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HRCSL Condemns Proliferation of Hate Messages & Diatribes

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone (HRCSL), in a press statement dated 28th August 2020, highlighted that it is the statutory body responsible for the promotion and protection of human rights of all in Sierra Leone pursuant to Section 7 (1) of the Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone Act of 2004.

It continued that for such a mandate to be smoothly carried out and for the enjoyment and fulfilment of any right, be they civil and political; economic, social and cultural; and development rights; peace and national security must be paramount and must go undisturbed.

The HRCSL, pointed out, that in its general monitoring role it has been monitoring different social media platforms which have recently been flooded with hate messages and diatribes from Sierra Leoneans both within and outside the country with the aim of inciting civil and political unrest and ultimately bringing the State to a standstill.

The institution vehemently and roundly condemned all forms of hate messages and diatribes and all the pioneers and promoters of same and as such called on those persons behind such unpatriotic practices to desist from such acts forthwith.

According to the statement, the HRCSL has been one of the foremost defenders of free speech as it consistently called on successive Governments through its Annual State of Human Right Reports, strategic and media engagements to repeal the criminal and seditious libel law contained in the Public Order Act of 1965- a call that has now been recently adhered to by Government.

The HRCSL says it abhors messages of hate and division as they do not constitute the free speech envisaged by the repeal nor do they constitute the spirit and intent contained in Section 25 Subsection (1) of the Constitution of Sierra Leone, 1991, Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), Article19 (1) & (2) of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR).

Accordingly, Article 20 (1) & (2) of the ICCPR clearly prohibits propaganda that promotes war and any advocacy that promotes violence. Similarly, Subsection (2) of Section 25 of the Constitution of Sierra Leone, 1991 provides for exemptions in respect of freedom of expression where the circumstance has to do with security of the state, public safety, public order, morality and health; and for the purpose of protecting the reputations, rights and freedoms of other persons, etc.

The HRCSL used the opportunity to remind Government of its primary State obligation to provide security for its citizens and everyone staying in Sierra Leone as provided by Section 5 (2) (b) of the Constitution of Sierra Leone 1991 for ease of reference.

It went on that 5 (2)  declares that the security, peace and welfare of the people of Sierra Leone shall be  the primary purpose and responsibility of the Government, and to this end it shall be the duty of the Armed Forces, the Police, Public Officers and all security agents to protect and safeguard the people of Sierra Leone.

The HRCSL, therefore urged the Government and its relevant agencies to ensure that the security of the State and its people is safeguarded at all times within the confines of the laws of the land and international covenants and protocols to which Sierra Leone is a State Party.

In a similar vein, the HRCSL again used the opportunity to call on citizens to abide by the provision contained in Section 13 of the Constitution which provides mandatory Duties of the Citizen which includes but not limited to: “a sense of nationalism and patriotism so that loyalty to the State shall override sectional, ethnic, tribal or other loyalties; protect and preserve public property…; ensure the proper control and upbringing of his children and wards; render assistance to appropriate and lawful agencies in the maintenance of law and order.”

Additionally, HRCSL is drawing the attention of everyone to the provisions contained in Article 29 (3) & (4) of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR) thus: (3) “Not to compromise the security of the State whose national or resident he is;” and (4) “to preserve and strengthen social and national solidarity, particularly when the latter is threatened”.

HRCSL therefore called on every citizen at home and abroad to desist from producing and promoting all forms of hate messages and diatribes and to be law abiding, discipline and participate in and defend all democratic processes and practices responsibly as per law required.

HRCSL says it is assuring the general public of its unwavering commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights of all.

As New Rapid Number Game Continues…   Cosmetic Businessman Bags Le 100 Million from Mercury International

By Esther Wright

On Wednesday, August 26, 2020,a young cosmetic businessman residing around West End of Freetown  became the first Mercury International new Rapid Number Game millionaire after winning a whopping sum of One Hundred Million Leones (Le 100,000,000) from just a One Thousand Leones (Le 1,000) bet.

Ibrahim Philet Essah Baion, who sells spray, body location, toiletries and a father of two, was emotional as he jumps up and down in the air after turning his Le 1,000 into Le 100,000,000 on a single ticket.

The exciting winner, who is no stranger to Mercury International products, said he was grateful for the win, considering the present prevailing circumstances in the world due to the coronavirus which has also affected his business.

