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SLCAA DG Named Among Sierra Leone’s 50 Most Influential Women

By Amin Kef-Ranger

Madam Musayeroh Barrie, the dynamic Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), has earned national acclaim after being named one of the 50 Most Influential Women in Sierra Leone for 2025. The recognition came during a prestigious awards ceremony hosted on July 11, 2025, at the Freetown International Conference Centre (Bintumani) by Make Impact Global, a leading advocacy organization committed to amplifying the voices of women and youth leaders.

Celebrated across the aviation sector and beyond, Madam Musayeroh Barrie’s selection reflects her outstanding leadership and transformative contributions to civil aviation in Sierra Leone. Her stewardship of the SLCAA has led to critical reforms aimed at aligning the Authority with international aviation standards, enhancing safety oversight and strengthening institutional partnerships across the continent.

Her Excellency, the First Lady of Sierra Leone and Her Excellency Fatoumata Jallow-Tambajang, former Vice President of The Gambia and Distinguished Grand Chief Patron of the event, delivered powerful keynote addresses that celebrated women’s leadership across various fields including governance, health, education, agriculture, business and the media.

Staff of the Civil Aviation Authority welcomed the news with great joy, praising Madam Musayeroh Barrie for her visionary leadership. “Your visionary leadership, unwavering support and magnanimous spirit continue to inspire greatness in all of us,” they declared. “This honor is a testament to the legacy you are building; one of excellence, empowerment and elevation.”

Madam Musayeroh Barrie’s tenure as Director General has been marked by innovation, inclusion and institutional growth. She has overseen the implementation of new regulatory frameworks, invested in staff training and professional development and built strong links with global aviation bodies. Her efforts have not only elevated the SLCAA’s reputation but also created opportunities for young professionals and women within the sector.

A staunch advocate for gender equality in a male-dominated industry, Madam Musayeroh Barrie has continually broken barriers and set new standards for female leadership. Her rise to prominence has inspired many young Sierra Leonean women to pursue careers in aviation and public service, demonstrating that excellence and determination can overcome long-standing structural obstacles.

The “50 Most Influential Sierra Leonean Women Awards” serve as a platform to recognize and uplift women whose influence drives real societal transformation. Madam Musayeroh Barrie’s recognition underscores how strategic and compassionate leadership can positively shape national institutions and encourage inclusive development.

Sierra Leone’s ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure and expand international cooperation highlight the importance of leaders like Madam Musayeroh Barrie. Her achievements serve as a model of focused, progressive leadership. This recognition not only celebrates her accomplishments to date but also affirms her crucial role in shaping the future of civil aviation and advancing women’s leadership across the nation.

Launched with the Theme: ‘Clean Game’… Housemates Season 4 Winner to Take Home Le1Million + Round Trip to Dubai

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

The highly anticipated fourth season of Housemates Salone was officially launched at the luxurious Chapter One Night Club & Restaurant in Freetown on Friday 18th July, 2025, igniting national excitement around what has become Sierra Leone’s biggest and most transformative Reality TV show.

With the theme: “Clean Game”, Season 4 aims to promote integrity, fairness and professionalism, principles that organizers say reflect a new direction for the show, which has been described by many as a cultural spectacle.

This year’s winner will walk away with an unprecedented cash prize of One Million New Leones (equivalent to One Billion Old Leones), a sum that highlights the show’s rising scale and investment in youth empowerment, creativity and national pride. Also the winner will embark on an all expense trip to Dubai.

The launch event was graced by dignitaries from across Sierra Leone’s political, entertainment and business landscapes, creating a rare moment of national unity and celebration.

Delivering an empowering keynote address, First Lady, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, underscored the importance of celebrating and investing in local talent. She expressed immense pride in the homegrown success of Housemates Salone, calling on every Sierra Leonean to take ownership of the show and support it wholeheartedly.

“Housemates Salone is not just a reality show; it is a Sierra Leonean product, built from scratch with Sierra Leonean dreams and for Sierra Leonean youth. It’s a shining example of what we can do when we believe in ourselves and push beyond our limits.”

“I want to urge our young people to use this platform not just to seek fame but to discover their purpose, to show their true selves and to uplift others along the way. Let the world see that we have smart, creative and visionary youth.”

