Construction of the first modern clinic in Gbapa, near Yekepa Township, Nimba County, is nearing completion, following ArcelorMittal Liberia’s US$85,000 contribution to the project.
Since its existence, Gbapa has lacked a basic health facility for its more than 7,000 inhabitants, who travel a long distance to access healthcare services.
In addressing this situation, ArcelorMittal Liberia, in partnership with the town, committed US$85,000 to fund the construction of a modern health facility. Residents of the town also accepted to take responsibility for the workmanship and provide local materials, including sand and crushed rocks.
Upon reaching the agreement with the locals, AML provided an initial amount of US$50,000-worth of building materials, and delivered the remaining US$35,000 in cash on May 23, 2022.
With this contribution, the construction of the health center is now approaching completion, with plumbing, ceiling, electrification and plastering works currently on-going.
Former Posts and Telecommunication Minister, Dr. Fredrick Norkeh, who also resides in Gbapa, is the head of the clinic construction project, representing the community. He said the project is a 24-room facility, which will be apportioned into different sections.
“It is a health center because it will have many areas where different functions will take place, including maternity care,” Dr. Norkeh said.
He lauded AML for delivering fully on its commitment to the people of Gbapa.
The project chairman recounted two incidents in the town on July 7 that resulted in the deaths of two community residents, and underscored the importance of the health center project, noting that people would not have to lose their lives to curable illnesses. He meanwhile promised to work to ensure the successful completion of the project.
“The work should be completed within six months. In fact, by October or November, you will see a different form of the clinic project,” he said.
The head contractor, Cyrus G. Quoi, also assured that the project will be completed by September, earlier than projected.
Dr. Norkeh called on the government to contribute to the center because, when fully operational, it will serve the people of surrounding towns and communities.
