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Deadline Set: Police, ONS Warn Citizens and Foreigners to Obtain ID Cards by August 31

The Office of National Security (ONS), in collaboration with the Sierra Leone Police, has launched “Operation Stop & Check,” a decisive national security initiative aimed at ensuring that all residents, both citizens and non-citizens, hold valid biometric National or Non-National ID Cards.

Speaking at a joint press briefing, National Security Coordinator, Abdulai Caulker and Inspector General of Police, William Fayia Sellu, urged the public to obtain their ID cards ahead of the final deadline on 31st August 2025.

According to Abdulai Caulker, the operation will involve random on-the-spot ID checks across the country. “The Police, in collaboration with the Office of National Security (ONS) and the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA), will soon launch a nationwide ‘Stop and Check’ campaign,” he stated. “The law will deal decisively with anyone found without a valid National or Non-National ID card after the deadline.”

Inspector General William Fayia Sellu emphasized that key police services, including police clearance certificates and character checks, will only be accessible upon presentation of a valid biometric ID. “No one will be allowed to access these services without a valid card,” he reiterated.

Director General of the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA), Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi, revealed that mobile NCRA teams have already been deployed to communities and chiefdoms nationwide to issue ID cards directly to eligible applicants. He warned that the current cost of obtaining the card is temporary.

“The cost of National and Non-National ID Cards will increase after 31st August 2025 to reflect rising production and logistical costs,” Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi said. “We therefore strongly encourage all citizens and foreign nationals residing in Sierra Leone to complete their registration before this date.”

The biometric ID card system, officially launched by His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio in January 2023, serves as a secure identification platform critical for accessing both public and private services. It is also a key component in national efforts to bolster security, reduce identity fraud and streamline service delivery.

Citizens and residents are reminded that possession of a valid biometric ID card is mandatory for access to services such as banking, education, healthcare and Government benefits.

With the 31st August deadline fast approaching, authorities are urging immediate action to avoid penalties and ensure compliance with national security directives.

NP (SL): Leading Sierra Leone’s Petroleum Industry with Innovation, Excellence & National Pride

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

NP (SL) Limited, Sierra Leone’s premier and wholly indigenous petroleum marketing company, continues to set the benchmark in the industry through its unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, environmental responsibility and national development.

With a legacy built on integrity, efficiency and customer satisfaction, NP (SL) has earned its place as a reliable and trustworthy provider of petroleum products across the country. The company’s mission, to maintain its dominant leadership position while delivering environmentally responsible and superior service to all stakeholders, remains central to its operations. NP (SL)’s forward-looking vision is to build a well-run, dominant petroleum brand that competes effectively across the West African sub-region.

At the heart of NP’s success lies a corporate culture rooted in discipline, safety and teamwork. Its core values, ensuring safe working environments, delivering high-quality products, offering excellent customer service, promoting environmental sustainability and building strong, positive teams, drive every aspect of its operations.

Recognizing the transformative potential of technology, NP (SL) has invested heavily in modern systems to enhance customer experience and operational efficiency. Its advanced, calibrated fuel pumps provide transparent, real-time digital readings of fuel volume and pricing at Filling Stations nationwide, offering customers reliability and accountability.

To complement its modern pump systems, NP introduced the NP Energy Pass Card. This innovation allows cashless transactions at fuel stations, offering customers real-time tracking, enhanced security and simplified consumption management. The Energy Pass Card, in particular, provides institutions with the ability to monitor and control fuel usage, with built-in security features such as PIN protection and instant deactivation in case of loss or misuse.

NP (SL)’s dedication to safety is unmatched. The company enforces strict safety protocols at all Filling Stations, including mandatory shutdown of vehicle engines and mobile phones during refueling. Regular fire safety simulations and defensive driving trainings for fuel truck drivers reflect NP’s proactive safety culture.

As part of its environmental stewardship, NP is promoting NP Gas, a cleaner, safer and more sustainable alternative to charcoal and wood for cooking. With a variety of cylinder sizes available, this initiative not only reduces deforestation but also improves indoor air quality and promotes healthier living conditions.

