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Jusu & Jusu & Tamburo Family Empowers Oba Funkia Students with School Materials

By Stephen V. Lansana

The Jusu & Jusu & Tamburo Family has reaffirmed its commitment to education by distributing school materials to nineteen (19) scholarship beneficiaries in Oba Funkia, Goderich, on Sunday, October 5, 2025. The gesture forms part of a scholarship initiative launched in April this year in memory of the late Kumba Lucinda Jusu-Jackson, who passed away on April 10, 2024, at Choithram Hospital.

The distributed items included school bags, shoes, books, pencils, pens, erasers, crayons and markers, among other essential learning materials. The initiative, according to organizers, aims to provide meaningful educational support to children within the Oba Funkia community and sustain the legacy of the late Madam Jusu-Jackson through investment in youth development.

Speaking on behalf of Sando Jusu, who resides in the United States,. Tamba Jusu-Koiyia, the youngest son of Cecilia Mamie Jusu, described the scholarship scheme as a “valuable opportunity for the children of Oba Funkia to pursue their education with pride and purpose.” He acknowledged that the distribution experienced some delays due to unforeseen logistical challenges but assured parents and beneficiaries that the family remains steadfast in fulfilling its promise.

He further clarified that the scholarship is partial and not fully funded, encouraging parents to continue supporting their children’s academic journey. “Education is a partnership between families and the community. We urge parents to play their part by ensuring their children remain dedicated, disciplined and hardworking,” he emphasized.

Stephen V. Lansana, Administrator of the scholarship program, commended the Jusu & Jusu & Tamburo Family for their sustained commitment to youth empowerment and educational advancement in the area. He announced that payment of school fees for all beneficiaries is scheduled for late October or early November, ensuring that students remain in school without disruption.

“This scholarship is not just about materials; it’s about creating a pathway for these children to achieve their dreams. The family’s commitment demonstrates that when communities come together, education thrives,” Francis Lahai Lansana noted.

Residents of Oba Funkia expressed gratitude for the continued support and described the initiative as a timely intervention that eases the financial burden on many struggling families.

The scholarship initiative, named in honor of the late Kumba Lucinda Jusu-Jackson, continues to inspire hope and educational growth in Oba Funkia, reinforcing the belief that investing in children’s education is the most powerful tribute to a life well lived.

As Part of CSR Commitment… Karpowership Invests Over $70,000 to Transform Variety Children & Family Services Home in Kingtom

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

As part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, Karpowership has officially handed over the newly renovated Variety Children and Family Services Home in Kingtom, Freetown. The ceremony took place on Friday, 10th October 2025, marking another milestone in the company’s ongoing community development efforts in Sierra Leone.

Speaking at the event, Emre Durmusoglu, Karpowership’s Commercial Operations Director, disclosed that the company invested approximately $70,000 in the renovation, which included the complete renewal of the building’s structure and facilities. He explained that every component of the orphanage, furniture, equipment and utilities, had been replaced to provide a more conducive environment for the children.

Emre Durmusoglu noted that Karpowership would continue to cover the monthly consumables of the Home through its local partner, reaffirming the company’s commitment to long-term social investment. He added that Karpowership has supported similar humanitarian projects across Africa and plans to expand its CSR footprint further. He emphasized that since beginning operations in Sierra Leone in 2018, the company has been proud to supply reliable and affordable electricity to the nation while contributing to social welfare.

Nour Hashim, Karpowership Representative, said the initiative reflects the company’s belief that true progress goes beyond providing electricity to empowering communities. He emphasized that investing in the welfare of children is an investment in the nation’s future, and Karpowership remains committed to initiatives that improve lives and strengthen hope across Sierra Leone.

Yankay Sawaneh, Karpowership’s Project Manager in Sierra Leone, highlighted that the renovation of Variety Children and Family Services aligns with the company’s “One World” vision, a philosophy of creating meaningful change in communities where the company operates. He said the refurbishment will bring new life to the orphanage and improve the living standards of the children.

