Western Cluster Donates Cement and Zinc to  Two communities  in Bomi

SUHN MECCA-In a strong show of corporate responsibility and commitment to community development, Western Cluster Limited (WCL) has donated 200 bags of cement and 10 bundles of zinc to support two communities for  the rehabilitation of the Dewien and Suhn Mecca School Systems in Bomi County.

The donation aims to improve learning conditions for hundreds of schoolchildren studying in deteriorating facilities, a gesture that underscores Western Cluster’s dedication to improving lives in its operational communities.

Speaking at the presentation ceremony, Mr. Bartholomew D’Souza, Mine Manager of Western Cluster Limited, reaffirmed the company’s belief that investing in education is investing in the nation’s future.

“At Western Cluster, we strongly believe that education is the foundation of every successful society,” Mr. D’Souza said. “A child learning in a safe and supportive environment today could become the engineer, teacher or leader who drives Liberia’s growth tomorrow. This is why we are proud to partner with the people of Bomi in rebuilding their schools.”

He emphasized that the donation reflects WCL’s broader vision of sustainable community partnership, which prioritizes education, health, and infrastructure as key pillars of its social investment program.

“We do not see ourselves only as a mining company,” D’Souza continued. “We are part of the Bomi family and when our communities thrive, we thrive too.”

The donation came after Representative Sam Jallah, who represents electoral district #3 in the Legislature, reached out to several mining companies requesting assistance to renovate educational institutions across the district.

Receiving the materials on behalf of the communities, Representative Jallah lauded Western Cluster Limited for its swift and heartfelt response.

“Among the companies we contacted including Kongo Mining, Bio-Chico, and Bea Mountain,  Western Cluster was the first to respond,” Rep. Jallah disclosed. “This quick and generous action shows that Western Cluster is not just here to mine, but also to make a difference in the lives of our children.”

He further assured the company that the cement and zinc would be used strictly for their intended purpose,  the renovation of the Dewien and Suhn Mecca schools and promised full transparency in the process.

“These materials will not end up elsewhere,” Jallah said firmly. “They will go directly into building stronger classrooms for our children, who deserve the best we can offer.”

Also speaking at the event, Bomi County Education Officer, Mr. Sam Harris, hailed both the company and the representative for their joint commitment to educational advancement.

“Many schools in Bomi are struggling with leaking roofs, cracked walls and overcrowded classrooms,” Mr. Harris explained. “Western Cluster’s intervention could not have come at a better time. This partnership is a step in the right direction toward ensuring that every child in Bomi learns in a safe and dignified environment.”

The education officer urged other corporate institutions to emulate Western Cluster’s example, noting that collaboration between public and private entities is key to strengthening education in Liberia.

The initiative has already sparked optimism among community members, who see it as a sign of renewed attention to the welfare of rural schools. Parents and local leaders in Dewien and Suhn Mecca expressed gratitude, saying the donation would “restore hope” for hundreds of students who have been studying under poor conditions.

“We are happy that Western Cluster thought about our children,” said community elder Madam Sarah Kpakah. “For a long time, our schools were falling apart. This gesture brings new life to our community.”

The collaboration between Western Cluster Limited and local leadership reflects a growing model of responsible mining and inclusive development, demonstrating how corporate goodwill can directly impact Liberia’s future generation.

“When private sector players like Western Cluster extend a hand of partnership, they help government bridge critical gaps,” Rep. Jallah concluded. “Together, we can ensure that no child is left behind because of poor infrastructure.”

As the rehabilitation work begins, many see this as more than a donation, it is a reaffirmation of Western Cluster Limited’s commitment to building communities beyond mining, and to supporting Liberia’s long-term human development.

Alphonso Toweh

Has been in the profession for over twenty years. He has worked for many international media outlets  including: West Africa Magazine, Africa Week Magazine, African Observer and  did occasional reporting for CNN, BBC World Service, Sunday Times, NPR, Radio Deutchewells, Radio Netherlands. He is the current correspondent for Reuters 
 He holds first  MA with honors in International  Relations and a  candidate for second master in International Peace studies and Conflict  Resolution from the University of Liberia.