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NP (SL) Expands Reach with Baokasie Services, Strengthening Public-Private Partnerships

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

NP Sierra Leone Limited (NP-SL Ltd), in collaboration with Dr. Mustapha Tejan Kella and his wife, officially inaugurated Baokasie Services, a state-of-the-art fuel station and mini-mart, on Sunday, November 1, 2024. The event marked a significant milestone for Sierra Leone’s energy and retail sectors, drawing Government officials, business leaders and local residents to celebrate this transformative project.

Situated at Forestry Quarters, No. 2 River, the new facility promises 24/7 fuel accessibility alongside a fully stocked mini-mart, catering to the needs of the growing community. Beyond its advanced infrastructure, the project is set to enhance job creation and local economic growth.

In her keynote address, the Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry, Madam Fatmata Kargbo, praised the project as a beacon of President Julius Maada Bio’s agenda for economic transformation and employment generation. She emphasized its role in fostering healthy market competition and highlighted the introduction of a new pricing formula, developed in partnership with the World Bank, to ensure fuel affordability.

She also spoke on the Government’s commitment to consumer protection, citing the establishment of the National Consumer Protection Commission as a critical step toward ensuring fairness and transparency in the energy sector. “This project exemplifies the power of public-private partnerships in driving national progress,” she noted.

Representing NP Sierra Leone, Sales Manager, Vandy Bockarie reaffirmed the company’s dedication to empowering local communities through strategic collaborations and reliable service delivery.

“NP Sierra Leone is honored to partner with Dr. and Mrs. Kella in establishing Baokasie Services,” he stated. “This venture reflects our mission to ensure accessible, high-quality fuel services across Sierra Leone while contributing to community development.”

Vandi Bockarie highlighted the facility’s potential to stimulate economic growth, from creating employment opportunities to supporting local vendors and improving transportation efficiency. He also assured attendees of NP’s commitment to 24/7 operations, with trained staff ensuring uninterrupted service delivery.

Dr. Mustapha Tejan Kella, CEO of Baokasie Services, expressed his gratitude to NP Sierra Leone and other stakeholders for their support. He shared the vision behind the initiative: to deliver exceptional services, foster meaningful employment and enhance the economic prospects of the No. 2 River community.

“This journey wasn’t without challenges, but with collaboration and determination, we have realized a facility that not only serves this community but contributes to Sierra Leone’s broader economic development,” Dr. Mustapha Tejan Kella said.

Deputy Commissioner General of the National Revenue Authority (NRA), Madam Ann-Marie Harding, highlighted the importance of compliance and taxation in national development. She applauded Baokasie Services’ role in supporting reforms within the fuel-marking system to ensure quality and accountability.

“Baokasie Services is more than a business; it is a partner in building a resilient Sierra Leone,” she said, encouraging other investors to emulate this example of responsible enterprise.

A representative from the Petroleum Regulatory Agency (PRA) lauded the project for aligning with the Government’s energy poverty reduction strategy, which has expanded the number of petrol stations nationwide from 200 to over 470.

John Paul from the Standards Bureau assured attendees that stringent oversight would guarantee accurate fuel distribution at the station, emphasizing trust and quality assurance in every transaction.

With its strategic location, modern amenities and innovative approach to service delivery, Baokasie Services is set to revolutionize fuel and retail services in No. 2 River. It not only addresses critical infrastructure needs but also serves as a model for private-sector-driven growth in Sierra Leone.

The grand opening of Baokasie Services stands as a testament to the power of partnerships and innovation in fostering national development, setting a benchmark for future initiatives in the country.

Pastor Mambu Vindicated After Son’s Exhumation

By Esther Wright

A major breakthrough in a high-profile case has cleared Pastor Francis A. Mambu, General Overseer of the Faith Healing Bible Church, of allegations surrounding the death of his nine-year-old son, Jeremiah John Mambu. The child’s body was exhumed on Saturday, November 30, 2024, three months after his untimely demise.

