By George M.O. Williams
Freetown, October 10, 2025 — The Ministry of Finance, under the Resilient Urban Sierra Leone Project (RUSLP), has signed contracts for the construction and modernization of markets in Kenema and Makeni, marking a major step forward in the government’s urban development agenda.
The signing ceremony, held at the Ministry of Finance Conference Room in Freetown, formalized agreements with two construction firms: Ambitious Construction Company for the Kenema Market Upgrade (valued at approximately US$5 million), and a joint venture between Micheletti & Company Limited and S&H Investment Sierra Leone Limited for the Makeni Market Project (valued at US$4.18 million).
Makeni Market: Will feature a one-storey Block A-B with retail stores, ancillary facilities, and a solar-powered borehole system. It is designed to accommodate around 1,600 traders.
Kenema Market: Will include a two-storey block with similar amenities, capable of hosting up to 1,800 traders.
Both markets will benefit from: Internal drainage systems; paved walkways; solar-powered lighting; boreholes with solar pumps; and temporary relocation markets with sanitation facilities during construction
The project is funded by the World Bank under Component 2C of RUSLP and is scheduled to be completed within 24 months, including 12 months dedicated to 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 push to modernize urban infrastructure and reduce poverty through sustainable development.
“These markets will provide safe, hygienic, and accessible trading spaces, especially for women, youth, and persons with disabilities,” Lamina said. “They will elevate Kenema and Makeni as regional trade hubs.”
Deputy Financial Secretary Samuel E.B. Momoh emphasized the project’s alignment with national goals to improve service delivery and disaster risk management. He also announced that each market will include an administrative office for traders’ unions to promote governance and accountability.
Francis Nkoka, RUSLP Task Team Lead at the World Bank, reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to supporting Sierra Leone’s urban resilience. He highlighted the importance of creating gender-sensitive spaces and called for transparency, collaboration, and adherence to environmental and social safeguards.