BASE Project and MOPED Unveil District Development Plan to Boost Citizen Participation

November 20, 2024

By Millicent Senava Mannah

The Institute of Governance Reform (IGR), through the BASE Project and in collaboration with the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development (MOPED), has on November 14, 2024 launched a transformative District Development Plan aimed at enhancing citizen engagement in local governance and ensuring Government responsiveness to community needs.

The high-profile event took place at the prestigious Country Lodge in Freetown, marking a significant step towards fostering sustainable development in Sierra Leone.

The BASE Project, a $3.38 million, three-year initiative, is supported by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). It brings together five key local organizations, Institute of Governance Reform, 50/50 Group, Centre for Accountability and Rule of Law, Independent Radio Network and Budget Advocacy Network, to promote empowered and accountable communities.

This ambitious project has already made strides in establishing accountability platforms while ensuring women’s priorities are integrated into development strategies.

Andrew Lavalie, Executive Director of IGR, highlighted the project’s overarching goals, which include:

– Reducing child and maternal mortality rates.

– Enhancing farming incomes and education outcomes.

– Boosting community stability, local council revenues and citizen trust in authorities.

Andrew Lavalie stressed the importance of data-driven decision-making to improve outcomes in health, education and agriculture. He also noted that consultations and needs assessments have been conducted with approximately 4,000 citizens across six districts, ensuring grassroots participation in development planning.

Dr. Fredline Mcomarck Hale emphasized the commitment to transparency, announcing the publication of an annual State of the Council Report to keep citizens informed about council activities. She also underscored the need for reforms to bolster citizen involvement in project assessments and private sector participation in council operations.

The project aims to strengthen coordination between Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), Ministries and Local Councils, fostering a collaborative approach to governance.

The Honourable Minister of Planning and Economic Development, Madam Kenyeh Ballay, served as the Guest Speaker. She highlighted the importance of a clear framework for collaboration between local councils and the Ministry of Finance. Madam Kenyeh Ballay raised concerns about the lack of documented coordination with Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and underscored the importance of technical committees in sectors like education and agriculture.

“There is a need for public meetings to discuss development plans with NGOs and communities to ensure alignment with local needs,” she stated.

The Minister also emphasized the necessity of generating local revenue to fund development activities, citing the need for district laboratories, medical stores and active engagement with development partners.

A key focus of the discussions was the role of the private sector in managing and monitoring development structures. Madam Kenyeh Ballay reiterated the importance of leveraging private sector expertise to enhance governance and service delivery at the local level.

The event concluded with the screening of a short documentary showcasing the BASE Project’s achievements. The film highlighted how private sector involvement has improved local governance and underscored the project’s impact on community empowerment and sustainable development.

The launch of the District Development Plan signals a renewed commitment to inclusive governance, with IGR, MOPED and their partners leading efforts to create a brighter future for Sierra Leone’s citizens.

Sierra Leone’s Biometric ID Cards: Transforming Identity Management and Service Access

November 20, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The National Identification Card of Sierra Leone has evolved into a critical tool for safeguarding legal identity and facilitating access to essential services. It now plays a pivotal role in financial transactions, securing sensitive services, and verifying identities across sectors.

Issued by the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA), these Biometric ID Cards are embedded with unique biometric data, such as fingerprints and photographs, stored securely within encrypted chips. This advanced technology ensures reliable identity authentication for nationals and non-nationals alike. Each cardholder is assigned a unique National Identification Number (NIN), permanently linked to a centralized National Identity Database.

It must be noted that the NCRA recently extended the deadline for obtaining the National ID Card to December 31, 2024. This document has become indispensable in various aspects of life, including:

Financial Transactions: Simplifies dealings with banks, forex bureaus and insurance companies.
Vehicle Purchase and Registration: Required for vehicle licensing processes.
Job Applications: Essential for recruitment in public and private sectors.
NASSIT Enrollment: Facilitates registration with the National Social Security and Insurance Trust.
Property Transactions: Required for buying land or registering property.
Education: Necessary for school enrollment and sitting public exams.
SIM Registration: Mandatory for activating mobile phone SIM cards.
Life Events Registration: Eases the process for recording births, marriages and deaths.
Immigration: Key for applying for residency and work permits.
Business Registration: Simplifies incorporation and other business processes.

