By Amin Kef (Ranger)
The Government of Sierra Leone, in collaboration with the World Bank, has on Wednesday November 27, 2024 officially inaugurated the Lumley Transit Transport Terminal and Traffic Signal System as part of the $52 million Integrated and Resilient Urban Mobility Project (IRUMP). This groundbreaking initiative is set to transform urban transportation, enhance public safety and stimulate economic development across Sierra Leone.
Metro Transport Company (MTC), which operates the Waka Fine Buses on behalf of the Government of Sierra Leone, played a pivotal role in the commissioning ceremony. The Lumley Transit Terminal, now fully operational, will serve as a central hub for transportation services, alleviating congestion and improving the flow of goods and people. This milestone represents a major leap forward in modernizing Sierra Leone’s transport infrastructure.
At the event, MTC Director, Leticia Senya Senessie, speaking on behalf of MTC Chairman Ambassador Kobi Walker, praised the Government’s unwavering commitment to creating a conducive business environment and advancing the nation’s infrastructure.
“It is an honor to stand before you today as we celebrate this historic moment, the commissioning of the Lumley Transit Terminal and the new traffic signals,” Leticia Senya Senessie remarked. “This is not just the opening of a new facility; it is the beginning of a new era in urban mobility for Sierra Leone.”
Leticia Senya Senessie extended heartfelt thanks to President Julius Maada Bio for his visionary leadership and emphasized how the IRUMP project is an investment in the nation’s long-term prosperity. She also acknowledged the Ministry of Transport and Aviation for their diligent work in aligning the project with community needs and fostering collaboration with all relevant stakeholders.
The Lumley Transit Terminal is designed to be a state-of-the-art facility that will greatly improve connectivity across the city. By streamlining transportation services, it will reduce delays and congestion, enabling the efficient movement of passengers and goods. Leticia Senya Senessie also highlighted the significant role the terminal will play in supporting local businesses and boosting tourism.
“With the installation of new traffic signals, we are not just enhancing transport services; we are ensuring the safety of our citizens,” she said. “These signals will help reduce congestion and prevent accidents, making our roads safer for everyone.”
Leticia Senya Senessie urged all stakeholders, Government agencies, transport operators and the public to adopt a collective responsibility in maintaining these critical infrastructures for future generations.
In her speech, Leticia Senya Senessie also discussed the vital public-private collaboration that made the project possible. While acknowledging the challenges faced by MTC in the course of its operations, she expressed confidence that through continued partnership and mutual support, the company could overcome those obstacles and deliver long-lasting results.
“As a private company, MTC is deeply committed to working alongside the Government, the World Bank and other stakeholders to ensure the success of this transformative project,” Leticia Senya Senessie stated. “Together, we can build a transportation system that is not only reliable but also sustainable and efficient.”
Concluding her address, Leticia Senya Senessie thanked the Government of Sierra Leone, the World Bank and all other partners for their support in making the project a reality. She underscored how the Lumley Transit Terminal and Traffic Signal System will serve as the foundation for future developments in urban mobility.
“This milestone marks a new chapter for Sierra Leone’s transportation sector,” she said. “We are paving the way for a more connected, efficient and prosperous future where all Sierra Leoneans can rely on safe and reliable transportation.”
The Lumley Transit Terminal and Traffic Signal System is a critical component of the IRUMP project and a significant step in modernizing Sierra Leone’s urban transport network. This initiative promises to deliver improved mobility, road safety and economic opportunities for the country, marking a promising future for Sierra Leone’s urban centers.
