As part of its continuous oversight of regional infrastructure projects, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission has carried out a joint monitoring mission for the construction of the 288-metre Cavalla River Bridge, designed to link Côte d’Ivoire and Liberia.
This initiative falls within the Road Development and Transport Facilitation Programme of the Mano River Union and aligns with the orientations of ECOWAS Vision 2050.
The Cavalla River currently serves as a critical crossing point for thousands of commuters, traders, and local residents who rely on an old ferry and small canoes, often under unsafe conditions.
According to ECOWAS Directorate of Communication on Thursday, the mission was led by Mr. Chris Appiah, Director of Transport at the ECOWAS Commission, accompanied by Mr. Ashoke Maliki, Head of the Road and Railways Unit, and Ms. Mahan Fathmah, Political Adviser representing Mrs. Fanta Cissé, ECOWAS Resident Representative in Côte d’Ivoire.
Also participating was Dr. Kazilé Timothée Kouadio, representing the Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Integration and Ivorians Abroad, who reaffirmed the Ivorian Government’s institutional support for the project.
To establish strong local cooperation, the delegation met with local administrative authorities in the project area. In San Pedro, they were received by Mr. Traoré Djibril, Deputy Prefect and Secretary-General of the Prefecture. The mission then proceeded to Tabou for a working session with Mrs. Kalidja Kouamé, Prefect of the Department, who reiterated the commitment of Ivorian local authorities.
On the Liberian side, the delegation was warmly welcomed by Superintendent Henry Cole Jr. of Maryland County, underscoring both countries’ shared determination to ensure the project’s success.
The technical inspection began on the Liberian side, where the delegation, accompanied by the construction company SCEGC, observed the active mobilization of teams and the notable progress achieved to date.
The mission continued to Prollo, on the Ivorian side, where the bridge’s footing and piles are being constructed. The delegation, escorted by the Ivorian gendarmerie, met with Mr. Djouhui Émile, the village chief, and traditional authorities to discuss community concerns, particularly regarding population resettlement and pending site arrangements.