The World Bank has appointed Robert Taliercio O’Brien as Country Director for Ghana, Liberia, and Sierra Leone in the Western and Central Africa Region. His appointment takes effect from January 2, 2024, and he will be based in the World Bank’s Accra Office.

Taliercio, an American national, joined the World Bank in 2000 as a Young Professional in the Africa region and has served as Practice Manager, Lead Economist, and Country Economist in multiple regions, including East Asia and the Pacific, Europe and Central Asia, and Africa. His most recent assignment has been as Regional Director in the Latin America and Caribbean Region for the Equitable Growth, Finance, and Institutions (EFI) Department.

Prior to joining the World Bank, Taliercio was a Lecturer in Public Finance at the Harvard Institute for International Development and a Manager for HIID’s Program on Investment Appraisal and Management. He also served as a visiting professor at the Bolivian Catholic University. He has written on public finance policy and administration in academic journals, books, and development publications. He has received service awards from the Ministers of Finance of the Republic of Korea and the Kingdom of Cambodia.

In his new position, Taliercio’s top three priorities will be to (i) lead the Bank’s strategic dialogue with these countries and support the implementation of the Africa Region’s priorities, (ii) deepen the policy dialogue and partnership with governments, and key stakeholders, and (iii) oversee the delivery and implementation of the lending and non-lending portfolio.

Taliercio holds a Ph.D. and a Masters in Public Policy from Harvard University, a Master of Arts in Latin American Studies from Stanford University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Public and International Affairs from Princeton University. He has written on public finance policy and administration in academic journals, books, and development publications.

Joseph Boakai, former Vice President and a veteran politician with 40 years of experience, has been sworn in as Liberia’s new president after winning the election against outgoing President George Weah.

During his campaign, Boakai emphasized his commitment to addressing key challenges faced by the country, including corruption, poverty, and infrastructural development.

The inauguration ceremony, held on Capitol Hill in Monrovia, was attended by various foreign leaders and diplomatic delegations, highlighting the significance of this transition of power. Boakai’s election victory signifies hope for the Liberian people, who have long-awaited efforts to combat corruption and improve their living conditions.

Liberia, with a population of 5 million, has experienced its fair share of challenges, including corruption, poverty, and a weak justice system, due to years of civil war. Many citizens hope that Boakai’s presidency will bring positive change, such as job creation, economic improvement, institution strengthening, and the fight against corruption.

Furthermore, there are expectations for him to prioritize the provision of stable electricity and water, as well as enhance the road infrastructure to attract investments. The outgoing government’s failure to establish a war and economic crimes court and address impunity has left unresolved issues from the civil wars.

Additionally, concerns have been raised regarding the mysterious deaths of four government auditors during this period. Despite these challenges, Boakai’s reputation for leading a life free from corruption has raised hopes among Liberians.

They anticipate that his experience and dedication will pave the way for a brighter future, marked by improved living conditions and a more prosperous nation.