IGR Poll: Freetown Residents Say ‘No’ to City Division, Demand Better Services Instead

October 22, 2025

By Foday Moriba Conteh

A new public opinion poll conducted by the Institute for Governance Reform (IGR) has revealed that a majority of Freetown residents are unaware of and largely oppose the Government’s proposal to divide the capital city into multiple local councils. The survey, which also gauged citizens’ views on electricity supply and funeral procession management, provides valuable insights into public perceptions of some of the Government’s most debated urban reform initiatives.

Speaking during a Press Conference held at IGR’s Spur Road office in Freetown, Prof. Fredline M’Cormack-Hale, Research Director at IGR, said the findings offer the first structured feedback from residents on the reforms, which aim to improve traffic congestion, city management and electricity delivery.

According to the poll, which surveyed 1,072 adult residents between October 9th and 12th, 2025, only 32% of Freetonians have heard of the proposal to split the city, and among those, a significant 62% disagree or strongly disagree with the idea. When asked about governance preferences, 57% said they prefer to keep the Freetown City Council undivided, while 30% support smaller councils under FCC supervision and only 13% favor complete decentralization.

On electricity, the results were more positive. 76% of residents reported that power supply had improved compared to a year ago, particularly in the city’s west end. However, challenges persist: 90% of respondents cited high tariffs as their biggest concern, followed by low or unstable voltage (67%), power theft (36%) and corruption among utility staff (34%).

The poll also explored views on managing funeral processions in the congested city. Over half (54%) of respondents want the traditional grand send-offs to continue, while 33% favor route or time restrictions to ease traffic. A smaller number called for vehicle-only processions (5%) or a total ban (8%).

The IGR poll provides critical data to guide policymakers as Freetown navigates the balance between urban reform, service delivery and respect for cultural traditions.

Onga Excites Market Mummies with Food and Goodies on World Food Day

October 22, 2025

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Demonstrating strong appreciation for women in the food business and marking this year’s World Food Day, Premium Divine Trading Limited, through its Onga Seasoning brand, on Saturday, 18th October 2025, concluded a weeklong outreach activity that saw the distribution of free, cooked food prepared with Onga seasoning and special appreciation gifts to market women across major markets in Freetown.

The initiative, which ran from October 13th to 18th, 2025, and covered Waterloo, Funkia, Calaba Town, Guard Street, Dove Cot and Congo Markets, formed part of the company’s ongoing commitment to promoting food security, nutrition awareness and appreciation for small-scale traders. During the event, over 2,500 market women received freshly cooked meals prepared with Onga seasoning, along with appreciation gifts and branded items such as aprons and wrappers.

In his address, Philip Kanu, Marketing Lead, Premium Divine Trading Limited, said the weeklong celebration was organized in commemoration of World Food Day, an international observance designated by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) on October 16 every year, to raise awareness about food security and promote access to nutritious, affordable and sustainable diets.

“This year, we could not let World Food Day pass without recognizing the immense contributions of market women in ensuring food reaches every Sierra Leonean household,” Philip Kanu said. “We have prepared nutritious and delicious food using our Onga seasoning and distributed it to thousands of market women who tirelessly feed the nation.”

He added that the activity also served as a gesture of gratitude to traders who have supported the Onga brand over the years. “Apart from sharing food, we presented gifts such as aprons, wrappers (lappas) and other branded Onga materials to show our appreciation,” Philip Kanu explained.

This year’s World Food Day theme: “The Right to Food for a Better Life and a Better Future” aligns with Premium Divine Trading’s corporate vision of promoting access to healthy meals for all. “As a company that operates in the food sector, we strongly believe that everyone, regardless of their status, deserves safe, nutritious and sustainable food,” Philip Kanu emphasized.

He disclosed that the initiative targeted about 2,500 market women, who received freshly prepared meals and appreciation packages. “Beyond the food distribution, our outreach engaged the wider market community cooks, traders and other food vendors to remind everyone about the importance of a balanced diet,” he said.

Explaining how the markets were selected, Philip Kanu noted that Premium Divine Trading worked closely with market chairladies and the company’s sales representatives to ensure inclusivity. “For every catchment area, our sales teams collaborated with the market leadership to identify traders actively involved in food-related businesses. Each participating vendor was registered and our team visited every tabletop listed for inclusion,” he stated.

