Sierra Leone has undergone a remarkable transformation in its road infrastructure in recent years, thanks to the visionary leadership of Engineer Alfred Jalil Momodu, Director General of the Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA). His tenure has become synonymous with progress, accountability, and innovation in road management turning long-neglected highways and feeder roads into symbols of national pride and development.
When Engineer Momodu assumed office, the road network in many parts of Sierra Leone was in a deplorable state. Potholes, poor drainage systems, and inadequate maintenance were the norm. However, his appointment brought renewed hope to citizens as he introduced a hands-on, results-driven approach to road rehabilitation and expansion. His leadership, blending technical expertise with transparency, has reshaped the SLRA into a proactive institution delivering tangible results.
Under his leadership, the SLRA implemented a nationwide maintenance strategy targeting both urban and rural areas. Major highways such as the Masiaka-Bo Road, Makeni-Kabala Highway, and the Freetown-Conakry Highway have undergone large-scale repairs and resurfacing. These interventions have not only improved accessibility but also reduced travel time, vehicle maintenance costs, and road-related accidents.
Equally impressive is DG Momodu’s focus on feeder roads that connect rural communities to essential services such as markets, schools, and healthcare centers. Recognizing that development must reach every corner of Sierra Leone, he has championed the construction and rehabilitation of hundreds of kilometers of rural roads. This effort has significantly boosted agricultural productivity by improving the movement of farm produce to urban centers and export markets.
Technology and innovation have played a central role in SLRA’s new direction. Engineer Momodu has introduced digital monitoring systems and project-tracking tools, ensuring efficiency, transparency, and timely delivery. Through data-driven planning and partnerships with development agencies, the SLRA now prioritizes roads based on economic impact and social importance a shift reflecting modern governance.
Environmental sustainability has also been a priority. Under DG Momodu’s direction, the SLRA integrates climate-resilient designs and eco-friendly construction methods into its projects. Drainage systems are being upgraded to withstand heavy rainfall, reducing flood risks and ensuring the longevity of infrastructure. This forward-thinking approach underscores his recognition that infrastructure development must go hand in hand with environmental preservation.
Beyond technical achievements, Engineer Momodu has instilled a strong sense of professionalism and accountability within the SLRA workforce. Staff training, performance reviews, and ethical reforms have strengthened institutional capacity and public trust. His insistence on quality control has elevated the Authority’s reputation both nationally and internationally, earning recognition from development partners and civil society alike.
DG Momodu’s inclusive leadership ensures that local contractors, engineers, and community members are actively involved in SLRA projects. By fostering collaboration and building local expertise, he is nurturing a new generation of Sierra Leonean professionals equipped to sustain the nation’s road revolution for years to come.
The economic impact of these developments cannot be overstated. Improved road networks are stimulating trade, tourism, and investment opportunities across Sierra Leone. Communities once isolated by impassable roads now enjoy better access to education, healthcare, and employment. The SLRA’s transformation under DG Momodu stands as a testament to what visionary public service can achieve when driven by dedication and integrity.
As Sierra Leone continues its journey toward modernization, Engineer Alfred Jalil Momodu’s leadership at the SLRA serves as a beacon of progress. From potholes to progress, his commitment to building durable, safe, and sustainable roads has laid the foundation for a brighter, more connected future proving that with the right leadership, even the roughest paths can lead to national transformation.