By: Thaimu Bai Sesay
The ongoing debates in Sierra Leone’s Parliament over President Bio’s address have provided a rich tapestry of perspectives on the nation’s development, offering a comprehensive view of the government’s strides, challenges, and aspirations. With a clear focus on infrastructure, agriculture, gender equality, and youth empowerment, MPs across the political spectrum have engaged in what has become a robust dialogue on the future of Sierra Leone.
One of the most resounding themes in the debate has been the call for unity in national development. Hon. P.C. Kanneh Alameen from Kenema District opened with an appeal to lawmakers and citizens alike to prioritize the nation above all, emphasizing that true progress can only be achieved through collaboration. His words resonated throughout the debate, as MPs acknowledged that only by working together can Sierra Leone overcome its challenges.
President Bio’s administration has made notable strides in areas such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure. Many MPs commended the government’s efforts, particularly in the education sector, where Hon. Foday Jabbie from Falaba District highlighted President Bio’s dynamic approach to school construction, teacher recruitment, and learning materials.
Similarly, Hon. Umu Pyne from Moyamba District praised the administration’s efforts to expand primary healthcare services, with more than 1,500 health units established across the country. These initiatives reflect the President’s commitment to improving the lives of Sierra Leoneans and enhancing the nation’s human capital.
In the energy sector, Hon. Joseph Bash Kamara from Bo District and Hon. Quatin Salia Konneh from Kailahun District lauded the government’s focus on providing electricity to remote communities, a key achievement that has contributed to improved living conditions across the country. The establishment of mini-grids in chiefdom headquarter towns has been a transformative step in addressing long-standing energy deficits.
While progress in infrastructure and energy has been widely acknowledged, a pressing need remains to tackle food security and agricultural productivity. MPs like Hon. Mariama Munia Zombo from Pujuhun District highlighted the importance of climate change mitigation and food security, noting women’s significant role in agriculture.
At the same time, Hon. Rugiatu Kamara from Tonkolili District and Hon. Amara Momoh Kargbo from Western Area Rural District pointed out the potential of the Feed Salone initiative to boost rice production through mechanized farming. However, concerns regarding the success of the initiative persist, particularly regarding the need for more efficient execution and the government’s ability to follow through on promises.
Addressing youth unemployment was another critical focus, with several MPs calling for the government to accelerate job creation, particularly in sectors like agriculture and entertainment.
Hon. Abdul Latif Sesay from Port Loko District urged the government to create more opportunities for youth and highlighted the slow pace of employment generation. Hon. Ibrahim Aziz Bangura echoed his calls from Port Loko District. He also pushed for more focus on infrastructure, such as the vital Lungi bridge, to ease congestion and boost economic activity.
Most of the debate also revolved around gender equality and women’s empowerment. Many MPs applauded President Bio’s leadership in promoting women’s participation in governance, with Hon. Veronica Kadie Sesay from Moyamba District emphasizing the President’s political will to support women.
Hon. Lolloh Tongi from Kailahun District praised the First Lady for her efforts to provide sanitary pads to schoolgirls. At the same time, Hon. Hawa Conteh from Koinadugu District commended the administration’s focus on gender-related issues.
Despite the positive developments, some MPs, particularly Hon. Bash Alusine Kamara from Karene District, voiced concerns over the country’s road network and the persistent water crises in several regions. In Karene, for instance, the lack of reliable water sources remains a significant issue, and calls for action have intensified. The slow pace of road construction in rural areas, especially linking farms to markets, was also highlighted as a major hindrance to agricultural productivity and overall development.
As debates continue, there is a clear consensus that Sierra Leone’s development is at a crucial juncture. While significant strides have been made in education, healthcare, and infrastructure, challenges remain in key areas like agriculture, water supply, and job creation. However, there is optimism that the government will build on its achievements and address the concerns raised by MPs.
Hon. Ing. Habib Keifa Fabbah from Bo District wrapped up the debate on a hopeful note, urging all stakeholders to put Sierra Leone first and support the President’s agenda. His call for unity and focus on national development resonated with many, underscoring the need for collaborative efforts in achieving a prosperous Sierra Leone.
Throughout the first, second and third allotted days, debating the Presidential address, Sierra Leone’s Parliament has been engaging in a healthy and constructive debate on the nation’s future.
With a shared vision for growth and development, the country’s leaders are striving to create a more inclusive, sustainable, and prosperous nation. As the government continues to address the challenges raised by MPs, the hope is that Sierra Leone will continue to move towards its goals, creating a brighter future for all its citizens.
