MONROVIA, Liberia – The Japan Freeway Extension Project officially commenced on Thursday after President Joseph Nyuma Boakai broke ground for the US$16 million infrastructure initiative aimed at improving transportation, easing traffic congestion, reducing flooding, and strengthening economic activity across Monrovia. The project is fully financed through a grant from the Government of Japan and forms part of the Boakai Administration’s ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development.
The groundbreaking ceremony marks another significant step in Liberia’s national infrastructure development program. In recent months, the Government has also launched the construction of the 255-kilometer western Liberia road corridor and the Mendikorma–Voinjama Highway, demonstrating its commitment to improving connectivity throughout the country.
Japan Freeway Extension Project Will Improve One of Liberia’s Busiest Roads
The Japan Freeway Extension Project will extend the existing Japan Freeway from the Freeport of Monrovia to the Gabriel Tucker Bridge, covering approximately 1.9 kilometers.
Although relatively short in length, President Boakai described the corridor as one of Liberia’s most strategic roads because it serves as the country’s primary commercial gateway. Every day, thousands of commuters, businesses, trucks, and commercial vehicles depend on the corridor to transport goods between the Freeport of Monrovia and the capital city.
According to the President, improving this road will significantly reduce travel time, improve mobility, increase trade, and strengthen Liberia’s economic growth.
US$16 Million Grant from Japan
The project is valued at approximately 2.7 billion Japanese Yen, equivalent to nearly US$16 million, and is being financed entirely through grant assistance from the Government of Japan.
President Boakai expressed sincere appreciation to the Government and people of Japan for decades of friendship and development cooperation. He described Japan as one of Liberia’s most reliable development partners whose investments have transformed roads, bridges, healthcare, education, agriculture, ports, and human capacity development.
“Our partnership with Japan continues to deliver meaningful development that improves the lives of Liberians,” President Boakai stated during the ceremony.
Climate-Resilient Infrastructure
The Japan Freeway Extension Project has been designed with climate resilience in mind to permanently address flooding that has affected the corridor for many years.
The completed project will include:
- Modern drainage systems
- Durable asphalt pavement
- Improved street lighting
- Pedestrian walkways
- Traffic safety improvements
- Flood control infrastructure
- Enhanced traffic flow
Government officials believe these improvements will provide long-term protection against flooding while making transportation safer and more efficient.
175 Jobs Expected During Construction
The President announced that approximately 175 Liberians will be directly employed during construction.
Beyond direct employment, the project is expected to create additional opportunities for local suppliers, contractors, transport operators, restaurants, shops, and businesses operating along the construction corridor.
Supporting the ARREST Agenda
President Boakai said the Japan Freeway Extension Project directly supports the Government’s ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development, which identifies infrastructure as a key driver of economic transformation, private-sector growth, investment, employment, and improved public service delivery.
He reaffirmed his Administration’s commitment to expanding Liberia’s road network through strategic partnerships with international development partners and private investors.
Japan’s Longstanding Partnership with Liberia
President Boakai noted that many Liberians still remember the road as Somalia Drive before it was reconstructed with assistance from the Government of Japan.
Following that successful reconstruction, the Government of Liberia officially renamed the corridor the Japan Freeway in recognition of Japan’s outstanding contribution to Liberia’s infrastructure development.
The President also praised the Ministry of Public Works, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Dai Nippon Construction Co., Ltd., and Eight-Japan Engineering Consultants Inc. for their continued cooperation and professionalism.
Appeal for Public Cooperation
The President appealed to residents, motorists, and businesses along the project corridor to remain patient throughout the construction period.
He acknowledged that temporary inconveniences may occur but assured citizens that the completed project will deliver lasting economic and social benefits for future generations.
Project Officially Launched
Concluding the ceremony, President Joseph Nyuma Boakai officially declared the Japan Freeway Extension Project launched and authorized construction to begin.
The project represents another milestone in Liberia’s national infrastructure program and reflects the strong diplomatic relationship between Liberia and Japan, while advancing the country’s vision for sustainable development and economic growth.
External Source: Learn more about Japan’s development cooperation through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
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