Ms. Olivera Petrovic, Hon. Edmund F. Forh, Ms. Betty Buyu, and Dioh I. Dweh
Ms. Olivera Petrovic, Hon. Edmund F. Forh, Ms. Betty Buyu, and Dioh I. Dweh

Expanding Liberia’s Transit Fleet

During the interview, Mr. Forh addressed the urgent need to expand and modernize Liberia’s transit fleet—a key priority under his leadership. Reflecting on the condition of the fleet when he assumed office, he noted that many buses were non-operational due to years of neglect, mechanical issues, and a lack of maintenance resources.

“We inherited a fleet that was barely functioning. A significant number of buses were grounded, and even the ones still running faced constant breakdowns,” Mr. Forh told Penresea International media. “One of our first tasks was to assess the damage, identify salvageable units, and begin the process of restoration.”

He explained that the NTA had since launched a targeted recovery program to bring grounded buses back into service while simultaneously securing new units through strategic partnerships. According to Mr. Forh, negotiations were already underway with several international partners, including government-backed initiatives in Asia and Europe, to support fleet renewal and expansion efforts.

“We’re looking at solutions that are sustainable,” he said. “It’s not just about adding numbers—it’s about investing in vehicles that can withstand our terrain and improve service delivery long term.”

In addition to the physical buses, Mr. Forh emphasized the importance of infrastructure and technology in supporting fleet operations. He shared that the NTA was introducing modern fleet management tools, including GPS tracking, digital scheduling, and preventive maintenance systems to improve efficiency and transparency.

“We are making operational intelligence part of the process,” he noted. “With the right technology, we can reduce delays, monitor fuel use, and ensure drivers are held accountable for safety and service quality.”

Looking ahead, Mr. Forh also revealed that the NTA was exploring pilot programs for eco-friendly buses, including hybrid and electric options. These projects, he said, align with Liberia’s broader environmental goals and the government’s interest in cleaner, more efficient public transport solutions.

“If successful, it will mark a turning point in how we think about transit in Liberia,” he added. “We’re not just playing catch-up—we’re preparing to lead.”

Through these combined efforts, the NTA aims to rebuild trust in the national transit system and provide Liberians with reliable, affordable, and dignified transportation across the country.