SLCAA DG Appointed ICAO Vice-Chair, Champions Youth Leadership at High-Level Youth Summit

September 26, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) has achieved a historic milestone with the appointment of its Director-General, Madam Musayeroh Barrie, as Vice-Chairperson of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Administrative Commission. This defining moment, confirmed during the 42nd ICAO Assembly in Montreal, Canada, not only secures Sierra Leone’s place in global aviation governance but also highlights the extraordinary rise of Madam Musayeroh Barrie to one of the highest decision-making positions in international aviation.

Madam Musayeroh Barrie was earlier nominated to the position, a development that already signaled a breakthrough for the nation. Her official appointment now makes her both the youngest Director-General worldwide to hold such a role and the first Sierra Leonean to attain this prestigious position. For Sierra Leone, a country working diligently to modernize its aviation sector, her elevation represents not only national pride but also a strategic opportunity to advance its aviation reform agenda on the global stage.

Through her appointment, Sierra Leone now gains direct influence in ICAO’s Administrative Commission, which is central to shaping policies, overseeing budgets and aligning member states’ priorities within the organization. Madam Musayeroh Barrie’s presence at this level strengthens Sierra Leone’s voice in global aviation decision-making, while also opening avenues to build new bilateral and multilateral partnerships, enhance regulatory frameworks and attract investment. The visibility that comes with her leadership role is expected to bolster investor confidence, paving the way for airport infrastructure upgrades, safety improvements and expanded regional air connectivity.

Minister of Transport and Aviation, Alhaji Fanday Turay Esq., who led Sierra Leone’s delegation to the Assembly, hailed the appointment of Madam Musayeroh Barrie as a landmark achievement for the country. Reflecting on the development, he stressed that President Julius Maada Bio’s decision to appoint her as the world’s youngest Civil Aviation Director-General has already begun to yield remarkable dividends. According to the Minister, Madam Musayeroh Barrie’s appointment demonstrates Sierra Leone’s rising influence in shaping international aviation policy at a time when Africa is demanding stronger representation at ICAO.

The recognition of Madam Musayeroh Barrie comes at a moment when ICAO has been showcasing the achievements of women leaders in aviation. A special video produced by ICAO TV, titled: “Every dream begins with imagination… the sky is not the limit”, honored female trailblazers from across the globe. Madam Musayeroh Barrie was featured alongside Paule Avomo Assoumou Koki, Cameroon’s first female aeronautical engineer; Ebtesam Al Shamlan, Bahrain’s Assistant Undersecretary for Air Transport, Aviation Safety and Security and Teresa da Concelao Coelho Neto, an aircraft maintenance specialist from Angola Airlines. Her inclusion among those distinguished professionals placed Sierra Leone firmly on the global stage and underlined the growing momentum for gender equality in aviation leadership.

Delivering a powerful intervention during the Assembly, Madam Musayeroh Barrie reaffirmed her commitment to promoting inclusive leadership, youth empowerment and institutional excellence. She urged more women and young professionals to embrace careers in aviation and to break down barriers in what has long been a male-dominated sector. Her remarks resonated strongly, reinforcing the importance of diverse representation in global aviation governance.

In its official statement, the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority praised Madam Musayeroh Barrie’s appointment as a demonstration of the Authority’s professionalism, competence and credibility under her stewardship. The institution pledged to continue supporting her vision of building a safe, modern, inclusive and globally competitive aviation industry. According to the SLCAA, the appointment reflects Sierra Leone’s readiness to contribute meaningfully to global aviation development and to strengthen its integration into the international aviation community.

The appointment of Madam Musayeroh Barrie also aligns with Africa’s broader call for increased representation within ICAO. Her achievement stands as both a personal triumph and a continental one, symbolizing Africa’s determination to influence aviation governance at the highest levels.

For Sierra Leone, the appointment of Madam Musayeroh Barrie is far more than a ceremonial recognition. It is proof of what visionary leadership, determination and resilience can achieve for a small state on the global stage. Her story is one of inspiration; rising to become the youngest Director-General in global aviation, earning recognition as a trailblazer and now securing one of the most influential positions within ICAO. This moment is a source of immense pride for Sierra Leone, a clear signal that its aviation sector is not only progressing but also contributing to shaping the future of international aviation.

In another event held on Wednesday 24^th September, 2025, Madam Musayeroh Barrie, in her capacity as Director-General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority, delivered a keynote address at the High-Level Youth Summit on the Next Generation of Aviation Professionals (NGAP). Addressing an international audience, she began by extending warm greetings from Sierra Leone and thanked the Government of the United Arab Emirates for hosting the gathering.

