Jagaban Commits To Transform Sierra Leone’s Communities
By Alex Lawrence Koroma
In a major stride towards sustainable development and community empowerment, Sheikh Alhaji Mohamed “Omodu” Kamara, popularly known as Jagaban, the leading flagbearer aspirant of the All People’s Congress (APC), has officially launched a pioneering solar lighting initiative across Sierra Leone. This groundbreaking project aims to bring clean, reliable energy and improved water access to underserved communities, reinforcing Jagaban’s commitment to development and national progress.
The initiative was unveiled in Pujehun District, notably during a visit to Zimmi on May 4, 2026. The journey to Zimmi was marked by stops in Bandajuma Sowa and Potoru, where Jagaban engaged with grassroots supporters and community leaders. These visits were driven by the strong demand from residents of Potoru, who expressed their desire to meet Jagaban due to his reputation for spearheading developmental projects across Sierra Leone. Their enthusiasm culminated in a formal declaration of support for his candidacy ahead of the upcoming National Delegates Conference (NDC), signaling the political significance of this grassroots backing.
The event in Zimmi saw a warm reception from the APC district leadership. On behalf of the APC District Chairman, Dr. Woo, and the local executive, Mr. Dauda Vanwah Koroma, the APC Chairman of Constituency 101, expressed gratitude to Jagaban and his team for their visit. The occasion also marked the formal acceptance of the solar street lighting project, symbolizing a new chapter in infrastructural enhancement for the district.
Jagaban himself expressed profound appreciation for the overwhelming support from the people of Pujehun. He remarked that their enthusiastic reception and large turnout demonstrated a collective readiness for his vision of development, which aims to uplift not only Pujehun, but Sierra Leone as a whole. “Their support shows that they are eager for progress. Our development initiatives are designed to bring light, safety, and dignity to all communities,” Jagaban stated.
A resounding cry from the crowd captured the political momentum behind Jagaban’s bid. The people of Zimmi chanted in Krio, “2028 na Jagaban we want!” This powerful slogan signified their firm backing and sent a clear message to APC delegates and stakeholders ahead of the party’s crucial decision-making processes. Such expressions of support underscore the growing confidence in Jagaban’s leadership and the transformative potential of his development agenda.
The solar lighting project is part of a broader strategy to address critical infrastructural gaps in Sierra Leone. The initiative involves the installation of 5,000 solar street lights, manufactured by KF Solar in China, which are designed to provide sustainable illumination in areas where electricity access remains limited. The project is not merely about lighting; it is also a commitment to enhancing safety, reducing crime, and extending productive hours for communities, especially during the night.
In addition to the solar lights, Jagaban has announced the deployment of borehole drilling machines to improve water access across Sierra Leone. Water shortages during the dry season have been a persistent challenge, affecting health, sanitation, and daily living. The borehole project aims to provide clean, safe drinking water to underserved communities, further emphasizing Jagaban’s holistic approach to community development.
Jagaban emphasized the importance of local knowledge in identifying priority areas, encouraging councilors and traditional leaders to participate actively in selecting communities that will benefit most from the projects.
This initiative is designed to be inclusive and non-partisan, accessible to all Sierra Leoneans regardless of political affiliation. Jagaban made it clear that the solar street lights and boreholes are free of charge. He warned against any exploitation, urging the public to report anyone demanding payment in his name to the police.
Responding to questions from the media, Jagaban highlighted that the projects are driven by urgent community needs for reliable light and water. He assured that the installations will be carried out by qualified engineers and come with a five-year warranty, ensuring durability and ongoing maintenance. The project’s transparency and accountability are central to its success, reflecting Jagaban’s commitment to responsible leadership.
The technical team behind the project has been active in Kono District, where solar panels are being installed at the APC Kono District Office. This symbolic step underscores the party’s dedication to powering its structures and extending the benefits of clean energy to party offices and communities alike. The team also extended the initiative to honor the memory of the late Hon. Lucinda Finda Kellie, bringing light and dignity to her community and exemplifying the project’s inclusive ethos.
As Sierra Leone continues its journey towards modernization and sustainable development, Jagaban’s solar initiative stands out as a beacon of hope and progress. By combining renewable energy solutions with water access projects, the aspirant demonstrates a comprehensive approach to community upliftment. The initiative not only promises immediate infrastructural benefits, but also sets a precedent for responsible, environmentally friendly development.
