By: Precious Miracle Kargbo Snr
The British High Commission in Freetown has congratulated PC Dr. Masakma Madibie II of Kafe Chiefdom on his election as the new Chairman of the Sierra Leone Council of Paramount Chiefs, while reaffirming the United Kingdom’s commitment to supporting traditional leadership and grassroots governance in the country.
The congratulatory message was delivered during the National Conference of the Council of Paramount Chiefs held in Bo, which brought together traditional leaders from across Sierra Leone to discuss governance, peacebuilding, community development and the evolving role of traditional authorities.
Representing the British High Commission at the conference, Deputy High Commissioner Mehdi Hussain expressed the UK’s appreciation for the opportunity to participate in the gathering. He described the conference as an important platform for dialogue between paramount chiefs, government representatives and other stakeholders on issues affecting communities across the country.
“The UK values its longstanding partnership with the Council of Paramount Chiefs, who play an important role in promoting inclusive local governance, preserving Sierra Leone’s rich cultural heritage, and supporting peace and development in communities across the country,” Mr. Hussain stated.
The election of PC Dr. Masakma Madibie II comes at a time when Sierra Leone continues to strengthen decentralization and community-based governance. As Chairman, he will lead the Council of Paramount Chiefs, the highest representative body of traditional authorities, which serves as a key link between government institutions and local communities.
Paramount Chiefs continue to play a significant role in Sierra Leone’s governance system. In addition to their customary responsibilities, they contribute to land administration, conflict resolution, social cohesion and the implementation of development initiatives at the chiefdom level. Their leadership remains particularly important in rural communities where traditional structures often serve as a major point of engagement between citizens and authorities.
The British High Commission noted that the Council’s efforts to preserve cultural values while promoting inclusive participation and community development are aligned with the UK’s partnership priorities in Sierra Leone, including accountable governance, human rights, gender inclusion and locally driven development.
Mr. Hussain reaffirmed the UK’s willingness to continue working closely with traditional leaders to advance shared objectives.
“We look forward to continuing our collaboration with the Council of Paramount Chiefs in the years ahead,” he added.
The National Conference in Bo also provided an opportunity for paramount chiefs to reflect on the Council’s mandate, address challenges affecting chiefdoms, and discuss strategies for strengthening youth participation, women’s involvement in local governance and the preservation of Sierra Leone’s cultural heritage.
PC Dr. Masakma Madibie II of Kafe Chiefdom, Tonkolili District, brings extensive experience in traditional leadership. His election as Chairman is expected to provide renewed direction for the Council as traditional authorities continue to adapt to the changing governance landscape in Sierra Leone.
Over the years, the British government has supported several initiatives involving traditional leaders, particularly in areas such as justice, peacebuilding, community resilience and local development. With new leadership at the Council, both sides have expressed their commitment to deepening cooperation to promote stability, inclusion and sustainable development across Sierra Leone.
As the country advances its development agenda, the partnership between the United Kingdom and the Council of Paramount Chiefs is expected to remain an important pillar in strengthening community leadership and promoting inclusive growth from the grassroots level.