NDMA Commends Gento as First Responder in Pentagon Building Collapse Rescue Efforts

June 4, 2025

Mohamed Gento Kamara, Chief Executive Officer of the Gento Group of Companies

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) has extended heartfelt appreciation to Mohamed Gento Kamara, Chief Executive Officer of the Gento Group of Companies, for his swift and selfless intervention during the tragic building collapse that occurred at Pentagon, off Regent Road in Lumley, Freetown.

The three-storey structure, which was under construction, collapsed in the early afternoon hours of Sunday June 1, 2025, while workers were actively engaged on site. In the wake of the incident, the NDMA immediately deployed its response team to initiate search and rescue operations, supported by key partners including the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), Sierra Leone Police (SLP), the Red Cross and the Freetown City Council (FCC).

However, it was the timely arrival and decisive support of Mohamed Gento Kamara and his Gento Group that proved instrumental in the operation’s success. Responding immediately to a call for assistance, Mohamed Gento Kamara personally oversaw the deployment of heavy-duty equipment, including an excavator and lighting systems, which proved crucial in reaching the trapped victims beneath the rubble.

According to the NDMA, at approximately 1:00 AM on Monday, June 2, 2025, the bodies of the contractor and one of his workers, who had been trapped since the collapse, were recovered from the debris. Sadly, despite the tireless efforts of all involved, both were found lifeless after being buried for several hours.

In an official statement, the NDMA emphasized Mohamed Gento Kamara’s role as a “first responder”, acknowledging his presence on-site and his unwavering commitment to saving lives. “The recovery operation was significantly supported by Mohamed Gento Kamara, CEO of Gento Group of Companies, whose rapid intervention aided immensely in the operation,” the statement read.

NDMA Director General, Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Brima Sesay, who was also at the scene throughout the operation, commended the unity of purpose demonstrated by all responders and singled out Mohamed Gento Kamara’s patriotism and leadership. “Despite the difficult night operations, hope was high thanks to the immediate logistics and moral support provided by partners like the Gento Group,” he said.

It is worth noting that four of the six construction workers on site managed to escape the wreckage with varying injuries, while two remained trapped. The NDMA’s technical coordination with military engineers, police personnel and other partners ensured a well-executed rescue mission.

Mohamed Gento Kamara, whose philanthropic and development work across Sierra Leone is widely recognized, was among the first to arrive on the scene and stayed throughout the operation. Community members and first responders commended his direct involvement and readiness to serve beyond his business obligations.

As the NDMA concludes the search and rescue phase, investigations are now underway to determine the cause of the building collapse. The Agency has assured the public that findings will be made known in due course.

The NDMA concluded by expressing its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and recognizing the efforts of individuals, agencies and companies, especially the Gento Group, whose support demonstrated a profound spirit of national solidarity in response to the disaster.

Mohamed Gento Kamara’s exemplary leadership and humanitarian spirit continue to distinguish him as a true patriot and pillar in national development.

Caritas Freetown, Tadris Foundation Celebrate Youth Graduation in Vocational Training

June 4, 2025

By Ibrahim Sesay

Caritas Freetown, in partnership with Tadris Foundation, has celebrated the graduation of young people who completed their six months intensive vocational training under the Youth in Politics and Peacebuilding Project funded by the United Nations Peacebuilding Fund. The ceremony, held hosted at the Beaconsfield Community Hall on Saturday May 31, 2025 marked a significant step toward youth empowerment, peacebuilding and economic independence as the graduates have been equipped with training on tailoring, hairdressing and make up artistry.

Nine of the graduates were sponsored by Caritas Freetown as part of a broader plan to empower youth and build middle-level manpower.

Anita Esther Momoh, CEO and founder of Tadris Foundation, explained the origins of her initiative.
“While working at the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs, I saw the deep need to empower young people. That’s why I started this Foundation to provide practical skills like hairdressing, tailoring and makeup.”

She added that the centre began with only five students, some of whom were on scholarship. However, their presence on social media helped them grow and eventually partner with Caritas Freetown.

