• Liberia, Sierra Leone to launch 255-km transnational road corridor

• $364 million project aims to boost trade, connectivity

• Toll sections may limit access for low-income users

Liberia and Sierra Leone are preparing to launch construction of a transnational road corridor to improve connectivity and boost bilateral trade. Liberia’s Ministry of Public Works made the announcement after preparatory work for a groundbreaking ceremony scheduled for Saturday, April 18.

The 255-km corridor will link four counties, including Montserrado, home to Monrovia, the country’s administrative and economic hub, as well as key border points. The project includes a 38-km two-lane toll road between St. Paul Bridge and Klay, and 217 km of non-toll road.

Valued at $364 million, the contract was awarded to Pavi Fort under a 25-year concession. The firm will finance 60% of the project, with the government covering the remaining 40% through the National Road Fund and a $100 million guarantee. The project forms part of the government’s strategy to address infrastructure gaps under the 2025–2029 development plan, the “Arrest Agenda for Inclusive Development,” which notes that more than 88% of the road network remains unpaved.

According to the World Bank’s Liberia Poverty Assessment 2023, poor road infrastructure remains a major constraint on socio-economic development. Around 42% of the population is poorly connected or lacks access to the road network, raising transport costs and restricting access to markets and services.

Despite its ambitions, the project could face challenges, particularly in ensuring access for local populations. Toll sections, often costly for low-income households, could limit usage.

Henoc Dossa