By Hassan Osman Kargbo
One of the most pressing challenges Sierra Leone faces in its journey toward sustainable development is the country’s widespread disregard for the value of time. In contrast to countries where punctuality is a cornerstone of professional and social conduct, Sierra Leone remains a nation where time is often treated with a level of indifference that hinders progress and tarnishes the image of professionalism across sectors.
In Sierra Leone, it is not uncommon for events, from government functions to public meetings, to begin hours after their scheduled start times. A typical scenario might involve a conference, seminar, or even an important meeting announced for 10:00 a.m., only to see attendees trickle in well past the designated time, and the actual event not commencing until 10:30 a.m. or even 11:00 a.m. This practice has become so entrenched that it is almost accepted as the norm.
The question arises: why does this blatant disregard for time persist in a country that seeks to position itself as a rising star in West Africa’s economic and political landscape? The answer lies in a complex mix of cultural habits, weak governance, and an overall lack of respect for professional standards.
Historically, the concept of time in Sierra Leone has been approached with a more relaxed attitude. While this is seen as a feature of many African cultures, it stands in stark contrast to the more rigid time schedules upheld in Western societies and other parts of Africa. In Sierra Leone, the common saying “time will tell” has been used to justify lateness, with many people believing that arriving late does not necessarily detract from the importance or quality of the event.
However, this relaxed attitude has serious implications in a modern, fast-paced world where time is considered a valuable resource. The lack of punctuality can cause disruptions to schedules, delay critical services, and hamper the efficiency of national operations. This behaviour is most concerning when it extends to critical sectors such as government operations, where the impact is felt far more acutely.
Also, the situation is perhaps most glaring in the public sector. Government employees, especially in Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), have become notorious for showing up late to work. It is not uncommon to find civil servants arriving at their offices after 10:00 a.m., and in some cases, even as late as 11:00 a.m. The irony here is that these same individuals are being paid from the public coffers, funded by taxpayers, yet they fail to uphold the most basic professional standards.
This lack of punctuality is especially troubling when one considers the critical role civil servants play in national development. From processing permits and conducting important administrative tasks to interacting with the public, civil servants hold positions that require accountability and professionalism. However, if these individuals fail to manage their time effectively, it impedes not only their own productivity but the country’s ability to provide essential services in a timely manner.
When civil servants fail to adhere to work schedules, it sends a dangerous message to the entire society. Citizens, who see the neglect of time management in the public sector, may adopt similar attitudes in their own lives. Such a behaviour is not only disruptive, but it can also create a culture where procrastination is tolerated, and deadlines are disregarded. For a country like Sierra Leone, which is striving for economic growth and prosperity, this attitude can be incredibly damaging.
If professionals, including educators, healthcare providers, and business leaders, do not respect time, it sets the country back in its pursuit of development. Key infrastructure projects are delayed, foreign investments are deterred, and international partnerships become more difficult to maintain. The negative impact on efficiency is felt throughout the economy, with people wasting time rather than using it effectively to solve problems and create new opportunities.
Sierra Leone’s leadership must set the example. When government officials, civil servants, and business leaders fail to respect time, it undermines public trust and confidence in the system. Accountability must start at the top, with those in positions of power prioritizing punctuality and time management in their work and interactions with others. Leaders must demonstrate that time is not just a resource, but a responsibility.
It is essential for the government to implement strict regulations and set clear expectations for time management within both the public and private sectors. Efforts must include enforcing time policies that promote punctuality, holding civil servants accountable for late arrivals, and emphasizing the importance of time in every sector of society. A professional environment, where time is respected and valued, is critical for ensuring the efficient use of resources and for the nation’s progress.
While the government must lead by example, Sierra Leone’s citizens also have a role to play in fostering a culture of time management. Educating the population on the importance of punctuality, encouraging the adoption of time-sensitive practices, and reinforcing the idea that time is a valuable asset are essential steps. The collective responsibility of society will be key in creating lasting change.
Sierra Leone must transition from a culture of delayed action to one of timely response, where every individual, from government officials to ordinary citizens, understands the value of time in contributing to the country’s development.
In conclusion, Sierra Leone’s failure to value time remains a significant hindrance to the nation’s growth. The government must take decisive action to promote time management across all sectors, ensuring that time becomes a resource that contributes to national prosperity rather than one that is wasted.
By prioritizing punctuality, Sierra Leone can take a significant step towards securing a brighter, more prosperous future for all its citizens.
