By: Saidu Jalloh
The Ministry of Social Welfare has commenced consultations with key stakeholders to develop a National Policy on Religious Tolerance and Practice, aimed at safeguarding Sierra Leone’s longstanding reputation as a model of peaceful religious coexistence.
Speaking during a stakeholder engagement, the Honourable Minister of Social Welfare, Mrs. Melrose Karminty, emphasized the urgent need for a comprehensive framework to address emerging concerns of religious intolerance, extremism, and both inter- and intra-religious conflicts. She acknowledged that although Sierra Leone is internationally recognized for its religious harmony, recent reports of clashes, leadership disputes within religious institutions, and tensions between cultural and religious practices underscore the need for regulatory measures.
The Minister explained that the proposed policy will promote accountability, streamline the registration of churches and mosques, and enhance collaboration between the government, religious councils, and traditional leaders in maintaining national
Stakeholders at the consultation, including Paramount Chief Fayia S.B. Sovula IV and Bishop Tamba Charles of the Inter-Religious Council, welcomed the initiative, describing it as a timely effort to bridge gaps between religion, culture, and tradition.
Paramount Chief Sovula stressed that tolerance must also extend to traditional practices, ensuring that religious beliefs and cultural customs coexist without conflict. Bishop Charles, meanwhile, likened the need for regulation to a football match, explaining that just as rules and referees ensure fair play, a national policy would help prevent excesses such as noise pollution and unchecked practices by unregulated religious groups.
Both leaders commended the Ministry’s consultative, bottom-up approach and pledged their full support. They expressed confidence that the policy will not only safeguard Sierra Leone’s cherished religious tolerance but also strengthen peace, harmony, and social discipline across the country.