Construction of a bridge over the Cavally River has officially commenced following the handover of the site by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to the contractor, SCEGC, and super-visiting consultant, AIM Consult.
Considered a vital piece of infrastructure, the bridge will help to connect Côte d’Ivoire and Liberia and supports ECOWAS’s Vision 2050 goals of enhancing regional trade, transport connectivity and economic cooperation across West Africa.
“The 288-meter Bridge over the Cavally River is more than just an infrastructure project – it is a gateway to economic transformation for Liberia, Côte d’Ivoire, and the entire West African region,” remarked the Ag. director of transport for the ECOWAS Commission, Chris Appiah, on behalf of the president, Alieu Touray Omar. “This bridge which addresses a major missing link on the Dakar-Abidjan corridor is expected to improve trade, reduce transportation costs, and create jobs, directly contributing to regional integration and economic growth.”
Designed as a two-lane, reinforced concrete cable-stay bridge, the structure will be built to withstand the environmental challenges the area poses.
Physical work for the delivery of the project is expected to take 24 months, and plans for a temporary construction camp and material logistics through the Port of San Pedro were also discussed.
At the ceremony, ECOWAS also highlighted the project’s additional social initiatives, including the development of markets, sanitation facilities, and employment opportunities for local communities.
Superintendent of Maryland County, Liberia, Henry Cole, Jr., stated, “This bridge represents more than a physical connection; it symbolises economic growth and collaboration for Liberia and Côte d’Ivoire. Our communities have long awaited improved infrastructure, and this project will open new economic frontiers for both nations.”