NP (SL) is also the first oil marketing company in Sierra Leone to be awarded ISO certifications in three global standards: ISO 9001:2015 (Quality Management), ISO 14001:2015 (Environmental Management) and ISO 45001:2018 (Occupational Health and Safety). These accolades underscore the company’s excellence in operations and its alignment with international best practices.

As a proud Sierra Leonean enterprise, NP (SL) plays a pivotal role in national development by promoting local employment and empowering indigenous talent. The vast majority of its workforce is Sierra Leonean, with minimal expatriate presence reserved for specialized functions. This inclusive approach not only fosters capacity building but also ensures wealth retention within the country.

NP has also proven itself a compliant and significant taxpayer, contributing steadily to Government revenue and public sector development. Its adherence to Sierra Leone’s Local Content Policy exemplifies its patriotic commitment to national progress.

Beyond Sierra Leone’s borders, NP (SL) has successfully expanded into Guinea, Liberia, The Gambia and Côte d’Ivoire, replicating its winning business model and contributing to economic activity and job creation in the region.

Looking to the future, NP is preparing to implement advanced Video Tracking Systems (VTS) and GPS solutions across its logistics operations, aiming to enhance real-time fleet monitoring, optimize delivery schedules and reduce operational risks. These steps form part of a broader digital transformation strategy that includes cybersecurity upgrades to safeguard digital fuel card data and financial transactions.

Through visionary leadership, technological innovation and deep-rooted national pride, NP (SL) Limited continues to fuel Sierra Leone’s growth, not just in petroleum supply but also in institutional trust and service excellence.

From safety training and environmental reforms to cutting-edge technology and customer-focused solutions, NP (SL) remains a trailblazer in the energy sector; firmly committed to empowering communities, protecting the environment and contributing meaningfully to Sierra Leone’s sustainable development agenda.

Energy Justice Needed: The Provinces Can’t Wait Any Longer

Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Electricity remains the bedrock of national development, yet across Sierra Leone, particularly in the provinces, it is still treated more as a privilege than a right. In a country striving for inclusive growth, the disparity in power access between Freetown and the rest of the nation is stark and troubling. Even in the capital, electricity supply has become increasingly unreliable. Karpowership, once a major provider of energy to Freetown, has significantly scaled down its generation capacity due to outstanding financial obligations owed by the Government, leading to widespread blackouts and reduced hours of power availability. If the capital is experiencing such challenges, the situation in the provincial areas is even more dire, where entire communities still live in darkness or depend on costly, polluting generators.

In provincial towns like Bo, Kenema, Makeni and Kono limited or non-existent electricity supply has constrained economic development, stifled small businesses and left essential public services underpowered. A tailor cannot meet orders on time without electric machines, cold rooms for agricultural storage are inoperable and clinics cannot perform emergency procedures at night without reliable lighting. Students are forced to study by candlelight or Chinese lights, while young entrepreneurs find themselves handicapped by a lack of the most basic infrastructure to operate in the digital age.

Despite these challenges, there have been some strides made by the Government to improve energy access beyond the capital. The CLSG Interconnection Project has begun to channel electricity from Côte d’Ivoire into Sierra Leone through Guinea and Liberia, expanding the national grid and reaching towns that had long been isolated. Additionally, mini-grids installed through the Rural Renewable Energy Project (RREP) in districts like Moyamba, Pujehun and Tonkolili are offering a glimmer of hope to thousands of residents previously cut off from the power network.

However, much more needs to be done. The Government must treat electricity as an urgent national priority and ensure that provinces are not perpetually left behind. Expanding the use of renewable energy, especially solar and hydro, is a realistic and sustainable solution for many rural and remote communities. With Sierra Leone’s abundant sunlight and untapped rivers, a decentralized renewable energy approach can deliver lasting power to underserved regions without overburdening the national grid.

