Gov’t Launches 64.15km Kolahun-Vahun Road

The Government of Liberia has officially launched the long-awaited 64.15-kilometer Kolahun–Vahun road project in Lofa County, signaling a major step toward improved rural connectivity and development in the region.

The groundbreaking ceremony took place on Saturday, November 29, 2025, drawing local leaders, citizens, and national officials.

The Ministry of Public Works announced that two Liberian-owned firms BK Enterprise and Kingdom Business Enterprise have been introduced as the contractors responsible for executing the project.

The initiative forms part of the government’s ARREST agenda, which prioritizes road construction and infrastructure development across the country.

Director of Rural Roads at the Ministry of Public Works, Christopher M. Blamoh, revealed that the entire project is valued at US$2.2 million.

He emphasized that the government has already signed the contract, and work is expected to begin within the next two weeks.

BK Enterprise has been awarded Lots 1 and 2 of the project, while Kingdom Business Enterprise will handle Lot 3.

According to officials, the division of work is intended to accelerate progress and ensure timely completion of the road.

Lot 1 covers the stretch from Kolahun to Yallahun at a cost of US$1.1 million. The same amount has been allotted for Lot 2, which extends from Yallahun to Vahun.

Officials say the funding reflects government’s commitment to uplifting one of the most isolated districts in Lofa County.

During the ceremony, Development Superintendent Honorable Francis Egu Lassana expressed deep gratitude to the government for what he described as a transformative investment in the county.

As a native of Vahun District, he stated that the project fulfills a major promise made to residents.

Development Superintendent Lassana praised President Joseph Boakai’s administration for prioritizing rural infrastructure under the ARREST agenda.

He asserted that the Kolahun–Vahun road will greatly improve mobility, trade, and access to essential services for thousands of residents.

Director Blamoh assured citizens that the contractors selected are reputable and capable of delivering quality work.

He reaffirmed that the project has already been awarded and that mobilization will begin shortly.

Local residents turned out in huge numbers to welcome the groundbreaking, many celebrating what they called a long-overdue development. Vahun District has long been considered one of the most inaccessible parts of Liberia.

Several citizens expressed hope that the road will mark an end to years of transportation difficulty, especially during the rainy season when the route becomes nearly impassable.

They said improved access will bring economic relief and boost local markets.

Speakers at the ceremony commended the government for involving Liberian-owned companies in the project.

They argued that awarding such contracts to local firms strengthens domestic capacity and creates job opportunities for young people.

Community members pledged to fully support and monitor the project to ensure transparency, accountability, and proper implementation.

They vowed to work closely with authorities to prevent delays or misuse of materials.

The Ministry of Public Works encouraged residents to remain engaged, noting that community oversight is critical for the success of rural road initiatives.

Officials stressed that the project will only succeed with active collaboration from local stakeholders.

Many residents also called for the inclusion of feeder roads along the newly planned corridor to facilitate transportation between villages.

They urged the government to consider future expansions once the primary route is completed.

As preparations for mobilization begin, expectations are high across Kolahun and Vahun districts.

Citizens say the groundbreaking marks the beginning of a new chapter one they hope will finally deliver better infrastructure, stronger trade links, and a more connected Lofa County.

For more than half a decade, residents of Vahun have suffered severe isolation due to the poor condition of the district’s main road.

Vehicles could not reach the district, forcing citizens to transfer their businesses and essential activities through neighboring Sierra Leone.

The lack of accessible roads caused significant economic hardship, including shortages of Liberian Dollars in local markets, and stalled development in key sectors such as trade, agriculture, and commerce.

During the six years of CDC administration, Vahun remained virtually cut off, leaving residents with no choice but to rely on alternative routes in Sierra Leone for goods, services, and business transactions.

Earlier this year, the Ministry of Public Works announced plans to construct the Vahun Road, signaling a turning point for the district’s infrastructure and long-overdue connectivity.

The Unity Party government has emphasized that this project is a major step toward economic revitalization, social development, and improved quality of life for Vahun citizens.

Local leaders and community representatives have hailed the decision, praising President Boakai’s commitment to addressing long-standing neglect and restoring hope to the people of Lofa County.

“The announcement is a dream comes true for our people. Finally, our district will be connected, our businesses can thrive, and our children can move freely without hardship,” said an eminent citizen of the District.

Economic analysts predict that the road construction will create opportunities for local businesses, attract new investments, and boost cross-border trade in the region.

Beyond commerce, the Vahun Road is expected to enhance access to healthcare, education, and recreational activities, transforming the social and cultural landscape of the district.

The Unity Party has highlighted the Vahun Road as a model for responsive governance and community-centered development, promising similar interventions in other neglected districts nationwide.