Africa-Press – Sierra-Leone. The Government of Sierra Leone has officially announced a nationwide increase in public transportation fares, effective Wednesday, April 8, 2026. The adjustment comes in direct response to the recent public pronouncement increasing the pump price of fuel to NLe 40.00 per liter.
In a joint press release issued by the Ministry of Transport and Aviation, the government confirmed that it has reached an agreement with the Motor Drivers Union and other key stakeholders in the transport sector.
The consensus establishes a standardized 14.28% fare increase across the Freetown Municipality, as well as provincial and cross-border routes.
Under the new pricing structure for the Freetown municipality, standard inner-city commutes have seen moderate bumps. For instance, trips from Lumley to Regent Road and Aberdeen to Regent Road have increased from NLe 6.1 to NLe 7. Longer municipal routes, such as Waterloo to Tokeh, have jumped from NLe 30.7 to NLe 35.1.
Major provincial routes serviced by SLRTC buses and private sector operators have also been heavily impacted by the 14.28% adjustment. The fare from Freetown to Kailahun—one of the longest routes listed—has risen from NLe 307.1 to NLe 351. Similarly, trips from Freetown to Bo now cost NLe 182.5 (up from NLe 159.7), and Freetown to Makeni is now NLe 168.5 (up from NLe 147.4).
The Ministry also clarified standardized pricing for commercial motorbikes (Okadas) and tricycles (Kekehs). The standard “pole to pole” fare for these essential micro-transit options has been officially raised from the old price of NLe 6.1 to the new price of NLe 7.
Authorities are taking a strict stance against price gouging and unauthorized fare hikes. The official document issued a stern warning to all transport operators: “It is very important for all to note that any deviation from the proportionate fares set above will be met by the full force of the laws of Sierra Leone.”
The comprehensive agreement signals a united front between the government and transit workers. The directive was signed by Hon. Rex Bhonapha, Deputy Minister of Transport and Aviation, alongside leaders from several major transit associations.
Co-signers include representatives from the Sierra Leone Public Transport Authority (SLPTA), the Motor Drivers and General Transport Workers Union, the Bike Riders Union, the Sierra Leone Commercial Tricycle Union, the Poda Poda and Bus Owners Association, and the Passenger Welfare Association.
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