The Liberals Foundation has marked its 27th anniversary with a powerful call to environmental action, leading a massive reforestation campaign on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at the Guma Dam catchment area—Freetown’s primary water source.
Under the theme “Together We Grow: Strengthening Nature’s Fabric, One Tree at a Time,” the Foundation mobilized over 500 participants and planted more than 5,000 trees along a 7-kilometer stretch from Mile Junction to the Guma Dam. The event drew support from high-level government officials, international development partners, and community volunteers in a bold demonstration of civic leadership and environmental stewardship.
The initiative was executed in partnership with the Guma Valley Water Company and backed by the Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, the Ministry of Tourism, Freetown City Council, and World Vision Sierra Leone.
“Planting Hope, Not Just Trees”
Delivering the keynote address, Ing. Ishmail Bundu, Head of the Liberals Foundation, said the campaign was not merely about environmental restoration but a commitment to national development through civic action:
“Today is more than just planting trees, it’s about planting hope. The Guma catchment is the heart of our city’s water system, and restoring it is an investment in Freetown’s future.”
Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Dr. Sao-Kpato Hannah Isatta Macarthy, praised the initiative as timely and aligned with President Julius Maada Bio’s vision of water security through environmental protection.
“There is no clean water without forest cover. Every water project now includes catchment protection. What we see today is civic leadership at its best.”
Guma Valley Water Company Managing Director, Ing. Maada S. Kpenge, underlined the urgency of forest protection:
“Without the forest, there will be no Guma. We must reclaim what has been lost if we are to ensure water security for generations to come.”
Freetown Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, in her remarks, raised concern over the growing threat of deforestation:
“In just the first three months of 2025, we lost over 400 hectares of forest. Today’s tree planting is a vital gesture, but we must also raise our voices louder against the forces destroying our environment.”
World Vision Sierra Leone Country Director, Mr. Sagane Thiaw, emphasized the importance of environmental conservation in ensuring clean water access:
“Clean water cannot exist without a protected environment. We’re proud to support this effort as it aligns with our mission to protect children and communities.”
Since its founding in 1998, the Liberals Foundation has focused on youth empowerment, national service, and civic engagement. The Guma Dam reforestation campaign is a continuation of that legacy, serving as both a symbol of hope and a practical contribution to climate resilience.
As the Foundation celebrates 27 years of impactful service, it is calling on Sierra Leoneans—especially the youth—to take up the mantle of environmental sustainability.
“Together, we grow. Together, we lead,” the Foundation declared in closing.
The event not only reaffirmed the Liberals Foundation’s commitment to national development but also laid down a challenge to all citizens: to rise in defense of the natural resources that sustain Sierra Leone’s cities, communities, and future.
By Edwin Mark