In her remarks, Madam Musayeroh Barrie underscored that the aviation industry is on the cusp of global transformation, shaped by emerging technologies, climate resilience, cybersecurity and a rapidly evolving labor market. She emphasized the urgent need for youth to be recognized not only as the future but as active leaders of the present. “We must consciously and purposefully make room for young people to lead by establishing quotas within our institutions for young people, not as favors, but as an acknowledgement that the involvement of young people is critical to aviation’s continued existence and advancement,” she said.

She called for cross-regional collaboration to strengthen talent pipelines, while highlighting the responsibility of young professionals to innovate and reshape aviation into a safer, more inclusive, connected and greener industry. “I see more than just future engineers, pilots and legislators. I see change-makers in the present; innovators who will rethink aviation to make it safer, more inclusive, connected and greener,” she told participants.

Madam Musayeroh Barrie noted that Sierra Leone’s aviation sector is youthful and ambitious, but requires accelerated efforts in skills development, gender inclusion, digital transformation and leadership grooming. She reaffirmed SLCAA’s commitment to ICAO’s NGAP vision and called on young professionals to seize the opportunity to lead.

“Don’t wait for approval to take the lead. Don’t undervalue the power of your voice. And don’t let anyone tell you that you are too young to do or be anything,” she urged. Her speech ended with a rallying call for collaboration across borders and generations to build a safer, smarter and more sustainable aviation future.

Vice President Presents Scholarships to Teachers’ Union: A Defining Commitment to Education

September 26, 2025

By Amin Kef-Ranger

Sierra Leone’s Vice President, Honourable Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, has once again demonstrated his unwavering commitment to the country’s educational transformation by awarding four fully-funded international scholarships to members of the Sierra Leone Teachers Union (SLTU). The scholarships, presented during an official ceremony on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, symbolize a concrete investment in the professional development of teachers and reaffirm the Government’s determination to strengthen human capital as the backbone of national development.

The event, held in Freetown, brought together key stakeholders, including Deputy Minister 2 of the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE), Madam Mamusu Massaquoi, representatives of the Teaching Service Commission (TSC) and officials of SLTU. The Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Conrad Sackey, was absent as he joined His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio at the United Nations General Assembly in New York, but he later issued a statement endorsing the initiative.

In his address, Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh delivered a speech that resonated deeply with the audience. He described the scholarships as more than just an academic opportunity, framing them as a symbol of respect for the teaching profession and its role in shaping Sierra Leone’s future.

He noted that teachers must be regarded as “intellectuals”; not merely for the lessons they deliver in classrooms but for their critical role in cultivating the nation’s values, discipline and knowledge base.

“Our vision of development must be anchored not in the accumulation of wealth but in the intellectual contributions of our people,” Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh declared. “Teachers are the bedrock of this vision and by investing in their growth we invest directly in the future of Sierra Leone.”

That message echoed his longstanding belief that the nation’s transformation hinges on creating a society where respect is earned through service, education and intellectual contribution.

The four scholarships, fully funded by the Government of Sierra Leone, will enable selected SLTU-nominated teachers to undergo advanced training in the People’s Republic of China. The program will focus on school management, record-keeping and administration; critical areas that enhance the leadership capacity of teachers and empower them to manage schools more effectively.

By sending teachers to China, Sierra Leone is tapping into global partnerships to broaden the skills of its educators, thereby strengthening the foundation of the Free Quality School Education (FQSE) policy. Vice President Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh emphasized that this program is aligned with the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) Government’s core values of capacity building, national development and people-centered leadership.

“These scholarships will allow teachers to return home with advanced expertise, equipping them to lead their schools with efficiency and vision,” Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh noted. “This is how we build a culture of excellence in education.”

From New York, where he was attending the UN General Assembly, Minister Conrad Sackey issued a strong message of support. He described the scholarships as the result of close collaboration between the Vice President, the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education and SLTU.

“I am pleased to note that four fully-funded international scholarships have been awarded to members of the Sierra Leone Teachers Union by Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh,” Conrad Sackey said. “This outcome followed earlier discussions we held with the Vice President and the leadership of SLTU on the importance of investing in the professional growth of our teachers.”

The Minister praised the Vice President for taking the lead in ensuring the scholarships were presented in his absence and highlighted the initiative as a direct investment in the nation’s intellectual capital. “The Vice President’s message captured the very essence of our belief that teachers are the intellectual backbone of our nation,” Conrad Sackey added.

The scholarships come at a time when Sierra Leone’s Government, under the leadership of President Julius Maada Bio and Vice President Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, continues to champion the Free Quality School Education (FQSE) programme. Since its launch, the initiative has significantly increased school enrollment, reduced barriers for children from poor households and improved the overall quality of teaching and learning.

Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh has been a vocal advocate for sustaining this flagship policy, ensuring that the Government does not only expand access but also invests in teachers’ professional development. This scholarship scheme is therefore seen as an extension of the Government’s broader strategy to raise standards in education by empowering educators themselves.

Stakeholders at the ceremony, including Deputy Minister Mamusu Massaquoi, the TSC and SLTU officials, commended the Vice President’s leadership. They stressed that by personally awarding the scholarships, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh reaffirmed the administration’s sincerity in prioritizing education as the cornerstone of Sierra Leone’s future.

For the beneficiaries, the program represents a life-changing opportunity to gain international exposure, improve their leadership skills and return to Sierra Leone with fresh perspectives to improve school management.

The presentation of scholarships by Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh is more than a routine ceremony; it is a clear demonstration of his vision for a knowledge-driven Sierra Leone. By championing teachers as the nation’s intellectual leaders and providing them with the tools to thrive, he has positioned education at the center of Sierra Leone’s development agenda.

Continuing its journey under the Free Quality School Education policy, Sierra Leone is sending a powerful message: the nation’s future will be defined not by wealth alone, but by the dedication, intellect and leadership of its teachers.

India High Commission Marks ‘Swachhata Hi Seva’ with Lumley Beach Cleanup

September 26, 2025

By Ibrahim Sesay

The High Commission of India in Sierra Leone on Thursday September 25, 2025 organized a beach cleaning exercise along Lumley Beach to commemorate ‘Swachhata Hi Seva’, a two-week national cleanliness campaign observed annually in India and abroad.

In his remark, the High Commissioner of India to Sierra Leone, Baisnab Charan Pradhan, said the initiative is part of India’s broader national and global campaign to promote cleanliness and environmental protection.

“This is part of India’s national and global campaign to promote cleanliness in our homes and surroundings. The festival is a two-week-long initiative to safeguard our environment,” he said.

The High Commissioner noted that the symbolic exercise was carried out in collaboration with the National Tourist Board, Freetown City Council, Premier Environmental Solutions Limited and the Indian diaspora community in Freetown.

“This is an effort to clean this iconic beach, one of the most important tourist destinations in Freetown. My message to people is to make cleanliness part of their daily lives and volunteer for initiatives such as this one. Keeping our beaches clean is essential for a sustainable ecosystem and for attracting more tourists, which will contribute to the economic growth of the city,” he added.

Mohamed Bah, Planning and Development Officer at the National Tourist Board, emphasized the tourism value of Sierra Leone’s coastline but highlighted challenges of plastic pollution and sewage.

“We have been making this clarion call to other organizations and MDAs to assist in the cleaning of our coastal areas. Strictly speaking, cleaning the beaches does not fall within our mandate but we have been supporting the effort to ensure that our beaches remain tourist attraction sites,” he said.

Mohamed Bah pointed out that poor waste management is a key driver of pollution. “One of the major reasons why our beaches are littered with plastic waste and sewage is the improper disposal of waste. People dump garbage into drainages which eventually ends up in the ocean,” he explained.

Speaking on behalf of the Freetown City Council, Environmental and Sanitation Officer, Marian J. Tucker, stressed the importance of enforcing proper waste management practices. She added that the Council had introduced a new sanitation by-law to clamp down on illegal waste disposal.

She further stated that the city has been divided into eight sanitation blocks, with different service providers responsible for house-to-house waste collection ensuring proper waste management.

Marian J. Tucker called on residents to embrace responsible disposal practices. “Improper waste disposal has a negative impact on the environment. We all have a responsibility to keep our city clean,” she said.

The beach cleaning exercise attracted participation from volunteers, local partners and members of the Indian community, showcasing a shared commitment to protect the environment and promote tourism in Sierra Leone.

At UNGA 80… President Bio Demands Stronger Multilateralism and Urgent Reform

September 26, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone has delivered a powerful appeal at the General Debate of the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly on Wednesday September 24, 2025 in New York, USA, urging world leaders to embrace bold multilateralism and commit to urgent reforms that will make the UN more effective, inclusive and resilient in confronting today’s global challenges.

Speaking under the theme :“Better Together: 80 Years and More for Peace, Development and Human Rights,” President Bio stressed that the 80th anniversary of the United Nations must mark a turning point of courage and renewal rather than complacency. He declared that the UN must evolve into “more than a meeting place; it must be a working place for peace, for people and for our planet.”