To accommodate the growing demand, the NCRA has established registration centers nationwide, including:

– NCRA Headquarters: 2 Walpole Street, Freetown

– NCRA Office: 23B Off Kingharman Road, Freetown

– NCRA Office: Kennedy Street, Freetown

– NCRA Branch Office: 230 Lumley Road, Freetown (Near the Roundabout)

– NCRA Office: Waterloo, along the Freetown Highway (Opposite the Police Station)

– Regional NCRA Offices: Bo, Kenema, Makeni, and Port Loko.

For corporate clients, the NCRA offers verification services to enhance trust within organizational processes. Residents can contact the NCRA at +232-33-433-333 or +232-30-500-000 or via email at idverification@ncra.gov.

In a parallel effort to strengthen digital security, the NCRA launched a campaign to link NINs with mobile phone SIM cards. This initiative, running from September 1 to November 30, 2024, aims to reduce fraudulent activities and enhance service delivery.

Mobile users are required to link their NINs to their SIM cards. Failure to comply may result in the suspension of services such as calls, SMS and mobile money transactions. Additional registration centers have been set up to meet the anticipated demand.

The Biometric ID Card and the NIN-SIM linkage campaign represent significant strides in improving identity management and securing digital and financial ecosystems in Sierra Leone. Residents are urged to acquire their ID cards and link their NINs to their SIM cards to avoid disruptions and safeguard access to essential services.

These advancements underscore the NCRA’s commitment to fostering a secure, efficient and inclusive system that benefits all who reside in Sierra Leone.

Speaker, Deputy Speaker Commend NP (SL) on State-of-the-Art Fuel Tank Installation

November 20, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a bold move to address power outages and fuel mismanagement in the House of Parliament, the Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas and Deputy Speaker, Hon. Ibrahim Tawa Conteh, inspected a newly installed 5,000-liter fuel tank on Monday, November 18, 2024. Installed by NP (SL) Ltd, the automated tank is designed to supply fuel directly to Parliament’s generator, ensuring uninterrupted power supply and enhanced efficiency.

During the inspection, Rt. Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas emphasized the significance of the installation in addressing chronic power outages and inefficiencies in fuel management, which had long plagued Parliament.

“For years, the issue of fuel shortages has egregiously hindered Parliamentary Service, forcing us to divert critical resources to resolve these problems,” he stated. “Staff manning the generator room frequently demanded large quantities of fuel, 500 liters, 1,000 liters at a time, but inefficiencies and mismanagement persisted, leaving Parliament without power during critical moments.”

The Speaker explained that these recurring challenges prompted Parliament to partner with NP (SL) Ltd to install a centralized fuel tank directly connected to the generator. This setup eliminates the need for intermittent trips to Filling Stations and ensures accurate monitoring of fuel usage.

It must be noted that some of the advantages of the 5,000-Liter Fuel Tank include the provision of a steady and uninterrupted fuel supply to Parliament’s generator, mitigating power outages and ensuring smooth parliamentary operations.

Also, a centralized fuel storage allows for precise monitoring and tracking of consumption, reducing the likelihood of mismanagement or fraudulent practices.

The tank’s installation reduces logistical challenges and frees up resources for other parliamentary needs, optimizing overall operations.

Furthermore, the system’s automation minimizes human interference, further securing fuel usage and protecting Parliament’s operations from disruptions.

Rt. Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas expressed confidence in the new system’s ability to bring accountability and transparency to fuel management. “With this fuel tank, we are better placed to monitor consumption and identify any discrepancies,” he said. “If there were corrupt practices in the past, this initiative ensures they will never resurface. The issue of fuel shortage in the generator room is dead, permanently buried and will not resurrect under my leadership as Speaker of the Sixth Parliament.”

