Baba Guru Nanak Scholarship 2026 Marks 5th Edition, Awards Full Scholarships to 350 Pupils

August 31, 2026

A man in a patterned shirt helps a young boy hold a large, wrapped package during a formal event, with another man in a suit nearby.

Shri Gurudwara Sahib SL Ltd., Lumley Freetown, in collaboration with the Indian Diaspora, hosted the 5th annual Baba Guru Nanak Scholarship 2026, an initiative aimed at supporting needy and meritorious Sierra Leonean children with educational assistance. The event was hosted on Friday 28th August 2026 at Sierra Palms in Aberdeen, Freetown.

The scholarship programme, which began in 2022 with 62 beneficiaries, has expanded significantly over the years and is supporting 350 children in 2026. The beneficiaries, drawn from private schools in Freetown and other parts of Sierra Leone, received school fees, learning materials and other educational support.

The initiative is backed by the Indian community in Sierra Leone and seeks to reduce the financial barriers faced by families struggling to provide quality education for their children while promoting the values of service, discipline and responsibility.

Chairing the ceremony, Harwinder Kaur Khalsa, popularly known as Shina, urged the 350 beneficiaries to take responsibility for their education, work hard and develop good character. She said the scholarship is not simply about paying school fees but about recognizing the potential of young Sierra Leoneans and assuring them that their future mattered.

“Education is the light that removes darkness,” Harwinder Kaur Khalsa said, describing the scholarship as an effort to remove barriers that prevent talented children from reaching their potential. She urged the beneficiaries to treat the scholarship as a seed that must be nurtured through hard work, discipline and good character.

She reminded the students that although they attended different schools and wore different uniforms, they shared common aspirations and represented communities across Sierra Leone. She also commended parents for their sacrifices and encouraged other individuals and organisations to support the expansion of the programme, noting that thousands of children still require similar assistance.

Speaking at the event, the Mukh Sevadar of Shri Gurudwara Sahib, Lumley and Chief Executive Officer of Jeety Trading Company, Mohinder Bir Singh Sachdeva, popularly known as Pa Jeety, said the scholarship had grown from 62 beneficiaries in 2022 to 350 in 2026.

Mohinder Bir Singh Sachdeva said the programme was founded on the Sikh principles of sharing with others and promoting the welfare of all. He explained that the 2026 package was valued at more than Le2 billion in old Leones and included full school fees for the academic year, school bags, exercise books, stationery and other learning materials.

Each beneficiary also received a lunch box and water bottle, while NLe500 was provided to assist with the purchase of a school uniform and shoes.

Mohinder Bir Singh Sachdeva described the initiative as an investment in the future of Sierra Leone, saying the support went beyond financial assistance to provide children with “hope, dignity, self-respect and an opportunity to improve their future.” He urged the beneficiaries to study seriously, respect their parents and teachers and after becoming successful, support other children in need.

He also acknowledged the contribution of members of the Indian business community to Sierra Leone’s healthcare sector, including Harish Agani of T. Choithram & Sons for supporting 1,648 free eye operations and Shahroz Ansari of Alhamd Groups for assisting with surgical bills for more than 100 Sierra Leoneans affected by chronic diseases.

Charge d’Affaires a.i. of the High Commission of India in Freetown, Neeraj Kumar Saini, on his remarks, described the ceremony as a celebration of compassion, equality and service to humanity. He commended the Gurudwara and Indian Diaspora for investing in the education of Sierra Leonean children.

Neeraj Kumar Saini reaffirmed capital development in Sierra Leone, highlighting the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation Programme and the Indian Council for Cultural Relations scholarship programme. He disclosed that 50 Sierra Leonean students received ICCR scholarships in 2026 to pursue higher education in India.

He also highlighted India’s wider development assistance to Sierra Leone, including the provision of 15 haemodialysis machines, 1,000 metric tonnes of rice for the school feeding programme and a US$990,000 grant for a project supporting persons with disabilities.

Neeraj Kumar Saini further announced that India is extending a US$32 million Line of Credit through the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development for the construction of the University of Science and Technology in Koidu, Kono District. He expressed hope that some of the scholarship beneficiaries would eventually pursue higher technical education there.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Leader of Government Business in Parliament, Hon. Sahr Edward Nyuma, commended the Indian community, Sachdeva and the Gurudwara for their contributions to education and healthcare. He described the scholarship as an investment in Sierra Leone’s human capital and stressed that education is a major instrument for transforming individuals, families and communities.

“Education is the only instrument you can use to change your life and change the story of this generation,” Hon. Sahr Edward Nyuma said, urging beneficiaries to work hard and make effective use of the opportunity.

The President of the Indian Business Council in Sierra Leone, Harkishin Balani, also urged the beneficiaries to take their education seriously, avoid bad company and remain focused on their goals. He said the expansion from 62 children to 350 beneficiaries demonstrated the commitment of the organizers to investing in Sierra Leone’s future.

Harkishin Balani encouraged the students to study hard, respect their parents and teachers and use the opportunity to overcome poverty. He expressed confidence that the beneficiaries could become successful and responsible citizens who would make their families and country proud.

