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Mohinder Bir Singh Sachdeva Assumes Office as Côte d’Ivoire’s Honorary Consul in Sierra Leone

Two formally dressed individuals exchange a folded orange flag during a ceremony, with balloons in the background.

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Popular businessman and philanthropist, Mohinder Bir Singh Sachdeva, widely known as “Pa Jetty,” has officially assumed office as Honorary Consul of the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire in Sierra Leone following the formal handover ceremony and inauguration of the Honorary Consulate of the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire in Freetown.

The historic ceremony, held on Friday, 5 June 2026, at the newly established consulate office in Aberdeen, marked a major step in strengthening diplomatic and economic relations between Sierra Leone and Côte d’Ivoire. The event was held under the grand chief patronage of Her Excellency M’Brah Aya Georgette, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire accredited to Sierra Leone and Liberia.

The occasion attracted senior Government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, representatives of international organizations, business leaders and media practitioners, reflecting the importance both countries attach to expanding bilateral cooperation.

Delivering her remarks, Her Excellency M’Brah Aya Georgette disclosed that the appointment of Mohinder Bir Singh Sachdeva followed a thorough and highly competitive selection process approved by the President of Côte d’Ivoire, Alassane Ouattara. She also conveyed congratulations from Côte d’Ivoire’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Niale Kaba, and expressed confidence that the new Honorary Consul would further deepen relations between the two nations.

The Ambassador praised Mohinder Bir Singh Sachdeva for his strong presence in Sierra Leone, extensive business experience, integrity and commitment to public service. She said those qualities made him an ideal choice to represent the interests of Côte d’Ivoire and would help strengthen cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, culture and people-to-people exchanges.

Her Excellency M’Brah Aya Georgette described Sierra Leone and Côte d’Ivoire as sister nations whose relationship has long been built on friendship, cooperation and mutual respect. She assured the new Honorary Consul of the full support of the Ivorian Government in carrying out his responsibilities.

In his acceptance address, Mohinder Bir Singh Sachdeva described his appointment as both an honour and a significant responsibility. He said the establishment of the Honorary Consulate represents a new chapter in the enduring friendship between Sierra Leone and Côte d’Ivoire and demonstrates the shared commitment of both countries to closer cooperation.

Mohinder Bir Singh Sachdeva expressed gratitude to President Alassane Ouattara, the Ministry of State for Foreign Affairs of Côte d’Ivoire and Her Excellency M’Brah Aya Georgette for the trust and confidence reposed in him.

He noted that the relationship between the two countries is anchored on common values, including peace, democratic governance, regional cooperation and sustainable development. He pledged to discharge his duties with dedication, integrity and respect for the principles and values of the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire.

The new Honorary Consul also outlined his vision for the consulate, identifying trade promotion, cultural exchanges, educational partnerships and stronger people-to-people relations as key priorities. He stressed that diplomacy remains an important instrument for fostering mutual understanding and advancing shared interests.

Mohinder Bir Singh Sachdeva paid tribute to the Ivorian community residing in Sierra Leone, describing them as a living bridge connecting the two countries. He assured them that the consulate would remain open, accessible and responsive to their needs while promoting their welfare and interests.

Representing Sierra Leone’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Siku Jalloh, Director of the Africa Division at the Ministry, welcomed the opening of the Honorary Consulate and congratulated Mohinder Bir Singh Sachdeva on his appointment.

Siku Jalloh said the establishment of the consulate reflects the strong bilateral relationship between Sierra Leone and Côte d’Ivoire, founded on a shared history and strengthened through cooperation within the Mano River Union and the Economic Community of West African States.

He added that the consulate would serve as an important platform for promoting business opportunities, enhancing diplomatic engagement and expanding cooperation between the Governments and peoples of both countries. He assured the new Honorary Consul of the Ministry’s full support in fulfilling his mandate.