The Project Manager disclosed that Karpowership’s support extends beyond infrastructure, as the company has pledged to pay school fees, supply monthly food items and sanitary materials and ensure continuous care for the children. He cited previous community engagements, including donations during the COVID-19 pandemic and annual Ramadan giveaways, as evidence of the company’s sustained dedication to social impact.

Yankay Sawaneh reiterated that Karpowership values giving back to communities as much as it values delivering power, adding that seeing the smiles of the children in their renewed home reflected the company’s purpose-driven mission.

Francis Lahai, Director of Variety Children and Family Services, commended Karpowership for its intervention, describing the renovation as timely and transformative. He explained that managing the orphanage has been financially demanding, with feeding and electricity among their major expenses. Francis Lahai disclosed that the home currently supervises over 675 children and works with more than 300 foster parents across Sierra Leone and neighboring countries, including Guinea and Liberia.

He also revealed that some of the children are now in universities, citing an Ebola orphan in her final year studying Accounting and Finance as an example of their success. However, Francis Lahai noted that space remains a major constraint and appealed for continued partnership to develop a 3.6-acre “Kids’ Village” at Kerry Town, which he said would serve as a lasting legacy for vulnerable children.

In his remarks, Burak Rende, the Turkish Ambassador to Sierra Leone, commended Karpowership for its commitment to social development, noting that the company’s CSR efforts go beyond business operations to touch the lives of Sierra Leoneans. He said the Turkish Embassy will continue to support such initiatives, particularly those undertaken in partnership with the Ministry of Energy.

Ambassador Burak Rende underscored the importance of investing in children, describing them as the future leaders of Sierra Leone’s social, economic and political spheres. He praised all stakeholders involved for their dedication to creating a better environment for vulnerable children.

The renovation of Variety Children and Family Services adds to Karpowership’s expanding portfolio of community support initiatives across Africa, reinforcing the company’s belief that sustainable development is achieved through both energy and empathy.

NRA Probes Alleged Unauthorized Clearing of Containers at Queen Elizabeth II Quay

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The National Revenue Authority (NRA) has on October 10, 2025 launched a full-scale investigation into allegations of unauthorized container clearance at the Queen Elizabeth II Quay in Freetown, an incident the institution describes as a serious breach of national revenue procedures.

In a Press Release issued by the Public Affairs and Tax Education Unit, the NRA disclosed that it received reports of a fraudulent practice involving the clearing of containers from the Cline Town port without following the proper customs process or paying the required duties and taxes. The Authority stated that the matter, which has been widely discussed on social media, has now prompted immediate administrative and legal action.

According to the release, the Commissioner-General of the NRA has ordered a comprehensive probe into the allegation and confirmed that the Authority is collaborating with relevant institutions, including the Sierra Leone Police, the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbour Authority and the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC). The aforementioned institutions will work jointly to determine the authenticity of the claims, identify those involved and ensure accountability.

The statement warned that any individual or company found culpable of evading taxes or engaging in unauthorized clearance will be compelled to repay the full amount of lost revenue, along with interest, penalties and potential criminal prosecution.

“The National Revenue Authority remains committed to generating the much-needed revenue that the Government relies on to carry out its development programmes. We will continue to uphold our mandate with integrity, due diligence and professionalism consistent with the laws of Sierra Leone,” the release stated.

The NRA used the opportunity to remind members of the business community, importers and clearing agents that any attempt to bypass lawful customs procedures not only violates national laws but also threatens their business credibility and could result in severe financial and legal consequences.

It further urged all stakeholders to ensure compliance with established customs and tax regulations, assuring that the Authority will continue to operate transparently and update the public as the investigation progresses.

RSLAF Nears Return to Peacekeeping Stage After UN Assessment

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

A four-man United Nations Assessment and Advisory Visit (AAV) team, accompanied by British and Canadian observers, recently concluded a comprehensive evaluation of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF)’s preparedness for international peacekeeping missions.

The mission, led by James D’Ercole from the UN Department of Peacekeeping Operations (DPKO) in New York, was carried out between 1st and 2nd October 2025. It formed part of ongoing global efforts to strengthen troop-contributing countries’ compliance with UN standards and operational readiness for future deployments.

