Pavement on the 40-kilometer road linking Tappita in Nimba County to Toe Town in Grand Gedeh County has officially commenced.
The commencement has brough renewed hope for improved transportation, stronger commercial activities, and expanded economic opportunities in the Southeast.
Public Works Minister Roland Giddings disclosed how the project began with layout operations on Wednesday, October 7. It marked an important step to transform the existing dirt road into an asphalt-paved highway.
The project is expected to improve connectivity between the two counties, and provide residents with safer, more reliable transportation throughout the year.
It is implemented by China-based construction firm CICO, with the goal to upgrade the 40-kilometer corridor to support the movement of passengers, agricultural products, commence and essential public services.
Once completed, the paved road will ease transportation difficulties that have affected communities, and businesses along the route for years.
Giddings told journalists that the government has made efforts to ensure that construction progresses during the ensuing dry season, a period considered more favorable for road-building activities.
His remarks underscored the importance of maintaining construction momentum to advance the project, and deliver the anticipated benefits to residents of Nimba and Grand Gedeh counties.
The project was initially approved by the World Bank in December 2021; however, the release of construction funds required the completion of a Biodiversity Field Survey (BFS), which subsequently received the World Bank’s “No Objection,” clearing as one important requirement for advancement.
Beyond transportation, the project is anticipated to stimulate economic activity along the corridor by improving access to markets, encouraging local trade, and creating opportunities for businesses and service providers.
Better road connectivity will facilitate the movement of essential supplies, and improve access to public services for communities that have experienced transportation challenges.
The project also represents an opportunity to advance regional connectivity, and promote more inclusive economic development in the Southeast.
