SLCAA DG Marks Two Years of Transformative Leadership in Sierra Leone Aviation

August 29, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Two years into her tenure as Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), Musa Yeroh Barrie has earned widespread acclaim for her transformative leadership in the nation’s aviation sector. Since her appointment in 2023 by President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, Musayeroh Barrie has spearheaded reforms that have strengthened operational efficiency, enhanced safety standards and positioned Sierra Leone as a growing force in global aviation.

Under Musayeroh Barrie’s guidance, SLCAA has made significant strides in meeting International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards, implementing modernized systems and streamlining service delivery across the board. Her tenure has also emphasized staff training, capacity development and the creation of strategic partnerships with both regional and international aviation bodies.

Industry stakeholders, including airline operators and passengers, have praised Musayeroh Barrie for her hands-on approach and commitment to policy-driven reforms. “Her leadership has ushered in a period of remarkable transformation for aviation in Sierra Leone,” said one industry expert. “From airport operations to regulatory frameworks, the improvements are visible and impactful.”

At the national level, SLCAA’s performance continues to impress. According to the Ministry of Transport and Aviation’s 2025 Mid-Term Agency Performance Scores, SLCAA ranked third among sector agencies, achieving a Grade C with 49.4% for the January to June period. The evaluation, part of the Ministry’s Performance Contract initiative, measures service delivery and operational alignment with national development priorities. Notably, SLCAA outperformed agencies such as the Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority and the Sierra Leone Airports Authority, reflecting the strength of Musayeroh Barrie’s leadership.

On the international stage, Musayeroh Barrie has been a prominent voice for Sierra Leone. She recently represented the country at the ICAO Next Generation of Aviation Professionals (NGAP) Global Summit 2025 in Durban, South Africa. Speaking on “The Future of Work in Aviation,” Musayeroh Barrie highlighted the importance of empowering young people and women, fostering innovation and integrating emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence within the aviation sector.

Her tenure has also seen the successful launch of Air Sierra Leone, a milestone that has reignited national interest and pride in the aviation sector. Musayeroh Barrie emphasized that SLCAA remains committed to expanding training opportunities, promoting gender diversity and aligning its strategies with ICAO’s NGAP framework. “As the youngest Civil Aviation Director General in the world, I carry both the responsibility and privilege of ensuring Sierra Leone’s aviation story is one of progress, inclusion and sustainability,” she stated.

Musayeroh Barrie’s journey to the helm of SLCAA is marked by exceptional academic and professional accomplishments. After earning a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Brunel University, a Master’s in Business Administration from the University of Leicester and a Strategic Management and Leadership Diploma from the Chartered Management Institute, she returned to Sierra Leone in 2010. Her extensive experience includes over a decade as Country Director for an international aviation security provider, overseeing airport security operations and preparing for ICAO audits, including a notable 71% pass mark in 2019.

As she enters her third year in office, expectations remain high that Musayeroh Barrie’s leadership will continue to elevate Sierra Leone’s aviation sector, attracting investment, enhancing standards and shaping the country’s role in global aviation discourse.

NP (SL) Leads the Way in Service Excellence and Reliability

August 29, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a country where energy drives everything from transportation to industry and domestic life, NP-SL Ltd has emerged as a leading indigenous petroleum company, blending business innovation with a deep commitment to national development. With a growing presence across West Africa, a portfolio of cutting-edge products and an active role in community empowerment, NP-SL stands as a beacon of what homegrown enterprise can achieve.

Safety and reliability form the cornerstone of NP-SL’s operations. Handling flammable products such as petrol, diesel and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) requires stringent safety protocols and NP-SL consistently meets and exceeds those standards. Its focus on fire prevention and operational safety ensures that lives, property and the environment remain protected, a priority that has earned the company trust and respect across Sierra Leone.

Innovation is central to NP-SL’s identity. The NP Energy Pass Card is a revolutionary digital tool that allows customers to purchase fuel with ease, track transactions and enjoy seamless service at Filling Stations nationwide. This forward-thinking initiative has modernized the fuel retail experience, providing efficiency and convenience for both individuals and businesses.

