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AWOL’s National Achievement Awards Of Excellence

Attested by many, 29th December 2019 was a spectacular nite at the  state-of-the-art Bintumani Conference Centre at Aberdeen, West End of Freetown, as individuals from all walks of life, including holiday-makers from the diaspora, converged to witness what turned out to be a never to be forgotten Awards Ceremony that was organized or packaged by the most patriotic national social organization that has so far emerged in this country, the All Works of Life (AWOL) under its current dynamic and result-oriented Chairman, Ambassador Anthony Navo Jnr, who also happens to be the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Africa Young Voices (AYV) Media Empire.

In an atmosphere that was really very lively, one could hear the popping up of champagne, clattering of glass tumblers, wishes of belated Merry Christmas, a prosperous New Year and sounds of laughter coming from various angles out of shared jokes.

The sexy ways certain ladies were dressed in attires with very attractive contours were inevitably very eye catching, the smell of expensive perfume with sweet fragrance filled the air, all adding to the pomp and pageantry that characterized the auspicious event.

Jokes cracked by one of our local comedians, ‘Richie Obama’, made the nite a very interesting one, sending people laughing their sides out, not to talk of the tantalizing and melodious Salone musical tracks in the background and the thrilling cultural performances that inevitably provoked bodily movements.

Contributing to make it so special, unique and setting it apart from all other former awards ceremonies organized by AWOL was  the display of local products by indigenous entrepreneurs and vendors, which availed all the attendees the opportunity  to have a feel of these products and decide whether to go for them or not. And all what they displayed were truly breath-taking.

The highpoint of the event was when the Chairman of AWOL, Anthony Navo Jr, took the podium to deliver a very moving statement around the theme of the Awards Ceremony, which was, “Education is the Key to National Cohesion and Development”.

He first commended all for attending the program, further giving a synopsis of how AWOL started from a humble background in 2001 by a group of young Sierra Leoneans from various walks of life, saying some of them were returning from the Diaspora to contribute to the post-conflict recovery efforts and he was fortunate to be part of the team, leading efforts for the founding of AWOL.

He praised Ambassador Moseray Fadika of blessed memory for joining the team, underscoring how due to his leadership abilities and passion to contribute to society, the late Ambassador Fadika became the Chairman of AWOL.

“Ambassador Fadika was a man of vision. He led AWOL to its official launching in 2001 as a Community Based Organisation at the British Council Hall, Tower Hill, Freetown under the distinguished patronage of the late President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Dr. Alhaji Ahmed Tejan Kabbah,” he expressed gratitude, “especially for the support provided by the former President”.

He further stated that since 2002, AWOL has been presenting awards to a wide range of citizens and institutions, starting from the market women, farmers, young people to outstanding public and private sector institutions.

Ambassador Navo maintained that they have also bestowed posthumous awards to deserving Sierra Leoneans who have made exemplary contributions to nation building; for example, the late Medical Doctor, who died after being infected with Lassa Fever from one of the patients he was treating.

“The AWOL awards ceremony has remained an annual event and continues to grow every year, as a leading National Achievement Awards. Madam First Lady, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen; tonight is our 14th awards ceremony, and we consider this a milestone for not only AWOL, but for the Government and People of Sierra Leone,” he revealed, adding that they have always maintained that AWOL is owned by the People of Sierra Leone.

“We the membership running the organisation are just custodians. We have a duty to maintain transparency, accountability and integrity of this national awards scheme and ensure it continues to be relevant and fit for purpose,” he anchored.

He revealed that AWOL was founded on the principle of nationalism and patriotism, and the ideology of selflessness. “In line with these, AWOL periodically engages vulnerable communities in an effort to address social issues and complement Government’s effort in nation building,” he highlighted.

The AWOL Chairman stressed that it is important to note that AWOL is non-political, saying it is demonstrated by their long standing relationship with successive Governments.
He said they were there for former President Dr Alhaji Ahmed Tejan Kabbah and his Government to contribute to nation building.

“We were there for former President Dr Ernest Bai Koroma to contribute to nation building, and tonight we are also here with President Dr Julius Maada Bio’s government to continue with our efforts in nation building.  We are here to support the people of Sierra Leone and the government of the day, POLITICS ASIDE,” he registered.

“At AWOL, our political party is Sierra Leone.
Our colours are the GREEN, WHITE AND BLUE.
Our Motto is PUT SALONE FOS,” he stated, provoking a round of applause from the audience.

Another round of applause followed when the Chairman of AWOL cited that, “We run an awards scheme that does not have money value attached to it, but carries immense respect and goodwill because it is endorsed by the Government and People of Sierra Leone. We have structures and processes that are not only transparent and credible, but also highly participatory. They may not be perfect, but the fact that they exist and are working, gives credence and respect to our awards. We continue to look forward to your valuable suggestions on how we could build on our achievements,” he enjoined.

Highlighting some of the development interventions that AWOL has made; he mentioned how 15 years ago, AWOL donated an X-ray machine worth about USD80, 000 to the X-ray Department at Connaught Hospital in Freetown, supported people and communities affected by disasters, including providing humanitarian support to Fogbo village, in the Koya Rural District, where fire gutted about 48 houses and rendered more than 500 people homeless in 2010.

He also mentioned that AWOL was part of the fight against Ebola and donated food and relief items countrywide, that the organization was also part of the efforts to rescue and support victims of the mudslide and flooding in Freetown and donated the sum of Le100 million to the Government of Sierra Leone.

“AWOL is the pride of Sierra Leone and we are happy to have been able to contribute to the successful celebration of our country’s 50th Independence Anniversary and other national celebrations,” he said with pride.

“AWOL continues to provide scholarships to deserving pupils and students across the country,” he said, adding that they support Feeding programme for school children across the country on the Day of the African Child annually and how the organization is working on the completion of its Gondama school project, which will be named after their late godfather, Amb. Moseray Gibril Fadika.

He underscored that the consistency and successes they have achieved as an organization is as a result of their collective belief in the ideology of their organization and the support of their partners.

“Today, we have AWOL Chapters in the Diaspora promoting the good cause and contributing to development back home,” he intimated. He admonished those who will be recipients of the AWOL prestigious awards to serve as agents of change and to do more in 2020 as well as also encouraging those who were nominated, but could not make it, to take courage and step up in the New Year.

