By: Melvin Flomo
Monrovia, Liberia – May 27, 2026 — Grand Kru County Senator Numene T. H. Bartekwa has called for greater private sector participation in Liberia’s public utility sectors, stating that the government alone may not have the financial capacity to adequately provide essential services across the country.
In a communication submitted to plenary on Tuesday, May 26, Senator Bartekwa, who chairs the Senate Committee on Concession and Investment, encouraged the Liberian government to consider expanding Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) and private investment opportunities in sectors including electricity, aviation, water, sanitation, and transportation.
According to the senator, Liberia continues to face major infrastructural and economic challenges that require collaborative efforts between government and private institutions.
“Government cannot continue pretending it can do everything alone,” Senator Bartekwa stated during his communication before the Liberian Senate, while emphasizing the need for government to focus more on regulation and policy oversight while allowing private entities to support service delivery.
Telecom Sector Highlighted as an Example
Senator Bartekwa pointed to Liberia’s telecommunications sector as an example of how private sector participation can improve services and expand access for citizens.
He referenced companies such as Orange Liberia and Lonestar Cell MTN, noting that increased competition in the telecom industry helped improve connectivity and communication services across Liberia.
According to him, a similar approach could help strengthen other public utility sectors.
Electricity Sector Concerns Raised
The senator also raised concerns about the current state of electricity access in Liberia, particularly the challenges facing the Liberia Electricity Corporation.
While acknowledging reported efforts to expand electricity coverage, Bartekwa noted that many Liberians still lack access to stable and affordable power supply.
He further observed that electricity costs in Liberia remain higher than in some neighboring countries, creating difficulties for businesses and households.
“Businesses are suffering while goods continue spoiling because stable electricity remains a luxury instead of a basic necessity,” he reportedly stated.
According to Senator Bartekwa, increased private investment could help improve maintenance, reduce power losses, expand electricity access, and lower operational costs over time.
Aviation and Infrastructure Development
The Grand Kru lawmaker also spoke about Liberia’s aviation infrastructure, encouraging the government to explore more partnerships aimed at modernizing airport facilities and attracting additional international investment.
He noted that countries such as Ghana, Benin, and Togo have undertaken airport modernization initiatives through various partnership arrangements.
The senator further referenced international airlines including Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and Air France while discussing the importance of improving Liberia’s infrastructure to attract broader international engagement.
Call for Policy Discussions
Senator Bartekwa additionally addressed concerns surrounding water and sewer management systems, particularly in Monrovia, stating that improved investment and management structures could help strengthen service delivery.
He also defended the role of the Liberia Industry Regulatory Authority, noting that regulatory institutions are important in ensuring accountability and proper oversight when private entities participate in national development projects.
The senator urged Senate leadership and the Executive Branch to begin broader policy discussions surrounding private participation in critical infrastructure sectors.
According to Bartekwa, many countries around the world, including the United States, United Kingdom, and France, continue to rely on partnerships with private institutions to support the delivery of public services.
His communication is expected to generate discussions among policymakers, economists, business leaders, and citizens regarding the future management and development of Liberia’s essential public utilities.
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