ARISE Integrated Industrial Platforms have informed the Government of Sierra Leone through the Ministry of Transport and Aviation that, in line with their Lease Agreement signed with the Government on 17th January, 2023 they have procured and shipped seven passenger railcars from Japan, which are expected at the Freetown Port on 26th October, 2023.
On 17th January, 2023 ARISE IIP signed a Lease Agreement with the Government of Sierra Leone to โDevelop, expand and manageโ the Pepel Railway and Port. The Lease Agreement was approved by the Cabinet.
On 26th April, 2023 President Julius Maada Bio graced the groundbreaking ceremony for the development of the Koya Industrial Zone (SIZ-Koya) spearheaded by ARISE IIP.
ARISE IIP have clearly demonstrated commitment to Sierra Leoneโs infrastructure development through the launch of their US$420 million investment in the country.
The return of the railway has been welcomed by many Sierra Leoneans as it will expand trade and the free movement of people across the country.
ARISE IIP have assured that, once they took possession of the rail infrastructure currently under Kinghoโs control, โWe will commence rail passenger serviceโ.
The Railway and Port Lease Agreement has, become a hot potato. The imbroglio continues.
Passenger railway service was terminated in Sierra Leone in 1974.
