Minister Fanday Turay, the head of Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Transport and Aviation, has officially announced the introduction of “Waka-fine,” a fleet of 50 new buses set to enhance public transportation in Freetown. These buses are slated to hit the streets next month, with an exciting pre-launch opportunity for citizens.

In a recent statement, Minister Turay confirmed that Waka-fine buses will conduct free test runs on January 30th, 31st, and February 1st, offering the public a chance to experience the service at no cost. Following the trial period, commercial operations are scheduled to commence on February 2nd.

To ensure widespread access, a total of 350,000 tickets have been made available for purchase. These tickets can be obtained at all bus stops and various outlets across the city. Each Waka-fine bus boasts a capacity of 70 passengers, contributing to an impressive goal of transporting approximately 46,000 passengers daily on routes from Lumley to the Central Business District (CBD) and from Calabatown to CBD and back.

Recognizing the importance of efficient transportation during peak hours, Minister Turay highlighted that Waka-fine buses will be given priority from 6:00 to 9:30 am and 4:30 to 8:30 pm. This strategic scheduling aims to alleviate congestion and provide a reliable commuting option for the city’s residents.

As Freetown eagerly anticipates the debut of Waka-fine, Minister Fanday Turay expressed optimism about the positive impact these buses will have on the daily lives of citizens, emphasizing a commitment to improving the overall transportation experience in the capital city.