During the inspection, NP (SL) Ltd Sales Manager, Vandi Bockarie, lauded Parliament for taking proactive measures to address fuel challenges. He emphasized the critical role of Parliament in Sierra Leone’s governance and reaffirmed NP (SL)’s commitment to providing innovative and reliable solutions.

“This installation underscores our dedication to supporting national institutions with safe, secure and efficient energy solutions,” Vandi Bockarie stated. “Parliament plays a pivotal role in our democracy and we are proud to contribute to its smooth functioning.”

The successful installation of the 5,000-liter fuel tank by NP (SL) Ltd represents a significant step forward in streamlining Parliament’s operations. By ensuring a constant power supply and promoting transparency, this initiative positions Parliament to focus on its legislative responsibilities without interruptions.

This development highlights the importance of private-sector partnerships in addressing infrastructural challenges and underscores NP (SL)’s reputation as a reliable petroleum marketing company dedicated to fostering national development.

Choithram Memorial Hospital to Host Free Surgery Camp in December

November 20, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Choithram Memorial Hospital is set to offer life-changing healthcare to Sierra Leoneans through a Free Surgery Camp scheduled for December 9 to December 14, 2024. This remarkable initiative will provide free cleft lip and palate surgeries, ensuring that individuals in need have access to specialized treatments that may otherwise be out of reach due to financial constraints.

The surgery camp will be led by the distinguished Professor (Dr.) Bayo Aluko-Olokun, a renowned Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon from Abuja, Nigeria. Dr. Aluko-Olokun, celebrated for developing the groundbreaking Olokun-Olaitan technique for cleft lip and palate repair, will collaborate with Choithram Memorial Hospital’s own skilled Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Eric Wongo. Together with a team of expert medical professionals from both Sierra Leone and Nigeria, they are committed to providing world-class surgical care to the patients in need.

This initiative is open to new patients who require initial surgeries, as well as those needing follow-up procedures. By offering these services free of charge, Choithram Memorial Hospital underscores its commitment to breaking down financial barriers and ensuring that all Sierra Leoneans have access to critical healthcare services.

Dr. Gowrinath M. George, Medical Superintendent of Choithram Memorial Hospital, expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the collaboration with Dr. Aluko-Olokun and his team. “This is a rare opportunity for many Sierra Leoneans to receive critical surgeries that will transform their lives. We strongly encourage those who qualify to take advantage of this invaluable service,” Dr. George said.

In a further demonstration of the hospital’s commitment to advancing medical care in Sierra Leone, Choithram Memorial Hospital also recently launched a state-of-the-art MRI machine in January 2024, enhancing its diagnostic capabilities and reinforcing its mission to provide top-tier healthcare to the community.

Harish Agnani, Chief Administrator of Choithram Group, highlighted the significance of the hospital’s continuous investment in advanced medical technologies. “Our goal is to deliver comprehensive, cutting-edge healthcare to the community, and the Free Surgery Camp is another testament to this dedication,” Agnani emphasized.

Registration for the Free Surgery Camp officially opened on November 6, 2024. Patients or their families interested in participating are encouraged to contact the hospital at +232 76 541 331 or visit Choithram Memorial Hospital at Hill Station, Freetown, to secure a spot.

Through this initiative, Choithram Memorial Hospital continues to make a profound difference in the lives of Sierra Leoneans by empowering those with limited financial resources to access vital healthcare services.

Orange Mobile Network Expands to Tainkatopa-Makama Chiefdoms

November 20, 2024

By Amb. Unisa Totti Fofanah

A vibrant atmosphere filled Robaka village in the Tainkatopa-Makama Chiefdoms, Port Loko District as the Orange Mobile Network was officially commissioned on Saturday, November 16, 2024. The event, attended by numerous dignitaries, community leaders and local residents, marked a groundbreaking moment for the region, signaling the start of a new chapter in communication and connectivity for its people.

