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The proposed sale of Sierra Leone’s historic Juba Barracks is shortsighted, favouring short-term gains over our long-term national interests. The government should pursue a long-term lease—99 or 120 years—to monetise the asset while protecting it for future generations. This preserves sovereignty, generates sustainable revenue, safeguards our colonial heritage, and offers flexible financing without irreversible alienation.
A lease keeps ultimate ownership, with the land reverting to the state at term’s end. Selling risks permanent foreign control amid reports of potential Lebanese or Indian buyers and could undermine strategic sites in crowded Freetown. Future generations could reclaim the barracks for military, cultural, educational, or public use. Leasing supports redevelopment into commercial spaces for steady rental income, unlike a one-time sale that funds temporary upgrades but erodes national patrimony.
I fully support the military’s aspiration to construct modern housing around Masiaka, but a one-time sale might yield roughly $3,000,000–$5,750,000 ($150,000–$250,000 per acre). This pales against the permanent loss of sovereignty, heritage, and future flexibility.
I strongly advocate for a long-term lease (99–120 years). It retains state ownership—the land reverts—while generating sustainable revenue: conservative estimates ($20,000–$30,000 per acre/year) yield $400,000–$690,000 annually for 20–23 acres, accumulating millions over decades with escalation clauses. If upfront funds fall short, the lessor can borrow against these cash flows under Sierra Leone’s Borrowers and Lenders Act and Collateral Registry, securing loans comparable to sale proceeds.
This model works across Africa. Djibouti leases land for foreign military bases (e.g., US Camp Lemonnier), earning millions annually while retaining control. Nations like Sudan, Angola, Ethiopia, Mali, and Nigeria (Lekki Port) use long-term leases for strategic projects, securing capital without full alienation.
Even stronger: let Sierra Leone’s own institutional investors invest through a transparent intermediary (PPP/SPV) to fund the military’s Masiaka project while managing the lease—keeping wealth at home, avoiding foreign risks, and securing strong returns.
By leasing Juba Barracks, we invest in posterity—ensuring our children inherit enduring assets, not depleted resources. Policymakers must choose wisdom: lease now and secure Sierra Leone’s future forever.