According to the UN’s Statement of Unit Requirements (SUR), the evaluation covered the RSLAF’s capabilities in training, personnel, gender inclusivity, logistics, equipment readiness and medical response systems. The team inspected various military hardware, including armored vehicles, arms and ammunition, assessing their suitability for peacekeeping operations.

The visit follows through on a pledge made by President Brigadier (Rtd.) Julius Maada Bio, Commander-in-Chief of the RSLAF, during the 2021 Armed Forces Day celebrations, to return Sierra Leone’s troops to the international peacekeeping arena. Since then, President Bio has secured critical equipment and logistical support through diplomatic engagements and international partnerships.

Recently, the African Union (AU) donated military hardware valued at approximately US$10 million to the RSLAF. The donation includes armored infantry carriers, armored ambulances, troop carriers, protective assault vehicles, heavy-duty cargo trucks, water and fuel bowsers, SUVs, combat jeeps, forklifts and related logistics vehicles; all aimed at enhancing the country’s operational capacity in peace missions.

Under the leadership of Lieutenant-General Amara Idara Bangura, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), the RSLAF has established a 200-person peacekeeping contingent currently undergoing specialized training at the Peace Mission Training Centre (PMTC). Upon nearing the completion of their training, the CDS formally invited the UN AAV team to assess the force’s readiness for deployment.

This initiative represents a significant milestone in Sierra Leone’s renewed commitment to international peacekeeping after a decade-long hiatus. The last contingent was withdrawn in 2014 following the Ebola outbreak, which disrupted troop rotations and international operations.

Sierra Leone boasts a long and distinguished history in peacekeeping, dating back to 1961, when it first participated in the United Nations Operation in the Congo (UNOC); Africa’s first major UN mission following independence movements across the continent.

The nation’s subsequent contributions include:

  • Liberia (1990) under ECOMOG, supporting the Government of President Samuel Doe against rebel incursions.
  • Darfur, Sudan (2010) under the UN-African Union Mission in Darfur (UNAMID), where Sierra Leone deployed reconnaissance contingents and produced the late Brigadier-General Komba Sylvester Mansa-Musa Mondeh, who later served as Acting Force Commander — the first Sierra Leonean to hold such a role.
  • Somalia (2013) under AMISOM, where the 850-strong LEOBATT 1 Contingent served in Kismayo, Tabda and Dobley. Due to their exceptional performance, Sierra Leone was authorized to command Sector 2, led by the late Brigadier-General Tamba Rodnic Allieu.

The recent UN assessment marks the first major step toward Sierra Leone’s re-entry into peacekeeping operations. With the successful completion of the AAV process and continued support from the international community, the RSLAF could soon redeploy to global peace missions; reaffirming Sierra Leone’s reputation as a resilient and dependable partner in promoting international peace and security.

38 Magistrates Trained on Sierra Leone’s New Criminal Procedure Act 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Judiciary of Sierra Leone, through the Judicial and Legal Training Institute (JLTI), commenced a two-day professional training for 38 Magistrates across the country on the Criminal Procedure Act (CPA) 2024, marking another milestone in Chief Justice, Komba Kamanda’s judicial reform agenda aimed at strengthening justice delivery and efficiency.

The training, which began on October 10, 2025, at the Sierra Palm Hotel, Lumley Beach Road, Freetown, is designed to deepen Magistrates’ understanding of the new Act and enhance their capacity to apply its provisions effectively in court proceedings.

In his keynote address, His Lordship Justice Komba Kamanda, Chief Justice of the Republic of Sierra Leone, underscored the importance of continuous professional development within the judiciary, emphasizing that effective implementation of the CPA 2024 requires a well-informed and competent bench.

“From the agenda, the topics are rich and when I looked at the facilitators, I realized they were carefully selected by the Judicial and Legal Training Institute,” the Chief Justice said, commending the JLTI and partners for their contributions to the training initiative.

