In a strong show of support, several Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) have commended Sierra Leone’s Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, for his unwavering commitment to addressing Gender-Based Violence (GBV). The commendation follows his active participation in events marking the 16 Days of Activism against GBV, during which he emphasized the need for collaborative efforts to eradicate the scourge.
Speaking at an event organized by leading NGOs, Vice President Juldeh Jalloh underscored the progress made in advancing the welfare and empowerment of women across Sierra Leone. He highlighted various reforms and initiatives that have strengthened the fight against GBV, including the landmark Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Act.
The Vice President also pointed to key structural advancements, such as the establishment of One-Stop Centers, which provide comprehensive care for survivors of GBV and the operation of dedicated Sexual Offenses Courts that ensure speedy and fair adjudication of cases. These courts sit six days a week, reflecting the Government’s commitment to justice for GBV survivors.
Despite these gains, Vice President Juldeh Jalloh acknowledged that data still reveals a troubling prevalence of GBV nationwide. He called on NGOs and other partners to collaborate with the Government in building sustainable local initiatives to tackle GBV. He stressed the importance of empowering communities to take ownership of the fight, drawing on his experiences in South Africa, where community-led interventions significantly reduced violence in disadvantaged areas of Johannesburg.
“We need to develop a master plan for community empowerment,” the Vice President stated, reiterating the Government’s support for grassroots efforts in combating GBV.
Since his remarks, several NGOs and development partners have lauded the Vice President’s proactive stance. Media outlets across the country have also amplified his message, helping to raise awareness about the critical need for a united front against GBV.
Vice President Juldeh Jalloh’s leadership continues to resonate as a call to action, inspiring stakeholders at all levels to strengthen their commitment to safeguarding the rights and well-being of women and girls in Sierra Leone.
Africell CEO Ziad Dalloul (third from right) and Afrimoney Angola Director :Kátia da Conceição (far left) with leaders from the U.S., Angola, DRC, Zambia and Tanzania in Lobito, Angola
By Amin Kef Sesay
In a historic move aimed at advancing Africa’s digital transformation, U.S. President Joe Biden has commended Africell Telecommunications Company for its pivotal role in supporting the ambitious Lobito Corridor project. The announcement was made during a landmark summit co-hosted by President Biden and Angolan President João Lourenço on December 4, 2024, in Lobito, Angola.
The high-level summit, which featured leaders from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Zambia and Tanzania, focused on evaluating the progress of the Lobito Corridor initiative. The multilateral project seeks to connect the Atlantic and Indian Oceans through investments in critical infrastructure, including transport, communications and digital services, fostering economic integration and sustainable development.
Africell, the only U.S.-owned mobile network operator in Africa, was recognized for its significant contributions to enhancing digital access and promoting financial inclusion along the corridor. The company’s CEO, Ziad Dalloul, alongside Afrimoney Angola Director, Kátia da Conceição, briefed the attending heads of state on Africell’s efforts to provide fast and secure mobile and fintech services to communities along the corridor.
Speaking at the summit, Ziad Dalloul emphasized Africell’s unique role in Africa’s digital evolution. “We are proud to be the digital partner for the Lobito Corridor,” Ziad Dalloul declared, addressing President Biden, President Lourenço, President Félix Tshisekedi of the DRC, President Hakainde Hichilema of Zambia and Tanzanian Vice President Dr. Philip Mpango.
Ziad Dalloul highlighted Africell’s collaboration with the U.S. Government and other stakeholders, including the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), to introduce mobile money solutions to agricultural workers in Angola. By using mobile money, these workers are now able to increase their earnings, save more and achieve greater financial security.
Additionally, the U.S. Export-Import Bank (EXIM) has committed $100 million in preliminary financing to support Africell’s network expansion in Angola and the DRC. This investment is set to bring millions more people within the reach of 3G, 4G and 5G mobile coverage, significantly enhancing access to digital connectivity in the region.
Africell’s work aligns with the U.S. Government’s Digital Transformation with Africa (DTA) initiative, which aims to establish secure and inclusive internet infrastructure on the continent. Unlike many of its competitors, Africell’s network in Angola is built exclusively with trusted Western technology, ensuring both security and efficiency.
