Home Blog Page 192

QNET Launches Anti-Scam Campaign to Combat Fraud and Brand Misrepresentation in Sierra Leone

QNET
QNET

Freetown, Sierra Leone, 16 June 2025 – QNET, a global lifestyle and wellness-focused direct selling company has launched its “QNET Against Scams” campaign in Sierra Leone. The initiative aims to educate the public and raise stakeholder awareness about fraudulent activities misusing the QNET brand.

QNET Against Scams’ coverage in Sierra Leone

The comprehensive campaign will utilize multiple channels, including television, radio, online news portals, social media, print media, and billboards across Sierra Leone. Billboards would be mounted at strategic locations in Freetown. This will be replicated in Bo, Makeni, Kenema and other towns, while the radio, television, print and online media announcements are expected to reach the entire country.

Fight against scams is a collective responsibility

Mr. Biram Fall, Regional General Manager for QNET, stated, “We have successfully launched same campaign in Ghana and Senegal, and the feedback is amazing: people are understanding our products and business model better. This public education and media campaign is part of the deliberate actions we are taking to aggressively combat the misrepresentation and misuse of the QNET name in Sierra Leone. We must unite to fight against people and scammers who are defrauding innocent Sierra Leoneans, and awareness is our most powerful tool in this battle,” he explained.

Mr. Fall outlined the campaign’s primary objectives:

  1. Raise public awareness about QNET’s legitimate business operations and its products
  2. Educate individuals on identifying and avoiding scams that misrepresent and misuse QNET’s name and products
  3. Collaborate with law enforcement and government agencies to prosecute offenders
  4. Reinforce QNET’s commitment to transparency and ethical business practices

“QNET is about empowerment, not exploitation. And we are fighting back against scams and all forms of misrepresentation of our brand in Sierra Leone,” he concluded.

QNET provides safe reporting channels

QNET urges the public to actively participate in this campaign by reporting any suspicious activities falsely representing the company. Reports can be made via WhatsApp at +233256630005 or email at network.integrity@qnet.net. For more information about QNET and its products, please visit www.qnet.net

####

About QNET

 QNET is a prominent lifestyle and wellness company that uses a direct selling business model to offer a wide selection of exclusive products that enable individuals to embrace a healthier, more balanced life.

Since 1998, QNET’s innovative products and e-commerce-driven business model have helped build a global community of satisfied customers and microentrepreneurs, who are driven by the mission of RYTHM – Raise Yourself To Help Mankind. Popular product brands offered by QNET include the Bernhard H. Mayer range of luxury watches and jewellery, HomePure range of home care products, the Amezcua wellness range, Physio Radiance personal care range, and QVI branded holiday packages.

QNET proudly holds memberships in the Direct Selling Association in several countries, the Hong Kong Health Food Association, the Health Supplements Industry Association of Singapore, and more. QNET is also active in several global sports sponsorships including in its role as the official direct selling partner of the Manchester City Football Club and the Confederation of African Football (CAF), underscoring its commitment to excellence and global reach.  Discover a world of new possibilities with QNET by visiting www.qnet.net

 

 

 

 

Vice President Commissions Phase 3 of Connaught Hospital Electrification Project

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh officially launched Phase 3 of the Sierra Leone Electrification Project at Connaught Hospital on Thursday, June 12, 2025, marking a major advancement in efforts to improve the country’s health infrastructure.

The project, which introduces advanced solar energy systems and enhanced grid connectivity, aims to provide uninterrupted electricity supply to the country’s premier referral hospital.

The commissioning ceremony, held at the historic Connaught Hospital, drew senior Government officials, engineers, healthcare professionals, Ministry of Health representatives and community members. The event marked a significant step forward in the Government’s drive to improve public health service delivery through sustainable energy solutions.

