MONROVIA – Public Works Minister Roland L. Giddings has announced that the Government of Liberia has completed 164 kilometers of primary and community roads, establishing a target to construct and pave 700 kilometers of roads by 2029. Speaking Tuesday, November 3 at the Ministry of Information’s regular press briefing at the Information Ministry in Monrovia, Minister Giddings said the government is preparing to intensify road construction activities nationwide, with construction companies expected to commence major works on several primary roads.
By Augustus D.R Bortue-augustusd.rbortue@frontpageafrica online.com
The initiative, the Works Minister stated, also includes plans to pave streets in county capitals and other urban centers, including Kakata, Buchanan, Gbarnga, Greenville, Tubmanburg, Harper, Robertsport and Barclayville, among others.
He pointed out that road construction and related infrastructure projects are underway across the country, including the construction of approximately 14 bridges.
According to him, these interventions are intended to improve transportation and connectivity, enhance access to agricultural communities and feeder roads and stimulate economic growth.
The Minister reiterated that road construction and maintenance remain key priorities of the administration of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr. in keeping with the President’s commitment to improving the country’s road network.
He explained that funding is being mobilized through government resources and support from international development partners to advance ongoing and planned projects.
Minister Giddings mentioned that major road projects across Nimba, Bong, Grand Gedeh, River Gee, Lofa, Maryland, Gbarpolu, Bomi, Margibi and Grand Cape Mount Counties are expected to resume, with completion targeted within established timelines and in accordance with applicable technical and international standards.
He emphasized that the deployment of the Government’s heavy-duty road equipment, commonly referred to as the “yellow machines,” is expected to strengthen road rehabilitation and maintenance efforts nationwide, particularly following the rainy season.
On the Roberts International Airport (RIA) road project, Minister Giddings disclosed that construction has resumed and is progressing steadily, with completion expected in 2027.
He also raised concerns regarding aspects of the project’s implementation under the previous administration, particularly the working arrangements and payment terms, stressing the importance of transparency, adherence to established procurement procedures and value for public money in the execution of infrastructure projects.
The Minister also reported that road construction and maintenance activities have generated more than 40,000 job opportunities for Liberians, while creating additional opportunities for Liberian-owned companies to participate in the sector.
He outlined the Government’s ongoing efforts to improve road infrastructure, strengthen connectivity, and support economic development throughout Liberia.
As part of the broader infrastructure agenda, additional road sections are expected to be constructed with asphalt pavement beginning this dry season, subject to project readiness and implementation schedules.
At the same time, Public Works Minister Giddings has sharply criticized former Finance and Development Planning Minister Samuel Tweah over claims that the former Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC)-led Government secured funding for and financed all major road construction projects across Liberia.
Tweah, speaking to supporters of the CDC, reportedly asserted that the CDC’s administration secured funding and paid for all major roads in the country.
Minister Giddings dismissed the statement as untrue and misleading, arguing that it does not reflect the actual circumstances surrounding Liberia’s road infrastructure development.
Minister Giddings challenged the former minister’s account and accused the previous administration of misrepresenting its achievements in road construction.
The minister said the current administration is now dealing with the challenges inherited from its predecessor and remains committed to addressing the road construction situation.
He also urged former government officials to refrain from what he characterized as misleading public statements while the ongoing construction process continues.
The exchange between Giddings and Tweah has renewed public debate over the management of road infrastructure projects, government spending and the responsibility of successive administrations to deliver sustainable development.
The disagreement also highlights the need for transparency regarding project financing, contractual obligations, disbursements and actual construction progress.
Road infrastructure and electricity remain among Liberia’s most pressing development challenges, affecting transportation, commerce, public services and the daily lives of citizens.
Poor road conditions continue to create difficulties for communities, particularly those outside Monrovia, where access to markets, schools and health facilities remains a major concern.
Many Liberians believe that road development should not be treated as the achievement or failure of a single administration, but rather as a collective national responsibility requiring continuity, accountability and effective management of public resources.
They argue that political leaders should prioritize development over partisan exchanges and provide evidence to support claims about infrastructure achievements.
Liberians are looking for completed roads and reliable infrastructure, not political accusations without clear evidence and accountability.
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