His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has formally recognized 17 new Paramount Chiefs, emphasizing the importance of the chieftaincy institution in promoting peace, unity, and development throughout Sierra Leone on Friday 31st October 2025, in Kambia town.
The newly recognized chiefs, representing Bo, Port Loko, Kambia, Falaba, Karene, and Tonkolili Districts, were elected between 202 and 2025. They were officially presented with their Staffs of Office by the President in accordance with Part IV, Section 17(a) of the Chieftaincy Act of 2009.
“Today marks your official induction into a sacred responsibility – to serve your people and support the government in driving development across your chiefdoms,” President Bio told the gathered chiefs and dignitaries.
He acknowledged existing boundary disputes arising from de-amalgamation processes and urged for patience and calm as the government works towards peaceful resolutions.
“I am a proud member of this sacred institution. I have great respect for the chieftaincy and remain committed to preserving it,” he stated, urging the new Paramount Chiefs to serve as vital links between their communities and government agencies.
The President reaffirmed that chiefdoms are the foundation of national development, encouraging traditional leaders to mediate local disputes, mentor young people, and set a strong example in promoting peace and progress.
On the issue of drug abuse, particularly the dangerous drug kush, President Bio urged the chiefs to take a front-line role in protecting their communities.
“Kush is a poison that destroys our youth and our future. We must all work together to eliminate it. My government has already established rehabilitation facilities across the country to support recovery,” he stressed.
Minister of Local Government and Community Affairs, Tamba Lamina, revealed that the new inductees bring the total number of Paramount Chiefs recognized since President Bio assumed office in 2018 to 77, reflecting his commitment to strengthening traditional governance.
Host Paramount Chief Bai Farama Tass Ngbak Bubu IV of Magbema Chiefdom welcomed President Bio to Kambia and reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to national unity and development.
“Chieftaincy is the smallest but most sacred unit of governance handed down by our ancestors. We must protect its dignity,” he said, noting that Kambia has already established a rehabilitation facility to support victims of harmful drugs.
The ceremony concluded with the official presentation of the Staffs of Office to the 17 newly recognized Paramount Chiefs, marking another milestone in President Bio’s ongoing engagement with traditional leadership for national development.