The AWOL Chairman promised that they will continue to complement Government’s national development interventions. He wished all the recipients and all present a Happy and Prosperous 2020.

On his part the Secretary General of AWOL and President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), Ahmed Sahid Nasrallah, congratulated Kadija Bangura, AYV TV, SLBC Radio and Sierra Eye Magazine for being proud recipients of the prestigious National Achievement Awards, 2019.

He said 2019 is rounding up with huge achievements for SLAJ, stating how apart from the advancement SLAJ is  making with the repeal of the criminal libel law, the year is ending with honours for journalists in institutions which many are proud of and celebrate.

On behalf of the Executive and entire membership of SLAJ he congratulated Musa Mewa Esq, Asmaa James and Amadu Lamrana Bah.

Receiving one of the prestigious awards from AWOL, the First Lady of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Madam Fatima Bio, thanked the organizers for appreciating her strides to raise awareness on combating sexual and domestic violence through her “Hands Off Our Girls” campaign.

She said education is the best gift to give a child, adding how they will not relent to broaden the space for the Girl Child so that they could be nurtured well to prepare them for the future. She dedicated the award to all those who are championing the liberation of women from SGBV.

Other speakers including the Minister of Tourism, Dr. Memunatu Pratt and Dr. Fatu Taqi of the 50/50 Women’s Movement delivered incisive statements during the occasion.
Various Awards were presented to personalities and institutions in different categories for outstanding performances towards national development and cohesion during 2019, amidst cheers and congratulations.

AWOL National Achievements Awards 2019 Winners
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Category: Academic Institution of the Year 2019 (Tertiary)

Winner: Institute of Public Administration and Management (IPAM)

Category: Academic Institution of the Year 2019 (Secondary)

Winner: Providence International High School

Category: Academic Institution of the Year 2019 (Primary)

Winner: Gateway Preparatory Primary School

Category: Young Achiever of the Year 2018 (NPSE)

Winner: Esther Sia Menjor (Leone Preparatory Primary School)

Category: Young Achiever of the Year 2019 (NPSE)

Winner: Russel Affuah (The International School)

Category: Young Achiever of the Year 2018 (BECE)

Winner: Hooke Johan Harmonette D (Providence Int. Snr High School)

Category: Young Achiever of the Year 2018 (BECE)

Winner: Taqi Hafeez Othman (Sierra Leone Grammar School)

Category: Young Achiever of the Year 2018 (BECE)

Winner: Khadijatu Jalloh (Annie Walsh Memorial School)

Category: Young Achiever of the Year 2019 (BECE)

Winner: Manyeh Kaiwanday Nova (Sierra Leone Grammar School)

Category: Young Achiever of the Year 2019 (BECE)

Winner: Umu B. Koroma (Modern High School)

Category: Young Achiever of the Year 2018 (WASSE)

Winner: Saffia Kai (Hermann Gmeiner Int. Sch.)

Category: Young Achiever of the Year 2018 (WASSE)

Winner: Abdulai S. Turay (Dele-Peddle Int. High)

Category: Young Achiever of the Year 2019 (WASSE)

Winner: Aiah Gbakima (Sierra Leone Grammar Sch.) 

Category: Sport Personality of the year 2019

Winner: John Keister

Category: Ministry of the Year 2019

Winner: Ministry of Information and Communications

Category: Parastatal of the Year 2019

Winner: National Revenue Authority

Category: Parliamentarian of the Year 2019

Winner: Hon. Ibrahim ‘Tawa’ Conteh

Category: Media Practitioner of the Year 2019 (Female)

Winner: Kadija Bangura

Category: Media Practitioner of the Year 2019 (Male)

Winner: Amadu Lamrana Bah

Category: Print Media House of the Year 2019

Winner: Sierra Eye Magazine

Category: Radio Media House of the Year 2019

Winner: SLBC Radio

Category: Television Media House of the Year 2019

Winner: AYV TV

Category: Legal Practitioner of the Year 2019

Winner: Musa Mewa Esq.

Category: Medical Practitioner of the Year 2019

Winner: Dr. Aiah Lebbie

Category: Public Servant of the Year 2019

Winner: Francis Ben Kaifala

Category: Farmer of the Year 2019

Winner: Jam Jay Enterprise

Category: Petty Trader of the Year 2019

Winner: Abdulai Jalloh (Butcher, Kroo town Road)

Category: Artist of the Year 2019 (Fine Art)

Winner: King Dus Art

Category: Performing Artist of the Year 2019 (Comedy)

Winner: Desmond Benya

Category: Performing Artist of the Year 2019 (Movie)

Winner: Desmond Finnie

Category: Performing Artist of the Year 2019 (Music)

Winner: Benjamin Menelik George aka Drizilik

Category: Fire Officer of the Year 2019

Winner: Sahr I. Aruna (Sub Officer)

Category: Correctional Service Officer of the Year 2019

Winner: Rev. Mrs. Josephine R.M. Findlay

Category: Police Officer of the Year 2019

Winner: Mrs. Juliette Kumba Kondeh

Category: Military Officer of the Year 2019

Winner: Lt. Col. Roland Robin Gbondo

Category: Fashion Designer of the Year

Winner: Madam Wokie

Category: Banking Institution of the Year

Winner: Ecobank SL

Category: Indigenous Business of the Year

Winner: Gento Group

Category: CBO/CSO of the Year

Winner: CARL-SL

Category: Hospitality House of the Year

Winner: Lagoonda

Category: Humanitarian of the Year

Winner: Sick Pikin Project

Category: Tele-Communications Company of the Year

Winner: Africell SL

Special Recognition Award 2019 for Outstanding Contribution towards protecting our Gilrs through her Black Friday Movement

Winner: Asmaa James

Special Recognition Award 2019 for the ‘Hands Off Our Girls’ initiative

Winner: Her Excellency The First Lady Madam Fatima Maada Bio

Secret Society Members Vow To Kill Abu Bakar Mansaray 

Abu Bakar Mansaray

By Edward Vamboi

It has emerged last night that members of the poro secret society in Masiaka town, Koya Chiefdom, Port Loko district, North of Sierra Leone have vowed to drastically deal with Abu Bakar Mansaray for escaping from the initiation exercise on the night of 25th December 2019.