“We must protect this platform. We must invest in it, support it and guard its reputation, because it belongs to all of us. And I believe this season, under the theme: ‘Clean Game’ will set a new tone that celebrates honesty, talent and teamwork.”

Adding her voice to the evening, Her Worship Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, Mayor of Freetown, expressed deep admiration for the production team and the show’s contribution to youth development and cultural branding.

“Housemates Salone is not just entertainment it is a success story that began in Freetown and now speaks to every Sierra Leonean, regardless of region or background. It creates jobs, builds careers and uplifts the creative industry.”

“As Mayor of the city where this vision was born, I feel a sense of pride. The show represents what we stand for, resilience, innovation and unity. Let us all support this clean and powerful movement.”

She further noted that Housemates Salone has become a cultural export that reflects the dynamism and potential of Freetown’s youth.

Judith Jones, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, delivered a moving speech on behalf of Minister Nabila Tunis, emphasizing the show’s alignment with national tourism goals:

“Since taking office, our Ministry has taken bold steps toward fostering a tourism industry driven by private sector leadership… Housemates Salone has undoubtedly become a cultural sensation,” she stated.

She further encouraged the organizers to form an alumni network for former contestants, transforming the show’s legacy into a continuous platform for development, visibility and international representation of Sierra Leonean culture.

“As we embrace the year of ecotourism under the theme: ‘Connecting Culture, Conservation and Community,’ the Ministry stands ready to collaborate with creative industries like Housemates Salone.”

Shadi Al-Gerjawi, CEO of Africell Sierra Leone, delivered a passionate statement about his company’s long-standing support for the show and its vision to raise entertainment standards in Sierra Leone.

“Each year, we challenge ourselves to be better, to innovate, to grow and to bring Sierra Leone along on that journey. Housemates Salone is not just a season for us, it’s a mission to uplift talent, build confidence and position Sierra Leone on the global entertainment map.”

“This season, we are focusing on positive, clean and smart entertainment. We are not here to encourage controversy or chaos. We are here to celebrate character, creativity and courage. The people in the House will reflect the best of Sierra Leone.”

“We at Africell are proud to co-produce this show again because we know what it means to the youth. And we are making sure the technology behind the show is top-notch, from the voting process to the viewing experience. Expect only the best this year.”

He also praised the strategic partnership with Afrimoney and emphasized Africell’s commitment to investing in Sierra Leone’s creative industries beyond Housemates Salone.

Ambassador Anthony Navo Jr., CEO of Africa Young Voices (AYV) and co-producer of the show, gave a powerful address about taking the Housemates Salone brand beyond Sierra Leone and setting a new bar for Reality TV in Africa.

“This year, we’re not competing within Sierra Leone; we are competing with Big Brother Naija and other global Reality Shows. That’s why we’re going to be on DSTV and every major broadcast platform. The goal is not just to entertain, but to inspire the world with Sierra Leonean excellence.”

“We’re doing this with integrity. This is why our theme this year is ‘Clean Game.’ There will be no favoritism, no backdoor arrangements. It will be a transparent, fair process. The winner will be chosen based on public votes and real merit.”

“We’ve added new layers of monitoring and standards to make sure we meet international regulations. We’re thinking long-term. We want the winner to walk away proud, knowing they earned every vote honestly.”

Anthony Navo Jr also encouraged other entertainment entrepreneurs to collaborate and push the industry forward:

“Let’s unite and grow this sector together. The world is watching and Sierra Leone must shine.”

Ru, the Hospitality Manager of Chapter One, described the venue’s partnership with the show as more than just sponsorship, it is a mission:

“We were built to be a beacon of prestige, innovation and advancement. Supporting Housemates Salone is part of our corporate responsibility to believe in Sierra Leone’s youth.”

She further noted that Chapter One is ready to support President Julius Maada Bio’s vision of national transformation by promoting global investment, excellence in hospitality and platforms that celebrate Sierra Leonean pride.

“We are more than a hospitality brand. We are a national movement reshaping the Sierra Leonean narrative.”

Martison Obeng-Agyei, CEO of Afrimoney, officially announced that voting for Season 4 will be exclusively done via the AfriMoney platform:

“Put your money where your mouth is. Don’t just comment, vote for your favorites!” he urged.

