For decades, the twin evils of tribalism and nepotism have cast a shadow over Sierra Leone, entangling the nation’s progress in a cycle of division, favouritism, and missed potential. Despite being a country rich in cultural diversity and natural resources, Sierra Leone’s societal fabric has been repeatedly strained by forces that elevate affiliation over merit and personal connections over shared progress. The impact is felt deeply, shaping not only the lives of individuals but also the course of national development. Today, more than ever Sierra Leone stands at a crossroads, where a collective movement toward unity and equity is crucial to break the chains of tribalism and nepotism that have held back its potential for generations.
Tribalism is a deeply ingrained problem in Sierra Leone. With over a dozen ethnic groups, each with its own unique history and traditions, the country boasts a rich and diverse cultural landscape. However, this diversity has often been exploited by political leaders and influential figures who play on tribal loyalties to amass power and influence. By focusing on a select group at the expense of others, tribalism breeds an “us versus them” mentality that creates an environment of exclusion, distrust, and ultimately, fragmentation.
In political arenas, tribal affiliations have frequently determined policies, appointments, and development projects. Politicians have courted the favour of specific groups to secure votes, favouring certain tribes for government positions and resources, while marginalizing others. This selective favouritism results in uneven development, with some regions of the country receiving more attention and resources than others. Entire communities have been left out of decision-making processes and denied access to opportunities purely based on ethnic lines. The result is a fractured society in which vast portions of the population feel alienated from the nation’s progress.
This reality is particularly destructive in times of national crisis, as it erodes a sense of shared identity and purpose. When people see themselves first as members of a tribe rather than citizens of a nation, the collective will to solve problems is weakened. Such division undermines the social cohesion that is essential for building resilience and stability, especially when addressing complex issues like poverty, health crises, and economic reform.
Nepotism, the preference for family members or close associates over qualified candidates, is another formidable obstacle that has stifled Sierra Leone’s potential. Across government offices, private enterprises, and educational institutions, nepotism has sidelined meritocracy, allowing unqualified individuals to occupy positions of influence while capable minds are pushed aside. This practice hinders the progress of Sierra Leone by allowing personal affiliations to determine who has access to resources and who occupies roles that shape the country’s future.
The consequence is a workforce and governance structure that lacks the diversity of thought, skill, and innovation needed to address the nation’s most pressing challenges. Capable professionals and young graduates who aspire to contribute to their nation often find their ambitions thwarted by a system that rewards connections over competence. In the long term, this disenfranchisement leads to a “brain drain” as talented individuals seek opportunities abroad, where merit is valued over lineage. This exodus of skilled professionals weakens the country’s development trajectory, leaving critical sectors like healthcare, education, and infrastructure suffering from a shortage of qualified personnel.
Moreover, nepotism reinforces inequality by perpetuating a cycle where resources are concentrated in the hands of a privileged few. Those without connections to influential figures find it nearly impossible to access economic opportunities, let alone leadership positions. This leads to a lack of social mobility, deepening the divide between the “haves” and “have-nots” in society. The dream of building a prosperous and inclusive Sierra Leone becomes difficult to realize when pathways to success are obstructed by nepotism and favouritism.
The combined effects of tribalism and nepotism extend beyond economics and governance; they permeate the social psyche of Sierra Leoneans. When people feel excluded because of their tribe or lack of connections, a sense of resentment and distrust grows. This sentiment can be particularly damaging among young people who, witnessing these practices, may lose faith in the nation’s institutions and begin to view corruption and favouritism as insurmountable obstacles to their success. As hope wanes, cynicism sets in, and people become less inclined to engage in community building, participate in civic duties, or contribute to collective initiatives.
In the long run, this breakdown of trust has a corrosive effect on democracy itself. People lose confidence in leaders, elections, and policies, viewing them as mechanisms for furthering private interests rather than public good. This lack of trust in institutions can weaken democratic processes and breed an environment ripe for authoritarian tendencies, as citizens may eventually become willing to sacrifice democratic freedoms in exchange for perceived stability.
Despite these longstanding challenges, Sierra Leone’s future is not predetermined. The nation has the power to redefine its trajectory by embracing values of unity, meritocracy, and equity. To achieve this, leaders across all sectors must commit to dismantling systems that reward tribal affiliation and family ties at the expense of national progress. Political parties, educational institutions, private enterprises, and civil society groups all have roles to play in promoting practices that are inclusive, transparent, and fair.
One essential step in this direction is investing in civic education that emphasizes the importance of national identity over tribal affiliations. Schools, community groups, and media can help foster a sense of unity by highlighting shared values, goals, and histories. When Sierra Leoneans see themselves as citizens of a united nation first, they are more likely to work collaboratively to address common issues.
In governance, adopting policies that prioritize merit over connections is key. Transparent hiring processes, clear criteria for promotions, and accountability measures can help mitigate the influence of tribalism and nepotism. Leaders who model these practices send a strong message that competence and dedication are the true qualifiers for advancement. This shift not only strengthens institutions but also inspires a new generation to dream of a Sierra Leone where success is determined by effort and ability rather than heritage or connections.
Additionally, Sierra Leone’s youth, who make up a large portion of the population, are essential to this transformation. They are less bound by traditional loyalties and are increasingly influenced by global perspectives that value meritocracy and innovation. By empowering young people through mentorship programs, entrepreneurship initiatives, and leadership training, Sierra Leone can harness the energy and vision of its next generation to build a society that values unity and fairness.
The path forward is clear but requires determination and collective will. Sierra Leone has all the ingredients needed to become a nation where individuals are judged by their contributions rather than their connections, where diversity is celebrated as strength, and where every citizen has an equal opportunity to succeed. But achieving this future depends on Sierra Leoneans’ commitment to breaking the cycles of tribalism and nepotism that have hindered progress for so long.