Vice President Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh stated, “Today at Connaught Hospital, I commissioned solar energy systems for 10 hospitals in Freetown, Makeni, Kenema and other parts of Sierra Leone. With 2.25 megawatts peak (MWp) of clean power now installed, our health workforce is better equipped to deliver lifesaving treatment. This contributes to the impressive gains we have already made in expanding vaccine access and reducing maternal and child mortality.”

He expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Health and Sanitation, the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), and development partners for their ongoing support in ensuring reliable and affordable energy for frontline health facilities.

Minister of Health, Dr. Austin Demby, highlighted the critical importance of the electrification project, describing it as a turning point in the country’s health sector. “Reliable electricity at Connaught Hospital will enable faster emergency responses, protect essential medical equipment and significantly improve patient care,” he said. Dr. Austin Demby noted that past power outages severely disrupted surgical and emergency services and he expressed confidence that the upgraded infrastructure will enable longer operating hours and improved patient outcomes.

He further emphasized that the initiative is aligned with the Government’s Energy Sector Recovery Plan and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 7, which seeks to ensure universal access to affordable, reliable and clean energy.

Ms. Ngozi Beckley-Lines, Country Manager for Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL), the implementing agency, explained the broader scope of the program. “Launched in 2022, the Sierra Leone Electrification Project is a multi-phase effort to achieve nationwide energy access. Phase 3 focuses on powering urban healthcare facilities and key public institutions, with Connaught Hospital standing as a flagship beneficiary.”

She added that SEforALL remains committed to supporting Government priorities by deploying renewable energy solutions that strengthen essential services and improve lives.

The commissioning of Phase 3 reaffirms the Government’s dedication to sustainable development and improved service delivery. It also underscores a strategic vision to leverage clean energy in advancing healthcare outcomes and supporting economic resilience across Sierra Leone.

 

Paramount Chiefs in Tonkolili Declare Sole Backing for Gento Group in Mining Deal

Making a bold and unified statement, Paramount Chiefs from the Sambaia, Dansogoia and Deing Chiefdoms in Tonkolili District have officially declared their exclusive support for the Gento Group of Companies as the sole mining partner within their territories. This development comes amid growing debate over the Kasafoni mining concession, raising critical questions about ownership, community inclusion and equitable resource governance in Sierra Leone’s mining sector.

The chiefs’ declaration, formally communicated to the Government of President Julius Maada Bio and the Ministry of Mines, rejects the longstanding dominance of foreign companies in the country’s extractive industries. They emphasized that past experiences with multinational firms, including African Minerals Limited and Sierra Rutile Limited, left local communities with broken promises, limited development and minimal benefits. Despite some of these companies being once headed by reputable Sierra Leoneans like the late Moseray Fadika and John Bonnoh Sesay, the chiefs lamented the failure to meet community expectations.

“We do not want business as usual,” said Paramount Chief Alimamy Bockarie Yalan Koroma III of Dansogoia Chiefdom. “It is time for partnerships that respect our rights, follow the law and ensure our people benefit meaningfully. Gento Group has done just that.”

Central to the chiefs’ position is a landmark 50-year land lease agreement signed with the Gento Group, in accordance with the Mines and Minerals Development Act of 2017 (amended 2023), which stipulates that any company wishing to mine must first obtain a lease agreement from local landowners before applying for a license from the Government. The chiefs confirmed that 50% of the agreed payment has already been made by Gento Group, demonstrating the company’s commitment and compliance with the law.

“We’ve studied Gento Group’s operations and several investigations show they’re capable and willing to bring development,” added Hon. Paramount Chief Alhaji Musa Bamba Foray Kulio Jalloh III of Sambaia Chiefdom. “If the Government grants them a mining license, the benefits will extend not just to our people, but to the entire country.”

Paramount Chief Alhaji Musa Bamba Foray Kulio Jalloh III, who also serves as a Member of Parliament, called for a transparent and inclusive process that involves traditional authorities and prioritizes community needs. “No mining license should be issued without the consent of the landowners and the Paramount Chiefs,” he said. “We support the Government, but we insist on fairness.”

