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Orange SL Leads Government Delegation on Tour of Newly Reopened Orange Digital Center

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The Chief Executive Officer of Orange Sierra Leone, Sekou Amadou Bah, together with the Management team of the company, on Monday, 21st July 2025, led a high-powered Government delegation on an official tour of the newly relocated and reopened Orange Digital Center (ODC), situated on Alpha Wurie Drive, Hill Station, Regent Road in Freetown. The visit underscored the Government of Sierra Leone’s strong commitment to digital transformation and youth empowerment. The delegation included the Minister of Youth Affairs, Ibrahim Sannoh, the Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah and David Manley, who represented the Ministry of Communication, Technology and Innovation.

They were warmly welcomed by Sekou Amadou Bah, Chief Executive Officer of Orange Sierra Leone;  Annie Wonnie-Katta, Director of  Orange Sierra Leone Foundation and Danetta Younge, General Secretary of the company. The Orange team guided the officials on an extensive tour of the state-of-the-art facilities, including the Fab Lab, Orange Fab and the Coding School all of which are designed to nurture innovation, entrepreneurship and digital literacy among Sierra Leone’s youth.

During the tour, the Ministers had the opportunity to interact directly with beneficiaries of the Center’s programs, including students living with disabilities who are currently enrolled in free digital courses at the facility. Their presence served as a powerful testament to Orange’s commitment to inclusivity and equal access to education. The delegation also met with the finalists of the Orange Social Venture Prize (OSVP) who are preparing to pitch their innovative business ideas today Friday 25th July, 2025at the  Orange Digital Center (ODC).

These young entrepreneurs are competing for the National Prize of NLe 200,000 and the Tech-Queen Prize of NLe 120,000, a bold initiative aimed at encouraging local solutions to local challenges through technology.

In her address during the recent tour of the Orange Digital Center (ODC), Annie Wonnie-Katta, Director of the Orange Sierra Leone Foundation, briefed the visiting Government delegation on the operations and impact of the Digital Center as well as broader initiatives of the Orange Foundation.

She explained that the Orange Digital Center, originally opened in February 2023 at its former location on Wilkinson Road, has now been relocated to Alpha Wurie Drive on Hill Station. The facility is designed to promote digital skills and drive innovation among Sierra Leonean youth.

“The Orange Digital Center offers four core programs: a coding school, solidarity FabLab (a digital manufacturing workshop), an Orange Fab start-up accelerator and training modules through Orange Digital Ventures,” Annie Wonnie-Katta stated. She emphasized that all programs are offered free of charge and are open to the public, with the overarching goal of democratizing access to digital technologies and empowering young people to become digital entrepreneurs.

She noted that since its inception, the Orange Digital Center has trained over 5,000 young people in a variety of digital and tech-based courses. Beyond training, she added, the Center is also focused on job insertion, helping participants transition into meaningful employment or entrepreneurial ventures.

Between January and June 2025 alone, Annie Wonnie-Katta revealed that a total of 338 participants benefitted from different training programs at the center. These courses form part of the Foundation’s broader mission to equip Sierra Leonean youth with practical, market-relevant skills and to cultivate innovation-driven mindsets.

Key training modules included:

  • Basic ICT Training – 112 participants
  • Entrepreneurship for Beginners – 100 participants
  • Scratch Coding for Beginners – 47 participants

Additionally, in partnership with Coursera, the center offered a variety of specialized online courses:

  • Foundations: Data, Data Everywhere – 14 participants
  • Foundations of Project Management – 13 participants
  • Introduction to Data Engineering – 12 participants
  • Cyber security for Everyone – 8 participants
  • Programming in Python and Data Analysis – 23 participants
  • Developing an Entrepreneurial Mindset: First Step Towards Success – 9 participants

She proudly disclosed that 118 participants (65 males and 53 females) from the January to June 2025 training cohort have already secured jobs through the Orange Digital Center’s job placement program.

Annie Wonnie-Katta reaffirmed Orange Sierra Leone Foundation’s commitment to bridging the digital divide in the country and expanding opportunities for marginalized populations, particularly women and young people. “Our work is about inclusion, access and empowerment,” she concluded, “so that Sierra Leone’s future leaders and innovators are equipped for the demands of the digital age.”

Speaking during the tour, the Minister of Youth Affairs, Ibrahim Sannoh, commended Orange Sierra Leone for its Digital Center, which he described as a vital platform for empowering young people across the country.

