Sierra Leone News | The Calabash Newspaper

Immigration Strengthens Senior Officers’ Leadership Skills Ahead of Transition to Immigration Service

September 28, 2026

Group of uniformed military officers and civilians posing for a class photo in a conference room, banner behind them reads Strategic Leadership Command and Control Course for Senior Officers.

The Sierra Leone Immigration Department (SLID) has commenced a three-day Strategic Leadership, Command and Control Training programme for senior immigration officers, Regional Commanders, District Heads and Heads of Command Posts as part of efforts to strengthen leadership and advance the Department’s ongoing institutional transformation.

The training, which opened in Makeni on Thursday, 24 September 2026, is being conducted under the theme, “Commanding the Transition.” It is designed to strengthen leadership capacity, command structures, institutional discipline, accountability and strategic decision-making as SLID prepares for its transition to the Sierra Leone Immigration Service (SLIS).

Using case studies, group discussions, leadership exercises and interactive sessions, the programme provides senior officers with practical knowledge and skills to effectively manage their respective commands and contribute to the Department’s transformation agenda.

Delivering the opening remarks, Director of Finance and Administration, Swaray Junisa, welcomed participants on behalf of the Chief Immigration Officer and the Management of SLID. He underscored the importance of the training and encouraged participants to take the sessions seriously and apply the knowledge acquired to improve leadership and service delivery across the Department.

Regional Commander for the Northern Region, Osman Kamara, welcomed participants to Makeni and expressed appreciation to Management for selecting the region to host the programme. He assured participants of a conducive and secure environment throughout the training.

Speaking on behalf of the consulting team, lead consultant Tidiane Traore recalled the team’s earlier engagement with SLID in Kenema, where the Department’s strategic goals were identified. He stressed that achieving those objectives would require effective leadership and strong institutional structures.

Deputy Chief Immigration Officer, Amadu Bah, described institutional transformation as a continuous process that began with the Department’s engagement in Kenema. He noted that successive leadership teams have championed reforms but emphasized that meaningful transformation can only be sustained through effective leadership.

Amadu Bah also reminded officers that the responsibilities of the Sierra Leone Immigration Department extend far beyond passport services to include several critical immigration and national security functions. He encouraged participants to fully engage in the training and apply the knowledge gained within their respective areas of responsibility.

The programme continued on Friday, 25 September 2026, with Chief Immigration Officer, Dr. Moses Tiffa Baio, Esq., addressing participants on the importance of credible, competent and responsible leadership as SLID prepares for its transition into the Sierra Leone Immigration Service.

Dr. Moses Tiffa Baio, Esq., said the transformation requires leaders capable of managing immigration operations effectively while maintaining professional and institutional standards. He stressed the importance of a clear chain of command, defined lines of authority and effective structures to ensure discipline, order and accountability.

“Leadership is not only about the title you carry but the responsibility you bear. What matters most is how you honour that responsibility,” Dr. Moses Tiffa Baio, Esq., told participants.

He identified competence and integrity as essential foundations of effective leadership and urged senior officers to earn the respect of personnel under their command through professionalism, sound judgement and responsible decision-making.

According to Dr. Moses Tiffa Baio, Esq., leaders must also demonstrate exemplary conduct because their actions, both publicly and privately, can influence the attitudes and behaviour of officers under their supervision.

He encouraged participants to regard the training as an investment in their professional development and challenged them to transfer the knowledge acquired to officers at their respective command posts. Drawing on the biblical account of Moses leading his people towards the Promised Land, he urged officers to embrace the Department’s transformation agenda and remain committed to its institutional vision.

Proceedings on the second day also included an interactive review of lessons from the opening sessions. Amadu Bah commended participants for their active involvement and understanding of the subjects covered.

Module Four of the programme, focusing on Command and Control, was facilitated by lead consultant Laud Kwasi Ofori Affrifah, Esq., former Deputy Comptroller General of Operations of the Ghana Immigration Service.

Participants were divided into three groups and assigned separate case studies requiring them to analyse practical command challenges and propose appropriate solutions. The exercise was intended to promote critical thinking, teamwork and the practical application of leadership principles.

Discussions also focused on effective communication, clearly defined authority, responsible decision-making and accountability within the chain of command.

The three-day programme forms part of the Sierra Leone Immigration Department’s wider institutional transformation drive aimed at developing a professional, competent and accountable leadership cadre capable of delivering effective immigration services and successfully steering the transition to the Sierra Leone Immigration Service.

The training concluded in Makeni on Saturday, 26 September 2026.

Peace Commission Executive Secretary Advances Sierra Leone’s Conflict Prevention Agenda During High-Level New York Engagements

September 28, 2026

Two women sit at a wooden table by a window, smiling at the camera, with a stack of cards and a laptop on the table.

Executive Secretary of the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC), Hawa Sally Samai, has used a series of high-level engagements in New York to advance Sierra Leone’s conflict prevention priorities, strengthen international partnerships and share the country’s experience in building sustainable peace through strong national institutions.

The engagements, held on the margins of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly, brought Hawa Sally Samai into discussions with officials and experts from the United Nations Peacebuilding Fund, the New York University Center on International Cooperation (NYU CIC) and participants at the 2026 International Forum on African-Caribbean Leadership.

A major focus of the engagements was Sierra Leone’s renewed eligibility for support from the United Nations Secretary-General’s Peacebuilding Fund and the country’s efforts to develop its first National Prevention Strategy.

On Thursday, 24 September 2026, Hawa Sally Samai met with Chief of the Peacebuilding Fund, Brian J. Williams, at the United Nations Secretariat in New York, where discussions centred on Sierra Leone’s prevention priorities and the need to build sustainable national systems capable of identifying and addressing emerging risks before they develop into conflict.