He explained that fans must use Afrimoney to participate in voting. Additionally, all house transactions will be conducted using Afrimoney, making it central to the show’s interactive ecosystem.

As Housemates Salone enters its fourth season, its role as a driver of youth aspiration, cultural promotion and national pride becomes ever clearer. With increased global exposure, heightened production quality and support from influential institutions and private sector partners, the show is positioned not just as Sierra Leone’s flagship Reality TV program but also as a Pan-African cultural brand in the making.

The night ended in a crescendo of performances, red carpet glamour and mingling among celebrities, entrepreneurs, influencers and fans, signaling the start of what promises to be the most exciting Housemates Salone season yet.

What to Expect in Season 4

  • A diverse group of Housemates selected through nationwide auditions
  • Exclusive live broadcasts on AYV and DSTV
  • Daily highlights and behind-the-scenes via Africell social media and AfriMoney platforms
  • Weekly eviction shows and audience engagement features
  • One ultimate winner, decided by public votes, taking home 1 Billion Old Leones

With the cameras soon to start rolling, Sierra Leoneans and international viewers alike await the drama, emotion, laughter, tears and talent that Housemates Salone Season 4 promises to deliver.

Karpowership Bags SLAJ Award for Support to Media Development

By Amin kef-Ranger

Karpowership has been formally recognized by the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) with a Certificate of Appreciation, acknowledging the company’s meaningful contributions to media development and journalism in Sierra Leone. The award was presented during SLAJ’s official transition ceremony between outgoing and incoming executive members, held at the Bintumani Conference Centre in Aberdeen, Freetown.

While globally known for delivering reliable power through its innovative floating power plants, Karpowership’s impact in Sierra Leone extends well beyond electricity generation. Since commencing operations in the country in 2018 the company has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), earning the respect of communities and institutions alike.

SLAJ commended Karpowership not only for its pivotal role in Sierra Leone’s energy sector but also for its support toward a vibrant and independent media. The Association cited the company’s contributions in promoting public access to information, defending press freedom and enabling informed civic dialogue as key reasons for the honour.

In addition to its media-focused initiatives, Karpowership has been actively engaged in direct community support. Ahead of the recent Eid ul Adha celebrations, the company distributed food items to World Hope International and residents across eleven communities in the Freetown area, including Kingtom, Brookfields, Kanikay and Waterloo. These efforts underline Karpowership’s dedication to strengthening the social fabric of the communities in which it operates.

The Management, in response to the recognition, expressed appreciation to SLAJ, reaffirming Karpowership’s belief that access to energy and information are both essential to sustainable national development. “Our mission goes beyond delivering megawatts. We are deeply committed to making a lasting impact in the lives of the people we serve through community development, media support and partnerships that drive progress.”

The recognition from SLAJ positions Karpowership not just as a key energy provider but as a valued partner in national development, playing a dual role in powering homes and empowering voices. With the company’s ongoing evolution in operations and CSR initiatives it reflects a steadfast commitment to strengthening both national infrastructure and public discourse.

As Gento Group-Kasafoni Lease Recognized… President Bio Reaffirms Commitment to Protecting Community Land Rights Across Sierra Leone

By Amin Kef-Ranger

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has reaffirmed his strong commitment to protecting the land rights of local communities, positioning his administration as a defender of justice and equity in land governance across Sierra Leone. In recent months, he has emerged as a vocal advocate for ensuring that community-owned land remains under the control of its rightful owners and is used to benefit the people, not to enrich a few through exploitation or abuse of authority.

His stance was made even more evident with the Government’s formal recognition of the land lease agreement between the people of Kasafoni and the Gento Group, a development that many observers have described as a milestone in the protection of customary land rights. By endorsing this lease, President Bio is not only respecting the sovereignty of communities over their land but also empowering a Sierra Leonean business to rise to prominence and contribute meaningfully to national development. His endorsement has been hailed as a historic moment, likened to positioning Gento as Sierra Leone’s version of “Dangote.”

