The Supreme Court of Sierra Leone has delivered a decisive ruling, securing the future of Black Johnson Beach and permanently ending government plans to establish a fish harbour or fishmeal factory in the area.
The landmark judgment in the case of Theophilus Pratt and Hawanatu Pratt v. Dr. Turad Senessie, Minister of Lands, and Others (SC MiscApp No. 7/2024) reaffirms the constitutional protection of private property. The ruling ensures that no forced evictions, land seizures, or industrial projects can take place on the privately owned land at Black Johnson Beach.
Presiding over the case, Justice Glenna Thompson (JSC) made it explicitly clear that the government cannot confiscate private land without due process, citing Section 21 of the 1991 Constitution, which guarantees the protection of private property.
This ruling cements legal certainty over the ownership of Black Johnson Beach, ensuring that the community and environment remain protected from large-scale industrial developments. This decisive ruling by the supreme Court of Sierra Leone will enhance protection of Pristine coastal habitats supporting marine biodiversity, Critical mangrove forests that protect against coastal erosion, Fish breeding grounds essential for sustainable fishing,Diverse rainforest ecosystems providing habitat for wildlife,Freshwater rivers and wetlands crucial for ecological balanceFor four yearlocal residents and global supporters campaigned against the proposed industrial projects, warning of potential ecological devastation. The Save Black Johnson Beach Campaign, which led the resistance, has now declared victory, bringing an end to the legal battle.
In response to the ruling, the Save Black Johnson Beach Campaign expressed gratitude to all those who contributed to the struggle through petitions, donations, and advocacy efforts, including Green Scenery Sierra Leone. “This victory would not have been possible without the support of thousands of people who stood with us. The Supreme Court has spoken—Black Johnson Beach is safe forever. No fishmeal factory, no forced evictions, and no destruction of our environment.”
With the case now closed, the campaign officially concludes its efforts, celebrating a hard-fought success in protecting one of Sierra Leone’s most ecologically significant coastal areas.
