By Kadiatu A Turay.

In the heart of Lungi Kafu Bollom, a growing township in northern Sierra Leone, residents are united by a simple but powerful demand: the construction of a transformative clocktower that can serve as a symbol of development, identity, and progress. For many locals, the proposed clocktower is more than a structure to tell time it represents hope, visibility, and long-overdue attention from authorities.

Lungi Kaffu Bollom, strategically located along key routes linking rural communities to major towns, has experienced steady population growth over the years. Despite this expansion, residents say the area still lacks basic infrastructure and recognizable landmarks that reflect its importance. Community members believe a clocktower placed at a central junction would not only beautify the township but also enhance coordination, security, and civic pride.

We are not asking for luxury; we are asking for recognition, said Alhaji Sorie Kamara, a respected elder in the community, a clocktower will remind our children that this town matters and that development can reach even the grassroots.

For traders and business owners, time is closely tied to livelihood. Market activities, transport schedules, and daily routines often rely on guesswork due to the absence of public timekeeping facilities. According to Haja Mariama Conteh, a vegetable seller at the Tintafor market, the lack of a visible clock affects productivity.

Sometimes drivers say they will come at a certain time, but we don’t know if it is late or early, she explained, a public clock will help everyone traders, passengers, and even schoolchildren.

Youth leaders in Lungi Kaffu Bollom also see the clocktower as a catalyst for broader transformation. They argue that such a landmark could attract visitors, encourage small businesses, and serve as a meeting point for civic engagement. Abdul Rahman Bangura, a youth activist, believes the project could restore confidence among young people.

Our youths need something to believe in, Bangura said, when development starts with visible projects like a clocktower, it sends a message that the government and partners have not forgotten us.

Traditional authorities have echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the cultural significance of a central monument, speaking to the local chiefdom council, noted that clocktowers in many towns often become historical symbols.

In other districts, clocktowers stand as reminders of unity and leadership, he said. Lungi Kafu Bollom deserves such a symbol that reflects our values and progress.

Education stakeholders also support the call, teachers argue that a public clock would help instil discipline and time consciousness among students. Fatmata Jalloh, a primary school teacher, noted that punctuality remains a challenge in the absence of proper time references.

when children see time displayed publicly every day, it becomes part of their mindset,” Jalloh explained, it supports education in a practical way.

Residents are appealing not only to local councils but also to central government, private investors, and development partners to consider the project as part of wider urban renewal efforts. They stress that the clocktower does not have to be extravagant but should be durable, solar-powered, and well-maintained.

Civil society organizations operating in the area have also shown interest. According to Samuel Koroma, a community development advocate, the clocktower could be integrated into broader initiatives such as street lighting, road safety, and environmental beautification.

This can be a starting point, Koroma said, once you create a landmark, other developments naturally follow.

While the pleas continue, residents remain hopeful. Community meetings, radio discussions, and petitions are being used to amplify their voices. For the people of Lungi Kafu Bollom, the clocktower represents a shared dream one that marks not only the passage of time but the beginning of meaningful transformation.

As one resident simply puts it, when the clocktower stands, it will tell our story that Lungi Kaffu Bollom is ready to move forward.

Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Wedneday, 14th January 2026 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)