The Sierra Leone Conference on Development and Transformation has held a consultative meeting with stakeholders in the district at the Youth Center in Koidu City, Kono District.
The meeting brought together local authorities from all sectors of the Kono society and was aimed at sharing opinions and collecting data on what the expectations of the people are regarding the transformative development of Sierra Leone.
Madam Jasmin Jusu-Sheriff, the Chairperson of the visiting team in her opening statement, drew the attention of stakeholders to the need to include women in party politics and the holding of higher traditional positions in their communities and indeed the country.
She cited Kenema District as a typical example in breaking traditional taboos by electing a woman as Paramount Chief in one of the Chiefdoms. “Women too can contribute to nation building for as long as they are given the opportunity,” Madam Jusu-Sheriff noted.
Madam Sheriff was also quick to present some of the recommendations deliberated upon by the conference which include citizens’ right and responsibilities, accountability and the rule of law amongst others. She said, Sierra Leone needs to imitate countries like Malaysia which started poorly in terms of development and has turned out to be a giant nation as a result of the active participation of women in decision making processes.
Paramount Chief of Gorama Mende Chiefdom, Mariama Gassama Kanja who was among the team to serve as an example for the elevation of women in society, mentioned some of her duties and responsibilities which have led to the development of her Chiefdom. She therefore called on all Sierra Leoneans to change their attitude towards women as they are also partners in national development.
Paramount Chief Aiah Abu Kongorba on behalf his colleague Paramount Chiefs of Kono district, assured the team of their total support and cooperation in pushing the issue of women forward in the District and above all, assured that the 30% quota which is being demanded by the women folk of the county would be given the utmost consideration needed.
By Jon- bu
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