The Town Chief of Shongo, Pa Rok Kamara said Abu Bakar’s former friend Ibrahim Koroma invited him to his Village to enjoy the festive period which he accepted not knowing that he has included Abu Bakar’s name for initiation into the secret society without his consent and approval.

The Chief said on December 24th 2019, several young people including Abu Bakar visited the village for the festive celebration.

“In the early hours of Christmas day, December 25th over thirty young people including Abu Bakar were assembled in one place and taken to two different shrines inside the thick forest for the initiation process against their will. Abu Bakar who wept bitterly said he was not interested to be initiated but the members threatened to deal with him if he persists,” the Chief said.

The Principal of the only Senior Secondary School in the community and also senior member of the poro secret society, Ahmed Tunkara said Abu Bakar had no way to escape the initiation because of the tight security provided by some local militia in the thick forest.  He said the first batch of twelve gallant people were taken to the thick forest but only seven fortunately returned while the remaining five died in the initiation exercise.

The second batch which included Abu Bakar also went to the same bush to do the initiation. He said Abu Bakar told the people that he wanted to ease himself and was allowed to go ahead at the back of the farm hut.

He said Abu Bakar used the opportunity to escape in the thick forest for days, which prompted the elders to dispatch some able bodied men to go in search of him.

He said society members searched for him  in the thick bush for weeks but could not see him.

“We have declared a man hunt for Abu Bakar Mansaray. The society members want him dead or alive.  We will deal with him for escaping  from the initiation exercise.  We will teach him a lesson for others to know that no matter what one does,  he will never escape from us,” a senior member of the poro society Pa Yamba Sesay said in the presence of irate youths.

A hunter from Mathoir Village Pa Alimamy Turay who later rescued Abu bakar said the escapee had horrible experience while in the thick forest for two weeks. Mr. Turay said he kept Abu Bakar for days in his hut before finally taken him to his home town, some twenty five miles away.

Sources in Masiaka town revealed that after realizing that Abu Bakar has resurfaced in his home town, his former friend Ibrahim Koroma who had earlier betrayed him connived with the society people again to hold Abu Bakar to penalize him for abandoning the initiation without the consent and approval of the society elders.

This latest development puts the life of Abu Bakar at risk as angry youths were moving from one village to the other searching for him.

It was as a result of the pressure from the society members that prompted Abu Bakar to leave his community for an unknown destination and since then his whereabouts remains unknown.

Abu Bakar Mansaray (4th) from right and other being conveyed for the initiation exercise

At Correctional Centre… African Vision USA Offers Food/Message To Female & Male Inmates

On Friday 27th December 2019, members of the African Vision Organisation, based in the United States of America visited inmates at the Female Correctional Centre at New England Ville in Freetown and delivered the Christian gospel and food items to them as part of their vision to reach the vulnerable and needy during this festive season and make them feel as part of society and cared for.

Speaking to the inmates, who are classed into various categories, namely: those already convicted and serving time; those awaiting trials (remand) and those already attending trials, the President of the Organisation, Mrs Warrah George, disclosed that they are a charitable, Christian based organisation formed in the USA. She told them that she had a calling from God to visit the correctional facility, give succour to the needy and less privileged and vulnerable children. She admonished them to hold fast to God and turn from their wicked way, underscoring that their presence in the facility may be as a result of some mistakes done in life and does not mean that God has forsaken them, but rather that the Almighty is mindful of them as he loves everyone and wants people to come to him and enjoy the life he offers them. She encouraged them to put their hope and trust in Jesus.

Madam Warrah George read from the book of Isaiah Chapter 61 from the first verse, stressing that we have all in one way or another deviated from the path of God and He is determined to bring us back to his fold. She encouraged the inmates to show love to each other and resist all that is evil. She further encouraged those who will be discharged to turn from their old ways and embrace God’s path, and to those who are yet to continue their term, she told them to have hope and not to give up in life.

Similar message was given to some 99 inmates (male) at the reintegration section in the facility and prayers were said for them for the remission of sins and a change in their lives for the better. They were admonished to stay away from same sex, which is the common temptation experienced in male correctional facilities. The organisation then distributed food items to every inmate: 61 in the female section and 99 in the male reintegration section.

Vice President of the organisation, Mr Thomas George told journalists that African Vision Organisation was formed by an American Lady, Valerie Jones, whose passion for Africa motivated her to galvanise interested people to form the group. She later handed over the organisation to Mr and Mrs Thomas George. Since that moment, they have been holding the fort and are determined to work in Sierra Leone, especially as they are from Sierra Leone. Their presence at the Correctional facility, Madam George said, is a dream come true, as it focuses on bringing the gospel to Africa. She intimated that they will be visiting the Children’s Hospital Cottage at Fourah Bay Road and will be meeting with vulnerable people like beggars, homeless and street kids and youths.

The ceremony was climaxed by the distribution of food among the inmates and group photo of the organisation’s membership.

FBC Student Bags AYV’s Miss University Prize

On Tuesday 24th December 2019, the Queen and ultimate winner of the AYV Miss University Beauty Pageant, Hajaratu Kamara, officially received the Star prize of a new Toyota Corolla salon car from the media empire, at its Tower Hill offices in Freetown.

Speaking during the handing over ceremony, AYV’s Phebian Swill, said that it has been the usual tradition of the Africa Young Voices (AYV) media empire to organise such a contest since it was introduced in 2011. She added that seven Queens have been crowned since 2011 and have all been given very attractive prizes and this year’s winner, Hajaratu Kamara is the eighth Queen. She maintained that whatever the institution decides to offer as the Star prize to the winner, it has always delivered. This time they have provided a new car for the winner and Hajaratu is the lucky winner. As she handed over the keys of the vehicle to the new queen, she called on the media, who witnessed the ceremony, to accompany the Queen and the AYV team as they inspect and hand-over the vehicle to her.

Visibly elated and in the company of her friends, the latest ‘AYV Miss University Queen’, Hajaratu took the keys from Madam Swill and majestically opened her vehicle, sat on the driving seat and turned the engine on amidst cheers from her friends.

