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Orange Partners PlantMamaSL to Launch First-Ever Salone Garden Expo

Orange Partners PlantMamaSL to Launch First-Ever Salone Garden Expo

By Ibrahim Sesay

Orange Sierra Leone has partnered with PlantMamaSL to host the country’s first-ever Salone Garden Expo, a two-day event held from 13–14 February 2026 at the Radisson Blu Mammy Yoko Hotel in Freetown. The Expo represents Sierra Leone’s inaugural national platform dedicated to sustainability, environmental awareness and climate action.

The event features plant exhibitions, sales displays and networking opportunities designed to bring together gardening enthusiasts, environmental advocates and green entrepreneurs. It aims to promote eco-friendly practices, encourage community engagement in climate initiatives and inspire a culture of environmental responsibility across Sierra Leone.

Officially launching the maiden edition on Friday, February 13, the Chief Executive Officer of Orange Sierra Leone, Aïcha Touré, called for stronger collaboration among Government, the private sector and citizens to advance environmental sustainability nationwide. Declaring the Expo open, she noted that gatherings such as the Salone Garden Expo serve as a reminder that nature remains central to human survival and collective responsibility.

“When you walk into a space like this, surrounded by greenery and people who genuinely care, you’re reminded that nature is our food, our water, our shade, our health,” she said. “Connectivity and sustainability must move forward together.”

Aïcha Touré acknowledged that the telecommunications industry has an environmental footprint but emphasized that Orange is investing in energy-efficient networks, solar-powered base stations and greener operations to reduce emissions while expanding digital access. She stressed that sustainability should not be treated as a side initiative but as a guiding principle for both business and Government decision-making.

“No single institution can address this challenge alone. It requires collective action,” she stated, describing tree planting as “one of the most powerful acts of leadership” and a symbol of commitment to future generations. She further called on Government to include Orange and other private sector leaders in national environmental conversations, affirming that “we want to be part of the solution.”

The Expo is an initiative of Plant Mama SL Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Alitta Ansu Katta, who described the event as the fulfillment of a long-standing dream that began with “a few pots” on her balcony. She told attendees that the journey to hosting Sierra Leone’s first large-scale garden expo was marked by financial sacrifices, vendor withdrawals and sponsorship challenges.

“There were moments I wondered if anyone believed in this vision the way I did,” she said. “But this expo is proof that if you believe in something deeply enough and refuse to let rejection define you, it can happen.”

She urged citizens not to leave environmental protection solely to Government agencies, encouraging practical actions such as planting trees, composting and teaching children to nurture seedlings.

Delivering the keynote address, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Jiwoh Emmanuel Abdulai, reflected on the loss of forest cover in his childhood village and warned of the consequences of deforestation. He noted that two out of five plant species in Sierra Leone are estimated to be threatened with extinction, describing the situation as a matter of national survival.

Jiwoh Emmanuel Abdulai said Government’s flagship environmental initiative, Protect Sierra Leone, aims to restore degraded ecosystems and safeguard remaining forests but stressed that such efforts require active private sector and community involvement.

“Government cannot do it alone,” he said, commending Plant Mama SL and its partners for promoting urban gardening and environmental awareness.

Throughout the opening day, attendees toured vendor booths displaying ornamental and edible plants, gardening tools and eco-friendly products. Demonstrations were also conducted to educate participants on plant care and sustainable gardening practices.

Organizers say the Salone Garden Expo is intended to become a recurring platform for promoting green entrepreneurship, climate awareness and citizen-led environmental action in Sierra Leone.

Reconciliation and Social Cohesion: AUTJP Lessons for Sierra Leone

By MRCG

As Sierra Leone recently commemorated its first National Remembrance Day on 18 January, fulfilling a long-standing recommendation of our Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), it is timely to reflect on how continental frameworks for peace, justice, and reconciliation inform our national efforts. As it continues to consolidate peace more than two decades after the end of its brutal civil war, questions of reconciliation, healing, and social cohesion remain central to national discourse. These questions are not unique to Sierra Leone. Across the African continent, societies emerging from conflict, repression, and mass human rights violations face the challenge of repairing broken relationships and rebuilding trust among citizens and institutions. In this broader continental context, the African Union Transitional Justice Policy (AUTJP) provides an important framework for understanding reconciliation and social cohesion as essential pillars of sustainable peace.

