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NCRA Intensifies Drive for Biometric ID Card Registration Ahead of August 31 Deadline

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) is stepping up efforts to ensure every citizen and resident of Sierra Leone secures a biometric ID card before the August 31, 2025 deadline.

More than just a plastic document, the biometric ID card, embedded with a unique National Identification Number (NIN), is a vital legal instrument required to access key public and private services across the country. From banking and education to employment and Government benefits, it serves as official proof of identity recognized by the Government, financial institutions and service providers.

Speaking on Liberty Online TV’s Breakfast Show on August 7, 2025, NCRA Director of Communications, Abu Bakarr Javombo, detailed ongoing initiatives to reach every part of the nation. Mobile registration teams have been deployed to remote communities to complement district offices, ensuring wider access to the registration process.

“The Government set this deadline to streamline access to services such as passport issuance, SIM card registration, bank accounts and public sector jobs,” Abu Bakarr Javombo explained. “While many have already registered, a significant number of citizens and residents remain to be covered and we are committed to leaving no one behind.”

The biometric ID card incorporates advanced security features, including fingerprint scanning and facial recognition, to strengthen national security and combat identity fraud. The NIN acts as a legal identifier that links personal records across multiple Government and private systems, facilitating accurate verification and efficient service delivery.

Abu Bakarr Javombo acknowledged that connectivity issues and data discrepancies have caused some delays but assured the public that corrective measures are being implemented. The cost of obtaining the biometric ID card remains affordable, with a small additional fee in remote areas to cover logistics, all of which is deposited into the Government’s Consolidated Revenue Fund.

In collaboration with the Sierra Leone Police and the Office of National Security (ONS), the Government has launched Operation Stop & Check, a campaign to conduct random biometric ID card verifications nationwide. National Security Coordinator Abdulai Caulker and Police Inspector General William Fayia Sellu have warned that strict enforcement will follow after the August 31 deadline, including denial of police clearance certificates and other critical services for those without valid IDs.

NCRA Director General, Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi, has urged citizens and residents to register without delay, noting that fees will increase after the deadline to cover rising production costs.

Launched by President Julius Maada Bio, the biometric ID card system is a cornerstone of Sierra Leone’s national security strategy and a key tool in reducing fraud while improving service delivery. Possession of a valid biometric ID card is now mandatory for full participation in civic life, including access to healthcare, education, financial services and Government programs.

As the August 31 deadline draws closer, authorities are urging all eligible citizens and residents to obtain their biometric ID card to avoid penalties and ensure seamless access to vital services.

Why Every Citizen Needs a Biometric ID Card

  • Legal Identification: Confirms official identity details including name, birthdate, nationality and NIN.
  • Access to Public Services: Required for healthcare, education, pensions and social benefits.
  • Voting Rights: Essential for voter verification and election integrity.
  • Travel and Security: Facilitates travel within regional blocs and quick verification by security agencies.
  • Financial Transactions: Mandatory for banking, mobile money and fintech under Know Your Customer (KYC) regulations.
  • Digital Integration: Enables secure online transactions and e-Government services via biometric data.
  • Fraud Prevention: Helps combat identity theft, illegal immigration and fraudulent claims.

The biometric ID card is more than a formality; it is a gateway to rights, protections and essential services that form the foundation of modern civic life in Sierra Leone.

NP (SL) Sets the Standard in Petroleum Marketing and Customer Care

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

NP Sierra Leone Limited (NP SL) stands out as a beacon of strength, innovation and dedication to Sierra Leone’s development. As one of the nation’s most dependable petroleum marketing companies, NP SL has built a reputation for consistent fuel availability and exceptional customer service.

Operating an extensive network of Filling Stations throughout Sierra Leone and maintaining a strong footprint across West Africa, including Guinea, Liberia, Côte d’Ivoire and The Gambia, NP SL is proudly 100% Sierra Leonean-owned. The company’s commitment to the country’s Local Content Policy is evident in its hiring practices, employing exclusively Sierra Leonean staff and investing heavily in ongoing professional training to develop local expertise.

NP SL is a significant contributor to Government revenue in all its operating countries, supporting national development through substantial tax payments. The company’s shareholders and Management have worked tirelessly to expand infrastructure, ensuring communities have continuous and reliable access to quality petroleum products.

Driven by a clear mission to supply petroleum products consistently, responsibly and with maximum value, NP SL embraces safety, profitability and sustainable growth to help propel Sierra Leone’s socio-economic progress. Its vision is to become a dominant and well-managed petroleum company across West Africa, grounded in core values that emphasize workplace safety, excellent customer experience, top-quality products, environmental stewardship and teamwork.

