By Abdul Martins Foday Amara
In a significant step toward enhancing urban development and governance, the Minister of Lands, Housing, and Country Planning, Dr. Turad Senesie delivered a compelling keynote address at a stakeholder consultation held in Bombali District on Tuesday, 10th September 2024. The event marked the continuation of a nationwide dialogue focused on the review of the Country Planning Act. The Minister highlighted that the primary objective of this legislative revision is to remodel towns and cities while devolving development control responsibilities to local councils, a move deemed essential for addressing the challenges facing urban areas.
The consultation, hosted at the City Council Hall, attracted diverse participants, including representatives from Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), local authorities, civil society organizations, and media representatives.
This broad participation underscores the Ministry's commitment to fostering an inclusive approach to urban planning. The ministry recognizes that effective governance requires input from all sectors of society.
In his address, the Minister outlined the pressing issues that necessitate the review of the Country Planning Act. He pointed to the proliferation of unplanned communities, rampant noise pollution, inadequate access roads, and the alarming trend of haphazard construction that often obstructs waterways and catchment areas. "These challenges are not merely inconveniences; they pose real threats to public health, safety, and the overall quality of life for our citizens," he stated.
According to the Minister, the new law would now make provision for green spaces and fountains within towns and cities and recreational centers, among other things. These will be grouped under a special project called the City Corridors Devolvement Project, which the Minister proposes to work together with the Councils to actualize.
The government introduced a revised planning act to implement frameworks that promote orderly development and sustainable urban environments.
Hon. Quinton Sallia, Chairman of the Parliamentary Oversight Committee on Land, praised the Minister for his courage in pursuing legal reforms many may shy away from. "No country can develop without a robust planning framework," he asserted, reinforcing the importance of this initiative. His remarks were echoed by local council officials and other stakeholders, who expressed their support for the Minister's vision of a well-planned urban future. The discussions during the consultation were rich and varied, with participants sharing their insights and experiences regarding urban planning and development.
As the consultation series continues in Bo, Kenema, Port Loko, Bombali, and Freetown, the Ministry remains dedicated to engaging stakeholders in meaningful dialogue. The aim is to ensure that the upcoming reforms reflect the diverse needs of all citizens and pave the way for a more organized, sustainable, and inclusive urban landscape.
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