By Alie Sonta Kamara
In an open letter addressed to the Minister of Government and Community Affairs Hon Ambassador Tamba John Lamina, Mayor Yvonne Aki Sawyer said the proposed decision to divide Freetown into councils would have negative consequences.
She said that she is alarmed that the pronouncement has been made without engaging Freetonians.
“This proposed plan to sub-divide Freetown into two cities and create two local councils does not address any of the challenges emanating from the failure to devolve key urban management mandates but will instead create additional management and coordination challenges. In fact, it is my belief that what is required for Freetown to have improved service delivery is greater devolution of functions to the city council, and more consolidation and coordination in service planning rather than further disintegration. Best practice in urban management, particularly for a city as compact and densely populated as Freetown, is to strengthen and not weaken comprehensive and integrated planning for services delivery.
“There is also the negative impact that this proposed action will have on the implementation of existing interventions, designed for the benefit of our residents,” she wrote, stating that the move will undermine the rich legacy and tourism potential of Freetown.
On the flip side, she appreciated the role the Minister played in assisting Freetown City Council to have the Freetown City Council Solid and Liquid Waste Collection Bye Laws laid in Parliament in 2024.