Presenting the cash to the lucky winner, Mercury International Chief Operations Officer, Joe Harb, congratulated Essah Baion, stating that he is the first big winner of the Rapid Number Game. He said Essah Baion’s winning was a clear message that the game is here to give winning opportunities to customers.

“I want to encourage you to use this winning judiciously. We are presenting your winning in cash because you are the first big winner since the introduction of the game,” Harb stated further encouraging customers to continue playing and increase their chances of becoming a millionaire.

Receiving his cash, Ibrahim Philet Essah Baion promised to use the money wisely. He said: “I will set aside a good part of my win to further my education to the University, increase my business and as well buy a portion of land to build my house. I feel grateful for this win.”

Essah Baion also called on others to continue to play the game adding that, it is only luck, and God that can change people’s life.

The Mercury International new Rapid Number game was introduced just a week ago, and it is very easy and affordable to play with an increase in chances for customers to win big money daily. The Rapid Number game is not only easy to play and win, but it also allows customers to win big from 6 numbers out of 20 numbers.

Ministry of Tourism Ends Safety Net Disbursements in Four Regions

By Amin Kef Sesay

The Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance, the National Tourist Board has climaxed the disbursement of the Safety Net Support scheme to employees in the tourism and hospitality sectors in the four regions in Sierra Leone including Kenema, Bo, Makeni and Port Loko.

The beneficiaries of the Safety Net Support, launched by President Julius Maada Bio, have hailed the New Direction Government for the timely intervention to support tourism workers amidst the COVID-19 pandemic in the country and globally. Former Minister of Youth Affairs under Ex-President Koroma’s administration, Hon. Alimamy A. Kamara in the launching of the program at Makeni, praised the payment team for prudency and accountability in the process.

He commended the Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Dr. Memunatu Pratt for being proactive in monitoring the process which, according to him, has resulted in a seamless and transparent payment of funds. “It is indeed commendable that no one has had cause to accuse any official of being questionable during the disbursement process”.

The former Minister extended thanks and appreciation to the Government through the Ministries of Tourism and Finance for the good initiative.

Resident Minister, Northwest Region in Port Loko Township, Haja Isata Abdulai Kamara reiterated to the beneficiaries that history had been made as such entitlements have never been recorded in the country; not even during or after the Ebola outbreak that left many Sierra Leoneans out of jobs and the economy crippled.

She encouraged the recipients to appreciate the efforts of the President Bio led Government to salvage the situation at such a trying period. The Resident Minister further encouraged the beneficiaries to utilize the payment package from government judiciously as it is undeterminable as to when the current pandemic would come to an end in the country.

Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Dr. Memunatu Pratt during her tour in all regions, pointed out the strides her leadership has made in the tourism sector including the increase in tourist arrivals and contributions to the GDP growth in the country. She spoke of the registered commitment of President Bio in supporting the tourism sector, the ministry of finance and other MDAs through the National Development Integrated Strategy incorporated by government.

The Minister disclosed that the ongoing disbursement of Le1.8M pay package to each verified and registered affected employee in the tourism and hospitality sectors has targeted 2,363 beneficiaries for the safety net support scheme amounting to Le4,883, 840, 000,000. She said that the safety net support covers three months basic salary to affected workers. Dallah Kamara, staff of Buya Hotel, Makeni expressed thanks and appreciation to the Government, stressing that she was not expecting such a package.

She went further to say that the hospitality industry is one of the industries most affected by COVID-19 as a number of establishments were forced to shut down due to little or no patronage.

Betty Quee, staff at Kabba Burger Restaurant, Lungi expressed appreciation to the Government, saying that the safety net support was very timely as most of the workers in the sector could barely make ends meet.

Director of Tourism in the Ministry of Tourism, Mohamed Jalloh revealed that the three months Government minimum wage means a lot to the hospitality workers and also thanked Government and partners such as NCRA, Anti-Corruption Commission, Ministry of Finance, Auditors, National Tourist Board and the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs for coordinating such a laudable move.

