Railway Authority Reviews 5 Year Plan for Railway, Cable Car Development in Sierra Leone

Government institutions and other stakeholders have called for stronger planning and coordination in Sierra Leone’s railway and cable car development programme. The recommendations were made during a review of the Sierra Leone Railways Development and Regulatory Authority’s draft strategic plan for 2026 to 2030.

The workshop brought together representatives from several government ministries and agencies to assess the proposed plan. The aim was to improve the document before its finalisation and guide the country’s future railway development.

Stakeholders stressed the need for clear regulations, reliable funding and stronger public-private partnerships. They also called for proper safety standards and independent reviews of major investment proposals.

The Ministry of Finance emphasised the need for a credible financing plan and a careful assessment of project risks. Meanwhile, the Environmental Protection Agency warned against depending too heavily on mining and urged the Authority to support wider economic development while protecting the environment.

Other participants raised questions about land acquisition, electricity supply for cable car systems and the responsibilities of institutions involved in the projects. The Ministry of Justice also recommended that land-related matters be handled in coordination with the Land Commission.