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SLAJ and Parliamentary Press Gallery Express Concern Over Journalist’s Suspension

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By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) has on Friday January 10, 2025 expressed deep concern regarding the recent decision by the Speaker of the Parliament of Sierra Leone, Rt. Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas, to bar journalist, Melvin Tejan Mansaray, from accessing the Parliament’s precincts. The suspension, reportedly resulting from allegations of “malicious criticism” of Parliamentary decisions, has sparked serious questions about press freedom and accountability in the nation’s democracy.

In a Press Release issued and signed by Alhaji Manika Kamara, SLAJ’s National Secretary General, the Association stressed that such actions undermine the constitutional right to freedom of expression and press freedom. While SLAJ acknowledges the Speaker’s concerns about journalistic standards, it strongly believes that excluding a journalist from covering parliamentary activities sets a dangerous precedent, which may diminish public trust in the institution’s commitment to transparency and accountability.

SLAJ has called on Parliament to reconsider its decision and to refer the matter to both the Association and the Independent Media Commission (IMC) for further review. SLAJ maintains that it is the professional body responsible for addressing concerns related to the conduct of journalists, while the IMC is tasked with regulating media practices.

The Association has also pledged to engage with the Parliamentary leadership to clarify the circumstances surrounding the suspension. In addition, SLAJ has announced the launch of an internal investigation into the allegations against Melvin Tejan Mansaray to ensure fairness and transparency.

SLAJ urges journalists to uphold the highest standards of ethical journalism while reminding public institutions of their duty to protect the rights of journalists to report freely and without fear of retaliation. The Association remains committed to defending press freedom and promoting responsible journalism throughout Sierra Leone.

The Parliamentary Press Gallery – Sierra Leone (PPG-SL), led by Ag. Secretary General Alieu Amara Suwu and Ag. President Moses Lukulay, in a separate press release, also weighed in on the issue. The PPG-SL expressed its concern over the suspension of Melvin Tejan Mansaray, an Executive Member of the Gallery, from covering parliamentary proceedings.

The decision was announced by the Speaker during a parliamentary session on Friday, January 10, 2025, following allegations of unprofessional reporting by Melvin Tejan Mansaray.

While the PPG-SL condemned unprofessional journalism, it expressed apprehension about the suspension and requested Parliament to reconsider its decision. The Gallery reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining professional journalistic standards in all parliamentary reporting and assured the public, Parliament and its members that the matter would be thoroughly investigated.

The PPG-SL has also called on SLAJ to intervene swiftly in this matter. As a key body in promoting transparency and accountability, the Gallery stressed the importance of accurate and balanced reporting and emphasized the need for a constructive and collaborative relationship between the Press and Parliament. The Press Gallery urged all parties involved to resolve the issue amicably for the greater good of Sierra Leone’s democracy.

Parliament Warns ACC Commissioner to Cease Actions on Auditor General’s Report 2023

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By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a decisive move, the Parliament of Sierra Leone has issued a stern warning to the Anti-Corruption Commissioner, instructing the Commission to refrain from any actions regarding the Auditor General’s Report for 2023. This directive aims to ensure that the Report remains under the sole custody of Parliament until a thorough determination and conclusion are reached.

Parliament has emphasized that the Auditor General’s Report is its exclusive property and any interference from the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) could result in overlapping efforts and confusion. The announcement underscores the legislative body’s intent to maintain its authority over the financial oversight process and to avoid any potential duplication of investigations.

Copies of a letter from the Parliament of Sierra Leone to the Anti-Corruption Commissioner, signed by Hon. Paran Umar Tarawally, Clerk of Parliament and dated January 10, 2025, were sent to the Speaker of Parliament, the Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), the Leader of Government Business, the Opposition Leader, the Deputy Minister of Justice and the Acting Auditor General. The letter, titled “Re: Auditor General’s Report,” stated:

“We have listened with keen interest to the Press Conference of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) and we hereby write to draw your attention to the provision in Section 119 (4) of the Constitution of Sierra Leone 1991, Act No. 6 1991, to wit: ‘The Auditor General shall, within twelve months of the end of the immediately preceding financial year, submit his report to Parliament and shall in the report draw attention to any irregularities in the account audited and to any other matter which in his opinion ought to be brought to the notice of Parliament.'”

