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Mines Minister Showcases Sierra Leone’s Mineral Wealth at the Future Minerals Forum 2025 in Riyadh

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Sierra Leone’s Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, Julius Daniel Mattai, successfully led a technical delegation at the Future Minerals Forum (FMF) 2025, which took place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The three-day event, held from January 14, 2025, at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Center, gathered Government officials, international organizations and industry stakeholders to discuss and shape the future of the global minerals sector.
The Sierra Leone delegation included prominent figures such as Ing. Hadji Dabo, Director-General of the National Minerals Agency (NMA); Joseph Lebbie, Acting Director of Geological Survey at NMA; and Alusine Timbo, Deputy Director of Mines at NMA. They were accompanied by Sierra Leone’s Ambassador Extraordinary & Plenipotentiary to Saudi Arabia, His Excellency Mohammed S. Barrie.
On the opening day, the delegation participated in the 4th FMF’s Ministerial Roundtable (MRT), moderated by Hon. Dr. Kandeh Yumkella, Chairman of the Presidential Initiative on Climate Change, Renewable Energy and Food Security of the Republic of Sierra Leone. During the roundtable, the Mines Minister highlighted Sierra Leone’s exceptional geology and vast array of mineral resources.
In his address, Julius Daniel Mattai underscored the growing importance of critical minerals such as lithium, nickel and graphite, particularly in the context of modern technologies, global economies and national security. He also addressed the challenges facing Sierra Leone’s mining sector, including the lack of value addition, limited exploration investments and insufficient infrastructure. The Minister emphasized the need for robust international collaboration to overcome those challenges and unlock investment opportunities that could foster sustainable growth in the sector.
The FMF provided Sierra Leone with a valuable platform to engage with global stakeholders, explore policy and investment opportunities and build strategic partnerships to advance the country’s national development. Beyond the MRT, the delegation also participated in the International Geological Survey Meeting (IGSM), which promotes global cooperation in geological surveying.
The outcomes of the FMF are poised to play a crucial role in helping Sierra Leone unlock investments in critical minerals, accelerate infrastructure development and establish resilient and sustainable value chains within the mining sector. As the forum concluded, Sierra Leone further solidified its position as a key player in the global minerals market, leveraging its rich resources to drive long-term economic growth and national prosperity.

Foreign Affairs Minister Responds to Arrest of Diplomatic Vehicle in Guinea with Illegal Substances

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By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

A press conference held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation on Thursday, January 16, 2025, addressed the diplomatic incident involving a Sierra Leone Embassy vehicle that was recently impounded by Guinean authorities. The vehicle was found containing suspected illegal substances, including cocaine and a sum of $2,000 in cash. The situation has significant diplomatic implications for Sierra Leone and has prompted immediate action from the Government.

The Press Conference, chaired by the Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, revealed that on December 31, 2024, Guinean authorities detained a vehicle that allegedly contained seven suitcases filled with banned substances. The vehicle, which is believed to have originated from Sierra Leone, was reportedly carrying two individuals: the driver and a passenger. Following the discovery, the Guinean Government informed Sierra Leone on January 13, 2025 and the incident quickly attracted significant attention due to its potential diplomatic consequences.

In response to the situation, the Government of Sierra Leone has swiftly engaged with its Guinean counterparts to clarify the facts surrounding the arrest. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has recalled Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to Guinea, Alimamy Bangura to Freetown for consultations. This step reflects the seriousness with which the Government is treating the issue, ensuring that the Ambassador provides a full account of the incident.

The Sierra Leone Government has also launched a thorough investigation into the matter to determine how the vehicle ended up in Guinea with the illegal substances. Authorities have stressed that the investigation will hold all responsible parties accountable and no leniency will be extended to individuals found to have participated in the illegal activity.

Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Timothy Musa Kabba, clarified several important points during the Press Conference. He emphasized that Ambassador Alimamy Bangura was not involved in the incident, as he was not in the vehicle at the time of the arrest. The vehicle in question was not the official diplomatic vehicle of the Ambassador but a utility vehicle, further distancing him from any involvement in the alleged drug-related affair.

