The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has commenced the construction of a 288-meter, two-lane cable-stayed reinforced concrete bridge over the Cavally River, aimed at enhancing connectivity between Côte d’Ivoire and Liberia. This marks a significant step in regional integration and infrastructure development for West Africa.
The official site handover took place on October 3, 2024, at the Prollo border, marking the beginning of the physical works, expected to last 24 months. According to a statement released by ECOWAS, the bridge is a crucial part of the Praia-Dakar-Abidjan corridor, aligning with the regional body’s Vision 2050.
The bridge is designed to withstand environmental challenges in the area, ensuring its long-term resilience. ECOWAS officials emphasised that the structure is expected to play a pivotal role in facilitating trade, reducing transportation costs, and boosting job creation in both Côte d’Ivoire and Liberia.
Economic Impact and Vision
Chris Appiah, Acting Director of Transport for the ECOWAS Commission, described the bridge as “a gateway to economic transformation for Liberia, Côte d’Ivoire, and the entire West African region.” The project is set to stimulate local markets, improve sanitation, and generate employment opportunities, furthering ECOWAS’s goal of driving economic growth through infrastructure.
Local officials also highlighted the importance of the project, with Côte d’Ivoire’s Prefect of Tabou, Mme Kouakou Kalidja Epse Kouame, noting its role in stimulating trade and boosting local businesses. Meanwhile, Liberia’s Maryland County Superintendent, Henry Cole, Jr., emphasised its potential to unlock new economic opportunities for the region.
Technical details provided by ECOWAS Project Manager Engr. Ashoke Maliki revealed plans for a temporary construction camp and logistics, facilitated by the Port of San Pedro. Contractors SCEGC and AIM Consult are committed to completing the bridge on schedule, with the groundbreaking ceremony set for November 2024, to be led by ECOWAS Commission President Dr. Omar Alieu Touray.
Broader Infrastructure Strategy
The Cavally River Bridge project is part of ECOWAS’s larger strategy to deepen regional integration through infrastructure development. In September, member states advanced plans for the $15 billion Lagos-Abidjan Corridor Highway Development Project. This ambitious initiative aims to connect five West African countries via a 1,068-kilometer highway spanning eight border towns, expected to carry over 500,000 passengers daily.
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