By Foday Moriba Conteh
His Excellency President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has officially launched the $85 million Voinjama–Mendikorma road upgrade project in Lofa County, Liberia, a major cross-border infrastructure initiative designed to improve regional connectivity and stimulate economic development across the Mano River Union corridor. The symbolic groundbreaking ceremony was held on Saturday, 23rd May, 2026, at the Mendikorma Border Post in Lofa County, marking the commencement of works on the 86-kilometre highway being implemented under a Design, Build, Operate and Transfer (DBOT) concession arrangement by Pavifort AL Associates in partnership with the Government of Liberia.
The project is being executed through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) agreement and is expected to significantly transform transportation infrastructure in Liberia’s northern region while improving access to remote communities along the Liberia–Sierra Leone border corridor.
Addressing the gathering, President Boakai described the project as a historic milestone that will transform livelihoods and reconnect communities that have long suffered from poor road infrastructure.
He emotionally reflected on his childhood experiences in the region, recalling how difficult it was to travel across Lofa County before the existence of proper roads.
“It takes history to know what it means to have a road. As a young boy, I walked through these areas for days. Our people suffered greatly because there were no roads,” the President said.
He noted that the new highway symbolizes a turning point in Liberia’s development journey, adding that it will open up the region to education, healthcare, trade, and investment opportunities.
“This road will open up the country to development, education, healthcare, and business opportunities. It will unite families, strengthen trade, and improve the lives of our people,” he emphasized.
President Boakai highlighted the strategic importance of the Voinjama–Mendikorma corridor, describing Lofa County and surrounding border areas as a “growth triangle” linking Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Guinea.
“This is where three countries meet. The people here are one people with shared families, cultures, and history,” he stated.
He also acknowledged ongoing cooperation with Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio, particularly on infrastructure development and regional connectivity initiatives.
The President praised the Ministry of Public Works for its ongoing infrastructure efforts and commended Pavifort AL Associates for partnering with government to deliver the project.
He further disclosed that government is pursuing additional infrastructure projects, including road connectivity to various communities and rural electrification programs supported by renewable energy partnerships.
“We are not concerned about politics; we are concerned about what we do for our country. Development means access to quality roads, schools, healthcare, water, and opportunities,” he declared.
He called on citizens, lawmakers, and traditional leaders to fully support the project to ensure successful implementation.
In his technical overview, Deputy Minister for Technical Services at the Ministry of Public Works, Hon. Prince D. Tambah Sr., described the project as a transformative infrastructure milestone.
He confirmed that the project spans Voinjama City through Kolahun and Foya, terminating at Mendikorma on the Sierra Leone border.
The highway will be constructed to modern asphalt standards over three years, with estimated completion targeted for 2029.
Key technical features include:
- 10.3-metre carriageway in rural sections
- 20.6-metre expanded urban sections with parking lanes
- Construction and rehabilitation of five major bridges (13–42 metres)
- Installation of over 262 culverts and drainage systems
- Road safety signage and modern infrastructure upgrades
- Upgrade of Foya City to Class A urban road standards with sidewalks, streetlights, and drainage systems
Upon completion, travel time between Voinjama and Mendikorma is expected to reduce from approximately 2.5 hours to 1 hour 15 minutes.
Hon. Tambah noted that the project will improve road safety, reduce vehicle breakdowns, and enhance economic activities across the region.
He disclosed that the concession agreement was signed on 5th January 2026, establishing a 25-year Public-Private Partnership covering design, construction, operation, maintenance, and eventual transfer to government.
He further emphasized that the project aligns with Liberia’s PPP policy aimed at attracting private investment into infrastructure development.
According to him, Lofa County currently has about 1,662 km of road network, but only 60 km are paved. The new project will increase paved roads to approximately 8.8%, significantly improving accessibility and economic mobility.
Chief Executive Officer of Pavifort AL Associates, Alimou Sanu Barrie, assured the Liberian government of the company’s commitment to delivering a durable, high-quality road.
He said the project reflects strong confidence in the company’s technical expertise and international standards.
“We are honored by the trust placed in us by the Government of Liberia. Every kilometre of this road will reflect durability, safety, and environmental responsibility,” he stated.
He also acknowledged support from financial partners, including UBA Bank Liberia and Afreximbank.
The ceremony also featured remarks from regional partners, including Witson Tebeh Yankuba Esq., representing Sierra Leone’s Embassy in Liberia.
He described the project as a major milestone in Liberia–Sierra Leone relations, highlighting the importance of regional integration under the Mano River Union framework.
He reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s support for infrastructure cooperation aimed at improving cross-border trade and mobility.
Minister of Public Works, Hon. Roland L. Giddings, described the project as a transformative intervention that will unlock economic opportunities and strengthen regional integration.
He emphasized that Lofa County’s agricultural potential has long been constrained by poor road infrastructure, noting that the project will significantly reduce post-harvest losses and improve market access for farmers.
He also announced future road projects, including the Salayea–Voinjama corridor, which will further connect northern Liberia to Monrovia through paved highways.
Chairman of the Lofa Legislative Caucus, Hon. Joseph K. Jallah, described the project as a historic breakthrough for the people of Lofa County, noting its importance for farmers, students, and healthcare access.
Deputy Speaker Hon. Thomas P. Fallah also called the project a “dream fulfilled,” emphasizing its personal and political significance.
Minister of Local Government, Hon. Francis Sakila Nyumalin Sr., described the project as a turning point in Liberia’s post-war development journey, stressing that it reflects decades of unmet infrastructure needs now being addressed.
The Voinjama–Mendikorma road project is widely expected to become a catalyst for economic transformation, regional integration, and improved livelihoods across northern Liberia and neighboring countries.
Once completed, it will enhance trade, improve transportation efficiency, and strengthen cooperation between Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Guinea within the Mano River Union corridor.