By Stephen G. Fellajuah
BONG COUNTY, July 30, 2026 — Chinese Ambassador to Liberia Yin Chengwu has praised the Boakai administration’s infrastructure agenda following the dedication of the 81-kilometer Gbarnga–Salayea Highway, describing the project as a major milestone for Liberia’s economic and social development.
Speaking at the official dedication ceremony on Tuesday, July 28, Ambassador Yin said the highway forms a vital section of Liberia’s Northern Corridor and will significantly improve transportation, trade, and economic activity across the region.
He said infrastructure remains a cornerstone of economic growth and social progress, noting that improved road networks strengthen connectivity, lower transportation costs, expand access to markets, create employment opportunities, and improve the quality of life for citizens.
According to the ambassador, the completion of the highway will enhance transportation networks, support agricultural production and commercial activities, and promote sustainable economic growth while improving access to essential services for communities along the corridor.
Yin said the commissioning of the road reflects the Liberian Government’s commitment to national development and commended President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s administration for advancing the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development over the past two and a half years.
The Chinese envoy also described the project as another symbol of the longstanding friendship between Liberia and China, founded on mutual respect, equality, and shared benefit.
He recalled that relations between the two countries entered a new phase of strategic partnership following the meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and President Joseph Nyuma Boakai during the 2024 Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).
According to Yin, bilateral cooperation has continued to expand, particularly in infrastructure development, with the Gbarnga–Salayea Highway serving as another example of the growing partnership between the two countries.
He disclosed that the project was awarded through Liberia’s public procurement process and implemented by the China Henan International Cooperation Group (CHICO).
“The successful completion of this project demonstrates the confidence the Liberian Government places in Chinese enterprises and reflects the professionalism, technical expertise, and commitment of Chinese companies operating in Liberia,” Yin said.
The ambassador reaffirmed China’s commitment to openness, cooperation, and shared development, encouraging more Chinese companies to invest in Liberia in line with market principles and international business standards.
He said increased investment would deliver quality infrastructure, create employment opportunities, facilitate technology and skills transfer, and support Liberia’s long-term development goals.
Yin expressed confidence that the China-Liberia strategic partnership would continue to deepen, leading to expanded investment, stronger business cooperation, more jobs, and shared prosperity.
The 81-kilometer Gbarnga–Salayea Highway links Gbarnga, the capital of Bong County, with Salayea District in Lofa County. It forms part of a strategic corridor connecting central Liberia to the country’s northwestern region and the border with Guinea.
For decades, the road remained in poor condition, making travel difficult, particularly during the rainy season. Residents along the corridor faced challenges transporting agricultural produce, accessing healthcare and education, and conducting business.
With the completion of the highway, authorities expect year-round access, shorter travel times, lower transportation costs, increased agricultural trade, stronger regional commerce, and improved access to essential services for thousands of residents in Bong and Lofa counties.