He described the weeklong journey across different markets as both fulfilling and emotional, given the warm reception from market women who expressed gratitude for the recognition. “Market women are the unsung heroes of our food system,” Philip Kanu said. “Every day, they wake up early, brave the sun and rain to sell food items that sustain households. It’s only fitting that we celebrate them on World Food Day.”

“As a brand, we are committed to promoting healthy cooking and supporting small-scale traders who form the backbone of Sierra Leone’s informal economy,” Philip Kanu remarked. “This event is part of our broader corporate social responsibility to give back to the community that continues to believe in and support Onga.”

He encouraged Sierra Leoneans to continue supporting the Onga brand and to prioritize nutrition and food safety in their homes. “Food is not just about eating; it is about sustaining life, promoting health and building a stronger nation,” Philip Kanu noted.

Speaking on behalf of market women, Yeabu Sesay, Acting Chairlady of Congo Market, commended Onga for its weeklong outreach activity that distributed freshly cooked meals and appreciation gifts to market women across major markets in Freetown.

“We appreciate this company because they value we as market women. We go continue for use Onga because the taste fine and di people dem good to we,” she added in the local parlance.

She expressed gratitude on behalf of the traders, noting that such initiatives bring joy and encouragement to women who work tirelessly to support their families. Yeabu Sesay highlighted that Onga seasoning remains a favorite among local cooks due to its rich taste and quality, urging fellow traders and consumers to continue using the brand.

The Acting Chairlady also thanked the Onga team for recognizing the contributions of market women and for sharing gifts such as aprons and branded materials as tokens of appreciation.

Fatu Sesay, a market woman also expressed their joy and gratitude to Premium Divine Trading Limited. “Onga don make we happy dis week. Dem nor only give we fine food, but dem tell we tenki for di wok we de do every day,” she added.

Throughout the weeklong outreach, Onga’s team infused excitement and color into every market they visited with cultural music and joyful interactions, leaving market women inspired by what many described as a first-of-its-kind gesture from a company. As the 2025 World Food Day celebration wrapped up, the company emphasized its ongoing mission to ensure every Sierra Leonean enjoys access to nutritious and delicious meals through continued innovation, community partnerships and consumer engagement.

Orange Foundation, Kompin Artists Host “Treasure Our Chests” Art Exhibition

October 22, 2025

By Foday Moriba Conteh

A vibrant display of creativity and compassion unfolded on Friday, 17th October 2025, when Orange Foundation Sierra Leone, in collaboration with “Kompin Artists”, hosted the “Treasure Our Chests” Art Exhibition. Held at the Orange Foundation Office on Alpha Wurie Drive, Hill Station, Regent Road in Freetown, the event formed part of this year’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month activities and sought to use art as a powerful medium for advocacy, healing and community impact.

Speaking at the exhibition, Ranya S. Nirvan, Founder Kompin Artists, expressed gratitude to the Orange Foundation for collaborating with the Kompin Artists to champion such an important cause. “We are not just artists showcasing our work we are a family using art to make a difference. Every exhibition we hold contributes to a meaningful cause,” she said.

Ranya S. Nirvan explained that the Kompin Artists, a group of 10 artists, has consistently used its exhibitions to raise funds for various social causes. “Our first exhibition in November last year supported the Sick Pikin Project which helps underprivileged children access proper medical attention. The second exhibition focused on autism awareness, and this time, we’re proud to be supporting the Sierra Leone Cancer Foundation through this breast cancer awareness exhibition,” she noted.

She further emphasized that a percentage of sales proceeds and art auction revenues from the exhibition will be donated to the Foundation to aid cancer awareness and patient support programs.

Ranya S. Nirvan also took a moment to acknowledge her team members and family for their unwavering support, particularly her husband, whom she described as her “backbone and source of strength.”

Charlie Haffner, Proprietor of the Freetown Players called for sustained investment and support in Sierra Leone’s arts and creative industry, describing it as vital to human resource development and national growth.