Equity in electricity supply is not just a development goal; it is a justice issue. The future of Sierra Leone cannot rest solely in Freetown’s flickering lights. The empowerment of the provinces through reliable and modern electricity systems is key to unlocking the full potential of the nation. A brighter, fairer future for all Sierra Leoneans depends on lighting every home, school, clinic and business no matter where they are located.

Africell Sponsors Khadison to Represent Sierra Leone at U.S.-Africa Summit in Angola

Telecommunications giant Africell Sierra Leone has announced a groundbreaking partnership with rising music sensation Khadison, who is set to represent the country at the prestigious 17th U.S.-Africa Business Summit in Luanda, Angola. The summit, which runs from June 22 to 25, brings together over 1,500 key public and private sector leaders to strengthen trade and investment between the United States and Africa.

Organized by the Corporate Council on Africa (CCA) in collaboration with the Government of Angola, this year’s summit covers critical sectors including infrastructure, energy, agriculture, technology and finance. But for Africell, the event is not just about boardroom conversations; it’s about elevating Sierra Leone’s cultural footprint on the global stage.

At a formal ceremony held at Africell’s Wilberforce headquarters in Freetown, the company signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Khadison, confirming his participation as a cultural ambassador during the summit.

Speaking at the signing, Africell Sierra Leone CEO, Shadi Gerjawi, emphasized that the move goes beyond artistic endorsement.

“This partnership with Khadison isn’t merely about performance; it’s about representation,” Shadi Gerjawi said. “Representing Africell means representing Sierra Leone and showcasing the talent and spirit that our country possesses.”

Shadi Gerjawi noted that Africell’s decision to sponsor Khadison’s performance aligns with its broader strategy to integrate culture into corporate diplomacy. The performance, he added, will not only spotlight the artist but also serve as a powerful message that Sierra Leone is ready to engage globally through both business and the arts.

“International exposure at such a high-profile summit has the potential to transform lives, industries and perceptions,” he added. “This is an invaluable opportunity not only for Khadison but for Sierra Leone’s creative sector.”

Khadison, known for his fusion of traditional Sierra Leonean sounds with Afro-pop rhythms, expressed gratitude for the platform. At just 23, the young artist rose to national recognition as the youngest finalist in the “Be a Star” competition, a moment he described as pivotal.

“That moment showed me that age doesn’t limit potential,” he recalled. “Today, I feel deeply honored to represent my country at such a prestigious global event.”

He added that the upcoming performance in Luanda is not just a career milestone but a national statement.

“This is Sierra Leone being heard and seen on a world stage. It’s about flying the flag high, not just for me, but for every young artist who dreams of being recognized globally.”

The artist also praised Africell’s role in nurturing local talent.

“Africell believed in me when it mattered most. Their support goes beyond music; they invest in people, in communities, in dreams,” Khadison said.

As anticipation builds for the summit, Africell’s initiative marks a significant shift in how private sector players can leverage soft power. By integrating music into a high-level economic forum, the company is broadening its relevance and reinforcing its commitment to youth empowerment and cultural promotion.

“This is just the beginning,” Shadi Gerjawi concluded. “At Africell, we connect people, not just through technology, but through opportunity, vision and shared purpose. Khadison’s journey is our journey. And we’re taking Sierra Leone with us.”
Khadison is scheduled to perform during a special cultural segment of the summit, which is expected to draw international media attention and serve as a showcase of Africa’s vibrant creative potential.

Caritas Freetown and NDLEA Join Forces to Combat Drug Abuse Crisis in Sierra Leone

Responding boldly and urgently to Sierra Leone’s growing drug crisis, Caritas Freetown and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have joined forces to intensify the fight against substance abuse, placing special emphasis on the widespread threat of Kush.

The strategic partnership was solidified during a high-level meeting between the Caritas Freetown Programs Team and senior Management of the NDLEA, led by Executive Director, Chief Andrew Jaiah Kaikai. The engagement underscored a shared commitment to collaborative solutions, community empowerment and rehabilitative care as essential tools in addressing the nation’s escalating drug abuse challenges.

