The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) officially handed over the construction site of a bridge over the Cavally River, marking the start of a crucial infrastructure project linking Côte d’Ivoire and Liberia, during a ceremony held on 3 October 2024 at the Prollo border. The handover marks the start of construction, which is expected to last 24 months. The project, which is in line with ECOWAS Vision 2050 objectives to strengthen regional trade, transport connectivity and economic cooperation in West Africa, represents a critical missing link on the Praia-Dakar-Abidjan corridor.

The Acting Director of Transport of the ECOWAS Commission, Mr. Chris Appiah, on behalf of the President of the Commission, H.E. Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to ensuring that the project brings significant benefits to both Côte d’Ivoire and Liberia. “The 288-metre Cavally River Bridge is more than just an infrastructure project; it is a gateway to the economic transformation of Liberia, Côte d’Ivoire and the entire West African region. This bridge, which will fill a major gap in the Dakar-Abidjan corridor, is expected to improve trade, reduce transport costs and create jobs, contributing directly to regional integration and economic growth,” he said. ECOWAS also stressed that in addition to the construction of this bridge, there will be the construction of a juxtaposed checkpoint which will provide additional social initiatives, including the development of markets, health infrastructure and employment opportunities for local communities.

The mission began with a visit to Tabou, Côte d’Ivoire, where the Prefect of Tabou, Ms. Kouakou Kalidja Épse Kouamé, welcomed the ECOWAS delegation. Ms. Kouamé highlighted the importance of the project for Côte d’Ivoire, saying: “The Cavally River Bridge will improve trade and transportation for our people and the region as a whole. This project will open up new economic opportunities, and we are proud to partner with ECOWAS to make this a reality.” She also highlighted the bridge’s potential to boost local economic activities, reduce travel times, and facilitate cross-border cooperation.

Following the discussions in Tabou, the delegation proceeded to the construction site for the official handover to the contractor and the supervising consultant. The County Superintendent of Maryland County, Liberia, Mr. Henry Cole, Jr., highlighted the importance of the bridge to Liberia, saying, “This bridge represents more than a physical connection; it symbolizes economic growth and cooperation between Liberia and Côte d’Ivoire. Our communities

Communities have been waiting a long time for improved infrastructure, and this project will open up new economic horizons for both nations.”

During the handover, ECOWAS Project Manager, Engineer Ashoke Maliki, provided technical details of the bridge construction project. The structure, designed as a two-lane pre-stressed reinforced concrete bridge, will be built to withstand the environmental conditions of the region. Plans for a temporary installation site and the transportation of materials via the San Pedro Port were also discussed, with the contractor committing to complete the project within the 24-month time frame. ECOWAS and the two riparian communities were assured by SCEGC and the consultant AIM Consult, responsible for supervision, that the project would be completed as per schedule.

The foundation stone laying ceremony is scheduled for November 2024, and is expected to be chaired by the President of the ECOWAS Commission, HE Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, to highlight the strategic importance of this project for regional development.

Distributed by APO Group for Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).