GBARNGA, BONG COUNTY – In a joint radio simulcast on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, Bong County Superintendent Loleyah Hawa Norris provided a comprehensive update on infrastructure projects, governance priorities, and developmental challenges facing the county. Her remarks, broadcast across multiple local stations, reaffirmed her administration’s commitment to transparency, decentralization, and inclusive growth, while addressing public criticism and scrutiny from civil society organizations.
Background and Leadership Experience
Before assuming her current role as Superintendent, Norris built a reputation for strong grassroots leadership and international advocacy, notably serving as Africa’s female representative to the World Alliance of Young Men Christian Association (YMCA). Her work in youth empowerment, peacebuilding, and community development across Liberia and beyond has made her a respected voice in civic leadership, especially as one of the few women in high-level county administration.
Ongoing and Completed Projects Across Bong County
Superintendent Norris detailed over a dozen ongoing and planned infrastructure projects across the county, all of which she stated were vetted through the Public Procurement and Concessions Commission (PPCC) and aligned with priorities identified by citizens and local leaders during community consultations.
Key projects include:
- Safe Drinking Water Systems in Totota, Salala, District#6
- Construction of Lelekpayeah market in Gbarnga, District#2
- Construction of Zankpayayeamak School in Handii, District#7
- Renovation of Commissioner Compounds in Districts 4 & 5 in Foequelleh and Suakoko
- Construction of Library in Konowolala, District#6
- Construction of Maternity Waiting Home in Yorwee, District#4
- Construction of Sangayama School in Bomota, Handii
- Completion of Ula Clinic in Bosen District#1
- Construction of Elementary School in Malonkai, District#1
- Construction of safe drinking water systems at Sirleaf market in Gbarnga, District#3
- Fencing and Security Enhancement at the Gbarnga Administrative Building
- Furnishing of the New Superintendent Compound (pending shipment from China)
Most of these projects aim to revive abandoned or underutilized infrastructure, as recommended by the Public Accounts Committee (PAC).
Presidential Lodge Sparks Debate, Superintendent Defends Initiative
One of the most debated initiatives is the construction of a Presidential Lodge (Palace) in Bong County. Critics argue the project is excessive, but Superintendent Norris defended it as necessary for state protocol and long-term use. “The President has declared he will not stay in hotels during county visits. All counties are building lodges—why not Bong?” she stated.
She clarified that this project is county-led, not personal, and insisted that the final structure would meet national standards. However, she admitted that funding challenges mean the county will need between $600,000 to $700,000 to complete the lodge to the desired quality—far above the current $280,000 allocation.
Financial Transparency and Public Scrutiny
Responding to public concerns and media scrutiny, Superintendent Norris affirmed that her administration has been audited by the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) and other oversight bodies, with all reports showing “value for money.” She emphasized prudent financial management, such as sourcing furnishings from China under a $30,000 budget and using duty-free privileges to save costs. “I welcome investigative journalism,” she said. “But I also ask that we work together. If there are issues, come to me directly so we can fix them.”
She also criticized a pattern of unfair media focus on Bong County compared to others, warning that politicization of development was hurting county progress.
Land Ownership, Security, and Governance
A major governance focus has been securing legal land ownership for all government infrastructure projects. Superintendent Norris insisted that every new government project now includes a deed to prevent future encroachments or private claims.
Security also remains a concern, especially regarding vandalism and theft at government sites. She called on Community Watch Forums to formally submit proposals for support and committed to working with them to improve local safety, despite limited funds. “If you don’t tell me, how do I know? Come forward with your needs, and we’ll find a way,” she urged.
Challenges: Funding Gaps and Public Expectations
Norris acknowledged several logistical and funding challenges. Delays in the completion and occupation of the new superintendent residence are linked to furniture shipments from China, while county social development funding, initially projected at $6 million, was diverted for other national needs.
Despite these constraints, she remains focused on making the most of available resources through lobbying and partnerships. “I’m not here to rob this county,” she said emotionally, recounting her visits to neglected areas like MNG and emphasizing her desire to uplift Bong County to the level of more developed counties like Nimba.
Vision: A Developed, United Bong County
Looking ahead, Superintendent Norris shared a clear and ambitious vision for the next five years:
- Completion of a National Convention Center on 50+ acres in Bong
- Establishment of a juice-processing and cold-storage facility at Bong County Health and Development Program
- Improved road connectivity and public investment
- Job creation and youth retention to reverse migration to other counties
“In five years, I want to see a peaceful, well-developed Bong County. Our youth should stay here, not run to Nimba,” she said.
Call for Unity and Constructive Engagement
Superintendent Norris closed her remarks with a direct appeal to residents, journalists, and civil society groups:
“Let us leave politics aside. If you see wrongdoing, speak up. But don’t destroy what we are trying to build. Bong County deserves better—let’s make it happen together.”
