AfroMedia Congratulates Ambassador Mohamed Idris on UN Appointment Representing Africa

June 30, 2025

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The Pan-African media and journalism initiative AfroMedia, founded by renowned anthropological researcher, Hassan Ghazaly, has officially extended warm congratulations to Ambassador Dr. Mohamed Idris on his appointment as Permanent Representative of the African Union to the United Nations and Head of the African Mission in New York.

In a statement released by the initiative, Hassan Ghazaly, hailed the appointment as a testament to the trust and confidence Egyptian diplomacy commands on the African and global stages. He described the move as both a crowning achievement in Ambassador Idris’s illustrious diplomatic career and a reaffirmation of his competence in multilateral negotiations—particularly on matters of peace, security and development across the African continent.

Hassan Ghazaly further highlighted Egypt’s longstanding and historic commitment to representing African interests within the international system. Recalling the country’s pivotal role during the post-colonial liberation era, he noted how Cairo served as a strategic launching ground for African revolutionaries to bring their peoples’ aspirations before the United Nations. Many of these figures later emerged as symbols of freedom and leadership in the Global South.

According to AfroMedia’s founder, Ambassador Idris’s selection reinforces the ongoing push to empower African talent in multilateral institutions, strengthening cooperation between the African Union (AU) and the United Nations (UN) at a time when global governance is being reevaluated to reflect more inclusive and representative structures.

Hassan Ghazaly also described the appointment as a “strategic milestone” in Africa’s diplomatic evolution, underscoring Egypt’s leading role in fostering AU-UN ties and advancing peacebuilding efforts across the continent. He further emphasized the symbolic importance of the appointment coinciding with the 80th anniversary of the United Nations, reminding the public that Egypt was a founding member of the UN and has remained deeply engaged in its work since its inception.

Ambassador Idris brings with him an extensive diplomatic track record. He previously served as Egypt’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador to Ethiopia and Permanent Representative to the African Union. In 2024, he was appointed by the UN Secretary-General to serve on the Independent High-Level Advisory Board of the UN Peacebuilding Fund—further demonstrating his expertise in conflict resolution and multilateral diplomacy.

AfroMedia, operating under the slogan “The Voice of Egypt… The Voice of Africa,” was founded in February 2021 as part of the Global Solidarity Network. The initiative aims to foster stronger media relations across the continent by building journalistic capacity, promoting accurate African narratives and enhancing media cooperation between countries.

Hassan Ghazaly noted that AfroMedia stands in full support of Ambassador Idris’s mission at the UN and reiterated the initiative’s commitment to amplifying African voices on global platforms. He stressed the importance of unified media messaging, increased cross-border collaboration and greater investment in media education—essential tools, he said, for reshaping Africa’s image and influence in international discourse.

“This appointment is not only a recognition of one man’s journey,” Hassan Ghazaly concluded, “it is a celebration of African diplomacy, a beacon of trust in our shared future and a call to action for all of us to do more in telling our own story.”

FG Gold Signs Landmark Local Content Implementation Agreement with Local Content Agency

June 30, 2025

By Foday Moriba Conteh

A significant step toward promoting inclusive and sustainable economic growth was taken on Friday, 27th June 2025, as the Sierra Leone Local Content Agency (SLLCA) signed a Local Content Implementation Agreement with FG Gold Limited. Held at the Agency’s headquarters on Steward Street in Freetown, the signing ceremony marked a major milestone in enforcing the Local Content Act of 2016 within Sierra Leone’s mining and extractive industries.

Speaking during the signing, the Director-General of the Sierra Leone Local Content Agency, Fodeba Daboh, emphasized the legal obligation under Section 56 of the Local Content Act, which mandates that companies must sign a local content partnership agreement before they are issued a certificate of authorization to operate.

“What we are doing here is a statutory requirement,” Fodeba Daboh stated. “Once a company submits its local content plan and it is approved by the Agency, we must ensure, through regular monitoring and audits, that the content of that plan is fully implemented.”

The agreement with FG Gold formalizes the company’s commitment to embedding inclusive, sustainable and legally compliant local content practices in its operations. These include workforce development, procurement compliance, technology transfer and broader economic contributions to Sierra Leone.

