Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs

Minister of Local Government summons emergency meeting to resolve Freetown City Council funding crisis

5 March, 2026- Amb. Tamba Lamina has convened an emergency meeting to address the ongoing financial and operational challenges facing the Freetown City Council, following a suspension of the council’s access to its funds that has disrupted sanitation services and day-to-day operations in the capital.

The meeting, held at the Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs, was called in response to the growing sanitation concerns across Freetown. The situation reportedly arose after administrative issues linked to the transfer of the council’s former Finance Officer, Ismeila Bah, to another council, which resulted in the council being unable to access its operational funds.

Because of the funding standstill, the council has struggled to carry out key functions, particularly in sanitation management. Waste collection and other essential services have slowed significantly as suppliers and contractors responsible for providing fuel and sanitation services remain unpaid.

Minister Lamina said the emergency meeting was necessary to break the administrative impasse and restore the council’s ability to function effectively.

“This situation is not about individuals,” he emphasized during the discussions. “It is about ensuring that the city continues to function and that sanitation services are restored for the people.”

The emergency session brought together several key officials responsible for local governance and financial administration. Among those present were the Chief Administrator of the Freetown City Council, the current and former Finance Officers, the Acting Chairman and the Executive Secretary of the Local Government Service Commission. Director of Fiscal Decentralization Directorate, Director of Decentralization Secretariat, Deputy Minister and the Permanent Secretary of the ministry were likewise present.

During the meeting, officials discussed the urgent need to unblock access to the council’s funds to enable the payment of sanitation contractors, fuel suppliers, and other service providers who are critical to maintaining waste management operations in the city.

The Chief Administrator also noted that several suppliers have not been paid for months, contributing to the slowdown in sanitation services and affecting the council’s ability to effectively manage waste across the city.

To address the situation, the minister directed council officials to immediately prepare a detailed report outlining all outstanding financial obligations, including payments to suppliers, sanitation workers, and utility service providers. The report will be forwarded to the Ministry of Finance to facilitate the administrative processes required for the council to regain access to its funds.

Officials at the meeting agreed that swift action is necessary to restore sanitation services and stabilize the operations of the Freetown City Council.

Minister Lamina assured participants that the government remains committed to resolving the issue quickly so the council can resume normal operations and continue delivering essential services to the residents of Freetown.

For more details:
Frederick V Kanneh
Senior Information Officer
MLGCA

Ministry of Local Government holds stakeholders consultation in Peje Bongre Chiefdom on de-amalgamation

Manowa Town, Peje Bongre Chiefdom, Kailahun District, 14 November, 2025- The Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs has engaged residents of Peje Bongre Chiefdom in Manowa Town, Kailahun District, in a major stakeholders’ consultation to discuss the long-standing request by some sections of the chiefdom for de-amalgamation.

Explaining the purpose of the visit, the Kailahun Senior District Officer, Alpha M. Sowa, said numerous issues had emerged over the years regarding the desire of certain sections of the chiefdom to separate. He noted that when he was first posted to Kailahun, he met a formal proposal calling for the de-amalgamation of Peje Bongre. He recalled visiting the chiefdom to explain that such a process requires patience and due government procedure. However, he continued, reports soon surfaced that some sections were refusing to be governed by the current Paramount Chief, failing to pay local taxes, introducing their own bylaws without the Paramount Chief’s knowledge, and even conducting the burial of a sub-chief without informing him. These developments, he said, prompted him to invite the ministry’s leadership to engage the people directly.

Addressing the gathering, the Resident Minister East, Gbessay Jusu Jaka Ngobeh, emphasized that the stability of any chiefdom rests on unity. He advised residents not to make decisions in anger and described Peje Bongre as fortunate to receive such a strong government presence. He noted that the Deputy Minister of Health helped draw attention to the situation, after which he briefed the Minister of Local Government. Despite financial constraints and busy schedules, he said the officials deemed it necessary to visit. He cautioned authorities against inciting young people and noted that similar conflicts had been resolved elsewhere, assuring residents that Peje Bongre would not be an exception.

