Five new bridges Guinea improve accessibility and safety

4/29/2026
Reading time 3 min.
Bridge

In the Guinean capital Conakry, the Five Bridges Project has been officially completed. With the construction of five steel bridges and related road infrastructure, accessibility, traffic safety, and overall liveability for approximately two million residents of the city have been significantly improved. Thanks to the commitment and public financing of Invest International, this complex infrastructure project was made possible. Implementation was carried out by Ballast Nedam, in close collaboration with local partners.

Conakry is a rapidly growing city where natural barriers such as ravines and riverbeds have a daily impact on the mobility and safety of the local population. The five new bridges, with a total length of 720 meters and approximately 11 kilometers of connecting roads, provide better links between neighbourhoods, hospitals, and other essential facilities. Improved infrastructure enables residents to move around the city more safely and efficiently, which not only facilitates daily life but also stimulates the local economy in both the city and its surrounding areas.

Partnership and financing

The Five Bridges Project is an example of a successful international public-private partnership, showcasing Dutch expertise and know-how. Ballast Nedam worked closely with the client—the Ministry of Infrastructure of Guinea—as well as a range of international and local partners.

Invest International played a decisive role as public financier and structuring partner. Large infrastructure projects in emerging markets often involve high risk profiles and long payback periods, which typically discourage commercial banks from providing loans or guarantees. Through public financing, Invest International can make a difference precisely in these contexts and, together with Dutch partners, enable major infrastructure projects with a high societal impact.

In 2021, the Guinean Ministry of Economy and Finance and the Dutch Embassy signed a grant agreement worth €30 million. In addition, Invest International provided a loan for the same amount, backed by credit insurance from Atradius Dutch State Business, securing the overall project financing. This financing structure makes it possible to invest in sustainable infrastructure with lasting social and economic impact for Guinea, while also creating opportunities for Dutch businesses.

Construction and implementation

Despite complex conditions, including logistical challenges and cultural differences, the project was completed on time and within budget. Through smart optimizations in execution, works that were originally planned to take three years were completed in just one and a half years. Safety and quality were central throughout. The project demonstrates that large-scale urban infrastructure can go hand in hand with positive environmental and social outcomes, thanks to strict application of international IFC standards and targeted, proactive measures.

Official opening

The completion of the project is being celebrated with a festive opening ceremony on site, attended by the Guinean Prime Minister and Minister of Infrastructure, project partners, and other stakeholders.