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QNET Distances Itself from Entities and Persons Involved in Unlawful Assembly and Fraudulent Activities

QNET
QNET

Freetown, Sierra Leone, 2 December, 2024 – QNET, a product-oriented global wellness and lifestyle company with 26 years of experience, is aware of two media publications by Sierraloaded about a boyfriend who allegedly stole his girlfriend’s money to travel overseas but purportedly lost the money to QNET and another report about some 29 people who were arrested for unlawful assembly in Freetown.

QNET is also aware of the report attributed to the Sierra Leonean Police in which QNET was mentioned as an example of a company that may have been involved in wrongdoing in Sierra Leone. QNET strongly advises against hasty generalizations that intend to associate its brand name with others allegedly perpetuating fraud in Sierra Leone.

QNET’s Regional General Manager for sub-Saharan Africa, Biram Fall, reiterated that: “QNET is a legitimate product-oriented business that is transforming the lives of people around the world. QNET is not an investment or Ponzi scheme. QNET does not condone illegal gatherings, and it does not offer employment opportunities abroad. We continue to create awareness about the truth about QNET and encourage everyone to disregard all attempts by some unscrupulous people to tarnish the image and reputation of our company.”

QNET is implementing its media and public education campaign across the sub-region. The “Say No” and “QNET Against Scams” campaigns utilise strategic billboards, television and radio announcements, online media and newspaper publications and interactive flyer distribution methods to spread the truth about QNET and warn the public about individuals misusing its name and products to facilitate fraudulent activities.

So far this year, we have helped over 250 victims report fraudulent activities tied to the misuse of QNET’s name. Additionally, we have initiated more than 35 legal cases across Sub-Saharan Africa to address this issue.

The company urges the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities involving its name to the nearest police station or reach out to QNET via its WhatsApp hotline at +233 256 630 005 or email at network.integrity@qnet.net.

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About QNET

QNET is a prominent lifestyle and wellness company that uses a direct selling business model to offer a wide selection of exclusive products that enable individuals to embrace a healthier, more balanced life.

Since 1998, QNET’s innovative products and e-commerce-driven business model have helped build a global community of satisfied customers and microentrepreneurs, who are driven by the mission of RYTHM – Raise Yourself To Help Mankind. Popular product brands offered by QNET include the Bernhard H. Mayer range of luxury watches and jewellery, HomePure range of home care products, the Amezcua wellness range, Physio Radiance personal care range, and QVI branded holiday packages.

QNET proudly holds memberships in the Direct Selling Association in several countries, the Hong Kong Health Food Association, the Health Supplements Industry Association of Singapore, and more. QNET is also active in several global sports sponsorships including in its role as the official direct selling partner of the Manchester City Football Club and the Confederation of African Football (CAF), underscoring its commitment to excellence and global reach.  Discover a world of new possibilities with QNET by visiting www.qnet.net

 

Deplorable Tonko Limba Road: Hon. Koroma Pushes for Urgent Government Intervention

By Yusufu Sesay

As Sierra Leone’s Parliament debates the national budget for the fiscal year 2025, Hon. Ernest Dura Koroma, representing Kambia District from Tonko Limba Chiefdom, has emerged as a vocal advocate for the urgent construction of the long-neglected Tonko Limba road.

With a heartfelt appeal rooted in facts, empathy, and forward-thinking, Hon. Ernest Dura Koroma called on his colleagues to prioritize the road’s construction, a promise made by President Julius Maada Bio during the 2023 election campaign.

In a session marked by intense debate and competing priorities, Hon. Ernest Dura Koroma stood firm, delivering his message with passion and conviction. He began by describing the challenging realities faced by the people of Tonko Limba, where farmers, traders, students and healthcare workers are severely impacted by the impassable road conditions.

The Tonko Limba road, which connects Kambia Town to several remote villages, has deteriorated into a hazardous, near-impassable stretch, particularly during the rainy season.  Hon. Ernest Dura Koroma pointed out that the road has become a “death trap,” making life-threatening conditions the norm for those who rely on it.

