On October 24, 2024, Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr of Freetown officially commissioned the newly constructed Kroo Bay Municipal Primary School, a significant addition to the local education landscape. Funded by Sustain for Life and supported by the Freetown City Council (FCC), the project was implemented by the Sierra Leone Autistic Society.
The newly built school replaces a former community center that had served as a makeshift educational facility, often hampered by flooding issues.
The two-story building includes ten classrooms, a computer lab, a staff room, restrooms, and a canteen, and is designed to accommodate up to 300 students. As of now, 180 pupils have already enrolled, signaling a strong interest from the community.
This initiative aligns with the FCC’s “Transform Freetown – Transforming Lives 2024-2028 Development Plan,” specifically targeting improvements in early childhood development, basic education, and skills training, while also addressing the needs of informal settlements.
In her address during the commissioning ceremony, Mayor Aki-Sawyerr expressed her enthusiasm for the project and extended her gratitude to Sustain for Life for their partnership with the FCC.
She emphasized the importance of the school not just as an educational institution, but as a model for environmental cleanliness and community pride.
“I encourage all stakeholders to ensure this school becomes a beacon of excellence, where children receive quality education and learn the value of a clean environment,” she stated.
Deputy Minister of Education Mamusu Massaquoi commended the FCC’s efforts, highlighting that the new school aligns with the government’s mission to provide every child with access to education, regardless of their circumstances.
Parents also voiced their appreciation for the new facility. Mabinty Kamara, a mother of three students enrolled at Kroo Bay Municipal Primary School, shared her relief: “Before this school, I had to send my children to Congo Town. Now, with the new school, I can use the money I used to spend on transportation for other needs,” she said, her voice filled with joy.
Mayor Aki-Sawyerr was joined at the event by Deputy Mayor Kweku Lisk Esq., various council members, including Amadu Kargbo, the Chairman of the Education and Skills Development Committee, Zainab Conteh, Tutu Bailor, and Abdulai Kabba, as well as James Renner from the Teaching Service Commission and other community stakeholders.
The successful commissioning of the Kroo Bay Municipal Primary School marks a pivotal step in enhancing educational opportunities in the area, reflecting the FCC’s commitment to transforming Freetown through sustainable development.
