Chief Justice Kamanda Opens Newly Renovated Court Complex in Kono

Sierra Leone’s Chief Justice, Honourable Justice Komba Kamanda, has officially opened the newly renovated Magistrate’s and High Court complex in Kono District, marking a major step toward improving access to justice in the region and across the country.

The new facility replaces the old, dilapidated court buildings and now provides a modern, fully equipped space for judicial proceedings. Chief Justice Kamanda noted that the commissioning fulfills a promise he made to the people of Kono to strengthen the judicial infrastructure and ensure the presence of a Resident High Court Judge a need the district had long expressed.

He also announced plans to introduce a circuit court system in Kono, which will enable Magistrates to preside over cases in multiple chiefdoms. According to the Chief Justice, this initiative aims to enhance efficiency and bring justice closer to the people at the community level.

The Kono court complex is part of a broader series of reforms spearheaded by Chief Justice Kamanda, including the commissioning of the Sexual Offences Model Court in Bo and the establishment of the first Magistrate’s Court in Mile 91. Similar projects are planned for other regions, including a new specialized court in

Speaking on behalf of the fourteen Paramount Chiefs in the district, Paramount Chief Sahr Youngai Kontanday Mbriwa II of Fiama Chiefdom expressed deep appreciation for the Chief Justice’s efforts and pledged the Chiefs’ continued support for the judiciary. He also raised concerns about ongoing challenges in Local Court administration and called for clarity regarding oversight responsibilities. In response, Chief Justice Kamanda assured that he would engage the Attorney General and Minister of Justice to address the matter.

Representatives from the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces, led by Major General Sahr David Thomas Ngaujah, reaffirmed their support for the judiciary and pledged to collaborate in maintaining peace and upholding justice in the district. Local Unit Commanders also committed to assisting the courts in enforcing the rule of law.

The commissioning of the Kono court complex is widely seen as a milestone in the judiciary’s ongoing efforts to decentralize justice delivery and ensure that all Sierra Leoneans have fair and timely access to the courts.