Debamu Group of Companies Breaks Ground for Modern Town Hall in Fish Town

By Rocheford T. Gardiner

HARPER DISTRICT, Maryland County — The Debamu Group of Companies, a Maryland-based organization founded by diaspora natives of the area, has officially broken ground for the construction of a modern town hall in Fish Town, Harper District.

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, Project Coordinator and Representative Archie Williams emphasized that addressing the community’s lack of a dedicated meeting space had long been a priority for the organization. While Williams did not disclose the total cost of the project, he revealed that the facility will feature a 300-seat main hall, administrative office space, and modern indoor restrooms.

Archie Williams

Residents of Fish Town expressed deep gratitude for the initiative, noting that it represents a historic milestone for the community.

“At least we will now have a decent place to hold our meetings and host gatherings,” one resident shared. “Previously, we had to meet under trees or seek permission to use the St. Valentine Episcopal Church whenever we had guests.”

The project contractor stated that construction could be completed within three months, provided all necessary materials are supplied on schedule. Community involvement is already underway, with local men and women actively hauling sand and other locally sourced building supplies to the site.

“We are ready to contribute our labor,” said an enthusiastic youth volunteer. “After all, this project benefits all of us.”

The development comes as the central government reviews and enforces standards for urban areas, seeking to curb the proliferation of “cities” that fail to meet basic infrastructure criteria. Local observers note that if the Debamu Group of Companies successfully completes the town hall, develops planned recreational spaces, and helps upgrade local healthcare facilities, Fish Town will be well-positioned to achieve official city status.

About the Debamu Group of Companies

The concept for Debamu—a phrase meaning “come, let’s go”—was conceived in 2022 by members of the Fish Town diaspora following a visit to Maryland County. Identifying a critical need for quality accommodation and recreational infrastructure, the founders established Debamu as a registered limited liability company in both Liberia and the United States in 2024.

Led by partners Dio Nyema Johnson, Love Garmai Oberly-Johnson, and Lydia Weady Williams-Wuo, the organization is committed to driving local economic growth and community-centered development. Beyond the town hall initiative, Debamu’s flagship vision includes developing a contemporary resort near Fishtown Beach, with site evaluations, topographical surveys, and engineering designs currently underway.