Westminster Foundation and Parliament Engage Stakeholders on Climate Change Mitigation in Sierra Leone

The Westminster Foundation and the Parliament of Sierra Leone have engaged with parliamentarians, civil society activists, and other stakeholders to raise awareness on mitigating the impacts of climate change in the country.

The meeting took place at the Conference Hall in the new Administration Building of the House of Parliament and is being sponsored by the WFD.

Wurie Bah, the Program Coordinator of the Westminster Foundation, emphasized that the main purpose of the meeting is to ensure citizens have access to accurate information regarding climate change and to disseminate that information across various communities in Sierra Leone. He explained that they have developed a model to cascade information on environmental issues effectively.

Mr. Bah further noted that the model involves participatory theatre or mobile drama, which will utilize dramatic art to raise awareness and encourage action by highlighting community issues affecting residents. He underscored the aim of the meeting as a means to unite key stakeholders—including parliament, civil society organizations (CSOs), the media, and citizens—to collaborate with the necessary knowledge and skills to enhance communities and minimize climate hazards.

Civil society activist Shaka Mansaray shared his perspective on the importance of environmental democracy, emphasizing policies that address environmental and climate change challenges in Sierra Leone. He pointed out the devastating climate change effects on the country, such as the mudslides in the Mortomel community, and stressed the urgent need for a holistic approach. Mansaray asserted that environmental democracy is essential for every citizen to benefit from the environment.

Sheku Turay, the Director of the Parliamentary and Public Relations Department, discussed various significant issues, noting that people are primarily engaged in activities for their livelihood. Key stakeholders present at the meeting provided valuable contributions and insights aimed at mitigating environmental and climate issues in Sierra Leone.