February 15, 2016 By Ibrahim Tarawallie
Minister of Finance and Economic Development, Dr. Kaifala Marah, has signed a works contract with Senegalese construction company, CSE, for the commencement of construction of the Bandajuma road, which links the country to Liberia via the south.
The 67.6 million Euros project, which is expected to last for thirty-six months, includes the pavement of 100km road from Bandajuma to Liberia border, reconstruction of two major bridges – Sewa and Wanje – measuring 225 metres, as well as the construction of a brand new bridge of 160 metres over the Moa River to replace the existing ferry close to Zimmi.
Speaking during the signing ceremony at the Office of the Vice President, Head of the European Union Delegation, Ambassador Peter Versteeg, stated that the project would significantly improve access of citizens’ health and education services.
He said that direct employment in the region throughout the period of works and beyond would also be created, and also facilitate access to markets and boost trade between Liberia and Sierra Leone.
According to Ambassador Versteeg, the project includes accompanying measures for communities along the road in order to enhance its socio-economic impact at local level and to mitigate the impact of construction works.
“Gender is a particular concern of the project as the employment of women will be monitored and the contractor is therefore encouraged to employ women, including qualified youths. Youth employment will also be strongly favoured,” he said and revealed that there would be a trainee programme which would allow thirty-six junior engineers or technicians to gain practical experience.
Ambassador Versteeg noted that the EU had been one of the principal contributors to the development of infrastructure in Sierra Leone and assured of their continued support to enable the government deliver on the infrastructure pillar of the ‘Agenda for Prosperity’.
Minister of Finance Dr. Kaifala Marah said the Bandajuma-Liberia border road is located in the south-east of the country and that it forms part of the Trans-West African Coastal Highway.
He said the project is expected to contribute to the reduction of poverty through the enhancement of roads and bridges network in Sierra Leone and the West Africa region.
“This project, unlike other infrastructural projects, comes with providing other social amenities for the locals, including schools, healthcare facilities and water wells. Let me take this opportunity to extend our gratitude to the EU, whose contribution has been pivotal in the infrastructural sector,” he concluded.