Sierra Leone suspends secret societies until 31 December
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Sierra Loaded
The Sierra Leonean government has suspended all secret society activities until 31 December 2026 to ensure the smooth conduct of the population and housing census. The measure, taken by the Ministry of Local Government, aims to protect census workers and prevent disruptions linked to initiation ceremonies, according to a public notice. Paramount Chiefs and secret society leaders are required to suspend initiations throughout the census period.
Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs has ordered the immediate suspension of secret society activities across the country until 31 December 2026. The measure is intended to allow the 2026 Population and Housing Census to proceed, according to a public notice dated 12 November 2026.
Paramount Chiefs, chiefdom authorities and secret society leaders must suspend initiation ceremonies, gatherings, processions and associated activities during the period concerned. The ministry says these activities could disrupt enumeration operations and create risks of conflicts, intimidation or misunderstandings in communities.
Traditional authorities, including section, town and village chiefs, must cooperate with security services and census officials to enforce the directive. The government recognises the cultural and historical importance of secret societies in Sierra Leone and calls on their members and traditional leaders to cooperate with the 2026 census.