Adopted by the African Union in 2019, the AUTJP is a continental guide to help African states address past human rights abuses, political violence, and systemic injustice. Unlike narrow approaches that focus solely on criminal accountability, the AU policy embraces a holistic vision of justice, combining accountability with truth-telling, reparations, institutional reform, memorialization, reconciliation and social cohesion.

The policy is grounded in African realities and values, recognizing that justice in post-conflict societies must respond to local histories, cultures, and social structures. Central to this vision is the belief that peace without reconciliation is fragile and that justice without social cohesion is incomplete.  

In the AUTJP, reconciliation is not treated as a symbolic gesture or a one-off event. Instead, it is understood as both a long-term process and an outcome. The policy defines reconciliation as the rebuilding of relationships among individuals, communities, and institutions that were fractured by conflict or repression.

According to the AU, reconciliation requires several interlinked elements: acknowledgement of past wrongs, recognition of victims’ suffering, accountability where possible, and meaningful efforts to restore dignity and trust. Importantly, the policy recognises that reconciliation cannot be imposed by the state alone. It must be inclusive, participatory, and community-driven, involving victims, survivors, perpetrators, traditional leaders, women, youth, and marginalised groups.

The AUTJP places strong emphasis on truth-seeking mechanisms, such as truth and reconciliation commissions, as vital to reconciliation. Truth-telling helps societies confront painful histories, counter denial and revisionism, and establish a shared understanding of what happened. In this sense, reconciliation is closely linked to memory, documentation, and public acknowledgement—issues that resonate strongly with Sierra Leone’s own Truth and Reconciliation Commission experience.

This vision resonates deeply with Sierra Leone’s own TRC. Established after the civil war that ravaged the country from 1991 to 2002, the TRC was tasked with documenting atrocities, giving voice to survivors, and promoting national unity through truth and mutual understanding. Among its many recommendations was the establishment of a National Reconciliation Day on 18 January—marked to honour victims and to remind Sierra Leoneans of both the horrors of war and the ongoing journey towards peace.

One distinctive feature of the AU policy is its recognition of traditional and indigenous justice mechanisms. The policy acknowledges that many African societies have long-standing methods for resolving conflicts, restoring harmony, and reintegrating offenders into communities.

These mechanisms, when aligned with human rights standards, can play a powerful role in reconciliation by promoting dialogue, confession, forgiveness, and restitution at the community level. For countries such as Sierra Leone, where customary practices remain influential, this aspect of the AUTJP underscores the importance of integrating formal justice institutions with local peacebuilding traditions.

While reconciliation focuses on repairing relationships damaged by past abuses, social cohesion addresses the broader challenge of rebuilding a sense of belonging, solidarity, and mutual trust within society. The AUTJP defines social cohesion as the degree to which individuals and groups feel connected to the state, despite differences in ethnicity, religion, region, or political affiliation.

The policy recognizes that conflict often deepens existing inequalities and social divisions. Therefore, strengthening social cohesion requires more than dialogue; it demands structural transformation. This includes addressing exclusion, marginalization, unequal access to resources and governance failures that may have contributed to the conflict in the first place.

In this context, the AUTJP links social cohesion directly to institutional reform, inclusive governance and socio-economic justice. A society cannot be truly cohesive if large sections of its population feel excluded, silenced or neglected.

In Sierra Leone, these challenges have been painfully evident. The civil war’s legacy extended beyond physical destruction, fracturing community bonds, spreading trauma and exacerbating regional and ethnic tensions. Initiatives inspired by the AU framework encourage engagement not only with past injustices but also with the social and economic structures that must be transformed to prevent a relapse into conflict. This includes institutional reform that fosters accountability and reinforces citizens’ trust in public institutions.

