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Guild of Editors Condemns CID Raid on The Watch Newspaper

Guild of Newspaper Editors chairman, Thomas Dixon (left) and IGP, William F. Sellu

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Guild of Newspaper Editors – Sierra Leone (GoNE-SL) has strongly condemned a police raid on the offices of The Watch Newspaper, carried out on Tuesday, 18th November 2025, by officers of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID). The Guild described the incident as an alarming act of intimidation and a direct threat to press freedom in the country.

According to staff who witnessed the operation, CID officers stormed the premises claiming they were searching for the Managing Editor of The Gleaner Newspaper. Workers immediately clarified that The Gleaner does not operate from that address. Despite that clarification, the officers allegedly insisted that the Secretary of The Watch accompany them to CID headquarters for further questioning.

The Guild denounced the raid as harassment, stressing that police invasions of media institutions have no place in a democratic society. Guild Chairman, Thomas Dixon, said the action amounted to intimidation aimed at punishing journalists for publishing legitimate stories. “Media houses should not be subjected to police raids for publishing a story. If the Police want intelligence, they can use the story as a lead. What they did on that day amounts to harassment and intimidation. There are many people online with pictures and videos of Jos Leijdekkers who could be of immense help to them,” he noted.

GoNE-SL emphasized that journalists are under no obligation to provide intelligence to law enforcement and that newsrooms are not extensions of the Police. The Guild said the incident undermines the ability of reporters to work freely and without fear.

The Guild called on the Sierra Leone Police to explain the circumstances that led to the raid, ensure accountability and desist from any further interference with the operations of media institutions.

Reaffirming its mission, the Guild stated that it remains committed to defending the rights, safety and independence of journalists and editors across Sierra Leone.

The statement was signed by the Secretary-General of GoNE-SL, Ishmail Saidu Kanu, Esq.

NCRA Intensifies Crackdown on Identity Fraud with Canadian-Led Document Security Training

Director General of NCRA, Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA), in partnership with the High Commission of Canada, on Thursday 20 November 2025 held a high-level fraud awareness and document security training for frontline and technical NCRA staff in Freetown; marking a significant step in Sierra Leone’s fight against identity manipulation.

The initiative comes at a time when global threats to identity integrity are escalating and Sierra Leone continues to expand its digital ID ecosystem to enhance national security, service delivery and public trust.

Speaking shortly after the session, the Director General of NCRA, Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi, reaffirmed the Authority’s strong commitment to enhancing document authentication processes, strengthening staff capacity and deepening collaboration with national and international partners.

“With partners like the High Commission of Canada, we are laying a firm foundation for a secure and credible national identity system,” Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi said. “This is about national security, economic stability and protecting every Sierra Leonean.”

Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi has been leading an aggressive nationwide campaign to combat identity fraud, declaring it “a fight that we must win.”

The day’s training was delivered by Jennifer O’Connell, a seasoned expert of the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), who has spent over two decades working in border protection, immigration enforcement and anti-fraud operations. Her mission is to equip NCRA officers with modern tools to detect fraudulent attempts before they penetrate national systems.

Ms. Jennifer O’Connell detailed common methods used in identity manipulation, including counterfeit birth certificates, altered death records and other fraudulent documents frequently exploited for human trafficking, illegal migration and financial or cross-border crime.

Addressing the gathering, Alfred B. Sesay, Director of Human Resources Management at the NCRA, stressed the urgency of the fight.

“Identity fraud is a national security threat and we are confronting it head-on,” he said. He underscored that foundational identity records; births, deaths, marriages, national ID cards and the National Identification Number (NIN) form the backbone of all other services, including passports, banking and social protection.

Alfred Sesay further disclosed ongoing engagements with the Immigration Department to ensure that the NIN becomes a mandatory requirement for all passport applications. This, he said, would eliminate the loopholes that previously enabled individuals to secure passports without verifiable identity information in the national database.

“It is unacceptable for anyone to carry a newly issued passport that our system cannot validate,” he emphasized. “A passport must be anchored on a verified national identity. That era of shortcuts is ending.”

