SALWACO Official Calls for Prompt Bill Settlements
Kadiatu Samura
The Ministry of Finance in Freetown was treated to an electrifying moment during the Sierra Leone Water Company’s (SALWACO) budget presentation when the company’s Communication and Media Lead, Sheku Putka Kamara, delivered a compelling submission that drew loud applause from onlookers.
Speaking in his capacity as National Senior Communications Officer, Mr. Kamara emphasized the critical importance of timely payment of water bills, noting that financial discipline among consumers was central to SALWACO’s vision of becoming Sierra Leone’s leading water service provider. His remarks came in response to a probing question about how the institution planned to achieve its ambitious targets.
In a passionate appeal, the respected journalist and university lecturer described non-payment for water services as a “disservice to Sierra Leone.” He pointed out that while government funding covers more than 95 percent of SALWACO’s projects and operations, sustainable service delivery could only be guaranteed if consumers took responsibility for settling their bills promptly.
The attainment of our vision is very possible if people are willing to do what is right,” Kamara remarked, challenging citizens to embrace accountability.
“Why should anyone be forced or coerced to pay for services already used?” he asked rhetorically.
His strong words struck a chord with the audience, filling the room with admiration. The thunderous applause that followed underscored the resonance of his message and the clarity with which he linked consumer responsibility to the company’s long-term growth.
Earlier in the presentation, SALWACO’s leadership had reemphasized its policy of disconnecting chronic defaulters while urging all debtors to clear outstanding balances to avoid penalties. The management also outlined ongoing reforms aimed at improving efficiency, transparency, and customer service.
The budget submission itself was formally delivered by SALWACO’s Director of Finance, Frank Lahai Kamara, who was flanked by senior officials including the Director of Operations, Ing. Abdul Ben Lebbie; the Director of Research, Planning and Policy, Saffa SK Bockarie; and the Human Resources Director, Joe Ansu Foray. Representatives from the Finance and Accounts Directorate also formed part of the delegation, demonstrating the company’s collective commitment to transparency and accountability in financial governance.
As the applause settled, one thing became clear: SALWACO’s Communication Lead had not only defended the institution’s vision but also reignited the conversation on the civic responsibility of paying for public utilities a reminder that water service sustainability depends on a partnership between providers and users.
