The Plan
Home Leone’s plan is simple, as we seek partners who will fund this work and seek to invest.
1. Acquire Land
Land tenure is the cause of much conflict and clarity in Sierra Leone. Securing title in the informal settlements for regeneration is not readily available. Development experts tend to agree that upgrading slums is preferable to relocation as less support structure is needed. Without title, alleged landowners would soon evict tenants of better housing. Much of our research and insight would help with upgrade when that day comes.
For a visionary NGO such as Home Leone, relocation to a new site with secure title is the only current option. We now own 25 acres of land in Newton, 20 miles from Freetown's hub.
2. Design and Build homes and community infrastructure
25 acres of land was purchased in May 2015 and we set to work designing the site layout. Relationships and research informed house designs and village plan. The land had great clay, meaning hydraform brick making was possible offering great value for money. Budgets developed, funds were raised and building began. The aim is to build out the village having already built the first 56 homes, business infrastructure, school and much more.
3. Identify and Relocate families
We've developed selection criteria with various community groups to develop a program that identifies and provides input for people ready to move. Some say “it is no use getting the individual out the slum if you can’t get the slum out of the individual.” We are dedicated to making the most from the learning of the first 200 movers. We continue to review what has worked well and what has not with a goal of continuous improvement.
4. Start Sustainable businesses
Alongside building homes, we have started sustainable businesses, as well as providing training opportunities, resulting in new sustainable communities fulfilling the resident’s hopes and aspirations. The block making business is underway as is a bakery, garage and water bagging factory, construction firm and market garden.
5. Bring more corporate and community teams
Teams have visited from churches and companies. In addition multiple volunteers have come from a few days to a few months. If you have the time do get in touch as you may be able to find a niche to contribute to our aims.