Chinese Amb. Yin
China’s role in Liberia’s infrastructure drive was spotlighted Tuesday, July 28, 2026 in Lofa County, as the 81-kilometre Gbarnga to Salayea Road was officially dedicated, with Chinese Ambassador Yin Chengwu calling the project “another tangible outcome of practical cooperation” between the two countries.
The road, constructed by China Henan International Cooperation Group (CHICO), was commissioned in Lofa County in a ceremony attended by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung, Deputy Speaker Thomas P. Fallah, cabinet ministers, local officials, international partners, and CHICO representatives.
Speaking at the event, Ambassador Yin said the completion of the Gbarnga-Salayea corridor is “of great significance to Liberia’s economic and social development.”
He noted that the project reflects the Liberian Government’s commitment to improving people’s well-being and demonstrates the delivery capacity of Chinese companies.
“Successfully constructed and completed to a high standard by CHICO, the project fully demonstrates the professionalism and strong delivery capability of Chinese enterprises,” Amb. Yin stated. He added that China “will continue to encourage capable Chinese companies to participate in Liberia’s economic development and further deepen practical cooperation between the two countries.
Also, President Boakai expressed appreciation to all partners who contributed to the project, singling out the role of CHICO and Liberia’s development partners.
He said the newly paved road will improve transportation in northern Liberia and boost trade, farming, and access to services in Bong, Lofa and surrounding counties.
“The completion of the project will improve transportation in northern Liberia and promote the region’s economic and social development,” President Boakai said.
The President reaffirmed government’s commitment to advancing infrastructure along the Northern Corridor, describing it as critical to national development and to “better serve the country’s development and improve the well-being of its people.”
For years, the Gbarnga-Salayea stretch was impassable during the rainy season, cutting off farmers and traders in Lofa from markets in Gbarnga and Monrovia. With the road now completed to a high standard, officials say travel time will be reduced, cost of goods will drop, and access to health and education facilities will improve for thousands of residents.
The project also forms part of broader efforts under the Boakai administration’s ARREST Agenda to connect county capitals with all-season roads and open up economic corridors.
Ambassador Yin’s remarks underscored Beijing’s continued interest in Liberia’s reconstruction. Chinese firms have previously worked on roads, public buildings, and technical assistance programs in Liberia.
Monday’s dedication adds the 81KM Gbarnga-Salayea Road to that portfolio, and signals what both sides described as a commitment to more “practical cooperation” in the years ahead.
The Gbarnga-Salayea Road dedication was both a celebration of completed infrastructure and a signal of ongoing partnership. For Liberia, it means better connectivity in the north. For China, it’s another example of its infrastructure footprint in West Africa.
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