Honorable Rachel Mariatu Pessima Sesay, a key figure and advocate for development in her constituency, presided over the commissioning ceremony. In her address, she stressed the importance of modern communication technologies in advancing communities, particularly in the areas of economic growth, education and social development. “Today, we open doors to new possibilities,” Honorable Rachel Mariatu Pessima Sesay declared. “This mobile network will provide our people with the tools they need to succeed in today’s interconnected world.”

For many years, the residents of Tainkatopa and Makama Chiefdoms struggled with limited mobile network connectivity. This posed serious challenges in communication, affecting access to essential services, business transactions and even the ability to stay connected with family and friends. The introduction of the Orange Mobile Network is seen as a transformative solution to these persistent issues, offering a reliable means of communication for the first time.

The announcement of the mobile network’s arrival was met with overwhelming appreciation from the local community. Many residents shared their relief and excitement, expressing gratitude for the improved connectivity. “This is a moment we’ve all been waiting for,” said one local resident. “Now, we can connect with family, run our businesses and access information without the frustrations of poor signals or dropped calls.” This sentiment was echoed by many others, all recognizing the monumental impact the network would have on their daily lives.

In her speech, Honorable Rachel Mariatu Pessima Sesay also highlighted the broader implications of the mobile network for the region. She emphasized how connectivity would help empower women, youth and entrepreneurs by giving them access to new markets, educational resources and business opportunities. “This network is a catalyst for change,” she said, “and it will help us unlock the potential of every individual in this community.”

The commissioning event also fostered community dialogue on how best to leverage the new mobile network for local development. Traditional authorities, youth groups and other stakeholders came together to discuss how to use the network to promote digital literacy and improve socio-economic conditions. Honorable Rachel Mariatu Pessima Sesay encouraged collaboration and active participation from all community members to maximize the benefits of the new technology.

The installation of the Orange Mobile Network in the Tainkatopa-Makama Chiefdoms marks a significant step forward in the region’s infrastructure development. Through the tireless advocacy and leadership of Honorable Rachel Mariatu Pessima Sesay, the residents now have access to a modern communication network that will improve their connectivity, create new opportunities for economic and social advancement and foster a more inclusive and prosperous future.

This milestone is not only a triumph for the community but also a shining example of how infrastructure development can bring about lasting change. With the Orange Mobile Network now in place, the people of Tainkatopa-Makama Chiefdoms are ready to embrace a new era of growth, communication and opportunity.

Milton Margai Land Issue: Parliament Commends VP Juldeh Jalloh’s Intervention

November 20, 2024

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By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a resounding show of effective leadership and conflict resolution, Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh has been widely praised for his decisive role in resolving the long-standing land dispute involving the Milton Margai Technical University (MMTU) and the Ministry of Tourism.

The dispute, centered on a plot of land occupied by the New Brookfields Hotel within MMTU’s campus, has been a point of contention for years. MMTU asserted that the land was integral to its Faculty of Hotel, Tourism and Nutritional Sciences, claiming ownership based on legal documentation. Conversely, the Ministry of Tourism, citing agreements from previous administrations, maintained that the hotel had legitimate rights to the property.

Despite earlier recognition by the Parliamentary Oversight Committee on Technical and Higher Education of MMTU’s ownership, unresolved differences threatened to deepen the rift. It was the intervention of Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh that brought about a resolution acceptable to all parties.

Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh emphasized the need for collaboration between MMTU and the Ministry of Tourism, noting that both entities are vital institutions of Government with shared objectives for national development. He stressed the importance of respecting the legal opinion provided by the Law Officers’ Department, which served as the Government’s definitive position on the issue.

By urging adherence to this legal guidance, the Vice President steered the discussion towards a resolution grounded in fairness, legality and mutual respect. His approach garnered praise from both the Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education, who expressed satisfaction with the mediation’s outcome.

The agreement affirms Ministry of Tourism ownership of the land, leased to Brookfields Hotel enabling the facility to move ahead with its plans for expansion.

