By Alfred Kollie
Monrovia, Liberia — The Liberian government through the Ministry of Public Works, in collaboration with the government of France and the Agence Française de Développement (AFD), has conducted a field assessment of major urban development projects.
According to officials, the assessment was aimed at improving infrastructure, climate resilience, and living conditions in several communities across Monrovia.
The assessment mission was led by Ms. Clementine Dardy, AFD Country Director for Ghana and Liberia, and included Mr. Andrew Aryee, Urban Development and Transport Manager; Mr. Eliot Sotty, Human Capital Project Manager; Deputy Minister for Public Works, Prince D. Tambah; and French Ambassador to Liberia, Isabelle Le Guellec.
The delegation visited project sites in the Wood Camp and Shoe Factory communities to assess implementation progress, review project deliverables, and strengthen discussions on the effective execution of the initiatives.
The field inspection focused on key components of the Monrovia Integrated Development Project (MIDP), including drainage and flood mitigation works, climate-resilient urban road rehabilitation, and the development of community recreational facilities and public spaces.
The MIDP is supported through a five-year, €10 million grant from the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) as part of the longstanding partnership between Liberia and France.
The project seeks to upgrade urban infrastructure, improve climate resilience, and provide community-driven investments in targeted Monrovia communities, including Wood Camp, Shoe Factory, and Lakpazee.
AFD has also committed €900,000 toward the establishment of the Urban Fabric Initiative, which is being implemented by Mercy Corps under the supervision of the Ministry of Public Works.
The initiative focuses on small-scale community infrastructure projects and public space improvements designed and developed in collaboration with residents and local stakeholders.
Speaking during the assessment, Deputy Public Works Minister, Prince D. Tambah urged residents to take ownership of the projects, emphasizing that community participation is critical to the sustainability of the investments.
Minister Tambah said the projects are progressing gradually as expected but disclosed that some nearby structures may be affected as part of efforts to open road corridors leading to the project sites.
According to him, the possible demolition of some houses will be necessary to improve accessibility and ensure citizens can easily benefit from the completed infrastructure.
AFD expresses satisfaction with progress
For her part, AFD Country Director for Ghana and Liberia, Ms. Clementine Dardy, praised the efforts of contractors and expressed satisfaction with the progress made so far.
She noted that community involvement remains a key factor in ensuring the success of the projects, stressing the importance of transparency and active participation from residents.
Meanwhile, French Ambassador to Liberia Isabelle Le Guellec said the field visit was important to observe firsthand the realities on the ground and understand the role communities are playing in supporting the projects.
Ambassador Le Guellec said the projects are on the right path and expressed hope that their completion will bring significant relief and improved living conditions for residents.
Residents of Wood Camp and Shoe Factory communities welcomed the initiative, describing it as a major intervention that will positively impact their daily lives.
Jerry Massaquoi, Community Chairperson of the Shoe Factory Community, commended the Government of Liberia, France, and AFD for the drainage improvement works carried out in the area.
He said the drainage project has brought tremendous relief to residents, especially during the rainy season when flooding has historically affected the community.
The MIDP and Urban Fabric Initiative are expected to contribute significantly to improving urban services, reducing flood risks, and creating safer and more resilient communities in Monrovia.