Freetown, Sierra Leone — The Directorate of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA) to implement a comprehensive Road Asset Management System (RAMS) integrated with a mobile field application, marking a significant milestone in the digital transformation of the country’s road infrastructure management. The agreement is aimed at improving how road infrastructure across Sierra Leone is documented, monitored, and maintained, shifting the sector from largely manual and reactive practices to a modern, data-driven approach.
Under the partnership, the Road Asset Management System will provide a centralized digital platform for managing critical road assets, including roads, bridges, culverts, and related infrastructure nationwide. The system is designed to enhance transparency, efficiency, and long-term planning in the maintenance of the country’s transport network. A key component of the RAMS is its integrated mobile field application, which will enable engineers and technical staff to collect real-time data directly from the field.
Using GPS location services, photographic evidence, and standardized data collection tools, field engineers will be able to accurately record the location, condition, and status of road assets. Each asset will be mapped with precise geographic coordinates, supported by photographs and condition assessments, allowing for a clear and verifiable digital record of infrastructure across the country. According to officials, the system will enable SLRA to move away from emergency-driven repairs towards predictive and preventive maintenance.
By tracking asset conditions over time, engineers can identify early signs of deterioration and schedule timely interventions before minor defects escalate into major failures. This proactive approach is expected to improve road safety, reduce costly emergency repairs, and ensure more efficient use of public funds allocated to road maintenance and rehabilitation. For the Sierra Leone Roads Authority, the RAMS provides a dedicated and structured tool to manage its expanding inventory of road infrastructure.
All asset data, inspection records, and condition reports will be stored within a single system, significantly improving coordination, planning, and evidence-based decision-making. DSTI’s involvement reflects its national mandate to support public sector institutions through innovative digital solutions that enhance service delivery and operational efficiency. Through this collaboration, DSTI is leveraging technology to strengthen infrastructure governance and promote sustainable development outcomes.
Officials from both institutions say the initiative aligns with broader government efforts to modernise public infrastructure management, improve accountability, and ensure long-term value for citizens. The implementation of the Road Asset Management System is expected to lay the foundation for safer roads, better-informed investment decisions, and sustainable maintenance of Sierra Leone’s transport network, contributing to economic growth and improved mobility nationwide.