Chief Andrew Jaiah Kaikai, who also serves on the Presidential Taskforce on Kush, welcomed the Caritas delegation and emphasized the need for unified national action.

“We are in a desperate situation and need all hands on deck,” he said. “This is a national crisis and strategic partnerships like this are critical to making real change.”

During the meeting, the NDLEA presented its strategic plan, which includes enhanced regulation of rehabilitation centers and a multi-sectoral approach to prevention and recovery. Caritas Freetown, a leading faith-based organization with strong community roots, expressed its readiness to contribute its expertise in advocacy, psychosocial support and public engagement.

The two organizations identified several key areas of collaboration:

  • Community Outreach: Joint campaigns aimed at preventing drug abuse through education and awareness at the grassroots level.
  • Youth Rehabilitation Support: Psychosocial and motivational assistance for recovering addicts, especially young people.
  • Student Anti-Drug Alliance: A nationwide initiative to empower schools to educate students and serve as a frontline defense against drug use.
  • Public Training and Engagement: Development of joint training sessions and media outreach to reduce stigma and promote healing.
  • Civil Society-Government Synergy: Strengthening ties between NGOs and Government institutions to create a more coordinated response to drug-related issues.

The session ended with a mutual pledge to pool resources, align efforts and maintain a proactive stance in confronting the devastating impact of drugs on communities, particularly among the youth.

Caritas Freetown hailed the partnership as a “vital step forward” and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting NDLEA’s mandate through compassion, innovation and action.

“This is not a fight any single institution can win alone,” both parties agreed. “It requires national unity, courage and collaboration.”

While Sierra Leone grapples with the scourge of Kush and other dangerous substances, the partnership between Caritas Freetown and the NDLEA stands as a beacon of hope and a model for united action in addressing a growing national public health crisis.

 

Deputy Foreign Minister Champions Sierra Leone at Major China-Africa Cooperation Forum

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Francess Paigie Alghali,
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Francess Paigie Alghali,

Sierra Leone’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Francess Paigie Alghali, recently participated in two high-level diplomatic engagements in Changsha, Hunan Province, representing the country at the Ministerial Meeting of Coordinators on the Implementation of Follow-up Actions of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) and the Opening Ceremony of the Fourth China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo (CAETE).

The twin events marked a milestone in China-Africa relations, commemorating the 25th anniversary of FOCAC; a platform widely credited for enhancing cooperation and deepening the strategic partnership between China and African nations.

At the Ministerial Meeting, China’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, His Excellency Wang Yi, delivered a keynote address. He highlighted significant progress since the last FOCAC Summit held in Beijing, referencing the implementation of President Xi Jinping’s Ten Partnership Actions. Wang Yi emphasized the strengthening of strategic mutual trust, the rise in practical cooperation and growing coordination between China and African nations on multilateral platforms.

A key outcome of the meeting was the adoption of the China-Africa Changsha Declaration on Upholding Solidarity and Cooperation of the Global South. This joint declaration reaffirmed China and Africa’s commitment to multilateralism and global equity. It firmly rejected unilateralism, protectionism and economic hegemony while advocating for a fairer international order and the protection of the legitimate interests of developing countries.

The Fourth China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo, which followed the Ministerial Meeting, spotlighted the implementation of the Ten Partnership Actions. The Expo served as a major platform for advancing economic and trade cooperation between China and Africa, showcasing initiatives across several key sectors including infrastructure, youth innovation and entrepreneurship, CEO dialogues, legal and logistics services and clean energy development. These efforts align with the broader goals of modernization and inclusive growth.

During the plenary session of the Expo, Deputy Minister Francess Paigie Alghali delivered a compelling keynote address reaffirming Sierra Leone’s steadfast commitment to multilateralism, economic collaboration and regional security. She used the opportunity to highlight a recent milestone in China-Sierra Leone relations; the signing of a Fish Certification contract earlier this year. The agreement was recognized as a significant step in boosting Sierra Leone’s economic prospects and further solidifying bilateral ties with China.