More Job to be Created as… Four Turkish Tycoons Poise to Invest in Different Sectors

By ALusine S. Kargbo (ASK) in Istanbul

The dynamic and hardworking Sierra Leonean Ambassador  to Turkey, Mohamed Kai Samba and his Deputy,  Paul A.S Mina,  on Tuesday the 25th of August 2020, during  a well-attended ceremony, met with  four  big investors, that have agreed  to invest in Sierra Leone, highlighting four key areas where they may want to invest , which are the  agriculture, fishing, mining sectors as well as establishing  a juice factory.

In his opening statement, Suat Gürcan, one of the potential investors, expressed satisfaction to meet with Ambassador Mohamed Kai Samba and his Deputy, adding that four of them are ready to invest in Sierra Leone furthering that the country is going to be the first where he intends to set up his second juice factory also maintaining that the country is going to be his second home.

According to Murat Atalayent, another potential investor, the meeting with Ambassador Mr. Kai Samba and his Deputy came at the right time for him disclosing how long ago he identified Sierra Leone as a country where he would like to invest stating that he now wants to translate his dream into reality also disclosing how his investment would benefit the two countries. He divulged that he wants to massively invest in the agricultural sector.

Mr. Uğur Elaman, who has an interest in the mining sector, said that, he is ready to boost the economy of Sierra Leone and help create jobs for the youth.

Fırat Fesih Kaya, in his statement thanked the Ambassador and his Deputy for giving them the opportunity to sit together and discuss investment opportunities for Sierra Leone. He said he intends to invest in the fishing industry which he also stated can create jobs for young people and help boost the country’s economy.

Erdal Arslan, in his own remarks, pointed out that he intends to invest in agriculture to help boost the Government’s food production strides and for exportation. He noted that for any country to develop there is the need to focus on serious agricultural production.

Ambassador Kai Samba also met with the President of Tika, Mr. Serkan Kayalar, during which they discussed important issues.

Tika is a humanitarian organization that renders assistance to   countries in different areas like health and education. The organization has promised to assist the health sector of Sierra Leone.

Ambassador Kai Samba, while thanking the investors, told them that Sierra Leone is open for business, and President is ready to receive them.

He noted that the meeting was successful and prayed for the COVID-19 pandemic to end so that normal businesses resume.

Ambassador Kai Samba and Tika President
Mr. Serkan Kayalar

SLAJ Decries Use of Hate Speech on Social Media

President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), Ahmed Sahid Nasralla

By Amin Kef Sesay

The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), in a Press Release issued on Friday 28 August, 2020 and signed by its Secretary General, Mohamed Asmieu Bah, has stated that it is concerned about the proliferation of videos, audios, and voice notes with incendiary messages on social media which have the potential to divide the nation and cause unrest.

It made it categorically clear that while SLAJ will at all times stand to defend the fundamental human right of all citizens to free speech as an essential element of our democracy, however, “citizen journalists”, political enthusiasts and members of the public who have been abusing social media should know that this right is not absolute.

“Freedom of speech is like a kitchen knife. When you take it out of the kitchen for other purposes like stabbing, then it becomes harmful to the victim and to self,” said President of SLAJ, Ahmed Sahid Nasralla.

According to the release, the Association is calling on all media houses not to allow their platforms to be used as conduits for the dissemination of incendiary messages, fake news and disinformation. It also called on all journalists and other citizens not to share any such messages, if they receive them.

SLAJ is also appealing to the leaderships of all political parties, political activists and citizens in general to condemn and desist from making and spreading expressions in every shape or form that promote hate and division among Sierra Leoneans.

“It’s not just the responsibility of the Government of Sierra Leone to maintain and promote law and order, and peace and stability in the country. It’s equally the responsibility of all political parties, democratic institutions and citizens,” added Nasralla. “The Government must work with the leaderships of all political parties and other stakeholders to look at the root causes of this dangerous trend and make genuine and honest efforts to address them collectively,” he concluded.

NP-SL Always Lead Where Others Follow

By Amin Kef Sesay

It has been widely accepted that the premier petroleum marketing company that has gained so much recognition in the country and even beyond for its pro-activeness in its transactions is indisputably the National Petroleum –Sierra Leone Limited (NP-SL Ltd).Many have attested that NP-SL Ltd always leads where other petroleum marketing companies follow.

Without contesting the undiluted fact, this 100% indigenous company has left its footprint on the sands of time as it continues to bag wide commendations for its timeliness in always ensuring that qualitative petroleum products are imported into the country, distributed to its sales points or Filling Stations across the country in order for its esteemed customers to easily gain access to them.