“During the heavy downpours, deep potholes and eroded sections of the road become invisible, trapping vehicles and forcing drivers into dangerous decisions. Motorbike riders, the primary mode of transport in the area, risk their lives daily as they navigate slippery and unstable surfaces,” Hon. Ernest Dura Koroma explained.

He went on to emphasize the need for immediate intervention by the Government, specifically through the Ministry of Works and the Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA), to restore safety and ensure mobility on the Tonko Limba road. Hon. Ernest Dura Koroma has engaged with the Works Committee in Parliament, stressing the importance of making the road’s repair and construction a top priority for Government intervention, especially following the rainy season.

Hon. Ernest Dura Koroma’s call for action underscores the urgent need for infrastructural development in rural Sierra Leone, where poor road conditions continue to stifle economic growth and exacerbate daily hardships.

 

Apply Now: LICCSAL Business College Offers 20% Tuition Scholarship for 2024/2025 Intake

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The Board of Directors at LICCSAL Business College is excited to announce a 20% scholarship on tuition fees for newly admitted students for the 2024/2025 academic year. This scholarship is aimed at supporting students pursuing degree programs in Business Management & Administration, Accounting & Finance, and Journalism and Mass Communication.

As an affiliate institution of the University of Sierra Leone, LICCSAL Business College operates under the supervision of the Institute of Public Administration and Management (IPAM). Located in Wilberforce, opposite Africel Headquarters, LICCSAL is one of Sierra Leone’s oldest private colleges, offering a wide range of degree programs in collaboration with IPAM. Many of its faculty members also serve as full-time lecturers at IPAM and Fourah Bay College (FBC).

This scholarship initiative is particularly designed for working professionals who meet the basic entry requirements and are interested in advancing their education in areas such as Human Resources Management, Procurement, Marketing, Business Pathways, and other related fields.

LICCSAL Business College is committed to providing equal opportunities for all applicants, ensuring that higher education remains accessible to a diverse group of students.

For more information, prospective students can visit LICCSAL Business College at 1 Freetown Road, Wilberforce, or contact the college at the following numbers:

  • Tel: +232 78 54 26 02
  • Tel: +232 79 21 18 73
  • Tel: +232 76 20 75 10
  • Tel: +232 88 47 39 86
  • Tel: +232 76 66 60 41

This scholarship offer presents a great opportunity for those seeking to further their careers and education at a renowned institution in Sierra Leone.

Choithram Memorial Hospital’s Free Surgery Camp to Impact Hundreds of Lives

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a major step toward enhancing healthcare accessibility in Sierra Leone, Choithram Memorial Hospital has announced a Free Surgery Camp, scheduled from December 9 to December 14, 2024. The initiative aims to provide free cleft lip and palate surgeries, transforming the lives of individuals who might otherwise struggle to afford such critical medical interventions.

The camp will be spearheaded by the distinguished Professor (Dr.) Bayo Aluko-Olokun, a globally renowned Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon from Abuja, Nigeria. Dr. Aluko-Olokun, celebrated for his pioneering Olokun-Olaitan technique for cleft lip and palate repair, will collaborate with Dr. Eric Wongo, a skilled Plastic Surgeon at Choithram Memorial Hospital. Together, they will lead a team of experienced medical professionals from Sierra Leone and Nigeria, ensuring the highest standard of care.

The initiative will cater to new patients requiring their first surgeries and those needing follow-up procedures. By offering these services free of charge, Choithram Memorial Hospital is reaffirming its commitment to breaking down financial barriers and fostering equitable access to essential healthcare services.

Speaking about the initiative, Dr. Gowrinath M. George, Medical Superintendent of Choithram Memorial Hospital, emphasized its importance.
“This is a unique opportunity for many Sierra Leoneans to receive life-changing surgeries. We strongly encourage eligible individuals to take advantage of this invaluable service,” he stated.

Harish Agnani, Chief Administrator of the Choithram Group, echoed these sentiments, underlining the organization’s commitment to community welfare.
“Our focus has always been on providing comprehensive, advanced healthcare to the people of Sierra Leone. The Free Surgery Camp is a testament to our dedication to making healthcare accessible and impactful for all,” he said.