A post-mortem examination conducted by renowned pathologist Dr. Simeon Owizz Koroma, alongside other medical experts and police personnel, confirmed that Jeremiah John Mambu died from “wet” drowning, leading to asphyxiation. The examination also revealed injuries to the skull around the temple, consistent with a fall into water. This crucial evidence exonerates Pastor Mambu of initial suspicions of ritualistic involvement in his son’s death.

The police investigation suggests Jeremiah John Mambu was pushed into the Orogu Bridge river in Allen Town on Tuesday, August 23, 2024, while swimming with other boys. Eyewitness accounts indicated that a boy, believed to be the main culprit, shoved him into the water while others stood on the riverbank. The alleged perpetrator has since gone into hiding, complicating the investigation.

The tragic incident occurred at the Orogu Bridge, towering over 60 meters high, a site where the young boy was reportedly lured by unknown individuals. Jeremiah John Mambu’s death, initially clouded in suspicion and controversy, is now being viewed as the result of a malicious act by peers rather than a ritual murder.

Authorities have made several arrests and are pursuing leads to locate the missing suspect. Police believe confessions from those present could bring further clarity to the circumstances surrounding Jeremiah’s death.

The ordeal has left Pastor Francis Mambu and his family in fear for their lives. Known for his outspoken evangelical stance against idol worship, occultism and corruption, Pastor Francis Mambu has been a target of death threats from those opposing his teachings. The threats intensified following the tragedy, leading to heightened security concerns for his family.

To safeguard his 17-year-old daughter, Grace Mambu, Pastor Francis Mambu arranged for her relocation to the United States, where she is now under the care of Pastor Peter Sandi, a branch pastor of Faith Healing Bible Church in Virginia. Grace, described as a bright and promising student, had struggled with her studies due to the constant threats and trauma following her brother’s death.

The Faith Healing Bible Church community and the wider Allen Town area are mourning the loss of Jeremiah John Mambu, described as a joyful and vibrant child. His death has sparked calls for justice and heightened awareness of the dangers faced by vulnerable children in the community.

As the investigation continues, Pastor Mambu remains steadfast in his mission, preaching hope and resilience to his congregation despite the trials he has faced. The pastor’s exoneration brings relief to his family and followers, yet the community awaits justice for Jeremiah Mambu and accountability for those responsible for the tragic incident.

Authorities urge anyone with information on the case to come forward to assist in ensuring justice is served.

Paul Ehrlich Institute of Germany Pays a Courtesy Visit to Pharmacy Board of Sierra Leone

By Esther Wright

The Paul Ehrlich Institute (PEI) of Germany recently visited the Pharmacy Board of Sierra Leone (PBSL), offering assistance in various activities while outlining plans for further collaboration in the coming year.

Dr. Oneme Abiri, the Head of Pharmacovigilance at Pharmacy Board of Sierra Leone (PBSL), provided an overview of the Paul Ehrlich Institute (PEI ) team’s mission. The delegation, led by Dr. Victoria Olaiya and Dr. Elaine Dibloni/Oubda, is involved in the RegTrain-VaccTrain Project. This initiative is part of the German Federal Ministry of Health’s (BMG) GHPP, aimed at supporting partner countries and the World Health Organization (WHO) in epidemic prevention efforts. The project’s pilot phase, VaccTrain I, focuses on building capacity in Clinical Trials Operations (CTO) in selected partner countries.

Key activities of the project include:

  1. Offering technical assistance to develop and implement regulatory frameworks and documents.
  2. Strengthening human resource capacity in Pharmacovigilance and CTO through the African Union Development Agency-New Partnership for Africa’s Development (AUDA-NEPAD) framework, which includes training programs like those at the FDA Ghana.
  3. Providing technical support for regional and pan-African regulatory harmonization, particularly with the African Vaccine Regulatory Forum (AVAREF).

