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Employment Minister Engages Workforce Amid Brewery Ownership Transition

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Sierra Leone Brewery Limited (Heineken) is set to transfer its ownership to Sierra Bottling Group (SBG), a subsidiary of African Bottling Group Limited (ABG), following recent consultations on August 19, 2025 between Management, the Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security and the Sierra Leone Labour Congress.

The engagements, aimed at finalizing the transition plan, ensure the timely payment of employees’ end-of-service benefits and maintain industrial peace between Management and the workforce.

Addressing employees at the SLBL Canteen on Tuesday, Employment and Labour Minister, Mohamed Rahman Swaray, reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to a smooth and fair transition. He encouraged employees to maintain dedication throughout the process and assured that all legal entitlements under the Employment Act would be honored within the stipulated timelines.

Management representatives also reiterated their commitment to adhering to labour laws and ensuring a transparent transition process.

NP (SL) Remains a Leading Supplier of Petrol, Diesel, Lubricants and NP Gas in Sierra Leone

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

NP (SL) Limited continues to stand tall as one of Sierra Leone’s most outstanding indigenous petroleum marketing companies, steadily cementing its place as a household name across the country. For decades, the company has proven that being locally owned and managed does not mean compromising on efficiency, quality or innovation. Instead, NP (SL) has consistently set standards in customer care, product availability and forward-looking strategies that make it a true market leader.

At the heart of NP’s success is its unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. The company has invested heavily in ensuring that Sierra Leoneans have reliable access to petroleum products such as petrol, diesel, gas and lubricants. Its network of well-maintained Filling Stations across the country provides ease of access to customers in both urban and provincial areas. Beyond the simple supply of fuel, NP has cultivated a reputation for treating its clients as partners, always seeking ways to make their experience smoother and more convenient.

One of the standout innovations introduced by NP is the NP Energy Pass Card, a cashless fuel payment system that has transformed the way people buy fuel in Sierra Leone. This card, a product of modern digital thinking, offers safety, transparency and convenience for both corporate bodies and individual customers. It has particularly benefited institutions that need to manage multiple vehicles, as it reduces risks associated with handling cash while enabling effective monitoring of fuel consumption. Such digital interventions not only enhance customer experience but also demonstrate NP’s forward-thinking approach in aligning its services with global best practices.

Equally, the company has played a pivotal role in promoting the use of cooking gas, recognizing its importance in reducing deforestation and protecting the environment. By making gas available and affordable, NP has encouraged households to embrace cleaner, healthier and more sustainable cooking methods. This initiative has had significant social and environmental impact, underscoring the company’s role not just as a business entity but as a partner in national development.

As one of Sierra Leone’s largest employers in the private sector, NP continues to create jobs and empower local talent. The company has always prioritized local content, ensuring that Sierra Leoneans remain at the center of its workforce. From pump attendants to Management staff, NP provides opportunities for growth and professional development, a clear demonstration of its belief in the capacity of the local workforce to drive the company’s vision. This emphasis on local empowerment resonates with Sierra Leone’s broader economic goals of reducing dependency and strengthening indigenous participation in key industries.

The resilience of NP (SL) is also worthy of recognition. Despite the global challenges of fluctuating fuel prices and supply chain disruptions, the company has consistently maintained a steady presence in the market. Customers have come to trust NP as a reliable supplier even during difficult times, a trust that has been earned through years of dependable service. This reliability has further consolidated its image as a company built on integrity and dedication.

Moreover, NP’s impact goes beyond commerce. The company has demonstrated strong corporate social responsibility by supporting community projects and national initiatives. Whether through education, health or environmental programs, NP has contributed meaningfully to the country’s progress. These gestures reflect its understanding that true success lies not only in profit but in uplifting the communities it serves.

It is no surprise that NP (SL) is often described as a pride of Sierra Leone. From its humble beginnings, it has evolved into a modern petroleum giant with a clear focus on innovation, sustainability and customer-centered service. Its story is a shining example of how an indigenous company can thrive, compete and even lead in a sector that is often dominated by multinational corporations.

