Liberia Advances Modern Ferry Project To Boost Coastal Transport

….LiMA Pushes Coastal Ferry Initiative

By Amos Harris

MONROVIA — The Government of Liberia, through the Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA), is advancing strategic plans to introduce a modern, multi-purpose ferry system aimed at transforming domestic coastal transportation and enhancing the movement of passengers, vehicles, heavy equipment, and cargo across the country’s maritime corridor.

The proposed vessel is designed to accommodate containers, commercial trucks, buses, SUVs, and earth-moving equipment, serving as a vital alternative and complementary route to Liberia’s national road transport network.

LiMA Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer, Cllr. Neto Zarzar Lighe, Sr., described the initiative as a major milestone toward unlocking the economic value of the nation’s coastlines and expanding domestic maritime operations. He emphasized that Liberia must fully leverage its maritime resources to connect coastal communities, streamline logistics, foster commerce, generate employment, and broaden avenues for regional trade.

Under the proposed structure, the project will be executed through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP). This model enables the central government to maintain regulatory oversight while leveraging private sector investment, technical expertise, and commercial operational management.

According to LiMA, the partnership framework will clearly define operational responsibilities covering vessel maintenance, safety standards, environmental compliance, revenue systems, and customer service delivery. Commissioner Lighe reiterated the government’s commitment to strictly enforcing international and domestic safety, operational, and environmental standards throughout the project’s lifecycle.

Beyond addressing transport bottlenecks, the initiative is expected to stimulate local workforce development by creating direct jobs and specialized technical opportunities for Liberian seafarers, maritime technicians, and local coastal enterprises.

In addition to bolstering domestic trade networks, LiMA anticipates that the project will enhance cross-border maritime logistics and strengthen regional trade connections with neighboring coastal states.

As preparatory phases progress, LiMA plans to conduct comprehensive consultations with relevant government agencies, private sector entities, coastal communities, maritime professionals, and international development partners to ensure the service remains technically sound, commercially viable, and fully aligned with national transport requirements.

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