His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has officially commissioned the Gendema/Wandor Bridge, a landmark infrastructure project that now links the northern and south-eastern regions of Sierra Leone in Gendema Town, Eastern Sierra Leone, on Sunday 30 November 2025.
Before the construction of the bridge, residents especially women and children relied on a small hand-operated ferry to cross the river. This resulted in frequent accidents and tragic loss of lives, particularly among those trying to access markets, schools, and medical services.
President Bio described the new bridge as a life-changing investment that will ease travel, enhance safety, and boost economic activity for communities in Simbaru and Wandor Chiefdoms in Kenema District. He noted that the bridge also strengthens connectivity between Tonkolili District in the north and Kenema, Kono, and Bo Districts in the south-east.
“To transform our economy, we must invest in meaningful infrastructure,” the President said. “We are committed to replacing all ferry crossings with bridges. Already, four bridges have been completed, and preparations for four more are underway. This bridge is not a favour to the people; it is what you deserve.”
He assured the community that the government will construct a proper access road leading to the bridge, emphasizing that the full benefits of the structure cannot be realized without an improved road network, especially during the rainy season.
The President highlighted that the Gendema Bridge is one of the tangible outcomes of his international engagements. “For our partners to take us seriously, we must demonstrate serious leadership at home. This year alone, Sierra Leone held the Presidency of the UN Security Council and continues to chair the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State. Though small, we have shown that we are a great nation when we make smart choices,” he said.
He further stressed that bridges and roads are essential pillars for supporting the Feed Salone initiative and unlocking agricultural productivity. “Most developed countries began with an agricultural revolution. I am also a farmer, and I want all of you to embrace farming,” he encouraged.
President Bio also warned of the rising dangers of the “Kush” drug, urging community members to report hideouts of dealers to the police. He extended gratitude to the World Bank and other development partners for their continued support.
Her Excellency Dr. Fatima Maada Bio reflected on the difficult years when women and children frequently lost their lives while crossing the river. She described the new bridge as a life-saving development that will ensure safer transportation of farm produce to markets.
The Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Henry Musa Kpaka, called the bridge a transformational asset for farming communities. “For us to feed ourselves, we must build bridges and roads. This development has already brought joy to our people,” he said, noting the growing interest of new farmers, especially in the poultry sector.
Minister of Works and Public Assets, Dr. Denis Sandy, praised President Bio for constructing more strategic roads and bridges than any previous administration. He reaffirmed his ministry’s commitment to monitoring contractors and coordinating with MDAs to ensure timely delivery of infrastructure projects.
World Bank Country Manager, Abdu Muwonge, highlighted the importance of the bridge, noting that the eastern region is rich in cocoa, coffee, and oil palm. “Gendema is now a cosmopolitan town, home to Mende, Temne, Limba, Kissi, and Kono communities. This 125-metre bridge will facilitate access to schools, hospitals, and markets for thousands,” he said.
Paramount Chief of Simbaru Chiefdom, Mamie Gbovoh Gamanga IV, described the bridge as “more than concrete and steel it is a symbol of progress and hope.” She said that countless lives were lost during the rainy season before the bridge was built, but it now guarantees safe movement and stronger connectivity with neighbouring chiefdoms.
As farmers, traders, students, and families begin to experience the impact of this long-awaited development, the Gendema Bridge stands as a testament to the government’s commitment to rural development and inclusive growth. The investment marks a decisive step toward a future where no community is left behind and where essential infrastructure serves as a catalyst for economic transformation and improved livelihoods across Sierra Leone.
