Africa and Europe Reaffirm Strategic Cooperation at 7th AU–EU Summit in Luanda

November 28, 2025

African leaders at the 7th AU–EU Summit in Luanda

Leaders of the African Union (AU) and the European Union (EU) have renewed their commitment to a stronger, more dynamic partnership at the 7th AU–EU Summit held from 24–25 November 2025 in Luanda, Angola. The high-level gathering, co-chaired by Angolan President ,João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço, European Council President António Costa, AU Commission Chair Mahamoud Ali Youssouf and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, marked 25 years of the AU–EU strategic partnership and reaffirmed the Joint Vision for 2030.

Addressing the Summit, President António Costa underscored the importance of unity in a world marked by rising geopolitical tensions. “Africa and Europe stand stronger together,” he said. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stressed that both continents now “need each other more than ever” amid global trade disruptions and competitive pressures.

The two blocs committed to advancing cooperation that supports job creation, sustainable economic diversification and access to capital, technology and resources.

Africa and Europe reaffirmed their commitment to open, rules-based trade, with the EU maintaining its position as Africa’s largest trading partner. Notable developments highlighted at the Summit included:

Strengthened support for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA);
Progress on regional connectivity projects, especially the Lobito Corridor, which recently facilitated Angola’s first export of avocados to Europe;
Enhanced collaboration on regional value chains, particularly in critical minerals.

President von der Leyen cited the EU’s Global Gateway initiative as a model for fostering local job creation and value addition. The initiative has already mobilized over EUR 120 billion, with a target of EUR 150 billion by 2027.

Recognizing that Africa possesses 60% of the world’s finest solar resources yet receives only 2% of global clean-energy investment, leaders pledged decisive action to close that gap. Key commitments include:

Providing clean electricity to 100 million people by 2030;
Scaling renewable energy generation through a EUR 15.5 billion global pledge under the G20;
Over EUR 400 million from Team Europe to support clean cooking initiatives.

“A just transition must be for all and it must be made in Africa,” President von der Leyen emphasized.

The Summit reiterated the importance of global peace grounded in the UN Charter, including respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity. Leaders called for immediate de-escalation in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo and reaffirmed support for peace efforts in Ukraine, the occupied Palestinian Territory, the Sahel and Somalia.

They further highlighted the need for predictable UN financing for AU-led peace support operations and closer cooperation to counter terrorism, organized crime, hybrid threats and disinformation.

A central pillar of the renewed partnership is investment in people, especially young Africans. The AU and EU agreed to:

Enhance cooperation in education, research, skills development and innovation;
Expand mobility for students, researchers and academics;
Adopt a balanced, humane approach to migration, including improved legal pathways and measures for dignified return and reintegration;
Strengthen diaspora engagement as drivers of innovation and investment.

As the UN marks its 80th anniversary, the two blocs pledged to jointly advocate for reforms that make multilateral institutions more representative and effective. This includes reforming global financial systems, boosting climate ambition and supporting extensive reform of the World Trade Organisation ahead of the 2026 Ministerial Conference in Cameroon.

The AU and EU agreed to finalize a joint implementation plan within six months, enhance follow-up through the Joint Monitoring Report and prepare for the 8th AU–EU Summit in Brussels.

Both sides expressed deep appreciation to President João Lourenço and the people of Angola for their warm hospitality and the successful hosting of the milestone Summit.

Listen to Sierra Leonean Women About Their Experiences of Abuse in Maternal Health

November 28, 2025

By Skye Wheeler

A new Human Rights Watch (HRW) report has drawn fresh attention to the persistent abuse faced by pregnant women and girls in Sierra Leone’s maternal health system, despite notable progress in recent years. The findings, which detail widespread neglect, informal fees and emotional and physical trauma in public hospitals, have intensified calls for urgent reform.

The report, released earlier this month, documents interviews with nearly 50 women who had recently given birth, along with healthcare providers and maternal health experts. HRW says its research uncovered a troubling pattern: women and newborns suffering, and in some cases dying, because healthcare workers demand informal fees for services that are supposed to be free.

