As county officials work to address problems related to the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone (SAPZ), residents of a village affected by development operations in Grand Bassa County are expected to begin receiving compensation on Wednesday.
The compensation process will cover more than 65 beneficiaries, with a total payout of approximately US$312,000 distributed among all eligible individuals.
Throughout the project’s implementation, the Grand Bassa County Administration, under the direction of Superintendent Hon. Karyou Johnson, has emphasised rigorous adherence to Public Procurement and Concessions Commission (PPCC) requirements. Additionally, the administration has insisted that county residents be given preference for both skilled and unskilled jobs created by the project.
In continuation of stakeholder engagement, Superintendent Johnson and District Five Representative Hon. Thomas Goshua met on January 13, 2026, to deliberate on major aspects of the SAPZ, including community benefits, job creation, and compliance with national regulatory standards.
County officials noted that the Grand Bassa Legislative Caucus is working closely with the County Administration to ensure that the project delivers its intended benefits to local communities.
According to the project’s implementation schedule, the fencing phase is expected to be completed within 18 months. Authorities believe the initiative will support local development while protecting the rights and interests of affected residents.
The SAPZ is regarded as a key project designed to strengthen Liberia’s agricultural sector. Valued at US$19.41 million, it is financed by the African Development Bank (AfDB) in partnership with the Government of Liberia and is situated in Grand Bassa County.
The project aims to improve agro-industrial competitiveness by providing essential infrastructure, institutional backing, and skills development. It forms part of President Joseph Boakai’s ARREST Agenda, which prioritizes the revitalization of agriculture and the rural economy. The SAPZ will initially cover 200 hectares, with provisions for future expansion.
