By Alvin Lansana Kargbo
A momentous and significant event unfolded at the Thomas Saquee Resource Centre in Koidu City on Thursday 13 February 2025 as Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally officially launched the Kono District Multi-Purpose Cooperative Society.
This landmark initiative is designed to unify, empower and connect businesswomen across the district, marking a significant milestone in economic and social development.
The launch ceremony was punctuated by a generous donation of NLe 500,000 to kick-start the cooperative’s operations, underscoring Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally’s commitment to fostering financial independence among women.
Addressing a gathering of key stakeholders, community leaders and businesswomen, he emphasized the pivotal role women play in both family and national development.
“Kono District has contributed immensely to Sierra Leone’s economy, particularly through the mining sector. Yet, many of our women, who are the backbone of their households, continue to face financial hardship. This cooperative is not just about business; it is a national blessing that will equip women with financial management skills and self-sufficiency,” he stated.
Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally clarified that the NLe 500,000 was a free, non-refundable contribution, but the funds would be used to provide interest-free loans to women traders. While the loans do not require collateral, beneficiaries are expected to repay them to ensure the cooperative’s sustainability and extend its reach to more women in need.
Beyond economic empowerment, Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally made a strong plea against tribal divisions, warning that such discord, often fueled by political interests, hampers national progress.
“When women unite, the nation follows. A peaceful and prosperous Sierra Leone depends on the collective strength of its people,” he remarked.
He further outlined two fundamental principles crucial for national development; worshiping God and practicing kindness. He reaffirmed his dedication to supporting education, citing coordinated efforts with NGOs that have already facilitated free education for 44,000 children and assistance for over 2,000 teachers across Sierra Leone. Additionally, he highlighted his ongoing support for over 300 mosques nationwide.
Encouraging prudent management of the cooperative, he expressed optimism about attracting international investors from the United States, China, Ghana and The Gambia, should the cooperative prove successful.
The event saw the presence of notable dignitaries, including the Council of Paramount Chiefs, the District Mammy Queen, the 50/50 Organization, the Eastern Women’s Network and businesswomen from across Kono District.
Paramount Chief ,Alhaji Sahr CN Kono Bundu, welcomed the initiative, commending Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally for his dedication to community empowerment. “Strengthening women benefits the entire community. This cooperative marks a major step forward and we fully endorse its mission,” he assured.
District and National Mammy Queen, Madam Tiwa Kelfala Kaimachiande, praised the initiative, noting that it would significantly ease her responsibilities as a leader advocating for women’s welfare. She emphasized that this was the first time Kono women had received such direct financial support and urged beneficiaries to maximize the opportunity.
Representing Kono District Women, Md. Kumba Daisy Tamba underscored the importance of financial literacy in business ventures. She advised beneficiaries to think beyond immediate needs and focus on sustainable business models with potential for growth in international markets.
“Make wise investment choices. Prioritize long-term business expansion over short-term gains,” she urged.
Other speakers, including representatives from the Eastern Women’s Network and the 50/50 Organization, applauded the project, encouraging women to remain diligent and committed to ensuring its success.
As part of the cooperative’s launch, women participated in specialized training sessions on business management, financial literacy and cooperative principles. The event concluded with the presentation of certificates to participants, recognizing their dedication and readiness to embark on a path of economic self-sufficiency.
Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally extended his gratitude to all attendees and urged continued prayers for his leadership and vision.
With official recognition from both the District Council and the Freetown City Council, the Kono District Multi-Purpose Cooperative Society is now legally positioned to operate across the country. This initiative sets a new precedent for economic empowerment in Kono, paving the way for financial independence and sustainable business growth among the district’s women.