Delivering his keynote remarks, the Minister of Local Government and Community Affairs, Amb. Tamba Lamina, conveyed greetings from President Julius Maada Bio, describing him as a peaceful leader committed to stability in all chiefdoms. The Minister reminded residents that Sierra Leone has 190 chiefdoms and that any addition requires strong justification. Peje Bongre, he said, has been amalgamated for 71 years, and any decision regarding its status will be rooted in culture, tradition, and legal processes. He stressed that, for now, Peje Bongre remains one chiefdom in the eyes of the government, and all structures must continue to operate as such until a final decision is made.

The Minister also highlighted concerns over some residents’ refusal to pay local taxes, cautioning that such actions could create challenges if the government eventually approves de-amalgamation and needs tax records for Paramount Chief elections. He explained the rotational leadership system through which sections alternate the Paramount Chieftaincy or Speaker roles, but noted that larger sections often become impatient and disrupt such arrangements. He assured residents that their views would be documented and forwarded to President Bio, who holds the authority to approve or reject de-amalgamation. He added that the team was prepared to display the proposed boundary map should separation be considered.

The Deputy Minister of Local Government, Alfred Moi Jamiru, later presented the proposed map of the chiefdom, outlining sections and boundaries that would take effect if de-amalgamation is approved. He encouraged residents to remain calm, peaceful, and law-abiding as the government deliberates on their proposals. The Deputy Minister of Health 1, Prof. Charles Senesie, the Deputy Secretary at the Eastern Provincial Office, the Local Unit Commander of Police for Daru, and the Paramount Chief of Peje Bongre Chiefdom all formed part of the delegation and made meaningful contributions.

When residents were given the opportunity to speak, community leaders including the Town Chief of Manowa, the Youth Chairman, the Mammie Queen, heads of male and female secret societies, and several section chiefs expressed strong support for the de-amalgamation of Peje Bongre Chiefdom. Speakers such as Amara Morie and Adama K**a reaffirmed their communities’ long-standing desire for separation, noting that they believe it would enhance governance and social harmony.

For more details:
Frederick V. Kanneh
Senior Information Officer
MLGCA

President Bio commends Local Government Ministry for strengthening grassroots peace and governance

Kambia Town, 31 October, 2025 President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has applauded the Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs (MLGCA) for its remarkable efforts in maintaining peace, resolving disputes, and strengthening traditional governance across the country.

He made the commendation during the official recognition ceremony of 17 newly elected Paramount Chiefs from the northern and north-west regions, held in Kambia Town.

The President noted that the Ministry’s proactive role in resolving chiefdom disputes, addressing issues related to secret societies, conducting Paramount and sub-chief elections, and mediating conflicts has been instrumental in preserving peace at the local level.

“To the Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs, I acknowledge your relentless efforts in resolving chiefdom disputes, addressing issues relating to secret societies, conducting elections of Paramount Chiefs and sub-chiefs, mediating conflicts, building the capacity of local actors, and exercising oversight over local councils,” President Bio stated. “Your work is commendable and crucial to sustaining our traditional governance structures.”

The event was called to order by the Director of Local Government, Brima Newman Combey, and chaired by the Minister of Local Government and Community Affairs, Ambassador Tamba Lamina, who thanked President Bio for gracing the occasion.

Minister Lamina briefed the President on the ministry’s recent pre-orientation program for the 17 newly elected Paramount Chiefs, which focused on governance, leadership, and the principles of chieftaincy. He explained that many new chiefs, though from ruling houses, often lack administrative experience, prompting the ministry to introduce induction training to enhance their capacity for effective leadership.

Delivering his keynote address, President Bio reminded the Paramount Chiefs that their recognition and coronation were not only mandated by law specifically Part IV, Section 17(a) of the Chieftaincy Act of 2009, but also symbolic of the enduring relevance of traditional leadership in nation-building.

He called on the newly elected chiefs to champion food security, promote healthy lifestyles, and actively support the fight against “Kush,” a dangerous drug that has devastated many young lives across the country.

