Residents of Karene And Bombali Urge Government to Rebuild Collapsed Matehun Bridge

Residents of both Karene and Bombali districts, have urgently called on the government of Sierra Leone to take immediate action in reconstructing the recently collapsed Matehun Bridge.

The life-saving bridge is a trade route that connects 16 chiefdoms in the northeastern and northwestern regions. The collapsed bridge has reportedly left the communities in a precarious position.

Recognizing the bridge’s critical role, local residents emphasized that it is far more than just a physical structure; it serves as a lifeline supporting their livelihoods, trade, education, and healthcare access. The collapsed bridge has drastically impacted daily lives, leaving farmers unable to transport goods to markets and students struggling to reach universities in Makeni.

The urgent need for government intervention has become increasingly clear, as many families are reportedly faced with isolation and heightened vulnerability, particularly during the rainy season.

The residents of Karene and Bombali declared that the mere absence of the Matehun Bridge has profound socio-economic repercussions for their communities. “The importance of this bridge cannot be overstated,” they stated, and emphasized, “We need the government to act quickly to restore this vital connection.”

In a unified effort, community residents have urged their community leaders, paramount chiefs, and district council chairmen in amplifying their frustrations by urging the government to prioritize the bridge’s reconstruction.

“This is not just about infrastructure; it is about our survival and well-being,” they affirmed strongly. “We calling on our government to recognize the urgency of this situation and reply accordingly,” they pleaded heartily.

The call to action included a plea for the government to allocate resources, engage local stakeholders, and expedite the planning and execution of the construction project. Residents have expressed hope that swift governmental response will demonstrate a commitment to the welfare and prosperity of its citizens, particularly in those critical regions.