Freetown, June 4, 2026: The Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA) has concluded a final validation workshop on the country’s Axle Load Management Strategy, bringing together government officials, mayors, district chairmen, development partners, and road sector experts to review and endorse key recommendations aimed at protecting Sierra Leone’s road network.
Delivering remarks, Engineer Vandy Frence, Deputy Director‑General of SLRA, thanked the African Development Bank (AfDB) for its support and commended Engineer Badamasi Savage, the consultant leading the project. He stressed the importance of effective axle load regulations and vehicle load management in reducing maintenance costs, improving road safety, ensuring fair competition, and extending the lifespan of national roads.
Frence emphasized that adopting axle load measures in line with regional best practices would enhance efficiency, facilitate trade, and contribute to Sierra Leone’s economic growth.
Consultant Engineer Badamasi Savage outlined the objectives of the workshop, which included presenting key provisions of the Vehicle Load Management Strategy (VLMS), validating institutional roles, enforcement approaches, financing models, and incorporating stakeholder feedback.
Following his presentation, participants reviewed technical findings, policy recommendations, and implementation strategies designed to monitor and enforce axle load limits nationwide.
Stakeholders welcomed the initiative, pledging support for measures that will protect road infrastructure and ensure sustainable maintenance of the national road network. The workshop concluded with the validation of key recommendations, paving the way for the development and implementation of a comprehensive axle load management framework.
Speakers included Ing. Lahai Sowa, Deputy CEO of the Sierra Leone Road Maintenance Fund (SLRMF); Mr. Charles Mambu, Chairman of the SLRA Board of Directors; and Mr. Abraham Scott Manga, Deputy Director of the Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority.