By Hassan Osman Kargbo
Sierra Leone is exploring the revival of commercial train services as part of efforts to modernize and expand its transportation system.
The announcement was made by Minister of Transport and Aviation, Alhaji Fanday Turay, during the Civic Day series in the United States, where he called on Sierra Leoneans in the diaspora to support the initiative.
“His Excellency has a vision to also have a train in Sierra Leone,” Minister Turay said. “To accomplish that, we have already established an agency and they will now begin research. After that, they will engage business partners, and I think this is also an opportunity for the diaspora to invest.” He encouraged Sierra Leoneans abroad with business connections to help facilitate the project.
Rail transport was once a vital part of the country’s infrastructure, linking communities and supporting the movement of goods nationwide. Its reintroduction, according to the Minister, would not only ease transportation challenges but also stimulate economic activity.
Minister Turay also outlined several reforms that have reshaped Sierra Leone’s transport sector under his leadership. He highlighted the success of the “Waka Fine” bus system, which he said now carries over 35,000 passengers daily across Freetown and operates throughout the week. He described the service as a major step in tackling urban transportation difficulties.
Discussions are also underway to strengthen rural transport, while another significant milestone has been the decentralization of licensing services to every district in the country.
Responding to concerns about road safety, Minister Turay revealed that mobile patrol units have been deployed on major highways to monitor traffic and address emergencies. He said the Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority (SLRSA) has stationed a team in Mile 91 to curb road accidents by checking overcrowded vehicles and monitoring compliance. Citizens, he added, can also report unsafe practices using the hotline 844.
In addition, the Minister announced ongoing reviews of transportation-related policies, including a possible reconsideration of the $25 airport security fee.
The new plans, particularly the prospect of restoring rail services, signal a bold move by the government to build a modern and efficient transport network that connects Sierra Leone’s people and economy more effectively.
