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Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin Reappointed as Rokel Commercial Bank MD

July 16, 2025

By Amin Kef-Ranger

The reappointment of Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin (COOR, HCIB) as Managing Director of Rokel Commercial Bank by His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio has been met with jubilation across all levels of the bank, with both senior and junior staff praising the decision as a testament to transformational leadership, institutional excellence and national progress.

Since assuming leadership of Rokel Commercial Bank in 2017, Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin has been credited with steering the once-ailing institution into a modern, robust and competitive player in Sierra Leone’s financial landscape. His reappointment is seen not merely as a renewal of contract, but as a continuation of a legacy of visionary leadership marked by financial growth, digital innovation and people-centered transformation.

In an official congratulatory message, the Senior Staff Association of Rokel Commercial Bank described the reappointment as well-deserved and reflective of Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin’s exceptional performance. They highlighted that under his leadership, the bank has grown significantly in strength, reputation and resilience. The Association further emphasized that his strategic direction has inspired innovation, fostered a culture of accountability and elevated the bank’s standing as a benchmark of integrity and performance within the financial sector. Pledging their continued loyalty and support, the Senior Staff Association expressed confidence that the institution would reach even greater heights under his renewed mandate.

Equally enthusiastic in their reaction, the Junior Staff Association offered heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin and extended appreciation to President Julius Maada Bio for what they described as a wise and forward-looking decision. They stated that the reappointment was not just a Management decision, but a powerful endorsement of a leader whose vision has empowered not only the bank but its employees. The Junior Staff Association acknowledged Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin’s deep commitment to building a dynamic, technology-driven institution that actively promotes the growth and development of its junior workforce. According to them, his open-door leadership style and investments in staff capacity have created a sense of belonging and professional purpose among younger employees.

Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin’s track record since assuming office is widely seen as one of the most remarkable success stories in Sierra Leone’s banking sector. One of his most significant achievements was the recapitalization of the bank, increasing its operating capital from Le 91 billion to Le 271 billion. This made Rokel Commercial Bank the first commercial bank in Sierra Leone to meet and exceed the Central Bank’s capital requirements within a year; an achievement that drew commendation from both national and international observers. Today, he oversees 18 branches and 9 outlets across the country and continues to champion financial inclusion through the deployment of additional ATMs, the rollout of digital banking platforms and the development of tailored products for underserved communities.

Beyond institutional achievements, Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin has also received national recognition for his contributions. He was awarded the Order of the Rokel, Sierra Leone’s highest national honor,for his outstanding service to the banking sector. He is a seasoned banker with an MSc in International Business from the University of Birmingham in the United Kingdom, a Chartered Member of the Chartered Institute of Bankers, and formerly served as Director of Banking Supervision at the Bank of Sierra Leone. He has also represented Sierra Leone in international financial forums, sharing insights on institutional reform, public sector banking transformation, and economic empowerment.

As he embarks on a new chapter of service, the reappointment of Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin is being viewed by stakeholders as a strategic continuation of a journey that has redefined public banking in Sierra Leone. The renewed support from both senior and junior staff underscores his role not only as a leader of an institution but as a national asset whose integrity, expertise and vision continue to inspire hope and pride.

The widespread applause following the announcement speaks volumes about the trust and admiration Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin commands within the Rokel Commercial Bank family and beyond. His leadership has come to symbolize what is possible when competence, patriotism and innovation are placed at the heart of public service.

DG Yakuba Bio Advocates Modernized Ports and Regional Integration in High-Level Egypt Talks

July 16, 2025

Marking a significant step toward modernizing Sierra Leone’s port and harbour infrastructure, the Director General of the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority (SLPHA), Yakuba A. Bio, led a high-powered delegation to the Arab Republic of Egypt to strengthen bilateral cooperation in port development, maritime safety and logistics innovation.

The working visit, held from July 8 to 9, brought together key figures including Sierra Leone’s Minister of Transport and Aviation, the Ambassador to Egypt and other senior officials. They engaged with top Egyptian maritime authorities, notably Rear Admiral Hussein Elgheziry, Head of the Egyptian Authority for Maritime Safety. A highlight of the visit was an extensive tour of the Alexandria Port; one of Africa’s most advanced maritime hubs.

