Civic Day Series in U.S. Marks New Chapter for Sierra Leone’s Democracy and Diaspora Inclusion

October 3, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leone’s Government has deepened its engagement with citizens abroad through the first-ever U.S. edition of the Civic Day Series, hosted by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education (MoICE) on Tuesday September 30, 2025 in New Carrollton, Maryland. The event brought together hundreds of Sierra Leoneans in the diaspora for an open dialogue with senior Government officials on national progress, reforms and opportunities for greater collaboration.

The initiative, which has become a flagship platform for “bringing Government closer to the people, home and abroad,” was hailed as a milestone in inclusive governance. Ministers used the occasion to share achievements across key sectors, while also unveiling new policy reforms that will directly benefit Sierra Leoneans abroad.

Opening the discussions, Chief Minister, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, underscored the critical role of civic participation in Sierra Leone’s transformation. He urged Sierra Leoneans in the diaspora to remain active partners in national development not only through remittances but also by lending expertise, building networks and investing in local opportunities.

“Government policies are stronger when they reflect the voices of citizens at home and abroad,” Dr. David Moinina Sengeh said, emphasizing that Sierra Leone’s global citizens are an integral part of the country’s democratic journey.

MoICE Minister, Chernor Bah, reinforced this message, describing the Civic Day Series as a tool for transparency and accountability. He stressed that diaspora voices matter and that Government remains committed to ensuring their concerns and aspirations inform policy.

A major highlight came from Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Alpha Sesay Esq., who announced sweeping electoral reforms that will allow Sierra Leoneans abroad to register and vote at embassies worldwide.

“For too long, many of you have had to travel home to register and return again for verification and voting,” he said. “Under the reforms, you will be able to register here in the embassy and cast your votes.”

He also revealed provisions under the new Criminal Procedure Act (CPA) aimed at speeding up justice delivery through fixed timelines for judges and the introduction of digital tools for lawyers and witnesses. In addition, a forthcoming Mediation Bill will expand access to out-of-court settlements, responding to data showing that 70% of Sierra Leoneans prefer alternative dispute resolution.

“These reforms deepen President Bio’s commitment to expanding democratic participation and access to justice for our brothers and sisters in the diaspora,” he affirmed.

Government officials took turns to highlight significant achievements in their respective Ministries.

Finance Minister, Sheku Fantamadi Bangura, reported that inflation had fallen from 54% in 2023 to 5.8% by August 2025, while commodity prices had stabilized and exchange rates remained steady for over two years. He credited fiscal discipline and robust partnerships with the IMF, World Bank and EU.

Foreign Affairs Minister, Alhaji Timothy Musa Kabba, pointed to Sierra Leone’s rising profile on the global stage, from its leadership role at the UN Security Council to its active presence in ECOWAS and the African Union C-10.

Health Minister, Dr. Austin Demby, highlighted a 76% drop in maternal mortality, 95% vaccination coverage and the electrification of 330 health facilities through solar energy. He confirmed that President Julius Maada Bio will commission a new ultramodern hospital in Kono this October, with more hospitals under construction in Moyamba, Pujehun, Karene and Kerry Town.

Transport and Aviation Minister, Alhaji Fanday Turay, announced plans to reintroduce commercial train services under a new National Railway Authority, urging diaspora investment in the project. He also cited the success of the Waka Fine buses, which transport 35,000 passengers daily in Freetown, alongside reforms in licensing and road safety.

ICT Minister Salima Monorma Bah showcased over $200 million in digital infrastructure investments, including expansion of fiber backbone to 14 districts, growth of mobile sites to 1,405 nationwide and the introduction of Starlink and 5G networks. She also launched digital platforms like Wan-Gov App, a one-stop shop for Government services.

Gender and Children’s Affairs Minister Dr. Isata Mahoi praised legal milestones such as the GEWE Act and the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, noting that women now represent 36.5% of Cabinet. She also highlighted new financing schemes and survivor support programs that have boosted the reporting of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence cases.

Deputy Water and Sanitation Minister, Ing. Alpha Kallon, updated on two transformative projects: the Freetown WASH and Aquatic Environment Revamping Project, already 65% complete and the $180 million Water Security and WASH Access Improvement Project, set to deliver clean water to five million citizens.