“This center represents hope and opportunity for the youth of Sierra Leone,” he stated. “It is encouraging to see private sector investment aligning so closely with the Government’s vision for innovation, job creation and inclusive growth.”

The Minister pledged to strengthen collaboration with Orange to ensure broader access to digital tools and skills by young people, especially for women and persons living with disabilities. He notably recommended a young woman named Rosamond, who resides under the Juba Bridge, to be considered for support and enrollment into the digital center.

Following his recommendation, Rosamond was officially admitted to the Orange Digital Center (ODC) on Wednesday, 23rd July 2025. She is now enrolled in a one-month foundational course in basic computer skills. Upon completion, she will undergo an assessment and be placed in a specialized digital program tailored to her interests and performance.

Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, also commended Orange Sierra Leone for establishing the Digital Center, describing it as a crucial initiative in equipping young people with essential digital skills, especially in today’s technology-driven world.

He emphasized the importance of preparing the youth for the digital age, noting that such initiatives help bridge the gap between education and employment. The also pledged to strengthen collaboration between his Ministry and Orange to ensure broader access to digital literacy and civic education opportunities across the country.

Sierra Leone to Launch Africa’s First Uterine Health Fund Today

Sierra Leone is poised to make history on Friday, July 25, 2025, as it prepares to host the official launch of Africa’s first Uterine Health Fund (UHF), a pioneering initiative that aims to transform uterine and reproductive health care across the continent. The launch will take place at the New Brookfields Hotel in Freetown from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Spearheaded by Youterus Health, the UHF seeks to channel blended financing into the diagnosis, treatment and research of uterine health issues; an area often overlooked in mainstream health policy despite its impact on millions of African women.

The event, described by organizers as marking “a new era for uterine and reproductive health in Africa,” will bring together leading voices from policy, clinical practice, technology and civil society in a united call to address what they deem a long-ignored public health crisis.

Hon. Mariama Zombo, who will officially open the event, is expected to deliver a powerful keynote speech highlighting the personal and systemic costs of neglecting uterine health. “We legislate budgets for maternal care every year, yet the uterus remains a blind spot in public policy,” she stated ahead of the launch.

Her sentiments are echoed by Dr. Frances Wurie, a leading clinician who will share frontline insights from hospital floors. “Delayed fibroid diagnoses rob women of their livelihoods well before they threaten their lives. It’s time for our health systems to catch up,” she said.

The launch will also underscore the urgent need for data-driven decision-making. “We can’t fix what we don’t count,” emphasized Professor Charles Senessie, who will advocate for greater investment in long-term research to accurately map the burden of uterine diseases in Africa.

Private sector innovation is also set to play a central role. Tech entrepreneur David Tamba Abdulai Kpakima will showcase how mobile imaging and micro-insurance solutions can dismantle longstanding access barriers for women in remote and underserved areas.

Julie Otieno, the architect behind the UHF’s blended-finance model, will offer a comprehensive overview of how the fund will mobilize resources from Government, philanthropy and private investment to ensure scalable, sustainable impact.

At the heart of the initiative is founder Fatou Wurie, who says the goal is to shift public discourse around uterine health “from hush to headline.” She describes the event as a holistic dialogue that integrates policy, clinical science, grassroots advocacy and cultural expression.

The day’s program will also feature a musical performance by celebrated artist Lala Sidibe and remarks from UN Resident Coordinator Seraphine Wakana, who hailed the fund as “a blueprint for meeting Sustainable Development Goals 3 and 5 in one stroke.”

While the event will host a select audience of health professionals, investors and civil society representatives, organizers hope its impact will resonate well beyond the conference hall.

“If we anchor uterine health at the centre of national planning,” Fatou Wurie concluded, “we don’t just alleviate pain; we empower women and rewrite the future of African health systems.”

NRA Unveils ‘CHECK AM’ Excise Stamp Verification App

Marking a major step in the fight against counterfeit goods and efforts to boost tax compliance, the National Revenue Authority (NRA) officially launched its groundbreaking Excise Stamp Verification mobile application, “CHECK AM,” on July 23, 2025.

This groundbreaking initiative is poised to transform how consumers interact with excisable goods, while bolstering Government efforts to curb tax evasion and illicit trade.

The app allows users to instantly verify the authenticity of products such as alcoholic beverages, non-alcoholic sugar-sweetened drinks (including soft drinks and juices), bottled water and tobacco products. By scanning the excise stamp affixed to the product using a smartphone camera, consumers can determine whether a product is legitimate or potentially harmful.

