President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone has inaugurated a transit transport terminal and traffic signal system as part of the Integrated and Resilient Urban Mobility Project (IRUMP), valued at $52 million. This initiative, supported by the Government of Sierra Leone and the World Bank, aims to enhance urban transport, public safety, and economic growth.
During the commissioning event, President Bio highlighted the importance of these investments in transportation as part of his Big Five Game Changer Agenda. He noted that this development is crucial for socioeconomic progress and infrastructure modernization.
"This is a pivotal step in our commitment to economic growth and public safety. This facility will centralize public and private transportation, streamline goods and passenger movement, and reduce delays, making daily commutes and business operations more efficient," stated President Bio.
The IRUMP consists of three components: modernizing public transport services under the Waka Fine initiative, establishing resilient infrastructure such as terminals and traffic signals, and building institutional capacity for effective transport management.
The new terminal aims to promote safety, sustainability, and inclusivity, especially for persons with disabilities. The traffic signal system will manage traffic flow to reduce congestion and improve road safety.
President Bio also mentioned the introduction of 50 high-capacity buses designed to carry over 26,000 commuters daily. These efforts are expected to ease congestion on major routes, improve connectivity, and support Sierra Leone's socioeconomic transformation.
Adams Diehi from the World Bank praised President Bio’s dedication to development: "This terminal will significantly reduce urban congestion and enhance the quality of life for citizens."
Leticia S. Senessie from Metro Transport Company recognized the government's role in fostering an environment conducive to private enterprise while enhancing infrastructure.
The ceremony highlights Sierra Leone's strides in tackling urban mobility issues through collaboration between government entities, international partners, and private stakeholders.
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