Dr. Oneme Abiri  further explained that the PEI’s efforts in establishing a technical framework for CTO began in June 2018, leveraging VaccTrain-validated data generated from the self-benchmarking results of partner National Regulatory Authorities (NRAs), using the WHO’s Global Benchmarking Tool (GBT). This method offers a reliable approach to assess and improve regulatory systems.

During the visit, the team assisted PBSL in reviewing its Pharmacovigilance guidelines and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). This included an in-depth review of the Pharmacovigilance Inspection Guideline, Risk Management Plan Guideline and other relevant PV SOPs.

Looking ahead, Dr. Oneme Abiri shared plans for 2025, which include the development of a Regulatory Information Management System (RIMS), advanced training in Pharmacovigilance and clinical trials, and further collaboration with WHO-listed authorities.

The visit concluded with a discussion between the PEI team and PBSL’s top management, outlining key activities and goals for the upcoming year.

 

Inbound Lane Reopens at One Pole, Wellington-Masiaka Highway After Repairs

By Amin Kef Sesay

The Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA) has reopened the inbound lane of the Wellington-Masiaka Highway at One Pole, Allen Town (K5 Section), to traffic as of December 2, 2024. The reopening follows extensive emergency repairs undertaken to address a slope failure that occurred on July 28, 2024.

The incident, caused by unauthorized excavation and encroachment on the slope adjacent to the highway, led to the collapse of the slope and damage to nearby drainage facilities. This created significant risks, including potential landslides and posed dangers to road users, pedestrians and residents in the area.

In the aftermath of the disaster, the SLRA conducted a rapid on-site assessment and implemented a temporary closure of the affected lane to ensure public safety. China Railway Seventh Group (CRSG) promptly mobilized its team, including highly skilled engineers, support personnel, heavy machinery and pre-financed construction materials, to undertake emergency repairs that lasted nearly four months.

Despite challenges such as heavy rains, difficult terrain and material shortages, CRSG successfully completed slope reinforcement work by November 20, 2024. The repairs eliminated the risks to public and vehicular safety, paving the way for the resumption of normal traffic flow on December 2, 2024. Permanent strengthening of the repaired section is planned for the near future.

CRSG has consistently demonstrated its reliability as a partner to the Government and people of Sierra Leone. The company’s contributions include responding to the 2017 Freetown mudslide, aiding COVID-19 prevention efforts in 2020 and executing emergency repairs on the Savage Bridge. This latest intervention underscores CRSG’s professionalism and commitment to addressing Sierra Leone’s infrastructural needs during emergencies.

The Wellington-Masiaka Highway, a flagship project in China-Sierra Leone socioeconomic cooperation, continues to stand as a symbol of high engineering standards and operational excellence. It offers safe and efficient transit for vehicles and pedestrians, further boosting the nation’s infrastructure. The swift and effective response to the landslide highlights CRSG’s focus on Sierra Leone’s welfare and its capability to manage complex engineering challenges under adverse conditions.

CRSG Sierra Leone remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering stronger China-Sierra Leone ties and contributing to the country’s socioeconomic development.

New Energy Sector Overhaul Announced at President Bio’s Landmark Retreat

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Sierra Leone’s long-standing electricity challenges were at the forefront of the Energy Sector Retreat convened by President Dr. Julius Maada Bio on November 30, 2024, in Tokeh Village, along the Peninsula, Freetown. The historic event, the first of its kind chaired by the President himself for the energy sector, brought together senior executives and experts from institutions such as the Ministry of Energy, Electricity Distribution and Supply Agency (EDSA), Electricity Generation and Transmission Company (EGTC) and Electricity and Water Regulatory Commission (EWRC), alongside the Ministries of Finance and Mines and Mineral Resources.

The retreat aimed to find lasting solutions to the nation’s unreliable and unaffordable power supply, transmission inefficiencies and inadequate sector governance.