According to HRW, the abuse is deeply rooted in chronic resource shortages across public health facilities, including inconsistent supplies of essential drugs and basic materials such as gloves and IV fluids. Many healthcare workers themselves are overstretched and unpaid, conditions that have contributed to a system in which women in labour are pressed for payment at the most vulnerable moments of their lives.

One woman recounted being left unattended for two hours while in labour because she could not afford soap and gloves. Her baby died shortly after being delivered by a midwife—a death she believes better care could have prevented. HRW described such neglect as a form of obstetric violence: gender-based abuse directed at women and girls seeking reproductive care.

Health and Sanitation Minister, Dr. Austin Demby, responding to the findings, acknowledged the gravity of the situation but criticised HRW for publishing the report outside of established Government research protocols, including ethics review processes. However, he emphasised that women and girls giving birth in Government facilities must experience “not only survival, but dignity.”

While welcoming the Minister’s acknowledgement of the issue, HRW stressed that progress has been slow and fragile. The organisation warned that improvements in maternal mortality—one of Sierra Leone’s major public health achievements over the past decade—could be undermined if systemic abuse and resource shortages persist.

HRW noted that its research followed strict ethical guidelines, securing informed consent, guaranteeing anonymity for participants and taking precautions to avoid re-traumatisation.

The report calls for decisive Government action, including ending reliance on volunteer healthcare workers and significantly boosting resources for public health facilities. It urges the State to establish a clear path toward fulfilling its Abuja Declaration commitment to allocate at least 15 percent of the national budget to health.

Equally crucial, the report argues, is transforming entrenched attitudes that normalise disrespect toward women and girls in medical settings. HRW found that many women—especially those who are poor, unable to read or write, or without social connections—feel powerless to report abuse or demand better treatment.

Feminist activists and community-level organisations have played a pivotal role in advocating for safe maternal care, yet they remain under-resourced. Their recommendations, HRW says, must be taken more seriously by policymakers.

Wheeler emphasises that women’s accounts of abuse are vital and should inform policy and reform. HRW’s report, she said, should be just one of many platforms through which Sierra Leonean women and girls can share their experiences and push for change. Hearing their voices—and acting on them—is essential, she added, for safeguarding the lives and dignity of women and newborns across the country.

Skye Wheeler is a Senior Women’s Rights Researcher at Human Rights Watch.

Parliament Approves Agreements Benefiting 62,000 Households Under Feed Salone Initiative

November 28, 2025

The Parliament of Sierra Leone on Tuesday, 25th November 2025, debated and unanimously ratified a series of financing agreements designed to accelerate national development, strengthen agricultural productivity and expand vital road infrastructure.

The agreements, signed between the Government of Sierra Leone and the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), alongside other partners cover two major projects: the reconstruction of the Kambia–Tomparie–Kamakwie Road and the Livestock and Livelihoods Development Project. Both initiatives form part of the Government’s broader drive to promote inclusive growth and enhance living standards nationwide.

Parliament approved multiple legal instruments relating to the two projects, including loan agreements, agency agreements, framework agreements and technical assistance grants. These agreements were signed on various dates in 2025 and outline financing modalities and collaborative responsibilities among the Government, IsDB and Probase Manufacturing SDN. BHD.

Presenting the agreements to Parliament, Minister of Finance, Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura, said the road reconstruction project will significantly improve market access and transportation within the North-Western Region.

“We are also opening roads in other regions,” he stated, stressing Government’s commitment to balanced national development.

On the Livestock and Livelihoods Development Programme, Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura said the project aligns with the Feed Salone Initiative and targets 62,000 households, introducing innovative models to improve livestock productivity. He explained that access to finance provided through the project will be strictly monitored to ensure efficiency and accountability.

During the debate, MPs from across the political divide expressed strong support for the agreements while urging effective implementation.

Chairman of the Parliamentary Finance Committee, Hon. Amara Kai Samba, lauded the Kamakwie Road project as a critical national investment and emphasized the need for increased attention to livestock production to reduce meat imports. He further urged strict diligence to ensure all intended beneficiaries are reached.