Speaking after observing her prize, Queen Hajaratu said that she is delighted to have won this enviable prize and praised the AYV and all her fans for the support. She encouraged others to come on board on every such contest and stand a chance to be a winner like her. Asked what her plans for the future will be, she said she is desirous of providing a platform to advocate for female hygiene. When asked why that platform, she said she was a victim, as when she was a kid, coming from humble background, she began using cloth as pad during her menstrual circle and is determined that all her female compatriots are not subject to similar risk as they grow up in life. She called on like-minded individuals and institutions to join her in her campaign to provide young underprivileged girls with sanitary pads in schools and communities.

Queen Hajaratu Kamara was born in Kenema and is presently a final year student in Language studies at Fourah Bay College (FBC). She was among 30 who contested for the enviable position, and also one of the twelve that made it through to the final. Out of that number two dropped out of the way for various reasons, leaving only ten contestants. Last Friday, after what has been described as the battle of the titans, the performance of Hajaratu captured the voters and she eventually won the ultimate prize and was crowned AYV’s Miss University 2019 and on Tuesday, 24th December, Christmas Eve, she was officially handed her prize, a Toyota Corolla Salon car.

President Bio Highlights Successes and Challenges of ECOWAS at End of Year Summit

President Dr Julius Maada Bio has highlighted the successes and challenges of the Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS, at the end-of-year Summit in Abuja, Nigeria on Saturday 21 December 2019 in Abuja, Nigeria.

During his intervention at the 56th Ordinary Summit, President Bio commended the President of ECOWAS Commission, Kassi Brou, for the comprehensive update and noted that the sub-regional economic growth at 3.3% in 2019, a notch higher than Africa’s 3.0% growth average.

He also urged his colleagues to redouble efforts toward increasing inter-community trade and investment, adding: “We should lower and eventually eliminate trade barriers among our community of nations, especially inter-community transportation and shipping. Let us make the free movement of people, goods and services a key benchmark of our integration commitment”.

The President reiterated Sierra Leone’s commitment to the ECOWAS single currency, community levy obligations and commended all those who have made commitments to contributing to the ECOWAS fund for implementing the action plan on counter-terrorism. He also expressed deep concern over the slow operationalisation of the ECOWAS Logistics Depot to be constructed at Lungi, near Freetown and urged member states not to renege on their commitment to operationalise early warning centres in member states to mitigate the impact of climate change.

On democratic governance, which is one of the challenging issues in member states, President Bio told his colleagues that: “Sierra Leone continues to urge that our community embraces an even and unambiguous commitment to a culture of democratic governance, predictably-timed democratic elections, and peaceful transfers of power. This will not only create a more peaceful community but it will help create a safe and predictable climate for trade and investment. We must continue holding ourselves fully accountable to all agreed standards of good governance. Therefore, we must not appease, and we should not compromise on this collective commitment”.

His Excellency President Dr Julius Maada Bio ended his intervention by welcoming the findings and recommendations of the Forensic Audit Report of the ECOWAS institutions. He said: “The revelations are an indictment of our individual national commitments to fighting graft and our collective sense of dignity and integrity as a community. We must draw the lines on corruption at this level. We must not babysit or seek to protect corrupt elements at the helm of affairs of our community. We must not condone corrupt practices and we must be consistent and committed to conducting forensic audits of all the community’s institutions and programmes”.

Earlier, before the opening session of the Summit, President Bio held a bilateral meeting with His Excellency President Muhammadu Buhari, President of the Republic of Nigeria, where both Heads of State pledged to strengthen the relationship between Sierra Leone and Nigeria.

 

Africell SL makes another Ten Millionaires

Winners

At a ceremony held on Monday 23rd December 2019, at their Wilberforce offices in Freetown, Sierra Leone’s leading mobile operator, Africell-SL has again made waves, as it officially transferred Le20 million less NRA taxes to ten winners of last week’s draw. Present at the ceremony were nine winners and their family members and friends, top management staff of Africell and the press.

Chairing the program, Abdul Aziz Kamara, event and sponsorship supervisor of Africell said that another ten subscribers of Africell, who won the daily draw of Le20 million for last week (9th December -20th December 2019) will be receiving their prizes, which will be presented to them by the Chief Corporate Officer, Joe Abass Bangura.

In his short statement, before making the presentation, Joe Abass Bangura welcomed winners as well as other guests to the company. He furthered that Africell has always found ways of empowering its subscribers, and in this vein, has introduced several innovative promotions, which have in one way or the other, enhanced the lives of the winners.

Speaking about the present promotion, Joe Abass Bangura said that the ‘Be a Millionaire’ promotion was launched on the 26th of November 2019 and will run till 27th December 2019. This promo offers their numerous customers the opportunity to win the star prize of Le20 million daily, as well as other prizes, which includes data bundles and talk time credits. He furthered that in the course of this promo, 20 people have won the star prize of Le20 million each, with the first set of ten winners bagging Le200 million in total and this second batch of winners, who won between the 9th-20th December 2019, have also won another Le200 million. The cumulative amount won by all 20 winners is now Le400 million.

Giving a breakdown of the various prizes, regions and categories of winners, Joe Abass Bangura disclosed that in this latest draw, Western Area has 2 people, Eastern region has 3, the North has 4 and the South has 1; each bagging Le20 million; 14 from the Western Area won data bundles, 2 from the Eastern region, 4 from the North and on talk time, 7 from the West, 5 from East, 2 from the North and 4 from the South. The cumulative number of winners from both draws is 20, bagging Le20 million each, 40 bagging data bundles and 38 getting talk time. Overall the total amount won in cash is Le400 million.

He further disclosed that to encourage the winners to use Africell money, which is the safest way to carry money, they will transfer the winnings to the phones of the respective winners through Africell Money and will only deduct what is stipulated as tax to be paid to the government according to the betting law in the country. He admonished the winners to make good use of the money and not to use everything on Christmas. In this last draw the winners included, a plassas seller, wood seller, carpenter, businessman, a ‘junks’ (second hand clothing) seller, a military captain and 2 students in secondary schools, each bagging Le20 million.