Another key aspect of the AU’s approach to reconciliation and social cohesion is healing—both individual and collective. The policy recognizes the long-term psychological and social trauma caused by violence and repression. It encourages states to support psychosocial services, community healing initiatives, and public memorialisation.

Memorialisation, remembrance days, and public education are viewed as tools for promoting a shared national narrative that honours victims, acknowledges suffering, and commits society to “never again.” These measures foster social cohesion by cultivating a collective identity rooted in shared experiences and lessons from the past.

A real example of this contextualized transitional justice is Sierra Leone’s declaration of January 18 as National Remembrance Day. This day is more than a ceremonial celebration; it’s a time for collective reflection, learning, and reaffirming devotion to the common ideals of inclusivity, peace, and unity. Sierra Leone fosters a culture that resists historical amnesia, apathy, and denial by institutionalizing remembrance.

For Sierra Leone, the African Union Transitional Justice Policy offers valuable guidance as the country reflects on its post-war journey. The establishment of National Remembrance Day has reignited conversations about memorialisation, and ongoing debates about inclusion and national unity closely align with the AU’s vision. The AU Transitional Justice Policy reminds us that sustainable peace emerges from inclusive, reflective justice rooted in the experiences of ordinary people. Sierra Leone’s experience, from the TRC’s public hearings to the formalization of National Remembrance Day, demonstrates the power of confronting painful histories openly and soberly.

The policy reminds us that reconciliation is not achieved merely because guns are silent, and that social cohesion is not guaranteed by the passage of time. Both require continuous commitment, ethical leadership, inclusive policies, and active citizen participation. Media institutions, civil society organisations, traditional authorities, and state actors all play crucial roles.

The African Union Transitional Justice Policy presents reconciliation and social cohesion as foundations for durable peace in Africa. By emphasizing truth, healing, inclusion, and structural reform, the policy moves beyond punitive justice toward a more comprehensive and humane approach. For Sierra Leone, engaging seriously with these principles is not only a matter of aligning with continental standards—it is a moral and historical responsibility to victims, survivors, and future generations. As the nation remembers its past and shapes its future, the AU’s transitional justice vision offers a timely reminder: peace is sustained not merely by the absence of conflict but by the presence of justice, trust, and shared belonging.

NP (SL) Holds February Health Walk, Emphasizes Stress Management and Employee Wellbeing

NP (SL) Holds February Health Walk

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

NP (SL) Limited on Saturday, 14 February 2026, conducted its monthly staff health walk from the Freetown Golf Club to Aberdeen, as part of its ongoing workplace wellness programme aimed at promoting employee health, productivity and organizational sustainability.

The usual monthly exercise brought together the Chief Executive Officer, Dr Mohamed S. Kanu, and staff from multiple departments, providing a platform for physical activity, staff interaction and engagement on health-related challenges associated with contemporary work environments. The initiative forms part of the company’s internal wellness framework, which integrates health awareness into its corporate culture.

After the walk, a health talk was delivered on stress management, highlighting the impact of work-related stress on productivity, mental health and overall performance. Participants were educated on recognizing stress triggers, adopting healthy coping mechanisms and maintaining work-life balance. Key strategies discussed included regular physical exercise, adequate rest, effective time management, open communication and seeking professional or peer support when necessary. The session also underscored the role of organizational support systems in reducing workplace stress and enhancing employee resilience.

Speaking on the initiative, Finance and Accounts Manager, Macrae Consvonne, stated that the monthly health walk was introduced as part of Management’s broader commitment to staff welfare and organizational efficiency. He explained that the initiative emerged from Management discussions on improving employee performance and well-being, noting that healthier employees are more productive and contribute positively to corporate performance objectives.

He further disclosed that NP (SL) Limited has implemented several policies and programmes to support both physical and mental wellness, coordinated through the Human Resources department. He cited regular monthly and annual staff engagement activities, including a Family Day, as well as performance recognition and long-service awards designed to promote motivation, bonding and appreciation among staff.