Once downloaded from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store, the CHECK AM app provides real-time feedback, displaying crucial product details like the manufacturer’s name, date of stamp marking and tax compliance status. If the product is verified as authentic, the app will confirm that the excise stamp is approved. In cases where a stamp is invalid, unrecognized or fraudulent, users will be promptly alerted and encouraged to report the suspicious item to authorities.

This real-time, user-friendly solution is part of the NRA’s broader strategy to safeguard public health, protect legitimate businesses and increase national revenue collection. Counterfeit and untaxed goods not only endanger consumers but also undercut law-abiding businesses and drain critical public resources. By introducing the CHECK AM app, the NRA is tightening enforcement, ensuring market fairness and closing loopholes that previously allowed for the circulation of fake goods.

According to the NRA, the app supports Sierra Leone’s digital transformation agenda, which prioritizes transparency, efficiency and accountability in public service delivery. The initiative underscores the vital role of technology in modern tax administration and enforcement.

“The CHECK AM app is a game-changer,” said an NRA spokesperson. “It puts power directly in the hands of consumers while supporting our mission to protect revenue and ensure public safety.”

To drive mass adoption, the NRA plans to roll out nationwide awareness campaigns targeting consumers, retailers and distributors. These efforts will educate the public on the dangers of counterfeit goods and the importance of verifying excise stamps before making purchases.

The introduction of the CHECK AM app marks a significant milestone in Sierra Leone’s ongoing fight against counterfeit goods and tax evasion. It offers a win-win solution for all stakeholders: consumers gain confidence in the products they use; genuine businesses operate in a more level playing field and the Government secures much-needed revenue to fund critical services and national development projects.

Embracing innovation and digital transformation to improve governance and service delivery, Sierra Leone showcases its commitment through the CHECK AM app; an impactful solution that safeguards consumers, strengthens regulatory compliance and promotes greater economic transparency.

FIA Joins Egmont Group, Elevating Sierra Leone’s capability to Fight Financial Crime

The Financial Intelligence Agency (FIA) of Sierra Leone has officially been admitted into the prestigious Egmont Group, marking a major milestone in the country’s fight against money laundering and terrorism financing.

The announcement was made during the Egmont Group’s plenary session held in Luxembourg, where FIA Director General, David N. Borbor, formally accepted the country’s membership and pledged Sierra Leone’s commitment to international standards of financial intelligence.

FIA’s admission comes after an eight-year journey since its initial application. The development elevates the Agency to a global platform alongside more than 170 Financial Intelligence Units (FIUs) from across the world, all dedicated to the secured exchange of financial data and collaborative action against financial crime.

“This is not merely a symbolic gesture,” said DG David N. Borbor during his acceptance speech. “It is a fundamental step toward enhancing our operational capabilities, strengthening our analytical intelligence and most importantly expanding our reach in cross-border financial investigations. Financial crime knows no borders and effective collaboration among FIUs is the most potent weapon in our arsenal.”

The Egmont Group provides a critical network for secure communication and intelligence sharing among its members. For FIA Sierra Leone, membership opens the door to vital resources, including access to protected communication platforms, technical assistance, specialized training and enhanced cooperation in complex international investigations.

FIA will now be better equipped to tackle financial crimes that transcend borders, positioning Sierra Leone as a credible partner in global anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing efforts.

The achievement also reflects the Bio administration’s broader commitment to aligning Sierra Leone with international financial governance structures. Observers view the admission as a testament to President Julius Maada Bio’s policy focus on transparency, accountability and international cooperation.

Having signed the Egmont Charter, DG David N. Borbor reiterated Sierra Leone’s readiness to fully engage with the principles of the network. “FIA Sierra Leone pledges full adherence to the Egmont Charter and the foundational principles for information exchange,” he said. “We are committed to fostering timely, secured and reciprocal information sharing, anchored in mutual trust and respect for the confidentiality and data protection standards that underpin this Group’s success.”

With this new status, the FIA is expected to deepen its institutional capacity, strengthen its global alliances and enhance the country’s ability to detect, prevent and disrupt illicit financial flows.

ONS Endorses PR Electoral System at National Dialogue

During a landmark national dialogue on electoral reform held on July 17, 2025, at the Bintumani Conference Centre in Freetown, the Office of National Security (ONS) presented the Security Sector’s official position, endorsing the Proportional Representation (PR) system as the most suitable electoral framework for Sierra Leone.