He commended the Kompin Artists for their creativity and dedication, noting that art continues to play a transformative role in shaping societies and inspiring change.

“I am very pleased with all the arts here today and I call on the Orange Foundation and others to continue supporting art. Supporting art means supporting income generation, creativity and national development,” he said.

Charlie Haffner, a strong advocate for performing and visual arts, underscored that consistent support from both the public and private sectors is necessary to sustain the country’s cultural identity and creative talent.

“Please continue to support the arts not only for entertainment but as an investment in our nation’s human resource development,” he urged.

He expressed appreciation to Orange Foundation and Kompin Artists for using their talents to promote breast cancer awareness, emphasizing that initiative like that bridge creativity with social responsibility.

Charlie Haffner concluded by encouraging artists to continue honing their craft and audiences to keep engaging with Sierra Leonean art, noting that “art has the power to tell our stories, heal our communities and drive progress.”

Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, Chief Minister, applauded the efforts of the Kompin Artists and Orange Foundation Sierra Leone for creatively advancing the fight against breast cancer through art.

He highlighted the deep connection between art, culture and national identity, emphasizing that Sierra Leone’s growing creative industry remains one of the country’s most valuable exports.

“Our biggest export from Sierra Leone to the world is art and culture. Whether it’s music, design or painting, these creative expressions define who we are and how we are represented globally,” he said.

Chief Minister referenced successful Sierra Leonean creatives working internationally, noting that their contributions underscore the importance of investing in the local art industry. He encouraged attendees to support the artists by purchasing their works, emphasizing that such actions directly contribute to both cultural growth and economic empowerment.

“Before you leave today, make sure you support at least one artist. When you buy their art, you are helping to build a creative economy that adds pride and value to our nation,” he urged.

Dr. David Moinina Sengeh also reflected on the critical role of science, research and innovation in addressing health challenges like breast cancer. He disclosed that the Government continues to support scientific research and digital health solutions, including the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to improve early detection and treatment outcomes for cancer patients.

“Early detection saves lives. We must continue to invest in science, technology and awareness to ensure that women have access to screening and care,” he said.

He further commended the Orange Foundation and the Kompin Artists for merging art with advocacy, noting that such partnerships inspire civic participation and public awareness.

“What you have done here today shows how art can be a force for good. It heals, educates and brings people together around causes that matter,” he added.

Dr. David Moinina Sengeh concluded by congratulating the artists and expressing optimism that Sierra Leone’s creative sector will continue to thrive as a tool for national development and social change.

Sierra Leone Launches Landmark Migration Initiatives with IOM, Pledging a “Whole-of-Society” Approach

October 22, 2025

By Mary Kabay

In a significant step towards strengthening national migration governance, the Government of Sierra Leone, in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the UN Network on Migration, on Tuesday, 21 October 2025, launched a comprehensive suite of initiatives marking the country’s transition from global commitment to concrete national implementation. The high-level event, held at the Country Lodge Hotel in Freetown, officially introduced the National Implementation Plan (NIP) of the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration, the National Coordination Mechanism on Migration (NCM) and the IOM Sierra Leone Country Strategy for 2025-2030. Under the theme: “From Global Principles to National Action”, the launch emphasized alignment of the frameworks with Sierra Leone’s development goals, positioning effective migration governance as a key driver of national progress.

The ceremony opened with a video message from IOM headquarters that placed Sierra Leone’s new initiatives within the broader global migration agenda. That was followed by goodwill messages from stakeholders who pledged unwavering support. Speaking on behalf of traditional authorities, Alameen Kanneh, Paramount Chief, said that his community stood ready to join the migration reform effort. “We have gathered to ensure migration benefits not only our people but also our villages,” he said.

At local level, Abdul Kargbo, Chief Administrator of the Local Government Council, affirmed his council’s commitment to “support the compact through serving as a link with districts across Sierra Leone”.

Seraphine Wakana, UN Resident Coordinator, called the launched documents “road-maps for partnerships”, stressing that “migration must be safe if the document must be in action.” She reaffirmed the UN’s support for implementing the IOM Country Strategy and insisted that synergy between the frameworks would deliver measurable impact.

