Kissy Industry Secures Parliamentary Backing for $60M Trade Agreement

July 14, 2025

Minister of Trade and Industry, Ibrahim Alpha Sesay

A significant move to drive Sierra Leone’s economic development was made as Parliament ratified a $60 million agreement between the Government and Kissy Industry Limited. Debated and passed on Thursday, July 10, 2025, the deal aims to expand industrial operations in the oil palm sector, while fostering job creation and increasing national revenue.

The ratified document, originally presented to Parliament on July 3, 2025, formalizes an agreement signed in January 2025. During the debate, the Minister of Trade and Industry, Ibrahim Alpha Sesay, outlined the background and contributions of Kissy Industry Limited to the nation’s socio-economic landscape. He emphasized that the company’s expansion would significantly benefit agriculture, employment and local industry, urging Parliament to approve the deal.

Chairperson of the Parliamentary Committee on Trade, Hon. Veronica Kadie Sesay, endorsed the agreement but stressed the need for full implementation of its provisions. She pointed out that some employment commitments from the earlier agreement had not been fulfilled and called on the company to uphold its obligations.

Supporting the ratification, Opposition Whip, Hon. Abdul Karim Kamara of Kambia District praised the company’s contribution to agricultural productivity and national GDP. He advocated for additional time to be granted to Kissy Industry Limited to fully realize its developmental goals. “This is the kind of initiative we need to grow our economy,” he remarked.

Hon. Charles Abdulai from Bo District also welcomed the agreement, describing it as “non-controversial” and necessary for national progress. He commended the diverse product line of Kissy Industry Limited and encouraged broader investment and expansion in the industrial sector.

Delivering the final opposition remarks, Minority Leader, Hon. Abdul Kargbo, declared full support for the agreement, noting its potential to generate youth employment, boost export earnings and enhance Government revenue. However, he cautioned against possible environmental consequences associated with oil production and urged the Government to implement safeguards to mitigate pollution risks.

Concluding the debate, Acting Leader of Government Business, Hon. Bashiru Silikie, thanked Members of Parliament for their insightful contributions. He encouraged the Parliamentary Committee on Trade and Industry to intensify oversight on industrial agreements. Additionally, he highlighted the importance of protecting local producers and called for stronger corporate social responsibility commitments from Kissy Industry Limited.

With the ratification, the $60 million Kissy Industry Agreement is now poised to be a cornerstone in Sierra Leone’s industrial transformation, promising economic dividends, job opportunities, and increased investor confidence.

€15 Million EU-UN Spotlight Initiative Launched to End Violence Against Women & Girls

July 14, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Taking a bold and unified stand against gender-based violence, the Government of Sierra Leone officially launched the EU-UN Spotlight Initiative on Tuesday, July 9, 2025, at the New Brookfields Hotel in Freetown. This landmark global partnership between the European Union (EU) and the United Nations (UN) aims to eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls (VAWG).

The launch event brought together senior Government officials including the Chief Minister, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Dr. Isata Mahoi and the Minister of Health, Dr. Austin Demby alongside representatives from the EU, UN agencies, Civil Society Organisations, traditional authorities and development partners. Their collective presence signaled a national recommitment to addressing the pervasive issue of gender-based violence.

This Initiative builds upon a significant €15 million financing agreement signed on April 11, 2024, between Sierra Leone’s Minister of Finance, Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura and the EU. It aims to strengthen national efforts by providing coordinated funding, technical assistance and political support to end the scourge of violence against women and girls.

The Sierra Leone Demographic and Health Survey (SLDHS) 2019 paints a sobering picture: an estimated 62% of women aged 15–49 have experienced physical and/or sexual violence. Harmful traditional practices such as Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and child marriage remain prevalent, alongside widespread intimate partner violence; issues the Spotlight Initiative intends to confront head-on.

