President Dr. Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone has joined President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr. of Liberia to officially launch the upgrading of a 255-kilometre road network under a Design, Build, Operate, and Transfer (DBOT) concession, in a major push to strengthen regional integration and economic cooperation in West Africa.
The project covers two major transport corridors designed to improve connectivity between Liberia and neighbouring states. The Western Corridor includes a four-lane highway from St. Paul Bridge to Klay, extending to Bo Waterside, with additional links from Klay to Tubmanburg and Madina Junction to Robertsport. The Northern Corridor comprises an 86-kilometre two-lane road linking Voinjama to Mendikorma.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, President Bio described the initiative as a historic milestone that will reduce travel time, lower transportation costs, and facilitate the free movement of people, goods, and services across borders.
He noted that the project reflects a shared commitment by Sierra Leone and Liberia to deepen economic cooperation and improve livelihoods, adding that it marks a shift toward stronger regional infrastructure development.
President Bio also emphasized that the stability enjoyed in both countries has created the enabling environment for large-scale investments, describing the initiative as a “dividend of peace.” He commended President Boakai’s leadership, saying the project demonstrates a clear commitment to partnership and regional progress.
“This project is a dividend of peace,” President Bio stated, urging citizens of both countries to remain committed to unity, stability, and development.
In his capacity as Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, President Bio highlighted the broader regional importance of the project, noting that it forms a critical part of West Africa’s economic infrastructure.
He said the corridor will enhance trade, strengthen connectivity, and advance the goals of regional integration under ECOWAS, describing it as a step toward a more unified West African market.
“This is not just a road project for Liberia,” he said. “It is a regional statement that strengthens connectivity and promotes economic integration across West Africa.”
The project is expected to significantly boost commerce, improve mobility, and deepen cooperation among countries in the sub-region as part of ongoing efforts to drive sustainable development and economic transformation.