Opposition Whip from Kambia District, Hon. Abdul Karim Kamara, described the agreements as beneficial to Sierra Leoneans and called on political leaders to support development efforts irrespective of party lines. He encouraged greater flexibility in assisting farmers under the livestock project.

Deputy Leader of Government Business, Hon. Bashiru Silikie, proposed the inclusion of tollgate provisions for the Kamakwie Road to ensure sustainability. He also stressed the need for awarding contracts to competent and credible contractors, recommending that the Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA) be granted full oversight on contract awarding.

Members of Parliament from various districts, including Hon. Keikura Vandi (Bo), Hon. Mustapha Sellu (Moyamba), Hon. Abubakarr Fofanah (Kenema) and Hon. Musa Fonah (Kono) welcomed the projects, highlighting the challenges farmers face in accessing finance and the transformative potential of the road construction for economic activity and rural connectivity.

Representing Karene District, Hon. Abdul Karim Bangura praised President Julius Maada Bio for fulfilling his commitment to the people of Karene through the road reconstruction effort, noting other development projects ongoing in the district.

Acting Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Daniel Brima Koroma, offered a structural breakdown of the financial arrangements and commended the Minister of Finance for reviving the Kamakwie Road Project, which he noted dates back to 2015. He appealed for the revival of the Musaia Agricultural Livestock Farm in Koinadugu District, reaffirming the opposition’s willingness to support national development initiatives.

In closing the debate, Acting Leader of Government Business, Hon. Emerson Saa Lamina, clarified earlier submissions and outlined the three central pillars of the Government’s socioeconomic development agenda. He emphasized the strategic importance of the road and livestock projects, thanked Parliament for its support and reiterated the inclusion of capacity-building components in the livestock initiative.

He also called for legislation to regulate cattle rearing to minimize conflicts and appealed for the construction of the road linking Kono District to the Guinea border.

Parliament’s approval of the financing agreements marks a major step toward enhancing road connectivity, strengthening agricultural resilience and delivering tangible benefits to tens of thousands of households across Sierra Leone.

16 Days of Activism: Partners Reaffirm Commitment to Protect Women and Girls Online

November 28, 2025

Government officials, development partners and Civil Society leaders on Tuesday, 25th November 2025, reaffirmed their collective commitment to combating online harassment and digital violence against women and girls during the launch of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and the National Cybersecurity and Awareness Campaign. The high-profile event, held at the Freetown International Conference Center in Aberdeen, was hosted by the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs in collaboration with the National Cybersecurity Coordination Centre and partners.

Held under the theme: “Unite! End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls”, the campaign also adopted the slogan “Click Wise, Stay Safe,” underscoring efforts to promote safe and responsible digital engagement, empower women and girls online and tackle the growing menace of cyber harassment.

Chief Minister, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, who delivered the keynote address, issued an apology on behalf of the Government to all victims of online harassment and bullying. He stressed that no nation can progress when women and girls, who form the backbone of society, are subjected to intimidation and abuse. He noted that while technology has created incredible opportunities, it has also opened doors to risks, privacy violations and harmful behaviour, adding that Government rejects all forms of violence against women and girls.

Dr. David Moinina Sengeh highlighted Sierra Leone’s significant strides in improving its cyber environment, revealing that the country now ranks among the top 10 in Africa on cybersecurity indicators. He also cited the expansion of mobile phone coverage from 72% to 98% in just five years urging citizens to use technology responsibly, stating: “Human beings should make better technology, not the other way round.”

Government Ministers, the Inspector-General of Police, members of the UN family and other partners echoed similar commitments to safeguarding women and girls in the digital space. Minister of Information, Chernor C. Bah, who chaired the ceremony, underscored that cybersecurity is both a human rights and national security issue, emphasizing Government’s continued investment in strategies to protect Sierra Leone’s digital ecosystem.

Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Dr. Isata Mahoi, described the event as both a call to action and a moment of reflection. She said the theme aligns with the many legislative and policy reforms championed to protect women and girls; including the Child Rights Act 2025, the establishment of the Model Sexual Offences Court, One Stop Centres across the country, Safe Spaces, the 116 Hotline and the landmark Hands Off Our Girls campaign. She, however, noted that laws alone cannot end digital violence.

