His Action Sparks Surprise And Praises, Amid Current Economic Crisis
PHOTO: Teenager Richard Mawolo who found and returned LD$50K to rightful owner
By Samuel Borlay
KOLAHUN, Liberia—Richard Mawolo, a 16-year-old GSM minute seller in Kolba City, Kolahun District in the northwestern Lofa Counth has retuned LD$$50,000 he found between Halipo town and Kolahun to the surprise of many. The exchange rate in Liberia is now stands between 192-195 Liberian dollar to one US dollar.
Richard Mawolo is an 8th grade student of School of Faith Mission located in Kolahun. His rare action in this time of economic hardship has garnered praises and admirations from citizens here in Kolahun district.
This 16-year-old student, who sells call minutes for a living near Harlipo tTwn, stumbled upon the money on Sunday afternoon, September 1, 2024. Without any hesitation, Mawolo immediately approached one Bendu Kpehe, requesting her to assist in returning the money to its owner. Recognizing the unprecedent behavior of the 16 years old boy in a corrupt society, Madam Kpehe agreed to take the responsibility of announcing the lost money on Harleyngee Community Radio.
So, on September 1, 2024, the announcement was made on the radio, urging the rightful owner to come forward and claim his/her money. In response, a gas seller hurriedly arrived at the radio station, confirming that the money indeed belonged to him. The gas seller explained that he had been to Harlipo town to change $190 thousands Liberian Dollars to United States Dollars. Unfortunately, he said during his journey back to Kolba city, LD$50,000 dropped from among the money.
The gas seller expressed immense gratitude to young Mawolo and vowed to meet his family personally. He explained that he only realized he had lost a significant portion of his money after reaching his selling place. The shock and disappointment he experienced when his money got missing prompted him to search frantically for the misplaced funds, unaware that a young boy with a strong moral compass had already found it and initiated its return.
Locals in Kolahun District have commended Richard Mawolo for his sense of honesty and integrity and his commitment to doing the right thing in a society of corrupt people. His selfless act has been hailed as a shining example of integrity, especially among young people who are often subjected to negative influences in society. This latest incident serves as a reminder of the importance of honesty and the impact one individual can have on their community.
As the news of Richard Mawolo’s integrity spreads, he continues to inspire others to prioritize honesty and integrity in their daily lives. His act of returning the lost money has exemplified the essence of kindness and has reaffirmed the belief that doing the right thing is always worthwhile.