“Today, we’re not just training more students; we’re also planning to expand into catering, pastry-making, literacy and business workshops,” Anita Esther Momoh said. “Our goal is to register under the TechVoc program with the Ministry of Higher Education to gain accreditation and increase our impact.”

She cautioned graduates against misusing their startup kits while urging them to use the kits to kick-start their businesses and transform their lives.

Eliza Sillah, Program Manager at Caritas Freetown, echoed the vision and rationale behind their support.
“We supported nine students as part of our project to build youth capacity and enable economic empowerment. Now that they have the skills and the tools it’s up to them to use them wisely and live peacefully in their communities,” she said.

Representing the public sector, Dr. Victor Massaquoi, Principal of the Civil Service College, highlighted the broader significance of the initiative.
“Reports show 70% of youth in Sierra Leone are unemployed. With these skills, you’ve reduced that number today,” he said. “But remember, character matters. Skill without good character will limit your growth as a professional and entrepreneur.”

In her keynote address, Ramatu Kargbo, representing the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs, emphasized the national impact of the graduates’ achievements.
“We’ve heard your testimonies. You are no longer who you were when you started; you are confident and ready to face the world,” she said.

She connected women’s empowerment to broader national goals, stating that: “When we empower women, we strengthen families, fuel our economy and build an inclusive society.”

Ramatu Kargbo also outlined the Ministry’s work on some of the legal reforms which has occurred to protect women and promote leadership
“We’ve passed the GEWE Act to advocate for 30% female leadership, and amended the Sexual Offenses Act for stricter justice mechanisms,” she said.

Kadie Sesay, a graduate, shared her experience and transformation.
“I used to idle at home, sleeping all day. Then I found Tadris on TikTok. My sisters encouraged me to enroll and it’s one of the best decisions I’ve made. I thank God for the strength to complete this phase of empowerment.”

Fudia Dumbuya, also a graduate, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity.
“I want to thank Caritas Freetown for sponsoring me. As a person with a disability, I was doing nothing before. Now, as a trained hairdresser, I can support myself and become self-reliant,” she said.

The graduation ceremony concluded with the symbolic distribution of startup kits and certificates.

Africa Global Logistics Supports Madwoman Rural Women with Tricycles and Motorbikes

June 4, 2025

By Ibrahim Sesay

Africa Global Logistics has reinforced its commitment to rural development and women’s empowerment with the donation of four motorbikes and two tricycles to the Moawoma Rural Women’s Cocoa Development Cooperative Society (MORWODAS). The symbolic handover ceremony took place on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, at the Freetown Terminal and is expected to improve mobility and productivity for farmers across four districts.

Director of MORWODAS, Yatta Sama, received the equipment with heartfelt appreciation, describing the support as a long-held aspiration finally realized. She noted that the donation would greatly enhance the cooperative’s contribution to the national Feed Salone project by helping farmers access their fields more easily, especially during the rainy season.

“I feel proud and very humble. I feel like a dream has become a reality,” Yatta Sama said. “This is a huge contribution to the Feed Salone project. As farmers, we play a critical role in its success since we own the breadbasket and are the primary producers.”

Yatta Sama highlighted the importance of mobility in agricultural work, explaining how the motorbikes and tricycles would be used to transport tools and supplies between communities and farms. She encouraged Africa Global Logistics to extend similar support to other rural cooperatives and invited the company to visit their farms and witness the difference this intervention would make.

Captain Fabjanko Kokan, Regional Manager of Africa Global Logistics, emphasized that the donation was part of the company’s routine corporate social responsibility and not an isolated gesture. He underscored the organization’s ongoing dedication to supporting communities through practical assistance.

“There is nothing exceptional to donate or to help the people; we did our duties and obligations,” Captain Fabjanko Kokan remarked. “We are going to continue to do similar donations.”

He also noted that Africa Global Logistics supports a broad range of sectors including education, women’s empowerment and charity. According to Captain Fabjanko Kokan, the selection of MORWODAS as a beneficiary followed thorough consultations and visits, ensuring that the assistance would make a real and lasting impact.

“Even if this donation seems small, in the right hands it can do wonders,” he said, further indicating that future support will include educational initiatives, which he described as key to sustainable national progress.