President Bio reminded the Assembly that Sierra Leone speaks with independence and conviction, shaped by its history of war and recovery through UN support. Since joining the UN in 1961, Sierra Leone has stood firmly for justice, equality and principled multilateralism. He highlighted his roles as current Chair of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government and as Coordinator of the African Union Committee of Ten (C-10) on Security Council Reform, underscoring Sierra Leone’s determination to champion law, peace and equity on the global stage.

“Sovereignty is equal and our responsibilities are the same,” he stated. “Leadership is not about the loudest voice in the room but the clearest call for justice.”

Turning to international security, President Bio condemned the United Nations Security Council for failing to act decisively in the face of atrocities. He described the devastation in Gaza, Sudan and Ukraine as preventable tragedies made worse by political paralysis. Raising his voice, he demanded: “Ceasefire now in Gaza! Ceasefire now in Sudan! Ceasefire now in Ukraine!”

He argued that the veto should never become a “verdict against humanity,” stressing the need to reform the Security Council so it reflects present realities. He welcomed growing recognition of Palestine but insisted that greater action is needed to uphold peace, protect civilians and preserve the two-state solution.

Reflecting on Sierra Leone’s civil conflict, President Bio credited the UN’s decisive role in ending the war, disarming over 75,000 combatants and restoring democracy. He praised the establishment of the Special Court for Sierra Leone and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission as landmark models of transitional justice.

“When the UN works, lives are saved. When it fails, lives are lost,” he said, calling for stronger respect for UN mandates, greater protection for peacekeepers and humanitarian workers and deeper investment in prevention and peacebuilding efforts.

Linking peace to development, President Bio highlighted Sierra Leone’s Medium-Term National Development Plan, aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals and Africa’s Agenda 2063. He pointed to investments in agriculture, digital technology, healthcare, renewable energy and his flagship Free Quality Education programme as pillars of the country’s progress.

On climate change, the President described the crisis as an existential threat disproportionately affecting vulnerable nations like Sierra Leone, which contribute negligibly to global emissions. He urged developed nations to meet their $100 billion annual climate finance commitment and emphasized that “climate justice is not charity; it is a legal and moral responsibility.”

He also announced Sierra Leone’s ratification of the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Treaty, becoming the 60th state to do so further demonstrating the country’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

As Coordinator of the African Union C-10, President Bio strongly reiterated Africa’s demand for Security Council reform. He described the continent’s continued exclusion from permanent representation as “unjust and untenable,” stressing that it undermines the Council’s legitimacy. He reaffirmed the Common African Position in the Ezulwini Consensus and the Sirte Declaration, demanding at least two permanent seats with full rights, including veto power if it remains and two additional non-permanent seats for Africa.

“This is not a request. It is a demand for equity,” President Bio declared. “The 80th anniversary of the UN and the 20th anniversary of the Ezulwini Consensus must mark the moment the world answers Africa’s call.”

The President also celebrated the 50th anniversary of ECOWAS, citing its decisive interventions in Sierra Leone, Liberia and The Gambia as evidence of Africa’s capacity to provide its own solutions. As Chair of the regional bloc, he outlined his priorities: defending democracy, countering terrorism, advancing regional integration and strengthening institutional credibility.

He emphasized that Africa must be seen as a strategic partner, not a problem to be managed. “Africa has solutions. What we need is equal representation and a seat at the table,” he said.

Promoting Sierra Leone’s Global Voice President Bio used the platform to endorse the candidature of Professor Dr. Charles Chernor Jalloh for the International Court of Justice, citing his distinguished service and commitment to international law. He said this nomination reflects Sierra Leone’s readiness to contribute to strengthening the global legal order.

In closing, President Bio urged the world to seize the historic anniversary to renew the UN’s mission and strengthen its legitimacy. “The world does not need a louder UN. It requires a braver UN. Now is the time to make the UN work for all,” he affirmed.

He concluded with a call to unity and shared responsibility: “Together, let us forge a future of peace, shared prosperity and human dignity. For in unity, we are not only better; we are stronger.”

QNET Marks 27 Years of Excellence, Driven by Integrity, Transparency, Innovation, and Service to Humanity

September 26, 2025

QNET is officially 27 years old. Founded in 1998, QNET has surmounted challenges to emerge as one of the global leaders in direct selling impacting millions of lives across the world with its well-researched, quality and certified wellness and lifestyle products. QNET uses a direct selling business model to promote unique products that enable people to take charge of their health, well-being, and lifestyle.

West African journalists from Ghana, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Senegal and Togo attended and experienced the VCON, which hosted more than 10,000 participants from more than 30 countries.

