The Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC) has reaffirmed its commitment to addressing the longstanding welfare and reparation concerns of amputees and war-wounded persons in Sierra Leone, promising renewed efforts to strengthen their inclusion in national peacebuilding and development programmes.
The commitment was made on Tuesday, 3 November 2026, during a meeting between the Commission’s Executive Secretary, Hawa Sally Samai and a delegation from the Amputee and War-Wounded Association, led by Barrister Alpha Jalloh, at the Ministry of Defence Building in Freetown.
The engagement provided an opportunity for the Association to highlight challenges confronting its members and propose measures to improve their living conditions decades after Sierra Leone’s civil war.
Speaking during the meeting, Barrister Alpha Jalloh called for a comprehensive review and implementation of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) recommendations, particularly provisions relating to reparations, rehabilitation and the welfare of war victims.
Barrister Alpha Jalloh highlighted difficulties involving access to healthcare, transportation, education and other essential services, stressing the need for stronger Government intervention and development partner support.
He maintained that amputees and war-wounded persons should be recognised not merely as victims of the conflict but as citizens capable of contributing meaningfully to national development.
Barrister Alpha Jalloh also expressed the Association’s willingness to serve as ambassadors of peace and requested greater participation in national reconciliation initiatives, including National Remembrance Day activities.
The delegation further advocated reviving the proposed Trust Fund for war victims and reconsidering an earlier US$100 reparation package discussed through the National Commission for Social Action (NaCSA).
Additionally, the Association requested representation on the ICPNC Board to ensure that the experiences and concerns of war-affected persons are reflected in national peacebuilding decisions.
Responding, Hawa Sally Samai assured the delegation that the Commission remains committed to protecting the dignity and welfare of persons affected by the civil war.
Hawa Sally Samai explained that President Dr. Julius Maada Bio had directed the Commission to collaborate with NaCSA in reviewing the existing reparation framework, including beneficiary records and relevant documentation.
She disclosed that preparations are underway for a Cabinet paper intended to advance proposals that could eventually receive parliamentary consideration and legal backing.
Hawa Sally Samai emphasized that the Commission is seeking sustainable solutions rather than temporary assistance, adding that the concerns raised would be incorporated into its 90-day presidential assignment.
Regarding Board representation, Hawa Sally Samai explained that membership is governed by the ICPNC Act and that any proposed changes must comply with existing legal provisions.
She also promised that the reviewed TRC recommendations would be shared with the Association, whose representatives would participate in the validation process.
Hawa Sally Samai further encouraged the Association to update its beneficiary database to improve verification and access to assistance.
She disclosed plans to engage the Ministries of Social Welfare and Health on introducing an appropriate identification system for eligible beneficiaries.
The Executive Secretary also reaffirmed the importance of including amputees and war-wounded persons in National Remembrance Day activities.
The Association welcomed the assurances and expressed appreciation for the opportunity to present its concerns.
The engagement renewed attention to the need for practical reparations, improved social protection and meaningful inclusion of war-affected persons in Sierra Leone’s continuing reconciliation process.