This announcement builds on Choithram Memorial Hospital’s reputation as a leader in healthcare innovation. Earlier this year, the hospital introduced a state-of-the-art MRI machine, significantly enhancing its diagnostic capabilities and further cementing its position as a provider of high-quality medical care.

Registration for the Free Surgery Camp began on November 6, 2024, and individuals are encouraged to secure their slots early by contacting the hospital at +232 76 541 331 or visiting its Hill Station premises in Freetown.

This groundbreaking initiative highlights Choithram Memorial Hospital’s role as a beacon of hope and healthcare excellence in Sierra Leone. By eliminating financial barriers and providing essential medical services to those in need, the hospital is transforming lives and uplifting the most vulnerable members of society.

Through this blend of compassion, expertise, and innovation, Choithram Memorial Hospital continues to inspire and set a benchmark for healthcare accessibility and excellence in the region.

Biometric ID Card Enhances Transparency and Access to Public Services

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a bold step toward modernizing its identity management systems, the Government of Sierra Leone, through the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA), has introduced the Biometric National Identification Card. This groundbreaking initiative is revolutionizing identity verification, bolstering security, and facilitating seamless access to critical services for citizens and residents alike.

The Biometric National ID Card integrates advanced technologies such as fingerprint and facial recognition, offering a tamper-proof system that protects individual identities. This innovation has drastically reduced identity fraud, earning the trust of public and private stakeholders alike.

In a bid to enhance efficiency, the NCRA recently partnered with BlueRibbon to organize a one-day training session on a new online registration platform. Held at the NCRA headquarters on King Harman Road, Freetown, the session brought together staff from across the country to learn about the platform’s functionalities. The online system allows citizens to apply for services such as identity cards, birth and death certificates, and other vital documents from the comfort of their homes.

The initiative, championed by NCRA Director General Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi, aims to decongest registration facilities and address operational bottlenecks, ensuring a seamless service delivery experience while preparing the country for future technological advancements.

The NCRA has recorded several significant accomplishments under this program, including:

  • Widespread Registration: Over 80% of eligible citizens are now registered, ensuring inclusivity.
  • Service Integration: The ID card links to banking, healthcare, and social welfare services, streamlining access.
  • Enhanced Security: The card’s linkage to mobile SIM cards has reduced cybercrime and unregistered communications.
  • Streamlined Passport Issuance: Integration with passport services has expedited processing times.

The Biometric National ID Card has become a cornerstone of socio-economic development, enabling businesses to verify identities reliably, reducing fraud, and improving transaction security. It has also enhanced electoral integrity, ensuring that only eligible voters participate in elections.

While logistical issues in remote areas and public skepticism initially posed hurdles, the NCRA successfully addressed these through mobile registration units and targeted awareness campaigns, significantly increasing participation.

Looking ahead, the NCRA plans to expand the platform’s applications to include:

  • Tax Administration: Enhancing revenue collection and fiscal planning.
  • Digital Voting: Promoting transparency in electoral processes.
  • E-Governance: Establishing Sierra Leone as a digital transformation leader in West Africa.

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has praised the initiative, describing it as pivotal to national development. “The Biometric National Identification Card fosters transparency, security, and equitable access to services, ensuring every citizen can thrive,” he affirmed.

To meet growing demand, the NCRA has established multiple registration centers across Sierra Leone, including:

  • Freetown Headquarters: 2 Walpole Street, Freetown
  • King Harman Road Office: 23B Off King Harman Road, Freetown
  • Lumley Road Office: Near the Roundabout, Freetown
  • Waterloo Office: Opposite the Police Station, along Freetown Highway
  • Regional Offices: Bo, Kenema, Makeni, and Port Loko

For inquiries, residents can contact the NCRA via:

As part of its digital security strategy, the NCRA has mandated the linking of National Identification Numbers (NINs) to mobile SIM cards. The exercise, running from September 1 to November 30, 2024, aims to combat fraudulent activities and improve mobile service efficiency. Non-compliance may result in suspension of services, including calls, SMS, and mobile money transactions.

