Rédaction Africa Links 24 with New Dawn
Published on 2024-03-25 01:04:00
The Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC) has announced that the Government of Liberia has secured a commitment of US$300 million from the World Bank to construct a dam in Bong County. This project aims to improve the electricity supply outside Monrovia and address the longstanding issue of limited power supply across Liberia.
During a recent visit to Bong County, LEC Corporate Communication Manager Mr. Philip Farley expressed excitement about the upcoming dam construction. He highlighted the overwhelming support from the local community and the government’s dedication to the project. President Joseph Nyumah Boakai has pledged his full support for the initiative, emphasizing the importance of improving the country’s energy infrastructure.
A high-power delegation from the World Bank, Liberia’s Ministry of Mines and Energy, and the LEC visited the proposed site for the dam project in Valayanah, lower Bong. The delegation engaged with stakeholders and residents to discuss the construction of the St. Paul 2 hydropower dam project (SP2). The visit included a detailed assessment of the area’s topography and technical briefings on the project’s components.
The SP2 project, with an estimated cost of six million US dollars, is a joint initiative between the Government of Liberia, represented by the Ministry of Mines and Energy, and the World Bank. The project will be managed by the LEC through its Project Implementation Unit (PIU). The delegation’s visit to the site and interactions with the community were part of the feasibility studies to kickstart the project.
Mr. Bill Harkins, the project manager, outlined the key components of the SP2 project, including the construction of dams and transmission lines to connect the project to the Mount Coffee substation. He emphasized the importance of conducting further feasibility studies to address economic, environmental, and social considerations before proceeding with the project.
During a Town Hall meeting with residents, World Bank Regional Director Mr. Franz Dress-Gross commended the community for their support and enthusiasm for the project. He assured them that the World Bank is committed to bringing electricity to the people of Liberia through the dam project. The delegation sought feedback from the locals to ensure their needs and concerns are addressed in the project’s planning and implementation.
Overall, the construction of the dam in Bong County represents a significant step towards improving Liberia’s power supply infrastructure. With strong government support and financial backing from the World Bank, the project is expected to enhance electricity access for residents and businesses outside Monrovia. The collaborative efforts of all stakeholders involved demonstrate a commitment to addressing the country’s energy challenges and fostering sustainable development in Liberia.
Read the original article on The Newdawn Liberia