Afrimoney Angola Director, Kátia da Conceição, outlined the strategic role of Afrimoney, Africell’s mobile money platform, in promoting financial inclusion for millions of consumers in Angola and the DRC. “Financial inclusion is the natural counterpart to digital access,” she stated.
Kátia da Conceição noted that Afrimoney provides customers with safe, user-friendly tools for saving, earning and managing money. She highlighted how these solutions are empowering local communities and contributing to the broader economic development goals of the Lobito Corridor initiative.
“Sharing Afrimoney’s impact with leaders from the U.S., Angola, DRC, Zambia and Tanzania was a moment of pride for our team,” da Conceição remarked.
Africell’s contributions to the Lobito Corridor extend beyond telecommunications. In mid-2024, the company commissioned an adventure documentary titled Lobito Bound, which follows British explorer Dwayne Fields on a 4,000-kilometer journey by road and rail from Tanzania to Angola.
Scheduled for release in early 2025, the film aims to showcase the human impact and economic significance of the Lobito Corridor. The production seeks to engage a global audience and highlight the transformative potential of this transcontinental project.
President Biden’s visit to Angola was historic, marking the first visit by a sitting U.S. President to Angola and the first U.S. Presidential visit to Sub-Saharan Africa since 2015. According to the White House, the trip aimed to “celebrate the transformation and deepening of the U.S.-Angola relationship” while spotlighting the progress made in the Lobito Corridor initiative.
The summit underscored the United States’ commitment to strengthening economic ties with Africa and advancing regional initiatives that promote trade, connectivity and sustainable development.
With its strategic investments in telecommunications infrastructure and financial inclusion, Africell is cementing its role as a key driver of the Lobito Corridor’s success. By combining technological innovation with impactful public-private partnerships, the company is shaping a brighter future for communities across Africa.
As the Lobito Corridor continues to evolve, Africell’s contributions to digital access, financial inclusion and awareness-building underscore its commitment to sustainable development in Africa. The recognition from President Biden and other African leaders at the summit highlights Africell’s role as a model for successful public-private collaboration on the continent.
U.S. President Joe Biden and Angolan President João Lourenço in discussions with Africell leadership on telecommunications’ contribution to the Lobito Corridor
FG Gold, a leading gold exploration and development company, has been lauded by local authorities for its transformative community development efforts and adherence to international best practices in mining. This commendation followed a two-day media tour of the company’s operational sites on December 4th and 5th, 2024 at Baomahun, Bo District, under the banner “FG Gold Media Day.”
During the tour, journalists were granted access to several key project sites, including the proposed tailing storage facility, a processing plant, a community driving school and a community clinic. One of the standout moments of the visit was the ceremonial turning of the sod for the construction of a Community Center , the latest in a series of community-focused projects launched under FG Gold’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives.
The Baomahun Gold Project is on track to become Sierra Leone’s first large-scale commercial gold mine, with a projected lifespan of 12.5 years. FG Gold estimates annual gold production to average approximately 147,000 ounces, with a peak of 234,000 ounces. The project is also set to make a substantial impact on Sierra Leone’s economy, contributing up to 10% of the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and creating over 900 direct and indirect jobs for Sierra Leoneans.
Paramount Chief, Dr. Margarette Veronica Komeh Baio-Gbanie III, praised FG Gold’s community-oriented approach, highlighting that no previous company had matched its contributions since mining activities began in Baomahun in the 1930s.
“FG Gold has kept its promises. They have built a school, rehabilitated and expanded the local health facility, provided scholarships and are now building a community center,” she stated. “For a company to still be in the exploration phase and yet contribute so significantly to community development is remarkable.”
The Paramount Chief also encouraged young people in the community to acquire relevant skills to qualify for employment at the company.
Baomahun Town Chief, Joseph Kowa, echoed similar sentiments, expressing optimism that the community would experience further development as FG Gold advances into full-scale mining. Members of the local land-owning families and the Section Chief also praised the company’s support for agriculture and community welfare.