In his remarks, Amadu Mannah, Technical Adviser to the Minister of Internal Affairs, described the day as a milestone where Sierra Leone “moves from commitment to implementation”, warning that “a plan on paper is not enough”; what matters is action and robust partnerships.

During a human-centred address, Melrose Karminty, Minister of Social Welfare, explained that “migration is a social story that touches families and communities”, highlighting the profound societal implications of the newly launched plans.

The official launch was performed by Sylvia Etta, Regional Director for IOM West and Central Africa together with national authorities.

A detailed presentation of the IOM Country Strategy by Pauline Macharia, Officer-in-Charge of IOM Sierra Leone, followed, along with a panel discussion on “Partnerships for Implementation” featuring Government Ministries, Parliament, Civil Society and migrant communities.

With these launches and strong cross-sector support, Sierra Leone has established a unified national framework, led by the IOM, to ensure migration is safe, orderly and beneficial to all citizens.

Sierra Leone Employers Federation Launches Practical Guide on Employment Laws

October 22, 2025

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

The Sierra Leone Employers Federation (SLEF), in partnership with the Bureau for Employers’ Activities of the International Labour Organization (ILO), has officially launched the Practical Employers’ Guide on the Employment Laws of Sierra Leone and trained companies on the country’s key employment regulations. The two-day workshop took place from 21st to 22nd October 2025 at the Family Kingdom Resort in Aberdeen, Freetown.

The event brought together representatives from Government institutions, the private sector and workers’ organizations to enhance understanding and compliance with Sierra Leone’s reformed labour laws. The guide, finalized in December 2024, simplifies and consolidates key employment legislation, including the Employment Act 2023, Work Permit Law and the Overseas and Migrant Workers Law, to support employers in practical implementation and legal compliance.

SLEF, the national employers’ and business membership organization, has been instrumental in promoting social dialogue, industrial peace and sound labour relations through partnerships with institutions such as the Chamber of Commerce, the Sierra Leone Labour Congress and the Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security.

Speaking at the opening, ILO Country Manager, Vanessa Phala, praised the Sierra Leone Employers Federation for its leadership in modernizing the country’s labour environment and fostering inclusive growth. She described the guide as a “strategic instrument for conflict prevention,” providing user-friendly explanations of employment laws to help build trust, reduce misunderstandings and promote harmonious industrial relations.

Vanessa Phala emphasized that the guide not only clarifies legal obligations but also supports good governance and productivity. “A stable, rules-based work environment boosts competitiveness,” she said, adding that the publication advances social dialogue and collective bargaining, both essential for reconciling worker and employer interests.

She reaffirmed the ILO’s commitment to supporting Sierra Leone’s social partners in promoting decent work, urging participants to “take ownership of the guide and collaborate for broad dissemination.”

SLEF Chairman Amb. Kobi Walker described the launch as the beginning of “a new era of understanding, compliance and cooperation in the world of work.” He said that laws only have meaning when those who apply them understand them, adding, “Ignorance is not an excuse; knowledge is power.”

He commended the ILO’s Bureau for Employers’ Activities for its support in developing the guide and emphasized that compliance should be viewed as an investment rather than a burden. “Compliance builds trust, prevents disputes and boosts productivity,” he stated.

Kobi Walker also noted that the guide would help employers translate complex legal requirements into day-to-day practice, supporting workplace fairness and industrial harmony. “This workshop marks a turning point toward a more formal, compliant and cooperative private sector that advances decent work and national progress,” he added.

Vice President of the Sierra Leone Labour Congress, Sarah Thomas-Kamara, highlighted that the new Employment Act 2023 consolidates and modernizes the country’s labour and employment laws, reducing legal uncertainty and promoting equal opportunity across sectors.

She said the Act protects workers’ rights, clarifies employer obligations and strengthens collective bargaining and union recognition. “The law brings greater clarity for employers, reducing risks and improving productivity,” she stated.

Sarah Thomas-Kamara stressed that both employers and workers stand to benefit from the reforms but success depends on “effective implementation, worker awareness and employer cooperation.” She called for regular dialogue and joint training initiatives to maximize the benefits of the new legal framework.

