BONG COUNTY — Bong County Electoral District Seven Representative Foday Fahnbulleh has launched a major road safety initiative with the donation of reflective raincoats to more than 1,500 commercial motorcyclists across the district.
By Selma Lomax, selma.lomax@frontpageafricaonline.com
The donation, which followed a well-attended engagement with members of the Motorbike Riders Association, forms part of Representative Fahnbulleh’s commitment to improving the welfare of young people and strengthening road safety awareness throughout the district.
The lawmaker said the initiative was prompted by growing concerns over the increasing number of motorcycle-related accidents, many of which have resulted in serious injuries and fatalities.
Motorcycles remain one of the most widely used means of transportation across Bong County and other parts of Liberia. For thousands of residents, commercial riders provide critical transportation services, connecting towns and villages and enabling economic activities.
However, riders often face significant risks, particularly during heavy rains and poor weather conditions when visibility becomes limited and road surfaces become hazardous.
Speaking during the presentation ceremony, Representative Fahnbulleh said the donation was designed to address some of those challenges while encouraging riders to place greater emphasis on safety and professionalism.
He noted that many riders spend long hours on the road to support their families and deserve support from leaders who recognize their contributions to society.
According to the District Seven lawmaker, the reflective raincoats will not only protect riders from harsh weather conditions but will also make them more visible to motorists and pedestrians, especially during night-time travel and periods of heavy rainfall. He emphasized that increased visibility can significantly reduce accidents and save lives.
“The safety of our people must always remain our highest priority. Every day, these riders provide an essential service to our communities. They transport market women, students, farmers, business people, and residents who depend on them for mobility. It is therefore important that we take practical steps to ensure that they are protected while carrying out their daily responsibilities. This donation is not simply about distributing raincoats. It is about preserving lives and promoting a culture of safety on our roads,” Representative Fahnbulleh said.
The lawmaker disclosed that discussions with the Motorbike Riders Association also focused on the urgent need for increased road safety education. As part of the initiative, both parties have agreed to organize a road safety workshop that will bring together riders, community leaders, and relevant stakeholders to discuss accident prevention measures and responsible riding practices.
Representative Fahnbulleh said he hopes the workshop will serve as a platform for educating riders on traffic regulations, the importance of protective equipment, and the dangers associated with speeding, reckless overtaking, and distracted riding. He stressed that while leaders have a responsibility to provide support, riders also have a duty to operate their motorcycles responsibly.
“We can only achieve meaningful progress if everyone plays their part. Government officials, community leaders, law enforcement officers, and riders must work together to reduce accidents. I want every beneficiary of this program to understand that these raincoats symbolize responsibility. They should serve as a reminder that every rider has a duty to protect passengers, pedestrians, and fellow road users through disciplined and professional conduct,” he stated.
The donation was met with widespread appreciation from beneficiaries, many of whom described the initiative as one of the most impactful interventions undertaken on behalf of commercial motorcyclists in recent years. Riders said the raincoats would provide much-needed protection during the rainy season and help them operate more safely under difficult weather conditions.
Emmanuel Kollie, a commercial rider who benefited from the donation, praised Representative Fahnbulleh for what he described as a timely intervention. He noted that many riders are unable to afford quality reflective safety gear and said the donation would significantly improve their visibility on the roads.
“We are truly grateful for this support. The raincoats will help us remain visible during heavy rains and at night. This is a practical solution to a real problem that affects motorcyclists every day. Representative Fahnbulleh has demonstrated that he understands our challenges and is willing to stand with us,” Kollie said.
Another beneficiary, Moses Kamara, described the initiative as evidence of the lawmaker’s commitment to the welfare of ordinary citizens. He said many riders often work under difficult conditions and welcomed the intervention as a meaningful contribution to their safety.
For his part, James Gbartea said the donation would encourage riders to take road safety more seriously. He noted that the accompanying awareness campaign and planned workshop would provide valuable information that could help reduce accidents across the district.
Meanwhile, Prince Wesseh commended Representative Fahnbulleh for focusing on preventive measures rather than waiting until accidents occur. He said the lawmaker’s actions demonstrate proactive leadership and a genuine concern for the lives of constituents.
The Motorbike Riders Association also welcomed the initiative, describing it as a strong example of collaboration between elected leaders and community stakeholders. Association members pledged to support ongoing road safety efforts and encouraged riders to make full use of the raincoats while adhering to traffic regulations.
Residents across District Seven have likewise praised the initiative, noting that road accidents involving motorcycles continue to pose serious challenges for families and communities. Many expressed hope that the donation and planned educational activities would help reduce the number of preventable accidents and improve safety standards throughout the district.
