New Kru Town

New Kru Town is a densely populated neighbourhood on Bushrod Island, the industrial and port district of Monrovia. It is the cultural heart of Monrovia's Kru community — an ethnic group from southeastern Liberia with a strong maritime tradition. The area was originally settled by Kru migrants who moved to Monrovia in the early 20th century for jobs in shipping and the port. New Kru Town grew rapidly during and after the civil wars as displaced people from southeastern Liberia sought refuge in the capital. The neighbourhood is known for its vibrant street life, music scene, and strong community identity. It is one of the most densely populated areas in Montserrado County, with a mix of wooden and concrete houses along narrow, bustling streets.

By Car / Road

New Kru Town is on Bushrod Island, about 5 km north of central Monrovia. Shared taxis and minibuses from all over the Monrovia metropolitan area serve Bushrod Island, with frequent services from the Waterside and Duala transport hubs. The journey from central Monrovia takes about 15–30 minutes depending on traffic. From Paynesville, allow 45–60 minutes.

New Kru Town is a dense, walkable neighbourhood, though the narrow streets can be crowded with vehicles, motorbikes, and pedestrians. Motorbike taxis are the quickest way to move around. Walking is the best way to absorb the atmosphere but requires caution with traffic.

• Kru Community Centre — A community hub that hosts cultural events, meetings, and traditional Kru activities.

• Bushrod Island waterfront — The industrial port area and the Mesurado River waterfront, with views of shipping activities and fishing boats.

• New Kru Town Market — A lively neighbourhood market serving the local community with fresh food, household goods, and street food.

• Kru drumming and dance performances — The neighbourhood is known for traditional Kru music and dance, which can sometimes be seen at community events and celebrations.

• Experience Kru culture — New Kru Town is the best place in Liberia to experience Kru traditions, music, and cuisine.

• Waterside walk — Walk along the waterfront to observe the port activities and fishing boats.

• Community events — If visiting during a festival or celebration, join the local community in traditional dancing and drumming.

• Local eateries — Small chop bars serve Kru-style dishes featuring fresh fish, seafood, rice, and cassava.
• Street food — Fried fish, grilled plantains, and meat skewers are sold by roadside vendors.

• Local bars — Several small bars in the neighbourhood serve beer, palm wine, and spirits, often with music.
• Street vendors — Bottled water, soft drinks, and fresh juice are widely available.

New Kru Town has limited accommodation for travellers. Most visitors stay in central Monrovia or Sinkor, where hotels and guesthouses are more plentiful. Visiting New Kru Town is best done as a day trip from other parts of Monrovia.

• New Kru Town Market — Fresh fish, seafood, produce, and household items.
• Local crafts — Limited souvenir options; the market is more for daily essentials.

• Central Monrovia (5 km south) — Downtown, Capitol Hill, and the Waterside market area.
• Duala Market (adjacent) — One of Monrovia's largest markets for imported goods, spare parts, and building materials.
• Freeport of Monrovia (nearby) — Liberia's main commercial port.
• Sinkor (10 km south) — The main mid-range hotel and restaurant district of Monrovia.