Looking ahead, NP (SL) shows no signs of slowing down. With its continued investments in technology, infrastructure and human capital, the company is positioning itself to meet the growing energy needs of Sierra Leone while remaining true to its vision of excellence. As Sierra Leone moves forward in its development journey, NP will undoubtedly remain a trusted partner, fueling not just vehicles and homes but also the aspirations of a nation.

 

Protect Your Home and Business: Always Buy Genuine RR Cables at SV Electrical Shops

Electrical safety starts with the choices we make as customers. In Sierra Leone, the dangers of counterfeit RR electrical cables are very real. Recent police arrests in both Freetown and Waterloo prove that fake products are making their way into the market, posing a serious threat to lives, property and public safety.

In one case, a Chinese businessman was arrested after police seized large quantities of suspected counterfeit RR cables in Freetown. Shortly after, another businessman, Mohamed Barrie of Waterloo, was taken into custody when police discovered more fake RR cables at his business premises. Both incidents remain under investigation but they highlight a growing problem that could have devastating consequences for consumers.

Counterfeit cables often look like the real thing but they are made with poor-quality materials that cannot safely handle electricity. This leads to overheating, sparks and fire outbreaks that destroy homes, businesses and sometimes even take lives. Choosing the wrong cable even unknowingly can cost far more than any money saved at purchase.

That is why every customer must insist on authenticity. Do not buy a cable simply because it looks like RR or is being sold cheaply. Check the source. Verify the seller. Protect yourself.

Since 2019, SV Electrical has been the sole authorized importer and distributor of genuine RR cables in Sierra Leone. The company operates only from two outlets:

  • Siaka Stevens Street, Freetown
  • Hastings Junction

If you buy RR cables from any other source you are taking a huge risk with your safety and investment. Counterfeit products may be packaged to look genuine but they cannot guarantee the performance and safety of the original.

The message is clear:

  • Check the source of your electrical products.
  • Insist on authenticity.
  • Remember, genuine RR cables are only sold at SV Electrical’s outlets on Siaka Stevens Street and Hastings Junction.

Authorities have warned that offenders caught importing or selling counterfeit electrical products will face the full force of the law. But enforcement alone is not enough; consumer vigilance is equally vital. By choosing authenticity you not only protect your family and business but also help stop the spread of dangerous counterfeit products in the market.

Counterfeit cables are more than a crime against business; they are a direct threat to our lives, our communities and our future. Stay alert. Buy genuine. Stay safe.

 

“Killing Journalists Is a Crime”: African Journalists Against Genocide Speak Out on Gaza

African Journalists Unite to Condemn Killings of Palestinian Reporters in Gaza
African Journalists Unite to Condemn Killings of Palestinian Reporters in Gaza

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

A coalition of African journalists has strongly condemned what it describes as the intentional and systematic targeting of Palestinian journalists in Gaza by the Israeli government and its military forces.

Operating under the umbrella of African Journalists Against Genocide (AJAG), the group—founded by Nigerian broadcast journalist Ireti Bakare-Yusuf—brings together media practitioners from more than 20 African countries. In a press statement and accompanying video message, AJAG accused Israel of seeking to silence Palestinian voices by deliberately attacking those documenting the ongoing war.

According to the coalition, over 250 journalists have been killed in Gaza since the escalation of hostilities, making it the deadliest period for journalists globally in the 21st century. AJAG noted that international reporters have been largely barred from entering Gaza, leaving Palestinian journalists as the world’s only reliable witnesses to the humanitarian crisis.

“The deliberate targeting of these journalists indicates the Israeli state’s clear strategy of suppressing the truth,” AJAG said. “Without their voices, eyes, and determination to inform and document atrocities on the ground, the world would be blind to the full scale of Israel’s campaign against a besieged population.”

The group emphasized that the killing of journalists constitutes a crime under international law and should not go unpunished. They urged the international community to impose sanctions on Israel, comparing the situation to the global response against apartheid-era South Africa.

“As Africans, we know too well the ugly face of colonialism, occupation, and apartheid,” AJAG stated. “We demand accountability and justice for our Palestinian colleagues.”

