The NIBATT-22 Contingent in Bomi County has commissioned and turned over the T-Burg 22 Restaurant to the Government of Liberia.

Speaking Wednesday July 27, 2010 at the commissioning and turning over ceremony held in Vai Town, Bomi County, NIBATT-22 Contingent Commander, Lt/Col.Benjamin Olufemi Sawyerr said the project was a manifestation of their desire to do something worthy that the inhabitants and community will emulate.

Lt/Col. Sawyerr said the project was begun 7 months ago with the strong belief it would have become a reality, adding that the training of 15 women was also a contribution to have them trained and empowered.

According to him, they embarked on the project having shared the idea with SRSG Ellen Margaret Loj who saw the vision and embraced, and supported them.

Lt/Col.Sawyerr thanked those who made the project possible, especially the UNDP and local county officials of Bomi County who stood beside them in making sure that their project was fruitful.

For his part, the Sector Alpha Commander and Nigerian Contingent Commander B/Gen. EB Awala welcomed everyone to the important occasion which was intended to present certificate of proficiency to 15 Bomi County Women trained in catering and restaurant management and also hand over the newly constructed T-Burg 22 Restaurant to the Liberian Authority.

B/Gen. Awala indicated that the 15 women were trained on introduction to cooking, kitchen hygiene, food hygiene, practical cooking in continental and African dishes while others include nutrition and healthy eating, meal planning and restaurant management.

He noted that the training provided by the Nigerian Contingent has not only impacted the graduates skills in catering and restaurant management, but offered them the opportunity to practice the trade they have acquired.

Mr. Awala added that this is being made possible through the assistance of the UNDP that provided the materials requested for building and furnishing the restaurant, but the operation of the restaurant will assist the County Capital to have a befitting eatery with varieties of continental and national delicacies for the people and tourist that will be coming to the Blue Lake Resort Center that will soon be handed over to the Liberian Government.

Earlier the Deputy UNDP Representative, Maria Kiteng expressed delight to be present and represent the UNDP, saying “it was just two short months ago, that the NIBATT-22 Contingent Commander, Lt/Col. Sawyerr came to our office with a team that was very enthusiastic.”

Mrs. Kiteng said that with the support of the Government of Sweden, they were in the position to render assistance to many projects

She said the Swedish Government was happy to hear about the funding of this program, noting that they have identified a range of project for youth and women.