He further acknowledged the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Justice Sector Coordination Office (JSCO) for their unwavering partnership and support in advancing judicial reforms.

Delivering remarks, Supreme Court Judge, Honourable Justice Eku Robert, lauded the Chief Justice for his exemplary leadership and commitment to institutional growth.

“Thank you, my Lord Chief Justice, for promoting the capacity of Judges, Magistrates and judicial staff through the Judicial and Legal Training Institute,” he said, extending appreciation to his colleague Judges for their continued support.

The Coordinator of the training, Honourable Justice Fatmatta Bintu Alhadi (JSC), highlighted that the session aims to promote professionalism and ensure that Magistrates are fully acquainted with the innovations contained in the CPA 2024. She also expressed gratitude to the UNDP and JSCO for facilitating the training.

Addressing the gathering, Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Alpha Sesay Esq., outlined major improvements introduced by the new Criminal Procedure Act, which replaces the outdated 1965 legislation. He explained that the reform focuses on modernizing the justice system, aligning it with international human rights standards and ensuring fair and transparent judicial processes.

To make justice delivery more swift, efficient and humane, the Attorney General noted that the new Act provides for alternative sentencing mechanisms such as community service, suspended sentences and deferred sentences for offences not exceeding two years. He commended the Chief Justice and JLTI for their dedication to capacity building and reform implementation.

The training, which continued through Saturday, October 11, 2025, concluded with practical sessions and discussions aimed at ensuring a unified judicial approach to applying the new criminal justice provisions across Sierra Leone’s courts.

As New ‘Maada Cassava’ Revealed… President Bio Unveils 30 Improved Crop Varieties, Hands Over Modern Seed Testing Laboratory

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

His Excellency, President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, has officially launched 30 improved varieties of maize, rice and cassava seeds developed by Sierra Leonean researchers;  a landmark move to boost agricultural productivity and support the Government’s Feed Salone initiative. The launch took place on October 10, 2025 at the Rokupr Agricultural Research Center in Kambia District and was followed by the formal commissioning of a state-of-the-art Seed Testing Laboratory in Mile 91, Tonkolili District.

Accompanied by First Lady Fatima Maada Bio, the President interacted with farmers, scientists and development partners during the event. The newly released seeds were developed by the Sierra Leone Agricultural Research Institute (SLARI) through extensive field trials and research, supported by the Food Systems Resilience Programme (FSRP), SLARiS, the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (MAFS) and international partners.

The high-yielding rice varieties can produce between seven and eight tons per hectare; a dramatic increase from the national average of two to three tons. According to experts, those varieties are also resilient to climate stress, pest-tolerant and nutritionally superior.

In his keynote address, President Bio hailed the breakthrough as “a turning point” in the country’s journey towards food self-sufficiency.

“The release of these new varieties marks a scientific revolution in our Feed Salone vision,” the President said. “Through innovation and evidence-based practice, we are empowering farmers with the tools to achieve higher yields, greater resilience and stronger food security.”

He emphasized that agricultural transformation must be grounded in research and technology, asserting that “agriculture is a science” and that the Government will continue investing in research and innovation to sustain progress.

Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Henry Musa Kpaka, reaffirmed the Government’s determination to ensure that the improved seeds reach farmers across all districts. He explained that Pillar Two of the Feed Salone initiative focuses on strengthening seed and input systems to increase productivity, raise farmer incomes and reduce food imports.

SLARI’s Director General, Dr. Abdulai Conteh, expressed gratitude to President Bio for reviving the institution from near collapse. He noted that SLARI’s renewed research capacity, supported by new donor-funded projects, has led to the development of seeds adaptable to multiple agro-ecological zones.

In recognition of the President’s leadership, one of the new cassava varieties was named “Maada Cassava.”

Later in the day, President Bio officially handed over the Sierra Leone Seed Certification Agency (SLeSCA) Seed Testing Laboratory in Mile 91 ;a facility designed to ensure high-quality, certified seeds for national distribution. The modern laboratory was constructed with support from the African Development Bank and implemented by SLARiS.

