Thousands of residents gathered in the Upper River Region to witness President Adama Barrow lay the foundation stone for the construction of a six-kilometre Garawol-Kusum road.

The new road will link several communities, including Baraji Kunda, Kebbeh Kunda, Kanjabina, Sami Kuta and surrounding villages.

The design includes side drains and erosion control structures, forming part of a wider 30km network already surveyed for development.

Speaking at the event, officials said the project underscores the government’s commitment to improving road infrastructure and promoting sustainable development across the country.

Acting managing director of the National Roads Authority, Sulayman Sumareh Janneh, revealed that feasibility studies are underway for additional roads connecting Kumbija and Baniko.

He added that with the completion of the primary ring roads in URR, the next phase will focus on secondary roads linking rural communities to the national network.

Residents of the Kantora Constituency welcomed the project, describing it as a major step towards greater connectivity and economic opportunity.

National Assembly Member Billay G. Tunkara praised President Barrow’s ongoing development efforts in health, education, women’s empowerment, agriculture and energy, saying the project had “renewed hope” in the region.