The letter further emphasized that the Auditor General’s report is the property of Parliament, which is responsible for determining and scrutinizing matters deemed irregular. It continued that Parliament conducts hearings and makes determinations on issues from which recoveries can be made and refers those deemed corrupt to the ACC for prosecution.

The letter criticized the ACC’s approach, as voiced over Radio Democracy, where it was suggested that the ACC would handle issues for longer determination. It clarified that the audit report does not have shared responsibility and remains under Parliament’s jurisdiction. Any legislation granting accountability bodies investigative powers does not expressly mandate them over the Auditor General’s Report nor does Section 108 (8) of the Constitution permit such applicability.

The letter highlighted Parliament’s authority under Section 119 (5) and its Standing Order SO 70, which gives the Public Accounts Committee the mandate to investigate and conduct public hearings on all issues raised by the Auditor General. When corrupt practices requiring prosecution are identified, Parliament will notify the ACC for further investigation and necessary prosecution.

“We look forward to collaborating with the ACC in the spirit and intent of the Constitution of Sierra Leone 1991, Act No. 6 1991,” the letter concluded.

This move by Parliament reaffirms its role as the primary overseer of the Auditor General’s findings, ensuring accountability and proper procedure in the handling of the report.

 

As It Outlines Strategic Plans for 2025 and Beyond… ICPNC Presents Comprehensive Three-Year Report to President Bio

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By Amin Kef (Ranger)

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio officially received the three-year report from the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC) on Friday, January 10, 2025, at State House. The report highlights the Commission’s progress in fostering peace and national cohesion across the country.

Addressing the President and ICPNC delegation, the Chief Minister, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, highlighted the significance of the presentation, noting that the Report fulfills a constitutional mandate under the ICPNC Act. He acknowledged the Commission’s dedication to promoting peace and national unity within its institutional framework since its establishment.

Executive Secretary of the ICPNC, Hawa Sally Samai, presented the report titled: “Peace Commission Looking Ahead – 2025 and Beyond.” She expressed her gratitude to President Bio, Chief Minister Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, the Board Members and colleagues for their continuous support.

Hawa Sally Samai outlined the Commission’s future priorities, including:

  1. Submission of the Three-Year Report to Parliament: As mandated by Section 23 of the Commissions Act of 2021, the ICPNC plans to present its report to Parliament, highlighting significant aspects of its functions.
  2. Summative Evaluation of the Strategic Plan: The Commission will conduct a comprehensive assessment of its current strategic plan to identify achievements, challenges and lessons learned.
  3. Development of a New Strategic Plan (2025-2030): Following the evaluation, a new strategic plan aligned with the national mid-term development plan will be developed and implemented.
  4. Organizational Reviews: The ICPNC will implement recommendations from the Management and Functional Review by the Public Sector Reforms Unit (PSRU) and the Organizational Development Assessment facilitated by the African Union with GIZ funding.
  5. National Conflict Fragility Studies: With funding from the World Bank, EU, UNDP and the International Growth Centre, the Commission will initiate national conflict fragility studies starting in the first quarter of 2028.
  6. Addressing Key Conflict Flashpoints: The ICPNC aims to resolve at least 30% of the issues identified in the fragility studies, facilitating peaceful cohabitation ahead of the 2028 elections.
  7. Peaceful Census Process: The Commission will collaborate with the security sector to promote peace during the census and referendum processes.
  8. Strengthening Regional Offices: Enhancing the capacity and operational effectiveness of regional offices will ensure timely delivery of the Commission’s mandate.

Chairman of the ICPNC, Rev. Shodankeh Johnson, also addressed the gathering. He extended season’s greetings and expressed gratitude to President Bio for his leadership and support. Rev. Shodankeh Johnson highlighted the Commission’s achievements, including the establishment of district peace coalitions, early warning and response mechanisms and successful conflict resolution initiatives.

