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A Delegation from the Government of Sierra Leone has on the 1st December 2023 conducted an assessment of ECOWAS Military Logistics Depot in Lungi Amidst Progress and Deadline Determination.
The high-level government delegation was led by Madam Kenyeh Barlay, the Minister of Planning and Economic Development, Timothy M. Kabba, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and Col. (RTD) Muana Massaquoi, Deputy Minister of Defence, along with ECOWAS Commission Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Harouna Moussa, conducted a thorough assessment of the ongoing work at the ECOWAS Military Logistics Depot in Lungi.
As was communicated by the Ministry of Planning & Economic Development Communications team, the purpose of the visit was to evaluate the progress and set a definitive completion deadline for the facility.
The delegation, which also included the Ministry’s Development Secretary, Mr. Peter N. Sam-Kpakra, the Head of ECOWAS National Office, Mr. Komba Momoh, and the Desk Officer, Madam Laygbay Lillian Amadu, assessed phases 1 and 2 gauge the progress since their last visit.
It was reported that the depot is one of the two approved ECOWAS Military facilities and they serve as a crucial component in enhancing regional security, peace, stability, and response capabilities. These facilities are designed to facilitate joint military operations, stockpile resources, and enable the rapid deployment of ECOWAS Standby Forces (ESF) during regional crises or conflicts, with the other facility located in Mali.
During the visit, SOGEFEL Construction and BANCA Consultant, the contracting firms, led a comprehensive inspection and assessment of sites one and two. Supported by the resident Commandant Col. Dr. Bala Mohamed and his deputy Lieut. Col. Abu Bakar Konneh, the objective was to identify progress, challenges, and necessary actions to meet the impending deadline of December 15, 2023.
A Coordination Meeting held via videoconference with ECOWAS headquarters officials on November 23, 2023, discussed and agreed upon the final extension of the completion deadline.
Both SOGEFEL and BANCA have committed to finishing the project by December 15, 2023, actively collaborating with relevant authorities to commission the facility by December 29, 2023.
Expressing satisfaction with the work accomplished so far, the Minister of Planning and Economic Development highlighted the critical importance of adhering to timelines, expressing disappointment regarding previous deadline lapses.
She emphasized the facility’s crucial significance while illustrating its relevance to an upcoming ECOWAS heads of governments meeting. Additionally, she suggested that ECOWAS should start planning the deployment of logistics, given that the depot is nearing completion.
Timothy Kabba, expressed gratitude to ECOWAS for selecting the country to host a strategic facility, citing its advantageous geographical location in West Africa. He emphasized Sierra Leone’s experience and global leadership in international peace and security, noting its upcoming membership in the Security Council.
Kabba highlighted the region’s political tensions and security challenges, encouraging contractors to meet deadlines and expressing hope for sustained calm in West Africa
Deputy Defence Minister, Col. (Rtd) Massaquoi, expressed satisfaction with the current progress. He addressed both internal and external security concerns, stating that he would discuss them further with the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS).
Addressing concerns, the contractors assured that building and road works are on track for completion before the specified deadline, with ongoing efforts in parking works for heavy vehicles expected to conclude shortly.
As of the latest update, the physical progress of buildings stands at an impressive 98.61%, while the overall physical progress, including additional project work, is at 93.02%.
These figures underscore a significant achievement, emphasizing the need for concerted efforts to meet the forthcoming deadline and ensure the successful completion of the ECOWAS Military Logistics Depot in Lungi.
