Bong County, Liberia – September 22, 2025 – Funding partners of the Recovery of Economic Activity for Liberian Informal Sector Employment (REALISE) Project have expressed satisfaction with the project’s positive impact on the lives of its beneficiaries across the 14 counties of Liberia.
The REALISE Project, a government-led initiative aimed at revitalizing economic activity and creating jobs in Liberia’s informal sector, is supported by a consortium of international financiers with a total portfolio of $42 million. The World Bank is the lead financier, contributing $30 million, followed by the French Government with $9.5 million, and the Swedish Government, which has pledged $2.5 million.
During a field visit to Bong County on Monday, World Bank Country Manager for Liberia, Georgia Wallen, expressed enthusiasm about the project’s impact. Madam Wallen interacted directly with beneficiaries, listening to first-hand accounts of how the project has helped improve livelihoods and economic conditions.
“Sustainability is a major issue that must be addressed to ensure long-term benefits for communities,” she noted. “We are committed to working with the Government of Liberia under the ARREST agenda to support national development,” Madam Wallen added.
The ARREST Agenda is the Liberian government’s strategic development framework focused on agriculture, roads, education, sanitation, and tourism as key pillars of national transformation.
Also speaking during the visit, French Ambassador to Liberia, Isabelle LE GUELLEC, emphasized the project’s contribution to food security.
“The REALISE Project has created an opportunity for beneficiaries to continue producing more food for themselves and their communities,” she said.
In his remarks, Swedish Ambassador to Liberia, Karl Backéus, highlighted the importance of women’s empowerment in sustainable development.
“Women’s empowerment is central to national growth. When one woman is empowered, an entire generation is uplifted. That’s why we must place more focus on supporting women,” Ambassador Backéus stated.
The REALISE Project continues to serve as a beacon of hope for thousands of Liberians working in the informal economy, especially women and youth, by offering skills training, startup capital, and access to local markets.
