By: Fatmata Grace Okekearu, Bo City
Focus 1000, a prominent development organization, held a one-day engagement at the CHAMPS office within the Bo Government Hospital compound. The meeting brought together key stakeholders to discuss ongoing initiatives and strategies to enhance community-driven development across Sierra Leone.
During the session, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Focus 1000 outlined his ongoing nationwide tour across ten districts, aimed at engaging members of the Key Mother Networks (KMN) a fundamental pillar of the organization’s grassroots efforts. He expressed satisfaction with the progress in Falaba District, where KMN members have successfully cultivated 65 bags of rice and accumulated over 34,000 Leones in village savings. Additionally, the district has initiated income-generating activities such as hosting community events, which contribute to sustaining their operations. The CEO encouraged other districts to emulate Falaba’s model, stressing the importance of financial preparedness for emergencies.
Musa Jalloh, the Program Officer for Immunization, announced that five locations had been selected to commemorate Combra Day, a health awareness initiative. He further revealed that with support from Gavi, Focus 1000 plans to expand outreach efforts through additional radio programs, jingles, and the production of educational materials featuring messages from both the Bible and the Quran to promote immunization.
Alhaji Kowa, a representative of KMN in Bo District, highlighted the strong collaboration between the organization and the Forcus 1000 in the region. He noted that KMN members contribute 50 Leones per pillar to their savings box, fostering financial sustainability within their networks.
Speaking on behalf of CHAMPS, Project Manager Martin Seppeh reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to ongoing health initiatives, emphasizing that “health is wealth.”
In his closing remarks, Bo District Coordinator Lansana Maggoh expressed gratitude to all KMN members for their dedication and cooperation. He assured them of Focus 1000’s continued support in advancing community development and strengthening grassroots initiatives.
The meeting underscored the organization’s commitment to empowering communities through financial literacy, health education, and sustainable development practices.