Citizens of Cape-Mount Decry Poor Roads, Lack of Healthcare, Education Facilities

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ADNews-Grand Cape Mount, Liberia: Residents of Laar Clan in Gola Konneh District, Grand Cape Mount County, are raising alarm over what they describe as years of government neglect, citing deplorable road conditions, the absence of healthcare facilities, and inadequate educational infrastructure as major challenges affecting their daily lives.

By Persie Folley

Speaking to Africa Daily Newspaper, the Clan Chief of Laar Clan,  Stephen Kromah, said the poor state of roads in the area continues to hinder the movement of residents and goods, making life increasingly difficult for community members.

“For many years, we have been struggling with deplorable road conditions. The government has failed to address our needs, and our people continue to suffer because of the lack of access roads,” Chief Kromah stated.

According to the clan chief,  several bridges connecting communities within the clan have deteriorated to the point where vehicles can no longer safely pass through, leaving residents isolated from major towns and markets.

“Most of the bridges are in terrible condition. Vehicles cannot cross them, and this has seriously affected transportation in our communities,” he lamented.

Chief Kromah further disclosed that local farmers and traders are suffering significant economic losses as agricultural products often get damaged before reaching the market due to transportation difficulties.

“Our goods are getting spoiled on the roads because there is no reliable means of transportation. Farmers work hard, but they cannot get their produce to market on time,” he explained.

The lack of healthcare facilities remains another critical concern for residents, with many forced to travel long distances to access medical services.

“The absence of a healthcare facility in our area is a serious challenge. Our people are suffering because basic medical services are not available within the community,” Kromah emphasized.

He revealed that pregnant women often endure dangerous journeys to seek medical attention, with some giving birth before reaching healthcare centers.

“It is heartbreaking that some pregnant women give birth along the road while trying to get to the hospital because there is no nearby health facility,” he noted.

The clan chief added that residents frequently rely on motorbikes and hammocks to transport critically ill patients to distant clinics and hospitals.

“Sometimes we have to carry sick people in hammocks or use motorbikes to take them to the nearest health facility. This puts lives at risk and delays urgent treatment,” he emphasized.

Describing the healthcare situation as a longstanding problem, Kromah called on the government and development partners to intervene urgently.

“Health issues have been a serious challenge for years, and we are appealing to the government to come to our aid before more lives are lost,” he urged.

Beyond healthcare and roads, Chief Kromah also highlighted significant challenges facing the education sector, particularly at the Jennemana Public School.

“The school lacks enough instructors and adequate seating capacity. These are major obstacles to quality education in our community,” he stated.

He disclosed that many students are forced to sit on the floor during classes due to the shortage of desks and chairs.

“It is unfortunate that our children are sitting on the floor to learn. They deserve a better learning environment if they are to compete with students elsewhere in the country,” Kromah concluded.

The residents  are now calling on the Government of Liberia, local authorities, and development partners to prioritize the district’s infrastructure, healthcare, and educational needs to improve living conditions and create opportunities for future generations.