The National Commission for Social Action (NaCSA) and the German Development Bank (KFW) Experts on Tuesday 13th May, 2025 concluded a week-long visit on a sequence of Pro-Poor Growth for Peace Consolidation and Youth Empowerment (GPCYE) project sites in Kambia, Kono and Bonthe districts.

The GPCYE Programme Manager, Mr. Salifu Mansaray, said the project is financed by the German Financial Cooperation via KFW Development Bank and the Government of Sierra Leone (GoSL).

The Programme Manager informed that the project is divided into four components - investment in infrastructure, operation and maintenance, training, and capacity building action.

He said the project will enable the value chain for rights to access farms, access to farm-to-market roads, feeder road construction, bridges, culverts, and green stores to farm product warehouses.

Mr. Mansaray furthered that the greenhouse also contains an annex building which is furnished with a milling machine, drain floor, VIP toilets, boreholes with water towers that supply safe drinking water and solar facility which the community members can use to charge their phones and generate some revenue from it.

He averred that stakeholders in the communities should strive to maintain the facilities as training has been provided on them.

The delegation visited the long-awaited Kufuru to Layidi road in Kambia District, where the construction of a 12-meter span bridge is ongoing. The Kufuru to Aladiya road that for decades was a logistical nightmare and marshy patch has seen the erection of a 12-meter span concrete bridge to effectively manage water flow. The project has not only boosted local business but also eased access to health, education, and social services.

The delegation, which was led by the NaCSA Commissioner, Ambassador Ernest M. Ndomahina, also visited Kono District where a 64.9m bridge at Koakor crossing point is being constructed.

The Koakor Bridge is among the most significant infrastructure developments in the district linking Gbense and Sandor chiefdoms strategically and leading to the recently created Falaba District.

The NaCSA Commissioner praised the engineers and workers for exerting tireless efforts to finish the bridge within the stipulated time, referring to NaCSA’s role in supervising the project and implementing all technical and security specifications.

The Technical Lead at Eco Consultant, Michael Nogues, who was part of the team, noted: "We value sustainability and efficiency in infrastructure development at Eco Consultant. Leading the construction of this bridge means we uphold environmental best practice while creating a safe, durable structure for our community. Our team remains committed to innovative solutions that foster connectivity and economic development."

By building bridges, feeder roads, and culverts, it opens up access to farm produce. The GPCYE project will not only boost the President's flagship programme 'Feed Salone' but will also empower rural youths for employment.