Liberia’s musical sensation, Karwordou Cole, popularly known as Bucky Raw, is making headlines for more than just his chart-topping hits.
By Edwin G. Genoway, Jr (231886458910)[email protected]
The artist, who hails from one of Liberia’s biggest musical families, has embarked on a game-changing project to bring much-needed development to his mother’s hometown of Gbeletuo, located in Nimba County, District #6.
Gbeletuo, a small village with a population of around 300 residents, is where Bucky Raw’s late mother, Madam Rebecca Mahn, was born. Through his humanitarian efforts, Bucky Raw is breathing new life into the village and reawakening the legacy of his mother. His initiatives aim to improve the daily lives of the residents and elevate the entire community.
Bucky Raw’s investment of over $50,000 into the village is transforming Gbeletuo with modern amenities that will have a lasting impact. Key developments include the installation of solar panels to power streetlights, providing electricity to local homes, and the introduction of a rice mill to replace the traditional, manual rice-processing methods that have long been a challenge for the village. Additionally, the creation of a gas station will supply fuel to power these new machines and provide sustainable energy for the community.
Emphasizing the importance of community participation, Bucky Raw has ensured that local youth play a significant role in the workforce, which allows them to directly contribute to their village’s development. The gas station and rice mill project, designed to generate ongoing funding, represent a forward-thinking approach to self-sustainability, and Bucky Raw is committed to ensuring its success.
“This initiative is all about giving back to where I come from. It’s not political—it’s from the heart,” Bucky Raw shared, underscoring that his efforts are driven by a deep sense of love for his hometown. “The people of Gbeletuo have been incredible, and now it’s time to help them thrive.”
The introduction of solar-powered streetlights and outlets for charging phones are just the beginning of the modernization process. “Now, the people of Gbeletuo won’t have to struggle with basic tasks like processing their rice,” Bucky Raw said. “We’re introducing modern amenities, and I believe this is just the start of more great things to come.”
Apart from his philanthropic endeavors in Gbeletuo, Bucky Raw has continued to push the boundaries of Liberian music, starting a record label that nurtures and promotes homegrown talent. His label has already begun attracting other musicians and provides them with an avenue to grow their careers while contributing to the cultural landscape of Liberia.
Hamisu H Ango, Bucky Raw’s business partner, expressed his pride in working alongside the star on both musical and humanitarian ventures.
Hamisu, popularly known as Prime CEO of PRB entertainment said the name Bucky Raw is just not a musician.
“It’s not just about the music,” Hamisu, also known as Prime, said. “Bucky Raw’s focus on his hometown and his desire to make a difference is inspiring. We fully support his vision and are eager to help him in every way we can.”
For Alvin Cole, Bucky Raw’s brother, the development project is a way to honor their late mother’s legacy. “Coming back to give to the village where our mom hailed from is truly special,” he said. “We want the people of Gbeletuo to feel proud of their home and experience a new way of life. We’re all fully behind this initiative.”
Alvin said Bucky Raw’s commitment to his roots and his people highlights a rare blend of musical success and social responsibility.
“As his career continues to flourish, his contributions to the development of Gbeletuo will undoubtedly inspire others to follow in his footsteps and invest in the future of Liberia,” he noted.