Launched globally in 2017 with a €500 million commitment from the EU, the Spotlight Initiative is the world’s largest targeted effort to end VAWG. Its impact has been far-reaching; supporting the adoption of over 540 gender-protective laws and policies, expanding access to life-saving services for over 3 million women and girls and engaging millions in challenging harmful gender norms.

Sierra Leone’s participation in this next phase affirms its commitment to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 5 on gender equality.

The Initiative in Sierra Leone will be implemented through a comprehensive, survivor-centered strategy that includes:

Laws, Policies and Institutions – Enhancing legislation, institutional frameworks and data systems.
Prevention – Implementing national campaigns and educational programs to shift harmful norms.
Response Services – Expanding access to survivor-centered healthcare, psychosocial support and legal services.
Women’s Movements – Strengthening and financing grassroots women- and youth-led organisations to lead change and hold institutions accountable.

With over €3.8 million allocated for national rollout and an additional $12,000 for targeted interventions in Moyamba, Falaba and Kailahun Districts, the Initiative will cover all 16 districts, 48 chiefdoms and 48 wards in the Western Area.

During the ceremony, Minister Dr. Isata Mahoi expressed heartfelt appreciation to the UN and EU for their technical and financial backing, noting that the Initiative aligns directly with her Ministry’s core mandate.

“I am one of the happiest today as we officially launch the Spotlight Initiative,” she said. “This support will go a long way in complementing the Government’s work to protect women and children.”

Executive Director of the Rainbo Initiative, Daniel F.H. Kettor, emphasized that the Initiative goes beyond funding it challenges the cultural silence surrounding violence. “In 2024 alone, Rainbo Centres documented over 3,000 cases of sexual violence, affecting victims from just 2 months to 97 years old. These are not statistics; they are our families and our future,” he stated.

EU Chargé d’Affaires, Gerald Hatler, highlighted that Sierra Leone is among only four African nations alongside Liberia, Zambia and Uganda selected for this second phase of Spotlight, underlining its political commitment and urgent need.

“This Initiative is a shared responsibility,” Gerald Hatler stressed. “Ending violence against women and girls is not just a women’s issue; it’s a societal obligation.”

One of the most powerful moments of the event came from survivor Bilkish Kabia, who bravely shared her journey from trauma to activism. “Today, I stand not just as a survivor, but as a voice for others,” she declared. “Through the Survivor Solidarity Movement, we are reclaiming our power and driving the advocacy for change.”

UN Resident Coordinator and Co-Chair of the Project Steering Committee, Seraphine Wakana, underscored the need for structural change. She called on the Government to institutionalize gender-responsive budgeting and expand safe spaces and grassroots support for women and girls.

In his keynote address, Chief Minister, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, who also co-chairs the Steering Committee, hailed the launch as a testament to meaningful partnerships. He commended the rigorous consultations that led to the programme’s approval and outlined Government achievements in tackling GBV including the Sexual Offences Model Court, GBV hotline 116 and One-Stop Centres.

“We are already seeing results. More survivors are seeking justice and support. This launch marks the beginning of an intensified national drive to make Sierra Leone safer for every woman and girl,” Dr. David Moinina Sengeh concluded.

With the Spotlight Initiative taking root across Sierra Leone, it brings not only vital resources but also renewed hope, collective action, and a powerful message: violence is not our culture, and silence is no longer an option.

NCRA DG Maintains: “Strong Data Requires Strong Political Will” at Dakar Conference

July 14, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Director General of Sierra Leone’s National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA), Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi, delivered a powerful keynote address at the High-Level Policy Engagement and Advocacy Meeting on the Harmonization and Improvement of Statistics in West and Central Africa (HISWACA). The event, held from July 9 to 11, 2025, in Dakar, Senegal, coincided with the celebration of World Population Day and the launch of the 2025 State of World Population (SWoP) Report.

Organized by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) West and Central Africa Regional Office (WCARO), in collaboration with ECOWAS, CEMAC, and the World Bank, the conference brought together regional leaders, statistical experts and policymakers to advance the quality and integration of statistical systems across Africa.

