By Stephen G. Fellajuah
Monrovia, January 15, 2025/The Ministry of Public Works takes a firm stance in enforcing zoning laws and regulating construction across Liberia.
Minister Roland Layfette Giddings emphasizes that the Ministry will no longer tolerate unauthorized constructions, especially in alleys, and is committed to clearing these areas to improve accessibility in cities.
Giddings, in providing a general infrastructure plan for 2025, made it clear that anyone building without necessary approvals will face the consequences, including stop orders or demolitions, especially if construction violated established standards.
The Ministry is actively working with local governments and the police to ensure that these rules are enforced without exception. Giddings also reveals that a new, more comprehensive zoning law has been submitted to the legislature to bring clarity and consistency to urban planning.
The Ministry’s focus for the year is on road construction and improving infrastructure, but it is also addressing legal aspects of property ownership, ensuring that buildings align with zoning laws, and requiring compliance with permits.
Speaking in an interview on January 14, 2025, in Monrovia, he emphasized, “If a construction does not meet the standard required, we are going to take it down or bring you to the table and see how we can help you fix it.”
“One of the things we are doing is to be able to investigate documentation, including deeds. Our legal people will assess your deed, determine whether you are in the ally, and give you time to relocate. Now, if you do not relocate in the specified period, we are going for demolition. Nothing can stop that.”
He further emphasizes that no one, regardless of status, would be exempt from these regulations, and even high-ranking individuals or government officials would not be able to intervene.
The Ministry of Public Works is resolved to enforce zoning laws strictly to create more organized, accessible cities, with the full backing of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, according to Minister Giddings.
“Public Works gets the President’s blessing, and I said to him that, Mr. President, I know you will not call me. And if you will not call me to say stop, no one else will call me”, he notes.
The Works Ministry is responsible for planning, building, and maintaining public infrastructure across Liberia. Editing by Jonathan Browne