AJAG further called on the Federation of African Journalists (FAJ) and other continental and international press unions to amplify their demand for justice. The group insisted that journalism remains the “lifeblood of truth,” holding governments accountable and giving a voice to the oppressed.

The coalition urged journalist organizations and civil society worldwide to unite in demanding an end to the killing of journalists and what it described as Israel’s genocide in Gaza.

AJAG is also using its Instagram platform @VoicesofAJAG to mobilize support and promote future campaigns on other global conflicts, including those in Sudan, Congo, and Haiti.

Jennifer Lahai Thompson’s Historic SLPP Bid Inspires New Hope for Women in Politics

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In one of the most fiercely contested and male-dominated National Executive Elections of the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), Jennifer Lahai Thompson made history as the first woman to vie for the influential position of Deputy Secretary General.

Despite going up against some of the party’s most seasoned political heavyweights, Jennifer Thompson came within just four votes of victory, securing 264 votes against the 268 won by eventual winner Sheku Turay. For many observers, her near-win shattered long-standing barriers and set a new precedent for women aspiring to senior leadership roles, both within political parties and on the national stage.

Her bold contest came against the backdrop of the landmark 2022 Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Act (GEWE Act), which mandates a 30% quota for women in elective and appointive public offices. The law also guarantees equal access to training and financial resources for women. Yet, despite this legal framework, women remain significantly underrepresented in leadership, especially within internal party structures.

The recent SLPP National Executive Elections reflected that imbalance: men dominated the top positions; National Chairman, Deputy Chairman, Secretary General, Deputy Secretary General and Public Relations Officer while only a handful of women broke through into the executive.

Against that tide, Jeniffer Thompson’s candidacy is being hailed as courageous and transformative. Political analysts, women’s rights advocates and grassroots supporters have praised her for daring to challenge entrenched traditions and for proving that women can hold their own in the highest levels of political competition.

“Jennifer’s decision to run and her strong showing sends a powerful message that women are more than capable of competing for top political leadership,” noted one political commentator. “She may not have clinched the position but she has earned widespread respect and inspired countless women to step forward.”

For Jeniffer Thompson, the narrow loss is not a defeat but a foundation for future battles. Her campaign has amplified calls for stronger enforcement of the GEWE Act and sparked renewed debate about women’s representation in party politics.

Following the election, she shared an uplifting message with her supporters: “To every woman who didn’t get the position, remember, a ‘no’ doesn’t define your worth or your power. Sometimes, the door closes so we can rise through the window. We don’t shrink back, we grow forward. Keep your head high because our comeback will always be greater than the setback. We’re still rising.”

Many believe her groundbreaking bid will embolden other women to pursue leadership roles in both party and national elections. For Sierra Leone, Jeniffer Thompson’s campaign was more than a personal milestone; it was a political statement with lasting implications for gender equality and inclusive leadership.

PPASL Celebrates 66th Anniversary, Reaffirms Commitment to Quality SRHR Services

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The Planned Parenthood Association of Sierra Leone (PPASL), on Tuesday, 19 August, 2025 commemorated its 66th anniversary on the theme: “Building a Stronger Response to Quality Sexual Reproductive Health Service for All”, reaffirming its commitment to advancing Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) services across the country.

Speaking at a press conference held at the Association’s head office on Richard Street in Freetown, the Honorary President of PPASL, Hassan Fuad Kanu, reflected on the organization’s history and its pivotal role in improving health outcomes in Sierra Leone.

He recalled that PPASL was founded in August 1959 through the efforts of Ms. Edith Gates of the Pathfinder Fund and a group of Sierra Leonean pioneers and later became a full member of the International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) in 1973.

“Since our establishment, PPASL has stood as a beacon of hope for vulnerable, marginalized and underserved communities across Sierra Leone,” Fuad Kanu said, noting that the Association has endured through decades of social change, health crises and economic challenges.

PPASL currently operates service outlets in Freetown, Bo, Kenema, Kailahun and Kabala, with plans to expand to Port Loko and Lunsar. Its services include family planning, infertility management, treatment of sexually transmitted infections, post-abortion care, maternal and child health, safe motherhood services, gender-based violence response and community education on sexual and reproductive health.