The Minister also confirmed that the driver of the vehicle was a local staff member of the Sierra Leone Embassy in Guinea and was not a diplomat. The driver, along with the passenger, was arrested after authorities in Guinea discovered the illegal substances during a search. The items found included seven suitcases, mobile phones and the $2,000 in cash, which were suspected to be connected to international drug trafficking.

The Sierra Leone Government has emphasized its commitment to transparency and cooperation with Guinea in the ongoing investigation. Minister Timothy Kabba reassured the public that the Government would provide regular updates as new information becomes available. He also reiterated that anyone found guilty of breaking Sierra Leonean or international drug trafficking laws would face the full force of the law.

Furthermore, the Sierra Leone Police, are working closely with Guinean authorities to piece together the details of the case. The Inspector General of the Sierra Leone Police, Fayia Sellu, confirmed that a specialized team had been formed to investigate the incident. He stated that the police would examine all available information to determine how the drugs were transported across the border and who should be held accountable.

The investigation is still ongoing and the Sierra Leone Police have emphasized their zero-tolerance stance on drug-related crimes. The police will review border logs to identify the individuals on duty at the time of the vehicle’s departure, ensuring that a thorough and fair investigation is carried out. The dual approach will involve both disciplinary actions within the police force as well as criminal proceedings against anyone involved in the trafficking of illegal substances.

While the investigation progresses, Sierra Leonean authorities have been clear in their commitment to maintaining the country’s strong international reputation, which has improved under the leadership of President Julius Maada Bio since 2018. Minister Timothy Kabba reaffirmed that the Sierra Leone Government remains focused on resolving the matter with diligence and ensuring that this incident does not damage the nation’s image.

Peace Commission Engages British High Commission on Plans for Peace and National Cohesion

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By Ibrahim Sesay

Executive Secretary of the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC), Hawa Sally Samai, has held a strategic engagement with the Commissioner of the British High Commission, Josephine Gauld, to discuss ICPNC’s recent efforts aimed at fostering peace and unity in Sierra Leone.

The meeting, which took place at the headquarters of ICPNC in Freetown, highlighted the ICPNC’s recent initiatives to promote national cohesion through community dialogue and conflict resolution programs.

During the meeting, the Executive Secretary, emphasized the importance of building trust with donors to sustain the Commission’s initiatives. “This year, we want to start our fragility study. The International Growth Centre (IGC) is bringing the seed funding of £10,000. We’re looking at conflict fragility and the root causes of conflict,” she revealed.

She further highlighted the significance of partnerships in achieving the Commission’s objectives. “Partnership is key in everything we do, not just local partnerships but also international partnerships, which will give us the leverage we need to succeed,” she noted.

Reflecting on the Commission’s accountability and funding process, she stated, “We’ve just submitted our three-year report to the President, which will be laid in Parliament as per our mandate. The Peace Commission was built on the premise of Government contribution. The Peacebuilding Fund also helped in the establishment of this Commission. Part of the commitment to the Peacebuilding Fund was that the Government would provide administrative funding, while donors would support programmatic efforts. This setup limits Government interference in our activities.”

Hawa Sally Samai also highlighted some of the Commission’s collaborative efforts with Civil Society Organizations and community stakeholders to resolve chiefdom disputes and working with the security sector to ensure a peaceful national census.

In her remarks, Commissioner Josephine Gauld expressed her appreciation for the work being done by the Commission and promised to share the insights gained during her visit with her team at the British High Commission.

The visit underscores the commitment of the British Government to supporting Sierra Leone’s peacebuilding efforts and fostering stronger relations with the ICPNC to promote lasting peace and social cohesion in the country.

 

Lion Mountain Charity Foundation Boosts Three Major Hospitals with Modern Hospital Equipment in Lungi

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By Alpha Sesay

The Lion Mountain Charity Foundation, in a remarkable act of philanthropy, on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, significantly enhanced healthcare delivery in Lungi Town, Sierra Leone, by donating modern hospital equipment worth over $20,000 to three healthcare facilities. The donation included state-of-the-art Stryker electronic hospital beds, IV pumps, AIV pumps, hand sanitizers, syringes and face masks, marking a significant milestone in improving medical services in the region.