Speaking during Session 2 of the conference, Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi shared Sierra Leone’s transformative journey in Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (CRVS) and Identity Management Systems under his leadership. Highlighting the country’s achievements in registering citizens and non-citizens, including children from birth, he emphasized the vital role of strong political will in creating effective, inclusive and technology-driven CRVS systems.

“Strong data requires strong political commitment,” he affirmed, while acknowledging the unwavering support of His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio. He noted that President Bio stands out across Africa for integrating development systems ranging from education and healthcare to social protection and electoral processes into a centralized CRVS and ID management framework. Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi boldly challenged partners, including the UN, AU and ECOWAS, to identify another African leader who has demonstrated equal commitment to CRVS modernization.

Under Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi’s leadership, the NCRA has achieved an impressive 93% national registration coverage, significantly reducing the number of unregistered persons and ensuring universal access to essential services such as healthcare, education and financial inclusion. By digitizing and modernizing civil registration services, he has made them more accessible, particularly in rural and marginalized communities, positioning Sierra Leone as a regional trailblazer in identity systems.

The Director General’s remarks also focused on the importance of Government-development partner collaboration, urging stronger cooperation to build sustainable CRVS systems. His leadership has attracted international recognition and support, fostering partnerships that continue to strengthen Sierra Leone’s CRVS and national identity infrastructure. Through interoperable data systems, the country is now a reference point for how civil registration can power national planning and drive progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi’s participation in HISWACA, along with invitations to other prestigious global platforms like ID4Africa, is a testament to his growing international reputation as a champion for data systems and inclusive development. His address in Dakar not only showcased Sierra Leone’s success but also contributed to shaping the region’s statistical and identity data strategies.

The HISWACA conference concluded with renewed commitments to harmonize data systems across West and Central Africa and recognized the central role of demographic data in informing public policy and ensuring inclusive development. Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi’s contributions reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s place at the forefront of CRVS innovation in Africa.

SLCAA Concludes Successful ICAO-Led CODEVMET Mission to Enhance Meteorological Capacity

July 14, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) has successfully concluded a five-day mission under the Cooperative Development of Aeronautical Meteorology in the Africa-Indian Ocean Region (CODEVMET-AFI), reinforcing its commitment to aviation safety, quality management systems and meteorological oversight across the Roberts Flight Information Region (FIR).

The high-level engagement, hosted in collaboration with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and its Western and Central Africa Office (WACAF), brought together aviation stakeholders from Sierra Leone and the broader WACAF region. The initiative focused on addressing systemic gaps in meteorological services and aligning national practices with ICAO standards.

SLCAA Director General, Madam Musayeroh Barrie, expressed pride in Sierra Leone’s role as host of the mission and emphasized the country’s dedication to enhancing aeronautical meteorological services. “We are proud to have hosted the ICAO WACAF CODEVMET Mission. As we conclude this vital engagement, we reaffirm our commitment to strengthening regulatory oversight and enhancing the quality management systems in MET services,” she stated.

The CODEVMET project supports African and Indian Ocean (AFI) states in improving meteorological oversight and implementing robust quality systems. It includes training aviation meteorological professionals, building databases of training needs and developing institutional capacities. The project is managed through a steering committee and specialized working groups with a particular focus on the WACAF region.

During the mission’s opening session, Madam Musayeroh Barrie highlighted the strategic importance of the cooperation, particularly in modernizing aviation data infrastructure and ensuring the safe exchange of meteorological information critical to air navigation. She commended the contributions of the White House Office and national partners, including the Sierra Leone Meteorological Agency (SLMET), the Sierra Leone Airports Authority (SLAA) and the Roberts FIR, which includes Guinea and Liberia under a regional airspace management framework.

Madam Musayeroh Barrie also underscored the need for seamless coordination among stakeholders, noting that while SLMET provides local weather services as the National Meteorological Centre, upper airspace monitoring and MWO responsibilities rest with the Roberts FIR. The SLAA, meanwhile, serves as the national Air Navigation Service Provider (ANSP), overseeing aerodrome and approach control services.

