By: Boakai B. Kamara
Greenville City, Sinoe, Liberia – April 1, 2025 – The promise of revitalized infrastructure has arrived at the Samuel Alfred Ross Port of Greenville, as the National Port Authority (NPA) initiates a significant $325,000 USD renovation project. This development aims to rectify years of neglect and enhance the port’s operational efficiency, a crucial step in bolstering the region’s economic potential.
The ambitious project encompasses the comprehensive renovation of six administrative offices, essential for streamlined port operations, and the critical rehabilitation of the access road leading from the port gate to the pier. This road, a vital artery for maritime traffic, has fallen into disrepair, hindering the smooth flow of goods and services. The project is being executed in phases, with the initial $130,000 USD investment already allocated to kickstart the first stage of development.
The NPA has contracted PA Engineering and Construction Company (PAECC) and Rapha Engineer and Construction Associates to undertake the renovation. Port Director Cllr. Sylvia Abena Tarley, in her official statement, emphasized the NPA’s commitment to safety, assuring that all workers will be equipped with necessary protective gear to maintain stringent safety standards throughout the project.
The assessment for the renovation was finalized in August 2024. However, the commencement of the project was delayed due to the region’s heavy rainfall and logistical challenges regarding material delivery. The first phase of the renovation is projected to be completed within eight weeks. To ensure financial efficiency and project continuity, the NPA has disbursed 50% of the allocated funds upfront, with the remaining balance to be paid upon the successful completion of each phase.
A collaborative approach has been adopted for quality control, with port technical staff working closely alongside the contractors to ensure that the renovation meets the highest standards. Cllr. Tarley expressed profound gratitude to President Joseph N. Boakai for his unwavering support and vision in championing this critical infrastructure project, highlighting its potential to drive economic growth through improved maritime operations.
Public Scrutiny and Demands for Transparency
Despite the optimism surrounding the port’s renovation, the project has ignited a wave of public scrutiny and demands for accountability. Citizens of Greenville and stakeholders across the region have voiced their concerns over the prolonged period of neglect that led to the port’s current state. The long-dormant nature of the Samuel Alfred Ross Port’s renovation has triggered widespread public outcry, with residents demanding transparency and answers regarding the years of inaction by previous administrations.
Key areas of concern include the severely dilapidated condition of the access road, which has been a persistent issue for maritime operations, and the potential disruptions to port activities during the renovation process. Citizens are questioning why such critical infrastructure was allowed to deteriorate, emphasizing the need for robust oversight and accountability in future projects.
The public’s expectations are high, with stakeholders closely monitoring the renovation’s progress. There is a collective hope that this long-awaited overhaul will not only address the immediate infrastructural needs but also set a new standard for transparency and efficiency in the management of the Samuel Alfred Ross Port of Greenville. This project is seen as a pivotal moment for the region, with the potential to significantly impact economic development and trade. The successful completion of the port’s modernization is crucial to restoring public trust and ensuring that the port can properly serve the economic needs of the region.
Comments are closed.