The presentation was led by the Foundation’s CEO, Abbal Jawandor Seasay, accompanied by prominent members of the organization, Prince Kofi Nyantakyi and Mohamed Fonti Mansaray.

During the donation ceremony at the Lungi Government Hospital, Abbal Jawandor Seasay emphasized the importance of the initiative. He shared that, as a Sierra Leonean based in the United States and working as a medical professional, he felt compelled to give back to his country.

He also revealed plans to construct a state-of-the-art hospital, the Abbal Medical Centre, in Kasongha, Lungi. Once completed, the hospital will provide advanced medical treatments, eliminating the need for Sierra Leoneans to seek care abroad. He disclosed that essential equipment such as CT scanners, ultrasound machines, dialysis machines and laboratory supplies had already been imported and stored in Makasona in preparation for the 100-bed hospital.

“Our vision is to ensure that every citizen has access to quality healthcare services. This donation is part of our ongoing efforts to bridge the gap in medical infrastructure and provide tools to help save lives,” Abbal Jawandor Seasay stated, reaffirming the Foundation’s commitment to improving Sierra Leone’s healthcare system.

Dr. Alusine Yillah, the Medical Superintendent of Lungi Government Hospital, expressed his gratitude for the timely donation. “This donation could not have come at a better time. The beds and other medical supplies will greatly enhance patient care and improve the efficiency of our operations,” Dr. Alusine Yillah noted.

At the Love Bridges Health Centre in Lokomasama, Father Ignazio, a senior medical doctor, echoed similar sentiments. He outlined his hospital’s vision of reducing medical tourism by providing critical surgeries locally. He lamented the preventable loss of lives due to the financial burden of seeking medical care abroad.

Father Ignazio also highlighted the importance of training young Sierra Leonean medical personnel to perform complex surgeries to ensure long-term healthcare sustainability. “We are grateful to Abbal and his team for this generous donation and their bold step in importing advanced medical equipment. We look forward to forming a partnership with the Foundation,” he said.

Dr. Abdul Landra Sesay, the Acting Medical Director of Bai Bureh Memorial Community Hospital in Mahera, Lungi, expressed his appreciation as well. He assured the Foundation that the equipment would benefit all patients. “Even though the bed is VIP bed, we don’t stereotype our patients,” Dr. Abdul Landra Sesay stated.

He also commended the timeliness of the hand sanitizers, particularly as the country recently recorded its first Mpox case. He praised the Foundation’s broader objective of ending medical tourism by addressing the lack of advanced medical facilities and resources in Sierra Leone.

In addition to the hospital donations, the Lion Mountain Charity Foundation extended its support to the St. Joseph Secondary School in Masoila, Lungi, by providing hand sanitizers and liquid soaps, highlighting its commitment to public health and hygiene.

The Director of Strategic Initiatives at the Lion Mountain Charity Foundation, Prince Kofi Nyantakyi from Ghana and the Director of Programmes Mohamed Fonti Mansaray, both members of the Foundation, encouraged other organizations and individuals to support similar healthcare initiatives across the country.

The Lion Mountain Charity Foundation, renowned for its humanitarian efforts in Sierra Leone, continues to focus on health, education and community development. Tuesday’s donation underscores its dedication to transforming lives and fostering progress in underserved communities.

As healthcare workers in Lungi begin utilizing the much-needed equipment, the Foundation’s efforts remain a symbol of hope and a call to action for others to contribute to Sierra Leone’s development.

 

 

Chinese Ambassador Reaffirms Commitment to Supporting Sierra Leone’s Judiciary

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The Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone, His Excellency Wang Qing,
in a noteworthy diplomatic engagement, paid his first courtesy visit to the Honourable Chief Justice, His Lordship Justice Komba Kamanda. During the meeting held on Wednesday January 15, 2025 at the Chief Justice’s Chambers in the Main Law Courts Building, Freetown, Ambassador Wang Qing assured the Chief Justice of China’s commitment to supporting the Judiciary in achieving its core objectives and values.

