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Amnesty International Sierra Leone Trains Youth on Advocacy and Leadership

By Ibrahim Sesay

Amnesty International Sierra Leone (AISL) has launched a two-day youth empowerment and capacity-building training aimed at enhancing the advocacy and leadership skills of young people across the country. The training, which began on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at the AISL National Secretariat in Freetown, is being held under the theme: “From Knowledge to Action: Strengthening Youth Voices for Social and Environmental Change.”

In his opening address, Solomon M. Sogbandi, Executive Director of AISL, emphasized the importance of building the capacity of youth members to effectively address pressing social issues such as drug abuse, cyber security, gender equality and climate change.

“We believe that if you don’t empower your membership, they would not be able to know the issues and address them adequately,” Solomon M. Sogbandi noted. “The membership is the strength of the institution, so it’s our duty to train them to understand the issues and engage stakeholders at community, school or national levels.”

Solomon M. Sogbandi further highlighted that Amnesty International’s revised global strategy places stronger emphasis on youth engagement, describing young people as “key drivers of social transformation.” He encouraged participants to view themselves as leaders of today rather than the future, adding, “We have to look at what they can do now and how they can prepare themselves for leadership roles.”

Also speaking at the event, Jaiah Kaikai, Campaigns and Growth Officer at AISL, said the participants were selected from all regions of Sierra Leone to ensure inclusivity and representation.

“We have youth members drawn from the East, North South, and Western regions,” Jaiah Kaikai explained. “Amnesty International is a movement organization with a broad youth base and this training brings them together to strengthen their advocacy skills.”

He added that the goal of the program is to prepare participants to act as ambassadors in their respective communities, raising awareness on key national issues. “The youth constitute the bulk of this country’s population and using them as forerunners for advocacy could be the most effective approach,” he stressed.

The first day of the training featured a presentation by legal practitioner Christian M. B. Amara, who discussed the Cyber Security and Crime Act. He highlighted key components of the legislation, including legal safeguards, institutional frameworks and penalties for violations.

Participants expressed deep satisfaction with the day’s sessions, describing them as both practical and inspiring.

“I’ve learned that advocacy is not just about talking but about taking action and engaging the right stakeholders,” said Jeneba Kamara, a youth representative from the Eastern Region. “I’m now more confident to lead awareness efforts in my community, especially on drug abuse and women’s empowerment.”

Another participant, Issa Kanu, praised Amnesty International for its continued commitment to youth development, noting that such initiatives create opportunities for young leaders to influence positive change.

The training continued on Friday with sessions on Sierra Leone’s recent gender laws and related policy frameworks aimed at promoting equality and inclusion.

MCC 2026 Scorecard: Sierra Leone Records 71% in Anti-Corruption, 84% in Accountability

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Sierra Leone has once again demonstrated its firm commitment to integrity and good governance by maintaining an impressive performance in the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Scorecard. According to a press release issued by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) on Thursday, 13th November 2025, the country scored 71 percent (71%) in the “Control of Corruption” indicator, marking its eighth consecutive year of excellence since 2018.

The latest MCC Scorecard, which was released on Wednesday, 12th November 2025, introduced a new “Government Accountability” indicator. Sierra Leone also excelled in this area, securing an outstanding 84 percent (84%); a testament to the nation’s consistent progress in strengthening transparency and institutional accountability.

A complementary press release from the Sierra Leone Compact Development Unit dated 12th November 2025 confirmed that “Sierra Leone’s $480 million Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Compact remains firmly on track as the FY2026 Scorecard introduces new indicators and benchmarks to reflect evolving U.S. Government priorities.”

Commenting on the country’s stellar performance, ACC Commissioner Francis Ben Kaifala Esq. expressed immense satisfaction with Sierra Leone’s continued success:
“From a failed score of 49 percent in 2017, it is truly heartening and satisfying to see that the MCC Scorecard continues to reflect the outstanding work we have been doing for the past eight years to combat corruption. His Excellency, President Brigadier (Rtd.) Dr. Julius Maada Bio is the pioneer of these gains and I remain inspired by his strong Presidential Will in leading this national anti-corruption campaign. Our pledge is to continue working hard to instill integrity, accountability and transparency in the governance architecture of Sierra Leone, ensuring that the corrupt are held accountable.”