The Kasafoni lease agreement is expected to unlock major economic benefits. Plans to link the mines to the Banana Island Port by rail promise increased mineral exports, job creation and enhanced infrastructure; initiatives that hinge on land being made available through fair and transparent processes. By ensuring the community’s ownership was honored, President Bio has laid the groundwork for inclusive development and shown that respecting land rights can go hand-in-hand with economic transformation.

Throughout his presidency, President Julius Maada Bio has remained outspoken against illegal land acquisition and land grabbing. He has publicly condemned any individual, including public officials, who exploit their position to wrongfully seize land. According to the President, such actions betray public trust and will not be tolerated under his watch. “We are committed to ensuring that land belongs to those who rightfully own it,” he said firmly, stressing that land governance must be rooted in justice and accountability.

The Kasafoni case has become a national symbol of the struggle for land justice. A petition submitted to Parliament by Paramount Chief Hon. Alhaji Musa Bamba Foray Kulio Jalloh III, representing the Sambaia, Dansogoia and Diang Chiefdoms, raised significant concerns over land ownership in the region. While the Government has recognized the legitimacy of the lease, it has also encouraged continued dialogue among stakeholders, including the National Minerals Agency, the Sierra Leone Mines and Mineral Development and Management Corporation and the Gento Group. The objective is to resolve the matter amicably while upholding the law and protecting community interests.

Legal analysts and civil society groups have welcomed the President’s leadership, viewing it as a turning point in how land issues are addressed in the country. His administration’s actions are firmly grounded in the 2022 Customary Land Rights Act and the Mines and Minerals Development Act, both of which provide strong legal backing for community ownership and responsible land use.

President Bio’s bold, principled approach to land governance has given renewed hope to many across Sierra Leone who have long felt powerless in the face of land injustice. By standing with local communities and promoting a vision of development rooted in fairness, his leadership is setting a lasting precedent; one where economic progress is built not on exploitation, but on dignity, equity and the rightful ownership of land.

 

SLAJ Honours Choithrams for Outstanding Support to Journalism in Sierra Leone

By Amin Kef-Ranger

The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) has honoured leading retail and philanthropic giant, Choithrams, with a Certificate of Appreciation in recognition of the company’s unwavering commitment to journalism and media development in the country. The award was presented during the official handing-over ceremony between SLAJ’s outgoing and incoming national Executives at the Bintumani Conference Centre in Aberdeen, Freetown.

Choithrams, a company founded in Sierra Leone, has long been a cornerstone of corporate responsibility and social impact. Beyond operating a network of supermarkets in Freetown and Kenema, its philanthropic legacy is embedded in the work of the Choithram Memorial Hospital and other far-reaching interventions in education, healthcare and community development. The company’s enduring support to the media sector is yet another testament to its deep-rooted investment in the nation’s progress.

The recognition by SLAJ serves as a powerful affirmation of Choithrams’ role in promoting press freedom, advancing access to information and strengthening professional journalism; key pillars of Sierra Leone’s democratic framework. Through its consistent backing, Choithrams has helped create space for an informed citizenry, a more transparent society and a vibrant media landscape.

Receiving the award on behalf of the company, Harish Agnani, Head of Choithrams, expressed heartfelt gratitude to SLAJ for the honour. He described the certificate as a significant acknowledgement of the longstanding partnership between Choithrams and the media community in Sierra Leone.

“Choithrams believes strongly in the power of independent journalism to drive democracy and national development,” Harish Agnani stated. “We are proud to stand with those who inform, challenge and elevate the national conversation.”

He emphasized that a well-informed society is the foundation for meaningful progress and that the media’s role in shaping public opinion, holding power to account and fostering transparency is indispensable. Harish Agnani concluded with a firm pledge to continue supporting platforms that empower journalists, promote ethical reporting and stimulate civic engagement.

With this commendation, Choithrams joins a distinguished list of corporate partners celebrated for their dedication to building media resilience and uplifting the voices that inform, educate and empower communities across Sierra Leone.

UNFPA Sierra Leone Engages Media on New Country Programme and 2024 Report

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Sierra Leone has on Friday 18th July, 2025 convened a high-level media engagement with selected media houses in Freetown to present its newly launched 8th Country Programme Document (CPD) for 2025–2030 and share highlights from its 2024 Annual Report, marking the close of its previous strategic cycle.