Thee Finance and Accounts Manager encouraged other corporate institutions to adopt similar wellness and team-building initiatives, noting that such programmes not only improve physical health but also strengthen interpersonal relationships within organisations, particularly where employees operate across different locations and departments. He emphasized that structured investment in staff recognition and wellbeing contributes significantly to organizational cohesion, morale and productivity.

The monthly health walk continues to serve as a cornerstone of NP (SL) Limited’s employee wellness agenda, reinforcing the company’s focus on sustaining a healthy, motivated and high-performing workforce.

MBSSE Clears 163,997 WASSCE Candidates, Saves $1.37 Million After Nationwide Verification

Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Conrad Sackey

By Ibrahim Sesay

The Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE) has reaffirmed Government’s unwavering commitment to fully fund the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) fees for all genuine and eligible pupils across the country, emphasizing that there is no cap on the number of beneficiaries under the programme.

Addressing Parliament, the Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Conrad Sackey, clarified concerns surrounding the ongoing verification exercise, stating that the initiative is aimed at safeguarding the integrity of the free WASSCE policy rather than restricting access for deserving candidates.

According to figures presented by the Ministry, a total of 219,171 candidates were initially uploaded for the 2026 WASSCE. However, following a nationwide verification process, only 163,997 candidates were validated and cleared to benefit from Government sponsorship. The remaining 55,174 entries were found to have issues ranging from duplicate registrations to fake Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) records, as well as failure to meet the minimum entry requirements for senior secondary school.

The Minister explained that the discrepancies uncovered during the verification exercise necessitated urgent corrective measures to protect public funds and ensure fairness within the education system. He noted that Government pays examination fees upfront for each registered candidate, making it essential to eliminate irregularities before payments are finalized.

“To maintain credibility and accountability, we must ensure that only qualified and legitimate pupils benefit from this important intervention,” the Minister stated, reiterating that Government remains committed to supporting every eligible pupil who meets the approved academic criteria.

As part of the reforms, the Ministry has introduced a formal undertaking for school heads and proprietors. Under the new requirement, Principals must certify that each candidate presented for WASSCE sponsorship satisfies the stipulated BECE entry standards and that no duplicate or fraudulent registrations are submitted. School authorities will be held accountable for the authenticity of the data they provide.

Education officials maintain that the measure is not designed to reduce the number of candidates but to strengthen oversight and eliminate abuse within the system. They argue that the verification process promotes transparency and reinforces the credibility of the free WASSCE programme, which remains a cornerstone of Government’s education agenda.

The Ministry further disclosed that the exercise is expected to save the state approximately USD 1.37 million in examination fees that would otherwise have been paid for invalid or unqualified entries. Authorities say the recovered funds can now be redirected toward improving teaching and learning conditions nationwide, including the provision of learning materials, teacher support initiatives and school infrastructure development.

Stakeholders in the education sector have welcomed the clarification, noting that while access to examination opportunities must be protected, accountability and quality assurance are equally critical in sustaining public confidence in the system.

The Government continues to stress that its Free Quality School Education (FQSE) initiative remains firmly on course, with the funding of WASSCE fees forming a key pillar of efforts to expand access to education and ease the financial burden on families.

The Ministry assured parents, pupils and school authorities that all legitimate candidates will continue to receive full Government support, reiterating that the reforms are intended solely to preserve fairness, integrity and prudent management of public resources within Sierra Leone’s education sector.

CARL-SL Applauds APC’s Compliance with PPRC Sanctions, Calls for Impartial Enforcement of Political Laws

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The Centre for Accountability and Rule of Law – Sierra Leone (CARL-SL) has commended the leadership of the main opposition All People’s Congress (APC) for complying with sanctions imposed by the Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC), while urging consistent and impartial enforcement of political laws across the board.

In a press statement dated 12th February 2026, CARL-SL acknowledged the recent payment of a fine levied on the APC by the PPRC for contravening provisions of the Political Parties Act, 2022. The organization described the party’s compliance as a positive demonstration of respect for the rule of law and regulatory authority in Sierra Leone’s political system.

