Joseta Neufville-Wento, the Manager of Liberia's National Road Fund (NRF), has emerged as a transformative figure in the country's infrastructure development sector. Despite facing politically charged allegations and targeted smear campaigns, her tenure has been marked by significant strides in road maintenance, fiscal accountability, and international collaboration. Wento's leadership reflects a forward-thinking approach to infrastructure financing, aligning with President Joseph Boakai's agenda to modernize Liberia's road network and unlock economic potential.
A Visionary Leader on the Global Stage
Wento's appointment May 2024 to the Executive Board of the Africa Road Maintenance Fund Association (ARMFA) justifies her growing influence beyond Liberia. As Chairperson for West Africa, she is tasked with devising strategies to improve road maintenance funding across the region2. This recognition not only elevates Liberia's profile in regional infrastructure development but also showcases Wento's commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration on a continental scale. Her participation in high-level discussions at ARMFA has positioned Liberia as a key player in shaping Africa's road financing future2.
Strengthening Accountability and Compliance
Under Wento's leadership, the NRF has prioritized transparency and accountability in its operations. She has taken a hardline stance against contractors delivering substandard work, warning that payments will be withheld until projects meet contractual standards5. Her unannounced site visits to major road projects—such as New Matadi Drive and Thinkers Village—have reinforced this zero-tolerance policy. By linking payments to deliverables and ensuring compliance with financial regulations, Wento has set a new benchmark for public sector accountability in Liberia5.
Innovations in Road Safety and Maintenance
Wento has expanded the NRF's mandate to include road safety measures, such as the installation of solar lights in Grand Cape Mount County. While critics have questioned this initiative, Wento has defended it as essential for improving safety along major corridors. Her focus on integrating lighting into road infrastructure reflects a broader vision of sustainable development that prioritizes both functionality and safety6.
Additionally, her participation in international workshops—such as the Bridge Management and Inspection Workshop in Milan—has introduced advanced techniques and technologies to Liberia's infrastructure sector3. Wento is now spearheading efforts to develop a bridge management system for routine inspections, ensuring that maintenance is data-driven and cost-effective3.
Aligning with President Boakai's ARREST Agenda
Wento's work aligns closely with President Boakai's ARREST (Agriculture, Roads, Railways, Electricity, Schools, Technology) agenda, which emphasizes infrastructure as a cornerstone of national development7. Recognizing that poor road connectivity hinders rural development and economic growth, Wento has channeled NRF resources into projects that facilitate quality. Her initiatives directly support Boakai's vision of transforming Liberia into a more interconnected and economically vibrant nation7.
Political Sabotage or Genuine Scrutiny?
Despite her achievements, Wento has faced politically motivated attacks from factions seeking to undermine her leadership. Allegations of financial mismanagement—such as claims surrounding the BLECO Group contract—appear to be part of a calculated effort to discredit her administration68. Critics point to former lawmaker Hassan Kiazolu as a key figure behind these campaigns, reportedly angling for control of the NRF. Kiazolu's controversial track record raises questions about whether his motives are rooted in reform or personal gain.
Defending Against Smear Campaigns
The NRF has categorically refuted allegations of corruption under Wento's tenure, citing compliance with Liberia's Public Procurement and Concessions Commission (PPCC) guidelines. The BLECO Group contract, for example, was approved following rigorous evaluation processes. Furthermore, Wento has emphasized that all payments are tied to deliverables—a practice designed to ensure value for money and prevent misuse of funds5.
Wento herself has described these allegations as "bogus" and part of a broader campaign to derail progress at the NRF. Her firm response signals an unwillingness to back down in the face of political interference6.
International Credibility Amid Domestic Challenges
Wento's active engagement with international partners has bolstered Liberia's credibility on the global stage. Her leadership at ARMFA and participation in global workshops demonstrate her commitment to adopting best practices in infrastructure management23. These efforts have not only enhanced Liberia's technical capacity but have also attracted potential partnerships for future projects.
A Defining Moment for Infrastructure Reform
As political forces continue to target Wento's leadership at the NRF, her ability to maintain focus on Liberia's development priorities will be critical. The stakes are high: her removal could disrupt ongoing reforms and embolden those seeking to exploit public resources for personal gain. Conversely, her resilience could solidify her legacy as one of Liberia's most effective public sector leaders16. Her tenure serves as both a blueprint for effective governance and a cautionary tale about the challenges faced by reformers in politically volatile environments.
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References:
https://gnnliberia.com/the-success-story-of-nrf-under-boniface-satu-five-years-tenure-a-complete-report/LIBERIA: Neufville-Wento Steers NRF Through Reforms Amid Smear CampaignsLIBERIA: Neufville-Wento Steers NRF Through Reforms Amid Smear Campaigns
https://frontpageafricaonline.com/author/contributing-writer/page/125/
https://nrf.gov.lr/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/NRF-FEB-02-1.pdf
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