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SLCAA DG Joins Global Aviation Leaders at Global TIPCAL 2025 Forum in Abu Dhabi

Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) Director General, Ms. Musayeroh Barrie
Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) Director General, Ms. Musayeroh Barrie

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) Director General, Ms. Musayeroh Barrie, was among over 22 high-level international delegates who attended the launch of the fourth edition of the International Programme for Civil Aviation Leaders (TIPCAL) in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The event, which was organized by the United Arab Emirates Prime Minister’s Office in collaboration with the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), took place from July 21 to 24, 2025, and focused on innovation, sustainability and Government transformation within the aviation sector.

During the programme, Ms. Musayeroh Barrie expressed pride in representing Sierra Leone, emphasizing that her appointment as the world’s youngest Director General of Civil Aviation was a testament to President Julius Maada Bio’s vision to empower young leaders. “Being recognized on this global stage was an immense honor. I remain grateful to His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio for his confidence in young people and for promoting inclusive leadership in Sierra Leone,” Ms. Musayeroh Barrie stated.

TIPCAL 2025 brought together Ministers, Director Generals and senior decision-makers from civil aviation authorities across the globe. The programme served as a strategic platform for sharing best practices, fostering international cooperation and cultivating forward-thinking leadership to shape the future of global aviation.

Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, United Arab Emirates Minister of Economy and Tourism and Chairman of the General Civil Aviation Authority Board, reaffirmed the United Arab Emirates’ commitment to innovation and sustainability in civil aviation. He stressed that the sector’s rapid technological transformation required agile governance and stronger international partnerships to secure sustainable growth.

Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, United Arab Emirates Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, underscored the United Arab Emirates’ role as a global aviation hub and one of the world’s leading producers of aviation fuel. He noted that TIPCAL reflected the country’s dedication to advancing responsible, efficient and climate-conscious aviation development.

Ms. Musayeroh Barrie’s participation followed her leadership during the 2025 AFI Aviation Week, where Sierra Leone signed a landmark Civil Aviation Master Plan with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). The agreement represented a major milestone in aligning Sierra Leone with international aviation safety and sustainability standards.

At AFI Aviation Week, Ms. Musayeroh Barrie also initiated bilateral talks with the Government of Malaysia to explore direct air connectivity between Sierra Leone and Malaysia aimed at boosting trade, tourism and cultural exchange. She further represented Sierra Leone on a panel discussion on gender equality, reinforcing the country’s commitment to inclusive leadership in the aviation industry.

“Sierra Leone demonstrated that gender equity and aviation excellence can go hand in hand,” Ms. Musayeroh Barrie noted, commending the Government of Sierra Leone for enacting the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Bill, which mandates 30% female representation in key decision-making positions.

Ms. Musayeroh Barrie’s recognition at TIPCAL 2025 cemented Sierra Leone’s growing reputation as an emerging leader in aviation governance and reform in Africa, while showcasing the country’s commitment to sustainable growth, international cooperation and empowering women in traditionally male-dominated sectors.

PPASL, Rainbow Initiative Sign MOU to Expand Access to Sexual and Reproductive Health Services  

Aiming to strengthen the delivery of inclusive and quality healthcare services across Sierra Leone, the Planned Parenthood Association of Sierra Leone (PPASL) has entered into a formal partnership with the Rainbow Initiative (RI). The two organizations signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Monday, 28th July 2025, during a brief ceremony held at the Rainbow Initiative’s office on Williams Drive, SS Camp in Freetown.

The new partnership seeks to enhance service provision for Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) survivors and improve access to Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) services, particularly among marginalized and vulnerable populations.

Speaking at the event, representatives from both PPASL and Rainbow Initiative reaffirmed their joint commitment to collaborative programming, resource and information sharing and the creation of safe and confidential referral pathways. These efforts aim to ensure that all beneficiaries receive timely, survivor-centered and non-discriminatory care.