Speaking on behalf of the National Security Coordinator and the heads of various security institutions, Dr. Ahmed A. Sannoh, Deputy National Security Coordinator (DNS Coord), delivered a comprehensive position paper at the event hosted by the Tripartite Committee on the implementation of the National Unity Agreement. The session, held at the Bintumani International Conference Centre, was aimed at addressing Recommendation 78 of the Tripartite Recommendation Report, with the goal of strengthening democratic governance and electoral integrity in Sierra Leone.

Dr. Ahmed A. Sannoh underscored the critical link between governance and national security, arguing that while electoral systems are instruments of democratic expression their implications extend far into the domains of peace, stability and social cohesion. “The adoption of a Proportional Representation system presents Sierra Leone with an opportunity not only to deepen democracy but to promote inclusive governance, national cohesion and lasting peace,” he asserted.

He recalled the 1996 general elections, held under a PR system during the height of Sierra Leone’s civil war, which led to the formation of a broadly representative parliament. That experience, he noted, was instrumental in reducing tensions and facilitating national dialogue, even amid widespread conflict.

In contrast, Dr. Ahmed A. Sannoh pointed out the divisive effects of the First-Past-the-Post (FPTP) system, which, he said, tends to heighten ethnic and regional divisions through its winner-takes-all mechanism. “Such systems are not well-suited to a country with our level of ethnic diversity and historical sensitivities,” he stated.

Citing international examples, he referenced Rwanda, South Africa and Northern Ireland, nations that have successfully used PR systems to manage post-conflict transitions, ensure inclusive governance and prevent the resurgence of violence. He emphasized that more than 90 countries globally now employ elements of the PR system, benefiting from greater inclusivity, political accountability and democratic resilience.

“FPTP breeds disproportionate representation and fosters exclusionary politics,” Dr. Ahmed A. Sannoh said, contrasting this with the PR model that, he argued, better aligns voter preferences with representation, mitigates electoral violence and encourages multi-party cooperation.

Presenting the Security Sector’s recommendation as a “strategic imperative,” he concluded, “We must confront an undeniable truth: electoral systems either serve as bridges to inclusion or become walls that entrench division. Proportional Representation offers us that bridge; a path toward shared governance, mutual respect and national cohesion. For the sake of our unity, our security and the sacred promise of an enduring democracy, Sierra Leone must summon the courage to cross it.”

The national dialogue brought together key stakeholders from political parties, civil society, international partners and governance institutions. It forms part of Sierra Leone’s broader efforts to implement reforms under the National Unity Agreement, reflecting a collective commitment to democratic consolidation and sustainable peace.

RSLAF Pays Over Le116,000 in Benefits to Convicted Coup Plotters

The Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), through its Armed Forces Endowment and Loan Scheme (AFELS), has disbursed a total of Le 116,573 in Cash Value Benefits to 36 convicted military personnel who were involved in the failed coup attempt of November 26, 2023.

According to Major Yayah Brima, Esq., Acting Director of Defence Public Relations and Information at Defence Headquarters, Cockerill Barracks, the payments were made on May 21, 2025, in accordance with AFELS policy. Each of the convicted personnel received their respective payments in the presence of custodial authorities at the Pademba Road Correctional Facility in Freetown.

AFELS, a public limited company established in January 2022 under the leadership of President Brigadier-General (Retired) Julius Maada Bio, is designed to provide welfare and financial services to serving and former military personnel. Its creation was part of the President’s broader effort to modernize and professionalize the RSLAF since taking office in 2018.

The benefits paid to the convicted soldiers are classified under the scheme’s Cash Value Benefit, which is applicable to personnel who resign, retire or are dismissed including those convicted of crimes. Under the AFELS policy, the benefit is calculated based on the total contribution made by the personnel over a minimum of two years, with an additional 25% interest. Those with less than two years of contribution forfeit the interest.

In addition to the Cash Value Benefit, AFELS also provides a Death Benefit to the next-of-kin of deceased personnel, based on similar calculation criteria. Where contributions fall below the two-year threshold or Le 2,500, a flat payment of Le 2,500 is made to the listed beneficiaries.

Major Yayah Esq emphasized the distinction between the AFELS Death Benefit and the RSLAF Funeral Purse ; a separate benefit significantly improved under President Julius Maada Bio’s leadership from one bag of rice and Le 820 to three bags of rice and Le 12,000.