He praised the ICPNC’s proactive strategies and the comprehensive approach to peacebuilding. He emphasized the role of women in the Commission, aligning with UN Resolution 1325. Rev. Shodankeh Johnson acknowledged the significant contributions of partners such as the African Union, ECOWAS, UNDP and local NGOs.

In his closing remarks, he underscored the importance of peace as a foundational element for national development. Rev. Shodankeh Johnson quoted notable thinkers, emphasizing the need for continuous learning and innovation in peacebuilding efforts. He reiterated the Commission’s commitment to serving Sierra Leone and making the nation a model for peace.

In his response, President Bio praised the Commission for its impactful work over the past three years, describing the establishment of the ICPNC as a deliberate and visionary step. While acknowledging initial challenges, he commended the Commission for its achievements in fostering peace and cohesion.

“The preventive nature of your work is invaluable. Conflict prevention often goes unnoticed, but its impact on national stability is profound. By addressing potential sources of conflict early and fostering dialogue, your efforts have significantly reduced tensions and created an environment conducive to development,” President Bio remarked.

He assured the Commission of his Government’s unwavering support and emphasized that peace is a prerequisite for meaningful development.

“Without peace, we cannot achieve tangible developmental progress. I urge you to continue your noble work, even when gratitude is scarce, for the sake of a peaceful Sierra Leone,” the President concluded.

The President expressed optimism about reviewing the Report and anticipates constructive input from Parliament to strengthen its recommendations.

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Vice President Conducts Surprise Visit to Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security

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The Honourable Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, on Friday January 10, 2025,  made an unannounced visit to the Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security (MELSS). This visit was part of the ongoing Presidency and Ministerial engagements designed to evaluate the activities of various Government Ministries.

The Presidency and Ministerial Engagements initiative, spearheaded by the Presidency, aims to routinely inspect Ministries to assess their work, plans and challenges. This proactive approach ensures that the Presidency receives firsthand information, enabling it to provide the necessary support for these Ministries to fulfill their mandates effectively.

During his visit, Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh engaged in discussions with the Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security, Mohamed Rahman Swarray, along with senior staff members. The discussions revolved around key labour and employment policies. The Vice President was given a detailed briefing on the Ministry’s achievements over the past year, including updates on job creation, safe migration agreements with private sector companies, apprenticeship schemes, dispute resolution mechanisms and the development of the National Volunteering Policy, which is set to be presented to the Cabinet this year.

Minister Swarray outlined the Ministry’s ambitious plans for 2025. He highlighted the intention to submit the Workers Compensation, Social Protection and Safety Bill to Parliament for enactment. “These bills aim to improve the welfare of workers by ensuring fair pay, adequate compensation and a safe working environment,” Minister Swarray explained.

Additionally, the Minister announced plans for a grand May Day celebration that will focus on promoting social dialogue, job creation and skills development. This event will also feature an award ceremony to recognize institutions excelling in areas such as occupational safety and health, job creation, investment, NASSIT contributions, workers’ compensation, minimum wage compliance and better terms of service.

The Minister also assured the Vice President of the Ministry’s commitment to implementing a succession plan, localization and leadership development to ensure Sierra Leoneans are well-positioned to assume leadership and management roles in various companies.

Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh expressed his satisfaction with the Ministry’s progress and praised Minister Swarray’s vision for transforming the labour sector. He commended the Ministry’s efforts to consolidate workplace peace and harmony and the use of technology to monitor the labour market through the Labour Market Information System (LMIS) and the digitization of work permits.

To further understand the Ministry’s infrastructure challenges, the Vice President toured the ongoing office construction site. He acknowledged the Ministry’s resilience and assured them of his unwavering support to ensure the building’s completion and functionality.

The Vice President’s visit underscored the Government’s commitment to enhancing the effectiveness of its Ministries and supporting their initiatives to improve the livelihoods of Sierra Leoneans.

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Sierra Leone Confirms First Mpox Case Since Global Health Alert

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By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leone has confirmed its first Mpox case since the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the disease a Public Health Emergency of International Concern in August 2024. The announcement came from Brig. Gen. Prof. Foday Sahr, Executive Director of the Government of Sierra Leone’s National Public Health Agency (NPHA), in a press release issued in Freetown on January 10, 2025.

