As part of its mandate to develop and maintain road infrastructure across the country, the National Roads Authority (NRA) on Tuesday, 2nd June 2026, signed two road maintenance contracts with Smateq Construction and Pinnacle Group JV Heritage Holdings to improve deteriorating road conditions in Kuntaya and Banni Village in the North Bank Region (NBR).

The intervention follows unexpected structural challenges in the affected areas, which have caused significant difficulties for residents and commuters travelling through the communities.

Under these contracts, Pinnacle Group JV Heritage Holdings will undertake the construction of the Kuntaya Triple Cell Culverts, while Smateq Construction will work on the Five Cell Culverts project in Banni Village.

Speaking during the signing ceremony, Sulayman Sumareh Janneh, Managing Director of the National Roads Authority (NRA), congratulated both companies on securing the contracts, noting that their selection was based on merit and their proven track records in previous projects.

“This project is a testament to the important service you provide to the communities because the work being entrusted to you is critical,” he told the contractors.

Mr Janneh emphasised the importance of the projects, stating that road accessibility remains essential to the daily lives and livelihoods of communities.

“Sometimes people underestimate the importance of such projects without realising the impact they have on the lives of ordinary people. These maintenance are vital for people travelling to work, schools, markets and health facilities,” he said.

He further highlighted that heavy stormwater flows have, at times, rendered the affected areas virtually inaccessible, leaving residents stranded and disrupting economic and social activities.

The NRA Managing Director urged the contractors to maintain the level of professionalism and commitment they demonstrated during the selection process and ensure the timely and effective execution of the projects.

He reaffirmed the NRA’s commitment to improving road connectivity and ensuring safer and more reliable transport infrastructure for communities across the country.