By Kadiatu Lamrana Jalloh
Kambia, SIERRA LEONE – While some districts grappled with protests and business closures, Kambia stood out for its distinctive response to the unrest.
In the early hours, school pupils in Kambia showed determination by attending classes, although a significant number of primary school children remained at home. Concerned parents kept some children from going to school, citing reasons such as a lack of motorbike transportation and missing uniform badges.
Despite these challenges, some shop owners decided to open their stores, while others chose to stay home. Notably, public and private institutions, including the hospital, microfinance offices, banks, and schools, opened their doors, and employees reported for work.
Local Bamoi and Kambia youths had initially planned to stage protests. Kambia’s youth even purchased placards from local cafes in preparation. However, the situation took a positive turn thanks to the intervention of the military and the police. Their prompt actions helped quell tensions and safely dispersed the potential protesters, sending everyone back to their homes.
As the day progressed, the streets of Kambia remained unusually quiet, with military and police personnel patrolling the area. However, the absence of protests and any harm done in the district marked a significant success in maintaining order. KLJ/12/9/2023