The meeting provided an opportunity for Hawa Sally Samai to express appreciation to the Peacebuilding Fund and the Peacebuilding Support Office for their longstanding partnership with Sierra Leone, particularly their contribution to the country’s transition from post-war recovery towards a broader national approach to conflict prevention and social cohesion.

Sierra Leone’s eligibility for support from the Peacebuilding Fund has been renewed for another five years, through the end of 2030. The renewed partnership includes an initial US$3 million allocation to support the development and implementation of the country’s first National Prevention Strategy in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and UN Women.

The support is expected to strengthen efforts aimed at preventing conflict, promoting social cohesion, expanding the participation of women and young people, improving cross-border cooperation and addressing security risks associated with climate change and environmental pressures.

During the discussions, Hawa Sally Samai highlighted the conflict analysis undertaken by the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion and the United Nations system, which helped inform Sierra Leone’s application for renewed eligibility.

Attention was also placed on establishing a coordinated prevention system that connects early warning mechanisms, mediation, community peace structures, women and youth networks, traditional leaders and national institutions. Such an approach is intended to ensure that emerging disputes and grievances can be identified and addressed before they escalate into violence.

Hawa Sally Samai further outlined ongoing work with the New York University Center on International Cooperation aimed at examining how Sierra Leone’s peace infrastructure could be strengthened and more firmly embedded within national institutions.

Brian J. Williams welcomed the emphasis on national ownership and sustainability, highlighting the importance of developing systems capable of continuing their work beyond the lifespan of individual projects.

The engagement also reflected on Sierra Leone’s longstanding relationship with the United Nations Peacebuilding Fund. Since 2007, the Fund has invested approximately US$84 million in Sierra Leone, supporting initiatives related to institution building, conflict prevention, social cohesion, women and youth empowerment, dialogue and community peacebuilding.

Hawa Sally Samai explained that Sierra Leone’s objective is to move beyond viewing peace simply as the absence of war and instead build a more resilient society in which institutions and communities can identify risks early, address grievances peacefully and prevent disagreements from developing into violence.

Both sides underscored the importance of continued coordination with the United Nations Country Team in Freetown and the United Nations Peacebuilding Commission in New York as work on Sierra Leone’s National Prevention Strategy progresses.

The meeting with the Peacebuilding Fund Chief formed part of a broader series of engagements undertaken by Hawa Sally Samai in New York to deepen Sierra Leone’s prevention agenda and strengthen cooperation with international partners.

On 23 September 2026, Hawa Sally Samai held discussions with Céline Monnier, Associate Director for Prevention and Peacebuilding at the New York University Center on International Cooperation and Lead of the Peace Policy Pillar at NYU PREP.

Their discussions focused on strengthening Sierra Leone’s approach to preventing conflict before tensions escalate into violence and examining how research, policy and practical experience could contribute to more effective national prevention mechanisms.

Hawa Sally Samai and Céline Monnier reflected on work undertaken by NYU CIC and its partners in Sierra Leone over the years, particularly around National Prevention Strategies, while exploring how lessons from research and practical experience could be translated into measures capable of identifying emerging risks and responding to tensions at an early stage.

The approach closely aligns with the mandate of the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion, which works with communities, institutions and other stakeholders to address emerging disputes through dialogue, mediation and reconciliation. The Commission also promotes peaceful coexistence and national cohesion while supporting mechanisms designed to prevent disagreements from developing into wider conflicts.

Opportunities for continued collaboration with NYU CIC were also discussed, particularly in strengthening Sierra Leone’s existing peace structures and developing sustainable national approaches to conflict prevention.

Hawa Sally Samai subsequently took Sierra Leone’s experience to a wider international audience on Thursday, 24 September 2026, when she participated in the 2026 International Forum on African-Caribbean Leadership in New York.

Convened by the African Leadership Organisation during United Nations General Assembly Week, the forum brought together leaders from Africa, the Caribbean and the diaspora to promote cooperation around governance, development and common global challenges.

Held at the New York Marriott Marquis under the theme, “The Global African Alliance: Reimagining Solidarity, Sovereignty & South-South Cooperation,” the gathering featured discussions around stronger institutions, investment, sustainable development and cooperation across the Global South.

Participating as a special guest and panelist on Social Development, Gender and Strategic Partnerships, Hawa Sally Samai used the platform to highlight Sierra Leone’s growing emphasis on preventing conflict before tensions reach crisis level.

“Peace is not an event; it is a process that must be continuously protected, invested in and owned by the people,” Hawa Sally Samai said.

She stressed that dialogue must be supported by credible institutions, inclusive participation and sustained political commitment, pointing to the work of the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion in early warning, mediation and community-based conflict prevention.

“The lesson is: build the relationships and institutions that prevent conflict before the conflict becomes a crisis,” Hawa Sally Samai stated.

Drawing on her experience in grassroots advocacy involving women and children, Hawa Sally Samai also emphasized the need for women to be recognized not merely as beneficiaries of peace and development programmes, but as decision-makers, peacebuilders and leaders with an important role in shaping national development.

She further underscored the importance of international partnerships that strengthen national institutions and local capacity without weakening domestic ownership of the peacebuilding process.

“International partners can bring resources, expertise and solidarity, but Sierra Leoneans must own the peace, lead the process and build the institutions that sustain it,” Hawa Sally Samai said.

The series of engagements highlighted Sierra Leone’s evolving approach to peacebuilding, with greater emphasis being placed on prevention, early intervention, inclusive participation and the development of institutions capable of responding to emerging threats before they undermine national stability.

