By: Precious Miracle Kargbo
His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio has reinforced Sierra Leone’s commitment to sustainable urban development through a strategic partnership with the King’s Foundation, a collaboration aimed at addressing environmental challenges and promoting eco-friendly city planning.
During a high-level meeting in Freetown, President Bio engaged with Leslie Ohomele of the King’s Foundation to advance discussions initiated in Scotland on urban sustainability. The talks focused on innovative strategies to balance rapid urbanisation with environmental preservation, ensuring long-term resilience for Sierra Leone’s cities.
A key outcome of the partnership is the launch of a comprehensive rapid planning toolkit in Bo City, designed to streamline urban development while integrating sustainable practices. The success of this model is expected to set the stage for replication in other cities across Sierra Leone.
“The preservation of our natural resources is not just a goal; it is a necessity for our future,” President Bio emphasised, underlining the government’s commitment to environmentally responsible urbanisation.
The King’s Foundation has pledged its full support for Sierra Leone’s vision, recognising the pressing need for innovative approaches to urban expansion amid global climate concerns. The partnership is seen as a proactive step in positioning Sierra Leone as a leader in sustainable city planning, aligning with global trends toward eco-friendly development.
As urban centres worldwide grapple with the consequences of climate change and rapid population growth, Sierra Leone’s approach could serve as a blueprint for other nations striving to harmonise development with environmental stewardship.
