The Government of Sierra Leone has announced a nationwide crackdown on illegal street signs, banners, and posters cluttering roads and communities.
In a public notice issued on May 2, 2025, the Ministry of Information and Civic Education raised concerns over the proliferation of unauthorized signage erected by political, commercial, religious, and social groups without the required licenses.
These installations, the notice states, not only violate existing laws but also obstruct traffic and pose safety hazards to citizens.
Acting on the directive of His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio, the Chief Minister recently convened a high-level meeting involving key stakeholders. Participants included representatives from the Freetown City Council, the Ministry of Local Government, the Ministry of Transport and Aviation, the Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA), the Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority (SLRSA), the Ministry of Internal Affairs, and others.
Following the meeting, an inter-agency technical team has been established to lead the review of public signage regulations and ensure compliance nationwide. This team is co-chaired by the Office of the Chief Minister and the Ministry of Information and Civic Education.
While this regulatory framework is being reviewed, the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Sierra Leone Police have been instructed to collaborate with local councils to immediately remove all illegal signage across the country. Councils have also been urged to fulfill their statutory roles by coordinating closely with central government authorities to enforce the law and maintain order in their respective jurisdictions.
“All individuals and organizations are reminded that no signage should be displayed without prior approval and payment of the requisite fees,” the notice emphasized. “This is a civic call. Let us protect our communities, beautify our streets, and uphold the rule of law.”