The Ministers repeatedly acknowledged the contributions of Sierra Leoneans abroad, particularly in education, health and agriculture. Dr. Austin Demby, who himself once worked in the U.S., urged doctors and nurses to channel their expertise and networks into building modern facilities at home.

“The medical missions you do are very important. Continue with them, but also look to invest in sustainable health infrastructure that will transform lives,” he encouraged.

The Maryland edition wrapped up to widespread praise, with participants hailing the initiative as a transformative milestone. Many expressed optimism that extending the Civic Day Series to diaspora communities would deepen trust, foster stronger connections and ensure that Sierra Leoneans everywhere remain part of the nation’s journey.

With reforms on the horizon and development milestones recorded across multiple sectors, the U.S. Civic Day Series was hailed as a resounding success, one that underscores President Bio’s vision of inclusive nation-building and the Government’s commitment to bridging the gap between citizens at home and abroad.

Attorney General Announces Electoral Reforms for Sierra Leoneans in the Diaspora

October 3, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leone’s Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Alpha Sesay Esq., has unveiled a package of far-reaching reforms that promise to transform electoral participation and access to justice for citizens living abroad. The announcement was made during the U.S. edition of the Civic Day Series, organized by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education (MoICE) on Tuesday September 30, 2025 in New Carrolton, Maryland.

The Civic Day Series, which has become a flagship platform for bridging the gap between Government and citizens, was held in the United States for the first time on Tuesday, September 30. The forum highlighted Sierra Leone’s development progress across key sectors while reaffirming the Government’s commitment to engage with Sierra Leoneans wherever they reside.

Addressing a packed hall of Sierra Leoneans, Attorney General Alpha Sesay announced proposed electoral reforms that will allow diaspora citizens to register and vote at Sierra Leonean embassies and consulates worldwide.

“A lot of you have to travel back home to register, return again for verification and later for voting. Under the new reforms, you can now register here in our embassy and even vote for those you want to represent you back home,” Alpha Sesay declared.

He, however, reminded the audience that the reforms must go through Parliament for approval. “These changes will be laid in Parliament so you have to get your MPs to support,” he cautioned.

The Attorney General also reaffirmed that dual citizens remain eligible to contest for all public offices except the presidency, underscoring Government’s commitment to inclusivity in political participation.

Alpha Sesay also shed light on major reforms within the justice system, particularly the recently enacted Criminal Procedure Act (CPA). He explained that the new law introduces fixed timelines for judges to decide cases, reducing lengthy delays that often undermine public confidence.

The reforms further embrace technology, allowing lawyers to file motions online and enabling witness testimonies to be submitted virtually. According to Alpha Sesay, the innovation is especially beneficial for Sierra Leoneans abroad with pending legal matters back home.

In addition, the Attorney General disclosed progress on the Mediation Bill, which he expects to table before Parliament soon. The Bill seeks to create a framework for trained mediators to handle certain disputes outside of court, easing the burden on the judiciary. “Data we have gathered shows that 70% of people prefer to settle legal issues out of court. This Bill responds directly to that demand,” he noted.

The historic U.S. Civic Day was organized under the leadership of Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, as part of President Julius Maada Bio’s vision to expand civic education and deepen democratic participation. The Ministry has been at the forefront of outreach efforts, including weekly Press Briefings, monthly provincial engagements and now international civic forums.

Attorney General Alpha Sesay concluded by stressing that justice is a public service and that Government reforms are designed to improve access and fairness for all. “Justice is a service that the Government provides for the people of Sierra Leone,” he said.

The event was warmly received by Sierra Leoneans in the U.S., who hailed it as a landmark moment in diaspora engagement and a sign of the administration’s commitment to inclusive governance and reform.

Transport Minister Calls on Diaspora to Invest in Sierra Leone’s New Train Project

October 3, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leone’s transport sector is set for a dramatic transformation as Minister of Transport and Aviation, Alhaji Fanday Turay, has revealed plans to reintroduce commercial train services in the country. The announcement came during the historic U.S. edition of the Civic Day Series hosted by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education (MoICE) in New Carrollton, Maryland, on Tuesday, September 30, 2025.

The Civic Day Series, launched to bring Government closer to citizens both at home and abroad, showcased Sierra Leone’s progress under President Julius Maada Bio’s administration. For the hundreds of Sierra Leoneans in attendance, the news about reviving train transportation marked one of the most ambitious projects yet unveiled to the diaspora.

