Overview
Sierra Leone’s development is handicapped by the poor state of public infrastructure which was damaged during the Sierra Leone Civil War of 1991-2002. On assuming office in 2018, the administration of President Julius Maada Bio established the Presidential Infrastructure Initiatives (PII), supervised by the Office of the President, to provide leadership and prioritize vital public infrastructure that can enhance the socio-economic development of the country, creating jobs through public-private partnerships. PII will work towards attaining the public infrastructure required to transform the economy into middle-income status and self-sufficiency by 2035.
The 2019 Medium-Term National-Development Plan identified major projects to be undertaken under the direction of the PII. The proposed Lungi Bridge Project – an 8km bridge span meant to connect the capital, Freetown, to the international airport at Lungi — is a major government priority. The bridge would enhance the economic and tourism potentials of the country and end the logistical challenges facing travelers arriving and departing Lungi. The project, now estimated to cost $1.1 billion and take a minimum of five years to complete once initiated, would also anchor other major infrastructure projects in Lungi. The African Development Bank is currently conducting feasibility and viability studies for the project, which will require private sector investment for its completion.
Financing for PII projects continues to be challenging for the government. However, the government has been able to complete other significant public infrastructure projects, including a new airport terminal, several bridges, and a104-bedroom Myohaung Officers’ Mess. A $19.8 million national diagnostic and radiotherapy cancer treatment center is currently under construction. The government is seeking public-private partnerships to accomplish outstanding public infrastructure projects, particularly the PII projects.
Leading Sub-sectors
The government is pursuing establishing the requisite public infrastructure to successfully transform the country into a middle-income economy by 2035. Major public infrastructure projects funded by development partners are among the best opportunities for U.S. companies. As more mining companies are expected, construction services and materials will be in high demand for companies to access their concessions. The quality and superiority of U.S. goods command a competitive advantage over many other goods in the market and are a priority of most mining companies.
Opportunities
As the government pursues its development proposals and other public infrastructure projects, there will be high demand for design and construction services and materials over the near term. Providing the required services and supplying the materials creates opportunities for U.S. companies, particularly those in the areas of public infrastructure design and consultancy; construction of roads and bridges; energy generation, as well as the supply of electrical material; drainage systems; and water services. A key consideration for any U.S. firm will be to distinguish itself on the basis of quality from other, potentially less-expensive competitors.
Resources
Sierra Leone Ministry of Works and Public Assets
https://mowpa.gov.sl/
Email: info@mowpa.gov.sl
Chief Director Telephone: +23276652976