According to The Africa Report… Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh Redefines Sierra Leone’s Vice Presidency with Bold Reforms

September 8, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, has emerged as one of the most influential deputy leaders in Sierra Leone’s political history, steering reforms in health, education, governance and private sector development under President Julius Maada Bio. Traditionally seen as a ceremonial role, the office of the Vice President has been transformed into a powerhouse of policymaking and national oversight.

For decades, Sierra Leone’s Vice Presidency was regarded as marginal. That changed in 2018 when President Julius Maada Bio broadened the responsibilities of his deputy, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh. He was entrusted with weighty national portfolios, from internal affairs and decentralization to education and health reforms.

“My responsibility is to ensure that devolution and decentralization take place and work,” the Vice President explained, reflecting the expanded mandate of his office. His tenure has proven that the Vice Presidency can function as a vital pillar of governance, driving strategic reforms and guiding national resilience.

One of the Vice President’s proudest achievements has been overseeing maternal health reforms. When the Sierra Leone People’s Party took power in 2018, the country recorded one of the world’s highest maternal mortality rates at 1,078 deaths per 100,000 live births. Within two years, that figure dropped to 773. Today, it stands at 334 per 100,000 live births.

“We have saved the lives of more than 700 mothers in just five years,” Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh told The Africa Report. “That is a record in sub-Saharan Africa.”

The success stems from increased investment in healthcare, with more than 8,000 new healthcare workers, nurses, midwives and doctors, recruited since 2018. Midwives have been retrained to manage complications during childbirth, while rural health facilities now receive ambulances to transport expectant mothers to hospitals.

Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, also played a crucial role during Sierra Leone’s recent mpox outbreak. With daily infections averaging 100 cases across 16 districts, he mobilized health workers, launched vaccination campaigns and coordinated community outreach. By June 2025, cases had sharply declined and the outbreak was brought under control.

Such rapid mobilization underscored his capacity for crisis management. He had shown similar leadership during the violent insurrection of August 2022, when he swiftly returned from abroad to help restore order while President Bio was on official travel.

Another flagship area of his leadership is education. President Bio’s administration has dedicated 22% of GDP to the sector, resulting in nearly one million new enrollments. For the first time in the country’s history, Sierra Leone has achieved gender parity in schools.

“We have more girls in junior secondary schools than boys and the girls are doing better in public exams,” Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh revealed. More classrooms have been built, more teachers recruited and science education for girls has expanded significantly.

“Within the next 20 years, nine out of ten Sierra Leoneans will be able to read and write,” he added, reflecting confidence in the country’s Free Quality School Education programme.

Beyond health and education, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh has championed private sector development as the engine of sustainable job creation. President Bio’s administration has committed to generating 500,000 jobs and much of that depends on new investments in infrastructure, agriculture and energy.

Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh played a central role in negotiating Sierra Leone’s acceptance into the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), resulting in a $480 million compact to transform the energy sector. Improved electricity is seen as key to boosting private sector growth and attracting foreign investment.

He also provides oversight of the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI), ensuring transparency in the country’s natural resource governance.

Before entering politics, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh built an impressive international career. He earned a PhD in political science from the University of Bordeaux and worked for the United Nations in Mali and Kosovo. He also served as Special Adviser to the UN Secretary-General’s representative in West Africa.

Fluent in French and experienced in governance, he was handpicked by President Bio as running mate in 2018. Despite his cosmopolitan background, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh describes himself as “a politician at heart,” deeply connected to Sierra Leone’s aspirations.

“I came into this position with vast governance experience from several nations,” he explained. That experience, he said, has shaped his approach to Sierra Leone’s governance challenges, particularly in health, decentralization and service delivery.

With less than two years before the end of President Bio’s second term, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh remains focused on consolidating reforms and ensuring continuity. The administration’s priorities include sustaining gains in maternal health, expanding access to quality education, boosting job creation through private sector partnerships and ensuring Sierra Leone’s decentralization agenda delivers results for rural communities.

For Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, the success of the administration will be judged not only by the promises made but by the impact felt by ordinary Sierra Leoneans. “The key to job creation is in the private sector,” he reiterated. “We are laying the groundwork to ensure that governance and transparency provide the enabling environment for investors, while also delivering services to our people.”

Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh has reshaped the office once considered symbolic, proving it can be a cornerstone of national transformation. Under his watch, Sierra Leone has broken records in reducing maternal mortality, expanded education opportunities and set the stage for long-term economic growth.

ECSL Updates Stakeholders on Implementation of Tripartite Recommendations

September 8, 2025

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) has provided an update on the progress made in implementing the Tripartite Committee’s recommendations, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening electoral processes ahead of future elections. Speaking at a stakeholders’ engagement meeting on Friday, 5th September 2025, at the Commission’s headquarters on Tower Hill, Freetown, ECSL’s Executive Secretary, William A. Davies, outlined key milestones and ongoing initiatives supported by partners including the Government of Sierra Leone, EU and UNDP.