He also encouraged staff to embrace their role as gatekeepers of national identity. “Our frontline staff are custodians of citizens’ information. Clean, accurate data strengthens the entire system. This training equips us to detect fraud and protect the national identity ecosystem.”

Senior staff, including Mohamed S. Konuwa, Abubakarr Javombo and Sahr Foday, echoed the need for stronger collaboration with immigration authorities, medical regulators and security agencies to ensure consistent verification of foundational documents.

Participants reflected on several fraud risks encountered in Sierra Leone, such as attempts to acquire passports without national IDs, manipulation of birth or death certificates for inheritance disputes, falsified medical documents, insider threats within institutions and forged papers used to move children across borders. One NCRA officer remarked, “When someone presents a passport that has no corresponding national identity record, that is not simply a mistake; it is a red flag. Our duty is to say no and protect the system.”

The training followed a recent engagement with Canada’s Consular Office, led by the Honorary Consul for Canada in Sierra Leone, Kofie Macauley, who announced that Sierra Leoneans seeking Canadian services will no longer need to travel to Guinea or Ghana for biometric fingerprinting; thanks to upgraded capabilities now available in Freetown.

Commending the proactive stance of Sierra Leone, Ms. Jennifer O’Connell described the civil registry as “the heartbeat of national identity.”

“Your officers are the first line of defence,” she said, warning that once fraudulent foundational documents enter the system, every other national document becomes compromised. She cited global cases where poorly verified certificates enabled human trafficking, welfare fraud, illegal migration and transnational crime.

The training ended with renewed motivation among participants, who described the session as timely, practical and crucial in strengthening national security and restoring public confidence in Sierra Leone’s identity ecosystem.

Staff of NCRA pose for picture with the delegation from the High Commission of Canada after high-level fraud awareness and document security training

PPRC Replies APC: “Our Decision Is Based on Law and Verified Proof”

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC) has formally responded to the All People’s Congress (APC), firmly defending its decision to impose a fine on the party for breaching Section 39(1) of the Political Parties Act No. 25 of 2022. The reply, dated 20th November 2025, was addressed to the APC National Secretary-General and signed by the Commission’s Executive Secretary, Olusegon A. David.

In its letter, the PPRC reiterated that the fine issued against the APC was lawful, procedurally correct and grounded in explicit provisions of the 2022 Act. It emphasized that the penalty was imposed pursuant to Section 39(2)(a), which mandates the Commission to take regulatory action once there is proof of a violation.

The Commission clarified that all decisions taken, including the recent punitive action,were based strictly on law and facts before it. The response highlighted that on 11th November 2025, the Commission convened a meeting with both the APC and the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) to address rising incidents of inciting and inflammatory public statements by members of the two main political parties. The PPRC said the purpose of the meeting was to de-escalate tensions and preserve public order.

According to the Commission, that engagement ended with the APC and SLPP signing an agreement committing themselves to responsible conduct and restraint. Immediately afterward and in line with Section 39(2)(a) the Commission issued a formal warning letter.

Responding to the APC’s demand for “verified evidence,” the PPRC stressed that Section 39(2) clearly states that proof for punitive action must be “upon proof by the Commission,” not by political parties. The Commission said the responsibility for establishing such proof rests squarely with it and all procedural steps outlined under Section 39(2)(a–d) were fully observed.

The PPRC further noted that the 14-day deadline given to the APC to comply with the sanction expires on 2nd December 2025, after which it will be compelled to invoke additional punitive measures provided under the Act if compliance is not met.

The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the rule of law, political stability and ensuring that all political parties adhere to the standards required for a peaceful and democratic Sierra Leone.

The correspondence was copied to several key national and international stakeholders, including the Chairman and Commissioners of the PPRC, the Chairman of the APC, the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the World Bank, UNDP, the European Union Delegation, the Embassies of the United States, Ireland, China, Germany and representatives of the African Union and ECOWAS.

NP (SL) Records Remarkable Successes, Reinforces Status as Nation’s Most Trusted Fuel Provider

NP filling station

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

NP (Sierra Leone) Limited continues to solidify its reputation as the country’s most trusted and forward-thinking petroleum company, recording remarkable successes driven by strategic innovation, exemplary customer service and strong adherence to local content development. Over the years, NP (SL) has not only expanded its footprint nationwide but has also invested significantly in technology, infrastructure and human capital; making it a leading model of indigenous corporate excellence.