Speaking briefly about the various promotions and services offered by Africell, Station Manager of AfriRadio, John Konteh, said that the ‘Be a Star Show’ is still on going. This show is about talented young people displaying their voice talents, which started some 5 weeks ago with 34 participants. During the course of the contest, some have been eliminated, leaving behind 15 contestants. Out of this number there should have been elimination last weekend, but Santa Clause gave them a Christmas offer; allowing them to continue till this weekend.

He disclosed that this weekend, the contestants will do their New Year theme songs and those who are lucky to remain will have to do purely Sierra Leonean music on the next elimination, which is slated to take place next week. He had praise for the supporting band.

John Konteh furthered that the Ya promotion, which included Ya Mix and other Ya services is still on going and advised subscribers to enjoy the service, intimating that they can now buy data for friends. He encouraged subscribers to use Africell money and keep their code secret.

In his own contribution,  Mamadu Karna Barrie, Product and Services at Africell Money, said that the service has been made simple for subscribers to access funds through their Africell money wallet. This service, he went on, enables subscribers to make payments to EDSA, buy goods from certain institutions and can even be used to buy plassas from the new plassas winner. It also facilitates business transactions, as customers now have ready money in their phones. He encouraged the winners and all others to embrace Africell money and join the digital age of financial inclusion.

All the winners, with the exception of one, who was absent, had their winnings transferred to their phones and those who were not Africell money customers, were incorporated into the system. All winners expressed joy at receiving their prizes, though initially they had doubts over the whole promotion. Now that they have received their prizes they spoke to the public in their respective languages to embrace Africell and participate in the promo, as they have up to the 27th December when the promo will end.

Chief Corporate Officer, Joe Abass Bangura
Abdul Aziz Kamara, event and sponsorship supervisor of Africell
Winners
Winners
High Table
Station Manager of AfriRadio, John Konteh

UAE Delegation Meets President Bio, Signs Five Agreements and MOUs for Bilateral Cooperation

A high-level delegation from the United Arab Emirates, UAE, led by its Minister of State, His Excellency Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, has met His Excellency President Dr Julius Maada Bio to sign five agreements and Memorandum of Understanding on Sunday 22 December 2019 at State House, Freetown.

As part of strengthening bilateral cooperation between the two countries, the UAE head of delegation said he was instructed by His Highness, Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE, to focus on sectors such as mining, oil and gas, infrastructure, education, health, water, roads, renewable energy and agriculture.

The five agreements also covered the avoidance of double taxation, the protection of investments, a joint committee for cooperation agreement, a framework of cooperation for the agricultural production of rice and maize and a memorandum of understanding on small and medium scale enterprises.

NMA updates Pressmen on Geophysical Survey

The National Minerals Agency (NMA), on Friday 20th December, 2019 updated the press on the operations of the Nationwide Airborne Geophysical Survey report. The event took place at the Lungi International Airport.

Speaking at the ceremony, Project Coordinator, Ministry of Mines & Mineral Resources, Mustapha Sheku Gibril, said that on 20th January 2019, His Excellency the President, Brigadier (Rtd.) Dr. Julius Maada Bio, officially commissioned the Nationwide Airborne Geophysical Survey and on that day, the Contractor, Xcalibur, had already deployed 3 out of the 5 aircraft that were meant to ensure nationwide geo-data acquisition, adding that the nationwide airborne geophysical survey is geared towards providing the country with reliable geo-data, which will help determine the mineralization of Sierra Leone in the most comprehensive way ever, which will put the country on sound footing to bargain from a position of strength with potential investors, and hence, optimize the benefits of exploration and exploitation of our mineral wealth.

He noted that it is almost a year after the commissioning of the project, and they have again gathered towards winding up this project and to update the general public about the status of geo-data acquisition and the post-airborne geophysical survey activities.

He expressed delight to report that the survey has been executed very well, despite challenges ranging from delays in securing diplomatic and security clearances from Guinea and Liberia, bush fires in the months of February and March, and the onset of the rains, and that these challenges occasioned an extension of completion month from June 2019 to December 2019.

He said that Bad pilot visibility as a result of the downpour of the heavy rains with adverse effect on the quality of the data, forced a suspension of the survey, but maintained that all 5 aircrafts had to de-mobilized and re-mobilized again in the early part of November, by which time the rains had subsided, but thank God they have now gotten almost to completion point according to the series of weekly progress reports submitted by the contractor and the Quality Control Experts.

He said that it is evident that Sierra Leone has acquired high quality and reliable geo-data, which, he reliably informed, is one of the best in the World, adding that after this acquisition phase, the technical team will have some more work to do, which will form part of the post airborne geophysical survey activities for which our technical counterparts at the NMA will further explain.

He disclosed that a lot of effort and hard work was put into this project from the design phase unto execution, for which he must commend the technical team at the NMA, the Ministry of Mines and Mineral Resources, the EITAP2 PIU and the World Bank for the excellent planning and coordination for a successful project implementation.

On behalf of the Project Implementation Unit and the Ministry of Mines and Mineral Resources, he expressed appreciation to the entire Xcalibur team, especially the pilots, for their tireless efforts and professionalism displayed throughout this geo-data acquisition phase.

In his presentation Deputy Director, Geophysical Survey, National Minerals Agency, Joseph Lebbie, expressed appreciation to the Contractors of Xcalibur for their tremendous work in putting this survey together, regardless of the numerous challenges faced during the process.

He said that under the Extractive Industry Technical Assistance Project Phase 2, the World Bank provided budgetary support in order to carry out the Nationwide Airborne Geophysical Survey to enhance the general knowledge of Sierra Leone’s Mineral potential.

Underscoring the challenges, he said the team faced a lot of challenges ranging from bush fires in the months of February and March, onset of the rains, fuel crisis, delays in securing diplomatic and security clearances from Guinea and Liberia, which he said obstruct their activities eventually leading to an extension of the completion month from June 2019 to December 2019.

He said that the final results will be delivered in compatible formats with the Ministry of Mines and Mineral Resources and National Minerals Agency, existing databases’ formats according to the project specifications.

Team Member of Xcalibur Airborne Geophysics, Haiden John Harrington, expressed appreciation to the people of Sierra Leone for the hospitality during their stay in the country.

