By Henry B. Gboluma, Jr.
KUNGBOR Town, February 4, 2026-Kongba District in Gbarpolu County has rejected government’s proposal for the establishment of a new national park (Proposed Foya Park). Residents of the district cited lack of benefits from the existing National Gola Park as a reason for opposing the creation of a new park.
On January 31, 2026, the Society for the Conservation of Nature of Liberia (SCNL) and Forestry Development Authority (FDA) convened a stakeholder meeting in Kungbor Town to discuss plans for the creation of a FOYA proposed park. But citizens and local leaders rejected the proposal on grounds that they are yet to benefit from the existing Gola Park.
Two Paramount Chiefs, Blama Cueh and McGill Wuleh recounted the contribution of Kongba District in establishing and sustaining the National Gola Park, but have seen lees or no tangible benefits.
”We appeal to our government and donors to use the first park to develop our communities and allow us to use remaining forest areas for farming and business activities,” they said.
District Chairlady Hawa Dennis said, “Pregnant women are dying because of long distance the cover to get to the only clinic in the district.” She said, “We don’t want another park!”
Youth Co-Chair, Thomas Brewer added, “The National Gola Park has become a curse; we want commercials in our remaining forest.”
During the Meeting, Local Government Minister, Francis Nyumalin acknowledged citizens’ frustrations. He said, “conservation is good, but local activities matter most.” He heard from women and youth leaders, who highlighted challenges with medical facilities, roads, and livelihoods.
FDA Managing Director, Rudolph Marab promised to review plans with donors to address citizens’ concerns. Minister Nyumalin halted the proposed park activities, pending review and report to President Joseph Nyumah Boakai.
Kongba District in Gbarpolu County is a remote and hard-to-reach area with a population of over 11,000 people. Located near the Sierra Leone border, the district’s main economic activities include farming, artisanal mining, and petty trade.
The district’s clinic is situated in Kungbor, but accessing it and other public facilities is challenging due to poor road network, making the six-hour journey from Bopolu City, the county capital, a significant undertaking.