The case, confirmed after rigorous testing at the 34 Infectious Disease Laboratory, involves a 27-year-old man from the Western Area Rural District. Brig. Gen. Prof. Foday Sahr emphasized the immediate response by health teams who are actively conducting contact tracing to identify potential exposures and curb further transmission.

The NPHA, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health (MoH), has promptly activated its incident command system. The response strategy includes isolating the patient and providing necessary medical care, extensive contact tracing and surveillance in areas visited by the patient, including Lungi. Efforts also extend to public education campaigns on Mpox symptoms, transmission and prevention, alongside supplying healthcare facilities with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and enhancing health worker training on infection control.

“Mpox is a viral illness transmitted through close contact between humans or from animals to humans,” explained Brig. Gen. Prof. Foday Sahr. “Common symptoms are fever, skin rashes and swollen lymph nodes. We urge anyone experiencing these symptoms to call the emergency line 117 or visit the nearest health facility immediately.”

He also encouraged the public to maintain good hygiene, avoid close contact with sick individuals or wild animals and rely on verified information from official health sources. Emphasizing solidarity, he added, “Show kindness and avoid stigmatizing those affected.”

Brig. Gen. Prof. Foday Sahr reassured citizens that the health and safety of Sierra Leoneans remain a top priority. “We urge the public to stay calm, remain vigilant and follow health guidelines. Together, we can manage this outbreak and safeguard our nation.”

Regular updates will be provided as the situation unfolds, ensuring the public stays informed and prepared.

 

Billions Unaccounted For in 2023 Audit: ACC to Crack Down on ‘Ayampis’

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By Foday Moriba Conteh

The Anti-Corruption Commissioner of Sierra Leone, Francis Ben Kaifala, emphasized the need for accountability and systemic improvements in governance during a Press Conference held at the Anti-Corruption Commission’s (ACC) Headquarters on Thursday, January 9, 2025. The event centered on the 2023 Auditor General’s Report, which was presented to Parliament in December 2024.

Francis Ben Kaifala highlighted significant lapses in governance within Ministries, Departments, Agencies and Foreign Embassies, citing the Report’s findings as indicative of recurring issues in Sierra Leone’s accountability systems. “The Auditor General’s report paints a grim picture of how governance systems are functioning,” he remarked, noting the ACC’s commitment to addressing corruption identified in the Report.

He acknowledged the constitutional mandate of Parliament over the Auditor General’s reports but stressed the ACC’s authority to act on issues of corruption. “The ACC views the Auditor General’s report as a whistleblower report, providing crucial leads for our investigations,” Francis Ben Kaifala stated. He also underscored the collaborative efforts between the ACC and Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC), commending its recent progress under Hon. Ibrahim Tawa Conteh’s leadership as chair of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC).

Underscoring key findings from the 2023 Auditor General’s Report, he detailed various anomalies highlighted in the report, including Duty Waivers without documentation in various Ministries, Departments and Agencies, amounting to million new Leones

He cited unpaid leases by private entities of which he stated that the Ministry of Agriculture was mentioned for unpaid leases on combined harvesters and dryers also amounting to millions of Leones.

Francis Ben Kaifala pointed out that among the issues in most of the Ministries, Departments, Agencies including the Office of the Chief Minister are the unavailability of staff for physical verification of documents deeming such as an administrative lapse.

The ACC Commissioner said that the Sierra Leone Chamber of Agri-Business Development failed to justify the utilization of funds amounting to millions of Leones.

He described these findings as indicative of negligence, incompetence and, in some cases, outright corruption. He criticized the lack of administrative action against responsible individuals and institutions, calling for stringent consequences to address those failures.

Francis Ben Kaifala emphasized the need for stronger supervision and accountability mechanisms in public institutions. “Delegation without follow-up leads to systemic failures,” he noted, urging leaders to take responsibility for their roles.

The ACC Commissioner also highlighted the importance of timely and transparent responses to audit queries, suggesting that administrative issues be resolved internally rather than overburdening State resources with lengthy parliamentary inquiries.

