EU, Ballanta Academy Launch National Music Competition to Combat Gender-Based Violence

October 6, 2025

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

The European Union (EU) Delegation to Sierra Leone, in partnership with the Ballanta Academy of Music and Performing Arts, has launched a national music competition aimed at amplifying efforts to end Gender-Based Violence (GBV) against women and girls. The launch took place on Friday, 3rd October 2025, at the Ballanta Academy Auditorium on Liverpool Street in Freetown under the theme: “Unite to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls.”

The initiative, which precedes the annual global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence observed from November 25 to December 10, seeks to use music as a platform to raise awareness, stimulate public dialogue and mobilize communities against all forms of abuse, especially those emerging in the digital space.

Speaking at the ceremony, EU Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Jacek Jankowski, emphasized that Gender-Based Violence remains a major human rights challenge, worsened by new forms of abuse in the digital era. He cited global research showing that more than half of women and girls have experienced some form of online harassment, including cyberstalking, image-based abuse and digital threats. Such violations, he said, not only infringe upon their rights but also deter their participation in public life and leadership, weakening democratic inclusivity.

Ambassador Jacek Jankowski reiterated the EU’s longstanding commitment to combating GBV through partnerships such as the Spotlight Initiative, a joint program with the United Nations that focuses on prevention, protection, survivor support and policy reform. He noted that tackling GBV requires strengthening legal frameworks, mobilizing communities to challenge harmful gender norms and empowering both women and men to act as allies for change.

He explained that the decision to launch a music competition stemmed from the transformative power of art and music to inspire change and unite people around shared causes. The competition, he said, will help raise public awareness on GBV, particularly among youth, and encourage creative expression as a means of advocacy.

According to the Ambassador, eight finalists will be selected for mentorship and training under the guidance of a European music instructor. The top three winners will receive cash prizes of SLE 30,000, SLE 20,000 and SLE 10,000 respectively, along with full certificate courses and opportunities for studio recording. The remaining five finalists will each receive a consolation prize of SLE 1,000.

Dr. Julius Spencer, Chairman of Ballanta Academy of Music and Performing Arts, commended the EU for supporting an initiative that merges creativity with social responsibility. He observed that while Sierra Leone has made progress in addressing Gender-Based Violence through laws and advocacy, the prevalence of digital abuse remains alarming. He underscored that young people are central to driving the cultural and behavioral changes needed to build a more respectful and equal society.

Dr. Julius Spencer highlighted that the competition targets Sierra Leoneans aged 18 to 35, describing it as an opportunity for youths to use their talents to promote gender equality and safer online spaces. He expressed optimism that the program would evolve into an annual campaign and eventually include other art forms such as dance and drama.

Competition Coordinator, Leslie Cummings-Wray, explained that the project will unfold in four stages, starting with a public awareness campaign followed by the call for submissions, selection of finalists and the grand finale scheduled for December 12, 2025, at the Freetown City Council Auditorium. He encouraged artists, songwriters and groups nationwide to participate stressing that submissions must feature original songs focused on Gender-Based Violence.

Interested participants are required to submit a three-minute video performance of their original composition via the online registration form between October 5 and 31, 2025. The competition is open to Sierra Leoneans residing in the country aged between 18 and 35.

Further information and updates can be accessed through the EU Delegation’s social media platforms; Facebook (@EUinSierraLeone), WhatsApp (EUnaSalone) and X (@EUinSierraLeone) as well as Ballanta Academy’s pages on Facebook, Instagram and X.

The music competition is expected to culminate in a live concert where the winning songs will be recorded and shared widely to serve as educational tools against Gender-Based Violence, reinforcing the global call to Unite to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls.

SALPACT UK Champions Poverty Alleviation through Funding for Women’s Farming

October 6, 2025

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

The Sierra Leone Poverty Alleviation Charitable Trust UK (SALPACT) has become an important partner for women farmers in the Western Area Rural District of Sierra Leone, through its support to the Women Advocacy and Agricultural Development Organization (WAADO). Last year SALPACT provided WAADO with fourteen thousand new Leones for the purchase of seedlings, a contribution that has given new energy to the organization’s agricultural efforts.

SALPACT is a UK registered charity that was established in 2017 following the floods and mudslides in Freetown which claimed more than one thousand lives. The charity was created to help prevent and relieve poverty in Sierra Leone by supporting education, agriculture, environmental management and community development. In recent years it has provided assistance to schools, promoted tree planting and climate change mitigation and supported various community projects across the country. Its involvement with WAADO demonstrates how carefully directed financial support can have a meaningful impact on grassroots agriculture.