Legal Representative, Mohamed Lamin, praised the gesture as a meaningful expression of corporate citizenship aligned with Government priorities. He acknowledged the role of the donation in advancing President Julius Maada Bio’s Feed Salone initiative, one of the five key pillars of the national development agenda.

“Feed Salone is part of President Bio’s Big Five agenda and this donation will serve as a boost to that initiative,” Mohamed Lamin noted. He encouraged the cooperative to make good use of the equipment and hoped that the partnership between MORWODAS and Africa Global Logistics would continue to grow.

The handover ended with renewed optimism for Sierra Leone’s agricultural sector, as the collaboration between private enterprise and rural communities continues to drive inclusive development and national food security.

Truth Media to Be Launched Tomorrow as Sierra Leone’s New Independent Multimedia Platform

June 4, 2025

A new era in Sierra Leonean journalism is on the horizon as Truth Media Sierra Leone (TM), a bold new multimedia initiative, is set to officially launch on Thursday, 5th June 2025. The platform promises to deliver independent, public-interest journalism at a time when media credibility is facing increasing challenges.

Founded by a team of seasoned professionals, among them respected journalist, Amadu Lamrana Bah, Truth Media aims to provide a fearless, accountable and citizen-focused alternative to the growing wave of disinformation and politically motivated reporting in the country.

“At a time when civic space is shrinking and public trust in mainstream media is rapidly eroding, the launch of Truth Media is both timely and necessary. We are committed to telling the truth, amplifying the voices of ordinary people and holding those in power accountable in a fair and transparent manner.” Amadu Lamrana Bah

Truth Media is a fully registered and licensed company that will operate across five core platforms:

Truth Radio 101.9 FM – A nationwide radio service focusing on politics, governance, education, health, environment and national cohesion. It will work closely with community radio stations for grassroots impact.

Truth Television – A new channel focused on news, edutainment, investigative features and cultural programming. It will spotlight Sierra Leonean stories and voices through locally produced content.

Truth Newspaper – A twice-weekly subscription-based print and digital publication offering investigative journalism, expert analysis and inclusive storytelling.

Truth Online – An interactive digital platform delivering real-time news and multimedia content via Facebook, WhatsApp, TikTok, Instagram and X.

Printing Press – An in-house facility to support high-quality print production for the newspaper and other materials.

With its headquarters located at 1D Hill Cot Road, Freetown, Truth Media is building an integrated offline and online ecosystem designed to reach audiences across Sierra Leone and beyond. The mission of Truth Media is to be a trustworthy, independent media outlet driven by credible professionals who pursue truth, demand accountability and serve the public interest with fairness and integrity.

Its long-term vision is to become Sierra Leone’s most reliable media platform, one that trains the next generation of ethical journalists, promotes inclusive reporting and speaks truth to power responsibly. Truth Media is actively inviting partnerships with like-minded institutions and individuals who believe in the power of journalism to inform, empower and transform societies.

As part of the launch, members of the media, civil society and the general public are encouraged to follow Truth Media’s platforms and participate in its upcoming programs. The launch of Truth Radio 101.9 FM will mark the first step in what the founders call “a movement for media accountability and civic engagement.”

For more information, interviews or collaboration, please contact the editorial team at +232 76 560058 or editor@truthmedia.sl, and follow @TruthMediaSL across all social platforms.

Truth Media “Nar True Dae Las!”

Ambassador Alhaji Momodu Koroma Bolsters Sierra Leone-Morocco Ties in Dakhla

June 2, 2025

By Aminaash Nyande Brima, Information Attaché, Embassy of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Rabat, Morocco

Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to the Kingdom of Morocco, His Excellency Alhaji Momodu Koroma, commenced an official visit to the Dakhla-Oued Eddahab Region on 28 May 2025, engaging in strategic diplomacy to strengthen bilateral relations and promote investment opportunities.

Accompanied by Sierra Leone’s Consul General in Dakhla, Madam Zainab Kandeh and officials from the Agence Marocaine de Coopération Internationale (AMCI), Badr Farahat and Soufiane Dref, Ambassador Alhaji Momodu Koroma met with the Wali of the region, Ali Khalil Sir, to discuss strengthening diplomatic ties and advancing economic collaboration.