According to Fodeba Daboh, the rationale behind the agreement is to ensure that Sierra Leonean talent, businesses and institutions are meaningfully integrated into the company’s value chain. The agreement provides a structured framework for FG Gold to plan, implement and report on its local content obligations, aligning with national priorities such as job creation, enterprise development and knowledge transfer.

“Workforce integration is central to our work at the Agency,” he said. “This agreement will create increased employment and skills development opportunities for Sierra Leoneans. It ensures the gradual localization of technical and managerial roles within FG Gold.”

He further highlighted the importance of procurement and supplier development, which the agreement is expected to bolster by enabling local businesses to access contracts and build capacity for direct participation in the mining sector. Additionally, FG Gold will invest in technology transfer by training local staff, fostering joint ventures and providing access to modern tools and technology.

“The presence of FG Gold in the mining sector must translate into broader-based economic development through social investments, institutional support and measurable local value retention,” Fodeba Daboh added. “This agreement represents mutual accountability and a shared vision to ensure that foreign direct investment delivers tangible, lasting benefits to the people and economy of Sierra Leone.”

He also contextualized the local content initiative within a broader global trend, pointing to similar efforts in countries such as Ghana and Nigeria. Ghana recently reviewed its local content laws to enhance local economic development, while Nigeria launched the “Nigerian First Policy” to prioritize local participation in multinational operations.

“The Local Content Agency in Sierra Leone is not doing anything different from what our counterparts are doing across the sub-region,” Fodeba Daboh noted. “We are committed to ensuring that Sierra Leoneans are in the driver’s seat of our economic growth.”

He concluded by thanking FG Gold for its cooperation and affirmed that the agreement will be reviewed annually, in accordance with Section 58 of the Local Content Act.

Commenting on behalf of FG Gold, Nicola Asgill, Director of Corporate Development, Sustainability and Investor Relations, described the agreement as a major step forward in ensuring that Sierra Leoneans are placed at the center of the company’s operations.

“We’re here to sign this landmark agreement, which underscores our dedication to local content and sustainable mining,” she said. “FG Gold is currently developing the Baomahun Gold Project, set to become the premier gold mine in Sierra Leone and one of the largest gold assets in Africa. Its economic and social impact on Sierra Leone will be profound.”

Nicola Asgill emphasized that FG Gold operates with a “local-first” philosophy, ensuring that Sierra Leoneans are prioritized in procurement, recruitment and capacity building. Even in its pre-operational phase, the company has already made significant strides toward local inclusion.

“Currently, over 90% of our workforce is Sierra Leonean and more than 55% of that number comes from the immediate project-affected communities,” she revealed. “Importantly, over 70% of our hires are former artisanal miners from those communities.”

To build on this, FG Gold has introduced training programs such as driver training and basic maintenance apprenticeships aimed at up skilling workers and improving career progression. The company also sources materials like construction blocks, sand, fresh vegetables and fruits directly from local suppliers and communities, demonstrating a tangible commitment to local economic growth.

In the education sector, FG Gold has established a scholarship fund targeting students from the community pursuing studies in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). Nicola Asgill noted that plans are underway to expand these efforts through partnerships with local universities for internship and graduate training programs.

“As we transition into full operations by the end of next year, we aim to implement several skills and technology transfer initiatives. FG Gold is here for the long term and we count on the expertise of the Local Content Agency to help us maximize local participation in all aspects of our work,” she added.

Nicola Asgill concluded by thanking the Sierra Leone Local Content Agency for its collaboration and guidance during the development phase of the Baomahun Project.

“This agreement sets a strong foundation for our future and reinforces our shared goal of ensuring that foreign investment leads to meaningful benefits for Sierra Leoneans,” she said.

The ceremony concluded with the official signing of the agreement by both parties, followed by the formal presentation of the Certificate of Authorization by the Director-General of the Sierra Leone Local Content Agency, Fodeba Daboh, to Nicola Asgill, Director of Corporate Development, Sustainability, and Investor Relations at FG Gold.