The meeting brought together Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), media representatives, interreligious bodies and political stakeholders. William A. Davies emphasized that while significant progress has been made challenges remain in fully implementing all recommendations. He noted that many recommendations require legal reforms and amendments to existing legislation.

According to William A. Davies, several recommendations are already at different stages of implementation with the support of partners which includes:

Policies and Frameworks: A draft Consultation Policy and a new Information/Document Management Policy have been developed. Work is also ongoing to finalize a policy on the Commission’s regulatory-making powers before the end of 2025.

Voter Information and Education: Plans are underway to develop a new Voter Information Strategy (slated for 2026), integrate voter education into the Electoral Cycle Calendar and collaborate with the Ministry of Education to include governance and electoral topics in school and university curricula.
Voter Registration: The ECSL is working with UNDP to recruit experts to conduct a feasibility study on the voter registration system between August and October 2025. The Commission has also started reviewing the location of voter registration centers, with full stakeholder engagement planned for 2026.
Legal and Electoral Reforms: Engagements with the Ministry of Justice are ongoing regarding reforms related to electoral systems, candidate eligibility, fixed election dates and use of census statistics. Recommendations tied directly to election years such as nomination software, accreditation of agents and training are scheduled for 2026–2028.
Election Observation and Inclusivity: The Commission intends to adopt international standards for citizen and international observers as the basis for a new Sierra Leone code. It also plans to make access assessments of polling stations before finalizing voter registers, with special arrangements for voters with disabilities where needed.
Electoral System Dialogue: William A. Davies confirmed that a national dialogue has already been held on whether Sierra Leone should adopt proportional representation or retain the First Past the Post system for Parliamentary and local council elections.

He emphasized that while some recommendations are already completed or in progress, others are longer-term and will be rolled out in phases between 2026 and 2028.

In his welcome address, Acting Chief Electoral Commissioner, ECSL, Edmond Sylvester Alpha, emphasized the importance of dialogue and collaboration in strengthening Sierra Leone’s electoral system. He expressed appreciation to all stakeholders for their presence noting that their participation demonstrated broad national interest in the Commission’s reforms.

“We are not in an electoral vacuum, nor are we stagnant. We have processes and activities on course that will lead to the successful conduct of the 2028 elections,” Edmond Sylvester Alpha stated. He highlighted the Commission’s engagement with political parties, Government institutions and development partners as part of ongoing reforms to ensure peaceful, transparent and credible elections.

Reflecting on past electoral cycles, Edmond Sylvester Alpha explained that Sierra Leone’s electoral system has continuously evolved since the 2007 general elections, through reforms informed by observer mission reports and legal updates. These included the transition from the old Electoral Act to the Public Elections Act, which consolidated previous laws into a more robust legal framework.

“An election is a process with laws and procedures. As long as we abide by those laws, peace and stability will be maintained,” he stressed. Edmond Sylvester Alpha assured stakeholders that the Commission is already laying the groundwork for 2028, with activities such as voter registration, constitutional review processes and legal consultations with the Ministry of Justice already underway.

He described CSOs as the “third sector of society” and the media as the “fourth estate,” underlining their crucial roles in bridging the gap between the Commission and the electorate. He called for continued collaboration to enhance voter education, raise awareness and strengthen public trust in the electoral process.

The Acting Chief Electoral Commissioner also praised the role played by observer groups both national and international in providing oversight and recommendations that have contributed to electoral improvements over the years. “We cannot push this drive alone. Civil society, religious bodies, the media and observer groups must join hands with us to take the process back to the people,” he emphasized.

Edmond Sylvester Alpha acknowledged the centrality of the Tripartite Recommendations describing them as a “household name” in Sierra Leone’s political and electoral discourse. He reassured participants that the Commission remains committed to implementing the recommendations in full, with ongoing updates and consultations forming part of this commitment.

The Acting Chief Electoral Commissioner noted that the engagement was not an isolated event but part of a series of continuous dialogues with political actors, civil society and international partners to ensure reforms are inclusive and widely understood.

While emphasizing progress, Edmond Sylvester Alpha was clear that challenges remain. He underscored the need for sustained cooperation among stakeholders to guarantee stability, transparency and credibility in future elections.

“We assure citizens that the Commission is ready to conduct the 2028 elections in a peaceful, stable, transparent and credible manner,” he said.

The engagement ended with statements from other ECSL Commissioners, further reiterating the Commission’s determination to build on the lessons of past elections, implement the Tripartite Recommendations and deliver reforms that strengthen Sierra Leone’s democratic institutions followed by question-and-answer segment, providing participants with the opportunity to pose questions. ECSL Commissioners addressed these inquiries, offering clarifications and insights into the Commission’s ongoing efforts and future plans.