The company’s dynamic CEO, Dr. Mohamed S. Kanu, brings vast regional expertise and a proven track record of success. Formerly CEO of NP Côte d’Ivoire, Dr. Mohamed S. Kanu has demonstrated strong leadership in market expansion and operational efficiency, positioning NP SL for continued strategic growth.

Innovation is a key pillar of NP SL’s service. The introduction of the NP Energy Pass Card, a cashless payment platform, advances financial inclusion by enabling customers to purchase fuel digitally and securely. Mobile fuel tanks serve public institutions to guarantee uninterrupted delivery, while technology such as calibrated pumps, GPS and video monitoring ensure transparency and accuracy in all transactions.

NP SL’s corporate social responsibility programs make a positive impact on communities. Among their contributions are a water facility for the National Fire Force in Kissy, support for the Burns Unit at Connaught Hospital and assistance during public health emergencies and natural disasters.

Originally a branch of British Petroleum in the 1950s, NP SL transitioned to full local ownership in 1996 and rebranded in 2011. Today, it stands tall as a leading West African petroleum company, proudly embodying its motto: “1st for Customer Care.”

In addition to petroleum, NP SL markets NP Gas cookers available at all Filling Stations, offering safe and convenient cooking solutions to households across Sierra Leone.

With a forward-looking Management team, NP SL remains focused on consolidating its leadership in all operating markets. Its strategic plans emphasize growth, market expansion and reinforcing its role as a backbone of Sierra Leone’s energy sector.

More than just a fuel provider, NP Sierra Leone Limited is a driver of economic development, a promoter of local talent and a vital partner in Sierra Leone’s journey toward a sustainable and prosperous future.

Civil Rights Coalition Calls for Extension of $70 Million Free Education Project

Alphonso Manley

By Ibrahim Sesay

The Civil Rights Coalition, through its National Coordinator, Alphonso Manley, has presented a comprehensive report on the Free Education Project, a $70 million multi-donor trust fund designed to support the development of Sierra Leone’s education sector. The findings were unveiled during a press conference held in Freetown on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, in collaboration with the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education.

The Free Education Project, launched in 2021 and scheduled to end in 2026, is funded by the World Bank, Irish Aid, the United States Embassy and the Government of Germany. It is managed by the World Bank through a dedicated Project Implementation Unit and covers seven components, including policy governance, teacher development, foundational learning and COVID-19 response.

In his presentation, Alphonso Manley outlined notable achievements, including the development of the Education Sector Plan, the catchment area policy, school approval guidelines and school subsidy guidelines. He reported that the project has facilitated the construction of over 560 classrooms, trained more than 10,000 teachers and provided teaching and learning materials to support early grade literacy.

Alphonso Manley also highlighted progress in tackling gender-based violence in schools, citing the training of School Management Committees and the establishment of a toll-free reporting line.

However, Alphonso Manley noted persistent challenges, such as limited community awareness of key policies, inconsistent monitoring of performance-based school financing, underutilization of school health resources and frequent unavailability of the Ministry’s toll-free education hotline.

Expressing concern about the transformation of long-established teacher training institutions, such as Milton Margai College, into polytechnics, Alphonso Manley warned:

“We need these teacher training colleges. Their transformation from teacher training college to polytechnic undermines the training of qualified teachers which is essential for improving education quality.”

Addressing COVID-19 interventions, Alphonso Manley acknowledged the impact of the radio teaching programme and the distribution of hygiene kits, while noting that monitoring of those efforts has been limited.

He appealed to development partners to extend the Free Education Project beyond its 2026 deadline, emphasizing that many schools, teachers and regions have yet to fully benefit from its initiatives. He also called for broader inclusion, particularly for special needs schools nationwide.

“Education is not a privilege; education is a right,” Alphonso Manley stressed. “To sustain and expand those gains, donors must consider extending the project to cover more schools, teachers and communities.”

The Free Education Project is aligned with the Education Sector Plan, which runs until September 2026. Project funds are channeled to implementing agencies rather than directly to the Government of Sierra Leone, with the World Bank holding final approval over all activities.

HAFC-SL Concludes Strategic Advocacy Meeting on Prioritizing Child Health

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The Health For All Coalition Sierra Leone (HAFC-SL) successfully concluded a pivotal strategic advocacy meeting on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at the Council of Churches in Sierra Leone (CCSL) hall on Kingharman Road in Freetown. The event aimed to prioritize child health issues for survival and development, bringing together key stakeholders to discuss and strategize on improving child health outcomes in the country.

In his remarks, Charles Mambu, Executive Director of the Health For All Coalition Sierra Leone, called on development partners and the Government of Sierra Leone to increase funding for child health programs, describing such investment as “an investment in the future” rather than an expenditure.

Charles Mambu stressed the need for sustainable nationwide advocacy to ensure that every child in Sierra Leone can reach their full potential and contribute meaningfully to national development. While acknowledging progress made by the Government and its partners in addressing key health indicators, he noted that many children still die from preventable diseases, live below the poverty line, go to bed hungry and face abuse or neglect.

