- Residents of Karluway District gathered in Manolu Township over the weekend to dedicate a $95,000 township hall and a $48,599 community market, both constructed under Sen. J. Gblebo Brown and described by local leaders as the most significant infrastructure investments the district has seen in years.
The township hall dedication drew students, local officials, community leaders, and residents. The Boniken Community Market, dedicated at a separate ceremony, includes a warehouse and sanitation facilities designed to support local commerce.
Brown, speaking at the township hall ceremony, framed the projects as part of a deliberate shift in his legislative approach, from small-scale livelihood programs in his first term toward visible infrastructure development in his current one.
He also reflected on a personal experience that has shaped his focus on women's economic empowerment. His late sister, a market woman, died from a snakebite while traveling to sustain her business, a loss he said inspired his advocacy for market women across the county.
Follow us on WhatsApp | LinkedIn for the latest headlines
During his first term, Brown said he secured a $150,000 loan, distributing $100,000, approximately 15 million Liberian dollars, to women's groups across Barrobo, Pleebo, Harper, and Karluway districts. Beneficiaries used the funds to expand businesses, including investments in livestock.
"I made commitments to the women of Maryland County, and I will not give up on those promises," Brown said, noting that women played a significant role in his 2023 re-election.
Gabriel Tarpeh, chief executive officer of GaMar Group of Companies and the project's chief contractor, thanked Brown for the opportunity and urged Marylanders to support local talent in driving the county's development.
Maryland County Superintendent Henry B. Cole Jr. praised the senator's commitment while warning residents against vandalism or actions that could undermine the investment. "This project belongs to the people," Cole said. "It should be preserved to bring pride and dignity to the district."
Karluway District Superintendent Peter Kuma described both facilities as "dreams come true," pledging to ensure proper monitoring and long-term sustainability.
Chris Walker, representing Maryland Rural Women, urged community members to maintain the facilities responsibly.
At the Boniken market dedication, Abraham C. Wilson, president of the Liberia Marketing Association in Maryland County, said the facility would improve business conditions and livelihoods in the area. The Boniken town chief urged residents to treat the market with respect, specifically cautioning against unsanitary use of the premises.
Sign up for free AllAfrica Newsletters
Get the latest in African news delivered straight to your inbox
Brown also addressed a public misconception at the ceremony, clarifying that the location of the township hall in Manolu does not alter the administrative designation of Karluway District's capital.
