Makeni, October 8, 2024 – The National Land Commission has officially launched its office in Makeni and Bombali District, marking a significant step towards securing effective and holistic land administration in the region. This move is part of the implementation of the Customary Land Rights Act, which establishes both the National Land Commission and the District Land Commission to oversee land matters across Sierra Leone.
Under this Act, citizens are guaranteed the right to own or use land without discrimination based on gender, tribe, religion, age, marital status, social, or economic status. The law also abolishes a colonial-era regulation that prohibited descendants of freed slaves from owning land outside the capital city, Freetown. This new legislation is seen as a victory for equality and inclusion in land ownership across the country.
Speaking at the launch, Amadu Kamara, the newly appointed Land Commissioner for the Northeast region, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve in this capacity. He emphasized the importance of building strong relationships with local communities and traditional leaders, assuring them of open and transparent communication regarding land issues in the region.
Commissioner Kamara pledged to provide quality leadership and to prioritize resolving land disputes in Makeni and Bombali District. He encouraged residents to approach him freely, reaffirming his commitment to being a listening and results-driven leader who is ready to address land-related challenges in his region.
The establishment of the Makeni and Bombali District office is expected to bring about much-needed reforms in land administration, ensuring that land ownership processes are more equitable and accessible for all citizens.