As one of Sierra Leone’s proud indigenous companies, NP (SL) has consistently demonstrated what it means to lead through innovation. One of the company’s most celebrated achievements is the introduction of the NP Energy Pass Card, a groundbreaking electronic fuel payment system that has transformed the fueling experience for individuals, institutions and corporate bodies. The Energy Pass Card has enhanced transparency, convenience and control for fleet managers and everyday users alike, ushering in a new era of digital fuel management in the country.

Beyond technology, NP (SL) has maintained an impressive record of nationwide service availability. Its network of fuel stations continues to grow, ensuring communities, from urban centers to remote towns, have reliable access to high-quality petroleum products. This expansion has also created hundreds of jobs, empowered local contractors and enhanced local economic activity around its service points.

A major component of NP (SL)’s success story is its commitment to customer satisfaction. The company maintains a strong tradition of ensuring that customers not only receive quality products but also enjoy fast, respectful and professional service across all stations. This customer-centric culture has become one of the company’s strongest competitive advantages, cementing trust between NP (SL) and the communities it serves.

In addition, NP (SL) continues to support Sierra Leone’s broader development agenda by sustaining its local content policy. The company takes pride in ensuring that Sierra Leoneans occupy key positions within the Management and operational structures. By prioritizing indigenous expertise, NP (SL) has helped nurture a generation of skilled professionals in the petroleum sector, contributing significantly to national capacity building.

Environmental responsibility also forms part of NP’s operational philosophy. The company has invested in modern fuel storage and dispensing technologies that meet global safety and environmental standards, ensuring its operations align with international best practices. Such investments underscore NP’s commitment to both community well-being and long-term sustainability.

Furthermore, NP (SL) has maintained strong partnerships with Government agencies, regulatory bodies and private-sector players;strengthening the petroleum supply chain while ensuring stability in the distribution of essential fuel products across the country. At critical moments, NP (SL) has demonstrated reliability, particularly during national emergencies, by ensuring uninterrupted fuel supply when it matters most.

Today, NP (SL) stands as a shining example of indigenous entrepreneurship, resilience and strategic growth. Its successes reflect a blend of vision, innovation and a deep understanding of customer needs. As the company continues to expand and evolve, Sierra Leoneans can look forward to even greater improvements in service delivery, digital transformation and economic empowerment.

With its unmatched track record, NP (SL) Ltd remains firmly positioned as Sierra Leone’s premier petroleum marketing company; trusted, dependable and committed to powering progress nationwide.

Choithram International School Hands Over Fully Renovated Hill Cut Road Community School

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Choithram International School (CIS), together with the Choithram International School Parents’ Association, on Friday, 21 November 2025, officially handed over the newly renovated Hill Cut Road Community School to residents of the Hill Cut Road community. The project marks a significant investment in improving educational infrastructure for underserved pupils within the area.

The renovation, funded through charitable activities organized by CIS, including movie nights, fun fairs and parent-led fundraising initiatives, saw major structural improvements to the previously dilapidated school.

The CIS Principal, Niharika Agnani, in her statement, said the initiative stemmed from a decision to direct proceeds from school fundraising events towards a meaningful community project. According to her, after assessing various options, the Hill Cut Road Community School was identified as being most in need of urgent intervention.

Niharika Agnani explained that parents, friends of the school and key supporters contributed to raising the funds required to refurbish the facility. She thanked all who donated, noting that the intervention would now provide children with a safer and more conducive learning environment. She credited the local Councillor and members of the community for helping identify and assess the school before renovation began and promised that such initiative will be happening every year.

Naman Agnani of CIS expressed gratitude to the parents and contractors who played critical roles in completing the project. He noted that during the renovation, CIS temporarily adjusted its operations to ensure the project could proceed effectively. Naman Agnani added that the refurbished building was intended to offer an improved learning environment that would benefit pupils now and in the future.

