By Nelson Adebayo Johnson
Leader of the DIB Movement and APC Flagbearer Aspirant, Dr. Ibrahim Bangura, led hundreds of Sierra Leoneans on the Environmental Awareness Walk 2026, which began at Regent Car Park and ended at the Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary, in a renewed call for urgent action to protect the country’s natural environment.
Organised by the Former Students of DIB, the walk brought together supporters, environmental advocates and members of the public in a healthy and eco-friendly setting, providing participants with an opportunity to engage directly with Dr. Bangura on issues affecting Sierra Leone’s environment. The event concluded with the planting of indigenous tree species and the unveiling of a commemorative plaque in honour of all participants.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Bangura stressed that environmental protection is no longer optional but a national responsibility.
“When we destroy our forests, we destroy our shield against floods. When we pollute our rivers, we poison our children’s future. Protecting nature is not a choice. It is our duty.”
He said every Sierra Leonean has a role to play in safeguarding the country’s natural resources, adding that environmental conservation is closely linked to public health.
“Every tree planted today is a hospital bed saved tomorrow. A clean environment means less malaria, less cholera and fewer respiratory illnesses.”
Aligning the DIB Movement’s environmental agenda with the World Environment Day 2026 theme, “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future,” Dr. Bangura outlined what he described as three key priorities for Sierra Leone.
Under the first pillar, Inspired by Nature, he underscored the importance of protecting forests and wetlands.
“Forests and wetlands are Sierra Leone’s natural air conditioners. Protecting them is the cheapest climate solution we have.”
Speaking on the second pillar, For Climate, he called for immediate action to tackle climate change.
“We must act now to keep global warming below 1.5°C. That starts with every Sierra Leonean planting, protecting and preserving.”
On the third pillar, For Our Future, Dr. Bangura urged citizens to think beyond politics and focus on the legacy they leave behind.
“Our children will not inherit our politics. They will inherit our environment. Let us leave them green, not bare.”
He said environmental sustainability is fundamental to national development, warning that environmental degradation threatens food security, water resources and public health.
“A degraded environment means poor harvests, water shortages and higher health costs. A restored environment means food security, clean water and economic growth.”
Dr. Bangura concluded by calling on individuals, businesses and government to embrace sustainable practices in energy, agriculture and industry.
“Let us work together to build a greener, healthier and more climate-resilient Sierra Leone.”
Plant Trees. Protect Nature. Secure Our Future. | DIB Movement 2026