DG Yakuba A. Bio described Egypt’s port infrastructure as a model of what is achievable through strategic planning and investment. “Egypt’s example provides a clear blueprint for how strategic planning, investment and technical innovation can transform a nation’s maritime economy,” he remarked. “We are laying the groundwork for an ambitious but achievable transformation of Sierra Leone’s ports and inland logistics capabilities.”

During technical sessions and bilateral discussions, DG Yakuba A. Bio presented SLPHA’s forward-looking vision for Sierra Leone’s maritime sector. Central to this vision is the establishment of a modern Inland Container Dry Port near Freetown or at another strategic trade location. That facility is expected to serve as a logistics hub for customs clearance and cargo distribution, easing pressure on seaports and enhancing trade routes to the interior and neighboring countries like Guinea and Mali.

The delegation also shared detailed plans from SLPHA’s ongoing modernization strategy, including:

Formulation of a 25-Year National Port Master Plan to provide strategic direction for infrastructure development.
Enhancement of Inland Connectivity, emphasizing improved road and rail links to regional trade corridors.
Construction of a Port Reception Facility at the Queen Elizabeth II Quay to meet international environmental standards.
Implementation of a National Electronic Single-Window System to improve cargo clearance, transparency and efficiency.
Deployment of a Modern Security Access Control System at Queen Elizabeth II Quay to boost safety and cargo monitoring.

Those initiatives are aligned with Sierra Leone’s national development agenda and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) goals, which aim to create a seamless, competitive and sustainable trade environment across Africa.

In a demonstration of solidarity and mutual interest, Egypt committed to supporting Sierra Leone’s port sector development through three major avenues:

Technical Assistance: Egyptian engineers will collaborate with SLPHA in drafting and implementing master plans for new port infrastructure and inland logistics zones.
Training and Capacity Building: Egypt will offer fully funded training programs for marine engineers and pilots, focusing on Flag State Procedures and Port State Control mechanisms.
Private Sector Engagement: Egyptian authorities expressed willingness to encourage joint ventures and private investment to establish direct maritime shipping routes between Sierra Leone and key Egyptian ports like Alexandria and Damietta. This would reduce shipping costs and increase trade volumes.

The delegation’s tour of Alexandria Port revealed key insights into operational excellence, digital transformation and sustainable port management. These takeaways will directly inform Sierra Leone’s own infrastructure upgrades and administrative reforms.

DG Yakuba A. Bio emphasized the broader vision of the visit: “We are not just improving our ports; we are building a trade network that connects Sierra Leone to the region and the world. These partnerships will help us turn plans into action.”

The Director General closed the visit by reaffirming SLPHA’s commitment to sustainable development, private sector collaboration and regional integration. “This cooperation marks the beginning of a new era for Sierra Leone’s maritime sector,” he concluded.

The strategic engagement underscores Sierra Leone’s determination to reposition itself as a competitive trade and logistics hub in West Africa, leveraging regional partnerships and global best practices to drive inclusive growth and economic resilience.

Sierra Leone Mining Sector Advances with New ESG and ESIA Capacity-Building Workshop

July 16, 2025

Engineers and geologists from the National Minerals Agency (NMA) were among a broad group of stakeholders who gained vital knowledge and tools during the opening of a five-day workshop organized by the Intergovernmental Forum (IGF), in collaboration with the Ministry of Mines and Mineral Resources and the National Minerals Agency.

The workshop, which began on Monday, 7th July 2025, is focused on the implementation of the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) Diagnostic Tool and the strengthening of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) frameworks within Sierra Leone’s mining sector.

Participants included representatives from the Ministry of Lands and Country Planning, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Local Councils, engineering and geology students from various universities. The central aim of the training is to enhance the capacity of key actors to integrate ESG standards and improve ESIA systems; ensuring that mining operations in Sierra Leone remain environmentally sustainable and socially responsible.

At the heart of the training is the IGF Mining ESIA Tool (MET), a practical framework developed to evaluate and improve national ESIA systems. Together with the ESIA Diagnostic Tool, the MET supports transparency, regulatory compliance and the adoption of sustainable practices in mineral resource development.