Councillor Daboh of the Hill Cut Road Community expressed profound appreciation for CIS and its Parents’ Association. He said the school had long been in a deteriorated condition, with damaged roofing, poor sanitation, weak structures and an environment that had discouraged learning.  Councillor Daboh noted that the community had engaged CIS because of its longstanding service to the constituency through Choithram Hospital and its health outreach programmes.

He called for further support in the provision of classroom furniture, blackboards, books, chairs and electricity to fully equip the school further urging parents to continue sending their children to school and reaffirmed the community’s commitment to safeguarding the upgraded facility.

Head Teacher, Michael G. S. Kamara, described the intervention as a transformative moment for the Hill Cut Road Community School. He thanked CIS, the community and stakeholders for recognizing the need and acting decisively to improve the learning environment.

The Head Teacher acknowledged Councillor Daboh, Councillor Sassa, teachers and parents for their support, saying he hoped the partnership would open doors for further development. He emphasized that the new infrastructure would motivate both pupils and staff and help the school deliver on its mission.

Speaking on behalf of the Community stakeholders, Steve Sesay thanked CIS for serving the community selflessly. He emphasized that the improvements were visible and significant, and prayed for blessings upon those who contributed.

Mohamed Wurie, speaking on behalf of the CIS Parents’ Association,  said parents supported the initiative wholeheartedly because CIS promotes values of community service and shared responsibility. He reaffirmed the parents’ commitment to maintaining a strong partnership with the Hill Cut Road community.

Delivering the vote of thanks, one of the pupils, Hassanatu Mabinty Kamara expressed deep appreciation to CIS for providing a renewed place of learning. She described the new building as a foundation for hope and future opportunities, pledging on behalf of her peers to take proper care of the facility and uphold the trust placed in them.

The handover ceremony concluded with renewed commitment from all stakeholders to maintain the facility and continue fostering collaboration aimed at improving education within the Hill Cut Road community.

The successful renovation stands as a testament to Choithram International School’s longstanding tradition of service, leadership and community development. CIS has once again demonstrated that quality education extends beyond the classroom, reflecting a deep commitment to uplifting communities, supporting vulnerable learners and investing in Sierra Leone’s future.

Lǒr Restaurant Becomes the City’s Go-To Destination for Luxury Dining

Lǒr Restaurant

Lǒr Restaurant, one of Freetown’s newest and most talked-about culinary destinations, is rapidly distinguishing itself as a refined haven for lovers of exceptional food, warm ambience and first-class service. Located in the West End of the capital, the restaurant has quickly become a preferred choice for families, corporate diners, diplomats, expatriates and Sierra Leoneans seeking a world-class dining experience without leaving the city.

Situated along the scenic Peninsular Highway in Juba, the restaurant has swiftly risen to become a top choice for locals and visitors alike, setting a new standard for taste, elegance and exceptional service.

Since opening its doors, Lǒr Restaurant has earned a reputation for blending elegance with comfort, offering an atmosphere that is both sophisticated and inviting. Its thoughtfully designed interior, accented with modern décor, ambient lighting and carefully curated artwork, creates a serene setting ideal for business meetings, celebrations, intimate dinners or simply a relaxing night out.

At the centre of Lǒr’s appeal is its diverse and innovative menu, crafted to satisfy a wide range of palates. From premium steaks and expertly seasoned seafood to chef-specialty dishes inspired by both African and international cuisines, the restaurant consistently delivers meals that are fresh, flavourful and beautifully presented. Patrons have particularly praised the consistency of its standards, the creativity of its culinary team and the restaurant’s commitment to using quality ingredients.

Beyond the food, Lǒr Restaurant has also been lauded for the professionalism and hospitality of its staff. Attentive, courteous and well-trained, the service team ensures that every guest feels valued from the moment they arrive to the moment they leave. The Management’s unwavering focus on customer satisfaction has made the establishment a standout in Freetown’s competitive dining scene.

The restaurant also offers a curated selection of wines, cocktails and beverages, making it a stylish venue for evening relaxation or after-work gatherings. Its serene outdoor area further adds to the dining experience, allowing guests to enjoy the cool evening breeze while savouring their meals.

