By Sallieu S. Kanu
The Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA), under the proactive leadership of Director General Ing. Alfred Jalil Momodu, has joined forces with Pavi Fort Al-Associates, a premier construction company with over 25 years of expertise, to revamp Sierra Leone’s Road infrastructure across the country which was badly impacted by torrential rains and flooding.
This collaboration will lead to critical road repairs and upgrades, addressing damage caused by the recent torrential rains and flooding, and setting a new standard for sustainable development in the country.
One of the most significant achievements of the collaboration is the restoration of the Masiaka-Bo-Kenema Highway, previously marred by hazardous potholes. Now, this critical corridor offers smoother and safer travel, facilitating trade and mobility between key regions. SLRA’s strategic vision and Pavi Fort’s commitment have ensured that commuters can navigate this highway with ease and confidence.
In Freetown, massive efforts are underway to upgrade township roads and ensure efficient urban connectivity. Pavi Fort teams are working tirelessly, even during nighttime under floodlights, to transform Freetown’s streets. Upgrading works are also progressing on the Juba and Peninsula roads, a boon for citizens and holidaymakers seeking to explore the country’s picturesque landscapes.
Pavi Fort’s impact extends beyond road repairs. Notable projects include:
- Tikonko-Kpetema-Mattru Jong Road: A 38.1-kilometer stretch advancing regional trade and agricultural activities.
- Modern Lumley Market Center: This ongoing four-story construction includes storage units, a hospital, entertainment spaces, and ample parking, reflecting modern urban design standards.
- Functional Traffic Signals: Traffic lights installed at Ferry Junction, Congo Cross, and Lumley Roundabout have significantly improved safety and traffic management.
- Transport Transit Terminal in Lumley: Inaugurated on November 27, 2024, by President Julius Maada Bio. This terminal enhances public transportation, road safety, and climate resilience as part of the World Bank-funded Integrated Resilient Urban Mobility Project (IRUMP).
- Currently, Pavi Fort is carrying out several key projects in Freetown, including:
- – Pre-mix patching throughout the city and road overlay at Ferry Junction, Signal Hill, Juba, Shell New Road, Texaco, and Portee.
- – Installation of median guard railings at Spur Road, parts of Wilkinson Road, and Juba.
Director General Ing. Alfred Jalil Momodu’s leadership has been instrumental in SLRA’s success, fostering collaborations that prioritize quality, safety, and environmental responsibility. Pavi Fort Chairman and CEO Alimu Sanu Barrie highlighted the company’s dedication to delivering timely, high-quality projects aligned with government standards.
During the Lumley terminal’s commissioning, President Bio praised the initiative as a vital component of his Big Five Game Changer Agenda, emphasizing its role in reducing congestion, centralizing transportation, and enhancing public safety. Minister of Transport and Aviation Alhaji Fanday Turay lauded the public-private partnership between the government and Pavi Fort, noting its significance in achieving national development goals.
Pavi Fort’s ongoing contributions, supported by SLRA’s visionary leadership, are redefining Sierra Leone’s infrastructure landscape. These projects promise improved road safety, better connectivity, and enhanced economic opportunities for the country.
President Bio called on citizens to embrace a shared responsibility in maintaining these facilities. “The success of this infrastructure lies in our hands. Let us take ownership, maintain it responsibly, and maximize its benefits for generations to come,” he stated.
With SLRA and Pavi Fort spearheading these transformative initiatives, Sierra Leone is steadily advancing toward modernization, ensuring a brighter and more prosperous future for its people.