APC Faces Fresh Test Over Sam-Sumana’s Eligibility for Leadership Role

September 8, 2025

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The All People’s Congress (APC) is navigating a pivotal internal moment after its Secretary-General, Lansana Dumbuya Esq., moved to clarify the party status and leadership eligibility of former Vice President, Dr. Alhaji Samuel Sidique Sam-Sumana. The intervention follows a high-profile media blitz by Dr. Sam-Sumana and confirmation from the Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC) that it has received a formal complaint from him regarding participation in upcoming APC leadership contests.

Lansana Dumbuya’s clarifications, delivered in an interview with Liberty Online TV on Friday September 5, 2025, sought to calm speculation around the former Vice President’s re-entry into the party. The Secretary-General emphasized that the APC is a rules-based institution and that “due process” was followed in the readmission, which, if uncontested, would make Dr. Sam-Sumana eligible to vie for leadership positions in accordance with the party’s constitution. The remarks come on the heels of a crowded Press Conference at the Radisson Blu Conference Hall on Wednesday, September 3, where Dr. Sam-Sumana reaffirmed his loyalty to the APC and declared his intention to seek the party’s flagbearer position for the 2028 general elections. “I was born APC and I will die APC,” he told supporters to loud applause.

Speaking to Liberty Online TV on Friday, September 5, Secretary-General Lansana Dumbuya outlined the process that facilitated Dr. Sam-Sumana’s return to the APC. He explained that the party had followed its constitutional provisions and structures, stressing that the APC remains a rules-based institution guided by fairness, transparency and due process.

According to him, no member is above the constitution and all aspirants must comply with laid-down procedures to qualify for leadership roles. His remarks were designed to quell speculations that Dr. Sam-Sumana’s return had bypassed official processes or created preferential treatment.

“The APC is governed by its constitution and structures,” Lansana Dumbuya emphasized, adding that “due process was followed in Dr. Sam-Sumana’s readmission and the same rules will apply to every member aspiring for leadership positions.”

The political drama escalated further when the Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC) confirmed that it had received a formal complaint from Dr. Sam-Sumana.

According to the Commission’s Executive Secretary, Olushogo A. David, the complaint was submitted in the form of a five-page letter, raising questions about the former Vice President’s eligibility to contest the APC flagbearer race. The letter also contained evidence of dues payments made by Dr. Sam-Sumana, which he claims cleared all outstanding financial obligations to the party.

Olushogo A. David explained that the complaint specifically highlighted concerns about the party’s revised constitutional framework, which Sam-Sumana argues could potentially restrict the political rights of aspirants like himself. The PPRC is now expected to review the matter under its regulatory mandate, though no immediate timeline has been announced for its decision.

In one of the most anticipated political declarations of the year, Dr. Sam-Sumana announced on September 3, 2025, that he would seek the APC’s flagbearer position ahead of the 2028 presidential election.

Addressing a packed Press Conference at the Radisson Blu Conference Hall in Aberdeen, Freetown, the former Vice President sought to reaffirm his loyalty to the APC, declaring boldly: “I was born APC, and I will die APC.” His words drew applause from party faithful, who interpreted the statement as a direct rebuttal to critics who have long questioned his commitment to the party following his removal from office in 2015.

Sam-Sumana also used the occasion to call for unity and reconciliation, warning that internal divisions could weaken the APC’s chances of regaining political power. “This party is bigger than any individual,” he said. “We must put our differences aside and work together for the common good.”

Dr. Sam-Sumana served as Vice President of Sierra Leone from 2007 until March 2015, when he was controversially removed from office by then-President Ernest Bai Koroma. His dismissal was widely described as unconstitutional and sparked legal challenges both at home and abroad.

He first pursued the case in the Supreme Court of Sierra Leone, before taking it to the ECOWAS Court of Justice, where he argued that his removal had violated democratic norms and undermined constitutional governance. Although the courts offered limited redress, Sam-Sumana framed his actions as part of a larger fight to protect Sierra Leone’s constitution rather than a personal battle against the APC.

Reflecting on the episode this week, he reiterated: “I did not take the APC to court; I took the Government of Sierra Leone to court to defend the Constitution.”

For many APC supporters, his readmission marks the closing of a painful chapter. For critics, however, the wounds of 2015 remain fresh, raising doubts about whether reconciliation can fully restore trust within the party.

Reactions within the APC have been mixed. Grassroots supporters, particularly those in Sam-Sumana’s political strongholds welcomed his return, viewing him as a unifying figure who could strengthen the APC’s electoral chances. His vocal loyalty pledge, “I was born APC, and I will die APC” has resonated strongly with this base.

Others within the party hierarchy have been more cautious. While acknowledging his readmission some senior members emphasize the importance of internal rules and discipline, warning that personal ambition must not override constitutional order. The Secretary-General’s intervention appears to reassure this group by underscoring that no shortcuts were taken.

Political analysts note that Sam-Sumana’s comeback has reshaped the APC’s internal dynamics, forcing other potential aspirants to recalibrate their strategies ahead of the 2028 race.