He applauded his team members for their tireless effort in making the project a reality, regardless of the challenges faced, noting that the high quality and reliable geo-data will enhance the general knowledge of Sierra Leone’s Mineral potential and will be used in order to benefit the nation as a whole and said that they are looking forward to working with Sierra Leone in subsequent years.

As AWOL 2019 Awards in the Offing… More feathers to be added to Caps

The Mother of all Award Ceremonies in the country is just few days from now to happen. It is the All Walks of Life (AWOL) 2019 National Achievements Awards slated to take place at the prestigious Bintumani International Conference Centre at Aberdeen on the 29th December 2019, starting at 7pm. The voting process is at an advanced stage but it is rill open to members of the public who are at liberty to vote for nominated personalities and institutions whom they are convinced did something very outstanding in 2019 to improve the lot of the masses and enhance overall development. One can vote by just sending 2713 short code to SMS via Africell for an individual or institution that one believes must clinch the covetous 2019 award.

This year’s Awards ceremony will be slightly different as the All ‘Works’ Of Life Development Organisation (AWOL) has extended invitation to Sierra Leonean Entrepreneurs, Vendors and Craft Exhibitors to showcase their business, products and ideas for free.  The organizers have reiterated that limited space is available.

From a cue that this medium received, on that day, it will be all pomp and pageantry as the crème de la crème of society and people from various walks of life will hob-nob, chatting over drinks, fixing appointments and making new friends. As usual it will be a nite to socialize in a relaxed atmosphere with music at the background and entertaining performances displayed by some of our local artists.

Commencing at 7pm, the AWOL Awards nite will shine the light on those that were overwhelming voted for by members of the public whom they deemed did exceptionally well in improving humanity and contribute meaningfully to the socio-economic development of the country.

Voting is now in process and to vote just send 2713 short code to SMS via Africell for an individual or institution that one believes must clinch the covetous 2019 award.

For an individual or institution to be recognized, appreciated and awarded for doing something very exceptional within the year could be a source from which inspiration is drawn to do more. It could also serve as a springboard to emulate the exemplary footsteps others have taken to meaningfully make meaningful impacts on the lives of others.

Indeed, as usual, in the immediate wake of the event indisputably tongues will be left wagging as to whether indeed a particular personality or institution truly deserves to be awarded. But that is natural as we sometimes disagree to agree. But one thing that is really obvious is that AWOL prides itself on selflessness and integrity which is why its award programmes have always been characterized by fairness. It is not AWOL that determines who should be a recipient of an award as a voting process is currently ongoing for people to vote their consciences for nominated personalities and institutions whom they truly believe should be recognized for their immense contributions to humanity and nation-building. You are at liberty to vote now by using 2713 short code to SMS via Africell for an individual or institution whom one believes must clinch the covetous 2019 award.

From all indications and judging from the nominations that have been done for the different categories it seems that this Awards Ceremony is going to be the Mother of all AWOL Awards Ceremonies but as some have already maintained that is yet to be determined. However, what for now is really certain is that AWOL has etched a name in history for doing BIG THINGS and this time round there will to be an exception nor is it going to be the last as we have been hinted.

In order to reiterate the message loud and clear the widely acclaimed National Achievements Awards (NAAs) will be dished out to deserving individuals and institutions on the 29th December 2019 at the Bintumani International Conference Centre starting at 7pm with the theme “Education is the Key to National Cohesion and Development” under the distinguished patronage of His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio.

As it had been over the years it is planned to be an unforgettable ceremony that will be laced with pomp and pageantry bringing together under one roof the crème de la crème of society to socialize. It is going to be a nite of fun, jokes and laughter; a moment that will be lively when the spotlight will shine on individuals and institutions that have been recognized for their exemplary contributions to nation building and as such bestowed prestigious awards for their efforts.

Already, on the 22nd November 2019, the launch of the National Achievement Awards was done at the Radisson Blu Hotel and it was graced by individuals from various walks of life including the Chief Minister who on that day described AWOL as an organization which has as its aim and objective to celebrate ‘change-makers’ whom he referred to as those people who are doing their utmost in their little corners to put Sierra Leone first and set bright examples for others to emulate.

During the occasion the President of AWOL, Ambassador Anthony Navo Jr informed the audience that AWOL was formed 20 years ago to serve the country in a distinct fashion. He added that coming from an 11 year war, as young people, they decided to form a group with a distinct mission to recognize distinguished Sierra Leoneans, as well as to complement and serve as an auxiliary to government and this they have been doing successfully since the founding of AWOL.

Indisputably, AWOL’s National Achievement Awards have now become an important feature in the calendar of annual events in Sierra Leone. Come as it does towards the close of the year, most Sierra Leoneans see it as part of their Christmas and End of Year entertainment recipe. During the course of the year, AWOL keenly watched Sierra Leoneans in their various works of life as well as institutions with the avowed objective of recognizing them for their good works.

As a family, AWOL considers that approach as a trend as “it adds worth and meaning to our efforts, and brings fulfillment to our dreams; for over and above recognizing and awarding merit, effort, achievement, ability, devotion, commitment and scholarship, to deserving Sierra Leoneans.’

AWOL is also working in underprivileged communities through its various social, educational and humanitarian interventions.

Contrary to what some may want to believe, it should however be noted that AWOL is a non-political and non-profitable organization, which focuses on national development. AWOL’s philosophy is to be selfless, to serve, to give back to society and expect nothing in return as reward or profit.

AWOL is hinged on determination to complement government’s effort in nation building; regardless of which democratic government is in power.

It is on record that AWOL has stayed together as a group, worked together as a family, and pursued its goals and aspirations as patriotic Sierra Leoneans who care and love their country. As may be the case in other organizations, AWOL may have its own internal problems, for no group or organization exists without conflict; but AWOL has been able to resolve its differences amicably without any threat to the developmental aspirations of the organization as a whole.

One thing that makes AWOL very outstanding and which is part of its constitution is the fact that no individual member is bigger than the organization. AWOL is bigger than each one and their leaders are charged with the responsibility to always bring members together as a family, maintain and promote the traditions that have held AWOL together since the founding and current members became one family 18 years ago.

President of AWOL, Ambassador Anthony Navo Jr., maintains that over these eighteen years AWOL’s contributions to national development have been immense.

