By: Kadijatu Bangura, Reporter, Daily Scope
The Government of Sierra Leone has compensated 17 landowners in Black Johnson and surrounding areas as part of its legal acquisition of land for the Fish Harbor project. This move is a significant step in the government’s efforts to develop the region’s fisheries industry.
Lawyer Yusuf Sesay, representing the Attorney General’s Office, confirmed that the compensation process has been ongoing since 2019. “We called for people to submit their documents if they have land that will be affected by this development. We received over 200 claimants, but after thorough scrutiny with the Ministry of Lands, only 21 individuals have legal claims to the lands,” Sesay stated. Of the 21 claimants, 17 have received their compensation, while four individuals remain in the documentation process to access their payments.
The Black Johnson Fish Harbor project will cover a total of 252 acres of land, with 80 acres already classified as government property under the Fore Shore Act, which designates lands near the shoreline as government-owned. The government has diligently followed legal procedures to acquire the remaining 172 acres, ensuring compliance with all necessary regulations.
“We have involved the community, Parliament, and executed the warrant to take over the land for the project,” Sesay emphasized, asserting the government’s commitment to transparency throughout the acquisition process.
Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources, Princess Dugba, noted that the project has attracted further investment interest. She revealed that companies specializing in laboratory work, fish canning, and other ventures are prepared to invest once construction begins, promising to create hundreds of jobs. Funded by a $55 million grant from the Chinese government, the Fish Harbor project is expected to generate significant revenue and provide numerous employment opportunities.
Upon completion, the harbor will be owned and operated by the Government of Sierra Leone, marking a critical advancement for the nation’s fisheries industry.
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