Posted by Solomon Yarjoh

Fambul Tok,CFP partner with Government to host “wan fambul” conference

 

Fambul Tok International Sierra Leone and Catalyst for Peace Foundation in partnership with the Government of Sierra Leone just completed a successful two- day workshop on the 17th to 19th of October 2022 in Kono District to deliberate on the National Wan Fambul Framework.

VP(4th from left) pose with members of the high table

Before the workshop proper, field visitation was held in Soa chiefdom on Monday,October 17 were community participants(Peace mothers ,community mediators, Village Development Commitees) from Koinadugu,Moyamba,Kailahun,Karene and Falaba districts and other representatives from Fambul Tok, Catalyst for Peace Foundation, Ministry of Local Government, Donor partners went around different communities to witness various activities carried out that day

On Tuesday, October 18,2022,at the Thomas Sahr Quee hall in Koidu city , Executive Director of Fambul Tok John Caulker briefed the gathering about what his organization and Catalyst for peace Foundation have been doing for the past decade in ensuring that there is peace and stability  in Sierra Leone by constantly engaging authorities and local people for sustainable development in their communities. President of Catalyst for Peace Foundation, Elizabeth Hoffman expressed joy over their longtime working relationship with Fambul Tok in making sure that community plan their development own projects.

She said communities will always be allowed to be part and parcel of development processes, adding that if they are not included sustainable development will not be a success

Minister of State , Office of Vice President, Francess Alghali chaired the opening and said Fambul Tok continue to play major role to ensure communities are not only at peace but remains cohesive. He said Catalyst for Peace Foundation has worked with Fambul Tok for so long and achievements registered in the country could attributed to strong partnership

Minister of Local Government and Rural Development ,Tamba Lamina in his address said wan fambul framework is a vehicle for development. He appreciated the effort of the Vice President for gracing the occasion.

PC Tamba Emmanuel Foyoh iv  of Soa Chiefdom ,speaking on behalf of his colleagues  extended appreciation to  Fambul Tok and Catalyst for Peace foundation for designing the Wan Fambul National Framework, a model that is inclusive. He said because of the successes of  the People’s Planning Process(PPP) has done in various chiefdoms to create chiefdom plans the Government of Sierra Leone deemed it fit and bought the idea to support the process so that communities will be inclusive and own their development aspirations

Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh reassured Fambul Tok and Catalyst for Peace Foundation including participants present about Government’s commitment to the road map of the People’s Planning Process. He added that Government Projects will not be successful if the People are not placed in the center of development. He said the framework will not be an elephant project as it is a very important tool for community development. He was nearly carried away by presentations from participants from various districts and pledged government support to ensure community development aspirations are realized

The Vice President also attended the next day’s  session at Diamond lodge in Koidu city where the Minister of Planning and Economic Development,Dr Francis Kaikai played host to participants.

Participants especially peace mothers  from various districts presented what they have and continue to do in terms of activities

 

 

 

Posted by Solomon Yarjoh

Kowama villagers embrace visually impaired man

It was unbelievable for Pa Morie Musa for the whole Kowama village to openly apologized and embraced him once again during traditional burn fire last Thursday.The visually impaired man has been totally abandoned by his people including immediate family members many years ago.

Testifying during the burn fire,he said he left the village  many years ago when he was active.He continued that after decades he decided to return home to help in the development of Kowama.He told his audience that he became ill and was visually impaired.He lamented over how his plantation was misused and did not receive any proceeds from his labor.

Pa Musa told the mammoth gathering that almost all  inhabitants of Kowama had no business with him.adding that he had suffered  a lot and  nearly wanted to find ways to leave the community.

Responding to his testimony,Town chief of Kowama Madam Nyawo Faaba took the stage on behalf of the village and did not go into all what the old man has said.She was also  joined by elders of the village to apologize and once again embrace the old man.

Madam Faaba said Pa Musa’s parents were founder of the village and does not wish him   to leave.She encouraged him to accept the apologies in the spirit of peace and reconciliation.Pa Musa cried but accepted

Posted by Solomon Yarjoh

Fambul Tok International calls on Sierra Leoneans to embrace peace and national cohesion


