The Minister of Youth and Sports, Cornelia Wonkerleh Kruah, has expressed serious concern over the deplorable state of the River Gee Sports Stadium and Youth Center, saying they’re not suitable for youth development. During a recent visit to River Gee County, Minister Kruah emphasized that the facilities are inadequate for meaningful sports activities and youth engagement. The ministry has planned to collaborate with the Government of Liberia and the County Council to renovate the facilities, aiming to promote sports development, empower young people, and strengthen community activities. Minister Kruah also pledged to advocate for a community college in River Gee County, citing the lack of local higher education options as a challenge for high school graduates. To support local students, 20 scholarships will be awarded exclusively to sons and daughters of River Gee County. The River Gee Sports Stadium has been in a poor state, with a damaged roof and flooding issues, and was previously used for significant events like the National County Sports Meet. At the same time, a coalition of youth organizations in River Gee County, united as “One River Gee Youth”, has sounded the alarm, urging the national government to intervene in the escalating crisis affecting young people in the county. Their concerns linked to a dire education system, crippling unemployment, and a growing drug addiction problem. In a petition to the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the youth expressed frustration over systemic neglect, limited opportunities, and lack of institutional support. “Despite our willingness to contribute to national development, we’re being left behind,” they lamented. The youth highlighted the poor state of the county’s technical and multilateral schools, where students struggle with outdated materials and equipment.
“We’re being taught with limited resources, leaving us unprepared for today’s job market,” the petition stated. In the petition, the youth emphasized Inclusion in national empowerment programs, modernization of technical and vocational school curricula, Renovation of the county youth center, Construction of a rehabilitation center and establishment of a multipurpose youth complex. Youth and Sports Minister Kruah responded, acknowledging the urgency of the concerns. “Your petition is genuine and requires urgent attention,” she assured.
Meanwhile, the youth of River Gee County are watching, waiting, and refusing to give up. As they said, “We want to be the generation that transforms River Gee and contributes to Liberia’s progress.”