By: Aminata Sesay
Residents across Sierra Leone’s North-East Region are set to benefit from easier and faster access to immigration services following the official launch of decentralized operations by the Sierra Leone Immigration Department (SLID) in Makeni, Bombali District.
The newly established regional immigration service centre is intended to bring passport processing and other immigration-related services closer to citizens in Bombali, Falaba, Koinadugu, and Tonkolili Districts, reducing the need for long and costly travel to Freetown.
The initiative forms part of the government’s broader decentralization agenda aimed at improving public service delivery and strengthening access to essential services across the country.
The launch ceremony attracted key stakeholders from across the northern region, including traditional leaders, local authorities, and senior government officials. Among those in attendance were the Minister of Internal Affairs, the Chief Immigration Officer, the Chairman of the Bombali District Council, and the Chairman of the North-East Council of Paramount Chiefs.
Representing Falaba District were Paramount Chief Finah Kalie Naferema Sheku Marah V and Chairman of the Falaba District Council, Ibrahim Sesay. Paramount Chief Alimamy Foday Jalloh III represented Koinadugu District.
Officials at the event described the decentralization programme as a major step toward improving efficiency in immigration service delivery while ensuring that citizens living in remote communities can access services more conveniently.
Under the new arrangement, Makeni will serve as the main regional hub for immigration services in the North-East, a move authorities believe will help decongest the department’s headquarters in Freetown and accelerate the processing of documents nationwide.
Government representatives also emphasized that the initiative reflects ongoing efforts to modernize public institutions and promote equitable access to state services across Sierra Leone.
Authorities expressed optimism that the establishment of the Makeni regional office will not only improve convenience for thousands of residents but also strengthen public confidence in the country’s immigration system.