Regionally, Sierra Leone’s performance stands out within the Mano River Union and beyond. The country outperformed Guinea (53%) and Liberia (56%), as well as regional peers such as Nigeria (64%) and Kenya (42%) further solidifying its reputation as a leader in anti-corruption reforms in Africa.

The ACC reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining this trajectory of integrity and transparency, assuring citizens that it will remain resolute in its mission to combat corruption and uphold the public trust.

Sierra Leone Meets All 2026 Hajj Standards, Earns Commendation from Saudi Authorities

Sierra Leone has earned international commendation following its outstanding performance at the 5th Hajj Conference and Exhibition hosted by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah Affairs under the theme: “From Makkah to the World.” The prestigious four-day event, held at the Jeddah Superdome, brought together over 150 countries, featuring 143 dialogue sessions and workshops aimed at improving the global Hajj experience through innovation and collaboration.

The annual conference served as a vital platform for policymakers, scholars and Hajj administrators to discuss emerging trends in travel management, health and safety, hospitality and digital transformation across the pilgrimage sector.

During the contracting session, Sierra Leone was recognized for meeting the 2026 Hajj operational benchmarks, securing an allocation of 3,500 pilgrim slots for the upcoming season. The Adviser to the Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dr. Badr Muhammad Al Solami, lauded Sierra Leone’s remarkable progress, applauding the leadership and coordination of Alhaji Murtada Sesay, Chairman of the Presidential Taskforce on Hajj and His Excellency Mohammed Barrie, Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia.

Dr. Al Solami emphasized that Sierra Leone’s approach to Hajj organization exemplified excellence in planning, discipline and service delivery, urging other countries to emulate its model. His remarks drew wide applause from delegates and participants attending the high-level event.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, His Excellency Abdulfattah bin Suleiman Mashat, Saudi Arabia’s Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah, highlighted the achievements of the conference, including the unveiling of key initiatives aimed at improving coordination and efficiency in future Hajj operations. He also underscored the value of cross-sector collaboration in transportation, digital innovation, healthcare and hospitality management.

Sierra Leone’s recognition at this global forum underscores its unwavering commitment to improving the welfare and safety of its pilgrims while enhancing the credibility of its Hajj administration. The success also reflects the Government’s broader dedication to ensuring that Sierra Leone’s pilgrims experience a seamless and spiritually fulfilling journey to the Holy Land in 2026.

The 5th Hajj Conference and Exhibition reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s continued leadership in coordinating the world’s largest religious gathering while highlighting Sierra Leone’s rising reputation as a well-organized and respected Hajj-participating nation.

Cyprus President Hails President Bio’s Global Leadership, Strengthens Ties with Sierra Leone

President Bio shaking hands with the President of Cyprus

His Excellency Nikos Christodoulides, President of the Republic of Cyprus, has lauded Sierra Leone’s President, His Excellency Julius Maada Bio, for his exemplary leadership at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and as Chairperson of the ECOWAS Authority. President Nikos Christodoulides reaffirmed his country’s commitment to strengthening bilateral and multilateral ties with Sierra Leone during a high-level meeting held on Thursday, 13th November 2025, in Nicosia, Cyprus.

The occasion marked a historic milestone the first-ever official visit of a sitting Sierra Leonean Head of State to Cyprus. President Nikos Christodoulides emphasized the shared historical legacy of both nations as former British colonies and underscored the importance of expanding cooperation into new strategic sectors.

He noted that while relations between Cyprus and Sierra Leone have remained cordial over the years, this visit signals a new era of enhanced collaboration in agriculture, fisheries, education, maritime affairs, cybersecurity and private sector investment. He also briefed President Bio on Cyprus’ upcoming six-month rotating Presidency of the Council of the European Union, beginning January 2026, pledging to leverage the position to deepen engagement between the EU, Sierra Leone and ECOWAS.