The Association, which is volunteer-led, also plays an active role in national technical committees and advocacy platforms, including the Health Sector Steering Group, Family Planning Technical Working Group and the People’s Alliance for Reproductive Health and Advocacy (PARHA).

Highlighting key priorities, Fuad Kanu said PPASL is working to reduce teenage pregnancy, maternal mortality, HIV/AIDS and gender-based violence while strengthening community mobilization and policy influence.

He expressed gratitude to partners and donors, including IPPF, Save the Children, UNFPA, Global Fund, Global Affairs Canada, Irish Aid and several others who continue to support the organization’s mission.

“As we celebrate this milestone, we also renew our call for action,” Fuad Kanu stated. “We remain committed to providing inclusive, youth-friendly, rights-based and quality healthcare services for all Sierra Leoneans, especially the underserved.”

The 66th anniversary celebrations also paid tribute to volunteers, whom Fuad Kanu described as the “lifeblood” of the organization.

“Today, as we reflect on our legacy, we honour every volunteer, past and present, who has carried this vision forward,” he said.

Earlier, Augustine Allieu, Executive Director, Planned Parenthood Association of Sierra Leone (PPASL), while delivering the welcome address expressed gratitude to God and appreciation to staff, volunteers and partners whose commitment, he said, has sustained the institution since its establishment in 1959.

“Without your hard work, dedication and continued support, PPASL would not have reached this milestone. This anniversary is a testament to the resilience and sacrifice of all who have contributed to our journey,” Augustine Allieu said.

He underscored the importance of the Association’s role in promoting family planning, maternal and child health and youth empowerment, while reaffirming PPASL’s commitment to providing quality reproductive health services across Sierra Leone.

Rosaline Judy, President of the Youth Action Movement Sierra Leone (YAMSL), commended PPASL for its unwavering support to young people over the years, describing the institution as a “youth-focused organization” that not only provides quality reproductive health services but also empowers young people through leadership and advocacy.

“I am a testament to the opportunities PPASL provides. From my journey with YACAN to PPASL, I have witnessed how the Association has raised the voices of the voiceless and created spaces for young people to thrive. We as young people are ready to drive the agenda forward, ensuring that quality service delivery meets the unmet needs of young people,” she said.

Ms. Judy emphasized that PPASL’s 66th Anniversary marks not just a milestone but a renewed beginning for youth engagement in shaping the future of reproductive health. She rallied her peers under the YAMSL banner to embrace the theme: “Join the Action, Protect the Future.”

The ceremony featured goodwill messages from past presidents of the Association, His worship Bankole Johnson and Joseph Tucker, who commended PPASL for its enduring impact on communities. Both also reflected on the Association’s achievements and the path ahead as it continues to champion reproductive health and rights for all Sierra Leoneans.

PPASL was founded in 1959 and has since been instrumental in expanding access to family planning and reproductive health services nationwide. The 66th Anniversary celebrations highlighted the organization’s legacy and ongoing commitment to shaping healthier families and communities in Sierra Leone.

Police Arrest Mohamed Barrie Over Alleged Importation of Counterfeit RR Cables in Waterloo

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The Sierra Leone Police have arrested a businessman, identified as Mohamed Barrie of Waterloo, for allegedly dealing in counterfeit RR electrical cables.

According to police sources, a team of officers from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) headquarters conducted a raid at WOLABEH Enterprise, 38 (555) Old Road, Waterloo, where Mohamed Barrie operates as a dealer in solar and electrical appliances. During the operation, police reportedly seized a large quantity of suspected counterfeit RR cables, branded as RR Cables. The businessman is currently in custody and assisting police with investigations.

The development comes amid growing public concern over the circulation of substandard electrical products in Sierra Leone, which authorities say was one of the contributors to frequent fire incidents in homes and businesses. Experts from the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA) have repeatedly warned that the use of inferior electrical cables poses a serious threat to public safety.

