Grand Bassa Superintendent Takes Daring Step to Revamp the County Service Center

Buchanan City, Grand Bassa County: In a daring move to give a facelift to public infrastructures in the port city of Buchanan, Superintendent Karyou Johnson has held discussions with the heads of government ministries, agencies, and commissions (MACs) aimed at renovating the County Service Center.

The roundtable conversation is aimed at gathering firsthand insights into the performance, gaps, and pressing needs of agencies delivering public services under Liberia’s decentralization agenda.

The coordinator of the Grand Bassa County Service Center, Mac Williams, presented a frank assessment of the current state of the hub.

He highlighted both progress made and lingering issues that continue to hinder efficiency at the facility.

Among the key challenges noted were leaking roofs, the lack of internet connectivity, and shortages of computers and other administrative tools necessary for daily operations.

In a positive development, County Budget Officer Josiah Logan confirmed that the 2025 National Budget includes adequate allocations to address these concerns and enhance service delivery.

For his part, Superintendent Johnson responded swiftly, instructing that a strategic plan be developed to ensure renovations, the provision of internet, and logistics support are all covered under the service center’s financial plan for the current fiscal year.

He emphasized that these improvements are essential to the success of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s decentralization drive and vowed to ensure that citizens receive quality services at the local level.

The superintendent also raised concerns over the long-standing use of voluntary workers at the center.

He revealed plans to work with national authorities to transition these workers onto the official civil service payroll in line with public sector policy.

Looking ahead, Superintendent Johnson underscored the need for all institutions to prepare for the full implementation of the Revenue Sharing Act, which is expected to empower counties through a 60-40 percent distribution model between national and local governments.

The meeting was attended by representatives from the Ministries of Gender, Children and Social Protection, Health, Education, Commerce, and Internal Affairs, along with agencies including the Liberia Revenue Authority, LISGIS, and the Internal Audit Agency.

Superintendent Johnson’s firm stance signals a new chapter for governance in Grand Bassa.

If executed effectively, the plans could improve public trust and make Grand Bassa a model for decentralization.

However, the impact will depend on timely implementation, coordination among ministries, agencies, and commissions, coupled with sustained political commitment.