Rail transport once played a pivotal role in Sierra Leone, linking major communities, transporting goods and stimulating trade across the nation. The closure of the railway decades ago left a significant gap in the country’s infrastructure. Minister Alhaji Fanday Turay said the Government is determined to restore this historic system to improve connectivity and economic opportunities.

“His Excellency has a vision to also have a train in Sierra Leone. To accomplish that, we have already established an agency and they will start now to do the research. Just after the research, they will meet with business people and I think this is an opportunity for the diasporas as well,” Minister Alhaji Fanday Turay explained.

Calling on Sierra Leoneans abroad to seize the opportunity, he added: “If you know you have a connection with a company that would be interested in doing this project, please after this briefing, you can contact us so we can get on the project together.”

Minister Alhaji Fanday Turay used the platform to outline the achievements of his Ministry, particularly the introduction of the “Waka Fine” bus system. The buses, which operate daily including weekends, have eased transportation challenges for thousands of citizens in Freetown.

“Since President Bio came back for the second time, I am sure that you know about the Waka Fine Bus System that has been introduced which has limited the transportation issue of citizens in the country. Per day, these buses carry over 35,000 people every day within Freetown,” he stated.

The Minister also revealed that his Ministry is considering solutions for rural transportation, ensuring that mobility challenges outside the capital are addressed. One major success already recorded is the decentralization of licensing services, now available across every district.

Concerns about the rising number of road accidents dominated part of the Civic Day discussions. Minister Alhaji Fanday Turay acknowledged the problem and assured citizens that steps are being taken to curb the issue.

“To reduce the high number of accidents on the upline roads, the Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority (SLRSA) has set up a team based in Mile 91 that monitors traffic and removes overcrowded vehicles. Citizens can also report issues using the hotline 844,” he said.

He noted that mobile patrol units have been introduced on major highways to monitor traffic and provide emergency support when needed.

In addition to land transportation, Minister Alhaji Fanday Turay disclosed that reforms are being considered in Sierra Leone’s aviation sector. Among them is a possible review of the $25 airport security fee, which many travelers have long criticized as burdensome.

“This is part of the reforms we are looking into, to make travel more affordable and convenient for Sierra Leoneans and international passengers alike,” he said.

The Civic Day Series itself was another milestone achievement for MoICE, under the leadership of Minister Chernor Bah. The initiative has institutionalized weekly Government Press Conferences, monthly civic engagements in the provinces and now international editions to engage directly with citizens abroad.

The U.S. edition reflected President Julius Maada Bio’s vision of bridging the information gap between the Government and the people. According to organizers, it underscored the administration’s commitment to accountability, citizen engagement and national development.

Minister Chernor Bah, in his remarks, described the event as a clear demonstration of the Government’s openness and determination to listen to its citizens. For Sierra Leoneans in the diaspora, the series provided a platform to directly interact with decision-makers, voice concerns and explore opportunities to contribute to national development.

Reintroducing a nationwide railway network will require significant investment, technical expertise and international partnerships. However, Government officials believe that the long-term benefits, reduced travel costs, expanded trade opportunities and stronger national cohesion, far outweigh the challenges.

For many Sierra Leoneans, the return of trains is more than an infrastructure project; it is a restoration of national pride. The initiative could also position Sierra Leone as a transport hub in the sub-region, especially as the Government pursues wider goals of modernization and regional integration under ECOWAS.

The conclusion of the Civic Day Series in New Carrollton carried a clear but ambitious message from Minister Alhaji Fanday Turay to Sierra Leoneans at home and abroad: the future of transport in Sierra Leone is changing and every citizen has a role to play in driving that transformation.

Orange Sierra Leone Women Hosts Holistic Health Seminar to Promote Women’s Well-Being

October 3, 2025

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

In a major step toward promoting women’s health and wellness, Orange Sierra Leone Women on Tuesday September 30, 2025 organized a one-day Holistic Health Seminar under the theme: “OSL Women Well-being.” The event brought together medical experts, corporate leaders and community members to address critical health challenges affecting women, ranging from reproductive health and workplace stress to mental well-being.

Delivering the opening remarks, OSL Women President, Priscilla Okechukwu, highlighted the importance of creating safe spaces for women to openly discuss health issues. She noted that the seminar was designed to empower women with knowledge and resources, thanks to a lineup of expert speakers and supportive partners. Gifts were also provided to participants as a gesture of encouragement.

