The Minister of Internal Affairs, Rtd. AIG Morie Lengor Esq., delivered the keynote address on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at the official opening and dedication of the Psychosocial Counselling and Resource Centre in Magburaka on 4th November 2025. The Centre, constructed through the leadership and commitment of the Council of Churches in Sierra Leone (CCSL), was made possible with the support of the Bread for the World Foundation.
The event took place in Ropolon, Magburaka, Tonkolili District, under the theme: “Restoring Hope, Strengthening Lives” (Isaiah 61:1-3). The opening of the Centre is part of CCSL’s centenary celebration, marking 100 years of God’s presence, grace, and mercy, which has fueled their ongoing commitment to addressing the psychosocial needs of communities.
Minister Lengor Esq. praised the efforts of CCSL, extending gratitude to their partners, the Bread for the World Foundation, for their financial support in helping to achieve this milestone, which he described as “a sanctuary, a beacon of hope, and a testament to the shared commitment of the community.”
He highlighted CCSL’s longstanding role in responding to crises, providing both material and spiritual aid. He recalled the organization’s vital contributions during the eleven-year civil war, particularly in supporting displaced persons and refugees.
The Minister emphasized that the centenary celebration of CCSL goes beyond spiritual activities. He noted that the church also uses its influence to address social issues, including indiscipline, and affirmed that they are committed to ongoing collaboration with his Ministry and the Government to address challenges that threaten the well-being of individuals.
“My call for the Inter-Religious Council of Sierra Leone to partner with my Ministry in tackling these challenges is timely,” Minister Lengor said. “This Centre should be viewed as a tool in our collective engagement, offering psychosocial support to victims and helping restore their hope and strength for future contributions to their communities and the nation.”
He further encouraged a focus on proactive measures, such as drug abuse prevention, mental health awareness, and open conversations. He called for the Centre to become a vibrant, supportive environment where individuals are treated with dignity and respect.
In conclusion, Minister Lengor urged young people to follow their dreams and pursue their goals with self-discipline, setting clear objectives and avoiding negative influences. “With self-discipline, you can resist peer pressure and achieve your dreams,” he said.
The Resident Minister of the North-East, Hon. Ibrahim Jalloh, officially declared the Centre open on behalf of the government. He thanked CCSL for their leadership, noting their support during health emergencies such as the Ebola outbreak, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the 2017 mudslide. He also praised the cooperation of Bread for the World in the construction of the Centre and commended CCSL’s efforts in the fight against drug abuse.
In her welcome address, Mrs. Keziah Kargbo, General Secretary of CCSL, shared that the Centre was not just a building, but a symbol of their commitment to child empowerment and raising awareness about the KUSH health emergency in local communities. She stressed the importance of addressing harmful practices like child marriage, teenage pregnancy, sexual and gender-based violence, and female genital mutilation, which hinder girls and women from realizing their full potential.
“Our nation is crying out as lives are lost, talent is destroyed, and social consequences continue to grow. Religious leaders must act now,” Mrs. Kargbo urged.
She concluded by expressing gratitude to the donor partners and thanked the inmates of the Mafanta Correctional Centre for their participation in the Centre’s construction as part of their rehabilitation and skills training programs.
The Centenary President of CCSL, Right Rev. Henry A. A. Samuels, reaffirmed that the opening of the Centre is a testimony to God’s faithfulness and CCSL’s commitment to serving humanity with love and compassion. He emphasized that the theme for the occasion, “Restoring Hope, Strengthening Lives,” reflects the Centre’s purpose as a place of healing, comfort, and transformation for individuals and the broader community.
Rev. Samuels shared that CCSL has stood by communities through difficult times, from poverty to distress, and that the Centre is a demonstration of the church’s commitment to supporting national development.
In attendance were various dignitaries, including the Acting Regent Chief of Kholifa Chiefdom, the District Council Chairperson, the Manager of Mafanta Correctional Centre, distinguished partners, civil society organizations, and religious and traditional leaders, all of whom commended CCSL’s leadership and the support of their sponsors. The occasion concluded with a group photo and a tour of the new Centre.