Kongba District, Gbarpolu County, February 16, 2026: Residents of Kongba District in Gbarpolu County have strongly rejected the federal government’s declaration of the Gola Forest Nationwide Park because the proposed Gola/Foyah Reserve, describing the transfer as unacceptable for failing to seek the advice of affected communities correctly.
Throughout a press convention over the weekend in Brewersville, leaders of the Kongba District Growth Affiliation demanded that the Authorities of Liberia de-gazette the park until a complete stakeholders’ convention is held to deal with the district’s considerations.
The Affiliation’s Secretary Basic, Learplay Bainda, acknowledged that, in accordance with the legislation and the forest administration plan, the Forestry Growth Authority (FDA) should clearly inform residents of the precise advantages they’re entitled to from forest conservation.
Mr. Bainda pressured that the FDA and its implementing accomplice, Conservation of Nature of Liberia, should have interaction residents in real and significant dialogue to deal with their considerations.
He additionally known as for the involvement of key companions—together with the European Union, United Nations Growth Programme (UNDP), Environmental Safety Company, and Conservation Worldwide—to collaboratively deal with the district’s challenges, with a selected concentrate on restrictions that restrict residents’ entry to the forest.
Amongst their calls for, residents are requesting the rehabilitation and common upkeep of roads and bridges resulting in the park.
They’re additionally calling for employment and scholarship alternatives for youth in numerous fields, together with well-defined packages to empower ladies within the district.
Moreover, the Affiliation seeks compensation for communities immediately impacted by the park’s institution, in addition to the implementation of security measures to forestall wild animals—comparable to elephants—from encroaching on cities and farmland.
The group can be urging the FDA and its companions to supply important providers, together with protected consuming water, improved healthcare, and high quality schooling for district residents.
The individuals of Kongba District reiterated their unequivocal opposition to the institution of the Gola/Foyah Reserve in its present kind, insisting that their considerations be addressed by inclusive session earlier than any additional motion is taken.
