Today, it would be unfair to wish you a Happy Independence Day. Chances are, as you read this, you might be experiencing a blackout or struggling to access water. Sierra Leone, at 64 years old, still struggles with the basics, lacking sustainable development in any sector. There have been too many fake promises made by politicians and numerous instances of exploitation of our state resources.
There is no doubt that Sierra Leoneans must be commended for their resilience and fighting spirit. In Dove Cut market, single parents are selling small food items in order to put food on the table and educate their children. At Abacha street, we remember the efforts of the women who not only provide for their families but also contribute to the economic development of our country.
Despite all of these challenges, I believe we must appreciate Sierra Leone. This country has persevered through thick and thin, enduring an 11-year brutal war, a deadly Ebola outbreak, and crisis after crisis, yet our nation still stands. There are countless Sierra Leoneans who have worked tirelessly to contribute to nation-building. These individuals are not in government; they are ordinary, selfless citizens playing their part. People like Ishmael Alfred Charles, who has taken it upon himself to provide life-saving medical operations abroad to children in need. In addition, Hassan Koroma has pledged to provide food and better care to people with mental illness through the Sierra Leone Social Workers.
In times of dire need, young leaders like Vickie Remoe have stepped up, using their platform to raise funds to feed people during Ramadan and other times of crisis.
Additionally, leaders like Kei Kamara consistently raise the Green, White, and Blue flag on the soccer pitch. When called upon, always ready to make an appearance.
Furthermore, young lawyers like Sorie-Sengbe Marah have taken it upon himself to hold leaders accountable. There are numerous Sierra Leoneans who are not in government but are actively contributing to the betterment of the nation. The Across our communities, resources are being mobilized to repair potholes, clean drains, and provide bulbs for streetlights.
We should celebrate them, celebrate our independence, and remain hopeful that Salone will rise once again.
Many leaders in the past have played their part. Today, we celebrate figures like Bai Bureh for his dedication to the respect and dignity of his people. As we honor Chief Ella Koblo Gulama, ITA Wallace Johnson, Dr.Shiek Umar Khan, and others for their sacrifices, we cannot ignore their efforts.
If Sierra Leone is to be fixed, it is our collective responsibility to do the right thing. Let us prioritize our nation above all else. Politicians may come and go, but Salone will always remain.
We have every reason to celebrate 64 years of independence. As we celebrate, let us vow to serve this country faithfully, defend its honor and good name, work for its unity, peace, freedom, and prosperity. Let us pray for this country and for good leadership, acknowledging that there is nothing the Almighty God cannot do. So help us God.
In conclusion, I leave you with an exclusive interview I conducted with one of the founding fathers of Sierra Leone’s Independence, Reginald Bultman, on our country’s 50th Independence Anniversary. The interview offers valuable advice on moving our nation forward. Bultman passed away a few years after the interview. I encourage you to read it and reflect on his words.
https://eyewitnessnewssl.com/sierra-leone-was-ripe-for-independence-exclusive-interview-with-reginald-bultman/
