The History of Mbaku Kids Zone

From humble beginnings to a lasting impact and wounderful stories.

Goelanda Community High School, A Legacy of Resilience and Educational Excellence in Liberia


Mbaku Kids Zone was established in 2001 by Madam Hawa Johnson, with support from Mr. Daniel K. Freeman and Helping Hands Outreach, Liberia.

The institution was originally founded as Rescue Mission, with the primary goal of providing quality education to children in the orphanage. As the school expanded, it was later renamed Mbaku Kids Zone, reflecting its broader vision of nurturing and educating children within the community.

Over time, the school gained strong support from parents within the community, who enrolled their children in pursuit of quality and affordable education. Today, Mbaku Kids Zone has grown into a fully operational high school, maintaining its commitment to academic excellence and community development.

Timeline

Historical moment
23rd, September 2005
(Liberian students take in their rebuilt, restocked classroom on their first day back at school.) Before it was destroyed by rampaging armed factions, Dolokelen Gboveh High School was the most prestigious government-run school in Liberia's Bong County. Now, with the help of the UN refugee agency and its partners, the school has risen from the ashes and its students are once again aiming for a better future.
Historical moment
2005
When it reopened in 2001, Mbaku Kids Zone once again became a symbol of resilience, hope, and determination for the people of Nimba County. Despite the scars of war, it resumed its mission of educating future generations, reinforcing the belief that education is central to rebuilding both individuals and society after conflict.
Historical moment
1966 Volleyball Team Photo
A black-and-white photo from 1966 showing the school's volleyball team, taken by Peace Corps volunteer Curt Mekemson.
Historical moment
1967 Eleventh Grade Class
A group photo of the Eleventh Grade class at Gboveh High School in 1967.
Historical moment
1967
A photograph of my twelfth grade class along with a Peace Corps Volunteer standing in front of Gboveh High School. (1967)
Historical moment
1967
A Peace Corps Volunteer, Jo Ann, directing her Gboveh High School chorus. At Berkeley, she had belonged to the University’s elite Glee Club.
Historical moment
1968
The senior class. Yes, there were only five students in the class! Mamadee Wattee, standing on the right owthe Peace Corps Volunteer with a brown shirt and tie, was the student body president. He is also featured in my blog about the Lightning Man. Later he would move to the US and become an elementary school principal.