Northern Liberia has entered a new chapter of development.
The latest followed the official dedication of the 81-kilometer Gbarnga–Salayea Highway on Tuesday, July 28. In his dedicatory remark, President Joseph Nyuma Boakai described the latest development as a landmark infrastructure project that is expected to strengthen regional connectivity, expand economic opportunities, and improve the lives of Liberians.
The newly completed highway, which connects Bong and Lofa counties, forms part of the strategic Gbarnga–Voinjama–Mendikorma corridor, and is expected to serve as a vital gateway for commerce, agriculture, and cross-county transportation.
Public Works Minister, Roland Layfette Giddings, announced that the road has reached approximately 99 percent physical completion despite years of delays.
Giddings described the project as a major achievement for the government, and development partners. He said, it will significantly improve the movement of people, and goods while reducing travel time between the two counties.
Giddings said, the highway will provide farmers with easier access to markets, lower transportation costs for businesses, and create new opportunities for investment, and economic growth throughout the north. He emphasized how improved road infrastructure remains central to the government’s development agenda. Pres. Boakai reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transform Liberia through sustained investment in infrastructure. He said, road development remains one of the government’s highest priorities, “because it directly improves access to education, healthcare, trade, and other essential public services.” “Every completed road strengthens national unity by connecting communities that have long faced transportation challenges.” Boakai assured that his administration will continue pursuing similar projects to promote inclusive development, and accelerate economic progress. Bong County Superintendent, Hawa Norris and Lofa County Superintendent, Lavelah Massaquoi, welcomed the completion of the highway. They described the project as a long-awaited achievement for residents in the two counties. They praised the government for delivering the project, and pledged to work with local communities to protect, and maintain the road for future generations.
The Gbarnga–Salayea Highway was financed through the support of the Saudi Fund for Development, the OPEC Fund for International Development, the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, and the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa.
