Indonesia Grants US$1M for Ferry Study
The Government of Sierra Leone has secured a US$1 million grant from Indonesia to fund feasibility studies and detailed engineering designs for the proposed Freetown–Tagrin Ferry Service. The agreement was reached during a bilateral engagement between officials from both nations, secured by Finance Minister Hon. Karefa Kargbo on behalf of Sierra Leone.
The high-level discussions took place on the sidelines of the Second Edition of the Sport and Development Summit between Minister Kargbo and Indonesia’s Ambassador to Senegal on Saturday, 31 October 2026, in Dakar, Senegal.
The talks focused primarily on final arrangements for signing the formal grant agreement between Indonesian Aid and Sierra Leone's Ministry of Finance, with implementation of the preparatory activities scheduled to begin in early 2027.
The proposed ferry link aims to dramatically improve transport connectivity between Freetown and the Lungi area, serving as a reliable alternative for passengers while easing the transit of goods across the estuary. Local leaders anticipate potential long-term benefits for regional trade, tourism, and economic growth.
Officials noted that the US$1 million grant is strictly designated for engineering designs and technical evaluations, and will not cover actual construction or ongoing operational costs. Ultimate implementation of the ferry service will depend on the study outcomes and securing additional project financing.
Funding will be disbursed through Indonesian Aid to conduct essential technical assessments, establishing the project's overall viability and guiding future development plans.
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