Op-ed: The Strategic Imperative for a National Railway System in Sierra Leone
Written by: Ing. Dr. Albert Forde
Director-General, Sierra Leone Railways Development and Regulatory Authority (SLRDRA)
Sierra Leone possesses abundant natural resources and a growing economy, yet its progress is hampered by an inadequate transport infrastructure. The country’s heavy reliance on often poorly maintained road networks results in high transportation costs, inefficiencies, and limited connectivity. This is particularly detrimental for moving bulk commodities like minerals and agricultural products, worsening regional disparities and stifling national development.
A modern national railway system would transform this economic landscape. It would provide a reliable, cost-effective means to move goods and people across the country and the wider ECOWAS sub-region. Railways are the cheapest and most efficient mode for mass transit over medium distances; a single standard train can carry the equivalent of 15 buses or 150 trucks. This makes them ideal for bulk carriage and the most environmentally friendly option for heavy cargo.
Fueling “Feed Salone” and the Mining Sector
A national railway is a strategic pillar for key national programs. It would directly support President Bio’s “Feed Salone” initiative by enabling the efficient transport of agricultural goods from farms to markets. This would reduce spoilage of perishables, allow farmers in remote areas to access urban centers, and lower food prices for consumers. Furthermore, it would ensure the timely delivery of critical agricultural inputs like fertilizers and seeds, boosting productivity.
For the mining industry, scaling up railway infrastructure is urgent. The existing single track to the Port of Pepel requires upgrading to a double-track to handle projected increases in iron ore extraction. New lines are also needed to connect proposed mining sites in the south to a deep-sea port, drastically reducing export lead times and enhancing competitiveness.
Solving Urban Mobility and Enhancing Ports
Another critical urgency is addressing the severe traffic congestion in Freetown. A Light Rail Transit (LRT) line along the Peninsula, connecting Waterloo to River No. 2, would form the backbone of a sustainable urban transport system. Additionally, intercity railway transport would efficiently connect Freetown to provincial cities, offering a reliable and eco-friendly alternative to road travel.
Integrating the railway with the maritime sector is also vital. Ports are evolving into multimodal hubs, and their future competitiveness will be judged by their rail connectivity. An efficient national railway system linked to our ports would strengthen global supply chains, attract investment, and solidify Sierra Leone’s role in regional trade.
A Conduit for National Transformation
In conclusion, the pressing need for a modern national railway system is clear. It is a foundational solution to unlock Sierra Leone’s full potential. The benefits are multifaceted: job creation, reduced transport costs for goods and minerals, resolved urban mobility issues, and increased investor confidence. Developing this network is not just an infrastructure project; it is a generational investment in national integration and economic prosperity.
In my next article, I will detail how Sierra Leone’s proposed national railway masterplan aligns with the broader ECOWAS vision to connect capital cities by rail.
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