Residents, students and government officials gathered on 21 February 2026, in the Zeewhorr community of Lower Margibi County, Liberia for the formal handover of the renovated and newly equipped Mambahn Central Academy and elementary school. The project, supported by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, restored a facility intended to strengthen education and support long-term community development.
Deputy Minister Parker joins Elder Kyungu and Elder Annan-Simons in unveiling the plaque commemorating the Church's involvement celebrated during a handover ceremony on 21 February 2026.
Deputy Minister Parker joins Elder Kyungu and Elder Annan-Simons in unveiling the plaque commemorating the Church's involvement celebrated during a handover ceremony on 21 February 2026.© 2026 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved.A total of 175 schoolchildren in the Zeewhorr community had been using the facility, which began in 2004 as a mud-brick structure. Over time, the school had fallen into severe disrepair and failed to provide both students and teachers with an environment conducive to education. Classes were overcrowded, latrines were unsanitary, and students were sitting on the floor, logs, and broken chairs. Doors and windows needed to be replaced, ceilings and roofs needed to be redone, and more.
Upon receiving a request for help from the principal of the school, the Church agreed to a renovation project. The renovation included improvements to the existing six-classroom block, construction of a kitchen, refurbishment of washroom facilities, the installation of a well with an elevated water tower, 40 chairs and desks, and 9 teacher tables and blackboards. The school was also furnished with student desks and armchairs, teacher desks and chairs, and shelving for administrative use, helping create a safer and more supportive learning environment.
The event, which brought together community members, project partners, Church officials, and others, was marked by gratitude and celebration as residents welcomed a refurbished campus designed to provide a safe and dignified learning environment for children in the area. Those in attendance expressed hope that the improved school will contribute to stronger educational outcomes and greater opportunity for the children of Zeewhorr and surrounding communities.
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The Honorable Thomas Momo Parker, Deputy Minister for Planning, Research, and Development at the Liberia Ministry of Education, called on parents to support and guide their children and to work closely with the school's administration and the government to protect and maintain the facility given them. Addressing the school’s teachers, he said, “You're shaping the future of Liberia. Handle this responsibility with dedication and care.” Then, addressing the school children, he continued, “Dear children, this school is for you. Learn, play and grow with confidence."
The Honorable James M. Kolleh, a member of Liberia’s legislature, cautioned parents and residents to show gratitude by the manner in which they handle the facility, and he admonished the children to prioritize their education despite their circumstances.
Presiding at the ceremony was Elder Alfred Kyungu of the Seventy and President of the Africa West Area of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, who formally handed the school over to government and community leaders. In his remarks to those present, Elder Kyungu explained that the Church’s humanitarian efforts are motivated by the Savior’s commandment to love one another and are intended to alleviate suffering, meet urgent needs and promote self-reliance. He emphasized that education plays a central role in helping young people build a better future for themselves, their families and their nation.
“This is truly a day of gratitude and hope,” he said. “What we dedicate today is far more than brick and mortar; it is an investment in children, in families and in the future of this community and this nation.”
Elder Kyungu noted that improving school infrastructure, providing furniture and ensuring access to clean water and sanitation help strengthen the foundations of education, health and economic participation. He described such efforts as a practical expression of the gospel of Jesus Christ and a demonstration of Christlike service.
The renovated classroom building donated by the Church and handed over on 21 February 2026.
The renovated classroom building donated by the Church and handed over on 21 February 2026.© 2026 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved.He also reminded community members that humanitarian work is offered in humility and is meant to empower people rather than create dependency. Quoting principles taught by Dallin H. Oaks, he said that service reflects the Savior’s pure love and should help individuals and communities become stronger and more self-reliant.
Elder Kyungu encouraged youth and adults to volunteer, mentor and model kindness in their community. He invited residents to view the school not only as a place of learning but also as a symbol of unity and neighborly love.
The ceremony concluded with a message of stewardship as Elder Kyungu invited the community to care for and maintain the renovated facility so that it will bless future generations. He emphasized that buildings and equipment become lasting blessings when they are preserved and used to uplift others.