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Caritas Freetown and Manos Unidas Provide Emergency Relief to 106 Fire Victims in Freetown

Caritas Freetown, with funding from Spanish Catholic NGO Manos Unidas, on Tuesday August 5, 2025 delivered emergency relief to 106 victims of recent fire disasters in three Freetown communities, Kroo Bay, Congo Town and Black Hall Road.

The distribution took place at Caritas Freetown’s headquarters in Kingtom, where beneficiaries received essential food and non-food items. Each household was given a 50kg bag of rice, one gallon each of vegetable and palm oil, onions, Maggi seasoning and salt. Non-food relief included a rubber bucket, laundry soap, scented soap, a lappa (traditional garment for women), sanitary pads, batteries, toothpaste and toothbrushes.

In his remarks, Caritas Freetown’s Programs Manager, Ishmeal Alfred Charles, extended sympathy to the victims and apologized for the delay in the distribution.

“We were scheduled to begin at 10 a.m., but due to unforeseen logistical delays and the rain, we started at 11,” Ishmeal Alfred Charles explained. “No amount of support can replace what you’ve lost, but we hope this relief brings some comfort.”

He attributed the delay in delivering aid to international banking challenges but expressed belief that the timing was still right for those in need.

Ishmeal Alfred Charles underscored that the relief was targeted specifically at victims of the recent fires in the three communities and thanked Manos Unidas for its continued partnership. He described the NGO as a Catholic Church-based organization in Spain committed to fighting poverty and promoting development by addressing its root causes; injustice, limited access to resources and poor education.

Tracing the organization’s history, he explained that Manos Unidas grew out of the Campaign Against Hunger launched in 1959 by Catholic Action Women in Spain, with a mission to combat hunger, poverty, disease and illiteracy while empowering communities through sustainable development grounded in dignity and justice.

Freetown City Council’s Councillor, Samuel Kamara, lauded Caritas for its intervention noting that the organization has consistently stood by disaster-affected communities.

“Even though the FCC may not always have the resources to respond directly, we rely on organizations like Caritas to provide the much-needed support,” Samuel Kamara said. “This is not like other cases where promises are made and nothing follows. Today, we see the results.”

One beneficiary, Kadiatu Fofanah of Kroo Bay, emotionally recounted how she lost everything in the fire.

“I had just left home for my small business when I heard my house was on fire. By the time I got there, everything was gone not even my phone or personal belongings survived,” she said. “This is the first real help I’ve received since the fire. Caritas and Manos Unidas have given me hope again.”

Director of Relief and Response at the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA), Sinneh Mansaray, praised Caritas as a key partner in disaster response.

“Caritas consistently mobilizes support from a wide network of donors whenever there is a need,” he said. “These 106 households, each with five to six members, are receiving vital assistance today because of that commitment.”

The intervention underscores Caritas Freetown’s dedication to supporting vulnerable communities in times of crisis and the strength of local-international partnerships in delivering effective disaster response in Sierra Leone.

Salone Payment Switch Sets New Standard for Banking Efficiency

Bank of Sierra Leone Governor, Dr. Ibrahim Stevens
Bank of Sierra Leone Governor, Dr. Ibrahim Stevens

The Salone Payment Switch is transforming Sierra Leone’s banking and financial services sector, making transactions simpler, faster and more accessible for customers nationwide.

Developed under the leadership of Bank of Sierra Leone Governor, Dr. Ibrahim Stevens, with support from the World Bank, the cutting-edge system has now been fully adopted by commercial banks, mobile money providers and fintech institutions.

One satisfied customer, who operates accounts with two different commercial banks, shared his experience: “Before, cheque payments could take over three days to reflect in my account, which was a big challenge for my business. I often had to deal in cash. But now, transactions are much faster and more reliable.”

The Salone Payment Switch enables interoperability across all financial platforms, allowing customers to send and receive money seamlessly between different banks and mobile money networks. This leap in efficiency is being hailed by financial experts as a “game changer” for the economy.

“This system promotes a cashless economy, and over time, it will reduce pressure on the Leone. It’s good for the economy and even better for businesses,” remarked one financial analyst.

With growing adoption, the platform is set to open new opportunities for entrepreneurs, consumers and businesses of all sizes, cementing its role as a cornerstone of Sierra Leone’s digital financial transformation.