The two-day event concluded with impactful decisions aimed at overhauling the energy sector. These include:

  1. Establishment of a Command-and-Control Framework: Dr. Kandeh Yumkella was appointed sector head, emphasizing strategic leadership.
  2. A Dry Season Energy Plan: Focused on loss reduction and revenue enhancement through EDSA reforms.
  3. Comprehensive Training Initiatives: Designed to enhance skills across the sector.
  4. Creation of a Rural Electrification Agency: To expand electricity access in remote areas.
  5. Broad Energy Master Plan for the Mining Sector: Ensuring efficient and sustainable energy use.

All initiatives align with Pillar 4 of President Bio’s Big 5 Agenda and are tied to specific timelines to ensure prompt delivery.

In his keynote address, President Bio called for candid discussions and actionable solutions, describing the retreat as an opportunity to address the “elephant in the room”, the country’s poor energy supply and frequent load shedding.

“We are all not fit for purpose if we cannot fix this issue,” the President remarked sternly, urging stakeholders to deliver strategic, deliberate and diligent efforts. He emphasized the critical role of energy in national development and improving livelihoods.

President Bio also clarified the chain of command in the sector, reaffirming that Dr. Kandeh Yumkella, as the head of the Energy Governance Coordination Group (EGCG), holds direct oversight, with the two deputy ministers reporting to him.

  • Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh focused on EDSA’s financial sustainability, calling for investments in modern infrastructure and reduced electricity theft.
  • Minister of Finance Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura pledged Government support for energy projects and challenged agency heads to raise capital and deliver results.
  • Chief Minister Dr. David Moinina Sengeh issued a six-month ultimatum to energy agencies to meet their targets or face resignations.
  • Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources Julius Mattai highlighted the urgent need to extend electricity to mining companies, predicting a sector demand of 1GW in the next five years.

The retreat approved several critical initiatives, including:

  • A financing model for the dry season energy supply plan.
  • Establishing a team to negotiate with Karpowership for a permanent power solution.
  • Creating a Project Management Unit and a Corporate Planning Office at EDSA.
  • Introducing private sector participation in EDSA operations.
  • Developing a pipeline of projects with tracking systems for timely execution.

As Chair of the Presidential Initiative on Climate Change, Renewable Energy, and Food Security, Dr. Kandeh Yumkella described the energy crisis as a “pandemic” requiring immediate and long-term solutions. He emphasized the need to transition from emergency power solutions to sustainable strategies.

“We can no longer continue to be in emergency or crisis mode with our electricity,” Kandeh Yumkella asserted, reflecting the urgency of reforms.

President Bio’s leadership at the retreat demonstrated his commitment to solving the energy crisis. The outcomes signify a turning point for Sierra Leone’s energy sector, with clear plans to provide reliable, affordable and sustainable electricity for the nation.

With bold decisions and strong accountability mechanisms in place, Sierra Leone is poised to overcome its electricity challenges and drive economic growth through a revitalized energy sector.

 

Choithram Memorial Hospital to Transform Lives with Free Surgery Camp

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In an innovative initiative aimed at improving healthcare accessibility in Sierra Leone, Choithram Memorial Hospital has announced a Free Surgery Camp, slated to run from December 9 to December 14, 2024. This program will provide free cleft lip and palate surgeries to individuals who otherwise may not have access to such critical medical care.

The camp will be led by the distinguished Professor (Dr.) Bayo Aluko-Olokun, a globally acclaimed Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon based in Abuja, Nigeria. Renowned for developing the Olokun-Olaitan technique for cleft lip and palate repair, Dr. Aluko-Olokun will collaborate with Dr. Eric Wongo, a skilled Plastic Surgeon at Choithram Memorial Hospital. The duo, supported by a dedicated team of medical professionals from Sierra Leone and Nigeria, is committed to delivering top-tier care to all beneficiaries.

The initiative aims to serve both new patients requiring their first surgeries and individuals in need of follow-up procedures. By providing these services at no cost, Choithram Memorial Hospital reinforces its dedication to breaking financial barriers and ensuring equitable healthcare access for all.

