Social Welfare Ministry Clarifies Approved School Land Assessment Exercise
Aaron Parker The Ministry of Social Welfare has clarified that the ongoing property assessment and verification exercise at Approved School in Freetown is a Government-led process aimed at documenting the occupation of 40 acres of State land owned by the Ministry.
The clarification follows a publication by The Drone Newspaper alleging that money was being collected from residents in connection with the exercise.
In a press release dated 30th September 2026, the Ministry stated that it is in possession of legal documents establishing its ownership of the 40-acre property.
According to the Ministry, it previously requested all persons occupying portions of the land to submit documents supporting their occupation or claims. However, it said no occupant has so far presented documentation establishing ownership or a legal interest in the property that supersedes the Ministry’s title.
The Ministry explained that the current exercise is intended to establish an accurate record of the land, occupants, structures and claims on the property.
The assessment and verification process is being conducted with the participation of relevant Government institutions and stakeholders, including the Ministry of Lands; the Office of the Attorney-General and Ministry of Justice, represented by a Senior State Counsel; two Police Commissioners; a community representative; and the Head of Approved School.
The Ministry said the participating officials and stakeholders are supporting the assessment, verification and documentation process within their respective mandates. Upon completion, the findings will be compiled into a comprehensive report and submitted to Cabinet for consideration and decision in accordance with established Government procedures.
On allegations of money collection, the Ministry categorically stated that it has not authorised the collection of money from residents in connection with the exercise.
It said no resident is required to make any payment to an individual, committee or group on behalf of the Ministry for the assessment or verification process.
The Ministry has urged anyone who has been asked to make such a payment to provide evidence, including receipts, names of persons involved, documents used or any other relevant information, to enable the matter to be investigated.
It also acknowledged concerns regarding the alleged use of documents bearing the Ministry’s name, logo or other identifying features in connection with the exercise, stating that the circumstances are being verified and appropriate action will be taken where necessary.
The Ministry further called on The Drone Newspaper to provide any evidence in its possession supporting the allegations of money collection to facilitate verification and investigation.
The Ministry maintained that the Government has a responsibility to protect, properly document and manage State property in accordance with the law and established Government procedures.
It said the Approved School assessment and verification exercise will continue to completion, after which its findings will be presented to Cabinet.
The Ministry assured residents and the general public that the exercise will be conducted transparently and accountably and in accordance with applicable laws and Government procedures.