During the high-level meeting, Ambassador Alhaji Momodu Koroma conveyed Sierra Leone’s gratitude for the hospitality extended to the delegation and the support received in establishing Sierra Leone’s Consulate in Dakhla. He reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s principled backing of Morocco’s sovereignty over the Moroccan Sahara and praised the visionary leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, whose development initiatives have significantly transformed the region.

“The developmental strides in Dakhla are not only beneficial for Morocco but are also strategically important for the wider West African region,” Ambassador Alhaji Momodu Koroma stated.

Wali Ali Khalil Sir warmly welcomed the Ambassador and expressed appreciation for Sierra Leone’s steadfast diplomatic support. He emphasized the mutual importance of enhancing cooperation and pledged his administration’s support in building stronger partnerships in key sectors.

The visit included a detailed presentation on Dakhla’s economic potential, with a spotlight on investment opportunities in the blue economy, renewable energy and sustainable tourism; areas considered vital for future cooperation between the two nations.

In a separate engagement, Ambassador Alhaji Momodu Koroma held fruitful discussions with the President of the Regional Council, Khattat Yenga, who oversees regional development and budgeting. Khattat Yenga proposed an official visit to Sierra Leone and Liberia to further explore bilateral initiatives, particularly in fisheries management, green energy and agricultural development.

The diplomatic mission concluded with both parties reaffirming their shared commitment to developing concrete projects that will enhance socio-economic growth and reinforce the longstanding fraternal relationship between Sierra Leone and the Kingdom of Morocco.

Caritas Freetown Empowers Youth at Inter-District Conference with Startup Kits

June 2, 2025

By Ibrahim Sesay

A powerful display of youthful energy, purpose and vision unfolded at the Bintumani Hall on Thursday, May 29,2025 when Caritas Freetown convened a national youth conference as part of its Youth in Politics and Peace-building Project, funded by the United Nations Peacebuilding Fund. Held under the banner: “Fostering the Development of Youths for a Better Sierra Leone”, the event brought together young leaders from across districts to reflect on their growth and explore how they can contribute meaningfully to peace, governance and economic progress.

The conference was as a vibrant testament to what is possible when young people are given the platform, tools and encouragement to lead. From civic awareness to vocational skills, participants proudly showcased how they have transformed their lives and communities through the project’s structured training in leadership, peacebuilding and advocacy.

Speaking with clarity and purpose, Eliza Sillah, Programme Manager at Caritas Freetown, outlined the project’s core vision; building a peaceful and stable Sierra Leone through social inclusion, community dialogue and youth empowerment. She described a strategic, multi-stakeholder approach that brought together young people, local authorities, peer educators and civil society partners to ensure that leadership and peacebuilding are rooted in local realities.

To deepen the project’s long-term impact, Eliza Sillah emphasized a sustainability plan focused on strengthening grassroots structures. This includes bolstering community-based conflict resolution mechanisms, supporting solidarity groups for women and youth, and creating mentorship channels that connect young leaders with governance actors at both the district and national levels.

A call to action echoed throughout the hall as the Minister of Youth Affairs, Ibrahim Sannoh, delivered a keynote address that challenged development partners to rethink their approach. He criticized models that design youth programs without youth involvement, arguing that genuine development must be co-created with those it seeks to serve. “Too many times, NGOs receive funds and design programs for us, not with us. This must change,” he declared.

Ibrahim Sannoh pointed to the fact that over 70 percent of Sierra Leone’s population falls between the ages of 15 and 35, making youth development a national imperative rather than an optional policy area. He urged for coordinated action driven by data, accountability and ambition. “Youth empowerment must no longer be a slogan. It must be a central pillar of our national development agenda.”

He also revealed new initiatives from the Ministry, including programs that support youth participation in agriculture and fishing, such as cash crop cultivation in every chiefdom and the development of a fisheries value chain in Tombo. Adding to the excitement, the Minister announced that exports from Sierra Leone to China will now be duty-free; a development that presents immense potential for youth-led enterprises.