NP (SL) Delivers Consistent Stock, Excellent Service & Sustainable Energy Solutions

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

NP Sierra Leone Limited continues to stand tall as a symbol of resilience, innovation and commitment to national development, earning its place as one of Sierra Leone’s most trusted and efficient petroleum marketing companies.

With an extensive network of Filling Stations across Sierra Leone and a strong operational presence in Guinea, Liberia, Côte d’Ivoire and The Gambia, the 100% Sierra Leonean-owned company has played a significant role in boosting economic growth, reducing poverty and creating jobs. Those efforts align directly with the Local Content Policy, as NP (SL) remains committed to employing 100% Sierra Leonean staff and nurturing local talent through continuous training.

The company is also one of the largest contributors to national revenue generation, enabling Governments in the countries where it operates to fund key development projects through tax contributions.

Customer satisfaction lies at the heart of NP (SL)’s operations. The company’s selfless Shareholders, Board and committed Management have facilitated the expansion of Filling Stations both locally and internationally, ensuring communities enjoy reliable access to petroleum products.

NP (SL)’s mission is clear: to provide a consistent supply of petroleum products in an environmentally sustainable way while delivering exceptional value to customers, employees and stakeholders. This mission is anchored in a strong corporate culture built on safety, profit optimization and growth all aimed at advancing Sierra Leone’s socio-economic development.

Its vision is to be recognized as a “well-run, dominant petroleum company” capable of competing across the West African sub-region. This vision is supported by five core values: safe working environments, excellent customer service, high-quality products, environmental sustainability and teamwork.

Under the leadership of its Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Mohamed S. Kanu, a seasoned petroleum executive with vast sub-regional experience and a proven track record in operational efficiency, NP (SL) is entering a new chapter of strategic growth. Dr. Mohamed S. Kanu, who previously served as CEO of NP Côte d’Ivoire, is credited with expanding market share and improving operations in his previous roles.

Proudly 100% Sierra Leonean-owned, NP (SL) has embraced innovation to better serve its customers. Its NP Energy Pass Card, a cashless payment system, promotes financial inclusion and digital transactions, eliminating the need for physical cash when purchasing fuel. Mobile Fuel Tanks have also been deployed to ensure reliable delivery for public institutions, while calibrated fuel pumps, GPS and video tracking systems maintain transparency and accountability in operations.

Its CSR initiatives have made a tangible difference in communities, from funding a water facility for the National Fire Force in Kissy, to supporting healthcare programs like the Burns Unit at Connaught Hospital and providing aid during public health crises and natural disasters.

From its origins as a British Petroleum branch in the 1950s, NP (SL) transitioned into a fully indigenous company in 1996 and rebranded in 2011. Today, it stands as a West African petroleum powerhouse, true to its slogan, “1st for Customer Care.”

In addition to petroleum products, NP (SL) also markets NP Gas cookers of various sizes, available at all its Filling Stations, offering safe, user-friendly cooking solutions.

With a results-driven Management team, NP (SL) is determined to maintain its leadership position in all the countries where it operates. Its strategies are geared towards continued growth, market expansion and reinforcing its reputation as the backbone of Sierra Leone’s energy sector.

NP (SL) remains more than just a fuel provider; it is a driver of economic progress, a champion of local empowerment and a trusted partner in Sierra Leone’s journey toward sustainable development.

NCRA: Ensuring No Citizen is Left Behind in the Biometric ID Card Registration Drive

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

A National Identity Card is more than just a plastic document; it is an essential tool that confirms an individual’s identity and unlocks access to crucial public and private services. Around the world, including Sierra Leone, it is considered a necessity for every citizen and resident.

The National Identity Card, embedded with a unique National Identification Number (NIN), serves as the official proof of identity recognized by Governments, financial institutions and service providers. In Sierra Leone, the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) mandates the possession of a biometric National ID card for accessing vital services such as banking, education, employment, vehicle registration and Government benefits.

The NIN acts as a legal identifier, linking personal records across multiple systems for verification purposes. These biometric ID cards feature advanced security technology, including fingerprint scanning and facial recognition, to safeguard national security and prevent identity fraud.