Group collage of diverse 'Special Guests' headshots arranged in rows with circular photo frames, captions, and a red banner reading Special Guests at the top.

NP Sierra Leone Promotes Staff Wellness Through Monthly Health Walk

September 28, 2026

Group of people in green and yellow shirts standing and stretching beside rows of white folding chairs at an outdoor event, with trees and a blue bus in the background.

NP Sierra Leone Limited (NP-SL) has continued its commitment to staff health and wellness with its monthly health walk, bringing together employees for a physical exercise and health awareness activity on Saturday 26 September 2026.

The walk took employees from Lumley to the Aberdeen Beach Roundabout and back to Lumley, as part of the company’s ongoing efforts to promote physical fitness, mental wellbeing and a healthy workplace environment.

The exercise was followed by a health talk delivered by NP Sierra Leone’s Resident Medical Doctor, Dr. Abdul Kalokoh, who spoke on the topic, “Workplace Hazards”.

Dr. Abdul Kalokoh highlighted the need for employees to recognize workplace hazards beyond the commonly identified physical risks associated with petroleum operations. He said workplace hazards could include risks linked to oil, electricity, machinery and other equipment, while also stressing the importance of paying attention to less visible factors that could affect employees’ health and wellbeing.

He identified employees’ mindset as an important area that requires attention in addressing workplace health risks. According to him, the mindset employees bring into the workplace could influence both their mental and physical wellbeing.

Dr. Abdul Kalokoh said negative attitudes towards work could contribute to stress and other health challenges. He linked workplace pressures and attitudes to health concerns such as hypertension, while encouraging employees to maintain a positive mindset.

According to him, employees should not view the workplace solely as a means of earning money or obtaining a position, but should also seek happiness and peace of mind while carrying out their responsibilities.

Dr. Abdul Kalokoh further explained that maintaining the right mindset could help prevent mental health disorders and reduce stress in the workplace. He encouraged employees to approach their duties positively and pay attention to their mental wellbeing.

The company doctor also identified physical wellbeing as an important component of workplace health, noting that a lack of regular exercise could contribute to physical health problems, particularly among employees who spend long periods working in offices.

He therefore encouraged employees to maintain physical activity and fitness as part of efforts to promote healthier lifestyles and reduce workplace health risks.

Dr. Abdul Kalokoh also urged staff to remain conscious of workplace hazards and take appropriate precautions, stressing the importance of awareness of both visible and less obvious risks.

Speaking about the health walk, NP Sierra Leone Human Resources Manager, Georgiana Williams, said the initiative formed part of the company’s broader health and wellness programme aimed at boosting employee morale and creating a healthier and happier workplace.

She said the programme is particularly important for employees who spend long hours at work and may have limited opportunities during their busy schedules to engage in physical exercise. Regular physical activity, she explained, could improve employees’ mental and physical wellbeing while enhancing productivity.

According to the HR, improved mental health could enable employees to meet deadlines, fulfil their commitments and make better decisions, contributing to the overall success of the organisation.

She said the Human Resources Department is responsible for supporting employees throughout their employment life cycle, from joining the organisation until their departure through resignation, retirement or other circumstances. Employee wellbeing, she noted, is therefore an important responsibility of the department.

Georgiana Williams explained that NP’s wellness initiatives extend beyond physical activities such as health walks. She said the company has mechanisms through which employees could access medical support and consult a doctor when necessary.

She also said NP(SL) organizes monthly opportunities for employees to relax and interact in informal settings, providing opportunities for junior staff to engage with senior staff and Management outside the formal workplace environment. Such activities, she said, helps employees socialize and strengthen relationships across different levels of the organisation.

She added that NP(SL) recognizes the importance of employees’ family and personal lives and provides support that enables staff to spend time with their families, including maternity and paternity leave arrangements.

She further said the company recognizes employees who have made significant contributions over the years through long service awards, explaining that such recognition helps employees feel appreciated and strengthen their sense of belonging to the organisation.

On inclusivity, Georgiana Williams said NP(SL) also considers employees who might not be physically able to participate fully in activities such as the health walk. She explained that the company has employees with physical challenges and sought to ensure that its wellness programmes remains inclusive.

The Human Resources Manager said employees with physical limitations were encouraged to participate in ways suited to their abilities, with appropriate support where necessary, as the company sought to ensure that all employees could participate in and benefit from its wellness initiatives.

The monthly health walk and accompanying health talk therefore formed part of NP Sierra Leone’s broader approach to employee wellbeing, combining physical activity with awareness of workplace health risks and measures to promote a healthier and more inclusive workforce.

Group of people in yellow and green shirts gathering outdoors, some seated on white folding chairs as others stand or bend, with a blue bus and trees in the background.

At UNGA… Africell Joins Government, Global Partners to Push Connectivity, 5G & Digital Infrastructure Investment

September 28, 2026

A bald man in a blue suit sits at a conference table, resting his chin on his hand, with a tablet in front and a water bottle nearby.

Sierra Leone’s drive to strengthen its digital economy and attract greater international investment gained momentum in New York as Minister of Communications, Technology and Innovation, Salima Monorma Bah, led a high-level Government and private-sector roundtable on the sidelines of the 2026 United Nations General Assembly.

The engagement brought together key Government Ministries, telecommunications operators, technology companies and other industry stakeholders to examine investment prospects in energy, digital infrastructure, data centres, 5G connectivity and regional trade.

