Beyeamah, Bong County – July 10, 2025 — Residents of Beyeamah and nearby towns in Bong County Electoral District #3 have expressed profound gratitude to Representative Josiah Marvin Cole following the construction and dedication of a new bridge valued at over $20,000.
The dedication ceremony, held on June 10, 2025, marked a significant milestone in addressing longstanding transportation challenges that have hindered movement and commerce in the region. The newly constructed bridge is expected to greatly ease the transport of goods and people between remote towns and Gbarnga, the county’s main commercial hub.
Speaking on behalf of Rep. Cole, Eldorado V. Keamue, Chief of Office Staff, assured the citizens that the bridge project is part of the lawmaker’s broader agenda to improve infrastructure and enhance economic activity in the district. Keamue stated that the project was initiated after residents raised concerns about the dangers and difficulties of using the old, makeshift wooden bridge.
“This bridge is not just a structure; it is a promise fulfilled,” Keamue told the gathering. “Representative Cole has always prioritized tangible development that directly improves the lives of his constituents.”
During the event, community leaders and residents shared their experiences and praised Rep. Cole for his responsiveness. Madam Marie Yarkpawolo, Chairlady of Beyeamah, said the previous bridge was a constant source of fear and risk, especially for pregnant women and school-going children.
“We suffered too long crossing that old bridge,” she said. “Sometimes we feared for our lives, especially during the rainy season. Now, we feel safer and more hopeful.”
James Sayplay, a local commercial motorcyclist, echoed similar sentiments, noting that the old bridge posed daily threats to riders and commuters. According to him, many riders had accidents, and some refused to carry passengers across due to safety concerns.
“This new bridge will save lives and money. It shows that when we speak up, our leader listens,” Sayplay noted.
The new bridge is expected to be a lifeline for farmers, who previously struggled to transport their produce—particularly cassava, rice, and palm oil—to the markets in Gbarnga. With easier and safer access, community members anticipate a boost in trade, improved livelihoods, and reduced transportation costs.
The citizens used the occasion not only to thank their representative but also to request continued support in other areas of infrastructure development, especially road rehabilitation. They emphasized that while the bridge is a major victory, good roads are still urgently needed to ensure long-term economic growth and accessibility.
Currently on a month-long official visit to the United States, Rep. Cole was not present at the ceremony but, through his team, conveyed his commitment to fulfilling additional development promises.
The bridge project reflects broader efforts to address rural infrastructure challenges across Liberia, where poor roads and weak transport systems continue to hamper growth, limit access to essential services, and isolate rural communities.
As the citizens of Beyeamah and surrounding villages begin to benefit from the new structure, they are hopeful that this marks the beginning of more targeted development in Bong County District #3—development that responds to local needs and empowers citizens to thrive.
