By: Fatmata Grace Okekearu
In an effort to accelerate the Mattru Jong road construction project and resolve key obstacles affecting its progress, Resident Minister South, Chief John Abu, has conducted an extensive inspection of the ongoing work.
The ministerial visit was carried out in collaboration with the Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA), Pavifort Construction Company, Sabbour Construction Company, Compagnie Sahélienne d’Entreprises (CSE), and representatives of the media.
The purpose of the visit was to identify pressing challenges hampering progress and explore practical solutions to ensure the timely delivery of the critical infrastructure project.
Chief Abu and his team toured several key sections of the project, focusing particularly on Lots 2 and 3, covering the Kpetema and Tiokonu areas. These include three critical points of concern:Muckowa – km 12, Sembehun Junction – km 16 Ngahun – km 22.
The Resident Minister emphasized the urgency of addressing these problematic zones, describing the road as vital for agricultural transport, regional trade, and access to the hometown of President Julius Maada Bio.
“These three areas require immediate intervention. We must ensure safety for all road users, and the work must be done with urgency and accountability,” Chief Abu stated.
Alhaji Abdulai Mansaray, Project Manager of Pavifort Construction, briefed the delegation on the progress made and acknowledged technical challenges, particularly regarding drainage systems and backfilling.
He assured the Minister of the company’s commitment to timely resolution of these issues.
Chief Abu also inspected the Bumpeh Bridge construction site and encouraged the contractor to accelerate efforts, stressing the importance of staying on schedule.
In response, senior engineers and company representatives pledged to intensify their commitment to quality assurance and timely project delivery.
The Resident Minister concluded the inspection by reaffirming the Bio-led government’s dedication to infrastructure development across the country.
“President Bio is fully committed to delivering on his promises, and we are here to ensure no part of this project is left behind,” Chief Abu affirmed.
The Mattru Jong road project has been divided into three segments: Phase 1: Managed by T-Mark Construction, nearing completion, Phase 2: Overseen by Pavifort and CSE, currently in advanced stages, Phase 3: Handled by Maripoma Construction Company
The Resident Minister’s visit is widely regarded as a timely intervention aimed at keeping the project on track and ensuring that all contractors meet their delivery timelines, ultimately benefiting both the Southern Region and the nation at large.