In a major move toward administrative restructuring, the Government of Sierra Leone has approved the creation of two new districts and the upgrade of key townships to city status. The announcement was made by the Minister of Local Government and Community Affairs, Hon. Tamba Lamin, during the ongoing Civic Day Series in Moyamba, organized by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education.
According to Minister Lamin, the government will establish Bandajuma District, drawn from parts of Bo and Pujehun Districts, and Kpangoma District, formed from portions of Kenema and Kailahun Districts. These changes are set to reshape regional boundaries, particularly in the Southern and Eastern Provinces.
The strategic township of Lungi, home to Sierra Leone’s only international airport, is also earmarked for elevation to city status in recognition of its growing infrastructure and economic significance. Plans are also in motion to subdivide Freetown into multiple cities as part of broader urban governance reforms.
This initiative builds on decentralization efforts started under former President Ernest Bai Koroma, which previously led to the creation of Falaba and Karene Districts and the establishment of the North Western Province. If finalized, the addition of Bandajuma and Kpangoma will bring the total number of districts to 18.
Minister Lamin emphasized that the proposed changes will proceed through necessary legislative and administrative steps before implementation.
The Civic Day Series aims to foster direct engagement between citizens and government officials. In Moyamba, the program features discussions on key sectors including agriculture, infrastructure, education, gender equality, health, and mineral resource management, with the goal of enhancing public awareness and participation in national development.
By James Cole