According to the leadership of both institutions, the collaboration is a direct response to the alarming impact of SGBV on the health and well-being of individuals and communities throughout Sierra Leone. It also underscores a shared vision of delivering rights-based healthcare services that are accessible to all.

Under the terms of the MOU, the two organizations will work together to offer a range of essential services, including psychosocial counseling, HIV testing, STI screening, family planning and broader sexual and reproductive health care. Capacity-building initiatives and public awareness campaigns will also be rolled out to reduce stigma surrounding SGBV and SRH issues.

“This partnership represents a major step forward in our collective mission to leave no one behind,” said a PPASL official at the signing. “Together with Rainbow Initiative, we are better positioned to address the needs of survivors and advance human rights through healthcare.”

A representative from Rainbow Initiative echoed similar sentiments, adding that the partnership will not only benefit service users but also strengthen the national response to SGBV through a coordinated and holistic approach.

The MOU is expected to deepen the impact of both organizations’ work, laying a foundation for a more responsive, inclusive and survivor-focused healthcare system in Sierra Leone.

 

ECOWAS Court, Attorney General’s Office Commence Capacity Building Training for State Attorneys

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The ECOWAS Court of Justice, in collaboration with the Office of the Attorney General and Ministry of Justice, on Monday, 28th July 2025, commenced a four-day capacity building training for State Attorneys in Sierra Leone. The training, being held at the Sierra Leone Law School, located within the Special Court Complex at New England in Freetown will run until Thursday 31st July, 2025 focusing on enhancing the capacity of State Attorneys in the Civil Division of the Attorney General’s Office, specifically focusing on the rules, practices and procedures of the ECOWAS Court of Justice.

In his remarks, Justice Sengu Mohamed Koroma, Vice President of the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice, praised Sierra Leone’s ongoing commitment to fulfilling its regional legal obligations, describing the country’s engagement with the Court as both consistent and commendable.

He revealed that the ECOWAS Court responded promptly and positively to a request from Sierra Leone’s Attorney General for training support, recognizing it as a clear demonstration of the country’s dedication to the principles enshrined in the revised ECOWAS Treaty.

“It is with great pleasure that we designed a program to meet the objectives outlined in that request and to establish networks that will strengthen the relationship between the Community Court and the Republic of Sierra Leone,” he said.

Reflecting on his dual role as Vice President of the Court and the first Sierra Leonean to attain such a position in the regional justice system, Justice Sengu Mohamed Koroma admitted that he initially had concerns about the logistical and resource arrangements. However, he expressed satisfaction that those concerns were unfounded due to the strong cooperation and support from the Attorney General, his deputy and the Director of Public Prosecution.

“Sierra Leone has consistently engaged the ECOWAS Court on various matters. Therefore, the State’s decision to enhance the capacity of its legal representatives is not only laudable but timely,” he added.

He emphasized the Court’s commitment to educating member states on Community law and jurisprudence, which he noted continues to expand with every legal session. Justice Sengu Mohamed Koroma urged participants to seize the opportunity to deepen their understanding and to establish effective communication channels that will aid them in their duties.

“While the Court maintains a dedicated website that comprehensively captures its work, it is engagements like this that truly embody the spirit of the Community Court of Justice,” he concluded.

On behalf of the President and delegation of the ECOWAS Court, Justice Sengu Mohamed Koroma extended gratitude to the Attorney General, his team and the Government of Sierra Leone for their warm hospitality and unwavering commitment to regional justice cooperation.

Osman Ibrahim Kanu Esq., Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), underscored the critical importance of understanding human rights law in the context of the ECOWAS Court’s expanding mandate.

Welcoming the ECOWAS Court delegation to Sierra Leone, DPP Osman Ibrahim Kanu described the training as both timely and essential. He noted that while the ECOWAS Court was initially created to resolve trade disputes among member states, its mandate has significantly widened particularly to include human rights violations by states.

“Human rights issues now cut across every aspect of people’s daily lives,” the DPP stated. “That gives the ECOWAS Court jurisdiction over nearly every area of state responsibility. As State Attorneys, we often find ourselves as the defendants in these matters, so it is crucial that we are well-equipped to respond.”