Held at the UNFPA Office on Signal Hill in Freetown, the media dissemination event brought together senior editors, reporters, media development partners and UNFPA officials with a shared goal: to raise awareness about the Agency’s renewed priorities and amplify its impact across Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), gender equality and youth empowerment in Sierra Leone.

UNFPA Officer-in-Charge, Ms. Sibeso Mululuma, presented the new CPD and reaffirmed the media’s role as vital allies in achieving transformative results: “As we work to reach every woman, every adolescent, every community, the media will be essential in amplifying voices, challenging harmful norms and holding all of us accountable.”

During the session, Unit Leads unpacked findings from the 2024 Annual Report, showcasing major milestones under the 7th Country Programme, including: Training and graduation of over 480 midwifery students, Surgical repair and reintegration for 200+ obstetric fistula survivors, delivery of $1.4 million worth of life-saving reproductive health commodities, launch of PreSTrack, a mobile tool registering 11,000+ pregnancies, legal and health support to over 552 GBV survivors via One Stop Centres, a 15% increase in demand for modern contraception over the past decade, support for 44 communities adopting bylaws against child marriage and reintegration of 4,300 girls, including those pregnant or with disabilities into school.

The report also outlined steps taken in policy advocacy, including support for the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act and operationalization of the GEWE Act, alongside initiatives promoting positive masculinities and menstrual health education.

“We are committed to working hand-in-hand with the media, Government and communities to ensure every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe and every young person can reach their full potential,” Ms. Sibeso Mululuma concluded.

In her address via video, Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Dr. Isata Mahoi, reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to advancing the rights and well-being of women, girls and young people, while commending the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) for launching its new 8th Country Programme Document (CPD) for 2025–2030.

“This new programme is a reaffirmation of our shared vision and a renewed commitment to the well-being of women, girls and young people in Sierra Leone,” Dr. Isata Mahoi declared. She emphasized that UNFPA has remained a steadfast partner to the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs through the provision of technical expertise, financial support and unyielding advocacy over the years.

Highlighting progress achieved through this partnership, the Minister pointed to enhanced awareness and response mechanisms against gender-based violence, increased youth engagement in decision-making and the promotion of inclusive policies that empower women and girls.

“These achievements are a testament to the power of partnership and the unwavering dedication of both institutions,” she said.

Dr. Isata Mahoi further praised the new Country Programme’s alignment with Sierra Leone’s Mid-Term National Development Plan (2024–2030) which outlines the country’s pathway toward inclusive, resilient and sustainable development.

She expressed optimism that the programme’s focused areas, especially on combating gender-based violence, eliminating harmful practices and empowering women and girls resonate strongly with the core mandate of her Ministry.

“We are confident that over the next six years, UNFPA and the Ministry will continue to advance the rights of women and girls, ensuring that no one is left behind,” Dr. Isata Mahoi concluded.

The Minister of Planning and Economic Development,  Kenyeh Barlay, while delivering her keynote address via video, described the United Nations Population Fund’s (UNFPA) newly launched 8th Country Programme Document (CPD) for Sierra Leone (2025–2030) as a renewed commitment to national development and human capital advancement.

Kenyeh Barlay commended UNFPA for its long-standing partnership with the Government of Sierra Leone, particularly in areas critical to sustainable development, such as maternal and child health, family planning, youth empowerment, gender equality and data for development.

“For decades UNFPA has been an unwavering partner in our national development aspirations,” she said. “Their contributions have yielded tangible and transformative results in the lives of countless Sierra Leoneans.”

She highlighted key areas of UNFPA’s support, including reproductive health services, the training of midwives and family planning initiatives, all of which have empowered women to make informed decisions about their bodies and futures.

Touching on adolescent and youth empowerment, the Minister applauded UNFPA’s work in advancing youth leadership, tackling gender-based violence and creating safe spaces that equip young people with the knowledge and life skills they need to thrive.

She also praised UNFPA’s technical support in population data collection and planning, noting that such efforts have been vital in shaping evidence-based policies and ensuring that no one is left behind in Sierra Leone’s development journey.

On gender equality, Kenyeh Barlay emphasized the importance of UNFPA’s advocacy in challenging harmful social norms and supporting the empowerment of women and girls to participate fully in all spheres of life. “These achievements are not just statistics,” she said. “They represent improved lives, stronger families and more resilient communities.”

