Published: April 13, 2026
KAKATA, Margibi County — Residents of Gobrfelah Community in Kakata District have condemned remarks attributed to Liberia’s Agriculture Minister, J. Alexander Nuetah, describing their community as a “bush,” and are demanding the immediate continuation of an Agricultural Mechanization Hub project they say has been halted.
In a press statement read by community member Abraham Kollie, residents said the minister’s comments undermine rural development and disrespect citizens contributing to Liberia’s agricultural sector.
“We stand here because the dignity of our community, the future of rural Liberia, and the respect owed to hardworking citizens have been challenged,” Kollie said.
According to the statement, the mechanization hub project is between 80% and 100% complete, with significant public funds already invested in land preparation, infrastructure and equipment installation. Residents warned that halting or relocating the project raises concerns about the use of taxpayers’ money and could negatively impact food security and rural livelihoods.
Gobrfelah, described as a productive farming community, is home to farmers, youth and families engaged in agriculture. Residents expressed disappointment that the same area where the minister reportedly began his agricultural journey is now being publicly dismissed.
“This community is not a bush. It is Liberia,” the statement said.
Residents also noted that land for the project was acquired through difficult negotiations, with community members accepting compensation in good faith based on promises of development. They cautioned that abandoning the project would undermine trust.
The group is calling on President Joseph Nyuma Boakai to intervene and ensure the project’s completion.
“Protect this project, protect rural dignity, and protect taxpayers’ investment,” the statement urged.
The community further appealed to the Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Internal Affairs, civil society organizations, international partners and the World Bank to promote transparency and equitable development.
Samuel Telee, chairman of the Gobrfelah Community, expressed disappointment over what he described as the abandonment of a development project in an agrarian area.
“It is saddening that what should bring development to our community is being silenced,” Telee said.
Residents reaffirmed their commitment to peaceful engagement while demanding respect, accountability and equitable development across Liberia.
Efforts to contact Minister Nuetah for comment via phone calls and text messages were unsuccessful.
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