Qnet Intensifies War Against Scams Across Africa, Especially in Sierra Leone

June 30, 2025

QNET has launched its anti-scam campaign in Sierra Leone and has rendered an account of its brand building and reputational management efforts noting that it is work in progress and that it is open to partnership and collaboration with stakeholders especially security agencies across West Africa, to help fight scams falsely perpetuated in its name.

Addressing a cross section of West Africa journalists who travelled to Malaysia at the invitation of QNET, Ramya Chandrasekaran, Chief Communications Officer of the QI Group, parent company of QNET, delivered an all-inclusive presentation, detailing specific initiatives QNET has successfully carried and those it is still implementing to ensure that the general public are well informed about the company, its philosophy, business model and products, especially in Africa.

“We are all about empowerment and not exploitation”, she affirmed. QNET’s reputation in many parts of Africa has been dented by the activities of people and scammers who unfortunately misuse the name and products of the company to fleece unsuspecting members of the public. However, the company, more than any other, in the direct selling industry in sub-Saharan Africa, is implementing carefully thought-out reputational management interventions and public education campaigns to help deepen the understanding of the direct selling industry and to ensure the public is able to distinguish between scammers and genuine QNET distributors.

“If anyone is selling you visas, employment opportunities abroad, get-rich-quick ideas, investment scheme or asking you to travel to unknown destinations for suspicious reasons, that is NOT QNET. We do not engage in any of these illegalities and we continue to put this information in the public domain through our comprehensive anti-scam campaigns on radio, television, online, social media, billboards, in several local languages and across many sub-Saharan Africa countries including Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, Burkina Faso and recently Sierra Leone. QNET is about empowerment not exploitation,” Ms. Chandrasekaran convincingly stated.

QNET has implemented the “Mama Campaign”, “SAY NO” and “QNET Against Scams” campaigns across Africa. These successful campaigns have empowered many people with vital information about QNET and they have been able to differentiate between activities that are QNET-related and those that are purely scams. The campaign has also help people have direct contact with QNET through its hotline WhatsApp number to report fraudulent or suspicious activities falsely linked to QNET.

Through these campaigns, more than 400 headlines have been published by leading media organisations, 14 webinars successfully held and more than 140 journalists engaged in the sub-region with a number of them passionately and voluntarily becoming unofficial ambassadors of the company, because they understand the brand better and believe it is unfairly being misrepresented.

QNET plans to leave no stone unturned in addressing the misconceptions surrounding its brand in the minds of some people. The company is actively and relentlessly engaging critical stakeholders including security and law enforcement agencies, to seek innovative and collaborative ways to fight misinformation and ensure that scammers and unethical marketers so not continue to take undue advantage of the general public.

QNET is a 26-year-old direct selling company with operations in more than 100 countries across the world. Its products are top-notch and they have various local and international certifications, making them highly-sought-after and effective. QNET’s full range of health, wellness, beauty, education and leisure products are available on its website: www.qnet.net

QI University Malaysia, a Citadel of Academic Excellence, Clears the Air about African Presence

June 30, 2025

Quest International University (QIU), one of Malaysia’s leading higher education institutions, continues to make significant strides in research and academic excellence, attracting students from different parts of the world. A group of journalists from seven African countries visited the university to learn more about its uniqueness and commitment to advancing academic and practical knowledge. They were given comprehensive tours of the campus, research facilities, and interviews with faculty. The visit highlights the university’s growing reputation as a centre of academic excellence and a bridge for knowledge exchange between Malaysia and Africa.

The Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Zita Mohd Fahmi emphatically said: “At QIU, we welcome students from every part of the world including Africa and we leave no one behind.” She was addressing journalists and espousing the university’s inclusiveness on all front. She explained that lecturers dedicated time and resources to carry every student of the school along and allow them to learn at the pace best for their development. She categorically stated that the university has no campus in Africa at the moment and it does not grant international scholarships. This is a direct response to misinformation in some African countries, where scammers misuse the name the university and open a fake campus of the school in their city.

Pioneering Research and Innovation

QI University has established itself as a hub of pioneering research, particularly in renewable energy, biotechnology, and information technology. Its state-of-the-art laboratories and dedicated research centers have produced groundbreaking discoveries.

