Government Loans Waka Fine Buses to Metro Company at No Interest, Says SLPTA Acting DG

The Sierra Leone Public Transport Authority (SLPTA) has revealed that the government’s Waka Fine Buses were loaned to the Metro Company at a 50% discount, with no interest.

This disclosure was made by Isaac Ken-Green, the Acting Director General of SLPTA, during the Ministry of Information and Communications’ (MOIC) weekly press briefing.

According to Ken-Green, the Metro Company, which comprises members of the informal transport sector, including drivers of poda-podas, buses, and tricycles, is the beneficiary of this government initiative aimed at improving public transportation.

The Waka Fine Buses, provided at a significantly reduced cost, are intended to boost the capacity of the Metro Company and enhance service delivery.

Ken-Green further stated that the SLPTA, which was established by parliamentary enactment in 2023, now regulates the operations of public transport in Sierra Leone. Since its launch, the Waka Fine Bus service has proven to be a vital resource for commuters across the country, transporting 21,000 passengers daily and serving more than half a million people every month.

He added that this initiative is part of the government’s broader strategy to modernize and streamline public transport services, making them more accessible and affordable for citizens.

The collaboration between the SLPTA and the Metro Company aims to support President Bio’s vision of improving transportation infrastructure, easing commuter congestion, and providing efficient public transport services.