By Rolinda J. Kantan
MONROVIA, May 22 (LINA) – Liberia Water and Sewer Corporation (LWSC) Managing Director, Mohammed Ali, has revealed that the country’s water and sewage systems face critical financial and infrastructure challenges, but said bold reforms are underway to reverse the tide.
Speaking Wednesday, May 21, 2025, during Day Seven of the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning ongoing Deep Dive series at the Liberia Water and Sewer Corporation (LWSC), Mohammed Ali disclosed that many of Liberia’s water pipelines date as far back as 1953 but stressed that the biggest hurdle is not age – it’s poor revenue collection.
“In the first quarter of 2025, we billed US$1.5 million but collected only US$545,000,” he said. “That’s just a 36 percent collection rate. If we just collect 90 percent of what we bill, we can operate sustainably and grow.”
To improve efficiency, Ali said the LWSC is piloting prepaid water services and is exploring opportunities within the sewage sector, which he described as a “potential goldmine.”
He added: “If managed properly, it can be more profitable than water,” while reminding Monrovia residents that all homes within the city’s sewage network are legally required to connect.
In a moment of pride, the LWSC boss announced that the government has fully funded new water systems in Greenville, Pleebo, and Zwedru using only domestic resources. According to him, this demonstrates Liberia’s commitment to stepping up its own investment and sets the tone for stronger development partnerships.
Meanwhile, Finance and Development Planning Minister, Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan reaffirmed the government’s focus on accountability and efficiency in public spending, particularly in the water and sanitation sector.
Minister Ngafuan described water as “the heart of the government’s focus” and noted that effective use of public funds is key to unlocking more support from both government and donors. “If you can justify the use of a nickel, you’re making a claim for dimes,” he said.
He also applauded growing partnerships, especially with the World Bank, and acknowledged that expectations for the sector are rising—adding that the sector’s head is now affectionately called “Mo Water.”
The Ministry’s Deep Dive series continues to spotlight sector-wide challenges, progress, and partnerships – one deep dive at a time.
