Bo District Development Coordination Committee Discusses Key Issues and Challenges in September Meeting

The Bo District Development Coordination Committee (DDCC) held its monthly meeting on Tuesday, 3rd September 2024, at the Bo District Council conference hall in Falaba Section, Kakua Chiefdom. The meeting, which gathers representatives from Local Councils, Devolved Sectors, Agencies, INGOs, National NGOs, Chiefdom Authorities, and other implementing partners, focuses on the district’s developmental progress and challenges.

The Chief Administrator, Madam Vivian Sally Senesie, called on all implementing partners to enhance their cooperation with both councils to advance Bo District’s development. She noted that establishing the DDCC has significantly contributed to progress across the country.

Deputy District Council Chairperson Madam Alberta Baindu Kowa, who presided over the meeting, acknowledged the partners’ efforts in service delivery but expressed concern over the lack of visibility of their work.

She highlighted the DDCC’s importance in promoting development and voiced her disappointment over the low
turnout of partners at the meeting. Madam Kowa emphasized that consistent participation is crucial and hinted at possible consequences for defaulting partners, which could involve actions recommended by the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development.

Mr. Mohamed E. Ngeavao, representing the Mayor of Bo City Council, praised both councils for their coordination efforts. He noted that organizing such meetings requires extensive planning, commitment, and sacrifice. He urged all partners to be diligent in their roles and to contribute meaningfully to nation-building.

Various stakeholders, including devolved MDAs, INGOs, National NGOs, and the Children Forum Network, presented during the meeting. Mr. Paul P. Koroma of World Vision International commended partners for their cooperation in submitting reports but urged more detailed submissions to ensure clarity. He specifically mentioned INGOs such as World Vision International, CARE International SL, and others that have complied with reporting requirements. M
r Koroma called other development partners to renew their registration with the necessary institutions.

Conversely, Madam Hannah Yambasu of WAVES expressed her disappointment with the low cooperation from National NGOs in submitting reports. She recommended that both councils take prompt action against non-compliant partners.

The District Council Chairman, Mr. Victor Korseh Hindowa, encouraged implementing partners to engage Councilors as entry points into their localities. He also stressed the importance of registering with the councils and maintaining regular updates on progress.

Resolutions:

The committee unanimously agreed on the following key points:

Agencies such as NaCSA, NCRA, and the Red Cross Society should submit their reports to the relevant Devolved Sectors for presentation at the DDCC meetings.

All partners must send their reports to the DDCC Secretariat three days before the meeting so that the District Council Chairman/Mayor and Chief Administrators can review them in advance.

Issues Di
scussed:

Legal and sanitation concerns regarding Sachet Water Companies in Bo District.

The high rate of pregnancy among pupils.

Needs assessment for the Bo District Council Development Plan 2025-2030.

Registration requirements for National NGOs and INGOs with the Councils.

Source: Sierra Leone News Agency