As First Lady Poised to take Hands Off Our Girls to anotherLlevel… IG Sovula Signs MOU With Stakeholders

August 3, 2020

By Amin Kef Sesay

The Sierra Leone Police has officially signed a Memoramdum of Understanding with the National Emergency Medical Services and Aberdeen Women Centre at the Office of the First Lady with the objective of combating Sexual and Gender Based Violence. The signing ceremony took place on Wednesday 29th July 2020 in the Office of the First Lady, Madam Fatima Bio.

The event clearly demonstrates the commitment of the Sierra Leone Police to create a synergy between the two medical service providers that deals directly with rape and gender based violence cases in the country. Coordination between the different organisations makes service delivery more effective.

Speaking at the official signing ceremony, the Country Representative for the Aberdeen Women Center, Dr. Kofi King, pledged their continued support to the Sierra Leone Police, as they officially sign a partnership which is something they have done with Rainbow, LAWYERS and a few other organizations in ensuring that survivors of rape and gender based violence thrive in a safe environment.

Dr. King also said their doctors will not only write reports about rape incidents, they will also give evidence in court. Doctors’ reports will support the investigations of the Police that will lead to conviction. This is important because before now, Sierra Leone only had one doctor that gave evidence in court . Dr Kofi said they are very happy to formalise the partnership they have with the Police.

Making a statement on behalf of the National Emergency Medical Services, Francesco Venturi registered their support to provide free 24/7 ambulance services to all reported cases of rape and Gender Based Violence in all 16 districts nationwide. He furthered that they are ready to commit the 81 ambulances they have in different districts to officially transport victims of rape. The agreement will make it official for victims of rape to call 112, and be attended to.

The Inspector General of the Sierra Leone Police, Ambrose Sovula, commended the efforts of the Office of the First Lady since the launch of the Hands Off Our Girls saying Madam First Lady has been very proactive in helping the Police in identifying the fundamental challenges the institution is faced with and together work on rectifying those challenges to ensure swift and accurate prosecution of all rape, sexual penetration and Gender Based Violence cases.

The IG made it clear that rape is now considered a security issue and there is also need to be dealt with as a national emergency. The IG said the Police had inadequacies, but they are implementing policies to curb them. He stated that the signing of the MOU with these partners will make the Police more effective and they will deliver more results.

Madam Fatima Maada Bio in giving a vote of thanks expressed gratitude to all the stakeholders for the partnership saying it means a lot to her office and the Hands Off Our Girls campaign which is geared towards protecting girls. The First Lady said she has visited the Aberdeen Womens Centre severally to meet with rape survivors, and that has strengthened her resolve to deal with the rape scourge.

She said the HOOG campaign has led to an increase in reporting rape cases, and she is poised to take it to another level. According to her,the establishment of the Sexual Offences Model Court, sends a strong message that the Government means business as there will be no sacred cows further underscoring how the fight against rape is championed by President Julius Maada Bio. This fight, Madam Bio said, is one we must win as they empower the Family Support Unit.

Madam Fatima Bio made a public appeal to all perpetrators of rape to desist from such an act as it destroys the lives, dignity and future of children or women, while establishing an open challenge to bring them to book.

She advised human rights activists to also fight for the rights of the survivors and encouraged mothers not to compromise when it comes to reporting rape cases. She touched on “voodoo” based rape, where some persons are misinformed by Native doctors (Voodoo priests ) that the solution to the problem they face is to rape a virgin. This form of rape, she syayed, is usually not discussed but said it is an unfortunate aspect of our social reality.

The program was climaxed by the official signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between the Sierra Leone Police, Aberdeen Women Centre and the National Emergency Medical Services.

2020 MID-TERM POPULATION AND HOUSING CENSUS

August 1, 2020

PRESS RELEASE BY THE CHIEF CENSUS OFFICER

Following the proclamation by HE the President of Sierra Leone, Stats SL will be conducting the first Mid-Term Population and Housing Census in Sierra Leone. December 4 has been declared the census night. Activities to make this possible have already commenced.

In this Press Release, I wish to inform the public of key issues related to the forthcoming Mid-Term Census:

1) A Mid-Term Census is a standard, internationally recognised practice. For a country like Sierra Leone that is embarking on fundamental structural changes, the availability of up-to-date information is crucial for effective implementation of plans and programmes at all levels. This first Mid-Term Census will provide that.

