-For 3,440 women in Nimba
By Lincoln G. Peters
Dozens of rural women in Zor Gbarplay, Nimba County, have expressed heartfelt appreciation to the United States Government for its intervention in constructing a modern market designed specifically for over 3,440 women in the area. The project, implemented by Buutay K. Buu, aims to empower these women and enhance their economic prospects.
The new market is tailored to meet the unique needs of rural women vendors, providing a safe and organized environment where they can sell their goods, expand their businesses, and connect with customers. By addressing the significant lack of proper infrastructure in rural Liberia, this initiative will enable women to operate in a supportive setting, thereby strengthening their financial independence and improving household incomes.
Funded through U.S. Federal Assistance, the project focuses on building a modern market that not only empowers rural women but also stimulates local economic growth. Upon completion, it is expected to positively impact the lives of approximately 3,440 individuals in the community.
During a recent visit to the county, Mr. Buutay K. Buu and his team conducted an assessment of the project. The rural market women welcomed Mr. Buu and his entourage with open arms, showcasing traditional displays that included singing native songs, throwing locally produced rice, and spreading lappers as a gesture of gratitude for the U.S. government’s assistance.
Mr. Buutay K. Buu, a long-time advocate for rural development with a proven track record in education, environmental conservation, and poverty alleviation, views the market as more than just a construction project; he sees it as a symbol of hope and opportunity for the community.
Speaking on behalf of the rural market women, Chairperson Madam Ruth Dopoh conveyed her gratitude to the U.S. government and its Embassy in Monrovia for their intervention. She described Mr. Buu as a visionary leader and implementer.
Madam Dopoh lamented the challenges faced by rural women engaged in local and cross-border trade, stating that for many years, they have struggled without proper market facilities. “Now, most of the time, we walk under the hot sun in the streets to sell our goods. When we come home, we have nowhere to shelter ourselves. Thanks to God for using the U.S. government to help us with this place. Now our market can’t be damaged, and we won’t get sick like that any longer,” she noted.
She also highlighted the need for additional support, recommending that the U.S. government provide training in business management and vocational skills to help rural women become more self-reliant and independent. “We want to be self-sufficient. However, we lack the necessary technical and vocational education. We hope the U.S. government can empower us with vocational skills and provide training in business management. What we are doing is just hand-to-mouth business. Lastly, we need funding to improve our operations. If the U.S. government can offer us funding and materials along with the skills we will acquire, we can make a significant difference,” she concluded.
During the visit, Mr. Buutay K. Buu expressed his appreciation to the U.S. government for addressing the market challenges faced by rural women and emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts for positive change. He stated, “The market isn’t just a place for buying and selling; it represents dignity, economic empowerment, and a brighter future for the women and families of Zor Gbarplay. This construction is a step toward prosperity.”
Mr. Buu credited the U.S. government for making the project possible and thanked Ambassador Mark Toner for his commitment to grassroots development in Liberia. “His dedication to sustainable projects like this one is creating opportunities for underserved communities and paving the way for long-term growth,” he remarked.
Commenting on the project’s transformative impact, Mr. Buu added that as construction progresses, the market is poised to become a cornerstone of empowerment and economic development in Zor Gbarplay. He believes it will provide the 3,440 beneficiaries with the tools they need to make meaningful contributions to their community while improving their livelihoods.
“This is about building more than just a structure. It’s about laying the foundation for lasting growth and prosperity. The project highlights the power of collaboration and the importance of addressing global challenges at a local level. It serves as a reminder that when communities and partners come together, they can create meaningful, sustainable change,” he concluded.