“Paramount Chiefs must note that maintaining peace is one of the most important functions of the traditional institution in every society and remains key to achieving sustainable development,” the President emphasized.

“As a son of a Paramount Chief, I will continue to ensure that this sacred institution is treated with awe and reverence. It must remain anchored on customs and traditions that restore peace, stability, national cohesion, and development.”

President Bio reaffirmed his government’s commitment to preserving Sierra Leone’s traditional institutions, describing Paramount Chiefs as vital partners in governance, health promotion, and sustainable development.

“We firmly believe that Paramount Chiefs serve as the foundation of governance in our country and as liaisons between government and local communities,” he said. “Therefore, I urge the newly recognized Paramount Chiefs to bridge the gap between communities and government agencies, thereby contributing significantly to improved health, food security, and sustainable development.”

The recognition ceremony, attended by senior government officials, members of the National Council of Paramount Chiefs, provincial secretaries, and district officers, underscored the government’s continued support for traditional leadership as a pillar of national unity and progress

For more details:
Frederick V. Kanneh
Information Officer
MLGCA

Ministry of Local Government holds orientation for 17 newly elected Paramount Chiefs from Northern and North-West Regions

Kambia District Council Hall, 30 October, 2025-The Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs has organized a day-long orientation for seventeen (17) newly elected Paramount Chiefs from the Northern and North-West Regions of Sierra Leone. The event, held ahead of their official recognition by President Julius Maada Bio, brought together senior government officials, traditional leaders, and key stakeholders in local governance.

In attendance were the Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs, the Presidential Spokesman, the Resident Minister for the North-West Region, Provincial Secretaries of both the Northern and North-West Regions, the Director of the Decentralization Secretariat, District Officers, Senior District Officers, and members of the National Council of Paramount Chiefs, among othersthers.

Declaring the session open, the Director of Local Government, Brima Newman Combey, explained that the orientation was designed to equip the newly elected Paramount Chiefs with a clear understanding of their roles and responsibilities. He emphasized that many challenges in Chiefdom administration often stem from a lack of proper orientation, leading to conflicts between chiefs and their residents.

“The ministry has encountered several conflicts within chiefdoms because some Paramount Chiefs assumed office without proper guidance on their duties,” Mr. Combey noted. “This session is therefore crucial to help our newly elected Paramount Chiefs understand their responsibilities, from selecting Regent Chiefs and Sub-chiefs to working closely with Chiefdom Committees.”

Speaking on behalf of the National Council of Paramount Chiefs, Paramount Chief Fayia Sundifu Brima Sovula IV, who also serves as the Council’s National Secretary General, congratulated the newly elected chiefs and urged them to apply the lessons from the orientation in their respective chiefdoms. He emphasized that many of the issues faced in chieftaincy governance arise from limited understanding of traditional administrative roles, adding that he had long advocated for such training sessions.

Delivering the keynote address, Deputy Minister of Local Government, Alfred Moi Jamiru, congratulated the new Paramount Chiefs and described the orientation as an important step toward uniting traditional leaders across the country. He encouraged the chiefs to focus on mediation and local dispute resolution, stressing that their leadership should help reduce the number of cases taken to formal courts.

“The Paramount Chief must be the pillar of peace in the Chiefdom,” the Deputy Minister said. “Your duty is to settle disputes, promote harmony, and work hand in hand with your colleagues for the common good of your people.”

He cautioned against the imposition of exorbitant fines by chiefdom authorities and urged chiefs to consult their more experienced counterparts when making key decisions. He also appealed to them to take an active role in the fight against the abuse of “kush” and other harmful substances, noting that traditional leaders play a vital role in safeguarding the moral and social fabric of their communities.

“Chieftaincy remains one of the few institutions in Sierra Leone that has stayed above partisan politics,” he emphasized. “We want a traditional and respected chieftaincy that preserves our culture and values. Remember, leadership comes with criticism, but as lifelong custodians of tradition, your duty is to serve all.”

Mr. Jamiru also appealed to provincial administrators to expedite issues brought before them by Paramount Chiefs, highlighting the need for stronger collaboration between the provincial and traditional systems of governance.

