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India Donates 1,000 Metric Tons of Rice to Boost Sierra Leone’s School Feeding Programme

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

India has demonstrated its continued commitment to strengthening Global South cooperation by donating 1,000 metric tons of rice to Sierra Leone in support of the country’s school feeding programme.

The consignment, dispatched on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, is aimed at bolstering Sierra Leone’s school midday meal scheme, which plays a critical role in improving child nutrition, enhancing school attendance and supporting learning outcomes across the country.

The donation underscores India’s broader foreign policy objective of deepening partnerships among countries of the Global South, while contributing meaningfully to the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to zero hunger, quality education and poverty reduction.

Officials noted that the shipment forms part of India’s ongoing development cooperation with Sierra Leone and other partner countries, reflecting a shared commitment to inclusive growth and sustainable development. The support is expected to ease pressure on the Government’s school feeding programme, which continues to benefit thousands of pupils nationwide.

India’s intervention highlights the growing importance of South-South cooperation as a mechanism for addressing common development challenges through solidarity, mutual support and shared experiences.

The initiative is also aligned with the global push towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030, reinforcing the role of strategic partnerships in delivering tangible benefits to vulnerable populations.

The Government of Sierra Leone has, over the years, prioritized school feeding as a key social intervention, recognizing its impact on child welfare and educational attainment. Development partners, including India, continue to play a pivotal role in sustaining and expanding such programmes.

The rice donation is therefore expected to significantly contribute to ongoing efforts to ensure food security for schoolchildren while strengthening bilateral relations between India and Sierra Leone.

Sierra Leone Sindhi Association Celebrates Cheti Chand with Grand Festivities

Sierra Leone Sindhi Association Celebrates Cheti Chand

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The Sierra Leone Sindhi Association marked the vibrant Cheti Chand festival on Sunday 22nd March 2026, celebrating the Hindu New Year and the birth anniversary of Shri Jhulelal, the revered deity of Sindhi Hindus. The event featured a colorful procession from Ishwari Supermarket on Wilkinson Road to the Indian Temple, where prayers and cultural performances delighted attendees.

Speaking at the closing of the Jhulelal Mahotsav, Niharika Agnani, representing the Sierra Leone Sindhi Association, expressed gratitude to all participants and highlighted the significance of the festival in preserving Sindhi culture and identity.

“We warmly welcome you all. Seeing this vibrant gathering reminds me that no matter how far we may move from our roots, the spirit of Jhulelal Sai continues to live within us,” Niharika Agnani  said.

The celebration was graced by the Honourable High Commissioner of India to Sierra Leone, Shri B. C. Pradhan, along with members of the Indian High Commission. Niharika Agnani described their presence as a “privilege” that strengthens ties between the Indian diaspora and their motherland.

Reflecting on the growth of the festival, Niharika Agnani said, “What began as a simple conversation has now grown into a grand Mahotsav that connects our community to its roots. This is not just a festival; it is our identity and our effort to ensure future generations remain connected to their culture.”

The Sindhi community in Sierra Leone, which has been established for over a century, is recognized for its resilience, business acumen and charitable contributions. Niharika Agnani emphasized the community’s core values of Sewa (service) and Simran (remembrance of God), noting that their efforts reflect the true spirit of “Sindhyat.”

She also thanked donors, sponsors, performers and the event team, singling out Panditji Sangam and his wife Nishi for their week-long dedication to the Mahotsav.

The festival concluded with music, prayers and devotional songs, as attendees sought the blessings of Jhulelal Sai for prosperity, good health and happiness.

“Ayo Lal, Jhulelal! May all obstacles be overcome—eternal gratitude always!” Niharika Agnani  concluded.

In his address, Baisnab Charan Pradhan, High Commissioner of India to Sierra Leone, commended the Indian diaspora for preserving cultural heritage and promoting unity during the celebration of the Cheti Chand, marking the Hindu New Year and the birth anniversary of Jhulelal.

He expressed delight at joining the community on what he described as an auspicious occasion celebrated with devotion and enthusiasm. He described the gathering as a strong demonstration of unity, resilience and cultural richness among the Indian diaspora in Sierra Leone.

The High Commissioner acknowledged the contributions of the Choithrams Group and the Indian Mercantile Association, whose efforts led to the establishment of the Indian Temple in Freetown. He noted that the temple has evolved beyond a place of worship to serve as a vital spiritual and cultural centre that nurtures traditions and strengthens community bonds.

