By Pewu Y. Sumo
MONROVIA – The President of the Truckers Union of Liberia, Mr. Omaru A. Fofana, has lauded the Ministry of Transport (MOT) for establishing “Agreed Truck Fares,” calling it a transformative step that will empower Liberians to take the reins of their own economy.
Speaking to journalists last Friday following the official launch of the fare structure, Fofana expressed deep appreciation for the Ministry’s collaborative approach. He noted that the new rates were not imposed unilaterally but were the result of extensive consultations between the government and the union’s leadership.
A Path to Economic Empowerment
For years, the trucking sector—a backbone of Liberian commerce—has faced challenges regarding inconsistent pricing and market instability. Mr. Fofana believes that standardized fares provide the predictability needed for local entrepreneurs to thrive.
“We are heading to the stage where Liberians will start to have control over their own economy,” Fofana stated.
“A few months ago, the Union and the Ministry sat down and discussed and came up with a very fair price,” the Truckers Union President stated, stressing that, the high increase in the fares of transporting goods from one location to another, has placed a huge burden on Liberian businesses.
Partnership with the Ministry
The union leader specifically thanked the authorities at the Ministry of Transport for their willingness to sit at the table with domestic stakeholders. He emphasized that this synergy is essential for national development, as it ensures that transport policies reflect the reality of those working on the ground.
The official launch of these fares is expected to reduce disputes between truck owners and clients, encourage investment in the local transport fleet and stabilize the cost of moving goods across the country.