The Government of Liberia has broken its silence on the ongoing construction project in Foya District, Lofa County, following widespread public debate and speculation.
In a detailed statement shared on his official Facebook page, the Deputy Minister of Information Daniel O. Sando clarified that the project is a Government of Liberia initiative known as the Mano River Union Center for Regional Peace and Development, and not a privately owned property as suggested by some political actors and media reports.
According to the Deputy Minister, the facility is being developed as a strategic national and regional asset intended to host sub-regional, regional, and global high-level engagements, including mediation efforts, peace and security talks, conflict resolution meetings, and discussions on economic integration.
Project Scope and Facilities
The center will include a 500-seat conference hall and nine secure residential units designed to accommodate visiting dignitaries and high-level officials. The project is situated on approximately seven acres of land in Foya, Lofa County.
The Deputy Minister emphasized that the facility is public property owned by the Government of Liberia and carries national, regional, and global importance.
Rationale Behind the Project
Liberia’s leadership role within the Mano River Union (MRU) and its status as the oldest independent nation in the Mano River Basin were cited as key factors behind the initiative. The Deputy Minister noted that Liberia is often looked to for leadership on regional peace and security matters, making the establishment of a secure, purpose-built facility essential.
He further linked the project’s significance to Liberia’s current tenure on the United Nations Security Council, stating that the country must be adequately prepared to host sensitive and high-level diplomatic engagements beyond the MRU region.
Why Foya Was Selected
Addressing concerns over the project’s location, the Deputy Minister explained that Foya District’s strategic position, at the convergence of Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Guinea, makes it an ideal hub for cross-border peace and security discussions.
He also highlighted the district’s long-standing tradition of community-level peacebuilding through cross-border engagement, particularly via the Makona River Organization, which has historically facilitated dialogue among communities in the three countries.
On Confidentiality and Security
The Deputy Minister explained that limited public disclosure about the project was driven by security protocols associated with constructing a facility designed to host heads of state and other high-ranking officials.
He described the circulation of unauthorized drone footage of the construction site as a security concern, noting that releasing architectural layouts and security details during construction could expose the facility to vulnerabilities.
Funding and Oversight
According to the statement, the project is financed through a combination of national, regional, and international contributions, as well as support from private individuals and businesses. The total estimated cost of the project stands at US$6.1 million.
The Deputy Minister disclosed that President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, along with senior government and security officials, is expected to visit the site later this December as part of inspections of ongoing national development projects.
Regional Launch Planned
The regional launch of the Mano River Union Center for Regional Peace and Development is expected to take place after the project’s completion in 2026, with participation anticipated from national and regional stakeholders.
The Deputy Minister described the initiative as a reaffirmation of Liberia’s commitment to regional peace, security, and cross-border cooperation, positioning the country as a key diplomatic and peacebuilding hub in West Africa.
