Dr. Q. Somah Paygai, a renowned Liberian economist and clergyman, has put forward a series of economic policy recommendations to President Joseph N. Boakai. These recommendations aim to address the pervasive issue of poverty in Liberia.
Dr. Paygai, an Associate Pastor of the Lucia B. Paygai Bpatist Church in Marshall, Margibi County, Paygai emphasized the need for proactive measures that transcend the outdated “trickle-down” theory of economic development.
Speaking recently in the City of Marshall at the 124th Sunday School Convention of the Good Baptist Church in Margibi County, the renowned Liberian economist, politician, educator and clergyman, who contested the 2005 Presidential and Legislative Elections as a vice presidential candidate on ticket of the former ruling National Patriotic Party (NPP), pointed out the need to facilitating access to affordable credit through micro-credit and group banking initiatives.
He highlighted the importance of promoting income-generating opportunities, such as making markets work for the poor, and supporting dignified employment with measures like equal pay for equal work. Additionally, he suggested the increasingly popular measure of cash transfers to alleviate economic poverty.
Building Human Capacity
To build human capacity, Dr. Paygai, also a former Vice President for Administration at the faith-based African Methodist Episcopal University (AMEU), recommended promoting access to education for all, with targeted scholarships for girls and other disadvantaged children. He emphasized the need for vocational skills training and a variety of other training schemes, particularly for disadvantaged groups.
Addressing Political Aspects of Poverty
As a prelate in the Baptist Church, Dr. Paygai’s recommendations include informing disadvantaged people of their rights and providing access to legal support. He also suggested facilitating collective action and building public speaking and negotiation capacities to empower marginalized communities.
Addressing Socio-Cultural Aspects of Poverty
Recognizing the importance of socio-cultural factors, Dr. Paygai called for interventions that facilitate the full and equal representation of different groups in community decision-making processes. He stressed the need to work with both men and women to combat gender-based violence and mutilation, and to support discriminated groups and individuals in claiming their human rights.
Economic Management
Dr. Paygai underscored the necessity of overhauling the structure and system of managing Liberia’s economy to improve accountability, transparency, and efficiency. He advocated for fiscal policies that are relevant and supportive of national economic and social development.
Monetary Policy and Financial Services
Among other things, Dr. Paygai’s recommendations included reforms in monetary policy and financial services to ensure they align with the broader goals of economic and social development in Liberia.