Following the keynote address, various facilitators and stakeholders led sessions on topics including paramount chieftaincy elections, the composition and functions of Chiefdom Committees, local revenue mobilization, taxation, maintenance of law and order, management of boundary disputes, and the relationship between local councils and chiefdom administrations.

The orientation marked an important step in strengthening traditional governance structures, ensuring that the 17 newly elected Paramount Chiefs are well-prepared to uphold the values, customs, and development aspirations of their chiefdoms.

For more information:
Frederick V. Kanneh
Information Officer
MLGCA

Ministry of Local Government begins stakeholders engagement on de-amalgamation in Munuthalla Chiefdom

Munuthalla Chiefdom, 10th July 2025– The Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs (MLGCA) has commenced its nationwide stakeholders engagement on the proposed de-amalgamation of several chiefdoms, with the first consultative meeting taking place today in Munuthalla Chiefdom.

Residents from about eight chiefdoms—Munuthalla, Lower Bambara, Kandu Leppiama, Barawa Wollay, K**adu Yiraia, Valunia, Pakimassabong, and Biriwa—have formally called on the government to consider de-amalgamation. They cited long-standing governance challenges and instability, which they say have rendered the affected chiefdoms ungovernable.

Following this, the Cabinet directed the MLGCA to collaborate with key institutions, including Statistics Sierra Leone and the Electoral Commission of Sierra Leone (ECSL), to engage residents and gather their views for onward presentation to His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio, who holds the constitutional authority to approve or reject de-amalgamation requests.

Speaking at the engagement, Director of Local Government, Mr. Brima Newman Combey, outlined the purpose of the meeting. He explained that the government team was present to listen to the people’s concerns regarding the de-amalgamation process, which has been under discussion since 2017.

Mr. Combey presented a proposed map illustrating the potential division of Munuthalla Chiefdom, detailing the sections and villages that would be affected if de-amalgamation proceeds. However, he emphasized that the map was only a proposal, noting that the engagement was purely consultative and not intended to make any final decisions.

“We are here to listen and document your views, which will be submitted to His Excellency the President, who will make the final decision,” he said.

Representing the Electoral Commission of Sierra Leone (ECSL), Mr. Paul Damba likened the relationship between ECSL and MLGCA to that of “husband and wife,” highlighting their collaboration in matters of local governance and elections.

“ECSL has the mandate to conduct public elections, and we work closely with local government to support processes that impact local governance,” Mr. Damba stated.

Mr. James Medo of Statistics Sierra Leone explained the role of his institution, noting that while Statistics SL is primarily responsible for population data collection, it also works with other institutions to provide accurate demographic and geographic information for national planning and decision-making.

Delivering the keynote address, Deputy Minister of Local Government and Community Affairs, Hon. Alfred Moi Jamiru, conveyed greetings from Minister Amb. Tamba Lamina. He commended the residents for their patience and active participation.

“The President believes that any decision affecting the people must be made with their direct involvement, which is why we are here today,” the Deputy Minister said. He reassured residents that even if de-amalgamation takes place, the bonds of brotherhood and shared heritage between the communities would remain intact.

Hon. Jamiru likened the process to a parent allowing a child to become independent, emphasizing the government’s commitment to peace and stability.

“We are here to listen and gather your views to inform a decision that will ensure peace and sustainable governance. No decision has been made yet, and the outcome of this engagement will be presented to the President,” he stressed.

During the session, the proposed map separating Munu and Thalla was presented, with officials reading out the list of villages that would fall under the respective chiefdoms if de-amalgamation is approved.

Residents were then given the opportunity to express their opinions. While a few voiced opposition, the majority supported the de-amalgamation, citing the need for effective governance and development.

The engagement was chaired by Kambia District Officer, Mr. Charles K. Lamin, who recently assumed his new role. It was attended by several key stakeholders, including paramount chiefs, civil society representatives, and other local leaders.

The Ministry described the engagement as a key step under its broader “Bumper Implementation Plan,” aimed at strengthening local governance structures across Sierra Leone.

