By: mansarayamaduibrahim@gmail.com
On Monday morning, September 9th, I embarked on a challenging yet memorable trip from Kenema to Port Loko. Departing around 11:40 AM after purchasing my ticket, the journey proved to be a mix of stress and surprise.
Seated between two young men and an elderly woman, I navigated the bus ride through a tapestry of languages and conversations, from Krio to Mende. An Islamic scholar’s sermon offered a spiritual pause amidst the hustle.
Our first break at Tiayama provided a brief respite, though local food options didn’t appeal to me—I opted for a simple bread and soft drink. The journey continued with a frustrating stretch from Mile 91 to Masiaka, where I began to feel unwell and eagerly checked my Google Maps for progress.
Upon reaching Masiaka, I faced the challenge of finding transport to Port Loko. A young local kindly helped me find a taxi, and after negotiating a price, we set off for the final leg of the journey. With a mix of Themne chatter in the back seat and an elderly companion beside me, the ride was a cultural immersion.
Finally, arriving in Port Loko at 4:50 PM, I took a bike home, reflecting on a day filled with both the struggles and unique experiences of travel. Kenema City, known for its rich culture in the Eastern Region of Sierra Leone, contrasts with Port Loko City in the Northwestern Region, which is renowned for its educational strides and often referred to as the Blackman's London.
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