Representing the Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Chief Education Officer, Edward Kpakra, commended the scholarship programme for improving access to education. He traced its growth from 62 beneficiaries in 2022 to 130 in 2023, 127 in 2024, 200 in 2025 and 350 in 2026.

Edward Kpakra said the scholarship is helping to remove financial barriers to education and urged the beneficiaries to view the assistance as an opportunity to build their future and eventually give back to others.

He also thanked the Government of India for its support to Sierra Leone, particularly in education and the school feeding programme.

Head of Choithrams, Harish Agnani, commended the Indian Diaspora for sustaining the scholarship and described the provision of full scholarships to 350 children as a significant achievement.

Harish Agnani noted that the programme, which began with 62 beneficiaries, had grown considerably and expressed hope that it would expand further. He urged the beneficiaries to study hard, respect their teachers and parents and make good use of the opportunity.

Speaking also at the ceremony was the Director of the Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation (SLBC), Josephine Fatima Kamara, who encouraged the beneficiaries to dream big and work towards becoming professionals in fields including medicine, law, engineering, journalism, aviation and business. Etc.

The SLBC DG emphasized that dreams could only be achieved through hard work, discipline, commitment and good character. She urged the children to “study hard, listen to your parents and teachers, and believe in yourself,” while reminding parents to encourage and nurture both the academic abilities and talents of their children.

She further encouraged the Indian community and the Gurudwara to continue supporting the initiative and appealed to beneficiaries to remember those who assisted them when they eventually become successful.

The Regional Police Commander for Freetown West, Sylvester, M. N. Koroma, described the scholarship as an investment not only in the beneficiaries but also in the future of Sierra Leone.

N. Koroma said quality education combined with good character could help young people overcome poverty and avoid negative social behaviour. He urged the beneficiaries to study hard, respect their parents and teachers and use the school materials and other support provided to them responsibly.

The ceremony underscored the growing role of the Baba Guru Nanak Scholarship in supporting access to private education for children from families facing financial difficulties. With the number of beneficiaries increasing to 350 and the educational package expanding to include school fees, learning materials, uniforms and other essentials, organizers expressed hope that the initiative would reach more children in the coming years.

Building for the Future: FAWAZ Building Materials Promotes Durable and Responsible Construction

August 31, 2026

Randcem Portland Cement advertisement featuring a 50 kg cement bag with the slogan 'Built Strong. Built To Last.' and small product thumbnails on the right side.

Demand for dependable construction materials is rising across Sierra Leone as investment in residential housing, commercial properties and public infrastructure continues to grow.

Responding to the expanding market, FAWAZ Building Materials has increased the availability of RANDCEM 42.5R Cement for engineers, contractors, developers, masons and individuals undertaking construction projects nationwide.

Manufactured in Vietnam and supplied in 50-kilogram bags, RANDCEM 42.5R is suitable for several building applications, including foundations, columns, beams, concrete floors, blocks and other structural works.

FAWAZ Building Materials says the product is designed to provide reliable performance and strong early development when properly mixed, applied and cured. Under suitable working conditions, its reported setting time of about 30 minutes could also help construction teams manage their schedules efficiently.

The company has stressed, however, that durable buildings cannot be achieved through cement quality alone. Safe construction requires approved structural designs, firm foundations, proper reinforcement, accurate measurements, clean sand, appropriate aggregates, skilled workers and qualified supervision.

The amount of water added during concrete preparation is particularly important. Excessive water may weaken the mixture, increase shrinkage and contribute to cracks. Incorrect quantities of cement, sand and aggregate can also reduce structural strength and shorten the useful life of a building.

Builders sometimes apply a mixture of one part cement, two parts sand and four parts aggregate for certain general concrete works. Lean concrete may use one part cement, three parts sand and six parts aggregate. These proportions are only general references and should not replace specifications provided by professional engineers for individual projects.

Proper curing is another major requirement for achieving strong concrete. Newly placed concrete must be kept sufficiently moist during its early stages to support strength development and minimise cracking. Poor curing can affect structural performance even when good-quality cement and other reliable materials are used.

FAWAZ Building Materials has also encouraged customers to observe correct storage procedures. Cement bags should be kept in dry, covered and properly ventilated spaces. They should be placed above floor level and protected from rainwater, leaking roofs, groundwater, damp walls and other sources of moisture.

Once a cement bag has been opened, any unused quantity should preferably be applied within seven days. Where immediate use is impossible, the remaining cement must be tightly sealed to prevent exposure to moisture and air.

Safety measures are equally necessary when handling cement. Construction workers are advised to wear gloves and face masks to reduce contact with cement dust and prevent prolonged skin exposure. Safe lifting methods should also be used when moving the 50-kilogram bags, while cement products must be stored beyond the reach of children.

Concerns over reported building collapses in Sierra Leone have increased public calls for stronger enforcement of construction standards. Structural failures are commonly associated with poor foundations, defective designs, low-quality materials, weak workmanship and insufficient professional supervision.

Industry stakeholders have consequently urged the Sierra Leone Standards Bureau and other relevant authorities to intensify market inspections and regularly examine cement products imported and sold across the country.

