Honourable Sheriff Abba Sanyang, Minister of Lands and Local Government has urged religious councils to use their voices to promote and preach peace in the country, describing them as crucial in peace building.
Speaking at a meeting in Karantaba amid his countrywide familiarization tour to dialogue and engage local authorities and the communities on local administration as well as the challenges they face.
He underlined that religious councils are under the purview of the Ministry as such they are crucial in peace building in the country. He tasked them to use their voices to promote and preach peace in the country.
He advised the local authorities to avoid settling people and allowing farming on the cattle tracks to prevent possible conflict between farmers and the herdsmen.
The Permanent Secretary highlighted that permanent residency is a requirement in selecting an Alkalo and a Chief in the village and district respectively and it should be strictly adhered to. This will enable a timely delivery of services to the community and most importantly minimize and avoid wrongful delegation of power.
Various Directors from the line departments took turn to enlighten the gathering about their mandates and responsibilities, further encouraging them to reach out to their officers stationed at the office of the Regional Governor in Georgetown when the need arises.
The Local Authorities thanked the Minister and the team for taken time from their busy schedule to meet and dialogue with them.
Similar meetings were held in Brikamaba, Bansang and Janjanbureh respectively, the chief of Jimara District, Kanimang Sanneh hailed Honourable Minister’s appointment, stating that it is a welcomed move and they have no doubt that he will deliver up to expectation because he has a vase experience on local administration.
Chief Ahmeh Kurubally on his part commended the Minister for being the first Local Government Minister ever to tour the whole country and holding meeting at each district with the district authorities.