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TRANSPORTATION SECTOR
In 1970 there were more than 580 km (360 mi) of railway, but by the end of 1975, following an IBRD recommendation, Sierra Leone had dismantled most of its rail system and replaced it with new roadways; since the mid-1980s, only 84 km (52 mi) of narrow-gauge railway has remained, connecting the closed iron mines at Marampa with the port of Pepel, on the Sierra Leone River. The line remains operable but is in limited use. In 2002, Sierra Leone had about 11,700 km (7,270 mi) of roads, of which some 936 km (582 mi) were paved. In 2000, there were 35,900 registered motor vehicles, including 20,100 automobiles, and 15,80 commercial vehicles.
Freetown has one of the finest natural harbors in the world, with an excellent deep-water quay, built in 1953. In 1970, work was completed on an extension that provides the port with berth facilities for six to eight ships and about 24 hectares (60 acres) of storage area. Pepel specializes in the export of iron ore, and Point Sam, the Sherbro River terminal, handles bauxite and rutile. Bonthe and Sulima are other ports. Sierra Leone has many rivers, however, some are navigable only over short distances for about three months of the year, during the rainy season. Of the 800 km (497 mi) of waterways, 600 km (373 mi) are navigable year round.
There are a few private bus services that link major towns in Sierra Leone, but the most popular service, run by the government, is the Road Transportation Corporation. Buses charge a bit more than most other public transport options, and generally only have one departure time per day. Such bus services are not as popular locally, however, as there are cheaper and faster modes like the poda-podas and bush taxis.
Opportunities
Intra-city, provincial buses, and intercountry travels
Most of the intra-city buses in the capital city and other cities in the country are run by private individuals, but at a very small scale. On the other hand, almost all of the provincial bus and intercountry transportation between neighbouring countries is run by the government. A private company can step in to fill the gaps. This will drastically improve the transportation sector in the country, and healthy profits can be made.
Sea Transport Vehicles
There is a need for a reliable, safe and less expensive sea transport system in Sierra Leone, a large proportion of people who commute from Lungi to the mainland risk their lives on a daily basis, because of the lack of a reliable form of transportation. An investment on ferries and smaller passenger boats is needed. Passenger boats will also be used for tourism purposes (island hopping and other leisure activities) A private company can elevate or totally remove the challenges faced by people on a daily basis. Passenger boats can also be used to transport people to neighbouring countries, this can be a cheaper of a more reliable alternative.
Spare Parts and vehicle repairs, and maintenance
Investing in importation or manufacturing of vehicle spare parts, vehicle repairs and maintenance will help boost the sector. Companies investing in this sub-sector will see a healthy growth margin, especially when following investments in “Intra-city, provincial buses, and intercountry travels” and “Sea Transport Vehicles”. Such companies can also get government contracts for the maintenance and repairs of government owned vehicles.
For more information visit website: https://mta.gov.sl/
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