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

July 14, 2025

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

July 11, 2025

By Amin Kef Sesay

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

July 11, 2025

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

President Bio Launches $180M Water and Sanitation Project to Benefit 4 Million Sierra Leoneans

July 11, 2025

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has officially launched the National Water Security and WASH Access Project, a $180 million World Bank-funded initiative aimed at transforming access to clean water and sanitation across Sierra Leone. Held on Tuesday 8 July 2025 at the Freetown International Conference Centre in Aberdeen, the high-profile event marked a defining milestone in the country’s development journey under the theme: “Securing Water, Enabling Dignity and Advancing Development.”

The ambitious 10-year Multiphase Programmatic Approach (MPA) is designed to reach at least four million Sierra Leoneans by 2035 and achieve 90% national coverage in Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH).

In his keynote address, President Bio emphasized the critical importance of water and sanitation access as a fundamental human right and an engine of national development.

“Access to safe water and sanitation is not a privilege for the few but a right guaranteed to all,” he declared. “That is why WASH is central to our National Development Plan and integral to our Human Capital Development agenda.”

The President painted a vivid picture of the daily hardships endured by many citizens, children walking long distances for water before school, women facing unsafe childbirth conditions and communities struggling with open defecation and waterborne diseases. He pledged that the new WASH programme would decisively break that cycle of indignity.

Structured in three comprehensive phases, the initiative will be implemented with strong monitoring, transparency and incentive-based mechanisms. It also includes plans to establish a Water Administration House to consolidate oversight, strengthen regulation and improve coordination across the sector.

President Bio further noted that the initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 6; Clean Water and Sanitation for All. He affirmed that the project will create 5,000 jobs, with at least 2,000 specifically targeting women, while helping to build resilience, protect ecosystems and keep girls in school through improved sanitation facilities.

“Water is not just a development commodity,” the President said. “It is a symbol of justice, a foundation of peace and a building block of national resilience.”

He commended the leadership and staff of the Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, GUMA Valley Water Company, SALWACO, EWRC and the National Water Resources Management Agency (NWRMA), calling on all stakeholders to uphold integrity and excellence in delivering the project.

World Bank Country Manager, Dr. Abdu Muwonge, applauded President Bio’s persistent advocacy for the sector, recalling the President’s direct appeal to World Bank executives in Washington two years ago, which helped secure the landmark investment.

“This project is a product of President Bio’s tireless leadership and vision,” Dr. Abdu Muwonge said. “We urge inclusive participation and strong institutional capacity to ensure sustainable delivery across the country.”

He highlighted the need to empower sector institutions such as GUMA, SALWACO and local councils, and called for community-level stewardship in the management of water resources.

Also speaking at the event, Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Dr. Sao-Kpato Hannah Max-Kyne, described the launch as a “defining moment” in the Government’s development agenda. She echoed calls for broad national collaboration and the urgent need to chart a clear, focused roadmap to overcome longstanding WASH sector challenges.

The National Water Security and WASH Access Project stands as one of Sierra Leone’s most transformative public service investments in decades; promising clean water, better health, restored dignity and economic empowerment for millions of citizens.

Alfie Barrie Inspires UNIMAK Students to Lead Sierra Leone’s Digital Future

July 11, 2025

Alfie Barrie, Public Relations Officer for Orange Sierra Leone

The auditorium at the University of Makeni’s Fatima Campus was on Saturday, 5 July 2025 filled with energy and anticipation as Alfie Barrie, Public Relations Officer for Orange Sierra Leone, captivated students and faculty at the Computer Science Department’s Dinner & Tech Expo with a compelling keynote address on the role of youth in driving technology and innovation in Sierra Leone.

Delivering his remarks on behalf of Orange SL’s CEO, Sekou Amadou Bah, who was absent due to international engagements, Alfie Barrie began with warm greetings and a message of encouragement. “He sends his warmest regards,” Alfie Barrie said, reading from a prepared note. “And he’s asked me to step into a very big shoe.”