In her 27^th anniversary remarks while addressing journalists from West Africa, Ramya Chandrasekaran, Group Communications Officer for the QI group, parent-company of QNET, enthusiastically said: “We are glad to be 27 years old. In those 27 years, we have developed and promoted more than 30 world-class products, impacted millions of lives across the world and won more than 100 top regional and global awards. These achievements are testament to our resilience, authenticity, integrity, transparency, product innovation and perseverance in the face of daunting business challenges.”

Chief Marketing Officer for QNET, Trevor Kuna convincingly added that QNET’s brand identity and corporate culture was partly responsible for the success of the company, 27 years on: “QNET embraces and exemplifies key pillars such as Integrity, Service, Sustainability and Leadership. The brand exudes truth and integrity in thought, word and action, leads to serve and serves to lead, resurrect and sustain the environment while nurturing and inculcating entrepreneurial passion as the path to independence, inclusiveness and innovation.”

Unfortunately, in some parts of its sub-Saharan Africa markets including Ghana, QNET is battling activities of recalcitrant independent distributors and scammers that are misusing its name and product to fleece unsuspecting members of the public. However, QNET is leaving no stone unturned in fighting the menace.

“Just like some other global companies, we are aware of reports of some individuals deliberately misusing our names and products for selfish purposes, causing pains to innocent people in society. This is a complete opposite of the values we stand for.”

“So, despite our limited resources, we are exploring and implementing many media and public education strategies including full-fledge, 360-degree anti-scam campaigns, strategic partnership with local and international security agencies, community and opinion leaders’ engagements and other means to fight scams associated with our name. In Ghana, we are partnering with the Economic and Organised Crimes Office, EOCO, to implement a roadshow using local and popular media platforms to educate the general public.”

Chandrasekaran and Kuna spoke at a special one-on-one media session organised for journalists from Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, Togo, Sierra Leone and Liberia who attended the September 2025 edition of the QNET VCON in Malaysia.

They visited the head office of the company to understand the brand better and experience first-hand, its authenticity, transparency, innovative products and service to Mankind.

Since 2022, QNET has sponsored about 40 journalists from more than nine West African countries to attend its global flagship conference, the VCON and visit its head office in Malaysia to ascertain its veracity, experience its products, meet and interview key members of QNET’s global management team.

These journalists share their positive QNET experiences with other colleagues in their home countries through dedicated QNET VCON live webinar sessions that have directly reached about 600 journalists across the region till date.

Chief Justice Represents Sierra Leone at Commonwealth Judicial Summit in The Gambia

September 24, 2025

The Honourable Chief Justice of Sierra Leone, Komba Kamanda, is participating alongside colleague Chief Justices from across the Commonwealth at the 20th Triennial Commonwealth Magistrates and Judges’ Association (CMJA) Conference currently underway in Banjul, The Gambia. The week-long conference, which began on Sunday, 21st September 2025, will conclude on Friday, 26th September, under the theme: “Combating Corruption and Promoting Accountability in the Judicial Sector.”

The CMJA Conference is regarded as a premier gathering for judicial leaders from 54 Commonwealth nations, providing a platform to deliberate on pressing issues affecting justice systems across member states. This year’s theme addresses global concerns about strengthening judicial accountability, tackling corruption and reinforcing judicial independence in an increasingly complex governance environment.

Chief Justice Komba Kamanda’s participation underscores Sierra Leone’s firm commitment to judicial reforms, transparency and good governance. His presence is viewed as a significant step in strengthening international collaboration and sharing knowledge on strategies to improve justice delivery.

Speaking on the sidelines of the event, Chief Justice Komba Kamanda emphasized the importance of peer learning and cooperation. “The knowledge and experiences shared at the CMJA Conference will contribute to ongoing reforms and capacity-building under my watch. At the end of the conference, we would continue to ensure that justice is not only done, but seen to be done,” he stated.

The conference discussions cover critical issues such as addressing case backlogs, embracing technology in justice delivery, developing anti-corruption frameworks and strengthening judicial impartiality. It also presents opportunities for Sierra Leone’s judiciary to build stronger partnerships with Commonwealth counterparts and learn from global best practices.

Observers note that the 2025 CMJA theme aligns with Chief Justice Komba Kamanda’s longstanding advocacy for judicial independence and his emphasis on continuous professional development for judicial officers. Under his leadership, Sierra Leone’s judiciary has prioritized reforms aimed at improving access to justice, restoring public confidence and upholding the rule of law without compromise.

In line with his policy on gender equality and empowerment, Chief Justice Komba Kamanda is accompanied by three female judges, Hon. Justices Fatmatta Bintu Alhadi (JSC), Jamesina King (JA), and Tonia Barnett (JA), alongside two male judges. According to him, this initiative seeks to empower women within the judiciary and position them more prominently on the international stage. “I want to close the gender disparity,” he affirmed.