He emphasized the importance of the training in helping Attorneys not only defend the state effectively but also proactively advise Government institutions to avoid actions that may result in human rights violations.

“This workshop is key. Many of the cases filed in the ECOWAS Court are against member states. We need to understand the legal landscape fully in order to defend our country and guide it away from potential legal pitfalls,” he added.

Osman Ibrahim Kanu also expressed appreciation to the ECOWAS Court of Justice for including Sierra Leone in this regional initiative, which has previously been implemented in other West African countries. He closed his remarks by urging participants to take full advantage of the training sessions and pledged to continue advocating for stronger legal capacity within the Ministry.

On his part, Alpha Sesay, Attorney General and Minister of Justice, emphasized the critical importance of strategic litigation and human rights awareness in strengthening Sierra Leone’s justice system. He expressed gratitude to the regional court for prioritizing legal capacity-building in Sierra Leone. “Thank you for the interest in helping to build capacity for the Law Officers Department,” he said, acknowledging that this was the second visit of the ECOWAS Court President to Sierra Leone.

The Attorney General stressed the evolving role of the ECOWAS Court and how its expanded mandate particularly regarding human rights violations requires deeper understanding and preparedness from State Attorneys. “From trade disputes, the court’s jurisdiction has widened significantly. It now touches on human rights issues that cut across nearly every facet of daily life,” he noted. “As state representatives, we are often the defendants in such cases. This training is vital.”

Alpha Sesay also drew on his personal experience, having previously been involved in human rights litigation against the state before assuming public office. “I’ve been on both sides,” he shared. “Before I was appointed Deputy Minister and now Attorney General, I filed cases before the ECOWAS Court and other regional mechanisms. Now I sit on the other side, working with the same colleagues to defend the state.”

He highlighted the importance of what he called “winning outside the courtroom,” noting that even when a case does not result in a favorable ruling, it can still serve as a catalyst for justice reform. “Judgments from the ECOWAS Court often carry directives that push Governments toward strengthening the rule of law and human rights protections,” he said.

While reaffirming the Government’s commitment to defending itself in court,  Alpha Sesay also made it clear that Sierra Leone is committed to addressing underlying issues raised in such cases. “We will not turn a blind eye to the broader reforms that may be needed,” he assured. “Our goal is to ensure that citizens do not have to go to the ECOWAS Court in the first place, because justice will be accessible and effective at the national level.”

The Attorney General added that the Government remains focused on building long-term legal capacity, with the ECOWAS Court training being just one component of a broader vision. “We are investing in our legal workforce. We want our State Counsel to walk into any courtroom fully prepared, confident and equipped to represent the state with integrity and professionalism.”

Afrimoney Exclusive: Housemates Salone Season 4 Applications Go 100% Digital

There has been an overwhelming rush for Housemates Salone Season 4 application forms just a week after the official launch of the online registration process. The surge in interest comes from both within Sierra Leone and the diaspora, underscoring the show’s growing popularity.

In a joint statement, the organizers, Africa Young Voices (AYV) and Africell, cautioned the public that no hard copy application forms are available for this year’s competition. They clarified that the forms are exclusively accessible online via www.africell.sl/housemates at a cost of NLe 1,000, payable only through Afrimoney.

The Management noted that AYV and Africell offices across the country have been inundated with people seeking physical copies of the forms despite repeated announcements that Season 4 is strictly digital. They stressed that applicants must use the official website and follow the outlined procedure to qualify.

Application Process:

Organizers emphasized that no alternative payment methods will be accepted and urged potential contestants to ensure their Afrimoney accounts are active to avoid delays.

“This is an opportunity of a lifetime for those seeking fame, entertainment and personal growth,” the producers said in their statement, encouraging aspiring housemates to take advantage of the platform.

Executive Producers, Amb. Anthony Navo Jr., CEO of AYV and Shadi Gerjawi, CEO of Africell, revealed that the grand prize for Season 4 is One Billion Old Leones (One Million New Leones) along with a round-trip to Dubai.

