By Dadson A. Musa
After years of anticipation, a significant investment by the National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT) is finally on the brink of yielding returns. The Sewa Grounds Project, a massive endeavor aimed at transforming commercial infrastructure in Freetown, is nearing completion, marking a milestone achievement for the organization.
The project, overseen by seven contractors under the supervision of IDEAS, a leading construction company, encompasses the construction of a three-story marketing hall, a store, an administrative building, and an additional structure dedicated to business activities. With construction fully finalized, amenities including fans, CCTV cameras, and a water supply system have been installed. Final touches, such as paving the compound and completing drainage systems, are currently underway.
Speaking to reporters, Jessy Mackay, owner of KOVILL Engineering Enterprise and one of the contractors involved, highlighted his contribution to the project. Mackay revealed that his firm was responsible for the construction of the open store market, a pivotal component of the development. The market, designed to accommodate 1,500 traders, promises a conducive environment for commercial activities. Mackay’s portfolio includes prestigious projects such as the Nigerian High Commission building and branches of GT Bank.
Osman Koroma, head of the communications department at NASSIT, emphasized the project’s objectives. He stated that the primary aim is to alleviate street trading and ease congestion in the central business district. Despite acknowledging delays in completion, Koroma attributed them to fluctuations in building material costs, necessitating budget adjustments by contractors. He underscored the collaborative effort between NASSIT and the Freetown City Council, with the former spearheading the construction while the latter provided the land.
Koroma disclosed that the project incurred an expenditure ranging from $10 million to $15 million. He expressed confidence in NASSIT’s diversification strategy, citing investments in various sectors including hotels, Treasury bills, money markets, banks, plazas, and offshore ventures. The Sewa Grounds Project, he asserted, symbolizes a turning point for NASSIT, signaling its emergence from previous investment challenges.
As the Sewa Grounds Project nears fruition, stakeholders anticipate its potential to generate substantial returns, further cementing NASSIT’s position as a key player in Sierra Leone’s economic landscape.
