By Grace Q. Bryant
The House of Representatives has authorized the Committees on Transport and Judiciary to scrutinize a proposed law seeking to establish a National Railway Authority.
It can be recalled that on October 24, 2022, former Liberian President, George Manneh Weah, issued an executive order establishing a National Railway Authority (NRA), which will be responsible for managing the country’s state-owned rail network.
This initiative includes the Yekepa Railway, which runs from Yekepa in Nimba County through parts of Bong County, to the Port of Buchanan in Grand Bassa County.
Former President Weah said the government is committed to the development and enhancement of Liberian infrastructure, which has been underutilized in the past, in order to increase exports of minerals and other goods to improve the Liberian economy.
The NRA will be responsible for maintaining and upgrading the infrastructure, as well as managing track access and operator licensing. It will establish rules and procedures and enforce standards for infrastructure use, and will also resolve any disputes.
The Bill, titled “Liberia Railway Authority of the Republic of Liberia”, was submitted to Plenary by Rep. Moima Briggs-Mensah of Electoral District 6, Bong County.
According to the crafter, when enacted, the law seeks to improve and boost economic growth and development throughout the country.
Rep. Mensah furthered that the creation of the institution will also generate sufficient revenue from the Railway Sector.
It also aims to provide rail transport services to both public and private sectors, fostering connections between Liberia and other nations, and generating employment opportunities for Liberians.
Following the reading and debate on the instrument, Plenary mandated the Joint Committee on Transport and Judiciary to review and advise the body within one week.