Later in the evening, a cocktail reception was held at the Lagoonda Entertainment Complex in Aberdeen to commemorate the official handover and inauguration of the Honorary Consulate. In addition to personalities present during the official inauguration ceremony earlier in the day, those in attendance at the reception included the Chief Minister, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, certain Government officials, Chairman of Pee Cee and Sons, Mahesh Nandwani, Head of Choithrams, Harish Agnani, Chief Executive Officer of Emkay Stores, Manoj Rajwani, Chief Executive Officer of Balani and Sons, Pa Balani, Ugandan Honorary Consul and Chief Executive Officer of AP Business Venture (SL) Ltd, Deepak Bhurani, as well as several other distinguished guests including members of the Ivorian community.

Speaking at the reception, Chief Minister, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh described Sierra Leone and Côte d’Ivoire as strategic partners within the Mano River Union and the wider ECOWAS region. He noted that President Julius Maada Bio, as Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, continues to champion regional integration, economic cooperation and the free movement of people and goods across West Africa.

The Chief Minister  highlighted ongoing areas of collaboration between the two countries, including the Côte d’Ivoire-Liberia-Sierra Leone-Guinea electricity interconnection project and the growing trade relationship between the ports of Abidjan and Freetown.

He also identified the restoration of direct Air Côte d’Ivoire flights between Sierra Leone and Côte d’Ivoire as an important priority, noting that improved air connectivity would promote business, tourism and diplomatic exchanges while strengthening bilateral ties.

The inauguration of the Honorary Consulate and the appointment of Mohinder Bir Singh Sachdeva are expected to open a new era of cooperation between Sierra Leone and Côte d’Ivoire, with greater emphasis on economic partnerships, investment promotion, regional integration and stronger diplomatic engagement between the two neighbouring West African nations.

Mohinder Bir Singh Sachdeva
Chief Minister, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh

27th Chinese Medical Team Conducts Free Health Clinic for Sierra Leone Government Workers

Group of people in dark shirts posing under a concrete canopy, holding a blue banner that reads 'China Medical Team to Sierra Leone' with buses in the background.

The 27th Chinese Medical Team to Sierra Leone has organized a comprehensive free health clinic for staff of the Government of Sierra Leone, reaffirming the growing medical cooperation and longstanding friendship between China and Sierra Leone.

The medical outreach programme was held on 4 June at the Youyi Building Plaza in Freetown, which houses the Ministry of Health and Sanitation. The initiative was organized by the Chinese Medical Team with the support of the Ministry of Health, the building management and the Pinkang Clinic. The exercise commenced at 9:00 a.m. and attracted hundreds of public servants from the Ministry of Health and other key Government institutions.

Deputy Minister of Health and Sanitation, Charles Senessie, visited the clinic to interact with members of the Chinese Medical Team and express appreciation for their continued support to Sierra Leone’s healthcare sector.

He commended the team for extending medical services to Government workers, noting that the partnership between China and Sierra Leone in the health sector has produced significant achievements over the years. According to the Deputy Minister, the special clinic addressed the healthcare needs of civil servants who often work under demanding conditions, while also strengthening bilateral cooperation between the two countries.

To ensure efficient service delivery and maintain patient confidentiality, the medical team established separate functional areas for registration, consultations and specialized examinations. Basic internal medicine and surgery services were provided under a shaded pavilion, while two China-donated mobile medical vehicles were deployed for private examinations and advanced diagnostic procedures.

Inside the mobile medical units, specialists carried out ultrasound scans, electrocardiogram (ECG) tests and traditional Chinese acupuncture treatments for patients requiring specialized care. The mobile facilities enabled the team to conduct examinations in a professional environment while safeguarding patient privacy.

As news of the outreach spread among Government offices, the number of patients increased significantly, resulting in long queues at the venue. Many participants received consultations from multiple medical departments, leading to a demand that exceeded initial expectations.

Despite the large turnout, members of the Chinese Medical Team maintained high clinical standards, dedicating adequate time to each patient and carefully addressing their health concerns. Doctors and medical staff patiently explained diagnoses, offered professional medical advice and guided patients on proper healthcare practices.

Official figures indicated that more than 400 consultations were provided during the one-day clinic. Services included screening for common and chronic diseases, blood pressure and blood sugar checks, ECG and ultrasound examinations, health education, medical counselling and the free distribution of medicines.

