John Konteh (JK) to Host Star-Studded Housemates Salone Season 3 Reunion in Maryland

August 1, 2025

The wait is finally over for fans of Sierra Leone’s biggest Reality TV show. The Housemates Salone Season 3 Reunion USA Chapter is set to take place on August 15, 2025, at 8113 Georgia Ave, Silver Spring, MD 20910, bringing the original cast together for what promises to be an electrifying night of drama, laughter and nostalgia.

The event will be hosted by the ever-charismatic John Konteh (JK), whose energy and sharp wit are expected to keep audiences engaged as he guides conversations, sparks debates and revisits some of the most memorable moments of the season.

The reunion will feature some of the show’s most popular personalities, including Juliana Conteh (Julie Tombo), Alice Kanja, George Taylor (The Dancing Chef), Mimi Zayat (The Ginger Queen), Augusta Kumba Yongai, and Paul Mbayo. Their much-anticipated return has stirred excitement among fans eager to witness old friendships rekindled, unresolved issues addressed and new drama unfold.

Organizers describe the event as a “rollercoaster of emotions,” promising unforgettable highlights and surprises that will keep fans talking long after the curtain closes. The USA chapter marks a milestone for the Housemates Salone franchise, extending the show’s reach to its international audience.

Alongside the reunion buzz, producers have officially announced that applications for Housemates Salone 2025 have opened on Monday, 21st July 2025.

Aspiring contestants are required to apply exclusively online at www.africell.sl/housemates, completing the form and paying the Le1, 000 application fee via Afrimoney only. Organizers have cautioned applicants to ensure their Afrimoney accounts are active as no alternative payment methods will be accepted.

“This is a life-changing opportunity,” the producers said. “We are calling on vibrant, dynamic individuals who are ready to live under the spotlight to step forward and be part of Sierra Leone’s biggest Reality TV experience.”

With the USA reunion set to create waves and the upcoming season already generating buzz, Housemates Salone continues to cement its status as a cultural phenomenon both at home and abroad.

Trailblazer in Nursing: Dr. Joan Shepherd Elected Regional President of WAPCNM

August 1, 2025

Dr. Joan Hannah Elizabeth Estella Shepherd has achieved a landmark milestone for Sierra Leone and the nursing profession across the sub-region by being elected Regional President of the West African Postgraduate College of Nurses and Midwives (WAPCNM). Her historic selection in May 2025 stands as a significant step in advancing academic leadership and professional excellence in nursing and midwifery within West Africa.

Although Sierra Leone was due to hold the presidency by rotation this year, Dr. Joan Hannah Elizabeth Estella Shepherd’s election was not automatic. She earned the position following a rigorous regional screening process, emerging as the only Sierra Leonean Nurse Fellow of WAPCNM to meet 100% of the criteria. Her globally accredited PhD in Nursing and distinguished leadership record made her the unanimous choice for the role.

Dr. Joan Hannah Elizabeth Estella Shepherd obtained her doctorate in Nursing – Midwifery and Sexual Reproductive Health from the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), Durban, South Africa, one of the continent’s premier institutions. Her academic journey also includes a Master of Nursing in Maternal and Child Health and certification as an Advanced Practice Nurse-Midwife (APN/M). During her doctoral training, she engaged in intensive, in-person mentorship with some of the world’s leading nurse scholars, participating in high-level seminars, collaborative research and policy-focused clinical education.

With over four decades of service, Dr. Joan Hannah Elizabeth Estella Shepherd’s career reflects an extraordinary blend of leadership, education and advocacy. She has served as Principal of the National School of Midwifery, Head of Department and Associate Lecturer at the University of Sierra Leone, Member of the Sierra Leone Nurses and Midwives Board and Past President of the Sierra Leone Midwives Association. She is also a Fellow of WAPCNM and a member of Sigma Theta Tau Lambda Chapter.

Renowned for mentoring thousands of nurses and midwives, Dr. Joan Hannah Elizabeth Estella Shepherd has played a pivotal role in shaping national health education reforms and advancing reproductive health initiatives. Her research and consultancy work span maternal and child health, adolescent development, breast cancer awareness, midwifery curricula and nursing pedagogy, with findings published in international peer-reviewed journals and presented at global health summits.

Beyond academia, Dr. Joan Hannah Elizabeth Estella Shepherd has demonstrated a deep commitment to philanthropy, offering financial and moral support to young people in pursuit of education and personal development.