In addition, the Mid-Term Census allows us to update data collected during the 2015 Census, check the statuses of localities in the country, update Stats SL’s cartographic databases, and set baselines and capture progress of specific national goals. In this case, we will directly address issues of the Medium-Term National Development Plan and SDGs.

Learning from the past to improve on the future

3) Every massive national undertaking like a census will invariably be faced with diverse challenges. The 2015 Census had its challenges. Stats SL will address previous challenges and is prepared to face any others and effectively address them as the exercise progresses.

4) We are aware that some challenges might be identified only after the end of the activity, as it occurred after the 2015 Census. These have been recorded as valuable lessons learnt for application in the forthcoming Mid-Term Census.

5) For the previous census, it took some time to do the actual census takings after the cartographic work was completed. It was presumed that new localities might have come into existence, in between that period. This time, with the Mid-Term Census process in place, we will conduct the census takings almost immediately after the cartographic work ends in November.

6) During the 2015 Census, paper questionnaires were used and as such, data collected in the field had to be manually coded and inputted into a database. As a result, we realised only after the activity that some specific things that we would have liked to do with the data today, cannot be done. For instance, for about 59% of the country, we currently know the totals of some enumeration areas that were composed of several localities, called Type 3 Localities. Unfortunately, we are unable to provide the number of people belonging to each of those villages/settlements/localities. In other words, from the 2015 Census we conducted, it is easy for us to determine how many people there were together in the group of villages, but we cannot tell the exact number of people in a village. The Mid-Term Census can help fill in these gaps, as it will allow Stats SL to go back and ensure that answers are provided to problems such as the one highlighted above.

After noting the gaps, some of which are listed above, we did ask UNFPA to sponsor the trip of a consultant who worked with Stats SL’s team in 2015. He was presented with the gaps we had identified and requested to advise on the best way forward. He worked with us for a month and recommended that we needed to return to the field. We agreed. If we are to do so for 59% of the country—I refer to my example above, why not just do it for the entire country? This was the genesis of the Mid-Term Census Proposal.

How do we plan to address the Gaps?

7) In addition to the shortcomings mentioned earlier and for which we have learnt lessons, this time around we will use modern technology that will enable us collect, store and retrieve information rapidly. We will for the first time use Computer-Aided Personal Interviews (CAPI) or generally Computer-Aided Data Collection (CADC) for that purpose. Use of tablets will: ensure more data quality through embedded plausibility checks; reduce data collection costs; and ensure enumerators go to all parts of the country because we can track their movements from HQ.

We will follow this procedure:

a) Each tablet will be assigned to a specific enumeration area (EA), where details of the localities (settlements) are stored.
b) All field data will automatically be transferred to a server at our HQ. Software makes it possible for monitors to see where the data are coming from and determine progress of the data collection.
c) We will have a Situation Room, where dashboards will be displayed with charts showing what is happening in the field.

By so doing, the significant gap identified in the 2015 Census will not recur.

In addition, since we will involve many stakeholders – some were part of the 2015 Census processes, continued dialogue will ensure that we handle any process and other challenges we faced in 2015.

We invite every Sierra Leonean to stand up and be counted beginning December 4. We also ask every Sierra Leonean to help Stats SL monitor and ensure that the process put in place, is credible.

Thank you and God bless you.

****

Prof. Osman Sankoh (Mallam O.)

Statistician General / CEO

Statistics Sierra Leone (Stats SL)

Tower Hill, Freetown

Rapporteur of the United Nations Statistical Commission, New York.

David Lamin Bangura On The Run

July 31, 2020

By Foday Moriba Conteh

A philanthropist and Proprietor of the Daverajj International Senior Secondary School in Kambia town, Northwest region of Sierra Leone, David Lamin Bangura is reported to be on the run for fear of his life.

Investigation revealed that in early February this year, members of the Kamaranka community at Bamoi Luma Constituency 060 decided to endorse David Lamin Bangura as their preferred Parliamentary candidate for the 2023 Presidential, Parliamentary and Local Council elections in Constituency 060 in Kambia district under the All Peoples Congress (APC) party ticket.