AFELS also offers soft loans to military personnel, capped at 40% of a soldier’s annual salary with a 10% interest rate, repayable over 12 months. According to AFELS data, this loan facility has significantly reduced the reliance on commercial bank loans among personnel, which previously led to increased indebtedness and lower living standards within the force.

Membership in AFELS is mandatory for all military personnel, who contribute monthly amounts ranging from Le 75 to Le 500. These contributions are invested to generate profits that fund the scheme’s benefits and sustain its interest rates.

The brainchild behind AFELS is Brigadier-General Roland Robin Gbondo, a key figure in the transformation of RSLAF’s financial and welfare systems. He was recently promoted and appointed Chief Executive Officer of the Defence Enterprise Services (DES), the Armed Forces’ new investments wing, further consolidating his role in shaping military welfare and enterprise development.

The payment of benefits to coup convicts, though legally in line with AFELS policy, has stirred mixed public reactions. However, military officials assert that adherence to policy ensures integrity and consistency in the administration of benefits, regardless of the circumstances surrounding a personnel’s exit from service.

President Bio Hosts FAO Director-General, Strengthens Ties on Agricultural Development

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has on Saturday, 19 July 2025 hosted the Director-General of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Dr. Qu Dongyu at State Lodge, Hill Station, Freetown, in a high-level meeting aimed at deepening cooperation on agricultural transformation and sustainable food systems in Sierra Leone.

Held at the Presidential Lodge on Hill Station, the engagement marked a pivotal moment in Sierra Leone’s drive to enhance food security, increase agricultural productivity and expand South-South cooperation.

Introducing the FAO delegation, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Musa Kpaka, disclosed that the visit followed a formal invitation extended by President Bio earlier this year during a bilateral meeting in Rome. He noted that the FAO team was in the country to explore avenues for supporting the Government’s agricultural development priorities through inter-ministerial collaboration.

FAO Director-General Dr. Qu Dongyu expressed sincere gratitude for the warm welcome extended by President Bio and described the visit as a reflection of the FAO’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with Sierra Leone.

“Your Excellency, I am here with my team to honour your invitation,” Dr. Qu Dongyu stated. “We intend to use the remaining two years of my tenure to fully support your Government’s agenda. Your leadership and vision for agricultural transformation in Sierra Leone are compelling and timely.”

He affirmed that his team would engage with key Ministries to identify areas of technical and developmental support aligned with national priorities. The collaboration, he said, is crucial to accelerating the Government’s efforts under the “Feed Salone” initiative.

In his remarks, President Julius Maada Bio warmly welcomed the FAO delegation and conveyed his deep appreciation for their commitment to Sierra Leone.

“On behalf of the Government and people of Sierra Leone, I wish to thank you and your team for honouring my invitation. Your presence here demonstrates a shared vision for a stronger agricultural future,” the President said.

He reiterated his Government’s dedication to making agriculture the cornerstone of economic development, job creation and national food self-sufficiency. He stressed the importance of strategic partnerships and technical assistance in achieving the goals of the “Feed Salone” programme.

“Agriculture in Sierra Leone must become an economically viable and investment-attractive sector,” President Bio declared. “Such transformation requires the right technical expertise and international support, which makes this engagement with FAO particularly significant.”

President Bio also recalled his earlier meeting with Dr. Qu Dongyu in Rome, where he made a strong case for increased FAO involvement in Sierra Leone’s agricultural development. He noted that the FAO has historically played an important role in promoting food security and that the renewed partnership would be instrumental in building a more resilient and productive agricultural sector.

Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to working closely on advancing the Feed Salone agenda and strengthening Sierra Leone’s food systems through innovative and sustainable interventions.

President Bio concluded by highlighting his administration’s unwavering political will to make agriculture the backbone of the country’s economy and expressed confidence that this renewed collaboration with the FAO would yield meaningful and lasting results.

Dr. Denis Sandy Stripped of SLPP IEMOC Chairmanship Ahead of National Delegates Conference

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

A major shakeup within the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) has seen Minister of Works and Public Assets, Dr. Denis Sandy, officially removed from his position as Chairman of the Independent Elections Monitoring and Oversight Committee (IEMOC).

The decision was announced in a Public Notice issued by the National Secretary-General (Outgoing) on July 21, 2025, Umaru Napoleon Koroma. According to the notice, the leadership of the SLPP has appointed Ambassador Mohamed Yangawo as the new Chairman of IEMOC. He will now be responsible for supervising the conduct of the elections for National Officers during the upcoming National Delegates Conference, scheduled for July 30–31, 2025.