As Regional President of WAPCNM, Dr. Joan Hannah Elizabeth Estella Shepherd has set out a bold vision to strengthen nursing and midwifery leadership, improve women’s health and build regional capacity across Africa. She also plans to expand her role as a global consultant, amplifying Africa’s voice in health policy, education and gender equity on the international stage.

“Dr. Joan Hannah Elizabeth Estella Shepherd’s presidency underscores the power of leadership rooted in service and education,” noted WAPCNM officials. “Her journey is a testament to Sierra Leone’s growing contribution to global health excellence.”

Edmond Sylvester Alpha Appointed Acting Chief Electoral Commissioner

August 1, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Office of the President has on July 29, 2025 confirmed the appointment of Edmond Sylvester Alpha, Electoral Commissioner for the Southern Region, as Acting Chairman of the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL).

The appointment follows the expiration of the five-year tenure of the outgoing Chief Electoral Commissioner and Chairman, which lasted from 28th July 2020 to 27th July 2025.

In an official letter signed by Secretary to the President, Barba B. Fortune, Edmond Sylvester Alpha’s appointment took effect on 21st July 2025. He will oversee the Commission during the transitional period until the appointment of a substantive Chairman is completed.

The decision, approved by His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, aims to maintain stability within the ECSL as it continues its mandate to oversee electoral processes across the country.

Dr. Mohamed S. Kanu Officially Takes Over as CEO of NP (SL) Limited

August 1, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Dr. Mohamed S. Kanu officially took over today Friday August 1, 2025 as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of NP (SL) Limited, marking a pivotal leadership transition for Sierra Leone’s premier petroleum marketing company.

He steps into his role following the resignation of Saidu Mansaray, who served with distinction for several years, significantly contributing to NP (SL)’s growth and regional presence. The Board of Directors announced Dr. Mohamed S. Kanu’s appointment on July 17, 2025, highlighting his outstanding credentials and deep industry expertise.

Bringing a wealth of experience, Dr. Mohamed S. Kanu previously led NP Côte d’Ivoire as CEO, where he was instrumental in expanding market share, enhancing operational efficiency and driving regional growth across West Africa’s energy sector. His visionary leadership and strategic insight make him well suited to spearhead NP (SL)’s next phase of innovation and customer-focused service.

The Board praised Dr. Mohamed S. Kanu as a “visionary leader with strategic insight and a profound understanding of the NP brand and its values,” reaffirming their confidence in his ability to sustain excellence and growth. Holding advanced qualifications in business administration and petroleum management, Dr. Dr. Mohamed S. Kanu is recognized for his result-oriented leadership style and commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility.

Saidu Mansaray’s tenure saw NP (SL) strengthen its infrastructure, enhance customer satisfaction and deepen regional cooperation. The Board extended its appreciation for his exemplary service and wished him success in his future endeavors.

NP (SL) Limited remains a 100% Sierra Leonean-owned company, championing local content through a fully Sierra Leonean workforce and ownership. The company continues to lead with groundbreaking initiatives, including the introduction of Mobile Fuel Tanks serving key public institutions and the launch of the NP Energy Pass Card; a cashless payment solution that advances Sierra Leone’s move toward a digital economy.

Further innovations include the installation of calibrated fuel pumps for transparent transactions and GPS and Video Tracking Systems to monitor fleet operations. Safety remains a priority with regular emergency drills and infrastructure upgrades aligned with international standards.

The company’s recent expansion with a new fuel station on Sierra Leone’s main highway, alongside its commitment to reducing fuel prices, underscores NP (SL)’s dedication to customer convenience and sustainable business practices.

As a top taxpayer and strategic partner to Government agencies through flexible fuel credit arrangements, NP (SL) plays a vital role in Sierra Leone’s socio-economic development. Under Dr. Mohamed S. Kanu’s leadership, the company is poised to deepen its influence across West Africa, with operations in Liberia, Guinea, Côte d’Ivoire and The Gambia.

With a focus on sustainability, digital transformation and enhanced stakeholder engagement, NP (SL) Limited continues to live up to its slogan: “1st for Customer Care,” delivering quality products, exceptional service and innovative solutions that secure its position as a cornerstone of Sierra Leone’s petroleum industry and a catalyst for regional growth.

