Residents of the Sugarland Beach Community in Goderich, Western Rural District, have accused the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs of undermining President Bio’s socio-economic and human capital development agenda.
The Sugarland Beach Community stakeholders voiced their concerns to several media houses on Monday, October 28, 2024, during a gathering held at Sugarland Beach. Attendees included community leaders, religious figures from Christian and Islamic groups, local council members from both the ruling SLPP and the opposition APC, students from Milton Margai College of Technology and Science, as well as representatives from the Drivers Union, Bike Riders Union, Market Women, entertainers, civil society activists, and employees of Sugarland Beach.
The gathering reflected a broad spectrum of discontent, with participants expressing shock over what they deemed an unpatriotic move by the Ministry of Tourism, which they feel undermines President Bio’s vision to promote local business, investment, and employment.
Community leaders warned that if the government fails to address this issue, it could lead to a loss of support for the ruling party within the Sugarland Beach area. They pointed to the contributions of Madam Patricia Laverley, who purchased the land in 2004 and transformed it into a well-known site across Sierra Leone through significant investments.
According to one anonymous community stakeholder, Madam Laverley has not only enhanced the visibility of the location but also created employment opportunities for numerous residents, providing a livelihood for many families in the area.
The stakeholders emphasized that a collaborative approach involving dialogue between the Ministry, Madam Laverley, and the local community would be more constructive than an abrupt repossession of the land. They argue that such an engagement would better align with the national human capital and development agenda, fostering a supportive environment for local businesses and the community.