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Blind, Deaf & Dumb Schools Receive Motherly Love from UMC Women

By Joenal Sesay

The Coordinator of the United Methodist Women’s Organization, (UMWO), Mrs. Ethel Sandy on Wednesday 4th December 2019 revealed that people with disabilities are not only important but have a vital role to play in society and that disability can affect anybody including their own children   intimating that the donation is part of ‘Ubumtu’ which means in Swahili ‘I am because you are.’

She made the statement during the donation of food and non-food items including bags of rice, garri, onions, cooking oil, toilet rolls, milk, sugar, soap, packets of tealeaf and drinking water estimated at Le12 million to pupils of the Milton Margai School for the Blind and the Deaf and Dumb School respectively on Wilkinson Road in Freetown.

She described the donation as humble but a blessing and that the pupils must accept the items in good faith.

Mrs. Ethel Sandy informed that during the organization’s annual convention, they normally visit communities to evangelize and make donations to the under-privileged but that this year they decided to make the donations to the two schools for the pupils to feel part and parcel of society reiterating that disability is not inability and assured the children that God loves and would make them become successful people in society.

She also informed that the items were purchased from contributions from members of the organization nationwide. Responding, Mr. Sallieu Turay of the School for the Blind and Mrs. Winifred Kamara–Cole of the Deaf and Dumb School commended the UMWO for the donations which they said is highly appreciated and that it is an indication that the United Methodist Church is concerned about them as they have not been abandoned.

They also highlighted the numerous challenges facing them such as the lack of trained and qualified teachers, transportation and other logistics and appealed for more support and furthered that it only quality education that would help the children to become successful citizens to give back to society with Mr. Sallieu Turay quoting the story of the widow’s mite in Saint Mark’s Gospel Chapter 12 verse 41 stressing that no donation is small observing that the work of the organization would win them more souls for Jesus Christ.

They continued that society frowns and discriminates against them.

Highlights of the donation were singspiration, offering of prayers and donation of the items.

Saidu Bah Sillah of the School for the Blind rendered the vote of thanks.

International Health Regulation 2019 Annual Report Out

Minister of Health and Sanitation

By Fatmata Jengbe

In fulfilment of its obligation, Sierra Leone has completed its 2019 self-evaluation to determine the country’s health security capacities as required by the International Health Regulations (IHR 2005). A comprehensive multi-sectoral approach was used to fill the mandatory IHR State Party Self-Assessment Annual Reporting (SPAR) tool. The SPAR obliges countries to report annually to the World Health Assembly on their progress and compliance with implementation of the IHR requirements.

The Ministry of Health and Sanitation conducted the exercise in Freetown in collaboration with its one health sector partners from agriculture, national security and the environment for an holistic approach to health using set international standards and tools. In addition, the country also conducted a Joint External Evaluation (JEE) Self-Assessment Score card 2019 to track the JEE indicators.

Sierra Leone was the first country in the African region to initiate this innovative approach in 2018. Implementation of the IHR calls for countries to develop and strengthen specific national public health capacities, identify priority areas for action, develop national IHR implementation plans, maintain and institutionalize such capacities for progressive improvement over time.

WHO plays the coordinating role in IHR and, in collaboration with its partners, helps countries to build capacities through training, development of tools and guidelines. “The self-evaluation is both domestic and international obligations and we are pleased to be supporting Sierra Leone in fulfilling these requirements,” says Evans Liyosi, WHO Country Representative in Sierra Leone. “This country has made considerable progress in the IHR implementation process by improving capacities in surveillance through training of key personnel and establishment of coordination platforms such as the one health programme and has developed a National Action Plan for Health Security which are some of the bench marks of progress.”

About IHR

The IHR represents an agreement among 196 countries including all Member States of the World Health Organization (WHO) to collaborate transparently and with mutual accountability in enhancing global health security through timely information sharing on public health events.

Some of the measures under the IHR include effective surveillance activities at ports, airports and ground crossing points to limit the spread of health risks and diseases across borders, and to prevent unwarranted travel and restrictions on economic activities between and among countries.

Outcome of the self-assessment

Findings of the evaluation process have been submitted to WHO IHR secretariat as the country’s IHR annual report for 2019 using the electronic version of SPAR (eSPAR). The eSPAR is being used for the first time by Member States as the new means through which to submit their report.

