EDINA, Grand Bassa County – The Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA) joined a high-level government delegation and representatives of South Korean investment firm Make Group on a site identification visit to Edina, where the company plans to build a shipbuilding, dry-docking, and ship-recycling facility.
Commissioner/CEO Cllr. Neto Zarzar Lighe, Sr., led the LiMA team. The government delegation included Minister of State Without Portfolio Haja Mamakai Bility, Minister of Public Works Roland Layfette Giddings, National Investment Commission Chairman Jeff B. Blibo, and Liberia Land Authority Chairman Samuel F. Kpakio.
The group assessed a parcel of land that Edina residents selected for the proposed project. Officials say the investment will create thousands of direct and indirect jobs and stimulate economic growth in Grand Bassa County and across Liberia. Speaking after the site visit, Minister Bility called the proposed investment a key part of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s plan to create meaningful employment for Liberians.
“This proposed investment represents hope and opportunity for the people of Grand Bassa,” Bility said. “The President’s heart is with the people, and he is committed to ensuring that this project succeeds because it has the potential to transform lives through job creation and economic empowerment.”
Make Group Chairman James Juhee Han reaffirmed his company’s commitment to job creation and technical training for Liberians. “I see Liberia as a second home,” Han said. “I have worked in Liberia for the past twenty-three years and have always appreciated the warm welcome and hospitality extended to us. We are committed to working closely with local authorities and communities to provide training and employment opportunities for young people.”
Residents gathered to welcome the delegation, chanting, “Develop Edina fast, fast.” Grand Bassa County Superintendent Karyou Johnson hailed the proposed investment as a transformative opportunity.
“To witness a project of this magnitude being considered for Grand Bassa is truly remarkable,” Johnson said. “Even before the commencement of the investment, Make Group has already demonstrated its commitment to the county through contributions to the education sector, including the renovation of the Edina Public School and other community initiatives. We are grateful for the strong partnership being built between Make Group and the people of Edina.”
Grand Bassa County Electoral District #1 Representative Isaac G. Bannie pledged his support for the project. “As a representative of the people, I will do everything within my power to support this initiative because it is in the best interest of our citizens and the future development of our county,” Bannie said.
The proposed investment aligns with Liberia’s maritime and industrial development agenda. Officials say the project will position Edina as a strategic hub for maritime services in West Africa while creating sustainable economic opportunities for local communities.