The ICAO WACAF mission carried out a comprehensive gap analysis of Sierra Leone’s current MET infrastructure, aiming to provide technical guidance for system upgrades, regulatory reform and capacity building. These enhancements are expected to align the country’s aviation standards with international norms and significantly boost safety outcomes.

Notably, the mission follows Sierra Leone’s successful hosting of the 4th CODEVMET-AFI Project Steering Committee Meeting in November 2023 at the Bintumani Conference Hall. At that event, Madam Musayeroh Barrie reaffirmed the nation’s resolve to fully implement the CODEVMET-AFI project, paving the way for deeper regional integration and technical advancement.

Under Madam Musayeroh Barrie’s leadership, the SLCAA has achieved several milestones in a relatively short period. These include:

The development of a strategic action plan aimed at removing Sierra Leone from the European Union’s aviation safety list by early 2025, following productive consultations with the EU Safety Commission.
The processing of the country’s first-ever Air Operator Certificate (AOC) application, signaling a new chapter in domestic aviation and boosting investor confidence in the sector.
Specialized training for SLCAA personnel, including overseas technical training in Italy, to build a highly skilled and competent aviation workforce.
A landmark management service agreement signed with ICAO during the 2024 Air Navigation Conference in Montreal. The agreement encompasses training programs and the establishment of an ICAO-accredited aviation training school in Sierra Leone.

“These achievements reflect our shared vision for a modern, safe and efficient aviation sector in Sierra Leone,” said Madam Musayeroh Barrie. “Through strategic partnerships and the tireless efforts of our dedicated team we are laying the foundation for a sustainable and thriving civil aviation industry.”

The ICAO WACAF CODEVMET Mission represents a critical juncture in Sierra Leone’s aviation transformation. With firm political will, a clear regulatory roadmap and robust inter-agency collaboration, the SLCAA continues to position Sierra Leone as an emerging hub for aviation excellence in the West African sub-region.

The outcomes of the mission will guide ongoing reforms, ensuring Sierra Leone’s civil aviation system meets global standards and contributes meaningfully to regional airspace safety and connectivity.

At NP (SL), the Customer Always Comes First

July 14, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Demonstration of its leadership in customer satisfaction and service excellence, NP (SL) Limited has once again proven why it is widely regarded as First for Customer Care in Sierra Leone’s petroleum sector.

As fuel prices begin to decline nationwide, NP (SL) has gone ahead in supporting its customers by offering petrol at Le25 per liter and diesel at Le24 per liter significantly below the Government’s approved pump price of Le27.3. This bold move not only eases the financial burden on motorists and businesses but also highlights NP’s unwavering dedication to putting customers first, even in challenging economic times.

Established in 1996 through the visionary efforts of thirty-five Sierra Leonean shareholders following the privatization of the petroleum sector, NP (SL) has grown into a formidable player in the energy industry. Operating not only in Sierra Leone but also across the sub-region including Liberia, Guinea, Ivory Coast and The Gambia, NP (SL) has earned a reputation for service delivery, innovation and national loyalty.

What truly sets NP (SL) apart is its strong culture of customer care. The company’s strategy centers on exceeding customer expectations through quality service, safety and technological innovation. One of the company’s most notable customer-focused innovations is the NP Energy Pass Card, a digital fuel payment system that brings convenience, transparency and security to fuel purchases. The card allows real-time fuel tracking and cashless transactions, reducing risks and enhancing accountability.

By making available the FUBU Energy and Access Pass Card (“For Us, By Us”), NP (SL) has further advanced its customer care promise. This latest version gives both customers and Station Managers instant access to transaction records and operational insights via SMS notifications, creating a smoother, safer and more efficient service experience.

