The Ministry of Social Welfare has donated ten (10) bags of 25kg rice to over fifteen local churches in Freetown and the provinces. The distribution ceremony took place at the Ministry's premises in New England Ville, Freetown, as part of efforts to foster religious harmony and support vulnerable communities during the festive season.
Honorable Minister of Social Welfare, Madam Melrose Karminty, emphasized the Ministry's mandate to lead the development, implementation, and monitoring of policies and legislative frameworks aimed at providing services to all citizens, particularly vulnerable groups. She disclosed that the rice donation was made possible through support from the Chinese Embassy in Sierra Leone, reflecting the Embassy's commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and promoting goodwill across diverse communities.
“This donation is a gesture of solidarity with the Christian community during the festive season. Just as the Chinese Embassy supported our Ministry in distributing Ramadan gifts to Muslim communities, we are pleased to extend similar support to our Christian brothers and sisters,” Hon. Karminty stated. She assured continued collaboration with partners to sustain such initiatives.
Bishop Issa Lamina Bangura of the Church of God of Prophetic Missions expressed gratitude on behalf of the beneficiaries. He highlighted the significance of the gesture, describing it as a first in the history of the Christian community in Sierra Leone.
“We are deeply grateful to the Honorable Minister and the Government of Sierra Leone for this unprecedented support. This act of kindness strengthens our belief in religious tolerance and unity,” Bishop Bangura said. He also extended prayers for the Chinese Embassy, its Ambassador, and the Government of Sierra Leone, acknowledging the strong relationship between the two nations.
The donation underscores the Ministry’s dedication to fostering inclusivity and supporting religious communities, contributing to the country's overarching goal of maintaining peace and harmony.
By Abu Bakarr Sama
Sierra Leone News Agency (SLENA)
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