Francis Ben Kaifala concluded by reaffirming the ACC’s commitment to consult with Parliament and other stakeholders to ensure that the 2023 Auditor General’s Report leads to actionable reforms, reducing impunity and fostering accountability in Sierra Leone’s public sector.

The ACC has forwarded its analysis of the report to Parliament for review and further action. Francis Ben Kaifala expressed optimism that the collaborative efforts between the ACC and PAC would strengthen governance and promote a culture of accountability in Sierra Leone.

Air Sierra Leone’s Regional Routes Unaffected by EU Ban, Says SLCAA

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By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) has reiterated that the European Union (EU) ban on Sierra Leone has no direct impact on Air Sierra Leone’s operations, particularly its flights to the United Kingdom. The aircraft servicing this route is registered with UK authorities and not under the SLCAA’s jurisdiction.

Madam Musayeroh Barrie, Director General of the SLCAA, has emphasized transparency about the country’s inclusion on the EU’s blacklist, which dates back 17 years. Since assuming office, she has focused on addressing the concerns raised by the EU and improving the SLCAA’s safety oversight capabilities.

“We’ve made unprecedented progress in our engagements with the EU over the past year,”
Madam Musayeroh Barrie said. “Following our April meeting with the European Union, we collaborated with the Italian Civil Aviation Authority to facilitate on-the-job training for our key staff in Italy, a critical step forward.”

She highlighted that the SLCAA has reopened its flight registry and is processing Air Operator Certificate (AOC) applications for the first time in 17 years. A dedicated team, supported by the African Civil Aviation Commission and the ICAO regional office for West and Central Africa, is handling these applications.

“Issuing an AOC is a rigorous process. After we issue the first AOC, we must demonstrate effective oversight of the aircraft before the EU conducts an audit,” Madam Musayeroh Barrie explained. She reassured that Air Sierra Leone’s operations remain unaffected by the EU ban as the airline uses an AOC from Nigeria for its regional routes until it receives certification from the SLCAA.

Reports from various media outlets have pointed to allegations that airlines certified by the SLCAA are among the 129 carriers banned from EU airspace. The updated EU Air Safety List, released in December 2024, includes carriers from several African nations, reflecting broader concerns about aviation safety on the continent.

The SLCAA’s recent efforts aim to change this narrative. Following the 2006 ICAO Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme (USOAP), which prompted deregistration of aircraft and revocation of AOCs, the SLCAA has taken steps to reestablish its regulatory framework. The European Commission acknowledges these efforts and the SLCAA’s commitment to meeting international safety standards.

A pivotal meeting on April 25, 2024, involving the European Commission, SLCAA and Sierra Leone’s Parliament, focused on these developments. The SLCAA shared results from the 2023 ICAO USOAP visit and outlined plans to enhance its certification and oversight capabilities.

“Our memorandum of understanding with Italy, signed in March 2024, is central to these efforts,” Madam Musayeroh Barrie noted. “This partnership aims to build our technical capacity, enabling us to register aircraft and certify air carriers in line with global standards.”

The European Commission has recognized the SLCAA’s progress but noted that Sierra Leone must further demonstrate its ability to oversee airworthiness and operations effectively. Continued consultations and a potential Union on-site assessment visit are planned as the SLCAA works toward compliance.

This concerted effort to elevate Sierra Leone’s aviation standards comes as the country aims to exit the EU’s Air Safety List, a designation that has historically increased insurance costs for airlines operating to and from Sierra Leone. The EU’s list, though controversial, is seen as a critical tool for maintaining high safety standards in global aviation.

With a roadmap in place and support from international partners, Sierra Leone is poised to regain its standing as a safe and reliable destination for air travel. The SLCAA’s initiatives underscore a renewed commitment to safety and regulatory excellence, paving the way for future growth in the country’s aviation sector.

Africell Launches ‘Future Leaders’ Program

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By Ibrahim Sesay

Africell, one of the leading mobile network provider, officially launched its Future Leaders program on Thursday, January 9, 2025, at the New Brookfields Hotel, aimed at offering exceptional young graduates valuable work experience and professional skills development.

