Chericoco rescues Sanda Magbolonthor Chiefdom
By Alpha Sesay
After months of suffering, isolation, and restricted movement of goods and people, the people of Sanda Magbolonthor Chiefdom have finally witnessed the return of the vital Mabanta Ferry. The ferry’s breakdown had crippled transportation, halted trade, and left over 150 villages across four chiefdoms cut off from the rest of the country, leading to deep economic hardship.
In a swift and timely intervention, Hon. Chericoco provided the much-needed support to restore full operations of the Mabanta Ferry, which had been out of service for weeks, due to major mechanical failures. His action not only revived a crucial transportation link, but also restored hope and confidence in responsive leadership.
On 2nd June 2025, the ferry’s worn-out towing rope snapped under the weight of heavy goods and vehicles, cutting off the only access point to Sanda Magbolonthor Chiefdom. Farmers were unable to take their produce to the market, businesses came to a halt, and transportation was entirely blocked, making life unbearable for locals, with no clear sign of government assistance.
Hon. Chericoco was informed of the situation by an indigene of the chiefdom, King Komrabai Dumbuya. As a compassionate and action-oriented leader, Hon. Chericoco quickly stepped in and provided funds to carry out urgent repairs. These included replacing the broken towing rope, overhauling the pulleys, and installing five solar-powered lights to ensure safe night travel.
For the first time in its 77-year history, the Mabanta Ferry hosted a full chiefdom meeting onboard on Saturday, 29th June 2025. The meeting and celebration followed its successful restoration, made possible through the intervention of Hon. Chericoco.
Community leaders, residents, and representatives from various chiefdoms gathered to commission the renovated ferry.
Speaking at the event, the Chiefdom Speaker, Pa Alimamy Donso Sesay of Kantia Section, underscored the importance of the ferry in connecting major villages across Karene and Port Loko Districts. He emphasized the devastating effects of the breakdown on local businesses and livelihoods, and thanked Hon. Chericoco for his prompt intervention.
“Hon. Chericoco is a leader who listens to the cry of his people,” he said, offering prayers for the lawmaker’s continued success.
Chairlady Mariama alias Ms. Supreme, shared similar sentiments, noting the danger they faced using small boats to transport goods across the river during the rainy season. She praised Hon. Chericoco for his generosity and commitment to their welfare.
The Sanda Magbolonthor Development Association (SMDA) Chairman, Issa Kunda Kamara, expressed gratitude to Hon. Chericoco and heaped prayers on him for his act of generosity.
Hon. Alusine Bash Kamara also commended Hon. Chericoco’s intervention and thanked King Komrabai for drawing his attention to the issue. He urged local residents to protect the ferry and the newly installed solar lights to ensure its continued operation.
The Mabanta Ferry serves over 150 villages across Kasseh, Sanda Tendaren, Debia, and Sanda Magbolonthor Chiefdoms. It remains the shortest and most efficient route for moving people and goods in the region.
Hon. Chericoco’s timely response has restored a vital lifeline and renewed hope for thousands in that part of Sierra Leone.