He also commended members of the Indian diaspora for organizing the five-day celebration, noting that their ability to mobilize financial and human resources demonstrated the spirit of unity, service and commitment that defines the community.

Speaking on the significance of the festival, the High Commissioner said Cheti Chand and Jhulelal Jayanthi hold deep meaning for the Sindhi community as they commemorate the birth anniversary of Jhulelal, symbolizing faith, resilience and harmony.

He noted that the celebration of the festival in Sierra Leone contributes to preserving Indian heritage while enriching the country’s multicultural environment. According to him, activities such as music, dance, rituals and community participation promote mutual understanding and strengthen friendships among diverse communities.

Highlighting the global achievements of the Sindhi community, the High Commissioner said the group has built a strong presence worldwide, excelling in sectors such as trade, finance, technology and philanthropy.

He further acknowledged the longstanding role of the Indian mercantile community in supporting Sierra Leone’s commercial growth through trade, retail networks and supply chains that ensure the availability of essential goods across the country.

According to him, many Indian-led companies have also demonstrated commitment to social responsibility through initiatives supporting education, community development and sustainable practices.

“These contributions have strengthened the economic foundations of Sierra Leone and fostered goodwill, cultural harmony and enduring friendship between the people of India and Sierra Leone,” he said.

On the occasion, the High Commissioner extended heartfelt greetings and best wishes to members of the Sindhi community and the wider Indian diaspora.

He expressed hope that the blessings associated with the festival would bring peace, prosperity and happiness to families, while strengthening unity and inspiring continued contributions toward societal progress.

The Cheti Chand celebrations brought together members of the Indian community, cultural groups, and invited guests, showcasing the diversity and shared cultural ties between India and Sierra Leone.

George T. M’bayoh Emerges as 28th Liberator of Liberals Brotherhood FBC, Pledges Unity and Reform

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Newly appointed 28th Liberator of the Liberals Brotherhood FBC, Recorder Bank George T. M’bayoh has pledged to promote unity, inclusivity and disciplined leadership as he officially assumed office during his acceptance speech delivered to members of the Brotherhood.

In his acceptance message, Liberator Recorder Bank George T. M’bayoh described his appointment as a defining moment not only for himself but for the entire Brotherhood, emphasizing that the responsibility entrusted to him goes beyond holding a position and requires dedication, service and commitment to the organization’s core ideology.

He began by expressing gratitude to God for the strength and opportunity to serve, noting that the moment would not have been possible without divine guidance. He also extended appreciation to the Leadership and Elections Committee (LEC) and the Transition Committee for their dedication throughout the selection process, describing their role as admirable in safeguarding the traditions and values of the Brotherhood.

The newly appointed Liberator further acknowledged his fellow aspirants who contested alongside him, commending them for their commitment to the ideals of the Brotherhood. He stressed that the leadership process was not a political contest but rather a demonstration of unity, adding that members should remain focused on the collective victory of the Brotherhood rather than individual interests.

“As the process of selecting the next leader has been concluded, all blocs should now collapse as we collectively regroup, re-strategize and reposition the Brotherhood to achieve its objectives,” he stated.

Liberator George T. M’bayoh underscored his commitment to engaging all members and ensuring equal opportunities across the Brotherhood. He noted that his leadership would be anchored on inclusivity, honesty, fairness and respect for all members, regardless of past affiliations or positions held.

He further emphasized that transparency and active listening would guide his decision-making process, noting that unity does not mean avoiding disagreements but rather addressing challenges directly and finding constructive solutions.

Outlining his vision for the Brotherhood, George T. M’bayoh said he aims to build a more united, disciplined and active organization capable of achieving its political and institutional goals, particularly in campus-based leadership contests. He called on all members to actively participate in advancing the Brotherhood’s objectives and safeguarding its ideology.

He also highlighted the importance of collaboration with affiliated student establishments, urging their leadership to maintain strong partnerships with the Brotherhood in pursuit of shared goals and sustained growth.

Concluding his remarks, Liberator George T. M’bayoh expressed deep appreciation for the trust placed in him, describing his election as a collective achievement that requires continued support and dedication from all members. He called on members to remain committed and united, assuring them that together they would build a stronger Brotherhood capable of achieving greater successes in the future.