Housemates Salone has become Sierra Leone’s biggest Reality TV sensation, offering contestants the chance to showcase their talents and personalities while captivating a national and international audience. Season 4 is expected to deliver even more excitement, with the fully digital application process marking a new phase for the show’s evolution.

 “The Time to Act Is Now”: President Bio Demands Permanent UN Security Council Seats for Africa

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has renewed Africa’s call for permanent representation on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), describing the continent’s demand as “a matter of fairness, not charity.”

Speaking at the Sixth African Union (AU) Committee of Ten Heads of State and Government (C-10) Summit, held virtually on Friday 25 July 2025, President Bio stressed that Africa’s exclusion from the Council’s permanent membership is no longer acceptable.

“As a continent historically excluded from the highest decision-making body on global peace and security, our call is not for charity but for fairness. Africa will no longer accept marginalization. The time to act is now,” he said.

President Bio, who serves as C-10 Coordinator, reviewed key milestones since the Fifth C-10 Summit in Equatorial Guinea and the adoption of the Oyala Plan of Action in February 2024. He highlighted Sierra Leone’s presidency of the UN Security Council in August 2024, during which the Council held its first-ever high-level debate on Africa’s exclusion from permanent membership.

Outlining the next phase of C-10’s advocacy, the President reaffirmed Africa’s demand for at least two permanent seats with all rights and privileges, including the veto if it remains as well as two additional non-permanent seats for the continent.

“These are not symbolic developments; they are signals that the world is finally listening,” he noted, citing growing international support, including the UN Pact for the Future and direct ministerial-level engagement with the P5 during the 79th UN General Assembly.

President Bio emphasized the need for unity, strategic messaging and intensified diplomatic engagement ahead of the 80th UN General Assembly and the 20th anniversary of the Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte Declaration in September 2025.

“We must align our messaging, mobilize our partners and continue to press for Africa’s rightful place in global governance. Our inclusion is not just a matter of justice; it enhances the legitimacy and effectiveness of the Security Council itself,” he said.

The summit concluded with a reaffirmed commitment by C-10 leaders to push the Common African Position, ensuring Africa’s voice remains central in ongoing global peace and security reforms.

Why NP (SL) Remains Sierra Leone’s Most Trusted Name in Fuel

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In Sierra Leone’s dynamic energy landscape, NP (SL) Limited continues to stand tall as the country’s leading petroleum marketing company, delivering excellence in product availability, customer care and innovation. As the company maintains its dominance in the petroleum sector, its consistent pursuit of quality and technology-driven service delivery is setting the benchmark for others to follow.

Founded with a strong vision to transform petroleum marketing in Sierra Leone, NP (SL) Ltd has grown into a household name, supplying premium petrol, diesel, lubricants and NP Gas to individuals, businesses and institutions across the country. Its growing footprint now extends across West Africa, including Liberia, Guinea, Côte d’Ivoire and The Gambia, signaling its intent to lead not just nationally but regionally.

What distinguishes NP (SL) Ltd from other industry players is its embrace of modern technology to ensure transparency, efficiency and customer satisfaction. A key example is the company’s installation of user-friendly, calibrated fuel pumps, designed to guarantee customers get exactly what they pay for. Behind the scenes, the use of GPS and Video Tracking Systems (VTS) enables real-time fleet monitoring and operational oversight, making NP (SL) a model of accountability in service delivery.

One of NP’s most significant contributions to digital transformation in Sierra Leone is the NP Energy Pass Card; a groundbreaking innovation that allows customers to pay for fuel without cash. With features like real-time SMS alerts, online/offline top-ups and secure transactions, the card has been a game-changer for both private consumers and Government institutions. It reflects not just convenience, but the company’s support for Sierra Leone’s march toward a cashless economy.

