17/06/2026
President Bio commends Local Government Ministry for strengthening grassroots peace and governance
Kambia Town, 31 October, 2025 President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has applauded the Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs (MLGCA) for its remarkable efforts in maintaining peace, resolving disputes, and strengthening traditional governance across the country.
He made the commendation during the official recognition ceremony of 17 newly elected Paramount Chiefs from the northern and north-west regions, held in Kambia Town.
The President noted that the Ministry’s proactive role in resolving chiefdom disputes, addressing issues related to secret societies, conducting Paramount and sub-chief elections, and mediating conflicts has been instrumental in preserving peace at the local level.
“To the Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs, I acknowledge your relentless efforts in resolving chiefdom disputes, addressing issues relating to secret societies, conducting elections of Paramount Chiefs and sub-chiefs, mediating conflicts, building the capacity of local actors, and exercising oversight over local councils,” President Bio stated. “Your work is commendable and crucial to sustaining our traditional governance structures.”
The event was called to order by the Director of Local Government, Brima Newman Combey, and chaired by the Minister of Local Government and Community Affairs, Ambassador Tamba Lamina, who thanked President Bio for gracing the occasion.
Minister Lamina briefed the President on the ministry’s recent pre-orientation program for the 17 newly elected Paramount Chiefs, which focused on governance, leadership, and the principles of chieftaincy. He explained that many new chiefs, though from ruling houses, often lack administrative experience, prompting the ministry to introduce induction training to enhance their capacity for effective leadership.
Delivering his keynote address, President Bio reminded the Paramount Chiefs that their recognition and coronation were not only mandated by law specifically Part IV, Section 17(a) of the Chieftaincy Act of 2009, but also symbolic of the enduring relevance of traditional leadership in nation-building.
He called on the newly elected chiefs to champion food security, promote healthy lifestyles, and actively support the fight against “Kush,” a dangerous drug that has devastated many young lives across the country.
“Paramount Chiefs must note that maintaining peace is one of the most important functions of the traditional institution in every society and remains key to achieving sustainable development,” the President emphasized.
“As a son of a Paramount Chief, I will continue to ensure that this sacred institution is treated with awe and reverence. It must remain anchored on customs and traditions that restore peace, stability, national cohesion, and development.”
President Bio reaffirmed his government’s commitment to preserving Sierra Leone’s traditional institutions, describing Paramount Chiefs as vital partners in governance, health promotion, and sustainable development.
“We firmly believe that Paramount Chiefs serve as the foundation of governance in our country and as liaisons between government and local communities,” he said. “Therefore, I urge the newly recognized Paramount Chiefs to bridge the gap between communities and government agencies, thereby contributing significantly to improved health, food security, and sustainable development.”
The recognition ceremony, attended by senior government officials, members of the National Council of Paramount Chiefs, provincial secretaries, and district officers, underscored the government’s continued support for traditional leadership as a pillar of national unity and progress