In line with its commitment to sustainable mining, FG Gold has taken several steps to protect the environment. Stephen Essel, Manager of the Tailing Storage Facility (TSF), explained that the facility will be lined with high-grade polyethylene to prevent environmental contamination for up to 70 years. Furthermore, chemicals from wastewater will be recycled and reused, preserving the soil’s natural nutrients.
Environmental Superintendent, Mohamed Kamara, emphasized the company’s “zero harm” approach to worker safety and environmental conservation. He disclosed that all employees are required to wear personal protective equipment and no lost-time injuries have been recorded under FG Gold’s ownership. Mohamed Kamara also noted that the company takes wildlife protection seriously, with an emergency rescue system in place for animals found on-site.
According to FG Gold’s Operations Readiness Director, Riaan Van Der Walt, significant progress has been made since the company obtained its license in 2020. After completing feasibility studies in 2022, infrastructure work commenced in 2023. The gold reserves at Baomahun are estimated at 2.05 million ounces, with robust potential for economic mining.
Human Resource Superintendent, Amette Coker, emphasized FG Gold’s commitment to capacity building for Sierra Leoneans. She revealed that 89% of the company’s workforce is composed of Sierra Leonean nationals, with plans to increase employment to 800 staff during the operational phase. Notably, FG Gold prioritizes gender diversity, with 19% of its employees being women, some of whom occupy leadership roles.
“We are not just creating jobs; we are building capacity,” Amette Coker remarked. “Our goal is to ensure Sierra Leoneans acquire the skills needed to fill senior roles within the company.”
FG Gold’s Community Social Responsibility (CSR) Program Manager, Evelyn Gyamfi-Hassan, provided an overview of the company’s community development projects. These include:
Education: Construction of St. Joseph Bakhita School and scholarships for students in the community.
Healthcare: Rehabilitation and expansion of the local clinic.
Water Access: Construction of boreholes for Baomahun town and neighboring communities.
Youth Empowerment: Establishment of a driving school that has trained 86 youth, with 45 graduates and 41 more set to graduate.
Community Engagement: Support for community events, including breast cancer awareness campaigns, football matches and International Women’s Day celebrations.
Evelyn Gyamfi-Hassan also noted that the company compensated 150 farmers and 196 property owners for crops, artisanal mining sites and structures affected by the company’s operations. As part of its efforts to promote food security, FG Gold distributed crop seedlings, including rice, groundnuts and pepper, to support local agriculture.
As FG Gold continues its journey to become a major player in Sierra Leone’s mining sector, its strategy of integrating sustainability, community development and economic impact has earned it high praise. The company’s approach sets a precedent for other mining firms, demonstrating how responsible corporate practices can coexist with profitability.
With the Baomahun Gold Project poised to become a major contributor to Sierra Leone’s GDP, local leaders and stakeholders remain optimistic that FG Gold will continue to be a partner in the community’s development journey.
Drawing of the Proposed Community CentreThe Rehabilitated Health Facility
In a major demonstration of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) commitment, NP (SL) Ltd., Sierra Leone’s leading petroleum marketing company, partnered with Cancer UK-Salone on November 30, 2024, to raise awareness about prostate cancer. The sponsorship aligns with NP (SL)’s dedication to addressing pressing health concerns and supporting impactful initiatives that benefit the general populace.
Prostate cancer, a health issue disproportionately affecting millions of men worldwide, particularly black men, has become a focal point of global health advocacy. Through the partnership, NP (SL) joined Cancer UK-Salone’s campaign to amplify awareness and encourage conversations about the disease in Sierra Leone.
The awareness campaign featured a TED Talk and panel discussion held at St. Anthony’s Hall, which brought together diverse groups and health experts to provide insights into the disease. Chaired by Donald Davies Cole, the panel included notable speakers such as Batllio Warritay, Prof. Babatunde Duduyemi, a pathologist at Connaught Hospital, Tina Davies, founder of Cancer UK-Salone and Dr. Len Gordon Harris, a radiologist at Choithrams Hospital. Discussions covered key aspects of prostate cancer, including its symptoms, diagnosis and treatment options.