Founded in 1970, the Commonwealth Magistrates and Judges’ Association remains the only international body bringing together judicial officers at all levels across the Commonwealth. Its mission is to advance the administration of justice by promoting judicial independence and fostering professional excellence.

As deliberations continue in Banjul, Sierra Leone’s participation is expected to spotlight its ongoing reform agenda and reaffirm the judiciary’s role as a cornerstone of democratic governance.

NCRA Rolls Out Free ID Cards for Persons with Disabilities

September 24, 2025

By Francess Wright

The National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) has rolled out a special registration exercise aimed at providing free national identification cards to Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). The initiative seeks to improve inclusion and ensure equal access to essential public services across Sierra Leone.

The registration drive was formally launched on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at the NCRA headquarters in Freetown, where Director General Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi supervised the deployment of a mobile registration team. The team is tasked with covering three major disabled communities, Pademba Road, ECOWAS Street and House of Jesus, following appeals from community leaders who emphasized the financial challenges PWDs face in paying the standard SLL 145 fee.

“This is not just about issuing ID cards; it is about recognizing the rights and dignity of every citizen,” Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi stated. “Access to identification is a gateway to healthcare, education, financial services and mobile connectivity.”

During the pilot phase, 120 PWDs successfully completed the process and received ID cards free of charge, supported by Government funding and key partnerships. Many beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the intervention. Sinneh Conteh, a resident of Pademba Road, remarked, “For years, many of us have lived without proper identification. Today, thanks to the Government and NCRA, we now have access to services that others take for granted.”

Officials highlighted that the initiative will not only enhance the welfare of PWDs but also contribute to strengthening national security and accelerating Sierra Leone’s digital transformation. According to NCRA, lessons from this pilot phase will guide the expansion of the program to other underserved groups in the near future.

By addressing long-standing barriers faced by vulnerable communities, the initiative underscores the Government’s commitment to equity, inclusion and the broader goals of national development.

President Bio Champions Africa’s Quest for UN Security Council Reform at 7th C-10 Summit

September 24, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone, in his capacity as Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority and Coordinator of the African Union Committee of Ten (C-10) on United Nations Security Council Reform, has renewed Africa’s call for permanent representation at the world body’s most powerful decision-making organ.

Opening the Seventh C-10 Summit on Sunday, 21st September 2025, at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, President Bio described the gathering as “a moment of great historical significance” coinciding with the 20th anniversary of the Ezulwini Consensus and the Sirte Declaration. Those two landmark documents articulate Africa’s Common Position, demanding no fewer than two permanent seats with full veto rights and two additional non-permanent seats on the Security Council.

The Sierra Leonean Head of State reminded delegates that when the UN was established in 1945, Africa had no representation and remains the only continent without permanent membership, despite the fact that African issues dominate the Council’s agenda.

“This was not a plea for favour. It was and remains a demand for justice; to correct a historic wrong,” President Bio declared, adding that decisions about Africa must no longer be taken without Africa.

The summit brought together member states of the C-10; Algeria, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Kenya, Libya, Namibia, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Uganda and Zambia, along with high-level dignitaries, including Angolan President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço, who chairs the African Union, Kenyan President William Ruto, Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, and African Union Commission Chairperson, Mahamoud Ali Youssouf.

In his remarks, President Bio praised Africa’s consistent unity over the last two decades, stressing that not a single African state has broken ranks on the demand for equitable representation. “Despite our diversity, Africa has remained steadfastly aligned behind a single, principled position. That unity is our strength. No reform can succeed without a united Africa,” he noted.

President Bio highlighted recent milestones, including the Freetown Retreat and the Lusaka Ministerial Meeting, which culminated in the African Union Reform Model, a comprehensive framework providing a clear path for structured negotiations. He also pointed out that Africa’s case has been recognized globally, with even the Permanent Five (P5) members of the Security Council acknowledging the legitimacy of Africa’s claim.

While applauding the recognition of Africa’s position, President Bio stressed that acknowledgment must now translate into action. He urged the Permanent Members of the Security Council to back their words with genuine political will and called on all UN member states involved in negotiations to move beyond entrenched positions.

“As the UN marks its 80th anniversary, let us not allow another milestone to pass with words alone. The African Union Reform Model gives us the blueprint. The momentum is here. The time for action is now,” he insisted.

Concluding his statement, President Bio reaffirmed that Africa’s demand was “legitimate, non-negotiable and just.” He emphasized that equal representation for Africa is not only an African imperative but a global necessity, critical to the credibility, legitimacy and effectiveness of the United Nations in the 21st century.