Dr. Gowrinath M. George, Medical Superintendent of Choithram Memorial Hospital, emphasized the life-changing impact of this initiative.
“This is a unique opportunity for many Sierra Leoneans to receive transformative medical care. We strongly encourage eligible individuals to seize this chance to improve their quality of life,” he remarked.

Harish Agnani, Chief Administrator of the Choithram Group, echoed this sentiment, reaffirming the organization’s unwavering commitment to community welfare.
“Our focus has always been on delivering advanced and compassionate healthcare to the people of Sierra Leone. The Free Surgery Camp is a testament to our mission of making healthcare accessible and impactful for all,” he stated.

This initiative builds upon Choithram Memorial Hospital’s reputation as a pioneer in healthcare innovation. Earlier this year, the hospital introduced a state-of-the-art MRI machine, elevating its diagnostic capabilities and solidifying its status as a leader in quality medical care.

Registration for the Free Surgery Camp commenced on November 6, 2024, and interested individuals are encouraged to register promptly by contacting the hospital at +232 76 541 331 or visiting its premises at Hill Station in Freetown.

By offering this critical service, Choithram Memorial Hospital not only transforms lives but also reinforces its role as a beacon of hope and excellence in Sierra Leone’s healthcare sector. This initiative exemplifies the hospital’s core values of compassion, innovation, and expertise, setting a benchmark for healthcare accessibility in the region.

Through this transformative effort, Choithram Memorial Hospital continues to empower the most vulnerable members of society, demonstrating its belief that quality healthcare is a fundamental right, not a privilege.

President Bio Joins First Lady and Stakeholders in Prostate Cancer Awareness Walk

By Foday Moriba Conteh

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio joined First Lady Fatima Bio and key stakeholders in a solidarity walk to raise awareness about prostate cancer. The event, themed “Waka for We Man Dem,” underscored the importance of collective action against a condition that predominantly affects men, while promoting dialogue on broader gender and health issues.

Addressing participants at the event on Saturday, November 30, 2024, President Bio expressed deep appreciation for the unwavering support from Sierra Leonean women and youth. “I want to say a big thank you to the women and youths of this country for dedicating their efforts to supporting an issue that does not directly affect them. To us, the men, this is a call to action to also show solidarity with women on issues such as rape, domestic violence and other gender-related challenges,” he said.

The President emphasized the advice of medical professionals, including Consultant Urologist Dr. Gordon Harris and Pathologist Professor Babatunde Duduyemi, encouraging men over 40 to prioritize regular health screenings. “Knowing your medical status early can make a significant difference in managing health challenges, including prostate cancer,” he remarked.

Highlighting advancements in the country’s healthcare sector, President Bio shared insights from his recent visit to Vienna, which facilitated progress in acquiring technology to treat prostate cancer locally. “We are in advanced stages of acquiring technology that will help treat prostate cancer and I am proud that this is one of the outcomes of my efforts for the people of Sierra Leone,” he announced.

The President also called for a cultural shift in addressing sensitive social issues. “We must change the narrative. Women should not die as a result of domestic violence; it is unacceptable,” he asserted, urging men to actively engage in conversations about gender-based violence, menstruation and other topics traditionally considered taboo.

First Lady Fatima Bio echoed these sentiments, commending the participants for their dedication. “Together, we can create a better future by supporting our men in their fight against prostate cancer,” she said, also lauding the President for his steadfast support of women’s issues, describing him as a “hero for the women of Sierra Leone.”

The event featured expert contributions from Dr. Gordon Harris and Professor Babatunde Duduyemi, who provided vital information about prostate cancer. They stressed that not all prostate-related conditions are cancerous, highlighting the importance of early detection through regular screenings.

“Prostate cancer can be treated right here in our country. We are equipped to do a lot for those affected,” Professor Duduyemi assured the audience. He expressed gratitude to President Bio for his leadership, crediting the President’s vision for their inclusion in Sierra Leone’s healthcare advancements.

