The Government of Sierra Leone has announced a significant reconfiguration of its local governance structure, including the creation of new districts and cities, as part of a broader effort to decentralize administration and improve public service delivery.
Minister of Local Government and Community Affairs, Tamba Lamina, made the announcement during the Civic Day Series in Moyamba on May 27, 2025. He said Cabinet had approved the restructuring proposal on April 2, giving the ministry the green light to initiate a series of activities that will lead to the establishment of new localities.
“Only the President has the legal mandate to establish new districts and cities,” Lamina noted. “Following Cabinet’s approval, we are now moving ahead with the process, which will be guided by a presidential proclamation.”
Two new districts, Bandajuma and Kpanguma, are set to be created. Bandajuma will include areas currently under Bo and Pujehun Districts, while Kpanguma will cover parts of Kenema and Kailahun Districts. Lamina explained the changes could be swift and impactful, describing a scenario where residents might go to sleep in Bo and wake up the next morning officially within Bandajuma.
To ensure accuracy in boundary definition, the government will work closely with Statistics Sierra Leone on demarcation.
In addition to redrawing district lines, the government plans to divide Freetown into two cities due to rising population density and administrative pressures. Lamina said this move will enhance governance and enable more efficient urban management.
The restructuring will also affect the Western Area. The Western Rural District will be split into three separate administrative zones, each with its own council, and the Western Area Urban District will be divided into two.
Lamina also announced that Lungi—home to the country’s only international airport and a growing hub of development will be designated as a city, recognizing its strategic national importance.