“Let this generation of leaders be remembered for correcting an injustice endured for too long and for ensuring that the Security Council reflects today’s world, not the realities of 1945,” he concluded.

Menisa Sesay Esq. Elected President of L.A.W.Y.E.R.S. to Lead 2025–2027 Executive

September 24, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Lawyers Advocating for Women and Youth Empowerment and Rights in Society (L.A.W.Y.E.R.S.) has entered a new leadership era with the election of Menisa Sesay Esq. as Chairperson and President for the 2025–2027 term. The announcement was made at the organization’s Annual General Meeting held on Friday, September 19, at the Bintumani Hall in Aberdeen.

The full executive elected to serve alongside her includes:

Vice-President: Cecilia Ajoke Thomas
Secretary: Davida Peacock Sawyer
Deputy Secretary: Sally Yeama Myers
Treasurer: Kadiatu Osal Gbla
Deputy Treasurer: Miltonia Conteh
Public Relations & Organizing Secretary: Melford Vincent
Deputy Public Relations & Organizing Secretary: Isha Sheerefay Kamara
Auditor I: Mariama Ruth Jacinta Jaysid-Sankoh
Auditor II: Caroline Sesay

Founded on February 14, 1997, L.A.W.Y.E.R.S. has become one of Sierra Leone’s pioneering female-led legal organizations dedicated to defending and advancing the rights of women and girls. The group has played a central role in shaping landmark legal reforms, including the Child’s Rights Act (2007), the Domestic Violence Act (2007), and the Sexual Offences Act (2012). It also made significant contributions during the Constitutional Review Process and continues to push for the establishment of a Forensic Analysis Crime Detection Agency (FACDA) to bolster the justice system.

Beyond legal reforms, the organization has been at the forefront of advocacy and community action. From supporting the First Lady’s campaign to end child marriage to providing humanitarian and legal aid during the Ebola crisis, L.A.W.Y.E.R.S. has consistently demonstrated its commitment to both national and grassroots empowerment.

Delivering the keynote address at the AGM, Deputy Minister of Justice, Madam Saptieu Elizabeth Saccoh, reaffirmed the Government’s determination to entrench gender justice through bold reforms. Speaking under the theme “Beyond Reform: Entrenching Gender Justice Through Systemic Change,” she described L.A.W.Y.E.R.S. as “a family and lighthouse guiding us through the murky waters of injustice.”

Madam Saccoh highlighted progress such as the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Act, which mandates a 30% quota for women in leadership. “We did not ask for a seat; we demanded a third of the chairs,” she declared to resounding applause.

She further revealed ongoing reviews of Section 27 of the 1991 Constitution to close loopholes that still leave women vulnerable. Additionally, she noted that the repeal of petty offences now before Cabinet is a crucial step toward dismantling laws that disproportionately punish poor and marginalized women.

On sexual and gender-based violence, the Deputy Minister reaffirmed Government’s zero-tolerance policy, pointing to the Sexual Offences Act, the establishment of a Model Court, and the Criminal Procedure Act 2024 as instruments that ensure victims’ courage is matched with swift justice. “The legislation we pass is only as strong as the hands that enforce it. You are the custodians of this new era,” she told members, quoting Winnie Mandela: “If you are to free yourselves, you must break the chains of oppression yourselves. Any acceptance of humiliation is acceptance of inferiority.”

In her acceptance remarks, Menisa Sesay emphasized that her presidency is not about occupying a title but about service, transformation, and amplifying women’s voices in the legal sector. “L.A.W.Y.E.R.S is not just an organization; it is a movement, a force of change and a platform for growth. It is where advocacy meets action, where sisterhood meets collaboration, and where the voices of women shape the future of law and justice,” she declared.

She outlined her leadership vision under six pillars:

Amplifying Advocacy – strengthening legal interventions and protections against harassment and discrimination.
Mentorship & Leadership – launching a Women in Law Fellowship Program to empower the next generation.
Wellness & Safety – creating a wellness taskforce and safe reporting systems, ensuring that “health is justice.”
Community Legal Outreach – expanding “Know Your Rights” campaigns and digital advocacy platforms.
Transparent & Inclusive Leadership – fostering member participation through forums and open budgeting.
Visibility & Growth – expanding membership and showcasing women’s leadership in law and society.

With Sesay at the helm, expectations are high that the organization will deepen its advocacy for women’s empowerment, expand youth mentorship, and continue pushing for systemic reforms. Her election, coming at a time of renewed Government commitment to gender justice, signals stronger partnerships between civil society and state institutions.