Academic Excellence and Quality Education

Recognized for its rigorous academic standards and innovative teaching methods, QI University consistently ranks among Malaysia’s top institutions. Its graduate employability rate is high, reflecting the relevance and quality of its programs. The university’s strong emphasis on research-driven learning and industry partnerships prepares students to meet global challenges effectively.

International Engagement and Global Outreach

Demonstrating its global outlook, QI University actively collaborates with universities worldwide and participates in international conferences. With a strategic focus on research innovation and international collaboration, QI University aims to strengthen its position as a premier academic institution in Asia. As it continues to foster academic excellence and global partnerships, the university is poised to contribute significantly to regional development and global knowledge networks.

SLMMDMC Must Follow Due Process, Respect Local Land Rights, and Stop Targeting Journalists

June 27, 2025

SLMMDMC Accused of Violating Due Process in Kasafoni Land Dispute

…A Response To The Rejoinder Titled “Rejoinder To The Public Petition On Kasafoni Deposit: A Caution To Gento Kamara”

By Millicent Senava Mannah

It is necessary to respond with clarity and responsibility to the rejoinder which attempts to discredit not only Gento Kamara but also the legitimate concerns raised by the people of Dansogoia, Sambaia, and Diang Chiefdoms in their petition to the Parliament of Sierra Leone dated June 23, 2025.

First and foremost, let it be firmly stated that no journalist reporting the Kasafoni land dispute is a “cantankerous elements” or a paid agent of Mr. Mohamed Gento Kamara. The role of the press in a democratic society is to investigate, inform, and amplify the voices of citizens — especially when national laws, customary land rights, and due process are being disregarded. Resorting to name-calling and unsubstantiated accusations against the media only undermines democratic principles and detracts from the substantive issues raised in the petition.

The core matter remains this: the Sierra Leone Mines and Minerals Development and Management Corporation (SLMMDMC) is alleged to have bypassed established legal and traditional procedures in asserting exclusive control over the Kasafoni deposit. The petition submitted to Parliament outlines that SLMMDMC did not consult or engage the local land-owning communities, as mandated by the Customary Land Rights Act of 2022, the Mines and Minerals Development Act of 2022, and Section 21 of the 1991 Constitution of Sierra Leone, which guarantees protection of property and customary rights.

Key Clarifications:

Due Process Was Not Followed:
Nowhere in the laws of Sierra Leone does it state that SLMMDMC has the right to override the authority of landowners or traditional leaders without prior consultation, consent, and agreement. The fact that Statutory Instrument No. 11 of 2024 unilaterally vests ownership and control of the Kasafoni deposit in the Corporation without community engagement raises serious legal and constitutional concerns.
The Petition Is Lawful and Grounded in Justice:
The public petition was submitted in line with Standing Orders 17 and 70(5)(a) of Parliament. It seeks parliamentary intervention to uphold community land rights and review a statutory instrument that appears to infringe on the rights of citizens. This is a legitimate democratic mechanism—not an act of blackmail or manipulation.
Attacks on Gento Kamara Are Misguided and Baseless:
The rejoinder wrongly accuses Gento Kamara of using journalists and the media to “blackmail government officials” and “undermine competitors.” Such inflammatory rhetoric diverts from the actual content of the petition and has no substantiated evidence to support such claims. If anything, Mr. Kamara’s engagement with local communities—obtaining their free, prior, and informed consent and contributing to development initiatives—demonstrates adherence to ethical business practices and respect for local governance structures.
SLMMDMC Must Respond Substantively, Not Deflect:
Instead of attacking journalists or Mr. Kamara, SLMMDMC owes it to the people of Sierra Leone to respond directly to the petition. The Corporation must publicly clarify its engagement process, legal justifications, and compliance with constitutional and statutory provisions. Failure to do so would mean it has indeed contravened the law, as the Constitution of Sierra Leone is the supreme law of the land.
Parliament Has the Power and Duty to Act:
Parliament must now investigate the concerns raised and assess whether the SLMMDMC acted within its legal bounds. Anything less would be an abdication of its oversight responsibility.

