Renewed Call For Gbarnga Commercial Capital Status Surfaces

Prominent Bong County businessman Varney S. Browne has renewed calls for the Government of Liberia and members of the Bong County Legislative Caucus to consider designating Gbarnga as the country’s Commercial Capital, arguing that the proposal could stimulate economic growth, attract investment and promote balanced national development.

In a formal communication dated November 26, 2024, Browne urged members of the Bong County Legislative Caucus at the 55th National Legislature to champion the proposal and engage the national government on measures needed to make it a reality.

He argued that despite Bong County’s natural resources and strategic importance, the county continues to face major development challenges, partly because of limited financial investment and the lasting effects of Liberia’s civil conflict.

Browne identified Gbarnga’s geographical location as one of its strongest advantages, describing the city as a potential commercial centre connecting several counties and facilitating trade between Monrovia and Liberia’s northern, eastern and southeastern regions.

He also pointed to road connections linking the area to Guinea and Ivory Coast, saying these routes could provide opportunities for cross-border commerce and stronger regional economic cooperation.

According to him, granting Gbarnga Commercial Capital status could help reduce the concentration of economic activities in Monrovia by encouraging businesses and investors to establish operations in the country’s interior.

He believes such a move could generate employment, expand business opportunities, improve public services and create additional sources of revenue for the government.

The businessman further identified infrastructure development, rural investment, private-sector participation and tourism as major areas that could benefit from the proposed initiative.

He called for increased investment in electricity, safe drinking water, telecommunications, roads, healthcare and education, arguing that these services are essential to creating an environment where businesses can operate and communities can prosper.

Browne also highlighted Bong County’s tourism potential, particularly Kpatawee Waterfall and other natural and cultural attractions, which he believes could support tourism development and generate economic opportunities for local residents.

He further urged the government to prioritize Gbarnga’s urban development through improved streets, avenues, alleys and recreational facilities.

 Browne said  the proposal goes beyond changing the administrative or commercial identity of a city. He believes it could provide an opportunity to redistribute economic activities, strengthen regional development and expand investment beyond the capital.

However, achieving the proposed status would require deliberate government action, including policy consideration, infrastructure investment and an appropriate legislative framework.

He has then called on the Bong County Legislative Caucus to take ownership of the initiative and engage the national government on its feasibility and implementation.

Browne maintained that positioning Gbarnga as Liberia’s Commercial Capital could become an important step towards economic diversification and more balanced national development.