By: Fatmata Grace Okekearu, Bo City
The Senior Citizens Network Sierra Leone has embarked on a groundbreaking partnership with the Southern Regional Police Command, led by Assistant Inspector General of Police, Mr. Brima Kanneh, on 12th November 2024.
The partnership, formalized in a landmark meeting at the Regional Police Headquarters in Bo City, aims to promote peace and social cohesion. It marks the first collaboration between the Network and the Regional Police since the Network’s inception in early 2023 after the national elections.
The meeting was led by Sam Goba, CEO and Founder of the Senior Citizens Network, who extended his gratitude to AIG Kanneh for maintaining stability in the Southern Region. Accompanying Goba were key Network representatives, including Mrs. Sky-Kay, Gender Focal Person; Chief Brima Tangabay, Communication Lead; and Soriba Samura, Station Manager at SLBC Radio. Together, they underscored the Network’s non-political stance and its focus on strengthening social bonds while emphasizing the value of collaboration with law enforcement.
A central focus of the discussions was the urgent need for renewed social cohesion and tolerance across Sierra Leone. At the meeting, CEO Goba expressed the Network’s commitment to supporting senior citizens as they transition to retirement, ensuring their continued contribution to society. “We need your consent, blessings, and partnership, AIG,” Goba stated, reiterating the Network’s goal to engage seniors in peacebuilding efforts.
Addressing Goba’s request for additional investigator training, AIG Kanneh highlighted the Inspector General of Police, Mr. William Fayia Sellu’s commitment to professional development within the police force. Officers have received extensive training internationally in various fields, reflecting a dedication to advancing law enforcement capabilities in Sierra Leone. Kanneh noted that these training initiatives underscore a commitment to excellence under the current administration, setting it apart from previous ones.
Looking ahead, the Senior Citizens Network plans to host a significant Unity Dinner on November 30, 2024, in Bo City. The dinner will gather leaders from diverse tribes and political affiliations to promote dialogue and understanding.
In a related update, AIG Kanneh recently met with Chief Lahai Sowa, Paramount Chief of Sowa Chiefdom, Pujehun District, to discuss an alleged case of a missing person. Due to insufficient details presented, AIG Kanneh directed the case to be transferred from the Pujehun Police Division to the Bo Regional Criminal Investigation Department for further inquiry. He assured the public that relevant updates would be provided as the investigation progresses.
In response to the Senior Citizens Network initiative, AIG Kanneh acknowledged the need for values-based social initiatives, particularly given Sierra Leone’s challenges in recent years. “I had worked with this Network during the election period,” Kanneh remarked, noting the significant impact of the Network’s outreach.
He urged the Network to actively engage youth, including marginalized groups, to build a stronger foundation for social harmony. “For this initiative to succeed, the Network should engage communities, especially the youth, including ghetto groups and school communities,”
Kanneh emphasized highlighting the Police’s recent achievements in combating crime and drug-related issues in the region.
The meeting concluded with a symbolic group photograph, reflecting a mutual commitment between the Senior Citizens Network and the Regional Police Force to foster a more unified and peaceful society in Sierra Leone.