He says AWOL supports Sierra Leone’s development and transformative drives to build a new Sierra Leone which is the dream of every Sierra Leonean. AWOL shares in that dream of every Sierra Leonean to see our small but naturally blessed country develop into a paradise on earth.

AWOL further seeks to see a nation with improved social amenities for the enjoyment of young people and also to see a nation able to grow its own food and able not only to feed itself but its neighbours as well. The organization also wants to see a nation that is less dependent on donor funds for its survival and become a nation that idolizes her past, present and future leaders and heroes; and also to see functioning, responsible, pro-active and delivering State institutions.

From all indications, it is going to be an unforgettable nite that will linger in the minds of many here and abroad.

Below is the list of nominees that could be voted for by sending a text message on Africell line to 2713:

AWOL NAAs 2019 CATEGORIES & NOMINEES

EDUCATION

1. TERTIARY INSTITUTION OF THE YEAR 2019
– IPAM
– Njala
– UNIMAK

2. SECONDARY SCHOOL OF THE YEAR 2019
– Dele-Peddle International School
– Sierra Leone Grammar School
– Providence International High School

3. PRIMARY SCHOOL OF THE YEAR 2019
– Gateway Preparatory Primary School
– International Primary School
– Modern Elementary School

4. YOUNG ACHIEVER OF THE YEAR 2018- NPSE
– Menjor, Esther Sia (Leone Preparatory Prim. School)

5. YOUNG ACHIEVER OF THE YEAR 2018 –BECE
– Hooke Johan Harmonette D. (Providence Int. Snr High, F/Town)
– Taqi Hafeez Othman (Sierra Leone Grammar Sch., F/Town)
– Jalloh Khadijatu (Annie Walsh Memorial Sch., F/Town)

6. YOUNG ACHIEVER OF THE YEAR 2018 –WASSCE
– Saffia Kai (Hermann Gmeiner Int. Sch., F/Town)
– Turay Abdulai S. (Dele-Peddle Int. High, F/Town)

7. YOUNG ACHIEVER OF THE YEAR 2019 –NPSE
– Russell Affuah (The International School Ltd., Prim)

8. YOUNG ACHIEVER OF THE YEAR 2019 –BECE
– Manyeh Kaiwanday Nova (Sierra Leone Grammar Sch., F/Town)
– Koroma Umu B. (Modern High, F/Town)

9. YOUNG ACHIEVER OF THE YEAR 2019 –WASSCE
– Gbakima Aiah (Sierra Leone Grammar Sch., F/Town)

SPORTS

10. SPORTS PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR 2019
– Mohamed Buya Turay
– John Keister
– National Swimming Team

GOVERNANCE

11. MINISTRY OF THE YEAR 2019
– Ministry of Health and Sanitation
– Ministry of Tourism and Culture
– Ministry of Information and Communications

12. PARASTATAL OF THE YEAR 2019
– Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC)
– National Revenue Authority (NRA)
– Audit Service Sierra Leone (ASSL)

13. PARLIAMENTARIAN OF THE YEAR 2019
– Hon. Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella
– Hon. Abdul Kargbo
– Hon. Ibrahim ‘Tawa’ Conteh

MEDIA

14. PRINT MEDIA HOUSE OF THE YEAR 2019
– Awoko
– Sierra Eye Magazine
– Standard Times

15. RADIO MEDIA HOUSE OF THE YEAR 2019
– Radio Democracy 98.1 FM
– SLBC Radio
– Kiss 104 FM

16. TELEVISION MEDIA HOUSE OF THE YEAR 2018/2019
– AYV TV
– SLBC TV
– Star TV

17. MEDIA PRACTITIONER OF THE YEAR 2019 (FEMALE)
– Stella Bangura (AYV TV)
– Zainab Joaque (Awoko Newspaper)
– Khadija Bangura (98.1)

18. MEDIA PRACTITIONER OF THE YEAR 2019 (MALE)
– Amadu Lamrana Bah (AYV TV)
– Mohamed Asmieu Bah (SLBC TV)
– Kemo Cham (Politico Newspaper)

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

19. PERFORMING ARTIST OF THE YEAR 2019 (MUSIC)
– Rozay Sokota
– Arkman
-Drizllik

20. PERFORMING ARTIST OF THE YEAR 2019 (MOVIE)
– Desmond Finnie
– Henrietta Mbawah
– Phebean Swill

21. PERFORMING ARTIST OF THE YEAR 2019 (COMEDY)
– Desmond Beinya
– Kindo Armani
– Richie Obama

22. ARTIST OF THE YEAR 2019 (FINE ART)
– King Dus Art
– Alusine Conteh
– Cyril Oronto-Cole

FINANCE & BUSINESS

  1. BANKING INSTITUTION OF THE YEAR 2019
    – Sierra Leone Commercial Bank (SLCB)
    – Ecobank SL
    – Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB)

    24. INDIGENOUS BUSINESS OF THE YEAR 2019
    – Union Trust Bank (UTB)
    – Gento Group
    – NP-SL

    MEDICINE

    25. MEDICAL PRACTITIONER OF THE YEAR 2019
    – Dr. Jalikatu Mustapha
    – Dr. Francis Lansana
    – Dr. Aiah Lebbie

    HUMANITARIAN

    26. HUMANITARIAN OF THE YEAR 2019
    – Sick Pikin Project
    – Pikin Bizness
    – Melqosh Mission

    LAW

    27. LEGAL PRACTITIONER OF THE YEAR 2019
    – Musa Mewa Esq
    – Ibrahim Fayia Sawaneh Esq
    – Joan Bull Esq.

    THE FORCES

    28. MILITARY OFFICER OF THE YEAR 2019
    – Brig Gen Victor Samba
    – Lt Col Roland Robin Gbondo

    29. POLICE OFFICER OF THE YEAR 2019
    – Mr Francis Musa Hazeley (Chief Supt of Police)
    – Mrs Juliette Kumba Kondoh (Supt of Police)
    – Mr Edward Tamba Keimbay (Asst Supt of Police)

    30. FIRE FORCE OFFICER OF THE YEAR 2019
    – Sahr I. Aruna (Sub Officer)
    – Abu Bakarr Fofanah (Sub Officer)
    – Adebayo Williams (Sub officer)