As he assumes leadership from Liberator Emeritus Alieu Jabbie, Luxes expressed confidence that the legacy of strong leadership within the Brotherhood would be sustained and further strengthened. They concluded with assurances of loyalty and commitment, pledging to support the new Liberator’s administration and work collectively toward strengthening unity, advancing institutional goals and achieving continued progress within the Brotherhood.

It was further noted that George T. M’bayoh’s leadership journey within the Liberals Brotherhood FBC reflects years of dedicated service. His growth in the brotherhood traces back to his early mentorship under Liberator Mohamed A1 Sesay during the Spancho Batch of Luxes. He later served as Bank under Liberator Malema in 2022, where he reportedly played a key role in conscripting the Tudo Passa Batch of Luxes, and subsequently as Recorder 1 under Liberator Sammy in 2024. These roles, Luxes stated, demonstrated his competence, accountability and strong understanding of leadership responsibilities.

Liberator Recorder Bank George T. M’bayoh

Tony Elumelu Celebrates Birthday with Hope Message, Announces 3,200 Young Entrepreneurs Across Africa

Prominent African investor and philanthropist, Tony O. Elumelu
Prominent African investor and philanthropist, Tony O. Elumelu

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Prominent African investor and philanthropist, Tony O. Elumelu, has used his 2026 annual letter to highlight the growing impact of entrepreneurship across Africa, announcing fresh opportunities for 3,200 young entrepreneurs under the Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) Entrepreneurship Programme.

In the letter released on March 22, 2026, to coincide with his birthday, Elumelu reflected on what he described as a “story of hope,” emphasizing that opportunity, when deliberately created, can transform lives and economies across the continent.

“For a long time, I believed luck was something that simply happened to you. Then I came to understand that luck can be engineered, opportunity can be democratised, and hope is not just a feeling—it is a system we can build,” he stated.

Elumelu noted that the vision began in 2010 when he and his wife committed to empowering African entrepreneurs through the Tony Elumelu Foundation, with a long-term goal of driving economic transformation through private sector leadership.

According to him, Africa’s greatest resource is not its minerals but its people, stressing that entrepreneurship remains the most viable pathway to unlocking the continent’s vast potential.

Providing an update on the programme’s impact, Elumelu disclosed that the Foundation has disbursed over $100 million in seed capital to more than 24,000 entrepreneurs across Africa. He further revealed that about 80 percent of beneficiaries have successfully scaled their businesses beyond the early stages—far exceeding global survival rates for startups.

The initiative has yielded significant socio-economic outcomes, including impacting over four million households, lifting approximately 2.1 million Africans out of poverty, generating $4.2 billion in revenue, and creating about 1.5 million jobs across the continent.

Industry observers note that the TEF model, anchored on what Elumelu describes as “Africapitalism,” continues to reshape Africa’s development narrative by shifting focus from aid dependency to private sector-driven growth.

“This is Africapitalism in action—the belief that Africa’s private sector, especially its entrepreneurs, must drive the continent’s economic and social transformation,” Elumelu emphasized.

He also announced the unveiling of the 12th cohort of the TEF Entrepreneurship Programme at the Transcorp Hilton in Abuja, where 3,200 entrepreneurs drawn from all 54 African countries will receive funding, mentorship, and access to the TEFConnect digital platform.

A notable highlight of this year’s cohort is the strong representation of women, who make up 51 percent of selected participants. Elumelu clarified that the selection was merit-based, underscoring the growing influence and competitiveness of women-led enterprises across Africa.

“As we celebrate Women’s Month, this sends a powerful message: when opportunity is accessible, African women do not simply participate—they lead,” he stated.

Elumelu further expressed appreciation to partners, mentors, and stakeholders who have supported the Foundation’s mission over the years, noting that their contributions continue to strengthen efforts toward building a self-sustaining Africa.

Encouraging the newly selected entrepreneurs, he urged them to seize the opportunity, describing them as resilient individuals chosen not for ease of journey but for their perseverance.

The Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme remains one of Africa’s largest privately funded initiatives dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs, with its continued expansion signaling renewed hope for inclusive growth and economic transformation across the continent.

 

 

Three Sierra Leonean Entrepreneurs Join TEF 2026 Cohort, Secure $15,000 Boost for Business Growth

Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) Entrepreneurship Programme
Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) Entrepreneurship Programme

By Amin Kef Sesay

Sierra Leone has recorded a remarkable achievement on the continental stage as three young entrepreneurs secured places in the 2026 cohort of the Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) Entrepreneurship Programme, reaffirming the country’s growing footprint in Africa’s innovation and enterprise ecosystem.