She went on to underscore the alignment between UNFPA’s new CPD and Sierra Leone’s Medium-Term National Development Plan (MTNDP).

Kenyeh Barlay described the 8th CPD as a “critical enabler” for achieving the ambitious targets outlined in the national development plan and urged all stakeholders to see the launch as a renewed call to action.

“To the media,” she said, “your role in disseminating this vital information, raising awareness and holding us accountable is indispensable. You are the voice that amplifies our progress and highlights the challenges we must collectively overcome.”

She concluded by encouraging deeper collaboration among development partners, Government institutions and the media to ensure that every individual especially women, adolescents and youth can realize their full potential and contribute meaningfully to the prosperity of Sierra Leone.

The event concluded with a dynamic Q&A session, where journalists explored implementation challenges, asked probing questions about accountability and proposed collaboration with UNFPA to expand public engagement on SRHR.

LEOCEM Raises Alarm Over Intimidation and Harassment by Alleged Civil Society Activists

By Amin Kef-Ranger

The Management of LEOCEM Sierra Leone Cement Corporation Limited, a subsidiary of the Diamond Cement Group, has raised alarm over escalating acts of intimidation, harassment and interference in its operations by individuals claiming to be civil society activists. In a formal letter addressed to the Ministry of Trade, the company expressed deep concern about the growing disruption to its business activities, calling for urgent attention to safeguard its operations and reputation.

According to the company, the latest incident, described as “disturbing and hostile,” occurred on the morning of July 11, when five individuals, one of whom claimed to be a Parliament staff, visited the company’s premises without prior notice. LEOCEM Management stated that the group demanded access to confidential documents, including staff contracts, salary structures and company policies. They also allegedly threatened to inspect and take photographs of the company’s laboratory and production sites.

Management reported that when asked for proper identification, only one individual presented a national ID card and another a complimentary card, while the rest failed to provide any form of identification. Despite this, the group reportedly insisted on their demands and accused LEOCEM of producing substandard cement, which they claim has caused building collapses in the country.

“They alleged that their research shows the cause of recent building collapses is not poor reinforcement but the quality of cement produced by our company,” LEOCEM stated in its letter addressed to the Minister of Trade.

When access to the requested documents was denied, the group allegedly issued threats, including arresting a staff member, banning the sale of the company’s products and eventually shutting down LEOCEM operations entirely.

“They even went as far as taking photographs of our staff and visitors without approval and threatened to publish defamatory content in the media,” the company’s Management wrote.

LEOCEM emphasized that the incident has left employees feeling threatened and demoralized, and has created a hostile environment that negatively affects their operations. The company described the actions of the individuals as not only unlawful but also detrimental to the business climate in Sierra Leone.

Operating since 1994, LEOCEM highlighted its longstanding commitment to quality, adherence to national regulations and ongoing collaboration with relevant Government institutions for certifications and accreditations. Management also reiterated the company’s contribution to national development through employment, tax revenue and investment in local communities.

“This sort of unverified attack on our reputation has the potential to undermine not just our operations, but investor confidence in the country,” the letter noted.

The company is calling on the Ministry of Trade to intervene swiftly and investigate the matter ensuring that proper due process is followed in addressing any concerns raised by civil society actors or members of the public.

LEOCEM concluded by reaffirming its commitment to expanding its operations and encouraging private sector investment in Sierra Leone, while appealing for protection of its staff and business from unlawful intimidation.

Copies of the letter were also forwarded to key stakeholders including the Permanent Secretary and Chief Director of the Ministry of Trade, the Commissioner of the Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security (MELSS), the Chairman of SLAM, the Sierra Leone Chamber of Commerce, the Secretary-General of the Union of Mass Media and company records.

Partnering with NDMA & Caritas Freetown… Tzu Chi Foundation Launches Flood Mitigation Campaign in Slum Communities

Aiming to reduce the devastating impact of flooding during the rainy season, the Tzu Chi Foundation, in partnership with the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) and Caritas Freetown, has launched a six-day flood mitigation campaign targeting some of Freetown’s most vulnerable slum communities.

