NTA to resume public transport soon

The National Transit Authority’s management reports that a brand new fleet of buses is expected to resume public transport services across the country soon.

By: Naneka A. Hoffman

Monrovia, Liberia, February 28, 2025 – The Managing Director of the National Transit Authority (NTA), Edmund F. Forh, says all necessary procedures have been completed through the Public Procurement and Concessions Commission (PPCC) for the arrival of brand new buses in the country within the next three months.

He says the buses are being procured through a Liberian-based company, AB International.

Speaking in an exclusive interview on February 27, 2025, at the National Transit Authority headquarters along Japan Freeway, Mr. Forh detailed specifications of the vehicles, which comprise 35-seated buses and 20-seated buses, along with three cargo trucks.

The total value of the procurement is approximately US$3.9 million.

He emphasizes that the introduction of these buses will significantly address transportation challenges faced by Liberians, who frequently stand in long queues under harsh weather conditions, waiting for transport vehicles. 

“We have also developed a plan to cater specifically to the transportation needs of the elderly and students,” Mr. Ford says, indicating that these demographics will benefit greatly once the vehicles are operational.

He outlines a five-year strategic plan encompassing standard operating procedures, human resource management, and financial management practices. These reforms aim to enhance efficiency and reliability of transit services across the country.

The NTA director reveals that three new Tata buses, recently acquired, will soon commence operations in Monrovia and its surroundings.

Routes for these buses include:

1. Duala to Po River

2. ELWA Junction to Boy Town (Margibi County)

3. Red Light to Broad Street, central Monrovia.

According to the NTA, fare for passengers traveling from ELWA Junction to Boy Town and from Duala to Po River will be 100 Liberian Dollars.

Mr. Forh expresses his intention to honor dedicated staff for their unwavering support over past year. He took the helm of the NTA in March last year, following a period of mismanagement attributed to the previous administration under the former ruling CDC.

Forh reassures the public that his team is diligently working to restore the NTA’s operational capacity and reputation.

As the NTA prepares for the arrival of these new vehicles, the public expects improved public transport to enhance Liberians’ daily lives and contribute to the overall development of the nation’s infrastructure.

Director Forh recently announced plans to import 60 new vehicles, including 57 buses and three cargo trucks to enhance public transportation services across Liberia. Editing by Jonathan Browne.