Kolahun – Rep. Momo Siafa Kpoto (District #3, Lofa County) has officially broken ground for a new 23.6-kilometer road construction project, valued at $100,000.
By Prince T Mulbah
The project, which is scheduled for completion by the end of March 2024, will improve road access from Kolahun city to Svaelahun and Foyah.
In a press conference following the groundbreaking ceremony, Rep. Kpoto explained that the road construction is a legislative priority aimed at alleviating transportation challenges faced by local communities.
He highlighted the poor state of the region’s roads, which have long been neglected. “During my campaign, I visited all villages and towns and witnessed the dire road conditions. These issues have persisted for years, and upon assuming office, I felt the responsibility to address them,” Kpoto said.
The project is funded through the legislative budget, initially approved at $100,000 in the 2024 national budget.
However, due to administrative fees, the amount was reduced to $37,000 USD. In response, Rep. Kpoto personally contributed an additional $63,000 from his monthly salary, ensuring the project would proceed as planned. “This is your money, the taxpayers’ money, and I believe in being transparent with my constituents,” Kpoto added.
The road construction will benefit over 20,000 residents in the region, particularly farmers who will gain improved access to markets. This initiative is seen as a step toward boosting the local economy by improving infrastructure.
Looking ahead, Rep. Kpoto outlined plans for additional infrastructure projects in the district, including road work in Lower Walker in 2025, Wanhassa in 2026, and Lukambeh in subsequent years. He also expressed his ongoing collaboration with President Boakai on development projects, including the electrification of Lofa.
This project marks just the beginning of Rep. Kpoto’s legislative efforts, which also include the introduction of two bills to designate townships for Lawalazu, Saivaylahun, and Lukasu, and a controversial bill addressing same-sex relations.