Now is the time for leaders, citizens, and communities to rise above divisive tendencies and choose a path of unity, accountability, and inclusivity. Let Sierra Leone be defined not by the ties that divide but by the dreams and aspirations that unite. For as Sierra Leone steps into the future, embracing equity and meritocracy, it will not only build a stronger nation but also leave a legacy of hope and opportunity for generations to come.
In political arenas, tribal affiliations have frequently determined policies, appointments, and development projects. Politicians have courted the favour of specific groups to secure votes, favouring certain tribes for government positions and resources, while marginalizing others. This selective favouritism results in uneven development, with some regions of the country receiving more attention and resources than others. Entire communities have been left out of decision-making processes and denied access to opportunities purely based on ethnic lines. The result is a fractured society in which vast portions of the population feel alienated from the nation’s progress.
This reality is particularly destructive in times of national crisis, as it erodes a sense of shared identity and purpose. When people see themselves first as members of a tribe rather than citizens of a nation, the collective will to solve problems is weakened. Such division undermines the social cohesion that is essential for building resilience and stability, especially when addressing complex issues like poverty, health crises, and economic reform.
Nepotism, the preference for family members or close associates over qualified candidates, is another formidable obstacle that has stifled Sierra Leone’s potential. Across government offices, private enterprises, and educational institutions, nepotism has sidelined meritocracy, allowing unqualified individuals to occupy positions of influence while capable minds are pushed aside. This practice hinders the progress of Sierra Leone by allowing personal affiliations to determine who has access to resources and who occupies roles that shape the country’s future.
The consequence is a workforce and governance structure that lacks the diversity of thought, skill, and innovation needed to address the nation’s most pressing challenges. Capable professionals and young graduates who aspire to contribute to their nation often find their ambitions thwarted by a system that rewards connections over competence. In the long term, this disenfranchisement leads to a “brain drain” as talented individuals seek opportunities abroad, where merit is valued over lineage. This exodus of skilled professionals weakens the country’s development trajectory, leaving critical sectors like healthcare, education, and infrastructure suffering from a shortage of qualified personnel.
Moreover, nepotism reinforces inequality by perpetuating a cycle where resources are concentrated in the hands of a privileged few. Those without connections to influential figures find it nearly impossible to access economic opportunities, let alone leadership positions. This leads to a lack of social mobility, deepening the divide between the “haves” and “have-nots” in society. The dream of building a prosperous and inclusive Sierra Leone becomes difficult to realize when pathways to success are obstructed by nepotism and favouritism.
The combined effects of tribalism and nepotism extend beyond economics and governance; they permeate the social psyche of Sierra Leoneans. When people feel excluded because of their tribe or lack of connections, a sense of resentment and distrust grows. This sentiment can be particularly damaging among young people who, witnessing these practices, may lose faith in the nation’s institutions and begin to view corruption and favouritism as insurmountable obstacles to their success. As hope wanes, cynicism sets in, and people become less inclined to engage in community building, participate in civic duties, or contribute to collective initiatives.
In the long run, this breakdown of trust has a corrosive effect on democracy itself. People lose confidence in leaders, elections, and policies, viewing them as mechanisms for furthering private interests rather than public good. This lack of trust in institutions can weaken democratic processes and breed an environment ripe for authoritarian tendencies, as citizens may eventually become willing to sacrifice democratic freedoms in exchange for perceived stability.
Despite these longstanding challenges, Sierra Leone’s future is not predetermined. The nation has the power to redefine its trajectory by embracing values of unity, meritocracy, and equity. To achieve this, leaders across all sectors must commit to dismantling systems that reward tribal affiliation and family ties at the expense of national progress. Political parties, educational institutions, private enterprises, and civil society groups all have roles to play in promoting practices that are inclusive, transparent, and fair.
One essential step in this direction is investing in civic education that emphasizes the importance of national identity over tribal affiliations. Schools, community groups, and media can help foster a sense of unity by highlighting shared values, goals, and histories. When Sierra Leoneans see themselves as citizens of a united nation first, they are more likely to work collaboratively to address common issues.
In governance, adopting policies that prioritize merit over connections is key. Transparent hiring processes, clear criteria for promotions, and accountability measures can help mitigate the influence of tribalism and nepotism. Leaders who model these practices send a strong message that competence and dedication are the true qualifiers for advancement. This shift not only strengthens institutions but also inspires a new generation to dream of a Sierra Leone where success is determined by effort and ability rather than heritage or connections.
Additionally, Sierra Leone’s youth, who make up a large portion of the population, are essential to this transformation. They are less bound by traditional loyalties and are increasingly influenced by global perspectives that value meritocracy and innovation. By empowering young people through mentorship programs, entrepreneurship initiatives, and leadership training, Sierra Leone can harness the energy and vision of its next generation to build a society that values unity and fairness.
The path forward is clear but requires determination and collective will. Sierra Leone has all the ingredients needed to become a nation where individuals are judged by their contributions rather than their connections, where diversity is celebrated as strength, and where every citizen has an equal opportunity to succeed. But achieving this future depends on Sierra Leoneans’ commitment to breaking the cycles of tribalism and nepotism that have hindered progress for so long.
Now is the time for leaders, citizens, and communities to rise above divisive tendencies and choose a path of unity, accountability, and inclusivity. Let Sierra Leone be defined not by the ties that divide but by the dreams and aspirations that unite. For as Sierra Leone steps into the future, embracing equity and meritocracy, it will not only build a stronger nation but also leave a legacy of hope and opportunity for generations to come.
THE FORUM NEWSPAPER, FREETOWN
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