David Lamin Bangura who is also the Founder and National President of the United Family Social Club in Kambia District has been working with all stakeholders in the Constituency regarding the peace, security and development of the community.

Mr. Bangura who doubles as the President of the National Support Group (NSG) of the main opposition All Peoples Congress party has been described by the people as not only a honest and dedicated individual, but also a philanthropist, advocator and development oriented person. The people claimed that David Lamin Bangura has always stood by them and defended them during crisis period, noting that if elected in Parliament, he will do more for them.

Kambia district has been referred to as one of the most under developed communities in the country as it lacks good roads, pipe borne water, electricity and good health facility. It has also been established that farmers in that part of the country largely depends on subsistence farming making it very difficult to survive. The people claimed that the Member of Parliament in Constituency 060 Hon. Bai Sama of the National Grand Coalition (NGC) party has not lived up to their expectations and therefore wanted to replace him with David Lamin Bangura who they say has been seeking their interest.

This news did not go down well with members of the ruling party Sierra Leone Peoples Party (SLPP) and the NGC party Parliamentarian. The government is of the view that David’s popularity will definitely prevent any candidate from winning that seat in 2023.

The Section Chief of Bamoi Luma Pa Alimamy Kargbo disclosed that David always shares his meagre salary into three parts namely the vulnerable pupils, aged and his family which he noted increased his popularity in the constituency.
“His philanthropy, advocacy for the poor and marginalization by this government increased his popularity in the constituency,” Youth Leader Alpha Kamara said, adding that they will market him to the APC to ensure he gets the symbol.

While continuing his work, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Energy wrote a letter to Mayor Sunkarie Kabba of the Makeni City Council of their intention to remove the generator from Makeni to the Lungi international airport in Port Loko district.

This government decision did not go down well with the people and so they decided to protest against it removal.
As APC members, David organized the youths of Kambia to take part in the protest in Makeni in solidarity with their counterparts in that region.

During the day of the protest, armed security officers fired live bullets leading to the death of six people and the injuring of fifteen others who were later admitted at the Government Hospital in Makeni.

Since that incident, police declared fifteen ring leaders in that protest including David Lamin Bangura wanted. They called on the general public to arrest and hand over the said fifteen people including David Lamin Bangura that have been declared in connection with the Makeni riot.

Members of the task force group loyal to the SLPP government began raiding homes of people suspected of being behind the Makeni protest. They started attacking people and destroying their properties which prompted David to escape with his immediate family members. Since that time, his whereabout remains unknown.

Family members have however expressed serious concern about his safety

QNET: promoting professional and ethical direct selling business for over 20 years

July 31, 2020

QNET is a direct selling company offering a wide range of products in the areas of health, wellness, lifestyle and education through an e-commerce platform. QNET’s products are designed to help people live healthier lives and improve their lifestyles and livelihoods. QNET is headquartered in Hong Kong, with offices and agencies in more than 25 countries around the world. QNET provides support to its customers and independent representatives through its offices and agencies.

In addition to receiving quality products, QNET customers can also take advantage of the direct selling business offered by the company by promoting its products and services to third parties. Millions of satisfied customers in over 100 countries have become distributors of QNET products and earn commissions on their sales. The direct selling industry in the United States has flourished for over 150 years, thanks to relationship marketing.

According to the World Federation of Direct Selling Associations, direct selling activities worldwide amounted, as of December 31, 2019, to approximately US $ 180.5 billion with 119.9 million people engaged in this industry, part-time or full time.

QNET does not offer any investment plan. It is a company specializing in direct sales by network. The only amounts disbursed are for the purchase of products. QNET offers the opportunity to become an Independent Representative (IR) by purchasing QNET product through its e-commerce portal (www.qnet.net). QNET is neither a money market nor an investment firm, let alone encourage cross-border human trafficking.

QNET is not tied to any religious beliefs. It’s goal is to improve the health, lifestyle and livelihood of its customers through products that respect their religious beliefs. Thus, people from different faith backgrounds are patronizing QNET.

The only way to make money with QNET is to sell products. Once you use our products, enjoy them, and get others to buy them, you can earn commissions on actual sales. QNET uses a compensation plan that calculates the commissions payable to you based on the volume of sales generated by your referrals on our e-commerce portal.

