By Mariama Bundu
President Julius Maada Bio has renewed his commitment to transparent, inclusive, and people focused governance during a Presidential Town Hall Meeting held at University of Makeni Hall.
The meeting brought together government officials, Paramount Chiefs, development partners, youth and women’s groups, and residents of Makeni to discuss governance, national development, and the future of Sierra Leone.
Speaking at the event, President Bio highlighted some of his government’s achievements, including providing access to education for over two million children, increasing electricity coverage, reducing maternal and child deaths, improving food inflation, and constructing roads and bridges across the country.
He said his government will continue to focus on improving education, expanding electricity supply, investing in young people, developing infrastructure, and creating more opportunities for women through agriculture and business support.
The President also called on Sierra Leoneans to promote unity and reject tribalism, urging citizens to see diversity as a strength.
“I have demonstrated to you all that I am inclusive, so I challenge you all to break the boundaries of tribalism. Let us see ourselves as one,” President Bio said.
On the upcoming National Population and Housing Census, President Bio encouraged citizens to take part, assuring them that the process would be transparent and credible.
He also spoke about Sierra Leone’s leadership role in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), saying it shows the country’s growing influence in the region.
During the programme, President Bio presented symbolic cheques to representatives of 1,200 young people who will benefit from start-up grants under the 8,000-business initiative. The project is supported by the Government and the World Bank to help create jobs for young people.
The President also launched the Ministry of Information and Civic Education’s Update Magazine, Volume 3, which provides information on government programmes and development activities.
The meeting ended with calls for continued citizen participation, transparency, and national unity.