“In order to make significant progress in the implementation of the National Action Plan for Health Security (NAPHS), WHO and other partners have supported the country to establish an accountability framework which seeks to strengthen technical leadership and ownership through the appointment of JEE-NAPHS technical area leads, capacity building and developed of Terms of Reference” says Dr Charles Njuguna ,WHO Health Security and Emergency Lead in Sierra Leone.

The use of the JEE tool to assess the progress indicators has enabled the Sierra Leone to compare the 2018 and 2019 results. Hence, the process of identifying high priority activities for NAPHS 2020 operational plan was initiated by the multisector partners during the deliberations. A quarterly monitoring check-in process will be used to monitor progress in the implementation of priority activities in the NAPHS 2020 operational plan that has been developed.

The Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) has been very instrumental in supporting the work of health security in five selected countries including Sierra Leone through the World Health Organization.

Pres Bio Cautions Anglo-phone W/Africa Leaders against Bad Governance & Corruption

By Alim Jalloh

During the Judicial Training Workshop and Dialogue for Anglophone West Africa that took place on the 3 December 2019 at the Atlantic Hotel in Freetown, His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio stated that bad political governance and corruption restrict civic space and destroy the democratic polity.

The august gathering of distinguished lawyers from Sierra Leone, Nigeria, Ghana and the Gambia looked at the effective implementation of global, regional and sub-regional human rights norms in Anglophone West Africa. The forum was jointly organised by the Judicial and Legal Training Institute and the International Commission of Jurists.

President Bio said citizens would enjoy their inalienable human rights when civic and environmental governance were most conducive and transparent, noting that governance of the environment and the mitigation of the impact of human activity on the environment are also critical for the full enjoyment of the rights to food and health security.

He further maintained that Sierra Leone had signed and ratified treaties and conventions, domesticating them and setting up courts.

“We have domesticated most of these in our laws such as the Child Rights Act of 2007, the Domestic Violence Act of 2007, the Persons with Disability Act of 2011, the Distribution of Estates Act of 2007, the Registration of Customary Marriage and Divorce Act of 2007; and, the Sexual Offences Acts of 2012 and 2019. Sierra Leone is committed to respecting, promoting, protecting, and fulfilling the Human Rights of its citizens. Our Courts are addressing issues regarding Human Rights within powers enshrined in our Constitution Act No. 6 of 1991.

“We will also continue reviewing how other such progressive treaties as the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights will work with our domestic laws and judicial processes. Sierra Leone also maintains its affirmation of the goals of Agenda 2063,” he assured.

President Bio also told the gathering that Sierra Leone had five free elections and three peaceful transfers of powers in recent times, adding that his government would firmly consolidate a culture of democratic rule and democratic accountability.

“My Government has affirmed the right to education of the child by increasing allocations to education to an unprecedented 21% of the national budget. Together with the right to food security and quality healthcare, it is at the centre of the Government’s Human Capital Development priorities,” he noted.

The President concluded by saying that he wholeheartedly commended and supported the initiative of a dialogue, particularly with the involvement of the judiciary of Sierra Leone.

Honourable Justice Desmond Babatunde Edwards, the Chief Justice of the Republic of Sierra Leone, said in his keynote address that human rights were central to any society, whether it is from a political, civil, economic or cultural standpoint. He added that all human beings were born free and were equal in human rights, noting that there were, however, countless instances where those rights had been violated by a large number of the world’s population.

“As independent judges, we stand as guarantors, guidance, protectors, and enforcers of human right norms and it is but pertinent and inevitable that we should choose to be competent and diligent judicial officers by equipping ourselves in ways as to acquire or reinforce knowledge in the subject, as to be sufficiently knowledgeable, possessing the requisite knowledge and gravitas to withstand any challenge on human rights, no matter where it is coming from.

“As an organ of the state, we, like the executive and legislature, have a duty to respect, protect , promote and fulfil the human rights of our respective citizenry, and where the executive and legislature have failed, we cannot fail,” he assured.

President of the Sierra Leone Bar Association, Robert Kowa Esq said that the practice of human rights was grounded in the nature of the human being themselves, adding that he was confident that the training would provide practical tools to effect the commitment goals in the attainment of human rights, standards and norms. He also added that it would promote and protect good governance in the respective countries

Chairperson of the Sierra Leone Human Rights Commission, Patricia Nansu Ndanema, said that she was gratified to be part of the experience-sharing occasion that was geared towards the protection and respect of the dignity of human rights. She said that the occasion showed commitment on the part of Anglophone West Africa for the promotion of human rights norms.