On the occasion of the celebration of
the International Day of Peace, 21st September 2022 with the theme: “End Tribalism. Build
Peace and National Cohesion”, we at Fambul Tok International- Sierra Leone want to use this
moment to re-echo and fully share in the message of strengthening the ideals of peace,
celebrated as a period of non-violence and cease-fire, whilst encouraging every Sierra
Leonean to continue embracing peace and national cohesion.
As an organization, we want to invite every Sierra Leonean to join our efforts in working
towards a nation free of tribalism, violence and negative political ideological orientation—
and build our society where all members feel that they can flourish. This involves creating a
Sierra Leone in which people are treated equally, regardless of their tribe.
We all have a role to play in fostering peace. And tackling tribalism is a crucial way to
contribute. We can work to dismantle the structures that entrench tribalism in our midst and
support movements for equality, peace and national cohesion, promote a green and
sustainable economy that produces jobs, reduces emissions, and builds resilience to climate
impacts.
“The need to break the chain of Tribalism in our society has become more evident. It has
continuously destroyed our institutions, social structures, and everyday life. As we celebrate
this great day, let us be tolerant towards our compatriots and become drivers of that change
and seek peace, knowing that peace is the climate of freedom”, John Caulker, Executive
Director.
On International day of peace, Fambul Tok stresses the urgent need to re-commit to interreligious and intercultural dialogue and the promotion of tolerance, diversity and a culture of
peace. Building sustainable peace is at the core of Fambul Tok’s mission and activities,
reflected in our vision of advancing peace by mobilizing ordinary people—entire communities
ravaged by war in the hard work of reconciliation. We are determined to help communities
recover better, accompany them to build resilience, and how to transform our communities
and the world at large into a place that is more equal, more just, equitable, inclusive,
sustainable, and healthier.
Fambul Tok works towards the ideals of International Peace Day through our community led
and owned reconciliation process that we support, witness and celebrate in Sierra Leone. This
has taught us that communities have within them the resources they need for their own
healing. We believe the Fambul Tok process has much to offer other post-conflict
countries—and the western world.
So, on behalf of the entire Fambul Tok International-Sierra Leone Team, we want to wish
every peace-loving Sierra Leonean A HAPPY INTERNATIONAL PEACE DAY

Posted by Solomon Yarjoh

Fambul Tok launches PPP in Lower Banta chiefdom

The Government of Sierra Leone, through the Wan Fambul National Framework Interim Secretariat (WFNF) in partnership with Fambul Tok International-Sierra Leone and Catalyst for Peace have on Wednesday 14th of September 2022, rolled-out the People’s Planning Process (PPP) commonly known as the Wan Fambul Framework (WFF) in Lower Banta Chiefdom in Moyamba District.

The framework is an inclusive governance model aimed at putting the people at the centre of development and socio-economic transformation by ensuring improved service delivery, sustained poverty reduction and strengthening peace and cohesion.

PARTICIPANTS AFTER THE LAUNCHING

It also includes elements of reconciliation and peace building in the development planning processes led by the people and local communities.

Welcoming the participants, the Paramount Chief, Kamajei Chiefdom, Fayia Sundufu Sovula said they have waited for too long to commence this initiative, noting that it would be the right way to bring development to Lower Banta.He said as the National Secretary General of Council of Paramount Chiefs, he would provide all the necessary support in order for the initiative to succeed.

In his opening statement, John Caulker, Lead Strategist (WFNF) and Executive Director of Fambul Tok International-Sierra Leone said the initiative was a laudable one developed by government to bring the people closer to the development of the country. He said it was important for people to begin discussing their own issues within their respective communities and districts.

John Caulker said the framework which would be anchored in the district councils would be a platform for the people, local authorities and Councils to come together and discuss their issues and development priorities for the betterment of their localities, adding that the PPP was a one-stop-shop that would help to bring people at the centre of development in the country.

He affirmed that in the coming days, Staff of Fambul Tok International would work in all the villages in Lower Banta to ensure that the Village Development Committees are set up with the people taking the lead in developing the VDCs.

The Director of NGO Affairs at the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development, Eric Massally, in his statement said in order for government to back its commitment with action, they have provided financial support in the national budget for fiscal year 2022 to implement the integration of the Wan Fambul Framework in the implementation of the Sierra Leone’s Medium-Term National Development Plan (MTNDP) pilot project in selected chiefdoms.

Director Massally noted that importance of NGOs in complementing the efforts of government and urged the people to make use of the opportunity by collaborating with development partners, especially NGOs operating in their localities.

On her part, the Mammy Queen (Chairlady) Lower Banta Chiefdom, Baby Kelfala said that the women should play a pivotal in developing the structures of the VDCs in all the localities, adding that must not be left behind in the every process of development in the community. She assured the government of their commitment to the project.

In his keynote address, the Director of Local Government, Mr Combay said as a government they remained committed to ensuring that communities are at the centre of local, district and national development through the application of the People’s Planning Process

He noted Government has relentlessly worked with development partners, especially Fambul Tok and Catalyst for Peace to develop the initiative and ensure the people are at the centre of development in Sierra Leone.