Final Note:

This response is not a defense of an individual but a defense of the rule of law, democratic accountability, and journalistic integrity. The people of Dansogoia, Sambaia, and Diang Chiefdoms deserve answers, not attacks. The journalists reporting this issue deserve respect, not insults. And every public institution, including the SLMMDMC, must operate within the boundaries of the Constitution and the laws of Sierra Leone.

Truth is not blackmail. Due process is not intimidation. Journalism is not a crime.

Let the facts, the Constitution, and the voices of the people guide our next steps—not unsubstantiated allegations.

Government Highlights Implementation Milestones from Tripartite Committee on Electoral Reform

June 27, 2025

Senior Government officials on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, provided an in-depth briefing on key national developments during the Ministry of Information and Civic Education’s weekly Press Conference, highlighting significant strides made by the Tripartite Committee in advancing electoral reform in Sierra Leone.

Delivering a detailed update on behalf of the Government, Dr. Emmanuel Gaima, Senior Executive Adviser to the President on the Public Service and Head of the Public Sector Reform Unit, outlined the motivations behind the formation of the Tripartite Committee. Dr. Emmanuel Gaima explained that in the aftermath of the June 2023 general elections, both the All People’s Congress and the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone raised critical concerns regarding systemic, structural and financial weaknesses within the electoral framework of the country.

According to Dr. Emmanuel Gaima, these concerns prompted His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio to propose the creation of an Electoral Management Reform Committee during his address to Parliament. This reform initiative, chaired by Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, was designed to facilitate broad-based electoral reform through meaningful dialogue and national consensus.

To ensure neutrality and build confidence in the process, Dr. Emmanuel Gaima emphasized that the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion recommended the inclusion of an independent facilitator. This recommendation led to the appointment of former Gambian Vice President Fatoumata Jallow-Tambajang to guide the deliberations. After three days of extensive discussions at the Bintumani Conference Center, the Government of Sierra Leone, the All People’s Congress and the United Nations Resident Coordinator Seraphine Wakana agreed on eight key resolutions, one of which was the establishment of the Tripartite Committee.

Dr. Emmanuel Gaima confirmed that the Tripartite Committee submitted a comprehensive report to President Julius Maada Bio within six months of its formation. The report outlines eighty actionable recommendations and includes a detailed implementation roadmap aimed at strengthening the institutional and functional capacity of Sierra Leone’s electoral management bodies. Among the major recommendations is the initiation of a Functional Management Review of the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone, scheduled to commence six months after the report’s submission. Dr. Emmanuel Gaima stated that this review will assess the Commission’s legal mandate, internal structure, staffing capacity, logistical resources and operational systems with the goal of creating a reliable foundation for future peaceful and credible elections.

Responding to concerns regarding political detentions following the 2023 elections, Dr. Emmanuel Gaima referenced Resolution Four of the Tripartite Committee’s mandate, which investigated the All People’s Congress’ claim that approximately three hundred of its supporters had been detained. He clarified that the verified number was substantially lower and assured the public that all related matters are being addressed in accordance with due legal process. Dr. Emmanuel Gaima also disclosed that consultations facilitated by the Office of the Attorney General and Minister of Justice are ongoing to determine a suitable and publicly accepted model for the country’s future elections.

Ngolo Katta, Head of the Tripartite Secretariat, also addressed the media, providing further insight into the structure and operations of the Steering Committee responsible for implementing the committee’s recommendations. Ngolo Katta explained that the Steering Committee is comprised of representatives from the Government of Sierra Leone, Parliament, Paramount Chiefs, Civil Society Organizations, the All Political Parties Association and local councils, reflecting a broad and inclusive stakeholder base.

The Tripartite Secretariat Head emphasized that the Tripartite Secretariat is actively engaging with political leaders, traditional authorities and civic organizations across the country to ensure widespread participation and transparency in the implementation process. He highlighted Recommendation Seventy-Eight as a pivotal aspect of the ongoing reform agenda. This recommendation calls for the convening of a National Dialogue to deliberate on the future electoral system of Sierra Leone. Ngolo Katta described this dialogue as a critical platform for shaping the nation’s democratic future and announced that preparations are already underway for the event, which is scheduled to take place in July 2025.