NP (SL)’s attention to safety is another pillar of its customer care philosophy. Each Filling Station across the country is equipped with essential safety signage and firefighting equipment, while staffs are routinely trained in emergency response protocols. This ensures not only the safety of customers and employees but also reinforces public confidence in the company’s operations.

Beyond the pump, NP (SL) supports local communities and national development through its robust Corporate Social Responsibility programs. By expanding operations to remote areas, the company has improved access to petroleum products and helped reduce transportation and energy costs for underserved populations.

Additionally, NP (SL) champions local content empowerment by employing Sierra Leoneans across its operations and partnering with local businesses and suppliers.

The company’s innovative drive is further seen in the promotion of NP Gas, a clean and efficient cooking energy solution. Available in various cylinder sizes, NP Gas meets environmental standards and provides a safe alternative to traditional cooking methods, especially in homes transitioning toward cleaner energy.

What customers value most, however, is the personalized, respectful, and professional service they receive at NP (SL) stations. Staffs are trained not just in operational excellence, but in understanding customer needs, responding promptly and maintaining a warm, service-oriented attitude. Feedback is actively sought and used to improve service delivery, underscoring NP’s commitment to continuous customer engagement and satisfaction.

In every region where NP (SL) operates, the company stands out as a beacon of reliability, fairness and innovation. Its journey from a modest indigenous business to a regional petroleum leader is a story of vision, resilience and a deep belief in serving.

Undoubtedly, NP (SL) remains a trusted partner to households, businesses and the Government. Its consistent dedication to putting the customer at the heart of every decision ensures that it continues to live up to its brand promise.

Amin Kef Bags Outstanding Dedicated Service Award at SLAJ Inauguration Ceremony

July 14, 2025

By Foday Moriba Conteh

A moment filled with emotion, gratitude and hope for the future unfolded as the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) held its official Handing Over and Inauguration Ceremony on Friday, July 11, 2025, at the prestigious Bintumani Hotel Hall. Held under the theme: “Celebrating Service, Honouring Partnership, Ushering in a New Era,” the event marked a significant turning point for the Association, featuring tributes to dedicated members, the formal transition of leadership and a strong reaffirmation of journalism’s vital role in national development.

Among the most stirring highlights of the day was the presentation of a prestigious award to renowned investigative journalist, Amin Kef Sesay, popularly known as Ranger, the Managing Editor and Publisher of The Calabash Newspaper. Honoured for his selfless, faithful and dedicated service to SLAJ from 2019 to 2025, Amin Kef Sesay was celebrated as a pillar of journalistic excellence and integrity. His consistent advocacy, institutional loyalty and behind-the-scenes leadership earned him widespread recognition from his peers. The thunderous applause that followed the announcement of his name underscored the deep respect and admiration he commands across the media fraternity.

In accepting the award, Amin Kef Sesay expressed heartfelt gratitude to SLAJ and reaffirmed his ongoing commitment to the Association. “It is with deep humility and heartfelt gratitude that I stand before you today to receive this award,” he said. “I thank the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists for this recognition; an honour I do not take lightly.” He took the opportunity to commend the outgoing Executive for their service and warmly welcomed the new team led by Alhaji Manika Kamara. Speaking with optimism, he added, “I am inspired by the vision of the new team, appropriately dubbed ‘ACTION,’ and I am fully committed to continuing my journey with you in the spirit of unity, progress and impact.” Amin Kef Sesay closed his remarks with a charge to the media community to keep the flame of ethical journalism burning bright.

The event began with engaging welcome remarks from MCs Phebean Swill and Victor Jones, who set a dignified and uplifting tone for the day’s proceedings. The Chairperson of the SLAJ Electoral Commission, Zainab Iyamide Joaque, officially certified the Association’s recent elections and commended members for ensuring a fair and transparent process.

A compelling documentary reflecting on the six-year presidency of outgoing President Ahmed Sahid Nasralla drew admiration from attendees. In his farewell address, Ahmed Sahid Nasralla thanked SLAJ members and partners for their support and expressed confidence in the new leadership to continue advancing the Association’s goals.