With the China-Africa partnership continuing to expand, gatherings such as the FOCAC Ministerial Meeting and the Economic and Trade Expo reinforce a shared dedication to deepening cooperation, advancing sustainable development and building a resilient Global South through mutual respect and strategic collaboration.

NRA Rolls Out Electronic Cash Registers to Strengthen Tax Compliance and Transparency

Marking a landmark step toward enhancing tax compliance and digitizing financial reporting, the National Revenue Authority (NRA) commenced the installation of advanced Electronic Cash Registers (ECRs) on June 18, 2025, across businesses registered for the Goods and Services Tax (GST). The rollout began with companies in the construction and electronics sectors, signaling a pivotal phase in the Authority’s drive to modernize tax collection and streamline retail transaction systems.

The initiative, spearheaded by NRA Commissioner General, Jeneba J. Bangura, alongside Commissioner of the Domestic Tax Department James B. Tengebeh and Deputy Commissioner, Edwin E. Conteh, is designed to ensure accurate sales reporting and curb tax evasion. The ECRs feature real-time data capture and enhanced tracking capabilities, enabling businesses to record transactions transparently and efficiently.

Prior to installation, business owners and their staff received comprehensive training on operating the new devices. “This is a pivotal step towards digitizing our economy and ensuring that all businesses contribute their fair share to national revenue,” said Jeneba J. Bangura. She emphasized that the system aims to make business transactions easier while reinforcing accountability in the tax system.

Business owners have responded positively to the reform.  Zakharia Khoury of Khoury Building Materials described the new cash registers as a “game changer,” noting improved efficiency in sales recording.  Aman Rupani of Raju’s Electrical echoed this sentiment, thanking the Commissioner General and her team for driving automation in revenue reforms and reaffirming his business’s commitment to compliance.

The NRA further demonstrated its commitment to public accountability by actively participating in the Presidential Town Hall Meeting held on June 17, 2025, in Kenema District. Organized by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education (MoICE), the forum brought together hundreds of residents for a direct dialogue with His Excellency the President on governance, economic development and national priorities.

Representing the Commissioner General, Deputy Commissioner General 1, Ann-Marie Baby Harding, led the NRA delegation. She reiterated the Authority’s critical role in strengthening public financial management and promoting tax education across all sectors of society.

At the event, the NRA set up an outreach booth that distributed a wide range of Information, Education and Communication (IEC) materials. NRA staff engaged directly with the public, responding to inquiries, clarifying compliance procedures and providing guidance on accessing tax services.

Local traders and entrepreneurs expressed appreciation for the face-to-face engagement, describing it as a rare opportunity to understand their tax obligations and interact directly with officials. Community leaders also lauded the NRA’s participation, noting it as a meaningful effort to bridge the information gap between rural citizens and state institutions.

Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, acknowledged the NRA’s steadfast support and underscored the agency’s essential role in ensuring sustainable Government service delivery through effective domestic revenue mobilization.

The town hall concluded with the Chief Minister, other Ministers, and heads of Government agencies engaging with NRA representatives; further highlighting the agency’s central place in the nation’s development strategy.

The NRA has pledged to expand its tax education efforts nationwide, deepen public trust and strengthen voluntary compliance as a cornerstone of Sierra Leone’s growth and governance reforms.

Attorney General Engages Kenema Residents on Criminal Justice Reforms & Constitutional Review

Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Alpha Sesay Esq.
Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Alpha Sesay Esq.

The Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Alpha Sesay Esq., on Tuesday June 17, 2025 led a dynamic and inclusive dialogue on criminal justice reforms and national development at the Kenema City Hall, as part of the ongoing Presidential Town Hall Series themed: “Bringing Governance Closer: Dialogue and Delivery.”