    31. CORRECTIONAL OFFICER OF THE YEAR 2019
    – Mohamed Santigie Turay (Director of Corrections)
    – Rev Mrs. Josephine R.M. Findlay (Chief Supt of Corrections)
    – Mr. Joseph Emmanuel Manley (Chief Supt of Corrections)

    AGRICULTURE

    32. FARMER OF THE YEAR 2019
    – Kabia Farm
    – Jam Jay Enterprise
    – Madam Haja Sundu Marrah

    CIVIL SOCIETY

    33. CSO/CBO OF THE YEAR 2019
    – Campaign for Good Governance
    – CARL- SL
    – CHIRDI- SL

    HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY

    34. HOSPITALITY HOUSE OF THE YEAR 2019
    – The Place- Tokeh
    – Radisson Blu
    – Lagoonda

    FASHION

    35. FASHION DESIGNER 2019
    – Madam Wokie
    – Hudsons
    – J & F Fashion

    PETTY TRADING

    36. PETTY TRADER OF THE YEAR 2019
    –  Isatu (Plasas Seller, Aberdeen Market)
    – Abdulai Jalloh (Butcher, Krootown Road)
    – Sarian Karimu (Shenge Market, Bo)

    NATIONAL SERVICE

    37. PUBLIC SERVANT OF THE YEAR 2019
    – Lara Taylor-Pearce (ASSL)
    – Francis Ben Keifala (ACC)
    – Micheala Mackay (CAC)

    COMMUNICATIONS

    38. TELE-COMMUNICATIONS COMPANY OF THE YEAR
    – Orange SL
    – Africell SL
    – SIERRATEL

Vote now for individuals and institutions you are convinced deserve the prestigious AWOL Awards.

For Quality Petroleum Products Support NP-SL

Sending IB3 to Short Code 2713 via Africell for an AWOL Award…

Among the category of ‘Best Indigenous Company of the Year’  the National Petroleum –Sierra Leone Limited (NP-SL Ltd), was nominated as one of  the ‘Best Indigenous Company of the Year’  for this year’s National Achievements Awards slated to take place on the 29 December 2019 at the Bintumani International Conference Centre at Aberdeen in Freetown. Currently, the voting process is on and our reporters hit the streets to sound the views of the nominees in that category it turned out that NP-SL is uppermost on the minds of many who categorically stated that they are really proud of  the way and manner in which the company has maintained itself since inception to date.

According to Mohamed Bailor Wurie, a vehicle repair garage owner, “ There are indigenous companies that were formed but over little time folded up, some still the same as they were but with NP it is a different story as the company has grown exponentially to become one of the towering entities on the business landscape of this country.” He furthered that to see a 100% indigenous owned company weathering stormy times and still surviving today amidst a lot of challenges speaks volumes of how selflessness and dogged commitment could make the sky the only limit highlighting how NP-SL has really proven that what seemingly appeared to be an impossibility turned out to be a big possibility.

To vote for NP-SL Ltd all what an individual needs to do is to just send IB3 SMS to short code 2713 via Africell.

One big accomplishment that the company scored recently, within the realm of discharging its Corporate Social Responsibility, was providing a water facility at the National Fire Force Branch in Kissy, Freetown, with the objective of enhancing accessibility to water supply for fire fighting purposes. Costing the company millions of Leones, the water facility was handed over to the Force and indisputably it is a big boost to combat an outbreak of fire within Greater Freetown. Love for country, which is an indigenous attribute, could best be the driver to push such a development-oriented initiative to become a tangible reality on the ground that comes with tremendous benefits.

What is so striking about the company is the mere fact that it is truly indigenous , formed by 35 Sierra Leoneans who ploughed their end of service benefits as former workers of the British Petroleum Company by buying shares from the then Government that was in power to form the National Petroleum Sierra Leone Limited. Since its formation, the shareholders have maintained its indigenous posture. It is the company’s policy to have in its employ indigenes as long as they are competent enough to perform tasks assigned to them instead of bringing expatriates.

This posture by the company has helped in giving job opportunities to those who were hitherto unemployed thereby contributing towards poverty alleviation. Many have applauded the company for such saying it is a true manifestation of adherence to the country’s Local Content Policy.

The company has also carved an enviable reputation as 1st for Customer Care. As a matter of fact, it has so prioritized it to such an extent that it is factored in its business transactions with the avowed objective of giving utmost satisfaction. Towards the achievement of that it ensured that its pumping machines installed at various Filling Stations are well calibrated, displaying prices and quantity in order to enhance transparency. This instils confidence among its numerous customers and encourages others to come on-board.

If today many are gaining easy access to petroleum products at affordable prices then that is largely due to the pro-activeness of the shareholders and various Management teams that have steered and still steering activities within the company. This alacrity, on the part of the company, makes it quite possible for these products to be easily accessed preventing the occurrence of shortage that will give rise to dire consequences and grind overall national development to a halt.

To make cooking simple, the company has on offer for sale NP Gas, a device used for cooking and is fuelled by gas which it markets. Manufactured in different cylinders, NP Gas is marketed at the company’s various Filling Stations and they are going at affordable prices.

NP Smart Card is a latest technological device used to purchase fuel without the hassle of having physical cash in one’s personal possession. This Smart Card which can be accessed at NP could be uploaded with money which in turn can be used intermittently to procure fuel. Many have confessed that it is a reliable and the quickest way of securing petroleum products and very efficient in that direction.

Impressively, the company is among pacesetters that have expanded its operations beyond its shores as it has branches in neighbouring Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast and The Gambia where they are vibrantly operating. This has brought pride to many with some claiming that it shows that with brains and determination Sierra Leoneans can climb higher heights.

With an iota of just some of the good things that the company had been and is still doing many say it is imperative that Sierra Leoneans should vote for an indigenous company that has stood firm during the thick and thin of business transactions. Although it is yearning for debts owed it by both public and private institutions as well as gaining easy access to foreign exchange ,however, it is determined to do exceptionally well in 2020.

Vote now: Just send IB3 SMS to short code 2713 via Africell. It has been noted that NP-SL is serving as an inspiration to many and we should be very proud of that.

 

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