Delivering the keynote address, Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security, Mohamed Rahman Swaray, officially launched the guide, describing it as a vital tool to address the widespread lack of awareness about employment laws among HR professionals and business leaders.

He commended SLEF for taking the initiative to bridge the knowledge gap and challenged unions to improve worker education. “Leadership is about responsibility, not titles,” he said, urging unions to account for their resources by investing in training and awareness for their members.

Mohamed Rahman Swaray expressed concern that few workplaces comply with the requirement to establish separate end-of-service benefit accounts as mandated by the 2023 Employment Act. He warned employers that the Ministry of Labour will strengthen enforcement and ensure accountability.

He also announced that the work permit system will become fully digital by January 1, 2026, with updated fees and processes designed to improve transparency and align with regional standards.

“The guide is a high-quality, user-friendly resource produced by experts who understand the local context,” the Minister said. “Employers should read it carefully, put the phone and WhatsApp aside and use it to improve compliance and fair practice.”

Mohamed Rahman Swaray underscored that while Sierra Leone has received international praise for reforming its labour laws, the real challenge lies in effective implementation. “Government cannot do it alone,” he said. “Compliance and enforcement depend on cooperation from those in the workplaces where officials rarely reach.”

He concluded by emphasizing that a well-informed private sector is essential for decent work, fair treatment and sustainable national development.

The two-day workshop featured in-person facilitation by a national consultant and online input from ILO specialists based in Dakar. It offered employers and HR professionals the opportunity to deepen their understanding of new laws and strengthen institutional compliance systems.

The launch of the Practical Employers’ Guide on the Employment Laws of Sierra Leone marks a milestone in the country’s efforts to build a modern, equitable and transparent labour market, one where both employers and employees operate with knowledge, fairness and mutual respect.

Journalist Alex Lawrence Koroma Appeals to President Bio Over Angola Town Demolition

October 22, 2025

By Ibrahim Sesay

Another year has passed without any resolution to the dispute surrounding the demolition of homes at Angola Town by the Ministry of Lands, a move that continues to cause frustration and distress among affected residents. Among those whose properties were demolished is prominent journalist, Alex Lawrence Koroma, former producer at Radio Democracy (98.1FM), Managing Editor of The Drone Newspaper and Managing Partner of Liberty Online TV.

According to the affected landowners, the Ministry of Lands carried out the demolition exercise without prior notification or a valid court order. They revealed that at no point were they invited or engaged by the Ministry to discuss the legality of their land ownership or to present documents proving their claims. The residents maintain that they acted in good faith, having acquired and developed their properties through legitimate means and were blindsided by the demolition.

Efforts to seek redress have so far yielded no tangible results. The aggrieved parties disclosed that they have taken their case to the Ministry and subsequently petitioned the Parliamentary Committee on Lands, but have yet to receive any feedback on the findings of the committee’s investigation. Nearly two years since the incident, there has been no official communication or indication of progress, leaving the victims in a state of uncertainty and despair.

The landowners have now appealed directly to President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, expressing hope that his intervention could bring long-overdue justice. They cited the President’s recent assurance of his Government’s commitment to ensuring that citizens enjoy their rights to land ownership without undue interference. Many of the victims, including ,Alex Lawrence Koroma, believe that President Bio’s “talk and do” leadership style gives them renewed confidence that their grievances will be heard and addressed fairly.

The affected individuals lamented that they had invested their life savings in constructing their homes, only to see them demolished without due process. They described the incident as a violation of their fundamental rights to property and dignity, urging the Government to take swift action to rectify what they view as an injustice.

Human rights campaigners have echoed those concerns, arguing that the Ministry’s actions undermine the principles of fairness, accountability and respect for the rule of law. They contend that depriving citizens of their land to benefit foreign investors without proper legal procedures represents a blatant abuse of authority and a serious breach of human rights.

The activists further emphasized that this issue serves as a critical test of the Government’s commitment to protecting its citizens and upholding justice. They insist that the investments made by the affected families to secure shelter for themselves and their children must not be rendered meaningless through arbitrary administrative actions. According to them, how this matter is handled will demonstrate whether President Bio’s administration is truly dedicated to safeguarding the rights of ordinary Sierra Leoneans or if previous promises of justice and reform were mere political rhetoric.

