The Ministry of Planning and Economic Development has launched an outreach program in Bonthe District to promote the Medium-Term National Development Plan 2024-2030. The initiative, led by Minister Kenyeh Barlay, engaged local stakeholders to align the district’s growth trajectory with national development goals.

In her keynote address, Minister Barclay appreciated the community’s steadfast support of President Julius Maada Bio’s vision for Sierra Leone. She acknowledged the extensive challenges faced by Bonthe District, noting that her prior visits, often under “ghost feasibility” studies, aimed to assess these issues firsthand. The Minister stressed that the Medium-Term National Development Plan intends to accelerate development by aligning local needs with “The Big Five” government priorities, emphasizing sustainable economic growth and resource management.

The Minister praised Bonthe’s contributions to Sierra Leone’s development, spotlighting notable figures from the district, including President Bio and other prominent leaders. She highlighted specific goals of the plan, such as climate change adaptation, commercialization of local products, and support for mechanized agriculture, which she noted would create sustainable job opportunities and support local industries. Projects such as improved road networks, access to electricity, skills training, and targeted loan programs for women were among the key priorities highlighted for Bonthe District.

Related News

Minister Barclay appealed to the people of Bonthe to continue collaborating with the government to realize these ambitions, assuring them that many of their long-standing concerns—such as road infrastructure—would soon be addressed. She also introduced the Induced Development and Resettlement Program to ensure the community benefits from significant development projects like mining and agriculture.

Local Leadership and Community Response

Joseph Moiwo, head of civil society organizations in Bonthe, commended the Ministry for its transparent approach to involving residents in the development process, calling it a strong step toward accountability. Mr. Moiwo emphasized that achieving long-term success with The Big Five—particularly the Feed Salone initiative—would require active participation from all Sierra Leoneans.

Paramount Chief Foday Sheriff encouraged residents to take ownership of government initiatives, emphasizing the district’s agricultural potential, especially at the Tormabum agricultural hub. Chief Sheriff cited the government’s provision of agricultural machinery and irrigation systems, calling it a foundation for community empowerment.
Parliament’s Support

Hon. Alusine Bash Kamara, Member of Parliament and Deputy Development and Planning Committee Chairman, expressed appreciation for Minister Barlay’s dedicated efforts. He reaffirmed Parliament’s commitment to advancing legislation supporting the development plan and addressing Bonthe’s unique challenges.

Voices of the Community

The administrative head of Bonthe District Council, Dauda Moiwo, and Deputy Municipal Mayor Jonathan Vandy Turay both conveyed their gratitude to President Bio and Minister Barlay for prioritizing Bonthe in the national dialogue on development. Residents hoped that the Ministry’s presence and continued engagement would prioritize improvements to road infrastructure, electricity, affordable transportation, and educational facilities.

Leadership presentations by Issa M. outlined the Induced Development Program’s potential to deliver tangible benefits to communities affected by large-scale projects. Residents voiced their commitment to promoting the Medium-Term National Development Plan through active participation and support for The Big Five goals.