…As continued Delay in Rebuilding Collapsed Mathieu Bridge
By Alusine Samuel Kargbo Day Break
Residents of Karena District have once again renewed calls for urgent government intervention following the prolonged collapse of the Matheiu Bridge, a critical link that has remained unusable for more than two years.
Leading the call is Karena’s District Chairman, Abdul Kandeh Turay, who has passionately appealed to the Government of Sierra Leone and the Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA) to prioritize the reconstruction of the bridge and bring relief to thousands of citizens affected by its absence.
Speaking in a widely circulated video message, Chairman Turay expressed deep concern over what he described as the continued neglect of the people of Karena. He stressed that the collapse of the bridge has caused immense hardship for residents, traders, farmers, students, and motorists who depend on the route for their daily activities.
According to him, the bridge serves as a vital transportation link connecting communities and facilitating economic activities across the district. Since its collapse over two years ago, residents have struggled with limited access to markets, healthcare facilities, schools, and other essential services.
“The people of Karena deserve a better life,” Chairman Turay stated. “We are Sierra Leoneans and should be treated equally like every other citizen in this country. Development should not bypass Karena. Our people have suffered enough.”
He emphasized that the continued delay in reconstructing the bridge is affecting local economic growth and worsening living conditions for ordinary citizens. Farmers, in particular, have reportedly found it difficult to transport their produce to major markets, resulting in financial losses and reduced income for many families.
The District Chairman urged the government to demonstrate its commitment to national development by ensuring that infrastructure projects are implemented fairly across all regions of the country. He noted that rebuilding the Matheiu Bridge would not only restore movement but also boost commerce, improve access to public services, and strengthen social connections among communities.
His appeal has received widespread support from residents and community leaders who believe the bridge has become a symbol of the development challenges facing Karena District. Many citizens are now calling on authorities to move beyond promises and take concrete action toward rebuilding the structure.
As pressure continues to mount, residents hope that the Government of Sierra Leone and the Sierra Leone Roads Authority will respond swiftly to the concerns raised and provide a lasting solution to what has become one of the district’s most pressing infrastructure challenges.
For the people of Karena, the message is clear: after two years of waiting, they want action not promises and they believe the reconstruction of the Matheiu Bridge is long overdue.