The cleaning and sensitization exercise, which began on Tuesday, 15th July, is being carried out in Kroo Bay, Dwarzark and Susan’s Bay; areas often hardest hit during heavy rains due to clogged drainages and poor sanitation infrastructure. The initiative will run daily until Sunday, 20th July 2025.

At each location, 45 community volunteers are participating in the cleanup activities, operating under the supervision of NDMA’s Community Disaster Committees (CDCs). The volunteers are focusing on unblocking drainages, cleaning culverts and removing waste from public spaces all of which are critical to preventing flooding and waterborne diseases.

The Tzu Chi Foundation has equipped the volunteers with a complete set of cleaning tools and protective gear, including shovels, wheelbarrows, head pans, rakes, gloves, rain boots and raincoats. In support of the public education aspect of the campaign, the Freetown City Council’s parrot vehicle is broadcasting messages throughout the targeted communities on proper waste disposal and disaster risk reduction.

This marks Tzu Chi Foundation’s third community-based cleaning initiative in the same communities over the past three years. Beyond physical cleanup, the Foundation has also provided financial assistance to residents and local leaders to help strengthen livelihoods and promote long-term resilience.

Speaking at the campaign’s launch, Margaret Bassie, Tzu Chi’s representative in Sierra Leone, emphasized the organization’s proactive approach to disaster prevention. “Tzu Chi does not believe in simply reacting after disasters occur. Our focus is on working with communities to prevent such events in the first place,” she stated.

Ishmeal Alfred Charles, the Foundation’s liaison with Government and institutions, echoed the importance of community leadership and accountability. “This campaign is about more than just cleaning—it’s about empowering communities to take ownership of their development. After this exercise, it will be the responsibility of residents and their leaders to maintain the drainage systems and report anyone dumping waste in them,” he urged.

The Foundation’s Liaison further advised volunteers to focus on high-risk zones, such as waterways and key public infrastructure that are frequently overwhelmed during heavy downpours.

In addition to the physical cleanup, the campaign includes a strong sensitization component. Community members are being educated on proper waste management practices and encouraged to care for the tools provided so they remain available for future use.

Residents of Kroo Bay expressed gratitude for the intervention and called for more frequent engagements during the rainy season. “Floods here are worsened by poor drainage and water coming from the hills. This kind of help is very important and we hope it continues,” said one local resident.

The NDMA’s Western Region Coordinator, Gerald King, praised the collaboration, describing Tzu Chi as a reliable partner in both emergency response and disaster risk reduction. “Tzu Chi has consistently stood with NDMA in delivering humanitarian support and promoting disaster preparedness in the Western Area,” he said.

With the campaign ongoing, there is hope that a cleaner environment and stronger community awareness will lead to fewer disasters and improved public health outcomes across Freetown’s most at-risk communities.

Legal Aid Board Secures Release of 376 Inmates in Nationwide Prison Court Sessions

As part of efforts to support justice and ease overcrowding in Sierra Leone’s prisons, the Legal Aid Board, backed by funding from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), provided legal representation to 951 inmates during a nationwide Prison Court session held from 1st to 11th July 2025.

The court sessions, held in ten Correctional Centers across the country, aimed to review cases of remand and convicted inmates; many of whom had been imprisoned beyond their legal terms or without timely trials. The centers included Magburaka, Kabala, Makeni, Kambia, Port Loko, Mattru Jong, Moyamba, Kenema, Waterloo and the Pademba Road Male and Female Correctional Centers in Freetown.

Out of the 951 inmates represented by Legal Aid Counsels:

  • 376 inmates were released after their sentences were reduced to time already served.
  • 3 inmates were granted bail.
  • 572 inmates had their sentences either reduced or maintained.
  • Several matters were reserved for judgment, with calls for swift delivery, while others categorized as Magisterial matters were directed to be concluded promptly.

The release breakdown from the respective correctional centers is as follows:

  • Magburaka – 75 inmates
  • Kabala – 14 inmates
  • Makeni – 87 inmates
  • Waterloo – 43 inmates
  • Kambia – 25 inmates
  • Port Loko – 59 inmates
  • Mattru Jong – 21 inmates
  • Moyamba – 8 inmates
  • Kenema – 53 inmates
  • Pademba Road (Male and Female) – 23 inmates

Among the most notable releases was John Mensa, a Ghanaian national who had been serving a 30-year sentence for larceny by trick. His sentence was reviewed and significantly reduced during the court session presided over by Justice Alusine Sesay JSC, leading to his immediate release and subsequent deportation to Ghana.

