The African Development Bank (AfDB) and the Liberian government have concluded negotiations to start the construction of 444km Coastline Highway. The joint project is to promote economic expansion and development, specifically in Liberia’s southeastern region.

In order to discuss the implementation of this game-changing project, Samuel D. Tweah, Minister of Finance and Development Planning, and Madam Ruth Coker-Collins, Minister of Public Works, met with an AfDB delegation on Tuesday, at the Ministry of Finance. The delegation included Mr. Rufus Darkortey, Executive Director of AFDB, Dr. Benedict Kanu, Country Manager of AFDB in Liberia, and Jean-Noel Ilboudo.

The Ministry of Finance said in a statement, “The African Development Bank (AfDB) and the Liberian government have joined forces to begin the massive development of the long-awaited Coast Highway. The project has the potential to bring Liberia into a new age of development and prosperity.”

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Cost of the proposed Coastal Highway in Liberia

The cost of building the full 444km coastal highway corridor is estimated at $430 million. The first stage, referred to as LOT 1, will involve building a 56-kilometer section between Buchanan in Grand Bassa County and the junction in Cestos in Rivercess County. With an estimated $54 million cost, Lot 1 is a crucial section of the coastal highway project. This section demonstrates the dedication of both the Liberian government and the AfDB to sustainable development.

The government highlighted the coastal highway’s potential to spur economic growth, and improve vital infrastructure networks. As well as advance regional integration with Ivory Coast in recognizing it as a top priority effort.

Both Ministers of Finance Tweah and Public Works Collins extended their gratitude to Dr. Akiwumi A. Adesina, President of the African Development Bank, for his unflinching support in facilitating the development of this historic Coastline Highway project.

Additionally, the Liberian government emphasizes that the Coastal Highway’s represents a significant step toward making Liberia more connected and affluent. As well as promising greater transportation facilities and improved economic prospects.