“Inside the Federation: How Zorzor–Salayea Transport Union Keeps Drivers and Passengers Moving Amid Challenges”

By: Peter Kollie | Rural Reporter News Network

Zorzor, Lofa County —Tuesday, October 7, 2025-In the bustling transport corridors of Zorzor and Salayea, the Federation of Road Transport Union of Liberia (FRTUL) is working quietly but steadily to ensure safe, reliable, and organized movement of people and goods.

According to Morris Kabah, the field supervisor of the Zorzor and Salayea branch of the Union, their primary mission is to serve both drivers and passengers while maintaining smooth commercial operations. “Our work is to serve the passengers and the drivers. We transfer people and goods from one location to another,” Karbah explained.

He disclosed that in the event of a vehicle breakdown, the Union has standby cars that are immediately dispatched to assist affected passengers to reach their destinations. “In case of accidents, especially at night, drivers or passengers call our office for rescue. We work in close collaboration with the traffic police in both Zorzor and Salayea districts to handle accident cases,” he added.

Membership and Welfare Support

Kabah revealed that the Union’s doors are always open to new drivers who wish to join. He said membership comes with several benefits. “If a member experiences sickness, accident, or even death, the Union stands by them or their family to help solve the problem,” he emphasized.

He also noted that the Union’s Zorzor office is equipped with a warehouse for goods, a sleeping area for night drivers and a vehicle terminal for passengers and goods in transit.

Finances and Accountability

On the issue of revenue, Kabah said the Union collects daily dues which are used for emergencies and local development. “Sometimes when traffic is running, we make above L$2,000 daily, but when it’s slow, we make below L$1, 500,” he explained.

He assured that every amount collected is properly accounted for. “All funds go directly to the treasurer, and when we need to use the money, we sign for it officially before spending,” he stated.

Training and Discipline

Addressing drivers’ conduct and professional development, Kabah disclosed that every morning the Union holds a devotion and briefing session where drivers receive advice, updates, and moral encouragement before heading out.

He confirmed receiving complaints about police harassment on highways but said the Union is engaging authorities to find a lasting solution. Additionally, a complaint board has been established to resolve issues from both passengers and drivers before they escalate to police or court.

Challenges on the Road

Kabah cited poor road conditions between Zorzor and Salayea and fluctuating fuel prices as major challenges facing drivers. “Every day, gasoline prices change. When the price goes up, we are forced to increase passenger fares, and when it comes down, we reduce them,” he lamented.

He called on the Government of Liberia to stabilize market prices and improve road networks so as to ease transport difficulties.

Drivers’ Perspective

The Chief of drivers for Zorzor and Salayea, Bangalee Kanneh, confirmed that operations are generally smooth under the current Union leadership. However, he echoed concerns over the unpredictable cost of fuel. “The government has to regulate gasoline and fuel prices so that drivers don’t have to increase and decrease fares every day,” he said.

Kanneh explained that every passenger traveling from the parking area receives a ticket with the dispatcher’s number, which serves as an emergency contact in case of any issue during the journey.

He also urged passengers to board vehicles from the Union terminal only. “It is safer because if you lose something, we can trace the vehicle. But if you take a car from the street, you may never see your belongings again,” he warned.

Passengers React

Several passengers interviewed expressed satisfaction with the Union’s operations. They praised the way the Zorzor–Salayea branch handles complaints fairly and quickly between drivers and passengers.

Currently, the transport fare stands at L$1,700 from Zorzor to Bong and L$3,000 from Zorzor to Monrovia; which passengers described as “reasonable and affordable.”

Looking Ahead

Despite existing challenges, Karbah said the Union plans to transform its operations within the next three to four years, with more developmental initiatives for both drivers and the community.

“We are not just here to collect money; we are here to build something lasting for our members and passengers,” Karbah concluded.