By: Edmund C. Gbarwee, Nimba D-9 TV Public Health Reporter, ceo@onenimbahouse.com, nimbad9tv2018@gmail.com, +231778070604

Zekepa, Nimba, Liberia: – In a stirring example of grassroots mobilization and community solidarity, the remote Liberian town of Zekepa has witnessed a transformative change in its infrastructure with the rehabilitation of bridges with wood that link Zekepa with Zekepa Health Center and Maternal Waiting Home including Zekeh Memorial High School and other towns.

The once perilous bridge connecting the Zekepa Health Center and Maternal Waiting Home, a critical lifeline for thousands of residents, has been successfully repaired following an intensive fundraising campaign spearheaded by local media and driven by generous donors.

Zekepa, proposed as Liberia’s capital city by former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf due to its central location, is situated in the Zehnla Administrative District. This district is integral, linking five of Liberia’s counties—Bong, Grand Bassa, Rivercess, Grand Gedeh, and Sinoe. Despite its strategic position, Zekepa remains one of the country’s most isolated and underserved regions. Its healthcare system, which consists of a single health center and a maternal waiting home, is severely strained, serving a catchment population of approximately 14,851, many of whom face serious medical conditions including epilepsy.

The situation reached a critical point when Radio Voice of Yarwin Mehnsonnoh 99.1FM, managed by The One Nimba House Media Inc (Nimba D-9 TV), reported that the only bridge linking the health facilities had become a death trap. The deteriorating state of the bridge endangered patients, commuters, and students traveling to local schools, including Zekeh Memorial High School and P.Z. Gwaikolo Elementary School including other towns and counties beyond.

The urgency of the matter prompted Nimba D-9 TV to launch a robust social media campaign and a GoFundMe initiative, led by Diaspora Chairperson Madame Pauline Wonzon Land. The fundraising efforts proved successful, amassing a total of US$585 and LRD$20,700. Contributions came from various quarters, reflecting a remarkable show of solidarity:

• Radio Voice of Yarwin Mehnsonnoh 99.1FM, led by Chair Mr. Moses Norbein, contributed LRD$5,700.
• Nimba County Electoral District Nine Representative Taa Z. Wongbe Office donated LRD$15,000.
• Diaspora donor Aagon Gwaikolo gave US$100.
• Diaspora Micheal Land, husband of Madame Pauline Wonzon Land, contributed US$125.
• Diaspora Howard Mason donated US$45.
• Diaspora Spencer Biah provided US$200.
• Diaspora Sarlea Mah gave US$50.
• An anonymous donor contributed US$50.
• Diaspora Leslie M. Pintor donated US$15.

The funds facilitated the much-needed repair of the bridge, improving its safety and functionality.

Engineer Gabriel K. Paye, a Zekepa native working with ArcelorMittal Liberia, has suggested that future bridge constructions be done using cement concrete to enhance durability.

Local officials have praised the initiative. Representative Taa Z. Wongbe has committed to including bridge improvements in the next fiscal budget, which allocates US$100,000 for development projects across 78 towns in his district. Additionally, John Payzine, head of the Zekepa Development Council, announced that any remaining funds from the bridge project will be allocated to further development at the Zekepa Health Center and Maternal Waiting Home.

The intervention has been met with gratitude from the community and local leaders. Yarwin Mehnsonnoh Statutory District Development Officer Andrew Larmie commended Nimba D-9 TV for its proactive role in addressing critical issues. Madame Helena Weh-Johnson and District Education Officer Micheal Goyee also expressed their appreciation for the support, noting the significant impact on students and healthcare access.

In addition to this initiative, the United Nimba Citizens Council (UNICCO) and former UNICCO National President Abbaccus Duokie have made substantial contributions to health facilities in the region, providing essential supplies and support.

While this community-driven success story highlights the power of collective action, it also underscores the need for sustainable solutions from the central government to address ongoing challenges in remote areas like Zekepa. The recent repairs not only restore a vital link but also exemplify how dedicated individuals and organizations can make a profound difference in the lives of those in need.