In his response, President Bio expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality accorded to him and his delegation, describing the visit as both “strategic and symbolic.” He commended the Government of Cyprus for awarding scholarships to Sierra Leonean students in 2022 and expressed hope for expanding such educational partnerships. The Sierra Leonean leader also presented his Government’s “Big Five Game Changers” agenda, outlining priority areas such as food security, human capital development, youth employment, technological advancement and public sector reform.

During the visit, three Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were signed between the two nations. Sierra Leone’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Alhaji Musa Timothy Kabba, and Cyprus’ Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, Dr. Maria Panayiotou, represented their respective Governments during the signing ceremony.

President Bio later paid a courtesy visit to the Municipality of Nicosia, where he was received by Mayor Charalambos Prountzos and also visited the Cypriot House of Representatives, where he met with Ms. Annita Demetriou, the President of the House.

This landmark diplomatic engagement further cements Sierra Leone’s growing global partnerships under President Bio’s leadership and holds significant promise for enhanced cooperation between Africa and Europe, particularly as Cyprus assumes its pivotal EU Presidency role in 2026.

SLCAA Shuts Down Unlicensed Air Ticketing Agency in Freetown

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) has announced the closure of Urban Travel and Tours, an air ticketing agency operating without a valid license. The enforcement action took place on Wednesday, 12th November 2025, at the agency’s office located at 1 Back Street, Freetown.

According to the SLCAA, the operation was conducted in line with the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Act 2023, Section 15, which mandates the Authority to implement and enforce aviation regulations and to certify and regulate all air travel agencies operating within the country.

In its official statement, the SLCAA emphasized that Urban Travel and Tours was not duly licensed to offer air ticketing services, thereby violating national aviation regulations and international obligations under the Chicago Convention.

“The Authority shall be responsible for civil aviation in Sierra Leone and the implementation and enforcement of this Act and regulations made under it,” the statement read. It further highlighted that the SLCAA reserves the right to “certify and regulate air travel agencies.”

The Authority has strongly cautioned the public to refrain from conducting any business or official transaction with Urban Travel and Tours in relation to air ticketing services.

Reiterating its commitment to maintaining safety and integrity in the country’s aviation sector, the SLCAA assured the public that it will continue to ensure all aviation-related services operate in full compliance with established laws and standards.

ECSL Validates Electoral Inclusion Policy: NCPD, Youth Ministry & Partners Champion Equal Participation

By Ibrahim Sesay

The Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) on Thursday, 13th November 2025, held a validation session for its Electoral Inclusion Policy; a milestone initiative aimed at ensuring that all citizens, including Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), enjoy full and unhindered participation in the country’s democratic processes. The event brought together key stakeholders, including the National Commission for Persons with Disability (NCPD), the Ministry of Youth Affairs and the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA).

Chairman of the NCPD, Brima Abdulai Sheriff, in his keynote remarks, urged ECSL to go beyond symbolic gestures and create an environment that truly enables PWDs to exercise their franchise freely. He emphasized that accessibility in politics extends beyond physical structures like ramps and braille to include “open minds, inclusive systems and leadership opportunities.”

“Inclusion is not about asking for favors; it is about ensuring justice, equality, and good governance. Policies that exclude PWDs are not merely incomplete but unjust,” Brima Abdulai Sheriff asserted. He further noted that “true inclusion begins when policies see ability before disability and potential before limitation,” adding that “the true measure of a nation’s strength is not how it treats the powerful but how it empowers the excluded.”

He explained that the NCPD operates under its PRIDE Strategy, Policy, Resilience, Inclusion, Innovation, Dignity and Empowerment, to effectively deliver its mandate. Brima Abdulai Sheriff called on ECSL to ensure that the Electoral Inclusion Policy becomes a “living promise” translated into action through accessible voter education, barrier-free polling centers and equitable political representation. He pledged NCPD’s technical support to ECSL and commended International IDEA for its partnership in developing the policy.

