By: Marian Magdalene Bangura
As the newly constructed Sewa Ground Market nears completion, stakeholders have voiced their expectations concerning its management, usage, and long-term impact on the community on Wednesday, 24 September 2025.
Speaking at the government’s weekly press briefing at the Miatta Conference Centre, the Chairlady of the market, Madam Fudia Gbla, appealed to the management team to prioritize traders who had previously occupied the site. She emphasized that long-serving traders should be given due recognition in the allocation of stalls. Madam Gbla also commented on the proposed annual fee of NLe 6,000 for stalls, describing it as a fair and reasonable arrangement, given the improved facilities.
During the briefing, Charles Mambu, Chairman of the Board of Directors for Infrastructure for Development Sierra Leone (IFD-SL), commended the government for investing in such an essential facility. He highlighted the critical role of markets in boosting local trade and strengthening community livelihoods, referring to infrastructure as the “bedrock of development.” Mr. Mambu also urged the government to replicate similar projects in other cities such as Bo, Kenema, Port Loko, and Makeni to promote balanced development across the country.
While praising the initiative, Mr. Mambu cautioned that sustainability must remain a top priority. He warned that without proper maintenance and management, the market could fall into disrepair. He called on both traders and administrators to commit to the consistent upkeep and preservation of the facility.
In a related update, the Management of Sewa Ground Market announced that application forms for shop allocations would soon be available to the public. They also confirmed that the market will operate every day of the week, except Sundays.
The construction of Sewa Ground Market represents a significant milestone in the government’s broader infrastructure agenda. It promises to create a safer, more organized trading environment while stimulating economic activity for thousands of traders and customers throughout Freetown.