Africell Sierra Leone was among the prominent private-sector participants, contributing industry perspectives on telecommunications development, network expansion and future investment opportunities. The company’s participation highlighted the role of private-sector investment in supporting Sierra Leone’s ambition to build a more competitive, connected and technology-driven economy.

Minister Salima Monorma Bah steered the discussions alongside representatives from the Ministries of Energy and Trade and Industry, with the engagement placing strong emphasis on the relationship between reliable electricity, telecommunications growth and the development of modern digital infrastructure.

Minister of Energy, Cyril Grant, participated in person, while Minister of Trade and Industry Ibrahim Alpha Sesay joined virtually, reinforcing the Government’s cross-sector approach to addressing the infrastructure, policy and investment requirements of Sierra Leone’s emerging digital economy.

A major focus of the dialogue was the need to establish a dependable energy base capable of supporting telecommunications networks, data centres and other technology-intensive infrastructure. Participants acknowledged that Sierra Leone’s digital expansion will increasingly depend on reliable power, stronger connectivity and sustained investment from both domestic and international partners.

The roundtable also explored opportunities surrounding the deployment of 5G technology and the expansion of data infrastructure as Sierra Leone seeks to increase its competitiveness within the West African digital marketplace.

The International Data Center Authority shared perspectives on efforts to develop data infrastructure that meets recognized international standards, an area considered increasingly important as countries seek greater control, security and resilience over their digital assets.

Africell Sierra Leone and Sierratel provided further insights into the country’s telecommunications landscape, including current operations and opportunities for future investment and service expansion.

Discussions also touched on the recently approved partnership aimed at relaunching Sierratel through a Mobile Virtual Network Operator model, commonly known as MVNO, as part of broader efforts to reposition the telecommunications sector and create additional opportunities within the market.

Africa Climate and Energy Nexus, Aton Path and AEB contributed perspectives on the energy demands associated with large-scale digital infrastructure. Their participation highlighted the need for sustainable power solutions capable of supporting the continued growth of telecommunications and technology services.

Bell Canada also contributed technical perspectives on 5G deployment, adding an international dimension to discussions on how Sierra Leone could prepare the infrastructure and technical environment required for next-generation connectivity.

Beyond telecommunications, participants examined how stronger digital infrastructure could facilitate commerce, encourage innovation and strengthen Sierra Leone’s integration into regional and international markets.

The discussions reflected an increasingly interconnected development strategy in which energy security, digital infrastructure, investment and trade are treated as mutually reinforcing priorities rather than separate sectors.

The New York roundtable also complemented President Julius Maada Bio’s engagements during the United Nations General Assembly, where attention has been drawn to the need for greater African participation in the ownership, development and governance of digital infrastructure.

President Julius Maada Bio has also used his international engagements to encourage investors to explore opportunities across Africa as countries on the continent seek to expand their digital economies and strengthen technological capacity.

For Sierra Leone, attracting investment into telecommunications, data infrastructure and supporting energy systems forms part of a broader effort to establish the country as an emerging destination for technology-driven investment.

The engagement comes ahead of the inaugural West Africa Integration and Investment Summit scheduled for November, which is expected to provide another platform for promoting investment, regional economic cooperation and infrastructure development.

Government officials are seeking to use such engagements to deepen collaboration with the private sector and international partners while creating an environment capable of attracting capital into strategic areas of the economy.

Africell Sierra Leone’s involvement in the New York discussions further demonstrated the contribution telecommunications operators can make through infrastructure investment, technical expertise and expanded connectivity.

The roundtable ultimately reinforced Sierra Leone’s push towards an integrated digital development model built around reliable energy, stronger telecommunications infrastructure, secure data systems, international partnerships and increased regional trade.

With Government institutions and private-sector operators working across those interconnected areas, Sierra Leone is seeking to lay the foundation for a more resilient digital economy capable of attracting investment, supporting businesses and expanding the country’s participation in the rapidly evolving global technology landscape.

Woman in a beige blazer speaks during a formal meeting, with two men listening in the background; ministry logo visible on the podium. Presenter in a dark suit explains a slide on a large wall-mounted screen to a seated audience in a modern conference room; a government ministry logo is visible on the table.

Sierra Leone Increases IFAD14 Contribution by 50% as President Bio Prioritizes Agriculture and Rural Development

September 28, 2026

Man in a navy suit and patterned tie stands before a light blue backdrop. — President Dr. Julius Maada Bio

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has announced that Sierra Leone will increase its contribution to the International Fund for Agricultural Development’s Fourteenth Replenishment, known as IFAD14, by at least 50 percent, as part of efforts to strengthen food security, agricultural production, rural livelihoods and employment opportunities.

The commitment was announced during the IFAD14 African Leadership Moment at the Goals Lounge, United Nations Headquarters in New York, on Friday, 25 September 2026, where African leaders highlighted the importance of greater investment in rural communities and food systems.

Sierra Leone is among ten African countries that announced increased contributions to IFAD14, collectively pledging nearly US$9 million towards the Fund’s 2028-2030 replenishment cycle. The other participating countries are Burundi, Chad, Ethiopia, Guinea, Kenya, Rwanda, Somalia, Sudan and Zimbabwe.

Some of the participating countries have more than tripled their previous contributions, while the largest increases are reported to be almost ten times earlier commitments. The initiative reflects efforts by African Governments to demonstrate greater domestic commitment to agricultural and rural development while encouraging international partners to increase their support.

Addressing the gathering, President Julius Maada Bio described agriculture as fundamental to Sierra Leone’s economic and social development, stressing that investment in the sector is essential to improving livelihoods and securing the country’s food supply.

“Agriculture is more than a sector for Sierra Leone. It is the foundation of our food security, our livelihoods and our future,” he said.