ECSL’s Western Region Commissioner, Zainab Humu Moseray, stated that the validation exercise marked a critical step toward making Sierra Leone’s electoral processes more inclusive and equitable. “The purpose of this policy is to promote equal participation, representation and accessibility for all citizens, regardless of disability status,” she said.

Commissioner Zainab Humu Moseray reiterated ECSL’s commitment to guaranteeing equal rights and opportunities for women, youth, the elderly and persons with disabilities. “At ECSL, we believe inclusion is not just a principle; it is a promise; a promise that every voice counts, every vote matters and every citizen deserves an equal opportunity to shape our nation’s future,” she emphasized.

She highlighted that the policy aims to make elections more accessible through voter education in inclusive formats, improved polling station designs and assistive technologies. “Inclusion for PWDs strengthens our democracy and ensures that no one is left behind,” she concluded.

Minister of Youth Affairs, Ibrahim Sannoh, lauded ECSL and International IDEA for spearheading a transformative policy that prioritizes both youth and PWDs. “Young people constitute the largest segment of Sierra Leone’s population and their involvement in our democratic processes is essential and undeniable,” he said.

He acknowledged ongoing frustrations among youth regarding their perceived limited political participation but encouraged continuous dialogue to bridge the gap. “We must open honest and sustained dialogue with young people to shift attitudes away from violence toward peaceful participation,” Ibrahim Sannoh advised.

Drawing an analogy, the Minister urged youths to approach elections like football matches: “If your team doesn’t win, support the winning team and work together for the nation’s development,” he concluded.

The validation of ECSL’s Electoral Inclusion Policy represents a significant stride toward ensuring that every Sierra Leonean, regardless of physical ability, age or gender, has an equal opportunity to participate meaningfully in the democratic process.

SLAJ Strengthens Diplomatic Ties with Indian High Commission

SLAJ President, Alhaji Manika Kamara (right) shaking hands with the Indian High Commissioner after a strategic meeting

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The National Executive of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) on Thursday, 13th November 2025, paid a courtesy call on the Indian High Commissioner to Sierra Leone, His Excellency Baisnab Charan Pradhan as part of the Association’s commitment to fostering strong partnerships with the diplomatic community.

Welcoming the delegation at the Indian High Commission, Ambassador Baisnab Charan Pradhan commended the role of the media in Sierra Leone, noting that the country has demonstrated commendable progress in upholding responsible and ethical journalism compared to many others. He expressed appreciation for the constructive engagement of journalists in national development and reaffirmed India’s readiness to continue supporting Sierra Leone’s socio-economic transformation.

Highlighting India’s longstanding relationship with Sierra Leone, the Ambassador recalled that several Sierra Leonean journalists have benefited from various study programs and professional training opportunities in India. He underscored that India remains a key development partner through investment, technology transfer and education.

Ambassador Baisnab Charan Pradhan disclosed that more Indian investors are expected in Sierra Leone to establish manufacturing companies that would create jobs and contribute significantly to the national economy. He cited examples of Indian-owned enterprises already producing quality building and household materials, including a recently established iron ore and roofing zinc factory and noted that another company is preparing to supply energy to the national grid. According to him, Sierra Leone’s peace and political stability remain strong incentives for further Indian investment.

In his remarks, SLAJ President, Alhaji Manika Kamara, thanked the High Commissioner for India’s continuous partnership and support. He described the relationship between SLAJ and the Indian High Commission as mutually beneficial and instrumental to media development in Sierra Leone.

He pointed out that the media sector urgently requires capacity building, particularly in digital reporting, investigative journalism, fact-checking and new media technologies. Alhaji Manika Kamara clarified that SLAJ is not a mouthpiece for the Government or the Opposition but a credible development partner dedicated to training journalists to deliver accurate and timely information to the public.

