VOINJAMA – An investigation conducted by The Liberian Investigator has uncovered alarming mismanagement of County Development Funds (CDF) in Lofa County, leaving several key projects abandoned, including the County Guest House in the heart of Voinjama City.
According to a comprehensive report from the Social Audit Committee, established by the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning and implemented by the Community Safety Initiative (CSI), substantial funds allocated since 2021 remain unaccounted for, with projects still incomplete.
Guest House Renovation Left in Ruins
The Social Audit report, a copy of which is in the possession of this newspaper, reveals that $17,808.50 was earmarked for renovating the County Guest House. Of this amount, $17,200 was reportedly disbursed to AB Lalubah Engineering Group Inc., the contractor awarded the project. However, despite the funding, the guest house remains in a deplorable state.
The audit discovered substandard work, including old, damaged roofing materials being reused instead of replaced as stipulated in the Bill of Quantities (BOQ). Additionally, the zinc used for roofing was of inferior quality, leading to leaks in some rooms. The project site supervisor admitted to challenges, such as a lack of scaffolding, which hindered progress.
The Project Management Committee (PMC) chair at the time, Mr. Mamaie Dulleh, assured the public in 2021 that the renovation would be completed. However, no significant progress has been made. Efforts to obtain comments from the County Development Engineer, Mr. Augustine Jeigula, have been unsuccessful, as he has refused to speak on the matter.
Community Frustration and Unrealized Projects
Further investigations reveal that the mismanagement extends beyond the County Guest House. Projects such as the construction of Clan Chief Houses in Kolliemai Town and Lawalazu Town, each allocated $3,694.50, have not commenced. Similarly, the Women Activities House in Barkedu, Quardu Gboni District, funded at $8,000, remains at a standstill, with no work done since initial efforts by community women using their own resources.
Community members expressed frustration over the lack of progress. According to the Social Audit report, women in Barkedu initially contributed LD 700 each to kickstart the Women Activities House project. Despite assurances from the PMC that due process was followed in awarding contracts, the absence of oversight and monitoring has resulted in projects being abandoned.
Social Audit Committee Findings and Recommendations
The Social Audit Committee’s report documents systemic failures in the execution of these projects. Key observations include:
- Substandard materials used in the County Guest House renovation, contrary to the BOQ.
- Lack of proper monitoring by the PMC to ensure compliance with project specifications.
- Contractors failing to execute projects, as seen with MAYACAL Construction Services in Barkedu.
The committee has recommended that the PMC assign qualified engineers to monitor future projects and ensure the use of quality materials. They also called for stricter evaluation of contractors to prevent politically motivated appointments and ensure accountability.
Accountability in Question
Despite these revelations, no significant actions have been taken to address the failures. Mr. Augustine Jeigula continues to serve as the County Development Engineer, while former PMC chairman Mr. Mamaie Dulleh remains unaccountable for his assurances. Citizens in Lofa County are demanding answers and urging local authorities to prioritize transparency and efficiency in managing public funds.
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