Liberia: Rep. Williams Commissions US$46,000 Solar and Renovation Project at Pleebo General Market - FrontPageAfrica

PLEEBO, Maryland County – Maryland County District 2 Representative, Anthony F. Williams, has officially commissioned a US$46,000 solar electrification and renovation project at the Pleebo General Market, bringing relief to thousands of marketers who depend on the facility for their daily livelihoods.

By Peter P.  Toe, Jr, Peterp.toe@frontpageafricaonline.com

The dedication ceremony, held Tuesday morning, brought together marketers, local authorities, members of the lawmaker’s home office staff, the Pleebo District Development Council, and other community stakeholders.

Speaking to FrontPage Africa, Rep.  Williams said the project was driven by long-standing challenges faced by marketers, particularly unreliable electricity and deteriorating infrastructure.

“For years, our people have struggled with electricity in this market. Each time LEC power goes, business slows down. This project is intended to provide a reliable alternative and create a better environment for our people to trade safely,” he said.

Since the market’s construction under former President George Manneh Weah, access to stable electricity has remained a major concern. The newly installed solar system now ensures consistent lighting across the market, improving both security and business operations.

The dedication was done by Rep. Willaims Home-Office Coordinator  Neufville

The solar installation includes 22 high-capacity panels rated at 650 watts each, three giant-sized batteries, a three-phase inverter system, 50 breaker panel boxes, over 200 lighting bulbs, and multiple bundles of electrical wiring, among other components.

In addition to electrification, the project also addressed structural challenges within the market.

Renovation works covered the reroofing of annexes, extension of portions of the structure to the main road and the construction of drainage systems to effectively control water and prevent flooding.

The annexes were initially constructed as one of Representative Williams’ first projects after taking office in March 2024 alongside support from Senatorial Aspirant Tiah Nagbe in 2023. However, over time, the roofing deteriorated, leaving marketers exposed to rain and forcing others, including wheelbarrow pushers, to operate outside.

Marketers expressed gratitude for what they described as a timely and impactful intervention.

Madam Angerline Hinneh, head of women selling in the upstairs section, said the project has significantly improved their working conditions.

“We are so grateful this morning. Before, when LEC current went, we were always in darkness. We used to depend on flashlights that didn’t last. Even the zinc was leaking badly. But now, everything has changed. We can sit and sell comfortably,” she said.

Madam Eletha Kieh, Chairlady of the “Happy Corner” women, described the intervention as a direct response to their concerns.

“We were suffering under damaged zinc, but when we called on our representative, he listened. Today, we are proud. I call him ‘Development Azibo’ for Pleebo-Sodoken District because he continues to come to our aid,” she noted.

Another marketer added, “Rain used to beat us here because the roof was spoiled. But now, we are protected. May God bless him—we will always remember this,” she said.

Providing an overview, Market Superintendent Madam Cecelia Wilson highlighted the transformation the market has undergone.

“This market used to be very difficult, especially during the rainy season. Now we have full lighting, proper drainage, and new roofing. We are prepared and comfortable. We are truly grateful,” she stated.

With thousands of traders operating daily, the Pleebo General Market remains a vital economic hub for Maryland County and surrounding communities. The completion of this project is expected to boost business activities, improve safety, and enhance livelihoods.

For many marketers, the upgrade represents more than just infrastructure—it marks a turning point from years of hardship to a more secure and dignified trading environment, signaling steady progress in Pleebo’s commercial development.