Improved monitoring of importers, distributors and retailers could protect consumers, discourage the circulation of substandard materials and ensure that companies compete fairly within the construction market.

FAWAZ Building Materials says its expanded distribution of RANDCEM 42.5R reflects its commitment to supporting Sierra Leone’s development through the supply of dependable construction products.

The country’s ability to build safer, stronger and longer-lasting structures will ultimately depend on a combination of quality materials, professional engineering, skilled workmanship, responsible building practices and effective regulatory oversight.

Information Minister Leads High-Level Talks on Hosting UNESCO and ICIC Conferences in September

August 31, 2026

Sierra Leone is intensifying preparations to host two prominent international conferences on access to information in September, with nearly 300 delegates expected to attend from different parts of the world.

The country will host activities marking UNESCO’s International Day for Universal Access to Information alongside the International Conference of Information Commissioners. The three-day programme is scheduled to take place at the JMB International Conference Centre in Lungi.

As part of the preparations, Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, convened a high-level coordination meeting at the Ministry’s conference room. The engagement brought together representatives from several Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies responsible for ensuring the smooth conduct of the events.

Addressing participants, Chernor Bah described the forthcoming conferences as an important milestone for Sierra Leone. He said the anticipated presence of hundreds of foreign delegates reflects increasing international recognition of the country’s efforts to promote transparency, accountability and public access to information.

The Minister called for close cooperation among all institutions involved in the planning process, stressing that the success of the conferences would depend heavily on effective coordination and timely delivery of assigned responsibilities.

He referred to a directive from President Julius Maada Bio urging participating institutions to “put our best foot forward” and ensure that Sierra Leone presents itself positively before the international community.

Chernor Bah further encouraged Government institutions to use the conferences as an opportunity to demonstrate the country’s ability to organize major global events. He said a successful programme could help attract more high-level international conferences and strengthen Sierra Leone’s reputation as a suitable destination for regional and global engagements.

Chairman of the Right to Access Information Commission, Dr. Ibrahim Seaga Shaw, presented a technical update on the planning process. He identified transportation as one of the major logistical areas requiring careful attention and urged institutions to strengthen cooperation ahead of the arrival of delegates.

Representatives from the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Transport and Aviation, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Communication, Technology and Innovation, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and the Office of National Security also provided updates on their respective responsibilities.

The discussions covered transportation, security, healthcare services, internet connectivity, electricity supply, live broadcasting and diplomatic protocol. Participating institutions outlined measures designed to address possible challenges before and during the conferences.

Particular attention was being given to the movement and safety of delegates, reliable communication services, emergency medical arrangements and uninterrupted power throughout the programme.

The Government says the preparations are intended to provide delegates with a well-coordinated experience from their arrival in Sierra Leone to their departure.

Beyond promoting universal access to information, the conferences are expected to provide Sierra Leone with an opportunity to showcase its progress in information governance while strengthening its standing as a potential host of major international events.

WIMSAL Dialogue Pushes Measurable Action on Women Journalists’ Safety

August 31, 2026

Group of men and women in colorful traditional African attire posing for a photo in a bright room with a projector screen behind them.

The Government of Sierra Leone has called for the effective enforcement of existing gender and employment laws alongside practical newsroom safeguards to protect women working in the media.

Director of Information and Government Services, Francess Josephine Kafula, said measures designed to promote gender justice must also preserve press freedom, editorial independence and journalists’ ability to investigate issues of public interest.

She made the statement during a Policy Dialogue Forum on Gender Justice in the Media, organized by Women in the Media Sierra Leone in partnership with Comic Relief. The event was held on Friday, 21 August 2026, at the Civil Service Training College in Freetown.

Francess Josephine Kafula explained that achieving gender justice requires more than increasing the number of women employed by media institutions. She said newsrooms must create conditions that allow female professionals to join the industry, build sustainable careers, assume leadership responsibilities and perform their duties without discrimination, harassment or intimidation.

According to her, evidence presented during the forum showed that the challenges confronting women journalists were neither theoretical nor isolated. She said unsafe working conditions could undermine the welfare of media practitioners and weaken the quality, credibility and independence of journalism.

Francess Josephine Kafula cited the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Act of 2022 and the Employment Act of 2023 as important legal instruments already available to address discrimination and workplace abuse.

She, however, maintained that stronger enforcement is necessary to ensure that the protections contained in those laws translate into meaningful improvements for women working in newsrooms and other media spaces.

The Director welcomed the proposed Safeguarding Charter, describing it as a practical framework through which media institutions could turn legal obligations and public commitments into clear workplace procedures.

She said journalists experiencing abuse should know where and how to report their concerns, who would receive the complaints and what measures would protect their identities. Reporting systems, she added, must also shield complainants and witnesses from retaliation.

The proposed charter provides for confidential complaint mechanisms, transparent investigation procedures, protection against reprisals, referral services, digital-security measures, management accountability and regular monitoring of implementation.

Francess Josephine Kafula also drew attention to the growing dangers faced by women journalists online. She noted that media work now extends far beyond traditional newsrooms, exposing female professionals to harassment, threats and intimidation through social-media platforms and other digital channels.

