Former Mayor of Freetown, Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr has disclosed that she is thrilled with the progress the Freetown Cable Car Project is making.

In a post shared on her social media handles this morning, Aki-Sawyerr stated that “I launched the 2-year feasibility study for the Cable Car project in June 2022 and I am thrilled with the progress that is being made.”

She revealed that on Wednesday this week, she met with international consultants Markus Hagspiel, a Cable Car Ropeway Expert, and Teferra Sileshi of GFA Heat who are in Freetown for two weeks as part of the ongoing Cable Car feasibility study.

 

“Also present at the meeting were Ing Badamasi Savage who is conducting the local transport demand study and Mayor’s Delivery Unit/GIZ project consultants Ing Modupe Williams and Ing Simon Johnson,” the former Mayor added.

Aki-Sawyerr further disclosed that yesterday morning she met with members of the American Institute of Architects (“AIA”), who are also in Freetown providing pro-bono services to the Cable Car project.

“The 6-person AIA team has committed to providing us with preliminary concept designs for the Cable Car stations where passengers will embark and disembark and which present excellent opportunities for mixed-use commercial developments. The AIA team is collaborating with faculty and students of the Architecture Department of Fourah Bay College in this exciting work,” she explained.

According to the former Mayor, the Cable Car project is a key component of her vision to transform Freetown into a more inclusive city that is accessible and attractive to investors, tourists, and residents alike.

“Integrating modern transport options such as a Cable Car system will also help to reduce traffic congestion and air pollution, which are serious issues facing our city today. The feasibility study is being conducted with the utmost care and attention to detail, ensuring that every aspect of the project is considered and planned for. The international cable car specialists are bringing their vast knowledge and expertise to the table, while the local transport demand study is vital to ensuring that the project meets the needs of Freetown residents,” she stated.

Aki-Sawyerr maintained that the Cable Car project has the potential to generate revenue for the city, while also improving the daily lives of its residents.

“The feasibility study for the Cable Car project will be completed in March 2024; I am confident that it will be a success and a valuable asset to the city of Freetown. I look forward to working with all stakeholders to make this vision a reality, and to continue building a city that is inclusive, sustainable, and prosperous for all Freetonians,” she concluded.

Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr will re-run for the Mayor of Freetown position in the 24 June general elections. She was elected into the position in the last elections held in 2018.