The company has never renege in doing so save only certain situations where, as a result of unforeseen contingencies, most often beyond its control, there has been some delay. However, in such circumstances measures are quickly rolled out to address them and restore normalcy in the supply chain.

It must be noted that for any petroleum marketing company to maintain such a solid and unshakable posture could only be attributed to prudent business management initiatives. Indeed, it could be said with all amount of certainty that the selflessness and dogged determination on the part of the 35 Sierra Leoneans who established the company have greatly influenced most of the policies that were adopted, effectively implemented which saw the transformation of a small business enterprise to a towering entity.

One of those laid down policies is that which places premium on enhancing or maximizing customer care to create a situation where its customers are always made to feel good and satisfied. The company’s Shareholders and Management are also conscious of the fact that by taking customer care to a higher pedestal such could serve as a leeway to attract other individuals to come on board its customer platform.

Indeed, it is in that light that a conscious move was made to make the company’s Filling Stations very attractive and welcoming. Built in state of the art fashion, painted with yellow and green paints, these sales points are very spacious to accommodate fleet of vehicles, are very eye catchy and in some of them there are shopping marts where customers could purchase basic items and even relax to socialize. As of now social gathering in those marts has been put on hold as social distancing has been recommended as one of the preventive measures put in place to avoid the spread of the deadly virus.

To promote transparency and win the trust of its numerous customers as well as match up with international standards, it was decided on the part of the company to invest so much in procuring and installing calibrated pumping machines. These have the capacity to pump the exact quantity of fuel in vehicles and containers to the utmost satisfaction of buyers. “I always feel gratified whenever I do purchase petrol at NP Filling Station because I am always satisfied that I am getting my money’s worth,” Haja Mariatu Williams ,a fashion designer divulged to this medium adding that the Managers of the company are doing a fantastic job ,referencing the orderliness of how business transactions are taking place.

One very striking feature which NP-SL has so far exhibited, to the admiration of many, is its strict adherence to the country’s Local Content Policy. Development Economists have recommended that one viable route to be used to boost a country’s economy is to make effective use of indigenous resources, both material and human, as long as they are available. Enhancing local content has its attendant merits one of which is creating employment opportunities and ensuring that monies paid workers are not remitted overseas.

The National Petroleum-Sierra Leone Limited is one of the few companies in this country that has successfully implemented its internal policy of giving employment preference to Sierra Leoneans. This is indeed very impressive and is helping in major ways to reduce poverty.

If today NP Gas is going at the pace of a jet, in terms of sales, then this is simply because it has been discovered that it is very fast, efficient and environmental friendly for cooking purposes. Besides, it can be refilled without going through the hassle of having to find gas elsewhere as the company markets gas alongside petrol, diesel and other lubricants. They are manufactured in different cylinder sizes and are easily accessible.

“NP Gas is my kitchen partner and I am finding it very cooperative. It is easy to handle and for me it poses no danger. I am therefore recommending it and for anyone to secure it there will be no regrets,” Mariatu Sesay, a housewife living in Makeni sincerely suggested.

What is much talked about today is NP Smart Card. As the name suggests the card is so smart to such an extent that as long as it is loaded with money it can be slotted in the calibrated pumping machine and after demanding the amount of petrol or diesel requested for, it churns out the exact amount plus displaying the price. It is trending, secured and convenient to use.

“NP Smart Card works well and since I have been using it I always procure fuel for my car and generator in record time. Using it, there are many benefits one can derive,” Lawyer Bah underscored.

The company does not joke with rolling out its Corporate Social Responsibility fully aware that it is incumbent on it as a business entity to give back to society. This is all the more reason why it has been complementing the Government’s development interventions. The Shareholders and Management have always stood by the side of Sierra Leoneans in thick and thin always endeavouring to give succour and deepen development.

The good things it had done are so many to catalogue and time plus space could not permit one to narrate all of them. However, the recent one should not go unnoticed and it has to do with availing the Government one Billion Leones to help scale up the fight against the spread of the deadly coronavirus.

“This shows that the company is a responsible business entity,” an official of the Petroleum Regulatory Agency commended.

The company stands tall for having vibrant branches operating in Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast and The Gambia where they are operating efficiently, offering jobs and paying taxes to Governments. NP-SL is indeed a force to reckon with and is poised to further make its presence felt and expand its operations.