Safeguarding policies, she argued, must therefore address risks in both physical and online working environments.

While supporting stronger protections, Francess Josephine Kafula cautioned against introducing measures that could interfere with editorial decision-making or restrict legitimate journalism. She maintained that safety and press freedom should reinforce each other rather than be treated as competing priorities.

“A safe journalist is better positioned to work independently, investigate issues of public interest and contribute to an informed society,” she said.

Discussions at the forum were informed by findings from a 2025 global study examining sexual harassment in the media. The research included responses from 298 participants in Sierra Leone and identified gender differences in experiences involving verbal, online and physical sexual harassment.

The briefing clarified that the results represented the experiences of those who participated in the study and should not be interpreted as a comprehensive assessment of every journalist or media institution in the country.

Under the emerging framework, the Government is expected to support the enforcement of existing gender and labour legislation, increase awareness of workplace rights, strengthen journalist safety and digital protections and encourage media organisations to comply with national employment standards.

It is also expected to work with regulators, professional associations, Civil Society Organisations and media owners to develop workable approaches for implementation.

Francess Josephine Kafula urged all parties to ensure that the dialogue produced concrete outcomes instead of ending with another statement of intent.

“We should not leave this dialogue with another declaration. We should leave with measurable commitments,” she said.

The forum concluded with participants presenting gender justice as a wider institutional reform issue involving workplace safety, equality, staff welfare, female representation, digital rights, accountability and media freedom.

First Lady Fatima Bio to Present UN Resolution Against Child Marriage

August 31, 2026

Portrait of a woman in a white lace headwrap and green‑blue embroidered dress at a United Nations event. — First Lady of Sierra Leone, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio

First Lady of Sierra Leone, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, is scheduled to address the United Nations General Assembly on 4 September 2026 as part of a renewed international campaign to eliminate child, early and forced marriage.

During her appearance, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, who also serves as President of the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development, is expected to present a draft resolution proposing the establishment of an International Day for the Elimination of Child, Early and Forced Marriage.

The initiative seeks to create a recognized annual occasion for countries, international organisations, civil society groups and development partners to intensify public awareness, strengthen protective policies and mobilize resources to address the practice.

According to the Office of the First Lady, the proposed international day would also provide a global platform for Governments and organisations to exchange successful approaches and accelerate coordinated action aimed at safeguarding girls.

Child, early and forced marriage remains a major barrier to the education, health and development of millions of girls worldwide. Girls who marry at an early age frequently face increased risks of leaving school, experiencing gender-based violence and enduring complications associated with teenage pregnancy and childbirth.

The draft resolution is therefore expected to emphasize the importance of protecting the dignity and fundamental rights of girls while ensuring that they have access to education and opportunities to determine their own futures.

The proposal represents another stage in Dr. Fatima Maada Bio’s international advocacy against sexual and gender-based violence. Her campaigns have consistently focused on protecting women and girls from rape, exploitation, harmful practices and other forms of abuse.

Her latest intervention builds on Sierra Leone’s role in advancing a 2022 United Nations General Assembly resolution concerning access to justice, remedies and assistance for survivors of sexual violence. Dr. Fatima Maada Bio played a prominent advocacy role in promoting international support for the measure.

The Office of the First Lady described the upcoming presentation as evidence of Sierra Leone’s growing leadership in the campaign to protect girls and strengthen international cooperation against harmful practices.

If supported by the General Assembly, the proposed international day could encourage countries to regularly assess their progress, improve legislation and expand programmes designed to prevent child marriage and support affected girls.

Dr. Fatima Maada Bio is also expected to use her address to call for greater political commitment, sustained financing and stronger partnerships among Governments, traditional and religious leaders, women’s organisations, youth groups and development agencies.

The initiative places Sierra Leone at the forefront of efforts to transform the fight against child marriage into a sustained global movement, with particular attention to protecting girls’ education, wellbeing and freedom of choice.

From CNN Anchor to Media CEO: Isha Sesay Opens Up About Life’s Defining Decisions

August 31, 2026

Portrait of a smiling woman in a pale pink dress with a two-tone bob at a red carpet event, hands clasped in front. Quiet, confident pose thanks to event backdrop signage behind her. (informative) Wait: description fixed—no need for extraneous context—keep concise. — Prominent Sierra Leonean journalist, Isha Sesay

Prominent Sierra Leonean journalist, Isha Sesay, has revealed that her decision to leave CNN after more than 13 years was driven by the need to care for her seriously ill mother not by controversy or professional disagreement, as some had speculated.

Speaking with CNN journalist, Larry Madowo, during an interview for the network’s African Voices programme, Isha Sesay publicly explained the circumstances surrounding her departure for the first time. She also discussed becoming a single mother in her 40s, her transition into corporate media leadership and her concerns about international coverage of Africa.

Isha Sesay established herself as one of CNN International’s most recognizable African broadcasters, interviewing influential political leaders, celebrities and global personalities. Her interview subjects included former Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, former United States First Lady Michelle Obama, Nobel Peace Prize laureate Malala Yousafzai and Hollywood actor Matt Damon.

