By: Marian Magdalene
The Ministry of Information and Civic Education (MoICE), led by Minister Chernor Bah, concluded a dynamic two-day civic engagement in Moyamba District, Southern Sierra Leone, under the national theme *“Salone Big Pas Wi All”* (Sierra Leone is Bigger Than All of Us). The initiative brought together young people, government officials, and community stakeholders to promote civic responsibility, national unity, and inclusive governance.
The first day focused on secondary school students, featuring pupils from Harford School for Girls, St. Michael’s, St. Joseph’s Vocational, and Kulafai Rashideen Islamic Secondary School. Activities included civic education quizzes and debate competitions on national development and citizenship.
St. Michael’s Secondary School emerged victorious in the debate competition.
Melvina Musa from Harford School for Girls topped the quiz contest.
Winners received branded school supplies, trophies, certificates, and cash prizes, reinforcing the value of knowledge and civic participation among the youth.
The second day featured a high-level town hall meeting with cabinet ministers, parliamentarians, civil society leaders, and local authorities
Local Government Minister Tamba Lamina announced that Cabinet has approved the creation of new localities in Bo, Pujehun, Kenema, and Kailahun. Proposals include dividing Freetown into two districts, splitting Western Area Rural into three, and designating Lungi as a city, pending a presidential proclamation.
Higher Education Minister Dr. Ramatulai Wurie discussed expanding access to higher and technical education. She cited Njala University’s role in the Feed Salone initiative and the upcoming establishment of new universities in Kono and Kenema. Plans are also underway to equip Government Technical Institutes (GTIs) across the country.
Gender Minister Dr. Isata Mahoi emphasized recent gains in women’s political representation: 34.5% of cabinet positions and 30% of parliamentary seats are now held by women.
She highlighted the Radical Inclusion Policy, the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, and the availability of a One-Stop Centre for SGBV survivors in Moyamba. Abuse cases can be reported via the 116 national hotline.
Petroleum Regulatory Agency DG Brima Baluwa Koroma reported an increase in revenue collection from NLe 400 million in 2018 to NLe 1.7 billion in 2024, with a 2025 target of NLe 2 billion. He stressed a commitment to consumer protection, price regulation, and market transparency.
Deputy Mines Minister Umaru Napoleon Koroma explained that the Mines and Minerals Development Act, 2023, mandates mining companies to contribute 1% of their gross revenue to host communities up from 0.001% and that 20% of royalties will now go into a Mining District Development Fund.
NaCSA Commissioner-General Chief Ernest Ndomahina reported completed water supply projects in Ribbi, Bradford, Njala Market, and Tiama. Additionally, 910 elderly residents in Moyamba received $45 each in social cash transfers. Plans are also in place to renovate the Moyamba Mini Stadium.
The engagement showcased the government’s commitment to transparency, public dialogue, and civic education. Through storytelling, youth involvement, and open forums, the Ministry of Information and Civic Education continues to foster national consciousness and inclusive development.
Under the unifying message “Salone Big Pas Wi All,” citizens are reminded of their collective responsibility to build a more united, informed, and prosperous Sierra Leone.