The exercise, which commenced at the District Commissioner’s Compound, brought several residents, including landowners, community stakeholders, local government officials, and traditional leaders. The verification exercise formed part of the preparatory activities for the proposed World Bank-supported 100 MWp Solar PV Project.
Speaking during the opening, Mr. Juan Fridrick Martin, Assistant Director for Land Use and Management, LLA, indicated that the exercise was conducted at the request of the project Technical Committee. He explained that the primary objective was to identify landowners, verify ownership claims, document affected areas, and ensure that the rights of all PAC/parties are respected.
“This process is essential to laying a credible foundation for the project. We are ensuring that all landowners and interested parties are identified, their claims verified, and their rights respected as we move forward with this national development initiative,” Martin said.
Mr. Martin further stated that the engagement was designed to promote transparency, accountability, and participatory governance. He urged all stakeholders, particularly local authorities, community residents, and members of the Community Land Development and Management Committee (CLDMC), to encourage individuals and groups with claims to come forward with all relevant documents to facilitate the verification and establishment of legitimate ownership.
Speaking on behalf of the people of Sanniquellie District, Hon. Mary N. Gonlepa thanked the LLA team and urged residents to embrace the project, noting that Liberia must move toward producing its own electricity. She called on landowners within the 150-hectare proposed project area to present relevant documents to facilitate the verification process.
“My son, we are happy to have you here. Our arms are open, and we are pleased to witness such an important development. I want to assure my son Martin, that the leadership of this district is ready to work closely with you and your team until the process is completed,” she added.
The verification exercise is being led by Ms. Josephine Glaydor, LLA Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Specialist. However, the LLA Technical Team is expected to commence surveying the proposed 150 hectares of land tomorrow as activities continue across the project area. The project is expected to generate up to 100 MWp of renewable energy, contributing to increased electricity access, improved energy security, and Liberia’s broader transition toward sustainable energy.
The LLA Technical Team informed residents that the vetting and survey processes will continue, urging families to ensure that members responsible for relevant land documents make them available for the team’s review and verification. Mr. Martin reaffirmed the team’s commitment to ensuring a transparent, inclusive, and lawful process while safeguarding the rights and interests of affected landowners and communities.
The engagement and subsequent survey are expected to contribute to the successful implementation of the Liberia Solar IPP Project while advancing Nimba County’s role in Liberia’s renewable energy development.
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Published by: Davis Emmanuel Chedeh