Ngolo Katta concluded by reinforcing the Government’s dedication to democratic renewal, transparency and inclusive governance. He noted that the upcoming National Dialogue represents not only an opportunity for reform but a defining moment for strengthening Sierra Leone’s democratic institutions and enhancing public trust in the electoral process.

The briefing on Tuesday underscored the significance of the Tripartite Committee’s work as a central pillar of Sierra Leone’s democratic reform agenda. As the country advances with the implementation of the committee’s recommendations, the commitment of all stakeholders to a peaceful, transparent and participatory process remains vital to securing long-term electoral integrity and national cohesion.

Ranked 5th in Sub-Saharan Africa… Peace Commission Hails Sierra Leone’s Rise as West Africa’s Most Peaceful Nation

June 27, 2025

By Amin Kef-Ranger

The Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC) has announced a significant achievement for Sierra Leone in the recently published 2025 Global Peace Index (GPI). The country now ranks 57th globally and 5th in Sub-Saharan Africa, overtaking Ghana to become the most peaceful nation in West Africa. This remarkable progress marks a nine-place climb from 66th globally in 2024 and a regional improvement from 8th to 5th.

The Global Peace Index, compiled by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP), evaluates 163 countries using 23 qualitative and quantitative indicators to assess their levels of peacefulness. Sierra Leone’s improved ranking reflects a notable turnaround from 2024, when political polarization, ethno-regional tensions and economic strain had caused a temporary drop from its previous position as the 3rd most peaceful nation in Africa in 2023.

According to the ICPNC, this upward trajectory underscores the strength and resilience of the country’s peace-building institutions and the collective efforts of its citizens. The Commission attributed the achievement to robust collaboration among state institutions, civil society organizations, security agencies, political actors and international partners.

“The 2025 Global Peace Index ranking is a testament to the steadfast commitment of the people of Sierra Leone and the unwavering work of the ICPNC and our partners to foster national unity and cohesion,” the Commission stated.

In its release, the ICPNC also congratulated His Excellency President Retired Brigadier Dr. Julius Maada Bio on his appointment as Chairman of the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government. Recognized as a consistent advocate for peace and regional stability, President Bio’s leadership is expected to further bolster peace-building efforts not only in Sierra Leone but across West Africa.

“The President’s appointment is both timely and symbolic, reinforcing Sierra Leone’s emerging reputation as a beacon of peace and stability in the region,” the Commission noted.

The ICPNC expressed its deep appreciation to all stakeholders, local and international partners, security forces, media, community leaders, civil society organizations and the general public, for their contributions to the national peace agenda. Their collective resolve, the Commission emphasized, has made Sierra Leone a model of post-conflict transformation and democratic resilience.

Looking ahead, the ICPNC reaffirmed its vision of positioning Sierra Leone among the top 10 most peaceful nations globally and the most peaceful in Sub-Saharan Africa. The Commission called on all citizens to remain united and committed to sustaining the gains achieved thus far.

“With continued collaboration, we are confident that Sierra Leone can achieve even greater heights in peaceful development,” the statement concluded.

Africa’s Five Most Peaceful Countries in 2025 (Global Rankings):

Mauritius – 26
Botswana – 43
Namibia – 50
The Gambia – 55
Sierra Leone – 57

The Global Peace Index remains the world’s most comprehensive measure of peace, offering insights into global trends, economic impacts of violence and strategies for sustainable peace.

Ambassador Amara Sowa Hails Makeni Diaspora’s Vision and Resilience at 10th Anniversary Fundraising Gala

June 27, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Demonstrating heartfelt solidarity and national pride, Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to the United States, His Excellency Amara Sowa, joined the ‘Friends from Makeni’ (FFM) on Saturday, June 22, 2025 for their 10th Anniversary Celebration and Fundraising Gala at the Ekkonn Conference Center in Lanham, Maryland, USA.

Held under the theme: “Na Makeni We Komot”,(We Are from Makeni), the vibrant gathering brought together members of the Makeni diaspora, friends and well-wishers to honor a decade of dedicated community service, cultural preservation and developmental impact by FFM.