In another strategic move, NP (SL) Ltd introduced Mobile Fuel Tanks to serve essential public institutions such as the Parliament of Sierra Leone and the Sierra Leone Police Force. These mobile tanks have proven crucial in ensuring uninterrupted operations during national events, emergencies and peak fuel demand periods, reflecting the company’s proactive approach to national service.

NP’s slogan, “1st for Customer Care”, is not just a tagline but a philosophy deeply embedded in its operations. The company invests in modern infrastructure, customer feedback systems and employee training to maintain its edge in delivering reliable and responsive services. The result is strong customer loyalty and a reputation for dependability.

A cornerstone of NP’s success story is its 100% Sierra Leonean ownership and workforce, making it a flagship for the country’s Local Content Policy. As a major employer and skills developer, NP (SL) Ltd plays a vital role in youth empowerment, inclusive growth and national capacity building.

Moreover, NP (SL)’s partnership with Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) through flexible fuel credit systems has helped bridge budgetary gaps and ensures continuity in public service delivery. This dependable support system has made NP an indispensable partner in national governance.

The company also maintains high standards in safety and environmental responsibility, regularly conducting emergency drills, adhering to quality assurance protocols, and upgrading infrastructure to meet international standards. These efforts underscore its status as a responsible and sustainable corporate entity.

Beyond operations, NP (SL) Ltd is one of Sierra Leone’s top taxpayers, making substantial contributions to the national revenue. Its fiscal responsibility strengthens its social license to operate and reinforces its position as a key partner in the country’s socio-economic development.

At the helm of NP’s current trajectory is Dr. Mohamed S. Kanu, an experienced petroleum executive whose leadership is bringing renewed focus on sustainability, digital growth and enhanced stakeholder engagement. His vision is steering the company toward greater regional relevance while deepening its impact at home.

With Sierra Leone advancing toward greater development, NP (SL) Ltd remains firmly positioned as a catalyst for progress, fueling economic growth, promoting innovation and empowering communities not only within Sierra Leone but throughout the West African sub-region.

Building on a legacy of trust and driven by technology and patriotism, NP (SL) continues to prove why it remains the trusted name in petroleum.

SLAJ Honours VIP Trading Company with Prestigious Media Support Award

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) has officially recognized VIP Trading Company–Sierra Leone Limited for its unwavering support to journalism and the media industry in the country. During a high-profile handing-over and inauguration ceremony held at the Bintumani Hotel in Freetown on Friday, July 11, 2025, SLAJ presented a Certificate of Appreciation to the company, highlighting its steadfast partnership and contribution to press freedom and media development.

The certificate, signed by erstwhile SLAJ President, Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, was awarded “for your support to SLAJ and the media in Sierra Leone,” and marks a significant milestone in the ongoing collaboration between the corporate sector and the media community.

VIP Trading Company, known for its national footprint in essential commodities and support to state institutions, was honored for consistently championing the role of the media as a pillar of democracy. The company’s engagement with journalists and support to SLAJ initiatives has made it a dependable ally in advancing credible journalism and promoting transparency.

In his appreciation remarks, Ahmed Hashim, Chief Executive Officer of VIP Trading Company–Sierra Leone Limited, expressed deep gratitude for the recognition. “We are humbled and honored by this award from SLAJ,” he said. “It reaffirms our belief in the vital role of the media and encourages us to continue contributing to national development through responsible corporate engagement.”

He added that the award symbolizes more than just recognition; it represents a renewed commitment to supporting freedom of expression and empowering journalists to do their work without fear or interference.

This latest recognition cements VIP Trading Company’s reputation not only as a leading supplier of essential commodities in Sierra Leone but also as a corporate entity that values the importance of a vibrant and independent press.

With SLAJ beginning a new chapter of leadership, the gesture also reflects the Association’s appreciation for institutions that support the media through both challenging and triumphant times. The award to VIP Trading Company clearly demonstrates the power of private-public partnerships in promoting national growth, transparency and accountability.

