The Sierra Leone Supreme Court delivered a landmark ruling on February 6, 2025, in the case of Theophilus Pratt and Hawanatu Pratt versus Dr Turad Senessie, Minister of Lands, and others (SC MiscApp No. 7/2024).
This ruling marks a definitive victory for the Save Black Johnson Beach Campaign, ensuring that the community will no longer face the threat of a proposed fish harbour or fishmeal factory at Black Johnson Beach. The campaign, which has garnered widespread support from residents and international advocates alike, celebrates this ruling as a culmination of years of tireless effort and dedication. The community expresses heartfelt gratitude to all who contributed by signing petitions, donating funds, and sharing their story, recognising that this victory would not have been possible without the collective action of supporters.
The Supreme Court’s ruling emphasizes the inviolable nature of private property rights, stating unequivocally that the government or any of its agents cannot forcibly remove citizens from their land without due process. Justice Glenna Thompson (JSC), who presided over the case, articulated the court’s position clearly: “The State, or any of its agents, has no authority to deprive a private citizen of their land without due process. Any attempt to do so is a direct violation of Section 21 of the 1991 Constitution, which guarantees the protection of private property.
A survey plan signed by the Director of Surveys does not constitute ownership, nor does it override a private individual’s legal title.” This ruling guarantees that Black Johnson Beach is now permanently safeguarded from any government-backed industrial projects, including the contentious fishmeal factory. The Supreme Court’s decision is final, effectively closing the case and providing a sense of security and stability for the residents of Black Johnson.
Beyond the legal implications, this ruling also represents a significant victory for environmental justice and the preservation of Sierra Leone’s natural heritage. Black Johnson Beach is home to a rich tapestry of ecosystems, including pristine beaches, critical mangrove forests, and vibrant marine life.
These natural habitats play a crucial role in supporting biodiversity and protecting the coastline from erosion. For the past four years, the community of Black Johnson, alongside thousands of supporters from around the globe, fought diligently against the potential ecological disaster posed by the proposed industrial developments.
Thanks to the Supreme Court’s decisive ruling, the community can now breathe a sigh of relief, knowing that the ecological integrity of their home is preserved. With the legal battle successfully concluded, the Save Black Johnson Beach Campaign officially announced the closure of its campaign, celebrating the triumph of its mission.
The community can now look forward to a future free from the threats of forced evictions and environmental degradation, secure in the knowledge that Black Johnson Beach is safe and protected for generations to come.