For the Ministry of Tourism, the resolution ensures continued access by the MMTU Tourism School to the New Brookfields Hotel, a critical asset for promoting hospitality and tourism initiatives.

Parliamentary Leaders have hailed Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh’s intervention in the issue stating that Parliament had laid the groundwork for an understandable resolution.

The resolution underscores the trust placed in the Vice President to handle sensitive matters and demonstrates his effectiveness in fostering collaboration between Government institutions.

Both institutions are looking forward to a definitive closure that would allow them to continue to work together as vital partners in the hospitality industry.

Presidents Boakai and Bio Pledge Stronger Bilateral Ties for Regional Development

November 20, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a landmark visit underscoring the importance of regional unity, President Dr. Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone warmly welcomed President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr. of Liberia at State House, Freetown. The bilateral meeting, held on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, focused on deepening cooperation between the two nations and advancing sustainable development across the Mano River Union (MRU) region.

Describing President Boakai as a “big brother,” President Bio congratulated him on his election victory and praised the trust the Liberian people have bestowed upon him. He highlighted the cultural and historical ties between Sierra Leone and Liberia and emphasized opportunities for enhanced economic collaboration, particularly in trade and agriculture.

“Sierra Leone and Liberia, as neighbors with open borders, have a unique opportunity to lead in strengthening sub-regional cooperation, particularly in border security,” President Bio remarked. He also commended Liberia for its unwavering support during Sierra Leone’s successful bid for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council.

President Bio outlined Sierra Leone’s progress in human capital development, gender empowerment and economic growth, proposing inter-ministerial exchanges to foster collaboration. He also lauded President Boakai’s prioritization of agriculture, aligning it with Sierra Leone’s Feed Salone Initiative, which promotes sustainable farming to achieve food security, create jobs and reduce poverty.

In response, President Boakai expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality and commended the remarkable strides of the Bio administration. “I chose to travel by road to witness firsthand the improved road networks connecting our sub-regional communities,” he said, acknowledging the longstanding ties between Liberia and Sierra Leone.

“The peace in Sierra Leone is peace in Liberia,” President Boakai emphasized, reaffirming the need for peaceful coexistence to achieve regional prosperity. He also recognized the transformative potential of the Feed Salone Initiative to enhance food security and economic growth across the MRU.

Following their discussions, the two leaders issued a joint communiqué outlining their commitment to:

– Strengthen sub-regional unity and collaboration to combat hunger and unemployment.

– Support peaceful democratic transitions in the MRU and ECOWAS regions.

– Foster cross-border cooperation to promote cultural diversity, economic growth and harmonious coexistence.

The communiqué also included plans for strategic agricultural partnerships to utilize fertile lands in both nations for sustainable development.

In a Press Briefing, Liberia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Madame Sara Beysolow Nyanti and Sierra Leone’s Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Francess Piagie Alghali, elaborated on the outcomes of the bilateral talks.

Madame Sara Beysolow Nyanti highlighted the shared vision of the two administrations: “Our Governments are united in prioritizing agriculture and trade as key drivers of development. This partnership represents a turning point for regional integration.”

Francess Piagie Alghali underscored the importance of continued dialogue and cooperation to address security and economic challenges. “Through strengthened bilateral relations, we are paving the way for a peaceful and prosperous future for our people,” she said.

At the continental level, President Boakai commended Sierra Leone’s leadership on the United Nations Security Council and its advocacy for UN reforms through the African Union Committee of Ten (C10). President Bio, in turn, applauded Liberia’s bid for a non-permanent seat on the Security Council for 2026-2027, recognizing its potential to contribute to peacebuilding and conflict resolution.

The meeting concluded with President Boakai expressing heartfelt gratitude to President Bio for the warm welcome and productive discussions. “This visit marks a new chapter in the partnership between our two nations,” he stated.

This historic engagement between Presidents Bio and Boakai not only reinforces the bond between Sierra Leone and Liberia but also sets a strong foundation for sustainable development, peace and unity in West Africa.

Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh Strengthens Bilateral Ties During Guinea-Bissau Visit

November 20, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Vice President of Sierra Leone, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, on November 18, 2024, received a warm red carpet welcome during his two-day working visit to Guinea-Bissau. He met with His Excellency President Umaro Sissoco Embaló, and the two leaders held productive discussions aimed at enhancing bilateral cooperation.

Their talks focused on strengthening cultural and technical exchanges, as well as security and diplomacy training. The meeting underscored the deep-rooted ties between Sierra Leone and Guinea-Bissau, with both leaders emphasizing the need to expand collaboration across various sectors. Vice President Jalloh expressed his appreciation for the warm hospitality extended by President Embaló and his government, acknowledging the shared values and mutual aspirations that unite the two nations.

Following his meeting with the President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh attended a working lunch with Prime Minister Rui Duarte Barros.

At a joint Press Conference in Bissau, the Hon. Vice President underscored the need to strengthen cooperation between the two countries through technical and cultural exchanges as well as security collaborations. Vice President Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh commended the Government of Guinea-Bissau for its commitment to fostering fraternal ties with Sierra Leone, noting the importance of cultural and diplomatic engagements in strengthening the bond between the two countries.

As part of his itinerary, the Vice President also addressed the Sierra Leone community in Guinea Bissau . He briefed them about progress back home and the efforts the Government of President Dr. Julius Maada Bio is making in the full implementation of the Government’s Big 5 Game Changer including the Feed Salone agenda.

Reflecting on his visit, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh shared his personal connection to Guinea-Bissau, describing the city as one that holds many fond memories when he was working for the United Nations. He knows Guinea-Bissau very well because of his previous supervisory job at the UNOWAS office in Dakar, Senegal which covered Guinea-Bissau.

The Vice President extended special thanks to Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to The Gambia, who also cover Guinea-Bissau, Martha Kanagbo and her team for their efforts in organizing the visit as well as their dedication to advancing Sierra Leone’s diplomatic presence in the country.

Vice President Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh’s visit to Guinea-Bissau highlights Sierra Leone’s ongoing commitment to regional integration and collaboration. By prioritizing cultural and technical exchanges, security partnerships and diplomatic training, the visit not only deepened existing ties but also opened new avenues for cooperation.

As both nations continue to work together, the outcomes of this visit are expected to contribute significantly to fostering peace, stability and shared progress in West Africa.

Jaffer Zeghir’s Social Media Tirade Against Judiciary Faces Criticism

November 20, 2024

By Fatmata Jengbe

Jaffer Zeghir, the Chief Executive Officer of SKM Group, has come under intense scrutiny for his derogatory remarks about the Judiciary, referring to the institution as a “reckless judicial system” on social media. His comments have sparked widespread outrage, with many calling for legal action due to his blatant disrespect for the Third Arm of Government.

His frustration with the Judiciary appears to stem from a prolonged legal dispute between SKM Enterprise, a subsidiary of SKM Group and Leonoil, a leading petroleum marketing company. The case revolves around a prepaid transaction for 430,000 liters of fuel, with SKM Enterprise collecting only 230,000 liters. The remaining 200,000 liters became subject to price adjustments following a Government-imposed fuel price hike. Industry norms dictate that buyers must either accept the new price or request a refund, but reports suggest Jaffer Zeghir rejected both options, taking the matter to court instead.

In a controversial ruling, a lower court sided with SKM Enterprise, exempting the company from paying Government taxes on the uncollected fuel. Leonoil, challenging the decision, has filed an appeal, arguing that the ruling contradicts Sierra Leone’s tax laws and could set a harmful precedent for future tax evasion.

Despite the ongoing appeal, Jaffer Zeghir has been accused of using social media to undermine the Judiciary’s credibility. He has allegedly made baseless accusations of corruption and bias within the judicial system, which has drawn condemnation from legal experts and public officials.

The Judiciary, led by Acting Chief Justice Nicholas C. Browne-Marke, has vehemently rejected these allegations, affirming its commitment to fairness and impartiality as outlined in the 1991 Constitution of Sierra Leone.