Guiding the day’s proceedings was Georgina Vincent, Legal and Compliance Manager of Orange Money Finance Sierra Leone (OMFSL), who served as the Master of Ceremony.

Addressing the gathering, Agnes Songa, Human Resources Director, underscored the need for workplaces to prioritize women’s well-being. She emphasized that women often shoulder multiple roles as professionals, caregivers and mothers and require strong support systems to thrive. Agnes Songa urged participants to uplift one another and remain visible in the workforce by upholding positive values and avoiding complacency.

The medical segment commenced with a detailed presentation by Dr. Rosetta Cole, who educated participants about fibroids; a common but often misunderstood health condition affecting women, particularly of African descent. She outlined symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pain and fertility issues, while stressing that not all fibroids require treatment. Dr. Rosetta Cole highlighted diagnosis methods and treatment options, encouraging early consultations.

The keynote speaker, Dr. Patricia Bah, Chief Nursing Officer at the Ministry of Health, reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to reducing maternal mortality and expanding access to reproductive health services through initiatives like universal health coverage. She emphasized the importance of a multi-sectoral approach to women’s health, which would include addressing non-communicable diseases and advancing legislation such as the pending Mental Health Bill.

A representative from Palanie and Sons Pharmaceuticals spoke about the company’s commitment to providing affordable medicines and expanding services nationwide, inviting participants to take advantage of their offerings.

The seminar closed with an engaging session on mental health, led by Dr. Melvina Thompson. She discussed the links between stress, chronic illnesses and workplace burnout. Dr. Melvina Thompson highlighted warning signs of stress, such as irritability, low energy and poor sleep and encouraged women to build resilience through exercise, strong support networks and self-care practices.

The event concluded on a strong note, with participants expressing gratitude for the knowledge shared and the solidarity fostered. The seminar served as a call to action for greater awareness and collaboration among communities, Government institutions and corporate bodies to ensure that women in Sierra Leone lead healthier and more productive lives.

NMA Kicks Off Student Outreach Programme, Expanding Learning Opportunities

October 3, 2025

The National Minerals Agency (NMA) has unveiled an innovative Outreach Programme designed to give pupils and tertiary students an immersive understanding of the Agency’s work and the broader mining industry in Sierra Leone.

The launch of the programme took place on Thursday, 2nd October 2025, with pupils from Methodist Girls High School and the International Secondary School Limited visiting the NMA headquarters. During their tour, pupils engaged with Agency personnel, participated in interactive learning sessions and explored the operations of various NMA Directorates.

Alhaji Hadji Dabo, Director General of the NMA, welcomed the pupils and expressed gratitude to the participating schools. He underscored the importance of fostering young people’s interest in science and mining, urging them to harness technology for research and learning. He also highlighted the promising career prospects in the mining sector for students who remain diligent and focused in their studies.

The day’s programme included presentations from key departments, including the Directorate of Mines and Geological Survey, as well as guided visits to the NMA Library, Mining Cadastre Administration Office and Laboratory. These experiences offered pupils a practical perspective on the expertise, resources and processes that underpin the Agency’s work.

The NMA intends to extend the Outreach Programme to additional secondary schools and tertiary institutions, promoting knowledge exchange and raising awareness about the vital contribution of the minerals sector to Sierra Leone’s economic growth.

Saad Group Rewards Customers with NLe1 Million in First Pampa Rice Raffle Draw

October 3, 2025

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Saad Group Limited, distributors of Pampa Rice, on Tuesday, 30th September 2025, held its first-ever “Buy & Win” Pampa Rice Raffle Draw, rewarding customers with a total of 1 million New Leones in cash prizes. The live raffle event took place at the company’s stores on Shell New Road, East End of Freetown.

Speaking during the ceremony, the Managing Director of Saad Group Limited, Emad Taleb, described the raffle as a gesture of appreciation to their loyal customers across the country. He explained that the promotion, which started three months ago, was designed to give back to consumers who continue to support the Pampa Rice brand.

“Today we are completing the second part of the raffle draw. Already, half of the NLe 1 million has been distributed to final consumers in previous rounds. This event is about rewarding more customers who have stood by our brand,” Emad Taleb stated.