Dr. Isata Mahoi highlighted ongoing efforts such as accessing SGBV data through One Stop Centres, harmonizing laws, reviewing GBV legislation and strengthening partnerships through Memorandums of Understanding. She expressed concern over challenges like the absence of a forensic laboratory and inadequate Safe Homes, stressing that ending violence against women and girls requires nationwide responsibility. She called on all citizens to join the campaign, support survivors with compassion and report perpetrators.

Inspector-General of Police William Fayia Sellu emphasized that women and girls must be free to express themselves online without fear. He noted that digital GBV is a global challenge that affects mental health and disproportionately targets girls.

Other speakers reinforced that technology should serve as a tool for empowerment, not harassment and warned that digital violence, cyberbullying, identity theft and online stalking continue to rise at alarming rates.

The Coordinator of the National Cybersecurity and Awareness Campaign, Victor Sesay, provided an overview of the national strategy. He explained that since its establishment in 2016, the office has worked to raise awareness, support digital networks, develop guidelines and safeguard national digital infrastructure. He outlined the existing gaps, risks, opportunities and key legal instruments guiding cybersecurity operations. Stakeholders also highlighted capacity-building trainings for the judiciary and security sector and the ratification of the Data Protection Act as milestones in strengthening digital protection.

The well-attended event concluded with a vote of thanks by the Deputy Minister of Gender, Boakai Hindowa Bindi, followed by a panel discussion, the signing of a commitment pledge, the singing of the National Anthem and Pledge and an interactive question-and-answer session.

The initiative marks a significant national effort to build a safer, more inclusive digital environment for women and girls across Sierra Leone.

Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Dr. Isata Mahoi

Transport Minister Outlines Ambitious Maritime Governance Agenda at IMO Summit in London

November 28, 2025

Sierra Leone’s Minister of Transport and Aviation, Ambassador (Rtd.) Col. Alhaji Fanday Turay Esq., has reaffirmed the country’s strong commitment to international maritime standards and showcased sweeping reforms within the sector during the 34th Assembly of the International Maritime Organization (IMO). The event, held from 24 November to 3 December 2025 in London, will bring together global maritime leaders, technical experts and representatives of member states to deliberate on the future of maritime safety, environmental protection and governance.

In his address, (Rtd.) Col. Alhaji Fanday Turay delivered warm greetings from His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio and highlighted the Government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen maritime administration and align national policies with global best practices. He emphasized that President Bio’s vision continues to prioritize the protection of life and property at sea as well as the safeguarding of Sierra Leone’s marine environment. “One life lost at sea is one too many,” he stressed, underscoring the urgency of building a resilient maritime system that supports both national development and international expectations.

The Minister outlined Sierra Leone’s growing importance as a Flag, Port and Coastal State, noting that the country’s blue economy has vast potential for job creation, trade expansion and sustainable growth. However, he pointed out that unlocking that potential requires stronger governance structures, enhanced institutional capacity and deeper collaboration with global partners.

He announced four key short-term priorities that the Government is pursuing to accelerate reforms. The first involves strengthening maritime legislation through the domestication of ratified IMO instruments, ensuring that Sierra Leone’s regulatory framework is aligned with emerging global standards. That, he said, will help address new and evolving threats, including illegal maritime activities and improve compliance across the sector.

The second priority is the implementation of the National Hydrographic Action Plan and the upgrading of Coastal State services. Those measures aim to improve maritime search and rescue operations, enhance navigational safety and bolster maritime security along the country’s coastline.

Third, (Rtd.) Col. Alhaji Fanday Turay revealed that Sierra Leone is set to adopt the IMO Single Window Platform, a digital system designed to streamline port and vessel clearance procedures. The platform is expected to improve efficiency, reduce operational bottlenecks and modernize maritime administration.

The fourth priority focuses on the execution of an IMO-approved Corrective Action Plan intended to secure Sierra Leone’s return to the STCW White List. That effort will prioritize strengthening the country’s maritime education, training and certification systems to ensure that Sierra Leonean seafarers meet the highest international standard.