Speaking on the theme “Youth in Technology, Innovation and Digital Transformation in Sierra Leone,” Alfie Barrie praised the dynamic energy, creativity and potential of Sierra Leone’s young population, stating that they are no longer just consumers of technology, but emerging leaders and creators in the digital space.

“In Sierra Leone, we’re not waiting to catch up; we are already sprinting forward,” he declared, citing examples of young innovators across the country. From coding clubs and solar-powered classrooms to digital tools supporting agriculture and e-learning for girls, he highlighted a growing movement of grassroots technology-driven solutions tackling national challenges.

Alfie Barrie underscored the importance of resilience and collaboration in navigating the tech world. “There will be setbacks,” he cautioned, “but we are the most connected, most creative generation this country has ever seen.” He urged for a collective effort involving Government, the private sector, academia and civil society to invest in youth as active drivers of progress. “We don’t just deserve a seat at the table; we are ready to build it.”

Showcasing Orange Sierra Leone’s commitment to youth empowerment, Alfie Barrie outlined key initiatives being spearheaded by the telecom giant:

National Connectivity Expansion: Rolling out high-speed internet infrastructure to underserved areas.
Orange Digital Centre (ODC): Located in Freetown with affiliated ODC Clubs on campuses like UNIMAK, offering training in coding, digital literacy and life skills. Over 3,000 youths have benefited so far, with 40% being young women, many of whom have secured employment post-training.
Fab Lab: A hands-on innovation lab where students can prototype and test socially impactful solutions.
Orange Fab: A startup acceleration platform that connects local innovators to corporate mentors and international investors.

“We don’t see ourselves as just a telco,” Alfie Barrie said, “we’re partners in digital transformation; unlocking potential, bridging the digital divide and ensuring technology serves everyone.”

His address concluded with an impassioned message to the students: “You are not just the future; you are the now. The builders, thinkers and creators who will shape Sierra Leone.” He called on all stakeholders to invest not just in technology, but in the bold ideas and fearless hearts of the country’s youth.

The speech drew resounding applause and left many students visibly inspired, reinforcing the belief that Sierra Leone’s digital future is already being built by its young, determined innovators.

Africell Backs U16 Basketball Team for Afrobasket Zone 2 Qualifiers in Guinea

July 11, 2025

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Africell Sierra Leone has reaffirmed its commitment to youth empowerment and sports development by sponsoring Sierra Leone’s Under-16 national basketball team for the prestigious FIBA AfroBasket Zone 2 Qualifiers in Conakry, Guinea. The sponsorship agreement was officially signed on Monday, July 7, 2025, at Africell’s headquarters on Pivot Street in Wilberforce, Freetown.

The event attracted dignitaries from the sports community, including the Sierra Leone U16 Basketball players, media houses and top officials of the Sierra Leone Basketball Federation (SLBF), who gathered to witness a milestone moment in the nation’s sporting journey.

The FIBA U16 African Championship, also known as the AfroBasket U16, is the premier basketball tournament for players under 16 across the continent. The competition is organized by FIBA Africa and serves as a qualifier for the FIBA U17 Basketball World Cup. The Zone 2 qualifiers cover West African nations, including Senegal, Guinea, Mali and Sierra Leone, and are known for producing some of Africa’s brightest young basketball talents.

This year’s qualifiers in Conakry, Guinea, brought together national U16 teams from across West Africa vying for a spot at the continental showdown in Rwanda later this year.

In his keynote address, Africell’s Chief Operating Officer, Malek El Koussa, described the sponsorship as more than just corporate social responsibility.

“This team represents not only themselves but the dreams and hopes of the entire nation,” he stated, while expressing pride in Africell’s continued support for initiatives that nurture discipline, teamwork and national pride among young people.

He noted that Africell’s involvement in sports is not for mere publicity but a reflection of their long-term commitment to character-building and nation-strengthening investments.