Many entrepreneurs have taken advantage of our business model to build great sales teams and grow a successful business. No one can make money in this industry just by hiring other people, without selling products and services. Only pyramid schemes focus on recruiting staff. Such systems are not sustainable and will inevitably collapse.

QNET’s business is built on a sustainable sales model that does not allow anyone to make money just through recruiting. That’s why, even after more than 20 years, we continue to grow and develop internationally. QNET has been around since 1998. Over the past 22 years, millions of people have seen their capacities enhanced to lead better lives using our products and services and becoming entrepreneurs through our business opportunity. QNET is also the Official Direct Selling Partner of Manchester City Football Club, Manchester City Football Club Women’s Team, Total CAF Champions League, Total CAF Confederation Cup and the CAF Total Super Cup.

QNET cares about the communities in which it operates. Each year, QNET holds exhibitions known as the “Absolute Life Expo” to give its customers and independent representatives the opportunity to experience its products and build their capacity.

In addition, QNET initiated and implemented several charity programs in Côte d’Ivoire, Senegal, Ghana, Mali, Guinea, Niger, Burkina Faso, Chad, Tanzania, Kenya. We can cite the donations of food during the holy month of Ramadan and more recently, the donations of medical and health materials made to the Governments of Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana, as part of the fight against COVID-19.

For all these actions, in November 2018, QNET was voted e-commerce company of the year by the Centre for Corporate Social Responsibility in West Africa.

For more information, please visit:

QNET website: www.qnet.net

QNET Africa blog: www.qnetafrique.com

For Riotious Conduct… Sierra Leone Police In Search Of Absconded Medray Mohammed, Others….

July 30, 2020

By Alhassan Bangura

The Sierra Leone Police have declared Medray Mohammed, a barber by profession, wanted for his alleged role in the July 18, 2020 protest in Makeni City that left one police officer dead and several security personnel seriously injured. The demonstration, which began as a public outcry over the Government’s decision to transfer a standby generator from Makeni to Lungi, escalated into violence and chaos, leaving a deep scar on the community.

According to police sources, Medray Mohammed has been identified as one of the key figures behind what the Government of Sierra Leone described as an unlawful demonstration due to the absence of official clearance. Authorities maintain that his involvement in the protest, which the Government says endangered lives and destroyed property, could see him face serious criminal charges carrying long-term imprisonment if apprehended and convicted.

Residents of Mabanta Road in Makeni recall that the protest initially started as a peaceful expression of frustration by locals who felt excluded from the Government’s decision-making process. However, the situation spiraled after security forces fired tear gas and live rounds, resulting in the death of a young girl from the area. The incident sparked anger and intensified the protest, turning it into one of the most violent civil disturbances in recent years.

During the crackdown, security forces reportedly arrested and fatally assaulted a young boy who worked at Medray Mohammed’s barbing shop and telecenter, further fueling tensions in the city. Police later declared Medray Mohammed and several others wanted, accusing them of organizing and participating in what they classified as a riot.

Police investigations continue as Medray Mohammed remains on the run, with authorities urging him to surrender. Despite claims from community members that his actions were driven by frustration and a desire to defend his community, law enforcement has warned that those involved in the deadly protest will face the full weight of the law. For Medray Mohammed, the charges he faces mean that capture and prosecution could result in a lengthy prison sentence.

Police Declare Aminata Bangura Wanted

July 30, 2020

Aminata Bangura wanted in connection with the Makeni riot

By Edward Vamboi

It has emerged last night that the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Sierra Leone Police in Makeni, Northeast of Sierra Leone have declared the Deputy Regional Chairlady of the main opposition All People’s Congress (APC) party Aminata Bangura wanted for her alleged involvement in a demonstration on Saturday July 18th 2020 that resulted to the death of four youths and the vandalization of houses in Makeni town.

Aminata Bangura who was the deputy Regional Chairlady of the APC party Womens’ Congress in the Northeast region was accused of being among the ring leaders in the July 18th 2020 protest over the relocation of the government generator from Makeni to Lungi after security forces opened fire at them.

The people were protesting over the relocation of the generator from Makeni to the Lungi International Airport in Port Loko district by the government.