According to CARL-SL, adherence to sanctions imposed by legally mandated institutions strengthens democratic governance and reinforces the principle that all political actors are subject to the country’s laws. The organization stated that compliance with regulatory directives helps promote order, discipline and accountability within the political environment.

“Such adherence to regulatory directives reflects respect for the rule of law and reinforces the principle that all political actors are subject to the legal framework governing political conduct in Sierra Leone,” the statement noted.

The rights and governance advocacy group also commended the Political Parties Regulation Commission for carrying out its statutory responsibilities in line with the Political Parties Act and its established regulatory framework. CARL-SL emphasized that effective enforcement of political regulations is essential to maintaining stability and ensuring transparency in party administration and conduct.

While recognizing what it termed as positive steps taken by both the APC and the PPRC, CARL-SL underscored the importance of consistency and impartiality in the application of the law. The organization stressed that the credibility of the PPRC and indeed the broader democratic governance system depends on the uniform enforcement of rules across all political parties without fear or favour.

The statement further highlighted that any political party or member found to be in violation of the law should face appropriate and proportionate sanctions in accordance with the governing legal framework. CARL-SL warned that selective or inconsistent enforcement could undermine public trust in regulatory institutions and weaken democratic accountability.

Observers note that the recent compliance by the APC follows a period of regulatory scrutiny by the PPRC which has been tasked with ensuring that political parties operate within the confines of the Political Parties Act, 2022.

CARL-SL concluded its statement by encouraging all political parties to conduct their affairs within the limits of the law and urged the PPRC to remain steadfast in upholding its mandate with independence, professionalism and impartiality.

The organization reiterated its commitment to fostering human rights, accountability and respect for democratic principles in Sierra Leone, noting that strong institutions and equal application of the law are fundamental to sustaining the country’s democratic progress.

ILRAJ Urges President Bio to Withdraw ECSL Chief Nomination Pending Constitutional Reforms

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio (left) and Basita Michael (right)

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Institute for Legal Research and Advocacy for Justice (ILRAJ) has called on the Government of Sierra Leone to reconsider and withdraw the proposed appointment of Edmond Sylvester Alpha as Chief Electoral Commissioner of the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL), citing legal, procedural and democratic concerns.

In a statement issued on Thursday, ILRAJ referenced a letter from the Office of the President dated February 10, 2026, which nominated Edmond Sylvester Alpha pursuant to Section 32(3) of the 1991 Constitution. While acknowledging the need to fill vacancies in key public institutions, the legal advocacy body argued that proceeding with a substantive appointment at this time risks undermining ongoing constitutional and electoral reforms.

According to ILRAJ, the Constitution of Sierra Leone (Amendment) Act 2025 Bill, currently before Parliament, proposes significant changes to Section 32, including the establishment of a Search and Nomination Committee to oversee transparent and merit-based appointments to the ECSL. The organization contends that confirming a Chief Electoral Commissioner before Parliament concludes deliberations on the proposed reforms would preempt the legislative process and weaken the spirit of the amendments.

“Mr. Alpha is already serving in an acting capacity, ensuring institutional continuity,” ILRAJ noted, adding that rushing to confirm him permanently may entrench existing appointment practices before new constitutional safeguards take effect. The group urged President Julius Maada Bio to withdraw the nomination and await the outcome of parliamentary consideration of the Amendment Bill.

The organization further expressed concern over what it described as a pattern of partisan appointments to leadership positions within institutions expected to function independently. It referenced public perceptions surrounding appointments during and after the disputed 2023 elections, noting that several ECSL commissioners were widely viewed as being aligned with the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), a situation that contributed to public distrust in the electoral process.

Similar concerns, ILRAJ stated, have also been raised regarding the current leadership of the Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC). The advocacy group warned that appointments perceived as politically aligned risk eroding institutional neutrality and transforming oversight bodies into extensions of executive influence.

ILRAJ also questioned the adequacy of consultations conducted under Section 32(3) of the Constitution, which requires the President to appoint ECSL members “after consultation with the leaders of all registered political parties” and subject to parliamentary approval. The group argued that consultations have historically been reduced to brief written notifications requesting feedback within a limited timeframe, often three working days, which it described as insufficient for meaningful engagement.