The NCRA is actively working with the Sierra Leone Police and the Office of National Security (ONS) to ensure nationwide compliance with the ID card requirement. The Government has set a deadline of August 31, 2025, for all citizens and foreign residents to obtain their biometric National ID cards.

Speaking on Liberty Online TV’s Breakfast Show on August 7, 2025, Abu Bakarr Javombo, NCRA’s Director of Communications, emphasized ongoing efforts to distribute ID cards countrywide. To reach remote communities, mobile registration teams have been deployed, complementing district offices. He highlighted that while many have registered, significant numbers remain to be covered.

Abu Bakarr Javombo explained that the deadline was set by Cabinet and approved by Parliament in 2022 to streamline access to essential services such as passport issuance, SIM card registration, bank accounts and public sector jobs. He acknowledged minor delays due to connectivity challenges and data discrepancies but assured the public that corrective measures are in place.

The cost of obtaining the ID card remains affordable, with a small additional fee in remote areas to cover logistics. All fees collected go directly into the Government’s Consolidated Revenue Fund. Abu Bakarr Javombo also dispelled rumors about the NCRA operating checkpoints, clarifying that identity enforcement is a police responsibility.

In collaboration with the Sierra Leone Police, the ONS has launched “Operation Stop & Check,” a national campaign to conduct random ID verifications and ensure all residents hold valid biometric cards. National Security Coordinator, Abdulai Caulker and Police Inspector General, William Fayia Sellu, warned that after the August 31 deadline, strict measures will be enforced against those without valid IDs, including denial of police clearance certificates and other critical services.

NCRA’s Director General, Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi, urged prompt registration, noting that ID card costs will increase after the deadline to cover rising production expenses.

Launched by President Julius Maada Bio, the biometric National ID card system is a cornerstone of Sierra Leone’s efforts to strengthen national security, reduce fraud and enhance service delivery efficiency. Possession of a valid biometric ID is mandatory to participate fully in civic life and access services ranging from healthcare and education to banking and Government programs.

With the August 31, 2025 deadline approaching fast, authorities urge all citizens and residents to obtain their National Identity Cards immediately to avoid penalties and enjoy seamless access to services.

Why Every Citizen Needs a National Identity Card

  • Legal Identification: Confirms your identity with official details such as name, birth date, 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: Used as travel documents within regional blocs and for quick identity verification by security agencies.
  • Financial Transactions: Mandatory for banking, mobile money and fintech services 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.

A National Identity Card is not merely a formality but a gateway to rights, services and protections vital for every citizen’s participation in modern society.

 

TOES Launches Call for Nominations for 7th Annual Humanitarian Goodwill Awards

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The Orphan Empowerment Society Sierra Leone (TOES) has officially launched the call for nominations for the 7th edition of its prestigious Humanitarian Goodwill Awards (HGA 2025), aimed at recognizing individuals and organizations that have made exceptional contributions to humanity and social development across Sierra Leone.

Announced on Wednesday, 6th August 2025, the award seeks to honor champions of humanity, celebrate impactful service and inspire meaningful change in society.

With the theme: “Honoring Champions of Humanity, Celebrating Impact, Inspiring Change,” TOES is encouraging the public to nominate deserving individuals or institutions working across a wide range of sectors including health, education, gender equality, youth and women empowerment, disability inclusion, Peacebuilding, volunteerism, philanthropy, media and advocacy, climate action and more.

Nominations are now open and will close on 15th September 2025. Interested individuals can nominate change-makers by filling out the official nomination form via the provided Google Forms link or by contacting the organizers through email or WhatsApp.

Required nomination details include:

  • Full name of the nominee
  • A recent professional photo
  • Active contact number (phone/WhatsApp)
  • A brief write-up highlighting their humanitarian work and community impact

Link to Nomination Form: Google Form Link
Email: toessierraleone2019@gmail.com
Contact Numbers: 075 139 257 / 032 354 448

Winners will be recognized during a grand awards ceremony, which will bring together change-makers, development partners, traditional and faith-based leaders, media and stakeholders from across Sierra Leone to celebrate selfless service and sacrifice.

TOES is urging the public to take part in identifying and nominating unsung heroes who are making real differences in their communities.

