By: Trokon Wrepue – trokon1992seokin@gmail.com
YEKEPA, NIMBA COUNTY – Yekepa’s Area R is undergoing a significant transformation as ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML) advances with the renovation of homes that were heavily looted during the Liberian civil war.
Although residents say no direct combat took place in Yekepa, soldiers and others reportedly exploited the chaos to strip materials from many houses, leaving them uninhabitable.
Today, construction teams are hard at work—roofing and painting buildings, installing plumbing and electrical systems, and clearing overgrown vegetation that had overtaken the abandoned homes. Heavy machinery is being used to reopen access for construction workers and delivery trucks carrying essential building materials.
According to AML Site Engineer Rufus Dickson, various construction firms are involved in renovating 21 two- and three-bedroom houses in Area R. In addition, three buildings in the EA community—each containing four self-contained apartments—are also being restored.
AML Engineer Rufus Dickson Ongoing work in Area R
The contracted companies include World Engineering and Construction Company, ECHO Group of Companies, Zenith Group of Companies, and Bleco Construction Company.
Dickson noted that the renovation work is scheduled for completion within four months.
“To stay on track, we are working daily and maintaining close supervision of contractors to ensure they meet specific daily targets,” Dickson said.
During a site visit on August 7, senior estate managers were seen actively engaging with contractor teams. Dickson stressed that due to the high demand for housing, his department is committed to avoiding delays and staying on schedule.
He added that the goal is to complete and dedicate the project before the end of the year.
Since early this year, ArcelorMittal Liberia has been spearheading housing renovations throughout Yekepa.
In EA, the residential area designated for senior management, several homes were recently redesigned into self-contained units, each capable of housing three to four individuals.
As renovation work in Area R progresses, many residents awaiting accommodation are expected to move in soon—reviving a once-abandoned community and breathing new life into Yekepa.
