By Mohamed Kamara
Engineer Lavalie has disclosed that the Mabang Bridge will be ready for use in March 2022 and it will contribute significantly to the social and economic growth of the country.
“The bridge when completed will contribute significantly to the social and economic growth of people in that part of the country which at the moment is hugely challenged,” Engineer Lavalie said, adding that the bridge will help to boost the livelihood activities of the people as well as giving a facelift to local economy stimulation. He noted that the completion of the bridge will fulfill President Julius Maada Bio’s Infrastructural, Human Capital Development, Economic diversification and other promises.
The Director of the National Authorizing Office (NAO), Ambrose James had earlier stated that the Mabang Bridge costs slightly over €9 million Euros, adding that the bridge will enhance trade and commerce along communities, adding that the bridge would no longer endanger the lives of residents. Mr. James went on by stating that the bridge will considerably improve travel time. Currently, he said that the dug-out canoes are the means of crossing and access to other towns and villages in that part of the country, adding that the bridge will ensure that goods and services are accessible to remote areas in various communities.
Mr. Abdulai Kamara of No.55 Railway Line in Rotifunk, Bumpeh Chiefdom in the Moyamba district has said in an interview with this reporter that the damage of the Ferry by a heavy-weight truck has escalated the economic sufferings of residents of Ribbi and Bumpeh Chiefdoms. He further described their sufferings as unbearable.
Pa Momoh Songai living in Rabbi Chiefdom told this reporter that many cash crops could not be sold elsewhere because of the huge transportation cost.
Pa Alimamy Sankoh living in Songo Koya Chiefdom said although their chiefdom is a gateway to and from Freetown, they too are facing economic as the youth have all deserted their towns and villages in search of greener pastures elsewhere.
Ahmed Tarawally, a descendant from Bumpeh Chiefdom said that the nature of the road from Songo Town to Moyamba is very bad.