“Application of human rights norms within the justice system is crucial, but if discussions are put into actions, then I remain very optimistic that they will lay strong foundation to address many human rights concerns within the justice system which include but not limited to the long delays of prison inmates to enjoy their rights to be heard and on time and the long term detention without indictment. I believe experiences shared here will better improve on the effectiveness of the structures that are meant to restore hope when victims access them,” she said.

Yesterday was World Anti-Corruption Day Time To Reflect On The Country’s Fight Against It

By Amin Kef Sesay

Last week, in the country’s determination to put a tight lid on corruption, the country’s Head of State signed into law the revised Anti-Corruption Commission Act 2019 that prescribes stiffer punishments for corruption, as well as widens the scope of investigation of corruption in the country by the ACC.

In appreciation of the lethal arsenal of anti-corruption fighting weapons that the new anti-corruption legislation gives the ACC, the Commission noted that it “wishes to thank His Excellency President, BRIG. (RTD.) Dr. JULIUS MAADA BIO, and PARLIAMENT for courageously promulgating and enacting these far-reaching and very progressive reforms that will certainly revolutionize the national campaign against corruption in the country, consolidate and expand the gains made so far by making corruption a high risk and low return venture, and making corruption control legal and regulatory framework more robust.”

Corruption over the past decades ate deep into the fabric of Sierra Leone and weakened a weak public service delivery, which led to citizens having little motivation to pay their taxes. Today, we have an effective Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) charged with the responsibilities of investigating and bringing corrupt individuals to justice.

Before now, we had a sick and stooge ACC whose mission was to investigate corruption but only investigated the less privileged who had no political backing, allowing the serially corrupt and morally vacuous politicians to be left basking in their ill-gotten gains with impunity.

The ACC has a lot to still grapple with in the fight against corruption. Accountability systems are not operating effectively. Corruption is widespread at all levels (from common reports of small-scale bribery in health centers and schools, to the perception that Government officials are corrupt).

We blame the Government for its failure in checking corruption and upholding accountability. It is now time to realize that it is both a matter of public morality, individual conscience and efficient administration to maintain transparency and accountability in society and in public administration and financial management.

To bring about such culture, there is the need to educate the public on the issues of corruption as the ignorance of some Sierra Leoneans is mind boggling. People support the politicians who share their religion, ethnicity, tribe, clan or geography, even when they are known to be corrupt. Educating the people on how corruption is killing us and how it impacts them as well is central to the fight against corruption which is a symptom of a much deeper disease — the failure of institutions and governance, resulting in poor management of revenues and resources, and the absence of effective delivery of public goods and services.

We must focus our efforts on the broader context of governance and accountability. There should be an effective way of engaging both the public and private sectors for the fight against corruption.

There must be the general conviction that the fight against corruption protects democracy and human rights. That it supports good governance, social justice, protects our legal system, economic growth, and general trust in public institutions and the moral values of society.

To win the fight against corruption as a nation, we must think beyond anti-corruption rhetoric and traditional tactics. We need to be more strategic and rigorous, identifying and addressing corruption’s underlying causes and examining the weaknesses in key institutions and government policies and practices.

New Satellite Operator now Hosts AYV Media Empire

By Amin Kef Sesay

In a new development revealed in Freetown on 5 December 2019, AYV Media Empire announces that SES now hosts one of their television channels (33 -News). The platform will enable AYV reach over 180 million viewers across the world. Their fulltime hosting on SES, is in fulfilment of the CEO’s desire to project Sierra Leonean channels to every corner of the world, irrespective of the barriers.

AYV is the FIRST Sierra Leonean TV channel to be hosted on the world-leading satellite platform for global accessibility. To access the AYV News Channel, tune in to channel 101 from your Free to-air Multi TV Box.

These steps taken by AYV Media Empire to boom content from Sierra Leone to the world, is to generate a similar effect –  to bring the world to Sierra Leone through the power of communication.

“This is our Christmas gift to the people of our beautiful country, our constant viewers and partners. This will not be the end of the road for us; AYV Media Empire will continue to take the lead as the nation’s most reputable media brand.

AYV is here to stay and connect the world to Sierra Leone with accurate, balanced and credible information. We are aware of our responsibility to Sierra Leone.