To facilitate this process, additional registration centers have been established nationwide. Citizens are urged to:

  1. Obtain their National ID Cards.
  2. Link their NINs to their SIM cards.

The Biometric National ID Card and NIN-SIM linkage initiatives underscore the government’s dedication to building an inclusive and innovative identity management system. These efforts are positioning Sierra Leone as a progressive leader in digital transformation, paving the way for robust national development.

NP (SL) Limited: Pioneering Excellence in Sierra Leone’s Petroleum Industry

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

NP (SL) Limited stands out as a highly commended and respected player, renowned for its reliability and prompt service delivery. With an unwavering commitment to ensuring the consistent availability of high-quality petroleum products, including petrol, diesel, kerosene and more, NP (SL) has garnered the trust and loyalty of consumers nationwide, effectively averting the fuel shortages that can disrupt daily life. This dedication has earned the company the prestigious distinction of being regarded as “First for Customer Care.”

Sierra Leone’s leading petroleum marketing company, NP (SL) Limited, continues to reaffirm its industry leadership by focusing on six core corporate objectives: quality, safety, environmental stewardship, compliance, resource optimization and continuous improvement. These foundational pillars have cemented the company’s reputation as a trailblazer in the downstream petroleum sector.

Recognizing the inherent risks of handling highly inflammable substances such as petrol, diesel and gas, NP (SL) Limited prioritizes rigorous fire prevention and safety standards across all operations. The company ensures strict adherence to these protocols, safeguarding lives and property.

In its commitment to community safety, NP (SL) actively supports the National Fire Force by providing critical infrastructure, including state-of-the-art bore wells and standby generators. These contributions enhance firefighting capabilities and underscore the company’s dedication to public safety.

Established in 1996 following the privatization of the Government-owned petroleum marketing entity, NP (SL) has grown into a prominent indigenous petroleum importer and marketer. Driven by a mission of market leadership, regional expansion and environmental responsibility, the company has played a pivotal role in Sierra Leone’s development.

Overcoming challenges through strategic planning and innovative management, NP (SL) has expanded beyond Sierra Leone, establishing branches in Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast and The Gambia. This evolution into a mini multinational company reflects the determination and foresight of its founders.

NP (SL) Limited’s reputation for exceptional customer care is evidenced by its ranking as the leading company for customer service in Sierra Leone. The introduction of innovative solutions, such as the NP Energy Pass Card, has revolutionized the fuel purchasing experience, offering secure and cashless transactions that enhance convenience and reliability.

The company’s NP Gas product, an environmentally certified cooking solution, has gained widespread popularity for its efficiency and eco-friendliness. These innovations demonstrate NP (SL)’s commitment to meeting the evolving needs of its customers.

In its expansionist drive, NP (SL) has brought petroleum products to previously underserved areas, reducing energy poverty and creating job opportunities. The company’s commitment to local content is evident in its policy of employing nationals in all countries of operation.

NP (SL) Limited’s operations are guided by six corporate objectives:

  1. Ensuring Customer Satisfaction: The company delivers top-tier products and exceptional services, leveraging innovative solutions like the NP Energy Pass Card to enhance the customer experience.
  2. Preventing Environmental Pollution: By implementing measures to minimize its ecological footprint, NP (SL) aligns with international environmental standards, promoting sustainability.
  3. Safeguarding Health and Safety: Rigorous safety protocols, regular training, and proactive risk management ensure a secure environment for employees, contractors, and communities.
  4. Ensuring Compliance: Upholding integrity, NP (SL) diligently meets all legal, regulatory, and contractual obligations, fostering trust and transparency.
  5. Optimizing Resources and Enhancing Competence: Continuous investment in staff training and advanced technologies ensures operational efficiency and industry leadership.
  6. Fostering Continual Improvement: By adopting best practices and innovative strategies, NP (SL) sustains competitiveness and long-term growth.

With a robust network of fuel stations and modern storage facilities, NP (SL) guarantees uninterrupted access to petroleum products nationwide, even during periods of high demand. Its ability to maintain a steady fuel supply during emergencies underscores its reliability as a partner in Sierra Leone’s development.