“There are still children on the streets, orphans whose mothers cannot provide for their education and development needs, and children who continue to suffer gender-based violence,”   Charles Mambu said, urging partners to prioritize child health funding in all future engagements. He concluded by emphasizing that protecting and investing in children is not only a moral obligation but a strategic move for the country’s long-term growth.

Speaking on behalf of the Deputy Director of Budget (Payroll), Aiah David Sandi, said the Government has a responsibility to make funds available for all child-related activities, adding that the new approach will ensure budget allocations directly reflect children’s needs. He explained that a Child-Responsive Budgeting Handbook has already been developed, emphasizing the importance of understanding the child protection system to guide funding decisions.

Aiah David Sandi urged advocacy groups to engage early in the budget process to influence allocations before Parliament approves the national appropriation. “Too often, organizations come to us after the budget has ended, making it extremely difficult to make provisions,” he said. “The work starts now.” He encouraged civil society and development partners to work closely with Ministries such as Health, Social Welfare and Education to ensure the right policies are included in departmental budgets. “If the right policies are not captured, there will be no appropriation for them,” Aiah David Sandi cautioned.

Lyntton Michael Tucker, Country Coordinator of the Global Fund Country Coordinating Mechanism (CCM) in Sierra Leone, acknowledged the ongoing challenges in global health funding but highlighted the importance of sustaining and enhancing the progress made in child health.

“Child health is paramount. We are witnessing improvements in the lives of our children and it is imperative that we continue to build upon these gains,” Lyntton Michael Tucker stated. He underscored the role of strong advocacy and support for civil society organizations in disseminating key health messages from the Ministry of Health to the public.

In closing, Lyntton Michael Tucker reaffirmed the Global Fund’s commitment to supporting Sierra Leone’s health initiatives, stating, “Our doors remain open to partners and civil society organizations. Together, we can continue to make strides in improving child health and achieving universal health coverage.”

Philipa Cride Dole, President of the Children’s Forum Network (CFN), emphasized that child health is not optional but foundational to a child’s ability to learn and contribute meaningfully to society. She pointed out that many preventable diseases continue to claim the lives of children under five, often due to lack of access to basic health services.

“It is unjust that some children are denied basic health services simply because they live in poverty or remote areas,” Philipa Cride Dole stated. “These are not just statistics; these are our brothers, our sisters, our classmates, our friends and our family members.”

Concluding her speech, Dole reminded the audience that “the health of children is the wealth of our nation,” urging a shift from promises to actionable policies, programs, and partnerships that prioritize child health. “Let this day mark a turning point where we prioritize the health and well-being of children not just in words, but in action,” she concluded.

Patsy O’Hagan, representing Concern Worldwide, provided an overview of the Saving Lives in Sierra Leone (SLiSL) III Consortium, a five-year, £15 million GBP health-systems strengthening programme led by Concern Worldwide and funded by the UK government’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).

O’Hagan also underscored the importance of safeguarding children from harm and ensuring that health services are inclusive and accessible to all, regardless of socioeconomic status or location. She emphasized that every investment in child health is an investment in the nation’s future, contributing to reduced disease burden, increased school attendance, and a more resilient society.

In conclusion, O’Hagan called for collective action from all stakeholders government officials, development partners, civil society organizations, and citizens to prioritize and invest in child health, ensuring a healthier and more prosperous future for Sierra Leone.

In her presentation, Dr. Lynda Farma Grant, Manager of the Child Health Program at the Ministry of Health and Sanitation, emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to reducing child mortality rates, citing the leadership of His Excellency Dr. Austin Demby, Minister of Health, who declared child survival a national emergency during the World Health Assembly in May 2022. This declaration led to the establishment of the National Child Health Programme, aiming to coordinate efforts across various sectors to improve child health outcomes.

Dr. Grant highlighted several challenges from stakeholder meeting in November, 2022 hindering progress, such as inadequate leadership and governance, poor data management, stockouts of essential commodities, and limited community outreach. She called for a unified approach involving government, development partners, and the private sector to overcome these bottlenecks.

The meeting underscored the importance of collective action and accountability in achieving the CSAP’s objectives. Dr. Grant urged all stakeholders to prioritize child health, integrate it into district and hospital budgets, and advocate for increased funding and resources to support the implementation of the plan.

In conclusion, Dr. Grant reaffirmed the Ministry’s dedication to safeguarding the health and well-being of every child in Sierra Leone, emphasizing that investing in child health is investing in the nation’s future.