Malek El Koussa highlighted Africell’s prior collaborations with the Basketball Federation, particularly the successful launch of the country’s first-ever national basketball league.

“Supporting sports is about creating opportunities that allow young people to dream bigger and achieve greatness on and off the court,” he said, reaffirming the company’s pledge to stand firmly with the Under-16 team throughout their journey.

He also acknowledged the pivotal role of the media and the tireless efforts of SLBF President Ali Hijazi, whom he credited for revitalizing basketball in the country.

In his statement, Ali Hijazi, President of the Sierra Leone Basketball Federation, expressed heartfelt gratitude to Africell for their consistency and passion for basketball.

“Africell has stood by us since day one,” he said, referencing Africell’s earlier sponsorship of jerseys for the team’s trip to Dakar and other forms of support during critical periods.

Ali Hijazi emphasized that Africell’s intervention has made a significant difference not just in financing but in raising the overall profile of the sport in Sierra Leone.

“Africell has helped the league, inspired the players and given hope to fans and coaches,” he added, expressing optimism for the U16 team’s performance in Guinea.

Nancy Toure, Africell’s Event and Sponsorship Manager, used the occasion to remind the public of the importance of promoting other sports disciplines like basketball and volleyball. She said Africell’s support stems from a firm belief in the young team’s ability to bring glory to Sierra Leone.

“Our commitment to parenting, education and sports is at the heart of our social responsibility,” she said. “These young athletes have the potential to bring home medals and we are proud to be part of their journey.”

Also addressing the gathering, Ishmeal Bangura, Secretary General of the Basketball Federation, shed light on ongoing efforts to establish Sierra Leone’s first indoor gym, revealing that Africell has been actively involved in discussions to help make the dream a reality.

He recounted how financial constraints nearly prevented the U16 team from competing in earlier qualifiers, but Africell stepped in with timely interventions, providing jerseys, equipment and even refurbishing the national basketball court.

With the silver medal win and a possible ticket to the African championships in Rwanda, Sierra Leone’s U16 basketball team has given the nation reason to hope and Africell’s backing has proven to be a driving force in this journey.

Sierra Leone’s growing presence on the African basketball scene is strengthened by the partnership between Africell and the Sierra Leone Basketball Federation; a shining example of how corporate support can drive youth development and contribute to national progress.

Sierra Leone & Egypt Advance Bilateral Cooperation in Aviation, Ports and Railways

July 11, 2025

Sierra Leone and Egypt have taken a significant step toward strengthening bilateral relations in the transport sector, following a high-level meeting held on July 8, 2025 in Cairo between senior officials from both countries. The meeting, which took place at Egypt’s Ministry of Transport headquarters, brought together Sierra Leone’s Minister of Transport and Aviation, Ambassador Col. (Rtd.) Alhaji Fanday Turay Esq. and Egypt’s Deputy Prime Minister for Industrial Development and Minister of Transport and Industry, H.E. General Kamel El-Wazir.

Ambassador Alhaji Fanday Turay was joined by Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to the Arab Republic of Egypt, His Excellency Ambassador Sadiq Sillah, in leading a delegation focused on expanding cooperation in aviation, maritime, road and port infrastructure development.

In his opening remarks, Minister Alhaji Fanday Turay expressed gratitude on behalf of His Excellency President Brigadier (Rtd.) Julius Maada Bio for Egypt’s warm reception and longstanding support. He emphasized the shared commitment of both countries to deepening collaboration, particularly through existing Memoranda of Understanding which cover areas such as aviation training, port modernization and logistics development.

“This engagement is a critical part of our strategy to build resilient and efficient transport systems that not only serve national priorities but also align with continental goals like the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA),” Ambassador Alhaji Fanday Turay stated.