In his keynote address, Ambassador Amara Sowa expressed deep gratitude for being part of the celebration, describing it as a “homecoming of the heart.” He recalled his own ties to the northern city of Makeni and praised the group’s consistent efforts to support their hometown from abroad.

“Makeni shaped much of who I am,” Ambassador Amara Sowa remarked. “To be here with fellow brothers and sisters from Makeni, who continue to carry their roots proudly while driving development is truly inspiring.”

He used the occasion to appeal to the audience to support school-going children in Sierra Leone, emphasizing the transformative power of education. “Whether you give in kind or in cash, every gesture makes a difference. Our children deserve the best foundation,” he urged.

The Ambassador also reaffirmed the Embassy’s commitment to working hand-in-hand with diaspora organizations. “The doors of the Embassy are always open to every Sierra Leonean. We are here to serve, support and collaborate,” he assured.

Highlighting the group’s current flagship initiative, ‘Friends from Makeni’ President, Amadu Nabay, announced that FFM has secured land in Makeni to construct a modern elementary school. “This is our boldest project yet,” Amadu Nabay said. “We are committed to building a state-of-the-art facility that will provide quality education for generations to come.”

He also outlined FFM’s track record of impactful community projects, including distributing holiday food packages to the underprivileged, building a recreational center for children and supporting various infrastructure projects in Makeni and surrounding areas.

“The past ten years have shown what unity and commitment can achieve. Now, we are calling on all friends, supporters and partners to help us cross the next milestone, completing the school project,” he stated.

The celebration featured cultural performances, fundraising auctions, testimonials from beneficiaries and moments of reflection on the group’s journey. Guests praised the unity and resilience that characterize the Makeni diaspora and pledged continued support to FFM’s initiatives.

The evening concluded with a renewed call to action: for Sierra Leoneans at home and abroad to remain connected, give back and invest in their communities, proving that no matter the distance, “Na Makeni We Komot” remains a call to serve.

NP (SL) Limited Maintains Its Status as Sierra Leone’s Leading Petroleum Company

June 27, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

NP (SL) Limited continues to stand tall as Sierra Leone’s most reliable and innovative oil marketing company. Proudly 100% Sierra Leonean-owned, the company has built a solid reputation for consistently delivering high-quality petroleum products, petrol, diesel, gas and lubricants like the trusted Castrol oil across the country. Since its establishment in 1996 by 35 visionary Sierra Leoneans, NP (SL) has grown into a symbol of local entrepreneurship and resilience.

Despite challenges sometimes beyond its control, NP (SL) has maintained a remarkable record in keeping fuel supply steady across its nationwide network of Filling Stations. The company’s ability to swiftly respond to disruptions and restore normalcy in its supply chain has won the admiration of customers and industry stakeholders alike.

At the heart of NP’s operations is a deep commitment to customer satisfaction. The company has made strategic investments to modernize its Filling Stations, ensuring they are spacious, attractive and convenient. Many of those stations are equipped with calibrated digital pumps that guarantee accurate dispensing of fuel, giving customers full value for their money.

One of NP’s most applauded innovations is the NP Energy Pass Card, a secure and convenient payment solution that allows users to buy fuel without using cash. The card offers several advantages including real-time tracking, PIN security and the ability to manage fuel expenses efficiently. This digital transformation aligns with global trends and enhances customer experience at NP service points.

In addition to fuel, NP is promoting cleaner energy through its NP Gas product. This environmentally friendly cooking gas is fast gaining popularity for its efficiency, safety and ease of use. Available in various cylinder sizes, NP Gas offers a healthier and more sustainable alternative to charcoal and wood, contributing to environmental protection and better indoor air quality.

NP (SL) is also a leader in supporting national development. The company has a strong track record of fulfilling its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). During the COVID-19 pandemic, NP donated One Billion Leones to assist the Government’s response efforts. It has also contributed to strengthening the country’s fire response system by constructing boreholes and donating generators to the National Fire Force.