Sierra Leone Achieves Historic 90% Survival Rate for Newborns in Special Care Baby Units

Dr. Austin Demby

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Sierra Leone’s Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU) survival rate has reached an unprecedented 90–94%, marking a major milestone in the country’s drive to improve newborn health. Speaking at a press conference at the Ministry of Health Conference Hall, Minister of Health Dr. Austin Demby hailed the achievement as “a testament to years of sustained investment, innovation and commitment from healthcare workers across the country.”

Launched in 2017, SCBUs provide specialized care for small and sick newborns. Data from January to June 2025 shows the national average survival rate now stands at 90%, surpassing the long-standing national target and significantly improving from the 70% rate recorded eight years ago.

“This is a historic achievement,” Dr. Austin Demby said. “Over half of all SCBUs are meeting or exceeding the national average. Facilities in Koidu, Kabala, Kambia, Kailahun and Bonthe are leading with a 94% survival rate, while the Ola During Children’s Hospital is making steady progress. This shows that our quality of care for small and sick newborns has improved significantly, surpassing our national target by a greater margin.”

The Minister credited the success to increased investments in clinical care, health worker training, equipment supply, quality data management and newborn-focused innovations such as Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) a low-cost, high-impact method involving continuous skin-to-skin contact between caregiver and baby. Between March and June 2025, 199 preterm or low birth weight babies received KMC up from just 45 before recent training investments resulting in survival rates of 98%.

All 17 SCBUs are now uploading monthly data into the national DHIS2 health information system, enabling better monitoring and planning. Workforce capacity has also grown, with 25 nurses graduating from the Post-Basic Certificate in Neonatal Nursing in March and 30 more beginning training in May, including midwives from key maternity hospitals.

The Ministry has further expanded maternal health interventions, training 80 nurses and midwives in lifesaving postpartum hemorrhage control techniques and improving the functionality of SCBU equipment from 56% in 2024 to 70% in 2025.

“These results show that Sierra Leone is on the right path,” Dr. Demby said. “Every newborn life saved is a step closer to our goal of ending preventable maternal and child deaths.”

The Ministry plans to scale up KMC to all SCBUs by the end of the year and continue investments in training, equipment and community engagement to sustain and surpass those gains.

The Minister used the opportunity to comment on the recent concerns regarding Sierra Leone’s co-financing obligations to the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (GAVI).

Dr. Austin Demby stressed that Sierra Leone remains one of GAVI’s strongest partners, having consistently maintained over 90% coverage for all major vaccines over the past five years; a record that recently earned commendations from both GAVI and UNICEF.

“We have successfully introduced several new vaccines for malaria, cervical cancer, COVID-19, Ebola and Marburg viruses,” Dr. Austin Demby noted, adding that President Julius Maada Bio was invited to deliver the keynote address at GAVI’s replenishment conference in Brussels, where Sierra Leone was recognized as a continental leader in vaccine delivery.

He emphasized that Sierra Leone has a strong track record of meeting all co-financing commitments, a factor that has helped secure over $17 million in grants for vaccines and delivery in the next three years.

Dr. Austin Demby concluded by stating that the Ministry of Finance has already approved payment of the $823,000 co-financing amount to GAVI, with checks prepared and set to be remitted “in the next few days.”

UNICEF Hands Over Solar System & Items to EPI to Strengthen Sierra Leone’s Immunization Efforts

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Sierra Leone’s Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) has received a major boost following the handover of a 150KVA solar power system, vehicles, motorbikes and cold chain equipment from UNICEF, with support from the Government of Sierra Leone and Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance. The official ceremony attended by the Minister of Health, Dr. Austin Demby, development partners, civil society representatives and members of the media took place at the EPI Programme/Solar Complex in New England Ville, Freetown.

In his remarks, Dr. Dennis Marke Kanbai, EPI Manager, outlined the extensive investments made since 2023 with support from the Government of Sierra Leone, Gavi and UNICEF under the Health System Strengthening (HSS) and COVID-19 Delivery Support (CDS3) funds.

Dr. Dennis Marke Kanbai recalled that under the direct supervision of the Minister of Health, Dr. Austin Demby and the Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Sartie Mohamed Kenneh, Sierra Leone successfully applied for a US$9.3 million CDS3 grant to support COVID-19 vaccine delivery, integrate COVID-19 vaccines into routine immunization and strengthen the overall health system. An additional US$2.4 million from Gavi was reprogrammed to further bolster the EPI, channeled through UNICEF, IPAU and WHO.

“From 2023 to now, we have made huge progress,” Dr. Dennis Marke Kanbai said. “Our cold chain capacity has grown from 54% to 91% and with the 150 new sets of cold chain equipment we are receiving today, we will close the gap to 100% with spare parts available across the country.”

He highlighted other key initiatives, including the procurement of motorized boats to serve riverine communities, ensuring last-mile vaccine delivery and supporting medical referrals in hard-to-reach districts like Bonthe and Kambia. All 16 District Health Management Teams (DHMTs) are being solarized with systems of at least 25KVA, alongside upgrades to peripheral health units (PHUs).