Further engagements are expected in the other affected chiefdoms mentioned above in the coming days and weeks.

For more information
Frederick V. Kanneh
Information Officer
MLGCA

Local Government Minister refers to Government’s redistricting plan as development, not politics

Freetown 2nd June 2025

In a series of public engagements aimed at demystifying the government’s recent redistricting announcement, the Minister of Local Government and Community Affairs, Ambassador Tamba Lamina, has assured the public that the creation of new districts and the declaration of Lungi as a city are strategic governance moves driven by development priorities rather than politics.

Appearing on both AYV Television and Radio Democracy 98.1, the Minister explained that the creation of Bandajuma and Kpanguma Districts will realign administrative boundaries within Bo, Pujehun, Kenema, and Kailahun districts. He also disclosed a major shift in the Western Area: Freetown is to be split into two districts, and Western Area Rural will become three distinct districts, to better manage urban areas and service delivery, and Lungi will be proclaimed a city, recognizing its strategic geographic position and proximity to the Freetown International Airport.

“We are a growing country, our population is increasing, and we must ensure government services reach every corner efficiently. This move allows communities to have more say in their development, enables local councils to mobilize more resources, and reflects a governance model that promotes inclusion.” he said.

He cited several key motivations for the changes:
👉Rapid population growth
👉Geographical challenges to service delivery
👉The need for deeper community involvement in local governance
👉Revenue generation capacity of councils
👉Institutional continuity, referencing former President Ernest Bai Koroma’s 2012 policy vision which proposed guidelines for new local councils

The Minister emphasized that the changes are rooted in law, referring specifically to the Local Government Act of 2022, which grants the Minister of Local Government the authority to advise the President on the creation of new localities to strengthen decentralization.

In response to speculation that the redistricting might be politically motivated, Minister Lamina firmly dismissed the claims.
“If this were political, would this government be investing heavily in opposition strongholds? Look at the new airport terminal in Lungi, the development projects in Port Loko, and the road infrastructure in Falaba,” he explained.

He underscored that the goal is not gerrymandering, but rather strengthening governance at the grassroots level.

Minister Lamina also clarified that the current stage is one of public sensitization. Final declarations, he said, lie in the hands of President Julius Maada Bio, who holds the constitutional authority to proclaim new cities and districts following cabinet decisions.

He ended with a call for responsible civic engagement.
“This is not about creating new electoral boundaries. It’s administrative. I urge the public not to fall for misinformation and to seek facts before reacting. Let’s focus on how this can bring governance and development closer to our people.” he said.

For more details:
Frederick V Kanneh
Information Officer
MLGCA

Ministry of Local Government & JICA Present Local Council Development Guidelines to MDAs

Freetown, Sierra Leone – 14 May 2025 —The Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs (MLGCA), in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), has officially presented the Local Council Development Operational Guidelines to Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), marking a significant milestone in the implementation of Sierra Leone’s decentralization and development agenda.

The unveiling follows the recent approval of the document by Cabinet, culminating five years of collaboration between the MLGCA and JICA. The initiative is rooted in the Government of Sierra Leone’s Medium-Term National Development Plan (MTNDP) 2019–2023, which, on page 131, envisioned the operationalization of development guidelines across all 22 Local Councils by 2023.

Deputy Secretary of MLGCA, Alusine A. Joaque, explained that the partnership with JICA began way back in 2021 with a focus on creating mechanisms to standardize development project implementation in the Local Councils with focus on the Southern and Eastern regions. “The Development Guidelines are now a national document that will tailor project implementation across the country,” he said, highlighting the importance of the newly approved framework.

Norihito Yonebayashi, Resident Representative of JICA Sierra Leone, emphasized the strategic value of the guidelines, urging that they be treated as a national priority. “This concept should guide all development activities by Local Councils,” he said. He also noted the need for greater visibility of the document and called on the ministry to enhance its publicity so that all stakeholders are aware of its contents and importance.

