Residents of Bombali and Karene Districts in northeastern Sierra Leone have regained a critical transport link after the rehabilitation of a makeshift bridge at Mathehun, ending months of isolation caused by the collapse of the main bridge last July.

The original Mathehun bridge, constructed in the 1980s, collapsed on July 10, 2024, under the weight of a six-wheeled truck, severing a key route for essential goods such as rice, pepper, and fuel. The disruption led to economic strain for thousands in the region.

In response, the Sierra Leonean government, through the office of North-East Resident Minister Ibrahim Jalloh, collaborated with the Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA) to restore access with an upgraded temporary crossing.

“This makeshift bridge is safer and stronger than the previous one,” Minister Jalloh told Awoko. “We acted swiftly after learning that the earlier temporary structure had been damaged by overloaded trucks. With support from local authorities and SLRA engineers, we’ve reconnected the region while awaiting a permanent bridge.”

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SLRA Regional Engineer Momoh Kamara confirmed the new structure is reinforced to withstand the rainy season but urged caution, particularly for heavy vehicles. “While it can handle normal traffic, drivers must use it responsibly to prevent damage,” he said.

The emergency repairs followed advocacy from Karene District Council Chairman Abdul Kandeh Turay and local leaders, who raised alarms over prolonged isolation and market disruptions.

Though the government has not disclosed costs, Engineer Kamara confirmed that bidding is underway for a permanent bridge, with construction expected to begin soon.

Residents have welcomed the intervention. “This bridge may be temporary, but it brings back life to our communities,” said a local youth leader. “We thank the authorities and hope the permanent solution comes quickly.”