The SLAJ President appealed to the Ambassador to encourage Indian investors to explore opportunities in the media sector, such as investments in printing materials, broadcast equipment and digital platforms. He also called for more training opportunities for journalists in India to strengthen professionalism and promote media literacy.

Responding, Ambassador Baisnab Charan Pradhan expressed India’s willingness to support media exchange initiatives and journalism training programs. He encouraged SLAJ to submit a well-developed project proposal highlighting key areas for collaboration.

The visit, beyond being a diplomatic courtesy, marked a renewed commitment to deepening cooperation between the media and India’s diplomatic mission. Both sides reaffirmed their dedication to strengthening mutual understanding, promoting professional growth and fostering ethical journalism in Sierra Leone.

SLAJ executive together with Indian High Commissioner

NP (SL): The Indigenous Powerhouse Transforming Sierra Leone’s Downstream Petroleum Industry

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

NP (SL) Limited, Sierra Leone’s leading and wholly indigenous downstream petroleum company, continues to position itself as a cornerstone of national development through sustained innovation, exceptional service delivery and a strong commitment to safety and environmental responsibility. With a heritage spanning more than 70 years, the company has evolved into one of West Africa’s most trusted and professionally managed energy providers.

Founded in 1954 as the Atlantic West African Oil Company, the company later transitioned into British Petroleum Sierra Leone and subsequently into the Sierra Leone National Petroleum Company following significant Government ownership in 1984. Its full indigenization came in 1996 when the Government of Sierra Leone privatized its shareholding, paving the way for a new chapter driven by Sierra Leonean expertise, entrepreneurship and corporate leadership. This milestone set the foundation for the company’s rebranding in February 2011 to its current identity; NP (SL) Limited.

Today, NP (SL) operates under the leadership of Dr. Mohamed S. Kanu. Guided by its timeless slogan, “NP – Your Partner for Life,” the company has built an unmatched reputation anchored on reliability, quality service and customer-oriented solutions.

NP (SL) continues to deliver a wide range of petroleum products and energy solutions essential to the country’s socio-economic growth. These include gasoline, diesel, high-grade lubricants such as BP and Castrol and the increasingly popular NP Gas, a safe, environmentally certified Liquefied Petroleum Gas widely adopted by households and businesses. NP Gas has successfully contributed to cleaner energy use, reduced deforestation and improved kitchen safety in homes nationwide.

The company also leads the digital transformation of fuel payment systems through the NP Smart Card; a secure, cashless and transparent payment platform that enhances accountability and convenience. This innovative service has modernized fuel transactions and significantly improved customer experience across NP Filling Stations.

NP (SL) is one of the few companies in Sierra Leone to be certified under three international ISO standards:

  • ISO 9001 (Quality Management)
  • ISO 14001 (Environmental Management)
  • ISO 45001 (Occupational Health and Safety)

These certifications reflect the company’s rigorous adherence to global best practices and its commitment to quality service, environmental protection and a safe working environment for staff and customers.

Given the nature of petroleum products, NP (SL) prioritizes fire prevention and safety across all operational sites. The company has consistently supported the National Fire Force with essential infrastructure, including bore wells and standby generators, reinforcing national emergency preparedness and disaster management capacity.

NP (SL)’s remarkable growth has extended beyond Sierra Leone’s borders, with successful operations in Liberia, Guinea, Côte d’Ivoire and The Gambia. Across those countries, NP maintains a strict Local Content policy, ensuring that its workforce is made up entirely of nationals from each country of operation; promoting employment, skills transfer and economic empowerment.

Through expanded service coverage, NP (SL) has brought petroleum products closer to communities previously underserved, significantly reducing energy poverty while boosting trade, transportation and job creation. Its dedication to customer care has earned the company recognition as Sierra Leone’s Number One Customer Care Leader in the petroleum sector.

With its strong operational discipline, innovative services and commitment to national progress, NP (SL) continues to embody the vision set by its founders. Sierra Leone’s journey toward a more modern and resilient energy future continues to unfold and NP (SL) stands firmly at the center of that progress. The company remains a reliable national asset and a trusted partner, consistently living up to its promise as “Your Partner for Life.”

