Freetown, 25th September 2025– The newly commissioned Sewa Grounds Market is more than just a commercial hub; it is a bold step toward formalising Sierra Leone’s informal sector, according to the Acting Director General of the National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT), Mr. Mohammed Gondoe.
Speaking at the Ministry of Information and Civil Education’s weekly press briefing on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, Mr. Gondoe described the market as a “turning point” for thousands of petty traders and small-scale entrepreneurs. “This is not only a one-stop shop for commerce,” he said, “but a critical milestone in building the capacity and economic viability of our informal sector.”
Located in the heart of Freetown, the Sewa Grounds Market is one of NASSIT’s largest investments to date. The facility can accommodate over 2,000 traders and includes 85 warehouses, 170 upscale lockup shops (164 single and six double), 277 medium-scale lockup shops, and 1,750 open stalls. It also boasts over 170 modern toilet facilities, reliable electricity and water supply, CCTV surveillance, fire safety systems, sewage disposal, a police station, Fire Force unit, daycare centre, and a car park for up to 30 vehicles.
Mr. Gondoe praised President Julius Maada Bio for his direct intervention in making the market more accessible to ordinary citizens. Initially priced at NLe12,000, the cost of open stalls was slashed to NLe6,000 following the President’s directive. “This reduction reflects His Excellency’s deep concern for the welfare of our people,” Gondoe noted. “The fee also covers electricity, water, and security, ensuring traders operate in a safe and dignified environment.”
He urged all Sierra Leoneans to take pride in the facility and play their part in maintaining its infrastructure. “This market belongs to the people. Its success depends on how well we care for it,” he said.
The press briefing, held at the Miatta Conference Hall in Youyi Building, was moderated by Deputy Minister of Information and Civil Education, Bockarie Abdul Aziz Bawoh, and concluded with a Q&A session with members of the media.
