By Edwin Khakie
GBARNGA, Bong County, July 29, 2026 — President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr. has dedicated the newly completed 81-kilometer Gbarnga–Salayea Road and witnessed the signing of financing agreements for the Salayea–Konia and Zorzor–Yeala road projects, describing the developments as a major step in Liberia’s infrastructure and economic transformation.
Speaking during the ceremony on Tuesday, President Boakai said the completion of the Gbarnga–Salayea Road and the financing agreements for the two additional projects marked a defining moment in the country’s development agenda.
“Today marks another defining moment in Liberia’s journey of renewal and transformation,” Boakai said. “These milestones demonstrate what genuine partnership, mutual trust, and a shared commitment to development can achieve.”
The President thanked the Arab Coordinating Group, including the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA), the OPEC Fund, the Saudi Fund for Development, and the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, for supporting Liberia’s infrastructure program.
He said the investments extend beyond road construction by creating opportunities for farmers, traders, students, businesses, and communities across the country.
According to Boakai, the road projects will strengthen regional integration, expand economic opportunities, improve access to underserved communities, and enhance the quality of life for Liberians.
“As we celebrate today’s achievements, let us also renew our collective commitment to ensuring that these projects are delivered with excellence, transparency, accountability, and on schedule,” he said.
The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to working with development partners to expand road infrastructure under the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development.
The ceremony was attended by representatives of the Arab Coordinating Group, cabinet ministers, lawmakers, development partners, contractors, traditional leaders, and members of the media.
The newly completed 81-kilometer Gbarnga–Salayea Road links Bong County to Lofa County and forms part of a strategic transport corridor connecting central Liberia to the country’s northwestern region and the Guinea border.
For many years, the road was in poor condition, making travel difficult, particularly during the rainy season, and limiting access to markets, healthcare, education, and other essential services.
Government officials say the rehabilitated highway will provide year-round access, reduce travel time and transportation costs, stimulate agricultural production and trade, facilitate regional commerce, and improve connectivity for thousands of residents in Bong and Lofa counties.
The financing agreements signed for the Salayea–Konia and Zorzor–Yeala roads are expected to extend those benefits by improving transportation links to additional communities in Lofa County and strengthening Liberia’s national road network.