As L.A.W.Y.E.R.S. embarks on this new chapter, Sesay’s rallying call to members echoed the organization’s enduring mission: “If you believe, like I do, that the law should protect—not exclude; that justice should uplift—not silence; and that women must lead—not wait for permission, then let us move forward together.”

CTC Constructs 12-Classroom School For Maforki Chiefdom

September 24, 2025

A new dawn has arrived for education in Maforki Chiefdom, Port Loko District, following the commissioning of a newly constructed and fully furnished 12-classroom block at Jeremiah School, Rogbereh Junction, Port Loko District. The facility, complete with a teachers’ office and modern school furniture, was built by CTC Mining (SL) Limited as part of its Community Development Action Plan (CDAP).

The commissioning ceremony on Saturday, September 20, 2025, was graced by senior Government officials, traditional authorities, politicians, education stakeholders and community members. The event was not only a celebration of the school’s completion but also a reaffirmation of the company’s commitment to corporate social responsibility and the future of education in the district.

Delivering his welcome address, Paramount Chief, Bai Forki Fianka II, described CTC Mining as the most compliant company in the district regarding CDAP and corporate social responsibility (CSR). He stressed that the company had distinguished itself by allowing communities to identify their needs rather than imposing projects.

“CTC Mining does not dictate what we should have. Instead, we tell them what we want and they implement projects that truly serve the needs of Maforki Chiefdom,” PC Bai Forki Fianka II explained. He further highlighted that the company’s development initiatives are visible across the chiefdom, reflecting a genuine partnership with both the local authorities and the people.

He expressed gratitude to CTC for transforming Jeremiah School into a modern educational facility which he described as a legacy that would positively impact generations to come.

Adding his voice, Hon. Abdul Latif Sesay, the All People’s Congress (APC) Member of Parliament for the area, applauded CTC for employing indigenes of Port Loko and for rehabilitating educational infrastructure in the district. He pointed out that the initiative was consistent with the Government’s local content policy, which prioritizes jobs and opportunities for Sierra Leoneans in host communities.

Veteran politician and Presidential Spokesman, Dr. Alpha Kanu, praised the project for aligning with President Julius Maada Bio’s flagship Free Quality School Education (FQSE) programme. He emphasized that quality education is the foundation of national development.

“Education is the key to a successful life. Investment in schools and learning materials is an investment in the future of any nation,” Dr. Alpha Kanu said, while lauding the leadership of CTC’s CEO, Hisham Mackie, for his vision and steadfast support of Maforki Chiefdom.

Resident Minister Northwest, Ambassador Dr. Umaru Bond Wurie, described CTC as a “reliable, dependable and law-abiding company” that fulfills its promises to communities. He commended the school’s construction and urged parents to ensure that their children, particularly girls, attend school to benefit from the new facility and President Bio’s Free Quality School Education initiative.

“President Bio has placed education at the heart of national development. This school is proof that when Government and the private sector work together, our communities grow stronger,” Minister Umaru Bond Wurie noted.

In his keynote speech, the Chief Executive Officer of CTC Mining, Hisham Mackie, expressed delight at the completion of the project. He dedicated the new building to the children and people of Maforki Chiefdom, assuring them of the company’s long-term presence in Port Loko District.

“This project is a dream come true,” Hisham Mackie said. “Education is the backbone of sustainable development. By investing in schools and learning materials, we are investing in the future leaders of Maforki Chiefdom and Sierra Leone.”

He also pledged to establish a scholarship scheme for girls pursuing science subjects, reinforcing the company’s commitment to gender empowerment in education. Hisham Mackie thanked President Bio for prioritizing human capital development and recognized the Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, Julius Mattai, for his leadership in strengthening the mining sector.

The event reached its climax with the distribution of assorted learning materials to pupils of Jeremiah School. Representatives from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), National Minerals Agency (NMA), Ministry of Mines and Mineral Resources and Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education all joined in praising CTC for the successful delivery of the project.

Principal of Jeremiah School, Gibrilla Sidikie Kamara, expressed deep gratitude to the company and promised to uphold discipline, academic excellence and proper maintenance of the new facility.

The official ribbon-cutting was performed by CEO Hisham Mackie, who formally handed over the school to Paramount Chief Bai Forki Fianka II through Minister Bond Wurie, symbolizing CTC’s enduring partnership with the community. Earlier, Dr. David Koroma delivered an opening statement on behalf of the company.

For the people of Maforki Chiefdom, the new school is more than just a building; it is a symbol of hope, partnership and progress. With this landmark project, CTC Mining (SL) Limited has not only cemented its reputation as a reliable development partner but also contributed meaningfully to shaping the future of education in Port Loko District and beyond.