During the 2025 budget debates, Members of Parliament (MPs) voiced urgent concerns regarding systemic gaps in Sierra Leone’s healthcare, education, and social welfare sectors. They highlighted critical issues affecting service delivery and governance, urging the government to prioritize resource allocation to underserved communities.
Hon. Amara Momoh Kargbo of the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), representing the Western Area Rural District, emphasized the dire need for mobile ambulance services in his constituency. While acknowledging government efforts in constructing health facilities in rural areas, he lamented the absence of ambulance services despite the facilities’ presence. He also called for increased investment in the fisheries sector, underscoring its potential as a cornerstone for economic growth.
In education, Hon. Rosy Kanu from the Western Area Urban District criticized the inequities in access to learning materials and infrastructure. She urged the government to enhance teacher training programs and address the disparity in resource distribution to improve educational outcomes nationwide.
Addressing gender-based violence, Hon. Kanu pressed for tangible government action to support survivors, particularly in rural regions. She advocated for increased mental health services and stronger budgetary allocations to the Ministry of Social Welfare to combat substance abuse, including the rising use of “kush” among youth. Additionally, she requested infrastructure upgrades in Allen Town to enhance connectivity in her constituency.
Hon. Mohamed Sheridan Kamara of Kambia District expressed alarm over the ballooning wage bill, attributing it to unnecessary government appointments. He called for equitable resource distribution across the three branches of government, stressing the judiciary’s role in upholding constitutional rule.
Meanwhile, Hon. Umu Pyne from Moyamba District commended marginal improvements in primary healthcare, including an increase in the health budget from 7% to 9%, supported by international health partners. However, she stressed the importance of sustained efforts to reduce infant and maternal mortality rates and improve the healthcare system as per the 1991 Constitution.
These collective calls reflect MPs’ commitment to addressing critical gaps and improving the living standards of Sierra Leoneans, particularly in underserved communities.
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