The involvement of the PPRC adds another layer of complexity. As the statutory body mandated to regulate political parties, the Commission has the power to mediate disputes and enforce compliance with Sierra Leone’s Political Parties Act.

If it proceeds with a full review, the PPRC could call for submissions from both the APC and Dr. Sam-Sumana, potentially holding hearings to determine whether proper procedures were followed. While the Commission cannot dictate who becomes a party flagbearer, its rulings could influence the legitimacy of internal processes and shape public perceptions of fairness.

Sam-Sumana’s declaration is already reverberating across Sierra Leone’s political landscape. Analysts believe his return could energize the APC base while appealing to broader sections of the electorate who see him as a defender of constitutional governance.

However, his presence also risks deepening factional rivalries if not carefully managed. With other heavyweight contenders expected to join the race, the APC must balance inclusivity with discipline to avoid the kind of internal crises that have plagued opposition parties across Africa.

The outcome of this contest will have far-reaching consequences. A transparent and credible primary could strengthen the APC’s image as a party committed to internal democracy, positioning it as a serious contender in 2028. Conversely, prolonged disputes or perceptions of unfairness could damage its prospects and fracture its support base.

The events of this week highlight the fragile balance between loyalty, legality and leadership within Sierra Leone’s opposition politics.

By reaffirming his allegiance and announcing his 2028 ambition, Dr. Sam-Sumana has positioned himself as a central figure in the APC’s future. By clarifying the readmission process, Secretary-General Lansana Dumbuya has signaled the party’s commitment to rules and transparency. And by receiving the complaint, the PPRC has inserted itself into a process that could shape the credibility of one of the country’s largest political parties.

As Sierra Leone looks ahead to 2028, the APC faces a crucial test: can it reconcile its past divisions, manage internal competition and project itself as a united, disciplined and electable alternative?

For now, both the party and its former Vice President agree on one point: the APC’s constitution and Sierra Leone’s broader democratic order must remain supreme.

“Kallon Deserves a Decent Salary” – NSA Executive Director Speaks Out

September 8, 2025

The Executive Director of the National Sports Authority (NSA), Dr. Emmanuel Saffa Abdulai, has disclosed that Leone Stars head coach Mohamed Kallon is yet to receive a salary since his appointment earlier this year.

Speaking on Truth Morning Devotion, Dr. Emmanuel Saffa Abdulai explained that Mohamed Kallon chose to continue with his duties while salary negotiations are still ongoing. “Mohamed Kallon decided to take up the responsibility even though his pay package has not been finalized. For now, he is only receiving match-day appearance fees and related allowances,” he stated.

Mohamed Kallon, a former Leone Stars captain and one of Sierra Leone’s most celebrated international footballers, was appointed head coach in February 2025. His appointment, though controversial in some quarters, was largely welcomed by the public, who viewed him as the right choice to inspire the national senior men’s team.

Mohamed Kallon, a UEFA/FIFA Pro License holder, signed a three-year contract with the Leone Stars, renewable based on performance. His unveiling ceremony at the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) headquarters was attended by key sports stakeholders, including former SLFA President, Thomas Daddy Brima, Harold Nat-Johnson, NSA officials and representatives from the Ministry of Sports.

While praising Mohamed Kallon’s patriotism and commitment, Dr. Emmanuel Saffa Abdulai stressed the importance of offering the coach a decent and sustainable salary package. “He is giving his all to the job and we believe his remuneration should reflect his experience, qualifications and what he represents for Sierra Leonean football,” he added.

Former SLFA President, Thomas Daddy Brima, previously described Mohamed Kallon as “the people’s choice,” noting that his appointment was driven by overwhelming public support. “Mohamed Kallon has the experience, professionalism and passion for the game. We believe he is the right man for the job,” he emphasized.

At his unveiling, Mohamed Kallon expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him and vowed to repay the faith with results. “I have served my country as a player and now I am determined to do so as a coach. My goal is to qualify the Leone Stars for major international tournaments, just as I did as a player,” he said.

Mohamed Kallon led preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, with Sierra Leone facing Guinea-Bissau on March 20, 2025, followed by a crucial match against Egypt on March 25, 2025. Training sessions were scheduled at the SLFA Academy in Freetown.

The appointment of Mohamed Kallon represents more than a coaching change; it marks a generational shift in Sierra Leone’s football management. His leadership is expected to inject renewed energy into the Leone Stars, inspire young players and strengthen national unity through sports.

However, stakeholders and fans alike are calling on the Government, SLFA and the NSA to expedite the resolution of his salary negotiations to ensure stability and to allow Mohamed Kallon to focus solely on achieving success on the pitch.

SLTU Embarks on Nationwide Strike Over Subsidy Delays and Teacher Welfare

September 8, 2025

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The Sierra Leone Teachers Union (SLTU) has today commenced a nationwide strike after months of what it describes as Government inaction on long-standing grievances related to school subsidies, teacher welfare, and the provision of learning materials.

