Local Government Minister Clarifies Government Plans for Freetown Amid Division Controversy

Local Government Minister Clarifies Government Plans for Freetown Amid Division Controversy

Minister of Local Government and Community Affairs, Tamba Lamina, has clarified that the government’s plans to establish new councils in the Western Area are aimed at improving service delivery, not dividing Freetown, amid circulating misinformation. The initiative focuses on addressing sanitation challenges and enhancing governance for residents of the capital.

Minister Lamina explained that while official pronouncements have been made, the technical work for establishing new localities and three additional councils in Freetown is ongoing. Full implementation is expected after 2028, ensuring better coordination, efficient services, and more effective local administration.

The clarification comes as part of a broader effort to restructure Sierra Leone’s local governance system. In 2021–2022, the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development was rebranded as the Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs, reflecting a commitment to inclusive governance in both rural and urban communities.

As part of the restructuring, a functional review was conducted nationwide to determine the most effective organizational structure, covering all provincial teams and local councils. The review proposed new departments, including Community Affairs, Decentralization, and Local Government, and is awaiting Cabinet approval.

Minister Lamina emphasized that the ministry continues to work closely with local councils, chiefdom councils, and provincial teams to foster development, peace, and efficient service delivery. He highlighted strong collaboration with council leaders, who serve as the link between local and central government and play a key role in advocating for decentralization.