By Wroinbee Elton Tiah LINA Grand Bassa County Correspondent
BUCHANAN, March 27 (LINA) – The Liberia Special Economic Zones Authority (LSEZA), in collaboration with the National Investment Commission (NIC) and key stakeholders, has launched the Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) Assessment and Preparation Exercise for the Buchanan Special Economic Zone 210-hectare Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone (SAPZ).
This critical exercise will pave the way for major infrastructure development that will attract foreign direct investment, promote agro-industrialization, and create thousands of job opportunities for Liberians.
The RAP assessment will document all affected properties, tree crops, graves, sacred sites, and structures within the designated Right of Way for the 4.27 km approach road, perimeter fencing for the 210 hectares around the SAPZ, and power distribution lines leading to the SAPZ site. This initiative will ensure that all project-affected communities are properly engaged and compensated according to national and international standards.
Speaking on the significance of the exercise, Mr. Prince Wreh, Executive Chairman of LSEZA, stated: “The RAP assessment is an important milestone in developing the much-anticipated Buchanan Special Economic Zone. It is not just about infrastructure; it is about ensuring that affected communities are treated fairly and that the SAPZ becomes a hub for agro-industrial development in Liberia.”
Grand Bassa Senator and Senate Pro Tempore, Nyomblee Karnga-Lawrence, emphasized the importance of inclusive development, noting: “The SAPZ project is critical for creating long-term economic opportunities in Grand Bassa and beyond. Our people must be active participants in this process, and their interests must be safeguarded through a fair and transparent process.”
Mr. Jeff Blibo, National Investment Commission Chairman, reiterated the Government’s commitment to economic diversification, stating: “The establishment of the SAPZ will significantly strengthen Liberia’s agricultural value chains, further industrialization, and drive economic growth. This RAP assessment ensures that the project moves forward with a strong foundation of community engagement and sustainability.”
Mr. Andrew Anderson, Project Coordinator for the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone Project, highlighted the project’s broader impact: “With the African Development Bank’s support, the SAPZ initiative will bring about new investments, technological innovation, and improved infrastructure. The RAP process is key to unlocking these benefits while respecting the rights of affected communities.”
The RAP assessment includes a series of community engagement meetings with affected residents from Garpue Town, Kekeh Town, Wanuah’s Town, Konoh Town, Penney Town, Doeequan Town, Leaplay Town, GeahTown, Victor Reeves Village, and Maria Duah Villages. These meetings will ensure that stakeholders are well informed and that any concerns are addressed collaboratively.
The SAPZ project is a flagship initiative under the Government of Liberia’s Special Economic Zones Authority program, funded by the African Development Bank (AfDB) with a total investment of USD 19.41 million.
The initiative is expected to create 156,000 new jobs, generate USD 150 million in new investments, and enhance Liberia’s agricultural competitiveness through the establishment of modern processing and transformation centers.
The Liberia Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone (SAPZ) is a flagship initiative designed to transform Liberia’s agricultural sector by enhancing value chains, attracting private investment, and creating jobs. Located in Buchanan, Grand Bassa County, the SAPZ provides critical infrastructure, institutional support, and skills development to boost agro-industrial competitiveness.
Funded by the AfDB and the Government of Liberia (GoL) with a total investment of US$19.41 million, the project (2022-2026) is implemented by the National Investment Commission. Key outputs include core infrastructure development, Agricultural Transformation Centers, market branding, and capacity building for farmers, MSMEs, and youth.
The SAPZ will generate US$150 million in private investment, create 156,000 jobs, and integrate 130,000 farmers into structured value chains. High-level government backing underscores its role in driving Liberia’s economic diversification, food security, and agro-industrial growth.