Equally transformative is NP Gas, the company’s premium cooking gas solution. Designed for domestic kitchens, restaurants and small businesses, NP Gas provides a cleaner, safer and more efficient alternative to traditional firewood and charcoal, promoting better health, environmental care and convenience in Sierra Leonean homes.

Local content is a central philosophy for NP-SL. The company prioritizes employing Sierra Leoneans and awarding contracts to local companies, ensuring that economic benefits remain within the country.

Across its network of Filling Stations, pump attendants are known for their friendly, courteous and professional service, reflecting the company’s strong management culture and dedication to customer satisfaction. Every interaction is designed to leave customers with confidence in both the products and the people delivering them.

NP-SL’s commitment extends far beyond business. Its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives touch education, health, sports and public welfare. The company actively promotes squash in secondary schools and colleges, giving students the opportunity to engage in healthy competition and develop new skills.

Recognizing the needs of the National Fire Force, NP-SL has constructed boreholes to provide emergency water access, enhancing firefighting capabilities in communities across the country.

In healthcare, the company has been instrumental in the establishment of a specialized Burns Unit at Connaught Hospital, providing critical care to burn victims and improving the nation’s medical response capacity.

The company’s footprint stretches beyond Sierra Leone, with operations in Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast and The Gambia, signaling NP-SL’s growth as a regional energy player. Through these expansions, the company continues to demonstrate that indigenous African businesses can compete on a larger stage while remaining committed to local values and community development.

At the heart of NP-SL’s success is its management team, renowned for effectively rolling out initiatives aimed at improving customer experiences and streamlining service delivery. Filling stations are not merely fuel points; they are hubs of innovation and service excellence. From digital transactions via the Energy Pass Card to personalized customer care from polite, trained attendants, NP-SL ensures that every customer feels valued and supported.

In an industry often dominated by multinational companies, NP-SL Ltd illustrates the power of indigenous enterprise. Its blend of innovation, regional growth, local employment and social investment positions it as a true leader in the petroleum sector. By providing reliable fuel, cleaner cooking solutions and impactful community programs, NP-SL is not just fueling vehicles and homes; it is fueling opportunity, progress and hope across Sierra Leone and West Africa.

For Sierra Leoneans, NP-SL represents more than a company, it embodies national pride, economic empowerment and a vision for a future where local enterprise drives meaningful change. With a commitment to excellence, community and innovation, NP-SL Ltd continues to redefine what it means to be an indigenous energy leader in the 21st century.

Gento Group Officially Relinquishes Kasafoni Land to Government for Development

August 29, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Gento Group of Companies has officially relinquished the Kasafoni land to the Government through the Office of the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, which is a significant move that promises to enhance Sierra Leone’s economic landscape. The decision was made during a successful meeting held on Thursday August 28, 2025 at the Attorney General’s Office in Freetown, where Mohamed Gento Kamara, the Chief Executive Officer of Gento Group, announced that the land is no longer in dispute and has been formally transferred to facilitate negotiations with potential investors.

Gento Kamara explained that the history of the land has been cleared of any encumbrances allowing the Government to move forward unimpeded. He emphasized the importance of this transfer, stating that it would enable the Government to attract the right investments necessary for tapping into the mineral wealth of the region. “The land is now fully in the Government’s hands and I urge them to seek out suitable investors who can help develop this resource,” Gento Kamara remarked.

In conjunction with this announcement, Gento Kamara reiterated a key aspect of his vision for Sierra Leone: the need to connect the Kasafoni Iron Ore deposit with the Banana Island Transshipment Port. He believes that this infrastructure linkage is crucial for maximizing the economic potential of the region. “Connecting these two sites will create a robust logistical framework that will facilitate the export of iron ore and ultimately lead to greater economic prosperity for our country,” he stated.

During a previous engagement, Finance Minister, Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura, acknowledged the importance of the proposed mining project at Kasafoni. He revealed that five critical infrastructure developments have been identified as essential for opening the mines, including standard railways and upgraded ports. In light of this, Gento Group has expressed its willingness to support the establishment of these infrastructures if the Government provides the necessary backing.