For now, the residents of Angola Town continue to live with the pain of their losses, waiting for a decisive response from the nation’s leadership; one that will restore their confidence in justice and reaffirm their right to own land without fear of dispossession.

UNGA Resolution 2758 and the One-China Principle Brooks No Challenge

October 20, 2025

By H.E. Wang Qing, Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone

The one-China principle, enshrined in the UNGA Resolution 2758, is a basic norm in international relations and a prevailing international consensus. It is where the arc of history bends and global opinion trends. However, recently some certain countries have colluded with the the authorities in Taiwan, maliciously misinterpreting UNGA Resolution 2758 and spread fallacies such as ‘Taiwan’s status is undetermined’, which is a blatant challenge to the principles and purposes of the United Nations Charter and the post-WWII international order. To clarify historical facts and set the record straight, I wish to share the truths concerning the Taiwan question with our Sierra Leonean friends.

Taiwan has belonged to China since ancient times. In 1894, Japan launched a war of aggression against China and forced the Qing Dynasty to cede Taiwan to Japan, which resulting in the Japanese occupation of Taiwan for half a century. In the World War II, the Cairo Declaration issued in 1943 and Potsdam Proclamation published in 1945, both explicitly stipulated that territories stolen by Japan, including Taiwan and the Penghu Islands, should be restored to China. In September 1945，Japan signed the instrument of surrender and then China resumed the exercise of sovereignty over Taiwan. Taiwan’s restoration to China is the outcome of the victory of WWII and an integral part of the post-war international order.

On October 1, 1949, the People’s Republic of China (PRC) was founded, becoming the successor to the Republic of China (1912-1949). The new government of PRC replaced the previous KMT regime in a situation where China, as a subject under international law, did not change. As a result of the civil war and the interference of external forces, the two sides of the Taiwan Straits have fallen into a state of protracted political confrontation. But the sovereignty and territory of China have never been divided and will never be divided, and Taiwan’s status as part of China’s territory has never changed and will never be allowed to change.

In October 1971, at the 26th session of the U.N. General Assembly, UNGA Resolution 2758 was adopted, which “decides to restore all its rights to the People’s Republic of China and to recognize the representatives of its Government as the only legitimate representatives of China to the United Nations, and to expel forthwith the representatives of Chiang Kai-shek from the place where they unlawfully occupy at the United Nations and in all the organizations related to it.” Once and for all, UNGA Resolution 2758 resolved, politically, legally and procedurally, the issue of the representation of the whole of China, including Taiwan, at the UN. It also made it clear that there can only be one seat representing China at the UN. No issues exist about so-called “two Chinas” or “one China, one Taiwan”. After the adoption of UNGA Resolution 2758, all official U.N. documents referred to Taiwan as “Taiwan, Province of China.” It was clearly stated in the official legal opinions of the Office of Legal Affairs of the U.N. Secretariat that “the United Nations considers ‘Taiwan’ as a province of China with no separate status” and the “‘authorities’ in ‘Taipei’ are not considered to enjoy any form of government status.”

UNGA Resolution 2758 stands as a testament to the authority and impartiality of the United Nations and represents the prevailing international consensus on the Taiwan question. Observing the UNGA resolution and adhering to the one-China principle is the serious political commitment and obligation under international law that all UN members must follow. However, some certain countries recently have been blatantly turning back the wheel of history by deliberately distorting UNGA Resolution 2758, emboldening and supporting “Taiwan independence” separatist activities, spreading fallacies such as ‘Taiwan’s status is undetermined’, to serve its pernicious purpose of containing China. These actions undermine China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as international justice and rule of law. Their attempts will lead nowhere.

Sierra Leone is one of the co-sponsor countries of UNGA Resolution 2758 and made special contributions to its adoption. Over the 54 years since the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Sierra Leone, the Sierra Leonean side has consistently and resolutely upheld the one-China principle and supported China in its just cause of national reunification. I would like to express great appreciation. Currently, both China and Sierra Leone serve as members of the UN Security Council, bearing important responsibilities of upholding international peace and security, as well as safeguarding the authority of United Nations and General Assembly resolutions. China stands ready to work with Sierra Leone to uphold the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, defend international equity and justice, and jointly promote global peace, security and prosperity.