During the launch event, Africell’s CEO, Shadi Gerjawi, emphasized the company’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders. “Africell is not just implementing a program; we are initiating a movement to identify and cultivate future leaders,” he stated. Shadi Gerjawi highlighted the company’s collaboration with local universities, noting that Africell has signed Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) to identify outstanding graduates and provide them with opportunities.

“Africell has always stood as a beacon of progress, weaving its identity with the hopes and dreams of young people across Africa. Education, innovation and the transfer of knowledge are the foundations of our contribution to society,” he added.

The Minister of Labor and Social Security, Mohamed Rahman Swarray, praised the Future Leaders program, noting its alignment with the Ministry’s objectives for the year. “As a Ministry, we emphasize localization and aim to leverage leadership development to address career advancement and succession planning,” he remarked. Mohamed Rahman Swarray  also announced plans for a tripartite dialogue involving universities, employers and the Government to discuss essential skills for the labor market, which he believes will help reduce youth unemployment.

Professor Aiah Lebbie, the Deputy Vice Chancellor and Principal of the University of Sierra Leone (USL), commended Africell for its ongoing support, stating that it has significantly enhanced the university’s performance. “Being granted this opportunity to acquire skills and develop professional careers even before graduation is a significant milestone,” he said, urging interns to maintain professionalism and integrity.

Linda Mvoko, Africell’s Group Chief People Officer, elaborated on the program’s dual focus on internal and external talent. “The Future Leaders program serves as a vehicle for creating a succession plan and providing opportunities for students,” she explained. Linda Mvoko reported that Africell has partnered with universities nationwide to recruit 80 students for the program, with 50% being women, underscoring the company’s commitment to gender empowerment.

She also revealed that the Future Leaders program has already been launched in DR Congo and Angola, with plans to expand to The Gambia following its implementation in Sierra Leone.

One of the program’s beneficiaries, Fatimatu Jalloh, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity, stating, “You didn’t just create an opportunity for us; you created an environment where we can thrive, flourish and grow.” She encouraged her fellow interns to seize the moment as a stepping stone toward leadership.

The event concluded with the signing of MOUs with representatives from USL, Milton Margai Technical University, Njala University and Limkokwing University, marking a significant step in the collaboration between Africell and local academic institutions.

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NP (SL) Provides Reliable, High-Quality Fuel Solutions with Latest Diesel Shipment

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By Amin Kef (Ranger)

NP (SL) Limited, Sierra Leone’s leading petroleum marketing company, has reaffirmed its commitment to meeting the nation’s energy needs through consistent service delivery and innovation. Recognized locally and internationally, NP (SL) continues to set high standards in customer care, operational transparency and environmental responsibility, cementing its reputation as a trusted energy provider.

A significant part of NP (SL)’s success lies in its unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction. The company prioritizes transparency by ensuring all transactions at its Filling Stations are accurate and customer-friendly. With modern, calibrated machines, NP (SL) guarantees precise fuel dispensation, building trust with every customer. The company’s fleet of well-maintained tanker vehicles ensures the timely and safe delivery of petroleum products across the country, helping to prevent fuel shortages and contributing to a stable supply chain.

The company has also embraced digital innovation to enhance customer experience. The NP Smart Card, a cashless payment solution, allows customers to prepay for fuel, supporting better budget management and reducing reliance on cash. The recent launch of the NP Energy Pass Card further extends this digital transformation. This advanced cashless platform offers online and offline transactions, real-time SMS notifications and robust security features, further improving the customer experience.

Beyond fueling solutions, NP (SL) markets NP Gas, a safe and environmentally friendly cooking solution. Available in various cylinder sizes, NP Gas is designed to reduce harmful emissions and is easily refilled at NP (SL) stations or authorized dealers.

In line with Sierra Leone’s Local Content Policy, NP (SL) continues to prioritize the employment of qualified Sierra Leoneans, contributing to local economic growth and improving livelihoods. The company is also deeply involved in Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives, focusing on environmental sustainability, community support, and institutional development, complementing the government’s development agenda.

