Africa-Press – Liberia. Since assuming office in April 2024 following a by-election prompted by the death of former lawmaker Erol Madison Gwion, Representative Jeremiah Garwo Sokan Sr. has pursued an active agenda focused on tangible development and legislative oversight in Grand Gedeh District #1. Over the past year, Sokan has combined work in the national legislature with grassroots engagement, targeting infrastructure improvements, education, and natural resource management.
The district, located in Liberia’s southeastern region, has historically faced development gaps including limited infrastructure, unreliable power, and underutilized resources. Sokan’s efforts seek to address these through practical projects and accountability measures.
Legislative Leadership and Oversight
Soon after taking office, Sokan was appointed chair of the House Committee on Lands, Mines, Energy, and Environment. This role positions him to influence policies affecting Grand Gedeh’s natural resources and environmental stewardship.
A key focus has been the Putu Iron Ore Mining concession, a project that has remained inactive for several years. Sokan has led calls for clearer timelines and government accountability concerning the reopening of the mine, emphasizing the potential for local job creation and economic growth.
“Our community deserves to see benefits from its resources,” Sokan stated during a committee hearing. “Ensuring transparency and action on the Putu concession is a priority.”
His committee work extends to land administration and energy policy, areas critical to sustainable development in The district.
Infrastructure Development: Roads and Electrification
One of the most visible impacts of Sokan’s first year has been improvements to community roads within Zwedru city and surrounding towns. These road rehabilitation projects have enhanced transportation, enabling better access for residents and traders.
Local reports highlight the repair and maintenance of key routes linking Zwedru to smaller towns. These upgrades support economic activity and ease movement for goods and services.
Complementing road improvements, Sokan spearheaded a solar streetlight initiative launched in July 2025. The project installed over 600 solar-powered lamps in Zwedru’s central market, residential areas, police facilities, and rural communities. The initiative aims to improve safety, support evening commerce, and extend productive hours.
Residents have noted increased security in well-lit areas, while law enforcement agencies have welcomed the enhanced visibility for patrol operations.
“Providing reliable lighting in our communities is essential for safety and economic activity,” Sokan said at the official launch.
Education and Youth Empowerment
Education has been a prominent focus throughout Sokan’s tenure. During Liberia’s 178th Independence Day celebrations, he inaugurated a multipurpose digital learning center located in Zwedru’s FDA Community. The center is poised to be equipped with computers and connect to high-speed internet via Starlink.
This facility will offer local students access to digital resources and research tools, addressing the technology gap in rural Liberia.
Sokan has also promoted scholarship programs and free WASSCE tutorial classes for senior high school students, aiming to improve academic outcomes and increase higher education access.
Community Engagement and Public Reporting
Maintaining close ties with constituents, Sokan has conducted regular visits and community meetings. His July 24, 2025 public legislative report provided a detailed update on achievements and ongoing projects.
At the event, attended by community leaders and residents, Sokan highlighted initiatives including scholarship awards, youth sports equipment distribution, and support for vulnerable groups.
Seasonal donations were made to various community organizations, including people living with disabilities, Christian and Mandingo community councils, youth associations such as the Gorbo Youth Association and security personnel and campaign volunteers. This outreach aims to combine immediate support with longer-term development objectives.
Strengthening Local Roots
On July 18 2025, Sokan returned to Toffoi Town in Kanneh Clan, his childhood home, for a community engagement event. There, he donated solar lamps and financial resources to support ongoing local development initiatives.
Addressing elders, youth, and women, he reiterated his commitment to inclusive growth rooted in cultural respect. “Supporting my home community is not just political, it is personal,” he said.
Looking forward, Sokan has outlined plans to extend electrification to all 56 communities in District #1, enhance water and sanitation infrastructure, support the nursing program at Grand Gedeh Community College, increase vocational training and scholarship opportunities and advocate for policies addressing environmental sustainability and climate resilience.
He continues to press government ministries for action on natural resource management and infrastructure funding.
After a year in office, Representative Jeremiah Garwo Sokan Sr. has demonstrated a blend of legislative oversight and constituency-focused development in Grand Gedeh District #1. His approach combines practical infrastructure projects with a commitment to transparency and community engagement.
By prioritizing roads, electrification, education, and resource management, supporters say Sokan is working to address longstanding development gaps in a region often left on the margins of national attention.
Residents and local officials alike are watching closely as his agenda unfolds, signaling cautious optimism about the potential for sustained progress.
Source: FrontPageAfrica
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