The Chinese Medical Team described the initiative as part of its ongoing commitment to supporting local Government institutions and promoting preventive healthcare and health management. The team further reaffirmed its determination to continue providing quality medical services and strengthening health cooperation between China and Sierra Leone.

Internal Affairs Ministry Strengthens Security Coordination Through Regular Inter-Agency Meeting

Two men sit at a conference table; one in white traditional attire and the other in a tan military uniform holding a microphone.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening national security and improving inter-agency collaboration through its regular rotating inter-agency meeting, which was recently hosted by the Sierra Leone Correctional Service (SLCS) in Freetown.

The meeting, held on June 4, 2026, brought together heads of agencies and departments under the Ministry to review operational progress, discuss emerging security challenges and enhance cooperation across the country’s security sector.

Chairing the meeting, the Minister of Internal Affairs, AIG (Rtd.) Morie Lengor Esq., commended the leadership of the various agencies for their unwavering commitment and the collective synergy that continues to drive the Ministry’s mandate. He assured participants of his determination to utilize effective oversight, sound policies and strong political will to transform the Ministry’s agencies and departments and further improve their performance.

The Minister called for sustained collaboration among all security institutions, emphasizing that dedicated teamwork and professionalism remain essential to addressing the country’s security challenges. He urged officers and staff to discharge their responsibilities with diligence, integrity and the highest level of professionalism.

AIG (Rtd.) Morie Lengor also disclosed that he had engaged the Sierra Leone Police across the Western Area and other regions as part of a proactive security strategy aimed at reducing crime. He noted that criminal activities often increase during the rainy season, particularly when heavy rains create opportunities for criminals to target vulnerable households.

In his welcome address, the Director General of the Sierra Leone Correctional Service, Joseph J. Senesie, thanked the Ministry’s Management and Staff for selecting the institution to host the meeting. He briefed participants on the operations of the Correctional Service and highlighted ongoing efforts to ease congestion at the Pademba Road Correctional Centre.

According to Joseph J. Senesie, the Government of Sierra Leone, in collaboration with the Ministry of Works and Public Assets, is advancing plans to construct a modern state-of-the-art correctional facility to provide improved accommodation and rehabilitation services for inmates.

The Chief Immigration Officer of the Sierra Leone Immigration Department (SLID), Dr. Moses Tiffa Baio Esq., also updated participants on the progress of the country’s online passport application system. He noted that significant reforms introduced over the past year have transformed passport services through a fully digitized process.

The modern system now allows citizens to apply for passports online from any location, schedule biometric appointments at their preferred centres and choose any SLID office for passport collection, making the process more efficient and accessible.

Other heads of agencies also presented updates on their respective institutions, highlighting key achievements, ongoing challenges and strategic areas for improvement as the Ministry continues to strengthen coordination and operational effectiveness across the security sector.

LAJ Emerges as Freetown’s Favourite Music Artist in Meraki Analytics Survey

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

A recent public perception survey conducted by Meraki Analytics has ranked Sierra Leonean musician and rapper LAJ as the most popular music artist in Freetown, with 11.4 percent of respondents naming him as their favourite performer.

The survey, carried out under the Meraki Analytics-Citizen Lens/OneField Public Perception Survey initiative, gathered responses from 1,217 residents across the capital city between 13 April and 4 May 2026. The study sought to determine who currently holds the title of the “King of Freetown” in Sierra Leone’s music industry.

According to the findings, LAJ secured the top spot, reflecting his growing popularity and strong influence within the country’s entertainment sector. Drizilik followed closely in second place with 10.5 percent, while Famous claimed third position with 8.0 percent of the votes.

Veteran rapper Kao Denero ranked fourth with 6.7 percent, while renowned singer Emmerson came fifth with 5.4 percent. The survey highlighted the continued relevance of established performers alongside the rise of a new generation of entertainers.

Legacy Boi, widely known for his hit song The Money Necessary, finished sixth with 4.6 percent, followed by K Man with 3.9 percent. Star Zee placed eighth with 1.7 percent, Steady Bongo came ninth with 1.6 percent and Pretty S completed the top ten with 1.3 percent.