The most compelling voices came from the young people themselves. Ishmael Bangura, head of the Lakkah Progressive Youth, spoke of how the project taught him about civic responsibility and peaceful engagement. “Our community had been marked by violence, but now we are teaching our peers in the ghettoes about nonviolence and civic rights. Most youths know their rights, but they don’t always know their responsibilities,” he shared. His story, like many others, revealed the project’s power to ignite change from the ground up.

Participants received practical support through a symbolic handover of startup kits, helping them transition from training to action. These resources will enable beneficiaries to apply their vocational skills, start small businesses and remain actively engaged in local development.

Local officials were also moved by the initiative. Komba Mansa-Musa, Development Planning Officer at Freetown City Council, described the gathering as a timely reminder that youth are not just the future but the present. “This conference proves that young people are bursting with ideas, talent and drive. They must be given every opportunity to lead and grow,” he said.

Throughout the day, a skills exhibition showcased the diverse talents of participants, reflecting the project’s holistic approach to empowerment. More than just a celebration, the conference became a declaration of intent, that a new generation is ready to take charge of Sierra Leone’s destiny.

Caritas Freetown, together with its partners and supporters, continues to invest in young people not as passive recipients of aid but as active architects of change. By fostering peace, leadership and entrepreneurship, the organization is helping to nurture a vibrant, confident and capable generation that is ready to lead Sierra Leone into a more inclusive and prosperous future.

Liberia’s Speaker Outlines Socio-Economic Gains of Regional Parliamentary Body

June 2, 2025

Speaker of the House of Representatives of the Republic of Liberia, Hon. Richard Nagbe Koon

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

A landmark address delivered on Thursday, May 29, 2025, in the Chamber of the Sierra Leone Parliament saw the Speaker of the House of Representatives of the Republic of Liberia, Hon. Richard Nagbe Koon, highlight the socio-economic and political benefits of establishing a Mano River Union (MRU) Parliamentary Body.

The high-level visit, marked by expressions of regional solidarity and mutual aspirations, brought together Sierra Leonean lawmakers, visiting Indian parliamentarians and distinguished guests in what many have hailed as a renewed commitment to deepening sub-regional legislative cooperation.

Hon. Richard Nagbe Koon expressed heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the Liberian Government and people for the warm reception accorded to him and his delegation, noting that the gesture reflected the enduring bonds of friendship between Liberia and Sierra Leone; two sister nations united by shared history, geography and a common destiny.

“Our countries are more than neighbours. We are co-founders of the Mano River Union, brothers in the cause of peace and champions of a future shaped by cooperation,” Hon. Richard Nagbe Koon emphasized, calling on West African Parliaments to lead with urgency in transforming regional unity into bold legislative action.

The Mano River Union (MRU), originally founded in 1973, comprises Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea and Côte d’Ivoire. It has historically functioned as a platform for executive cooperation on trade, peacebuilding and regional development. However, Speaker Richard Nagbe Koon asserted that the time has come to expand that cooperation to the legislative arm of Government.

He formally declared Liberia’s strong support for the establishment of an MRU Parliamentary Body; an institutional framework aimed at advancing policy harmonization, conflict resolution and regional development.

Highlighting key objectives of the proposed MRU Parliamentary Body, the Speaker stated that its goals would include:

Promoting Harmonized Legislation: Aligning national laws on trade, education, infrastructure and security to support regional integration.
Strengthening Democratic Oversight: Ensuring transparency and accountability in the implementation of MRU projects and programs.
Facilitating Dialogue: Creating a forum for conflict prevention, peacebuilding and intercultural exchange across the sub-region.
Championing Youth and Gender Inclusion: Advocating cross-border policies that empower youth and promote gender equity.
Environmental and Resource Governance: Jointly addressing climate change and sustainably managing shared natural resources.
Presenting Common Legislative Positions: Uniting voices in matters of regional interest and creating a strong legislative front for the sub-region.

He noted that the vision of an MRU Parliamentary Body is not an isolated aspiration but is shared by key leaders across the region. He referenced a previous meeting with His Excellency Adama Bictogo, Speaker of the National Assembly of Côte d’Ivoire, who also expressed support for a unified parliamentary platform.