General El-Wazir warmly welcomed the Sierra Leonean delegation and reaffirmed Egypt’s readiness to enhance cooperation. He noted that Egypt remains committed to supporting Sierra Leone’s infrastructure development ambitions and is open to sharing its technological advancements and institutional expertise.

“The relationship between Egypt and Sierra Leone is a model of African solidarity,” General El-Wazir said. “We are confident that this collaboration will result in tangible progress for both our countries.”

Following the meeting, the Sierra Leonean delegation was given an extensive tour of Egypt’s cutting-edge transport infrastructure projects within the New Administrative Capital. Organized with the support of Ambassador Sadiq Sillah, the tour included visits to:

The High-Speed Train Station, a symbol of Egypt’s push for advanced railway systems;
The Light Rail Transit Station, where delegates boarded a train to Adly Mansour Station;
The Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Station on the Ring Road, designed to reduce urban congestion; and
A series of newly constructed bridges executed by the Hassan Allam Company, showcasing Egypt’s rapid progress in modern infrastructure development.

The bilateral visit is expected to lead to expanded cooperation agreements, technical assistance programs and investment opportunities between the two nations, contributing to regional integration and sustainable development across Africa.

NP (SL) Leads the Way in Customer Care, Fueling Sierra Leone’s Progress

July 11, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In an era of economic uncertainty and evolving consumer expectations, NP (SL) Limited continues to demonstrate its unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction, innovation and national development. As fuel prices recently dropped at several stations across Sierra Leone, NP (SL) stood out by offering even greater relief to citizens with petrol now sold at Le25 per liter and diesel at Le24 per liter, well below the Government’s official pump price of Le27.3. This proactive move, aimed at easing financial pressures on the public, is just one example of why NP (SL) is recognized as 1st for Customer Care.

Since its inception in 1996, NP (SL) has grown from a modest local enterprise into a formidable petroleum marketing company and one of Sierra Leone’s most respected indigenous businesses. Born out of the privatization of a Government-run petroleum entity, NP (SL) was founded by thirty-five visionary Sierra Leoneans determined to transform the nation’s energy landscape. Today, the company operates not only in Sierra Leone but also in neighboring countries like Liberia, Guinea, Ivory Coast and The Gambia.

NP (SL)’s reputation for excellent service stems from its strong customer-centered philosophy, underpinned by strategic business planning, investment in technology and a deep-rooted belief in empowering local talent. The company’s mission, to dominate the petroleum market, expand across the region, provide environmentally safe products and deliver superior value to all stakeholders has been successfully translated into action through consistent execution.

A shining example of NP’s customer-first approach is the introduction of the NP Energy Pass Card, a groundbreaking cashless payment solution. Designed with safety, transparency and convenience in mind, the card allows customers to purchase fuel electronically while tracking consumption in real-time. This latest upgrade, the “FUBU” (For Us, By Us) Energy and Access Pass Card, goes even further, enabling station owners to monitor operations directly and providing users with instant SMS transaction alerts. These innovations not only reduce risks associated with cash handling but also improve efficiency and accountability.

NP (SL)’s strong emphasis on safety and training further distinguishes it in the petroleum sector. Across all its modern and well-maintained Filling Stations, customers encounter clear safety signage such as “No Smoking,” “Switch Off Engine” and “Avoid Naked Flame,” complemented by readily available fire extinguishers. Staffs are regularly trained on emergency response, ensuring the safety of both employees and the public.

The company’s corporate social responsibility record is equally commendable. By expanding into previously underserved areas, NP (SL) has made petroleum products more accessible while creating vital employment opportunities. This expansion has helped reduce transportation costs and address energy poverty, especially in remote regions. Moreover, the company is a leading advocate for local content empowerment, employing Sierra Leoneans at all operational levels and extending opportunities to local suppliers and contractors.

Beyond fuel, NP (SL) continues to innovate with products like NP Gas, an environmentally certified cooking solution available in multiple cylinder sizes. By promoting cleaner and safer energy alternatives for domestic use, NP is contributing to the broader national agenda for sustainable development.

