Monrovia, Liberia – The Civil Service Agency (CSA) of the Government of Liberia has officially launched the National Consultancy Policy Guidelines. The goal of the calculated action was to consolidate government entities’ management and coordination of consulting services.
Through this action, the government aimed to optimize the distribution of money designated for consulting services, guaranteeing that they meet crucial government requirements in situations where current staffing and capabilities are insufficient.
The framework’s emphasis on performance evaluation and responsibility is a crucial component. This change in emphasis from merely employment extension to demonstrable results is crucial in transforming the consulting landscape within the government. Consultants and consulting firms are now obliged to achieve key performance measures established by contracting entities and regulated by the CSA.
Speaking at the event, CSA Director General Josiah F. Joekai stated that the organization’s new leadership has taken a proactive approach to addressing the problem of systemic corruption and strengthening the institutional capacity of the government. This is demonstrated by the creation of extensive policy guidelines for the efficient management of consultancies throughout the Central Government.
These policy guidelines were carefully crafted to guarantee cost-effectiveness and strict performance responsibility for consultants employed, the CSA Director added. In the fiscal year 2024, the CSA has suggested capping consulting expenses at US$2 million as part of this reform initiative. This sensible action will result in a USA $1 million cost savings, which will limit excesses and eradicate corruption that afflicted the consulting industry during the Weah administration.
The implementation of this fiscal discipline and accountability system by the government will protect public resources and create an environment that is conducive to real progress and development initiatives.
The President stated that the framework document launch on Tuesday, April 30, 2024 in Congo Town is a noble cause in his government’s effort to purify the nation’s system of good governance.
The Liberian Leader claimed that the introduction of the policy framework and its meticulous creation represent a significant achievement of his administration’s one hundred day deliverables, which also includes his administration’s continuous effort to maximize the use of consulting services by government agencies.
President Boakai informed the audience that the carefully considered rules not only deviate from globally recognized benchmarks for ensuring efficiency and responsible resource management, but they also offer valuable tools for the government to combat waste and favoritism.
Amb. Boakai also stressed that the document will optimize the caliber of expert services, indicating a more optimistic future for government operations.
The head of Liberia emphasized that the policy tool gives the CSA more authority to supervise the hiring of independent consultants and consulting firms.
The Chief Executive declared that one of the policy’s objectives is to create a benchmark for the deployment of consulting services across all government agencies and to establish a consistent procurement process.
“This initiative primarily focuses on efficient management, maximize value for money leading to practices observed in leading economies worldwide. The policy also reflects government commitment to accountability and result oriented government in line with the “ARREST” Agenda.