Despite the notable progress made, Minister (Rtd.) Col. Alhaji Fanday Turay acknowledged that the maritime sector continues to face challenges, including capacity gaps and resource constraints. He called for sustained technical cooperation, training opportunities and financial support from the IMO, member states and development partners.

Concluding his address, the Minister expressed gratitude to the IMO Secretary General and the global maritime community for their ongoing collaboration. He reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s commitment to contributing meaningfully to maritime safety, environmental stewardship and global maritime governance, and extended warm wishes to the Assembly for a prosperous new year ahead.

Vice President Calls for Stronger Investment Partnerships at AfDB High-Level Forum in Morocco

November 28, 2025

Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh delivering a speech at African Development Bank’s (AfDB) High-Level Investment Forum in Rabat, Morocco

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leone’s Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, arrived in Rabat, Morocco, on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, to participate in the African Development Bank’s (AfDB) High-Level Investment Forum; an event bringing together African Governments, multilateral financial institutions and private sector partners to expand the continent’s investment pipeline.

The three-day forum is expected to facilitate targeted engagements between Sierra Leone and Morocco, alongside major development partners, aimed at unlocking opportunities across key growth sectors.

Delivering a statement during one of the opening sessions, Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh underscored the urgency of mobilizing new investment mechanisms at a time when Africa is grappling with the economic consequences of declining development aid. He emphasized that development partners must strengthen their catalytic role by helping African Governments de-risk their markets through risk guarantees, policy reforms and innovative financing instruments.

According to the Vice President, accelerating support to build a stronger pipeline of bankable projects remains essential if Africa is to transform its economic potential into tangible impact. “We have to generate that capital,” he said. “And when it comes to that responsibility on our part as African countries, our biggest test is how to transform those opportunities into real bankable projects that will attract capital.”

He noted that the Forum offers an ideal platform for African countries to showcase their youth-driven economic potential in critical sectors such as infrastructure, energy, renewable energy and digitalization. “A forum like this provides the opportunity for us to highlight the many opportunities across our economies and attract capital,” he added.

The Vice President stressed that Africa’s development ambitions cannot rely solely on public financing. Rather, sustained progress will depend on mobilizing private sector investment to complement Government efforts. “We need to attract private sector capital to support Africa’s development agenda,” he affirmed.

He also expressed appreciation to the African Development Bank for convening the forum and creating a meaningful space for dialogue, collaboration and strategic investment alignment. “I want to thank the African Development Bank for providing this kind of opportunity for us to showcase our potential,” he said.

The Vice President is expected to participate in a series of bilateral meetings with senior Government officials, investors and representatives of multilateral institutions as Sierra Leone continues to strengthen its investment climate and pursue transformative growth.

NP (SL) Leads in Quality Service, Local Content and National Growth

November 28, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

NP (SL) Limited continues to solidify its reputation as Sierra Leone’s most reliable and forward-thinking petroleum marketing company, delivering efficient services, innovative solutions and unmatched customer care across its nationwide operations. As one of the country’s largest indigenous companies, NP (SL) has demonstrated unwavering commitment to quality service delivery, local content empowerment and sustainable national development.

With decades of operational experience, NP (SL) remains at the forefront of the petroleum downstream sector, a position earned through strategic investments, modern systems and a customer-focused approach. The company’s service stations across the country are known for their consistent availability of premium fuel products, timely delivery and professional staff; a standard that has strengthened public confidence in the brand.

One of the company’s most celebrated innovations is the NP Energy Pass Card, a digital payment solution that has transformed fuel purchasing in Sierra Leone. The card allows customers, both individuals and corporate entities, to buy fuel conveniently, monitor consumption and eliminate cash-related challenges. Its seamless functionality has made it a preferred choice for transport companies, businesses, NGOs, Government institutions and private motorists seeking transparency, safety and efficient financial control.

In addition to technological advancement, NP (SL) places strong emphasis on customer satisfaction. The company’s 24-hour service points, well-trained pump attendants and adherence to strict quality control measures ensure that customers enjoy a smooth and reliable experience. This dedication to excellence is also reflected in the company’s expansion of modern Filling Stations, each designed to meet global health, safety and environmental standards.

