The Karene District Council with support from the European Union and DAI in partnership with the government on Thursday 25th April 2024,  celebrated the commissioning of the newly constructed Market, Rehabilitated Community Multi-purpose Hall, Water and Sanitation Facilities, newly constructed Bridges and Culverts in Kamakwe Town. These projects were supported by the European Union (EU)  and implemented by the Council.

These infrastructural development in Kamakwe and other parts of the district  was a significant development initiative that stands to benefit the people.

The EU’s support is to strengthen the Council’s capacity to deliver on its core mandate and to boost the district’s economic and social infrastructure such as rural roads, bridges, provision of clean water and sanitation facilities, providing access for farm products to markets, creating inter-connectivity within the district for access to health and education centers with the aim of improving the wellbeing of citizens in the various communities. The support is particularly designed for marginalized groups in the communities including women and youths.

The Head of European Union Delegation in Sierra Leone, Ambassador Manuel Muller said the EU  is proud to identify with the District’s development trajectory , especially as the newly created district Council that strives to improve the quality of life of the people.

He highlighted the positive impact of EU-funded projects in the district, including infrastructural improvements like bridges, culverts, water points, roads, market structures and a multipurpose hall. These investments seeks to enhance the lives of the residents while bolstering the Council’s financial resources for effective governance. Muller emphasized the EU’s commitment to supporting Sierra Leone’s development agenda, particularly through projects in various districts nationwide.

“The EU has, over the years, worked with Local Councils because they have an understanding of local challenges and are strategically placed to address these issues.” He noted.

“EU intervention promotes accountability and service delivery, especially with the support that came through the Support to Civil Society and Local Authorities for Local Development in Sierra Leone Project, which adds revenue generation to the mix.” Muller encouraged the people to continue paying taxes so that the Council could undertake more projects.

He reiterated the EU’s dedication to empowering District Councils as agents of good governance and sustainable development. He emphasized the enduring partnership between the European Union and the Government, highlighting their joint efforts in advancing local development initiatives.

In his contribution, the Chief Administrator of Karene District Council, Sorie Gbawuru Sillah, reflected on the Council’s journey since its formation in 2016. Despite early challenges, EU’s support has provided essential resources like vehicles and motorbikes, enabling smoother operations.

Sillah expressed gratitude for the EU project, citing its pivotal role in advancing their development aspirations, laying emphasis on the cadastral system, which is new to the Council, and is set to hugely bolster its revenue generation. Equipped with new found project and financial management skills, he believes that believes, they are poised to administer the Council for effective service delivery to the citizens. He emphasized their commitment to maximizing the benefits of the investments through the introduction of the sustainable public-private partnerships model.

“Development happens when the people are happy and peaceful, and the government has reliable development partners like the European Union,” the Deputy Minister of Local Government and Community Affairs, Alfred Moi Jamiru told the gathering. He noted that “Through collaboration with the European Union, we continue to prioritize enhancing public service delivery and promoting sustainable development in our communities.”

Providing an overview of the project, DAI Team Lead, Lameck Siage, celebrated its 100% success rate and expressed satisfaction with achieving project objectives. Siage highlighted the diverse impacts of the project, including construction works, water facilities, road improvements and capacity development for the Council.

He pointed out that Karene District marks the culmination of the project’s implementation, with Siage expressing gratitude to the EU for their unwavering support.

“What remains now is for the Karene district to ensure that they maintain and benefit from these investment facilities. We applaud the Karene District for its cooperation in implementing this project and appreciated our work together in this district,” Mr. Siage said.

The newly inaugurated market and stalls provide local traders with a conducive environment to safely and securely showcase their products. The refurbished multipurpose hall also stands as a symbol of modernity, offering a venue for official gatherings and social events within the District.

Implemented with technical assistance from DAI, this initiative is part of the European Union’s broader efforts to support Civil Society Organisations and District Councils in Kenema, Bombali, Falaba, Kambia, Karene, and Pujehun. This project exemplifies our unwavering commitment to promoting sustainable development and fostering resilience within Karene District and beyond.