President Boakai Breaks Ground on $2.7B Yen Japan Freeway Project: “Lifeline of Liberia’s Economy to Get Climate-Resilient Upgrade, 175 Jobs; Foreign Minister Says Partnership Builds Bridge of Friendship
BY: Rufus Divine Brooks Jr.
MONROVIA, Montserrado County – President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. on Friday broke ground on the reconstruction and extension of the Japan Freeway, a 1.9-kilometer stretch from the Freeport of Monrovia to the Gabriel Tucker Bridge, saying the project will create approximately 175 jobs for Liberians during construction and deliver long-term economic relief to the nation’s busiest transport corridor.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, President Boakai described the corridor as the lifeline of Liberia’s economy, linking the country’s principal seaport to the capital and supporting the daily movement of people, goods, and regional trade.
“Although measuring only 1.9 kilometers, this road is one of the most strategically important transport corridors in our country,” President Boakai said.
“By modernizing it, we will strengthen economic activity, improve mobility, reduce travel time, and enhance the daily lives of thousands who depend on it.”
The President noted that beyond direct construction jobs, the project will create opportunities for local suppliers, transport operators, service providers, and surrounding businesses, thereby multiplying its economic impact.
When completed, the project will feature climate-resilient infrastructure designed to provide a lasting solution to chronic flooding that has long affected the corridor.
President Boakai said the upgrade will improve drainage, provide durable pavement, enhance lighting and pedestrian safety, and improve overall traffic flow.
The project is funded through a Grant Agreement between the Government of Liberia and the Government of Japan.
For her part, Foreign Minister Her Excellency Mme. Sara Beysolow Nyanti said the groundbreaking reflects the enduring friendship between Liberia and Japan and aligns with President Boakai’s ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development.
“It is about strengthening a partnership that has stood the test of time—a partnership founded on mutual respect, shared values, and a common belief that strategic investments in people and infrastructure create the foundation for lasting prosperity,” Minister Nyanti stated.
Minister Nyanti disclosed that Japan, through the Japan International Cooperation Agency JICA, has committed approximately 2.725 billion Japanese Yen toward the reconstruction and extension of the corridor.
She credited the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for serving as the diplomatic channel that negotiated and formalized the agreement.
“For decades, Japan has stood alongside Liberia—not only as a development partner, but as a trusted friend,” Nyanti said.
From the construction of the original Japan Freeway, to investments in agriculture, fisheries, healthcare, education, and scholarships, Japan’s contributions have helped advance Liberia’s post-war recovery and national transformation.
The Foreign Minister emphasized that improving connectivity between the Freeport and the national road network will reduce transportation costs, enhance road safety, stimulate commerce, and strengthen Liberia’s competitiveness as a destination for regional trade and investment.
She reaffirmed Liberia’s commitment to meet all obligations under the Grant Agreement, ensure transparent implementation, and maintain the infrastructure for future generations.
The ceremony was attended by Minister of Public Works Hon. Roland Layfette Giddings, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Liberia His Excellency Hiroshi Yoshimoto, JICA Ghana Office Chief Representative Madam Suzuki Momoko, members of the diplomatic corps, government officials, and development partners.
To residents and businesses along the corridor, Minister Nyanti urged patience during construction, saying temporary inconveniences will give way to lasting national benefits.