The chiefs were unanimous in their rejection of any other mining firms seeking to operate in the Kasafoni Concession Area. They warned that any prospective investor must work through the Gento Group, which they have formally recognized as their exclusive development partner. “We are the custodians of this land,” they declared. “And we’ve made our choice clear.”

This unified stance marks a significant turning point in Sierra Leone’s mining narrative, where community empowerment and indigenous ownership are now front and center. The chiefs expressed frustration with past mining arrangements that extracted wealth from the land while leaving host communities impoverished and underdeveloped.

“We are not opposing the Government,” emphasized Paramount Chief Alhaji Musa Bamba Foray Kulio Jalloh III . “We are simply demanding that our rights be respected. We want a process that is legal, inclusive and beneficial to our people.”

The chiefs further appealed to President Julius Maada Bio to support and legitimize their agreement with Gento Group, underscoring that any mining license granted must align with established land leases. “President Bio should know that Mohamed Gento Kamara is the solution to our problems,” Paramount Chief Alhaji Musa Bamba Foray Kulio Jalloh III added. “He represents a new era of Sierra Leonean entrepreneurship and genuine commitment to national development.”

By rallying behind a local company, the chiefs are sending a powerful message: Sierra Leone’s natural wealth must first serve its people. Their stance redefines the future of mining in the country grounded in community consultation, legal integrity and sustainable development.

Amid the ongoing debate around the Kasafoni concession, the position of the Tonkolili Paramount Chiefs signals a broader national shift toward responsible, homegrown investment that prioritizes people over profit and moves away from foreign exploitation.

 

WHH Donates Toyota Land Cruiser to Support Land-for-Life Operations

Demonstrating its commitment to strengthening the operational capacity of local partners, German development organization Welthungerhilfe (WHH) has donated a brand-new Toyota Land Cruiser vehicle to the Land-for-Life Initiative Sierra Leone. The handover ceremony took place on Thursday, June 5, 2025.

The donation is intended to support the implementation of the ongoing “Making Policies Work for Food Security” project, which is funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).

In his remarks during the handover, WHH Country Director in Sierra Leone, Emmanuel Octave Bananeza, emphasized that the vehicle will enhance the mobility and operational efficiency of Land-for-Life staff in executing project activities. He expressed confidence that the vehicle would be used responsibly and in accordance with the project’s goals.

“This vehicle is not just a means of transport,” Emmanuel Octave Bananeza said. “It is a tool to support your tireless work in promoting land governance and food security. We trust it will be put to good use to drive meaningful impact in the communities we serve.”

Receiving the vehicle, the National Coordinator of Land-for-Life Initiative, Berns Komba Lebbie, expressed deep appreciation to WHH for the generous support.

“This donation significantly strengthens our logistical capacity and will enhance our outreach and policy advocacy efforts across our operational districts and beyond,” he stated. “We assure you that the vehicle will be well-maintained and used strictly for the intended project activities, upholding the integrity and credibility represented by both our organizations.”

Land-for-Life is currently implementing the third phase of its Multi-Actor Partnership project, titled: Policy for Food Security, in the districts of Kenema, Port Loko, Pujehun and Tonkolili, as well as the capital, Freetown.

This third phase is part of a broader regional initiative being executed in four African countries, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Ethiopia and Burkina Faso. Unlike conventional projects, Land-for-Life describes its work as a long-term land governance initiative aimed at securing land rights for rural communities.

The initiative’s overarching objective is to improve food security by fostering inclusive, responsible and effective land policy through sustainable multi-stakeholder engagement processes.

With this strategic support from WHH, Land-for-Life is better positioned to advocate for land reforms and food security, making a lasting difference in the lives of rural populations across Sierra Leone and the broader region.

