Nimba, Liberia—Reports indicate that the poor state of roads in Tappita and surrounding areas in Nimba County has caused a rice shortage.
According to recent reports from Nimba, heavy rainfall has left many vehicles transporting rice stuck in the mud.
As a result, the price of a cup of rice has risen from fifty to sixty-five Liberian dollars.
Local farmers are urging the Ministry of Agriculture to support the cultivation of additional rice hectares in the county.
Residents are hoping for clearer weather soon to facilitate the delivery of goods.
In Southeastern Liberia, the dire road conditions have forced many commuters to detour through neighboring Ivory Coast to reach Maryland County.
Some travelers shared with the press that they have no choice but to take this longer route due to impassable roads.
The Ministry of Public Works has linked these issues to persistent heavy rains.
President Boakai has prioritized road construction and maintenance in his administration.
He pledged that no vehicle would be stuck in the mud within his first 100 days in office and urged the Ministry of Finance to allocate US$22 million for the upkeep of major laterite roads.
However, the Senate later declared the contracts for this maintenance unlawful, citing violations of procurement laws.
Many awarded companies have failed to meet performance standards, undermining the President’s commitment.
Across the nation, road conditions remain critical.
Although the Ministry of Public Works has promised to terminate the contracts of under-performing firms, no specific companies have been named as of yet.