During the draw, several lucky winners walked away with cash prizes ranging from NLe 25,000 to NLe 250,000. Among the winners were Mohamed Mansaray, who won NLe 100,000 and Hassan Sesay, who emerged as the biggest winner of the day with NLe 250,000.

Emad Taleb further explained that every customer who buys a minimum of 25 bags of Pampa Rice qualifies for raffle tickets. “If you buy 25 bags, you get one raffle ticket; 50 bags earns you two tickets and 100 bags gives you four tickets. This promotion is nationwide, giving every consumer a fair chance to win,” he said.

He assured customers that Saad Group remains committed to supporting households and businesses by providing quality rice at affordable prices while also creating opportunities for consumers to benefit from loyalty initiatives like the raffle draw.

Expressing her joy after winning NLe 25,000 in the Pampa Rice Draw, businesswoman Aminata Deen Sesay described the experience as both exciting and rewarding. She thanked Saad Group Limited for creating such an opportunity for loyal customers, noting that the initiative not only gives back to the community but also encourages continued trust in their products.

“I am very happy to be one of the lucky winners,” she said with a smile. “I want to commend Saad Group for thinking about their customers in such a special way and I encourage others to continue participating because everyone stands a chance of winning.”

5 Years of Service… DOFA Honors Elderly with Free Medical Check-ups & Meals on International Day of Older Persons

October 3, 2025

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The Dorwontony Organization for the Aged (DOFA) on Wednesday, 1st October 2025, commemorated its 5th anniversary alongside this year’s International Day of Older Persons with free medical check-ups and breakfast for more than 200 elderly individuals drawn from different communities across Freetown. The event was hosted at the organization’s office on Albert Street, off Circular Road.

Speaking during the ceremony, the Chief Executive Officer of DOFA, Doreen Barrie, said the initiative was aimed at improving the health and wellbeing of the elderly, many of whom face challenges in accessing proper medical care. “Many older persons cannot afford regular health check-ups and without timely care, they risk serious health complications. Providing free medical services and meals is our way of not only celebrating them but also protecting and extending their quality of life,” she stated.

Doreen Barrie explained that DOFA has consistently marked the International Day of Older Persons since its inception five years ago, but emphasized that this year’s event was particularly significant as it came with expanded outreach and partnerships. “This is not a one-off. We conduct monthly medical check-ups and outreach to communities where some elderly people cannot travel. Our aim is to provide sustained support, not just a day of service,” she added.

She however highlighted the challenges facing the organization, particularly financial constraints, lack of adequate space and limited institutional support. “The crowd we had today shows the pressing need. We need a bigger facility, more resources and stronger Government involvement. Caring for older persons should not rest on NGOs and individuals alone it must be a Government priority,” Doreen Barrie urged.

DOFA has recently signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with several local organizations to strengthen its work. According to Doreen Barrie, those partnerships are already yielding results by boosting resources and increasing public awareness about issues affecting the elderly.

As part of its long-term vision, DOFA hopes to establish a dedicated home for the aged, expand its coverage to more districts and provide comprehensive welfare support for Sierra Leone’s growing elderly population.

She ended with a passionate appeal to Government, institutions and citizens to give greater attention to the welfare of older people. “Older persons deserve access to healthcare, dignity and a conducive environment to live in peace. This responsibility lies with all of us,” she said.

The doctor in charge of the medical checkup commended DOFA for organizing the medical check-ups for older persons, describing the initiative as both timely and important. She explained that from the consultations conducted, the most common health conditions identified among the elderly were high blood pressure, body pains and diabetes.

According to her, those ailments are often linked to a lack of adequate care and the fact that many elderly people do not go for regular medical check-ups, which she emphasized should be a routine practice.

She urged families and communities to provide proper care for the aged, highlighting the importance of regular medical examinations such as those facilitated by DOFA. In her advice to the elderly, she stressed the need for consistent exercise and healthy eating habits, underscoring how those lifestyle choices play a key role in managing and preventing illnesses.

Commenting on behalf of beneficiaries, Yusuf Sesay, a 72-year-old, shared his experience with visible relief. He explained that at his age, routine medical visits are almost impossible due to financial hardship.