Meraki Analytics noted that the results reflect the diversity of Freetown’s musical landscape, where both veteran acts and emerging talents continue to enjoy strong public support.

The survey also revealed that nearly one-third of respondents, representing 30 percent, either do not listen to Sierra Leonean music or do not have a favourite local artist, highlighting the varied entertainment preferences among residents of the capital.

A total of 85 different artists were mentioned during the survey. Other musicians receiving recognition included Jimmy B, Pupa Banja, Incredible JJ, Bakiteno, M2, Kracktwist, Samza, Rozay, Empress P, Apreel and several others.

In its analysis, Meraki Analytics stated that LAJ’s emergence as Freetown’s favourite artist underscores his increasing influence in the local music industry while also demonstrating the highly competitive nature of Sierra Leone’s entertainment scene.

The survey was conducted with support from Meraki Analytics’ partners as part of its ongoing Citizen Lens/OneField Public Perception Survey initiative aimed at capturing public opinion on key social and cultural issues.

Sierra Leone, So Afri Loge Sign Landmark Housing Agreement for Public Servants

Officials sign documents at a formal meeting, with delegates standing around a long table and banners in the background.

The Government of Sierra Leone has taken a significant step towards addressing the housing needs of civil and public servants by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with So Afri Loge for the development of affordable housing units across the country.

The signing ceremony took place on Friday, 5 June 2026, at the Sierra Leone Embassy in Dakar, Senegal and was chaired by Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to Senegal, H.E. Ibrahim Turay, who described the initiative as a major achievement of President Julius Maada Bio’s economic diplomacy agenda.

The agreement was signed on behalf of the Government of Sierra Leone by the Minister of Lands, Housing and Country Planning, Dr. Turad Senesie and the Minister of Political Affairs and Public Administration, Amara Kallon. The event was attended by senior Government officials, including the Chairman of the Public Service Commission, K.O. Bah, the Director of the Public Sector Reform Unit, Sulaiman Phoray-Musa, the Professional Head and Director of Surveys and Lands, Tamba Dauda and the Communication Specialist of the Sierra Leone Land Administration Project, Abdul Fonti.

Speaking at the ceremony, Dr. Turad Senesie reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to ensuring the successful implementation of the project.

“With this MOU, we are not only pledging land and tax incentives but also our full institutional support. We are committed to moving swiftly towards the Joint Venture Agreement, securing Cabinet and Parliamentary approval and ensuring that construction begins without unnecessary delay. Providing decent and affordable housing for our workforce is a national priority,” he stated.

Minister Amara Kallon emphasized that the initiative aligns closely with the Government’s broader public sector reform programme.

“This project transforms our policy commitments into practical action. When civil servants have access to secure and dignified homes, their motivation and productivity improve, benefiting the entire public service. We will work closely with So Afri Loge to finalize the Joint Venture Agreement and complete all statutory processes to ensure the project commences as soon as possible,” he said.

Representatives of So Afri Loge also expressed confidence in the partnership and pledged to move quickly to the next phase of the project.

According to the company’s senior Management, the firm is fully aligned with the Government’s vision and is prepared to finalize the Joint Venture Agreement, complete project designs and financing arrangements and commence construction once all necessary approvals are obtained.

Chairing the event, Ambassador Ibrahim Turay welcomed the development, describing it as a clear demonstration of the success of Sierra Leone’s economic diplomacy efforts.

“I am delighted that our economic diplomacy agenda is yielding positive results. Attracting transformative investments such as this affordable housing project is exactly what we set out to achieve. I will continue to support the process to ensure that it receives Cabinet and Parliamentary consideration without delay,” the Ambassador said.

The Director of the Public Sector Reform Unit, Sulaiman Phoray-Musa, also noted that access to decent housing is essential for restoring the dignity and pride of public service and will contribute significantly to improved efficiency and productivity across the sector.

With the MOU now signed, both the Government of Sierra Leone and So Afri Loge have committed themselves to an ambitious timeline for concluding the Joint Venture Agreement and obtaining the legal and parliamentary approvals required to begin the construction of affordable homes for public servants.