“We have already demonstrated that we can provide the required infrastructure to make this project a success,” said Gento Kamara. He pointed out that utilizing existing facilities, like the Pepel Port, in which the Government holds a 20% stake in traffic rights, could be an efficient way to transport Direct Shipping Ore (DSO) without the need for constructing new ports or railways. “This approach not only saves costs but also accelerates the development process,” he added, emphasizing the need for a more streamlined ‘pit-to-port’ logistics model.

Gento Kamara has positioned himself as a strategic partner in Sierra Leone’s mining sector. He underscored that his intentions are not merely financially motivated; rather, they reflect a deep-seated commitment to national development. “This is not just about making money; it’s about laying down the foundations for a brighter future for all Sierra Leoneans,” he asserted. His plea for collaboration with the Ministry of Finance, the Mineral Wealth Fund and the Sierra Leone Mines and Minerals Development and Management Corporation (SLMMDMC) reflects his desire for a cooperative approach to resource management.

Government officials have responded positively to Gento Kamara’s decision to hand over the land. They have described it as a wise and timely action that aligns well with the national interest. They emphasized the need for the Government to meet Kamara’s demands for infrastructure development, particularly connecting the Kasafoni Iron Ore site to the Banana Island seaport through a standard railway.

Gento Kamara’s proactive approach and commitment to working alongside the Government and other stakeholders have made him a beacon of hope for those looking for substantive changes in Sierra Leone’s economic landscape. Recognized as one of the few dedicated Sierra Leoneans committed to national growth, he has shown a willingness to continue contributing to the country’s development.

As discussions progress, the focus now shifts to how quickly the Government can act on Gento Group’s proposals. If executed effectively, the connection between the Kasafoni Iron Ore deposit and the Banana Island port could serve as a catalyst for economic revitalization, leading to job creation and enhanced revenue for the Government.

Gento Kamara’s vision for Sierra Leone hinges on a collaborative effort that prioritizes collective growth over individual profit. As both parties move forward, the potential economic boom resulting from the proper development of the Kasafoni land and surrounding infrastructure stands to reshape not only the mining sector but also the broader socio-economic fabric of Sierra Leone.

Ireland-Funded NuCAMPS and LIFE Programmes Launched in Sierra Leone

August 29, 2025

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

The Government of Sierra Leone, in collaboration with development partners, has officially launched two flagship programmes, the Nutrition-Sensitive Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation Programme (NuCAMPS) and the LIFE Project, aimed at tackling hunger, malnutrition, poverty and the adverse effects of climate change across vulnerable communities.

The launch took place at the Brookfields Hotel in Freetown on Thursday 28th August, 2025 and was graced by senior Government officials, development partners and Civil Society representatives. Both programmes are generously funded by the Embassy of Ireland, continuing the country’s strong partnership with Sierra Leone in the fight against food insecurity.

NuCAMPS, led by Action Against Hunger (ACF), will run for 48 months (December 2024 – November 2028) with a budget of €8 million. Implementing partners include the Sierra Leone Meteorological Agency (SLMet), the Conservation Society of Sierra Leone and the Ministry of Planning and Development Affairs (MoPADA).

Its overarching goal is to build long-term resilience to climate change while improving nutrition outcomes for vulnerable populations.

The LIFE Project (Improving Food and Nutrition Outcomes of Vulnerable Households) is led by Welthungerhilfe (WHH) in collaboration with Concern Worldwide, CUAMM, Restless Development and Safe Capital. With an expected funding of £7 million, of which £2.5 million has already been secured, the project will run from December 2024 to April 2029.

Its goal is to strengthen food security and nutrition through climate resilience, financial inclusion and access to clean energy. Phase one (January 2025 – April 2026) targets 3,600 rural households in 120 communities across Kenema, Pujehun, and Tonkolili districts.

Delivering the keynote, the Minister of Planning and Economic Development, Madam Kenyeh Barlay, emphasized the urgency of addressing Sierra Leone’s vulnerability to climate shocks, malnutrition and limited access to energy.