Alhaji Manika Kamara and his Executive were officially sworn in by the SLAJ Legal Team. In his inaugural address, Alhaji Manika Kamara committed to strengthening the Association’s institutional systems, defending press freedom and fostering greater unity among journalists. The symbolic transfer of SLAJ documents and a welcoming embrace from the Elders and Advisory Council signaled a smooth and respectful leadership transition.

Goodwill messages followed from the Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, Mayor of Freetown Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr and a representative of development partners, all pledging continued collaboration with SLAJ to support democratic governance and media development in Sierra Leone.

The evening concluded with the presentation of awards to institutional and corporate partners and a vote of thanks by National Publicity Secretary, Umu Hawa Bakarr. A lively networking session capped the occasion, uniting journalists, officials and stakeholders in a shared spirit of purpose.

The recognition of Amin Kef Sesay stood out not only as a personal milestone but as a powerful symbol of the values SLAJ upholds; service, dedication and integrity. His contribution over the past six years has helped shape the Association’s credibility and growth, making his award one of the most meaningful moments of the day.

Alhaji Manika Kamara Sworn In as New SLAJ President, Pledges Unity and Reform

July 14, 2025

By Amin Kef-Ranger

A new chapter in the life of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) officially began on Friday, 11th July 2025, as members, partners and supporters of the media gathered at the Bintumani Hotel Hall in Freetown for the organization’s Handing Over and Inauguration Ceremony. Held under the theme: “Celebrating Service, Honouring Partnership, Ushering in a New Era,” the occasion marked the peaceful transition of leadership from the outgoing executive to a newly elected team, with Alhaji Manika Kamara sworn in as the new President of SLAJ.

In his first official address as President, Alhaji Manika Kamara described the moment as the start of a new era defined by continuity, collective effort and dedication to service. Expressing gratitude for the confidence placed in him by SLAJ members, he said he was honoured and humbled to lead the Association and committed himself to building on the progress made over the years.

He paid glowing tribute to his predecessor, Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, popularly known as “De Monk,” for his exceptional leadership and unwavering defence of press freedom. Alhaji Manika Kamara praised Ahmed Sahid Nasralla for guiding SLAJ with vision and integrity during his six-year term and for leaving behind a strong and credible institution. He also described Ahmed Sahid Nasralla as a friend, mentor and selfless leader whose legacy would remain a guiding light for the future of SLAJ.

Speaking to the responsibilities ahead, Alhaji Manika Kamara introduced his ACTION Manifesto, a leadership framework focused on Advocacy, Commitment, Transparency, Innovation, Organisation and Networking. He said that his priorities will include improving the safety and welfare of journalists, especially those working in remote and challenging areas and strengthening professional development through training and mentorship. He also highlighted the importance of unity and inclusion within the Association, promising to ensure that SLAJ is a home for all voices, including women, young journalists, persons with disabilities, regional branches and veteran media professionals.

Alhaji Manika Kamara pledged to deepen partnerships with both national and international organisations to defend press freedom and build a more sustainable institution. He committed to institutional reforms, good governance and fundraising strategies that would strengthen the Secretariat and enhance SLAJ’s long-term impact.

Having served previously as Assistant Secretary General, Acting Secretary General and Secretary General of the Association, Alhaji Manika Kamara said he was not new to the challenges but expressed hope and confidence that with the foundation laid by past leaders and the support of all members, progress would continue.

He called on every SLAJ member, past president, regional executive, partner and industry stakeholder to support the new leadership and work together to move the Association forward. He ended his speech with a powerful message of unity and shared purpose, declaring that the future of SLAJ rests not in the hands of one individual but in the collective efforts of all who believe in press freedom and responsible journalism.

“Let this new era be one of shared ownership, shared responsibility and shared success,” Alhaji Manika Kamara said, closing his address with a call to action and renewed commitment to the values of the journalism profession.

