By Mohamed Jaward Nyallay, Strategic Communications Adviser
The Government of Sierra Leone has announced that major bridge and road projects in Karene District are on track for completion, with at least two critical bridges expected to be delivered before the end of 2026.
Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, made the disclosure at the Karene Civic Day Series in Kamakwei on Tuesday April 14, 2026, citing progress reports from the Sierra Leone Roads Authority on ongoing infrastructure works across the district.
Providing details, the Minister said construction of the Lohindi Bridge along the Kalangba–Gbendembu corridor has reached its final stage. The bridge has been decked and is currently undergoing concrete curing, a technical process required to achieve structural strength before commissioning. He added that regravelling works on the connecting road have been completed, improving accessibility along the route.
The corridor is being used as an alternative access route following the collapse of the Mathehun Bridge, helping to restore movement for communities across Karene.
Meanwhile, construction of the 160-metre Tomparie Bridge is at approximately 85 percent completion and is expected to be finalized by May this year. The project replaces a long-standing ferry crossing that posed safety risks and limited the free flow of traffic to Kamakwei and surrounding areas.
Minister Bah described the project as a “major intervention” to remove a historic transport constraint and improve regional connectivity.
He further revealed that the Government, under the leadership of President Julius Maada Bio, has secured funding for the construction of 39 bridges nationwide, with Tomparie Bridge among the priority projects.
In addition to bridge construction, government is advancing plans for the Kambia–Tomparie–Kamakwei Road, a 105-kilometre trunk road expected to significantly enhance transport links within the northwest corridor. Procurement for the project is at an advanced stage, with construction scheduled to begin after the next rainy season.
The project will involve full paving of the road, alongside the construction of several short-span bridges and multiple culverts to improve drainage and ensure all-weather accessibility.
Further infrastructure expansion is planned across the district. Work on the 250-metre Kabba Ferry Bridge is expected to commence this year, replacing another ferry crossing that has historically disrupted movement and posed risks to commuters.
Construction of the Mathehun Bridge is also scheduled to begin after the rainy season, while additional bridges in Yebele, Batnhoro, and Mabantha are planned between late 2026 and 2027.
Minister Bah said the ongoing projects reflect government’s commitment to expanding road infrastructure, improving connectivity, and supporting economic activity in underserved regions.
With multiple projects nearing completion and others set to begin, Karene District is expected to see improved transport access, reduced travel time, and increased opportunities for trade and local development.