The Women’s Congress is one of the registered and recognized branches of the APC party by the Political Parties Registration Commission (PPRC).

Head of the investigation, ASP Mohamed Fofanah told this medium that after the July protest the government ordered the police to start a full scale investigation into the riot that resulted to the destruction of some properties and the death of four young people from gun shot.

It must be noted that because Makeni Town, is the stronghold of the APC party, the SLPP government decided to launch a full scale investigation into what happened during the protest that ended up being violent.

ASP Fofanah said the government demanded a full scale investigation, adding that all those found culpable must be brought to book.

He pointed out that the orders from government prompted the police to start arresting people including women suspected to have played a pivotal role in that crisis.

ASP Fofanah said they decided to issue an arrest warrant for Aminata Bangura for her alleged role in that demonstration. He said the CID has included her name in the list of wanted persons since she refused to respond to the call of the police to make statement regarding that issue.

Meanwhile, family members in Makeni have expressed serious concern about the there about of Aminata Bangura.

“I have not seen my daughter for the last few months since her name was mentioned by the police. The family is very much concerned about her safety, security and wellbeing,” Aminata’s mother Fatima Bangura said in tears.

She disclosed that Aminata’s father died of heart attack immediately he heard the name of his daughter on the list of wanted persons regarding the Makeni riot on radio.

Bar Association Applauds Repeal of Part V of Public Order Act

July 30, 2020

By Amin Kef Sesay

The Sierra Leone Bar Association (SLBA) in a Press Statement, dated 28th July 2020 and signed by its General Secretary, Abdul Karim Kamara Esq. stated that it has been following with rapt interest the fulfillment of various manifesto promises made by His Excellency Julius Maada Bio, particularly those touching on the Rule of Law, Human Rights and Justice.

It continued that they note with pleasure that steady and significant progress has been made in achieving some of these promises especially those that engendered doubt and pessimism among some sections of the citizenry, particularly the Press.

The Bar Association said on Thursday the 23 July 2020 Sierra Leone witnessed the rolling out of the Sexual Offences Model Court, with a mandate to specialize in handling allegations of rape and sex related offences. “This is highly commendable to say the least,” they furthered.

“There is no gain saying that the next in the line of threats currently affecting us as a Nation is the reckless and rampant pace at which pedophiles and other heartless Men have become addicted to perpetrating such abuse,” the Association members stated.

It pointed out that again, on the 24th July 2020, barely two years after coming to power, that the Government “unchained” the Press by championing and actually implementing arguably the most significant Law Reform in the history of Press Freedom in Sierra Leone. The repeal and replacement of the Criminal and Seditious Libel Law as embedded in the Public Order Act of 1965 (Act No. 46 of 1965) Part V thereof. The SLBA, says it firmly believes that this singular action has the proclivity to create the enabling environment for press freedom, social and political accountability and generally good governance.

SLBA registers its appreciation to the Minister of Information, Hon. Mohamed Rahman Swaray, his Deputy, Mamadi Gobeh Kamara, Members of Parliament, the various past Presidents of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists, Civil Society groups, Members of the Bar Association and all who agitated in one way or another to achieve this great milestone.

It stated that to His Excellency, the President, the SLBA says A BIG THANK YOU for his Political will and leadership in repealing, replacing and hence giving a fatal blow to such an archaic provision in our Public Order Act aforesaid.

Indeed, every Sierra Leonean can now say boldly that at last freedom of Information is free.

China-Sierra Leone Celebrate 49 Years of Excellent Relationship

July 30, 2020

By Amin Kef Sesay

Wednesday 29th July 2020 marked another milestone in the relationship between the People’s Republic of China and the Republic of Sierra Leone as the two countries celebrate their 49th anniversary of a very cordial bilateral tie.

The Minister of Information and Communications, Mohamed Rahman Swaray, in an exclusive interview revealed that the Sierra Leone-China relationship has been very fruitful for both sides.

He maintained that since the SLPP Government took over the reins of governance over two years ago, they have been enjoying such a fraternal relationship and support from China that they are proud of such furthering how President Bio is so elated that such a relationship exists between the two countries.

