The Loguatuo Road project is delayed, with construction halted for a year due to funding problems from partners like the African Development Bank. Public concerns are rising about the road’s condition ahead of the rainy season. The Sanniquellie – Yekepa road project, backed by ArcelorMittal, has also encountered issues post-funding withdrawal, while other projects show progress.
The Loguatuo Road project has faced significant delays, standing still for nearly a year under the Boakai Administration. Funding problems with partners like the African Development Bank are speculated to be a key issue. Completing this road is vital for the efficient transport of goods, particularly before the impending rainy season causes further complications.
Public Works Resident Engineer Anthony Siaway stated that work is expected to resume soon; however, upon a recent inspection by the Daily Observer, there were no visible preparations for work to start. Some remaining sections need completion, and concerns are growing about the condition of the road as rainy season approaches.
Observations revealed that many construction camps along the road are in disrepair, and bridges have not yet been backfilled. This leads to fears that without timely completion, alternative routes will deteriorate further and impede transportation. A local security officer expressed that uncompleted roads could severely affect logistics once rains begin.
The primary bridge uniting Liberia and Ivory Coast has been built but awaits both asphalt connection and backfilling. The Sehkinyepa – Loguatuo Road was initiated under the former government of President George Manner Weah; however, it has since become entangled in political disputes over its crediting.
During the recent presidential elections, both sides of the political spectrum have claimed the road’s significance. While CDC supporters emphasized President Weah’s influence in the project, Unity Partisans argued it was primarily donor-funded from the prior administration, undermining credit-taking by the current government.
Widespread frustration has arisen among citizens regarding the prolonged delay, as many believed the road should have been completed shortly after the new administration took power. Amos Wonnah, a local businessman, noted their expectations for a quicker completion…
In a related note, ArcelorMittal – Liberia (AML) has not provided updates on the Sanniquellie – Yekepa road project, which reportedly collapsed after they withdrew financial support. Several attempts by local media to get a comment from AML have been unsuccessful.
Furthermore, the Senegalese company ‘CSE’, responsible for the project, has moved its equipment from the Ganta – Sanniquellie area elsewhere, indicating a significant setback in progress. The Ganta – Yekepa road, promised by AML’s Chairman in 2008, remains largely unfinished, worsening conditions.
Contrastingly, the Saclepea – Tappita highway is progressing quickly, with extensive paving already beyond Greia. This new road could greatly benefit the Lower Nimba area, especially the town of Tappita, which is home to the Jackson Fiah Doe Referral Hospital. Previously obstructed road conditions had serious consequences for patients trying to reach medical care.
The Loguatuo Road project is stalling due to funding issues, leaving essential transportation compromised, particularly before the rainy season. Despite claims of imminent resumption by authorities, preparations appear lacking, fueling public frustration. Political controversies further complicate perceptions of project ownership. In parallel, the Sanniquellie – Yekepa road project faces setbacks as investors withdraw, highlighting broader infrastructure challenges in Liberia. Meanwhile, other road projects like Saclepea – Tappita proceed, offering some hope for improved access.
Original Source: www.liberianobserver.com
