Sierra Leone’s President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has officially commissioned the Gendema/Wandor Bridge, a transformational piece of infrastructure that now links the North and South-Eastern Regions of Sierra Leone.
Before the bridge, residents, especially women and children, relied on a small hand-operated ferry to cross the river, resulting in frequent accidents and tragic loss of lives. Many died while attempting to access markets, schools, and medical services.
President Bio said the new bridge is a life-changing investment that will ease travel, strengthen safety, and boost economic activity for communities across Simbaru and Wandor Chiefdoms in Kenema District.
He added that the bridge also connects Tonkolili District in the north with 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 government will construct a proper road leading to the bridge, noting that without an upgraded road network, the full value of the bridge would not be realized during heavy rains.
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 emphasized that bridges and roads are essential pillars in supporting the Feed Salone initiative and in 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.
The President also warned about the rising dangers of the “Kush” drug, urging communities to report hideouts of dealers to the police. He thanked the World Bank and other partners for their continued support.
First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio recalled the painful years when people, especially women and children, lost their lives crossing the river. She celebrated the bridge as a life-saving development that will also help farmers transport their produce to market safely.
Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Henry Musa Kpaka, described the bridge as a transformational addition 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. He noted that the ministry is welcoming new farmers daily, particularly 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 deliver timely infrastructure.
World Bank Country Manager, Abdu Muwonge, said the Gendema Bridge is particularly significant because 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 noted that countless lives were previously lost during the rainy season, but the bridge now ensures safe movement and stronger connectivity with surrounding chiefdoms.
As farmers, traders, students, and families begin to feel the real impact of this investment, the bridge reinforces the government’s commitment to rural development and inclusive growth. It marks a decisive step toward a future where no community is left behind, and where essential infrastructure opens doors for economic transformation and improved livelihoods across Sierra Leone.
