The Government of Sierra Leone has officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Societe Djura Maritec Construction Company (SDMCO-SL Ltd.) for the reconstruction of the critical 85-kilometer Mano Junction–Tongo–Bumpeh Road. The project is slated to commence in 2026 under an EPC Plus Financing Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement.
The signing ceremony, held on Tuesday, 19th August 2025, took place at the Ministry of Works and Public Assets’ conference room in New England Ville, Freetown. The event was attended by senior government officials, representatives from the private sector, civil society organizations, and key Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), including the Ministry of Finance.
The project agreement, ratified by the Parliament of Sierra Leone on Wednesday, 13th August 2025, outlines the design, reconstruction, tolling, operation, and long-term maintenance of the road under a Design, Finance, Build, Operate, and Transfer (DFBOT) model. This agreement underscores the government’s commitment to advancing infrastructure, particularly roads, which are crucial for national and regional connectivity.
In his keynote address, Dr. Denis Sandi, Minister of Works and Public Assets, highlighted the transformative impact the project will have on Sierra Leone’s infrastructure. “This is an 85-kilometer road project that will drive growth and development. These are serious times we need action, not talk,” he stated.
Dr. Sandi emphasized that the government would not tolerate delays, urging the contractor to meet the project timelines. He praised the project as “strategic and worthy” and thanked President Julius Maada Bio and the citizens of Sierra Leone for their support.
Ing. Vandy C.J. French, Deputy Director General of the Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA), detailed the project’s scope and alignment with the government’s national development goals. “This road is in a strategic location. It connects the Trans-West African Highway and links key regions including Kenema, Zimmi, Kailahun, Pendembu, and the Liberian border,” he explained.
Phodie Musa Kamara, Deputy Director of Trunk Roads at SLRA, reaffirmed the project’s inclusion in Sierra Leone’s Strategic Roads Network Plan and pledged close oversight to ensure the project delivers value for money.
Joseph A. Fatoma, Assistant Director at the Ministry of Finance, confirmed that the funding for the project is already secured and included in the national budget for 2026. He praised the collaboration between agencies and highlighted the sustainability of the project, with a 30-year operation and maintenance agreement. “The beauty of this project lies in its sustainability. The contractor will operate and maintain the road for 30 years, with an option for renewal,” he said, adding that the Ministry of Finance is “fully committed” to supporting the project through completion.
Moussa Camara, CEO of SDMCO-SL Ltd., expressed gratitude to all stakeholders and assured them of the company’s commitment to delivering a world-class road using modern technologies and high engineering standards. “This project is not just about improving connectivity but about long-term national development. It will stand the test of time,” he said.
Charles Manbu, Chairman of the Board of Directors at Infrastructure for Development (I4D-SL), lauded the agreement but cautioned against repeating past mistakes seen in previous toll road projects. He stressed the importance of proper maintenance and urged civil society organizations to monitor the implementation closely. “People want to see development that makes a difference in their lives. Let’s not repeat the mistakes of the past. Maintenance is key,” he stated.
The reconstruction of the Mano Junction–Tongo–Bumpeh Road is a significant step in Sierra Leone’s efforts to modernize its transportation infrastructure. Once completed, the road will improve regional connectivity, promote trade, and serve as a vital link between communities, contributing to the country’s broader development goals.
As the project gears up for 2026, all eyes will be on SDMCO-SL Ltd. and its partners to ensure timely delivery, adherence to budget, and enduring quality.