Chief Executive Officer Saidu Mansaray emphasized the company’s mission: “At NP (SL), our goal is to lead the petroleum industry through quality, innovation, and customer-focused solutions. We are dedicated to advancing sustainable growth and meeting the energy needs of Sierra Leone.”

NP (SL) Limited continues to set the benchmark for excellence in Sierra Leone’s petroleum sector. By prioritizing safety, quality and innovation, the company remains a cornerstone of the nation’s energy landscape, driving progress, empowering communities, and shaping a sustainable future.

Ministry of Social Welfare Hosts Groundbreaking Town Hall on Disability Inclusion

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

The Government of Sierra Leone, through the Ministry of Social Welfare, hosted its first-ever Town Hall Meeting on building disability-inclusive processes in Sierra Leone. Held at the New City Council Hall in Freetown on November 28, 2024, this groundbreaking event marked a significant milestone in the country’s commitment to promoting the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities.

In her opening address, the Honourable Minister of Social Welfare, Melrose Karminty, emphasized that the town hall meeting was a vital step toward fostering a collaborative mechanism for policy formulation and program implementation. She highlighted the importance of hearing the voices of persons with disabilities and integrating their perspectives in the design and implementation of programs aimed at ensuring their meaningful inclusion.

Melrose Karminty underscored that the event sought to reinforce the principle of “Nothing about persons with disabilities, without persons with disabilities” and was designed to address the pressing need for inclusion in all areas of development. She pointed to the domestication of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities through the Persons with Disabilities Act of 2011 as a key milestone in the country’s progress. This law, she noted, remains crucial in providing dignity, opportunity and protection against stigma, while promoting independence and participation for persons with disabilities.

“This town hall is not just a gathering; it is an essential step toward breaking down the barriers preventing the inclusion of persons with disabilities and realizing their full potential,” Minister Melrose Karminty stated. She also called on all duty-bearers to renew their commitment to dignity, equity and respect for persons with disabilities.

One unique feature of the town hall was the advocacy drive for inclusion at all levels, with presentations from various Government Ministries, UN agencies and Civil Society Organizations. These institutions highlighted their strategies for promoting inclusivity in education, health, employment and finance, and pledged to escalate their efforts toward advancing disability-inclusive processes. Melrose Karminty revealed that an impact assessment committee would be set up to track progress in these thematic areas and provide performance updates during next year’s commemoration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

In her call to action, the Minister urged the Sierra Leonean society to join her Ministry in the vision of building a disability-inclusive nation. She stressed that programs must be accessible, with accommodations such as wheelchair access, sign language interpreters and large print or Braille materials. Additionally, she encouraged businesses to hire persons with disabilities and support inclusive initiatives.

Joseph Alieu Kamara, President of the Sierra Leone Union on Disability Issues (SLUDI), thanked the Ministry for organizing the event and appealed for more attention to be given to the inclusion of persons with disabilities in the country’s development plans. He called for full implementation of the 2011 Disability Act and highlighted challenges persons with disabilities continue to face, particularly in higher education.

The keynote address was delivered by Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Mohamed Lamin Tarawally, who affirmed the Government’s commitment to inclusivity. He reiterated that the Government’s ongoing initiatives, such as the review of the 2011 Disability Act and cash transfer programs, are part of a broader vision to ensure equal opportunities for all citizens, particularly persons with disabilities. He also committed to supporting the development of Sierra Leone’s disability inclusion strategy.

The event included a panel discussion featuring representatives from key Ministries and agencies, discussing issues like education, employment, healthcare and the revised Disability Bill. Members of the disability community had the opportunity to ask questions and engage with duty-bearers, making the town hall a dynamic platform for dialogue.

The Ministry of Social Welfare’s leadership in organizing this historic event was widely commended. UN Resident Coordinator, Seraphine Wakana, praised Sierra Leone’s efforts to promote disability inclusion, noting the global challenges faced by the disabled community, which numbers over 1.3 billion people worldwide. She reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to supporting disability inclusion efforts in Sierra Leone.