AfDB Approves $500 Million Plan to Boost Sierra Leone’s Inclusive Growth and Economic Resilience

October 20, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Board of Directors of the African Development Bank Group (AfDB) has approved a new five-year Country Strategy Paper (CSP) for Sierra Leone for 2025–2030, committing approximately $500 million to promote sustainable economic growth, strengthen resilience to fragility and foster inclusive development.

The strategy focuses on two central priorities, developing sustainable infrastructure to enhance private sector competitiveness and supporting agricultural value-chain development to drive job creation and food security. Those objectives directly tackle Sierra Leone’s core development challenges, including infrastructure deficits, limited private sector growth and vulnerability to climate change.

With total projected financing of $2.1 billion, including contributions from development partners, the CSP is aligned with the Government’s Medium-Term National Development Plan (2021–2025) and Vision 2030, which aim to transform Sierra Leone into a middle-income economy.

Under the CSP, flagship infrastructure projects will expand renewable energy generation, targeting an increase in electricity access from 41% in 2024 to 60% by 2030. The Bank will also support the upgrading of climate-resilient road networks and improvements in water and sanitation systems, expected to provide 1.2 million additional people with access to safe drinking water.

The agricultural component emphasizes agro-industrial transformation aimed at reducing food import dependency, currently around 70% for staple crops like rice and creating over 500,000 jobs, particularly for women and youth. Support will be extended to Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) to strengthen local production and enhance value addition.

Sierra Leone’s economy, which has maintained an average GDP growth of 6.7% from 2020 to 2024 driven by agriculture and services, stands to gain further momentum under this new initiative. The strategy builds on AfDB’s ongoing portfolio of 10 projects worth $150 million, which have already improved connectivity and energy access nationwide.

“This strategy represents a bold step toward building a resilient and inclusive economy in Sierra Leone,” said Halima Hashi, AfDB Country Manager for Sierra Leone. “By investing in sustainable infrastructure and agriculture we are empowering communities, creating jobs and supporting Sierra Leone’s vision for transformative growth.”

The CSP integrates programs such as the Bank’s Affirmative Finance Action for Women in Africa (AFAWA), which will provide financing and capacity-building for women-led agribusinesses. It also promotes the use of digital tools to improve supply chain efficiency and market access in the agricultural sector.

Cross-cutting themes within the strategy include climate change mitigation, gender equality and youth empowerment. The plan promotes renewable energy investments and climate-smart agriculture to reduce the country’s carbon footprint and minimize the effects of floods and droughts.

Implementation will commence immediately, with coordination among Government institutions, the private sector and Civil Society to ensure effective delivery and alignment with national priorities. Environmental and social safeguards will guarantee compliance with national laws, including Sierra Leone’s 2022 Environmental Protection Act.

Through this landmark $500 million strategy, the AfDB aims to address the structural causes of fragility and inequality in Sierra Leone; laying the foundation for sustainable, inclusive and transformative growth over the next decade.

Hon. Chericoco Inspires Young Girls at 10th National Girls’ Empowerment Summit

October 20, 2025

By Alpha Sesay

The 10th Annual National Girls’ Empowerment Forum Summit, organized by Kids Advocacy Network, convened hundreds of girls, educators and youth advocates at the Sierra Leone Parliament to celebrate a decade of empowering young women and advancing gender equality in Sierra Leone.

The week-long summit, held from October 10 to 14, 2025, was themed: “The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead: Girls on the Frontline in Ending Sexual and Gender-Based Violence and Promoting Inclusive Governance.” It provided a platform for girls to express themselves, build leadership skills and engage with policymakers on issues affecting their development.

Serving as Guest Lecturer, Hon. Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah (Hon. Chericoco), a distinguished lawmaker, former Deputy Speaker of Parliament and three-term Member of Parliament, delivered an inspirational lecture on “Leadership and Self-Confidence.” He urged young girls to embrace courage, integrity and self-belief as powerful tools for driving change and contributing meaningfully to national development.

