Moyamba Road & Bridges Project

The Republic of Sierra Leone is one of the least developed countries in West Africa, with a severely deteriorated road network due to historically limited investment in transport infrastructure and maintenance. Institutional weaknesses, shortage of technical personnel, limited access to spare parts, and rapid urban migration have further strained existing infrastructure, negatively impacting national and provincial development.
The project’s overall objective is to strengthen Sierra Leone’s road transport infrastructure by supporting ongoing rehabilitation and upgrading efforts. Specifically, the consultancy provides the Sierra Leone Road Authority with feasibility studies, detailed design, work supervision, and contract administration for new roads and bridges, ensuring compliance with technical, safety, environmental, and social standards, while monitoring construction progress, contractor performance, and financial status.

The project aims at uplifting and improving the road communication system between the Moyamba town and Freetown Districts, through the upgrading of the Moyamba – Moyamba Junction Road from a Class II of gravel standard to a Class I asphalted road. Furthermore, the uplifting of the crossing the 2 main rivers by the replacement of Gbangbama Bridge and Moyamba Bridge (on the Moyamba – Moyamba junction road), the new larger Magbele Bridge, which crosses over the Rokel River, and Mabang Bridge which crosses over the Ribi River, are also part of the rehabilitation and upgrading works.

Phase I (Feasibility Study and Detailed Design): The feasibility study for the Moyamba–Moyamba Junction Roads and Bridges Rehabilitation Project evaluated technical, economic, environmental, and social aspects to identify sustainable infrastructure solutions. The Consultant assessed improvement options for the Moyamba–Moyamba Junction road and the Gbangama, Moyamba, Magbele, and Mabang bridges, reviewing previous studies and selecting optimal alternatives through stakeholder workshops. Detailed surveys (hydraulic, geotechnical, topographical, environmental, and traffic) were carried out, leading to a preliminary-final design and an assessment of technical, economic, and financial feasibility. Key outputs included project indicators and baselines, cost estimates, a logical framework, and complete tender documentation, including the EU funding decision and Project Action Fiche, with support provided during the tendering process.

Phase II (Work Supervision): During construction, the Consultant supervised works through a team of Resident Engineers, coordinating with the NAO and SLRA to ensure correct contract implementation. Responsibilities included reviewing and approving schedules, methodologies, and equipment, conducting regular inspections, and ensuring compliance with contract requirements. The Consultant evaluated claims, time extensions, and additional works, prepared recommendations and Variation Orders, computed quantities and costs, and issued payment certificates. Progress, performance, and financial status were monitored through monthly reporting, while quality control was ensured through testing and defect management. Environmental and social compliance was monitored through the Contractor’s CESMP, including safety, environmental protection, and GBV/SEA measures, alongside traffic management and final project documentation (warranties and as-built drawings).