Speaking at the meeting, Ambassador Wang Qing emphasized the longstanding bilateral relations between the People’s Republic of China and the Republic of Sierra Leone, which date back to 1971. He stressed that his Government remains committed to supporting Sierra Leone’s Judiciary whenever called upon. The Ambassador highlighted his visit as an opportunity to update the Chief Justice on ongoing and upcoming projects by the Chinese Government in Sierra Leone, aiming to foster goodwill between the Chinese Embassy and the Judiciary.

Referencing the recent launch of a book authored by Professor David Francis, Ambassador Wang Qing underscored the robust ties between the two nations, which have led to numerous achievements in areas such as education, technology, investments and trade. He also commended the people of Sierra Leone for their hospitality and the warm reception he has received since his arrival in January 2023. The Ambassador expressed gratitude to the Chief Justice and the Judiciary’s leadership for the opportunity to strengthen collaboration between the judicial systems of both countries.

In response, Honourable Chief Justice, Komba Kamanda, outlined key areas where cooperation and support would be timely. These include infrastructural development, the installation of solar systems to enhance energy supply, capacity building for Judges, Magistrates and Senior Support Staff, as well as the advancement of technology and effective internet connectivity.

The Chief Justice expressed his intention to refurbish and electrify provincial courts through solar lighting or generators, pending the availability of funds. He also highlighted plans for establishing an e-library as part of the Judiciary’s development initiatives. The Honourable Chief Justice extended his appreciation to the Government and People of China for the enduring cooperation between the two countries, which he described as mutually beneficial.

This meeting marks a strengthening of the collaborative efforts between Sierra Leone and China, particularly in the judicial sector, fostering further development and mutual support.

 

Africell Unveils Promotions, Projects & Events to Mark 25th Anniversary Celebration

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Africell marked a momentous occasion at The Lead Hotel in Freetown on Monday, January 13, 2024, celebrating 25 years of successful operations across Africa and 20 years of transformative telecommunications services in Sierra Leone. The event, which drew attendance from prominent figures such as the Chief Minister, Government officials, Africell Executives, partners and loyal customers, highlighted the company’s significant journey and its role in the nation’s digital evolution.

The Chief Minister’s presence at the event underscored Africell’s importance in Sierra Leone’s development. In his speech, he lauded Africell’s steadfast commitment to innovation and community empowerment, emphasizing the company’s crucial role in narrowing the digital divide within the country. “Africell has been a vital partner in driving progress and fostering economic growth,” he remarked.

A video presentation during the evening showcased Africell’s extensive Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, including disaster relief, educational support and youth empowerment through the Africell Impact Foundation. These efforts have further cemented Africell’s status as a key contributor to Sierra Leone’s development.

One of the event’s highlights was a raffle draw where 25 fortunate winners walked away with exciting prizes, such as Star Times decoders, Samsung smartphones, Africell MiFi devices and internet fiber installations. This raffle was both a celebration of Africell’s enduring success and a gesture of gratitude towards its customers.

Africell’s CEO, Shadi Al-Gerjawi, delivered an impassioned speech reflecting on the company’s achievements over the years. He highlighted key milestones, including the introduction of mobile and internet technologies, the launch of Afrimoney for financial inclusion and the company’s significant investments in job creation and community development. “Our journey has always been about more than just telecommunications; it’s about empowering communities and creating opportunities,” he said, pledging that Africell would continue to spearhead digital transformation in Sierra Leone.

Ziad Dalloul, Africell’s CEO, President and Founder, shared his vision for the company’s future. “When we commenced operations a quarter of a century ago, we set a long-term strategy that we were determined to stick to,” he said. “Despite the many economic, political and cultural transformations that have occurred since then, we have accomplished that goal. Our vision for Africell from the beginning was to be a trusted mobile provider serving carefully chosen markets where we could make a deep commitment and have a big impact. This is exactly what we have achieved, and the same philosophy will guide us for the next twenty-five years.”

Africell’s 25th anniversary will be celebrated with various promotions, projects and events, including:

  • Public celebration events in key cities and towns across Angola, DRC, The Gambia and Sierra Leone.
  • An all-new africell.com, serving as a hub for Africell content, data and information.
  • The release of several ‘Africell Presents’ films, including a feature-length documentary about the ‘Lobito Corridor’ and mini-documentaries about Sierra Leone, The Gambia and Angola.
  • Various community-focused initiatives in health, sports, education and the environment.
  • Innovative product and service promotions designed to make Africell services more affordable and accessible than ever before.