The company’s success is deeply rooted in its strict adherence to Sierra Leone’s Local Content Policy. NP employs a predominantly Sierra Leonean workforce and reserves expatriate positions only for highly technical roles. This approach supports job creation, skills development and wealth retention within the country.

As part of its continuous improvement, NP (SL) has achieved triple ISO certification, ISO 9001 for Quality Management, ISO 14001 for Environmental Management and ISO 45001 for Occupational Health and Safety. These international standards confirm NP’s commitment to operating at the highest levels of excellence.

Looking ahead, NP (SL) is preparing to introduce Vehicle Tracking Systems (VTS) and GPS technologies to enhance delivery operations and fuel security. With ongoing regional expansion and a firm foundation of trust, NP remains a pillar of Sierra Leone’s energy sector, driven by innovation, local empowerment and national pride.

Facilitating Strong Interest from CRIT Group… SLCAA DG Spearheads New Alliance with French Civil Aviation Authority

June 27, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), Musayeroh Barrie, has successfully spearheaded a new alliance with the French Civil Aviation Authority (DGAC), marking a significant stride toward elevating Sierra Leone’s aviation sector to international standards. This strategic partnership signals a bold new chapter for the country’s air transport industry.

Speaking on the collaboration, DG Musayeroh Barrie confirmed that formal discussions have begun with the French Civil Aviation Authority, aimed at expanding technical partnerships, knowledge transfer and regulatory support. “New collaborations with the French Civil Aviation Authority are underway,” she announced enthusiastically. “We also look forward to more investment in Sierra Leone’s aviation sector from the CRIT Group, owners of Groupe Europe Handling (GEH) and SHP.”

This move is seen as a testament to Musayeroh Barrie’s visionary leadership and strategic push to position the SLCAA as a forward-looking regulator in the global aviation ecosystem. Under her stewardship, the Authority has already undergone substantial reforms, including crucial steps towards meeting international compliance benchmarks, particularly those tied to Sierra Leone’s removal from the EU Air Safety List.

The French Civil Aviation Authority (DGAC) is globally renowned for its role in enhancing aviation safety, sustainable innovation, including projects like hybrid-electric propulsion and regulatory excellence. By establishing cooperation with such a reputable agency, Sierra Leone is poised to benefit from technical expertise, capacity-building initiatives and global best practices.

DG Musayeroh Barrie underscored the importance of international collaboration, stating, “This is more than a partnership; it’s a shared vision for safe, secure and sustainable aviation in Sierra Leone.”

Further boosting the prospects of the sector, the SLCAA has also attracted strong interest from the CRIT Group, a global multiservice company with specialized portfolios in engineering, maintenance, airport ground handling and recruitment. Through its subsidiaries GEH and SHP, the CRIT Group is expected to channel investments into Sierra Leone’s aviation infrastructure, staff training and airport operational support.

GEH (Groupe Europe Handling) is internationally certified by IATA and ICAO and offers best-in-class ground handling services across Europe.
SHP, also affiliated with CRIT Group, is believed to be involved in specialized aviation engineering services, including critical aircraft systems and maintenance support.

The anticipated investment would mark a major milestone in the Government’s broader efforts to attract foreign direct investment into critical infrastructure sectors, particularly aviation, which has been a priority under the current administration.

Since assuming office, Musayeroh Barrie has prioritized aviation safety, institutional reform and international cooperation. Her proactive engagement with global stakeholders and industry leaders has positioned SLCAA as a credible and reform-minded authority, earning it increasing recognition on the global stage.

The Director General also emphasized the SLCAA’s ongoing commitment to staff development and training in line with international aviation safety and service delivery standards. “As we continue to reform, we remain committed to building local capacity and ensuring that SLCAA is a model aviation authority in West Africa,” she said.

The developments mark a turning point for Sierra Leone’s aviation future, with SLCAA positioning itself as a hub of progress and partnership in the sub-region. The twin pillars of regulatory collaboration with France and prospective investment from the CRIT Group signal a brighter horizon for air travel and aviation business in the country.

With Director General Musayeroh Barrie at the helm, Sierra Leone’s skies are not only open they’re on a course for sustained transformation and excellence.