The event also recognized key contributions from organizations and individuals, including Tina Davies, OBE, OOR and numerous young men and women who participated. The solidarity walk served as a powerful reminder of the importance of unity and collective responsibility in addressing critical health and social issues.

With a call to action and a message of hope, the event marked a significant step in fostering awareness and mobilizing resources to combat prostate cancer while promoting inclusivity and societal growth.

 

Vice President Reaffirms Sierra Leone’s Commitment to Tackling GBV and Healthcare Challenges

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to addressing Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and enhancing healthcare delivery in Sierra Leone. Speaking at a conference held on Monday, December 2, 2024, at the Katco International Hotel in Freetown as part of the global 16 Days of Activism campaign, VP Juldeh Jalloh underscored the Government’s dedication to protecting vulnerable populations and advancing social equity.

During his keynote address, the Vice President highlighted the interconnected nature of GBV and healthcare challenges, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding women and children while ensuring they have access to essential services. He noted that significant strides have been made in promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment but acknowledged that much work remains to secure lasting change.

“In commemoration of the 16 Days of Activism on GBV, I highlighted the Government’s efforts over the years to protect and promote gender equality and women’s empowerment,” stated the Vice President. “I also addressed the challenges we must navigate diligently to ensure the gains achieved are not reversed. Community ownership of strategies to combat GBV is critical for sustainable solutions.”

The Vice President called for deeper collaboration among activists, Government agencies and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) to create community-driven strategies that prevent GBV, support victims and drive long-term solutions. He praised the efforts of organizations and individuals working tirelessly to empower women and girls across the nation, noting that their contributions are pivotal in shaping a more equitable society.

“I have witnessed the profound impact of community-led action in driving sustainable solutions to prevent and protect victims of GBV,” he remarked. “We must continue to empower and give agency to our women and girls to ensure a brighter, safer future for all.”

The event served as a platform to reinforce Sierra Leone’s dedication to tackling GBV and healthcare challenges through inclusive and community-centered approaches, further solidifying the Government’s commitment to building a more equitable and resilient society.

The global 16 Days of Activism campaign, which began on November 25 and runs through December 10, continues to serve as a critical call to action to end violence against women and girls worldwide. Sierra Leone’s participation in the campaign demonstrates the country’s ongoing resolve to address these pressing issues.

Caritas Freetown and Partners Equip Women with Advocacy and Leadership Skills

By Esther Wright

Caritas Freetown, with support from the UNBPF project and in partnership with Catholic Relief Services (CRS), concluded a two-day intensive training program designed to enhance the social and leadership skills of young women in the Western Urban Area District. The training, held at the New Sella Spot Hall on Kingharman Road, took place from Thursday, November 28 to Friday, November 29, 2024.

This transformative initiative aimed to empower young women aspirants with critical skills in leadership, advocacy, lobbying and strategic thinking. By bringing together a diverse group of participants, including young women leaders, community stakeholders, persons with disabilities, Ministry representatives and Councilors, the program emphasized inclusivity and collaboration.

The training had several specific objectives, including equipping participants with public speaking, mobilization, advocacy and fundraising skills. Additionally, it aimed to boost the confidence and self-esteem of young women, encouraging their active involvement in leadership roles within their communities.

In her opening remarks, the Project Coordinator, Madam Eliza Sillah, highlighted the significance of such initiatives in addressing gender disparities in leadership. “This training is not just about teaching skills it’s about creating a platform where young women can envision themselves as leaders and change-makers,” she said.

“Through this initiative, we aim to equip young women with the necessary tools to take on leadership roles and contribute meaningfully to the development of our society. It’s important that women not only have the opportunity but also the confidence to lead in various sectors, be it politics, business or community development.”

Participants shared their enthusiasm for the training, with many expressing newfound confidence and determination. “This training has given me the tools to advocate for change in my community,” said Mariama Kamara, a young woman participant. “Hearing from successful women leaders has inspired me to take bold steps towards my aspirations.”