The Prison Court, an initiative of the Judiciary of Sierra Leone, serves as a vital mechanism to address prolonged detention and wrongful imprisonment. It specifically targets over-sentenced or long-standing remand inmates and aims to decongest correctional facilities while ensuring fair access to justice for all.

Officials from the Legal Aid Board commended the continued support from the UNDP and emphasized that the legal representation provided during the sessions reflects the Board’s core mission; to uphold the rights of vulnerable persons and ensure equal access to justice, regardless of economic status.

The initiative has been widely applauded by civil society groups and correctional service officials who view it as a meaningful step toward reforming the justice system and restoring dignity to those who have long awaited justice behind bars.

Kasafoni Land Dispute: Government Endorses Lease Agreement, Seeks Amicable Resolution

By Amin Kef-Ranger

Widely regarded by observers as a landmark moment in Sierra Leone’s land governance reforms, the Government has formally recognized the lease agreement between the landowners of Kasafoni and the Gento Group of Companies. This development aligns with President Dr. Julius Maada Bio’s renewed efforts to clamp down on land grabbing and ensure justice in protracted land disputes nationwide.

Credible parliamentary sources have confirmed that while the Government acknowledges the legitimacy of the Kasafoni lease, senior officials have requested that Parliament temporarily withhold further action on a related public petition. The decision aims to give room for an amicable resolution among key stakeholders: the Sierra Leone Mines and Mineral Development and Management Corporation (SLMMDMC), the National Mineral Agency (NMA) and Gento Group.

The petition in question, submitted by Paramount Chief Hon. Alhaji Musa Bamba Foray Kulio Jalloh III, represents the collective concerns of the Sambaia, Dansogoia and Diang Chiefdoms in the Tonkolili and Koinadugu Districts. It has drawn significant public interest, with many viewing the Kasafoni land dispute as a broader test case for human rights and equitable land ownership in Sierra Leone.

The Government’s recognition of the lease underscores its intent to uphold the principles outlined in the 2022 Customary Land Rights Act, the Mines and Minerals Development Act of 2022 and Section 21 of the 1991 Constitution. These laws provide a legal foundation for protecting property rights and preserving community land ownership under customary norms.

President Bio’s recent public remarks have further reinforced the administration’s zero-tolerance approach to land grabbing. During a town hall meeting, the President did not mince words in condemning public officials who exploit their positions to wrongfully claim land. “Such behavior is a betrayal of public trust,” he stated firmly. “No one is above the law.”

The President’s vocal condemnation of illegal land acquisition practices marks a decisive shift in governance, as previous administrations have often been accused of ignoring or even enabling such misconduct. “We are committed to ensuring that land belongs to those who rightfully own it,” President Bio declared, assuring citizens of the Government’s resolve to correct past injustices and prevent future ones.

The specific case of Kasafoni has drawn national attention not just because of the entities involved, but due to what it represents: a confluence of economic interest, legal precedent and human rights. By seeking dialogue between all parties, the Government is hoping to set a standard for fair resolution of land disputes.

A high-level meeting is expected to take place soon, involving representatives from the affected chiefdoms, Government agencies and the Gento Group. The outcome will be documented in a comprehensive report and submitted to Parliament, potentially guiding future legislative and policy action.

Analysts and Civil society groups have welcomed the Government’s approach, describing it as a step towards more inclusive and transparent land governance. “This is not just about land; it’s about justice, human dignity and national development,” one Civil Society advocate noted.

The Bio administration’s actions on this front could restore public trust in state institutions and bring hope to other communities grappling with similar land disputes. Many believe that a successful and just resolution to the Kasafoni issue could serve as a blueprint for managing land conflicts across the country.

With the nation awaiting the outcomes of the anticipated dialogue, hopes remain high that this renewed focus on upholding land rights will usher in a more accountable and equitable era in Sierra Leone’s land administration history.

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