“Let’s honor the heroes among us. Nominate a change-maker today and help us shine a spotlight on those who give selflessly to others,” the organization appealed.

The Humanitarian Goodwill Awards remain one of Sierra Leone’s most impactful platforms for showcasing the spirit of service and dedication to building a better world.

MOH Reaffirms Commitment to Breastfeeding, Calls for Stronger National Support Systems

By Foday Moriba Conteh

As part of the global observance of World Breastfeeding Week, celebrated annually from August 1st to 7th, the Ministry of Health, through its Directorate of Food and Nutrition, has held a Press Briefing to highlight the importance of breastfeeding and galvanize national support around the 2025 theme: “Prioritizing Breastfeeding, Creating Sustainable Support Systems.”

The event, which took place on Wednesday, August 6th at the Ministry’s Conference Room in the Youyi Building, Freetown, brought together members of the press, development partners and health experts to raise awareness about the crucial role breastfeeding plays in promoting infant and maternal health.

In her remarks, Millicent Mamie Allie, Chief Nutritionist at the Ministry of Health, highlighted the life-long benefits of breastfeeding to both mother and child, emphasizing that breastfeeding is not just a health issue but a national development priority.

“All of you who are successful today, our journalists, professors, professionals, many of you are here because you received proper breastfeeding,” Millicent Mamie Allie said. “It impacts cognitive development, strengthens immunity and establishes a bond between mother and child that lasts a lifetime.”

She explained that the first milk, colostrum, acts as the baby’s first immunization, providing vital nutrients and protection against infections. Millicent Mamie Allie stressed the importance of exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months and continued breastfeeding up to two years.

Citing her own experience as a mother who breastfed her child for over a year, she addressed misconceptions, particularly among younger women, who often avoid breastfeeding due to cosmetic concerns. “If you’re not ready to breastfeed, you’re not ready to be pregnant,” she said firmly, urging young mothers to prioritize their child’s health above societal pressures.

Millicent Mamie Allie also praised the Government’s policy strides, including the extension of maternity leave from 12 to 14 weeks under recent gender equality legislation. “We are pushing for more because our children are our future and they deserve the best start in life,” she noted.

She called on men to step up. “Support systems, start the moment a woman says she has missed her period,” she said. “Fathers must provide emotional, nutritional and financial support to ensure healthy pregnancies and strong babies.”

Millicent Mamie Allie concluded by stressing that breastfeeding is a shared responsibility. “It’s not just a women’s issue. It’s a national issue. And together we must create the systems that make breastfeeding not only possible but sustainable.”

Commenting on behalf of Civil Society Organizations, Umu Hawa Jalloh, Program Director at Helen Keller International (HKI), emphasized that breastfeeding is not just a health matter but a national development issue rooted in both religious and scientific importance.

“Even the Quran and the Bible endorse breastfeeding. If God himself ordained it why aren’t we fully committed to it?” she asked, stressing that breastfeeding is essential to child survival, growth and long-term food security.

Umu Hawa Jalloh called breastfeeding one of the most sustainable and cost-effective methods of improving child health, reducing healthcare costs and securing long-term nutritional outcomes in communities. She acknowledged progress made such as a national breastfeeding rate of 52% but stressed that much more need to be done to expand awareness and support.

In her closing remarks, Umu Hawa Jalloh urged all sectors; Government, private employers, communities, families and religious leaders to see breastfeeding as a shared responsibility. “This is not just a health issue. It is everybody’s business,” she said. “Let’s prioritize breastfeeding to secure a healthier and more sustainable future for our children.”

UNICEF Deputy Representative, Liv Elin Indreiten, stressed that breastfeeding is not only a maternal and child health issue but a societal priority that must be supported across all levels; homes, communities, workplaces and national institutions.

“This year’s theme, ‘Prioritize Breastfeeding, Create Sustainable Support Systems’, is a powerful call to action,” Liv Elin Indreiten stated. “It reminds us to go beyond awareness and build the structures that truly support mothers to breastfeed prioritizing skilled health workers, peer counselors, workplace policies and family involvement.”