GVR Bottlers Company Donates School & Food Items to Milton Margai School for the Blind

July 14, 2025

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

GVR Bottlers Company Limited, in a remarkable act of Corporate Social Responsibility, donated 100 bags filled with school supplies, food items and clothing to the Milton Margai School for the Blind on Saturday, 12 July 2025. The ceremony, held at the school’s premises on Wilkinson Road in Freetown, was a moment of joy and appreciation for pupils and staff alike.

Each pupil received a branded bag containing essential items including notebooks, pens, T-shirts, caps, Coca-Cola beverages, biscuits, cheese balls and a white cane to aid mobility for the visually impaired.

Krishna, General Manager of GVR Bottlers Company Limited, expressed the company’s motivation behind the donation, emphasizing its commitment to supporting vulnerable communities. He noted that over the past two years, the company has expanded its operations, taking over cold storage facilities and initiating full-scale beverage production.

“As part of our corporate philanthropy, we prioritize reaching out to vulnerable communities, including the Milton Margai School for the Blind,” Krishna stated. He highlighted previous interventions by the company in the Dwarzack community, home to their operations, including the donation of wheelchairs and support for local development efforts.

Krishna reaffirmed GVR Bottlers’ mission to produce both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages such as Coca-Cola, Fanta, Sprite, Vimto, Parrot Energy Drink and mineral water, with plans to diversify into juice production and agriculture in the near future.

Hennrey Du Plessis, a member of the company’s support team, also spoke at the event. “We are honoured to give back to the children of the Milton Margai School for the Blind,” he said. “This donation includes not only basic supplies but items that bring joy and help support the personal development of these children. Supporting the vulnerable has always been part of our values.”

Receiving the donation on behalf of the school, Principal Salieu Turay expressed deep appreciation. “This donation is both meaningful and timely. While all items are important, the white canes are particularly vital, as they enhance our pupils’ independence and daily mobility,” he said. He added that while younger pupils may not yet use them, older students and adults depend on these tools for navigation.

Principal Salieu Turay appealed for continued support, underscoring that the school’s boarding home provides accommodation for 93 blind persons ranging from primary school pupils to university students and provides three meals a day.

Also present was Councillor Thaimu Turay of the Dwarzack community, popularly known as “Thaimu on the Road.” He praised the company not only for the donation but for creating job opportunities and driving local development. “This is not the first time GVR Bottlers has supported our community,” he said. “Their presence has brought jobs and hope, and today’s donation reflects their inclusive approach.”

The event concluded with the joyful distribution of the bags to pupils, many of whom received them with bright smiles and heartfelt gratitude. The donation stands as another milestone in GVR Bottlers Company Limited’s ongoing effort to balance business growth with meaningful social impact.

SBG Acquires SLBL in Major Move for Sierra Leone’s Brewing Sector

July 11, 2025

By Amin Kef Sesay

Sierra Leone Brewery Limited (SLBL), one of the country’s oldest and most prominent beverage manufacturers, has officially announced a change in ownership following the successful conclusion of an acquisition agreement with Sierra Bottling Group (SBG), a subsidiary of African Bottling Group Limited.

The landmark agreement, finalized on July 10, 2025, will see SBG assume full control of SLBL’s operations. The transition marks a significant shift in Sierra Leone’s beverage industry landscape and is described by SLBL as a strategic move to ensure the long-term sustainability and continued growth of the company’s operations.

In a statement issued by the company’s Corporate Affairs Department, SLBL affirmed its commitment to a smooth and legally compliant transition. “This strategic decision aligns with our goal to ensure the long-term sustainability of SLBL’s operations,” the company noted. “While this change is not expected to disrupt our operations or our economic contributions in Sierra Leone, we are committed to following the transition process as stipulated by local legislation.”

The statement further emphasized that SLBL remains dedicated to its partnership with the Government of Sierra Leone, a relationship that has spanned decades and has contributed significantly to national development through employment, taxes and support to local agriculture.