Describing the facility as “a legacy achievement,” President Bio said it would “create jobs, strengthen research and guarantee quality assurance for every farmer in Sierra Leone.”

SLeSCA’s Executive Director, Dr. Robert Chakanda, outlined the Agency’s progress since 2021, noting major achievements including:

  • Increasing staff strength from 7 to over 55 employees.
  • Providing local and international training to enhance technical capacity.
  • Streamlining the number of seed vendors from 300 to 25 nationwide.
  • Releasing over 70 certified crop varieties.
  • Establishing strategic partnerships with SLARI, SLARiS, IITA, CORAF and IAEA.
  • Earning an appointment as ECOWAS Committee President for the Regulation of Seeds and Plants.

Minister Dr. Henry Kpaka further emphasized the need for continuous scientific training to maintain high professional standards and innovation within the agricultural workforce.

The dual events, the launch of 30 improved crop varieties and the commissioning of the national seed lab, symbolize Sierra Leone’s transition into a research-driven agricultural era. Together, they represent tangible progress toward achieving food self-sufficiency under President Bio’s Feed Salone initiative, which aims to make agriculture a cornerstone of national growth and rural prosperity.

APC Chief Negotiator Dr. Kaifala Marah Commends Government on ANU Implementation Progress

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a renewed demonstration of commitment to national cohesion and political reconciliation, the Chief Negotiator of the All People’s Congress (APC), Dr. Kaifala Marah, on Thursday, October 10, 2025, held his inaugural meeting with Chief Minister, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, representing the Government of Sierra Leone, to review progress under the Agreement for National Unity (ANU) and discuss implementation of the Tripartite Committee Recommendations.

The meeting, described as constructive and cordial, focused on consolidating trust between the ruling party and the main opposition.  Dr. Kaifala Marah noted that the engagement marked “a constructive step in strengthening dialogue and building trust,” emphasizing that both sides recognized progress already made under the ANU framework.

Among the milestones acknowledged were:

  • The payment of salary arrears owed to APC Members of Parliament and councillors.
  • The release of APC supporters previously in detention, based on lists submitted by the party secretariat.
  • Government approval for the safe return of internally and externally displaced persons.

Dr. Kaifala Marah added that both parties reaffirmed their commitment to resolving the remaining issues and agreed that the Attorney General and Minister of Justice would provide an update on all pending politically motivated cases involving APC members to ensure a fair and timely conclusion of appeals.

Discussions also centered on the implementation of the Tripartite Committee Recommendations, which address electoral and constitutional reforms. Dr. Kaifala Marah announced that APC representation on the Steering Committee would be expanded to include:

  • Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara Esq., Legal and Constitutional Expert
  • Amb. Dr. Alimamy P. Koroma, Institutional Reform Expert
  • Hon. Chernor Maju Bah, Parliamentary Expert
  • Dr. Richard Konteh, Elections Expert
  • David Fornah, Elections Expert

Recognizing that many of the proposed reforms will require legal and constitutional changes leading to a national referendum, both sides agreed that the Attorney General should organize a seminar with Members of Parliament to promote a clearer understanding of the reforms before their presentation in Parliament.

Dr. Kaifala Marah commended Chief Minister, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh and the Government for demonstrating good faith by presenting the Tripartite Committee’s recommendations to Cabinet, describing it as “a sign of genuine commitment to national unity.”

“Our teams have identified specific areas for further discussion, which will be addressed in the next engagement,” Dr. Kaifala Marah stated, reaffirming the APC’s dedication to constructive political dialogue.

In his statement, Chief Minister, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, praised the renewed collaboration and reaffirmed the Government’s resolve to fully implement the ANU resolutions. He explained that upon assuming his role as counterpart negotiator in 2023, Dr. Samura Kamara was the APC representative but that he had worked closely with Dr. Kaifala Marah throughout the process.

“Critics once thought that nothing agreed upon would be implemented,” Dr. David Moinina Sengeh noted. “Yet, today, every resolution has been completed or is ongoing. Even the prolonged Resolution 4, covering salary payments to elected officials and the release of certain detainees, has been fulfilled. Just this week, President Bio’s Cabinet approved the electoral reforms arising from the constitutional review and the Tripartite Committee Report.”