Africell’s anniversary celebration reflects its enduring commitment to its customers and its vision for the future, continuing to lead the digital revolution in Sierra Leone and beyond.

 

Amb. Anthony Navo Jr. Unveils 52-Seater Bus for East End Lions Football Club

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In a major stride for the East End Lions Football Club, Ambassador Anthony Navo Jr., the Chairman of the club, officially unveiled a brand new 52-seater bus on Tuesday, January 14, 2025. This gesture highlights a major investment in the team’s infrastructure and demonstrates Anthony Navo’s commitment to enhancing the club’s professional environment.

According to Chairman Anthony Navo, the unveiling ceremony was held in the presence of Ziad Dalloul, Chairman of Africell Sierra Leone, and a cross-section of the East End Lions Executive team. He expressed his pride in this milestone, which he believes will greatly enhance the team’s ability to travel across Sierra Leone for matches. “This is just the beginning of many exciting developments for our club,” he stated, underscoring his vision for the future of East End Lions FC.

The introduction of the new bus represents more than just a logistical upgrade; it symbolizes a historic moment for the players and fans alike. With this addition, players can feel more motivated and supported, knowing they have reliable transportation for their matches. This morale boost is essential for fostering a strong team spirit and encouraging players to perform at their best during games.

Chairman Anthony Navo’s dedication to the club is evident in this move, as it paves the way for continued progress. By investing in better facilities and resources, he aims to create a more conducive atmosphere for training and competition, ultimately leading to improved performance on the field. The bus will facilitate better travel arrangements for away games, ensuring that players arrive at their destinations rested and prepared to compete.

He also mentioned the near completion of the Lions Playing Field, which he eagerly anticipates unveiling in the coming weeks. This development, along with the new bus, marks another proud chapter in the journey of East End Lions FC.

The announcement was met with enthusiasm from both players and fans, recognizing the significance of having a dedicated transport solution. This improvement not only enhances the club’s image but also instills a sense of unity and hope among supporters, eager to see their team thrive.

Anthony Navo expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all partners, including Africell Sierra Leone, Gento Group, BM Kodami and AYV Media Empire, for their unwavering support and commitment to the growth and success of East End Lions FC.

As the East End Lions prepare for the upcoming season, the addition of the 52-seater bus will undoubtedly play a crucial role in their logistics and overall preparation. With more reliable transportation, the players can focus on their training and game strategies without the added stress of travel uncertainties.

The unveiling of this new bus marks a pivotal moment in the East End Lions’ journey. Chairman Anthony Navo Jr. continues to demonstrate his commitment to the club’s growth, fostering a positive environment that inspires players and engages fans alike, all while setting the stage for future successes.

Sierra Leone Police Urges Citizens to Secure National Identity Cards

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By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Sierra Leone Police (SLP) has embarked on a major campaign urging all residents to obtain their National Identity Cards. This effort is part of a broader national initiative to enhance security and streamline identification systems across the country.

The campaign is a collaborative effort with the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA), led by Director General Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi. The NCRA’s proactive approach aims to ensure that every citizen and resident is properly identified, bolstering national security, governance and access to essential services.

Inspector General of Police ,William Fayia Sellu, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “The National Identity Card is not just a document; it is a crucial tool for accessing various services and ensuring the safety and security of our nation.”

The initiative, effective January 1, 2025, mandates the use of National ID Cards at security checkpoints nationwide. This move has received strong backing from key figures, including National Security Coordinator Abdulai Caulker. Residents are strongly encouraged to secure their Biometric ID Cards promptly to avoid inconvenience at these checkpoints.

The Biometric ID Cards, embedded with National Identification Numbers (NINs), are vital for accessing a wide range of services in Sierra Leone. The NCRA has stressed their necessity for transactions with financial institutions, vehicle registration, public and private sector employment, NASSIT enrollment, land and property registration, educational enrollment, SIM card registration, and more.