WAADO, which was founded in 2007 in Waterloo, works to empower women through farming and agribusiness. With access to eighteen hectares of farmland, the organization trains women in planting techniques, soil management, post-harvest practices and small scale agribusiness. The aim is to transform subsistence farming into a path towards self-reliance and income generation. However, progress has been limited because of a shortage of equipment, inputs and financial support. The grant from SALPACT allowed WAADO to purchase improved seedlings that not only provided women with better planting materials but also encouraged them to expand the scale of their farming.

According to Doris Fatima Webber, the Founder and Executive Director of WAADO, the assistance from SALPACT gave her members a much needed boost. She explained that women in the organization are willing and ready to farm but often lack the basic resources that can increase productivity.

She noted that improved seedlings made a difference in both the quality and quantity of their yields. However, she stressed that the women still face many challenges including limited access to fertilizer, mechanized tools, irrigation facilities and storage structures. She added that knowledge in vegetable cultivation and pest control is another urgent need if the women are to diversify their crops and increase their contribution to the country’s food security.

Despite those challenges, the impact of SALPACT’s support is already visible. The use of improved seedlings has encouraged more women to view agriculture as a business opportunity rather than just a survival activity. It has also reinforced WAADO’s role in training and advocacy within the Western Area Rural District. Doris Fatima Webber Webber believes that with further assistance the eighteen hectares of farmland could be developed into a model farm that produces food, creates jobs and trains women farmers from other communities.

SALPACT’s contribution represents the type of partnership that can help rural women farmers overcome barriers and strengthen food security in Sierra Leone. The charity has shown that by providing targeted assistance, local organisations like WAADO can build resilience and deliver results that benefit both women and the wider community.

Founder of SALPACT and Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Abdul Rashid Thomas, said that; “empowering women in rural communities with modern farming technology, expertise and finance, is the most effective strategy to transform the country’s agricultural sector, increase yields and improve productivity. With the dedication of all the Trustees of SALPACT, we are likely to see more resources poured into women’s farming in Sierra Leone.”

For WAADO, the grant is a reminder that progress is possible when women farmers are supported. For SALPACT, it is an example of its wider mission to fight poverty and promote sustainable development in Sierra Leone. Both organisations are calling for greater collaboration from Government, international partners and Non-Governmental Organisations to ensure that women farmers receive the resources they need to transform agriculture into a driver of national growth.

China’s Position Paper on the United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758

October 3, 2025

Updated: September 30, 2025

On October 25, 1971, at the 26th session of the U.N. General Assembly, Resolution 2758 was adopted with an overwhelming majority, which “decides to restore all its rights to the People’s Republic of China and to recognize the representatives of its Government as the only legitimate representatives of China to the United Nations and to expel forthwith the representatives of Chiang Kai-shek from the place where they unlawfully occupy at the United Nations and in all the organizations related to it.” The resolution resolved once and for all the question of the representation of the whole of China, including Taiwan, in the U.N., as a political, legal and procedural issue. The resolution brooks no challenge to its legitimacy, validity and authority.

UNGA Resolution 2758 solemnly confirms and fully embodies the one-China principle.

The core meaning of the one-China principle includes three aspects: there is but one China in the world, the Taiwan region is an inalienable part of China’s territory and the Government of the People’s Republic of China is the sole legal Government representing the whole of China.

The one-China principle is the premise and foundation for UNGA Resolution 2758, while the resolution solemnly confirms and fully embodies the one-China principle. The resolution makes it clear that there is but one China in the world and the Government of the People’s Republic of China is the only legitimate representative of the whole of China, including the Taiwan region. There is no such thing as “two Chinas” or “one China, one Taiwan.”

According to the U.N. Charter, China is a founding member of the U.N. and a permanent member of the Security Council. In 1945, when the U.N. was founded, the official name of China was the Republic of China (ROC). In 1949, the Chinese people overthrew the ROC Government, renamed the country the People’s Republic of China and established the Central People’s Government of the People’s Republic of China. It was a new Government replacing the old one within the same country and China’s sovereignty and inherent territorial boundaries stayed unchanged. Thus, the Government of the People’s Republic of China naturally and fully enjoys and exercises China’s sovereignty, including sovereignty over the Taiwan region; and also naturally represents the whole China in international relations, including enjoying and exercising all the rights of China in the U.N.

In November 1949, Zhou Enlai, then Premier of the Government Administration Council of the Central People’s Government of the People’s Republic of China, sent a telegram to the U.N. Secretary General and the President of the fourth UNGA, stating that the reactionary Government of the Chinese Nationalist Party had lost all legal and factual grounds to represent the Chinese people and demanding that the U.N. immediately revoke all rights of the delegation of the Government of the Republic of China to continue representing the Chinese people at the U.N.

