Freetown — The Government of Sierra Leone has secured a US$1 million grant from Indonesia to fund feasibility studies and detailed engineering designs for the proposed Freetown–Tagrin Ferry Service.
The funding, channelled through Indonesian Aid, will support the technical assessments needed to determine whether the project is viable and to prepare for its future development. Minister of Finance Hon. Karefa Kargbo mobilised the grant on behalf of the Government of Sierra Leone.
The agreement was advanced through diplomatic efforts led by Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to Senegal, His Excellency Ibrahim Turay. Ambassador Turay arranged a bilateral meeting between Minister Kargbo and Indonesia’s Ambassador to Senegal, His Excellency Ardian Wicaksono, on Saturday, 31 October 2026, on the sidelines of the Second Edition of the Sport and Development Summit in Dakar.
Talks centred on finalising the grant arrangements and setting a clear framework for the project. The formal agreement is expected to be signed between the Government of Indonesia, through Indonesian Aid, and Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Finance. Preparatory work is planned to begin in early 2027 once the necessary formalities are completed.
The proposed ferry service aims to strengthen maritime links between Freetown and the Tagrin–Lungi area. If implemented, it could offer more reliable passenger travel and improve the movement of goods and services. Officials say it may also boost tourism, trade and economic activity by improving access to communities around Lungi and Sierra Leone’s main international airport.
Authorities stress that the US$1 million grant covers only the feasibility studies and engineering designs. It does not include funds for construction or operation of the ferry service. The studies will assess the project’s technical and economic viability and identify the financing needed for full implementation.
The grant underscores the growing role of economic diplomacy in supporting Sierra Leone’s development goals. Ambassador Turay’s facilitation of the talks highlights how the country’s diplomatic missions can help secure partnerships for key infrastructure initiatives.
With preparatory activities targeted for early 2027, the Freetown–Tagrin Ferry Service remains a potential addition to the nation’s transport network. Its eventual impact will depend on the results of the studies, the availability of further funding, and successful project delivery.
