LAA, Samaritan’s Purse break ground on Sanniquellie airstrip rehabilitation

SANNIQUELLIE, Nimba County — The Liberia Airport Authority (LAA), in partnership with Samaritan’s Purse International Relief, on Wednesday broke ground on the rehabilitation of the Sanniquellie Airstrip in Nimba County—a key step toward improving regional air access and strengthening humanitarian operations in northeastern Liberia.

The groundbreaking ceremony, held June 11, drew officials from the LAA, representatives of Samaritan’s Purse, local authorities, and community stakeholders. The project, valued at approximately $125,000, will be executed by Jungle Water Group of Investment, a Liberian-owned construction firm, and is expected to be completed within six months.

Speaking at the ceremony, LAA Deputy Managing Director for Operations Mark Kuiah said the project aligns with Liberia’s national aviation development plan and will have lasting impact on humanitarian services and economic growth in the region.

“This initiative aligns with our national aviation development agenda. We extend our gratitude to Samaritan’s Purse for their continued support and active involvement in Liberia’s aviation sector,” Kuiah said. “We also urge local authorities to raise awareness about aviation safety, especially as the industry is still relatively new in this part of the country.”

A representative of Samaritan’s Purse, a global Christian humanitarian organization, highlighted the importance of speed in emergency response.

“Aviation brings speed. When help is needed quickly, we can now respond effectively through this airstrip,” the representative said. “This is not just infrastructure—it’s a channel for both service and ministry.”

Nimba County Superintendent Kou Meapeh Gono praised the collaboration, noting that the airstrip’s rehabilitation will address long-standing transportation challenges and unlock new opportunities for development.

“This project is a major milestone for our county,” Gono said. “It represents improved access, economic opportunity, and progress for our people.”

Community members expressed optimism that the revitalized airstrip will improve access to goods and services, stimulate local commerce, and boost tourism potential in the county.

The LAA reaffirmed its commitment to building a safe, reliable, and inclusive aviation network that connects all parts of Liberia while meeting international operational standards.