A handful of external forces have groundlessly asserted that as the terms “Republic of China” and “Taiwan” did not appear in Resolution 2758, the resolution has nothing to do with Taiwan. The fact is that UNGA Resolution 2758 completely precluded any possibility of creating “two Chinas” or “one China, one Taiwan.” The U.N. is an international organization of sovereign states and accepts only representatives from such states. Since Taiwan is part of China, not a sovereign state, it therefore has no right to send representatives to the U.N. Although in 1949, the Kuomintang ruling clique continued to use “Republic of China” and “Government of the Republic of China” after retreating to Taiwan, however, the so-called “Republic of China” and “Government of the Republic of China” in 1949 were fundamentally different from the “Republic of China” and “Government of the Republic of China” in 1945 when the U.N. Charter was signed. It had no authority to exercise state sovereignty on behalf of China and had no right to continue representing China in the U.N. Therefore, the term “representative of the Government of the Republic of China” must not be used in UNGA Resolution 2758 adopted in 1971 and the phrase “expelling the representatives of the Taiwan authorities” must not be used either.

UNGA Resolution 2758 carries extensive and authoritative legal force, serves as the authoritative basis for the U.N. and organizations related to it to properly handle the Taiwan question. After the adoption of UNGA Resolution 2758, all official U.N. documents referred to Taiwan as “Taiwan, Province of China.” It was clearly stated in the official legal opinions of the Office of Legal Affairs of the U.N. Secretariat that “the United Nations considers ‘Taiwan’ as a province of China with no separate status” and the “‘authorities’ in ‘Taipei’ are not considered to … enjoy any form of Government status.” This has been the consistent position of the U.N. and is clearly documented.

The adoption of Resolution 2758 had a wide-reaching and profound political impact on the practice of international relations. It effectively made the one-China principle a basic norm of international relations and a prevailing consensus in the international community. To date, 183 countries have established and developed diplomatic relations with China on the basis of the one-China principle.

The voting process on UNGA Resolution 2758 demonstrated that the days when the U.S. and some other countries could obstruct the international community from upholding the one-China principle had gone for good.

Before 1971, the People’s Republic of China had been fighting hard to regain its lawful seat in the U.N. for 22 years. One major obstacle was the sustained obstruction of the U.S. and some other Western countries.

At the time when the 26th session of the U.N. General Assembly opened in September 1971, there was prevailing support for the seat of the People’s Republic of China to be restored. Unwilling to accept this outcome, the U.S. persisted in its attempts to obstruct the process. It primarily erected two major obstacles: The “Important Question” draft resolution, which sought to designate the expulsion‌ of the representatives of Chiang Kai-shek as an “important question” under Article 18 of the U.N. Charter, thereby requiring for its decision a two-thirds majority of the Members present and voting. The other was the “Dual Representation” draft resolution, which combined “confirming the representation of the People’s Republic of China” with “retaining the representation of the Republic of China,” essentially trying to create “two Chinas” within the U.N. A significant number of Member States voiced strong opposition, asserting the proposal was “illegal and inconsistent with reality, justice and the principles of the U.N. Charter.” The “Important Question” draft resolution was rejected. Subsequently, the General Assembly passed Resolution 2758. As the question of China’s representation was thus resolved, the “Dual Representation” draft resolution was not put to the vote and was effectively invalidated.

During the consultations on the resolution, an overwhelming majority of countries recognized that Taiwan is part of China. Representatives from many countries expressed support for the one-China principle, opposing “two Chinas” or “one China, one Taiwan.” The main arguments advanced were as follows: First, the issue before the General Assembly was neither the admission of a new Member State nor the expulsion of an existing one. The question was one of representation, namely, who was entitled to occupy China’s seat in the U.N. Second, the representatives of the Chiang Kai-shek regime, which had been repudiated by the Chinese people and driven from China’s mainland to Taiwan, could under no circumstances represent China in the U.N. Therefore, their continued presence within the Organization must be deemed illegal. Third, there was strong condemnation of the U.S. and its imperialist policies, which for more than 20 years had forcibly imposed the Chiang Kai-shek clique as the representatives of China to the U.N., thereby disregarding the legitimate representation of China.

The whole process leading to the adoption of Resolution 2758 speaks volume for the irreversible trend of the international community to uphold the one-China principle, and there is no “two Chinas” or “one China, one Taiwan.” This is not only a victory of the Chinese people, but also a victory of people around the world against hegemonism and power politics.

3.To challenge UNGA Resolution 2758 is to challenge the post-World War II international order and the authority of the U.N. Any attempt to turn back the wheel of history is doomed to fail.