 

Education Minister Details Reforms, Challenges in 2025 WASSCE Rollout

Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Conrad Sackey
Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Conrad Sackey

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

During a Ministry of Information and Civic Education (MOIC) weekly Press Conference on Tuesday June 10, 2025, the Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Conrad Sackey, delivered a comprehensive update on the 2025 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE). He detailed the exam’s administration, challenges encountered and reforms being implemented to ensure academic integrity and inclusive education.

Highlighting the collaborative nature of the examination process, the Minister reminded the public that the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) is an international body comprising Sierra Leone, Nigeria, Ghana, The Gambia and Liberia. “No one works in silo,” he emphasized, noting that all decisions regarding WAEC exams are made jointly among member states.

He outlined the critical role of Continuous Assessment Scores (CAS), which contribute 30% to a student’s final WASSCE result, with the remaining 70% coming from the actual examination.

For CAS-1 (SS1), 896 schools successfully submitted scores, while 84 failed to do so. These schools, he noted, would still be supported by the Government to access the private WAEC exam. CAS-2 (SS2) submissions saw 880 schools meet the deadline, with 12 failing to comply. As a result, six principals have been suspended and had their salaries withheld for six months, while the other six institutions were identified as ghost schools.

CAS-3 (SS3) saw improved compliance, with only 47 schools failing to submit scores. However, this shortfall will directly impact student grading in those schools.

Conrad Sackey reported that a total of 148,362 candidates66,689 boys and 81,673 girls—from 886 schools registered for the 2025 WASSCE through the BRS system. These examinations are being conducted across 335 centres nationwide.

Reaffirming the Government’s commitment to inclusive education, the Minister highlighted special accommodations under the “Radical Inclusion” policy, including the provision of braille exam papers for visually impaired students and extended exam time for those with hearing impairments.

Despite the overall smooth conduct of the exams from April 24 to June 20, the Minister cited several concerns, including absenteeism, impersonation and the unauthorized use of mobile phones. He warned that such misconduct can result in severe penalties, including the seizure of results.

He also condemned the actions of school leaders found guilty of data manipulation and fake candidate entries, noting the financial loss and reputational damage those practices cause to the education system. In response, the Ministry has imposed stricter submission timelines for future assessments and launched comprehensive investigations into the irregularities. Strong disciplinary actions have been promised for offenders.

Conrad Sackey concluded by stressing that upholding the integrity of the WASSCE is a shared national responsibility, urging all stakeholders, parents, educators, students and the public to play their part in safeguarding the credibility of Sierra Leone’s education system.

 

Guild Chairman Outlines Bold Vision for Newspaper Editors at SLAJ Congress

Chairman of the Guild of Newspaper Editors, Thomas Josephus Dixon
Chairman of the Guild of Newspaper Editors, Thomas Josephus Dixon

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

At the formal opening of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) Triennial General Meeting and Elections held at the Bintumani Hotel on Friday, June 13, 2025 in Freetown, newly elected Chairman of the Guild of Newspaper Editors, Thomas Josephus Dixon, delivered a rousing and forward-looking address that echoed the resilience and responsibilities of the media in Sierra Leone.

Addressing SLAJ members, media stakeholders and invited guests, Thomas Josephus Dixon began his statement with humility and gratitude. “It is with deep humility and a profound sense of responsibility that I stand before you today as the newly elected Chairman of the Guild of Newspaper Editors,” he stated. “I extend sincere appreciation to all members of the Guild for the confidence reposed in me. I do not take this trust lightly.”

Thomas Josephus Dixon emphasized that the gathering was more than a routine general meeting; it was a reflection of collective commitment to journalism, democracy and national progress. Amid rising global challenges such as misinformation, declining revenue models and the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence in newsrooms, he underscored the importance of unity, resolve and integrity.

“As editors, we do not simply manage content; we shape national conversations. We set standards. We frame realities. And yes, we bear the enormous responsibility of ensuring that the truth, in all its complexity, is neither silenced nor distorted,” Thomas Josephus Dixon stated passionately.

