By Millicent Obries- Mansaray
The newly appointed General Manager of the Sierra Leone Housing Corporation (SALHOC), Mr. Joseph Munda Sandi, has reaffirmed the corporation’s commitment to tackling the country’s housing challenges. Speaking at the Housing Policy Dialogue Workshop hosted by the Sierra Leone Urban Research Centre, Mr. Sandi emphasized SALHOC’s critical role in shaping the nation’s housing policies and development strategies.
In his address, Mr. Sandi highlighted that SALHOC, established in 1982 by an Act of Parliament, serves as the government’s primary vehicle for housing development, construction, and investment management. He stressed the multifaceted role of housing in national development, referencing Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11, which aims to make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.
Challenges and the Need for a Strategic Approach
Mr. Sandi pointed to the urgent need for a structured framework to address Sierra Leone’s housing deficit, particularly for low-income earners. He emphasized the lack of a clear legislative framework and policy coordination, which has hindered sustainable investments in the sector.
“We have witnessed private-sector investments in housing; however, the absence of strong policy guidance and strategic coordination has limited their impact, especially for low-income households,” he noted.
SALHOC’s Role and Future Outlook
Mr. Sandi reiterated that SALHOC is not only responsible for promoting safe and affordable housing but also plays a key role in shaping and implementing national housing policies as the investment arm of the Ministry of Lands.
“Personally, I see this as an opportunity to foster strong partnerships that will drive meaningful change and restore confidence in SALHOC’s ability to attract and sustain investment in the housing sector,” he added.
The Housing Policy Dialogue Workshop provided a crucial platform for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and experts to discuss innovative solutions to Sierra Leone’s housing challenges. Mr. Sandi’s remarks underscored a renewed commitment to collaborative efforts, aimed at strengthening the housing sector’s policy framework and investment climate for a more sustainable and inclusive future.