First Lady Calls for Collective Action as Uterine Health Fund Targets Thousands in Need

July 31, 2025

Marking a historic milestone for women’s reproductive healthcare, First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio officially launched Africa’s first Uterine Health Fund (UHF) at the New Brookfields Hotel in Freetown on July 25, 2025. The groundbreaking initiative is designed to tackle the widespread but often overlooked crisis of uterine health conditions affecting millions of women across the continent.

Speaking at the event, the First Lady described issues such as fibroids, chronic pelvic pain, heavy menstrual bleeding and untreated infections as “a silent crisis that has been neglected for too long in health policies, training and budgets.” She stressed that uterine health is an integral part of maternal care, adding, “Until it is counted, funded and delivered, reproductive care remains incomplete. Today, we begin to correct that.”

Research by Youterus Health reveals that one in three women in Sierra Leone live with uterine complications, many enduring severe pain, stigma and lack of access to proper diagnosis and treatment. The UHF aims to subsidize diagnosis and surgery for over 500 women annually through accredited clinics and provide life-saving surgical care for at least 50 women with severe fibroids in its first year. The fund will also cover treatment for infections and anaemia, as well as training for healthcare providers and community health navigators.

The initiative, founded by Sierra Leonean public health advocate Fatou Wurie, utilizes a blended finance model combining philanthropic support, private sector involvement and Government partnerships. It also includes a “Compassion Reserve” to cover transport and partial surgery costs for women in need.

Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, who also serves as President of the Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), urged Government officials, development partners, healthcare workers and the private sector to support the fund, emphasizing its potential to transform reproductive healthcare. “Every little support counts and matters in changing the lives of our women. This is about justice, dignity and the health of generations to come,” she said.

Commending Fatou Wurie for initiating the project in Sierra Leone, the First Lady called the launch a proud moment for the nation and a turning point in African women’s health. “We are not just launching a project; we are transforming how women’s health is funded and delivered,” she stated.

With the launch of the Uterine Health Fund, Sierra Leone has positioned itself as a pioneer in advancing women’s reproductive health in Africa, marking a new era of healthcare driven by data, equity and respect for women’s dignity.

EXPOSED!!! Zhou Wenjie’s Alleged Fraudulent and Criminal Activities Revealed in Shocking Investigation

July 30, 2025

By Mohamed Mattia

A sustained and thorough investigation conducted over a period of time has uncovered what, from witness accounts and documents in our possession, is alleged to be a shocking case of corporate betrayal in Sierra Leone. Two private companies, Pioneer Industry Company SL Limited at Cline Town and Pioneer Power Engineering Company SL Limited at Mile 5, both built with years of hard work and investment by Zhang Ke and his wife, are now at the center of what evidence suggests to be serious fraud. Testimonies and records indicate that Zhou Wenjie is accused of using forgery and deceit to take control, destroying the legacy that took decades to build. These findings point to more than just a business dispute but a story of deep betrayal and criminal manipulation.

Zhang Ke, a respected Chinese entrepreneur who devoted more than two decades to Sierra Leone’s economic activity, invested his resources, land and expertise into building the two companies from the ground up. From witness statements and documents reviewed, it is claimed that following his return to China in 2019 to battle cancer, Zhou Wenjie, who had been serving as General Manager, launched a calculated campaign to seize control. Evidence gathered suggests that in January 2022, Zhou Wenjie diverted revenue from Pioneer Industry Company SL Limited’s oxygen plant into Pioneer Power Engineering Company SL Limited’s accounts without Board approval, a move described as the start of a systematic takeover.

According to documents examined, Zhou Wenjie is accused of orchestrating a signature forgery operation, using practice signature sheets found in the offices to falsify critical documents belonging to the rightful owners. Records further indicate that with these forged papers, Zhou Wenjie opened unauthorized accounts at Rokel Commercial Bank and Commercial Mortgage Bank, making himself the sole signatory and siphoning off substantial funds in both Leones and U.S. dollars. Client testimonies contend that Zhou Wenjie posed as “CEO,” signing contracts and diverting payments into fraudulent accounts under his exclusive control.

Family accounts and staff statements suggest that the scandal worsened after Zhang Ke’s death in December 2023, when his relatives discovered that both Pioneer Industry Company SL Limited and Pioneer Power Engineering Company SL Limited had been pushed to the brink of collapse under Zhou Wenjie’s irregular management. Eyewitnesses claim that employees and lawful tenants were forcibly removed from the Mile 5 property, land owned by Zhang Ke and his wife, in what has been described as a complete hijacking of their father’s life’s work.

Reports further assert that Zhou Wenjie is known to be a drug addict with a violent and intimidating temperament, creating a climate of fear among staff during his control of the companies.

