Africa-Press – Sierra-Leone. The Government of Sierra Leone has unveiled plans to build four climate-resilient long-span bridges and modern agricultural markets in Moyamba, Tonkolili, Bo, and Karene districts.
The project is confirmed to be a part of the Sierra Leone Connectivity and Agricultural Market Infrastructure Project (SL-CAMIP), which is being funded by the World Bank alongside government contributions.
During a two-day stakeholder engagement held on May 15-16 in Bagruwa and Lower Banta Chiefdoms in Moyamba District and Lugbo Chiefdom in Bo District, Minister of Transport and Aviation, Hon. Amb. Rtd. Col. Alhaji Fanday Turay Esq., emphasized the transformative potential of these projects.
“These projects are not just about roads and bridges; they are about transforming lives, ensuring safer movement, expanding market access, and driving local economic growth,” he stated.
The Minister affirmed that the new bridges will replace ferry and boat crossings at critical points, fulfilling President Julius Maada Bio’s promise for inclusive and climate-resilient infrastructure.
The construction of those bridges is expected to significantly improve access to agricultural markets, promote regional integration, and reduce travel time and risks, particularly during the rainy season.
Paramount Chief Robert Coker Seilolo Papapwe III of Bagruwa Chiefdom expressed strong support for the initiative, calling it a long-overdue response to the transport challenges faced by the community. He assured the government delegation of a peaceful and cooperative environment for the project’s implementation.
Similar sentiments were echoed by other local leaders, including Paramount Chief John Jibao Russell Nyana II of Lower Banta Chiefdom and Paramount Chief Ensah Badara Nallo VI of Lugbo Chiefdom, who urged their communities to take ownership of the project as a legacy for future generations.
Chief Administrator of Moyamba District, Mohamed Alusine Kabba, described the initiative as a “historic milestone” that would address long-standing infrastructure issues that have hindered socio-economic growth. “This is more than infrastructure. It’s a foundation for prosperity,” Kabba remarked, urging all stakeholders to support the project.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Charles Tommy Kamanda, noted that similar stakeholder engagements are being conducted across the four beneficiary districts to ensure community participation and commitment to inclusive development.
Deputy Minister of Transport and Aviation, Rex Bonapha, also addressed the gathering, thanking the communities for their enthusiastic participation and reaffirming the Ministry’s dedication to safe and sustainable transport infrastructure.
The Youth Leader, Augustine Nyaama emphasized the importance of youth involvement, stating, “This project will not only open roads, it will open opportunities.”
Councilor Nancy Marvel delivered the vote of thanks, praising the Ministry for realizing what she called “a long-standing dream of our ancestors, to connect communities through durable, modern infrastructure.”
Once completed, the new bridges and markets are expected to drastically reduce travel time, improve agricultural trade efficiency, and enhance access to essential services for thousands of rural Sierra Leoneans, particularly women and youth who play a vital role in local farming and trade.
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