Delivering an in-depth presentation during the opening sessions, Cedric Palmer, Manager of Large-scale Mining at NMA, provided participants with a comprehensive overview of Sierra Leone’s mining sector. He detailed the country’s legal and regulatory frameworks, licensing procedures, institutional arrangements and its rich endowment of both known and potential mineral resources. Cedric Palmer also addressed the challenges of illegal artisanal mining and outlined ongoing Government efforts to curb unregulated operations.

Adding to the discussion, Aiah Wurie Kembay, Deputy Director of Field Operations and Extension at the EPA, introduced the Agency’s Service Charter and Operational Checklist. He explained the EPA’s core responsibilities and its role in enforcing environmental compliance throughout the mining lifecycle.

Throughout the workshop, participants were exposed to international best practices in ESG integration, including strategies to mitigate environmental and social risks and promote responsible mineral development. These practices aim to align Sierra Leone’s mining operations with both national development priorities and global sustainability goals.

Organizers of the workshop say the initiative is part of a broader Government strategy to improve transparency, environmental stewardship and social accountability in the extractives sector.

The five-day training underscores Sierra Leone’s growing commitment to strengthening governance, safeguarding natural resources and ensuring that mining contributes meaningfully to national economic development while protecting communities and ecosystems.

Guild of Editors Engages Press Secretary on Strengthening Media-Government Collaboration

July 16, 2025

By Amin Kef-Ranger

Demonstrating solidarity and a commitment to national development through responsible journalism, the Executive of the Sierra Leone Guild of Editors (SLGE), led by its newly elected President, Thomas Dixon, paid a courtesy call on the Press Secretary to the President, Yusuf Keketoma Sandi Esq., on Friday, 11 July 2025, at State House in Freetown.

The meeting, described as warm and constructive, focused on deepening collaboration between the media and the Office of the President, while reaffirming the Guild’s dedication to promoting good governance through ethical and balanced journalism.

Welcoming the delegation, Yusuf Keketoma Sandi expressed appreciation for the visit and emphasized the pivotal role editors play in shaping public discourse. “I receive you today not just as Press Secretary to the President, but also as a fellow member of the media fraternity,” he said. “President Bio is a firm believer in press freedom. He sees a free and responsible media as central to democratic accountability and national progress.”

Highlighting the need for stronger collaboration, the National Secretary of the Guild, Ishmael Saidu Kanu Esq., described the Office of the Press Secretary as a critical communication bridge between the public and the Presidency. “As editors, we view this office as one of our key touchpoints for accurate information and coordination. Strengthening our relationship can only benefit the nation,” he noted.

Guild President, Thomas Dixon, extended his gratitude for the reception and reaffirmed the Guild’s unwavering commitment to national development through factual reporting and professional ethics. He also congratulated President Julius Maada Bio on his recent election as Chairman of the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government.

“We are proud to see Sierra Leone take on such a significant leadership role on the regional stage,” Thomas Dixon stated. He further outlined the Guild’s strategic priorities, which include instituting lifetime achievement awards to honor veteran editors, equipping media professionals through digital journalism training and advocating for policy reforms that support the financial sustainability of the print media particularly through revisiting outdated Government advertising frameworks.

“We are grateful for the Government’s continued subventions to the media sector,” he said, “but we also seek more structured collaboration to empower media institutions in a rapidly changing information landscape.”

Responding to the Guild’s proposals, Yusuf Keketoma Sandi welcomed their strategic initiatives and expressed the Presidency’s readiness to engage. “On behalf of His Excellency President Bio, I want to assure you that our doors are open. Once your strategic plan is finalized, we will identify areas of mutual interest and cooperation,” he affirmed.

He concluded the meeting by thanking the Guild for their visit and pledged to deliver their congratulatory message to President Bio, reaffirming that the Government remains committed to fostering a free, responsible and empowered press in Sierra Leone.

The meeting marks a renewed chapter in media-Government collaboration, with both parties expressing optimism for a partnership grounded in mutual respect, professionalism and a shared vision for national development.