“This approach falls short of genuine consultation and undermines the constitutional intent of multiparty consensus,” the statement asserted.

The organization therefore called on President Bio to withdraw the nomination, conduct authentic consultations with political stakeholders, and align the process with Tripartite Committee Recommendation 36 as well as the pending constitutional reforms. It also urged Parliament to exercise caution in ratifying the nomination and to prioritize reforms aimed at strengthening transparency, inclusivity and public confidence in the country’s democratic institutions.

ILRAJ concluded by emphasizing that credible and independent electoral management remains central to democratic stability and national cohesion in Sierra Leone.

Rotary Clubs Unite for National Fun Day, Raise Mental Health Awareness

Rtn Dr. Carol Labor speaking on mental health at Rotary Fun Sport

Ibrahim Sesay

The five Rotary Clubs in Sierra Leone on Saturday February 14 hosted the 3rd edition of their National Fun and Sports Event at the Prince of Wales Centenary Sports Complex in Kingtom, Freetown, using the platform to promote mental health awareness and celebrate friendship.

The event, organized by the Rotary Clubs of the Western Area and Bo, brought together members of the Rotary Club of Freetown, Rotary Club of Freetown Sunset, Rotary Club of Bo, Rotary Club of Hill Station, and Rotary Club of Freetown Peninsular under the theme: “Rotary Hearts Unite: Combatting Mental Health and Celebrating Friendship.”

Activities included football, tug-of-war, basketball, track events, board games, and a dance competition, following short messages centered on service and mental well-being.

Delivering the Object of Rotary, Rotarian (Rtn) Alison French emphasized that Rotary seeks to encourage and foster the ideal of service. She noted that the organization promotes the development of acquaintances as opportunities for service, upholds high ethical standards in business and professions, and recognizes the dignity of all useful occupations.

She added that Rotary encourages members to apply the ideal of service in their personal, business and community lives, while advancing international understanding, goodwill and peace through fellowship among professionals united in service.

Chairman of the 2026 National Rotary Event, Rtn Abraham Grass-Sessay, said the gathering was not only about recreation but also about celebrating Rotary’s impact in communities.

“We are not only having fun, but also celebrating the work we do in our communities and the service we render,” he said.

Explaining the choice of theme, Grass-Sessay noted that health remains one of Rotary’s key pillars of intervention, with a growing focus on mental health at club level.

“As Rotarians, we promote awareness, provide safe spaces for conversation, support community programmes, partner with local organizations on mental health issues, and model compassion and empathy in our communities,” he said.

He also linked the event to Valentine’s Day, describing it as an opportunity to celebrate love and friendship among Rotarians and the wider community. He thanked members who turned out in large numbers despite their busy schedules and encouraged non-members to join Rotary.

“You don’t have to wait until all your needs are satisfied before you serve. The little you can give can make an impact in someone’s life,” he said, stressing Rotary’s motto of Service Above Self and its commitment to creating lasting impact.

Speaking on mental health, Rtn Dr. Carol Labor described it as a fundamental part of overall well-being, cautioning against the common misconception that mental health only refers to psychiatric conditions. “The definition of mental health is the overall state of our mind and the ability to cope with life’s regular stressors,” she explained.

Dr. Labor highlighted the biopsychosocial theory, noting that biological, psychological and social factors all influence a person’s mental health and risk of illness. She said Sierra Leone’s mental health foundations are deeply rooted in trauma, including intergenerational and historical experiences that predate the civil war.

She explained that trauma can have biological effects, including through epigenetics, where exposure to trauma may influence future generations. According to her, early childhood experiences, particularly between ages zero and ten, play a crucial role in brain development, and disruptions caused by trauma can have lasting consequences.

While commending ongoing national efforts to promote healing and rehabilitation, she stressed the importance of evidence-based practice in mental health interventions.

“People shouldn’t just engage in mental health-related work without using the appropriate methodology rooted in theory and evidence-based practice,” she said, calling on communities to embrace their history, understand the effects of trauma, and build resilience.

