By Ragan M. Conteh

The Member of Parliament from Tonkolili District, Hon Daniel Fornah, a dedicated and passionate member of Sierra Leone’s Parliament, has earned a widespread recognition for his tireless advocacy on behalf of the people of Tonkolili District, particularly in the Gbonkolenken Chiefdom.

His efforts to improve road infrastructure in the region have been a beacon of hope for many residents who don’t have good rural road networks.

Through his advocacy, Fornah has brought to light the urgent need for road construction, especially in the rural and underserved areas which face economic and social isolation due to poor infrastructure.

Tonkolili District, one of Sierra Leone’s largest and most populous districts, is home to numerous communities that still faces longstanding challenges related to road access. The roads leading to key towns and villages are often in a state of disrepair, making movement very difficult for the people. Sometimes so dangerous, and time-consuming.

This has hindered economic activities, limited access to healthcare, education, and other vital services. The people feel they are long been isolated.

Hon. Daniel Fornah talked about the feeder roads leading from Magburaka to Samaya Bendugu, the Matotaka to Yele road, and the Yele to Bo road.

These roads, he said, are crucial for the movement of people and goods, yet they remain poorly maintained, with many sections becoming completely impassable during the rainy season.

The road connecting Magburaka to Samaya Bendugu is one of the most important routes in the region, serving as a lifeline for thousands of people.

Samaya Bendugu, which lies at the heart of Tonkolili District , relies on this road for the transportation of agricultural products, local goods, and access to essential services. However, the road has suffered neglects and poor maintenance over the years, resulting in frequent accidents and delays that significantly impact the daily lives of residents.

IHon. Fornah calls for them to be upgraded and maintained especially this key feeder road.

He has urged the government to prioritize road construction and development his district. Adding that  a good road network is vital in reducing poverty and boosting local economies.

Fornah’s advocacy has resonated not only with his constituents but also with the wider public, as road access is a common challenge faced by many rural communities across Sierra Leone.

Another major issue raised by Hon. Fornah pertains to the deteriorating conditions of the Matotaka to Yele road, which further extends to Bo.

This road serves as a critical artery connecting several towns and villages within the Tonkolili District and beyond.

However, poor drainage, eroded surfaces, and the lack of proper road infrastructure have rendered the route nearly impassable, particularly during the rainy season.

The impact of this road’s poor condition is far-reaching. It not only isolates communities but also disrupts trade and commerce, making it harder for farmers to bring their produce to market and for businesses to transport goods. Additionally, the road’s dilapidated state hampers access to education and healthcare services, putting the lives of vulnerable populations at risk.

Hon. Fornah has taken it upon himself to address this issue at the national level, frequently raising concerns about the road’s condition during parliamentary sessions.

His calls for the government to allocate funding for the construction and rehabilitation of these roads have been met with support from various stakeholders, as the necessity for improved infrastructure is recognized as vital for the development of Sierra Leone’s rural areas.