The action follows a resolution passed last week in which the Union confirmed it would activate its suspended strike notice. In a letter addressed to the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, SLTU Secretary General, Morris S. Conteh, announced that the Union, in consultation with its sub-associations — including the Conference of Principals of Secondary Schools (CPSS), the National Council of Head Teachers (NaCOHT), the Council of Heads of Technical and Vocational Institutions (CHTVI), and the Nursery Schools Association (NSA) — had resolved to proceed with the industrial action effective today.

The Union has outlined nine key demands, with priority issues including:

Payment of outstanding school fees subsidies for the second and third terms of the last academic year, as well as the first term of the 2025/2026 school year.
A commitment by Government to ensure timely payment of subsidies at the start of every term.
Correction of anomalies such as underpayments and non-payments of subsidies.
A review of the current subsidy per pupil to reflect inflation and the rising cost of living.
Clarification on the financial status of schools approved by Government but still operating without financial support.
Immediate resumption of teaching and learning material supply, which the Union says has been halted for the past three years.
Recruitment of additional technical and vocational instructors to strengthen middle-level manpower production.
Reinstatement and payment of backlog salaries for teachers recently suspended from the payroll.
Settlement of long-outstanding Performance-Based Financing (PBF) arrears owed to primary schools.

According to SLTU Secretary General Morris S. Conteh, the unresolved issues represent a major barrier to effective teaching and learning, undermining the Government’s flagship Free Quality Education programme. He stressed that addressing the demands would stabilize the education system and align with Government’s stated commitment to human capital development.

The Union has copied its strike notice to President Julius Maada Bio, Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, Chief Minister Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, relevant Ministers, parliamentary committees, law enforcement agencies and civil society groups. The Union is urging urgent Government action to resolve the dispute and minimize disruption to the academic year.

“Long live teacher solidarity, long live SLTU, long live the Republic of Sierra Leone,” Morris S. Conteh declared in his letter.

With schools set to reopen next week, parents, pupils and administrators now face uncertainty, as the standoff between the teachers’ union and Government authorities enters a critical stage.

Hon. Chericoco’s EBK Trophy Foundation Donates Learning Materials to Bombali Pupils

September 8, 2025

By Alpha Sesay

The Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma (EBK) Trophy Children’s Foundation has once again brought smiles to school-going children and relief to struggling parents in Bombali District. On Thursday, 4th September 2025, the Foundation donated a large consignment of school learning materials to pupils ahead of the 2025/2026 academic year, reaffirming its long-standing commitment to supporting education in Sierra Leone.

The distribution ceremony, held in Makeni City, was attended by parents, school administrators, pupils and community leaders. The occasion was marked by joy and gratitude as children received exercise books, pens, pencils and other essential school supplies.

The EBK Trophy Children’s Foundation is the brainchild of Hon. Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah, popularly known as Chericoco, who serves as the Chief Sponsor and Initiator. Representing him at the ceremony, Hon. Mohamed Papa Bangura emphasized that education has always been central to Hon. Chericoco’s vision for community empowerment.

“Hon. Chericoco is a firm believer in the power of education. He knows its value and understands the burden many parents face during these tough economic times,” Hon. Mohamed Papa Bangura stated. “Through this initiative he is reaffirming his commitment to ease that burden and to empower the next generation of Sierra Leoneans.”

He added that the gesture is not a political one but a humanitarian commitment to ensure that no child is left behind because of lack of school supplies.

The Foundation’s Coordinator in Bombali, Mohamed Milton Koroma, echoed the same sentiment, describing Hon. Chericoco as a “silent doer” who has been running the program for years without seeking the spotlight.

“Many people do not know the extent of his contributions. This initiative has been ongoing for a long time, reaching children in rural and urban communities alike. It is not about publicity; it is about impact,” Mohamed Milton Koroma explained.

According to him, the EBK Trophy Children’s Foundation has consistently focused on children from disadvantaged backgrounds, ensuring they are provided with the basic tools to pursue their education with dignity.

The donation could not have come at a better time for parents in Bombali District. With the cost of living rising and school expenses weighing heavily on households many families were anxious about how to provide for their children as schools reopen.

For Aminata Turay, a single mother of three and a petty trader, the support came as a huge relief. “I was worried and stressed about how to buy books and pens for my children. This donation is like a load lifted off my shoulders. May God bless Hon. Chericoco,” she said with tears of gratitude.

The children, too, expressed their appreciation. Kadiatu Koroma, a beneficiary spoke with determination: “I thank Hon. Chericoco for giving us these items. I will use them wisely and study hard to become successful.”

Such testimonies highlighted the emotional and practical impact of the initiative which many described as a lifeline for families in need.

The EBK Trophy Children’s Foundation traces its roots to a community initiative established to promote youth development through sports in Bombali District. Initially, the Foundation organized football tournaments and cultural activities under the banner of the “EBK Trophy,” named after former President Ernest Bai Koroma, to foster unity and nurture young talent.