The EPI Manager also noted that the additional motorbikes handed over will complement the 800 procured between 2023 and 2024, fully addressing gaps in last-mile distribution capacity. Bicycles have also been provided to community health workers to strengthen outreach.

“These investments mean we can now ensure every child, even in the most remote areas receives potent vaccines on time,” Dr. Dennis Marke Kanbai said. “We are committed to using these resources effectively to protect the health of our nation’s children.”

On his part, UNICEF Representative in Sierra Leone, Rudolf Schwenk, hailed the occasion as “another important milestone in strengthening immunization delivery services and the overall health system in Sierra Leone.” The package includes the full solarization of the Central Vaccine Store and EPI offices, 100 solar refrigerators with spare parts, eight four-wheel drive vehicles, 300 motorbikes and Adverse Events Following Immunization (AEFI) kits.

“These investments will improve vaccine storage, ensure last-mile delivery to remote areas and build public trust through effective monitoring and management of adverse reactions,” Rudolf Schwenk said. He noted that the initiative was made possible through joint proposals to Gavi that secured over US$2.5 million for cold chain enhancement, distribution and monitoring.

In addition to the newly installed systems, UNICEF and EPI recently completed the construction of three district vaccine stores in Kenema, Bonthe and Kambia, as well as security upgrades for facilities in Karene and Falaba. Ongoing projects include procurement of boats for riverine communities, installation of a new walk-in cold room at the Central Vaccine Store, solarization of 16 district vaccine stores and 48 rural health facilities, construction of 28 incinerators for biohazard waste management and supply of 103 more solar refrigerators.

Rudolf Schwenk stressed the importance of routine immunization, revealing that the number of zero-dose children, those who have never received any vaccine, has dropped from 26,000 to 15,000 in just one year. “No child should die or be disabled from a preventable disease,” he said, urging parents and caregivers to ensure every eligible child is vaccinated.

He further commended the Government’s commitment to vaccine co-financing and resource allocation, adding that UNICEF remains committed to supporting the Ministry of Health in its mission to provide quality healthcare to all communities across Sierra Leone.

In his keynote address, Dr. Austin Demby, Minister of Health, reiterated the government’s bold vision of achieving “zero preventable maternal deaths, zero preventable infant deaths, and zero-dose children” in the country, describing it as both an ambitious and urgent goal.

He called the event a “serious step forward” in ensuring that every child in Sierra Leone receives potent, well-stored vaccines on time, regardless of their location. “Babies are in every corner of this country, and we must take vaccines to them,” he said.

The package includes the full solarization of the Central Vaccine Store, refrigerated vehicles for safe vaccine transport, solar-powered systems at district hubs, motorcycles, bicycles, and cold boxes to support last-mile delivery to remote villages and health posts.

Highlighting the importance of proper vaccine storage, Dr. Demby noted that maintaining the cold chain from Freetown to rural communities is essential to preserving vaccine potency. “We cannot spend all this time and money bringing vaccines to Sierra Leone only to have them wasted because the light goes off,” he said, praising the installation of a 150KVA solar power system to run the central warehouse 24/7.

He thanked UNICEF, Gavi, and other partners for their investments in equipment, solar systems, and transportation to ensure vaccines reach even the most remote areas. “When we say zero-dose children, we mean no child should go through life without the requisite vaccines,” he emphasized.

The Minister reaffirmed that the government’s immunization strategy is not only about survival but about enabling children to thrive and grow into future leaders. “Foundational to a child’s ability to thrive is getting the right vaccines, at the right temperature, in the right conditions, at the right time,” he said.

The ceremony concluded by the symbolic handing over of the items and commissioning of the solar plant followed by inspection of items and tour of the solar facility.

Attorney-General Unveils First-Ever E-Justice Blueprint to Digitalize Legal System

Attorney-General and Minister of Justice Alpha Sesay Esq.

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leone’s justice sector is undergoing an unprecedented transformation, with bold legal reforms, groundbreaking digital initiatives, and strengthened institutional partnerships reshaping how justice is delivered across the country. The second quarter of 2025 has seen landmark developments aimed at modernizing the legal system, improving access to justice, and reinforcing accountability.

On June 10, Attorney-General and Minister of Justice Alpha Sesay Esq. presented the Criminal Procedure Act (Commencement) Regulations 2025 to Parliament. The move paves the way for the Criminal Procedure Act, 2024 to take effect on September 16, replacing the colonial-era 1965 legislation. The new law introduces a rights-based framework designed to accelerate trials, reduce prolonged pre-trial detentions, and offer alternative sentencing for minor offences—measures aimed at easing prison overcrowding without compromising public safety.