He added confidently: “As Chief Negotiators, we can soon say 100% of the ANU is done. This marks a great milestone for our democracy and political maturity. It proves that when the opposition, Government and institutions work together, national unity becomes reality.”

Concluding his remarks, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh reaffirmed President Bio’s pledge of inclusive governance: “Two years ago, when we signed the ANU, I assured Sierra Leoneans that together #WeWillDeliver. Today, I can say with certainty that together #WeAreDelivering and yes, #WeDeliver.”

Vice President Leads National Dialogue on Police Reform Consultations in Port Loko

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Vice President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, has officially launched the Sierra Leone Police (SLP)’s High-Level Stakeholders’ Engagement in Port Loko, marking the beginning of nationwide consultations aimed at transforming the Police Force into a people-centered Police Service.

The event, held on Friday, October 10, 2025 in the North-West Region, brought together senior Government officials, local authorities, development partners, Civil Society and community leaders to deliberate on reforms designed to modernize policing and strengthen public trust in law enforcement institutions.

Addressing the gathering, Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, who also serves as Chair of the Police Council, emphasized that the reform process represents a fundamental shift from traditional policing to a more community-oriented, professional and service-driven approach.

“This is the first in a series of public education engagements,” the Vice President stated. “We are transforming the Sierra Leone Police from a force into a service centered on community-oriented policing, strengthening professionalism, building partnerships and improving the internal policing culture.”

Dr. Mohamed Judeh Jalloh praised the overwhelming turnout of participants in Port Loko, describing it as a clear indication of public enthusiasm and support for the reform agenda. “I was impressed by the interest of the public and stakeholders. The turnout was massive, which shows that citizens are ready to play their part in reshaping the role of the police in their communities,” he added.

The reform initiative seeks to deepen collaboration between the Police and the public, ensuring accountability, transparency and responsiveness in policing. It will also focus on enhancing training, discipline and ethical standards within the Force to foster a culture of service not force.

The nationwide consultations will provide a platform for citizens to express their expectations and contribute ideas that can guide the transformation process. The Police Council, under the leadership of Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, aims to use such consultations to develop actionable strategies that align policing with democratic governance and human rights principles.

Speaking at the event, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to supporting the Government of Sierra Leone in its efforts to build a modern, accountable and community-oriented police service. “UNDP Sierra Leone is proud to support this transition to promote professionalism and partnership, laying the foundation for a modern Police Service,” the representative said.

Inspector General of Police, William Fayia Sellu, also highlighted that the reform is part of the Sierra Leone Police’s long-term vision to improve service delivery and rebuild public confidence. He assured that the leadership remains committed to driving internal reforms that will position the SLP as one of the most trusted public institutions in the country.

The Port Loko engagement marks the first phase of the nationwide dialogue, with subsequent consultations scheduled to take place in other regions as the Government continues its drive to make the Sierra Leone Police a people’s service; efficient, professional and accountable to the citizens it serves.

RUSLP Signs US$9 Million Contracts for Construction of Modern Markets in Kenema and Makeni

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

The Ministry of Finance, through the Resilient Urban Sierra Leone Project (RUSLP), has signed two major contracts worth over US$9 million for the construction and upgrading of modern markets in Kenema and Makeni, aimed at improving urban resilience and boosting local commerce.

The official signing ceremony took place on Friday, October 10, 2025, at the Ministry of Finance Conference Room in Freetown, marking a significant step in the Government’s efforts to enhance service delivery and promote inclusive economic growth in key regional cities.

Under the new agreements, Ambitious Construction Company will undertake the Kenema Market Upgrade at a cost of approximately US$5 million, while Micheletti & Company Limited, in joint venture with S&H Investment Sierra Leone Limited, will execute the Makeni Market Project valued at about US$4.18 million.

According to project details, the Makeni Market will feature a one-storey Block A-B with multiple stores, ancillary facilities and a borehole system designed to accommodate 1,600 traders. The Kenema Market, on the other hand, will comprise a two-storey structure with similar facilities capable of hosting 1,800 traders.

