By Kadijatu Bangura, Daily Scope
Kamakwei, April 15, 2026 The government says construction of key bridges and roads in Karene District is on schedule, with at least two major bridges due for completion before the end of 2026 as part of a wider push to unlock the northwest transport corridor.
Minister of Information and Civic Education Chernor Bah gave the update on Tuesday during the Karene Civic Day Series in Kamakwei, citing progress reports from the Sierra Leone Roads Authority. He said work on the Lohindi Bridge along the Kalangba–Gbendembu corridor is in its final stage. The bridge has been decked and is now undergoing concrete curing to reach full structural strength ahead of commissioning. Regravelling of the connecting road is complete, improving access on a route now serving as an alternative after the collapse of the Mathehun Bridge.
The 160-metre Tomparie Bridge is about 85 percent complete and is expected to be finished by May. The project replaces a ferry crossing that limited traffic flow and posed safety risks for communities traveling to Kamakwei and surrounding areas. Bah called it a major intervention to remove a long-standing transport constraint and boost regional connectivity. He added that government has secured funding for 39 bridges nationwide, with Tomparie listed among the priority projects.
Road works are also advancing. Procurement for the 105-kilometre Kambia–Tomparie–Kamakwei trunk road is at an advanced stage, with construction set to start after the next rainy season. The project will fully pave the road and include several short-span bridges and multiple culverts to ensure all-weather access. Further plans include starting the 250-metre Kabba Ferry Bridge this year to replace another ferry crossing that has disrupted movement and posed risks to commuters.
Construction of a new Mathehun Bridge is scheduled to begin after the rains, while additional bridges in Yebele, Batnhoro, and Mabantha are planned between late 2026 and 2027. Bah said the projects reflect government’s commitment to expand road infrastructure, improve connectivity, and support economic activity in underserved regions. Once completed, the works are expected to cut travel time and open new trade opportunities across Karene District.
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