President Bio Declares Gendema Bridge a National Victory

His Excellency Dr. Julius Maada Bio, President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, has formally commissioned the newly constructed Gendema Bridge, describing it as a “national victory” and a testament to the government’s dedication to delivering on its promises.

Arriving in the Eastern Region, President Bio was welcomed by Paramount Chiefs, local officials, and community members, who lauded the completion of the bridge as a transformative milestone for the region. The Gendema Bridge, connecting three chiefdoms, is expected to significantly improve mobility, trade, and socio-economic integration across the Eastern, Southern, and Northern provinces.

In his keynote address, President Bio reflected on the government’s commitment to fulfilling promises made three years ago to the people of the Eastern Region. “This bridge is more than a structure of concrete and steel; it is a symbol of our resolve to deliver tangible development that impacts the lives of every citizen,” he said.

The President underscored the bridge’s strategic importance, noting that it forms the only direct road linking the three provinces and emphasizing the government’s intention to continue infrastructure expansion. He pledged to construct the connecting road from Blama (Small Bo Chiefdom) to Masheingbe before the end of his current mandate, reinforcing the administration’s focus on sustainable development and inter-provincial connectivity.

Paramount Chiefs expressed deep appreciation for the President’s leadership and the fulfillment of promises long awaited by their communities. Chief Madam Mamie Gamanga of Simbaru Chiefdom highlighted the bridge as a manifestation of the government’s responsiveness to citizens’ needs and reaffirmed her chiefdom’s unwavering support for President Bio.

Resident Minister East, Gbessay Jaka Gobeh, and the Minister of Finance, Mr. Fatimende, also commended the President’s vision, emphasizing how the bridge would transform daily life for residents and stimulate economic activities in the region.

The commissioning ceremony included a formal inspection of the bridge by the President, who walked across to the adjoining town, symbolizing the government’s commitment to progress and unity.

Under the vigilant oversight of AIG East, Mr. Francis Brima Meinday, and the Local Unit Commander of Kenema Division, Chief Superintendent Bob Musa Mansaray, the Sierra Leone Police ensured the event was executed with remarkable order, discipline, and professionalism, reflecting the administration’s emphasis on national peace and security.

The completion and commissioning of the Gendema Bridge marks a significant achievement for President Bio’s administration, reinforcing his leadership in driving infrastructure projects that enhance national development and directly improve the lives of Sierra Leoneans.