Deputy Minister of Local Government, Alfred Moi Jamiru, acknowledged the collaborative effort that led to the successful development of the guidelines. He commended the participation of stakeholders and responded to JICA’s concerns by outlining steps already taken by the Ministry and its partners to ensure wide dissemination and understanding of the document. He emphasized its benefits, including enhanced capacity building, improved financial management, and strengthened community participation.

“The commitment and participation of all those involved have been instrumental,” he said. “We assure JICA and our development partners that we will monitor the full implementation of the document.”

Also speaking at the event, Director of Decentralization at MLGCA, Alex Bonapha Esq., highlighted the legal and structural significance of the guidelines in supporting effective decentralization.

John Brima, Capacity Building Manager at the Decentralization Secretariat, delivered a presentation on the positive impact of the guidelines, especially in streamlining project implementation across local councils.

For more information,
Frederick V. Kanneh
Information Officer
Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs

ELECTED POLITICAL HEADS OF LOCAL COUNCILS IN SOUTHERN PROVINCE SUBSCRIBE TO OATH OF OFFICE

Galiness Paradise, Bo City. 10 August, 2023 Elected Mayors, Chairpersons and Councillors of Local Councils in the Southern Region of Sierra Leone have gone through the swearing-in ceremony and oath taking exercise organized by the Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs (MLGCA).

The program which served as the inaugural ceremony of the 5th Local Councils was chaired by Alex Bhonapha, the Director of Decentralization Secretariat in MLGCA.

In his statement, the Minister of MLGCA, Amb.Tamba Lamina cited sections in the Local Government Act 2022 as provisions that make it mandatory for all Local Councils’ political heads to subscribe to oath of office after their elections, adding that the occasion was in conformity with the said legal framework.

He maintained that Local Councils were created in 2004 after the brutal civil war with the aim of allowing people in local areas to participate in decision making of issues in their localities.

He said the important aspect of local governance is collaboration and partnership, and that the councillors should play a key role in achieving that. He added that Councillors have the role to take the concerns of the local people to the Councils, explain Government developmental strides to the people and to also monitor projects implemented by the Local Councils.

Amb. Tamba Lamina furthered that the relationship between Councillors and other stakeholders in their localities including the Members of Parliament, Paramount Chiefs, Provincial offices, core staff of Local Councils, Chief Administrators, Mayors, Chairpersons and the community people is very key in the development of local communities and therefore urged the newly elected political heads to maintain just that.

He also advised the Councillors to maintain a friendly relationship with development partners by way of being compliance with processes and procedures that come along with various projects. He ended by congratulating the Councils' political heads in that part of the country and admonishing them to focus on deepening decentralization.

In his keynote address, the Vice President of the Republic of Sierra Leone who is also a Chairman of the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Local Government, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, said the inaugural ceremony of the Political heads of the Southern Province eventually took place on Decentralization Day, adding that August 10th had been chosen by Sub Sahara Africa to celebrate decentralization.

He highlighted the last five years’ achievements of the New Direction Government under president Bio by underlining Health, education, agriculture, electricity, road infrastructure amongst others as areas where the Government made huge achievement.

He continued by drawing the attention of the gathering to the Big 5 agenda of President Bio as the new milestone that will significantly improve the lives of Sierra Leoneans. He stated that the new political heads of the various Local Councils have key roles to play in achieving the objectives of the said agenda.

He mentioned transparency and accountability in Local Council as a great way of achieving the Big 5 and urged the newly elected political heads to also embark on revenue mobilization in their respective councils.

He deliberated on many other issues including the excitement that he had in relations to the huge female representation amongst the Councillors, the serious agricultural productivity dream of the Government which would aim at ensuring food sufficiency in the country, effective management of financial resources in the Local Councils amongst other things.

The ceremony which also included oath taking process that was facilitated by the Permanent Secretary of MLGCA, Thomas B. Lansana and group photograph with the Vice President and other dignitaries present, attracted the presence of Former Vice President, Victor B. Foh, the newly elected Deputy Minister of MLGCA, Director of Local Government and Paramount Chiefs.

For more details:
Frederic V. Kanneh
Information Officer
MLGCA