Liv Elin Indreiten praised Sierra Leone’s achievement in meeting the World Health Assembly’s 2025 target of 50% exclusive breastfeeding, calling it a significant milestone made possible through Government leadership, partner collaboration and the unwavering commitment of mothers. However, she warned that reaching the 2030 global target of 75% will require sustained efforts across three pillars:

  1. Prioritizing breastfeeding through strong public health policies like the 2021 Breast Milk Substitute Act.
  2. Creating long-term support systems for mothers from health facilities to family structures.
  3. Promoting sustainability, highlighting that breastfeeding is an eco-friendly practice that supports climate resilience.

“Breastfeeding supports brain development, strengthens immunity and forms a lasting bond between mother and child. For mothers, it reduces the risk of illnesses and promotes recovery after childbirth. For society, it’s a smart investment in the nation’s future,” she said.

She concluded by calling on all Sierra Leoneans families, health workers, employers and policymakers to rally behind the national breastfeeding agenda. “Together, let’s work to reach the 2030 target of 75% exclusive breastfeeding. The health and future of our children depend on it.”

In his keynote address, Deputy Minister of Health, Dr. Charles Senessie, highlighted the critical role breastfeeding plays in improving child survival, strengthening the immune system and preventing diseases. He acknowledged the support of development partners, NGOs and the media in championing health and nutrition across the country.

Dr. Charles Senessie highlighted the Government’s strides, including a dramatic reduction in maternal mortality, digital tracking of pregnancies through platforms like Kumala and BreastTrack, and the introduction of breastfeeding-friendly spaces in healthcare facilities.

He praised the 2021 Breastfeeding Act and the 2022 Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Act, which expanded maternity leave from 12 to 14 weeks as key policies promoting breastfeeding. Stressing the importance of exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life, he called for collective national effort, involving men, workplaces and communities, to ensure that mothers receive adequate time and support to breastfeed successfully.

Dr. Charles Senessie concluded by urging all sectors to align efforts in creating a sustainable support system for breastfeeding mothers, describing the initiative as not just a weekly observance, but a year-round priority.

As Dansogoia, Sambaia & Diang Wait for Justice… Why Has Parliament Paused Its Investigation into the Kasafoni Land Dispute?

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Amid mounting frustration and growing public concern, the unresolved land rights dispute in Kasafoni continues to spotlight the sluggish pace of justice in Sierra Leone. What began as a lease agreement between local landowners and the Gento Group of Companies has evolved into a broader confrontation over customary land rights, Government accountability and equitable resource distribution. Despite the gravity of the matter, progress has been disappointingly slow, raising serious questions about the Government’s resolve to uphold the rights of its citizens.

At the center of the controversy are the people and traditional authorities from the Dansogoia, Sambaia and Diang Chiefdoms, who have consistently expressed dissatisfaction with what they view as a dismissive Government response to their legitimate concerns. Their grievances stem not only from the lease itself but from the lack of transparency and inclusion in negotiations that affect their ancestral lands.

Fueling further suspicion was the recent revelation that Minister of Finance, Ahmed Sheku Fantamadi Bangura, led a delegation to China and reportedly secured $300 million for the exploitation of Kasafoni’s iron ore deposits. The details of that agreement, however, remain undisclosed. To date, neither the Ministry of Finance nor the Presidency has publicly addressed how the funds will be allocated or whether the communities directly impacted by the extraction will receive any benefit. This information blackout has only deepened public distrust.

Equally troubling is the Government’s attempt to halt an investigation by the Parliamentary Public Petition Committee into the Kasafoni land dispute. Following a formal petition submitted by chiefdom authorities on June 23, 2025, outlining serious contradictions between the Government’s actions and the protective clauses in the Customary Land Rights Act of 2022 and the Mines and Minerals Development Act of 2022, the Committee convened once only to be instructed by the Chief Minister’s Office to pause its work.

Why has the Government stalled a critical investigation into what many see as a potential violation of human rights and local land ownership laws?

The Government’s acknowledgment of the lease agreement between the Gento Group and Kasafoni landowners was initially seen as a welcome move toward recognizing customary land rights. But that recognition now seems hollow, as efforts to ensure accountability and justice are met with bureaucratic roadblocks.

Local authorities have openly rejected claims made by the Sierra Leone Mines and Minerals Development and Management Corporation (SLMMDC) and the Ministry of Information and Civic Education (MoICE) regarding ownership and leasing rights. According to them, those assertions directly undermine legal provisions designed to protect indigenous landowners and validate communal rights. Their firm stance underscores a deeper struggle; one between traditional systems of governance and state institutions increasingly seen as enablers of corporate exploitation.

