In a significant development for the people of Bumpeh and Bonthe District, the Minister of Works and Public Assets, Dr. Denis Sandy, joined forces with the Minister of Land, Dr. Turad Senesie, to officially commission the Berge ferry at Bumpeh.
The event, held in the spirit of the holiday season, marked the realization of a special assignment entrusted to them by President Bio several months ago.
Minister Sandy conveyed a warm greeting from the president to the people of Bumpeh and Bonthe District, underscoring the unique nature of their mission. Tasked with addressing crossing and constraint issues before the festive season, the ministers aimed to provide a tangible solution and a meaningful gift for the local community.
Detailing the collaborative efforts since receiving the presidential directive, Dr. Sandy highlighted the formation of a dedicated committee involving the Ministry of Works, Ministry of Lands, Ministry of Finance, and the Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA). Their relentless work, including multiple site visits and financial negotiations, culminated in the assembly of the Barge ferry, heralded as a practical manifestation of the government’s commitment to action.
The Barge ferry commenced operations five days prior, marking a crucial step toward addressing immediate transportation challenges.
Minister Sandy expressed his satisfaction at being on-site to officially commission the barge, emphasizing President Bio’s dedication to delivering results rather than mere rhetoric.
Dr. Turad Senesie, the Minister of Land, echoed these sentiments, acknowledging the president’s directive to oversee projects in Bonthe and Moyamba. Commending Dr. Sandy’s dedication, he assured the people of Bonthe District that the envisioned bridge would soon become a reality.
Dr. Turad pledged ongoing monitoring and collaboration to ensure development reaches all districts.
The ceremony also featured a customary libation ceremony performed by Patrick H. Walker and community members, expressing gratitude and respect for their fellow community members.
Mr. Walker lauded the government’s efforts and emphasized the importance of respecting the people, a sentiment echoed by the ministers’ traditional commissioning of the barge through a libation ceremony for deceased elders.
Senior Engineer Paul H. Lebbie, representing the SLRA, emphasized the agency’s commitment to providing economical access.
He assured periodic visits during the upcoming bridge construction in 2024, underscoring the SLRA’s dedication to supporting the community’s development.