Sierra Leone Facilitates Safe Return of Nine ECOWAS Nationals

Passengers boarding a small commercial jet via portable stairs on the tarmac, with ground crew and a white service van nearby.

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Government of Sierra Leone has successfully facilitated the safe return of nine nationals from member states of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), underscoring the country’s commitment to regional cooperation, humanitarian responsibility and the orderly management of migration.

According to a Press Release issued by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education on June 4, 2026, the nine individuals arrived in Sierra Leone from the United States on May 20 under the Third Country National Agreement between the two countries.

Government stated that upon their arrival, the ECOWAS nationals were received and accommodated in accordance with established humanitarian standards and international protocols for protection and care.

The process was coordinated through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, working closely with diplomatic missions, relevant Government institutions and Kenvah Solutions. Authorities provided temporary accommodation, meals, clothing, health screening, psychosocial support and other essential services during the individuals’ stay in Sierra Leone.

Officials noted that after the completion of all necessary administrative, consular and travel arrangements, the nine ECOWAS nationals voluntarily returned safely to their respective countries of origin.

The Government described the exercise as a successful demonstration of Sierra Leone’s dedication to regional solidarity and humanitarian assistance. Authorities further emphasized that the process reflects the country’s ability to provide temporary protection and support to people in transit while collaborating with regional and international partners to ensure safe and dignified solutions.

The development comes amid ongoing efforts by ECOWAS member states to strengthen cooperation on migration management, human mobility and the protection of vulnerable persons within the West African region.

Government reaffirmed its commitment to working with regional and international partners to promote safe migration pathways, uphold humanitarian principles and support initiatives that foster stability and cooperation across the ECOWAS sub-region.

Moyamba Delegates Declare Overwhelming Support for Musa Tarawally’s 2028 Flagbearer Bid

Man in a light blue shirt and blue cap steps out of a dark SUV with the door open, holding a phone.
Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally

By Ibrahim Sesay

Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally has received a significant political boost after delegates from Moyamba District declared overwhelming support for his bid to become the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) flagbearer ahead of the 2028 general elections.

According to supporters of the former Minister and presidential aspirant, representatives from all six constituencies in Moyamba District have endorsed his candidacy, strengthening his position within the party’s emerging leadership contest.

The endorsement reportedly took place on Friday, June 5, 2026, at Hon. Musa Tarawally’s residence in Freetown, where 22 out of the district’s 24 delegates gathered to publicly pledge their support for his presidential ambition. His supporters described the development as a clear demonstration of the confidence many party delegates have in his leadership vision.

Political observers say the latest endorsement could have a significant impact on the evolving dynamics of the SLPP flagbearer race, with reports suggesting that some delegates from other political camps are also expressing interest in aligning with the Musa Tarawally movement.

Supporters further believe that the growing momentum behind his campaign reflects a desire among delegates for experienced leadership as the party prepares for its internal elections and the 2028 national polls.

Speaking on his ambition, Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally emphasized the importance of respecting the democratic process within the party and appealed directly to the delegates who will ultimately determine the next SLPP flagbearer.

“Whilst other aspirants are boasting of President Bio’s favor to become the next flagbearer of the SLPP, I am appealing to and assuring the delegates, who have the constitutional right to vote, to support me as the next flagbearer of the great SLPP,” he said.

With political activities steadily intensifying, many analysts believe that support from influential districts such as Moyamba could prove decisive in the SLPP’s internal flagbearer race, potentially shaping the direction of the party ahead of the 2028 general elections.

Autopsy Report Raises Questions Over Death of APC Stalwart Abdul Rahmadan “Omega” Sesay

Man with a gray beard and light blue shirt posing against a pink background.

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

The family of Abdul Rahmadan “Omega” Sesay, a prominent member of the All People’s Congress (APC) in Port Loko District, has released what it describes as the findings of a post-mortem examination, claiming that the politician died as a result of strangulation and possible poisoning.

According to a public statement issued by the family, the autopsy conducted in Freetown reportedly found evidence of foul play, dismissing widespread social media speculation that Abdul Rahmadan “Omega” Sesay died from a drug or alcohol overdose.