The statement emphasized that all matters related to the national officers’ elections should henceforth be directed to Ambassador Mohamed Yangawo and his committee.

While no official reason was given for Dr. Denis Sandy’s removal, the announcement marks a notable shift in the internal electoral arrangements of the party. The replacement is seen as a move to ensure transparency and smooth coordination in the buildup to the party’s highly anticipated national conference.

The notice was copied to the National Leader, Deputy National Leader and members of the IEMOC, signaling a coordinated transition at the party’s highest electoral oversight level.

Observers are closely watching developments ahead of the conference, which is expected to shape the future leadership direction of the ruling SLPP.

It should be noted that Dr. Denis Sandy has been facing mounting pressure from Civil Society Organizations following the release of an investigative report dated April 2, 2025. The report, compiled by a judicial panel comprising Hon. Justices Glenna Thompson (JSC), F.B. Alhadi (JA) and Monfred Sesay (JA), revealed troubling findings concerning the issuance of fictitious court orders within the Judiciary of Sierra Leone, in which Dr. Denis Sandy was directly implicated.

According to the report, Dr. Denis Sandy secured a fraudulent divorce certificate, known as a “Decree Absolute,” without ever initiating a legal divorce process. The investigation found that he did not file a petition, engage a lawyer or appear before a court. Instead, he allegedly conspired with an unqualified individual named Magnus Coker to bypass proper judicial procedures and obtain false documentation.

The panel described Dr.Denis Sandy’s testimony as “unimpressive and unreliable,” criticizing his “cavalier approach and lack of respect for the rule of law.” It concluded that he was “an active participant in this fraudulent act” and recommended that he be referred to the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) for further investigation.

In reaction, a coalition of prominent Civil Society Organizations, including the Campaign for Good Governance, Citizens Advocacy Network, Citizens’ Barray, Freedom Hub, Institute for Governance Reform, Institute for Legal Research and Advocacy for Justice and The Lawyers’ Society issued a joint statement on May 4, 2025, calling for Dr. Denis Sandy’s immediate resignation or suspension.

“As Minister of Works, Dr. Denis Sandy occupies a position of immense public trust,” the statement read. “His involvement in such a scandal undermines public confidence in governance and the credibility of the judiciary.”

The organizations urged President Julius Maada Bio to take decisive action by removing Dr. Denis Sandy from his ministerial position if he fails to step down voluntarily. They emphasized that accountability must be upheld, especially as the nation prepares for key political and democratic events.

“Allowing him to remain in office amid such serious allegations would set a dangerous precedent and damage the integrity of public institutions,” the statement warned.

The group further echoed the judicial committee’s recommendation for widespread reform within Sierra Leone’s judicial system to prevent future misconduct and ensure that all individuals involved in the scandal are held accountable.

As of the time of this report, neither Dr. Denis Sandy nor the Ministry of Works and Public Assets has responded publicly to the allegations or his removal from the SLPP oversight committee.

The unfolding situation is being closely monitored as civil society continues to demand transparency and justice.

SLCAA Urges Affected Passengers to Report Concerns Over SN Brussels Flight 1241 Delay

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) has confirmed a 24-hour delay in SN Brussels Flight SN 1241, which was initially scheduled to depart Brussels on Friday, July 19, 2025, at 12:30 PM. According to a Press Release dated July 20, 2025 and signed by the Director General of the Authority, Madam Musayeroh Barrie, the delay was caused by unforeseen technical issues.

The SLCAA expressed its regrets for the inconvenience caused to passengers and assured the public of its ongoing commitment to ensuring safe and reliable air travel. “We are aware of the delay and understand the frustration this may have caused. Affected passengers who feel they were treated unfairly or have any concerns are encouraged to contact our Consumer Protection Division via the toll-free line 8122,” the statement read.

In her remarks to this medium, Director General Madam Musayeroh Barrie emphasized the Authority’s dedication to enhancing Sierra Leone’s aviation sector. She revealed that increasing airline competition and attracting more international carriers are among her top priorities, noting that this would ultimately reduce travel costs and expand options for passengers.

“We have made significant progress over the years. Today, we rate above 70% in terms of safety and security in the aviation sector. That’s no small achievement,” Madam Musayeroh Barrie stated. She further added that compared to many other countries, Sierra Leone’s performance in aviation regulation and service delivery is commendable.