NP (SL) Strengthens Customer Care Through Innovation and Service Excellence

July 16, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

NP (SL) Limited, Sierra Leone’s leading indigenous petroleum marketing company continues to prioritize customer satisfaction at the heart of its operations, reinforcing its position as a trusted name in the energy sector.

Founded in 1996 by thirty-five Sierra Leonean shareholders after the privatization of the petroleum industry, NP (SL) has grown steadily from a local business into a strong regional player, operating not just in Sierra Leone but also in Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast and The Gambia. Its steady expansion is built on a solid foundation of customer care, transparency and innovation.

At the company’s numerous Filling Stations nationwide, customers enjoy reliable service with the help of modern calibrated pumping machines that ensure accurate fuel delivery. This focus on fairness and precision has earned NP (SL) the reputation of being “1st For Customer Care”; a title further supported by feedback from recent nationwide surveys and public endorsements by community stakeholders.

NP (SL) also plays a key role in job creation by employing only Sierra Leoneans across its operations, contributing significantly to national development. It actively supports local businesses and suppliers, making it a major player in promoting local content and economic empowerment.

In response to the evolving needs of its customers, NP (SL) has introduced several user-friendly digital tools. One of these includes the the NP Energy Pass Card, a modern solutions that allows customers to pay for fuel electronically, receive real-time updates via SMS and track their fuel usage. It is tailored to boost convenience, transparency and trust in fuel transactions across the country.

Beyond fuel, the company continues to meet household energy needs through NP Gas; a clean and efficient cooking gas product available in different cylinder sizes. It offers a safer and more environmentally friendly option compared to traditional cooking methods and is gaining widespread popularity in homes.

Safety and professionalism remain key pillars of NP (SL)’s service delivery. Every Filling Station is equipped with safety equipment, clear signage and trained staff capable of responding to emergencies. In addition, frontline staffs are trained to engage customers with respect and provide helpful, knowledgeable service at all times.

The company’s presence in other West African countries highlights its regional strength and showcases a Sierra Leonean brand committed to excellence beyond borders. At home, NP (SL) continues to support local communities through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, such as improving fuel access in remote areas and helping reduce transportation costs for rural populations.

From households and businesses to Government institutions, NP (SL) remains a dependable energy partner. With a focus on innovation, customer care and community impact, the company continues to set the standard for responsible petroleum marketing in Sierra Leone and across the region.

NP (SL) is more than just a fuel provider; it is a symbol of national pride, service excellence and a model for homegrown business success.

UNDP, EU & ECOWAS Host Workshop to Strengthen Civil Society’s Role in Security Sector Reform

July 16, 2025

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a bid to strengthen civil society’s involvement in Security Sector Reform and Governance (SSRG) in Sierra Leone, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in partnership with the EU Support to ECOWAS in Peace, Security and Governance (EPSG) Project, has hosted a three-day national workshop in Freetown.

The workshop, which commenced on Monday, 14th July 2025, at the Atlantic Lumley Beach Hotel, brought together representatives from Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), Government institutions, development partners and technical experts. It aims to enhance collaboration and promote inclusive, transparent and accountable security governance in the country. The event concludes today, 16th July 2025.

The EPSG Project co-funded by the European Union and Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) is implemented by GIZ, Expertise France and FIAP, in partnership with ECOWAS. The project seeks to strengthen Peacebuilding, security and governance capacity across West Africa.

In his remarks, UNDP Resident Representative, Fredrick Ampiah, emphasized the importance of trust between citizens and security institutions, stating that, “A security sector is only as strong as the trust people have in it. When citizens feel safe and believe in fairness and accountability, peace and progress take root.”

He acknowledged the efforts of the Government of Sierra Leone in reforming security institutions, highlighting UNDP’s ongoing partnership with the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Office of National Security, the Sierra Leone Police and the Correctional Service.

Fredrick Ampiah further commended the European Union, the German Government, ECOWAS and GIZ for their collaborative support through the ECOWAS Peace, Security and Governance (EPSG) Project. He noted that the workshop presents a vital opportunity for civil society to shape people-centered security policies through dialogue, policy monitoring and advocacy.

