28/07/2026
LAC's New Bridge in Wee District Sparks Debate Over Long-Term Community Development
Wee District
Grand Bassa County
July 28, 2026
The dedication of a newly constructed 100-foot bridge over the Newcess River by the Liberian Agricultural Company (LAC) has generated mixed reactions in Wee Statutory District, with residents welcoming the improved access while others question whether the project reflects the level of development expected from a company that has operated in Liberia for more than six decades.
During the official dedication ceremony, LAC described the bridge as a significant investment that will improve transportation and provide safer access to schools, markets, healthcare facilities, and neighboring communities, particularly during the rainy season when flooding has often made travel difficult.
Chief Elder Philip G.G. Gargar praised the project, describing it as the end of years of hardship for residents of Jocey Gargar Town and surrounding communities.
According to him, the bridge represents hope and progress for the people, who have long struggled to cross the Newcess River during periods of heavy rainfall.
As part of the ceremony, the company announced that the bridge had been named in honor of its Community Liaison and Health, Safety and Environment Superintendent, J. Morris Saah, in recognition of his contributions to strengthening relationships between LAC and host communities.
Speaking at the event, LAC General Manager Naveen Madan reaffirmed the company's commitment to supporting development beyond its plantation operations. He said LAC remains committed to investing in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and sustainable livelihood initiatives to improve the well-being of residents in its concession areas.
Despite the optimism surrounding the project, the bridge dedication has also drawn criticism from Wremongar B. Joe, a prominent son of the Wee Statutory District, who argued that the project falls short of what communities should expect from a company that has operated in the district since 1959.
Joe questioned whether a single bridge was an adequate contribution after decades of natural rubber production in the area. He further expressed concern that residents appeared satisfied with what he described as minimal development, urging citizens to reflect on whether concession communities have received their fair share of benefits over the years.
He also noted the absence of senators and representatives at the bridge dedication ceremony, suggesting that the lack of attendance by senior government officials raises broader questions about the level of development being delivered by concession companies operating in the district.
Joe's comments have reignited public discussion over corporate social responsibility and whether infrastructure projects undertaken by major concessionaires adequately reflect decades of economic activity in their host communities.
At the time of publication, neither the Liberian Agricultural Company nor local government officials had publicly responded to the concerns raised by Joe.
The bridge project, valued at more than US$3.700, is expected to improve mobility and strengthen social and economic activities throughout Wee Statutory District and neighboring communities.