The President placed particular emphasis on rural communities, arguing that they should not be regarded merely as the final beneficiaries of development programmes. He said they represent the starting point for food production and remain central to Sierra Leone’s development aspirations.

“Rural areas are often called the last mile. In Sierra Leone, they are the first mile, where most of our people live and work, and where food security begins,” President Julius Maada Bio stated.

Highlighting Sierra Leone’s longstanding relationship with IFAD, he noted that the institution has supported the country for more than four decades. He said the Government has sought to complement that international partnership by increasing domestic investment in agriculture.

According to figures presented by the President, agriculture’s share of Sierra Leone’s national budget has risen from 2 percent to 8 percent within two years. He also reported that rice self-sufficiency increased from 68 percent in 2019 to 73 percent.

Against that background, President Julius Maada Bio confirmed that Sierra Leone’s contribution under IFAD14 would be increased by at least 50 percent compared with its contribution during IFAD13. The additional commitment, he said, will be financed through the national budget.

The pledge forms part of the Government’s stated determination to strengthen agricultural productivity and improve opportunities for farmers and rural communities. President Julius Maada Bio maintained that meaningful transformation of food systems requires direct investment in the people responsible for producing food.

“If we want to transform food systems and create jobs, we must invest in the people who produce our food,” he said.

He also called on development partners and other stakeholders involved in the IFAD replenishment process to respond with stronger commitments to agricultural development.

“Sierra Leone is doing its part. I invite every partner here to do the same,” he added.

President of IFAD , Alvaro Lario, welcomed the increased commitments from African countries, describing IFAD14 as an important platform for strengthening agrifood systems across the continent.

According to Alvaro Lario, nearly 60 percent of IFAD’s portfolio is invested in Africa, with the Fund concentrating considerable attention on the “first mile” of food systems, where investments can support employment, resilience and inclusive economic growth.

IFAD’s financing model combines contributions from member states with loan repayments, borrowed resources and co-financing. Through this arrangement, the institution says every dollar contributed to its core resources can generate approximately six dollars in investment.

The Fund, which holds an AA+ credit rating, has also issued more than US$1 billion in sustainable bonds since 2022 to mobilize additional financing for small-scale farmers, rural enterprises and climate-resilient food systems.

For Sierra Leone, the increased IFAD14 contribution comes amid broader efforts to place agriculture at the centre of national development, particularly through increased food production, investment in farming and efforts to reduce dependence on food imports.

The commitment also places the country within a wider African initiative to demonstrate greater ownership of rural transformation. By increasing their own contributions, participating Governments are seeking to encourage development partners and international financial institutions to provide additional resources for agricultural development.

President Julius Maada Bio stressed that improving food security cannot be separated from the welfare of farmers and rural communities, particularly those responsible for producing much of the food consumed across the country.

Sierra Leone’s increased contribution therefore represents both a financial commitment to IFAD and a reaffirmation of the Government’s stated position that sustainable agricultural transformation must begin with investment in farmers, producers and communities at the centre of the food system.

The collective commitment announced by the ten African countries also sends a broader message ahead of the IFAD14 replenishment period: African Governments are increasing their own investments while calling on international partners to match that ambition with greater financing for rural development, food security and resilient agricultural systems.

Group of five formally dressed individuals standing on a stage, each holding papers, at a blue-sponsored event backdrop.

Columbia University Masterclass Equips Sierra Leone Ministers with Government Delivery Skills

September 28, 2026

Group of diverse professionals in business attire posing on the steps outside the Joseph L. Mailman School of Public Health building.

Sierra Leonean Cabinet Ministers attending the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York have participated in a specially designed executive seminar at Columbia University aimed at strengthening leadership, critical thinking, problem-solving and effective Government service delivery.

Held on September 23, 2026, at Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health, the high-level programme brought together about a dozen Ministers for intensive sessions on systems thinking, implementation science and the use of evidence in policy and practice.

The training was designed to expose the Ministers to practical approaches that could help Government leaders navigate complex challenges, improve coordination across Ministries and strengthen the implementation of public policies and programmes.

Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, facilitated the initiative through the Ministry of Information and Civic Education as part of its ongoing Memorandum of Understanding and partnership with Columbia University.

Taking advantage of the presence of senior Government officials in New York for UNGA 81, the programme provided an opportunity for the Ministers to combine international diplomatic engagements with professional development and capacity building.

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio supported the participation of the Ministers in the programme, encouraging members of the delegation to use their time in New York not only for international engagements but also to acquire knowledge and skills that could strengthen Government delivery.

Chernor Bah said continuous learning remains important for public officials responsible for implementing Government programmes and responding to increasingly complex national challenges.

“UNGA is an extraordinarily busy period, but President Bio encouraged and supported us to make space for learning and capacity building,” Chernor Bah said.

“If we want to accelerate delivery, we must continuously strengthen our ability as leaders to solve complex problems, work across the Government and turn policy into results.”

Senior faculty members from Columbia University’s Heilbrunn Department of Population and Family Health conducted the sessions, providing participants with insights into approaches that could be applied to governance, policy implementation and institutional coordination.

The sessions covered systems thinking, implementation science and influencing discourse and were led by Helen DePinho, Patrick Kachur and Nicole Haberland. Professor Thoại D. Ngô, Chair of the Heilbrunn Department of Population and Family Health, led the overall programme.

A major focus of the seminar was encouraging participants to look beyond the responsibilities of individual Ministries and examine how Government priorities and challenges are interconnected.

