Gbarpolu County Council Inspects Ongoing CSDF Funded Projects in Kongba and Belle Districts

By: Henry B. Gboluma, Jr. | Gbarpolu Correspondent

‎Zuie, Town, Gbarpolu County |January 26, 2026|The Gbarpolu County Council, led by Chairperson Lucia Massaquoi, has concluded a County and Social Development Fund (CSDF) project inspection tour in Kongba and Belle Districts.

‎The team visited the construction sites of a Modern Junior High School in Zuie Town, Kongba District, and a Clinic in Kalata in Belle District.

‎The Junior High School project, valued at US $85,000 was facing concerns from citizens that the foundation work did not align with the original blueprint.

‎However, following intervention by the County Council and local authorities, the contractor, AMMATON Construction Company, has made necessary adjustments. Project Engineer Saryo Kamara assured that the project is now on track.

‎“The necessary changes were done on the foundation work.” He reminded stakeholders of his role as a mediator: “If you and I agree on something, we will have to move; delay from your angle will make me feel bad and voice out sometime.”

‎Chairperson Massaquoi emphasized the importance of community involvement and urged citizens to support the contractor to ensure timely completion.

‎”We will not be here all the time, so you people should put your eyes on this project,” she said.

‎Meanwhile, the new Clinic project in Kalata, Belle District, valued at $70,000, has also faced challenges.

‎Social media allegations suggesting forced labor were investigated and found unsubstantiated.

‎The council verified that community members are actively participating in the project by providing local materials, with a mutual understanding with Focus Construction Company.

‎In return, the contractor agreed to construct a three-bedroom maternity waiting home in Kalata with kitchen and bathrooms to enhance maternity health care delivery, a provision not originally included in the project scope.

‎Community leaders and officials echoed calls for cooperation. Kongba District Commissioner Lawrence Sherbro expressed gratitude for the visit: “My people are willing to do the work. I will make sure to support this work.”

‎District Youth Leader Blamah H. Boakai stated that with the adjustment now completed, the project will proceed without delay and with community support.

‎According to officials, the completed school will feature ten classrooms, offices, a cafeteria, an auditorium, and restrooms for students, teachers, and visitors.

‎The main challenge in reaching Zuie Town is its inaccessible location, with transportation costs almost matching the project cost.

‎As a result, during the engagement, the County Finance Officer Howard Bunday highlighted significant logistical challenges affecting project timelines and costs.

‎He urged collective action: “The only way this project can succeed is for you all to join the contractor to see this project be a success.”

‎From our investigations, the transportation cost for cement bags from Monrovia to the project site in Zuie is 2,300.00 LD according to the Contractor and residents in that district.

‎We tracked motorcyclists taking three cement bags on the bike per trip from Kumgbor Town to Zuie Closing Point at the Mano River.

‎The materials are also placed in a canoe, transported to the town, moved to the warehouse, and later to the project site.

‎Meanwhile, the County Council plans further follow-up visits to monitor progress, engage residents, and reinforce collaborative efforts with contractors to deliver on time and to standard.