She praised Ireland for its long-standing support and urged that nutrition be given greater authority under the Government’s “Feed Salone” initiative. “These programmes must be used as a foundation to assert the nutrition sector’s authority and integrate it deliberately across our development goals,” she stressed.

The Minister also underscored the interconnected nature of the initiatives which cut across agriculture, health, WASH, renewable energy, and gender empowerment. “The success of NuCAMPS and LIFE will be measured not just by statistics but by transformed lives and empowered communities,” she added.

Carol Hannon, Head of Development at the Embassy of Ireland, announced that Sierra Leone will soon open an embassy in Dublin, marking a new phase in bilateral relations. She outlined Ireland’s five-year strategy (2024–2028), which focuses on food and nutrition security and aligns with Sierra Leone’s Medium-Term National Development Plan (2024–2030).

“Nutrition is both a catalyst and an indicator of human development,” she noted, adding that Ireland’s investments aim to support climate-smart farming, gender transformation and sustainable food systems that will empower rural households.

Emmanuel Octave Bananeza, Country Director of Welthungerhilfe (WHH), said the programmes represent a renewed call to action to confront the realities of hunger and climate change in Sierra Leone. He explained that WHH and its partners are committed to building climate-resilient communities, strengthening food and nutrition security and promoting financial inclusion, particularly for women and youth who are central to community development.

Admire Mukorera, Deputy Country Director of Action Against Hunger, stated that the launch is more than a ceremonial event, describing it as a collective call to action. She stressed that sustainability must remain at the heart of implementation so that communities are not left dependent, but instead are able to own and maintain the systems, skills and solutions established under the programmes.

Brenda Kayuka Muwaga, from UN Nutrition, noted that despite progress in recent years, malnutrition remains a pressing challenge in Sierra Leone. She pointed out that 26 percent of children are stunted and only 4.9 percent meet the minimum acceptable diet. She emphasized that nutrition cannot be seen in isolation but must be addressed across agriculture, health, education and climate action if Sierra Leone is to unlock its full human capital potential.

Mariama Ellie, of the Ministry of Health’s Directorate of Food and Nutrition, said Sierra Leone has made encouraging strides in reducing malnutrition, including a decline in stunting rates, but significant public health concerns still persist. She described the NuCAMPS and LIFE programmes as timely and strategic interventions that will strengthen climate resilience, improve maternal and child nutrition and help address the gaps that remain in the country’s nutrition sector.

Mariama M. Turay, representing the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, emphasized that the initiatives go beyond providing food to communities. She explained that the programmes are about building a more resilient, equitable and food-secure nation by equipping smallholder farmers, women and youth with the knowledge, resources, and opportunities they need to adapt to climate change and contribute meaningfully to national development.

Collectively, the two programmes will operate in 310 communities across six districts: Kenema, Pujehun, Tonkolili, Bo, Moyamba and Falaba. Their comprehensive approach seeks to integrate food security, climate adaptation, health, gender equality and renewable energy in a way that empowers households to withstand shocks.

In closing, Minister Kenyeh Barlay urged all stakeholders, Government, NGOs, Civil Society and communities to ensure the programmes make a tangible difference. “This launch must not be a ceremony but a turning point in building a resilient, nourished and dignified Sierra Leone,” she said.

Dr. Austin Demby Champions Health Dialogue at WHO RC75 Ministers’ Breakfast in Lusaka

August 27, 2025

On the sidelines of the 75th Session of the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Committee for Africa (RC75), Sierra Leone’s Minister of Health and Chairman of the Global Financing Facility (GFF) Ministerial Network, H.E. Dr. Austin Demby, convened a high-level breakfast meeting with African Health Ministers at the Radisson Blu Hotel.

The gathering welcomed new members to the GFF-supported Ministerial Network, a platform designed to enable ministers to exchange experiences, strengthen peer support, and shape the future of GFF initiatives. Discussions focused on building collective leadership to improve health outcomes for women, children, and adolescents, particularly as the GFF finalizes its 2026–2030 strategy.

