NATIONAL NEWS
G. BASSA COUNTY – Nearly two decades after a tragic event strained relations between the Liberia Agricultural Company (LAC) and communities in Zondo Chiefdom, a new chapter of reconciliation and development is emerging in Grand Bassa County.
By: Trokon S. Wrepue – trokon1992seokin@gmail.com
In November 2007, Bruno Michiels, the Belgian Plantation Manager for LAC, was ambushed and fatally shot while working in Grand Bassa County.
Following the incident, residents from the nearby Zondo community and surrounding District #3 were implicated. Twelve local suspects were arrested by Liberian authorities and indicted for the murder. In 2014, the case, formally designated as the murder of Bruno Michiels, proceeded to trial at the Criminal Court “A” at the Temple of Justice in Monrovia.
The killing of the manager created a deep rift between the company and many residents of Zondo Chiefdom, with some community members alleging that the company was encroaching on their land.
Today, local leaders say efforts led by Grand Bassa County District #5 Representative Thomas A. Goshua II, in partnership with LAC, are helping to bridge those differences and rebuild trust.
At the center of that renewed relationship is the construction of a modern community market in New Zondo, a project expected to benefit more than 6,000 residents in 43 towns and villages across Zondo Chiefdom, as well as neighboring communities in River Cess County.
Backed by approximately US$45,000 worth of construction materials donated by LAC, the market is expected to boost trade, improve livelihoods, and reduce the long distances residents have traditionally traveled to buy and sell their goods.
The facility, now under construction, will include a warehouse, offices, and sanitation facilities, making it one of the largest rural trading centers in the area.
According to local residents, the project fulfills a long-standing community need and will make it easier for farmers and traders to conduct business closer to home.
Mondayma Weah, one of the beneficiaries, described the project as a dream come true. “I want to thank LAC and Honorable Thomas Goshua for bringing this market to our community. May God continue to bless them,” she said.
The market superintendent Benedict Morgan, who spoke through his local Bassa language, said the new facility will end years of hardship for traders.
“We used to walk long distances to reach the market. Now we will have a modern market in our own community. We appreciate Honorable Goshua and LAC for making this happen. We hope this partnership continues because we want to see more development here,” Morgan said through an interpreter.
Another resident, identified as Madison, said the level of support provided by LAC exceeded community expectations.
“We received all the materials from LAC, and it was more than we expected. More than 6,000 people, including residents from River Cess, will benefit from this market. We hope to see it completed before the end of the year, and I am ready to volunteer my time to help,” Madison said.
Chief Murphy J. Doubia, development focal person for Zondo Chiefdom, said the market emerged as a priority during a community development symposium supported by LAC.
“We approached LAC directly, and they responded to our request. They listened to our concerns and supported us. We are grateful and hope they will continue working with us as we develop our community,” Doubia said.
He also thanked the company for supporting the symposium with food, T-shirts, and other materials that contributed to its success.
Presenting the final batch of construction materials, Daniel Ziah of LAC’s Human Resources Department said the company was honoring a commitment made after receiving a request from Representative Goshua.
“This is our final donation for the project. We hope the materials are used for the purpose intended so the people can benefit. We want to maintain a good relationship with the surrounding communities,” Ziah said.
According to Ziah, LAC contributed cement, roofing sheets, steel rods, and other building materials valued at about US$45,000. He added that the company is also rehabilitating roads linking Zondo and nearby communities to improve access to schools, health facilities, and markets.
Mac-Arthur D. Gbardyu, Administrative Assistant in Representative Goshua’s office, said the market project reflects a renewed spirit of cooperation.
“There were misunderstandings between the community and LAC in the past, but the Representative worked to bring both sides together. LAC provided about US$45,000 worth of materials, while the Representative’s office will cover the remaining cost of the project,” Dennis said.
He said the completed market will feature a warehouse, offices, and sanitation facilities, creating a modern trading center for residents of both Grand Bassa and River Cess counties.
LAC Community Engagement Coordinator Morris Saah said consistent dialogue with host communities has been critical in rebuilding confidence.
“At first, it was difficult for people to trust us. Through regular engagement, we have built better relationships and continue to work with communities to address their needs,” Saah said.
Residents believe the market will improve access to buyers, expand business opportunities for farmers and traders, and stimulate economic activity throughout the region.
For many in Zondo Chiefdom, the project represents more than a new marketplace.
It symbolizes a growing partnership between LAC, Representative Thomas A. Goshua II, local leaders, and surrounding communities, a partnership aimed at healing past divisions, promoting reconciliation, and advancing long-term development for thousands of residents across Grand Bassa and River Cess counties.