What truly sets NP (SL) apart, however, is its genuine care for its customers. Every interaction at NP Filling Stations is defined by courtesy, professionalism and a clear understanding of customer needs. The company actively seeks feedback and integrates it into its service improvement strategies; demonstrating a dynamic and responsive business model built on trust and community engagement.

Sierra Leone’s path toward modernization and inclusive growth is supported by institutions that embody progress and stability, NP (SL) being a leading example. From modest beginnings to its current position as a respected mini-multinational, the company’s journey reflects resilience, strategic foresight and a strong commitment to national development.

For NP (SL), the customer is more than a consumer; they are the very reason the company thrives. This commitment to service, innovation and national progress is what makes NP (SL) not just a market leader but a cherished household name across Sierra Leone.

CARL-SL Condemns Parliament’s Omission of FGM Criminalization in Child Rights Act, 2025

July 11, 2025

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The Centre for Accountability and Rule of Law, Sierra Leone (CARL-SL), has expressed serious concerns following a recent press statement from Parliament dated July 7, 2025, regarding the Child Rights Act, 2025, particularly its handling of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).

In its statement, Parliament indicated that the Act does not criminalize FGM nor impose fines on those practicing it on girls under the age of eighteen. CARL-SL described this omission as deeply troubling, given the severe and long-lasting physical and psychological harm caused by FGM to girls and women.

“The protection of children’s rights and well-being must be at the forefront of any law or policy,” CARL-SL emphasized.

The organization called on Parliament and President Julius Maada Bio to urgently reconsider the Act’s provisions to ensure alignment with international and regional human rights standards. CARL-SL further urged the Government to engage in broad consultations with civil society groups specializing in children’s rights and gender issues to strengthen the legislation.

Highlighting the critical need to safeguard girls and women across Sierra Leone, CARL-SL also appealed to President Bio to withhold his signature on the Act and return it to Parliament with amendments that explicitly criminalize child FGM.

CARL-SL reaffirmed its commitment to promoting accountability and the rule of law in Sierra Leone and pledged to continue monitoring the implementation of the Child Rights Act, advocating for the full protection of women and girls.

Leave Fassally Tarawally Alone: Calls Grow to Support Sierra Leone’s Leading Investor

July 11, 2025

Fasally Tarawally, a leading Sierra Leonean entrepreneur and philanthropist, has recently become the target of a coordinated smear campaign following his role in inviting President Dr. Julius Maada Bio to officially unveil the Chapter One Multi-Purpose Complex.

The entrepreneur is widely recognized as the CEO of Metals and Minerals Company Limited and the visionary behind the Charter One Multi-Purpose Complex, a landmark development that has attracted interest from across Africa and beyond.

As the largest exporter of precious minerals in Sierra Leone, Fasally Tarawally’s business activities span several countries, including Belgium, Dubai, Nigeria, Sydney, China, India and the United Kingdom. He is also the President of the Diamond and Gold Exporters Association in Sierra Leone and serves as the Country Representative for Bravura Mining, Africa’s largest mining firm.

Beyond his business ventures, Fasally Tarawally is known for his philanthropic efforts. Since founding a non-profit organization in 2009, he has supported many Sierra Leoneans through job creation, educational aid, food assistance and funding for startups.

Recently, he has been actively fostering bilateral trade relationships with Nigeria, seeking partnerships that will benefit both nations.

Despite these accomplishments, Fasally Tarawally has been unfairly targeted by detractors. Supporters emphasize that his work promotes Sierra Leone’s economic growth and international presence and they call for respect and recognition of his contributions.

The business community and many Sierra Leoneans have rallied behind him, urging critics to focus on positive development rather than undermining a respected leader.

Fasally Tarawally continues to stand as a prominent figure committed to advancing Sierra Leone’s interests and inspiring young African investors and philanthropists.