Expanding its regional footprint, NP (SL) has successfully established operations in Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast and The Gambia, creating job opportunities and contributing to economic development across West Africa through tax revenues.

Further solidifying its leadership in the industry, NP (SL) recently demonstrated its commitment to maintaining a steady supply of high-quality fuel with the successful delivery of 13,000 metric tons of Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) from the MT Pacific Jade between December 17 and 19, 2024. The diesel shipment, which passed rigorous quality checks on December 23, 2024, was confirmed to meet international standards, with samples exhibiting exceptional clarity and purity, free from impurities.

This batch of diesel also features advanced low-sulfur technology, which enhances engine performance and reduces emissions, reflecting NP Sierra Leone’s dedication to environmental sustainability and modern engine efficiency.

“We are dedicated to delivering fuel that not only powers vehicles and machinery effectively but also addresses environmental concerns,” said Vandi Bockarie, Sales Manager at NP Sierra Leone. “This shipment reflects our promise to provide top-tier energy solutions to the people of Sierra Leone.”

NP Sierra Leone has long been a pillar in the nation’s energy sector, serving a wide range of customers, from private motorists to industrial operators. The company’s focus on quality, innovation and customer satisfaction continues to drive the growth of Sierra Leone’s economy.

With this latest milestone in fuel delivery, NP (SL) Ltd reaffirms its position as a leader in the energy sector and a vital contributor to the development of Sierra Leone and the wider West African region. The company remains steadfast in its mission to provide reliable, efficient and sustainable energy solutions for the future.

Experience Sierra Leone’s Finest with Royal Seasoning from 5 Star Food Industries

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By Amin Kef Sesay

Elevate your cooking with Royal Seasoning from 5 Star Food Industries (SL) Ltd, the brand revolutionizing culinary experiences in Sierra Leone. Proudly crafted in Sierra Leone, Royal Seasoning is the ultimate flavor enhancer for both traditional Sierra Leonean dishes and international cuisines.

Royal Seasoning cubes come in a variety of delectable flavors: Shrimp, Chicken, Beef, Tomato and Classic. Each 12g cube is meticulously crafted to meet international culinary standards, yet tailored to suit the distinct tastes of Sierra Leonean households. Whether it’s Jollof rice, stews or any other dish, a touch of Royal Seasoning guarantees an explosion of taste and versatility in your meals.

Royal Seasoning is certified Halal, ensuring it caters to diverse dietary preferences without compromising on quality. This commitment to inclusivity makes it an essential addition to every kitchen, aligning with the needs of every cook.

Manufactured at a state-of-the-art facility on 50 Bai Bureh Road, Freetown, Royal Seasoning is more than just a flavor enhancer; it’s a pledge to support Sierra Leone’s economy. By reducing dependence on imports and generating local employment, 5 Star Food Industries champions local agricultural partnerships and sustainable growth.

“Our mission is to enrich the daily lives of Sierra Leoneans with high-quality, affordable products,” says a spokesperson for 5 Star Food Industries. “With Royal Seasoning, we celebrate our culinary heritage while contributing to economic development.”

Royal Seasoning’s distinctive packaging features a chef, symbolizing quality and culinary excellence. Its eye-catching design makes it easy to spot on shelves, becoming the go-to choice for home cooks and professional chefs alike.

Join 5 Star Food Industries at cooking demonstrations and taste-testing events at major retail locations. Experience firsthand the versatility of Royal Seasoning and discover why it’s the preferred choice for elevating everyday meals.

“Food brings people together, and with Royal Seasoning, we invite everyone to celebrate Sierra Leone’s rich culinary heritage while supporting local content and strengthening our economy,” adds the spokesperson.

Choose Royal Seasoning and become part of the culinary revolution in Sierra Leone. Experience the royal touch in your cooking and take your dishes to new heights.

For more information, visit 5 Star Food Industries at 50 Bai Bureh Road, Freetown, or call +232 80 888 000.

Royal Seasoning – Proudly Made in Sierra Leone. Support Local Content, Celebrate Local Flavors.

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