MONROVIA — In a major push to ease traffic congestion and modernize urban infrastructure, Liberia’s Minister of Public Works, Roland Layfette Giddings, on Tuesday led the groundbreaking ceremony for a China-aid overhead bridge in Congo Town, along Tubman Boulevard.
The ceremony, held near the Ministerial Complex, brought together top government officials, foreign diplomats, and development partners — including the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China — marking a new chapter in Liberia–China cooperation on infrastructure development.
“More Than Just a Structure”
Speaking at the event, Minister Giddings described the project as “more than just a structure,” calling it a symbol of Liberia’s commitment to road efficiency and economic growth.
“This overhead bridge reflects our commitment to enhancing the efficiency of our road network and promoting economic productivity in Liberia,” Giddings declared.
He emphasized that the project is expected to generate between 150 to 300 jobs, providing opportunities for both skilled and unskilled laborers during its two-year construction timeline.
China’s Support Recognized
The bridge is one of two major flyovers funded through a $54 million Chinese grant, secured under the Forum on China–Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). The grant agreement was finalized in 2018 under former President George Weah but originated from preliminary negotiations during the administration of former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf.
Minister Giddings thanked the Chinese government for its “continued and strategic investment” in Liberia’s development, especially in critical infrastructure.
“We are grateful for China’s long-standing partnership. This project stands as a testament to what nations can achieve when mutual respect and shared vision are at the core of their relationship,” he said.
Continuation of Long-Term Planning
The Minister also acknowledged that the project builds on mobility and traffic studies initiated under former Public Works Minister William Judy Moore. These studies identified key traffic bottlenecks in Monrovia, especially along Tubman Boulevard, and called for long-term solutions to accommodate the city’s growing population and vehicle usage.
Looking Ahead
The overhead bridges — one near the Ministerial Complex and the other at the SKD Boulevard intersection — are expected to ease peak-hour congestion, reduce travel times, and improve emergency response mobility. They are being constructed by the China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC), selected through a transparent international bidding process.
The project aligns with China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a global infrastructure development strategy aimed at enhancing regional connectivity.
Minister Giddings closed the ceremony with a call for national unity and commitment:
“As we embark on this transformative journey, let us keep our hearts and minds focused on the progress of Liberia.” The overhead bridges are scheduled to be completed by 2027.
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