Africa-Press – Liberia. Residents of VI Community in Gbarnga are celebrating a major milestone following the installation of thirty solar street lights by Deputy Minister for Administration at the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning, Bill McGill Jones.
The initiative which was carried out in the neighborhood where he was raised and currently resides has brought renewed hope improved visibility and heightened security to the growing community.
Jones, who is a native of Bong County, supervised the installation of the 30 solar lights in key locations across the VI Community in Gbarnga. The lights were strategically mounted along major footpaths busy intersections and densely populated residential areas where darkness had long posed challenges to residents.
Community members described the project as historic, noting that it is the first time since the establishment of the neighborhood that a son of the soil has undertaken such a significant development initiative. Many residents gathered during the installation process expressing excitement and gratitude as the once dimly lit streets began to glow with bright solar powered illumination.
Speaking during the installation, Deputy Minister Jones said the initiative was driven by his desire to give back to the community that shaped his upbringing and values.
He stated “This community raised me and it is only right that I contribute to making it safer and better for our families.” He added “Security and opportunity begin with simple but meaningful actions and lighting our streets is one of those actions that can transform daily life.”
Deputy Minister Jones further emphasized his commitment to continuous engagement with his people saying “Development does not only happen in offices it must be visible in our neighborhoods and I will continue to stand with my community in practical ways.”
Beneficiaries of the project praised the Deputy Minister for what they described as a thoughtful and impactful intervention. One resident remarked “For the first time our children can walk at night without fear
because these lights have changed the entire atmosphere of our community.”
Another community member stated “We have lived in darkness for years and today we feel remembered and valued by our own son.” A local youth leader also noted “This initiative will discourage crime and create a safer environment for everyone who lives here.” An elderly woman who has lived in the area for decades expressed her appreciation saying “I never thought I would see our streets this bright and I am grateful to Bill McGill Jones for thinking about us.”
Residents believe the presence of the solar lights will significantly reduce theft and other criminal activities that often occur under the cover of darkness. Parents also expressed relief that their children will now have improved conditions to read and complete assignments during the evening hours under proper street lighting.
The community has pledged to protect and maintain the solar facilities to ensure their longevity and sustainability. Leaders within the VI Community assured that residents will work collectively to safeguard the infrastructure from damage and misuse.
Many residents also recalled that during the recent festive season, Jones extended additional support to several families by providing bags of rice to ease their holiday burden.
They described his consistent outreach as a demonstration of genuine leadership and compassion, reflecting the values of a successful son who has not forgotten his roots.
The installation exercise ended with cheers and appreciation from residents who described the day as a turning point for the VI Community in Gbarnga, as the new solar lights now stand as symbols of progress, unity, and renewed hope.
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