As the Rush Continues… Sale of Application Forms for Housemates Salone Closes Today

Housemates Salone Season 2

By Amin Kef Sesay

Today, 31st August 2020 marks the closing date for securing application forms for Housemates Salone Season 2. Interested persons who may want to secure application forms are advised to do so before offices are officially closed down.

Application forms are going for a price of One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Leones (Le150, 000) and could be secured by simply going to #AfricellSL or #AYVMediaEmpire offices across the country.

They can also be secured via online at www.africell.sl or www.ayvnews.com from the comfort of wherever you are, in or out of Sierra Leone. Payments for forms can be made through #AfriMoney on 088201020.

This year’s Show is offering the mouth-watering star prize ofTwo Hundred and Fifty Million Leones (Le 250M) plus a round trip to Dubai. Indeed, this is an opportunity for any young person, who will emerge as the ultimate winner, to become a millionaire and be financially empowered to forge ahead in life.

A ‘fast track’ for those in the diaspora, in terms of application, is available on line. Interested persons can apply on line through Africell and AYV websites; do their videos and send them to the judges on line. Interviews will be conducted online.

Also, for the benefit of those in the diaspora who may want to participate in the show they may contact the following: www.africell.sl or www.ayvnews.com.

One major requirement is for all applicants to do their two minutes videos and send them to the judges on line stating who they are, where they are coming from and the talents they possess.

Next in line after today, will be an audition which will commence early September this year and will go on until the 21st September 2020. During the audition 40 finalists will be chosen who will then battle for the final 20 through another form of audition. The final 20 competent applicants, who successfully go through the audition, will enter the House on the 14th October 2020.

The Show is slated in such a way that when the Housemates enter the  House on the 14th October 2020 the more votes a particular Housemate secures from viewers, in and out of the country, will determine how long he or she will stay in the House.

It must be noted that the Africell number through which members of the public could vote for their favourite Housemates will be announced in due course.

Interestingly, during a particular stage of the Show, based on the percentage of votes scored by a particular Housemate will also determine if he or she will be evicted from the House. Evictions will continue until the ultimate winner emerges. But one good thing is that for each day a Housemate resides in the House, he or she is entitled to One Hundred Thousand Leones (Le100, 000).

All the episodes of the Show will be broadcast live, on a 24 hours basis, on AYV Television Channel 34.

Many have intimated this medium that they are eagerly awaiting the commencement of the Show and whenever time permits they will swiftly switch on to AYV TV Channel 34, stay glued in order not to miss out on the fun that the show will definitely exude.

Housemates Salone is all about Youth Empowerment. When the successful Housemates are in the House they will be assigned to perform certain tasks that will shape their characters, they will be availed the opportunity to learn new skills, improve on existing ones. They will also be emotionally tested, afforded the space to find panacea to certain human problems and do a host of other things.

Furthermore, the Housemates will benefit from widespread exposure as the Show will be watched near and far. Talents will be spotted and vistas of opportunities could be opened as some of the Housemates would be earmarked to become Brand Ambassadors, movie artists, models etc.

Some people may be having reservations as to whether it is apt to stage the show when we have the coronavirus in our midst. To allay such a fear, the organizers have put all the necessary modalities in place to ensure that all the Housemates that will be entering the House are coronavirus free, that precautionary measures are observed and the House is kept safe.

As the build-up to this interesting Reality TV Show continues to gain momentum many are eagerly awaiting very fun-packed episodes that will generate heated discussions in many circles.

From what this medium has so far gathered it seems as if a very entertaining Reality TV Show is in the offing that will change the lives of the Housemates and take the entertainment industry to a higher level. Don’t wait to be told. Make a date with Housemates Salone Season 2, the Last Standing Couple with the theme, “Quarantine Drama”.

Parents Benefit from WAVES-SL Engagement on Public Health

By Amin Kef Sesay

On Friday, 28 August 2020, the Women Against Violence and Exploitation in Society, Sierra Leone (WAVES-SL) organized a one-day session on Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) or Cutting and Menstrual Hygiene Management at the Manjama Institute of Agriculture, Shellmingo in Bo.

The gathering brought together more than thirty (30) parents in order to enhance their knowledge on the negative impacts associated with some of the traditional practices of FGM/C.

