By: Aminata Sesay
The Minister of Internal Affairs, Rtd. AIG Morie Lengor Esq., has praised the Council of Churches in Sierra Leone (CCSL) for its continued commitment to national development following the commissioning and dedication of the newly constructed Psychosocial Counselling and Resource Centre in Magburaka.
The initiative, supported by Bread for the World, marks another milestone in CCSL’s 100-year journey of faith-driven community service. Themed “Restoring Hope, Strengthening Lives” (Isaiah 61:1–3), the ceremony emphasized a renewed focus on mental health, trauma healing, and social reintegration, particularly for vulnerable groups in Tonkolili District and beyond.
In his keynote address, Minister Lengor commended CCSL for translating their faith into tangible service, noting that the new centre stands as “a sanctuary, a beacon of hope, and a testament to a shared community vision.” He acknowledged CCSL’s longstanding history of national service ranging from post-war rehabilitation to their support during health crises such as Ebola, COVID-19, and the recent drug abuse challenges.
The Minister underscored the importance of collaboration between religious institutions and the government, particularly in addressing psychosocial issues, gender-based violence, and drug addiction among youth. He described the Centre as “an instrument of healing and empowerment,” urging that it be used to strengthen family values, promote girl-child education, and foster self-discipline among the nation’s youth.
“Let this Centre become a living space of empathy where victims find comfort, the broken find purpose, and young people learn that discipline and focus are the keys to fulfilling their dreams,” he urged.
Representing the government, the Resident Minister for the North-East, Hon. Ibrahim Jalloh, officially opened the Centre and expressed gratitude to CCSL and its partners. He commended their efforts in complementing government initiatives on health, education, and drug abuse prevention.
In her welcome address, CCSL General Secretary, Mrs. Keziah Kargbo, reiterated the organisation’s commitment to providing psychosocial support, child protection, and combating the KUSH drug epidemic. She called on religious leaders to take a more proactive role in addressing this growing public health concern.
“Our nation is crying out as lives are being lost and talents destroyed. We must act now, together,” she said, while also acknowledging the contributions of inmates from the Mafanta Correctional Centre, who assisted with the construction of the Centre as part of their rehabilitation programme.
The Centenary President of CCSL, Right Rev. Henry A. A. Samuels, described the opening as a tangible expression of the church’s mission to “restore hope and transform lives.” He noted that the Centre is more than just a building it represents a promise of healing, compassion, and partnership between faith and society.
Rev. Samuels reaffirmed CCSL’s dedication to community development, stating that the church remains steadfast in walking alongside the people, especially in moments of hardship and recovery.
The ceremony attracted distinguished attendees, including the Acting Regent Chief of Kholifa Chiefdom, the District Council Chairperson, the Manager of Mafanta Correctional Centre, civil society representatives, traditional and faith leaders, and community stakeholders.
The day’s events concluded with a guided tour of the facility and a symbolic group photograph, marking a new chapter in CCSL’s service to humanity anchored in faith, compassion, and the restoration of dignity and hope across Sierra Leone.