Notably, the announcement was met with a wave of positive reactions from Sierra Leoneans on the SLBL Facebook page, with many expressing optimism about the future of the company under new ownership and the potential for growth and innovation.

Established in 1962, Sierra Leone Brewery Limited has been a cornerstone of the country’s manufacturing sector, producing popular beverages including Star Beer, Guinness, Mutzig and Maltina, under licensing agreements with international brands such as Heineken and Diageo. The company has invested heavily in its facilities over the years, including the commissioning of a state-of-the-art waste treatment plant, upgrades to its bottling line and a commitment to sourcing locally grown sorghum to support Sierra Leonean farmers.

With over 300 permanent staff and thousands of indirect jobs supported through distribution and supply chains, SLBL is considered a major contributor to Sierra Leone’s economy. The company has also been a strong advocate for responsible alcohol consumption, youth empowerment and community development through various corporate social responsibility initiatives.

The new owners, Sierra Bottling Group, are expected to continue SLBL’s legacy while introducing innovations and operational efficiencies in line with global standards. African Bottling Group Limited, SBG’s parent company, has a growing footprint across the continent, focusing on strengthening local brands and expanding access to quality beverages.

SLBL confirmed that all employees will be carried along in the transition process and that their rights and welfare will be safeguarded. The company assured the public, partners and stakeholders that business will continue uninterrupted and that the transition will be managed in a transparent and collaborative manner.

Police to Go Solar: SLP Seeks Energy Ministry Support for Power Independence

July 11, 2025

In a key step toward advancing institutional collaboration and energy sustainability, the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) is exploring a strategic partnership with the Ministry of Energy to improve power access and infrastructure security across its nationwide operations.

Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Martin Egbenda, Acting Head of Infrastructure at the SLP, led the engagement on behalf of the Inspector General of Police, William Fayia Sellu, during a courtesy visit to Dr. Kandeh Yumkella, Energy Sector Lead on Tuesday, 9 July 2025 at the Ministry of Energy.

Held at Electricity House in Freetown, the high-level dialogue centered on deepening cooperation between the two institutions, with a focus on energy access for police facilities, protection of national power infrastructure and support for Sierra Leone’s green energy transition.

A key highlight of the discussion was the proposed solarization of Police Barracks, Divisions and Stations across the country. DSP Martin Egbenda underscored that the SLP is undergoing a digital transformation to modernize its operations, noting that uninterrupted power supply is critical to the success of that initiative.

Currently, many police installations are connected to the national grid through the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA). However, officials say that has resulted in substantial revenue losses for EDSA due to irregular payments and unmetered usage. Concerns have been raised over the possibility of disconnection from the grid, prompting the SLP to consider alternative energy solutions.

Dr. Kandeh Yumkella welcomed the initiative and expressed the Ministry’s willingness to support the SLP’s transition to solar energy, emphasizing that such a move would not only reduce dependency on the national grid but also promote energy efficiency and cost savings.

In return, the SLP pledged to strengthen security at all solar energy sites and key energy facilities. Among the proposals was the deployment of dedicated police posts at major EDSA installations nationwide to deter vandalism, theft and sabotage; threats that continue to undermine energy delivery.

The two sides also discussed the formation of a joint security task force consisting of police and military personnel. This task force would support EDSA’s ongoing inspection exercises, conducting surprise checks to crack down on illegal electricity connections, particularly in factories, hotels and high-energy-consumption residences in Freetown and other urban centers.

This evolving partnership between the Ministry of Energy and the Sierra Leone Police signals a new era of cross-sector collaboration aimed at improving infrastructure resilience and achieving national development goals. It reflects a shared commitment to enhancing energy access, ensuring infrastructure safety and supporting Sierra Leone’s broader push toward digital transformation and renewable energy adoption.

With the country preparing for long-term infrastructure modernization, the Ministry and the SLP are setting a strong example of inter-agency synergy; where power flows securely and security is powered reliably.