Karim Kamara, Mattu Kaillie and Theophilipa Bangura emerged among thousands of applicants across Africa to earn selection into the highly competitive programme, widely regarded as one of the continent’s leading platforms for nurturing entrepreneurship and driving private sector development.

Karim Kamara is advancing initiatives in agriculture and agribusiness, Mattu Kaillie is contributing to innovation in health and health technology, while Theophilipa Bangura is making strides in education and training. Their selection highlights the diversity of sectors in which Sierra Leonean entrepreneurs are making an impact, while also reflecting the country’s expanding pool of youth-driven innovation.

Notably, two of the three beneficiaries are women, underscoring the increasing participation and leadership of women in Sierra Leone’s entrepreneurial landscape. Their success aligns with broader continental trends that continue to demonstrate the growing influence of women-led enterprises in shaping Africa’s economic future.

Through the programme, the three entrepreneurs will benefit from a comprehensive support package that includes $15,000 in seed funding, intensive business training, mentorship and access to a robust pan-African network of business leaders and investors. The initiative is designed to transform promising ideas into scalable and sustainable enterprises capable of contributing to job creation and economic growth.

The Tony Elumelu Foundation officially unveiled its 2026 cohort on Sunday, March 22, 2026, following a rigorous, multi-stage selection process that attracted 265,529 applications from aspiring entrepreneurs across all 54 African countries. After extensive screening and evaluation, only 1,951 entrepreneurs were selected, reflecting the programme’s high standards and competitiveness.

According to details outlined in the Foundation’s selection report, the process began with an eligibility screening phase that eliminated incomplete, duplicate and ineligible applications, allowing 112,202 candidates to proceed. This was followed by a business assessment stage, which evaluated applicants’ entrepreneurial mindset, problem-solving abilities, market understanding and financial literacy. At the end of this phase, 60,530 applicants advanced.

The next stage involved a detailed expert review, where applications were assessed independently by multiple reviewers to ensure objectivity and fairness. Key evaluation criteria included business viability, scalability, innovation, financial sustainability and the capability of the founder. This phase further reduced the number of candidates to 26,600.

A fourth stage focusing on due diligence and quality assurance was then conducted, involving identity verification, compliance checks and additional expert assessments. This stage produced a shortlist of 5,000 top-performing candidates. From this pool, the final 1,951 entrepreneurs were selected based on overall performance, while also ensuring regional representation, sector diversity and geographic balance across the continent.

The Foundation reported that 85 percent of the selected entrepreneurs were rated as “excellent,” indicating a high level of readiness to launch and sustain successful businesses. The programme also maintained a strong commitment to inclusivity, with 51 percent of beneficiaries being women and 75 percent falling within the youth category of 18 to 35 years. Additionally, entrepreneurs from rural communities and persons living with disabilities were represented in the final cohort.

Addressing the selected entrepreneurs, Founder and Chairman of the Tony Elumelu Foundation, Tony O. Elumelu, emphasized the critical role of entrepreneurship in Africa’s development.

“I believe that no one but Africans will develop Africa. The future of our continent lies in the hands of young men and women like you. It’s time to act, innovate, and lead,” he stated.

Since its inception, the Tony Elumelu Foundation has disbursed over $100 million in seed capital to more than 24,000 entrepreneurs across Africa, contributing significantly to job creation, revenue generation and poverty reduction. The programme is anchored on the philosophy of Africapitalism, which promotes private sector-led development as a pathway to sustainable economic transformation.

For Sierra Leone, the success of Karim Kamara, Mattu Kaillie and Theophilipa Bangura represents more than an individual accomplishment. It signals the country’s increasing presence within Africa’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and highlights the readiness of its young innovators to compete and excel at the highest level.

Their achievement also sends a strong message about the potential of Sierra Leone’s youth to drive national development through innovation, resilience and enterprise. As they embark on the next phase of their entrepreneurial journey, expectations remain high that their ventures will not only thrive but also contribute meaningfully to job creation, improved service delivery and inclusive economic growth.

The recognition of these three entrepreneurs stands as a moment of national pride and a reflection of the untapped potential within Sierra Leone’s emerging business landscape.

 

“Every Voice Matters” — Vice President Celebrates Eid with Citizens, Emphasizes People-Centred Leadership

Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Vice President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, on Friday, March 20, 2026, joined Muslims across the country in celebrating Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of the Holy Month of Ramadan with a message of gratitude, unity and national cohesion.