In addition to the informative session, Cancer UK-Salone organized a health walk aimed at further promoting awareness. This high-profile event saw participation from distinguished personalities, including President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio and Health Minister Dr. Austin Demby. Members of the private sector, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) and the Sierra Leone Police Force also joined the walk. The route stretched from the Freetown Golf Club to Family Kingdom and back, drawing significant public attention to the cause.
As a testament to its unwavering support, NP (SL) was honored by Cancer UK-Salone during the event. Edwin Babadie Peacock, NP (SL)’s Communication Officer, received a medal on behalf of the company, recognizing its contribution to raising awareness about prostate cancer in the country.
Through initiatives like these, NP (SL) continues to demonstrate its dedication to fostering health and well-being within Sierra Leone. By supporting campaigns that address critical health issues, the company underscores its role as not just a business leader but also a proactive community partner.
In a landmark move to accelerate energy access across West and Central Africa, Ministers of Energy and Finance from Sierra Leone, Central African Republic, Chad, Liberia, Mauritania and the Republic of Congo have endorsed the “Freetown Declaration on Regional Collaboration for Scaling Distributed Renewable Energy.”
The high-level ministerial workshop, held in Freetown, Sierra Leone, was convened under the auspices of the World Bank Group and Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL). The declaration seeks to establish a collaborative platform to scale up Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) solutions, with a strong emphasis on ending energy poverty and fostering job creation in the region.
The Ministers pledged to leverage financial and technical support from the World Bank Group and SEforALL to facilitate the expansion of DRE solutions. The initiative underscores the vital role of public-private partnerships in achieving sustainable energy access across the region.
Distributed renewable energy solutions, such as mini-grids, offer a cost-effective, scalable and sustainable approach to expanding energy access to underserved communities. The Freetown Declaration highlights the need for increased regional cooperation, technical expertise and private sector involvement to meet the region’s growing energy demands.
Commenting on the significance of the declaration, Hon. Kandeh Yumkella, Chairman of Sierra Leone’s Presidential Initiative on Climate Change, Renewable Energy and Food Security, stated:
“Distributed renewable energy sources, such as mini-grids, offer a fast, flexible and cost-effective way to provide energy access to underserved communities. Given the high geographical concentration of the West and Central African electricity access gap, donors and development finance institutions need to come together and maximize impact by broadening and deepening access agendas at regional and national levels. This is exactly what the declaration that has been endorsed today proposes, and I look forward to seeing this working in Sierra Leone and across West Africa.”
The World Bank has also recognized the potential of regional collaboration to attract global investment. Robert R. Taliercio, World Bank’s Country Director for Ghana, Liberia and Sierra Leone, emphasized the importance of aggregating capacity needs across countries.
“Given the fragility-related risks and small market sizes of many West and Central African countries, several leading international distributed renewable energy firms have refrained from operating in these countries so far. The World Bank’s approach of aggregating capacity needs across multiple countries demonstrates that regional aggregation can provide a large enough demand to create greater economies of scale and attract leading international private players. This approach will enable smaller and more fragile countries to access infrastructure at a lower cost. I look forward to working with in-country and regional partners to bring this declaration to life.”
By pooling resources and promoting cross-border cooperation, the initiative aims to reduce project costs, lower investment risks and incentivize private sector involvement in countries that would otherwise be deemed too risky for large-scale energy investments.
Damilola Ogunbiyi, CEO of SEforALL and Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Sustainable Energy for All, stressed the need for bold and inclusive policy reforms to attract private sector participation in energy access initiatives.
“Governments play a critical role in achieving Sustainable Development Goal 7, which aims to ensure universal access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy. By crafting progressive policies and regulatory frameworks, governments can enable the successful rollout of energy projects while incentivizing the private sector. I welcome this declaration that will facilitate knowledge sharing and best practice exchange in the region and within countries. I look forward to collaborating with development partners to support Governments to craft world-class policies to attract investment in sustainable energy.”
Currently, an estimated 220 million people in West and Central Africa lack access to electricity, representing approximately 45% of the region’s population. This energy deficit has become a critical challenge, as access to electricity is essential for economic development, education, healthcare and job creation.
