Falaba, Sierra Leone – April 23, 2024: It was a momentous and joyous occasion for the people of Falaba District, as they witnessed the landmark commissioning of critical infrastructure facilities constructed in partnership with the Government of Sierra Leone and the District Council and supported with funds by the European Union.
Hundreds of residents of Falaba District including youth, women and people from all walks of life joined distinguished guests, including the Hon. Minister of Local Government and Community Affairs, Amb. Tamba Lamina, and EU Ambassador Manuel Müller, alongside parliamentarians, paramount chiefs, local council leadership, government officials, the private sector, CSOs, and other dignitaries from Falaba District to witness the inauguration of the infrastructure projects. These include newly constructed multipurpose halls, markets structures stores, grain stores, drying floors, and other essential facilities in Mongo and other surrounding communities areas.
This inauguration signifies a leap forward in Falaba district’s development journey, made possible through the collaborative efforts of the European Union (EU), the District Council and the Government of Sierra Leone.
Known for its high agricultural productivity, Falaba, which was originally part of Koinadugu District, was created in 2016, with Mongo Bendugu serving as its district headquarter town. Falaba District borders Koinadugu and Bombali Districts in the Northern Region, and the Republic of Guinea. Being a new district, Falaba needed infrastructure, compounded by funding constraints. Thanks to the EU-funded “Support to Civil Society and Local Authorities for Local Development in Sierra Leone” project, these challenges are being addressed. The project not only supports Falaba’s infrastructure but also shows a tangible commitment to strengthening the capacity of the local council to deliver on its core mandate of providing social services for the well-being and prosperity of the district’s residents.
EU Delegation Sierra Leone
The partnership between the EU and the Government of Sierra Leone has been instrumental in driving sustainable development initiatives in the region, strengthening good governance and community empowerment.
EU Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Manuel Müller, expressing his delight at the event, noted:
“This occasion marks our support to the Falaba District Council by building their capacity to respond to the development aspirations of its people and enhance sustainable service delivery at the community level. Today, we have witnessed a strong representation of women and young people in the Falaba District Administration. I am also encouraged by the active participation of community members in contributing to the district’s development through tax payments, which further supports the council’s endeavors. This project reaffirms the EU’s dedication to promoting sustainable development and fostering socio-economic growth of Falaba District.”
The project aims to enhance public service delivery by empowering District Councils for good governance and sustainable development. Through capacity-building initiatives and support for local revenue generation, it seeks to improve delivery of essential services, promote sustainable agricultural practices, and develop critical rural infrastructure.