Welcoming the participants, the Director of WAVES-SL, Hannah Yambasu, informed that her organization recognizes the country’s traditional and cultural practices especially those that add value to the existence of human beings.

She went on to say that Female Genital Mutilation or Cutting is rated amongst the practices that are considered harmful because of the negative effects they exhibit on women and girls. “The practice of FGM has numerous disastrous consequences and also constitute an act of violation on the human rights of women and girls, ” Madam Yambasu said.

The Project Officer of WAVES-SL and coordinator of the session, Laura Miatta Lahai said the Public Health engagement with parents is part of WAVES-SL intervention, through a project supported by AMPLIFY CHANGE, to strengthen school girls’ club towards the building of movements to end FGM.

She disclosed that the project seeks to increase the advocacy intervention of boys and girls through various strategies in an attempt to eradicate FGM.

She explained that FGM and improper menstrual hygiene management have shared health issues. “Research has proved that in communities where female genital cutting is practiced, multiple health risks exist, ” Laura said.

She further stated that where the vaginal aperture is inadequate for menstrual flow, a blockage and build-up of blood clot is created behind the infibulated area. “This,” she said, “can be a cause for protracted and painful period, increased odour, discomfort and potential for additional infections.”

Madam Lahai told the parents that it is as a result of the said health issues that WAVES-SL is engaging them in dialogue sessions and advocacy activities on Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights and Menstrual Hygiene Management.

Responding on behalf of other participants, Madam Isata B.M Kallon thanked WAVES for organizing the engagement. She said the session broadened their knowledge on both the short and long-term effects of FGM and Menstrual Hygiene Management.

“This training has enlightened us on consequences of FGM and ways to assist our daughters on issues related to menstrual hygiene management,” she affirmed.

The participants pledged to share with their neighbours the knowledge that they have acquired from WAVES during the public health talk.

Some of the topics discussed during the engagement are: Meaning and Origin of FGM, Short and Long-term Effects of FGM, Is FGM a Public Health Issue, The Role and Purpose of the Vulva, Menstrual Hygiene Management, FGM.

For any enquiries contact the Communications Officer, WAVES-SL on +23279-011-500.

E-mail: alusinerogers@gmail.com

Madam Isata B.M Kallon: A Parent.
Hannah Fatmata Yambasu: Director WAVES-SL
Laura Miatta Lahai: Project Officer WAVES-SL

Big Idea of the Week… No mask? No go

SLAJ and NACOVERC Big Idea of the week

By Amin Kef Sesay

This week, 30th August – 5th September 2020, the Big Idea is No Mask? No Go. The wearing of face masks in public places, especially at this crucial moment when the world is battling with the corona virus cannot be overemphasized. It is one of the precautionary measures that must be adhered to by all and sundry to prevent the spread of the virus.

As a matter of fact it is deemed illegal for members of the public to deliberately refuse to wear face masks in public places and as such is punishable by law.

Masks keep transport running and safe for all Transport unions and drivers, let’s come together in solidarity and say no to any passenger not wearing a face mask. One person without a mask is a risk to all. If all drivers refuse to take any passenger who is not wearing a face mask, then passengers will know they cannot move without a mask. Your mask is your safety ticket for transport! Taking only passengers with face mask helps avoid delays by law enforcement and fines.

Taking less passengers and having to pay fines for taking passengers without face masks are making it challenging for some drivers to stay in business. Let’s make sure we all wear our face masks to keep transport running smoothly and safe for all. When using transport, passengers put their safety in drivers’ hands – safety from accidents and from coronavirus. All drivers and passengers deserve safe transport! Corona fet na we all fet! Suggestions for people to interview Heads of transport unions, Drivers, Police officers, people who have had COVID-19, Community leaders.

Suggestions for questions for interviews and panel discussions: Why should we wear face masks correctly when taking transport? Why is it important for all drivers to refuse passengers who are not wearing a mask?  What can we do if a driver/other passengers are not wearing a mask correctly? What challenges might you face when taking transport if not everyone is wearing a mask?  What role does everyone (drivers, passengers, law enforcement) play in making sure we keep transport running smoothly and safely for all?