The ID cards incorporate advanced security features, such as fingerprint scanning, facial recognition, and embedded secure chips, to ensure robust identity verification. These features not only strengthen national security but also combat identity fraud.

To facilitate easy access, the NCRA has established registration centers across the country, 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 (by the Roundabout)
  • NCRA Office: Waterloo, Freetown Highway (Opposite Police Station)
  • Regional Headquarters in Bo, Kenema, Makeni, and Port Loko

These centers serve citizens aged 12 and above, ECOWAS nationals residing in Sierra Leone, and foreign residents requiring Non-National ID Cards for work and residence permits. The NCRA also offers specialized services for corporate entities, integrating the identification system into their operations seamlessly.

For further assistance, residents can contact the NCRA through these numbers: +232-33-433-333, +232-30-500-000, +232-60-000, +232-78-221-812, or via email at idverification@ncra.gov.

This initiative marks a significant step toward reinforcing national security and improving service delivery across Sierra Leone. As the campaign progresses, the SLP and NCRA continue to highlight the critical role of Biometric ID Cards in the nation’s development.

 

NP (SL) Continues to Expands Operations Nationwide, Enhancing Access to Premium Petroleum Services

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By Amin Kef (Ranger)

NP (SL) Ltd, the preeminent petroleum marketing company in Sierra Leone, is making commendable progress in extending its operations beyond the Western Area. This strategic expansion is designed to bring its superior services closer to communities throughout the nation, especially in underprivileged regions. NP (SL)’s resolute objective is to ensure that its premium petroleum products and services are accessible to every Sierra Leonean.

A notable milestone in this expansion is the recent inauguration of a state-of-the-art Filling Station on Kadigidigi Road in Kamakwie, the district headquarters of Karene District, on January 11, 2025. This development signifies NP (SL)’s initial major presence in the Northern Province, with further plans to extend its reach to districts such as Pujehun, Koinadugu and Kailahun. By broadening its network, NP (SL) is not only enhancing convenience but also stimulating economic growth in these areas.

NP (SL) aspires to increase its operational stations from 30 to 60 by the end of 2025. This ambitious endeavor will markedly improve accessibility for customers in previously underserved regions, ensuring that all Sierra Leoneans can avail themselves of the company’s dependable services. Such expansion efforts underscore NP (SL)’s commitment to becoming a truly nationwide service provider, delivering quality petroleum products directly to the populace.

As Sierra Leone’s leading petroleum marketing company, NP (SL) has garnered both local and international recognition for its exemplary service delivery. The company’s well-deserved reputation for excellence is bolstered by its consistent setting of benchmarks in customer care and operational transparency. A fundamental pillar of NP (SL)’s success is its steadfast dedication to customer satisfaction. The company prioritizes customer service, ensuring that all transactions are transparent and user-friendly.

At NP (SL) Filling Stations, state-of-the-art calibrated machines accurately dispense and display the precise quantity and cost of fuel, fostering trust and confidence among customers. This meticulous attention to detail and commitment to integrity in service delivery distinguish NP (SL) from its competitors, solidifying its status as a trusted industry leader.

The company ensures the prompt distribution of petroleum products across the nation by upholding a fleet of meticulously maintained tanker vehicles. This rigorous maintenance regimen guarantees the vehicles’ roadworthiness, mitigates fuel shortages and enhances safety, thereby reinforcing NP (SL)’s reliability.

In its pursuit of digitization to optimize petroleum marketing, NP (SL) has introduced cutting-edge solutions such as the NP Smart Card. This cashless payment system enables customers to prepay for fuel, facilitating budget management and diminishing the need for physical cash transactions.

Building on this innovation, the company recently unveiled the NP Energy Pass Card, a more sophisticated cashless platform offering online and offline transactions, real-time SMS notifications and robust security features.

Beyond fuel, NP (SL) markets NP Gas, a safe and efficient cooking solution available in various cylinder sizes. This environmentally friendly product emits fewer harmful gases and is easily refillable at NP (SL) stations and authorized dealers, contributing to healthier living conditions and environmental sustainability.

