Direct Aid strengthens human capital development in Bombali, donates 33 sewing machine, other accessories

By: Alusine Rehme Wilson 

Joy filled the air in Bombali District as 33 aspiring and practicing tailors received a major boost to their livelihoods on September 24, 2025, thanks to a generous donation from the global Islamic charity, Direct Aid.

At a well-attended ceremony held Wednesday evening at the organization’s center along the Magburaka Highway in Makeni, Direct Aid handed over fully equipped sewing kits, each including a sewing machine and a wide array of tailoring accessories, to the beneficiaries, most of whom are from underprivileged backgrounds.

AWE Media Sierra Leone understands that each recipient received a comprehensive package valued at €492 equivalent to over 16,000 Euros in total for all beneficiaries.

The kits included essential tools such as 60 hand needles, scissors, elastic, machine oil, measuring tapes, poplin and wax fabrics, zippers, threads, spare parts, a charcoal iron, and even tables for cutting and sewing.

Local leaders, including the Makeni City Council Mayor Abubakarr "Lamtales" Kamara, the Bombali District Council Chair Dr. Mohamed Mark B. Sisay, and community chiefs from Makama and New York neighborhoods, were present at the handover ceremony to show their support.

Chief Osman Sankoh of the New York community praised Direct Aid’s ongoing involvement in local development, describing the donation as a “game changer” for youth empowerment and self-reliance. “This is more than charity; this is an investment in our people’s future,” he said.

Mayor Kamara and Dr. Sisay echoed this sentiment, applauding the initiative as a key contribution to Sierra Leone's national push for human capital development. 

“This support from Direct Aid will complement both central and local government efforts to enhance livelihoods and create sustainable economic opportunities,” they noted. Both local leaders pledged their councils’ commitment to monitoring and supporting the beneficiaries.

After the donation, Mr. Bilal Bin Rabah, Director of Direct Aid’s Makeni Center, explained to AWE Media Sierra Leone that the donation was part of the organization’s broader mission to foster self-sufficiency and development across Africa. 

“Our goal is to empower individuals so they can contribute meaningfully to their communities. This is not just a gift, it's a tool for transformation.”

Among the beneficiaries was Ahmed Kamara, a physically challenged tailor who lost his leg 14 years ago. Alongside Madam Sama Kamara, a local businesswoman and tailor, both expressed heartfelt gratitude to Direct Aid.

“For years we’ve been working without our own machines, struggling to make ends meet. Now, we have the tools we’ve always dreamed of. So we’re determined to put them to good use, not just for ourselves, but to uplift others too,” they ended.

The donation marks another milestone in Direct Aid’s continued efforts to support vulnerable populations in Sierra Leone and across the continent. 

As the organization remains committed to long-term, impactful development, stories like these are a testament to how targeted support can change lives and strengthen communities.