“Let our engagements be frequent, our voices united and our efforts guided by the desire to bring hope, opportunity and dignity to every citizen of the Mano River Basin,” Hon. Richard Nagbe Koon said, urging greater commitment to parliamentary diplomacy.

He further emphasized the importance of peace and stability as the foundation for regional development, calling on all MRU legislatures to champion conflict prevention and promote democratic governance.

Hon. Richard Nagbe Koon also took the opportunity to thank the Government of Sierra Leone for its diplomatic backing of Liberia’s bid for a Non-Permanent Seat on the United Nations Security Council, describing it as “a profound gesture of trust.”

In closing, he urged legislators to rise above national interests and establish a united parliamentary voice that reflects the shared hopes and aspirations of the people of the Mano River Union.

“As we look to the future, let us craft a shared vision of a Mano River Union that is inclusive, peaceful and resilient; of a West Africa where parliamentary leadership becomes a catalyst for transformation,” he concluded.

The address was met with resounding applause and is widely seen as a pivotal moment in efforts to reinforce regional integration through legislative cooperation.

Njala University Breaks Ground on 1MW Solar Power Project

June 2, 2025

A historic milestone toward energy independence and sustainable development was reached on Thursday, May 29, 2025, when Njala University officially commenced construction of a 1-megawatt (1MW) solar power plant at its Njala Campus. The groundbreaking ceremony was led by Hon. Dr. Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella, Energy Sector Lead and Chairman of the Presidential Initiative on Climate Change, Renewable Energy and Food Security (PI-CREF).

The solar project, financed under the World Bank-supported Regional Emergency Solar Power Intervention Project (RESPITE), is expected to be completed by early 2026. Once operational, it will significantly reduce the University’s dependence on the national grid and generate annual savings of over USD 480,000 in electricity costs.

During a well-attended public lecture following a tour of the construction site, Dr. Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella delivered a keynote address on the theme: “Energy Transition and Human Capital Development.” He outlined Sierra Leone’s four-pillar national energy transition strategy:

Strengthening energy governance,
Transforming the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA),
Increasing renewable energy generation and
Implementing least-cost electricity solutions for citizens.

“This project is a powerful symbol of Sierra Leone’s readiness to transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy,” said Dr. Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella. “It’s not just about powering buildings; it’s about powering minds, fueling innovation and unlocking the future of human capital development.”

He also highlighted complementary national energy initiatives, including the 105MW Nant Energy project and the Mission 300 Compact, which aim to double or triple the country’s energy capacity by 2026.

The Njala community welcomed Dr. Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella with a hero’s reception, recognizing the solar initiative as a transformative response to over four decades of unreliable and insufficient electricity supply on campus.

Speaking on behalf of President Julius Maada Bio, Dr. Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions and climate-resilient infrastructure. He commended the World Bank for its continued partnership in delivering clean and affordable energy across the country.

“Under the RESPITE program, this initiative will provide uninterrupted electricity that supports teaching, research, digital learning and campus-wide innovation,” he stated. “It will also free up critical financial resources for academic investment.”

The Vice-Chancellor and Principal of Njala University, Professor Bashiru Mohamed Koroma, described the launch as a “historic and monumental milestone.” He expressed optimism about the university’s transformation, noting that 15 acres of land have already been allocated and cleared to expedite the installation process.

“For decades, our academic potential has been held back by erratic electricity supply,” said Prof. Koroma. “This project is a beacon of hope for higher education in Sierra Leone and a bold step toward energy independence.”

Also speaking at the ceremony, Deputy Minister of Technical and Higher Education, Sarjoh Aziz-Kamara, emphasized the broader educational impact of the solar project.

“This is more than an energy intervention; it is a strategic investment in the country’s educational future,” Sarjoh Aziz Kamara said. “Stable power is essential for research, digital innovation, and creating a world-class learning environment.”

Dr. Kandeh Yumkella used the occasion to inspire students to pursue careers in renewable energy, solar technology and environmental sustainability. Sharing personal reflections, he encouraged them to adapt, learn and lead.

