By By: Staff Writer
Monrovia, Liberia – President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. has taken a decisive step toward accelerating Liberia’s infrastructure development with the establishment of the Yellow Machines Board of Authority (YMBOA), ahead of the arrival of hundreds of earth-moving machines procured by the government.
Former Minister of National Defense, Brownie J. Samukai, has been appointed Executive Chairperson of the Board’s Coordinating Committee, placing him at the center of what the government describes as a transformative national project.
Preparing for Arrival of 285 Yellow Machines
The creation of the YMBOA comes as Liberia anticipates the delivery of the first shipment of 285 yellow machines secured from China for nationwide road construction and other critical infrastructure works. Government officials say the machines are expected to begin arriving in Monrovia by late March 2026, with additional consignments already scheduled.
Broad-Based Oversight Body
The newly established Board brings together key institutions of government, including the Ministries of Public Works, Finance and Development Planning, National Defense, and Local Government, alongside the General Services Agency (GSA). A representative of the Special Presidential Project Coordinating Committee (SPPCC) will serve as Secretary to the Board.
The YMBOA is mandated to design and enforce a comprehensive policy and management framework to ensure the proper deployment, maintenance, accountability, and cost-effective use of the machines. It will also serve as the central authority overseeing storage, operations, and long-term sustainability of the equipment.
Special Presidential Project Takes Shape
In a parallel move, President Boakai has constituted the Special Presidential Project Coordinating Committee (SPPCC), naming Samukai as National Coordinator. The committee includes senior officials tasked with administration, operations, technical services, policy coordination, and financial oversight, supported by a dedicated staff team.
Operating under the guidance of the YMBOA, the SPPCC will manage the day-to-day coordination and utilization of the machines as a Special Presidential Project, working closely with all relevant government agencies.
“Maintenance-First” Policy Emphasized
A core responsibility of the SPPCC is the development of a National Deployment Plan, which will be submitted to the Board for approval. Once endorsed, the Committee will implement the plan and provide monthly reports on the condition, usage, and status of the equipment.
The President has directed the Committee to adopt a strict “Maintenance-First” approach, aimed at extending the lifespan of the machines and ensuring maximum value for public investment.
Turning Point for Infrastructure Development
Government officials say the arrival of the yellow machines will mark a major milestone in the Boakai administration’s push for visible and impactful infrastructure transformation, particularly in road construction and community connectivity across Liberia.
The announcement was formally issued by Atty. Kula B. N. Fofana, Presidential Press Secretary, from the Executive Mansion in Monrovia.