Key topics included:

Exchanging insights to guide GFF’s strategic priorities amid evolving global health financing challenges.
Updates from consultations across 33 partner countries and the World Health Assembly, highlighting country ownership, alignment of external financing, and domestic resource mobilization.
Disruption analyses to help countries adapt to potential funding cuts while safeguarding essential health services.

Dr. Demby emphasized the importance of ministerial input in shaping GFF policies, stating, “Our collective voice is essential to safeguard progress and ensure women, children, and adolescents are not left behind.” The session reaffirmed ministers’ commitment to mobilizing resources, championing the GFF, and strengthening resilience toward universal health coverage.

During the RC75 opening in Lusaka, formally launched by Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema, Dr. Demby expressed gratitude to the Government of Zambia and WHO for hosting the session, describing it as a critical platform for accelerating universal health coverage, enhancing resilience against health emergencies, and promoting healthier societies across Africa.

Highlighting Sierra Leone’s recent health achievements, Dr. Demby pointed to the country’s effective Mpox response as evidence of African resilience and international collaboration. He noted substantial progress in maternal and child health, with maternal mortality decreasing from 1,165 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2013 to 354 in 2023, and child mortality halving since 2001.

These gains, he explained, are supported by innovations such as the Maternal Health Emergency Situation Room and the PreSTrack platform, which enable real-time pregnancy monitoring and rapid interventions. Sierra Leone is also expanding non-communicable disease care under PEN-Plus, establishing a National Cancer Registry, rolling out a Mental Health Strategic Plan, and implementing rehabilitation programs to address substance abuse, including “Kush.”

Looking ahead, Dr. Demby reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s commitment to tackling persistent health challenges, including malaria, antimicrobial resistance, and sustainable health financing. He highlighted the Sierra Leone Universal Health Coverage (SLAUHC) Bill as a key initiative to unify health financing and strengthen strategic purchasing as a foundation for universal health coverage.

“These achievements are more than numbers; they represent lives saved and futures restored,” Dr. Demby declared, underscoring the government’s dedication to building a stronger, equitable health system for all Sierra Leoneans.

Orange SL & Orange Money Expose Fraud, Reaffirm Zero Tolerance for Unethical Conduct

August 27, 2025

Orange Sierra Leone and its subsidiary, Orange Money SL Ltd, have uncovered a case of financial fraud involving agency contract workers, including Field Sales Agents (FSAs), suspected of manipulating customer credentials without consent. The development has sparked renewed public assurance from the company that it remains fully committed to protecting its customers and upholding the highest standards of ethics.

The fraudulent activity was brought to light during a routine internal audit, when Orange’s robust control systems flagged irregular transactions. These systems, designed to safeguard customer assets and ensure compliance, enabled the company to swiftly identify and isolate the scheme before it could spread further.

“This case highlights the strength of our anti-fraud mechanisms,” said Alfie Barrie, Public Relations Officer for Orange SL and Orange Money SL Ltd. “Our controls worked exactly as designed, detecting, escalating and enabling immediate action. We operate with a strict zero-tolerance policy towards fraud and unethical behaviour.”

According to company officials, all individuals implicated in the incident have been referred to the Police Criminal Investigations Department (CID) for further action. This move, the company explained, underscores Orange’s seriousness in ensuring accountability and transparency, not only within its workforce but also in safeguarding the interests of customers who rely daily on Orange services.

Orange described the case as a “serious breach of trust and ethics” and reassured the public that decisive steps are being taken to close any potential loopholes that could be exploited in the future.

In addition to addressing the current case, Orange SL and Orange Money SL Ltd are reinforcing their preventive measures. New safeguards are being implemented to further enhance the protection of Orange Money customers and business partners.

The company explained that continuous monitoring and auditing remain central to its operations and further investments will be made to bolster its governance frameworks. These include additional training for agents, stricter oversight of transactions and tighter data protection measures.

Orange SL has long positioned itself as a trusted partner in Sierra Leone’s digital and financial services landscape. With Orange Money, the company has expanded access to financial services for thousands of Sierra Leoneans, offering safe, reliable and convenient mobile money transactions.