To address this gap, the region has witnessed growing calls for more ambitious energy access targets. The Dakar Call to Action by African Heads of State aims to provide electricity to an additional 85 million people annually over the next eight years. This requires an unprecedented mobilization of public and private investment.
Additionally, the “Mission 300” initiative, announced in April 2024 by the World Bank Group and the African Development Bank Group, aims to provide at least 300 million people in Africa with electricity access by 2030, with a specific focus on 100 million people in West and Central Africa.
The Freetown Declaration aligns with these ambitious goals, with its emphasis on collaborative action, regional cooperation and private sector engagement. By prioritizing distributed renewable energy, the region aims to close its energy access gap while promoting sustainable development and economic growth.
This declaration is a significant step toward addressing energy poverty, fostering sustainable development and enhancing the livelihoods of millions in West and Central Africa. The success of this initiative will depend on effective regional collaboration, timely policy reforms and mobilization of resources from development finance institutions, donor agencies and private investors.
QNET, a leading global wellness and lifestyle company with over 26 years of experience, has on December 2, 2024 firmly distanced itself from allegations linking it to unlawful assembly and fraudulent activities in Sierra Leone.
The company responded to two recent media reports by Sierraloaded. The first involved a boyfriend allegedly stealing his girlfriend’s money to fund travel overseas, with claims that the funds were lost to QNET. The second concerned the arrest of 29 individuals for unlawful assembly in Freetown, where QNET’s name was mentioned in connection with fraudulent activities.
Addressing these claims, QNET’s Regional General Manager for Sub-Saharan Africa, Biram Fall, clarified:
“QNET is a legitimate product-oriented business transforming lives globally. It is not an investment or Ponzi scheme. We do not condone illegal gatherings or offer overseas employment. We urge the public to be cautious of unscrupulous individuals misusing QNET’s name to tarnish our reputation.”
QNET has launched robust public education campaigns across Sub-Saharan Africa to raise awareness about the misuse of its name. Through initiatives such as the “Say No” and “QNET Against Scams” campaigns, the company employs billboards, TV and radio announcements, online media, newspapers and interactive flyer distribution to educate the public about its legitimate operations.
This year alone, QNET has assisted over 250 victims of fraud tied to the misuse of its name and initiated more than 35 legal cases across the region to tackle such incidents.
The company also encourages vigilance and cooperation from the public. Individuals suspecting fraudulent activities involving QNET’s name are urged to report these to local authorities or contact QNET directly via WhatsApp at +233 256 630 005 or email at network.integrity@qnet.net.
Since its founding in 1998, QNET has utilized an innovative direct selling business model to offer exclusive products designed to promote a balanced and healthy lifestyle. Its extensive portfolio includes premium brands such as the Bernhard H. Mayer luxury watch collection, HomePure home care products, the Amezcua wellness line and QVI holiday packages.
QNET also maintains strong industry affiliations, holding memberships in organizations such as the Direct Selling Association and the Health Supplements Industry Association of Singapore. The company’s global influence is evident through its partnerships with esteemed entities like Manchester City Football Club and the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
Dedicated to its mission of “Raise Yourself To Help Mankind” (RYTHM), QNET continues to empower individuals worldwide through entrepreneurship and wellness.
For more information about QNET and its offerings, visit www.qnet.net.
QNET remains steadfast in its commitment to ethical business practices and transparency, reiterating its role as a legitimate force for good in the lives of millions globally.
A total of 152 proprietors of pharmaceutical premises from across Sierra Leone’s five regions appeared before the Disciplinary Committee of the Pharmacy Board of Sierra Leone (PBSL) on November 20th, 21st, 27th and 28th, 2024.
The hearings, held in Freetown, Bo and Makeni, were chaired by Thomas Joe Freeman Esq., a representative of the Attorney General and the Chairman of the Committee. He was supported by the Registrar of the PBSL and the Head of the Enforcement and Narcotic Department.
During the proceedings, fines were imposed on defaulters based on the specific violations they committed. Strict warnings were issued to professionals who failed to attend the hearings, with the Chairman emphasizing that a third offense would result in the revocation of their licenses.