Over time, the vision expanded to include education, recognizing the direct link between youth empowerment and learning opportunities. By channeling resources into school support programs the Foundation has become a vital player in community development in northern Sierra Leone.

Today, the EBK Trophy Children’s Foundation stands as both a sporting and educational pillar, creating opportunities for children to thrive academically and socially.

Local education authorities and community leaders praised the initiative, noting its importance in complementing Government efforts to expand access to education.

A school head teacher in Makeni, Sorie Bangura, noted: “This kind of support is timely and highly commendable. It helps teachers, parents and pupils alike. When children have the necessary tools, they are more motivated to learn and that improves performance in the classroom.”

Parents across Bombali District expressed hope that other leaders and organizations would emulate the example of the Foundation, describing it as a model of community-driven development.

The initiative has also boosted school attendance in past years, as families often face financial constraints that force some children to stay at home. By removing one of the key barriers, lack of school materials, the Foundation is directly contributing to improved literacy and retention rates.

Education stakeholders believe that if replicated on a larger scale, initiatives like the EBK Trophy Children’s Foundation could significantly transform Sierra Leone’s education sector. Hon. Chericoco’s model of consistent, grassroots-oriented support demonstrates how individual leadership can complement Government policy and international donor efforts.

The donation also reflects a growing recognition of the need for shared responsibility in education. As Sierra Leone continues to grapple with economic challenges, partnerships between Government, Civil Society and private actors are becoming increasingly critical to ensure that no child is left behind.

The donation of school materials by the EBK Trophy Children’s Foundation has once again reaffirmed the Foundation’s unwavering commitment to empowering children through education. For the beneficiaries and their families, the gesture is more than just the provision of books and pens; it is a symbol of hope, compassion and belief in the future of Sierra Leone.

With schools across Bombali District preparing to reopen, hundreds of children will step into their classrooms better equipped and more confident, thanks to the vision of Hon. Chericoco and the dedication of his team. The event in Makeni was more than a celebration of generosity; it served as a powerful reminder that education remains the most effective weapon to break the cycle of poverty and build a brighter future.

UN, EU Back New Four-Year Effort to Curb Gender-Based Violence in Sierra Leone

September 8, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Stakeholders in Moyamba, Kailahun and Falaba Districts have on September 5, 2025 officially identified nine Chiefdoms for the rollout of the second phase of the EU-UN Spotlight Initiative, a program dedicated to ending violence against women and girls (VAWG) in Sierra Leone.

The selection, announced this week, was made after a rigorous process guided by data from the Sierra Leone Police Family Support Units (FSU) and other sources. The chosen Chiefdoms are:

Falaba District (Kabala, Sept. 1): Mongor, Neya and Sulima

Moyamba District (Bo, Sept. 3): Korri, Kagboro and Ribbi

Kailahun District (Bo, Sept. 4): Luawa, Yawel and Malema

The Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Dr. Isata Mahoi, who took part in the Falaba consultations, praised the three districts for meeting the eligibility criteria. She stressed that while Spotlight 2.0 will operate directly in the selected Chiefdoms its positive effects are expected to ripple across the entire districts and support Sierra Leone’s broader gender equality agenda.

“This Initiative promotes a comprehensive and transformative approach to eliminating violence against women and girls. It is not just about intervention; it is about systemic change,” Dr. Isata Mahoi stated.

The rollout builds on the achievements of the first Spotlight Initiative (2018–2023), the world’s largest targeted investment to end gender-based violence. Spotlight 2.0 will run for four years and pursue reforms under four outcome areas:

Strengthening the enabling environment for prevention and response.
Tackling root causes and preventing violence.
Expanding access to high-quality, survivor-centered services.
Supporting civil society to lead sustainable social movements.

Chiefdoms were chosen based on validated parameters such as:

Prevalence and incidence of gender-based violence (GBV).
Accessibility to GBV services.
Presence of marginalized or vulnerable groups.
Community readiness and stakeholder support.
Security and operational feasibility.
Legal and policy gaps under customary law.
Existing coordination mechanisms.
Cultural and social norms, including harmful practices.

Spotlight Initiative 2.0 will be implemented by four UN agencies, UNDP, UNICEF, UNFPA and UN Women, working in partnership with local stakeholders.

– UNDP: Strengthening national laws and policies on sexual and gender-based violence.

– UNICEF: Shifting harmful social norms through community engagement.

– UNFPA: Leading survivor-centered services and providing long-term care.

– UN Women: Empowering Civil Society Organizations to drive change.

At the national level, the Rainbo Initiative will complement those efforts by supporting advocacy and coordination.

Sierra Leone continues to grapple with alarming levels of gender-based violence. National statistics reveal that:

– 81% of women experience violence.

– 53% face intimate partner violence.

– 83% have undergone Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).

