Revitalizing Liberia’s Public Transportation: The NTA’s Procurement of New Buses and Institutional Reforms
The National Transit Authority (NTA) of Liberia is embarking on a significant initiative to modernize and expand its public transportation system. A cornerstone of this effort is the procurement of over 50 new buses, a move aimed at alleviating the transportation challenges faced by Liberian citizens nationwide. This acquisition, undertaken in partnership with ABK Incorporated, a Liberian-based company specializing in transportation solutions, includes 35 fifty-two-seater buses, 20 eighteen-seater buses, and five cargo trucks. This substantial investment signifies a concerted effort to address the pressing need for reliable and accessible public transportation. The agreement, signed and countersigned by the relevant ministries, is nearing completion, with an initial payment of USD 500,000 expected within two weeks, drawn from the 2025 fiscal year budget. This procurement marks a crucial step towards enhancing the NTA’s operational capacity and providing much-needed relief to commuters across the country.
NTA Managing Director Edmund Forth, in an interview with The New Dawn, emphasized the importance of this deal and the broader revitalization efforts underway at the NTA. He underscored the significant strides made in restoring the agency’s functionality since he assumed leadership. Upon taking office, the NTA was faced with a dire situation, with all buses under its care non-operational and much of its infrastructure in a state of disrepair. Forth’s commitment to addressing these challenges has led to notable progress in repairing the existing fleet of buses donated by the Indian Government. Within six months, 13 out of 15 buses have been restored to working order, thanks to a USD 300,000 allocation from the 2024 fiscal year budget. The repair process encountered some difficulties due to the need to source critical spare parts from India, where the buses were manufactured. However, the NTA is committed to completing the repairs on the remaining buses as soon as the necessary components arrive.
Beyond the procurement of new buses and the repair of existing ones, Forth has spearheaded a series of institutional reforms aimed at strengthening the NTA’s overall capacity. These reforms encompass various aspects of the agency’s operations, including financial management, human resources, and infrastructure development. A key element of these reforms is the request for an audit by the General Auditing Commission (GAC), a measure designed to ensure transparency and accountability within the organization. The NTA is currently awaiting the results of this audit. Furthermore, the NTA has finalized a Human Resource manual and developed a compensation matrix to promote fair employee salaries. These initiatives reflect a commitment to good governance and best practices within the agency. The implementation of a performance management compliance system, introduced by the government in 2024, further underlines the NTA’s focus on efficiency and effectiveness.
The NTA has also made significant strides in enhancing its communication and outreach efforts. The development of a functional website and billboard is part of a broader five-year strategic plan aimed at improving public engagement and information dissemination. These initiatives are complemented by capacity-building programs for drivers and mechanics, focusing on regional safety and health standards. The agency is also in the process of finalizing a contract to provide health insurance for its staff, demonstrating a commitment to employee welfare. These efforts underscore the NTA’s dedication to building a professional and well-equipped workforce.
Addressing the NTA’s long-neglected infrastructure, Forth highlighted the construction of new restroom facilities for staff, a much-needed improvement considering the previous inadequate provisions. The reconstruction of the administrative building, which was damaged by fire, is also underway, further demonstrating the NTA’s commitment to providing a conducive working environment. These improvements aim to create a more functional and modern workspace for the NTA’s over 400 employees.
The NTA is also working towards improving its procurement processes and strengthening its relationships with other institutions. The validation of insurance contracts by the Public Procurement and Concessions Commission (PPCC), for example, demonstrates a commitment to transparent procurement procedures.
In summary, the NTA, under the leadership of Managing Director Edmund Forth, is undergoing a significant transformation. The procurement of new buses, the repair of existing ones, and the implementation of various institutional reforms are all part of a comprehensive strategy to revitalize Liberia’s public transportation system. These efforts, combined with a focus on infrastructure development and staff welfare, demonstrate a commitment to providing efficient, reliable, and accessible transportation services for all Liberians. This holistic approach to revitalizing the NTA promises significant improvements in the country’s public transportation landscape.