Participating in Eid prayers at the National Stadium practice field in Freetown, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh reflected on the spiritual significance of Ramadan, describing it as a period defined by sacrifice, devotion and generosity. He noted that the values cultivated during the Holy Month should serve as a guiding force for national development and peaceful coexistence.

“Today, as we celebrate the end of Ramadan, I join Muslims across Sierra Leone in giving thanks for the prayers, sacrifices and generosity that mark this holy period,” he stated. “Let us commit to continue to abide by the same principles to build a more inclusive, peaceful and prosperous Sierra Leone. Eid Mubarak and May Allah SWT continue to bless us all.”

The Vice President called on citizens to sustain the spirit of compassion, tolerance and solidarity demonstrated during Ramadan, emphasizing that those values are essential for strengthening social cohesion and addressing national challenges. He stressed that the discipline and self-restraint observed during the fasting period should not end with Eid but should continue to shape everyday interactions among Sierra Leoneans.

Widely regarded as a man of the people, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh has built a reputation for his down-to-earth leadership style and his commitment to listening to citizens from all walks of life. His inclusive approach underscores his belief that every voice matters in the governance process and in shaping the country’s future.

During his remarks, he also commended religious leaders for their guidance throughout Ramadan, acknowledging their role in promoting peace, unity and moral discipline within communities. He further called for continued prayers for the nation, as well as for the leadership of President Julius Maada Bio, reaffirming Government’s commitment to maintaining stability and improving the lives of citizens.

The Vice President’s engagement with citizens during Ramadan preceded the Eid celebrations. On Saturday, March 14, 2026, he joined medical staff at the Kono Government Hospital in Kono District to observe Iftar, using the occasion to appreciate frontline health workers for their invaluable contributions to the country’s healthcare system.

Describing the experience as deeply personal, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh noted that the hospital holds special significance in his life, as it is the facility where he was born.

“Today’s Iftar was particularly special because I spent it at the Kono Government Hospital, the very hospital where I was born,” he said. “As I shared a meal with the inspiring staff of the facility, I was reminded of the critical role they play in nation building by nurturing our young; the symbols of hope for a brighter tomorrow.”

He praised healthcare workers across the country for their dedication and resilience, noting that their efforts have contributed significantly to progress in reducing child and maternal mortality. He attributed those achievements to strong partnerships within the health sector and the unwavering commitment of frontline personnel.

“As Sierra Leone continues to make monumental strides in reducing child and maternal mortality, I want to thank the frontline health workers making the difference,” he emphasized.

Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh further highlighted the importance of sustained collaboration between Government, development partners and healthcare professionals to strengthen health systems and expand access to quality care.

He also extended goodwill to Sierra Leoneans observing the Christian season of Lent, reinforcing the country’s tradition of religious tolerance and unity.

The Vice President’s engagements throughout the Holy Month reflect a leadership style rooted in humility, accessibility and service; qualities that continue to define him as a leader who listens, connects and ensures that every voice truly matters in Sierra Leone’s development journey.

APC Accuses Government of Undermining Electoral Reforms Ahead of 2028 Elections

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The All People’s Congress (APC) has on March 18, 2026 issued a strong statement expressing deep concern over what it describes as the collapse of the implementation of the Agreement for National Unity (ANU) and the recommendations of the Tripartite Committee, warning of serious implications for Sierra Leone’s democratic stability ahead of the 2028 elections.

Addressing the Press on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, the leadership of the APC outlined a series of grievances against the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP)-led Government, accusing it of failing to demonstrate commitment to electoral reforms and the agreed roadmap for national cohesion.

According to the APC, the briefing was convened to update the nation on what it termed a “deepening political standoff” between the opposition and the Government, rooted in delays, lack of transparency and alleged deliberate obstruction of reform processes critical to restoring trust in the country’s democratic system.

The party recalled that tensions escalated following the 2023 general elections, which it claims were widely discredited by both local and international observers. The situation was further aggravated by the refusal of the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) to publish disaggregated election results as required by law, prompting the APC to initially boycott governance structures.

The deadlock was temporarily eased after the signing of the Agreement for National Unity on October 18, 2023, facilitated by international and regional partners, including ECOWAS, the African Union, and the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion. The agreement aimed to promote stability, democratic integrity and peaceful political engagement.