“China is not only a friend but a brother to Sierra Leone and they have exhibited it during this coronavirus as they were the first country to send us medical supplies to help us fight the virus. They have sent seven batches of medical supplies and they have three medical teams working in the country to help us in the fight. We really appreciate them and we hope this relationship will continue and our Government will make sure that we take it to another level,” the Minister intimated.

He said throughout all these years both countries have not relented as they have continued to push for excellence and respect for one another. Information Minister added that come next year it will be the 50th anniversary, which will be the Golden Jubilee expressing hope that it will be a celebration that both countries will undertake.

Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Hu Zhangliang, said July 29, 2020 marked the 49th anniversary of the founding of diplomatic relationship between the People’s Republic of China and Sierra Leone stating that since the establishment of diplomatic ties 49 years ago, China and Sierra Leone have been genuine friends, reliable partners and good brothers through thick and thin.

The China-Sierra Leone friendly cooperation, based on equality, sincerity, mutual respect and mutual benefit, has been fruitful and productive in all areas such as human resource development, infrastructure building, agriculture, public health, information and people-to-people exchanges etc.

“The two countries have always been lending each other deep understanding and valuable support on issues of each other’s core interests or major concerns. The joint efforts in fighting against the Ebola epidemic and mudslide disaster in Sierra Leone are evidence of our profound friendship. The strong cooperation between our two sides in multilateral and international affairs is of significance in safeguarding the common interests of developing countries,” the Ambassador continued.

He stated that the contribution made by all walks of life from the two countries in fostering the cordial bilateral relations should be always remembered.

“Ever since the outbreak of the COVID-19, China and Sierra Leone have stood firmly together. The Chinese Government and people have so far provided seven rounds of much-needed medical supplies to Sierra Leone. The three Chinese medical teams in Sierra Leone have been working side by side with their Sierra Leonean counterparts in fighting COVID-19 around the clock,” he mentioned.

The Ambassador averred that despite the pandemic, China’s cooperation with Sierra Leone on key development projects is moving forward unabatedly saying that China will continue to stand side by side with Sierra Leone to achieve final victory over the pandemic.

He said both Presidents, Xi Jinping and Julius Maada Bio, attach great importance to the promotion of the Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership between the two countries.

“In the future, China will continue to work closely with Sierra Leone to expand cooperation and deepen friendship for the mutual benefit of the6 two countries and peoples,” he expressed optimism.

President Bio & First Lady Romances with the Entertainment Industry

July 30, 2020

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Stakeholders of the entertainment industry in Sierra Leone met with His Excellency the President Dr. Julius Maada Bio and the First Lady, Madam Fatima Bio on Saturday 25 July 2020, at State Lodge, Hill Station, Freetown. The focus of the meeting was how the Government of Sierra Leone, the Office of the First Lady, and entertainment stakeholders can all contribute to promote the growth of the industry.

The consultative meeting was coordinated by the Slim Nation superstar Markmuday and the RFM Captain – Boss LA, after they prevailed on the First Lady to take steps to enhance the growth of the industry, few weeks ago.

A good number of entertainers (about 30 stakeholders) attended the meeting and were drawn from the various sectors of the industry – music, film, media, comedy, etc.

The meeting was chaired by the First Lady, Madam Fatima Bio. In her opening courtesy, she welcomed all present and assured all of her commitments and that of her husband in giving a facelift to the entertainment industry. She was delighted to have hosted a cross-section of superstars.

On behalf of the entertainers, singer – Sir Wahid presented a list of issues that need immediate Government’s support for the progress of the entertainment industry. Key among the plethora of issues presented include investment in quality , the construction of an ultra-modern auditorium, a policy on more airplay of Salone music on radio and television stations, the establishment of an entertainment fund and more.

The Black Leo rapper, Kao Denero, also presented a supplementary list of important requests, like the establishment of an Entertainment Secretariat, the reduction of internet tariffs by service providers, the establishment of a Sierra Leone Music web portal (www.salonemusic.com), among others.

Responding to the entertainers, President Bio said that all of the requests presented are achievable if only the players in the entertainment industry put their differences aside and work towards development. He assured all of his Government’s commitment to promote entertainment stating how he is looking forward to a framework document from the entertainment stakeholders soon.