Beyond business operations, NP (SL) is widely recognized for its commitment to local content promotion. As a 100% Sierra Leonean-owned company NP has consistently prioritized the employment, training and empowerment of Sierra Leoneans. The company continues to invest in its workforce, providing skills development opportunities that build local capacity within the petroleum and logistics industries.

NP (SL)’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives also remain outstanding. The company supports community development projects, emergency response efforts and educational initiatives, while contributing significantly to Government revenue through taxes and other statutory obligations. This commitment reflects NP’s belief in giving back to society and supporting the nation’s long-term growth.

At a time when fuel remains a critical component of economic stability, NP (SL) continues to play a central role in ensuring uninterrupted supply and nationwide accessibility. By integrating modern technology, strengthening logistics and continuously upgrading its services, the company has positioned itself as a dependable partner in driving Sierra Leone’s socio-economic progress.

As NP (SL) expands its operations and introduces more innovative solutions, its leadership remains focused on delivering value to customers and supporting national transformation. With its strong track record, customer-centered philosophy and dedication to excellence, NP (SL) Limited stands firmly as Sierra Leone’s premier petroleum marketing company; one that is not only fueling vehicles but powering the nation’s future.

Africell Rewards Four Monthly Winners with NLe 100,000 in “Win Kopo” Promotion

November 28, 2025

Winners of Africell Win Kopo promotion receiving their prize

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Africell Sierra Leone has awarded a total of NLe 100,000 to four lucky subscribers in the latest monthly draw of its ongoing “Win Kopo” promotion. The presentation ceremony, held on Tuesday, 25 November 2025, at the company’s headquarters in Wilberforce, saw each winner, Abdul Kamara, Abibatu Deen, Foday Kallon and Michael Kargbo, receive NLe 25,000.

Africell’s Media Manager, Abdul Karim Sesay, said the promotion reflects the company’s long-standing commitment to empowering communities and rewarding loyal subscribers. He noted that the initiative comes as Africell celebrates 25 years of service in Sierra Leone, adding that “Win Kopo” was designed to reward, engage and educate customers nationwide.

“This promotion demonstrates our resolve to continue reaching communities and creating opportunities for our subscribers,” Abdul Karim Sesay stated. “As we celebrate 25 years, not 25 days, we reaffirm our commitment to putting customers first.”

Assistant Media Manager, Abdul Aziz Kamara, disclosed that the promotion has so far produced 452 daily winners of NLe 250, totaling NLe 113,000; 25 weekly winners receiving NLe 2,500 each, amounting to NLe 62,500; seven monthly winners of NLe 25,000 each, totaling NLe 175,000 and two grand winners of NLe 250,000, amounting to NLe 500,000. Altogether, he confirmed, 486 subscribers have won prizes valued at NLe 850,000 since the promotion commenced.

Africell’s Communication and Marketing Manager, Kamanda Koroma, said “Win Kopo” is one of several initiatives designed to provide tangible benefits to subscribers and reinforce Africell’s presence across the country. He also highlighted the company’s “Jubilee Jumbo” promotion, which features high-value prizes including an Okada, Samsung smartphones, cash packages, a generator and a fully furnished house as the grand prize.

Kamanda Koroma further revealed Africell’s plan to host an upcoming marathon, featuring 5km, 10km and half-marathon races. He said the company intends to reward up to 200 more people in December as part of its anniversary celebrations, assuring the public that all promotions are conducted transparently and credibly.

Speaking on Africell’s community-focused approach, Events and CSR Manager, Nancy Toure, said the company continues to evolve with the digital age while maintaining strong community ties. She described Africell’s subscriber base as a “large family”, noting that promotions like “Win Kopo” serve as a way of appreciating that loyalty.

One of the winners, Abibatu Deen, who has been an Africell subscriber for over 15 years, expressed excitement and gratitude after receiving her prize. She admitted that she initially doubted the call notifying her of her win, fearing it might be a scam, but said the presentation has strengthened her trust in Africell. “Standing here today proves that Africell’s promotions are real. I am truly grateful,” she said.