As the country prepares to observe the International Day for Persons with Disabilities on December 3, 2024, the Town Hall Meeting has set a precedent for future efforts to build a more inclusive, accessible and equitable society for all persons, regardless of ability. The discussions and commitments made during the meeting will serve as the foundation for continued progress toward a disability-inclusive Sierra Leone.

Major Shake-Up in RSLAF: 70 Officers Compulsorily Retired and Discharged

By Amin Kef (Ranger)
In a move aimed at streamlining the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), the Ministry of Defence has confirmed the approval of the compulsory retirement and discharge of several officers. The announcement, made in a Press Release on Friday, November 29, 2024, followed a meeting of the Defence Council and reflects the Government’s ongoing efforts to enhance the operational efficiency of the military.
The release outlines the discharge of officers under two categories: administrative discharge and the relinquishment of commission. A total of 56 officers, including one Major General, four Lieutenant Colonels, and various ranks down to Second Lieutenant, will be affected by the decision. This action aligns with the provisions of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces Act, with the aim of maintaining a capable and responsive defense force.
Colonel Issa Bangura, Director of Public Relations and Information at the Ministry of Defence, emphasized the importance of these changes in ensuring the military remains prepared to meet modern defense challenges. He explained that the restructuring is part of a broader strategy to boost the operational readiness of the RSLAF.
The decision to retire and discharge officers follows a similar action taken earlier in November.
On Monday, November 18, 2024, the Defence Council approved the compulsory retirement and discharge of 70 officers, who were categorized as follows:
1. Administrative Discharge: 53 officers, ranging from Major General to Lieutenant, retired due to administrative measures.
2. Compulsory Discharge (Absent Without Leave): Eleven officers, ranging from Major to Lieutenant, were discharged for prolonged absence without official leave.
3. Compulsory Discharge (Misconduct): Six officers, from Lieutenant Colonel to Lieutenant, were discharged for misconduct.
These discharges are in accordance with Section 169 (1) of the Constitution of Sierra Leone, Act No. 6 of 1991 and paragraphs 26 and 27 (a & b) of the Army Orders No. 1 of 1965.
As part of a gesture of goodwill, the 53 officers under the Administrative Discharge category will receive a lump sum payment equivalent to one year’s salary, in addition to their gratuity and other entitlements. The discharges will take immediate effect and the names of the affected officers will be published in the National Gazette for public reference.
The Ministry of Defence assures the public that these actions are necessary steps in ensuring the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces remains agile and well-positioned to tackle the security challenges of the modern world.
The retirement of the 70 military officers, the breakdown of the ranks are as follows:
1. General – 02
2. Colonel – 05
3. Lieutenant Colonel – 10
4. Major – 30
5. Captain – 07
6. Lieutenant – 16
The names of the affected military officers are as follows:
1. Major General CF Marah
(SL 729)
2. Commodore PJ Juana
(SL 689)
3. Colonel C Thoronka
(SL 564)
4. Colonel MB Kargbo
(SL 663)
5. Colonel S Daramy
(SL 678)
6. Colonel K Kamara
(SL 670)
7. Colonel TM Brima
(SL 726)
8. Lieutenant Colonel A Sesay
(SL 568)
9. Lieutenant Colonel IS
Kamara (SL 693)
10. Lieutenant Colonel M
Kargbo (SL 660)
11. Lieutenant Colonel A
Siesay (SL 744)
12. Lieutenant Colonel T
Matturi (SL SL 880)
13. Lieutenant Colonel A
Rollings (SL 865)
14. Commander SA Kamara
(SL 928)
15. Lieutenant Colonel M
Conteh (SL 997)
16. Lieutenant Colonel CM
Yamba (SL 909)
17. Lieutenant Colonel AB
Turay (SL 816)
18. Major S Fillie (SL 1027)
19. Major K Jamiru (SL 811)
20. Major S Sillah (SL 1022)
21. Major J Kpange (SL 1024)
22. Major P Bunduka (SL 836)
23. Major A Kamara
(SL 887)
24. Major U Bangura
(SL 1109)
25. Major S Marah (SL 754)
26. Major S Fartoma
(SL 1034)
27. Major A Kamanda
(SL 884)
28. Major M Tarawally
(SL 904)
29. Lieutenant Commander A
Kenneh (SL 1125)
30. Major S Bangura
(SL 1148)
31. Major A Swarray
(SL 1233)
32. Major D Gbandequee
(SL 954)
33. Major M Matturi (SL 967)
34. Major D Koroma (SL 918)
35. Lieutenant Commander A
Kanu (SL 1332)
36. Major S Sesay (SL 1056)
37. Major A Marah (SL 1531)
38. Major S Johnson (SL 995)
39. Major A Aruna (SL 1104)
40. Major J Kamara
(SL 1353)
41. Major M Bangura
(SL 1105)
42. Major M Dumbuya
(SL 1355)
43. Major BD Sama
(SL 1143)
44. Major AH Lahai
(SL 1215)
45. Major BM Bah (SL 1373)
46. Major (Dr) BR Idriss
(SL 1479)
47. Major B Sesay (SL 782)**
48. Captain A Jalloh
(SL 1413)
49. Captain AM Koroma
(SL 1474)
50. Captain SD Massaquoi
(SL 1336)
51. Lieutenant (Navy) R
Macfoy (SL 1484)
52. Captain A Kharlo
(SL 1593)
53. Captain S Bockarie
(SL 1598)
54. Captain AR Bah
(SL 1488)
55. Lieutenant A Jalloh
(SL 1286)
56. Lieutenant Z Kamara
(SL 1504)
57. Lieutenant AB Kamara
(SL 1647)
58. Lieutenant S Yorpoi
(SL 1655)
59. Lieutenant IB Bangura
(SL 1556)
60. Lieutenant SM Joe
(SL 1558)
61. Lieutenant E Momoh
(SL 1657)
62. Lieutenant I Kaloko
(SL 1467)
63. Lieutenant M Pendema
(SL 1604)
64. Lieutenant M Fengai
(SL 1786)
65. Lieutenant (Dr) J Coker
(SL 1822)
66. Lieutenant H Kamara
(SL 1584)
67. Lieutenant A Sesay
(SL 1814)
68. Sub Lieutenant A Kanu
(SL 1774)
69. Lieutenant Kpundeh
(SL 1804)
70. Lieutenant (Fr) A Sesay
(SL 1744)
Among the above-named retirees are two very senior officers: (1) Major General CF, who was the Chief of Staff at Ministry of Defence and (2) Commodore PJ Juana, who was the Naval Chief of Staff.