This incident, according to Orange, will not derail its commitment but rather strengthen its resolve to protect customers. “As a responsible corporate entity, the protection of customer funds and data remains our top priority,” the company reiterated in its official statement.

Over the years, Orange SL has become one of the leading drivers of digital inclusion in Sierra Leone. Its services, ranging from telecommunications to mobile financial solutions, have transformed the way citizens connect, communicate and conduct business. Orange Money, in particular, has become an essential tool for daily transactions, salary payments, remittances and bill settlements, empowering both individuals and businesses across the country.

Industry experts note that the company’s swift action to uncover and address internal fraud sends a strong message about its seriousness in maintaining credibility in the digital space. Fraud and unethical behaviour, if left unchecked, can undermine public confidence in mobile financial services, but Orange’s proactive approach helps to reinforce its leadership role in the sector.

Reiterating its stance, Orange SL made it clear that fraudulent activity of any kind will not be tolerated. The company said its zero-tolerance policy extends across all levels of operation and will continue to guide its engagement with employees, contractors and agents.

For customers, Orange emphasized that they can continue to place their trust in the company’s platforms, as new layers of protection are constantly being introduced.

As Sierra Leone continues its journey toward digital transformation, Orange SL and Orange Money SL Ltd remain central players. While the recent fraud case underscores the challenges faced in safeguarding financial systems, the company’s decisive actions demonstrate its commitment to integrity, accountability and customer protection.

Orange is here, bold, responsible and committed to protecting what matters most.

SLCAA DG Leads Sierra Leone’s Push for Connectivity & Capacity Building at TICAD 9

August 27, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), Madam Musayeroh Barrie, has spotlighted Sierra Leone’s growing role in African aviation at the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9).

Madam Musayeroh Barrie described the conference as an exciting opportunity for Africa’s aviation sector. “Exciting times ahead for Africa’s aviation sector! During TICAD 9, we focused on enhancing connectivity, sustainability and capacity building. Strategic partnerships like these are vital for SLCAA’s mission to elevate Sierra Leone’s aviation standards,” she said.

TICAD 9, held from August 20–22 in Yokohama, Japan, convened policymakers, regulators, operators and international partners under the theme “Civil Aviation Development in Africa and Strengthening Japan-Africa Cooperation.” The conference highlighted aviation’s strategic role as a driver of economic growth, regional integration and international connectivity, aligning with Africa’s Agenda 2063 and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

At the conference, Madam Musayeroh Barrie outlined Sierra Leone’s aviation priorities:

Capacity Building: Developing skilled African aviation professionals, particularly youth, through specialized training and mentorship programs.
Enhanced Connectivity: Showcasing tangible progress, including the relaunch of Air Sierra Leone and the establishment of a direct Freetown–London air route.
Digital Transformation: Integrating modern technologies into regulatory frameworks and operations to attract and prepare a digitally savvy workforce.
Inclusive Leadership: Promoting gender diversity and youth empowerment, with her serving as a leading example as the youngest Civil Aviation Director General globally.

She emphasized the importance of sustainable, long-term partnerships between Africa and Japan, highlighting priority projects in air traffic surveillance and infrastructure financing, which can benefit from bilateral and multilateral cooperation.

Madam Musayeroh Barrie’s presence at TICAD 9 builds on her active participation in the ICAO Next Generation of Aviation Professionals (NGAP) Global Summit 2025 in Durban, South Africa. At the summit, themed “The Flight Plan for Future Aviation Talent: Innovate, Educate, Inspire,” she stressed that African aviation must move beyond rhetoric and implement concrete strategies to empower young professionals and women. She also called for regulatory reforms to integrate advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, while ensuring solutions are accessible to all communities.

Highlighting Sierra Leone’s achievements, Madam Musayeroh Barrie cited the successful launch of Air Sierra Leone, which has boosted national pride, public interest and regional connectivity. She reaffirmed the SLCAA’s commitment to expanding aviation training, promoting gender diversity and aligning national strategies with ICAO’s NGAP framework to ensure a skilled, future-ready workforce.