Industry insiders note that RR Cables is a registered trademark exclusively imported and distributed in Sierra Leone by SV Electrical, located on Siaka Stevens Street, Freetown, with a branch at Hastings Junction. Since 2019, SV Electrical has been the sole authorized distributor of genuine RR Cables. However, counterfeit versions have increasingly infiltrated the market, raising alarm over the potential risks to lives and property.

In a public statement, SV Electrical urged customers to exercise caution and ensure that they purchase authentic RR Cables, wholesale and retail, directly from their outlets. The company stressed that counterfeit cables not only undermine their business but also endanger public safety due to their poor quality.

The Sierra Leone Police have assured the public that the matter is being thoroughly investigated and warned traders and importers against the sale of counterfeit or substandard electrical products. Authorities have further emphasized that offenders will face the full force of the law.

Meanwhile, concerned citizens and consumer rights advocates are calling for the seized counterfeit cables to be destroyed to prevent them from re-entering the market.

Investigations into the case are expected to make it a deterrent to others engaged in the illegal importation and sale of counterfeit goods in Sierra Leone.

NCRA, NaTCA and Mobile Operators Sign Landmark MOU for NIN-SIM Integration

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

The National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA), in collaboration with the National Telecommunications Communications Authority (NaTCA) and Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), has signed a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and Service Level Agreement (SLA) to formalize the long-anticipated National Identification Number (NIN) and SIM card integration project. The signing ceremony took place at NaTCA’s Headquarters on Hill Station in Freetown, in the presence of regulators, operators and Government representatives.

The NIN-SIM linkage is part of Sierra Leone’s broader digital transformation agenda aimed at enhancing national security, promoting financial transparency and ensuring effective service delivery in the telecommunications sector. The project has been in development since 2018, when NaTCA identified the urgent need to reform subscriber registration processes to combat fraud and strengthen consumer protection.

Following the enactment of revised subscriber registration regulations in 2020, NaTCA worked with MNOs and Parliament to ensure stricter compliance in linking subscriber information to verified identities.

Smart Kokofele, the NIN-SIM integration Project Lead, explained that investigations into criminal activities often revealed weak identification mechanisms, with SIM cards easily acquired without credible proof of residence. This prompted the need to collaborate with NCRA, which holds the most comprehensive citizen database in the country.

Committees comprising NaTCA, NCRA and MNOs were established to design a roadmap, while technical teams ensured that mobile operators could securely access the NCRA database for verification purposes. This system is now fully operational and efforts to raise public awareness about obtaining National ID cards have already resulted in a surge in registrations at NCRA offices nationwide.

Speaking at the ceremony, NCRA Director-General, Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi, emphasized the importance of the agreements in consolidating Sierra Leone’s digital infrastructure.

“These documents mainly focus on integrating NIN registration with mobile centers. While the regulation existed before, enforcement was weak. Today, we are taking decisive steps to actualize it,” Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi stated.

He added that linking SIM cards to NINs aligns Sierra Leone with international best practices, where Governments ensure secure mobile communication systems. The DG highlighted that the initiative would help curb fraud, promote accountability and support mobile-based business transactions.

“By signing this agreement, we ensure that citizens enjoy secure, reliable mobile phone services. It also reflects our commitment to the President’s mandate of enhancing accountability in service delivery,” he said. Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi further acknowledged the challenges faced by people in remote areas but assured the public that communication campaigns and service expansion would continue beyond the October 1st compliance deadline.

NaTCA Director-General, Amara Brewah, lauded the technical teams and operators for their perseverance in achieving this milestone.

“The need for individuals to be connected, especially through SIM cards, is essential not only for communication but also for tackling fraud and financial crimes,” Amara Brewah said.

He explained that linking NINs to SIM cards would allow authorities to track fraudulent telecommunications activities, strengthen national financial systems and enhance confidence in digital transactions.

“This achievement is a result of tireless collaboration among operators, regulators and engineers. I want to thank the CEOs of Orange, Africell and Qcell, whose commitment and flexibility made this possible,” he concluded.

Representatives of Orange, Africell and Qcell hailed the signing of the MOU and SLA as a landmark moment for Sierra Leone’s telecommunications industry. They emphasized that the integration would strengthen national security, improve fintech operations and prepare the sector for the growing demands of technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI).

