By: Peter Kollie| Lofa County Correspondent
Lofa County, Salayea District,–Wednesday, March 19,2025- The youth of Talemai Town, Salayea Administrative District, have officially broken ground for the construction of a modern youth center, an initiative driven by young people both in the town and those residing in Monrovia and beyond.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, Madam Lorpu Fermayan, a youth leader, provided an overview of the project, stating that the estimated cost is $800,000.
“This event is more than just a gathering—it marks a significant step in our collective journey towards youth empowerment and community development,” she said.
Madam Fermayan emphasized that the youth center will serve as a beacon of hope, a hub for innovation, and a space for mentorship, learning, and leadership development for the young people of Talemai.
Under the theme, “Building the Future: Empowering Talemai Youth Through Development,” she noted that the project is not just for today but a lasting investment in the town’s future. She urged everyone to participate actively, contribute generously, and stand together in making history.
The Youth Chairman of Talemai Town, Mr. James D. Garlakpanyan, encouraged all young people, both in Talemai and outside, to take ownership of the project.
“This is our project. It should not be left to only those in Monrovia or other places. We, the youth in Talemai, must work alongside them to make this project successful,” he stated.
He emphasized that those in Monrovia do not have the financial resources to complete the building from foundation to roofing, so the collaboration of all youth is essential.
“If Talemai is not developed today, tomorrow we will all suffer the consequences,” Mr. Garlakpanyan warned.
The Youth President of Vavala Clan, Salayea Administrative District, Mr. Flomo Gbelee, echoed similar sentiments, stating that this initiative is a historic step for the youth.
“Since the founding of Talemai Town, no modern youth center has ever been built. This is the kind of development we want to see from the youth,” he said.
Mr. Gbelee urged local leaders and parents to fully support the project and called on the town chief to cancel bush and farming activities for the day to ensure full participation.
Meanwhile, the Vice President of Salayea District Youth, Mr. Flomo T. Monlorporlor, expressed disappointment over the low turnout at the groundbreaking event. He encouraged town leaders to work closely with the youth to promote development efforts.
Among the special guests at the event were Mr. James Kwabo, Founder and General Manager of Alternative Youth Radio, who praised the initiative and pledged his full support.
“If young people don’t start thinking about innovation, others will use them as tools for their own agendas,” he remarked.
Mr. Kwabo suggested that if each of the town’s approximately 8,000 residents contributed just $1, they could raise the funds needed to construct the youth center.
To demonstrate his commitment, Mr. Kwabo announced that he would become a full member of the project and pay his dues for the next two years. Additionally, he donated 15 bags of cement as an initial contribution and promised to assist with the project until its completion in December 2025, when it will be officially dedicated.
He also pledged to provide a supplier for the wood materials needed for construction.
The groundbreaking ceremony marks the beginning of a major milestone for the youth of Talemai Town. With support from local leaders, community members, and external partners, the project is expected to transform youth development in the area.
The young people of Talemai remain determined to see the project completed, creating a space that will inspire future generations and drive positive change in their community.
Edited: Jesefu Morris Keita| Editor-In-Chief
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