Rivercess – Liberia’s Minister of Public Works, Ruth Coker Collins, expressed gratitude towards Bea Mountain Mining Corporation (BMMC) for its commendable efforts in rehabilitating a crucial 140-kilometer road stretch from Buchanan to Rivercess. The minister, accompanied by Deputy Minister for Technical Services Amos Y. Barclay, conducted an inspection tour of the ongoing project on Wednesday, January 17, 2024.
By Elton W. Tiah, Contributor, Grand Bassa County
BMMC, the first and largest commercial gold mine in Liberia, has undertaken this ambitious road rehabilitation initiative as part of its commitment to fostering development and accessibility for Liberians. Minister Collins, during her routine inspection, emphasized that the project was negotiated under her administration to enhance commuter movement along the Bassa to Rivercess road.
Explaining the significance of the rehabilitation, Minister Collins noted, “The maintenance of the Bassa-Rivercess road is a great project that is easing the movements of people from Rivercess, Sinoe, Grand Kru, and several other counties that have struggled over the years to have accessible road.”
She also revealed ongoing communication with the African Development Bank for the pavement of the road, signaling potential further improvements in the near future.
Minister Collins praised President George Weah for the opportunity to serve as Minister of Public Works and clarified that the road rehabilitation is a legacy of President Weah’s government. She dispelled rumors that the project was part of the incoming President Joseph Boakai’s 100-days plans.
Isaac Z.K Sasraki, Bae Mountains Community Relations Officer, explained the company’s commitment to creating easy access for communities despite ongoing explorations. “We can’t be carrying out explorations and see the road in a deplorable condition without doing something about it,” he stated. The company has utilized heavy earth-moving equipment for culvert construction, road grading, and drainage creation over the past two weeks.
Sasraki lauded Minister Collins for her consistent communication and site visits, considering them as motivation for the company. He emphasized that the 140-kilometer road rehabilitation is funded by Bea Mountain Corporation.
The rehabilitation has brought relief to commuters from Sinoe, Grand Kru, Rivercess, and other counties, who had endured challenges caused by the road’s poor condition. BMMC has pledged ongoing maintenance for the duration of their exploration activities.