Liberia’s Wologisi Mountain: A Call for Development Amid Cultural Significance
Deputy Speaker Urges President Boakai to Act on Lofa County’s “Only Treasure”
LOFA COUNTY, LIBERIA – In a significant appeal to Liberia’s leadership, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Thomas Fallah has called on President Joseph Boakai to take decisive action regarding Wologisi Mountain, a natural landmark of immense cultural and economic importance to the people of Lofa County.
Speaking on behalf of the Lofa County Legislative Caucus, Fallah described the mountain as the county’s “only treasure,” emphasizing its potential to drive transformative infrastructure and social development. His statement reflects growing demands from traditional leaders, elders, and local stakeholders for strategic utilization of this natural asset.
“We, the legislative caucus of Lofa County, after consultations with our chiefs and elders, say we have nothing in Lofa County — except our only Wologisi Mountain,” Fallah stated.
The deputy speaker proposed that the national government consider controlled investment or mineral development of the mountain if it could secure critical amenities for the region, including a referral hospital, tertiary education institution, and all-season roads connecting Salayea to Mendicorma.
The Historical and Cultural Significance of Wologisi Mountain
Mount Wologisi, located in Zorzor District, stands as the highest point in Lofa County at approximately 1,275 meters (4,183 feet). More than just a geographical feature, it serves as a powerful symbol of identity, resilience, and pride for local communities.
For generations, the mountain has held deep spiritual significance for the Kpelle, Lorma, and Mandingo people who inhabit its surroundings. Many believe it possesses spiritual power and associate it with ancestral worship and protective spirits, making it a cornerstone of traditional culture in the region.
Potential Mineral Wealth and Development Dilemmas
Beyond its cultural importance, Wologisi Mountain is believed to contain untapped mineral resources, particularly iron ore according to geological surveys conducted in previous decades. This potential wealth has sparked ongoing debates about balancing economic development with environmental conservation and cultural preservation.
The absence of major commercial mining operations to date has left these resources largely unexploited, creating both opportunity and challenge for current policymakers.
Why Wologisi Matters for Lofa County’s Future
Despite its agricultural potential and natural beauty, Lofa County remains one of Liberia’s most underdeveloped regions. Persistent calls for improved infrastructure, healthcare, and education have brought Wologisi Mountain into focus as a potential catalyst for regional transformation.
Strategic development of the mountain could offer multiple benefits:
- Attraction of eco-tourism and scientific research opportunities
- Responsible mining activities with strong environmental and community protections
- Funding for infrastructure through public-private partnerships
- Preservation of cultural heritage alongside economic development
Fallah’s statement underscores the delicate balance required in decision-making: “If giving up Wologisi can bring real, tangible benefits to the people, then let it serve the people.”
A Pivotal Moment for Lofa County
Wologisi Mountain represents more than geological significance—it embodies the hopes, identity, and potential prosperity of Lofa County. Deputy Speaker Fallah’s appeal marks a critical juncture in Liberia’s ongoing conversation about natural resource utilization for local development.
As the people of Lofa await President Boakai’s response, the mountain’s fate remains uncertain. What is clear, however, is that Wologisi’s destiny is inextricably linked to that of the county it has watched over for centuries.
This article is based on original reporting by Knews Online. For complete details and additional context, please refer to the original source.