FREETOWN, Sierra Leone — February 26, 2026 — The Government of Sierra Leone has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting public land in Wellington as it moves forward with the construction of a residential facility for persons with disabilities, while a legal dispute over the property remains before the High Court.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education, authorities clarified that the land, measuring about 44 acres and forming part of the Approved School compound, was allocated in 1964 to the Ministry of Social Welfare. The area was intended to host the Approved School and other institutions supporting vulnerable groups.
Government explained that although parts of the land were temporarily occupied by institutions such as the Lifeline Nehemiah Project, those arrangements were provisional and did not transfer ownership rights.
The dispute has since entered the judicial phase. On February 24, 2026, the Law Officers’ Department, representing the Minister and Ministry of Social Welfare, filed an Ex-Parte Notice of Motion at the High Court seeking an interim injunction.
The application aims to restrain the plaintiff and associated parties from publishing or circulating materials that could influence public opinion or affect stakeholders involved in the project while the case is ongoing.
Officials said the move is intended to ensure due process and allow the court to determine the ownership issues without interference, stressing that the government will respect the final ruling.
Meanwhile, construction is underway on a 52-bed residential facility at the site. The project, valued at about US$1.39 million, is being implemented by the Ministry of Social Welfare in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). It is expected to provide structured care and promote independence for vulnerable persons with disabilities, particularly women and young people.
Government maintained that it has a responsibility to safeguard state lands and deliver social services in the public interest, as the court prepares to hear the matter.