Zhang Ke’s son and lawful heir, Zhang Jiakai, maintains that Zhou Wenjie’s actions amount to a ruthless exploitation of trust and a blatant theft of his father’s legacy. Based on the evidence reviewed, the Zhang family is pressing for a full audit of bank records at Rokel Commercial Bank and Commercial Mortgage Bank’s Lumley Branch and calling for prosecution of Zhou Wenjie for forgery and fraud under Section 349 of the Sierra Leone Penal Code.

Currently, the courts have frozen the companies’ accounts and placed an injunction on their operations, underscoring the seriousness of the accusations. Legal observers stress that this case represents more than a private dispute; it is a critical test of Sierra Leone’s justice system. Business analysts warn that failure to handle the matter with the seriousness it deserves could discourage foreign investors at a time when the Government is striving to attract international capital. They caution that allowing such criminal manipulation to go unpunished would send a dangerous message, ultimately undermining investment security and damaging Sierra Leone’s economic growth.

All efforts to contact Zhou Wenjie proved unsuccessful. However, should he choose to present his side of the story, it will be published in full.

Yada Williams Esq. Wins Landmark Libel Case Against Mohamed Kutubu Koroma in U.S. Court

July 30, 2025

Delivering a landmark ruling, the District Court of Maryland for Prince George’s County awarded damages of US$20,056 to renowned barrister and solicitor, Yada Hashim Williams, in a libel case against U.S.-based Mohamed Kutubu Koroma. The judgment, handed down on 23rd July 2025, concluded a three-year legal battle over what Yada Hashim Williams described as a relentless campaign of online defamation.

According to court documents (Case No. D-05-CV-25-018282), Mohamed Kutubu Koroma engaged in a series of malicious attacks against Yada Hashim Williams, branding him a “fraud,” “failed lawyer,” “mediocre,” “broke” and a “scammer” through various online platforms. The defamatory campaign culminated in an audio message released on 4th April 2024, in which Mohamed Kutubu Koroma admitted his intent to “humiliate and embarrass” the Sierra Leonean legal luminary.

Yada Hashim Williams had previously obtained a judgment against Mohamed Kutubu Koroma in Sierra Leone in November 2023 after suing him for similar defamatory statements made in July 2022. Despite that ruling, Mohamed Kutubu Koroma allegedly continued his attacks, prompting Yada Hashim Williams to seek redress in the United States.

“The court’s decision is not just a personal vindication but a strong message that defamation, even when committed online across borders, carries serious legal consequences,” Yada Hashim Williams said in a public statement issued on 26th July 2025. “The internet is not a shield for cowardly slanderers; accountability has no borders.”

The court found all allegations made by Mohamed Kutubu Koroma to be false and awarded Yada Hashim Williams $20,000 in judgment principal, $56 in costs, plus attorney’s fees, with provisions for a lien on any real property owned by the defendant if the damages are not paid.

Yada Hashim Williams emphasized that the ruling serves as a warning to those who misuse social media to malign others:

“There should be no safe haven for individuals who engage in such reprehensible behavior. This case underscores the importance of justice in safeguarding reputations in the digital age.”

The case has been widely viewed as a precedent-setting moment in cross-border defamation law, highlighting how courts can hold individuals accountable for online attacks regardless of geographic location.

Deputy Defence Minister Secures Strategic Military Partnership with Turkiye

July 30, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Taking a significant step towards strengthening bilateral defence relations, Sierra Leone’s Deputy Minister of Defence, Colonel Muana Brima Massaquoi (Retired), concluded an official visit to the Republic of Turkiye, during which he signed a new financial aid agreement and explored opportunities for advanced military cooperation.

The visit, which took place from 22nd to 26th July 2025, coincided with the 17th International Defence Industry Fair (IDEF), one of the world’s largest defence exhibitions. Colonel Muana Brima Massaquoi was accompanied by Brigadier-General Dr. Stephens Sevalie, Commander of Defence Medical Services and Surgeon-General of the 34 Military Hospital and Colonel Dr. Zhoud Kailie, Military Executive Assistant to the Deputy Minister.

At the opening ceremony of IDEF on 22nd July, which featured over 1,000 Turkish companies showcasing cutting-edge military technologies, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan underscored his country’s commitment to “developing long-term multidimensional partnerships based on a win-win approach.” Secretary of Turkish Defence Industries Haluk Gorgun highlighted the event’s role in fostering global defence collaborations.