Hon. Chericoco praised the Kids Advocacy Network for its ten years of impactful work in promoting girls’ rights and providing platforms for youth empowerment. He described the forum as “a vital space where girls are seen, heard and prepared to lead with confidence and compassion.”

“A girl who speaks up for her friend, organizes her peers for community action or refuses to stay silent in the face of injustice is already a leader,” he said. “Leadership is about influence, courage and integrity; not perfection.”

He emphasized that leadership begins with self-confidence, describing it as the cornerstone of personal and social transformation. Citing leadership researcher Ruth Axelrod, he explained confidence as “an individual’s level of certainty about their ability to handle things.” Hon. Chericoco encouraged participants to cultivate resilience, confront challenges with courage and believe in their abilities to make positive change.

“Confidence is not the absence of fear,” he added. “It is acting despite fear, guided by your values and vision. When you rise, Sierra Leone rises with you.”

Addressing the persistent challenges facing girls, such as early marriage, teenage pregnancy, and gender-based violence, the Honourable called for stronger community engagement and Government commitment to ensuring that every girl has access to education and leadership opportunities.

“Our nation cannot progress if half of its people are silenced,” he declared. “When girls are denied education, Sierra Leone loses half of its potential.”

As the National Girls’ Empowerment Forum marked its tenth anniversary, Hon. Chericoco urged participants to continue leading change in their communities and schools, further stressing that leadership is not defined by gender, but by confidence and action.

“Confidence, not gender, defines leadership,” he concluded. “Girls of Sierra Leone, you are not just the leaders of tomorrow, you are leaders today.”

The Kids Advocacy Network reaffirmed its commitment to supporting girls across Sierra Leone through mentorship, education and advocacy programs. The summit continues to stand as a beacon of hope, inspiring a new generation of young women to rise as confident, compassionate and capable leaders shaping the nation’s future.

Dr. Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella Urges Bipartisan Support for Sierra Leone’s Energy Future

October 20, 2025

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

In what has been described as a defining moment of political maturity and national unity, Hon. Dr. Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella, Energy Sector Lead and Chair of the Presidential Initiative on Climate Change, Renewable Energy and Food Security (PI-CREF), delivered a powerful address to Members of Parliament on Thursday, October 15, 2025 at the House of Parliament on OAU Drive.

The briefing, held at the official invitation of Speaker Hon. Sengepoh Thomas, focused on Sierra Leone’s energy landscape but evolved into a profound appeal for collective ownership of the nation’s development agenda. Welcoming Hon. Dr. Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella, the Speaker described him as “a statesman and a unifying voice whose service transcends party politics.”

In his address, Hon. Dr. Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella emphasized that energy projects must be treated as national assets, not political trophies. “Energy projects should always be seen as national projects,” he declared. “They belong to the people of Sierra Leone. Every party, every representative, must own them and ensure their sustainability beyond political transitions.”

His message drew admiration from both sides of the political divide. Hon. Dr. Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella extended gratitude to his colleagues in the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) and the opposition All People’s Congress (APC), stressing that progress in energy transformation requires unity, humility and shared responsibility.

In a striking display of humility, he also acknowledged the contributions of his predecessors in the energy sector, describing their work as foundational to the achievements being realized today. “Our development journey depends on continuity, collaboration and respect for those who came before us,” he said.

Observers in the gallery noted the atmosphere as one of rare bipartisan consensus. Many lawmakers were seen nodding in agreement, describing the session as a “masterclass in statesmanship.”

Hon. Dr. Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella further revealed that President Julius Maada Bio remains committed to inclusive governance, noting, “When commissioning energy projects, the President will take the Leader of the Opposition and other Members of Parliament along.” That, he explained, symbolizes national ownership and inclusivity in the country’s pursuit of reliable, affordable and sustainable energy for all.

The session ended with a standing ovation, as Parliamentarians applauded Hon. Dr. Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella for his integrity, expertise and unifying leadership. The Speaker thanked him for his invaluable insights, describing his engagement as a “historic moment of cross-party respect.”

Sierra Leone’s ongoing journey toward energy stability and economic transformation is powerfully reflected in Hon. Dr. Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella’s address ; a timeless reminder that true leadership rises above politics, grounded in vision, humility and a collective dedication to national progress.