Public Works Must Focus On Policy Formulation

The Ministry of Public Works has been urged to focus on policy formulation and coordination to ensure the transformation of the Infrastructure Implementation Unit (IIU) to the National Road Authority.

Outgoing Program Director of (IIU), Mr. Akindele Beckley assured Public Works Minister Kofi Woods that if the policy formulation pattern is followed in the road construction plans, Liberia will benefit from the IIU implementation study similar to those in Kenya, Namibia and Ethiopia.

The internationally acclaimed infrastructure and road expert joined the Ministry in 2009 where he worked as Program Director of the IIU. Prior to his appointment as head of IIU, Mr. Beckley worked in several countries including Sierra Leone and Ghana. Mr. Beckley spoke last week when the Ministry of Public Works him honored at a Special Senior Management Team Meeting.

Sharing his experience while serving as head of IIU, Mr. Beckley said he enjoyed the atmosphere and environment under which he steered the affairs of the Infrastructure Unit during the administration of Minister Woods.

He recommended the setting up of a road fund to be used exclusively for operation cost and road maintenance.

Mr. Woods commended Mr. Beckley for his contribution to the rebuilding process of Liberia by timely and successfully executing all projects entrusted to him.

As head of the IIU), Mr. Beckley managed several World Bank funded projects in Liberia including Monrovia city streets, King Zolu Duma Bridge, Monrovia-Buchanan highway and concluded arrangements leading to the signing of the Redlight to Gbarnga highway, Mr. Woods indicated.