Flagbearer aspirant of the All People’s Congress (APC), Ibrahim Bangura, has served as Guest of Honour at a landmark ceremony marking the commencement of construction of the first-ever Women of Wanjama Women’s Village (WOW) along Gbondapi Road in Pujehun District.
The project, described by stakeholders as a major step toward women’s empowerment, aims to promote skills development, unity, and self-reliance among women. Organizers noted that the Women of Wanjama initiative has been active for over a decade, advocating for women’s rights and community development.
The ceremony attracted hundreds of attendees, including traditional leaders, community stakeholders, gender advocates, youth and women’s groups, security personnel, and members of the media.
Welcoming guests, Town Chief Mustapha Koroma thanked participants for their presence and called for unity and mutual respect within the community.

In her address, Founder and National President of Women of Wanjama, Nansu Fofanah, traced the origins of the organization, explaining that it was established in response to widespread challenges faced by women, including domestic violence, abuse, and marginalization.
She emphasized that the organization provides a platform for women across political and social backgrounds to unite, access vocational training, and build sustainable livelihoods.
“As long as a woman stands for a position in any party, our organization will stand by her,” she said, highlighting the group’s commitment to inclusivity and support for women’s leadership.
Paramount Chief of Kpanga Chiefdom, PC Andrew Ibrahim Jiah Kaikai, described the initiative as a significant development milestone for Pujehun. He urged stakeholders to support women’s empowerment efforts, noting that economic independence for women is key to community progress.
Former Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Diana Konomani, also expressed support for the initiative, announcing her decision to renew her membership in the organization. She commended the leadership of Nansu Fofanah and called for increased support to ensure the success of the project.

Delivering the keynote address, Dr Bangura highlighted the critical role of women in national development, noting that women make up a significant portion of Sierra Leone’s population and must be placed at the centre of development efforts.
He called for unity beyond political and regional divisions and urged collective action to advance national progress. He also praised the leadership of Women of Wanjama in promoting women’s empowerment.
The event featured the presentation of a plaque recognising Dr Bangura as Chief Patron of the organization.
Proceedings concluded with the turning of the sod for the construction of the women’s village, followed by cultural performances and celebrations to mark the milestone.









