Panta, Liberia – In a significant development for residents of Bong County Electoral District Four, the “WINWA Construction Company” has officially resumed work on the long-awaited Foe River Bridge, igniting a wave of renewed optimism within the community. This bridge, long viewed as a crucial infrastructure, promises to enhance connectivity and ease the challenges faced by residents who rely on this vital passageway for transportation and trade.
The Bridge, for which construction work started in January 2025, has a length of 24.85 meters with a width of 10 meters and is expected to be completed in 24 months, Hendrick B. Tornkollie, Site Manager, told reporters. It is being funded by the Government of Liberia through the Ministry of Public Works’ National Road Fund (NRF).
The revival of the construction efforts comes after an unexpected flood that began a few weeks ago. According to manager Tornkollie, initial work commenced in January, but the project faced setbacks due to unusually high-water levels at the construction site, which rendered it unsafe to continue. “The heavy overflow of water made it impossible for us to work effectively for about a week,” Tornkollie explained. “However, with the water levels now receding, we have resumed our full operations.”
Community members have welcomed the news with open arms. Residents expressed relief and gratitude for the progress of the construction, which they believe is vital for improving their daily lives. “This bridge is not just a structure, it’s a lifeline for us. It connects us to essential services, markets, and our neighboring communities,” said resident Maria Johnson, emphasizing the importance of the bridge for her family and others in the area.
Tornkollie also took the opportunity to call for continued community cooperation throughout the construction process. “We understand the frustrations that come with delays, but we urge residents to remain calm and engaged,” he said. “Community support is crucial for the successful completion of the bridge, and we appreciate the understanding shown thus far.”
The anticipation surrounding the Foe River Bridge has been palpable, with many locals identifying it as one of the most pressing infrastructure needs in the district. It has been a topic of numerous discussions among community members, who have highlighted the challenges of crossing the river, especially during the rainy season when water levels rise significantly.
“It was always a struggle to cross, especially with children and goods. Sometimes we had to wait for days until the water receded enough for us to make the journey safely,” shared Isaac Wolo, a local farmer. “Having this bridge will change everything for us. It will make getting to the market easier and the transport of our goods much faster.”
Local government officials have also rallied behind the project, emphasizing the far-reaching benefits of the bridge. They believe that its completion will not only improve daily life for residents but also stimulate local development by attracting businesses and facilitating trade. “Infrastructure is the backbone of any thriving community,” stated Councilman Adama Kanu. “Once this bridge is completed, we can expect to see an uptick in economic activities and a better quality of life for our constituents.”
As work progresses at the site, WINWA Construction has assured residents that they are committed to maintaining high-quality standards in their work. Many residents who talked to our reporter on site expressed their confidence in the company’s capabilities, with some even suggesting that the bridge might be completed ahead of schedule. “If they keep up at this pace, I wouldn’t be surprised if we could use it by the end of the year,” noted elderly resident Abena Kpadeh, echoing the sentiments of many hopeful locals.
With the construction back on track, the Foe River Bridge promises to be more than just a physical structure; it represents a critical development for Electoral District Four, standing as a testament to the resilience and determination of the community in pushing for progress. As the project unfolds, all eyes will remain on the construction site, with residents eagerly awaiting the day when they can finally cross the bridge that they have long dreamt of, opening up new opportunities and enhancing the quality of life across the district.