“Most of us cannot afford regular medical check-ups and when we feel sick, we often just sit at home and hope to recover on our own. This initiative has given me the chance to know my health status and receive advice from medical professionals,” Yusuf Sesay said. With a smile, he added, “And the meal they provided today reminded me of better days. It may seem small to others, but to us, it means so much. I am deeply grateful to DOFA for thinking about us.”

Madam Fatu Kargbo, a 68-year-old grandmother from the East End of Freetown, also described the event as a blessing. She noted that older persons in Sierra Leone are often forgotten once they retire or lose their livelihoods.
“At our age, we often feel invisible. Many times, people pass us by without even asking how we are doing. But today, DOFA has made us feel loved and valued,” she said, her voice filled with emotion. “The medical check-up gave me peace of mind because now I know what I need to do to take care of myself. I pray that DOFA continues this good work and that more partners, including the Government, will come on board to support them. We, the elderly, deserve to live our final years with dignity.”

President Bio’s Regional Diplomacy Praised by Jennifer Lahai Thompson

October 1, 2025

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In an exclusive interview with this medium, Jennifer Lahai Thompson, a Political Observer, spotlighted President Julius Maada Bio’s evolving role as Chairman of ECOWAS and the delicate balance he must maintain between regional stability, national sovereignty and unity within West Africa. Jennifer Thompson’s remarks reflect growing public and party interest in positioning her as a future national appointee, citing her proven service record within the SLPP and beyond.

She praised President Bio’s series of diplomatic visits to fellow ECOWAS member states since assuming the chairmanship, describing them as a signal of inclusive governance amid a turbulent regional period. “This is not about confrontation; it’s about conversation,” she said, arguing that ECOWAS must strike a balance where each nation is both heard and respected. She warned that political transitions, withdrawals from the bloc and ongoing debates over sovereignty challenge ECOWAS’s legitimacy but also create opportunities for reform and re-engagement.

Her confidence in President Bio’s capacity to steer this epochal moment is rooted in his leadership style. With Sierra Leone’s history of conflict resolution through dialogue and reconciliation, Jennifer Thompson suggested Bio is uniquely positioned to mediate tensions and restore unity. “We’re encouraged by his diplomatic engagements; they demonstrate a commitment to regional dialogue,” she said, adding that he has the credibility and moral authority to re-engage states that have drifted away.

In Sierra Leone, where the border dispute over Yenga remains a political flashpoint, Jennifer Thompson urged compatriots to take a broader perspective: “Instead of condemning him over Yenga, we should laud his regional leadership. The bigger picture matters.” Her statement underscores growing sentiment that national issues shouldn’t overshadow opportunities to strengthen Sierra Leone’s stature in the region.

Of equal import is the undercurrent of calls urging President Bio to consider Jennifer Thompson for a future appointment. Among SLPP loyalists and ordinary citizens alike, her consistent advocacy especially on children’s welfare and public communication of the “Big Five” agenda has elevated her profile. With both diplomatic and domestic service credentials, many argue she now embodies the leadership qualities sought for a more influential role in Government.

As ECOWAS grapples with renewed questions of legitimacy, membership and identity, Jennifer Thompson framed Bio’s chairmanship as pivotal. The path ahead will demand wisdom, restraint and inclusivity traits she believes he possesses. And domestically, her own political ascent appears to be strengthening in tandem with Sierra Leone’s regional ambitions.

Chief Justice Komba Kamanda Leads Assize Service to Launch 2025/26 Legal Year

October 1, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leone’s Judiciary officially opened the 2025/2026 Judicial Year on Sunday28th September 2025 with a solemn procession and Assize Service at St. George’s Cathedral in Freetown, led by Chief Justice, His Lordship Justice Komba Kamanda.

The special service, held under the theme: “Walking in the Fear of the Lord,” drew a large congregation that included members of the Bench, Bar, Government officials and the wider public. The occasion blended tradition and faith, reminding judicial officers of their duty to dispense justice with integrity, reverence and accountability.

The Assize Service marks the beginning of the new legal calendar in Sierra Leone, a practice inherited from the English legal system, where such ceremonies once accompanied the arrival of travelling judges to county courts. Today, it serves as a symbolic call for divine guidance in the administration of justice.

Alfred Kamanda Esq., Public Relations Officer of the Sierra Leone Bar Association, described this year’s service as the most remarkable he has attended since being called to the Bar.

“This is the best Assize Service, well organized and well attended by people from all walks of life. The turnout from lawyers was particularly impressive,” he stated.

