ECOWAS Launches Modern Energy Data System for Liberia to Strengthen Energy Data System.
By Raymond Enoch
In a landmark step towards transforming energy governance in West Africa, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has officially launched a cutting-edge Energy Information System (LEIS) in Liberia, bolstering the country’s capacity to collect, manage, and utilize critical energy data for policy-making and sustainable development.
The Liberia Energy Information System (LEIS), developed through the ECOWAS Commission’s Energy and Mines Directorate, is the latest milestone in regional efforts to strengthen the energy data ecosystem. Backed by both technical and financial support, the LEIS aims to fill longstanding gaps in data availability and reliability in Liberia’s energy sector.
The initiative culminated in a week-long intensive training from June 30 to July 3, 2025, hosted in Monrovia, where Liberian stakeholders received hands-on instruction on energy database management, data collection methodologies, indicator development for electricity, petroleum, biomass, and greenhouse gas emissions.
The official launch took place on July 4, 2025, in the presence of key national and regional dignitaries, including:
Hon. Wilmot J. M. Paye, Liberia’s Minister of Mines and Energy
Hon. Charles Umehai, Minister of Energy
Mr. Bayaornibè Dabiré, Director of Energy and Mines, ECOWAS Commission
Senior representatives from LERC, LEC, and NOCAL
Speaking at the unveiling ceremony, Minister Wilmot J. M. Paye lauded the initiative, stating:
“This system marks a turning point for Liberia’s energy sector. It addresses a major deficit in data reliability and enables us to move forward with transparency, evidence-based planning, and strategic energy development.”
Echoing this sentiment, ECOWAS’ Energy and Mines Director, Mr. Bayaornibè Dabiré, emphasized the transformative power of information, declaring:
“Information is power—but only if it is shared, reliable, and well used. With this system, Liberia has the tools to chart a more resilient, equitable, and sustainable energy future.”
The LEIS promises to become a cornerstone of Liberia’s energy planning and policy infrastructure, enabling decision-makers to assess needs accurately, track national energy performance, and align with regional and global sustainability goals.
As ECOWAS continues to push for greater integration and development across West Africa, the launch of LEIS stands as a testament to what regional cooperation can achieve—turning data into action and powering progress, one system at a time.
