NATIONAL NEWS
GRAND CAPE MOUNT – Joseph Nyuma Boakai has officially broken ground for the long-anticipated Western Corridor Road Development Project, describing it as a transformative step toward improving infrastructure, boosting economic growth, and strengthening regional ties.
Speaking at the ceremony in Bo Waterside, the Liberian leader reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to overhauling the country’s road network, which he said remains severely underdeveloped despite decades of nationhood.
By: Trokon Wrepue – trokon1992seokin@gmail.com
According to the President, only about 1,442 kilometers—just over 10 percent—of Liberia’s more than 14,000 kilometers of roads are paved.
“For a nation approaching 200 years of existence, this is simply intolerable,” Boakai declared, emphasizing the urgency of accelerating road development to connect rural communities and expand access to essential services.
The Western Corridor project will link Montserrado, Bomi, and Grand Cape Mount counties, creating a critical transport route that extends to neighboring Sierra Leone. The initiative is expected to enhance cross-border trade and foster stronger economic cooperation between the two nations.
The event was attended by Julius Maada Bio, whose presence Boakai described as symbolic of the deep historical and cultural ties between Liberia and Sierra Leone.
“This road is more than infrastructure—it is a bridge between our peoples,” Boakai said, noting that the project will strengthen regional integration and shared development goals.
The Liberian government is partnering with Pavifort Al Associates under a 25-year Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement, mobilizing approximately $364 million in investment. The project is expected to deliver modern, climate-resilient roads built to international standards.
Beyond infrastructure, the initiative is projected to create over 1,000 jobs, particularly for young people, while improving access to markets, healthcare, and education for communities along the corridor.
Boakai also highlighted plans for an additional corridor linking Voinjama to Mendikorma, further expanding Liberia’s regional connectivity.
Construction of the Western Corridor Road begins immediately, with completion targeted for 2030. Once finished, the corridor is expected to significantly reduce travel time, lower transportation costs, and unlock economic opportunities across the western region.
“This is a declaration that Liberia is moving forward,” Boakai said. “No county, district, or citizen will be left behind.”
