Citizens Question Govt Over Lungi Bridge
By Abdul Rahman Bah
The Lungi Bridge project, a transformative vision for Sierra Leone, has long captured the hopes of its citizens.
Envisioned as a critical infrastructure link between Freetown and Lungi—home to the country’s only international airport—the bridge promises to ease the logistical burden on residents. Currently, the journey between the two locations is a tiresome ordeal involving either lengthy road trips or unreliable, overcrowded ferries and boats, often delayed by operational challenges.
For many, the bridge symbolizes modernization, economic growth, and a solution to decades-old transportation struggles.
Yet, mounting delays in the project’s commencement have turned optimism into frustration. Despite being announced years ago, the bridge’s construction, initially scheduled to begin in 2021, remains stagnant. A 2023 agreement with the China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) brought a glimmer of hope, with the government projecting a start date by the end of 2024. However, the lack of visible progress on-site has left many questioning the project’s viability.
For citizens, the delays feel like broken promises. The Lungi Bridge represents more than infrastructure; it embodies national progress and serves as a cornerstone of President Julius Maada Bio’s “Big 5” agenda, aimed at driving economic and technological advancement. Critics argue that delays undermine public trust in the government and cast doubt on its ability to execute large-scale development projects.
“We’ve heard about this bridge for years, but all we get are empty announcements,” lamented a Freetown resident. “The government needs to move beyond talk and take action.”
Public skepticism is further fueled by the absence of preparatory work, such as land clearance or the arrival of construction equipment. Many fear these delays could jeopardize the economic benefits the bridge promises. Once completed, the Lungi Bridge is expected to boost tourism, attract foreign investments, and improve trade, reducing transportation costs and opening new markets for local businesses.
“This bridge isn’t just about making travel easier,” said a Lungi-based entrepreneur. “It’s about unlocking economic opportunities for everyone. Delays hurt businesses like mine that rely on better infrastructure.”
The government’s silence on the reasons behind the delays has only deepened frustration. Citizens and civil society groups are calling for transparency and regular updates on the project’s status, including feasibility studies, funding, and construction plans. Speculation abounds that the delays may be politically motivated, with some suspecting the government aims to align progress with upcoming elections.
“If the government is serious, they need to involve the public,” said a youth activist in Lungi. “We deserve clear communication. Delaying without explanation erodes trust.”
Regionally, the Lungi Bridge is seen as crucial to Sierra Leone’s competitiveness. With neighbouring nations like Ghana and Senegal advancing their infrastructure, many believe Sierra Leone risks falling behind if delays persist. Citizens worry that failure to deliver this project could undermine the country’s economic potential and the government’s credibility.
As the updated timeline targets December 2024 for construction to begin, public pressure is mounting. Many see the bridge as a litmus test for the government’s ability to deliver on its promises. Prolonged delays, they warn, could deepen public disillusionment and cast doubt on future development initiatives.
“The Lungi Bridge is a dream,” said a Freetown university student. “But dreams need action. If this project doesn’t start soon, it will be hard to trust the government again.”
For now, the Lungi Bridge remains a symbol of both hope and frustration. Its success—or failure—will not only reshape Sierra Leone’s infrastructure but also define the government’s legacy in navigating the nation toward a brighter future.