Over the past months, Lǒr Restaurant has hosted numerous private events, themed nights and social gatherings, cementing its role as not just a place to eat, but a vibrant lifestyle destination. In an era where Freetown’s hospitality industry is experiencing renewed growth and diversification, Lǒr is contributing meaningfully by setting a new benchmark for quality, class and consistency.

As the restaurant continues to innovate and expand its offerings, many believe Lǒr Restaurant is poised to become one of Sierra Leone’s most iconic dining brands; an establishment that mirrors the country’s rising standards and evolving taste for excellence.

For customers seeking a blend of fine cuisine, warm atmosphere and professional service, Lǒr Restaurant stands out as a must-visit gem in the capital’s culinary landscape.

APC Warns Against Partiality, Insists on Fairness in PPRC Regulatory Actions

APC's National Secretary-General, Lansana Dumbuya Esq.

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The All People’s Congress (APC) has formally responded to the Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC) concerning an alleged breach of Section 39(1) of the Political Parties Act No. 25 of 2022 attributed to one of its District Chairmen. In a strongly worded letter dated 18th November, 2025 and addressed to the Commission’s Executive Secretary, the Party insists it is unaware of any verified or authenticated incident that would amount to a violation of the Act.

Signed by the National Secretary-General, Lansana Dumbuya Esq., the APC states that as a responsible political institution governed by the 1991 Constitution and the Political Parties Act, it treats issues of compliance with the utmost seriousness. However, it insists that before any allegation can stand, facts must be properly established and all supporting materials must meet standards of authenticity and reliability.

The Party expressed concern over what it described as a recent surge in doctored audio recordings, misrepresented conversations and manipulated social media artefacts intended to inflame the political environment. Against that background, the APC urged the PPRC and all regulatory bodies to exercise the highest degree of scrutiny before initiating regulatory actions.

The letter further draws attention to what the APC considers selective enforcement, noting that similar or even more alarming public statements made by prominent members of the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) have not attracted equal urgency or sanctions from the PPRC. This, they argue, creates a perception of partiality inconsistent with the Commission’s statutory mandate.

“The PPRC is expected, both in law and in practice, to function as a neutral referee in Sierra Leone’s multiparty democratic system,” the letter states. “An umpire must not be seen to lean toward any political actor. The Commission’s legitimacy rests on its ability to demonstrate fairness, balance and even-handedness.”

In the interest of transparency, due process and accuracy, the APC has formally requested the PPRC to:

  1. Provide the Party with the full, unedited and verifiable evidence, including metadata upon which the allegation against Hon. Lahai Marah is based.
  2. Refrain from imposing any fine, sanction or adverse determination until such evidence is shared, authenticated and the accused is given an opportunity to be heard.

The letter assures that upon receipt of genuine and verified information, the APC will activate its internal disciplinary mechanisms in accordance with its Constitution.

Reaffirming its commitment to the Joint Agreement signed on 11th November 2025, the APC says it continues to act responsibly to preserve political stability, promote tolerance and avoid unnecessary escalation. However, the Party stressed that all stakeholders must uphold the same standards of fairness and restraint.

The APC concluded by expressing trust that the PPRC will address the matter in line with its legal mandate and the expectations of impartial democratic oversight.

Mines Minister Champions Unified African Voice Ahead of 2025 Kimberley Process Plenary

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

The African Diamond Producers Association (ADPA) has wrapped up its strategic Pre-Meeting in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, with member states committing to present a unified African position at the upcoming 2025 Kimberley Process (KP) Plenary. The session was chaired by Sierra Leone’s Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, Julius Daniel Mattai, who also serves as ADPA Chairman. He emphasized that Africa’s strength in global diamond governance depends on its ability to speak with one coherent and collective voice.

Addressing delegates at the opening of the meeting, Minister Julius Daniel Mattai reaffirmed ADPA’s commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the diamond sector and strengthening Africa’s influence within the Kimberley Process. He encouraged member states to actively participate in the discussions and work collaboratively toward a harmonized position that reflects the priorities and aspirations of diamond-producing nations on the continent.

According to the Minister, unity remains a critical element in enhancing Africa’s negotiating power, ensuring that shared interests are adequately represented and boosting the credibility of African countries in international negotiations. He stressed that the 2025 KP Plenary offers a significant opportunity for Africa to advocate for reforms that better align with the realities of modern diamond production and trade.

