By Henry Gboluma-Gbarpolu County Correspondent
Citizens of Gbarpolu County have raised concerns over money meant for community development under the Forest Management Contract (FMC).
The issue was discussed during a budget meeting held in Bopolu City on Wednesday, May 13, 2026. The meeting was organized by the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning (MFDP) through the Open Budget Initiative.
Local leaders, community members, and county officials attended the one-day forum to learn more about the national budget and development plans for the county.
During the discussion, County Council Co-chair Lydia Ballah said citizens were surprised to hear that USD 61,196 had been allocated to the county under the Forest Benefit Sharing Agreement. She explained that many people in the county had not seen or benefited from the money.
Under Forest Management Contracts (FMCs), counties and affected communities are to receive mandatory financial and social benefits, including 30% of land rental fees paid to the National Benefit Sharing Trust Board (NBST), direct community payments from timber sales, and negotiated social infrastructure (schools, clinics, roads) through social agreements. These benefits are mandated by the 2006 National Forestry Reform Law.
The money is intended to support community development projects such as schools, roads, clinics, and other local needs. Citizens at the meeting said the county has still not received its expected share from the central level.
Many residents expressed concern that communities living near forest concession areas continue to face development challenges while waiting for the funds.
Carolyn M. Myers, Technical Focal Point in the Office of the Deputy Minister for Budget and Development Planning, assured participants that the concerns would be reported for follow-up. She said, “I will report the issue back to the Ministry for follow-up.”
Community members also raised questions about the Western Cluster Social Development Fund valued at USD 520,000 for Gbarpolu County.
Citizens said the county has not received the funding from 2025 up to now. Myers promised that the matter would also be addressed with the Ministry of Finance.
The forum also helped residents understand how government funds are planned and used in the county. Discussions focused on education, health, infrastructure, and other development programs intended to improve the lives of citizens.
During the presentation, officials disclosed that Gbarpolu County has a proposed budget of USD 4.3 million. The budget includes USD 2 million for paving streets in Bopolu City, USD 150,000 for the Kpayeakwelleh Town road project, support for schools and health services, and funding for the county development program.
Several participants welcomed the information shared at the meeting, especially the planned road and city projects.
The MFDP team promised to carry all concerns raised by citizens to their leadership as part of efforts to improve transparency, accountability, and community development in the budget process.