The family stated that pathologists concluded that Abdul Rahmadan “Omega” Sesay suffered a broken neck consistent with strangulation. They further alleged that medical examiners observed signs suggestive of severe poisoning, noting abnormalities discovered during the examination.

Abdul Rahmadan “Omega” Sesay was reportedly found dead in a hotel room in Lungi, Kaffu Bullom Chiefdom, alongside a young woman identified as Mary Sia Bangura, who was also reported deceased. The circumstances surrounding the two deaths remain under active police investigation.

Law enforcement authorities in Lungi have reportedly taken three individuals into custody in connection with the case. However, the Sierra Leone Police have not yet publicly disclosed the identities of the suspects or officially confirmed the details contained in the family’s statement.

A respected academic and political figure, Abdul Rahmadan “Omega” Sesay served as a senior lecturer at the University of Management and Technology and was pursuing a PhD at the University of Makeni. Within the APC, he was widely known for his political activism and had served in several leadership capacities, including Resident Chairman, and Councillor in Port Loko District.

His sudden death has sent shockwaves through political and academic circles, with supporters, colleagues and community members calling for a transparent and comprehensive investigation.

Reports have also indicated that investigators may seek statements from individuals believed to have had contact with Abdul Rahmadan “Omega” Sesay  before his death, although official confirmation from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) is still pending.

The family has urged the authorities to ensure that justice is served and that all those responsible, if any wrongdoing is established, are brought before the law.

As investigations continue, police are expected to provide further updates on what has become one of the country’s most closely watched criminal cases.

The matter remains a developing story.

Mercy Ships Honours President Bio for Three Years of Healthcare Collaboration

Nine professionals in formal attire pose for a group photo in a reception area, with a palm mural behind them on the wall.

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has hosted a farewell lunch for the Sierra Leonean crew members serving aboard the Global Mercy Ship and reaffirmed his Government’s commitment to strengthening the longstanding partnership between Mercy Ships and Sierra Leone.

The event, held on 4 June 2026 at State House in Freetown, celebrated another successful chapter in the collaboration between Mercy Ships and the Government of Sierra Leone, a partnership that has significantly improved access to life-changing surgical care, healthcare training and institutional capacity building across the country.

Speaking on behalf of the Mercy Ships leadership, Matthew Murray expressed profound appreciation to President Bio and the Government of Sierra Leone for the hospitality, support and cooperation extended to the organisation during its mission.

He noted that the people of Sierra Leone had been exceptionally welcoming and praised the dedication of the many Sierra Leonean volunteers who have served alongside the international team over the years.

Representing the Sierra Leonean volunteers, Albert Sam and Edward Carew shared emotional testimonies about the transformative impact of Mercy Ships on communities across the country. They described the organisation as a beacon of hope that has restored health, dignity and confidence to thousands of Sierra Leoneans.

They highlighted inspiring stories, including those of Amara and Mama Musu, as examples of the life-changing interventions made possible through the humanitarian mission.

Minister of Health, Dr. Austin Demby, commended President Bio for his visionary leadership and praised Mercy Ships for its exceptional contribution to Sierra Leone’s healthcare sector over the past three years.

Describing the occasion as one of the happiest moments of his life, Dr. Austin Demby said the more than 4,000 successful surgeries performed by Mercy Ships represented thousands of stories of hope, healing and renewed dignity for Sierra Leoneans.

He added that the organization’s impact extends beyond surgical care through investments in healthcare workforce development, institutional strengthening and long-term support for the country’s health system.

In his remarks, President Bio expressed profound gratitude to Mercy Ships for its invaluable contribution to healthcare delivery and human development in Sierra Leone.

The President thanked the organisation for providing life-changing and life-saving opportunities to many Sierra Leoneans and noted that its confidence in the country and commitment to partnership had created a lasting impact that would benefit future generations.

President Bio stressed that although the vessel would be departing Sierra Leonean shores, the legacy of Mercy Ships would remain through the thousands of lives transformed, healthcare professionals trained and institutions strengthened.

He also paid tribute to the Sierra Leonean volunteers who served alongside the organisation, describing them as exemplary ambassadors who demonstrated the nation’s values of compassion, professionalism and service.