The systems-thinking approach particularly highlighted the importance of understanding how decisions taken in one sector could affect outcomes in other areas, requiring stronger collaboration among Ministries and public institutions.

Minister of Energy, Cyril Arnold Grant, said the programme created an opportunity for participants to consider their responsibilities within the Government’s broader development agenda.

“It gave us the time to think through and discuss the whole-of-Government plan as it relates to our individual portfolios,” Cyril Arnold Grant said, noting that issues handled by individual Ministries could also have wider implications, including for public health.

Participants were also introduced to implementation science, which focuses on how policies, programmes and evidence-based interventions can be effectively translated into practice.

The seminar further examined critical thinking and structured problem-solving approaches that could assist Government officials in identifying challenges, evaluating available evidence and developing practical responses.

Organisers said strengthening such skills among senior public officials could contribute to improved decision-making, better coordination, more efficient use of public resources and stronger implementation of Government programmes.

Following the seminar, Professor Thoại D. Ngô thanked Chernor Bah for his role in facilitating the participation of the Sierra Leonean delegation and acknowledged the Ministers for dedicating time to the programme despite their demanding UNGA schedule.

Professor Thoại D. Ngô also reaffirmed Columbia University’s commitment to its continuing collaboration with Sierra Leone, particularly in areas related to health, development, research, leadership and institutional capacity building.

For the Ministry of Information and Civic Education, the Columbia University engagement forms part of efforts to ensure that Sierra Leone’s international partnerships produce practical benefits for the country.

The Ministry believes access to global expertise, research and professional networks can provide public officials with additional tools to address domestic challenges and improve the quality of Government services.

Chernor Bah stressed that international partnerships should ultimately translate into meaningful benefits for Sierra Leone and its citizens.

“Our partnerships must ultimately create value for Sierra Leone,” Chernor Bah said. “Through our MOU with Columbia, we are connecting our leaders to world-class knowledge and expertise that can help us deliver better for our people.”

The executive seminar formed part of a wider series of engagements involving Sierra Leonean officials during UNGA 81 in New York, where the delegation participated in bilateral meetings, policy discussions and international forums covering development, investment, peace, governance and other national priorities.

Beyond the diplomatic engagements, the Columbia University programme provided participating Ministers with an opportunity to examine practical tools that could be applied to their respective Ministries upon their return to Sierra Leone.

The training also underscored the growing importance of evidence-based decision-making and cross-Government collaboration as public institutions respond to economic, social, environmental and institutional challenges.

From Cabinet meetings in Sierra Leone to the classroom at Columbia University in New York, the initiative demonstrated an emphasis on continuous learning among senior Government officials, with the central objective of translating acquired knowledge into improved policy implementation and public service delivery.

Diverse group of professionals seated around U-shaped conference tables in a bright meeting room, with documents, laptops, and a wall-mounted screen in the background.

UBA Sierra Leone Announces Leadership Transition as Mohamed Alhajie Samoura Resigns

September 28, 2026

Mohamed Alhajie Samoura

United Bank for Africa (Sierra Leone) Limited has announced a leadership transition following the resignation of its Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mohamed Alhajie Samoura, effective September 30, 2026.

The announcement was contained in a Press Release issued by the bank in Freetown on September 25, 2026.

According to the statement, the Board of United Bank for Africa (Sierra Leone) Limited has accepted Mohamed Alhajie Samoura’s resignation and expressed appreciation for his dedicated service to the institution.

Following his departure, Executive Director Francis Esiemokhai is expected to serve as Acting Managing Director, subject to the requisite approval of the Bank of Sierra Leone.

The leadership transition comes as United Bank for Africa (Sierra Leone) Limited continues its operations in the country, serving individuals, businesses and communities through its range of banking services.

In its statement, the bank reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining trusted, innovative and customer-focused banking services across Sierra Leone.

United Bank for Africa (Sierra Leone) Limited did not provide further details regarding the circumstances surrounding Mohamed Alhajie Samoura’s resignation or indicate when a substantive Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer would be appointed.

Moses Mambu’s Power-Drunk Rhetoric Risks Tearing the SLPP Apart

September 28, 2026

Man in a green and white striped shirt raises both hands while speaking, with a water bottle on the table nearby. — Moses Mambu, National Public Relations Officer of the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP)

Moses Mambu, National Public Relations Officer of the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), is increasingly attracting attention over what critics may regard as an overzealous and unnecessarily combative approach to political communication across social media and traditional media platforms. At times, his rhetoric creates an impression of political triumphalism that could be interpreted as being power-drunk, particularly when pronouncements from such a senior party official touch sensitive questions of elections, party membership and internal political competition. Besides he is taking the SLPP as his personal property rather than a political party making utterances that have the propensity of bringing divisions within the party.

A National Public Relations Officer should ordinarily serve as a bridge connecting the leadership, stakeholders, grassroots supporters and wider public. The position demands clarity, discipline, political maturity and an ability to manage disagreements without unnecessarily escalating them. Yet some of Moses Mambu’s interventions have instead generated controversy and raised questions about whether his communication style is consolidating the SLPP or potentially widening disagreements within its ranks.

Nothing demonstrated the danger of loose political rhetoric more clearly than his controversial reference to “2030” while discussing the next presidential election. Moses Mambu subsequently explained that the reference was made “out of fun” and as a political “jab.” That explanation, however, does not completely erase the legitimate questions generated by the original statement.

Election dates and presidential tenure are serious constitutional matters. When the National Public Relations Officer of the governing party introduces 2030 into a conversation about an election expected in 2028, Sierra Leoneans will naturally scrutinize his words and question the political message being conveyed.

