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The central issue discussed at the recent meeting in Kenema was the urgent need for enhanced community engagement and cooperation to strengthen security and effectively combat crime.
Sierra Leone Police (SLP) leadership, alongside key stakeholders and traditional authorities, emphasized that collaborative efforts are essential to addressing insecurity, reducing fear, and promoting lasting peace in the region.
The meeting took place at the Nongowa Chiefdom administrative office on Hangha Road, Kenema City. It was attended by notable figures including Police Regional Commander-East, Assistant Inspector General (AIG) Francis Brima Menday; Kenema District Police Commander, Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Bob Musa Nazlic Mansaray; District Security Coordinator Madam Josephine Wuya Kaiyonga; Civil Society representative Mr. Augustine Sannoh; and prominent traditional leaders.
Discussions centered on revitalizing community watch groups, strengthening intelligence sharing, improving early warning systems, and fostering youth engagement programs to prevent delinquency and curb crime.
Chief Frank Senesie Daniel Nikal, the Nongowa Chiefdom Speaker, opened the session by thanking police officials and stakeholders for their proactive efforts to enhance security. He stressed that maintaining safety is a collective responsibility, especially as Kenema continues to grow rapidly, making it impossible for law enforcement alone to manage security challenges.
Madam Josephine Wuya Kaiyonga underscored the importance of cooperation between police and traditional authorities, emphasizing that community stability depends on their joint efforts. She urged traditional leaders to play an active role as custodians of peace and to support police initiatives in fighting crime.
Chief Superintendent Bob Musa Nazlic Mansaray called for traditional rulers to reinforce their roles as frontline partners in maintaining peace. He explained that crime often involves a “triangular box,” where offenders sometimes receive support or opportunities within the community, highlighting the importance of community vigilance. He outlined specific responsibilities of chiefs and local authorities in crime prevention.
AIG Menday stressed that building trust and encouraging active participation from community members are vital for effective security governance. He announced that Kenema has been divided into zones to facilitate targeted security operations and urged authorities to support Community Safety Volunteers (CSVs) in their efforts to sustain safety initiatives.
Throughout the meeting, various speakers shared ideas and suggestions aimed at fostering a more secure environment through stronger community-police partnerships.
This gathering represents a significant step towards establishing a collaborative security framework that respects traditional leadership while enhancing law enforcement efforts—ultimately striving for a safer, more peaceful Kenema.