Additional messages For Drivers/Operators: Most of us use transport at some point. That means you may be riding with others who are more likely to get seriously sick from coronavirus including older people and people with other health conditions. You will make your job easier and your life safer by refusing all passengers who are not wearing a mask. Local transport drivers and law enforcement should work together in busy areas to make sure only passengers with mask board transport. If you allow people to board your vehicle, bike or keke without face masks, you are putting everyone’s health at risk.

Other passengers depend on you to protect their safety and only take passengers with masks. Drivers should continue to help passengers keep a distance from others while on board. Remember coronavirus spreads from person to person so putting space between people will make it harder for the virus to spread. For Passengers Always put on a cloth face mask when leaving your home and keep it on correctly when using public transport and riding in any private vehicle with more than one person. Without a mask, a driver has the right to refuse to take you. Your mask is your safety ticket for transport! Without a mask, both you and the driver can be fined.

Getting stopped by the police also can make you late and create stress. Wearing your mask will keep you moving and avoid stress. If a vehicle pulls over to pick you, but the driver or others are not wearing a mask, it is okay to say you will wait for the next vehicle. “Yu nor mask, ar nor go!” You have a responsibility to always wear a mask to protect fellow passengers. You don’t know if they have other health conditions that can make them more likely to get seriously sick if they get the virus. Wearing a mask every time you are riding in any form of public transport helps protect you and helps protect others.

For everyone Let’s make sure coronavirus does not travel between us by washing our hands frequently with soap and water, wearing masks correctly by covering our noses and mouths, keeping distance from each other in transport, and staying home and calling 117 if you have fever, tiredness, and cough. Wearing a mask can help stop the spread of coronavirus, but only if it is used correctly by covering your mouth and nose. So please let us wear our face masks over our noses and mouths at all times in public. GoSL Enhanced COVID-19 Prevention Measures for local transport While the inter-district lockdown has been lifted, the earlier changes to operating and using public transport to help keep us all safe and prevent the spread of coronavirus remain in place. All transport parks must have hand washing stations.

Use them to wash your hands when entering and leaving the park and before getting into any vehicle. All drivers, including okada and kekeh drivers, should carry and use hand sanitizer with at least 60% base alcohol. All kinds of motor transport will continue to help passengers keep distance from others. Coronavirus spreads from person to person so putting space between people will make it harder for the virus to spread.  Taxis will continue to be limited to three passengers at a time (one front, two at the back seat).

Kekehs will continue to be limited to two passengers at a time.  In poda-podas and buses, there will continue to be no middle row seat and no standing.  Ferries and boats must not carry more than half of their normal capacity of passengers at a time. Less people on board gives passengers room to keep safe distance of at least one meter, or arms-stretched length, from others. Always put on a cloth face mask when leaving your home and keep it on correctly when using public transport and riding in any private vehicle with more than one person. Wearing a cloth mask can help stop the spread of coronavirus but only if it is used correctly by covering your mouth and nose. Remember – coronavirus is not spread from our chins; it is spread from our noses and mouths.

So please let us wear our cloth face masks over our nose and mouths at all times in public. Anyone using public transport, including drivers, who is not wearing a mask, may be fined one hundred thousand Leones (Le100,000) or detained by police. If a driver or passenger is found not wearing a mask for a second time, the vehicle will be seized. All seized motorbikes and tricycles may be reclaimed on payment of a fine of two hundred and fifty thousand Leones (Le250,000) and one million Leones for cars and buses (Le1,000,000). If a vehicle is not reclaimed within one month, it will be permanently impounded and disposed of

CHOs And CHAs Should Be Regulated

A cross section of CHOs and CHAs at the well of Sierra Leone parliament.

An Op-Ed By CHO Aruna Wunda

Diaspora Liaison Office, Sierra Leone Association of Community Health Officers (SLACHO)

August 31, 2020

The Community Health Officers (CHOs) and Community Health Assistants (CHAs) provide about 70 to 75% of all health care service delivery in Sierra Leone especially in the provinces.

Presently, there are more than 2,000 CHOs and CHAs across the country who work 24 hours to keep the general population healthy in the MOHS and other health related partners. These CHOs and CHAs work and supervise more than 1,200 Peripheral Health Units (PHUs) including Western Urban and Rural areas operating under the Ministry of Health and Sanitation (MoHS). CHOs and CHAs serve as the primary health care providers in all the 16 districts across the country. They demonstrate a high commitment and selflessness in providing community health care to the deprived communities.

