By Ragan M. Conteh

In a landmark decision aimed at significantly improving Sierra Leone’s road infrastructure, Parliament has officially ratified the concession agreement for the reconstruction of the Mabang-Moyamba-Gbangbatoke road on February 13th, 2025.

The approval of this highly anticipated project marks a significant step towards transforming the country’s transportation network, fostering economic growth, and strengthening regional connectivity.

The reconstruction project spans a total length of 86 kilometers, linking the key areas of Mabang, Moyamba, and Gbangbatoke. This road is crucial for trade and movement between various districts, particularly in the Southern Province, and has long been in dire need of improvement due to years of neglect and poor maintenance. The total investment required for the project is estimated at $148,228,948 (one hundred and forty-eight million, two hundred and twenty-eight thousand, nine hundred and eighty-four United States dollars), with a projected duration of 36 months for completion.

Meanwhile, a critical component of the project is its funding model, which will operate under a toll system.

Citizens will begin paying toll fees once the first 20 kilometers of the road are completed.

The payment period for the road’s construction will range from 10 to 13 years, ensuring a structured repayment model that aligns with the country’s financial capabilities.

This phased approach ensures that funding is gradually generated to support the remaining sections of the road while allowing motorists to experience the benefits of the reconstructed road from the early stages. A Toll Revenue Collection Agent will be jointly appointed by SIETRA, a Burkina Faso-based construction company, and the government of Sierra Leone to manage the toll collection and ensure proper accountability.

To maintain financial transparency and oversight, a robust monitoring system will be established, involving key national institutions such as the Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA), the Ministry of Works, the Ministry of Finance, and SIETRA. This oversight mechanism aims to enhance efficiency, accountability, and public trust in the project’s financial operations. Additionally, the project will feature three toll gates at strategic locations, each equipped with modern toll plazas that will facilitate smooth revenue collection and ease of movement for travelers.

Hon. Alpha Ben Mansaray, the dedicated Member of Parliament representing Ribbi and Bumpeh Chiefdoms in Moyamba District, has played a crucial role in advocating for this transformative project. Expressing his joy and relief following the parliamentary approval, he described the decision as a historic breakthrough that will revolutionize transportation and invigorate economic activities in the region. In an interview conducted on the day of the approval, he reiterated the project’s importance, emphasizing its potential to improve livelihoods and foster development in the district.

He underscored the fact that Moyamba District is blessed with an abundance of natural resources, including seawater, fish, and salt, which are vital for both local consumption and trade.

However, poor road infrastructure has long hindered economic progress, limiting access to major markets and forcing local traders and farmers to endure high transportation costs. With the new road set to be constructed, Hon. Mansaray expressed optimism that businesses would flourish, market accessibility would improve, and the district’s overall economic prospects would be significantly enhanced.

The financial model of the project has been meticulously structured to minimize corruption risks and ensure the responsible management of toll revenue.

A dedicated committee comprising representatives from the Ministry of Finance, SLRA, the Ministry of Works, the construction contractor, and funding partners will oversee the financial operations of the project.

Hon. Mansaray emphasized that toll revenues will not be exclusively controlled by the contractors but will instead be managed under a structured system.

According to the agreed framework, 60% of collected funds will be allocated towards repaying the construction costs, 25% will cover salaries and operational costs, and 15% will be reserved for ongoing road maintenance.

Addressing concerns regarding the toll payment period, Hon. Mansaray reassured the public that while the agreement stipulates a maximum toll collection period of 13 years, efficient financial management could reduce this timeframe to 10 years or less. He pointed to previous road projects in Sierra Leone where strict financial discipline resulted in early repayment, stressing that a similar approach will be applied to this project to prevent unnecessary delays.

Reflecting on the historical significance of the region, he recalled its crucial role during the country’s civil war, where it served as a major food supply source for urban centers.

Despite the district’s agricultural significance, the absence of well-maintained roads has hampered its development for years. Now, with the promise of this transformative infrastructure initiative, he believes that the region will regain its economic prominence, contributing significantly to food security and national trade.

Hon. Mansaray also highlighted the extensive stakeholder consultations that took place before the agreement was finalized. Meetings were held with local authorities, traditional leaders, and community representatives to ensure that the project aligns with the needs and aspirations of the people.

He commended the leadership of Parliament and the cooperation of local chiefs for their instrumental roles in securing broad-based support for the initiative.

As construction is set to commence, Hon. Mansaray has embarked on a nationwide public awareness campaign to educate citizens about the project’s benefits. He acknowledged that some individuals may have concerns about toll payments but assured them that the long-term benefits of an improved road network—such as increased investment, job creation, and enhanced economic opportunities—would far outweigh any associated costs.

The new road is expected to attract investors, facilitate trade, and ultimately improve the quality of life for residents across the district.

With the approval and imminent commencement of the Mabang-Moyamba-Gbangbatoke Road reconstruction, Sierra Leone is on the brink of a new era in road infrastructure development.

This project is set to not only improve transportation but also transform lives, making travel safer, more efficient, and more accessible for generations to come.