The event ended with friendly competitions and renewed calls for unity, service, and collective action to improve mental health awareness.

‘Law Must Not Be Tool for Intimidation’ – Chericoco Speaks on APC Crisis

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Hon. Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah, widely known as Chericoco, has called for fairness, restraint and respect for democratic principles following recent developments involving the opposition All Peoples Congress (APC).

In a public statement, the former lawmaker and legal practitioner said he had taken note of the suspension of the APC by the Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC), the heavy fines imposed on the party and the arrest, court charge, denial of bail and subsequent remand of the APC Secretary General, Lansana Dumbuya, at the Pademba Road Correctional Facility.

Hon. Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah noted that the APC complied with the fines imposed by the PPRC, describing the decision as a demonstration of the party’s respect for the law and for institutions established to uphold it. However, he expressed concern over what he described as an escalation of events despite that compliance.

“The APC complied with the fines because we respect the law and the institutions established to uphold it,” he stated. “It is therefore deeply concerning that, despite this compliance, the situation has escalated in ways that raise serious questions about fairness, proportionality and the protection of Sierra Leone’s democratic space.”

Drawing on his background as a lawyer, Hon. Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah emphasized his belief in the rule of law and the importance of strong and independent institutions. He cautioned, however, that the law must not be perceived as a tool for political intimidation or as a means of weakening legitimate opposition voices.

“But the law must never be perceived or used as a tool for political intimidation,” he said. “Institutions must not appear to weaken legitimate opposition voices. Sierra Leone’s democratic progress depends on fairness, equal treatment and unwavering respect for constitutional principles.”

The former Member of Parliament underscored the importance of public confidence in state institutions, especially in politically sensitive times. According to him, democracy thrives when institutions act with neutrality and integrity.

While expressing full respect for the independence of the judiciary, Hon. Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah urged all state institutions to exercise their mandates with restraint and impartiality. He maintained that good governance requires institutions that safeguard democratic participation rather than restrict it.

“Good governance requires institutions that safeguard democratic participation, not restrict it,” he said.

Hon. Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah also appealed directly to APC members and supporters across Sierra Leone and in the diaspora to remain calm and united. He called for discipline and a continued commitment to peace, stressing that political disagreements should not undermine national stability.

“To APC members and supporters across Sierra Leone and the diaspora, I call for calm, discipline and unity. Let us remain focused, principled and committed to peace,” he urged.

Reaffirming the APC’s stance, Hon. Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah said the party would continue to stand firm in defense of democracy, good governance and the rule of law while working toward a better future for all Sierra Leoneans.

The developments surrounding the APC have sparked widespread public discussion, with many observers closely following actions taken by regulatory bodies and the courts. Hon. Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah’s statement adds to ongoing calls for fairness, proportionality and the protection of Sierra Leone’s democratic space as the matter unfolds.

NCRA Reviews Cost of Biometric ID Cards as New Fees Take Effect February 23

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) has announced an adjustment in the cost of its Multi-Purpose and Secured Biometric Identity Cards, with the new fees set to take effect on 23rd February 2026. The Authority said the revision is in line with prevailing exchange rates as determined by the Bank of Sierra Leone and in accordance with the terms of its production agreement.

In a public notice dated 10th February 2026, the NCRA stated that the adjustment follows consultations with key stakeholders and is guided by provisions contained in the Agreement between the Government of Sierra Leone and Constrat Systems SL Ltd. The agreement, which was ratified by Parliament on 4th March 2022, provides for periodic reviews of ID card production costs based on exchange rate fluctuations.

According to the Authority, the cost review is necessitated by exchange rate factors and rising global production costs. Management emphasized that the adjustment is intended to ensure the continued availability of high-quality, securitized biometric ID cards without disruption in supply and service delivery across the country.

Since the official rollout of the biometric ID card system in January 2023, the NCRA has maintained consistent production and issuance services nationwide. The Authority noted that despite increasing global costs for raw materials and production inputs, it has sustained operations to prevent service interruptions and material shortages.

