Monrovia appears to be undergoing a significant transformation as the Monrovia City Corporation (MCC) intensifies its waste management efforts. In an investigative report conducted by environmental journalist Sylvester Choloplay, he described the city as one on a promising path toward becoming a model of cleanliness and environmental stewardship in the West African region.
A major milestone in this initiative is the securing of the Cheesemanburg Landfill Site, a 100-acre facility in Bomi County, designed to handle the waste demands of Monrovia and Montserrado County.
The $23 million project, which has been in development for seven years, is a collaboration between the Government of Liberia and international partners, including the World Bank. Once operational, this site is expected to become the central hub for sustainable waste disposal, marking a crucial step in Monrovia’s journey towards improved sanitation.
During an inspection tour on August 10, 2024, Monrovia City Mayor John Charuk Siafa assessed the progress of ongoing projects across the city. Significant improvements were observed at key areas such as the Center Street and Fiamah Transfer Stations, which had previously been overwhelmed with waste. These sites, once notorious for their poor conditions, are now considerably cleaner, reflecting the MCC’s concerted efforts to elevate the city’s sanitation standards, the report said.
The Stockton Creek and Fiamah transfer stations have received investments of US$137,125 and US$208,225, respectively, highlighting the city’s commitment to bolstering its waste management infrastructure. In addition, the ongoing Cheesemanburg Landfill Urban Sanitation Project, valued at US$1.8 million, includes the construction of a chain-link fence and a 1.9 km community access road.
Mayor Siafa explained the significance of the Cheesemanburg landfill site, stating, “This facility will accommodate most of the waste generated by Monrovia and Montserrado County, significantly alleviating the challenges we’ve faced in the past. It represents a critical investment in our city’s future.”
Residents impacted by the landfill’s development in Cheesemanburg – Bomi County have been relocated to newly constructed homes; it is a combined effort of the MCC, World Bank, UKaid, Sida, and Irish Aid, the reports disclosed.
The relocation plan also included the construction of a mini-mosque, addressing the spiritual needs of the community. Many residents expressed their gratitude, sharing their excitement and relief at being provided with better living conditions.
Mayor Siafa has emphasized the importance of these developments for the city’s future, noting, “Our goal is to maintain high environmental standards that prioritize public health and sustainability. This landfill site is just one part of our broader strategy to make Monrovia a cleaner and healthier city.”
Although Monrovia is still facing serious waste problems in some parts, the transformation from a city once burdened by chronic waste issues to one embracing sustainable practices is as a result of the effectiveness of coordinated and committed leadership of the MCC under the Mayor Mr. John-Charuk Siafa. Courtesy By: Sylvester Choloplay