Another winner, Abdul Kamara, described the prize as a timely and unexpected blessing. He commended Africell for recognizing and rewarding its customers, urging others to continue participating in the promotion.

Although one selected winner was unable to attend the ceremony, Africell assured that all beneficiaries will receive their prizes as part of its commitment to fairness and transparency.

The ceremony concluded with formal presentations and a reaffirmation of Africell’s dedication to customer welfare, innovation and nationwide connectivity as the company continues its 25th anniversary celebrations.

Caritas Freetown Commissions Kush Rehabilitation, Empowerment Centre for Girls in Makomba Village

November 28, 2025

Professor Foday Sahr cutting ribbon to open new rehab for kush victims at Makomba village

By Ibrahim Sesay

Caritas Freetown, with support from international partners ONG Guaguacuna, Fundación Atabal and Visió Sense Fronteres, on Tuesday 25th November 2025 officially opened a new rehabilitation and empowerment centre for girls affected by Kush. The facility, located in Makomba Village off Newton, will serve as a safe home and treatment space for 16 girls battling with Kush addiction.

In his remarks, the Executive Director of Caritas Freetown, Rev. Fr. Peter Konteh, said the centre represents far more than the commissioning of a building. “It is a national statement that we refuse to give up on our young people. We refuse to watch addiction destroy our communities or stand aside as families suffer in silence,” he said. He noted that addiction is not a moral failure but a medical, psychological and social challenge that requires structured care, compassion and dignity.

Rev. Fr. Peter Konteh added that the centre was established as a collective response to the growing suffering caused by Kush, which has broken dreams, shaken communities and destroyed families adding that Caritas has also witnessed “courage and the willing decision of young men and women to rise again,” a hope that inspired the establishment of the centre.

Giving an overview of the project, Morray Massaquoi, Project Supervisor, said the facility is built as a direct response to the alarming rise in substance abuse among young people. He explained that the centre is designed as a child-friendly, professionally supported environment where affected girls can access detoxification services, psychosocial support, therapeutic treatment, livelihood empowerment and reintegration assistance.

He highlighted Caritas’ extensive prevention work since the project began in November 2024, including school outreach, community sensitization, media engagement, peer-led discussions and awareness campaigns targeting political, religious and social groups.

“We have reached 40 communities and over 320,000 people, educated more than 10,800 students across 36 schools and indirectly impacted 54,000 relatives,” he said. He also disclosed plans to expand into legal support, court fine assistance and partnerships with legal aid institutions.

Director of Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Services at the Ministry of Social Welfare, Ansu Konneh, commended Caritas for establishing what he described as a “special and much-needed model,” especially for girls who are often reluctant to seek rehabilitation. He said the Ministry has already established three rehabilitation centres since 2024 and has rehabilitated about 400 young people nationwide.

He emphasized that girls account for only about 10% of those rehabilitated so far, even though the impact of drug abuse on them is often more severe. “It affects their reproductive health and exposes them to sexual and gender-based violence,” he said.

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), represented by Samuel Dugba, praised Caritas Freetown as the first faith-based organization to construct a full rehabilitation centre from scratch within a year. He confirmed that the agency, which is mandated by law to inspect and approve treatment centres, had assessed and approved the facility for meeting national standards.

Samuel Dugba, however, urged Caritas to expand its prevention focus to include family-based interventions. “Many victims of drug abuse lack basic one-on-one engagement with parents who are often too busy. Families must be educated on their responsibility to care for their children,” he said.

One of the most emotional moments of the event came from a young woman identified as Jennifer Conteh, a Kush victim, who shared her personal testimony. “I was 15 years old when I got hooked on this drug and ran away from home. Kush has ruined my life. I was a bright young girl with high hopes for the future but I dropped out of school adding that her addiction to Kush has caused her to miss her menstrual cycle for two years stressing that “the urge to smoke is so strong I can’t resist it.”

She further narrated how addiction pushed her into prostitution, where she was frequently assaulted without pay. Explaining with tears, she said she desperately wants to stop because she feels trapped and cannot continue living that way.