Dr. James P. Komeh, the PBSL Registrar, directed officers in charge of the Board’s provincial branches to await a decision from the Board Members concerning the premises of proprietors who failed to respond to the committee’s invitation.
For further details, contact: Information and Communications Department Pharmacy Board of Sierra Leone (PBSL)
First Lady of Sierra Leone, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, delivered a powerful public lecture at Milton Margai Technical University (MMTU) on the theme: “Women in Leadership: Prospects and Challenges.” Her address served as a rallying cry for women to embrace leadership roles, overcoming cultural and systemic barriers.
Speaking at the Great Hall of the Goderich Campus as part of the Solade Adams Public Lecture Series, Dr. Fatima Bio praised MMTU’s Vice Chancellor and Principal, Professor Philip John Kanu, for providing a platform to engage on critical issues. Drawing from her personal experiences as the wife of a soldier, a tribal leader and the President’s partner, she emphasized resilience, declaring, “If I can overcome these challenges, so can you.”
Dr. Fatima Bio highlighted societal hurdles such as tokenism, traditional norms and lack of opportunities that hinder women’s ascent to leadership. She underscored the transformative potential of the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Act of 2022, urging women to defend the law and leverage it to secure equal opportunities.
Sharing inspiring examples of Sierra Leonean women leaders, including Madam Yoko, Ella Koblo-Gulama, and Umu Hawa Tejan Jalloh, the country’s first female Chief Justice, Dr. Fatima Bio called for collective action and solidarity among women.
The First Lady celebrated advancements such as Sierra Leone’s Free Quality Education initiative and the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) scholarship program for girls, which address barriers like early school dropouts due to menstruation and teenage pregnancy. She reminded attendees, “An educated woman knows her worth and becomes an asset, not a liability.”
Dr. Fatima Bio urged parents to prioritize education and limit family size to better cater to their children. She emphasized that societal perceptions are changing, with increasing awareness of women’s human and socio-economic rights.
Acknowledging persistent obstacles like limited financial resources, cultural norms and restricted access to land and loans, particularly in Sierra Leone’s Northeast, Dr. Fatima Bio highlighted progress. She noted the rise in female representation in Parliament, increasing from 8 to 42 members and the 40% inclusion of women in leadership roles under the Proportional Representation System.
She commended the Mende and Sherbro ethnic groups for electing female Paramount Chiefs and called for women to register their marriages to safeguard property rights.
Dr. Fatima Bio encouraged women to seize opportunities, speak out and challenge outdated narratives. “If given the opportunity, women can be as productive as anyone,” she affirmed. She concluded by urging women to champion issues affecting them, emphasizing their resilience and strength.
The event, which featured an engaging question-and-answer session, left participants inspired. Professor Philip John Kanu warmly welcomed attendees, while student Zainab Saffa delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude for the First Lady’s impactful message.
This lecture stands as a testament to Dr. Fatima Maada Bio’s unwavering commitment to gender equality and her vision of a brighter, more inclusive future for Sierra Leone.
The Sierra Leone Parliament was lively on Monday, November 25, 2024, as Members of Parliament (MPs) debated the Finance Act 2025. Among the voices that stood out was Hon. Alusine Bash Kamara, representing Karene District, who delivered a compelling address centered on “Improving the Well-Being and Quality of Life of Sierra Leoneans.”
Hon. Alusine Bash Kamara presented a series of proposals aimed at enhancing infrastructure and social welfare especially for the aged across the country. He underscored the urgent need to enhance a robust social safety net under the Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security. He emphasized that such an initiative would uplift the lives of the poor and vulnerable, particularly the elderly excluded from the contributory National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT) scheme, despite their significant contributions to national development.
While commending the Ministry of Finance for allocating funds for cash transfers to vulnerable senior citizens, Hon. Alusine Bash Kamara lamented that the allocation was insufficient. He expressed concern that the aged population in Karene would not benefit adequately and called on fellow MPs to advocate for increased funding to the Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security to address this gap nationwide.
The MP also called for the construction of District Council offices in Karene, Falaba and Port Loko Districts, highlighting that similar offices had been built for other Councils under the previous APC Government.
