By Nukanah Kollie
GBARNGA, BONG COUNTY – Nimba County Superintendent Kou Meapeh Gono, dressed in a vibrant traditional gown reflecting her colorful personality, stood confidently on the grounds of the Gbarnga Administrative Building in Bong County. The morning sun cast a warm glow over the administrative complex as she spoke with clarity and passion about the county’s progress and ongoing development initiatives. Her lively expression, engaging demeanor, and authoritative presence drew the attention of journalists and onlookers alike, highlighting her commitment to public service and leadership.
Superintendent Gono commended the strong partnership between her administration and the Nimba Legislative Caucus, underscoring its pivotal role in advancing key development projects across the county. She described how regular consultations and collaborative decision-making with legislators have helped streamline service delivery and accelerate community-focused initiatives.
“All that I’m doing and achieving would never have been possible without the cooperation of the Nimba Legislative Caucus,” Gono said, noting that lawmakers’ support has been instrumental in driving the county’s development agenda forward.
She stressed that collaboration between the executive branch and legislative representatives is crucial for effective service delivery and sustainable local growth, emphasizing that such partnerships serve as the backbone of accountable governance.
Highlighting the county’s fiscal performance, Superintendent Gono revealed that the Nimba County Service Center generated over 9 million Liberian dollars (approximately US$1.1 million) for the 2024–2025 fiscal period. She reaffirmed her backing of President Joseph N. Boakai’s revenue-sharing vision, which allows 40 percent of locally generated revenue to remain in the counties.
According to Gono, this approach ensures that funds are directly invested in community development projects, infrastructure improvements, and essential public services, reinforcing the county’s self-sufficiency and local empowerment.
Addressing ongoing issues with the multi-million-dollar steel giant ArcelorMittal Liberia in Yekepa, a concession operating in Nimba, Gono explained that her administration is working closely with lawmakers and company representatives to ensure community concerns are addressed in future Mineral Development Agreements (MDAs). “There’s always room for improvement. We want our affected communities to be part of the new mineral agreement arrangements, and we will support our lawmakers in making that happen,” she said.
She emphasized that meaningful inclusion of local communities in decision-making processes is critical to achieving equitable development outcomes and sustaining public trust in government initiatives.
Superintendent Gono also outlined her broader vision for Nimba, disclosing efforts to rebrand the county as a hub for investment, trade, and economic growth. She highlighted the importance of decentralizing services to bring government closer to the people, fostering peaceful cooperation among stakeholders, and building resilience in post-war recovery.
According to Gono, stability and transparent governance remain key drivers of progress and are essential for attracting both local and international investors to the county.
Throughout the conversation, Gono’s warmth, confidence, and commitment to the county’s development were evident. Her detailed accounts of revenue achievements, community engagement, and strategic planning underscored a leadership style that is collaborative, forward-looking, and focused on tangible results.
Superintendent Gono made these statements on the sidelines of the ongoing Finance and Internal Affairs four-day training in Gbarnga, Bong County, which brings together county leaders, council representatives, and technical officers from across Liberia.
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