By Grace Q. Bryant
Lofa County District 3 Representative Momo Siafa Kpoto has officially broken grounds for the rehabilitation of the long-neglected 23.6-kilometer Ngokorhun-Savahun-Foya Road, a crucial route for local farmers and traders.
The initiative aims to improve transportation and boost economic activities in the region despite budgetary challenges that nearly stalled the project.
For years, the road’s poor condition has made it difficult for residents to access markets, health services, and schools. Farmers and business owners have struggled with high transportation costs due to impassable roads, leading to economic setbacks. The rehabilitation is expected to ease travel and enhance trade in the district.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony on March 13 in Koba City, Kolahun District, Rep. Kpoto emphasized that the project is about more than just infrastructure—it’s about improving lives.
“This is about making it easier for farmers to get their goods to market and ensure that essential services are accessible,” he said.
Initially, the project was set to receive US$100,000 under the Legislative Engagement Fund. However, due to budget cuts, only US$37,000 was allocated, raising concerns about feasibility. In response, Rep. Kpoto and Lofa County District 4 Representative Gizzie Kollence personally contributed an additional US$63,000 to ensure the project moved forward.
To cover his share, Rep. Kpoto disclosed that he took out a loan of US$5,234 and LD$250,000., pledging to repay it through deductions from his monthly salary.
“I could not sit back and allow bureaucratic delays to prevent this project from happening. Our people deserve better, and I am willing to make sacrifices to bring development,” he stated.
Rep. Kpoto assured residents that the roadwork would be completed within 30 days, with trucks and heavy-duty equipment already deployed to the site.
He also hinted at future projects, including efforts to elevate key communities to township status, which he believes will enhance local governance and development.
“This is just the beginning. We will continue working with community members to prioritize the district’s needs and ensure that development remains a top priority,” he added.
In an effort to promote transparency, Rep. Kpoto explained how government’s funding for legislative projects has evolved, noting that such allocations have existed since the presidency of Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. He emphasized the importance of lawmakers being open about the use of these funds.
“It is good to be honest with the people you represent. Every year, legislators receive funding for district projects, but if leaders are not accountable, people may not even know these funds exist. My goal is to ensure that the people of District 3 benefit directly from these resources,” he said.
Rep. Kpoto also reaffirmed his stance on social and legislative issues, including his recent bill seeking to criminalize same-sex relationships—a proposal that has sparked significant debate within and beyond the district.