Turning to infrastructure, Hon. Alusine Bash Kamara expressed gratitude for the prioritization of development in the 2025 Budget but noted critical omissions. He urged the inclusion of the Kabba Ferry and Batkanu Bridge projects, emphasizing their importance for economic connectivity. Additionally, he appealed to the Government to depoliticize the Makeni-Kamakwie road project, which was excluded from the budget.
Hon. Alusine Bash Kamara highlighted the significance of local rivers such as the Bale River and Banthoroh River, which serve as lifelines for communities in Karene District. He stressed that their inclusion in the infrastructural plans is essential for the region’s overall development. He argued that while the NLe 497.3 billion budget, supported by international partners like the World Bank, African Development Bank and Kuwait Fund, is substantial, it must address the pressing needs of impoverished populations rather than focusing solely on economic stabilization.
The MP painted a vivid picture of how poor road conditions in rural Sierra Leone hinder economic progress and social mobility. He advocated for the construction of the Sanda-Magbolotor Bridge, linking Karene and Port Loko Districts, as well as other critical roads like the Kabata Junction to Gbinti Road and the Buya Safrokoh Road. He emphasized their importance to the success of initiatives like the Feed Salone Program.
The charismatic Member of Parliament remains optimistic that his proposals will garner support and contribute to meaningful changes in Karene District and the country as a whole. His advocacy marks a pivotal step toward addressing local challenges and fostering sustainable development, offering hope for a brighter future for the district’s residents and Sierra Leoneans in general.
Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, on behalf of President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, officially launched the 52MW Regional Emergency Solar Power Intervention Project (RESPITE) on Wednesday, December 4, 2024. The launch, held in Newton, just outside Freetown, marks a significant milestone in Sierra Leone’s journey toward a cleaner and more affordable energy future.
The RESPITE project, supported by the World Bank and the Government of Sierra Leone, is implemented by the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA). The initiative involves the construction of solar power facilities, including a 40MW installation in Newton, a 10MW facility in Lungi and an additional 12MW capacity in Newton. The project is expected to be completed within 12 months, significantly boosting the renewable energy component in Sierra Leone’s energy mix in line with the country’s energy transition plan.
Speaking at the launch, Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh described the project as a testament to President Bio’s unwavering commitment to delivering safer, more accessible and affordable electricity to households and businesses across the nation. “Electricity is a critical driver of national development. This project will not only reduce energy costs but also propel sustainable development in Sierra Leone,” Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh emphasized.
Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh highlighted several social and economic projects recently launched under President Bio’s leadership, including the iron manufacturing factory in Songo, the Lumley bus park and market, and the youth empowerment initiative involving tricycles and motorbikes. These initiatives align with the President’s “Big Five Agenda,” aimed at improving social livelihoods, stimulating economic growth and enhancing revenue generation, he pointed out.
The Vice President also acknowledged the steadfast support of development partners and commended stakeholders in the energy sector for their dedication to delivering on the Government’s energy commitments. He issued a stern warning against illegal electricity abstraction, urging citizens to protect the infrastructure that benefits their communities.
Dr. Kandeh Yumkella, Chairman of the Energy Governance Coordination Group and Energy Sector Lead, provided an overview of the Government’s plans for the energy sector. He explained that the RESPITE project is part of both the short and medium-term strategies to address the country’s energy challenges.
Deputy Minister of Energy I, Dr. Eldred Taylor, expressed his excitement, particularly as a native of Newton. He noted that the project addresses the historical neglect of the Western Rural District, with over 40 communities set to benefit from improved electricity access. Dr. Eldred Taylor also extended gratitude to former Energy Minister, Alhaji Kanja Sesay, for his pioneering role in initiating the project.
The launch of the RESPITE project underscores the Government’s commitment to transforming the energy sector, a key pillar of Sierra Leone’s development agenda. With renewable energy at the forefront, the initiative is expected to drive the country closer to achieving its goals of economic resilience, improved livelihoods and sustainable growth.
As Sierra Leone continues to implement reforms in the energy sector, the integration of projects like RESPITE with the Feed Salone agenda demonstrates the Government’s holistic approach to national development.
