Native Consortium Welcomes Policy Shifts but Raises Concern Over High Auto Licensing and Insurance Costs

The Native Consortium has expressed satisfaction over recent developments that it says reflect the impact of its advocacy on key national issues, ranging from transportation to education and accountability.

In a statement released over the weekend, the Consortium noted that following its sustained campaign against the compulsory purchase of first aid kits for vehicles, the Executive Director of the Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority (SLRSA), Mr. James Bio, has assured that effective 2026, first aid kits and triangle reflectors will only be required once during the registration of new vehicles.

The Consortium described this as a “step in the right direction” in easing unnecessary financial burdens on motorists.

The Consortium also welcomed the resolution of the teachers’ strike, which paves the way for schools across Sierra Leone to reopen today, Monday, 15th September 2025.

It commended the Sierra Leone Teachers Union (SLTU) and the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE) for their constructive dialogue, adding that the reopening of schools would restore normalcy for pupils and parents.

However, the Consortium registered serious concern over what it described as the “unreasonably high costs” of the Autospecks licence and insurance fees, which are not under the control of the SLRSA. It urged the relevant authorities to address these challenges, noting that the current charges are creating further hardship for motorists and transport operators.

In a separate appeal, the Native Consortium urged the Government not to starve the Audit Service of Sierra Leone of its budgetary allocation. It stressed that the institution plays a crucial role in promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance.

The Consortium further extended appreciation to Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Kanneh for his swift intervention in apprehending a suspect in a recent case, noting that such actions restore public confidence in law enforcement.

The Consortium reaffirmed its commitment to continue constructive advocacy on issues affecting the lives of ordinary Sierra Leoneans, adding that its efforts are “changing lives little by little.”