The Attorney-General also spearheaded the launch of Sierra Leone’s first E-Justice Blueprint on March 24, in partnership with the Canadian Academic and Industrial Network (CAAINE). As part of the Sierra Leone Digital Transformation Project, the initiative seeks to bridge operational gaps in the judicial sector, streamline case management, enhance transparency, and ensure equitable access to legal services nationwide. Stakeholders have begun designing the e-Justice system, with the project’s initial framework expected within three months.

In April, the Justice Sector Coordination Office, working with The Carter Center, hosted a high-level review of the implementation of the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Act, 2022. Seventeen justice institutions are integrating gender-sensitive practices, with particular focus on improving responses to sexual and gender-based violence and embedding human rights protections into judicial processes.

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), collaborating with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), conducted a four-day Corruption Risk Management training for national institutions including the National Revenue Authority and the Financial Intelligence Agency. The program equips officials with the skills to proactively detect and address systemic weaknesses, shifting anti-corruption efforts from reactive enforcement to preventive action.

Security sector collaboration also intensified, with the Office of National Security coordinating discussions on persistent border infractions with Guinea and leading a mediation mission to resolve tensions between cattle herders and crop farmers in Morifindugu Chiefdom, Falaba District.

Judicial leadership reforms have also drawn international praise. Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone Wang Qing commended Chief Justice Komba Kamanda for implementing significant structural changes within just 200 days of assuming office. These include restructuring the Bailiffs Department, expanding court sittings to underserved districts, and strengthening adoption order procedures.

In the area of legal aid, the Legal Aid Board marked its 10th anniversary, celebrating service to nearly five million citizens, many of whom were long-detained without trial. The Board, supported by UNICEF, also conducted refresher training to strengthen services for children in contact with the law.

The Office of the Administrator and Registrar General commemorated World Intellectual Property Day under the theme “IP and Music: Feel the Beat of IP,” with a renewed focus on protecting and monetizing the creative works of Sierra Leone’s artists.

The Sierra Leone Correctional Service demonstrated its commitment to rehabilitation and national development by expanding large-scale agricultural projects at the Mafanta Correctional Centre and facilitating the graduation of 39 inmates from the University of Makeni in vocational and entrepreneurship programs.

The Public Sector Reform Unit launched a management review of key Election Management Bodies, while the Ombudsman’s Office gained recognition for advancing access to justice through proposed amendments to the Ombudsman Act to better address administrative injustice.

In infrastructure, the Sierra Leone Law School has begun construction of an ultramodern academic complex, funded primarily through student fees, to provide a permanent home for legal education. Meanwhile, the Law Reform Commission continues its review of outdated statutes, introducing a Mediation Bill, drafting new partnership laws, and proposing “no-fault” divorce reforms, among other legislative modernization efforts.

Institutional strengthening extended to the Independent Police Complaints Board, which met with the Minister of Internal Affairs to push forward its transition into a fully empowered Independent Policing Oversight Commission. The Sierra Leone Police also deepened diplomatic cooperation with Saudi Arabia and expanded medical services through a partnership with Spain’s Surgeon in Action Foundation, which provided free surgeries and donated advanced medical equipment.

Collectively, these reforms and initiatives reflect a justice sector in rapid evolution—embracing technology, reinforcing human rights, and fostering inclusive development. With strong leadership from the Ministry of Justice, the Judiciary, and partner institutions, Sierra Leone is setting a new benchmark for justice delivery in West Africa, with the promise of a system that is fair, transparent, and accessible to all.

 

Govt. to Pay $823,680 to GAVI for Vaccines as Health Minister Assures Commitments Will Be Met

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Health Alert Sierra Leone has issued an urgent call for Government action to avert a looming national vaccine shortage that could put thousands of children’s lives at risk.

Speaking during a media briefing at the organization’s Blackhall Road office in Freetown, Executive Director, Victor Lansana Koroma, warned that unless the Government of Sierra Leone pays the remaining $721,807 of its 2025 co-financing obligation to the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (GAVI) by August 31, 2025, the country could face severe vaccine stockouts.

The Government of Sierra Leone had committed a total of $823,680 for the procurement of essential vaccines, but so far only $101,873 allocated for the Penta vaccine has been paid. The outstanding balance is critical for securing vaccines such as Measles-Rubella, Rotavirus, Yellow Fever, Human Papillomavirus (HPV), Malaria and Pneumococcal Conjugate (PCV).

Breakdown of unpaid vaccine costs:

  • Measles-Rubella (MR): $237,430
  • Rotavirus (RV): $85,065
  • Yellow Fever (YF): $57,399
  • HPV: $14,708
  • Malaria: $195,156
  • PCV: $132,049

According to GAVI’s June 25 letter to the Government of Sierra Leone through the Ministry of Health, failure to make those payments by the end of August 2025 will delay vaccine procurement, with restocking potentially taking up to three months a gap that could lead to preventable illness and deaths among children.