“While no institution is without flaws, the judiciary remains steadfast in its mission to uphold the rule of law,” stated Acting Chief Justice Browne-Marke. He also highlighted efforts to improve efficiency, including a 90% resolution rate of case backlogs and his adjudication of over 100 cases this year alone.

The Chief Justice has cautioned against attempts by individuals or corporations to tarnish the Judiciary’s reputation for personal gain, underscoring the need to respect national institutions.

Leonoil, meanwhile, has reaffirmed its commitment to ethical business practices and compliance with industry standards. The company emphasized that price adjustments following Government directives are routine and must be adhered to by all parties.

“Leonoil’s appeal seeks to uphold legal principles, fairness, and compliance with Sierra Leone’s tax laws,” a company spokesperson stated. Leonoil has expressed concern that if the lower court’s decision is upheld, it could undermine fair business practices and create opportunities for tax evasion.

Adding to the controversy, Jaffer Zeghir is facing allegations of exceeding his legal authority as a Filling Station dealer. Sources claim that SKM Enterprise has been involved in large-scale procurement of petroleum products for supply to private entities; a role that, under law, is reserved for licensed petroleum marketing companies.

These allegations have raised concerns within the petroleum sector, prompting calls from industry stakeholders for the Petroleum Regulatory Agency (PRA) to investigate. If substantiated, such practices could distort the market and create unfair competition.

In light of these disputes, civil society organizations have urged restraint and respect for the judicial process. They have cautioned against using media platforms to manipulate public opinion or pressure the judiciary.

The judiciary continues to fulfill its constitutional mandate with transparency and integrity, while Leonoil remains committed to fair and accountable business practices. As the appeal progresses and investigations into regulatory violations continue, the public is urged to focus on the facts and allow the legal process to unfold.

Upholding the rule of law and respecting national institutions are essential for maintaining public trust and ensuring justice for all parties involved.

2nd Edition Cowbell “Kapu Sens” Challenge Successfully Concluded

November 20, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Cowbell, a flagship brand marketed by Premium Divine Trading Company Limited, successfully concluded the 2nd edition of the Cowbell Kapu Sens Inter-School Quiz Competition on Saturday, November 15, 2024. Centered on the theme: “Nurturing the Spirit of Patriotism Through Civic Education,” the vibrant two-day competition was held at the Multi-Purpose Hall of Fourah Bay College in Freetown.

The event featured thrilling rounds of elimination, where lower-ranked schools defied the odds, defeating some of the competition’s top contenders. Thirty-two senior secondary schools in Freetown, including Albert Academy, Methodist Girls’ High School, St. Edward’s Secondary School, Government Rokel Secondary School, Sierra Leone Muslim Brotherhood Secondary School and Model Secondary School, participated in this year’s edition.

After intense preliminary stages and the Round of 16, four exceptional schools Albert Academy, Methodist Boys High School, St. Edward’s Secondary School and Crown International Secondary School secured their places in the finals.

In a riveting showdown, Methodist Boys High School emerged victorious as champions, clinching the coveted trophy and a cash prize of NLe15, 000. Albert Academy earned the second-runner-up position, taking home a cash prize of NLe10, 000 with a trophy, while St. Edward’s Secondary School secured third place, receiving a cash reward of NLe7, 000 and a trophy. An individual highlight of the competition was Osman Fornah of Methodist Boys High School, who was celebrated as the Best Quizzer for his exceptional performance and knowledge throughout the event.

In his address, Kenneth Konuah, Country Manager of Premium Divine Trading Ltd, underscored the significance of patriotism and civic education in shaping engaged and responsible citizens. He highlighted the company’s commitment to national development through initiatives that inspire youth involvement in community building.

“In an era defined by rapid globalization and interconnectedness, the importance of nurturing the spirit of patriotism among young people through civic education cannot be overstated,” Kenneth Konuah stated. “Civic education plays a pivotal role in shaping the values, beliefs and sense of responsibility that are essential for the development of engaged and informed citizens.”