He reiterated his vision for the Guild as a transformative force in the media landscape. “The Guild of Newspaper Editors is not just a professional body. It must remain a vanguard for excellence, accountability and innovation in print journalism. That is why I have chosen to serve, not to rule or command, but to serve.”

Thomas Josephus Dixon pledged to lead a Guild that is:

  • Great: Reinvigorating the founding vision of a robust institution that drives national development through credible journalism.
  • United: Embracing diversity of thought as a strength rather than a cause for division.
  • Inclusive: Championing equal opportunity, ensuring that no journalist is held back by gender, background, or ability.
  • Transparent: Promoting leadership rooted in credibility, fairness and accountability.
  • Development-Oriented: Equipping members through capacity-building, innovation, digitization and modern newsroom practices.

He extended appreciation to both the outgoing and incoming SLAJ leadership for their unwavering stewardship of the profession and reaffirmed the Guild’s commitment to defending press freedom, safeguarding media practitioners and fostering a resilient industry.

“To the SLAJ leadership, outgoing and incoming, thank you for your stewardship of our noble profession. We at the Guild pledge our full cooperation as we continue to defend press freedom, protect our colleagues and build a resilient media,” he affirmed.

Concluding with a rallying call to all journalists, Thomas Josephus Dixon declared, “Colleagues, the Guild of Editors is awake and together, we will ensure it rises; not just as a sleeping giant, but as a guiding light. Let us continue to inform, to inspire and to insist on truth, because our country deserves nothing less.”

Long live the Guild. Long live SLAJ. Long live journalism in Sierra Leone.

 

SLAJ President Bows Out with Passionate Call for Unity, Progress at 2025 Triennial Congress

President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), Ahmed Sahid Nasralla
President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), Ahmed Sahid Nasralla

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Outgoing President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, on Friday, June 13, 2025 delivered an emotional and powerful farewell speech at the formal opening ceremony of the Association’s 2025 Triennial Elective Congress, held under the theme: “Electing a New Executive, Moving SLAJ Forward.”

Addressing delegates, stakeholders and guests, Ahmed Sahid Nasralla began by honoring the memory of journalists who passed away over the past year, including Austin Thomas, Samuel Brima Mattia and Dauda Kamara. He called for a moment of silence in their remembrance, noting that their commitment to journalism continues to inspire the Association.

“This is my final address as President,” Ahmed Sahid Nasralla announced. “Six years of collective struggle, learning and triumph deserve a proper goodbye.”

Reflecting on his two-term tenure, Ahmed Sahid Nasralla outlined several landmark achievements that have strengthened SLAJ and elevated Sierra Leone’s media landscape:

  • Repeal of Part 5 of the Public Order Act (1965): A major milestone that signaled a new era for press freedom in Sierra Leone, achieved through collective action with media stakeholders, civil society and the Government.
  • First Media Viability and Investment Conference: The forum led to the formulation of a National Action Plan (NAP) for media development and the launch of the National Fund for Public Interest Media, which is now ready to provide grants for investigative journalism.
  • Development of the SLAJ Media Manifesto: Titled “The Media We Want”, this document and the NAP are now national blueprints for media growth, supported by international partners like the EU and BBC Media Action.
  • SLAJ Gender Equality Policy: Introduced to address gender imbalance in journalism, with support from the Embassy of Ireland.
  • Establishment of the UNDP-supported ‘iVerify’ Platform: A significant tool to combat disinformation and provide credible content, especially during national elections.
  • Creation of National Media and Information Policy: Developed in partnership with the Ministry of Information and Civic Education (MoICE) and approved by Cabinet.
  • Internal Governance Reforms: A revised SLAJ Constitution (2024) has introduced transparency and accountability mechanisms, including electoral courts and integrity management structures.

He also highlighted support given to affiliate organizations such as the Sierra Leone Reporters Union (SLRU), Sierra Leone Court Reporters Association (SLCRA) and Guild of Newspaper Editors (GoNE), enabling them to hold democratic elections after years of inactivity.