Despite leaving the network in 2018, Isha Sesay said many people still recognize her primarily for her work at CNN. She described such encounters as a source of pride and evidence of the lasting connection she established with audiences worldwide.

Explaining her departure, Isha Sesay said her mother’s medical condition had forced her to reconsider her priorities. Dr. Kadi Sesay, a respected Sierra Leonean politician, academic and women’s-rights advocate, suffered a devastating stroke in December 2016 that left her severely incapacitated.

According to Isha Sesay, decisions being taken at work at the time were incompatible with her responsibilities as her mother’s caregiver. She consequently chose to leave the network and place her family obligations first.

Isha Sesay emphasized that there was no scandal behind her resignation and that she continued to respect her former colleagues and CNN’s leadership. She said the experience taught her that there are moments when individuals must protect their well-being and attend to what matters most in their personal lives.

Dr. Kadi Sesay, who served as the Sierra Leone People’s Party’s vice-presidential candidate in the 2012 elections, remained in a seriously impaired condition for several years before passing away in June 2025.

Reflecting on the loss, Isha Sesay described her mother as an energetic and compassionate woman whose public service and political ambitions were abruptly interrupted by illness. She acknowledged that she is still processing the emotional consequences of caring for her mother and eventually losing her.

The family crisis also transformed Isha Sesay’s understanding of motherhood and human relationships. Although she had long wanted a child, she said the demands of international broadcasting caused her to repeatedly postpone that part of her life.

Her years at CNN were dominated by breaking-news assignments, major political events, interviews, international travel and other demanding professional responsibilities. Her mother’s illness, however, confronted her with the fragility of life and led her to reassess what she wanted for herself.

Isha Sesay eventually decided to pursue motherhood independently through a sperm donor. Following two unsuccessful in vitro fertilization attempts, she announced at the age of 46 that she was expecting a child. She welcomed her daughter, Naimah Yasmine Kadi Sesay, in February 2023.

Her decision generated mixed reactions online. While many people congratulated and supported her, others questioned her choice to raise a child without a partner.

Isha Sesay rejected suggestions that becoming a single mother represented hostility towards men or conventional family structures. She described it instead as an expression of personal autonomy, stressing that women should be free to determine the direction of their own lives.

She maintained that remaining in an unhealthy relationship simply to have a child would have been unreasonable for her. While acknowledging that her choice might not suit everyone, she said women should not be prevented from embracing options made possible by modern science.

Beyond motherhood, Isha Sesay has entered another significant phase of her professional life as Chief Executive Officer of Areya Media, formerly known as OkayMedia. The organisation oversees OkayAfrica and Okayplayer, digital platforms dedicated to African, Black and diaspora culture.

Isha Sesay became the first woman to lead the organisation when she assumed the position in March 2021. Under her leadership, the company has expanded beyond its original digital publishing operations into newsletters, podcasts, studio production and cultural events.

She said the transformation has strengthened the company’s relationship with its audiences and allowed it to tell more diverse and uplifting stories. One of its productions, The Almanac of Rap, received Webby recognition in 2023 and 2025.

Although she is satisfied with her position as a media executive, Isha Sesay said her passion for journalism remains strong. She continues to follow the news closely and remains concerned about the limited attention and context given to African affairs by major international networks.

Isha Sesay argued that African culture, music and fashion are increasingly celebrated globally but the continent’s political, economic and humanitarian stories are still frequently presented without sufficient depth. She cited the conflicts in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo as examples of major crises that have not received the sustained international attention they deserve.

She also expressed concern about the growth of online personalities who present personal opinions as verified news. While recognizing that social media creators can provide vital information during emergencies, Isha Sesay warned that content based on quick internet searches or artificial-intelligence tools should not be confused with independent and professionally verified reporting.

Despite falling public confidence in traditional media, Isha Sesay remains optimistic about journalism’s future. She believes societies will always require credible information, verified facts and trustworthy reporting and journalism leadership, even as news organisations adjust their methods to reach changing audiences.

Now a journalist, mother, philanthropist, United Nations goodwill ambassador and media executive, Isha Sesay said she wants her legacy to be defined by the opportunities she created for others. Her ambition, she explained, is to be remembered as someone who encouraged people, supported emerging talent and used her influence to make a meaningful difference.

Conakry Landfill Landslide: 17 Sierra Leoneans Confirmed Dead, 54 Survivors Identified

August 31, 2026

Group of soldiers in desert camouflage and red berets standing at a construction site, with a bulldozer on a dirt hill and a person in an orange safety vest gesturing to the crowd.

A devastating landfill landslide in Conakry has left 17 Sierra Leoneans dead and dozens more displaced, deepening the anguish of families awaiting news about relatives caught in the disaster.

Yet amid the grief, a measure of relief has emerged: Sierra Leone’s Embassy in Guinea has confirmed that 54 Sierra Leonean nationals survived the catastrophe.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation revealed the updated figures on Friday August 28, 2026 following days of recovery operations and a joint identification exercise involving Sierra Leonean diplomatic officials and Guinean authorities.

