By: Kadiatu A. Turay

Lungi, a town known for hosting Sierra Leone’s international gateway, the Freetown International Airport, is struggling with significant underdevelopment issues despite its strategic importance. With its close proximity to the nation’s main air transport hub, one would expect Lungi to thrive in terms of infrastructure, services, and living standards. However, for many residents, the reality tells a different story.

One of the most glaring challenges is the lack of adequate road networks. Many areas within Lungi remain inaccessible, especially during the rainy season, due to the poor condition of roads. This hampers economic activity, limits transportation options, and affects access to essential services such as healthcare and education. For farmers and small businesses, this situation is a major barrier to growth, as transporting goods is both difficult and costly.

Moreover, basic services like clean water supply and reliable electricity remain sporadic. In some areas, residents still rely on untreated water sources, while electricity outages are a frequent occurrence, disrupting daily life and business operations. This lack of consistent utilities further limits Lungi’s development, pushing its residents to rely on expensive alternatives, making life harder for those on low incomes.

Healthcare services are also lacking, with residents often forced to travel long distances to access quality medical care. Local clinics are under resourced, and the absence of a well-equipped hospital puts a strain on the well-being of the population. Furthermore, education remains a pressing issue, as schools struggle with overcrowding, outdated resources, and limited opportunities for professional development of teachers.

Despite these challenges, Lungi has immense growth potential. The presence of the airport offers a significant opportunity for investment in tourism, hospitality, and trade. However, until key infrastructural and service gaps are addressed, residents will continue to feel the burden of underdevelopment.

Calls for improved governance, investments in basic services, and strategic planning are growing louder as Lungi’s residents hope to see meaningful change in the near future. With the right attention and resources, this area could transform into a thriving hub that benefits both locals and the wider economy.