“The cost adjustment reflects fluctuations in currency exchange rates as provided for in Articles 14.1 and 14.2 of the Agreement, which allow for periodic reviews consistent with the prevailing rate at the Bank of Sierra Leone,” the notice stated.

Under the revised pricing structure, the fee for a National ID Card has increased from SLL 145 to SLL 165. The Non-National ID Card, previously priced at SLL 2,005, will now cost SLL 2,305. For ECOWAS Nationals, the cost has been adjusted from SLL 245 to SLL 280, while ECOWAS Non-Nationals will now pay SLL 465, up from SLL 405.

The NCRA explained that the updated costs cover application, production and issuance services. It further stressed that the revision seeks to mitigate potential stock-outs of production materials and safeguard the long-term affordability, reliability and efficiency of the ID card system.

The Authority reaffirmed its commitment to delivering secure and internationally compliant identification services, which play a critical role in strengthening national security, financial inclusion and access to public and private sector services.

Management of the NCRA, in collaboration with its technical partner Constrat Systems SL Ltd, assured members of the public that ID card production and issuance services will continue uninterrupted at all offices, centres and outlets nationwide.

Director General of NCRA, Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi, reiterated the Authority’s dedication to maintaining high standards in identity management and ensuring that citizens and residents continue to benefit from a reliable and secure national identification system.

The NCRA urged the public to take note of the new pricing structure and to visit its official offices for further inquiries regarding applications and renewals ahead of the effective date.

SLCAA Rallies Staff to Drive Customer Service, Integrity and Operational Excellence

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) has unveiled a renewed strategic vision aimed at strengthening institutional performance, enhancing regulatory compliance and positioning the Authority for sustained growth within the global aviation sector.

Under the theme: “Together, We Elevate the Future of SLCAA,” the initiative outlines key steps for staff to drive organizational growth while reinforcing professionalism, safety and innovation across all departments.

According to the Authority, the strategy places strong emphasis on delivering excellent customer service, urging staff to treat every client and stakeholder with professionalism, courtesy and efficiency. Management noted that aviation remains a highly service-oriented sector and maintaining strong relationships with airlines, passengers and industry partners is central to SLCAA’s mandate.

In addition to customer service, the Authority underscored the importance of maintaining high standards of compliance and safety. Staff are encouraged to strictly follow all regulatory procedures and prioritize safety in every action and decision. As the country’s aviation regulator, SLCAA plays a critical role in ensuring that Sierra Leone’s airspace operations meet international safety benchmarks and global best practices.

Effective communication has also been identified as a key pillar of the new direction. The Authority is encouraging open information sharing within teams and promoting clear, respectful communication across departments to improve coordination and operational efficiency.

Management further highlighted the importance of embracing continuous learning. Staff are being encouraged to actively participate in training programmes and skills development initiatives, with a focus on applying newly acquired knowledge to improve the quality of work and institutional performance.

Collaboration and teamwork form another core component of the strategy. SLCAA leadership stressed the need for departments to work together in solving problems and supporting one another in achieving shared goals. By fostering unity and collective responsibility, the Authority believes it can strengthen internal cohesion and service delivery.

Innovation and improvement were also prominently featured in the strategic framework. Staff are being urged to suggest new ideas that enhance efficiency and service delivery, as well as identify areas where existing processes can be refined. The move signals SLCAA’s intention to adapt to emerging aviation trends and technological advancements.

The Authority also called on employees to uphold professionalism and integrity in all interactions. Representing SLCAA positively, maintaining honesty, accountability and ethical conduct were described as essential values in building public trust and institutional credibility.

Observers say the new direction reflects a proactive effort by SLCAA to strengthen its internal systems while aligning with international aviation standards. As global aviation continues to evolve, regulatory bodies are increasingly required to demonstrate strong governance, technical competence and customer-focused operations.

By rallying staff around a shared vision of excellence, safety, innovation and integrity, the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority appears determined to elevate its performance and reinforce its role as a key pillar in the country’s transportation and economic development agenda.

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