By Sallieu S. Kanu
John Obey, Western Area Rural District – December 19, 2025: President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has officially commissioned the TAF Salone Micro City, Sierra Leone’s first modern, smart, and green city, reaffirming his government’s commitment to public-private partnerships as a driver of national development.
The project, spearheaded by TAF Africa Global, is part of a pledge to deliver 5,000 housing units across Sierra Leone to help bridge the country’s housing deficit. The newly commissioned city will eventually feature a wide range of amenities, including shops, markets, business centres, a petrol station, a transit hub, healthcare facilities, police and fire services, schools, places of worship, and a cemetery.
Standing at the foothills of John Obey, President Bio described the development as a transformation once thought impossible. He noted that less than three years after signing a joint venture agreement with TAF Africa Global, the vision had become reality.
“We are gathered here today to celebrate a new milestone in bridging our nation’s housing deficit,” President Bio said. “This is not merely a collection of buildings; it is Sierra Leone’s first modern, smart, and green city.”
The first phase of the project comprises 1,100 affordable luxury homes, designed to meet the needs of young professionals, senior citizens, and members of the diaspora seeking to retire or resettle in Sierra Leone.
President Bio emphasized that affordable housing remains central to his administration’s agenda. He linked the project to his government’s Big Five Game Changers, highlighting its role in human capital development and job creation. Thousands of young people have been employed during the construction phase, with more opportunities expected as the project expands.
He further assured that upon completion of the 5,000 planned units, Sierra Leoneans both at home and abroad will have the chance to own a meaningful stake in their homeland.
Public-Private Partnership Success
The President hailed the project as a model of effective collaboration between government and the private sector.
“Today’s occasion is a clear manifestation of this government’s open-door policy toward the private sector. This is the first housing project implemented using the Public-Private Partnership model, and with this project and others in the pipeline, we will make significant progress in addressing the housing challenge,” he stated.
Beyond housing, the micro city promises reliable water and electricity, green spaces, and a safe environment designed to support thriving families.
TAF Africa Global CEO, Mustapha Njie, expressed gratitude to President Bio for his leadership in creating an enabling environment for investment.
“Your Excellency, we are in Sierra Leone because of your call and visionary leadership. This achievement reflects the journey we have undertaken together,” Njie said.
Minister of Lands, Housing, and Country Planning, Dr. Turad Senesie, also commended the President for prioritizing reforms in the land sector. He cited landmark legislation such as the Customary Land Rights Act and the National Country Planning Act, which have improved transparency, land tenure security, and inclusivity—particularly for women.
The commissioning of the TAF Salone Micro City, officials noted, fulfills a key manifesto commitment of the Bio administration to ensure Sierra Leoneans live in dignity through sustainable housing investment. The project underscores the nation’s broader commitment to inclusive growth, sustainable urban development, and improved quality of life.