The exercise, conducted at designated hospital mortuaries in Conakry, established that 14 men and three women among those killed were Sierra Leonean citizens.

The confirmation marks a major development since the Ministry’s first report on 25 August, when authorities were still working to determine the number and identities of Sierra Leoneans affected by the Dar-es-Salam landfill landslide in Gbessia.

Guinea’s Government has recorded 34 deaths from the disaster. That figure, however, may not represent the final toll, as recovery teams continue searching for victims and officials work to identify bodies and trace people still reported missing.

Attention has now turned to the 54 Sierra Leoneans who escaped with their lives. The group consists of 32 women, 17 men and five minors. The survivors have received emergency supplies, including food, clothing and other basic necessities. Further assessments are being conducted to determine their medical, humanitarian and consular needs.

Sierra Leone’s Embassy in Conakry remains at the centre of the national response, working with Guinean institutions to support survivors, assist grieving families and verify unresolved cases. The response also comes amid wider Sierra Leone–Guinea cooperation on migration and border security.

The Government of Sierra Leone extended condolences to the families of those who died and expressed sympathy to everyone affected by the tragedy.

“The Government of Sierra Leone extends its deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of the Sierra Leonean nationals who lost their lives and to all those affected by this tragic incident,” the Ministry said.

The Government also stood in solidarity with Guinea as the neighbouring country confronted the painful aftermath of the disaster.

The Foreign Affairs Ministry praised Guinean authorities for their cooperation during the recovery, identification and humanitarian operations. It said coordination between the two countries would continue until outstanding cases had been verified and affected families received the necessary information and support.

For relatives awaiting news, uncertainty remains. Authorities have yet to account fully for all individuals reported missing, while the continuing recovery operation means the scale of the disaster may still change.

The Ministry therefore urged members of the public to handle claims about deaths and missing persons responsibly. It warned against circulating unverified figures and advised families to rely on official information from the Government and its diplomatic mission.

Families seeking information about loved ones can contact the Ministry on +232 76 632659 or +232 30 300009.

Behind the official figures are families plunged into mourning, survivors attempting to rebuild their lives and communities waiting for answers. With recovery efforts still underway, Sierra Leone and Guinea now face the difficult task of accounting for every missing person and supporting those left in the shadow of the tragedy.

Indian Charge d’Affaires Inspires Pupils at Baba Guru Nanak Scholarship Ceremony

August 31, 2026

Man in a suit hands a prize to a student in a white uniform on stage, with a banner in the background.

Shri Neeraj Kumar Saini, Charge d’Affaires a.i. at the High Commission of India in Freetown, has reaffirmed India’s commitment to strengthening education, skills development and human capital cooperation with Sierra Leone.

He made the commitment while addressing the fifth annual Baba Guru Nanak Scholarship ceremony, held on Friday, 28 August 2026, at the Sierra Palms Resort in Freetown.

The programme, organized by Shri Gurdwara Sahib SL Ltd. in collaboration with the Indian Diaspora in Sierra Leone, awarded scholarships to 350 needy and academically promising pupils from schools across the country. The ceremony formed part of wider education initiatives supporting Sierra Leonean pupils.

The Baba Guru Nanak Scholarship provides beneficiaries with full educational support for the 2026/2027 academic year. Each pupil received school materials, including a bag and exercise books, together with Le500 in financial assistance.

Shri Neeraj Kumar Saini congratulated Shri Gurdwara Sahib, Lumley, and members of the Indian community for sustaining an initiative that uses education to improve the lives of vulnerable children.

He described the ceremony as more than the presentation of scholarships, saying it represented compassion, equality and service to humanity; values promoted by Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji.

According to the Indian diplomat, Guru Nanak’s principles of praying, working honestly and sharing with others continue to inspire millions worldwide. He said the teaching of “Sarbat da Bhala,” meaning the welfare of all, was particularly relevant to efforts aimed at investing in the future of young Sierra Leoneans.

Addressing the beneficiaries, Shri Neeraj Kumar Saini encouraged them to regard the scholarship not only as financial assistance but also as motivation to pursue their ambitions with greater confidence and determination.

He told the pupils that they could become Sierra Leone’s future doctors, engineers, teachers, entrepreneurs, public servants and national leaders if they remain committed to their education.

“Continue to work hard, shine in your academics and grow as responsible human beings,” Shri Neeraj Kumar Saini urged the recipients, expressing hope that some of them would eventually secure fully funded scholarships to study in India.

The Charge d’Affaires said India and Sierra Leone share a warm and enduring friendship built on mutual respect, democratic values, South-South cooperation and common development aspirations.

He noted that capacity building remains one of the strongest pillars of the bilateral relationship, with India regarding human resource development as one of the most sustainable forms of development assistance.

Through the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation Programme, Sierra Leonean public officials continue to receive fully funded professional training in India. The areas covered include information technology, public administration, banking, agriculture, renewable energy, election management, healthcare, cybersecurity and entrepreneurship.

Shri Neeraj Kumar Saini disclosed that hundreds of Sierra Leonean professionals had benefited from the programme over the years and returned home with additional knowledge and skills to support national development.