“You are the energy leaders of tomorrow,” he told the audience. “Be bold, stay humble and let your discipline define your future.”

With the 1MW solar plant underway, Njala University is poised to move from decades of power shortages to a new era of renewable energy, academic excellence and national development.

Indian Parliamentary Delegation Ends Sierra Leone Visit with Firm Stand Against Terrorism

June 2, 2025

By Foday Moriba Conteh

On Wednesday, May 28, 2025, a high-level Indian All-Party Parliamentary Delegation, led by H.E. Shri Shrikant Eknath Shinde, Member of Parliament, arrived in Sierra Leone for a significant two-day official visit that concluded on Friday, May 30. The visit underscored the urgent call for greater global unity in the fight against terrorism.

During their visit, the delegation held substantive engagements with top Government officials, including the Vice President of Sierra Leone, the Speaker of Parliament, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the Deputy Minister of Defence, and the National Security Coordinator. The discussions focused on India’s over four decades of experience in counterterrorism and explored avenues for enhanced bilateral collaboration.

In a poignant moment of solidarity, the Vice President of Sierra Leone, Dr. Juldeh Jalloh strongly condemned the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, India. He expressed heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s unwavering support for India in the global fight against terrorism.

The Parliament of Sierra Leone echoed this sentiment by formally condemning the Pahalgam attack and observing a solemn moment of silence in honor of the victims. Also expressing support were the Deputy Minister of Defence, Col. (Retd.) Muana Brima Massaquoi, and Deputy Leader of the Opposition, Daniel Brima Koroma, both of whom voiced strong condemnation of terrorism and reiterated the need for coordinated international efforts.

Deputy Minister Massaquoi emphasized the urgency for African nations to collectively confront the threat of terrorism, warning that complacency could allow the menace to reach their own shores.

The visit concluded with a widely attended press conference held at The Place Resort in Tokeh, Western Rural District, on Friday, May 30. Members of the Indian delegation shared key insights with journalists from across Sierra Leone’s leading print and electronic media houses, highlighting the importance of global partnerships and shared vigilance in the fight against terrorism.

Addressing the press, H.E. Baisnab Charan Pradhan, India’s High Commissioner to Sierra Leone, connected the visit to the tragic terrorist attack that occurred on April 22, 2025, in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. The attack claimed the lives of 26 innocent tourists, many of whom were brutally killed in the presence of their families, a horror that shook not only India but resonated globally.

High Commissioner Pradhan emphasized that the delegation’s presence was intended to strengthen the collective global resolve against terrorism and send a resounding message that such barbarity cannot be tolerated in any civilized society.

He praised the warm reception accorded to the delegation and commended the Speaker of Sierra Leone’s Parliament, Segepoh Solomon Thomas, for his resolute condemnation of terrorism, calling it a powerful statement that echoes with millions in India and peace-loving communities worldwide.

Leading the delegation, Honorable Shri Shrikant Eknath Shinde highlighted that terrorism respects no borders and can threaten any nation, including Sierra Leone. He noted that India dispatched seven parliamentary delegations across the globe as part of a comprehensive outreach following the Pahalgam attack to promote peace and reinforce India’s zero-tolerance stance on terrorism.

Hon. Shinde urged collective international action to combat this universal menace, underlining the shared responsibility of all nations to protect their citizens.

He also reflected on the historical ties and strategic partnership between India and Sierra Leone, recalling India’s critical support during Sierra Leone’s civil conflict when Indian peacekeepers formed the largest battalion in the United Nations mission. “The delegation was met with solidarity from Sierra Leonean leaders, who unanimously condemned the April attack and demonstrated unwavering support for India’s fight against terror.

The Parliament of Sierra Leone observed a solemn moment of silence in honor of the victims and was among the first countries to publicly denounce the attack, immediately following the UAE’s lead” he revealed.

Honorable Shinde encouraged Sierra Leone to leverage its positions within the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council to champion the global condemnation of terrorism.

