A dispute over a parcel of land intended for the Kono University of Science and Technology (KUST) has been resolved following engagements between the university, Gbense Chiefdom authorities and government stakeholders.

The resolution culminated in the signing and formal transfer of a Deed of Gift to the Vice-Chancellor and staff of KUST on Tuesday, Aug. 25, 2026.

The property is located along Council Road in Koidu Town, Moinde Kor Section, Gbense Chiefdom, Kono District.

The Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs (MLGCA) facilitated the discussions that led to the agreement, with the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education (MTHE), District Office of National Security, civil society organisations and other stakeholders also involved in the process.

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The agreement removes a dispute that had raised concerns in the community and clears the way for further development of the university.

Speaking during the transfer ceremony, Acting Minister of Local Government and Community Affairs Alfred Moi Jamiru praised the parties for resolving the disagreement through dialogue.

Jamiru said the ministry’s involvement was intended to help the parties reach an agreement that would serve the interests of education, peace and development.

He described the land as strategically important to KUST and called on the stakeholders to continue working together as the university develops.

The acting minister also acknowledged the roles of the Minister of Local Government and Community Affairs, Amb. Tamba Lamina and Minister of Technical and Higher Education Dr Haja Ramatulai Wurie in supporting the resolution process.

Jamiru said the expansion of KUST could create jobs, improve skills development and contribute to economic activity in Kono.

He also urged traditional authorities, young people and other community members to support the university and avoid disputes that could interfere with its development.

Prince Alex Soriba, permanent secretary at MLGCA, said the resolution demonstrated how dialogue and cooperation can help address local disputes that affect development projects.

He pointed to the potential role of universities in local economies through employment, attracting students and professionals, and creating opportunities for social and cultural interaction.

According to Soriba, the development of KUST also fits within the government’s broader focus on education, skills development and institutions that can prepare young people for the demands of a modern economy.

William Ngegbai, senior district officer for Kono District, acknowledged the contribution of the ministry and other stakeholders to the resolution.

He said the disagreement had generated concerns within the community and discussions on social media, prompting further engagement between the parties.

The eventual agreement brought the different stakeholders together for the formal transfer of the property.

Dr. Josephus Brimah, chief technical and higher education officer at MTHE, described the transfer as an important development for Kono’s ambitions in science and technology.

The land transfer comes as preparations continue for the next phase of development at KUST.

Ing. Monica Sellu Kamara, project coordinator of the KUST Project Implementation Unit, said contractors and consultants are expected to return to Kono in September as work moves into its next phase.

The timing of the construction work gives the university an opportunity to move forward after the resolution of the land dispute.

KUST Vice Chancellor and Principal Prof. Tamba Jamiru said the university’s long-term plans extend beyond its core academic facilities.

He outlined a proposed knowledge hub that would include a museum, library, conference hall, secretariat and hospitality facilities.

The university sees the proposed facilities as supporting education while also contributing to tourism and investment in the area.

The traditional authorities of Gbense Chiefdom welcomed the agreement and pledged continued support for KUST.

Paramount Chief Komba Sangor Korgbende Kaimachiande IV expressed appreciation for the dialogue that produced the agreement.

The Chiefdom Speaker, Chief Aiah Moses Kamanda, described the land transfer as an important development for Kono and said it demonstrated the commitment of traditional authorities and the wider community to the university’s development.

With the Deed of Gift now formally transferred, attention is expected to shift toward the next stage of KUST’s development and construction programme.