Farrel Elliot, Finance Manager of the West African Health Organization (WAHO), speaking on behalf of the ECOWAS Resident Representative, reaffirmed the regional body’s commitment to democratic governance and inclusive security sector reform.

He emphasized that Security Sector Reform and Governance (SSRG) is not merely a technical process but a fundamental political and societal transformation. “It requires inclusive dialogue, robust oversight and strong partnerships among Government institutions, international partners and most importantly civil society,” he stated.

Farrel Elliot reminded participants that ECOWAS’s Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance affirms the indispensable role of civil society in upholding democratic values and ensuring transparent and inclusive governance. He described the workshop not just as a coordination platform but as “a reaffirmation of the principle that security must serve the people and governance must be rights-based and inclusive.”

Reflecting on Sierra Leone’s post-conflict journey, he highlighted the country’s wealth of experience in rebuilding public trust and institutions lessons, he noted, that can benefit other ECOWAS member states.

He concluded by encouraging participants to collaborate and innovate. “The strength of civil society lies not only in advocacy but in your ability to propose viable solutions, monitor reforms, and bridge the gap between citizens and the state,” Farrel Elliot said, reaffirming ECOWAS’s ongoing support for people-centered reforms across the region.

German Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Jens Kraus-Massé, lauded the Government of Sierra Leone for the official launch of its National Security Policy and Strategy (NSPS), describing it as a “significant milestone” in the country’s commitment to peace, stability and national development.

He extended congratulations on behalf of the German Government, praising President Julius Maada Bio and national leadership for their dedication to advancing security and good governance.

“This milestone is a testament to the collaborative efforts among Government institutions, security agencies, civil society and international partners,” he said. “It reflects Sierra Leone’s proactive response to both traditional and emerging security threats, including terrorism, transnational crime and cyber insecurity.”

He emphasized that the new security strategy prioritizes inclusivity, human rights and community-centered approaches, placing ordinary citizens and local communities at the heart of the country’s security efforts.

Ambassador Jens Kraus-Massé also stressed the importance of wide dissemination and implementation of the NSPS, calling for continued political will, institutional capacity-building and meaningful stakeholder engagement especially with marginalized and vulnerable populations.

He reaffirmed the German Government’s commitment to supporting Sierra Leone’s security reforms through the ECOWAS Peace and Security Architecture and Operations (EPSAO) Project, co-funded by the European Union. The project supports border management, resilience building and regional security cooperation.

Director of Policy and Coordination at the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Mohamed Yoki described CSOs as essential to fostering national unity and trust in state institutions. “Civil Society builds the bridge between policy and people,” he said urging CSOs to continue holding institutions accountable.

Over three days, participants engaged in breakout sessions and panel discussions designed to generate actionable recommendations for integrating CSOs more meaningfully into SSRG processes.

Jeety Trading Company Honoured by SLAJ for Outstanding Support to the Media

July 16, 2025

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) on Friday, July 11, 2025, honoured Jeety Group of Companies with a prestigious Certificate of Appreciation for its consistent support to the journalism profession and media development in Sierra Leone. The recognition was presented during the official handing-over ceremony between SLAJ’s outgoing and incoming Presidents at the Bintumani Hotel, Aberdeen in Freetown.

Jeety Trading Company, a key subsidiary of the Jeety Group operating in Sierra Leone, was singled out for its ongoing partnership with SLAJ and its demonstrated commitment to promoting Press Freedom and responsible journalism.

Receiving the award on behalf of the company, Tarwinder Singh, a senior representative of Jeety Trading Company, conveyed the company’s heartfelt gratitude and humility. He said the entire Jeety team was honoured to receive the recognition, which he described as a significant encouragement to continue their work in supporting the media and national development.

Tarwinder Singh expressed thanks to the leadership of SLAJ, especially Ex-President Ahmed Sahid Nasralla for acknowledging their efforts. He noted that although their CEO, Mr. S. Mohinder Bir Singh Sachdeva, widely known as Pa Jeety, is currently out of the country, he was deeply touched by the gesture and extended his appreciation.