Youth Minister Leads Hands-On Drug Rehabilitation Mission in Waterloo

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a continued demonstration of proactive leadership in the fight against drug abuse, the Minister of Youth Affairs, Ibrahim Sannoh, on Friday 25th July, 2025 brought his weekly youth engagement outreach to Waterloo, one of the epicenters of the destructive Kush crisis in Sierra Leone. The visit formed part of his broader nationwide campaign to rescue and rebuild the lives of young people entangled in substance abuse.

Unlike many official visits that end with speeches, the Minister came bearing tangible support. He donated essential items including first aid kits, bags of rice and financial assistance to affected families and youth groups. Speaking to a crowd of hopeful and recovering young people, he made it clear that the Government, through the Ministry of Youth Affairs, is deeply committed to creating a future that does not involve drugs.

“Your future is too bright to be dimmed by drugs,” he passionately told the gathering. “We are rolling out skills development training very soon and we want you to be among the first beneficiaries. We believe in your potential and we are here to walk this journey with you.”

What truly distinguished this visit was the Minister’s hands-on approach. Rather than just expressing concern, he took immediate action. Several young people critically affected by the Kush drug were identified and Minister Ibrahim Sannoh personally accompanied them to the Waterloo Government Hospital. He ensured they were admitted for medical care, pledging to cover the full cost of their treatment.

“We won’t abandon you to this crisis,” he assured his voice resolute. “Healing is the first step to a new beginning. This Government is not just enforcing laws we are building lives.”

The Minister’s visit struck a powerful emotional chord with the community. His ability to connect with youth not just as a politician but as a mentor and advocate was evident. He listened to their concerns, encouraged them to envision a life beyond addiction and pledged ongoing support through training programs aimed at fostering entrepreneurship, vocational skills and economic empowerment.

“This fight is not just against Kush; it’s a fight to restore lost dreams, rebuild broken communities and give our young people a second chance at life,” he emphasized.

Many in the community hailed the Minister’s intervention as a turning point. Local leaders and youth advocates expressed appreciation for the Ministry’s visible presence and practical actions noting that this level of engagement is what is truly needed to reverse the tide of addiction.

As the visit concluded, hope lingered in the air. The youths of Waterloo now look forward to the upcoming skills training opportunities with renewed optimism. For them and many others across the country, Minister Ibrahim Sannoh’s campaign against drug abuse is more than a policy; it’s a promise of redemption.

Through his #RescueAndRebuild initiative, Minister Ibrahim Sannoh continues to show that Sierra Leone’s fight against drugs isn’t just punitive it’s transformative, restorative and centered on giving young people the chance to dream again.

IOM and UNIDO Empower 25 Returnees with Automotive Skills Training

By Edward Nyakeh Vamboi

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), in partnership with the Freetown Polytechnic, have celebrated the graduation of 25 returnees who successfully completed an intensive automotive skills training program. The ceremony, held on Friday, July 25, 2025, at the Government Technical Institute Campus, Ferry Junction, marks a significant step in supporting sustainable livelihoods and reintegration opportunities for returnees in Sierra Leone.

The program, funded by the European Union (EU), focused on practical automotive maintenance, including engine repairs, tire and battery replacement and diagnostic checks. It forms part of a wider initiative to equip young people and returnees with hands-on technical skills to foster economic stability and discourage irregular migration.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Pauline Macharia, IOM Officer-in-Charge in Sierra Leone, underscored the importance of the initiative. “This training program provides industry-relevant skills that are critical in today’s evolving job market. By integrating modules on sustainable industrial practices, entrepreneurship and advanced technological applications, we are helping participants build a future that benefits their communities and the nation,” she said.

Dr. Pauline Macharia emphasized IOM and UNIDO’s commitment to strengthening partnerships with the Government of Sierra Leone, non-Governmental institutions and other United Nations agencies to ensure migrants are not left behind in national development efforts. She added that such programs are designed to reduce the risks of irregular migration by creating viable opportunities for returnees to contribute meaningfully to their families and society.

