Opposition Leader Urges Lasting Solutions to Sierra Leone’s Challenges
By Benjamin S Conteh
The Minority Leader in the Sixth Parliament, Hon. Abdul Kargbo, representing Port Loko District, has called on the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) to implement sustainable strategies to address the nation’s longstanding challenges. He emphasized the need for lasting solutions, particularly in the transportation and agriculture sectors, during a parliamentary debate on Tuesday, December 10, 2024.
The debate centered on multiple agreements, including the Sierra Leone Connectivity and Agriculture Market Infrastructure Project Financing Agreement and a grant agreement between the OPEC Fund for International Development and the Republic of Sierra Leone. These agreements were presented for ratification and endorsement by the Deputy Minister of Finance, Kadietu Alie.
Hon. Kargbo underscored the country’s severe transportation challenges, noting that while previous governments have attempted to address the issue by procuring buses, such measures have fallen short of solving the root problems. He referenced the “Walk Fine” project, pointing out that it faced similar hurdles as prior initiatives in the sector.
He urged the government to develop a comprehensive and politically neutral strategy, ensuring that lawmakers remain accountable to the people of Sierra Leone. According to Hon. Kargbo, poor road networks and inadequate bridges are at the heart of the transportation crisis, which also drives up the cost of local commodities. He argued that improved infrastructure would not only enhance the transport sector but also reduce the high costs of goods.
While expressing optimism about the agreements, particularly those focused on bridge construction and market development, Hon. Kargbo called for the decentralization of project implementation to benefit all districts.
In response, the Leader of Government Business, Hon. Sahr Mathew Nyuma, assured Parliament that the SLPP government is committed to upholding constitutional requirements and ensuring the agreements align with national interests. He cited provisions in the 1991 Constitution to support the ratification of the agreements, emphasizing that loans and grants are necessary to drive development.
Hon. Nyuma highlighted key aspects of the agreements, including youth and women empowerment, livestock development, and improved livelihoods. He revealed that over $100 million would be invested in the projects, which would cover eight districts, including Bo, Kenema, Port Loko, and Makeni.
He also stressed the importance of robust oversight to ensure the successful implementation of the projects. “This project is not just about infrastructure but also about empowering Sierra Leonean youth and women,” he said.
The Leader of Government Business lauded the Deputy Minister for her detailed explanation of the agreements’ components and assured Parliament of the government’s commitment to their sustainability. He urged lawmakers to consider all facets of the agreements, including potential cancellation clauses, while maintaining a focus on the broader benefits to the nation.
