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The Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC) has engaged the Kambia Correctional Centre on the role of institutions in strengthening peacebuilding, justice delivery, and social cohesion in Sierra Leone.
The engagement, held in Kambia, brought together officials from the correctional centre, ICPNC representatives, and civil society actors to discuss how institutional collaboration can contribute to preventing conflicts, promoting accountability, and sustaining the country’s peace gains.
Leading the ICPNC delegation were the Commission’s North West Regional Coordinator, Edward Koroma, and Regional Officer Francis Patterson, who emphasized the importance of working with key institutions to identify challenges that may affect peace and stability.
During the meeting, Officer in Charge of the Kambia Correctional Centre, Mohamed Kamara, outlined the centre’s operational challenges and highlighted areas where stronger support and partnerships could improve service delivery. These included accommodation facilities for inmates, access to basic utilities, and transportation for court-related activities.
Mr. Kamara noted that improving these areas would strengthen the effectiveness of correctional services and support the broader justice system, which plays an important role in maintaining peace and public confidence.
Civil society representative Aminata Kamara stressed that strong justice institutions are essential to sustainable peacebuilding, as they promote accountability, protect community safety, and contribute to social stability.
Speaking during the engagement, ICPNC Regional Officer Francis Patterson said the Commission remains committed to using dialogue, mediation, and partnerships with state and non-state actors to prevent conflicts and strengthen national cohesion.
He added that ICPNC’s community peace monitors continue to play a key role in identifying early warning signs, supporting conflict prevention efforts, and building resilience within communities across the North West Region.
The engagement forms part of ICPNC’s ongoing outreach to institutions and communities aimed at strengthening cooperation, addressing potential sources of tension, and promoting peaceful coexistence.
