By: Trokon Wrepue – trokon1992seokin@gmail.com
Edina City, Grand Bassa — The Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA), headed by its Deputy Commissioner for Domestic Vessels Registration and Safety, John F. Harvey, has guided a South Korean investment firm, Make Group, on a follow-up site assessment aimed at advancing plans for a proposed multimillion-dollar maritime infrastructure project off the coast of Edina City, Grand Bassa County.
The assessment builds on earlier evaluations and provided engineers and technical experts from Make Group the opportunity to further examine the land and coastal site earmarked for the project.
The exercise brought together several key Liberian institutions, including the Ministry of Public Works, the Liberia Land Authority (LLA), and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), to address technical, environmental, and land-use considerations critical to project design and implementation.
Deputy Commissioner Harvey said the joint assessment demonstrates LiMA’s commitment to inclusive institutional collaboration under the leadership of Commissioner Cllr. Neto Zarzar Lighe Sr., as Liberia positions itself for major maritime investments with the potential to significantly impact the national economy.
As part of the visit, the delegation held discussions with the Manager of the Port of Buchanan, Jonathan Kaipay, who outlined existing and potential investment opportunities at the port, particularly in marine services, in line with the strategic objectives of the National Port Authority (NPA).
Grand Bassa County Superintendent, Karyou Johnson, assured the delegation that the county has established a technical working group comprising all relevant stakeholders to facilitate a smooth implementation process.
He emphasized that the proposed investment is expected to generate substantial employment opportunities, especially for young people in the county.
Superintendent Johnson further disclosed that the Grand Bassa County Legislative Caucus has been fully briefed on the proposed project and has expressed support for its successful realization, citing anticipated economic benefits for the county and the country at large.
The Legislative Caucus was represented during the visit by District #5 Representative Thomas A. Goshua II, who serves as the caucus’ investment focal person. Representative Goshua reaffirmed the county leadership’s readiness to work with Make Group in the mutual interest of Liberia and the firm.
Make Group Chairman, James Juhee Han, said the visit was intended to familiarize the team with the proposed site and conduct detailed technical assessments. He disclosed that the company is considering investments in shipbuilding, dry-docking, and ship recycling facilities—projects he said could create thousands of jobs and significantly strengthen Liberia’s maritime sector.
Mr. Han also requested that the Port of Buchanan management provide a comprehensive list of potential investment opportunities for the firm’s review.
In addition, he revealed that Make Group is exploring possible investments within Liberia’s economic free zone and expressed appreciation for the cooperation received from Grand Bassa County authorities.
The Make Group Chairman further indicated that the firm is considering the construction of a bridge linking Buchanan City to Edina City, a development that could enhance connectivity and stimulate economic activity in the area.
The visit coincided with the Edina City Dumboy Festival marking the city’s 193rd anniversary. Mr. Han joined the celebrations, a gesture that was warmly received by residents and further strengthened ties between the visiting delegation and the local community.
