Lawmakers in Sierra Leone’s Parliament are locked in a heated debate over a newly proposed $124 million Congress Centre in Lungi. While the government champions the project as a strategic investment to boost tourism and host international events, opposition members have condemned it as a misplaced priority that risks deepening the country’s public debt.

The agreement was officially tabled for parliamentary approval by Finance Minister Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura. According to the minister, the modern conference complex will feature a high-capacity convention hall, a presidential villa, and an adjoining hotel. The government aims to complete the facility within six to nine months, positioning Sierra Leone as a premier destination for global gatherings, including an upcoming ECOWAS summit.

Minister Bangura clarified that the state will not directly fund the construction. Instead, the government will guarantee a loan secured by a private developer—an arrangement he maintains will not directly increase the national public debt.

Supporters of the initiative argue it is a bold and necessary step to modernize the economy and elevate Sierra Leone’s global profile. Hon. Alhaji K. Vandi, Chairman of Parliament’s Finance Oversight Committee, backed the proposal, pointing out that the country currently lacks a venue capable of accommodating more than 1,000 delegates.

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He argued that the Congress Centre, alongside ongoing Lungi infrastructure improvements and international airport upgrades, would stimulate local economic growth and attract foreign investors. However, Vandi cautioned that Parliament must strictly oversee the loan terms to prevent the country from being saddled with unfavorable interest rates.

The proposal faces fierce pushback from opposition lawmakers, who argue the massive investment is disconnected from the urgent needs of ordinary citizens struggling with basic services.

Opposition Chief Whip Hon. Abdul Karim Kargbo strongly criticized the project, highlighting the daily transportation challenges between Lungi and the capital, Freetown—particularly the unreliable boat crossings.

Kargbo suggested that the equivalent resources could be better utilized to support tertiary education, improve healthcare, or develop road networks to bolster the agricultural sector.

Furthermore, the opposition expressed alarm over the country’s tightening fiscal space. Kargbo warned that providing a government guarantee for the loan exposes Sierra Leone to significant financial risk and potential liability should the private developer default on their repayment terms.

Taking the criticism to social media, Honourable Abdul Karim Kamara echoed the opposition’s firm stance, writing: “Spending 120 million dollars to construct a presidential villa in Lungi to host ECOWAS heads of state is waste of taxpayers’ money.”

The debate remains ongoing as Parliament continues to weigh whether the proposed centre’s potential economic benefits justify its hefty price tag and the associated financial risks.