Both markets will include external works such as internal drainage systems, paved walkways, solar-powered lighting and boreholes with solar-powered pumps. To minimize disruption to traders, temporary relocation markets equipped with sanitation facilities will be set up during the construction phase.

The projects, financed by the World Bank under Component 2C of the RUSLP, are expected to be completed within 24 months, including 12 months of external works.

Delivering the keynote address, Minister of Local Government and Community Affairs, Hon. Tamba Lamina, hailed the initiative as a “significant milestone” in the Government’s drive to modernize urban infrastructure and alleviate poverty through sustainable development.

He noted that the new markets will provide safe, hygienic and accessible trading environments, particularly for women, youth and persons with disabilities. “These facilities will not only improve livelihoods but also enhance the economic standing of Kenema and Makeni as major regional trade hubs,” Hon. Tamba Lamina said.

The Minister also urged contractors to maintain high construction standards, ensure timely delivery and uphold quality assurance throughout the implementation period.

Speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Finance, Deputy Financial Secretary, Samuel E.B. Momoh, said the projects reflect the Government’s broader commitment to improving integrated service delivery and strengthening disaster risk management in both urban and provincial areas.

Samuel E.B.Momoh emphasized that the Government expects the work to be delivered on schedule, within budget and to the highest quality standards, adding that each market will include an administrative office for traders’ unions to promote transparency and accountability in market governance.

Francis Nkoka, RUSLP Task Team Lead at the World Bank, described the signing as an important and rewarding milestone reflecting progress achieved since the project’s inception.

He reaffirmed the World Bank’s continued support to Sierra Leone in building resilient, inclusive and vibrant urban economies, stressing that the upgraded markets will provide safer and more gender-sensitive spaces, especially for women traders who are vital to the country’s local economies.

Francis Nkoka further underscored the importance of accountability, collaboration and transparency among stakeholders, while ensuring adherence to environmental and social safeguards, including worker safety and proper waste management practices.

The Kenema and Makeni market upgrades represent a major step toward the Government’s vision of improving urban infrastructure and creating sustainable livelihoods through inclusive economic growth.

Africell Prioritizes Staff Wellbeing with New ‘Wel Body’ Health Initiative

Africell has launched a major employee health and wellness program titled: ‘Wel Body’ Initiative, aimed at fostering healthy living and preventive care among its staff. The launch coincided with the observance of Africell Health Awareness Day 2025, underscoring the company’s dedication to building a healthy and productive workforce.

The event, held on October 10, 2025 at Africell headquarters, featured free medical screenings for HIV, Hepatitis, Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar for all employees. Medical professionals were on-site to provide counselling and promote health awareness among staff members.

Vice President of the Sierra Leone Medical and Dental Association, Dr. Samba Jalloh, hailed the initiative as a visionary step in corporate wellness, describing it as a “lifelong investment in the health and wellbeing of the workforce.”

“This initiative is a remarkable step towards building a healthier and more productive workforce,” Dr. Samba Jalloh noted. “Regular health check-ups and awareness are vital in preventing chronic diseases and promoting long-term wellness.”

Speaking at the event, Dr. Fatmata Taqi, Africell’s Talent Development Director, highlighted that the program reflects Management’s holistic approach to employee care.

“At Africell, we believe that a healthy team is a productive team,” Dr. Dr. Fatmata Taqi affirmed. “The ‘Wel Body’ initiative is part of our ongoing effort to ensure that our staff have access to essential health services and information.”

The Africell Health Awareness Day also included health education sessions, wellness talks and demonstrations focused on lifestyle improvement and preventive healthcare. Employees were encouraged to adopt balanced diets, engage in physical activity and schedule regular medical checkups.

Africell’s new wellness drive reinforces its commitment to employee welfare as an integral part of the company’s corporate culture. Through initiatives like ‘Wel Body’, the telecom giant continues to lead by example in prioritizing staff health, productivity and long-term wellbeing.

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