By Grace Q. Bryant
The Deputy Minister for Public Affairs at the Ministry of Information, Daniel O. Sando, has announced that the Government of Liberia, with support from the African Development Bank (AfDB), is set to begin the construction of a 273-kilometer coastal road connecting Buchanan, Cestos, and Greenville.
Minister Sando made the disclosure at the MICAT regular press briefing on Tuesday, January 7, emphasizing that such infrastructure project aims to enhance road connectivity, boost regional development, and improve transportation and economic opportunities along the corridor.
According to him, the pre-construction activities, which are crucial to ensuring the project’s success, include an environmental and social impact assessment and the preparation of a Resettlement Action Plan.
He said the initial focus will be on two key sections: the 74-kilometer stretch from Buchanan to Cestos Bridge and the 31-kilometer section from Cestos Junction to Cestos City.
He disclosed further that from January 7 to 16, the Ministry of Public Works will carry out property identification, socio-economic assessments, and valuations along the road’s designated right of way: 75 feet in rural areas and 50 feet in urban zones.
He revealed that affected property owners are encouraged to participate to ensure fair compensation and assistance.
He noted that a grievance redress mechanism (GRM) will be established to address concerns, promoting transparency throughout the process.
The project is expected to significantly improve road safety, transportation efficiency, and economic prospects in the region.
However, Minister Sando further disclosed that the government is making strides in addressing its electricity deficit through a landmark agreement with Art of Energy Africa, an energy consulting firm based in Accra, Ghana.
He emphasized that the collaboration, signed in late 2024, will conduct comprehensive studies along the St. John River Basin to identify opportunities for hydropower development.
He noted that the study will cover a 193-kilometer stretch of the St. John River Basin, from its confluence to the Atlantic Ocean.
He added that the findings will form the basis for developing multiple hydroelectric plants, which will expand Liberia’s renewable energy capacity and foster sustainable partnerships in the sector.
The project, backed by the Liberia Electricity Regulatory Authority, underscores the government’s commitment to reducing the nation’s energy deficit and supporting long-term energy security.