As Massive Road Upgrades Ongoing…. SLRA Director General Champions Road Infrastructure Excellence with Pavi Fort

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a bold step toward transforming Sierra Leone’s infrastructure, the Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA), led by Director General Ing. Alfred Jalil Momodu has teamed up with Pavi Fort Al-Associates, a renowned construction company with over 25 years of expertise. This strategic partnership aims to address critical road repairs and upgrades, many of which were caused by the recent rainy season, while setting a new benchmark for sustainable development across the nation.

Pavi Fort is currently working on several key projects throughout Freetown. These include pre-mix patching of roads across the city and road overlays at major locations such as Ferry Junction, Signal Hill, Juba, Shell New Road, Texaco and Portee. Additionally, the company is installing median guard railings at critical spots along Spur Road, Wilkinson Road and Juba, enhancing both safety and road durability.

One of the most notable projects is the restoration of the Masiaka-Bo-Kenema Highway. This once-dangerous stretch of road has been revitalized with pre-mix patching, significantly improving travel safety. The company is now working on similar upgrades to the Makeni-Kono Highway, which had previously been riddled with potholes. These upgrades have made a huge difference, ensuring smoother, safer passage and bolstering trade and mobility between vital regions.

In Freetown, Pavi Fort is working tirelessly to upgrade township roads, with crews even operating at night under floodlights to meet project deadlines. In addition, the Juba and Peninsula roads are being upgraded, improving urban connectivity for both residents and tourists exploring Sierra Leone’s scenic landscapes.

