The Ministry of Lands Housing And Country Planning, responsible for issuing building permits in Sierra Leone has revealed that a significant number of houses in the capital city are constructed without proper authorization.

In an interview with Radio Democracy, Directorship of the Surveys & Lands Division within the Ministry of Lands, Housing, and Country Planning, Tamba Dauda stated that “less than 30% of houses in Freetown have building permits.” He attributed this issue to a combination of factors, including a limited number of staff and the rapid growth of the city.

“The Western Area, originally designed for a maximum population of 5,000 people, now houses over 2 million residents,” Dauda explained. “This unprecedented urban expansion has put immense pressure on housing infrastructure and planning.”

The ministry’s challenges are further compounded by the vast geographical area it covers. “Our staff have to travel to remote locations, some of which are difficult to reach,” Dauda said. “This limits our ability to effectively monitor and regulate construction activities.”

The recent collapse of a building in Shell, Freetown, has highlighted the dangers of unauthorized construction. Dauda emphasized that obtaining a building permit is essential for ensuring safety and structural integrity.

To address these challenges, the Ministry of Land has implemented several reforms, including the development of a building code. “This new law sets standards for construction materials, weight, load, and soil bearing capacity,” Dauda explained. “It is a crucial tool for ensuring that buildings are built to withstand the elements and potential hazards.”