And as always, stay viewing and look forward to something big and exciting from the AYV Media Empire in the coming year.

Let me seize this opportunity to wish the people of Sierra Leone a Merry Christmas and prosperous 2020”, CEO Amb. Anthony Navo Jnr.

About SES:

SES is the world-leading satellite operator and the first to deliver a differentiated and scalable GEO-MEO offering worldwide, with over 50 satellites in Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO) and 20 in Medium Earth Orbit (MEO).

Chairman of Horasis Pays Working Visit to former President Koroma

former President Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma & Dr. Frank-Jurgen Richter who is Chairman of Horasis

By Alim Jalloh

It was revealed in Makeni on 6 December 2019 that former President Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma hosted Dr. Frank-Jurgen Richter who is Chairman of Horasis.His guest, who was formerly the Director of the World Economic Forum, paid the visit in preparation for the 2020 Horasis Global Meeting.

It could be recalled that during the April 2019 Horasis meeting in Cascais, Portugal, President Koroma launched the widely commendable initiative for an African Peace Engineering Corps. And apart from this great initiative, he held several high level side meetings bordering on peace, good governance and economic development in Africa.

“I found President Koroma’s presence during the 2019 meeting and his contribution extremely valuable to the overall objectives of Horasis. Therefore I am here to personally invite him to next year’s meeting and to request for his recommendation of other African political and private sector leaders”, said Frank-Jurgen Richter.

The Chairman of the Horasis went on to say  he agreed with the objectives of the proposed African Peace Engineering Corps and that his organization will fully support that vision. In this regard, Dr. Richter informed of plans to organize, during next year’s meeting, a special Round – Table on the former President’s initiative.

Given the fact that under his leadership Sierra Leone was reckoned as one of the most peaceful countries in Africa, the former President, who has just returned from an Africa Union Elections Observation Mission to Namibia, views peace as integral to the development of all nations. He therefore believes that, as a statesman, the sharing of his rich experience is crucial for peace building and peace consolidation in Africa and around the world.

“I am very pleased to have received the Chairman of Horasis in Sierra Leone; we had very fruitful discussions on our partnership going forward. Indeed I believe Horasis offers a very unique and strategic platform which African leaders, both in the public and private sectors, should utilize in advancing their socio-economic development goals,” said former President Koroma.

The Horasis Global Meeting is acclaimed as a truly global platform for royalty, heads of state, entrepreneurs, economists, peace experts and religious leaders, in tandem with its avowed determination to making our world a better place.

Dr. Frank-Jurgen Richter who is on a tour of African States departed Freetown for Mauritania.

Vote now by Using 2713 Short Code to SMS via Africell as… AWOL is Set to Unveil Outstanding Personalities & Institutions

By Amin Kef Sesay

Sierra Leone’s leading social organization, the All Walks of Life (AWOL) is now in top gear with regards preparations to stage one of the most prominent Award ceremonies that have always captivated the attention of many and leave tongues 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.

In just  about three weeks from now, to be specific on the 29th December 2019, all roads will be leading  to the Bintumani International Conference Centre where at 7pm the highly regarded All Walks of Life (AWOL) will commence its programme of dishing out its annual prestigious 2019 awards to deserving personalities and institutions in various categories.

Already,  the Technical and Organizing Committees of the All Walks of Life (AWOL) as both are working doggedly behind the scenes to put all the necessary arrangements together to stage a non-forgettable awards ceremony which will be laced with intriguing moments of fun, laughter, good music, food and drinks. It goes without saying that the after –awards nite feeling will for a long time definitely linger on the minds of many that will take them into a brand new 2020. 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 fulfilment 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 as 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

23. 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 deem deserve the prestigious AWOL Awards.

NP-SL is a Successful Business Entity in Every Estimation  

By Amin Kef Sesay

One of the most successful business entities that are making serious headway within the business landscape is incontestably the National Petroleum Sierra Leone Limited (NP-SL Ltd) which has been in operations now for considerable period of time. By all estimation it is a successful business enterprise whose success could be measured from the point of view that it started humbly only in Sierra Leone but today could boast of having branches within the West African sub-region in places like Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast and The Gambia. In all these countries, the National Petroleum Company stands tall and is rated high among other competing oil marketing companies for its excellent service delivery and the keen attention paid towards optimising customer care.