President Bio also acknowledged that the entertainment industry has suffered the hardest hit by COVID-19 since public gathering was prohibited. He, therefore, assured all that his Government will provide a COVID-19 Stimulus Fund for the entertainment industry to cushion the effects of the losses caused by the pandemic.

Madam Fatima Bio further dilated on how she can coordinate all entertainers to complement the efforts of the Government of Sierra Leone to solve the number requests presented by the stakeholders but asked for strong leadership and unity among the entertainers .

Several entertainers contributed to the meeting by highlighting other issues affecting the growth of music, film, etc in the country. Boss LA hugely blamed the DJs, radio stations, and nightclubs for the unpopularity of Salone music over the years. After a rebuttal by Pilot CPO (the President of SLeDU) on the grounds of the quality of our songs, popular singer K Man advised the DJs to “promote what we have.” Several others contributed.

After several statements, entertainers were tasked with the responsibility of putting a strong document together for the President and First Lady of Sierra Leone. The meeting climaxed with funs and chill.

Finally, the First Lady dispatched all present to engage with their various sectors on issues affecting their crafts in each sector and appoint a leader to represent them in the next meeting to be called soon.

Planning Minister Officially Launches “TEAM EUROPE INITIATIVE”

July 30, 2020

By Amin Kef Sesay

On Tuesday, 28th July 2020 the Minister of Planning and Economic Development, Dr. Francis Kai-Kai, officially launched the “Team Europe Initiative” to support decentralized COVID-19 response in Sierra Leone.

The “Team Europe Initiative” is geared towards supporting and strengthening Sierra Leone’s response in the most vulnerable communities. The European Union and Ireland combined resources and mobilized approximately 1.5 million EUR (or 16.5 Billion Leones) to support the response through two coordinated interventions in partnership with CSOs’ across 11 districts in the country and reaching an estimated 400,000 individuals.

Welcoming the audience, the Development Secretary, Peter Sam-Kpakra thanked the EU and Ireland together with the partner NGOs for facilitating the launch and for their continued support to Government’s effort in the fight against COVID-19.

The Irish Ambassador, Lesley Ní Bhriain said this ensures Ireland’s overarching priority in contributing to reducing the incidence and mitigating the impact of the pandemic among vulnerable populations. Ambassador Ní Bhriain encouraged partners to make the ‘Build Back Better’ slogan a reality so that projects while responding to an emergency situation can also contribute to the goals and objectives of the Medium Term National Development Plan (2019-2013).

In her statement, the Deputy Head of EU Delegation to Sierra Leone, Jamila El-Assaidi said the Initiative was the localized expression of the EU’s global commitment to help most vulnerable countries in Africa, and across the world. She noted that the partnership with Ireland was proof of the EU’s utmost commitment to jointly move aid effectiveness from policy to practice.

Madam Assaidi congratulated the President Bio-led Government for its commitment and efforts to support a multi-stakeholder response to the pandemic and for the Minister’s efforts in recognizing the critical role played by all stakeholders including NGO’s, grassroots organizations and local councils among others.

In his address, the Minister, in welcoming everyone on behalf of President Julius Maada Bio, noted that the ‘Team Europe Initiative’ was a laudable event with the aim of localising and transferring development to the people. Dr. Kai-Kai said the Initiative would contribute enormously to government’s response in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, especially at District level.

Minister Kai-Kai said the NGOs, who are partners, play a significant role in development and that they cover the last 5-mile everywhere in terms of development.

“We rely on you considerably for delivery on development outcomes and your role is a critical one and this is one that the President-Bio led government values very much. President Julius Maada Bio is now fully convinced that the NGO’s have a key role to play in the development process of our country”, Dr. Kai-Kai said.

He noted the need to target district level structures in the implementation process, which he said was the formula for success. He urged them to collaborate and coordinate with partners on the ground creating the synergy that would improve on the lives of the ordinary people.

The EU intervention would be implemented by a coalition of NGOs, CSOs and local authorities which would focus on empowering local actors including the District COVID 19 response teams in Falaba and Karene districts. The second intervention would also support the National COVID-19 strategy and response efforts in both urban and rural communities.

Other dignitaries present include Country Directors of Trócaire, Concern Worldwide and Goal International including local actors from AAD-SL, SEND, KADDRO among others.