Chief Justice Launches Construction of High Court and Magistrates’ Courts in Waterloo

Sierra Leone’s Chief Justice, Honourable Justice Komba Kamanda, on Thursday officially initiated the construction of a new High Court and three Magistrates’ Courts in Waterloo, a strategic intervention aimed at improving access to justice in the rapidly expanding township.

The groundbreaking ceremony, held in Waterloo, about 20 miles east of Freetown, marks a significant step toward addressing long-standing infrastructural challenges within the judicial system in the Western Area Rural District. With a population exceeding 314,000 residents, according to the 2021 Mid-Term Population and Housing Census, Waterloo’s rapid growth has placed increasing pressure on existing judicial facilities.

Addressing attendees, Chief Justice Kamanda described the project as a historic milestone in the administration of justice, emphasizing that modern judicial infrastructure is critical for delivering effective services. He noted that the initiative aligns with his vision of bringing justice closer to communities, while also reducing congestion at the main courts in Freetown.

The Chief Justice commended President Dr. Julius Maada Bio for his unwavering support of the judiciary, highlighting the government’s continued investment in the rehabilitation and construction of court facilities nationwide as evidence of its commitment to the rule of law and democratic governance.

He urged the contractor to ensure the project is completed within the stipulated one-year timeframe, stressing the urgent need for improved judicial infrastructure in Waterloo and surrounding communities. He further assured stakeholders of the Judiciary’s full cooperation to facilitate timely completion and operationalization of the courts.

Justice Kamanda also called on the Sierra Leone Police to provide adequate security at the construction site to prevent theft and safeguard the project.

Reflecting on the country’s past, the Chief Justice referenced findings of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which identified the absence of justice as a contributing factor to Sierra Leone’s decade-long civil conflict. He reaffirmed that justice and peace remain central pillars of national stability and development.

Also speaking at the event, the Minister of Works and Public Assets, Dr. Denis Sandy, described the project as further proof of the government’s commitment to ensuring equal access to justice and strengthening democratic governance. He praised President Bio’s consistent support for the justice sector.

Representing the Sierra Leone Police, Superintendent A.B. Mansaray, who spoke on behalf of the Local Unit Commander, expressed optimism that the new court facilities would significantly enhance police operations and improve the administration of justice.

Meanwhile, Madam Susan Baby Koker, Deputy Director General of the Sierra Leone Correctional Services, welcomed the project, noting that it would help improve the management of remand and convicted prisoners.

Officials from the Waterloo Local Council, along with other stakeholders, pledged their full support and commitment to ensuring the successful and timely completion of the project.

The Judiciary reaffirmed that the new court complex will significantly enhance judicial service delivery in Waterloo and strengthen its commitment to building a fair, accessible, and efficient justice system nationwide.