Equally concerning is the potential effect of combative public pronouncements on internal party cohesion. Founded in 1951, the SLPP is one of Sierra Leone’s oldest political parties and has played a central role in the country’s political history, including the journey to Independence. Having survived different political eras, periods in opposition and returns to Government, the party prides itself on its democratic traditions and substantial nationwide support.

Against that background, it is unfortunate when its National Public Relations Officer becomes publicly confrontational towards major stakeholders who may command considerable influence and support within the party. Whatever disagreements exist, publicly disparaging influential stakeholders can potentially alienate their supporters, deepen factional differences and undermine the broader unity the SLPP will require heading towards the 2028 elections.

Moses Mambu’s frequent reliance on provisions of the SLPP Constitution to justify positions in internal debates must equally be accompanied by political sensitivity. The party Constitution must unquestionably be respected, but constitutional provisions should not become instruments for publicly diminishing political stakeholders. Rules can regulate membership, conduct and eligibility; they cannot, by themselves, create genuine political cohesion.

Sierra Leone’s political history provides an important lesson. Internal disagreements within the SLPP contributed to political realignment ahead of the 2007 elections, when Charles Margai broke away and formed the People’s Movement for Democratic Change. The PMDC subsequently made significant inroads into traditional SLPP territory, particularly in parts of Southern Sierra Leone, before Charles Margai supported Ernest Bai Koroma of the APC during the presidential runoff. The SLPP eventually lost power.

Today’s circumstances are certainly different and that history does not determine what will happen in 2028. It nevertheless demonstrates an enduring political reality: unresolved internal divisions can carry electoral consequences.

The SLPP is bigger than Moses Mambu or any individual stakeholder. Its membership contains different ambitions, personalities, generations and political tendencies. Managing those differences requires diplomacy, consultation and mutual respect rather than inflammatory exchanges.

Confidence about winning elections is legitimate. Political entitlement is different. Neither Moses Mambu nor any party executive determines who occupies State House. Sierra Leoneans ultimately make that decision through the electoral process.

Political office is temporary. Party positions are temporary. Political influence can rise and disappear.

For a party with the SLPP’s history, internal cohesion should therefore take precedence over unnecessary political confrontation. As 2028 approaches, its spokesperson should help build bridges rather than deepen fault lines.

Sierra Leone’s political history has already demonstrated the cost that major parties can pay when internal disagreements become political fractures.

That lesson deserves serious attention.

The Wisdom in Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally’s Speech: What He Actually Meant

September 28, 2026

Portrait of a man in a white traditional outfit seated on an ornate gold couch with patterned cushions, hands folded in his lap.

A recent statement by Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally declaring that “we are all guilty” has generated considerable public discussion, but supporters of the politician insist that the message was never intended as a confession of criminal wrongdoing or a threat to Sierra Leone’s national security. Rather, they describe it as a call for collective responsibility, national conscience and unity in confronting the country’s longstanding challenges.

In a short video widely circulated on social media, Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally reflected on Sierra Leone’s political, social and economic situation and urged citizens to recognize their collective responsibility for building a better country.

At the centre of the discussion is his statement: “Everybody is guilty.”

Supporters maintain that understanding those words requires looking beyond the sentence itself and considering the wider context in which it was delivered. Their interpretation is that Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally was not referring to criminal guilt but to what he considers a collective failure by successive generations to sufficiently confront problems affecting Sierra Leone.

From that perspective, “we are all guilty” simply means that no section of society should completely absolve itself of responsibility for the state of the nation. Political leaders, public officials, community stakeholders and ordinary citizens all have roles to play in strengthening national unity and improving the lives of Sierra Leoneans.

One of the major concerns raised in the speech was national cohesion. Decades after independence, political, regional and other divisions continue to feature prominently in public discourse. Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally’s message, according to his supporters, was therefore an appeal for Sierra Leoneans to place the national interest above narrow political considerations.

The politician also drew attention to drug abuse, particularly the devastating impact of Kush on young people. Families and communities continue to confront the consequences of substance abuse, making the issue an important national concern. His remarks suggested that dealing with the crisis requires collective action rather than leaving responsibility entirely with Government institutions.

Poverty and the struggle of ordinary citizens to meet basic needs were also central to his message. His supporters say references to people struggling for food, shelter and other necessities were intended to remind political leaders and citizens that national development must ultimately translate into improvements in people’s everyday lives.

Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally further reflected on Sierra Leone’s troubled past, recalling the civil war associated with Revolutionary United Front leader Foday Sankoh and the period of military rule under Major Johnny Paul Koroma. His broader argument was that Sierra Leoneans had previously demonstrated the ability to unite during difficult periods and could again mobilize collectively against contemporary challenges.

Against this background, those defending the speech reject interpretations portraying it as a call for instability. They contend that its underlying message was about confronting political division, drug abuse, poverty and other social problems through national cooperation.

The remarks have also attracted attention because of Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally’s long political history and his willingness over the years to publicly express strong views on national and party affairs.

His supporters point to interventions he made during the administrations of former President Ahmad Tejan Kabbah and former President Ernest Bai Koroma, as well as his longstanding political relationship with President Dr. Julius Maada Bio. They portray those interventions as evidence of a politician prepared to publicly express his position even when his views may be uncomfortable to political leaders.

Recent controversy surrounding Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally’s political status within the Sierra Leone People’s Party has added another dimension to interpretations of his remarks. Questions surrounding his membership have generated competing public claims, while his supporters maintain that he remains legitimately connected to the party.

Within that context, references to a possible political crisis have also been interpreted differently. Supporters argue that Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally was speaking about the possible breakdown of political relationships and the pursuit of alternative democratic alliances if his grievances are not addressed, rather than threatening violence or unconstitutional action.