He also announced that 50 Sierra Leonean students had been awarded Indian Council for Cultural Relations scholarships in 2026 to pursue undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral programmes at Indian institutions.

According to him, the students will not only acquire higher education but also serve as lasting bridges of friendship between India and Sierra Leone.

Beyond scholarships and professional training, Shri Neeraj Kumar Saini highlighted India’s development interventions in healthcare, agriculture, food security, infrastructure and disability inclusion.

He said India provided 15 haemodialysis machines to Sierra Leone on a grant basis in March 2026 to help meet the treatment needs of people living with kidney-related illnesses.

India also supplied 1,000 metric tonnes of rice to support Sierra Leone’s school-feeding programme, demonstrating its commitment to food security and the welfare of schoolchildren.

Shri Neeraj Kumar Saini further referenced a US$990,000 grant extended by India in 2025 under the Commonwealth Window of the India–United Nations Development Partnership Fund. The grant supports a project aimed at empowering persons with disabilities in Sierra Leone through housing and skills-training opportunities.

On higher education, he announced that India is extending a US$32 million line of credit through the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development for the construction of the University of Science and Technology in Koidu, Kono District.

He said construction of the university is expected to begin soon and expressed optimism that some beneficiaries of the Baba Guru Nanak Scholarship would one day pursue technical and scientific education at the institution.

Shri Neeraj Kumar Saini also praised the Indian community for its contributions to Sierra Leone’s economy and social development through business, healthcare, education, manufacturing and philanthropy.

Although relatively small in number, he said, members of the Indian Diaspora had earned respect and become an integral part of Sierra Leonean society. He described the Baba Guru Nanak Scholarship as a strong example of the community’s determination to give back to the country that had welcomed it for generations.

The diplomat commended Mohinder Bir Singh Sachdeva, Chief Sevadar of Shri Gurdwara Sahib, Lumley and Honorary Consul of Côte d’Ivoire, alongside the donors, volunteers and organizers who made the scholarship programme possible.

He maintained that education remains one of the greatest gifts society can offer a child because it creates opportunities that can last a lifetime.

Shri Neeraj Kumar Saini concluded by assuring the gathering that the High Commission of India would continue working with the Government of Sierra Leone to broaden cooperation in education, healthcare, digital innovation, renewable energy, skills development, trade and investment.

Living on the edge: WATERLOO BOMEH A DEATH TRAP

August 28, 2026

Group of people standing and kneeling on a garbage dump under a blue sky, sorting through trash and debris. — A photo of the group of young male workers recruited by WARDC stand atop the Waterloo Bomeh dumpsite

The air at Waterloo dumpsite (locally known as Bomeh), is thick with the stench of rotting refuse, yet for a single mother selling plantains and young men shoveling trash, it is the only place they can earn a living.

Despite a 2021 government promise to relocate the hazardous site and provide modern facilities, the reality on the ground remains a toxic nightmare. During a recent on-the-ground investigation, I spoke with waste workers, residents and petty traders who are bearing the brunt of the Western Area Rural District Council’s (WARDC) inaction, painting a grim picture of a community left to survive amidst a mountain of garbage waiting to collapse on them.

Ibrahim Sesay, a young male worker at the dumpsite, spends his days shoveling rotting refuse, tasked with keeping the garbage from spilling onto the busy Freetown-Waterloo Highway. Alongside his colleague Alusine Turay and others, Ibrahim Sesay was recruited by WARDC to manage the site.

“Working at the dumpsite has been my only source of livelihood,” Ibrahim Sesay told me during our interview at the site, noting that the job subjects him to the scorn of relatives and friends who mock him for his hazardous occupation.

Two young male workers shoveling refuse at the Waterloo Bomeh waste dumpsite

A photo of two young male workers shovels rotting refuse at the Waterloo dumpsite without any protective equipment.

While Ibrahim Sesay claimed that WARDC provided the workers with protective gear, the reality I witnessed contradicted his narration: not a single worker at the site was wearing any protective equipment. This lack of basic personal protective equipment (PPE) drastically increases their risk of chronic respiratory diseases, skin infections and gastrointestinal illnesses. According to research, air pollution alone accounts for 155 deaths/100,000 people in Sub-Saharan Africa, with Sierra Leone continuing to struggle with air quality due to pollution, particularly from the waste industry.

The council’s narrative around organized waste collection rings equally hollow for the residents the system is meant to serve. Rugiatu Kamara, a primary school teacher living in the Deep Eye Water community within the WARDC jurisdiction, flatly denied the existence of any formal waste collection in her neighborhood.

“I have lived here for almost five years and I have never seen any formal waste management collector at my doorstep or my neighbors’ either,” Rugiatu Kamara lamented when I interviewed her.

Her experience is mirrored by Mariama Jalloh, a resident of Cole Street in Waterloo 555, who told me that her community lacks both a nearby designated dumpsite and any access to waste collection services. Consequently, residents are forced into street dumping, clogging local waterways with household waste. This inefficient and poor waste management system is a major public health concern in the country. The informal disposal method is a primary driver of the region’s environmental crises; in Sierra Leone, clogged drains caused by indiscriminate dumping led to severe flooding and create stagnant breeding grounds for mosquitoes, directly fueling outbreaks of malaria, cholera and typhoid.