Central to the agreement was the establishment of a Tripartite Committee tasked with reviewing the 2023 elections and proposing actionable reforms. The committee reportedly produced over 80 recommendations after six months of deliberations, but disagreements persisted, particularly regarding electoral transparency and governance accountability.

The APC stated that nearly 20 months after the submission of the Tripartite Committee report in July 2024, the Government has failed to meaningfully implement the recommendations. The party accused authorities of bypassing agreed timelines, refusing engagement and undermining the collaborative spirit of the agreement.

It further alleged that the roadmap for implementation was abandoned shortly after its presentation, with the Government instead establishing a steering committee dominated by its own appointees, a move the APC claims lacked inclusivity and transparency.

The opposition also criticized what it described as the Government’s non-responsiveness, citing unanswered communications, lack of dialogue between negotiating parties and failure to provide documentation necessary for meaningful participation in reform processes.

Among the major issues raised by the APC are:

  • Failure of Parliament to Act: The party accused Parliament of ignoring calls to establish an oversight committee on electoral matters.
  • Census Controversy: It claimed delays in the 2025 census could undermine electoral timelines and credibility.
  • Electoral System Dispute: The APC opposed moves toward proportional representation, insisting that national consultations favored the first-past-the-post system.
  • ECSL Transparency Issues: The commission was criticized for failing to publish key documents and implement agreed reforms.
  • Management and Functional Review (MFR): The APC expressed dissatisfaction with the conduct of institutional reviews, alleging exclusion from the process.
  • Security Sector Concerns: The party raised fears over lack of transparency in electoral security reforms.

Additionally, the APC rejected proposed constitutional amendments that would alter the threshold for presidential elections and expand executive powers over electoral appointments, arguing that such changes undermine democratic principles.

Beyond electoral issues, the APC highlighted broader governance challenges, including alleged human rights concerns, political intimidation and economic hardship affecting citizens. The party pointed to rising fuel prices and the cost of living as evidence of deteriorating socio-economic conditions.

In response to the current situation, the APC announced that it has withdrawn its elected officials from parliamentary and local council activities until its concerns are addressed, particularly regarding the appointment of the Chief Electoral Commissioner.

The party is calling for:

  • The restructuring of the steering committee to ensure balanced representation;
  • Greater transparency through public access to implementation documents;
  • Immediate high-level dialogue between stakeholders;
  • Independent monitoring of the reform process.

It further warned that failure to address those issues could result in peaceful nationwide demonstrations, emphasizing its commitment to lawful and constitutional means of engagement.

Concluding the briefing, the APC maintained that it remains open to genuine dialogue but insisted that engagement must be grounded in good faith, transparency and respect for the rule of law. The party also called on the international community to take note of developments, placing responsibility for the current impasse on the Government.

The statement underscores growing political tensions in Sierra Leone as the country approaches another critical electoral cycle, with both sides under increasing pressure to ensure credible reforms and safeguard democratic stability.

Health Sector Under Scrutiny as NMSA, ACC Investigate Missing Ultrasound Machines

Minister of Health, Dr. Austin Demby

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The National Medical Supplies Agency (NMSA) has on March 18, 2026 commenced a joint investigation with the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) into the reported disappearance of portable ultrasound machines during the distribution process to health facilities across the country.

According to an official Press Release issued by the Ministry of Health through the NMSA, the Agency mandated to procure, store and distribute drugs and medical supplies nationwide, acted swiftly upon discovering irregularities involving the medical equipment. The missing ultrasound machines were part of essential supplies intended to strengthen diagnostic capacity in Government health institutions.

The NMSA confirmed that it has fully engaged the ACC to ensure a thorough and transparent investigation into the matter. As part of the process, all staff involved in the distribution chain, from the central warehouse to beneficiary health facilities, have been identified and submitted to support ongoing inquiries.

“The Agency has submitted all relevant staff involved in the distribution chain for the period under review to support the ongoing investigation,” the statement noted, underscoring its commitment to accountability.

Management of the NMSA emphasized that any personnel found culpable in actions that undermine the delivery of quality healthcare services will face the full force of the law. This firm stance reflects the Government’s broader efforts to combat corruption and safeguard critical public resources within the health sector.

Reaffirming its mandate, the NMSA reiterated its dedication to transparency, accountability and integrity in the procurement, storage and distribution of medical supplies. The Agency plays a pivotal role in ensuring that life-saving equipment and medicines reach health facilities efficiently and reliably.