They maintain that his stated approach remains the pursuit of political objectives through democratic processes, including dialogue, legal action, elections and other mechanisms provided under the rule of law.

The debate surrounding the speech also touches on the wider issue of freedom of expression. Section 25 of Sierra Leone’s 1991 Constitution protects freedom of expression, including the freedom to hold opinions and receive and impart ideas and information. That protection is not absolute, however, as the Constitution permits certain restrictions prescribed by law, including for public safety, public order and protection of the reputations and rights of others

Sierra Leone also took a significant step in reforming its speech laws in 2020 when Parliament repealed Part V of the Public Order Act of 1965, which dealt with defamatory and seditious libel.

Whether any particular statement breaches another applicable law would ultimately depend on its precise wording, context and determination by the competent authorities or courts where necessary.

For supporters of Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally, however, the central message of his speech remains straightforward: Sierra Leone’s problems require collective responsibility.

Seen through that interpretation, “we are all guilty” was not presented as an admission of criminal guilt. It was a challenge to the national conscience: an argument that Government, political leaders, communities and citizens must all examine their responsibilities and contribute towards addressing the problems confronting the country.

The wisdom his supporters identify in the speech therefore lies in its appeal for Sierra Leoneans to look beyond partisan divisions, confront the drug crisis, improve the welfare of vulnerable citizens and strengthen national unity.

For them, the message was not a threat against Sierra Leone. It was an appeal for Sierra Leoneans to work together for Sierra Leone.

Peak Electrical in the Spotlight Over Alleged Sale of Suspected Fake RR Cables

September 28, 2026

Exterior of PEAK Electricals & Electronics storefront with blue doors open and outdoor lighting fixtures displayed on a rack in front of the shop.

An investigation conducted by The Calabash Newspaper has uncovered allegations that Ogha Toochukwu and Samuel, owners of Peak Electrical/Electronic a Nigerian-owned business operating in Sierra Leone, with its head office situated on 17 Regent Road, by Goderich Street in Freetown, has been involved in the importation and sale of electrical cables suspected of being counterfeit RR Cables.

The allegations have raised fresh concerns about the circulation of suspected counterfeit electrical products on the Sierra Leonean market and the potential risks they could pose to consumers, electricians, businesses and property.

According to information obtained by The Calabash Newspaper, Peak Electrical/Electronic operates from several locations with business addresses in Bo and Kenema.

The locations identified include 38 Dambala Road, Bo, opposite Albertson Supermarket; 32 Dambala Road, Bo; Box Point 20 Bojon Street, Bo; beside Union Trust Bank on 5 Jany Street, Kenema; and St. James Secondary School.

Among the products identified during the investigation is a cable bearing markings purporting to identify it as an RR Kablo product.

The latest allegations come against the backdrop of previous concerns over suspected counterfeit RR Cables circulating in Sierra Leone.

In an earlier report, The Calabash Newspaper reported allegations involving businesses in Freetown accused of selling suspected counterfeit RR Cables.

According to that report, the Sierra Leone Police had reportedly acted on intelligence concerning suspected counterfeit RR products and conducted operations at business premises linked to the allegations.

Individuals were reportedly invited to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for questioning, while several rolls of electrical cables suspected of being counterfeit RR products were reportedly seized during the operations.

The reported seizures and investigations have heightened concerns about how suspected counterfeit electrical products may be entering and circulating within the local market.

The allegations involving Peak Electrical/Electronic also come amid public warnings concerning the authenticity of RR Cables in Sierra Leone.

Following this developments, SV Electrical – Sierra Leone’s Trusted Source for Genuine RR Cables,” SV Electrical warned consumers about suspected counterfeit RR Cables allegedly circulating in the country.

According to the company, it has been the exclusive importer and distributor of authentic RR Cables in Sierra Leone since 2019.

SV Electrical identified its reported official outlets as its premises on Siaka Stevens Street, Freetown and Hastings Junction, while urging consumers to exercise caution when purchasing RR-branded electrical cables from other sources.

The company warned that counterfeit cables may be manufactured using inferior materials and could potentially overheat, spark or contribute to electrical fires.

SV Electrical consequently encouraged consumers to verify the source and authenticity of electrical cables before making purchases.

The circulation of suspected counterfeit electrical cables is a matter of public safety, as electrical wiring forms an essential component of residential, commercial and industrial installations.

Electrical experts have warned that substandard cables can present significant risks when their materials, insulation, conductivity and load-bearing capacity do not meet required standards.

Such products may potentially contribute to overheating, short circuits, electrical faults and fires, particularly when they are used in installations requiring cables capable of safely carrying specified electrical loads.

The issue therefore extends beyond trademark protection and commercial competition to broader concerns about ensuring that electrical materials placed on the Sierra Leonean market meet applicable safety and quality requirements.

The allegations surrounding Peak Electrical/Electronic also raise questions about the supply chain through which RR-branded cables enter Sierra Leone, including their country of manufacture, import documentation, distribution channels and verification procedures.

Determining whether the identified cables are genuine would require appropriate technical and documentary verification, including examination of the products and, where necessary, confirmation from the manufacturer or authorized distributor.

Consumers are meanwhile advised to exercise caution when purchasing branded electrical products and to request information about their source and authenticity, particularly where products appear significantly cheaper than comparable products sold through authorized distributors.

The Calabash Newspaper is seeking a response from Peak Electrical/Electronic regarding the allegations, including the source of the identified cables, the company’s authorization to distribute RR-branded products and any documentation demonstrating their authenticity.

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