Resolution 2758 clearly states that “recalling the principles of the Charter of the United Nations,” “the restoration of the lawful rights of the People’s Republic of China is essential both for the protection of the Charter of the United Nations and for the cause that the United Nations must serve under the Charter.” This reflects the resolution’s clear position on upholding the authority of the United Nations. The United Nations is at the center of the post-World War II international order. The restoration of the People’s Republic of China’s lawful seat in the U.N. marked the return of the Chinese people, or one-fourth of the world’s population, to the stage of the U.N. This is of great, far-reaching significance both to China and the world. Any attempt to challenge Resolution 2758 constitutes not only a challenge to China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, but also a challenge to the authority of the U.N. as well as the post-World War II international order. Flagrantly reversing the course of history is absurd and highly dangerous.

The U.S and a handful of other countries are distorting and challenging Resolution 2758, laboriously peddling the pernicious falsehood of “Taiwan’s status being undetermined” in a bid to pave the way for Taiwan to seek “international space.” This constitutes a gross violation of the fundamental norms of international relations, including the principles of sovereign equality and non-interference in internal affairs.

Taiwan has never been an independent country, not in the past, not at present and still less in the future. The question of Taiwan’s status was fundamentally resolved in 1945, when the Chinese people won the great victory of the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. This victory was won by the Chinese people including our Taiwan compatriots through hard-fought battles and great sacrifices. It shall by no means be undermined by the false narratives of some Western politicians.

Although the two sides of the Taiwan Strait are yet to be fully reunified, China’s sovereignty and territory have never been and shall never be divided. The status of Taiwan as a part of China’s territory has never changed and shall never change. Attempt to turn back the wheel of history and separate Taiwan from China once again will never be accepted by the 1.4 billion Chinese people or supported by the international community.

Team Blue Lifts Fatmata Bayinka Trophy as National Pentecostal Church Marks 55th Choir Anniversary

October 3, 2025

By Gunther Daramy

The National Pentecostal Church at Congo Cross, Freetown, recently marked its 55th Choir Anniversary with a grand celebration that combined music, worship and community fellowship. The week-long festivities culminated in a spirited football encounter that saw Team Blue edge past Team White with a 1–0 win to claim the coveted Fatmata Bayinka Trophy, bringing joy and laughter to the congregation.

The friendly game, described as a “comic match,” proved to be one of the most anticipated highlights of the anniversary program. Beyond the competition, it was designed to showcase the lighter side of fellowship, reminding members that faith can also be expressed through fun, unity and collective participation. The match not only entertained but also fostered camaraderie among choir members and the wider church community.

Speaking in an exclusive interview after the event, Brother Momoh, one of the lead organizers, emphasized the spiritual significance of the celebration. “With hearts full of gratitude and joy, we extend our deepest appreciation to all who contributed to the resounding success of the just-concluded 55th Choir Anniversary. The anniversary was not just an event, but a divine encounter,” he noted.

He further expressed thanks to Almighty God for guiding the process and ensuring its success. He lauded the choir members whose voices and dedication, he said, turned the celebration into “a sanctuary of praise that echoed far beyond the walls of the venue.” According to him, their commitment and spiritual preparation helped elevate the program from a mere anniversary into a moment of deep encounter with God.

A central figure in the success of the celebrations was Choirmaster, Robert M. Kamara, who received special recognition for his outstanding leadership and organizational skills. His coordination was credited with ensuring that all aspects of the event, from the rehearsals to the football match, were conducted seamlessly.

Equally vital to the success was the contribution of Fatmata Baby Bayinka, the sponsor of the trophy and her family. Brother Momoh expressed deep gratitude for her tireless efforts in mobilizing resources and supporting the church at such a significant time.

Speaking from the United States, Fatmata Baby Bayinka expressed her delight at the successful outcome of the anniversary and the impact it made on both the congregation and the wider community. She revealed that some of her family and close friends had already shown interest in ensuring that the football tournament becomes an annual tradition linked to the choir anniversary.

“I will continue to contribute in my own way to the church, which is very dear to my heart,” she stated. She added that the tournament symbolizes more than winning or losing, stressing that “in the work of God, there are no losers.”

The anniversary program featured a blend of worship, musical renditions and social activities, all aimed at strengthening unity within the congregation. The choir, known for its rich harmony and inspiring performances, once again demonstrated why it has remained a cornerstone of worship in the church for more than five decades.

For many members, the football match and the accompanying activities brought a refreshing balance of joy, spirituality and fellowship. It showcased the church’s ability to blend sacred worship with lighthearted activities that encourage inclusivity, laughter and bonding.