Launching the initiative, Director Combay called on every stakeholder to be firmly behind the WFF, assuring them of the Government’s commitment to the process.

The WFF has been piloted in four districts namely: Kailahun, Moyamba, Kono and Koinadugu. Government has decided to adopt and roll out the framework in the 190 chiefdoms and 16 districts of Sierra Leone.

 

 

Posted by Solomon Yarjoh

Reconciliation of 2 town chiefs in Koinadugu district

 

Local town chiefs of a twin village, Igaia of Wara Wara and Diang chiefdoms in Koinadugu district have reconciled during traditional “burn fire”.

Chief Fayandie Daboh of Igaia,Wara Wara Yagala was not on speaking term with Chief Mohamed Koroma of the other side of the same village but which falls under Diang chiefdom.

chiefs hugged themselves during reconciliation

During burn fire ceremony recently, Chief Koroma was the first to boldly come in front of the gathering  and confessed that there had being an existing issue between himself and his counterpart Chief Fayandie Dabor . He narrated that they had not been having dealings with each other for over three years and that had consequently affected peace, unity and development of the community. He requested for the matter to be resolved with the assistance of Fambul Tok Community Welfare and Mediation Committee members(CWMCs)

After his testimony, the CWMCs called on Chief Fayadie Daboh to make a statement regarding what transpired between them. He decided to let sleeping dogs lie and called for peace to reign

With help of the religious leaders and other community elders, the two chiefs openly hugged and danced together around the fire as the audience went into jubilation.

It was said that social activities for the past years were banned as a result of  clashes among youth of the village

Posted by Solomon Yarjoh

Yagala Village gathers local materials to construct ‘dry floor’

The Village Development Committee members of Yagala village,Wara Wara Yagala chiefdom,Koinadugu district are working with villagers to mobilize resources for the construction of a store with dry floor.This project was earlier identified by Yagala community in one of the several village meetings during Fambul Tok engagement sessions to implement People’s Planning Process(PPP),

A pile of stones for construction

Speaking on the issue,Village Development Committee chairman,Alie Marah mentioned that the entire village has collected piles of sand and stones to start the project.

”During one of Fambul Tok trainings,each village was asked to bring in needs/things  each village wants to do and Yagala among many needs highlighted a store with a dry floor”Marah disclosed

Veronica Marah said it has been very difficult for villagers to process food items especially when the village has no store or dry floor.She stated that most of their food stuffs like rice,corn and other items perished as there were no place to process them.

Sand for the project

Treasurer of the VDC in Yagala,Charles Mansaray said the entire village has contributed which amounts to Le2,000.He said every household pays Le10 at the end of every month,adding that it will continue  to the end of the year.

Posted by Solomon Yarjoh

Peace Mothers fund raise to build community market

A total of one hundred Peace Mothers of  Heremakono section,Sengbe chiefdom,Koinadugu district have embarked on monthly fund raising for the construction of the first community market in Gbenikoro village..

According to the group’s chair lady,Sundu Marah,they agreed during one of their meetings to identify one of the most felt needs affecting the entire section.She stated that during that meeting,suggestions came up to build a community market and unanimously Le5,00 was tagged to be a seal for every member to pay at the end of every month.Sundu disclosed that  it was not  an easy start  but as time went by women did everything to contribute.

Financial Secretary,Fatmata Marah disclosed that Le2,000 has been collected and as they continue women are willing to ensure the market project becomes a reality.She mentioned that Peace  mothers support orphans to pay school charges,adding that peace mothers always respond to community assistance.

Kadi Jabbie highlighted soap making venture,agricultural activity such as rice farming and small scale revolving loan pursued by peace mothers in the section.She called on Government,organizations and all those who hail from the Chiefdom to assist rural women especially towards the very first community market in that part of the country.She said women walked long distances with perishable goods but with the construction of a market in the central of the chiefdom,they will make lots of savings

Posted by Solomon Yarjoh

Fambul Tok condemns violence,calls for peaceful dialogue

 

FAMBUL TOK CONDEMNS THE SPATE OF VIOLENCE ACROSS SOME PARTS OF THE COUNTRY, CALLS FOR PEACEFUL DIALOGUE

Fambul Tok International- Sierra Leone is alarmed by recent incidents of violence in and around the city of Freetown and in some parts of the country; especially Makeni city and Kamakwie in the North and North Western Provinces. This latest escalation in the spate of violence on the 10th of August 2022, resulted in the deaths and injuries of members of the Sierra Leone Police, Civilians and the destruction of public and private property. We see these events as early warning signs that require robust engagements in order to quell tensions in the lead up to the conduct of peaceful general elections in 2023

Fambul Tok condemns all forms of violence in its entirety, and therefore urge all sides to embrace dialogue as an approach to resolving differences, while encouraging efforts at ensuring national cohesion.