President Julius Maada Bio has made strong statements in the past condemning illegal land acquisition and promising to uphold the rights of landowners. At a recent public engagement, he denounced Government officials who abuse their positions for personal enrichment through land deals. Yet, such pronouncements ring hollow when not matched by tangible action. In Kasafoni, his Government’s inaction may soon cast a shadow over its entire land reform agenda.

Observers argue that this case presents a defining moment for Sierra Leone’s democratic and governance credentials. At stake is not just a piece of land but the broader issue of whether marginalized communities can trust state institutions to protect their rights. If the current administration genuinely intends to dismantle the legacy of land exploitation and abuse, then it must treat the Kasafoni case as a national priority.

Chief Minister, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, has begun facilitating stakeholder dialogue, a step in the right direction. However, progress has been minimal and without concrete outcomes, the initiative risks being perceived as yet another public relations effort. A high-level meeting involving all stakeholders, including the Gento Group, the affected communities and relevant Government agencies is expected soon, but the success of such an engagement will depend entirely on the Government’s willingness to act decisively.

Civil Society groups, legal analysts and concerned citizens are calling for immediate transparency in all dealings related to Kasafoni. The public deserves to know the content of agreements made in their name, especially when these involve massive financial inflows and natural resource exploitation. A comprehensive and publicly available report detailing all agreements and their expected community benefits would go a long way toward rebuilding trust.

In truth, Sierra Leone stands at a crossroads. The Kasafoni dispute is no longer just about a contested lease; it is about whether justice can truly reach the grassroots in a country still healing from historical inequalities. The Government must understand that delays in addressing such matters are not just administrative lapses ,they represent the denial of justice to entire communities whose lives and livelihoods are intertwined with the land.

If the Bio administration hopes to be remembered for meaningful reform, it must act with urgency. The people of Dansogoia, Sambaia and Diang Chiefdoms are not demanding special favors; they are demanding justice, fairness and respect for the law.

It is time for the Government to rise to the occasion. The people are watching and history will judge accordingly.

President Bio Outlines Progress, Promises More Reforms at State Opening of Parliament

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio delivered a powerful and optimistic address during the State Opening of the Third Session of the Sixth Parliament of the Second Republic of Sierra Leone. Speaking in the Chamber of Parliament on Thursday, August 7, 2025, at Tower Hill, President Bio outlined sweeping achievements under his administration and reaffirmed his vision to transform Sierra Leone into a resilient, inclusive and prosperous nation.

In his opening remarks, President Bio praised Members of Parliament for placing national interest above partisan politics. He emphasized the vital role of the legislature in shaping a future of progress and unity. “This House is the beating heart of our democracy,” President Bio declared. “It is here that we make decisions which shape every home, every farm, every school and every market across our nation.”

Centering his address around the Government’s flagship development strategy, President Bio highlighted the Big Five Game Changers, which include Feed Salone, Human Capital Development, Youth Employment Scheme, Technology and Infrastructure Development and Public Sector Reform.

President Bio reported significant gains in agricultural productivity. He revealed that in 2024, rice production increased by 8%, leading to a 13% reduction in imports and saving over US$15 million in foreign exchange. Rice prices dropped by 20%, easing the financial burden on families across Sierra Leone.

He noted that three new rice mills have opened and the World Food Programme now sources 30% of its rice from local farmers. Additionally, egg and onion imports have decreased and Sierra Leone began exporting vegetable oil for the first time under his administration.

President Bio further highlighted that over US$800 million in pledges were secured to support agriculture, with US$205 million already committed. Key advances include the country’s first digital soil mapping, a $10 million credit facility for equipment, crop insurance for rice and maize farmers and the biometric registration of over 300,000 farmers.

Turning to education, President Bio celebrated the construction of more than 1,500 classrooms and training of over 20,000 teachers. He pointed out that all public examination fees for NPSE, BECE and WASSCE are now paid by the Government. Girls’ school completion rates have improved dramatically and Starlink-enabled internet now connects 23 university campuses nationwide.