NP (SL) upholds a long-standing policy of prioritizing employment opportunities for qualified Sierra Leoneans. This approach aligns with the nation’s Local Content Policy, which seeks to harness local resources and reduce reliance on external sources. By employing locals, NP (SL) supports the national economy and assists individuals in improving their livelihoods, thereby demonstrating its commitment to national development.

As an indigenous enterprise, NP (SL) is deeply engaged in Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives, encompassing environmental stewardship, community support and institutional assistance. These efforts complement the Government’s development agenda and enhance the well-being of Sierra Leoneans, reflecting the company’s dedication to social responsibility.

Extending its presence beyond Sierra Leone, NP (SL) has established operations in Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast and The Gambia. This regional expansion not only generates employment opportunities in these nations but also contributes to their economies through tax revenues allocated for development projects. NP (SL)’s unwavering commitment to excellence and social responsibility underscores its vital role in the region’s economic advancement.

NP (SL) Ltd continues to set exemplary standards in the petroleum sector, fostering innovation, supporting local communities and broadening its influence across West Africa. Its dedication to excellence, customer satisfaction and social responsibility positions it as a pivotal contributor to the region’s economic growth and prosperity.

U.S. Embassy Hosts Inaugural African Maritime Gender Network Conference in Freetown

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

The U.S. Embassy in Freetown, in collaboration with U.S. Naval Forces Africa, hosted the inaugural African Maritime Gender Network (AMGN) Conference on “Gender Considerations in Maritime Security.” The opening ceremony of this landmark event took place on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Aberdeen, Freetown.

The two-day conference brought together maritime and security experts, policymakers and stakeholders from 19 African nations, the United States, Iceland and other allied countries. The agenda included comprehensive discussions on pivotal issues such as Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing (IUUF), gender impacts on international and maritime law, female participation in security sectors and the economic empowerment of women in the maritime industry.

In his opening remarks, U.S. Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Bryan D. Hunt, highlighted the importance of gender inclusivity in the maritime sector and its relevance to global peace and security. He commended the Government of Sierra Leone and the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) for their support and commitment to advancing gender equality in maritime security.

Ambassador Bryan D. Hunt acknowledged Sierra Leone’s leadership in promoting inclusion and equality, particularly through its roles in the United Nations Security Council and the African Union Peace and Security Council. He emphasized the essential contributions of women across the security sector, particularly in peacebuilding, maritime law enforcement and resource management.

“Women play a vital role across the entirety of the security sector, contributing significantly to the stability, security and prosperity of our communities,” Ambassador Hunt stated. He highlighted examples of women’s leadership in peacebuilding in Liberia, Sierra Leone and Sudan and their contributions to combating violent extremism in Nigeria and the Sahel region.

He also noted the United States’ strong belief in Sierra Leone’s ability to harness its marine resources for sustainable development and applauded President Julius Maada Bio’s efforts to enhance the Sierra Leone Navy’s capabilities.

The conference underscored the shared commitment of participating nations to the principles outlined in the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325, which calls for the inclusion of women in peace and security efforts. Ambassador Bryan Hunt also recognized Sierra Leone’s progress in strengthening its maritime security framework through initiatives like the Obangame exercise in the Gulf of Guinea and training sessions conducted by the U.S. Coast Guard.

“These technically based skills trainings will improve coordination and response capabilities during maritime incidents, increase accountability for illegal fishing and ensure the Sierra Leone Navy has the essential technical skills to maintain and operate maritime equipment effectively,” Ambassador Bryan Hunt remarked.

The AMGN conference served as a platform to explore the economic and social benefits of gender inclusivity in maritime operations. Discussions delved into ways to empower women in traditionally male-dominated sectors, addressing barriers to their participation and fostering environments that prioritize equality.

Ambassador Bryan Hunt concluded his address by urging attendees to leverage the conference to define what gender inclusivity means for the Gulf of Guinea and Africa as a whole. “Your contributions are invaluable and I am confident that the knowledge and experiences shared here will have a lasting impact on our collective efforts to promote gender inclusivity and maritime security,” he said.

The conference represents a step toward fostering sustainable and inclusive maritime security solutions. By addressing pressing issues like IUUF and empowering women in the maritime sector, the event highlighted the importance of collaboration among nations in achieving global peace, security and prosperity.

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