“As the youngest Civil Aviation Director General in the world, I carry both the responsibility and the privilege of ensuring Sierra Leone’s aviation story is one of progress, inclusion and sustainability,” Madam Musayeroh Barrie told delegates. “The future of work in aviation is about people and Sierra Leone is preparing its people for that future.”

Sierra Leone’s engagement at TICAD 9 demonstrates its ambition to lead in shaping Africa’s aviation sector, strengthening international partnerships and fostering innovation and inclusion under Madam Musayeroh Barrie’s visionary leadership.

NP Energy Pass Card Transforms Fuel Purchasing in Sierra Leone

August 27, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

NP Sierra Leone Limited (NP-SL), one of the country’s most successful indigenous companies, has once again demonstrated its commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction with the introduction of the NP Energy Pass Card. This modern cashless payment system is transforming how Sierra Leoneans buy fuel, offering convenience, transparency and security for both individuals and institutions.

For decades, NP (SL) has built a strong reputation as a reliable distributor of petroleum products nationwide. Its well-maintained network of Filling Stations ensures that customers in both urban and provincial areas have access to petrol, diesel, lubricants and cooking gas. But it is the introduction of the Energy Pass Card that has set a new benchmark for customer-focused service in the petroleum industry.

The NP Energy Pass Card is designed to simplify transactions at NP Filling Stations by reducing the risks associated with handling cash. Customers simply swipe their cards to purchase fuel, a process that is not only faster but also eliminates the challenges of cash shortages and theft. For corporate clients, especially those managing fleets of vehicles, the card provides an invaluable tool for monitoring fuel consumption and improving efficiency.

By introducing this digital innovation, NP (SL) has aligned itself with global trends in cashless payment systems while addressing the unique needs of Sierra Leone’s market. The Energy Pass Card also promotes accountability by offering detailed transaction records, enabling both individuals and businesses to track usage with ease.

Beyond the Energy Pass Card, NP (SL) has consistently shown resilience in the face of global and local challenges within the petroleum sector. Despite supply chain disruptions and fuel price volatility, the company has remained a dependable partner in meeting Sierra Leone’s energy needs. Customers continue to commend NP for maintaining high standards of service and ensuring steady availability of fuel and related products.

The company’s forward-looking approach is not limited to fuel purchasing. NP (SL) has also championed the use of cooking gas, promoting cleaner and more sustainable energy for households. By making NP Gas accessible and affordable, the company has helped reduce reliance on firewood and charcoal, contributing to the fight against deforestation and environmental degradation.

As one of the leading private sector employers in Sierra Leone, NP (SL) has also made a significant impact on job creation and local content development. Its workforce, ranging from pump attendants to senior Management, reflects its commitment to empowering Sierra Leoneans and building local capacity.

In addition, NP (SL) has maintained a strong record in Corporate Social Responsibility, supporting initiatives in education, health and environmental protection. These contributions further underscore its position not only as a business leader but also as a socially responsible corporate citizen.

Today, NP Sierra Leone stands as a source of national pride, an indigenous company competing successfully in a sector often dominated by multinational corporations. With innovations like the Energy Pass Card, it continues to demonstrate that efficiency, innovation and customer care can go hand-in-hand to fuel national progress.

Looking ahead, NP (SL) has pledged to keep investing in technology, infrastructure and human capital. With the Energy Pass Card at the center of its customer service drive, the company is poised to continue redefining fuel purchasing while ensuring Sierra Leoneans always have access to high-quality petroleum products.

India High Commission Hosts Trade and Investment Seminar in Sierra Leone

August 27, 2025

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

The High Commission of India in Sierra Leone has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening economic ties with the country during the successful hosting of the India–Sierra Leone Trade and Investment Promotion Seminar at The Place Resort, Tokeh Beach, on Saturday, 23rd August 2025.