Delivering the keynote address, the National Coordinator of the Task Force on Drug and Substance Abuse, Professor Foday Sahr, described the Kush epidemic as “the most urgent public health crisis of our generation.” He cited alarming statistics, indicating that substance abuse cases at the Kissy Psychiatric Hospital rose from 222 in 2020 to 2,955 in 2023 which is about 1,200% increase. Cases involving Kush alone surged by 3,868% within the same period.

Professor Foday Sahr explained that Kush is a dangerous cocktail primarily containing nitazine, which is a highly addictive, synthetic opioid, mixed with levamisole, tramadol and other unpredictable substances. Its effects include respiratory failure, neurological damage and death, while also increasing crime, school dropouts and family breakdowns.

He stressed that West Africa has become a major hotspot for opioid trafficking with Sierra Leone vulnerable due to its geographic and economic position. The Task Force, he said, is implementing a whole-of-Government and whole-of-society approach involving risk communication, social support, law enforcement, prevention and rehabilitation.

He added that detoxification alone is not enough and that centres like the one opened by Caritas must provide long-term comprehensive restoration, medical care, trauma counselling, family reconciliation, vocational skills, nutrition support and spiritual guidance. “There is no quick solution to rehabilitation,” he said, warning that the success of the centre will depend on sustained funding, qualified staff and patience.

The inauguration was attended by Government officials, mental health experts, anti-drug agencies, Civil Society Organisations, and community stakeholders. The ceremony concluded with a pledge from partners and Government representatives to continue supporting drug rehabilitation efforts across Sierra Leone as the nation continues its fight against Kush.

TVS Dominates Sierra Leone Market as Shalimar Trading Expands Product Line-Up

November 28, 2025

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Shalimar Trading Limited, one of Sierra Leone’s most trusted automobile distributors, is accelerating transformation within the country’s transportation sector through its exclusive dealership with TVS Motor Company; India’s third-largest motorcycle manufacturer renowned globally for innovation, high performance and engineering excellence.

Serving as the sole authorized distributor of TVS motorcycles and three-wheelers nationwide, Shalimar Trading has broadened access to dependable, affordable and versatile mobility solutions for both private and commercial users. The company’s expanding footprint and strong customer loyalty continue to position it as a key driver of mobility development in Sierra Leone.

Among its leading products is the widely celebrated TVS Star LX, known for exceptional fuel efficiency, durability and low maintenance cost. The TVS Victor, another standout model, remains a favourite for professionals due to its comfort, elegant design and consistent performance.

For the growing urban population navigating congested routes, particularly in Freetown, the TVS Jupiter offers a smooth ride supported by cushioned seating and ergonomic design. In the multi-passenger category, the TVS King Deluxe has become a reliable choice for families and tricycle operators, carrying up to four passengers with ease.

Commercial transport operators across the country continue to favour the rugged TVS Star HLX series, available in 100ES, 100KS and 150cc models. These motorcycles dominate Sierra Leone’s commercial riding sector thanks to their strength, adaptability and durability across urban and rural terrains.

For performance enthusiasts, the TVS Apache RTR 200 delivers power and precision, appealing to riders who value speed and control. The modern and stylish TVS NEO XR and TVS ZT 125 also attract young riders seeking versatility and reliability on different road conditions.

The multipurpose TVS XL 100 has also established itself as a top choice for families, small businesses and traders due to its sturdy build, spacious footrest and excellent fuel economy.

Through its expanded service centers, reliable after-sales support and steady supply of genuine spare parts, Shalimar Trading continues to build confidence in the TVS brand across Sierra Leone. Its commitment to quality and affordability has made world-class mobility accessible to ordinary citizens.

Beyond its exclusive TVS partnership, Shalimar Trading distributes additional globally recognized automotive brands including Suzuki, Sonalika International, Isuzu, CFMOTO and Leyland; further reinforcing its leadership role in the regional automotive industry.

With operations now extending into Liberia, the company is broadening its influence across West Africa, contributing to economic growth and improved mobility across the region.

Contact Information:
Address: 39A Freetown Road, Freetown
Phone: +232 76 308184
Follow Shalimar Trading on Facebook and Instagram for updates, promotions and product announcements.