One of the most prominent issues discussed during the Pre-Meeting was the global debate surrounding the definition of conflict diamonds. Delegates noted that the current definition no longer captures the full scope of challenges in today’s diamond value chain. They unanimously agreed that the definition should be revised and modernized to incorporate the experiences of diamond-producing communities, particularly those affected by mining operations. Such inclusion, they maintained, would promote greater transparency, protect vulnerable populations and ensure that communities benefit more equitably from the governance structures guiding the trade in rough diamonds.

The meeting also reviewed developments concerning the future leadership of the Kimberley Process. Delegates highlighted that Zimbabwe, which had initially indicated interest in assuming the Chairmanship in 2026 had formally withdrawn its application and would seek the position at a later date. Ghana, which previously expressed interest in the Vice-Chairmanship, neither attended the meeting nor participated virtually, raising concerns about clarity and continuity in the succession process following the term of the United Arab Emirates.

Given the uncertainties surrounding Africa’s internal candidate selection, some delegates suggested that ADPA remain open to supporting non-member countries that have declared their interest in the Chairmanship. It was also confirmed that Qatar, whose earlier candidacy had been blocked by another participant, has not withdrawn its bid for leadership of the KP.

At the conclusion of the meeting, ADPA reaffirmed the importance of unity, collaboration and proactive engagement among African diamond-producing countries. Delegates committed to finalizing a consolidated African position that will be presented at the 2025 Kimberley Process Plenary in Dubai. The collective objective is to ensure that Africa’s priorities, as well as the welfare of its diamond-producing communities remain at the center of global decision-making.

Minister Julius Daniel Mattai underscored that the continent’s influence within the Kimberley Process depends on its consistency and cohesion. He reiterated that Africa must continue to champion reforms that strengthen the credibility, transparency and effectiveness of the global diamond governance framework.

As Global Coverage Surges… UN Applauds President Bio’s Bold Proposal for ECOWAS–UN–AU Sahel Peace Compact

President, Dr. Julius Maada Bio speaking at the the United Nations Security Council

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leone’s President, Dr. Julius Maada Bio, has earned significant global recognition for his proactive leadership on international peace and security, following the country’s presidency of the United Nations Security Council in November. His interventions on two major global issues, the Gaza crisis and insecurity in the Sahel, have been widely reported across prominent international media platforms.

Global media monitoring data indicate that coverage of President Bio’s engagements reached an estimated 245 million people worldwide, generating over 219 million ad impressions, 78 million long-form reads, 34 million deep engagements and 3.4 million direct forwards. Analysts describe this level of visibility as unprecedented for Sierra Leone, signaling growing international interest in the country’s diplomatic contributions.

Major news outlets such as AP News, Bloomberg Terminal channels, MENAFN and numerous U.S. network affiliates of ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX and CW carried reports across major American cities including New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, Houston, Atlanta and Washington D.C. African and global policy platforms, including Africa News Currents, African News Ledger, The Africa Gazette, World Politics Report and Government Daily Review, also amplified the developments.

President Bio’s chairmanship of the UN Security Council session that adopted Resolution 2803 on Gaza has been highlighted globally as a principled stand for the protection of civilians and for unhindered humanitarian access to affected populations. Media commentary emphasized his diplomatic tone and his appeal for renewed multilateral commitment toward a sustainable peace process.

In a separate Council briefing on Peace Consolidation in West Africa, President Bio presented a bold proposal for an ECOWAS–UN–AU Joint Compact for Peace and Resilience in the Sahel. The initiative is designed to align security operations, governance reforms and humanitarian action under one coordinated framework, with support from predictable financing under United Nations Security Council Resolution 2719 (2023).

The proposal, unveiled on 18 November 2025 at the UN Headquarters in New York, seeks to address escalating terrorism, political instability and worsening humanitarian conditions across the Sahel and West Africa. President Bio warned that the Sahel has become “the epicentre of global terrorism,” with extremist groups affiliated with ISIL and Al-Qaida exploiting weak governance structures and fragmented regional responses.