They support the district primary health care units consisting of Community Health Centers (CHC), Community Health Posts (CHP) and Maternal and Child Health Posts (MCHP). In addition, these CHOs and CHAs provide all aspects of primary health care to these deprived and hard-to-reach communities including: minor surgical procedures, diagnose and treat minor and major illnesses, and up-referral of complicated and emergency cases to district hospitals or specialists.

The CHOs and CHAs plan, implement and evaluate the activities and the resources of both the primary and secondary heath care. They also collect, analyze, organize health related data from the communities for better planning and decision making. Furthermore, there are presently Surgical CHOs that are attached to all the referral and district hospitals across the country to perform surgical procedures with or without physician surgeon supervision. The cadre also has Ophthalmic, Nutrition, Surveillance, administrative, and Mental Health CHOs in both the Government and reputable Local and International Non-Governmental Organizations who perform very well in their various expertise.

As a professional cadre, it is a complete embarrassment and a disappointment to perform all the above functions without license and regulatory board. The Sierra Leone Association of Community Health Officers (SLACHO) has engaged successive Governments including the present government to pass the “The Community Health Practitioners Act, 2017” as ratified into law to enable the CHOs and CHAs to practice with a professional license and have a regulatory body to provide checks and balances to its membership.

One can agree with me that it sounds ironical that a professional cadre is pressurizing the Government to provide license and a board to regulate its activities. If the CHOs are the head of the Chiefdom Health Care delivery system, and are the second in the clinical organogram in the Ministry of Health; they supervise all the other cadres in the Ministry with the exception of Medical Doctors; such as the State Enrolment Community Health Nurses (SECHN), Community Midwives, Laboratory Technicians, and Maternal and Child Health Assistant nurses (MCH-As) of which all are licensed and have a regulatory board but not the CHOs.

Is not the Government’s responsibility to protect its citizens from medical errors, malpractices and professional misconducts? Why should a professional cadre beg a responsible Government to be regulated or have a license? If the CHOs and CHAs can do an invasive technique, do surgical procedures including cesarean sections; they provide all the health care services to the vulnerable population including the disables, the destitute, the deprived and even the deceased in the hard-to-reach communities; are they not supposed to be licensed and be regulated? Are the CHOs and CHAs asking for too much?

The CHOs and CHAs have right to be licensed and have their own regulatory board as was proposed in a meeting with other medical professional bodies at the MOHS Conference Hall, for an effective and efficient health service delivery in Sierra Leone.

The SLACHO body is asking this Government to sign into law the Community Health Practitioners, Act of 2017 that was ratified by the previous Parliament but stocked at the table of the former President. This cadre continues to feel demoralized and unrecognized with no foreseeable hope for their self-sacrifices and relentless efforts in working in remote communities with no social amenities such as: light, internet, mobile coverages, safe drinking water and good roads.

Similarly, this cadre has also suffered incessant marginalization in the hands of the Ministry of Health and Sanitation for its explicit bias. For instance, the CHO unit is the only cadre that has no clear defined wing and role in the Ministry of Health and Sanitation (MoHS) organogram. For over 30 years, the proposed scheme of service for senior CHOs and newly graduated CHOs and CHAs has not been implemented despite the mounting of pressure from SLACHO.

The Ministry’s continuous act to deliberately fail to recognize SLACHO in all their press releases, journals and public health documents is appalling and continues to plague this cadre, as it was in the case of the recent health workers’ Insurance Scheme where CHOs were not mentioned among the health workers.

It is in this limelight that SLACHO is calling on the Government and His Excellency the President of Sierra Leone to assent his signature on the Community Health Practitioner Act of 2017 to put the CHOs and CHAs in line with the national and international best practices. If this Bill is signed into law, the CHOs and CHAs will have a regulatory body that will hold its members accountable for any professional misconduct or any medical malpractice.

Finally, because the CHOs are professionals (medical professionals can best regulate themselves) with identifiable people of knowledge and expertise, trained from a recognized tertiary institution with a well-defined job description different from the other cadres, the SLACHO does not want the Community Health Practitioners Act to be amalgamated or incorporated with any other medical professional Act. The CHOs and CHAs should be treated independently just as those other medical cadres in the Ministry of Health and Sanitation.

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