Monrovia, Liberia – The Monrovia City Corporation (MCC) and the Ministry of Public Works (MPW) have announced a planned collaborative effort to remove makeshift structures from across the city. The joint exercise, aimed at improving sanitation, public safety, and traffic flow, is set to begin April 12, 2025, and will target central Monrovia, Waterside Market zone, Bushrod Island, and other areas known for unregulated construction and obstructions.
According to sources close to the Monrovia City Corporation and the Ministry of Public Works, representatives from both the MCC and the MPW emphasized the importance of the initiative for the overall well-being of Monrovia residents.
“The proliferation of makeshift structures throughout the city has become a significant challenge,” stated Success Karwluteh Harris, Director General of the Directorate of Environmental Health and Sanitation of the Monrovia City Corporation. “These structures often lack proper sanitation facilities, contribute to traffic congestion, and can pose safety hazards. This joint operation is a crucial step towards creating a cleaner, safer, and more organized Monrovia.”
The removal exercise will focus on sidewalks, marketplaces, street corners. Residents and individuals occupying makeshift structures in these areas are being urged to voluntarily dismantle their structures before the exercise commences.
The MCC and MPW have assured the public that the operation will be conducted with sensitivity and respect. While the primary objective is removal, authorities have indicated that efforts will be made to provide guidance to those affected, offering information on available and alternative locations where possible.
“We understand that the removal of these structures will impact some individuals and families,” said Harris. “We are committed to working with them to find sustainable solutions and minimize any potential hardship.”
The joint operation is expected to contribute significantly to the revitalization of Monrovia’s urban environment. Authorities are calling on all residents to cooperate with the exercise and contribute to the effort of building a more livable and prosperous city.
In a related development, the Mayor of Monrovia, Honorable John Charuk Siafa, has been championing an ambitious redevelopment plan for Monrovia.
Mayor Siafa is spearheading a bold initiative aimed at revitalizing Liberia’s capital city, pushing for a comprehensive redevelopment plan designed to address pressing issues such as dilapidated infrastructure, inadequate sanitation, and burgeoning informal settlements.
Mayor Siafa has been vocal about the need for a strategic and sustainable approach to urban renewal, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts between the city government, national agencies, international partners, and local communities.
The Mayor’s office and the MCC’s Community Services Department are currently engaging in public consultations to gather input from residents and incorporate their feedback into the final redevelopment plan. A series of town hall meetings and online forums will be scheduled in the coming weeks to ensure that all voices are heard.
