By Aminata Abu Bakarr Kamara
Lands Minister Dr Turad Senesie handing over the land documents to the Charlotte Community Village Headman, Saidu Sesay alias Black Jesus (Left)
In a significant move aimed at promoting equitable land distribution, the Ministry of Lands, Housing, and Country Planning, under the leadership of Minister Dr. Turad Senesie, has officially allocated 168 acres of state land to the Charlotte community. This initiative is part of the government’s broader effort to ensure that land serves the rightful beneficiaries rather than falling into the hands of private speculators.
During the official handover, Dr. Senesie called on the indigenes of Charlotte to continue supporting the government, emphasizing that national development thrives on collective effort. “Through your support, the government will thrive and achieve its goals,” he stated.
The minister also addressed the growing issue of land grabbing, where individuals acquire land for selfish gain, depriving ordinary citizens of their rights. “Many people have developed an interest in the land sector, not to serve the people, but to grab land for personal profit by selling it off. Instead of doing the right thing for genuine beneficiaries, they exploit the system. As a government, our role is to reclaim such lands from these grabbers and ensure they are allocated to those who truly deserve them,” he affirmed.
The announcement has been met with widespread appreciation from the Charlotte community. One of the indigenes expressed gratitude for the minister’s commitment to fulfilling his promise. “What makes a man is when he makes a promise and endeavors to fulfill it,” she remarked.
Speaking to Expo Times immediately after the presentation, Village Headman for the Charlotte Community, Saidu Sesay alias Black Jesus expressed appreciation to President Bio and his government for such kind gesture that he said will go a long way to uplift his people. He said also appreciates that the plan of the land that has been handed over to them has sites for essential facilities for the community such as health centres, schools, and places for religious worship etc.
Speaking on behalf of the community and stakeholders, she further expressed confidence in the legitimacy of the land allocation. “This document is not issued by mistake. We deeply appreciate the minister’s efforts to follow in the footsteps of his boss, the President, in ensuring that the people receive what is rightfully theirs,” she added.
The 168-acre land allocation is expected to open new opportunities for development in Charlotte, empowering residents and fostering economic growth. As the government continues its campaign against land grabbing, this initiative stands as a testament to its commitment to justice and national progress.
The people of Charlotte now look forward to utilizing the land for meaningful projects that will benefit both the community and the country at large.