He further highlighted Pa Jetty’s strong belief in the vital role of a free and vibrant media in building a democratic and accountable society. He said the award reaffirmed their commitment to supporting journalism and deepening their partnership with SLAJ in the interest of community progress.

Tarwinder Singh concluded by reiterating the company’s readiness to maintain and strengthen its relationship with SLAJ, adding that the recognition would serve as motivation to continue contributing meaningfully to the growth and development of Sierra Leone.

Jeety Group of Companies, under the leadership of Pa Jeety, has become a household name in Sierra Leone for its philanthropic work, humanitarian gestures and strong support for national development efforts ranging from education and healthcare to food support and media engagement.

With SLAJ embracing a new chapter of leadership, the Association’s recognition of Jeety Trading Company stands as a testament to the value of collaboration in building a transparent and accountable society.

Minister Kenyeh Barlay Unveils 2025 State of the World Population Report at FBC

July 14, 2025

The Minister of Planning and Economic Development (MoPED), Madam Kenyeh Barlay, officially launched the 2025 State of the World Population Report and this year’s World Population Day (WPD) at a ceremony held on July 11, 2025 at the Multi-Purpose Hall, Fourah Bay College, University of Sierra Leone. The event was themed: “Empowering Young People to Create the Families They Want in a Fair and Hopeful World.”

In her keynote address, Madam Kenyeh Barlay highlighted the global significance of this year’s report, titled “The Real Fertility Crisis: The Pursuit of Reproductive Agency in a Changing World,” first unveiled by UNFPA on June 10 in Nairobi, Kenya. She emphasized that the focus is not on low fertility rates but on the global crisis of limited reproductive autonomy. Drawing on insights from over 14,000 respondents across 14 countries, the report debunks fears about declining fertility and instead reveals that economic hardship, systemic barriers and lack of access to reproductive health services are preventing people from having children when and how they wish.

“This is not just a demographic issue,” Madam Kenyeh Barlay stressed, “It is a human rights, development and justice issue. In Sierra Leone, we face the dual challenge of a fast-growing youthful population and ongoing unmet reproductive health needs. We must shift the narrative from population control to reproductive agency; from numbers to people.”

She noted progress in Sierra Leone, with the total fertility rate declining from 5.1 in 2008 to 4.2 in 2019, but pointed out significant disparities between rural and urban areas. The Minister raised concerns about continued adolescent pregnancies, early marriages, low contraceptive use and a lack of access to reproductive services in underserved communities.

Madam Kenyeh Barlay reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to tackling those challenges, citing President Julius Maada Bio’s human capital development agenda, the Free Quality School Education Programme, the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Act and the National Youth Employment Scheme. She also mentioned that the newly launched Medium-Term National Development Plan (2024–2030) prioritizes gender equality, youth development and inclusive social services.

“Reproductive freedom is not a luxury it is fundamental to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the ICPD Programme of Action and Sierra Leone’s national development vision,” she stated.

The Minister applauded the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and development partners for their unwavering support in promoting rights-based population policies. She appealed for increased investment in youth-led reproductive health programs, better national data systems, stronger health and social protection systems and greater support for community-based interventions, especially in marginalized and hard-to-reach areas.

She further called for strengthened accountability, stressing that rights are fulfilled through action and investment, not intention alone. She encouraged inclusive participation, especially of men and boys, in promoting gender equality and reproductive justice.

“We must ensure a future where choice is protected, dignity preserved and equity prioritized. This report must not sit on shelves; it must drive action, inform policies and guide investments that uphold the reproductive rights of every Sierra Leonean,” she concluded.

Other speakers at the event included UNFPA Sierra Leone Country Representative ,Nadia Rasheed and the Vice Chancellor of the University of Sierra Leone, Professor Kelleh Mansaray, who warmly welcomed attendees.

The event also featured a panel discussion moderated by Islander Kabia with contributions from the Institute of Population and Development Studies, a Q&A session, screening of a short UNFPA video and a vote of thanks delivered by lecturer Fatmata Bangura.

The launch underscored Sierra Leone’s ongoing efforts to promote reproductive rights and inclusive development as the country joins the global community in marking World Population Day 2025.

