By Forum staff writer
Hon. Sidie Mohamed Tunis has strengthened grassroots economic participation by providing financial support to women of the Sierra Leone People’s Party Njala University Chapter. The cash sum of One Hundred Thousand Leones was presented during a well-attended chapter meeting and is intended to serve as a revolving fund to support small scale businesses among female party members.
The initiative is designed to promote financial independence and sustainability within the chapter. Beneficiaries are expected to use the funds to grow their businesses and repay the principal so that others can also benefit.
Giving an overview of the scheme, Chapter Chairman Dr Brima Gegbe described the fund as a long term empowerment tool rather than a one time donation. He explained that the money is meant to create a continuous cycle of support among members. According to him, the structure put in place will ensure that the fund remains active for years.
“This revolving fund is not a gift but a seed. Hon Sidie Mohamed Tunis has entrusted us with this capital to create a cycle of economic empowerment. Our women will access these funds, grow their trades, return the principal, and allow another sister to benefit,” he said.
The Chapter Revolving Fund Secretary, Dr Saffa M Massaquoi, highlighted the strict process used to select beneficiaries. He noted that a six member committee was responsible for vetting applicants to ensure fairness and accountability.
“We verified active party membership, assessed viable business plans, and required a guarantor within the chapter. Only those who met these conditions were approved. This protects the integrity of the fund,” he stated.
Speaking on behalf of the women, Chapter Chair Lady Mrs Susan Kroma expressed appreciation for the support and urged beneficiaries to use the opportunity responsibly. She called on members to repay on time so others can also benefit, while appealing for continued assistance in the future.
The Chapter Public Relations Officer, Senator Moinina Nelphson Kallon, described the initiative as a demonstration of genuine leadership. He said the support reflects an understanding of the real needs of women within the party.
“This is practical empowerment. It is not for show. We encourage beneficiaries to respect the trust placed in them,” he said.
One of the beneficiaries, Mrs Fatmata Kamara, expressed gratitude and pledged to use the funds effectively. She said the money would support her vegetable oil business and promised timely repayment.
“Hon Tunis has given us a ladder. We will not break it,” she said.
The initiative has been widely welcomed as a meaningful step toward empowering women at the grassroots level and strengthening economic participation within the party.
