The government of Sierra Leone has officially launched the construction of the Bumpeh Ngao Bridge, a vital infrastructure project aimed at improving connectivity between Bo and Bonthe Districts.

The two-lane bridge is being constructed rapidly following the collapse of the old Bumpeh Bridge in September 2022, which was caused by an overloaded low-bed trailer transporting heavy machinery.

The Bumpeh Ngao Bridge is crucial for residents of Serabu, Rutile, Mattru Jong, Bonthe Island, and surrounding towns in the Southern region. It will connect six chiefdoms: Sumbuya, Kpanda Kemoh, Monkeleh, Mano Dasseh, Kowa, and Gbo, facilitating easier access to the regional headquarters in Bo.

The project is spearheaded by Ing. Alfred Jalil Momodu, the Director General of the Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA), who has been instrumental in initiating the construction.

The old colonial bridge’s collapse had forced residents to take a longer route via Tiama through Mano Dasseh to reach Bonthe, causing considerable inconvenience.

The completion of the Bumpeh Ngao Bridge is anticipated within a few months and is expected to significantly enhance transportation in the area.

Once completed, the Bumpeh Ngao Bridge is expected to be one of the finest bridges in the country, providing a much-needed solution to the transportation challenges faced by local communities.