Ahmed Sahid Nasralla emphasized that SLAJ has maintained unity and political neutrality under his leadership, prioritizing the welfare and protection of journalists across the country. A key infrastructural milestone was also mentioned; the upcoming commissioning of the SLAJ Eastern Region Office Building, with other regions beginning similar projects.

“I am proud of the selfless, honest, transparent leadership we have offered over the past six years,” Ahmed Sahid Nasralla said. “This Association is stronger today because of all of us.”

He encouraged the incoming leadership to lead with empathy, humility and integrity, urging them to be proactive rather than reactive. “Leadership is not about knowing it all or doing it all. It is about building trust, working together, listening deeply and showing up, especially in difficult times.”

Ahmed Sahid Nasralla Nasralla also called for continued advocacy on critical issues including:

  • Review of the Cybersecurity and Cybercrime Act to safeguard press freedom.
  • Re-engagement on the Counter-Terrorism Act for inclusive consultations.
  • Securing a permanent national SLAJ headquarters to bolster institutional presence.
  • Strengthening journalist welfare, particularly in rural areas.
  • Building partnerships with bloggers and social media influencers to foster digital media ethics.

Expressing deep gratitude, Ahmed Sahid Nasralla thanked all SLAJ members, affiliate leaders, international partners, civil society and Government institutions for their support throughout his tenure. He reserved special thanks for His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio for consistently increasing SLAJ’s annual subvention, which he noted had significantly aided the Association’s operations.

“I never had a private meeting with the President,” Ahmed Sahid Nasralla disclosed, “but he seems to believe in my leadership and respects what we have been doing.”

Calling his time at SLAJ a “PhD in Resilience and Hope,” Ahmed Sahid Nasralla said his leadership journey, three years as Secretary General and six as President, taught him that progress in journalism requires unity, advocacy and humility.

As the Congress moved into closed sessions and prepared for the election of a new Executive, Ahmed Sahid Nasralla left delegates with a charge:

“Let us not treat these achievements as the end, but the beginning of a stronger future. SLAJ is bigger than any one of us, it is a vital institution for democracy and peace. Let us protect what we’ve built, complete what we’ve started and rise together again.”

Long live SLAJ. Long live Sierra Leone. Long live press freedom.

Sierra Leone Showcases Economic Opportunities to International Investors in Paris

Aiming to strengthen international partnerships and attract sustainable investments, Sierra Leone’s Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Jiwoh Emmanuel Abdulai, alongside the country’s Ambassador to France, Mohamed Kanja Sesay, held high-level discussions with a consortium of global investors in Paris, France on Thursday, June 12, 2025.

The strategic engagement brought together investors from various sectors, including infrastructure, renewable energy, logistics and transportation. The discussions aimed to highlight Sierra Leone’s growing potential as a viable destination for foreign direct investment (FDI) and to promote new opportunities in key areas of the economy.

Jiwoh Emmanuel Abdulai underscored the strong commitment of His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio to inclusive and broad-based economic growth. He emphasized the Government’s ongoing investments in human capital development, especially education, skills training and youth empowerment, as a solid foundation for long-term productivity and national development.

“Our focus on building a skilled and dynamic workforce is central to unlocking Sierra Leone’s vast economic potential,” the Minister stated. He further encouraged investors to explore the untapped opportunities in sectors such as infrastructure development, renewable energy projects, agricultural transformation and efficient logistics.

Ambassador Kanja Sesay echoed similar sentiments, urging investors to consider Sierra Leone as a strategic gateway into the West African and broader African markets. He pointed to the country’s improving regulatory climate, enhanced regional connectivity and Government commitment to supporting private sector growth as key reasons to invest.

Several of the participating companies are already operational in Sierra Leone and expressed readiness to scale up their presence. Others, who are exploring market entry for the first time, expressed optimism and requested guidance on how best to engage with relevant Government agencies and investment facilitators.

