Sources in Parliament have revealed that the government has officially recognized the land lease agreement between the Gento Group of Companies and the landowners of Kasafoni, which is a significant development within Sierra Leone’s ongoing land ownership issues. This recognition comes at a time of heightened scrutiny regarding land rights in the country and has prompted the government to request the Public Petition Committee to temporarily halt its investigation into a petition submitted by P.C. Hon. Alhaji Musa Bamba Foray Kulio Jalloh III. The petition was presented on behalf of the Sambaia, Dansogoia and Diang Chiefdoms located in the Tonkolili and Koinadugu Districts.
The government’s acknowledgment of the lease agreement indicates its commitment to respect and uphold the human rights of the citizens, as stipulated in several legal frameworks, notably the Customary Land Rights Act of 2022, the Mines and Minerals Development Act of 2022, and Section 21 of the 1991 Constitution of Sierra Leone. These laws collectively safeguard property rights and customary land use, aiming to empower local communities and protect them against unjust land dispossession.
President Julius Maada Bio has been vocal about the need for equitable landownership, emphasizing that land should rightfully belong to its rightful owners. In a recent town hall meeting, he was particularly critical of state officials who have taken advantage of their positions to appropriate lands belonging to the local populace. He described such actions as a “betrayal of public trust,” asserting that “no one is above the law.” His statements reflect a growing concern over a problem that has persisted through various administrations and has become a point of contention among citizens who feel wronged by perceived injustices surrounding land ownership.
The President expressed deep discontent about the alarming rise in land grabbing incidents perpetrated by individuals in positions of authority. “I have great respect for the integrity of our officials,” he stated, underlining that his administration would not tolerate exploitation of government land for personal gain. This stance has resonated strongly across the country, where many citizens have clamored for justice concerning land disputes that have historically plagued communities, often leaving them vulnerable and disenfranchised.
Specifically addressing the land issue in Kasafoni, the government has initiated steps towards convening all parties involved to facilitate dialogue aimed at achieving a resolution that benefits all stakeholders. This meeting is anticipated to serve as a platform for open discussions, with the ultimate goal of reaching a consensus that respects both the landowners’ rights and the interests of the Gento Group of Companies. At the conclusion of this process, a comprehensive report is expected to be compiled and submitted to Parliament, detailing the outcomes of the discussions and recommendations for future action.
The government’s recent initiatives not only signal a shift towards more transparent governance but also indicate an earnest attempt to rectify years of grievances felt by local communities regarding land rights. The combined efforts of legislative and executive branches in addressing these complex issues present an opportunity for restoration of trust between the government and the citizens, which has often been eroded by incidents of corruption and mismanagement.
Many are hopeful that the government’s commitment to uphold human rights and respect for customary laws will lead to sustainable solutions and pave the way for improved management of land resources in Sierra Leone. The collective aim is to ensure that the land rights of all citizens are recognized and protected, providing a foundation for economic development and social justice throughout the nation.