…COMMISSIONS CLOCK TOWER IN IMPERI CHIEFDOM
BONTHE DISTRICT ACCORDS RED CARPET WELCOME TO NEW SPEAKER
…CALLS ON SIERRA RUTILE CEO TO SUSTAIN AREA-ONE
…TURNS SOD FOR GBOMGBOMA-MOLAKIKA BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION
The Speaker of the Sixth Parliament of the Second Republic of Sierra Leone, Retired Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas, inaugurated a new clock tower in Moriba Town, Imperri Chiefdom, Bonthe District, emphasizing his commitment to community development and local empowerment.
Addressing the assembled crowd, Speaker Thomas expressed his delight at the community’s collaborative spirit in identifying and pursuing the project. He lauded the community’s proactive approach and assured the people of continued support from their representatives in Parliament. “We have one of the best Members of Parliament who deeply cares for our development,” Thomas stated, highlighting his vision for ongoing local projects.
Hon. Fatmata Bockarie praised Speaker Thomas for his visionary leadership, noting his grassroots connection and commitment to local needs. She announced that Speaker Thomas had pledged to provide electricity for the clock tower, reinforcing his dedication to practical community improvements.
The youth leader of Moriba Town also expressed gratitude, acknowledging Thomas’s pivotal role in supporting the clock tower project from its inception. The collective effort of various stakeholders was commended, highlighting the successful collaboration within the community.
In a broader call to action, Speaker Thomas urged the residents to continue identifying tangible projects to uplift their communities, pledging unwavering support from both himself and other Bonthe District MPs.
Courtesy Call from Sierra Rutile Limited CEO
Later that day, Speaker Thomas met with Theuns Debruyn, CEO of Sierra Rutile Limited, who raised concerns about the potential shutdown of Area One operations without the Third Amendment Agreement. Debruyn warned that the closure could result in the loss of 2,550 jobs. He emphasized the company’s commitment to local content, with over $100 million spent annually on local suppliers.
Speaker Thomas underscored the importance of maintaining operations to prevent mass unemployment, encouraging continuous dialogue with the government for a favorable resolution. He found the CEO’s proposal reasonable and urged for its prompt implementation to safeguard jobs and local economic stability.
Groundbreaking Ceremony for Gbomgboma-Molakika Bridge
On May 25, 2024, Speaker Thomas joined Vice President Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh and other officials for the groundbreaking of the 615-meter Gbomgboma-Molakika Bridge, a significant infrastructure project set to connect Cittai and Dema Chiefdoms with Bonthe Island Municipality.
Vice President Jalloh conveyed President Julius Maada Bio’s commitment to national infrastructure development, noting that this bridge is one of six major projects across the country. He highlighted the transformative impact the bridge would have on local communities, facilitating connectivity and economic growth.
Speaker Thomas recalled his longstanding advocacy for the bridge, electricity, and water facilities in Bonthe. He reassured the community of continued efforts to bring more development projects to the district, including roads, employment opportunities, and educational institutions.
Mayor Mohamed M. Robinson and Engineer Jalil Momodu of the Sierra Leone Road Authority echoed the importance of the bridge for regional development. They urged community cooperation and vigilance to ensure the project’s success.
Speaker Thomas’s visit underscored a robust agenda for community-driven development in Bonthe District. From infrastructure to job preservation, his engagements reflected a commitment to tangible progress, resonating with the community’s aspirations for a better future.