Speaking in his dual role as President of Sierra Leone and Chair of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, President Bio urged the international community to strengthen cooperation and accelerate action.

“Maintaining international peace and security is a collective responsibility,” he said, noting that the threat of terrorism continues to outpace current responses. “The people of West Africa and the Sahel do not ask for pity; they ask for partnership.”

He emphasized that the proposed Compact must not only reinforce military responses but also address governance deficits, economic exclusion and community-level grievances that fuel instability.

Addressing representatives of Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, President Bio stressed the need for constructive engagement and reintegration, stating that regional peace “cannot be built on exclusion.” He encouraged the strengthening of ECOWAS-Sahel cooperation through joint platforms, real-time coordination and capacities supported by UN entities.

The President underscored the worsening humanitarian situation in the region, marked by rising displacement, shrinking livelihoods, food insecurity and growing public frustration. He called for expanded humanitarian assistance linked to sustainable development strategies to restore dignity and resilience to affected communities.

“Africa’s peace,” he reminded the Council, “is not a favour to be granted, but a foundation of global stability.”

President Bio returned to Freetown on Wednesday after what officials described as one of Sierra Leone’s most impactful diplomatic engagements in recent years. He expressed optimism that the discussions held and the commitments made at the UN would catalyze strategic cooperation in addressing terrorism and instability in the Sahel and the broader West African region.

The combined impact of the Gaza resolution and the Sahel Compact proposal has strengthened Sierra Leone’s standing as a serious contributor to international dialogue on peace and security. Analysts note that President Bio’s leadership has positioned the country as a credible advocate for multilateralism, humanitarian protection and African-led solutions to continental challenges.

Global media attention keeps intensifying, and with it, Sierra Leone’s once-modest diplomatic presence is transforming into a commanding voice on the world stage; driven by President Bio’s rising influence in shaping global dialogue on peace, cooperation and collective security.

SLURC Marks Ten Years of Transformative Urban Research, Resilience Building & Policy Leadership in Sierra Leone

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Sierra Leone Urban Research Centre (SLURC) is commemorating a decade of groundbreaking work in urban development, climate resilience, community engagement and evidence-driven policymaking. Founded in 2015 through a partnership between University College London’s Bartlett Development Planning Unit and Njala University’s Institute of Geography and Development Studies, with core funding from Comic Relief, the centre has evolved from a small research initiative into Sierra Leone’s foremost authority on urban knowledge and practice.

Ten years on, SLURC is using its anniversary to reflect on achievements, assess ongoing challenges and lay out an ambitious vision for the next decade through its newly launched Strategic Plan 2024–2029. The wide-ranging plan strengthens the centre’s commitment to equity, inclusion, climate adaptation and evidence uptake, reaffirming its position as a vital contributor to national development.

When SLURC began operations a decade ago, its work focused on just four informal settlements in Freetown. Those initial communities served as pilot sites that helped researchers understand the complex dynamics of housing, mobility, livelihoods and environmental risk in underserved urban areas. According to Executive Director, Dr. Joseph Macarthy, those initial engagements laid the foundation for a community-driven research model that remains central to SLURC’s mission.

Today, SLURC’s footprint spans 15 informal settlements in Freetown and eight secondary cities; Bo, Makeni, Koidu, Kenema, Port Loko, Bonthe, Waterloo and Lungi. This expansion has been accompanied by a dramatic rise in research output: from a single project in 2015 to 48 studies and partnerships touching every dimension of urban development. Through those projects, SLURC has cultivated a national network of communities, local authorities, civil society groups and international partners; all working to tackle Sierra Leone’s mounting urban challenges.

SLURC’s influence on national and city-level policies has grown steadily. Over the years, the organization has become a trusted technical partner of the World Bank, African Development Bank, UN-Habitat, UNEP and major Ministries of the Government of Sierra Leone. Its research has informed major initiatives in urban planning, flood risk management, housing development, coastal protection and transportation systems.

Recent interventions include a joint feasibility study for the Freetown Central Business District regeneration project and an ongoing assignment to produce a Spatial Development Framework for Lungi, the country’s proposed future administrative city. SLURC is also leading new research on sand mining in the Western Area Peninsula and Lungi to evaluate the growing environmental and economic impacts of the practice on coastal communities and tourism.