Victor Lansana Koroma noted that while President Julius Maada Bio has publicly reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s commitment to immunization most recently at the GAVI Global Summit in Brussels immediate action is now required to match words with delivery.

Health Alert, in collaboration with WASH-Net and supported by the Global Health Advocacy Incubator (GHAI), is urging:

  • The Ministry of Finance to release the remaining funds without delay.
  • The Ministry of Health to actively follow up with the Finance Ministry and Accountant General.
  • The Bank of Sierra Leone to expedite fund transfers for vaccine procurement.
  • Parliamentary Committees on Health and Finance to prioritize vaccine co-financing in the 2025 National Budget.
  • The public and media to hold stakeholders accountable.

“Health through immunization is not a privilege; it is a right,” Victor Lansana Koroma stressed, echoing President Bio’s statement at the GAVI summit. “The cost of inaction will be paid in lives if we fail to act now and faster.”

In his presentation, Programme Manager, Health Alert, Dalton John stressed that vaccines are one of the most cost-effective public health interventions, saving lives, preventing outbreaks, reducing healthcare costs, supporting child development and strengthening national resilience.

“Healthy children are more likely to attend school and reach their full potential. Immunization protects the population during crises and sustains public confidence in the health system,” Dalton John noted.

Dalton John warned that GAVI requires at least a three-month lead time between payment and vaccine delivery. “Payments made after August may result in delayed shipments, heightening the risk of stockouts,” he said.

He recommended that the Government aligns payments with vaccine program needs, monitor stock levels closely, engage the Ministry of Finance for timely fund releases and prioritize co-financing payments in the health budget

GAVI co-financing, he emphasized, is not just a financial obligation but a lifeline for children’s health in Sierra Leone.

This medium contacted the Minister of Health, Dr. Austin Demby, to comment on the recent concerns raised by Health Alert Sierra Leone regarding Sierra Leone’s co-financing obligations to the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (GAVI).

Dr. Austin Demby stressed that Sierra Leone remains one of GAVI’s strongest partners, having consistently maintained over 90% coverage for all major vaccines over the past five years; a record that recently earned commendations from both GAVI and UNICEF.

“We have successfully introduced several new vaccines for malaria, cervical cancer, COVID-19, Ebola and Marburg viruses,” Dr. Austin Demby noted, adding that President Julius Maada Bio was invited to deliver the keynote address at GAVI’s replenishment conference in Brussels, where Sierra Leone was recognized as a continental leader in vaccine delivery.

Dr. Austin Demby confirmed that the Ministry of Finance has already approved payment of the $823,000 co-financing amount to GAVI, with checks prepared and set to be remitted “in the next few days.” He emphasized that Sierra Leone has a strong track record of meeting all co-financing commitments, a factor that has helped secure over $17 million in grants for vaccines and delivery in the next three years.

Outlining plans to strengthen domestic health financing, Dr. Austin Demby pointed to initiatives such as the Sierra Leone Social Health Insurance scheme (SLeSHI), debt swaps and “sin taxes” to supplement international funding.

Olive B. Academy to Open in September to Empower Next Generation of Female Leaders

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo 

A new chapter in girls’ education is about to unfold in Sierra Leone as Olive B. Academy, a state-of-the-art Christian boarding school, exclusively for girls, prepares to welcome its first students on September 8th, 2025. Founded by Olive Baimba and her husband, Fofi Baimba, the school is situated on Olive B. Drive, Kerry Town, off the Waterloo–Tombo Peninsula Highway and is set to offer a transformative learning experience grounded in both academic excellence and personal development.

Olive B. Academy’s mission is clear: to nurture the next generation of female leaders through a world-class education that blends the Cambridge curriculum with STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). The school will start with Junior Secondary School (JSS) levels 1–3, with plans to extend to Senior Secondary School in the coming years, ensuring that pupils progress under its own nurturing environment.

For co-founder, Olive Baimba, education is more than academic achievement; it is a tool for empowerment, community transformation and national development. Drawing from personal experiences, she believes titles and positions can be taken away but knowledge and skills remain for life. Her vision for Olive B. Academy is to close the gender gap in education and leadership by equipping young girls with the skills, confidence and global perspective needed to thrive.

“Our goal is to see more women in leadership and professional spaces,” she said. “This academy is a step towards making that happens not only in Sierra Leone but across Africa.”

The school boasts modern facilities with the capacity to host 750 pupils, maintaining a class size of just 25 to ensure personalized attention. However, the “switch spot”, their optimal operational number is set at 550 pupils to maintain quality learning and living conditions.

Pupils accommodations are well-furnished dormitories, each fitted with beds and equipped with essential personal items. A unique “Pupils’ Minister Quarters” will house student leaders, with selection based purely on merit and academic performance.