Pavi Fort’s impact extends beyond road repairs. Significant ongoing projects include:

  • Tikonko-Kpetema-Mattru Jong Road: A 38.1-kilometer road that will significantly enhance regional trade and agricultural activities.
  • Modern Lumley Market Center: A four-story facility featuring storage units, a hospital, entertainment spaces and ample parking, setting new standards for urban development in Sierra Leone.
  • Functional Traffic Signals: Newly installed traffic lights at Ferry Junction, Congo Cross and Lumley Roundabout have greatly improved traffic flow and safety.

The Transport Transit Terminal in Lumley constructed by Pavi Fort, was officially inaugurated on November 27, 2024, by President Julius Maada Bio. It is part of the World Bank-funded Integrated Resilient Urban Mobility Project (IRUMP) and will enhance public transportation, road safety and climate resilience.

Under Director General Ing. Alfred Jalil Momodu’s guidance, SLRA has fostered productive public-private partnerships that prioritize safety, quality and environmental sustainability. Pavi Fort’s Chairman and CEO, Alimu Sanu Barrie, emphasized the company’s commitment to delivering high-quality projects on time, in line with Government standards.

During the inauguration of the Lumley Terminal, President Bio hailed the initiative as a key element of his Big Five Game Changer Agenda, noting its role in reducing congestion, improving transportation efficiency and enhancing public safety.

President Bio also called on citizens to actively participate in maintaining these new developments: “The success of this infrastructure lies in our hands. Let us take ownership, maintain it responsibly, and maximize its benefits for generations to come,” he stated.

Minister of Transport and Aviation, Alhaji Fanday Turay, also praised the collaboration between the Government and Pavi Fort, highlighting its importance in advancing Sierra Leone’s national development objectives.

With SLRA’s strategic leadership and Pavi Fort’s ongoing contributions, Sierra Leone is witnessing a new era of infrastructure development. These projects promise to improve road safety, enhance connectivity and open up greater economic opportunities for the nation.

As SLRA and Pavi Fort continue their transformative work, Sierra Leone is on track to modernize its infrastructure, paving the way for a brighter, more prosperous future for all.

ACC Convicts Former Ecobank Head Abdul Salim Mansaray and Magnus Cole for Corruption

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The High Court of Sierra Leone, presided over by the Honourable Justice, Aiah Simeon Alieu J., delivered a landmark conviction on November 22, 2024, against Abdul Salim Mansaray, the former Head of Retail Operations at Ecobank and Magnus Samuel Valentine Cole, a resident of 12 Lewis Street, Kenema, Eastern Region after both individuals pleaded guilty to a series of corruption charges.

Abdul Salim Mansaray faced a total of seventy (70) counts, including misappropriation of public revenue, unlawfully acquiring public property and conspiracy to commit corruption offenses. He was also charged with providing misleading information and transferring property to disguise its illicit nature under the Anti-Money Laundering and Combating Terrorism Financing Act, 2024.

In a decisive ruling, Justice Aiah Simeon Alieu J. sentenced Abdul Salim Mansaray to a fine of One Hundred and Fifty Thousand New Leones (NLe 150,000) or a five-year imprisonment term. The court also ordered the forfeiture of Abdul Salim Mansaray’s funds held in accounts at Rokel Commercial Bank and United Bank for Africa (UBA). These funds, totaling Five Hundred and Sixty-One Thousand, Three Hundred and Eighty New Leones (NLe 561,380.64) and One Hundred and Sixteen Thousand, Nine Hundred and Sixty-Five New Leones (NLe 116,965.59), will be forfeited to the State, with Two Hundred Thousand New Leones (NLe 200,000) deducted to cover solicitor fees.

In a related case, Magnus Samuel Valentine Cole was convicted on charges of unlawfully acquiring public property and conspiracy to commit a corruption offense. He was sentenced to a fine of Fifty Thousand New Leones (NLe 50,000) or five years in prison.

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) offered no evidence against Tallu Jalloh, who was previously named in the case.

The convictions mark another significant victory in Sierra Leone’s ongoing fight against corruption, reinforcing the country’s commitment to upholding integrity and transparency in public service.

 

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