“This initiative demonstrates that through consultation and collaboration, we can achieve consensus. Linking SIM cards to NINs is not only about security but also about streamlining Government processes and ensuring that the telecom sector adapts with technology,” one operator’s representative noted.

The operators further pledged to continue working with regulators to refine the process as technology evolves, ensuring that the framework remains effective and future-proof.

The signing of the MOU and SLA marks a significant leap forward in Sierra Leone’s journey toward digital transformation. With the integration of NIN-SIM data, the Government, regulators and operators aim to enhance national security, foster transparency in mobile transactions and protect citizens against fraud.

As the country braces for the October 1st deadline, the success of the project will depend on continued collaboration, public awareness campaigns and efficient service delivery across both urban and rural areas.

Youth Ministry, China Seal MOU to Empower Youth via Electric Vehicle Initiative

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The Economic and Commercial Counseling Center of the Embassy of Sierra Leone in Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China, in partnership with the Ministry of Youth Affairs, on Monday, August 18, 2025, signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at transforming opportunities for Sierra Leonean youth.

The agreement includes the provision of 500 electric cars, 1,000 motorbikes, 500 tricycles and the establishment of a state-of-the-art technical training facility dedicated to Electric Vehicle (EV) technology.

According to the Chinese representative, the initiative is groundbreaking and could open a new chapter in Sierra Leone’s workforce development, offering young people renewed hope and pathways into a globally expanding industry.

Youth Minister, Ibrahim Sannoh, while addressing the gathering, emphasized that the support will foster economic growth, create jobs and uplift living standards for the country’s young population. He highlighted that the program directly aligns with President Julius Maada Bio’s “Big 5” game changers, particularly in the areas of youth employment and human capital development.

“The responsibility of public officials is to encourage responsible investment in Sierra Leone for our growing youth population,”the Minister stated. He further stressed that major infrastructure and industrial investments must go hand-in-hand with skills transfer and human resource development to secure sustainable national progress.

The signing of the MOU reaffirms the long-standing and dynamic bilateral ties between Sierra Leone and China demonstrating both nations’ shared commitment to promoting innovation, skills training and economic empowerment for young people.

QNET Entrenches Relationship with Sierra Leone Media with VCON Webinar

A QNET webinar hosted on August 14, 2025, brought Sierra Leonean journalists face-to-face with company Executives, fostering transparency and understanding about QNET’s operations. The purpose was clear: to challenge misconceptions and highlight the company’s efforts in anti-scam campaigns, social impact especially in Sierra Leone.

Journalists who had previously visited QNET’s headquarters in Malaysia described their warm reception and impressive exposure to the company’s product portfolio, which spans wellness, lifestyle and personal care. Their visits included attendance at VCON Malaysia, where they observed QNET’s commitment to entrepreneurship, innovation and social empowerment.

Aaron Parker of Sierraloaded noted productive discussions with QNET’s Management, during which challenges faced in Sierra Leone were openly discussed. He emphasized the company’s campaigns against scams and its efforts to educate and involve local stakeholders. Fellow journalist James Kamara-Manneh reflected on the quality and credibility standards maintained by QNET’s diverse product range.

Editor of the Calabash Newspaper, Amin Kef, recounted: “As the first Sierra Leonean journalist to be invited to Malaysia by QNET it was a great opportunity for me to really understand the brand and the issues it was facing. Prior to that time, myself and my colleagues have filed many negative news about QNET because our understanding of the brand was limited. Three years later, I can say that QNET is very serious in fighting scams and all the misrepresentations about its name and products.”

Sierra Leonean journalists now see QNET as a legitimate business that has faced misrepresentations due to limited awareness and activities of individuals misusing its name and products. Naana Quartey, QNET’s Global Compliance Officer, highlighted ongoing efforts to work with authorities to differentiate the company from illegal actors while fostering a positive business environment.

The webinar marked a significant step in transforming perceptions, emphasizing that, with proper awareness, QNET could serve as a catalyst for sustainable entrepreneurship and social development in Sierra Leone and the entire West Africa sub-region.

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