By By: Contributing Writer
Monrovia, Liberia – The National Transit Authority (NTA) marked one year of uninterrupted passenger service to Liberia’s southeastern counties on Friday, calling it a step toward improving public transportation and national connectivity.
The anniversary was held at the NTA Head Office in Monrovia with Managing Director Hon. Edmund Forh Forh, Deputy Managing Director for Administration Hon. Noah Z. Gibson, senior staff, and passengers in attendance.
The southeastern route began on July 25, 2025. It connects Grand Gedeh, River Gee, Maryland, and nearby counties. Before the service started, poor road conditions during the rainy season often forced travelers to pass through Côte d’Ivoire to reach the region.
According to NTA data, the service completed 169 trips in 12 months and transported 12,461 passengers, excluding children under five. Under its Free Rider Policy, 983 children traveled at no cost.
Passenger figures show Maryland County recorded the highest ridership with 8,107 passengers. River Gee followed with 3,221 passengers and Grand Gedeh with 1,133 passengers.
Speaking at the event, Managing Director Hon. Edmund Forh Forh thanked commuters for their trust and described them as partners in the Authority’s progress. He urged passengers to report complaints and misconduct, saying public feedback is key to accountability and service improvement.
Hon. Forh also outlined future plans. The NTA intends to extend bus operations to Sinoe, Grand Kru, and River Cess counties once road conditions allow regular travel. The Authority is also preparing to launch cargo truck services to move goods and construction materials across the country to support commerce and logistics.
The one-year milestone forms part of the NTA’s strategy to expand reliable public transport to all 15 counties, in line with government efforts to improve access to safe and affordable transportation nationwide.
