Madam Khadija Sam-Sumana Leads Sam ’28 Delegation in Port Loko to Champion Mental Health Awareness
By: Marion P. George
Championing compassion, dignity, and community-led care, Madam Khadija Sam-Sumana, wife of former Vice President Chief Samuel Sam-Sumana, led a high-level delegation from the Sam ’28 Movement to join the first-anniversary celebration of the Palama Rehabilitation Home in Port Loko District.
The event, which coincided with the global observance of World Mental Health Day, served as a powerful platform for Madam Sam-Sumana to call for an end to the social stigma surrounding mental health issues across Sierra Leone.
“Mental health is an essential component of our overall well-being. Individuals, political movements, and communities alike must take these challenges seriously and ensure those affected are treated with compassion, dignity, and inclusion.” She stated.
Accompanied by key members of the Sam ’28 Movement leadership from Freetown, led by Hon. Dauda Tombo Bangura, Madam Sam-Sumana’s presence underscored the growing role of civic and political leaders in addressing critical public health concerns.
Warm Reception and Shared Vision
Upon arrival, Madam Sam-Sumana and her delegation were warmly received by the founder of the facility, Hon. Ibrahim Bundu. Hon. Bundu highlighted that the home was established specifically to support local rehabilitation efforts and create a safe space for individuals confronting mental health challenges.
Throughout the anniversary proceedings, she highlighted key priorities, including
Breaking the Stigma, Addressing the deep-rooted discrimination and isolation often faced by individuals experiencing mental health issues, Promoting Rehabilitation Emphasizing the vital necessity of sustained funding and resources for local rehabilitation centers like Palama Home, Unified Advocacy Calling on political and community organizations to leverage their influence to promote public awareness and accessible mental healthcare nationwide.
The participation of Madam Khadija Sam-Sumana and the Sam ’28 delegation brought national attention to the Palama Rehabilitation Home’s mission, highlighting a unified commitment to building a more inclusive and empathetic society.