The President said Sierra Leone is a resilient and welcoming nation and that the partnership with Mercy Ships had showcased the true character of its people. On behalf of the Government and citizens of Sierra Leone, he extended heartfelt appreciation to Mercy Ships and everyone who contributed to the success of the mission.

Throughout its mission in Sierra Leone, Mercy Ships provided thousands of free surgical procedures, delivered specialized medical training and supported critical health systems strengthening initiatives, leaving an enduring legacy that will continue to benefit communities across the country.

Following the farewell ceremony, the leadership of Mercy Ships held a briefing session with President Bio and presented him with a plaque of appreciation in recognition of his exemplary support during the organization’s three-year field service in Sierra Leone.

Lungi Conference Centre Nears Completion as Sierra Leone Prepares for ECOWAS Summit

Group of officials and workers in hard hats and safety vests touring a construction site, with a man in a pink suit at center addressing the group.

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has inspected the ongoing construction of the Conference Centre and Presidential Villas at Lungi, reaffirming his Government’s commitment to infrastructure development and national transformation ahead of the 69th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, scheduled for next month.

The inspection tour, conducted on 5 June 2026 at Lungi International Airport in Port Loko District, formed part of the Government’s preparations to host the high-level regional gathering and provided the President with an opportunity to assess progress on one of Sierra Leone’s most ambitious infrastructure projects.

The multi-purpose complex is expected to become a major national asset and includes Presidential Villas, a Presidential Conference Hall, a banquet hall, a dedicated media and press centre, a 1,500-seat auditorium, a five-star hotel, a recreational plaza and other modern facilities designed to position Sierra Leone as a preferred destination for regional and international conferences.

Welcoming the President, Chairman of the Office of Presidential Infrastructure Initiatives (OPII), Dr. Eldred Taylor, expressed appreciation for the visit and commended President Bio’s vision and leadership in advancing key infrastructure projects across the country.

Dr. Eldred Taylor informed the President that construction work is at an advanced stage, with significant progress achieved across all major components of the development. He described President Bio as a transformational leader whose infrastructure agenda is laying the foundation for long-term economic growth and national development.

According to Dr. Eldred Taylor, the project will significantly strengthen Sierra Leone’s ability to host regional and international events, while boosting tourism, attracting investment and increasing passenger traffic through Lungi International Airport.

He noted that the Presidential Hall, designed to accommodate Heads of State and delegates, together with the banquet hall and the main plenary facilities, are all nearing completion.

Dr. Eldred Taylor further explained that the Conference Centre has been designed around three principal segments: the Presidential Segment, the Ministerial Segment and the Public Segment, making it one of the most comprehensive and modern conference facilities in the sub-region.

He also highlighted plans for a recreational plaza connected to the proposed five-star hotel, creating an integrated conference and hospitality destination capable of supporting major international events.

Speaking after the inspection, President Bio expressed satisfaction with the pace and quality of work and commended the Turkish construction company, FB Group, for its dedication to meeting project deadlines ahead of the ECOWAS Summit.

The President described the development as more than a conference venue, calling it a strategic national investment that will enhance Sierra Leone’s profile as a destination for diplomacy, business, tourism and international engagement.

“This project is part of our broader vision to transform Sierra Leone through strategic infrastructure investments. It will not only serve the immediate needs of hosting the ECOWAS Summit but will also create lasting opportunities for tourism, trade, investment and economic growth,” President Bio stated.

He reaffirmed his Government’s determination to deliver transformative infrastructure projects that improve national competitiveness and support sustainable development.

President Bio also called on the people of Lungi and the wider Port Loko District to take ownership of the facilities and help preserve them for future generations.

“These facilities belong to the people of Sierra Leone. I encourage all citizens, especially those in this community, to protect and preserve them. Their benefits will extend far beyond this summit and will contribute significantly to the development of this region and the country as a whole,” he said.

The Conference Centre is expected to stand as a lasting legacy project, strengthening Sierra Leone’s capacity to host major international events and reinforcing the country’s growing role in regional and continental affairs.

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