By Ibrahim S. Bangura
Sierra Leone: A heated land dispute has erupted in the Kuntorloh community as the Lifeline Nehemiah Project raises alarm over what it describes as attempts to seize its property at the Approved School site. The organization warns that the move threatens the education and well-being of over 900 children from more than 30 schools that rely on the field for sports and extracurricular activities.
Executive Director Prince Tommy Williams told journalists that despite a court injunction and confirmation from the Ministry of Lands affirming Lifeline’s ownership of the property, individuals allegedly led by Mohamed Tunde Macathy, alias Tumac, have continued efforts to take over the land—with reported backing from police forces.
Williams accused the Ministry of Social Welfare of exacerbating the situation, citing plans to construct a Skills Training Centre for Persons with Disabilities on the site. “Without this field, our children will be deprived of sports and extracurricular activities essential for their development,” he said.
Founded in 1996, the Lifeline Nehemiah Project operates educational institutions from nursery to vocational level and boasts alumni who have become lawyers, parliamentarians, and professionals. Williams has appealed to President Julius Maada Bio, the Chief Minister, and the Ministries of Lands and Education to intervene and protect what he claims is the organization’s legally owned property.
Chief Pa Alimamy De-II, site foreman and supervisor, echoed Williams’ concerns, emphasizing that the 44-acre site is vital for community activities. He condemned ongoing encroachment and urged swift government action to prevent children from losing their only recreational space.
In response, the Ministry of Social Welfare issued a public statement categorically denying the allegations. The Ministry described the claims as “false, misleading, and malicious,” asserting that the land is government-owned and earmarked for a disability-focused training centre funded by the Government of India.
“The property has long suffered from unauthorized encroachment,” the Ministry stated. “Our intervention is aimed at reclaiming it for its intended public use. We remain committed to transparency, accountability, and the delivery of programmes that uplift the lives of the people of Sierra Leone.”
The Ministry urged the public to disregard the allegations and reaffirmed its dedication to serving vulnerable communities through social protection initiatives.
As tensions rise, calls for clarity and resolution continue, with both parties appealing to higher authorities to safeguard the interests of children and persons with disabilities alike.