Sierra Leone Vaccinates Over 133,000 Amid Rising Mpox Cases

July 14, 2025

More than 133,000 people across Sierra Leone have received the first dose of the Mpox vaccine as part of the country’s ongoing response to the 2025 outbreak, according to data from the Ministry of Health’s Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI).

The vaccination drive, conducted in two rounds of reactive campaigns, has so far reached 133,710 individuals. Of those vaccinated, 52% (69,529) are male, while 48% (64,181) are female. The largest group of recipients, 77% or 102,957 individuals, falls within the 20–49 age bracket, a category that includes healthcare workers, known contacts of Mpox patients and other high-risk groups.

Health officials have described the overall coverage as encouraging, particularly in Western Area Urban, which continues to record the highest number of confirmed Mpox cases and also leads in vaccination uptake. In contrast, Bonthe District recorded the lowest vaccination figures.

Amid a recent uptick in Mpox cases, experts emphasize that reactive vaccination remains a key strategy in reducing the spread. The EPI Programme reports that the current approach is yielding positive results, with noticeable reductions in incidence and prevalence in affected areas.

Sierra Leone reported its first confirmed Mpox case in February 2025, prompting the Ministry of Health to declare an outbreak. In response, the Government, through EPI, sought international assistance and secured vaccine support from global partners.

By March 2025, the national Mpox vaccination campaign was officially launched. To date, the country has received 153,300 doses of the vaccine: 58,300 from the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (GAVI), 20,000 from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and 75,000 from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

EPI Programme Manager, Desmond Maada Kangbai, confirmed that Sierra Leone is expected to receive an additional 20,000 doses in the coming weeks to sustain the momentum and strengthen the national effort to break the chain of transmission.

The Ministry of Health continues to urge the public, especially high-risk groups, to participate in the vaccination campaign and adhere to preventive health measures.

On World Population Day 2025… UNFPA Executive Director Calls for Creating Choices, Not Barriers, for Young People

July 14, 2025

By Amin Kef-Ranger

On the occasion of World Population Day on July 11, 2025, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Executive Director, Dr. Natalia Kanem, issued a powerful statement urging Governments and societies worldwide to focus on enabling young people to thrive by creating choices rather than barriers around family planning and reproductive rights.

Dr. Natalia Kanem highlighted growing concerns about global demographic trends such as declining fertility rates, ageing populations and workforce shortages. However, she emphasized that the real crisis is not low fertility itself, but the lack of reproductive agency among young people, who often cannot have the families they desire.

“Too often, young men and women are blamed for low fertility rates and expected to resolve these demographic challenges, while they face financial stress, health concerns, backlash against women’s rights, conflicts and climate change worries,” Dr. Natalia Kanem said. She referenced findings from UNFPA’s recent State of World Population report, which surveyed 14,000 people worldwide. The report revealed that one in five people under 50 expect to have fewer children than they ideally want and nearly a third of those over 50 admitted to having fewer children than planned.

The Executive Director cautioned against misguided assumptions that young people prioritize careers over parenthood or are “selfish” in their family planning choices. Such assumptions, she noted, can lead to harmful policy decisions, such as restricting contraceptive access, which often worsen rather than solve the problems.

Dr. Natalia Kanem urged Governments to listen carefully to young people’s needs and to create conditions that support their rights and choices. She pointed out the importance of secure jobs, adequate income, family-friendly policies including accessible childcare, flexible parental leave and promoting fathers’ involvement as well as comprehensive sexuality education to help young people make informed decisions.

“As one youth activist from Lebanon said, ‘Young people are not just thinking about their future children; they are thinking about the world those children will inherit,’” Dr. Natalia Kanem reflected.

She concluded by underscoring the necessity of intergenerational understanding and solidarity to address demographic challenges fairly and sustainably. “Ensuring access to sexual and reproductive health and rights is fundamental to building inclusive societies where all can thrive,” Dr. Natalia Kanem said.

World Population Day 2025 thus calls for a renewed commitment to empowering young people with the freedom and support to shape their futures and families on their own terms.

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