By George M.O. Williams
Freetown, Sierra Leone – April 30, 2025 – The Mayor of Freetown, Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, officially handed over the newly completed Wilberforce Village Market to community stakeholders on Wednesday, marking a milestone in the city’s ongoing development.
The inauguration ceremony took place on the first floor of the modern two-storey market facility in Wilberforce Village, attended by local dignitaries and residents eager to witness the realization of a long-anticipated project.
Originally launched in 2011 under former Mayor Bodin Gibson, the market’s construction faced numerous delays over the years. However, after assuming office in 2018, Mayor Aki-Sawyerr committed to seeing the initiative through. Thanks to renewed community advocacy—particularly from local women demanding a functional marketplace—the project was finally completed in 2025.
The newly unveiled Wilberforce Village Market boasts a dedicated ground floor for perishable goods, a second floor for retail shops, and a third floor designed for entertainment services. A storage facility has also been added at the rear of the building to support vendors.
Although initially budgeted at 4.2 billion Leones, inflation and structural adjustments increased the total cost to 5.5 billion Leones.
During her keynote address, Mayor Aki-Sawyerr emphasized the market’s significance, describing it as a testament to collective vision, perseverance, and innovation.
“This market symbolizes transformation made possible by hard work, commitment, and the alignment of community aspirations with government goals,” she remarked.
The mayor urged Freetonians to continue paying their city rates, highlighting the importance of sustainable revenue for future infrastructure projects. She also acknowledged international partnerships and the influence of global philanthropists like Michael Bloomberg on local market development strategies.
Wilberforce Village Market is the fifth market completed under Mayor Aki-Sawyerr’s tenure, joining facilities at Krootown Road, Lumley, Bombay Street, and Allen Town. Additionally, two more markets are under construction in collaboration with development partners.
Expressing gratitude to all contributors, Mayor Aki-Sawyerr assured the community that provisions have been made for lighting, sanitation, security, and ongoing maintenance of the facility.
Community members welcomed the development, with Nana Benjamin, Chairlady of the Lumley Market, commending the mayor for delivering on her promise.
“We thank Mayor Aki-Sawyerr for her dedication and for delivering a project that means so much to our community,” Benjamin stated.
The Wilberforce Village Market now stands as a beacon of progress, promising to enhance business opportunities and provide a vibrant commercial hub for Freetown.