President Bio also underscored new technical institutes equipping youth with practical skills in agriculture, mechanics, digital literacy and entrepreneurship. He proudly announced that a digitized student loan scheme has already supported over 1,000 postgraduate students.

In the health sector, President Bio highlighted a 70% reduction in maternal and newborn deaths. He noted the commissioning of new and upgraded hospitals, deployment of over 14,000 health workers and installation of off-grid solar systems powering rural health facilities. He praised the expansion of the national vaccination drive and the Government’s swift response to Sierra Leone’s first confirmed Mpox case earlier in the year.

Addressing gender equality, President Bio celebrated the enforcement of the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Act, the passage of the Child Rights Act and intensified efforts to combat sexual and gender-based violence.

Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to youth empowerment, President Bio pledged to create 500,000 jobs by 2028. He detailed how thousands of young people have received training in agriculture, construction, hospitality and digital skills. More than 250 young women have participated in digital entrepreneurship programs supported by the Government.

Highlighting ongoing youth support, President Bio described the World Bank–funded PSSNYE Project, which will provide seed capital to 8,000 youths to start or grow their businesses. He also pointed to Government efforts to scale up youth-led farming and fisheries initiatives.

President Bio issued a stern warning about the rising challenge of drug abuse, especially the synthetic drug Kush. He called on all Sierra Leoneans to unite against this threat and urged young people to remain focused, healthy and hopeful.

On technology and infrastructure, President Bio outlined transformative investments in digital Government services, energy, roads and public transport. He noted the digitization of payroll, audits and access to public services, along with the launch of a new Government Yellow Pages for easy access to Ministries and Agencies.

President Bio announced that over US$100 million in technology investment is underway. He revealed that Sierra Leone has joined the Mission 300 Energy Compact, aiming for 78% electricity access and 52% renewable energy use by 2030. Key energy projects include the 108.5 MW NANT gas-to-energy plant, 40 MW solar plants at Lungi and Newton, upgrades to hydroelectric facilities and electrification of rural schools and health centers.

He also highlighted infrastructure progress, with 418 km of roads completed and 17 new bridges constructed. He proudly reported the launch of 50 Waka Fine buses serving 25,000 passengers daily and the piloting of an electric bus policy in partnership with international stakeholders.

In public sector reform, President Bio announced a revised Civil Service Code and performance appraisal system. He detailed new Public Service Policy and Constitutional reforms aimed at embedding integrity in Government operations.

President Bio cited successes of the Anti-Corruption Commission, which recovered nearly NLe 35 million in 2024 and achieved 90% compliance through a digital asset declaration system. He noted Sierra Leone’s ranking as 7th in Africa for anti-corruption efforts according to the Mo Ibrahim Governance Index.

Digital payment reforms are improving financial management, with 88% of public spending audited. Retiree payments have been automated, ending years of delays and hardship for pensioners.

Despite global economic challenges, President Bio reported that Sierra Leone’s economy remains on a positive trajectory. He stated that GDP grew by 4% in 2024, inflation dropped from 54.5% to 9.38% and the Leone depreciated by just 5.7%. Domestic revenue reached NLe 14.6 billion and public debt was reduced to 39.5% of GDP.

President Bio also celebrated the International Monetary Fund’s approval of a US$243 million Extended Credit Facility, which he described as validation of the government’s economic reforms.

In closing his address, President Bio delivered a strong message of unity, urging all Sierra Leoneans to put country before party and work together for national development. “This Government will stand with you, invest in you and fight for you,” he declared. “But you too must rise and fight for yourselves. Because the story of Sierra Leone’s next chapter will not be written by politicians alone.”

President Bio’s 2025 Parliamentary address set a bold and hopeful tone for the year ahead emphasizing that the transformation of Sierra Leone is already underway; driven by vision, action and collective resolve.

NCRA Clarifies Rationale Behind August 31 Deadline for Obtaining Biometric ID Cards

NCRA’s Director of Communications, Information and Education, Abu Bakarr Javombo
NCRA’s Director of Communications, Information and Education, Abu Bakarr Javombo

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Speaking on a recent joint public notice issued by the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA), the Office of National Security (ONS) and the Sierra Leone Police, which urged all citizens and foreign nationals residing in Sierra Leone to obtain Biometric National ID Cards before the official deadline of August 31, 2025, the NCRA’s Director of Communications, Information and Education, Abu Bakarr Javombo, provided further clarity on the ongoing production and issuance process.