When the curtains fell on the 55th Choir Anniversary, members of the National Pentecostal Church were left with memories of a celebration that highlighted the enduring power of music, unit, and service in nurturing their faith. While Team Blue claimed the trophy, the event revealed a deeper truth; every participant emerged a winner in spirit, community and devotion.

President Bio Declares Sierra Leone “Open for Business” at U.S. Investment Roundtable

October 3, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone has issued a clarion call to U.S. investors, presenting the country as one of Africa’s most promising yet untapped markets for sustainable business opportunities. Addressing the U.S.–Sierra Leone Business Roundtable organized by the Corporate Council on Africa and global law firm DLA Piper on Tuesday September 30, 2025 in Washington, D.C., President Bio declared Sierra Leone “open for business” and outlined a bold vision of growth, stability and partnership.

President Bio began his keynote by highlighting the reforms and progress achieved during his seven years in office, noting that his administration has carefully laid the foundation for investment success. He cited economic stabilization, strengthened fiscal discipline and the creation of a one-stop National Investment Board (NIB) to ease business registration and permits as major achievements that now make Sierra Leone a more attractive environment for investors.

Equally important, he emphasized, are the investor protection laws that have been reinforced, anchored on transparency, the rule of law and predictability. “The result,” he said, “is a country that is now easier, safer and more profitable to do business in.” By opening new space for private sector-led growth, Sierra Leone has moved closer to realizing its ambition of becoming a premier investment destination in West Africa.

President Bio positioned Sierra Leone as a nation ready for partnership and expansion, outlining several unique advantages that U.S. companies stand to benefit from:

Political stability rooted in a functioning democracy with peaceful transitions of power.
A youthful workforce, with over 70 percent of the population under 35, eager to acquire skills and employment.
Abundant natural resources, including fertile agricultural land, rich fisheries, critical minerals and significant renewable energy potential.
A regional gateway, with Sierra Leone serving as current Chair of ECOWAS, offering investors access to a 400-million-strong market projected to reach a $2 trillion GDP by 2043.

“These are not abstract promises,” the President said. “They are the building blocks of a new Sierra Leone that is ready to welcome investors who are prepared to grow with us.”

A key theme of President Bio’s address was Sierra Leone’s commitment to value addition and shared prosperity. He underscored that his Government does not want to limit foreign engagement to resource extraction but instead seeks partnerships that promote transformation and job creation.

In agriculture, Sierra Leone is transitioning from subsistence farming to agro-processing to boost productivity and exports. In energy, the country is prioritizing renewable power generation to drive industrial corridors and manufacturing. And in the digital sector, investments are being channeled into building the infrastructure for e-commerce and fintech, enabling Sierra Leone to take part in the global digital economy.

“These are areas where U.S. firms already lead globally,” President Bio noted. “And these are precisely the areas where Sierra Leone can become your next growth market.”

President Bio also moved to reassure investors about risk mitigation, pointing to Sierra Leone’s strong ties with global financial institutions. He referenced ongoing partnerships with the World Bank, International Monetary Fund (IMF), African Development Bank (AfDB), and the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Compact, which help de-risk investments by co-financing projects, underwriting reforms, and ensuring policy continuity.

“You are not stepping in alone,” he told participants. “You are joining a crowd of trusted partners aligned behind our growth story.”

While making a strong case for investment, President Bio stressed that Sierra Leone is not just looking for short-term capital inflows but for long-term partnerships rooted in mutual benefit. He invited U.S. firms to see themselves as collaborators in Sierra Leone’s growth journey.

“We are not just inviting investors; we are inviting partners to grow with us; to convert today’s dialogue into bankable projects that deliver real returns while transforming lives in Sierra Leone and across West Africa,” he said.

He emphasized that the Government is ready to listen to investors’ concerns, co-create solutions and align incentives so that businesses can thrive while Sierra Leoneans benefit through jobs, technology and skills transfer.

Closing his keynote, President Bio declared Sierra Leone officially open for business, reaffirming that the time is now for U.S. companies to seize the opportunities the country offers. “Sierra Leone is one of the most promising investment destinations in Africa today. The time is now. I invite you to be part of Sierra Leone’s growth story,” he concluded to applause.

The Washington roundtable marks an important step in Sierra Leone’s ongoing efforts to deepen international partnerships and attract meaningful foreign investment. With its youthful population, political stability and strategic location as a regional gateway, the country is positioning itself to become a significant player in Africa’s next phase of economic transformation.

