– Finance Minister declares
By Jerromie S. Walters
The Government of President Joseph Boakai has unveiled a draft national budget for 2025 that promises substantial salary enhancements for approximately 28,200 government employees, representing 45% of the public workforce. This proposal, pending approval from the Legislature, is part of what government officials characterized as President Boakai’s broader agenda to address longstanding salary concerns within the public sector.
The draft budget allocates over $16 million specifically to tackle salary disparities and challenges faced by government workers. President Boakai has mandated that starting January 2025, no central government employee will earn less than $150 in monthly gross salary, a move aimed at ensuring a minimum standard of living for all civil servants.
Targeted Salary Increases for Health Workers
Among the key highlights of the proposed budget is a dedicated salary increase for health workers. Nurses, midwives, and physician assistants are set to receive a monthly salary top-up of $50, while other health personnel will see increases ranging from $25 to $40, depending on their qualifications and roles. This initiative underscores the administration’s commitment to supporting those on the front lines of healthcare.
Support for Educators
In recognition of the vital role played by teachers in the education sector, the budget allocates approximately $3 million to benefit nearly 2,000 educators holding C-Certificates, B-Certificates, and Associate and Bachelor’s degrees who are currently earning below their respective pay grades. This adjustment aims to align their salaries with their qualifications and experience, marking a significant step toward equity in compensation for educators.
Specialist Doctors and Volunteer Staff
As part of the initial efforts to regularize pay structures, specialist doctors earning below their designated pay grades will receive a salary increase of $225. Furthermore, President Boakai has earmarked $2.6 million for a startup initiative designed to address the concerns of volunteer teachers and nurses, highlighting the administration’s commitment to improving conditions for all educational and healthcare professionals.
Insurance Coverage for Police Officers
In a bid to enhance the welfare of law enforcement personnel, the draft budget includes provisions for comprehensive insurance coverage for 5,000 police officers, fully funded by the administration. This initiative aims to provide peace of mind and security for those tasked with maintaining safety and order in the community.
Next Steps
The proposed budget is currently under review by the Legislature, where lawmakers will deliberate on the executive’s recommendations. If approved, these measures could significantly uplift the financial status of civil servants across various sectors, fostering a more motivated and dedicated public workforce.