Alfred Kamanda, a Barrister and Solicitor of the High Court attached to Brewah & Co. Solicitors, commended Chief Justice Komba Kamanda for his leadership and ongoing reforms. He expressed optimism that the new Judicial Year, ushered in alongside the implementation of the Criminal Procedure Act, 2024, would deliver long-awaited improvements in justice delivery.

Several Judges in attendance echoed similar sentiments, stressing that the reforms would strengthen the rule of law and ensure greater efficiency within the courts.

The Assize Service remains an important annual tradition across Commonwealth nations, including Sierra Leone. While historically an “assize” referred to court sessions conducted by itinerant judges in England and Wales, the modern ceremony has evolved into a religious service asking for divine blessings on the legal year.

In Sierra Leone, the service continues to highlight the judiciary’s enduring link to this tradition, while adapting to contemporary needs. The event typically includes prayers, thanksgiving, hymns and intercession for the nation, reinforcing the values of justice, brotherhood and peace.

At the end of the Thanksgiving Service, Chief Justice Komba Kamanda was joined by Judges of the Superior Court of Judicature, Magistrates and senior management of the Judiciary to thank congregants for their participation. The procession, which featured Justices and staff in full ceremonial attire, further underscored the solemnity and dignity of the occasion.

The Chief Justice’s leadership, particularly in pursuing reforms such as the implementation of the Criminal Procedure Act, 2024, has been widely welcomed within the legal profession. The Act is expected to address longstanding bottlenecks in the justice system, including trial delays and inefficiencies in case management.

By combining historical tradition with a focus on present-day reforms, the Judiciary used the opening ceremony to send a strong signal of its renewed commitment to fairness, transparency and accountability.

Across the Commonwealth, Assize Services serve not only as religious observances but also as cultural and professional milestones. In Sierra Leone, the service underscores the judiciary’s responsibility to the people while invoking divine guidance for those tasked with interpreting and upholding the law.

As the 2025/2026 Judicial Year begins, the ceremony at St. George’s Cathedral reaffirmed the role of the judiciary as a guardian of justice and a pillar of national stability. By opening the legal year in prayer and thanksgiving, judicial officers and legal practitioners alike signaled their readiness to serve the people of Sierra Leone with integrity and impartiality.

IMF Mission Begins First & Second Reviews of Sierra Leone’s $248.5M Credit Facility

October 1, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

A mission from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has begun the first and second reviews of Sierra Leone’s $248.5 million Extended Credit Facility (ECF) Programme, which was approved in October 2024 with an initial disbursement of $46.6 million.

The ECF seeks to address debt sustainability, maintain low inflation and build reserves while supporting inclusive growth through structural reforms and targeted expenditure. It also prioritizes governance reforms, particularly tackling corruption, strengthening institutions and upholding the rule of law.

During a courtesy meeting with the Financial Secretary, Matthew Dingie and senior Management of the Ministry of Finance on Monday, 29th September 2025, the Head of Mission, Garth Peron Nicholls, confirmed that the two-week review will cover both technical and policy issues. Discussions will also extend to Sierra Leone’s preparations for the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF) programme.

Garth Peron Nicholls highlighted that the review will focus on revenue performance, expenditure management, domestic interest rates, financing needs and tax reforms. He emphasized that corrective actions and structural benchmarks agreed with the Fund must be met by the end of November 2025.

Welcoming the mission, Financial Secretary, Matthew Dingie, noted that the Government is ready to engage fully with all necessary data provided. He outlined progress made in stabilizing the economy, including a reduction in inflation to 5.85%, a stable exchange rate, declining domestic interest rates and tighter expenditure management despite revenue shortfalls.

Matthew Dingie expressed optimism that measures already taken will enable the National Revenue Authority (NRA) to catch up with targets by the end of the third quarter. He underscored that the reviews are critical to the continued implementation of the ECF and the RSF programmes.

The successful completion of these combined reviews will pave the way for a second disbursement under the ECF. Meanwhile, Sierra Leone is preparing a formal request for RSF access, estimated at about $210 million (75% of the IMF quota). The RSF is designed to finance long-term reforms that address climate change and build resilience.

According to the Ministry of Finance, the advanced technical mission will finalize reform details, including implementation plans, timelines, coordination mechanisms, partner engagement and institutional responsibilities.