To end impunity, alongside the need for dialogue, Fambul Tok recommends the conduct of an independent cross political party investigation into events that serve as a grim reminder of the rebel war. The report of such inquiry should include clear recommendation to the Government, Political parties, and people of Sierra Leone that will guarantee a peaceful 2023 national election; and to the International Community who would be arbiters in supporting these efforts

As an organization whose core values is in promoting Peacebuilding and respects the promotion and the protection of human and people’s rights, we urge all parties involved to observe law and order and to seek spaces for the resolution of differences  at the table through dialogue. We urge the Government and all individuals and groups to work together in enhancing peaceful coexistence, as Sierra Leone must remain firmly on the path of peace, and respect for human rights and freedoms.

The Executive Director, Board of Directors and Staff of Fambul Tok International wish to extend heartfelt condolences to all the families, who have lost their loved ones.

For more information, please contact Fambul Tok communication team on +232-78841151.

**** End

Posted by Solomon Yarjoh

Residents mobilize resources to construct health post

The people resident in Benduma Village, Bagruwa Chiefdom in Moyamba District have started mobilizing resources to commence the construction of a Village Health Post that will serve the people and improve the health status of their community, and its immediate surroundings, especially in Maternal and Child Health Care services.

Benduma villagers pose after the meeting

The initiative came as a result of Fambul Tok International- Sierra Leone’s direct community-led planning and development initiative through the People’s Planning Process. The initiative allows communities define their needs, resources and moving forward with beginning to implement Benduma village plan through a Village Development Committee (VDC) without waiting for outside aid.

According to Solomon Yarjoh, Project Officer at Fambul Tok, the VDC members have received several trainings in basic project management, mediation and reconciliation techniques as well as communication skills that are designed to equip the members.

Musa Kamara interviews VDC Secretary,Henry .Johnson Senesie

 

He said the trainings are geared towards strengthening their capacity in development and peace building activities that are linked with the People’s Planning Process, which according to him, ‘is an inside-out approach to healing, recovery, and ongoing development in Sierra Leone that puts the people at the centre’..

Henry Johnson Senesie, the VDC Secretary of Benduma Village said that through the VDC structure they would task each household to contribute money (Two Leones) which has amounted to 554 NLe. Apart from physical cash other items such as fruits and vegetables are allowed to complement the Village Basket.

He said the nearest health facility within their community was over 15 miles away which was why they remain determined to make every little effort in mobilizing resources to commence the construction of a health facility that would serve Benduma and its surrounding Villages.

“We are confident that with the little effort we are making to develop this health post will surely improve the health and well-being of our community. Fambul Tok has helped us to develop this believe and we are grateful for all the support they continue to give the people of Benduma”, says  Senesie.

Fambul Tok is working with the Government of Sierra Leone and Catalyst for Peace to expand the People’s Planning Process nationwide as the “Wan Fambul Framework”. The initiative is currently piloted in Koinadugu, Kono and Moyamba Districts, which will be coordinated at Chiefdom Level supporting every Section and Village in the district.

Posted by Solomon Yarjoh

Refresher training sessions for GRC members in Kono District

Fambul Tok staff in Kono district has started refresher training sessions for Grievance Redress Committees members starting with 4 sections-(Bayafeh, Bafinfeh, Bayakor and Moindekor) Gbense chiefdom. Old GRC members    were trained alongside new members that replaced those that have migrated to other places. A total of 80 participants were drawn from the four sections and sessions were held in different sectional headquarter towns

 

 

It started in Bayakor section, with debriefing by old GRC members. According to Sia  Sam, Secretary for the GRCs, said  they have mediated several cases including  land dispute between Koakor and Faada villages which was settled amicably.

 

GRCs in Bafinfeh

Lilian Morsay, Fambul Tok staff gave detailed background of Fambul Tok   values, dos and don’ts. The session also dealt with conflicts, steps in mediation, cases GRCs should mediate and communication. She said before the end of the month, GRCs would have been retrained in all sections in the chiefdom

Chairlady of the section, Amie Fonjah commended Fambul Tok for the timely refresher training as this has equipped them to help other communities and work harder for the development of their section and the chiefdom.

After the four sessions, banners were supplied to new members as a sign of recognition in their communities. The Human security project in Gbense,Kamara and Soa chiefdoms  is supported by United Nations Development Programme. The sessions will continue in Kamara and Soa chiefdoms