Formed years back by 35 committed and dedicated Sierra Leoneans it is a private entity that deals in petroleum products, buying whole sale and retailing them at their various Filling Stations right across the country and even beyond. Through hard work , prudent business management applications the company kick-started on a fine footing and with time turned out to become a very a gigantic enterprise that has so far contributed positively ,on various fronts, to the socio-economic development of  the country and it is still doing so excellently.

The pro-activeness of the company vis-à-vis its importation and distribution of petroleum products cannot be overemphasized as such is done in a timely manner which has ensured that for a very long period of time now there has not been any form of shortage and even when such is imminent the company steps in robustly to address such in collaboration with its partners. This unique attribute that the company possesses has earned it respect and lured many to it which is one of the underlying reasons why NP’s customer base keeps soaring although there is much to be desired for.

Naturally, people like to conduct business transactions with entities that are trustworthy and in that regard the company has made its mark. The name of the company is really synonymous with 1st For Customer Care which is not merely dressing itself in borrowed robes but has been recognized by reputable organizations that have bestowed on it prestigious awards for outstanding performances within stipulated periods.

Putting the company’s customer care excellence in perspective, the company is on record for dealing with its numerous customers in a very transparent manner which is why modern calibrated pumping machines were installed at the company’s Filling Stations displaying the quantity of fuel required as well as the price. These sophisticated modern machines have been instilling confidence in customers that they are doing business with a very open company devoid of playing games that will cheat them in order to amass as much profits. When customers have such an optimal satisfaction coupled with being treated courteously by the company’s employees then it is obvious that they will stay glued.

In order to be on top of situation, the company thought it very prudent to factor the concerns and suggestions of members of the public into its decision-making processes and such have effectively guided NP-SL Ltd to make the right choices that have helped it in its development.

Going further to give maximum convenience NP-SL Ltd introduced the use of NP Smart Card which is a latest technological gadget or device that customers can use, through financially topping up, to procure the aspired quantity of petroleum products on any working day thus making it possible to get fuel in a quick way without going through the hassle of having to wait in long queues. With this latest device one is assured of having one’s fuel on Smart Card.

Many have attested that they find using NP Gas very convenient saying it is environmentally friendly, quick and could be refilled with gas that could be bought from the company. Manufactured in various cylinders this modern cooking device could be secured at the various NP Filling stations across the country and they are going at affordable prices that can fit the pockets of many households and institutions. Those who are using it recommended it as a very useful household gadget underscoring that there will be no regrets procuring one.

In the area of enhancing the Local Content Policy it is hard to come across a company like NP-SL Ltd that is effectively doing so. This could be justified by pointing out that the company has made it a hard and fast rule that as long as there are competent Sierra Leoneans capable of performing certain tasks then they should be given priority in terms of employment opportunities instead of bringing on board foreigners who at the end of the day move out of the country with large amounts of money creating economic dislocations.

From all indications NP-SL Ltd is a very successful business entity although it is not all smooth riding as there are challenges to be overcome, one of which is recovering debts owed it by other institutions but it is undaunted to forge ahead while trying to surmount them. The strides taken so far by the company are worthy of emulation and which many Sierra Leoneans must be very proud of.

 

 

Complementing Government’s efforts… Rokel Commercial Bank Cleans Regent Community

Foday Moriba Conteh

To support Government’s efforts towards making the last national cleaning exercise more effective, which was on the 7th November 2019, the Rokel Commercial Bank (RCB) embarked on cleaning the Regent Community in the Western Rural District. Participants that undertook the cleaning exercise include the Head Women of Regent community Managing Director, Deputy Managing Director, Human Resource Manager, a host of RCB workers from different branches, Brand Ambassadors of RCB and community members.

In his statement during the event, Managing Director of Rokel Commercial Bank, Dr. Walter Gilpin, disclosed that the move to undertake the cleaning exercise was geared towards complementing the efforts of the Government of Sierra Leone towards making the national cleaning day initiative a success, adding that this not they first time the bank has undertaken such a cleaning exercise as prior to that they have conducted such an activity at the Princess Christian Memorial Hospital (PCMH) in Freetown.

He noted how the cleaning will also redefine what people think about bankers being individuals that live luxurious life styles and send the message that they can get involved in community work during which time many will come to know about the services the bank has to offer.