The mood during the meeting was optimistic and constructive. Investors proposed organizing a high-level exploratory mission to Sierra Leone before the end of 2025, to assess on-ground opportunities and establish partnerships.

This engagement is part of the Government of Sierra Leone’s broader international investment drive aimed at fostering sustainable development, creating jobs  and enhancing infrastructure and service delivery across key sectors of the economy.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to deepen dialogue and collaboration in the months ahead.

 

NP (SL) Delivers Quality Petroleum Products with Unmatched Service Efficiency

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

NP Sierra Leone Limited (NP-SL) is setting an extraordinary standard for how homegrown businesses can lead in an increasingly digital world. As the nation’s premier and most trusted indigenous petroleum marketing company, NP (SL) has embraced innovation not as a trend but as a transformative journey; one that continues to enhance its operations, service delivery and overall customer experience.

At the heart of the company’s success lies an unshakable commitment to putting customers first. Over the years, NP (SL) has undergone a remarkable evolution, driven by strategic investment in modern technology, a deep-rooted focus on safety and an unwavering alignment with national development goals. From providing premium petroleum products to revolutionizing how customers access them, NP (SL) remains at the forefront of excellence in service.

One of the most significant milestones in this journey has been the introduction of calibrated digital fuel pumps at all NP service stations. These state-of-the-art machines, envisioned and implemented by the company’s founding shareholders, deliver precise real-time readings of both fuel quantity and cost. Customers across Sierra Leone now enjoy greater confidence in every transaction, with the assurance of honesty, transparency and full value for money.

Safety has always been paramount in NP (SL)’s operations. The company strictly enforces precautionary protocols at all fueling stations, including mandatory engine and phone shutdowns during refueling and a total ban on open flames. Coupled with a dependable fleet of meticulously maintained tankers, NP ensures safe, efficient and timely delivery of petroleum products throughout the country.

In its push for convenience and innovation, NP (SL) rolled out the NP Energy Pass Card, a digital prepaid solution tailored for both private and institutional use. The card allows users to track their transactions in real time, enabling individuals to manage their fuel budgets more effectively while giving organizations the tools to monitor consumption with unparalleled precision. The card is protected by a personal identification number and can be deactivated and replaced immediately if lost, making it both a practical and secure option for a broad range of users.

NP (SL)’s commitment to sustainability is just as strong as its embrace of technology. Through the promotion of NP Gas, an eco-friendly cooking alternative available in multiple cylinder sizes, the company is helping customers transition from traditional fuels like wood and charcoal to cleaner energy. This effort is playing a crucial role in reducing deforestation and encouraging safer, healthier cooking practices across communities.

At every level of its operations, NP (SL) supports Sierra Leone’s Local Content Policy by prioritizing the employment and empowerment of Sierra Leoneans. Only in exceptional cases requiring highly specialized skills does the company engage foreign professionals. This approach not only fosters national job creation but also ensures that economic benefits stay within local communities.

The success story of NP (SL) is not confined to Sierra Leone. The company has successfully expanded its operations into Guinea, Liberia, Côte d’Ivoire and The Gambia. In each of these countries, NP replicates its hallmark standards of service, employs indigenous personnel and contributes significantly to the host nation’s tax revenue and development efforts.

Internally, NP (SL) has embraced digitization to streamline its systems and improve operational efficiency. By automating key processes, the company has minimized human error, reduced costs and boosted productivity. A modern website and active presence on social media platforms ensure that the company remains closely connected with its customers, responding promptly to inquiries and sharing critical updates.

To further enhance logistics and monitoring, NP is preparing to implement Video Tracking Systems and expand the use of GPS technologies. These tools will improve fleet management and operational agility, reinforcing the company’s commitment to delivering exceptional service in an increasingly competitive energy landscape.