Dr. Samba Moriba, Principal of Freetown Polytechnic, hailed the collaboration as a milestone in vocational education. “Freetown Polytechnic has long been a beacon of technical training since its establishment in 1964. This partnership with IOM and UNIDO reinforces our mission of combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills to produce graduates who are ready to innovate and lead,” he noted.

He also stressed that international partnerships play a vital role in shaping the future of technical education in Sierra Leone, ensuring students are not only prepared for today’s workforce but are capable of adapting to tomorrow’s industrial challenges.

Representing the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Assistant Director, Cyrus Chrispin Justice reaffirmed the Government’s dedication to youth empowerment. “Our role as a Ministry is to design policies that make young people valuable assets to their communities and the nation. Initiatives like this are critical in achieving that goal,” he stated.

The graduation of these 25 returnees is more than a ceremony; it symbolizes resilience, hope and a shared commitment to sustainable development. With the support of IOM, UNIDO and the European Union, the graduates are now equipped with valuable skills to build their livelihoods, reduce unemployment and contribute to Sierra Leone’s economic growth.

U.S. Embassy Reveals Resumption of MCC Compact, Unlocks $480 Million for Sierra Leone

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The United States Government has formally approved a $480 million Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Compact for Sierra Leone, signaling a major milestone in the country’s efforts to modernize its energy sector and strengthen bilateral ties with the U.S.

The announcement, confirmed through a post on X by the U.S. Embassy in Freetown, follows an extensive administration review of U.S. foreign assistance programs. The Compact, signed in September 2024, aims to address one of Sierra Leone’s most pressing challenges; access to affordable and reliable electricity.

The Compact, signed in September 2024, aims to tackle one of Sierra Leone’s most pressing development challenges; access to affordable and reliable electricity. The investment will support critical improvements to electricity distribution, expand the national power grid and strengthen key energy institutions. The Government of Sierra Leone is contributing an additional $14.2 million to the program.

Sierra Leone is one of only 15 countries worldwide and two in Africa selected to move forward with an MCC Compact from an original pool of 25. This selection reflects strong confidence in the country’s governance, reform agenda and capacity to deliver results.

“The approval of this Compact is a vote of confidence in our Government’s commitment to transforming the energy sector,” said President Julius Maada Bio. “It is a landmark achievement that opens new doors for investment, job creation and long-term economic growth.”

In a statement posted on X, President Bio expressed gratitude to the U.S. Government and the MCC for their continued partnership. He also thanked U.S. Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Bryan D. Hunt, for his efforts in strengthening bilateral relations.

According to the MCC, only about 30 percent of Sierra Leone’s population currently has access to electricity, with rural access below five percent. Power outages and unstable voltage remain common, forcing businesses and households to rely on costly diesel generators despite being connected to the national grid.

The MCC Compact will address those challenges through three main projects:

  • Distribution and Access Project: Focused on expanding electricity access and improving service delivery.
  • Transmission Backbone Project: Aims to reinforce and expand the national grid.
  • Power Sector Reform Project: Designed to build institutional capacity and attract private sector participation.

In a related development, Sierra Leone’s new Ambassador to the United States, His Excellency Amara Sheikh Mohammed Sowa, presented his credentials to President Donald J. Trump in Washington, D.C. on July 24, 2025. During the ceremony, Ambassador Amara  Sowa delivered a message of goodwill from President Bio and emphasized the strong historical ties between the two nations.

Highlighting President Bio’s Big Five Game Changers initiative, Ambassador Amara Sowa underscored the administration’s focus on development, anti-corruption and creating a business-friendly environment. He also acknowledged U.S. contributions to Sierra Leone’s progress in education, healthcare and peacebuilding.

“The longstanding partnership between Sierra Leone and the United States continues to grow stronger,” said Ambassador Amara Sowa. “This Compact represents more than financial assistance; it is a partnership for progress.”

The Embassy of Sierra Leone in Washington, D.C. issued a statement praising the MCC Compact as a transformative step toward economic modernization and international collaboration.

With the Compact’s implementation set to begin, Sierra Leone is poised to make significant strides in energy access, private sector development and improved living standards.

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