By Ibrahim Karim Bangura (Tanko)  

In a notable demonstration of leadership and commitment to community service, Honorable Ishmael Sankoh Yillah has donated over 30 solar lights to constituency 074 Lokomasama Chiefdom, Port Loko District, north of Sierra Leone.

On Saturday March 15, 2025, the people of Petifu junction, Lokomasama Chiefdom, witnessed the commissioning of a 1.5-kilometre solar streetlight installation project aptly named as “Light is Life.”

This milestone event was graced by key stakeholders, including Paramount Chief Bai Marro Raka III, Chiefdom Speaker, SLPP Women’s Leader Madam Fatmata Conteh, Director of the Youth Service Commission Mr. Abass Kanu, and several SLPP party executives from the district.

The District Chairman Edward L. Williams, who chaired the event, set the stage with an outpouring gratitude and commendation for Hon. Yillah’s initiative.

The overwhelming appreciation from the people of Lokomasama Chiefdom underscores a profound truth that Hon. Yillah is more than just a politician; he is a humanitarian, a leader of action, and a true servant of the people.

Various speakers at the event noted that Hon. Yillah had exceeded expectations as he has not just made promises but has done a real, tangible change that would improve many lives in the chiefdom.

In his speech, “Paramount Chief Bai Marro Raka III” emphasized the importance of “unity and vigilance” in safeguarding the developments in the district.

He reminded the people that Hon. Yillah is a representative of all—not just a representative to those who voted for him, but to every son and daughter of Lokomasama Chiefdom, both at home and abroad.

“This call for unity is both timely and necessary. Development projects like “Light is Life” “and so should be seen as collective achievements and the responsibility of maintaining them must be shared by all.”

“It is only through collective ownership and responsibility that such initiatives can have a lasting impact on people,” he said.

Hon. Ishmael Sankoh Yillah said his commitment to his constituents is driven by a deeper purpose—to support his brother, mentor, and Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, while also strengthening the SLPP party’s presence in the region.

Meanwhile, he reflects the heart of a leader who understands that development is a continuous process, and it requires patience, resilience, and sustained effort. His message to the youth of his constituency was clear: “Be patient and resilient; better days are coming.”

The “Light is Life” project is more than just a solar installation;  it is a symbol of progress, safety, and a brighter future for Lokomasama Chiefdom and it represents what is possible when leadership is driven by purpose, and when elected officials honour their promises with action.

As Lokomasama basks in this new light, let this project serve as a reminder that development thrives on collective responsibility he said.

Hon. Ishmael Sankoh Yillah has done his part; now, it is up to the people to protect, sustain, and build upon this progress.

The Paramount Chief added, “this is the kind of leadership Sierra Leone needs— one that is visionary, selfless, and people-centred.”

May this be the beginning of even greater transformations for Lokomasama, Chiefdom, he prayed.