In response to pressing climate change challenges, the Westminster Foundation for Democracy (WFD) launched the Environmental Democracy Project in Freetown on October 24, 2024. Held in Parliament’s Committee Room No. 1, the event also included a Developmental Democracy Programme and Stakeholders Mapping Exercise.
Rev. Alusine Diamond Suma, WFD’s Country Director, stressed Sierra Leone’s urgent need to address environmental issues and democracy. He cited rapid population growth and plastic waste in Freetown as key contributors to visible environmental degradation, especially during rainy seasons. WFD aims to foster community dialogue on climate challenges while empowering MPs to share this knowledge within their constituencies.
Deputy Clerk Mr. Gilbert Nhabay launched the project, underscoring the legislative role in climate action. He highlighted Sierra Leone’s vulnerability to climate change, ranking as the world’s third most at-risk country. Nhabay emphasized transparency and collaboration among stakeholders as vital to tackling these challenges.
Hon. Konkafa Farah Mansaray of the Water Resources Committee emphasized climate action for future generations, especially concerning access to clean water. Mr. Kemoh Marrah from the Mines Committee advocated for community engagement with mining companies to mitigate environmental impact, while Hon. Daniel Amadu Bangura of the Fisheries Committee noted climate-related threats to fish migration, calling for local involvement.
Shaka Mansaray, representing civil society, urged MPs to draft effective climate legislation and strengthen outreach with constituents. The Environmental Democracy Project sets the stage for unified action between government, civil society, and communities in Sierra Leone’s climate response.