A key highlight of the training was the inclusion of mentorship sessions, where successful women leaders shared their experiences and strategies for overcoming challenges in their respective fields. These sessions not only provided practical advice but also fostered a sense of community and mutual support among participants.

By the end of the program, participants were equipped with actionable strategies to mobilize resources, lead effectively and advocate for issues impacting their communities.

The training program marks a significant step forward in empowering young women in the Western Urban Area District. By fostering essential social skills and leadership capabilities, Caritas Freetown and its partners are paving the way for a generation of confident and capable women leaders.

As the participants return to their communities, they carry with them the skills, confidence and networks needed to effect meaningful change and contribute to the development of Sierra Leone.

Orange Sierra Leone Concludes Regional Stakeholder Engagement Tour Across Key Regions

Chief Commercial Officer Haffie Haffner
Chief Commercial Officer Haffie Haffner

Orange Sierra Leone has successfully concluded a four-day regional stakeholder engagement tour across the Eastern, Southern, and Northern regions of Sierra Leone. Led by Chief Commercial Officer Haffie Haffner and the CEO of Orange Money, David Mansaray, the tour covered key districts including Bo, Makeni, Kenema, Kabala, Kambia, and Kono. The initiative aimed to strengthen relationships with stakeholders and customers, foster open dialogue, and share insights about the company’s ongoing network modernization efforts.

The engagement began in Kono District, Eastern Region, with a courtesy visit to Paramount Chief Tamba Amadu, Town Chief of Koeyo Section. Expressing gratitude for the visit, Chief Amadu noted the importance of such engagements for advancing network development in his community. Speaking during the session, Haffie Haffner reiterated Orange’s commitment to listening to customer needs and ensuring reliable network availability in Kono.

The tour continued to Kenema District, where the Orange delegation met with local leaders in Nongowa Chiefdom. Discussions focused on the company’s efforts to modernize its network infrastructure and address communication challenges in the region.

In the Northern Region, the team visited Makeni and Kabala. In Makeni, Section Chief John Turay of Talent Town commended Orange for recent network improvements, while urging the company to enhance communication regarding ongoing developments. He expressed optimism for sustained progress following months of network challenges.

In Kambia District, the Orange delegation engaged with Paramount Chief Bai Farama Tass N’gbak IV, alongside the town chief and the District Council Chairman. CEO David Mansaray emphasized that the primary objective of these engagements was to gather firsthand insights on network performance and identify ways to better serve local communities.

The tour underscores Orange Sierra Leone’s dedication to fostering strong stakeholder relationships and addressing customer concerns. By directly connecting with local communities, the company seeks to ensure its services align with the needs of Sierra Leoneans across the nation.

As part of its broader commitment, Orange has made significant investments in network infrastructure to enhance service reliability and boost mobile and data penetration nationwide. The company reassures customers of its unwavering dedication to delivering high-quality network services tailored to meet their evolving demands.

This initiative highlights Orange Sierra Leone’s proactive approach to fostering inclusivity and modernization within the telecommunications sector, ensuring that communities across Sierra Leone remain connected.

Chief Commercial Officer Haffie Haffner
Chief Commercial Officer Haffie Haffner

(Photo Caption: Stakeholders Engagement in Koeyo Section, Kono District, Eastern Region)

(Photo Caption: Stakeholders Engagement in Koeyo Section, Kono District, Eastern Region)
(Photo Caption: Stakeholders Engagement in Koeyo Section, Kono District, Eastern Region)
(Photo Caption: Stakeholder Engagement in Nongowa Chiefdom, Kenema District)
(Photo Caption: Stakeholder Engagement in Nongowa Chiefdom, Kenema District)
(Photo Caption: Stakeholder Engagement in Magbema Chiefdom, Kambia District)
(Photo Caption: Stakeholder Engagement in Magbema Chiefdom, Kambia District)

 

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