By Sulaiman Jalloh

In a significant step toward improving infrastructure and enhancing public service delivery in Kono district, the Kono district City Council (KNSCC) on Tuesday10 June , 2025 officially conducted a bid opening ceremony for the construction of a new bridge and a 100-meter embankment, the project aims to strengthen connectivity and prevent erosion in vulnerable areas within the district.

The formal event, held at the Council’s chambers in Koidu, was chaired by the chief administrator (CA), Mr. Amara, who underscored the Council’s unwavering commitment to transparency, accountability, and adherence to Sierra Leone’s public procurement laws.

This exercise reflects our dedication to open governance and public trust, said CA Amara, we are committed to a procurement process that is credible, competitive, and compliant with national standards to ensure the best outcomes for our people.

The event attracted key stakeholders, including representatives from the National Public Procurement Authority (NPPA), civil society, and the bidding companies.

Delivering remarks on behalf of the NPPA, regional procurement officer Mariama Mansaray reinforced the Authority’s commitment to monitoring the bidding process to ensure full compliance and eliminate irregularities.

She noted that the NPPA remains vigilant in upholding principles of fairness, integrity, and value-for-money in the award of public contracts, the NPPA’s role is not only to supervise but to ensure that procurement processes benefit the citizens, we commend the KNSCC for following the right procedures, Mansaray stated.

Civil society activist Glenis Ngaujah, representing accountability watchdogs in the district, welcomed the Council’s open door approach, he called on the contractors to uphold professional ethics and to treat successful bids as a duty to serve the community with honesty and efficiency.

When processes like this are conducted transparently, the people gain confidence in public institutions, the next step is delivery contractors must show that they are worthy of the trust placed in them,” Ngaujah urged.

Three construction firms submitted bids for the single lot project, M’Pollo Construction and General Enterprises, Maj Construction and Auctioneering Services Limited, MunjaeTheresa Construction and General Services

Speaking on behalf of the bidders, contractor Bashiru Bangura commended the Council for its professionalism and fairness throughout the procurement process. He expressed optimism that whichever firm is selected will deliver quality work in line with contractual expectations.

This is how procurement should be done clear, open, and respectful of all participants, we hope this sets the standard for other public institutions,” Bangura said, the bid opening concluded with all submitted documents being properly recorded, sealed, and handed over to the evaluation committee for review. The successful contractor will be announced in accordance with established timelines and evaluation criteria.

The construction of the bridge and embankment is expected to not only improve transportation and protect against flood risks but also stimulate economic activity by enhancing access within Kono District, as the Council continues its drive toward inclusive development, this infrastructure project is a reflection of its broader vision to deliver impactful services that meet the needs of the people.

Copy right –Printed in the Expo Times News on Monday, June 16TH, 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)