Kakata, Margibi County – People in Margibi County are celebrating a big achievement with the completion and official handover of a 28-kilometer renovated road connecting Kpelleh Town in Kakata to Harbel Hills in Firestone.
This project, fully funded by ArcelorMittal Liberia and carried out by FREBENJA, a Liberian-owned construction company, is already being seen as a game-changer for improving road access, boosting local trade, and creating new opportunities for residents.
At the handover ceremony, Hon. Ellen Attoh Wreh, Representative of Margibi County District #3, praised the project and said the local communities feel “overwhelming excitement and appreciation.” She pointed out that the road will not only make travel easier but also strengthen social and economic connections between the towns it links.
A Boost to Liberia’s Development Plans
Margibi County Superintendent O.J. Morris praised the road project as a direct support to the Government of Liberia’s national infrastructure and development goals. He stressed that better roads are key to improving agriculture, trade, and education in the area.
“This road is more than just pavement,” he said. “It’s a lifeline for farmers, students, and traders who depend on safe and reliable transport to make a living.”
A Sign of Local Partnership
The project was done in partnership with FREBENJA, showing the potential of Liberian-owned businesses to lead infrastructure development when given the chance. Many local people got jobs during the construction, gaining valuable work experience and skills.
Marcus Wleh, Head of Sustainability and External Relations at ArcelorMittal Liberia, spoke for the company’s CEO and reaffirmed ArcelorMittal’s commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and long-term community support.
“Our investment in this road goes beyond building it,” Wleh said. “It shows our commitment to creating opportunities, unity, and lasting development in the communities where we work.”
Changing Local Lives
For people in Kpelleh Town, Kakata, and Harbel Hills, the new road means shorter travel times, easier access to markets and schools, and better emergency services. Farmers who had trouble getting their goods to market say the road will help lower costs and reduce losses after harvest.
Local traders also believe the road will open new chances for small businesses, and residents see it as a sign of progress and stability in a county long held back by poor roads.
Looking Forward
Community leaders hope this project will encourage more investments in Margibi County. They are urging both the government and private companies to support similar projects in other areas where road access is still a problem.
ArcelorMittal Liberia has promised to keep supporting projects that match national priorities and bring real benefits to communities across the country.
“This road is a clear example of how public and private cooperation can create lasting change,” Wleh added. “We’re proud to be part of Liberia’s path toward inclusive and sustainable growth.”
As the first vehicles drove on the new road, the feeling of hope was clear showing that investing in infrastructure can build stronger communities and brighter futures.
