President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has commissioned the newly constructed Gendema–Wandor Bridge, a landmark infrastructure project now linking the North with the South-Eastern region, marking a major milestone in the Government’s nationwide drive to open rural communities to safer travel, stronger trade and broader economic opportunities. The commissioning took place on Sunday, 30 November 2025, in Gendema Town, Eastern Sierra Leone.
For decades, residents of Simbaru and Wandor Chiefdoms relied on a small hand-pulled ferry to cross the river; a dangerous ordeal that caused numerous accidents, injuries and deaths, particularly among women and children attempting to reach farms, markets, schools or accessing medical care. The new 125-metre bridge brings an end to those long-standing hardships and provides a modern gateway connecting Tonkolili District in the north with Kenema, Bo and Kono Districts in the south-east.
Speaking at the ceremony, President Bio described the bridge as a “life-changing investment” that will dramatically improve mobility, enhance safety and stimulate local and regional commerce. “To transform our economy, we must invest in meaningful infrastructure,” he said. “We are committed to replacing all ferry crossings with bridges. Four are already completed and preparations for four more are underway. This bridge is not a favour; it is your right as citizens.”
He further assured residents that the Government will construct a proper motorable road leading to the bridge, stressing that without improved road access the full benefits of the investment cannot be realized, especially during the rainy season.
President Bio also framed the project as an outcome of his administration’s strong international engagement and leadership. “When partners see that we take development seriously at home, they support us. This year alone, Sierra Leone presided over the UN Security Council and continues to lead ECOWAS. We may be small, but with smart choices, we can achieve great things,” he noted.
He further emphasized that bridges and roads are foundational to the Feed Salone initiative and serve as vital enablers of agricultural growth. Encouraging citizens to embrace farming, the President said developed nations began with agricultural revolutions, adding that Sierra Leone is poised to follow a similar path.
In a strong message to the youth, the President warned about the growing threat of the Kush drug and urged communities to report drug dens to the police. He thanked the World Bank and other development partners for their continued assistance.
First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio reflected on the bridge’s personal and emotional significance, recalling the years when women and children lost their lives attempting to cross the river. She described the new structure as “a life-saving development” that will help farmers move produce safely and boost community wellbeing.
Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Henry Musa Kpaka, hailed the bridge as a transformational asset for farming communities. He said it aligns with the Ministry’s efforts to increase food production and expand participation in sectors such as poultry. “For us to feed ourselves, bridges and roads are essential. This development has already brought joy to our people,” he remarked.
Minister of Works and Public Assets, Dr. Denis Sandy, praised President Bio’s record in road and bridge construction, noting that the administration has delivered more strategic infrastructure than any before it. He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to strict contractor supervision and collaboration with MDAs to ensure timely project delivery.
World Bank Country Manager, Abdu Muwonge, highlighted the bridge’s importance to the region’s agro-economic potential. “The eastern region is rich in cocoa, coffee and oil palm. Gendema has grown into a cosmopolitan community of Mende, Temne, Limba, Kissi, and Kono residents. This bridge will ease access to schools, hospitals and markets for thousands,” he stated.
Paramount Chief Mamie Gbovoh Gamanga IV of Simbaru Chiefdom described the bridge as “a symbol of progress and hope,” noting that tragic losses during the rainy season were once a painful annual reality. She said the new structure ensures safe passage, stronger inter-chiefdom connectivity and renewed economic life for the region.
As residents, traders, farmers and students now experience the tangible impact of the Gendema Bridge, the project stands as a powerful affirmation of the Government’s commitment to equitable development. It signals a future where no community is isolated and where modern infrastructure serves as the backbone of national growth and improved livelihoods across Sierra Leone.
