Sierra Leone has secured a US$1 million grant from the Government of Indonesia to support the planned Freetown–Tagrin Ferry Service, a move aimed at enhancing maritime transport and economic development.
Minister of Finance, Hon. Karefa Kargbo, confirmed the funding will be used for feasibility studies and engineering designs, which are essential for establishing a more efficient ferry system.
The grant, administered through Indonesian Aid, aims to improve connectivity between Freetown and Lungi, boosting opportunities for tourism, trade, and investment in the region. A formal agreement will be signed between the two governments to facilitate the release of funds.
Key diplomatic efforts from Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to Senegal, His Excellency Ibrahim Turay, were pivotal in securing the grant, having facilitated discussions with Indonesia’s Ambassador to Senegal, His Excellency Ardian Wicaksono, on 31 October 2026 in Dakar.
Preparations for the project’s implementation are expected to begin in early 2027, pending the necessary formalities. The ferry service is seen as vital for bolstering transport links between the capital and surrounding communities, enhancing travel options for passengers and businesses, and supporting the movement of goods across the estuary.
The project is also anticipated to benefit the tourism sector by improving access to Sierra Leone’s main international airport. Beyond transportation improvements, it aligns with the government’s broader goal of strengthening infrastructure to foster economic growth and sustainable development.
The successful acquisition of this grant highlights the increasing importance of economic diplomacy in attracting international support for Sierra Leone’s development needs. The Ministry of Finance views this grant as a crucial step towards assessing the project’s viability, laying the groundwork for potential long-term benefits.
While this funding specifically targets preliminary studies rather than the ferry’s construction, it represents a significant investment in Sierra Leone’s transportation infrastructure, aiming to foster economic development through international collaboration.
