By zainab.joaque@awokonewspaper.sl
Freetown, SIERRA LEONE – Karene District has achieved an outstanding performance in its own source revenue collection for the first half of 2024, according to the Ministry of Finance. The district collected a total of Le838,449.00, surpassing its revenue target of Le444,510.00 by an impressive 188.6%.
This exceptional result is primarily attributed to Karene’s effective property tax collection, which yielded Le770,923.00. This success not only highlights the district’s efficient revenue collection strategies but also demonstrates its ability to engage local businesses and communities in generating significant funds.
Karene’s achievement sets it apart from other councils, both in terms of its percentage above target and the effectiveness of its revenue strategies. While many councils struggled to meet their targets, Karene’s performance illustrates the benefits of focused local governance and community involvement.
Other districts also showed strong performances. Pujehun District collected Le2,973,543.00, achieving 91.9% of its target, reflecting a thriving local market and effective governance. Port Loko District generated Le1,629,682.00, meeting 70.3% of its revenue goal, demonstrating its ability to effectively engage local businesses. Western Area District reported Le5,761,880.90, achieving 68.8% of its target, while Bonthe District reached Le975,180.00, or 66.8% of its goal, indicating positive economic activity.
In contrast, larger urban councils reported varied results. Freetown City Council and Bo City collected Le28,355,521.00 and Le4,757,172.00 respectively, but their achievement rates were lower than Karene’s, at 53.5% and 63.4% of their targets.
Several councils faced challenges in meeting their targets. Bonthe Municipal generated only Le24,559.00, achieving just 15.7% of its target. Moyamba District and Falaba District also reported shortfalls, with revenues of Le1,349,554.80 and Le157,012.20 respectively. These discrepancies highlight the diverse economic conditions and varying levels of governance effectiveness across the districts.
Overall, Karene District’s remarkable revenue performance underscores the potential for effective local governance and community engagement in achieving financial targets and fostering economic growth. ZIJ/2/9/2024
