By: Mohamed M. Sesay
The Final Session of the Fifth Parliament of the Second Republic of Sierra Leone, has on Tuesday the 4th April 2023, graciously ratified USD 25 Million loan agreements for the construction of Tikonko-Kpetemba- Mattru Jong Road project between the Republic of Sierra Leone and the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa.
In his presentation, the Minister of Finance Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura assured honorable members that the objective of the construction of the road is to link several roads in that region.
The Minister intimated that the road construction is a 73km road that involves several constructive layers with a new construction of bridges.
The minister added that the road would also link neighboring countries to enhanced quick accessibility and also link transportation and agricultural productivity. “The total amount of the project is a US $ 25 million from BADAE”, he disclosed.
The Acting Leader of Opposition Hon. Hassan Sesay said the opposition is always ready to support any agreement that is not controversial. In lieu of the aforesaid, Hon. Hassan Sesay assured that they are in support of the agreement as it is in the interest and progress of the State.
“For any country to develop we need a solid infrastructural development “, he said. He confessed that the agreement has the possibility to increase economic growth.
The Acting Leader of Government Business Hon. Bashiru Silikie, intimated that the people of Southern Region would appreciate such agreement as it is geared towards fixing their road network.
He highlighted some challenges involved in the commencement of the road, relative to lack of funding.
He also said that with the dynamic leadership of president Bio, funding has now being secured for the construction of the road from Tikonko-Kpetema and Mattru Jong.
He concluded by lavishing praises on the minister and the government for bringing such agreements to Parliament for the betterment of the nation.