On 24th July, Colonel Muana Brima Massaquoi signed The Protocol Regarding Financial Assistance with Turkish Deputy Defence Minister HE Apasian Kavaklioglu. The agreement aims to address critical defence and medical needs within the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), reinforcing cooperation in areas such as technology transfer, capacity building and military healthcare.

Expressing his gratitude to the Turkish Government, Colonel Muana Brima Massaquoi described the engagement as “a valuable opportunity for Sierra Leone to explore strategic cooperation and benefit from Turkiye’s technological advancements.” He noted that the partnership would enhance national security, operational readiness and the well-being of RSLAF personnel.

Following the signing, Colonel Muana Brima Massaquoi held a special session with another Turkish Deputy Minister of National Defence, HE Bilal Durbai. The meeting focused on boosting military healthcare delivery in Sierra Leone, with Turkiye pledging advanced medical equipment, training programmes and personnel exchanges for the 34 Military Hospital. Discussions also covered the acquisition and deployment of unmanned drones for surveillance and defence purposes.

The Deputy Minister later toured the Baykar Factory, a leading producer of state-of-the-art unmanned aerial vehicles used in modern warfare.

This latest agreement builds on previous defence collaborations between the two nations, including the 2021 Defence Industry Cooperation Agreement and the 2024 Military Framework Agreement, both ratified by Sierra Leone’s Parliament.

Colonel Muana Brima Massaquoi’s visit underscores Sierra Leone’s commitment to strengthening defence diplomacy and leveraging international partnerships to modernize its armed forces and enhance national security.

APC’s Bai Mahmoud Bangura Declares Intent to Run for Party Leadership, 2028 Presidential Race

July 30, 2025

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Signaling a new chapter for the All Peoples Congress (APC) Bai Mahmoud Bangura, popularly known as BMB, officially declared on July 26, 2025, his intention to contest for the position of National Leader and Presidential Candidate of the APC Party ahead of the 2028 General Elections.

Speaking at the launch of the Bai Mahmoud Bangura Foundation on July 26, 2025, BMB confirmed his resignation as National Organizing Secretary in compliance with the APC 2022 Constitution, calling the step “strategic and grounded in destiny.” His announcement, themed: “Building Bridges and Rebirth of Prosperity,” underscores a vision for party renewal and national economic revival.

“I will provide the leadership that will take the APC Party to State House and improve the lives of our people,” Bai Mahmoud Bangura declared to a packed audience of party members, grassroots supporters and the media. “This is not just my mission; it is our collective project, our shared hope and our only pathway to undeniable victory and meaningful transformation.”

BMB, a veteran APC stalwart with over 22 years of service, emphasized his track record of youth empowerment, grassroots mobilization and institutional leadership. He credited his political mentorship to senior party figures, including former President Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma, whose belief in young leadership he hailed as “a legacy worth celebrating.”

Addressing the economic challenges facing Sierra Leone, Bai Mahmoud Bangura lamented the “etched faces of poverty, starvation and hardship” and vowed to pursue policies that strengthen national cohesion, restore economic stability and create opportunities for all citizens. “Our nation is crying out for empathetic leadership, one with a zeal to build and maintain bridges that ignite economic renaissance and the rebirth of prosperity,” he stated.

In his declaration, BMB appealed to all segments of the APC, from ward executives and grassroots supporters to women, youth, diaspora chapters and party veterans. He pledged a leadership style built on loyalty, inclusivity and respect for the party’s values: “With my leadership, the APC will rise again; stronger, more united and prepared to govern in the national interest.”

Highlighting his extensive experience from APC Youth President to Minister of Youth Affairs and National Organizing Secretary, Bai Mahmoud Bangura asserted that he possesses the institutional memory and pragmatic leadership to secure victory in 2028. “With my leadership, we will fight for every vote, defend every ballot and rightfully return the APC Party to power,” he declared.

The launch of the Bai Mahmoud Bangura Foundation marks the beginning of his nationwide mobilization effort, focusing on empowering communities and engaging Sierra Leoneans at home and abroad.

“The time is now. The leader is ready. The mission is clear. Victory is possible. Change is certain,” BMB concluded to thunderous applause, signaling the start of a high-stakes race to define the APC’s future and Sierra Leone’s political landscape.