Classrooms are designed for interactive learning, each equipped with whiteboards and TVs. Notably, teachers have no fixed chairs in class, encouraging constant engagement with students. Every pupil will be issued an HP Chromebook to support digital learning. And the school is backed by a robust 75kva solar power system and 24-hour internet connectivity.

Beyond academics, the Academy features a modern library, male and female teachers’ bathrooms, accessible facilities for students with disabilities, well-equipped science laboratories (chemistry, biology, and physics), a robotics lab, and a design and technology lab. National identity will be an integral part of school culture, with the Sierra Leone flag and anthem embedded into daily routines.

Olive B. Academy’s Cambridge and STEM curricula are designed to prepare students for both local and international opportunities. The institution offers a broad academic scope covering sciences, arts, commercial studies and domestic sciences, ensuring a balanced, globally relevant education.

Teachers were recruited nine months before opening and were subjected to rigorous selection exams. They also underwent intensive training to ensure readiness. The Academy takes teacher development seriously introducing an innovative platform for continuous education. Professors from across the globe will provide ongoing training and annual assessments to keep educators at the forefront of teaching practices.

“We will not only prepare our pupils for the future,” Olive Baimba explained, “we will also continuously prepare our teachers, because quality education starts with quality educators.”

Olive B. Academy also has a digital smart classroom platform that allows students to interact virtually with industry experts, leaders and educators worldwide. Without leaving their offices, prominent figures from media professionals to political leaders can connect directly with pupils for mentorship and inspiration. This same platform will be used for teacher training, ensuring knowledge transfer from global education experts.

To maintain focus, internet access is restricted to designated learning zones like smart classrooms and mobile phones are prohibited. Communication between students and parents will be facilitated through a dedicated department allowing pupils to concentrate on their studies.

As a boarding school, security is paramount. The campus is fully fenced with strategically placed CCTV cameras and trained personnel. The school enforces a strict zero-tolerance policy for abuse of any kind and encourages a safe, supportive environment where pupils’ voices are valued. A pupil’s governing body will participate in decision-making further developing leadership skills.

Counselling services are available to provide mental and emotional support, recognizing the importance of holistic development in a boarding school environment.

To ensure the well-being of every child, OBA has its own fully equipped health centre staffed with qualified medical personnel. This allows pupils to receive prompt treatment for minor illnesses without leaving the school premises ensuring minimal disruption to learning. Only in cases of serious illness will students be referred to external medical facilities.

For its inaugural year, Olive B. Academy is keeping admissions selective to maintain high standards and avoid overcrowding. Admission is open to pupils who have passed the National Primary School Examination (NPSE) and succeeded in the academy’s entrance test.

At a cost of 23,000 Leones per term, the tuition covers boarding, meals, a personal learning device, internet access and participation in all school programmes which is a competitive rate compared to similar institutions in Sierra Leone and beyond.

While Olive B. Academy is based in Sierra Leone, it has already attracted interest from families in countries such as Canada, the United States, Togo and others. Its founders believe the Academy will not only shape individual futures but also contribute significantly to the development of Sierra Leone and Africa as a whole.

As September approaches, Olive B. Academy stands ready to open its gates not just to educate but to inspire, empower and prepare young girls to lead in a complex and interconnected world.

Parents interested in enrolling their daughters can contact the school via telephone at +232 90 244 444 or +232 73 244 444, email info@olivebacademy.org, or visit their website at www.olivebacademy.org for more information.

Ministry of Youth Affairs Strengthens Ties with Plan International for Youth Empowerment

The Ministry of Youth Affairs (MOYA) has reaffirmed its commitment to youth development following a courtesy visit by the Country Director of Plan International, Madam Muniratu Issifu, to Youth Minister, Ibrahim Sannoh, at his office in Freetown.

During the visit, both parties emphasized a shared vision to enhance youth empowerment, expand educational access and promote gender equality across Sierra Leone.

Madam Muniratu Issifu commended the Ministry’s strides in youth-led initiatives, expressing Plan International’s dedication to supporting programs focused on digital literacy, vocational training, mental health awareness and youth leadership.

“Plan International stands with the young people of Sierra Leone,” she affirmed. “Our goal is to work hand in hand with the Ministry to ensure that youth voices are heard and their aspirations realized.”

The Minister welcomed the engagement, noting that partnerships like that are crucial for unlocking opportunities for young people nationwide.

“Young people are not just the future; they are the present,” he said. “We are deliberate about fostering partnerships that bring real impact to the lives of Sierra Leonean youth.”

The discussion concluded with an agreement to explore joint initiatives, pool resources and strengthen youth-centered platforms across the country.

Renewed collaboration promises to ignite transformative change and expand opportunities for Sierra Leone’s vibrant youth population.

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