The toxic environment of Bomeh does not just affect the waste workers; it has also become the unwilling backdrop for local commerce. Amina, a plantain seller and a single mother of three, has been setting up her makeshift stall by the dumpsite for years, watching the conditions deteriorate daily.

“Each day, rain or sun, I’m here to find my daily bread for my children,” Amina told me, explaining that she has no alternative source of income or any other viable location to sell her goods.

Amina selling plantains beside the Waterloo Bomeh waste dumpsite

A photo of Amina alongside her plantains for sale beside the festering garbage mountain at Waterloo Bomeh

Like the married couple who are also petty traders I spoke to nearby, Amina is forced to endure the overwhelming stench and the looming threat of disease just to put food on the table. Selling food in such close proximity to a massive, unmanaged dumpsite poses a critical public health risk. The World Health Organization warns that food prepared or sold near waste disposal sites is highly vulnerable to contamination from harmful bacteria, heavy metals and chemical pollutants carried by flies, rodents and contaminated water sources, significantly increasing the risk of foodborne diseases like cholera and dysentery.

Despite those unthinkable public health risks, these traders have no choice but to endure the conditions, pleading with WARDC to relocate the dumpsite to a secure, managed facility as they were promised years ago.

In March 2021, Sierra Leone’s Minister of Lands, Housing, and Country Planning publicly announced that 200 acres of state land had been allocated to WARDC to relocate the dumpsite and transform the current area into a modern, multi-purpose market. Yet, years later, the garbage mountain remains.

When I physically went to the Western Area Rural District Council (WARDC) offices to interview officials about their concrete plans for the Waterloo dumpsite, there was nobody available to talk to, leaving the workers, residents and traders of Waterloo to continue breathing the stench of broken promises.

Waterloo Bomeh waste dumpsite along the Freetown-Waterloo Highway

A photo of the sprawling Waterloo Bomeh dumpsite stretches along the Freetown-Waterloo Highway.

An additional photo of the dumpsite

Photos credit: Kemoh Saidu Sesay

FAWAZ Expands RANDCEM Cement Supply to Support Safer Construction Nationwide

August 28, 2026

Sierra Leone’s growing demand for housing, commercial buildings and public infrastructure has renewed attention on the quality of materials used throughout the construction sector.

FAWAZ Building Materials is contributing to this development by making RANDCEM 42.5R Cement available to contractors, engineers, developers, masons and private individuals undertaking projects across the country.

Produced in Vietnam and packaged in 50-kilogram bags, RANDCEM 42.5R is intended for various concrete and masonry applications. These include foundations, columns, beams, floors, concrete blocks and other structural works.

FAWAZ Building Materials says the cement delivers consistent performance and dependable early strength when mixed and applied correctly. Its reported setting time of approximately 30 minutes under suitable conditions may also help construction teams work efficiently and maintain project schedules.

The company, however, emphasizes that cement quality is only one part of safe construction. Strong buildings also require professional designs, stable foundations, correct reinforcement, clean sand, suitable aggregates, proper measurements and competent supervision.

Controlling the quantity of water used during mixing remains particularly important. Excess water can reduce concrete strength, increase shrinkage and create cracks. Poor measurements involving cement, sand and aggregate may also weaken a structure and shorten its lifespan.

For some general concrete applications, builders commonly use a ratio of one part cement, two parts sand and four parts aggregate. Lean concrete may use one part cement, three parts sand and six parts aggregate. These proportions are general guidelines and should never replace project-specific instructions from qualified engineers.

Proper curing is equally critical. Freshly placed concrete should be kept adequately moist during its early stages to allow strength to develop and reduce the possibility of cracking. Failure to cure concrete properly can undermine its performance, even when reliable cement has been used.

RANDCEM bags should be stored in dry, covered and well-ventilated areas. They must be raised above the floor and protected from rain, damp walls, groundwater and leaking roofs. Once opened, any remaining cement should preferably be used within seven days or sealed securely against air and moisture.

Workers are also encouraged to use gloves and face masks to minimize exposure to cement dust and avoid prolonged skin contact. Safe lifting practices should be observed when handling the 50-kilogram bags, while cement must always be stored away from children.

Recurring concerns about building collapses have intensified calls for tougher construction controls in Sierra Leone. Structural failures are often linked to weak foundations, defective designs, inferior materials, poor workmanship and inadequate professional oversight.

Construction stakeholders have therefore urged the Sierra Leone Standards Bureau and other responsible institutions to strengthen inspections and regularly test cement products entering the market. Effective monitoring of importers, distributors and retailers would help protect consumers, discourage the sale of substandard materials and promote fair competition.

FAWAZ Building Materials says its distribution of RANDCEM 42.5R Cement forms part of its commitment to supporting national development through reliable building products.

With construction activity continuing to expand, Sierra Leone’s ability to develop safer and longer-lasting structures will depend on quality materials, skilled workmanship, professional engineering and firm regulatory supervision.