By Joseph Momoh, D.S. Reporter
KOIDU — A protracted dispute over land earmarked for the Kono University of Science and Technology has been resolved after Gbense Chiefdom formally transferred ownership to the institution.
The Deed of Gift for the parcel was signed and handed over to KUST Vice-Chancellor and staff on Tuesday, August 25, 2026. The property is located along Council Road in Koidu Town, Moinde Kor Section, Gbense Chiefdom, Kono District.
The resolution followed months of engagement facilitated by the Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs. The Ministry of Technical and Higher Education, the District Office of National Security, civil society organisations and other stakeholders also took part in the discussions.
Speaking during the transfer ceremony, Acting Minister of Local Government and Community Affairs Alfred Moi Jamiru praised the parties for resolving the disagreement through dialogue.
Jamiru said the ministry’s involvement was intended to help the parties reach an agreement that would serve the interests of education, peace and development. He described the land as strategically important to KUST and called on stakeholders to continue working together as the university develops.
The acting minister also acknowledged the roles of the Minister of Local Government and Community Affairs, Amb. Tamba Lamina, and Minister of Technical and Higher Education Dr. Haja Ramatulai Wurie in supporting the resolution process.
MLGCA Permanent Secretary Prince Alex Soriba said the agreement showed how dialogue can resolve local conflicts that threaten development projects. He noted the disagreement had sparked concerns in the community and on social media before stakeholders reached consensus.
Soriba also pointed to the potential role of universities in local economies through employment, attracting students and professionals, and creating opportunities for social and cultural interaction. He said the development of KUST fits within the government’s broader focus on education, skills development and institutions that can prepare young people for the demands of a modern economy.
William Ngegbai, senior district officer for Kono District, acknowledged the contribution of the ministry and other stakeholders to the resolution.
KUST Vice Chancellor Prof. Tamba Jamiru welcomed the transfer and said the university’s expansion would create jobs, improve skills training and boost economic activity in Kono. He urged traditional leaders, youths and residents to support the institution and avoid actions that could disrupt its growth.
Dr. Josephus Brimah, Chief Technical and Higher Education Officer at MTHE, described the handover as a milestone for Kono’s ambitions in science and technology.
Traditional authorities also pledged support. Paramount Chief Komba Sangor Korgbende Kaimachiande IV expressed appreciation for the dialogue, while Chiefdom Speaker Chief Aiah Moses Kamanda said the transfer reflected the chiefdom’s commitment to KUST’s development.
With the land dispute settled, attention now turns to construction. Ing. Monica Sellu Kamara, Project Coordinator of the KUST Project Implementation Unit, said contractors and consultants are expected to return to Kono in September as work enters its next phase.
The transfer clears a key hurdle for KUST as it prepares to expand beyond core academic facilities in line with its long-term development plan.
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