The Sierra Leone Railways Development and Regulatory Authority (SLRDRA), in collaboration with Aries Engineering and Consulting Services, has successfully concluded a five-day field assessment as part of the preparatory work for the development of the National Railway Master Plan aimed at reintroducing Sierra Leone’s national railway system.
The exercise, which ended on 30 June 2026, formed part of the Government’s broader efforts to revive the country’s railway network and establish a modern, efficient and sustainable rail transport system capable of supporting economic growth and national development.
The assessment team visited major towns and communities situated along the colonial-era railway corridor, including Songo, Rotifunk, Bauya Junction, Bo, Gerihun, Kenema and Pendembu. The mission focused on gathering technical, historical and socio-economic information that will inform the preparation of the National Railway Master Plan.
Throughout the five-day exercise, the SLRDRA and Aries Engineering team engaged Paramount Chiefs, Section Chiefs, Town Chiefs, local Government officials, community elders and other key stakeholders. Discussions centered on the historical significance of the railway, the present condition of the abandoned railway infrastructure and public expectations for the proposed restoration project.
Community leaders overwhelmingly welcomed the Government’s initiative, describing the railway as a critical component of Sierra Leone’s transportation history and an important catalyst for economic development. Many recalled that the railway once served as a reliable means of connecting rural communities with major commercial centres, enabling farmers to transport agricultural produce efficiently while supporting trade, commerce and employment across the country.
Stakeholders also highlighted the challenges communities have faced since railway operations ceased, noting that the absence of rail transport has contributed to high transportation costs, limited market access and increased difficulties in moving passengers and goods across the country.
Participants expressed optimism that the restoration of the railway network would significantly reduce transportation costs, improve regional connectivity, expand economic opportunities, create jobs, strengthen agricultural value chains and promote national unity through improved mobility.
In addition to stakeholder consultations, the technical team carried out detailed inspections of former railway alignments, train stations, bridges, embankments and drainage structures. Engineers also collected technical data while documenting areas affected by encroachment, overgrown vegetation and erosion that may require rehabilitation during future construction.
According to SLRDRA, the findings from the field assessment will provide valuable baseline information for the preparation of the National Railway Master Plan and support comprehensive feasibility studies to be undertaken by a reputable international engineering firm.
The completion of the field assessment marks another important milestone in the Government’s efforts to restore Sierra Leone’s railway system, a project expected to strengthen national transportation infrastructure, enhance regional trade, improve access to essential services and contribute to the country’s long-term economic transformation.