He further maintained that it is also part of their Corporate Social Responsibility as a Bank as will as help them to achieve financial inclusion and inform people about the bank in order for them to believe that there is a need to Bank with Rokel Bank in order to save money stating that the Bank is here to serve the people of Sierra Leone.

Business Centre Director, Rokel Commercial Bank, Prince Williams said that the national cleaning exercise is very key in the New Direction manifesto, adding that as a Bank they thought it fit to complement the effort of Government in that direction.

He pointed out further how RCB has been undertaking other development programs apart from the cleaning exercise mentioning outreach programs and concluded by wishing a Merry Christmas and a Happy Blessed New Year to all their valued customers.

Village Head of the Regent Community, Elenorah Jokomie Metzger expressed appreciation to the Rokel Commercial Bank for choosing their community to undertake the cleaning exercise, which she described as very important towards the wellbeing of the people of Regent community.

She maintained that RCB is the first private institution to undertake such move further expressing optimism that with that move it will push other organizations to join the drive in ensuring that other communities are cleaned.

She extended a request to establish a branch of the bank at Regent Village saying as a community they are ready to receive them with open hands maintaining that such will enhance financial inclusion in the country.

MD & DMD of the Cleaning
Cross Section of RCB Staffs on the cleaning

Brewery Awards Long Serving Members of Staff

A Pose picture of all the Recipients

By Amin Kef Sesay

In order to appreciate and celebrate members of staff that have served the entity for a very long period of time, the Sierra Leone Brewery Limited (SLBL), has on Friday 6th December, 2019 held an award ceremony to honour them at its head office within the Wellington Industrial Estate.

The long service award is an initiative by SLBL to recognize and appreciate members of staff who have served the company for a period of 10 years upward.

In his statement to the audience, the Managing Director of Sierra Leone Brewery Limited, Laurent N. Bukasa, disclosed that as a good corporate citizen, they have continued to recognize and acknowledge the roles played by long serving and loyal employees of the company, adding that SLBL is registering its profound gratitude to those employees who have put in ten, fifteen and twenty years of continuous service and so are qualified to be recipients of the said prestigious award.

He furthered that indeed the longer employees serve in the company the more they are expected to inculcate a sense of belonging that will motivate them to give their best at all times.

He expressed appreciation to the spouses and family members of the revered employees who have been contributing in their own ways in ensuring that the company continues to meet its business objectives. He also maintained that they would like to ensure that the company will strive to continue to be an attractive employer for the mutual benefits of their employees and all other stakeholders.

In underscoring the long service award he said they will, as in the past, give a medal of merit, a certificate, drinks and a cash gift donation to all the recipients depending on the years of service, underscoring how the gesture must be seen as one of recognition and acknowledgement for good services to their company.

Assistant General Secretary, Hotel Workers Union, Nellista Stack-Davies who represented the President of the Sierra Leone Labour Congress said they doff their hats to the Management and staff for their humane efforts to honour those whom honour is due to by recognizing their inputs towards the enhancement of the Sierra Leone Brewery limited.

He maintained that such an occasion is an eye opener for other establishments to emulate, adding that no doubt the recipients are feeling good within themselves that Management has honoured their untiring efforts in catapulting the    Sierra Leone Brewery to match with international counterparts of which as a nation we are proud of.

“It is our fervent prayer as a representative of workers in Sierra Leone; Sierra Leone Brewery will endeavour to maintain this high enviable standard,” she enjoined.

She expressed warm appreciation on behalf of the Hotel, Food, Drinks, Tobacco, Entertainment and Tourism Workers’ Union to the Managing Director and the entire competent staff for their support, also expressing hope that as the new Managing Director is a specialist in marketing she is sure that Sierra Leone Brewery’s products will now be all over the country.

Naimatu Sannoh, a recipient of the long service award who has worked for the company for 10 years showed appreciation to the Sierra Leone Brewery for awarding her saying such a move will motivate them to give their best at all times.

She encouraged other members of staff who have not serve the company for  10 years and above to be steadfast and committed in their job assignments as that will qualify them to be recipients of the said award in the future.

In another development the company also held an end of year Christmas party & talent explosion for their current staffs during which they showcased their talents.

The entire event was climaxed by the distribution of awards and food items to staff of the Sierra Leone Brewery limited.

One of the Recipient receiving the long service Award
Assistance Corporate Affairs Awarded Football Campion
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