Highlighting her administration’s vision, the SLCAA Director General reiterated her commitment to working closely with key industry stakeholders, including airlines, operators and service providers, to ensure compliance with international standards. “We are strengthening our oversight functions and aligning our operations with global best practices,” she said.

The SLCAA reassured the public that it remains focused on maintaining the highest standards of safety, transparency and accountability in the aviation industry. It also reiterated its open-door policy for handling passenger complaints and resolving consumer concerns in a timely and professional manner.

This latest development underscores the Authority’s proactive communication approach and its continuous efforts to build public trust in Sierra Leone’s growing aviation landscape.

 

NP (SL) Reaffirms Market Leadership with New CEO Appointment and Continued Innovation

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

NP (SL) Limited, Sierra Leone’s premier petroleum marketing company, has once again demonstrated its resilience and forward-thinking leadership with the appointment of Dr. Mohamed S. Kanu as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective August 1, 2025. This follows the resignation of Saidu Mansaray, who steered the company through a period marked by expansion, innovation and unmatched customer service.

Recognized as “1st for Customer Care,” NP (SL) Ltd has built an enviable reputation for excellence in the petroleum sector, consistently delivering high-quality products, including petrol, diesel and lubricants across the country. With a robust supply chain and strategic planning, the company has managed to maintain a steady fuel supply, even in challenging times, ensuring that both individual and institutional customers have uninterrupted access to energy solutions.

A key factor in the company’s sustained success is its unwavering focus on customer satisfaction. NP’s modern, calibrated pumps ensure that customers receive accurate quantities of fuel, reinforcing trust and transparency. The company’s dedication to refining its services through active customer engagement has fostered a strong loyalty base and affirmed its position as the trusted name in Sierra Leone’s energy landscape.

The Board of Directors, in a press release, described Dr. Mohamed S. Kanu as “a seasoned Executive with a strategic mindset and deep knowledge of the NP brand.” His appointment marks a return to familiar territory; he previously served as CEO of NP Côte d’Ivoire, where he significantly bolstered the company’s market position, improved operational efficiency and fostered strong regional partnerships.

“Dr. Kanu’s leadership is expected to drive the company forward with a renewed focus on customer satisfaction, sustainability and digital transformation,” the Board stated.

Under outgoing CEO Saidu Mansaray, NP (SL) launched innovative solutions, most notably the NP Energy Pass Card, a digital payment option that revolutionized the customer experience. The card allows users to buy fuel securely, receive real-time SMS notifications and perform seamless top-ups both online and offline; a bold step toward supporting Sierra Leone’s cashless economy. The OTP (One-Time Password) recovery feature also ensures minimal service interruptions for users.

During Saidu Mansaray’s tenure, NP (SL) Ltd also deployed Mobile Fuel Tanks, a strategic innovation designed to ensure fuel availability in critical Government institutions. Notably, mobile tanks were installed at the Parliament of Sierra Leone and supplied to the Sierra Leone Police Force, supporting the continuity of legislative and law enforcement operations.

In addition to its strong product offerings, including high-performance lubricants and the environmentally friendly NP Gas for domestic cooking, the company has continued to promote economic growth by aligning itself with Sierra Leone’s Local Content Policy. With a 100% Sierra Leonean workforce, NP (SL) is a major employer, empowering citizens and contributing meaningfully to national development.

NP (SL)’s success story also stretches beyond Sierra Leone’s borders. The company has expanded operations into Guinea, Liberia, Côte d’Ivoire and The Gambia, showcasing its ambition to compete regionally and stimulate broader economic impact through job creation and reliable energy solutions.

Furthermore, the company’s flexible credit arrangements for Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) have helped mitigate service disruptions due to budgetary delays. This level of accommodation illustrates NP (SL)’s strategic role in supporting Government operations and public service delivery.

As one of the country’s top taxpayers, NP (SL) Ltd remains a critical stakeholder in Sierra Leone’s socio-economic development. Its ongoing investment in technology, infrastructure and safety protocols such as routine emergency drills and quality assurance checks continues to set industry benchmarks.

With Dr. Mohamed S. Kanu at the helm, NP (SL) Ltd is poised to reach new heights, guided by a legacy of innovation, accountability and customer-centred values. As the company advances its mission both locally and regionally, it remains unwavering in its commitment to powering progress in Sierra Leone and beyond.

 

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