Addressing a packed audience, Attorney General, Alpha Sesay, shared critical updates on the implementation of the landmark Criminal Procedure Act 2024, set to come into force in September 2025. He described the legislation as a transformative step aimed at modernizing the country’s criminal justice system. The revised Act emphasizes reducing custodial sentences for minor and non-violent offenses, promoting rehabilitation and introducing alternative sentencing measures.

“This reform is a significant shift from punitive justice to restorative justice. It’s about making the system fairer, faster and more humane,” Alpha Sesay said.

The Attorney General also spoke about the ongoing constitutional review process, reiterating the Government’s commitment to inclusive governance and the protection of civil liberties. He encouraged residents of Kenema and the wider public to take an active role in the process, emphasizing that public participation is vital to drafting a constitution that reflects the collective aspirations of Sierra Leoneans.

During an interactive Q&A session, residents raised concerns about prison overcrowding and the lack of support for former inmates. In response, Alpha Sesay acknowledged the longstanding challenges within the correctional system but assured the public that strategic efforts are underway to tackle them.

He highlighted several Government initiatives, including:

  • Revised sentencing guidelines under the Criminal Procedure Act;
  • The promotion of alternative dispute resolution mechanisms and non-custodial sentencing;
  • And a notable collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture through the Feed Salone initiative, which engages inmates in agricultural training and food production.

“These programs are not just about reducing overcrowding,” he emphasized. “They are about restoring dignity, offering second chances and equipping inmates with the tools to reintegrate into society. That’s how we break the cycle of reoffending and build safer communities.”

The town hall concluded with expressions of appreciation from local stakeholders and community members, many of whom commended the Ministry of Justice for its openness and proactive approach to reform. They also called for an expedited rollout of the initiatives discussed.

The Presidential Town Hall Series continues to serve as a vital platform for fostering transparency, civic engagement and accountability in governance, bringing policy discussions directly to the people and ensuring that citizens remain at the heart of national development efforts.

Africell Impact Foundation Leads King’s Baton Relay with Bold Call for Environmental Action

Bringing together sport, national pride and environmental activism, the Africell Impact Foundation partnered with Commonwealth Games Sierra Leone and the Ministry of Tourism to host the King’s Baton Relay at the Africell Sports Zone on Lumley Beach Road. The high-profile event served as a prelude to the upcoming 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland and carried a powerful message: fight plastic pollution under the theme “Kip Am Klin.”

The relay, a longstanding Commonwealth tradition, symbolized more than the journey of the baton; it underscored a commitment to sustainability and collective action against one of Sierra Leone’s most pressing environmental issues: plastic waste.

Speaking at the ceremony, Kippy Debs, Director of the Africell Impact Foundation and Customer Relations Manager at Africell Sierra Leone, made an impassioned plea for environmental responsibility.

“Sierra Leone is at a crossroads; one that determines the health of our beaches, oceans and future generations,” Kippy Debs stated. “Plastic waste is suffocating marine life, polluting our shores and eroding the natural beauty we cherish.”

She emphasized the Foundation’s commitment to community-led environmental initiatives, including recycling programs, educational outreach and sustainable advocacy efforts. “We have empowered communities to reduce, reuse and recycle; turning awareness into measurable action,” Kippy Debs added, calling on citizens to join hands in preserving the country’s coastline.

Kippy Debs also urged Sierra Leone’s athletes heading to Glasgow in 2026 to not only bring home medals but to represent a country committed to sustainability. “Bring back glory,” she said, “but leave no trace of plastic.”

Prince Sualley, President of the Commonwealth Games Sierra Leone, hailed Africell’s contributions as exemplary, calling the organization “a permanent fixture within the sporting circle.” He outlined the significance of the King’s Baton Relay, which now honors King Charles III following its renaming from the Queen’s Baton Relay.

“This isn’t just a symbolic event,” Prince Sualley noted. “It’s a meaningful opportunity to promote unity, sustainability and national identity. The beach setting and environmental theme reflect the urgent issue of plastic pollution in our oceans.”

