By: Elijah Easter Kaykay
The rural electrification project in Compound #3, Grand Bassa County, part of the Liberia Rural Electrification Initiative, has faced significant delays due to a series of thefts targeting critical infrastructure.
According to Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC) Grand Bassa County site engineer Eric Choekpelleh, unidentified individuals have been stealing essential equipment, including transformers and kapa wire, which are crucial for the installation and operation of the new power supply.
These thefts have severely hampered progress and raised concerns over the security of the remaining infrastructure.
The project was initially scheduled to have Compound #3 fully electrify by July 26, 2025.
However, ongoing thefts and the resulting damage to equipment have pushed back such timeline.
Choekpelleh expressed concern that the extent of the damage could delay residents’ access to reliable electricity in Compound #3.
Choekpelleh is calling on residents, community leaders, and authorities to investigate the thefts and implement measures to safeguard the remaining infrastructure.
The incident highlights ongoing challenges in expanding rural electrification in the district, emphasizing the need for enhanced security and increased community involvement to ensure the project’s successful completion.
Meanwhile, Stakeholders are now awaiting decisive action from authorities to address security concerns and restore progress toward providing electricity to Compound #3 and surrounding communities.