By: Saidu Jalloh
In a significant move to enhance rural infrastructure and promote agricultural growth in Sierra Leone, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Henry Musa Kpaka, led a high-level delegation to Mattru Jong to inspect the nearly completed Senehun Modern Bridge and assess the progress of the 162.5-kilometre road rehabilitation project connecting key economic zones.
The visit, conducted in collaboration with the Smallholder Commercialization and Agribusiness Development Project (SCADeP), also focused on stakeholder engagement for the ambitious 8,700-hectare Mattru oil palm development initiative. This project is expected to create over 1,000 employment opportunities for youth and women, supporting the nation’s efforts toward agricultural transformation and job creation.
During the site tour, Minister Kpaka confirmed that President Julius Maada Bio will soon commission the Senehun Bridge a vital link that will significantly improve transportation of agricultural produce and strengthen trade routes between Yagoy Market, Bo, Moyamba, and Freetown. He also revealed that the government has secured private sector partners to accelerate oil palm production and ensure the timely completion of the road infrastructure.
Local stakeholders welcomed the progress but expressed concerns about delays in establishing milling facilities and growing frustrations among landowning communities. Paramount Chief Alhaji AB Sheriff III emphasized the need for timely intervention to maintain trust and prevent discontent among youth.
Minister Kpaka assured stakeholders that their concerns have been duly noted and that immediate measures will be taken, including operationalizing milling facilities and expediting roadworks. The delegation confirmed that the bridge is largely complete, with only the footpath remaining before its official handover.
The Mattru Jong region continues to be a cornerstone of Sierra Leone’s oil palm expansion strategy, aimed at reducing domestic market prices and improving rural livelihoods through inclusive and sustainable agribusiness development.