Finance Minister Unveils 2025 Budget Revisions to Secure Sierra Leone’s Economic Gains

July 30, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leone’s Minister of Finance, Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura, on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, presented the Supplementary Budget for 2025 to Parliament in a significant move to sustain macroeconomic stability. Titled: “Fiscal Consolidation and Budget Credibility to Sustain Macroeconomic Stability,” the budget tackles evolving domestic and global economic challenges and targets a reduction of the budget deficit from 3.9% to 3.8% of GDP.

Speaking in the Chamber of Parliament, Minister Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura highlighted three key reasons for revising the original 2025 budget, approved on December 20, 2024:

Improved Economic Fundamentals: Lower-than-expected inflation (down to 7.1% in June 2025 from 54.5% in October 2023) and stronger-than-anticipated economic growth (projected at 4.5% for 2025) have rendered original revenue and expenditure projections outdated.
Global Economic Uncertainty: Ad-hoc tariff hikes, declining aid flows and tighter financing conditions necessitate cautious fiscal management to protect recent economic gains.
Revenue Shortfalls: Domestic revenue for the first half of 2025 fell short by NLe642 million, primarily due to underperformance in Goods and Services Tax (GST), import duties and royalties, prompting expenditure adjustments to maintain fiscal discipline.

The Sierra Leonean economy has shown resilience, with a projected growth of 4.5% in 2025, driven by agriculture and services sectors. Inflation has significantly declined, reaching single digits at 7.1% in June 2025, supported by a stable exchange rate, softer global food and energy prices and increased domestic food production. The external sector also improved, with exports rising 11.8% to US$424.1 million in Q1 2025, led by mineral exports (US$317 million, including US$221.5 million from iron ore). The trade deficit narrowed slightly to US$113.7 million from US$113.9 million in Q1 2024.

However, domestic revenue collection underperformed, totaling NLe8.9 billion (4.6% of GDP) against a target of NLe9.5 billion. Key shortfalls included GST (NLe1.4 billion, missing the target by NLe674.7 million) and customs duties (NLe1.9 billion, short by NLe134.7 million). On the expenditure side, total spending reached NLe14.8 billion (7.5% of GDP), with recurrent expenditure at NLe10.3 billion and capital expenditure at NLe4.3 billion, both below budgeted amounts.

The Supplementary Budget revises domestic revenue projections downward to NLe17.9 billion for 2025, reflecting a NLe1.0 billion shortfall. To address this, the National Revenue Authority will implement measures to combat tax evasion, including:

Enforcing the Minimum Alternate Tax (MAT) and Advanced Pricing Arrangements for iron ore mining companies.
Rolling out Electronic Cash Registers to 5,000 GST-registered taxpayers.
Auditing the ASYCUDA system to tackle reconciliation issues and fraud.

Expenditure is also adjusted, with capital expenditure and net lending cut to NLe9.0 billion (4.7% of GDP) from NLe13.0 billion, while interest payments rise to NLe8.0 billion due to higher domestic borrowing costs in late 2024. The revised budget deficit, including grants, is set at 6.8% of GDP, financed through net foreign borrowing (0.2% of GDP) and domestic borrowing (3.6% of GDP).

High debt service payments, consuming 50% of domestic revenues in the first half of 2025, remain a challenge. The Government plans to:

Reduce public sector borrowing through robust revenue mobilization and expenditure rationalization.
Issue longer-term Treasury bonds to replace short-term bills.
Engage non-bank institutions like NASSIT to increase bond uptake.
Seek more grants and concessional loans from development partners.

To enhance expenditure control, the Ministry of Finance will enforce stricter cash management and compliance with the Public Financial Management Act of 2016. A Ministerial Committee will also prioritize capital projects within the limited fiscal space, supported by a World Bank-backed analysis of energy, roads and water sectors.

Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura emphasized that the Supplementary Budget builds on the fiscal discipline demonstrated in the first half of 2025, which saw single-digit inflation, a stable Leone and lower Treasury Bill rates (from 34.3% to 14.8%). “This budget will consolidate macroeconomic stability, boost investor and donor confidence and create fiscal space for priority sectors,” he stated.

The Minister thanked President Julius Maada Bio, Cabinet colleagues, the Bank of Sierra Leone, the National Revenue Authority and development partners for their support. He urged Parliament to approve the Supplementary Budget, underscoring its role in sustaining economic gains and improving service delivery.

Sierra Leone’s navigation through global economic headwinds highlights the Government’s commitment to fiscal consolidation and credibility, signaling a strategic approach to fostering sustained growth and stability.