The Agency further assured the public that the situation is being treated with the utmost urgency. Measures are currently underway not only to investigate and recover the missing ultrasound machines but also to strengthen systems to prevent future occurrences.

Health experts have highlighted the importance of portable ultrasound machines in improving maternal and general diagnostic healthcare services, particularly in rural and underserved communities. Their disappearance, therefore, raises significant concerns about service delivery and access to timely medical care.

The NMSA stressed that recovering the missing equipment and ensuring its delivery to the intended health facilities remains a top priority. Authorities believe that swift action and collaboration with the ACC will help restore public confidence and reinforce institutional accountability.

Members of the public are encouraged to remain patient as investigations continue, with assurances that the outcome will be handled transparently and in the interest of strengthening Sierra Leone’s healthcare system.

SLAJ Strengthens Partnership with Finance Ministry and Honours Minister

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening collaboration with the Ministry of Finance following a high-level courtesy visit by its newly elected National Executive to the Minister of Finance, Sheku A. Fantamadi Bangura, at his George Street office in Freetown.

The visit, held on Tuesday, 17th March 2026, forms part of SLAJ’s long-standing tradition of formally introducing its new leadership to key Government stakeholders and development partners, while also consolidating institutional relationships that support media development in Sierra Leone.

Leading the delegation was SLAJ President, Alhaji Manika Kamara, accompanied by the outgoing President, Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, who now serves as an ex-officio member and adviser to the Executive, alongside other members of the Association.

In his introductory remarks, Ahmed Sahid Nasralla expressed appreciation to the Minister for his consistent support to SLAJ during his tenure, noting that such backing significantly contributed to the successes recorded under his leadership. He urged the Minister to extend similar support to the new Executive, emphasizing the importance of sustaining the strong partnership between the Ministry and SLAJ.

Ahmed Sahid Nasralla highlighted the need for continued investment in capacity building for journalists, particularly in specialized areas such as budget analysis and economic reporting. He explained that the plaque presented to the Minister symbolized recognition of the Ministry’s unwavering support to the Association over the years.

Presenting the new leadership, SLAJ President, Alhaji Manika Kamara, commended the Minister for his openness and engagement with the media, describing the Ministry’s support as vital to the effective functioning of SLAJ. He acknowledged the timely disbursement of Government subventions, which he said play a crucial role in supporting the Association’s operations, including its regional structures and affiliate bodies.

Alhaji Manika Kamara provided updates on how previous subventions have been utilized, noting that the funds support administrative activities, regional executives, committees and affiliated organizations such as Women in the Media Sierra Leone (WIMSAL), the Sierra Leone Reporters Union (SLRU) and the Guild of Editors.

He also informed the Minister of the Association’s upcoming Annual General Meeting and National Media Night scheduled for June 2026 in Makeni City. He appealed to the Ministry to support the “Outstanding Reporting on the Economy” category, an initiative aimed at encouraging more journalists to focus on economic and financial reporting.

The SLAJ President further highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance professional standards within the media, including a recently concluded training for 75 female journalists on Public Financial Management and budgeting, supported by the European Union through BBC Media Action.

Responding, Minister Sheku A. Fantamadi Bangura welcomed the SLAJ delegation and commended the Association for its role in promoting responsible journalism. He noted that while Sierra Leone enjoys a relatively stable media landscape, there is still a need for improvement, particularly in the regulation and management of social media.

“The media plays a critical role in governance,” the Minister stated, assuring SLAJ of the Government’s continued commitment to fulfilling its obligations, including the timely disbursement of subventions.

He briefed the delegation on the state of the economy, explaining that global challenges, including conflicts in the Middle East, have had ripple effects on Sierra Leone’s economic performance. Despite those pressures, he assured that Government interventions are helping to maintain stability.

The Minister disclosed that a recent International Monetary Fund (IMF) assessment commended the Government’s performance, while acknowledging the broader global economic constraints. He emphasized the importance of accurate and effective communication of economic realities to the public through the media.

Highlighting ongoing reforms, the Minister said the Government has introduced trade financing and credit facilities to support businesses and stimulate growth. He reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining a professional, non-political approach in managing the country’s finances.

In a significant show of support, the Minister announced that the Ministry of Finance will sponsor the “Best Economic Reporting” category at the upcoming SLAJ Awards and confirmed his intention to personally attend the event.

The visit concluded with the presentation of a plaque of appreciation to the Minister, in recognition of his support to SLAJ and his efforts in stabilizing the economy for sustainable national development.

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