Those partnerships illustrate how SLURC has moved beyond academic research to shape real-world planning decisions affecting millions of Sierra Leoneans.

At the core of SLURC’s tenth anniversary celebrations is the launch of its Strategic Plan 2024–2029, a bold roadmap to strengthen research excellence, enhance policy engagement and reinforce community empowerment. The plan is built around six pillars:

  1. Enhancing research excellence across nine priority themes, including climate resilience, mobility, housing, livelihoods and urban safety.
  2. Strengthening policy influence through targeted briefs, strategic partnerships and formal mechanisms for Government uptake.
  3. Deepening community leadership through co-produced knowledge and advocacy networks.
  4. Expanding knowledge dissemination, including advanced GIS systems, digital data hubs and public dashboards.
  5. Diversifying funding and consultancy services to accelerate sustainability and regional reach.
  6. Strengthening governance structures, promoting transparency, risk management and institutional resilience.

The plan aligns with national priorities such as the Big Five Game Changers and the Presidential Initiative on Climate Change, Renewable Energy and Food Security (PI-CREF). It also outlines annual timelines for implementation, with milestones in community initiatives, digital expansion, regional collaboration and measurable improvements in urban wellbeing.

Recognizing Sierra Leone’s vulnerability to climate change, SLURC has intensified its work on resilience planning. One of its most significant recent accomplishments is the completion of a Strategic Flood Risk Assessment and Management Plan for eight secondary cities as part of the Resilient Urban Sierra Leone Project (RUSLP), funded by the World Bank.

This landmark project includes detailed hazard maps, hydrological modelling, city-specific risk assessments and actionable strategies covering land-use planning, drainage expansion and nature-based solutions like wetland protection. Local councils were trained to implement and sustain those systems; critical for long-term disaster preparedness.

SLURC also collaborated with Ricardo (UK) to develop Climate Action Plans (CAPs) for Bo, Kenema and Makeni. Those plans integrate greenhouse gas inventories, sectoral risk analyses, investment priorities and monitoring frameworks extending to 2050. They are now the guiding frameworks for climate mitigation and adaptation in the three cities.

A defining feature of SLURC’s work is its commitment to community-led adaptation. In projects such as Urban SHADE, Urban Futures, KISS and Urban TRACS, the organization has documented rich local knowledge on flooding, heatwaves, landslides, disease outbreaks and environmental degradation.

Through Photovoice, residents in Moyiba, Susan’s Bay, Colbot and other settlements are using photography to document climate impacts on their health and wellbeing; from the dangers of makeshift hillside housing to heat stress and livelihood disruptions. The imagery has become powerful evidence for policymakers, while also strengthening local capacity to influence planning processes.

Those participatory methods reveal not only risks but resilience: community-built terraces, mangrove planting, homemade flood defences and adaptive livelihood strategies. SLURC believes such local innovations must be integrated into national climate strategies.

SLURC’s global footprint continues to grow. A new Learning Alliance with Imperial College London brought four MSc students and one PhD candidate to Sierra Leone for fieldwork under a project focusing on green infrastructure and ecosystem resilience. Supported by SLURC staff and local interns, the teams conducted surveys, workshops, interviews and participatory assessments in informal settlements and coastal zones.

The collaboration has strengthened cross-border research and provided hands-on experience for Sierra Leonean interns; an investment in the next generation of urban development professionals.

SLURC has also appointed a new Knowledge Management, Communication and Information Officer, Fasalie Sulaiman Kamara, a seasoned communications expert with extensive experience in development communication, One Health governance and public health promotion. His arrival is expected to accelerate SLURC’s research uptake and strategic communication.

Looking into the next decade, SLURC envisions transforming into a degree-awarding institution offering diplomas, certificates and academic programmes in urban development; positioning it as a long-term engine for capacity-building and innovation in Sierra Leone.

SLURC celebrates ten years of growth, evolving from a four-community pilot into a nationally recognized research institution whose contributions continue to shape the future of Sierra Leone’s cities through data, community engagement and policy leadership.

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