ICPNC, SLPP Hold Strategic Dialogue to De-escalate Political Tensions

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC) on Thursday, 13th November 2025, convened a high-level engagement with the leadership of the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) as part of its ongoing national peacebuilding and political dialogue efforts. The meeting was held at the Ministry of Defence Conference Room at 1:00 p.m.

The SLPP delegation was led by National Chairman, Jimmy Batilo Songa and National Secretary General Paran Umar Tarawalie. The ICPNC team comprised Board Member Madam Nancy Smart, Executive Secretary Madam Hawa Sally Samai, Deputy Executive Secretary Moses M. Margao and Director of Conflict Prevention Salia Kpaka.

Opening the meeting, Executive Secretary, Madam Hawa Sally Samai, welcomed the SLPP delegation and described their swift response to the Commission’s invitation as a testament to the Party’s respect for national peace mechanisms. She reaffirmed the ICPNC’s commitment to collaborating closely with the new SLPP leadership, noting that political dialogue remains central to sustaining peace and cohesion.

Madam Hawa Sally Samai emphasized the Commission’s preference for mediation and constructive dialogue over press releases when addressing politically sensitive issues such as hate speech, incitement and inflammatory rhetoric. She cautioned that political statements, especially those made at public gatherings or circulated on social media, must be measured and responsible to avoid fueling instability.

“Words can heal and unify, but they can also destroy if misused,” she said, urging the ruling party to lead by example and refrain from actions or messages that could trigger political tension.

Also speaking, Board Member, Madam Nancy Smart, underscored the SLPP’s historical responsibility as Sierra Leone’s oldest political party. She reminded the leadership of its obligation to set the tone for national stability and guide its followers towards maintaining peaceful public conduct.

Responding, SLPP National Secretary General, Paran Umar Tarawalie, assured the Commission that the party remains committed to peaceful political engagement despite the challenges inherent in leadership. He noted that the SLPP continues to prepare for the 2028 electoral cycle and will maintain its focus on activities that promote stability.

Paran Umar Tarawalie clarified recent tensions surrounding a public statement by the National Chairman, stating that the remarks had been misinterpreted by the Opposition. He informed the meeting that the SLPP had already pledged to the Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC) that it would avoid any actions or utterances that could incite violence. He further recommended that the ICPNC establish a Quarterly National Political Dialogue Platform to sustain inter-party engagement.

SLPP National Chairman, Jimmy Batilo Songa, reiterated the party’s commitment to peace and the rule of law, noting that President Julius Maada Bio’s establishment of the Peace Commission underscores the importance the Government places on national cohesion. He maintained that his earlier comments had been taken out of context and accused the main opposition APC of engaging in acts that undermine state stability, including violent protests and tribal bigotry.

Jimmy Batilo Songa encouraged the ICPNC to also engage the opposition on their messaging and conduct, emphasizing the need for balanced interventions. He acknowledged existing gaps in the Party’s public relations strategy and committed to strengthening outreach, including broader dissemination of the PPRC Peace Agreement.

He called on state institutions including the ICPNC, ECSL, PPRC, ONS and the Human Rights Commission to take stronger action against political violence, warning that the SLPP may pursue legal steps if provocations persist. He concluded with a pledge to enhance responsible communication through coordinated media and social-media engagement.

The meeting closed with several recommendations aimed at promoting sustainable political cooperation and minimizing nationwide tensions:

  • Establishment of a regular inter-party dialogue platform facilitated by the ICPNC.
  • Holding similar engagements with the APC and all other registered political parties.
  • Strengthened engagement with bloggers, digital platforms and social media outlets to amplify peacebuilding messages.
  • Organization of inter-party exchange visits by the ICPNC and PPRC to enhance trust and collaboration.

The ICPNC affirmed that its engagements with political parties will continue as part of a broader national strategy to consolidate peace, promote responsible political behavior and safeguard Sierra Leone’s democratic stability.

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