by Dolly Samura
The Ministry of Transport and Aviation Sierra Leone has announced an increase in public transportation fares following a rise in fuel prices, according to a government statement.
The adjustment comes after the pump price of petrol and diesel increased from NLe 32.00 to NLe 35.00 per litre, prompting consultations between the ministry, the Motor Drivers Union and other transport stakeholders.
In a press release issued by the Government of Sierra Leone, authorities said the new fares will take effect from Monday, March 16, across Freetown Municipality as well as provincial and cross-border routes.
The revised fares reflect an increase of 9.4%, with adjustments applied across major routes in the capital.
For example, fares on the Lumley–Regent Road route will rise from NLe 5.6 to NLe 6.1, while the Waterloo–Tokeh route will increase from NLe 28.1 to NLe 30.7. Other routes, including Jui–Lumley and Wilberforce–Jui, will also see corresponding increases.
Authorities said the changes were agreed following negotiations aimed at balancing the impact of rising fuel costs on transport operators and commuters.
The ministry did not indicate whether further adjustments could be expected if fuel prices continue to fluctuate.
