In a groundbreaking development, the Government of Sierra Leone has officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Freetown, sealing a partnership with the eminent Chinese company, China Road and Bridge Corporation, and the renowned architectural firm, Atépa Group.
Signed by Chernor A. Bah, the Minister of Information and Civic Education for the Republic of Sierra Leone, this momentous announcement marks a pivotal step towards fostering sustained economic growth and enhancing the nation’s connectivity on the global stage.
This monumental agreement sets the stage for the construction of the much-anticipated Freetown-Lungi Bridge.
The envisioned Freetown-Lungi Bridge, spanning a remarkable 8 kilometers, boasts a projected investment of approximately $1.5 billion.
President Julius Maada Bio’s visionary “Big 5” agenda, focused on advancing Sierra Leone’s technology and infrastructure, takes a giant stride forward with this strategic initiative. The bridge aims to seamlessly connect the capital with the pivotal Lungi airport hub, facilitating smoother transit for both international and local travelers.
President Maada Bio’s ambitious vision includes not only the Freetown-Lungi Bridge but also the recent inauguration of a state-of-the-art airport on March 3, 2023. This ultramodern facility, replacing its 1945 predecessor, commanded an investment of $270 million.
China Road and Bridge Corporation, a Fortune 500 member ranked 61st globally, emerges as a key player in this transformative project. Operating across Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas, the company is renowned for its extensive experience in engineering and construction, with a track record spanning over 50 countries.
The Atépa Group, a distinguished entity encompassing the architectural firm, brings its expertise to the table with a portfolio featuring globally acclaimed projects. Notable works include the Banjul Airport in Gambia, the BCEAO headquarters in Dakar, Senegal, the ECOWAS Fund headquarters in Lomé, Togo, and the iconic Monument of the Renaissance, also in Dakar. With offices in multiple African and Asian countries, the Atépa Group adds a touch of architectural brilliance to Sierra Leone’s infrastructural landscape.
As the project progresses, a comprehensive feasibility study is set to be finalized in the coming months. Barring unforeseen delays, the commencement of construction is scheduled for the last quarter of 2024, with an estimated completion timeline of three years from the start date.
