By Alvin Lansana Kargbo
The Ministry of Finance, through the Resilient Urban Sierra Leone Project (RUSLP), has signed two major contracts worth over US$9 million for the construction and upgrading of modern markets in Kenema and Makeni, aimed at improving urban resilience and boosting local commerce.
The official signing ceremony took place on Friday, October 10, 2025, at the Ministry of Finance Conference Room in Freetown, marking a significant step in the Government’s efforts to enhance service delivery and promote inclusive economic growth in key regional cities.
Under the new agreements, Ambitious Construction Company will undertake the Kenema Market Upgrade at a cost of approximately US$5 million, while Micheletti & Company Limited, in joint venture with S&H Investment Sierra Leone Limited, will execute the Makeni Market Project valued at about US$4.18 million.
According to project details, the Makeni Market will feature a one-storey Block A-B with multiple stores, ancillary facilities and a borehole system designed to accommodate 1,600 traders. The Kenema Market, on the other hand, will comprise a two-storey structure with similar facilities capable of hosting 1,800 traders.
Both markets will include external works such as internal drainage systems, paved walkways, solar-powered lighting and boreholes with solar-powered pumps. To minimize disruption to traders, temporary relocation markets equipped with sanitation facilities will be set up during the construction phase.
The projects, financed by the World Bank under Component 2C of the RUSLP, are expected to be completed within 24 months, including 12 months of external works.
Delivering the keynote address, Minister of Local Government and Community Affairs, Hon. Tamba Lamina, hailed the initiative as a “significant milestone” in the Government’s drive to modernize urban infrastructure and alleviate poverty through sustainable development.
He noted that the new markets will provide safe, hygienic and accessible trading environments, particularly for women, youth and persons with disabilities. “These facilities will not only improve livelihoods but also enhance the economic standing of Kenema and Makeni as major regional trade hubs,” Hon. Tamba Lamina said.
The Minister also urged contractors to maintain high construction standards, ensure timely delivery and uphold quality assurance throughout the implementation period.
Speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Finance, Deputy Financial Secretary, Samuel E.B. Momoh, said the projects reflect the Government’s broader commitment to improving integrated service delivery and strengthening disaster risk management in both urban and provincial areas.
Samuel E.B.Momoh emphasized that the Government expects the work to be delivered on schedule, within budget and to the highest quality standards, adding that each market will include an administrative office for traders’ unions to promote transparency and accountability in market governance.
Francis Nkoka, RUSLP Task Team Lead at the World Bank, described the signing as an important and rewarding milestone reflecting progress achieved since the project’s inception.
He reaffirmed the World Bank’s continued support to Sierra Leone in building resilient, inclusive and vibrant urban economies, stressing that the upgraded markets will provide safer and more gender-sensitive spaces, especially for women traders who are vital to the country’s local economies.
Francis Nkoka further underscored the importance of accountability, collaboration and transparency among stakeholders, while ensuring adherence to environmental and social safeguards, including worker safety and proper waste management practices.
The Kenema and Makeni market upgrades represent a major step toward the Government’s vision of improving urban infrastructure and creating sustainable livelihoods through inclusive economic growth.
