Liberia and China Break Ground for Modern Training Facility at SKD.

The Government of Liberia, through the Ministry of Youth and Sports, in collaboration with the People’s Republic of China, has officially broken ground for the construction of a modern two-story training facility. The project is part of the China-aided Liberia Bamboo and Rattan Weaving, Fruit and Vegetable Planting, and Livestock Raising Technical Assistance Project.

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony held on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Sports Complex compound, the project’s team leader, Mr. Chen Yu Qiong disclosed that the new facility will directly support training programs in bamboo and rattan weaving, fruit and vegetable planting, and biogas technology.

Mr. Qiong explained that the center, once completed, will provide an improved working and living environment for both trainees and staff. He emphasized that his team has approximately two and a half years left under their current project and assured the Ministry of Youth and Sports that construction begins immediately with completion expected within one year.

Highlighting the broader vision of the partnership, Mr. Qiong noted that China and Liberia’s collaboration is strongly focused on youth empowerment. According to him, the project seeks to equip Liberian youth with practical skills and entrepreneurial opportunities, thereby enhancing employability and promoting sustainable livelihoods. He pledged to work closely with the Ministry of Youth and Sports to cultivate a new generation of skilled young leaders, injecting long-term momentum into Liberia’s modernization and youth development agenda.

In response, Youth and Sports Minister, Cllr. J. Cole Bangalu expressed deep appreciation for the work already carried out under the China-aided initiative. He praised the quality of training provided, which he said is positively transforming the lives of young people. Currently, 40 Liberian youths are undergoing training in bamboo and rattan weaving, fruit and vegetable planting, and livestock rearing.

Cllr. Bangalu also recalled sharing updates and photos of the program with President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, noting the President’s keen interest in youth empowerment. He announced plans to organize an interactive meeting between the trainees and trainers upon President Boakai’s return from Japan.