Kenneth Konuah explained that it was this vision that prompted Premium Divine Trading Ltd, through its flagship brand Cowbell, to launch the Cowbell Kapu Sens Inter-School Competition under the theme: “Nurturing the Spirit of Patriotism Through Civic Education,” emphasizing the company’s dedication to empowering Sierra Leone’s youth to contribute meaningfully to nation-building.

He further remarked: “We believe our contribution to national development is to encourage youth to take an active role in their communities rather than just relying on Government support.” Kenneth Konuah expressed hope that the competition would serve as a catalyst for young people to actively participate in the nation-building process.

This year’s competition saw an increase in prizes, with NLe 15,000 awarded to the winning school, NLe 10,000 for second place and NLe 7,000 for third place. All 32 participating schools also received Cowbell products and certificates of participation. Kenneth Konuah revealed plans to expand the competition to other regions of the country, further broadening its impact.

Kenneth Konuah stressed that national progress is a collective effort. “National development is a shared responsibility and should be inclusive of everyone, especially the youth who are the future leaders,” he remarked.

The Chief Patriot of the Patriotic Advocacy Network, Ansumana Keita, lauded Premium Divine Trading Company Ltd for organizing the Cowbell Kapu Sens Inter-School Quiz Competition, emphasizing its significance in fostering a profound understanding of citizenship rights and responsibilities among young people.

He highlighted that the competition’s questions were centered on patriotism to help participants develop critical thinking skills necessary to address modern challenges. “By focusing on patriotism, we aim to equip participants with the mindset needed to navigate and overcome the complexities of today’s world,” he explained.

Ansumana Keita extended congratulations to the winners and urged all participants to apply the knowledge gained during the competition to inspire others about the importance of patriotism. “This event is more than a competition it’s an opportunity to cultivate a sense of national pride and responsibility that participants can share with their communities,” he added.

Delivering the keynote address at the Cowbell Kapu Sens Inter-School Competition, Kalilu Totangi, Chairperson of the National Council of Civic Education and Democracy (NaCCED), highlighted the critical role of civic education in fostering patriotism and national development.

Kalilu Totangi commended Premium Divine Trading Company Ltd, through its Cowbell brand, for spearheading an initiative that goes beyond traditional academic pursuits by focusing on shaping values, responsibilities and a sense of belonging among young people.

“In a world where values are increasingly challenged, civic education stands as the bedrock for cultivating informed, responsible and engaged citizens. This competition not only tests knowledge but also reinforces the importance of patriotism as a driving force for national cohesion and progress,” he remarked.

He urged pupils to internalize the lessons learned from the competition and translate them into actions that contribute to nation-building. “The future of Sierra Leone lies in the hands of its youth. By embracing the principles of civic education, you are equipping yourselves to be agents of positive change in your communities and beyond,” Kalilu Totangi asserted.

He concluded his address by congratulating the participants, particularly the winners, and encouraged them to inspire their peers to adopt a patriotic mindset for the collective good of the nation.

Osman Fornah of Methodist Boys High School, who was celebrated as the Best Quizzer and whose school clinched first place in the Cowbell Kapu Sens Inter-School Competition, expressed heartfelt appreciation to Premium Divine Trading Company Ltd and its Cowbell brand for organizing the impactful event. He acknowledged the competition’s role in instilling a sense of patriotism and civic responsibility among pupils.

Reflecting on their victory, Osman Fornah credited their success to unwavering dedication and preparation. “Our hard work and commitment have finally paid off. We had sleepless nights studying for this competition, so it’s not surprising that we emerged as winners,” he stated with pride.

Osman Fornah also encouraged his peers to apply the knowledge gained during the competition to promote patriotism and active citizenship. “The insights we’ve acquired from the Cowbell Kapu Sens Inter-School Competition are invaluable. I urge my fellow pupils to use this knowledge to foster a greater sense of responsibility and pride in our nation,” he added.

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