The Mayor
Kasho Joseph Holland-Cole is the Chairman of the Western Area Rural District Council (WARDC), one of Sierra Leone’s fastest-growing and most dynamic local councils, serving an estimated population of 662,156. He was first elected Chairman in March 2018 and successfully re-elected in June 2023, a testament to his effective leadership, community trust, and unwavering dedication to grassroots development.
Born on 11th July 1973 in Waterloo, Western Area Rural District, Chairman Holland Cole began his educational journey at UMC George Brook Primary School before proceeding to Collegiate Secondary School and later the Prince of Wales Secondary School. He holds a Higher Teacher’s Certificate (HTC), a Bachelor’s Degree in Development Studies, and a Master’s Degree in Global Leadership, academic achievements that have shaped his strategic, people-centered, and transformative approach to governance.
Chairman Holland Cole’s leadership philosophy is built on the pillars of transparency, inclusiveness, accountability, and sustainable development. Under his stewardship, the Council has made significant strides in infrastructure development, youth empowerment, environmental management, and enhanced service delivery. He has also strengthened partnerships with development partners, government ministries, and civil society organizations, promoting collaborative approaches to local governance and community advancement.
Before entering elective politics, Chairman Holland-Cole served in various professional and leadership roles across both the public and private sectors, gaining extensive experience in administration, security, governance, and communication. He began his career in the Sierra Leone Police as a Criminal Investigator and Human Resources Officer (1990–1997), and later joined the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), where he served as an Infantry and Information Officer (1997–2005).
Following his military service, he transitioned to education as a Teacher (2005–2006), before joining the National Democratic Institute (NDI) as an Assistant Project Manager (2006–2007). He subsequently served as Regional Officer for the Political Parties Registration Commission (PPRC) (2007–2010), and later worked with the European Union as a Political Analyst (2011–2012). From 2012 to 2018, he built an impressive career in the media as a Journalist, Presenter, Editor, and Producer across print, television, and radio platforms.
Beyond politics and governance, Chairman Holland Cole is also a Football Administrator and a CAF & FIFA Match Commissioner, demonstrating his passion for sports development and youth engagement.
Chairman Holland Cole is married and blessed with five children. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to public service and community transformation. His vision is to transform the Western Area Rural District into a model of inclusive, resilient, and sustainable local development, where every citizen benefits from improved governance, opportunities, and quality of life.