Foison Resources Distributes School Materials in Bonthe District, Lights Taninihun Village with Solar-Powered Streetlights

October 3, 2025

By Maimunatu Bah, Public Relations Officer, Foison Minerals SL Limited

Foison Resources SL Limited and its sister company, Foison Minerals SL Limited, have reaffirmed their strong commitment to education and community empowerment through two impactful initiatives, distribution of school materials to pupils in their operational areas and the installation of solar-powered streetlights in rural communities. Both projects, carried out between 23rd and 25th September 2025, were warmly welcomed by community stakeholders, teachers, pupils and local leaders.

The education initiative commenced on 23rd September at the District Education Committee (DEC) School in Semabu Village, Sogbini Chiefdom, Bonthe District. Upon arrival, the Foison team was greeted by the Head Teacher and local authorities, who expressed heartfelt gratitude for what they described as the first large-scale educational support ever witnessed in the school’s history. Every pupil received a school bag along with essential learning materials such as books and writing tools. The donation sparked joy among children, many of whom had been struggling with limited school resources.

Teachers noted that the gesture would not only boost pupils’ morale but also support their classroom performance. Parents and community elders echoed those sentiments, pointing out that the company’s intervention relieved families of the burden of purchasing materials, especially in rural communities where poverty levels remain high.

The distribution continued the following day, 24th September, in Jong Chiefdom, where Foison visited Mosavi Primary School and Gendenma Primary School. The event was organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education as well as traditional leaders, including the Section Chief and Town Chiefs. A representative from the Ministry commended the initiative as a timely complement to Government’s efforts to address shortages of teaching and learning materials across the country.

He noted that while the Government is making progress in strengthening access to education, private sector support such as Foison’s remains critical in bridging existing gaps. Traditional authorities also welcomed the project, describing it as a significant contribution to the future of children in their communities.

On 25th September, the final phase of the school distribution exercise took place at NYFA Primary School in Taninihun Village, Kongbora Chiefdom, Moyamba District. The ceremony attracted a cross-section of stakeholders, including the Section Chief, Town Chief, Head Teacher and parents. Teachers and pupils expressed their appreciation, noting that the distribution would serve as a timely boost to learning in the school.

Across all three days, the initiative underscored Foison Resources’ role in strengthening education within its host communities. Smiling children clutching their new school bags and grateful teachers voicing their appreciation highlighted the impact of the exercise. The company reaffirmed that education remains a priority in its corporate social responsibility strategy, which aims at uplifting communities and fostering human capital development.

In addition to its support to education, Foison Minerals SL Limited has brought new light and hope to Taninihun Village in Kongbora Chiefdom, Moyamba District, with the successful installation of ten solar-powered streetlights. The project was completed over the weekend and officially handed over to community members in a brief but symbolic ceremony.

Speaking during the handover, Alex Kamara, Site Manager for Unit Two, emphasized the company’s commitment to going beyond mining operations to improve lives.
“Foison Minerals is not only focused on mining operations; we are equally committed to improving the quality of life for people in the areas where we operate,” Alex Kamara said. “We believe in building meaningful and long-term partnerships with our host communities.”

Residents and local leaders warmly welcomed the solar installation, noting its immediate impact on nighttime visibility and security. Parents said the lights have made it safer for children and women to move around the village after dark, while traders added that it has extended business hours and improved convenience in daily activities.

The Section Chief and other community leaders praised the company for its continuous support, stressing that the project would help foster social and economic activities within the village. Already, residents report that the solar lights have boosted security and reduced the risks associated with traveling at night.

The solar project is part of Foison Minerals’ wider corporate social responsibility agenda, which prioritizes education, health, infrastructure and energy. The company has stated that such investments are meant to complement Sierra Leone’s national development agenda while ensuring that host communities directly benefit from its operations.

Through those initiatives, Foison Resources and Foison Minerals have once again demonstrated their commitment to supporting host communities and building sustainable partnerships. By investing in both education and energy, the companies are not only addressing immediate needs but also laying the foundation for long-term development.

Community stakeholders across Bonthe and Moyamba districts have expressed hope that other companies will emulate Foison’s example by prioritizing social investments in addition to their core operations. Teachers described the company’s educational support as a “game-changer” for pupils, while residents of Taninihun hailed the solar project as “a light of hope” for their community.

Sierra Leone’s ongoing drive toward national development continues to highlight the vital role of private sector actors like Foison. Through its interventions, the company has reinforced its image as a responsible corporate partner; committed to empowering local communities and contributing to the country’s overall growth through responsible mining practices and impactful social investments.

