By Amadu Daramy, Maryland, USA
Stakeholders in Panguma, Lower Bambara Chiefdom, Kenema District, recently concluded a successful redistricting meeting attended by a diverse group of participants, including Paramount Chief Alimamy Farma, local chiefs, students, women’s and youth groups, and commercial motorbike riders.
The meeting, which included dignitaries such as the Minister of Local Government and Community Development, Mr. Tamba Lamina, representatives from Statistics Sierra Leone, and the Electoral Commission of Sierra Leone, was hailed as a resounding success. Attendees engaged in active and candid discussions, fostering a spirit of patriotism and invaluable participation aimed at advancing the chiefdom’s development aspirations.
Upon their arrival in Panguma, the high-powered delegation paid a courtesy call on the Paramount Chief and other elders of the chiefdom. However, several prominent politicians, including Hon. Francis Konowa, Hon. Dr. Bernadette Lahai, and others, were noticeably absent from the meeting.
Despite political interference concerning the Lower Bambara Descendants Development Association (LBDDA) and existing differences among stakeholders, the meeting saw strong attendance. Participants set aside their differences in a collective effort to further the development goals of Lower Bambara. Concerns were raised about certain politicians attempting to manipulate the LBDDA for personal gain, a move the community has vowed to resist, emphasizing that the organization is fundamentally oriented toward its members.
A key agenda item was the government’s recent announcement regarding the transformation of Panguma into a district. Stakeholders recognized that both local residents and those in the diaspora have long aspired for this change. The meeting commended the dedication and sacrifices made by individuals in pursuit of this long-cherished goal, emphasizing that their efforts would be remembered in the chiefdom’s history.
At the conclusion of the meeting, participants unanimously agreed that continued unity, determination, and love for the chiefdom would be crucial for its rapid development. Special acknowledgments were made to Aunties Matti and Jenneh, the dynamic chair of Genesis Gbonda Sei, and others for their hard work and commitment to community spirit.
Moreover, stakeholders proposed that Dodo should be included in the newly established Panguma District, given its historical significance as a daily commute site for the secret female Bondo Society, founded by Chief Faba, the father of King Nyagua.
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