On November 12, 2024, the Senior Citizens Network Sierra Leone and the Southern Regional Police Command, led by Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Brima Kanneh, formalized a strategic partnership aimed at promoting peace and social unity in Sierra Leone. The collaboration, launched at the Regional Police Headquarters in Bo City, represents the first official engagement between the Senior Citizens Network and Southern Police Command since the Network’s inception in early 2023 following national elections.
Sam Goba, CEO and founder of the Senior Citizens Network, expressed appreciation for AIG Kanneh’s efforts in maintaining regional stability, accompanied by senior members of the Network including Gender Focal Person Mrs. Sky-Kay, Communication Lead Chief Brima Tangabay, and SLBC Radio Station Manager Soriba Samura. Goba underscored the Network’s apolitical mission to foster social cohesion and unity, leveraging partnerships with law enforcement as a key element of their community-building strategy.
In his remarks, Goba outlined the Network’s commitment to mobilizing retirees as active contributors to society, emphasizing the organization’s dedication to peacebuilding through senior engagement. “We seek your consent, blessings, and partnership, AIG,” Goba stated, stressing the Network’s intent to support broader efforts in enhancing social tolerance across the nation.
AIG Kanneh responded by affirming Inspector General of Police William Fayia Sellu’s pledge to boost law enforcement effectiveness through ongoing international training programs for officers. These professional development initiatives, he noted, aim to strengthen police investigative capacities and reinforce a commitment to security in the region.
Looking ahead, the Senior Citizens Network announced plans for a Unity Dinner on November 30, 2024, in Bo City. The gathering will bring together leaders from diverse tribal and political backgrounds, fostering dialogue and mutual understanding in pursuit of social harmony.
In related developments, AIG Kanneh has directed the transfer of a missing person case from Pujehun Police Division to the Bo Regional Criminal Investigation Department to enhance the investigation, pledging to keep the public informed as new information emerges. He praised the Senior Citizens Network’s work, especially their contributions during the recent election period, and encouraged the Network to extend their outreach to include youth from marginalized communities as part of a long-term strategy for sustainable peace.
The meeting concluded with a group photograph, symbolizing the partnership between the Senior Citizens Network and Southern Police Command in their shared goal of cultivating unity and peace across Sierra Leone.
