Photo credit: MPW
AfDB Scales Up Portfolio as GOL Signs Contractual Agreement with China Railway Seventh Group (CRSG) for Kelipo to Putuken to John Davis Town Corridor Road
MONROVIA, LIBERIA – In a significant move to overhaul the nation’s infrastructure, the Government of Liberia, through the Ministry of Public Works, officially signed a landmark contractual agreement today with China Railway Seventh Group (CRSG).
The Agreement activates Phase III of the Mano River Union Road Development & Transport Facilitation Programme (MRU/RDTFP), focusing on the paving of a critical 61.5km corridor stretching from Kelipo to Putuken and John Davis Town.
During the Signing Ceremony, Public Works Minister Roland Layfette Giddings lauded the African Development Bank for its enduring partnership.
Minister Giddings emphasized that the project is a cornerstone of the government’s strategy to unlock the economic potential of Southeastern Liberia.
‘The implementation of the Putuken to John Davis Town road marks a significant boost for connectivity. This cooperation between development partners and the government is essential for accelerating the pace of construction nationwide,’ Minister Giddings remarked.
Rees Mwasambili, the African Development Bank (AfDB) Country Director, reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to Liberia’s major transit routes, urging an accelerated work schedule to ensure the project meets its 2029 deadline.
The Project Implementation Unit Coordinator, Mr. Rawling Kesselly, highlighted the practical benefits for local citizens, noting that the paved corridor will drastically reduce travel times and improve vital access to farm-to-market roads.
He noted that the Mano River Union Road Programme, amongst many things, aims to facilitate trade, bridge the infrastructure gap, reduce costs, lower vehicle operating expenses and transport prices for essential goods.
Representing the Contractor, China Railway Seventh Group (CRSG), Mr. Liu pledged the company’s commitment to timely and high-quality execution.
He also called for a collaborative spirit between the government and local communities to ensure smooth operations throughout the construction phase.
Once completed, this 61.5km segment will serve as a modern lifeline for the Southeast, transforming a historically underserved region into a key hub for national and regional trade.
Beyond local improvements, Phase III is a vital link in a broader regional initiative.
Key Project Details
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Total Investment: US$ 48,995,608
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Distance: 61.5 Kilometers
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Primary Locations: River Gee and Grand Gedeh Counties
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Target Completion: 2029
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Funding Partner: African Development Bank (AfDB)
