Freetown, Sierra Leone – September 18, 2025 – President Dr. Julius Maada Bio on Thursday officially inaugurated the newly completed Sewa Grounds Market in Freetown’s Central Business District, unveiling a state-of-the-art facility designed to transform informal trade and improve conditions for thousands of small-scale traders.
The market complex, constructed by the National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NaSSIT) using workers’ social security and pension contributions, features 1,544 marketing spaces and extensive support infrastructure.
Among its amenities are a parking lot, 176 toilets, boreholes and water towers, a daycare centre, fire and police stations, fire extinguishers, and 24-hour security with CCTV surveillance. Commercial spaces include 76 large and medium-sized lock-up shops, 277 small shops, and 170 district stalls.
Speaking at the ceremony, President Bio called the project “long overdue,” noting that his administration inherited it but accelerated its completion.
“This market is more than a safe and dignified space for our traders,” he said. “It will boost the productivity of small and medium enterprises, improve livelihoods, and contribute to the local economy of Freetown.”
The president also announced plans for a new pension scheme targeting informal workers such as petty traders, bike riders, and commercial drivers. NaSSIT will lead the initiative, which he described as a step toward guaranteeing “a dignified retirement” for Sierra Leoneans outside the formal workforce.
In a major relief for traders, President Bio revealed that stall rents would be cut in half—from the initial NLe 12,000 to NLe 6,000—through the end of his tenure.
“This cost will remain the same until the end of my term,” he assured, framing the decision as proof of his government’s commitment to supporting small businesses and creating an enabling environment.
NaSSIT Director General Mohamed Fuaad Daboh hailed the project as a milestone made possible by contributors to the social security scheme.
He pledged that the Trust would maintain the facility and replicate similar markets nationwide.
Minister of Employment, Labour, and Social Security Mohamed Rahman Swaray echoed those sentiments, describing the market’s completion as “long overdue” and evidence of a “listening government” responsive to public input.
Authorities believe the modern complex will significantly reduce street trading in downtown Freetown by offering a secure, sanitary, and well-regulated alternative. Traders are expected to benefit from round-the-clock security, clean water, daycare services, and improved customer access.
President Bio concluded by urging vendors to maintain cleanliness, observe safety rules, and keep access routes clear. The government says it will now focus on efficient operations, strict security and sanitation standards, and the rollout of similar infrastructure across the country to strengthen Sierra Leone’s informal sector and urban economy.