He also highlighted that Sierra Leone’s baton was designed by Foday Dumbuya, a renowned London-based fashion designer of Sierra Leonean descent, featuring the national colors, green, white and blue, as a proud representation of the country’s cultural identity.

The event culminated in a community beach clean-up along the Lumley-Aberdeen shoreline. Volunteers, athletes and stakeholders rolled up their sleeves to physically embody the “Kip Am Klin” slogan with tangible results.

With the baton continuing its symbolic journey across the Commonwealth, Sierra Leone’s message remains clear: environmental stewardship is not optional; it is essential. Initiatives like this underscore how the Africell Impact Foundation is proving that sport, community and sustainability can work together to inspire meaningful national transformation.

SLCAA Issues Weather Alert as Sector Achieves Milestones in Aviation Reform

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Demonstrating its ongoing commitment to safeguarding aviation operations and enhancing public safety, the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) has issued a vital Advisory Circular (AC), warning pilots, airlines and stakeholders about hazardous weather conditions linked to thunderstorms and heavy rainfall during this period.

The circular, titled SLCAA-AC-ANS-TS-001, was released on June 4, 2025, and emphasizes heightened caution for all flight operations. It mandates that pilots must exercise maximum vigilance when thunderstorms or intense rainfall are forecasted or observed. Additionally, airlines are advised to obtain comprehensive weather briefings, including departure, en-route and destination conditions, from recognized authorities before initiating flights. All flight operators are further reminded to comply strictly with the Aerodrome Operating Minima (AOM) and established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

“The issuance of this Advisory Circular underscores our unwavering focus on ensuring aviation safety in Sierra Leone,” the Authority noted in its press statement. “All stakeholders are expected to comply fully with SLCAA regulations to prevent avoidable risks during this hazardous weather season.”

Thunderstorms remain one of aviation’s most dangerous weather phenomena, typically associated with severe turbulence, lightning, hail and reduced visibility. The SLCAA warns that flight through or under thunderstorm systems, especially during this peak season, poses serious safety risks and must be approached with the highest level of precaution.

The issuance of this circular comes amid a transformative period for the SLCAA under the leadership of its Director General, Madam Musayeroh Barrie, who has overseen a series of landmark reforms and developments aimed at strengthening Sierra Leone’s aviation framework.

Among the Authority’s key achievements is the development of a comprehensive strategic plan aimed at removing Sierra Leone from the European Union’s aviation safety list by early 2025. This plan, the product of successful engagements with the European Union Safety Commission, reflects a strong alignment with international aviation benchmarks and aims to boost Sierra Leone’s credibility on the global stage.

Another milestone was the SLCAA’s historic processing of its first-ever Air Operator Certificate (AOC) application; signaling readiness to support domestic airline operations and grow the country’s aviation industry.

Under Madam Musayeroh Barrie’s leadership, the Authority has also prioritized human capacity development, launching tailored training programs to enhance technical expertise among its personnel. Notably, a team of SLCAA staff is currently undergoing specialized aviation training in Italy, bolstering Sierra Leone’s ability to meet the demands of a modern aviation environment.

Additionally, the SLCAA signed a landmark Management Service Agreement with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) during the August 2024 Air Navigation Conference in Montreal. The agreement includes targeted training programs and paves the way for the establishment of an ICAO-recognized aviation training school in Sierra Leone; a major step in realizing Madam Musayeroh Barrie’s vision to position the country as a hub for civil aviation excellence in the region.

“These achievements are a testament to the dedication of the SLCAA staff and the collaborative efforts of our partners,” said Madam Musayeroh Barrie. “In just one year, we have laid a foundation that will propel Sierra Leone’s aviation sector to new heights.”

With these forward-looking reforms and safety advisories, the SLCAA continues to establish itself as a proactive regulator committed to building a safe, secure and efficient civil aviation system in Sierra Leone. The country’s aviation sector is now better positioned to attract investment, support job creation and improve regional and international air connectivity.

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