The Ministry of Planning and Economic Development concluded a two-day review of the District Development Coordination Committee (DDCC) in the Southern Region.

The session, held at the Bo District Council Hall in Falaba Section, assessed progress made since the committee’s establishment and strategized on strengthening its structure.

Participants highlighted strong collaboration among partners, though some stakeholders remain uncooperative. The Ministry recommended measures to address non-compliance. Concerns were also raised about sectors failing to report support from NGOs, leading to resource inefficiencies and under-reporting.

Bo District Council Chief Administrator Vivian Sally Senesie praised the Ministry’s technical assistance to local councils, describing the DDCC as a “sheer gem in the local governance structure” that ensures effective service delivery.

UNICEF-Kenema’s Chief of Field Office, Andrew T. Sellu, emphasized the DDCC’s role in promoting localized community representation, while civil society activist Gerald A. Foday from Moyamba District applauded the committee’s transparency and accountability measures.

Minister of Planning and Economic Development, Honourable Kenyeh Ballay, urged stakeholders to prioritize constructive dialogue and avoid hindering regional development. She reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to consolidating nationwide progress and highlighted local councils as key to rural transformation.

The DDCC, comprising district stakeholders, NGOs, devolved sectors, and council staff, meets bi-monthly to align local development initiatives with national objectives, prevent project duplication, and enhance transparency.

The review praised Southern Region councils for their high performance, with Bo District Council, under Chairman Victor Korseh Hindowa, emerging as a leader. Recommendations were made to ensure the committee’s sustainable operations.