By: Benedict AbuBakarr Conteh - Gbinti, Karene District—April 20, 2025
The People’s Development Foundation (PDF) Sierra Leone has officially extended its operations to the Karene District, following a well-attended meeting held on Saturday, April 20, 2025, in Gbinti, Debia Chiefdom. The event brought together traditional authorities, local stakeholders, community representatives, and political party figures in what has been described as a landmark step toward inclusive rural development in Sierra Leone’s North-Western Province.
All thirteen paramount chiefs from the district’s chiefdoms were present at the gathering, expressing their collective support and appreciation for PDF’s expansion to their communities. The paramount chiefs from Sanda Tendaren, Sella Limba, Libisgahun, Sanda Loko, Buya Romende, Gbanti Kamaranka, Mafonda Makerembay, Safroko Limba, Debia, Tambakha Simibungie, Tambakha Yobangie, Sanda Magbolontor, and Romende Chiefdoms all emphasized the urgent need for development support and welcomed the Foundation’s initiative with open arms.
Honourable Alpha Osman Timbo, the Founder of the People’s Development Foundation, during his presentation reaffirmed his commitment to bringing tangible and people-centered development to every district in the country through the People's Development Foundation. He emphasized that the foundation’s mission is to create lasting impact in the lives of ordinary citizens, regardless of location or background. “We are here today not because of politics, but because of our belief in the potential of our people. PDF is here for development, empowerment, and change,” he said.
Representatives from both the All People’s Congress (APC) and the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) were in attendance, signaling bipartisan support for the foundation’s vision. Both parties commended the initiative and encouraged communities to focus on development over division. A representative from the APC described PDF’s entry into Karene as “a breath of fresh air for a district hungry for progress,” while the SLPP representative highlighted the importance of unity in embracing opportunities like this that transcend party lines.
Several members at the high table also gave statements. The District Officer of Karene Abdulai Alex Kargbo, lauded the initiative and encouraged the local people to take ownership of the projects PDF will be rolling out. “This is not just about what PDF can do for you. It’s about how you can partner with PDF to change your lives,” he said. Community representatives, youth leaders, and women’s groups also shared their sentiments, expressing strong enthusiasm for the foundation’s intervention. One youth leader from Tambakha noted, “PDF’s arrival is the hope we have long waited for. We want to learn skills, engage in agriculture, and create jobs for ourselves. With this foundation, we believe it’s possible.”
The founder and other speakers reassured attendees that the foundation is not politically driven. Honorable Timbo clearly stated, “This is a people’s movement. We are not influenced by any political party. Our concern is the well-being of our communities, and we intend to work with all, regardless of political colors.”
The event ended with a symbolic snapshots, networking and sharing of ideas, signaling the beginning of the foundation’s work in the district. The mood was celebratory with traditional songs and dances being played, and residents of Gbinti and surrounding areas expressed their appreciation for the Foundation’s timely intervention.
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