The high-profile seminar brought together representatives from the National Investment Board, Special Envoys of the President of Sierra Leone, the International Finance Corporation (IFC), business leaders and members of trade organizations. The event was designed to explore opportunities for enhancing trade and investment flows between the two nations.

Delivering the keynote address, India’s High Commissioner to Sierra Leone, Baisnab Charan Pradhan, thanked participants for their attendance and highlighted India’s growing role as a global economic powerhouse. He noted that India, now the world’s fourth-largest economy at $4.19 trillion, is projected to surpass Germany within the next two years to become the third-largest.

Baisnab Charan Pradhan underscored India’s appeal as an investment destination, citing its steady growth rate, low inflation of 2.8 percent and strong foreign direct investment inflows. “India’s population of 1.4 billion presents a vast consumer base and our reforms such as the Goods and Services Tax and the bankruptcy code have created a conducive business climate,” he said.

He stressed the rising trajectory of India–Africa trade, now nearing $100 billion, with Indian investments on the continent valued between $40–50 billion. Specifically, trade with Sierra Leone has expanded by over 150 percent in seven years, rising from $117 million to $408 million. Baisnab Charan Pradhan identified opportunities for Sierra Leone in edible oils, ethanol and renewable energy, urging the country to explore India’s $250 billion import basket.

Highlighting sector-specific opportunities, the High Commissioner encouraged Sierra Leone to consider investments in palm oil and ethanol, with India’s vast demand creating room for growth. He also invited Sierra Leone to join global platforms such as the International Solar Alliance and the Global Biofuel Alliance, which provide access to finance, technology and expertise.

Speaking on behalf of Sierra Leone, Mohamed A. Sesay, Director of the National Investment Board, outlined priority areas for investment. He noted that while India is a longstanding partner, trade imbalances persist, with Sierra Leone importing more than it exports. Mohamed A. Sesay proposed light manufacturing, energy expansion and value addition in the extractive sector as avenues to bridge that gap.

He also showcased opportunities in fisheries, water management, tourism and health infrastructure. “Sierra Leone offers prospects across every sector, from renewable energy to plastic waste management and ecotourism,” Mohamed A. Sesay said, adding that the Government is reviewing incentives to make the investment climate even more attractive.

Peter Mannah, the President’s Special Envoy for Healthcare, called for stronger Indian participation in Sierra Leone’s health sector. He emphasized the need for local hospitals, pharmaceutical production and medical schools, noting that such investments could retain funds currently spent on overseas medical treatments. “The Government is ready to support with incentives such as free land for pharmaceutical factories,” Peter Mannah disclosed.

Also addressing the seminar, Giina Lavaly, Country Officer for the International Finance Corporation, outlined the IFC’s ongoing efforts to boost private sector growth in Sierra Leone. She pointed to existing investments in agribusiness, cement production, solar energy and financial services, with a pipeline of over $80 million in projects. Giina Lavaly stressed that Sierra Leone remains open for business, particularly in agriculture, energy and manufacturing.

In closing, both Indian and Sierra Leonean representatives expressed optimism about the future of bilateral relations. They agreed that continued dialogue, private sector involvement and Government support are key to unlocking opportunities in trade and investment.

The seminar concluded with a call for stronger partnerships that would not only expand India–Sierra Leone trade but also create jobs, enhance industrialization and improve service delivery in both nations.

NRA Shuts Down Dangote Cement (SL) Ltd Over $653,300 Freight Levy Debt

August 27, 2025

The National Revenue Authority (NRA) on Monday, August 25, 2025, officially shut down the operations of Dangote Cement (SL) Ltd over an unpaid Freight Levy liability amounting to $653,300.

According to the NRA, the debt has been outstanding since 2020, prompting the Non-Tax Revenue Department, led by Commissioner Tom Vandy, together with the Deputy Commissioner of NTR and the Compliance Unit of the Domestic Tax Department, to enforce the closure.

The enforcement team sealed off the company’s Administrative Office, Control Room and Production Room, effectively halting all activities and barring access to the premises.

The Authority emphasized that the action reflects its firm stance on ensuring tax and levy compliance, while also recovering long-overdue revenues owed to the state.