Recognizing that technology and security must go hand-in-hand, NP has also put robust cybersecurity measures in place. These safeguards ensure that customer data and financial information remain protected, enabling users of digital services such as the Smart Card and Energy Pass Card to transact with confidence and peace of mind.

Beyond technology and business operations, NP (SL) continues to demonstrate its dedication to safety education. The company regularly conducts Defensive Driving Training for its Bulk Road Vehicle drivers, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed for hazard prevention and emergency response. Fire simulation drills are also organized to maintain a high level of preparedness and safety awareness among all staff.

NP Sierra Leone Limited’s transformation into a digitally-driven, customer-focused enterprise is a testament to what can be achieved when innovation is matched with purpose. With a proven track record, a clear vision, and an enduring commitment to service, NP (SL) continues to lead Sierra Leone’s energy sector into a modern and sustainable era.

 

“Tell the Truth, Dr. Samura” – Diana Konomanyi Exposes the Myth of Electoral Injustice

By Alpha P. Marrah

In a series of impactful engagements across Falaba and Koinadugu Districts, senior All People’s Congress (APC) stalwart and influential political voice, Finda Diana Konomanyi, delivered a candid and pointed critique of the party’s continued fixation on the 2023 presidential election results; calling for honesty, unity and forward momentum.

Addressing crowds that included women, traditional leaders and APC supporters, Finda Diana Konomanyi did not mince words. She described the belief that the 2023 election results will be overturned and that Dr. Samura Kamara will still be sworn in as president as “false hope”; a narrative that, according to her, has hindered the party’s strategic focus and undermined its readiness for future elections.

“This is not true,” Finda Diana Konomanyi declared unequivocally. “It is misleading. It is dangerous for our party.”

She went further, turning directly to the party’s 2023 presidential candidate:

“The only person who truly understands what ‘Electoral Justice’ means is Dr. Samura Kamara himself. He must come forward and tell the people of Sierra Leone the truth and stop deceiving them with a promise that has no foundation.”

Finda Diana Konomanyi’s remarks struck a chord within the APC grassroots and leadership alike; challenging what she characterized as a paralyzing illusion that has gripped segments of the party since the June 2023 election. She warned that the narrative has caused internal stagnation and demobilization, with some senior party officials disengaging entirely from political organizing.

“We have executive members who no longer attend meetings, who are inactive, who are refusing to prepare for upcoming local and general elections because they are still trapped in the delusion that 2023 will be reversed.”

Rather than expressing bitterness, Finda Diana Konomanyi’s tone was one of urgency and realism. Her message was clear: the APC cannot afford to be distracted by myths and must instead focus on strategic preparation for 2028.

“Only the APC can defeat the APC,” she warned. “And if we lose again, it will not be because of the SLPP but because we allowed ourselves to remain divided, distracted and unprepared.”

Finda Diana Konomanyi’s frank assessment echoed sentiments that other APC figures have voiced quietly over the past year but often at great personal and political cost. Many of those who questioned the electoral justice narrative were branded as traitors or accused of lacking loyalty to the party and its leadership.

But Finda Diana Konomanyi, a formidable figure in the APC and no stranger to political battles, reaffirmed that her position was not anti-Samura but anti-deception. Her critique, she emphasized, was rooted in strategy, not sabotage.

“This is not about surrender. It’s about strategy. It’s about saving our party from self-destruction.”

Her tour through Falaba and Koinadugu may prove to be a pivotal moment in the APC’s internal reckoning. With 2028 looming ever closer, her message has served as both a wake-up call and a rallying cry: to realign, reorganize and reenergize.

As she concluded her engagements, Diana Konomanyi reminded her audience that leadership isn’t about telling people what they want to hear but what they need to hear.

And what the APC needs now, she insisted, is to accept the past, focus on the future and prepare to win—not through wishful thinking, but through unity, honesty and hard work.

“To remain stuck in 2023 is to betray the people we claim to represent,” she said. “Our victory lies ahead—not behind.”