The Freetown Male Correctional Centre, commonly known as Pademba Road Correctional Centre, relocation team negotiated for land acquisition at Songo on Monday 23rd of August 2021.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Mr. Mohamed Sheikh Kargbo did say that the negotiation for the Land at Songo is a continuation of a meeting they held at the Ministry, where they discussed issues pertaining the acquisition of the land. He further stated that at the beginning, 120 acres of land was requested for, but during their discussion it was agreed that more piece of land would be needed for the construction of an ultra- modern correctional Centre.

He assured the Stakeholders that the Government will make use of the local content policy, which will create job for the indigenes during the inception of the project, rather than outsourcing.

“The Correctional Centre, coming here will be accompanied by explosive development such as the construction of a court of justice, police station, schools, markets, hospitals, roads, and so much more,” the Permanent Secretary disclosed.

Stepping forward to speak, the Acting Director General of the SLCS- Mr. Ahmed A. Turay expressed delight over progress made that far and laid emphasis on the cooperate social responsibilities of the SLCS.

“Preference would be given to deserving youths of Songo during our next phase of recruitment.”

He intimated them of Government’s firm commitment to relocate the Freetown Male Correctional Centre.

The Technical Support Team Lead from the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces seconded to the SLCS, Colonel David Ngaujah thanked the Stakeholders for the fruitful negotiation and reiterated that government is pushing hard for the relocation of the FMCC to Songo.

He further said deliberations that day will be publicised.

The Assistant Director of the Ministry of Lands, Country Planning and Housing, Mr. Yayah Kamarakeh promised to give the actual total of the parcel of land survey in the shortest possible time, for the additional land bringing it to a total of 300 acres of land for the whole project.

He frankly told the Stakeholders that the Government was not buying the land, but will compensate them.

He explained the need for the Stakeholders to reduce the initial price of 30(thirty) million Leones per acre, of which 12(twelve) million Leones per acre was agreed by both parties.