure sector of Liberia.

By: Emmanuel George 

Madam Coker-Collins, a career engineer, statement comes after being sidelined from a national infrastructure conference currently being held in Gompa City, Nimba County.

The conference, organized by the Government of Liberia through the Ministry of Public Works, has brought together government officials, engineers, policymakers, and development partners to deliberate on key challenges and opportunities within Liberia’s infrastructure sector.

In an open letter addressed to Public Works Minister Roland Giddings, Collins said she was not invited to attend or participate in the conference, despite her prior service as minister and her extensive professional experience.

Collins who served under the immediate past Coalition for Democratic Change's administration noted that infrastructure development is an ongoing national responsibility that should rise above political transitions.

She underscored the importance of institutional memory, technical expertise, and collaboration among past and present leaders in promoting sustainable infrastructure development.

The former Public Works Minister said such conferences provide critical platforms for knowledge-sharing, reflection on past lessons, and the strengthening of professional collaboration across generations of leadership. 

According to Collins, the inclusion of former ministers and senior professionals helps ensure continuity, enhances policy discussions, and reinforces the notion that national development is a collective responsibility.

She emphasized that her concerns do not intend to criticize the current administration, but a move to ensure competent individuals are valued to contribute to national development.

The Gompa City conference is focused on addressing priority areas such as road networks, public buildings, and other critical infrastructure essential to national development.