As Over 500 Children Benefit from Back-to-School Support… Sunkray Foundation Boosts Education with Distribution of Learning Materials in Tonkolili and Koinadugu

October 3, 2025

The Sunkray Foundation Sierra Leone has extended vital educational support to pupils in remote communities of Tonkolili and Koinadugu Districts through the distribution of essential learning materials. The exercise, held on the 27th and 28th of September 2025, benefitted schoolchildren in Mabum (Tonkolili District) and the Kaponpon, Kamadaindainna and Kabendugu communities in Koinadugu District.

The donated items included school bags, exercise books, pens, pencils, erasers and sharpeners, all aimed at easing the burden on parents while motivating pupils at the start of the new academic year.

The donation ceremonies drew local leaders, parents and community stakeholders, who offered prayers and words of gratitude to the Foundation. They praised the initiative as a timely intervention for underserved areas and encouraged the organization to expand its outreach.

Chief Executive Officer of Sunkray Foundation Sierra Leone, Madam Isatu Sunkarie Mansaray, expressed appreciation for the continued growth of the Foundation’s work. She thanked God for His guidance and extended special acknowledgment to the sponsors of this year’s “Back to School, Back to Hope” project, Leone Rock Metal Group and SeaCoach Express, for their generosity and commitment to education.

“Our mission has always been to bring hope to communities that are often left behind and education is the surest way to achieve lasting change,” Madam Isatu Sunkarie Mansaray emphasized.

With this latest effort, the Sunkray Foundation reaffirmed its role as a beacon of hope for rural Sierra Leone, advancing access to education through strategic partnerships and grassroots engagement.

Orange Foundation Launches Campaign to Tackle Breast Cancer in Sierra Leone

October 3, 2025

Orange Sierra Leone CEO and Chairman of the Orange Foundation, Sekou Amadou Bah

The Orange Foundation Sierra Leone, in partnership with the Sierra Leone Commercial Bank (SLCB), has launched a nationwide Breast Cancer Awareness and Sensitization Campaign. The official launch took place on September 30, 2025, at the Orange Foundation Event Centre, marking the beginning of activities for Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

The campaign brings together health experts, corporate partners, stakeholders, and community representatives to promote early detection, prevention, and treatment of breast cancer across the country.

As part of its corporate social responsibility, SLCB donated $27,500 to support the initiative. The contribution will cover half the cost of a new mammogram machine and expand screening and outreach services nationwide.

Speaking at the launch, SLCB’s Director of Audit, Madam Olayinka Philips, underscored the urgent need for collaborative action.

“It is an honour to stand with Orange Foundation Sierra Leone in launching this vital initiative. Across Africa, too many cancers are detected too late. In Sierra Leone alone, nearly 3,000 women lost their lives to cancer in 2020, with breast cancer being the leading cause,” she stated.

She emphasized that only five out of 47 African countries have organized national screening programmes and stressed the importance of early detection. She further revealed that the bank’s support will also fund nationwide awareness drives, workplace and school sensitization sessions, post-surgical support, and free basic screening for all female SLCB staff.

“Our commitment is not just a duty; it is an investment in health, dignity, and empowerment,” Madam Philips affirmed.

Orange Sierra Leone CEO and Chairman of the Orange Foundation, Sekou Amadou Bah, welcomed the bank’s support and outlined the Foundation’s ongoing efforts.

“Our journey in breast cancer awareness began in 2015 with the belief that no woman should die from a disease that can be detected early. In 2024, we screened 1,400 women; this year, we aim to reach 2,500,” he disclosed.

He expressed concern over the high rate of late-stage diagnoses, citing figures from Connaught Hospital which show that over 70% of breast cancer patients are diagnosed too late for effective treatment.

“We are breaking barriers by bringing free screening to communities, educating women, and encouraging early action. Awareness alone is not enough—we must build trust, expand access, and stand with survivors,” Bah said.

Deputy Minister of Health 1, Dr. Charles Senesie, praised the campaign for aligning with government efforts to improve women’s health.

“Since 2020, we have reduced maternal mortality significantly, and by 2038, our bold vision is zero preventable maternal deaths. This campaign builds on that vision, moving us from late diagnosis to early detection,” he noted.

He commended Orange Foundation and SLCB for their partnership, stressing that collective efforts are critical to changing the breast cancer narrative in Sierra Leone.

Delivering a health talk, Dr. Isaac Smalle, Surgical Oncologist at Connaught Hospital, educated participants on the causes, symptoms, risk factors, and treatment of breast cancer. He highlighted the importance of early screening, healthy lifestyles, and improved referral systems, while acknowledging persistent challenges such as limited diagnostic infrastructure and cultural barriers.

The launch concluded with a strong call for united action to fight breast cancer, enhance awareness, and save lives across Sierra Leone.