Appearing on Liberty Online TV’s Breakfast Show on Thursday, August 7, 2025, Abu Bakarr Javombo emphasized that Biometric ID Card production and distribution are currently ongoing across the country. He noted that while a significant number of people have already obtain ID Cards there is still a sizable number to do so.

To facilitate access, Abu Bakarr Javombo explained that the NCRA has decentralized the process. Beyond its existing district offices, mobile outreach teams have been deployed to towns, districts and remote chiefdoms to reach individuals who might otherwise face transportation or accessibility challenges.

Clarifying the basis for the August 31 deadline, Abu Bakarr Javombo  stated that it was a decision of the Cabinet, subsequently approved by Parliament in 2022. The policy mandates that all citizens and non-citizens residing in the country must obtain Biometric ID Cards to access essential services, including acquiring a passport, registering SIM cards, opening bank accounts or securing public sector employment.

While highlighting the success of the initiative, Abu Bakarr Javombo acknowledged that minor delays have been encountered in rural areas, mainly due to poor internet connectivity and power supply issues. He assured the public that the NCRA has measures in place to swiftly address such challenges.

He also pointed out that discrepancies in applicants’ personal information sometimes slow down the process. “Identity management becomes problematic when the right information is not provided,” Abu Bakarr Javombo noted, urging registrants to ensure that their details are accurate and consistent.

On the cost of obtaining the ID Card, Abu Bakarr Javombo clarified that while the base fee remains affordable, an additional fee of seventy-five Leones may be charged in remote areas to support logistical expenses like fuel and transport for mobile teams. He emphasized that all revenue collected is remitted directly into the Government of Sierra Leone’s Consolidated Revenue Fund.

Dispelling misinformation, Abu Bakarr Javombo stressed that the NCRA does not operate checkpoints. Instead, it is the role of the Sierra Leone Police, under existing laws to enforce identity checks for national security purposes.

In closing, Abu Bakarr Javombo reiterated the NCRA’s commitment to ensuring that every eligible individual obtain the Biometric ID Card. He encouraged citizens and foreign residents to act promptly.

“The Biometric ID Card is more than just a means of identification; it is essential for accessing services and participating fully in national life,” Abu Bakarr Javombo concluded.

ECOWAS Chair Urges Deeper Ties with Burkina Faso, Mali & Niger

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio
President Dr. Julius Maada Bio

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, in his capacity as Chairman of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), has on Tuesday, 5 August 2025 called for deeper engagement and stronger ties between ECOWAS and the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) comprising Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger.

The President made that appeal during a courtesy visit by His Excellency Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, to State House in Freetown.

Welcoming the delegation, President Bio underscored the urgent need for closer collaboration between the ECOWAS Authority and the Commission, stressing that enhanced relations with the AES nations are essential for boosting trade, ensuring the free movement of people and reinforcing peace and security across the region.

“It is imperative that we build a stronger relationship between ECOWAS and the AES nations and harness this partnership for the advancement of our Community,” President Bio affirmed.

He reiterated his commitment to supporting democratic transitions and credible electoral processes within the sub-region, citing ongoing political developments in Guinea, as well as the forthcoming elections in Côte d’Ivoire and Guinea-Bissau.

President Bio also proposed the convening of a Special Summit to deliberate on the future of West Africa and the ECOWAS Community, particularly in light of its 50 years of cooperation, integration and shared development.

Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, in his briefing, provided an update on the current state of the ECOWAS Community, noting the considerable challenges facing the sub-region and pledging his readiness to work closely with President Bio to address them. His update covered political developments in several Member States, the status of the Community Levy and other key administrative matters.

In a significant development, Dr. Omar Alieu Touray confirmed that the Commission will soon implement the decision to deploy an assessment mission to Sierra Leone and Guinea. The mission aims to advance efforts in resolving the long-standing Yenga border dispute between the two nations.

The meeting reaffirmed the shared commitment of both the ECOWAS Authority and the Commission to strengthen unity, promote democratic governance and safeguard peace and stability across West Africa.

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