Honorable Sheriff Abba Sanyang, Minister of Lands, Local Government and Religious Affairs, has told Alkalolu to reserve and document lands.
Minister Sheriff Abba Sanyang made the call while speaking at a meeting with Alkalolu in Bondali, Foni Bondali District. He promised that the issue of late collection of tax by the council will be addressed as soon as possible.
“Alkalolu should reserve and document lands to be used for future development. He also cautioned the Alkalolu on their involvement in indiscriminate cutting down of trees in the forest because it will be disheartening to see Alkalolu involved in indiscriminate cutting of trees,” he made it clear to them loudly.
Meanwhile, the Permanent Secretary, Buba Sanyang, informed the VDCs that Alkalolu are part of the VDC as advisers to the committee and as such they should be involved in the activities and engagements of the VDCs.
In his welcoming remarks, Governor Mr. Lamin Sanneh called for unity among local authorities in the region and respect for rule of law.
Highlighting their challenges, Alkalo of Bondali stated that poor road condition, inadequate electricity supply, late collection of tax by Area Councils and the issuing of poor-quality receipt are some of the challenges they are facing.
Meanwhile, in Kalagi, Foni Jarrol District, Honourable Minster Sheriff Abba Sanyang reiterated the importance of peace and stability in the country. He advised against political violence, tribalism and religious intolerance. He appealed to the local authorities to respect and follow the chain of command as public servants, to foster better service delivery.
On his part, Permanent Secretary, Mr. Buba Sanyang cautioned the Alkalolu on issuing of land documents to individuals, especially real estate developers without full payment of the land. He also advised them to always prepare all necessary documents in consultation with the Physical Planning office in the region whenever lending lands to individuals for a long period.
The chief of Foni Jarrol, Mr. Sulayman Sanyang informed the Minister that they have established a committee in Foni Jarrol to curb indiscriminate tree cutting.
Highlighting the challenges, Alkalo of Kalagi mentioned delays in payment of their allowance, lack of proper agricultural equipment as well as cost of fertilizer.
Ms Fatou Sanyang, women representative shared the same challenges. Ms Sanyang also stated that the lack of market to sell their onions this year has greatly affected them.
The representative of VDC Mr Faba Sambou requested for training of VDCs for proper execution of their function in national development