Africell Powers Sierra Leone Bodybuilding Team Ahead of International Contest

October 3, 2025

Africell has reaffirmed its commitment to sports and youth development in Sierra Leone by throwing its weight behind the Sierra Leone Bodybuilding and Fitness Association. The leading telecommunications company’s support comes as the national bodybuilding team prepares to represent the country at the prestigious International Bodybuilding Competition in Nigeria.

On Friday, September 26, 2025, Africell hosted a special presentation ceremony at its Head Office in Freetown to officially hand over its contribution and celebrate the strength, resilience, and determination of the athletes. The event brought together Africell management, representatives of the association, and members of the media.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mohamed Kamara, President of the Sierra Leone Bodybuilding and Fitness Association, expressed gratitude to Africell for what he described as “timely and unwavering support.” He noted that the company’s intervention has boosted the morale of the athletes and renewed their determination to compete at the highest level.

“Africell’s support goes beyond financial assistance; it is an investment in the dreams and ambitions of young Sierra Leoneans. We are motivated to showcase our talent on the international stage and return home with the gold medal,” Kamara said.

Africell’s Chief Operations Officer, Malek El Koussa, in his keynote remarks, highlighted the shared values between bodybuilding and Africell’s corporate mission, including discipline, perseverance, and commitment. He reaffirmed Africell’s dedication to empowering young people, not only in bodybuilding but also across a wide range of sports and creative platforms.

“Africell strongly believes in the potential of Sierra Leone’s youth. By supporting sporting disciplines like bodybuilding, we are helping to nurture talent, build confidence, and open doors for international recognition,” El Koussa stated.

Over the years, Africell has built a reputation as a strong partner in sports development across Sierra Leone. From football to athletics, basketball to fitness, the company has consistently invested in initiatives that uplift young people and promote a culture of excellence. This latest gesture towards the Bodybuilding and Fitness Association is yet another example of Africell’s long-term vision to contribute positively to the country’s social and youth development agenda.

With Africell’s backing, Sierra Leone’s bodybuilding team is now more determined than ever to raise the national flag high in Nigeria and inspire a new generation of sportsmen and women across the country.

AGL Donates NLe 180,300 Worth Of Medical Equipment to Ross Road Community Health Centre

October 3, 2025

‎By Ibrahim Sesay

Africa Global Logistics (AGL) has reinforced its commitment to healthcare and community development by donating essential medical supplies to the Ross Road Community Health Centre on Tuesday, October 1, 2025. The donation, valued at NLe 180,300, included vital equipment such as examination couches, oxygen oximeters, blood pressure monitors, patient chairs, weighing scales and a microscope, all aimed at enhancing service delivery in the community and beyond.

Receiving the items, Senior Community Health Officer at the facility, Rose Patricia Stevens, expressed profound gratitude to AGL for what she described as a timely and life-saving gesture. She emphasized that the equipment will not only benefit the Ross Road community but also patients who travel from as far as Waterloo to seek care at the centre. “These equipment will serve not just the community but the nation as well because we have patients coming from distant areas to benefit from our services,” she noted.

Explaining the importance of the items, Rose Patricia Stevens pointed out that the microscope will ensure accurate diagnoses, leading to appropriate treatments, while examination couches are vital for both clinicians in the observation rooms and midwives in the antenatal ward. She added that the new blood pressure machines will strengthen the centre’s ability to detect and manage hypertensive cases, promising that all the donated items will be used responsibly and judiciously for the benefit of patients.

AGL’s Regional Managing Director, Captain Fabjanko Kokan, handed over the equipment and explained that the initiative forms part of AGL’s annual Solidarity Day celebrations. He stressed that solidarity, for AGL, goes beyond rhetoric and is translated into practical action aimed at saving lives and improving livelihoods. “Solidarity is not only a slogan but a mindset and a need to act. Giving this modest donation will not only improve healthcare but also help save lives and saving one life equals saving the nation,” Captain Fabjanko Kokan declared.

He further assured that AGL’s humanitarian gestures will continue as part of its corporate social responsibility. “This is not our first donation and it will not be our last. We are going to continue to take action and nobody will stop us,” he affirmed, underscoring the company’s long-term commitment to strengthening health facilities and supporting communities.

The event also saw testimonies from patients who welcomed the intervention. One of them, Salamatu Bangura, expressed deep appreciation to AGL, stressing that the donated equipment was crucial for efficient healthcare delivery and would significantly improve the quality of services rendered at the facility.

This donation marks yet another milestone in AGL’s corporate social responsibility program, which has prioritized healthcare support and broader community development. By extending such support, AGL continues to demonstrate its role not only as a logistics leader but also as a partner in building healthier and stronger communities in Sierra Leone.