The Spotlight Initiative 2.0 was officially launched on July 8, 2025, in Freetown by the Chief Minister, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh. The Government and partners remain optimistic that by the end of this program, Sierra Leone will record a significant decline in violence against women and girls, paving the way for safer, more equitable communities.

Charles Emile Mbayo Deported from U.S. Over Alleged Extrajudicial Killings

September 8, 2025

U.S. immigration authorities have removed Charles Emile Mbayo, a suspected war criminal and former senior figure in Sierra Leone’s 1990s military junta, to Freetown, intensifying Washington’s campaign to deny safe haven to alleged human rights violators.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) said its Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) in Detroit carried out the removal on August 20, following Charles Emile Mbayo’s June 30 arrest by ICE Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). According to ICE, Charles Emile Mbayo served as a high-ranking member of the National Provisional Ruling Council (NPRC), the military regime that seized power on April 29, 1992, after toppling President Joseph Saidu Momoh.

The NPRC’s early months coincided with Sierra Leone’s descent into a brutal civil conflict and a fraught security climate in the capital, marked by rumors of counter-coups and battlefield losses. Within that tumult, the regime carried out one of the war’s darkest episodes. ICE’s account states that on December 29, 1992, the NPRC extra-judicially executed approximately 29 people, among them former Government officials and others accused of plotting against the junta. Some victims were arrested outside formal detention, several were tortured and all were summarily executed and buried in a mass grave, the Agency said.

ICE records indicate Charles Emile Mbayo entered the United States on January 9, 1998, on an F-1 student visa. He later sought to adjust his status to lawful permanent resident but that application was denied in July 2023. After HSI agents took him into custody on June 30 this year, he remained in immigration detention until his removal.

“Our officers continue to effect the removal of alleged human rights violators to their home country,” said Kevin Raycraft, ERO Detroit Field Office Director. “ERO officers are committed to public safety and national security and removing this individual from the United States serves both those priorities.”

HSI Detroit’s Acting Special Agent in charge, Jared Murphey, framed the case within a broader U.S. push against impunity for atrocity crimes. “HSI is committed to ensuring that there is no safe haven in the United States for those tied to these horrific crimes,” he said. “We will continue to investigate these allegations with the assistance of the Human Rights Violators and War Crimes Center to seek both accountability and justice.”

The HSI-led Human Rights Violators and War Crimes Center (HRVWCC) coordinates the U.S. Government’s efforts to identify and pursue suspected perpetrators of genocide, war crimes, torture, extrajudicial killings, female genital mutilation and the recruitment or use of child soldiers. Since 2003, the center has issued more than 79,000 lookouts for potential human rights abusers and has prevented over 390 suspects from entering the country, according to ICE.

While human rights cases are often complex, hinging on decades-old evidence, cross-border investigations and cooperation with foreign Governments, U.S. agencies have increasingly used immigration authorities to detain, denaturalize or remove suspects where appropriate. Removal does not itself constitute a criminal conviction; rather it is an administrative action that can be based on immigration violations, fraud, or inadmissibility grounds, including participation in human rights abuses as defined by U.S. law.

The NPRC era remains one of the most contested chapters in Sierra Leone’s modern history. The junta’s rise in 1992 initially drew some popular support amid frustration with endemic corruption and the country’s security collapse. But the alleged abuses of that period, particularly the December 1992 executions, have continued to cast a long shadow over national reconciliation efforts.

By situating Charles Emile Mbayo’s case within that history, U.S. authorities signal that accountability for wartime abuses, whether in Sierra Leone or elsewhere, can be pursued across borders and years. For survivors and families of victims, removals and other legal actions can offer symbolic recognition of harm even when criminal trials are not immediately feasible.

ICE did not disclose details about any potential legal processes awaiting Charles Emile Mbayo after his return. In removal cases, U.S. immigration judges and appellate bodies review claims for protection, such as fear of persecution or torture, before an individual can be deported. Once returned, outcomes vary widely by country: some deportees face criminal investigations, others live under scrutiny and some attempt to rebuild private lives. In all cases, the U.S. Government stresses that allegations remain allegations unless and until proven in a competent court.

Human rights advocates note that cross-border cooperation is crucial to advancing credible, lawful accountability. That includes preserving evidence, supporting witness protection and ensuring that any future proceedings, whether domestic or international, meet fair-trial standards. Without those safeguards, removals risk being largely symbolic. With them, removals can help close impunity gaps that often allow atrocity suspects to circulate freely for decades.

ICE urged members of the public who have information about possible human rights violators present in the United States to contact authorities via the ICE Tip Line at 866-DHS-2-ICE, the Agency’s online tip form or HRV.ICE@ice.dhs.gov. Tips can play a decisive role in surfacing historical cases that might otherwise remain buried in archives or collective memory.