During the media session, the Indian delegation did not shy away from calling out Pakistan’s complicity in harboring and sponsoring terrorist groups, explicitly naming UN-designated organizations such as Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen. The delegation urged the international community, including Sierra Leone, to support India’s push for Pakistan’s reinstatement on the Financial Action Task Force’s Grey List, signaling the need for stricter accountability.

Ms. Bansuri Swaraj, Member of Parliament in India’s Lok Sabha and part of the delegation, expressed heartfelt appreciation for the hospitality shown by Sierra Leone and reaffirmed the strong bonds between the two nations. She praised the Indian diaspora in Sierra Leone as a vital link in this partnership and highlighted the government’s swift and compassionate response to the recent terrorist tragedy.

Ms. Swaraj described the visit as a powerful declaration of India’s unwavering commitment under Operation Sindoor to eradicate terrorism, stating that terror and dialogue cannot coexist, just as water and blood cannot flow together. She concluded with a passionate call for united global efforts to defeat terrorism, which she described as a cancerous scourge threatening humanity’s future.

The Indian Parliamentary Delegation’s visit ended with an engagement with the Indian diaspora in Sierra Leone, leaving behind a message of peace, resilience, and the urgent need for international collaboration to overcome the global threat of terrorism.

Sierra Leone’s IMF and World Bank Programs Remain on Track

June 2, 2025

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Contrary to recent rumors and unsubstantiated media reports, the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank have not suspended financial support to Sierra Leone. Official statements from both institutions and confirmations from the Ministry of Finance make clear that the country’s partnerships with these global financial bodies remain strong, active, and productive.

Speculation about funding cuts surfaced in April 2025, fueled by claims that disbursements had halted due to concerns over budget overruns, especially in infrastructure spending. Finance Minister Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura swiftly dismissed these claims as “categorically false and misleading,” reassuring the public and stakeholders alike.

Sierra Leone continues to operate under the IMF’s Extended Credit Facility, a structured financial assistance program valued at US$248.5 million, approved in November 2024 and set to run through November 2027. While the IMF has noted some challenges with meeting certain macroeconomic targets, primarily because of higher-than-anticipated expenditure on roads and energy projects, these issues have not led to suspension of support. Instead, they prompted routine consultations and technical reviews, such as the mission conducted in April 2025, to realign fiscal policies and maintain program compliance.

Similar rumors about the World Bank withdrawing support are equally unfounded. The World Bank reaffirmed its commitment to Sierra Leone as recently as December 2024, approving an $80 million financial support package designed to boost fiscal reforms, public service delivery, and energy efficiency. This package includes a $60 million grant and a $20 million Catastrophe Deferred Drawdown Option, enabling rapid access to funds in the event of natural disasters or economic shocks. These initiatives underscore the institution’s dedication to enhancing Sierra Leone’s economic resilience, access to finance, and climate adaptation efforts.

Financial experts note that missed targets and corrective dialogue are standard elements of multi-year development programs. Withdrawal of funding typically occurs only in cases of severe breaches such as corruption or gross mismanagement, none of which apply here. Both the IMF and the World Bank emphasize transparent engagement, continuous monitoring, and mutual accountability to ensure fiscal responsibility and sustainable development outcomes.

The government has urged media outlets and commentators to exercise greater care and accuracy in reporting, warning that unfounded claims could damage investor confidence, strain donor relations, and destabilize the national economy. “Such reports risk undermining the progress we have made and the strong partnerships we continue to enjoy with our international allies,” Minister Bangura said. “Facts must take precedence over fear-mongering.”

Current evidence from official communications and funding approvals confirms that Sierra Leone’s collaboration with these financial institutions is ongoing and evolving positively. The continued flow of funds, active policy dialogue, and regular performance reviews highlight a healthy and functioning partnership, far from any notion of funding suspension.

As Sierra Leone advances through the challenges of economic reform, infrastructure development, and fiscal discipline, its relationships with the IMF and the World Bank remain vital and unwavering. The false narrative of funding withdrawal misleads the public and threatens to sow unnecessary anxiety. For now, the record is clear: both the IMF and the World Bank continue to stand firmly behind Sierra Leone’s development agenda with no suspension of support in place.