By Amin Kef (Ranger)
In a bid to bolster collaboration and support for President Bio’s far-reaching development initiatives, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, the Chief Minister of Sierra Leone, engaged influential Heads of Unions at State House in Freetown on Friday, August 18, 2023.
The strategic meeting saw the participation of key union groups, including the Drivers’ Union, Market Women Association, Bike Riders’ Union, Petty Traders, Kekeh Riders, and Traders Union. The session was orchestrated to align these essential players with the realization of the President’s comprehensive “Big Five Agenda” for the nation.
During the meeting, Alpha Bah, Chairman of the Commercial Drivers and General Motor Owners’ Union, conveyed gratitude to President Bio, channeled through the Chief Minister, for their proactive approach in prioritizing Government initiatives. He acknowledged Sierra Leone’s resilience in the face of a global economic crisis and praised the nation’s relatively stable food supply.
Lansana Vandy, Chairman of the Traders’ Union, spoke on behalf of his constituents and expressed deep appreciation for President Bio’s pioneering move in appointing more than 30 percent women to his cabinet. Vandy, representing one of the nation’s largest unions, pledged unwavering support to the Government’s endeavors, particularly in achieving the goals of the Big Five Agenda.
Vandy stated, “Chief Minister, I assure you of our steadfast commitment to President Bio’s administration. Moreover, we intend to initiate large-scale farming endeavors to contribute to the realization of the ‘Feed Salone’ vision. By reverting to traditional practices like cocoa cultivation for tea, we can invigorate local farmers and invigorate our economy.”
Chief Minister Dr. Sengeh reciprocated the unions’ sentiment, acknowledging their remarkable dedication and pledging ongoing collaboration with the President. He emphasized the importance of their role in driving transformation across Sierra Leone and commended the grassroots support pouring in from various sectors nationwide.
Dr. Sengeh conveyed his gratitude to the Union leaders for their tireless efforts in shaping a prosperous future for the nation’s youth and its overall prosperity. He reiterated the Government’s commitment to an inclusive approach, transcending tribal, regional, and political divides—an approach exemplified by the recent appointment of young, dynamic Ministers from all corners of the country.
In closing, he encouraged the Unions to persist in their contributions to national development, highlighting that every effort, regardless of scale, contributes to Sierra Leone’s best interests. This collaborative spirit, he emphasized, would steer the nation toward a brighter and more prosperous future.