Sierra Leone’s ongoing struggle with the legacies of its civil war makes Charles Emile Mbayo’s removal a powerful reminder of the increasingly global reach of human rights enforcement. The action reflects a policy stance, emphasized by the officials who directed the operation, that protecting public safety and national security requires identifying, investigating, and, where legally permitted, removing individuals accused of grave abuses from U.S. soil.

NP (SL) Transforms Government Independence Memorial Secondary School with Major Renovation

September 8, 2025

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

NP Sierra Leone Limited, as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility, has officially handed over newly refurbished and renovated facilities to the Government Independence Memorial Secondary School in Kissy, Freetown. The handover ceremony took place on Friday, 5th September 2025, at the school premises.

The upgraded facilities include a solar-powered borehole to improve water supply, refurbished administrative and classroom buildings, upgraded toilet facilities with special access for children with disabilities, 200 desks and chairs and the installation of new water tanks.

Speaking at the event, Junior Secondary School Principal, Madam Fatoma expressed profound gratitude to NP (SL) for what she described as a transformative initiative. Madam Fatoma noted that the school had long grappled with serious challenges, including water shortages that posed health risks, inadequate furniture that affected pupils’ concentration, neglected classrooms and poor sanitation facilities. With the intervention of NP (SL), she said, those barriers have now been lifted.

“The provision of a solar-powered borehole ensures sustainable access to water, while the new desks and chairs provide adequate seating for pupils. The rehabilitation of classrooms and dignified sanitation facilities are not just physical improvements but an investment in human capital,” Madam Fatoma stated. She emphasized that the project underscored the importance of supporting children’s dreams by creating a conducive learning environment.

A representative from the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE), Ibrahim Modibo Kella, also praised NP (SL) for its timely intervention. He described the refurbishment as a “significant transformation” that touched every aspect of the school’s operation, from the Principal’s office, staff room and library to the water system. He further predicted that the improved conditions would attract more parents to enroll their children thereby boosting access to quality education.

“These contributions from NP (SL) have not only enhanced the physical environment but have also created hope and motivation for pupils, teachers, and parents,” Ibrahim Modibo Kella remarked.

Delivering the keynote address, Chief Executive Officer of NP (SL), Dr. Mohamed S. Kanu, reiterated the company’s longstanding commitment to education and national development. Dr. Mohamed S. Kanu explained that the refurbishment project formed part of NP (SL)’s Corporate Social Responsibility strategy aimed at fostering a safe and conducive learning atmosphere for Sierra Leonean children.

He also outlined the specific interventions carried out at the school, including the installation of a solar-powered borehole and water towers, the provision of modern toilet facilities and the distribution of 200 new desks and chairs. The CEO encouraged pupils to embrace hard work and make the most of the opportunities created by the improved facilities.

“This handover is not an end but a step forward in our mission to enhance education in Sierra Leone,” Dr. Mohamed S. Kanu declared. “When corporate institutions, communities, schools and Government work together we can achieve remarkable progress. NP (SL) will continue to build stronger partnerships to transform lives.”

The ceremony concluded with widespread praise for NP (SL). School authorities, Government representatives and community members hailed the company’s generosity, describing its intervention as a shining example of how corporate social responsibility can directly improve lives. Many attendees agreed that NP (SL)’s initiative had set a high benchmark for private sector involvement in education and national development.

Jennifer Lahai Thompson Reaffirms Support for Government’s ‘Big Five’ Agenda After Executive Bid

September 8, 2025

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Jennifer Lahai Thompson, CEO of the Jennifer Lahai Thompson Foundation (No Child Left Behind) and recent aspirant for the Assistant Secretary-General position within the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), has reaffirmed her dedication to both child empowerment and advancing the Bio-led Government’s “Big Five” development agenda.

As the visionary leader of the No Child Left Behind initiative, JLT has long championed children’s welfare particularly in underserved communities by promoting access to education, healthcare and essential resources. Her philanthropic leadership has translated into grounded community impact, reinforcing her reputation as both a compassionate advocate and a strategic change agent.

Her recent bid for the SLPP’s Secretary-General role reflects her deep-rooted political engagement. According to her statement, JLT remains committed to amplifying the party’s achievements across Government Ministries and ensuring the public clearly sees the tangible results of the Government’s “Big 5” initiatives. She plans to continue disseminating key updates from the party and maintaining a unified narrative around its progress.

At the grassroots level, Jennifer Thompson emphasized her ongoing involvement: “I remain actively engaged… encouraging our party Executives to launch new membership drives and fundraising initiatives,” she affirmed, indicating that such activities are essential to the SLPP’s resilience and growth. Her closing remark “Together, we will keep moving One Country, One People forward” underscores her vision of inclusive political participation and party cohesion.

Beyond politics, Jennifer Thompson is celebrated for her philanthropic outreach where she mobilizes support for vulnerable children via her Foundation’s programs. Her SLPP aspirations and community work collectively signal her dual commitment to nurturing both Sierra Leone’s future generation and its Political Future.