AI for Inclusive Development: Why Sierra Leone’s Participation in the India–AI Impact Summit Matters

February 2, 2026

By Shri Baisnab Charan Pradhan, High Commissioner of India to Sierra Leone

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a distant or abstract concept reserved for advanced laboratories and large corporations. It is fast becoming a defining force shaping how societies grow, how economies function and how Governments deliver services to their citizens. For countries across the Global South, AI represents not just a technological shift but a historic opportunity to leapfrog traditional development pathways and build more inclusive, resilient and prosperous societies.

It is in this spirit that India will host the India–AI Impact Summit 2026 (February 19–20 in New Delhi) a landmark global gathering that places inclusion, equity and real-world impact at the centre of the global AI discourse. The Summit draws inspiration from India’s own journey in using technology for social transformation, including insights from NITI Aayog’s seminal report AI for Inclusive Societal Development (October 2025). The participation of the Government of Sierra Leone, along with its emerging technology ecosystem and international partners, will be of particular importance; not only for strengthening India–Sierra Leone cooperation but also for advancing Sierra Leone’s own development and prosperity in the digital age.

Technology That Empowers, Not Replaces

At the heart of NITI Aayog’s report lies a powerful and human question: how can the world’s most advanced technologies reach the most overlooked workers and empower them to claim their rightful place in national growth stories? In India, this question is especially relevant to the nearly 490 million people who form the informal workforce; workers whose skills sustain economies but who often remain outside formal systems of training, finance and social protection.

The report is grounded in the lived experiences of people such as home healthcare aides, carpenters, farmers and daily wage workers. Their stories reflect challenges that resonate strongly with many communities in Sierra Leone: low literacy, language barriers, income insecurity and limited access to formal skilling and markets. Yet, the report makes a crucial point; technology should not replace human skills, it should amplify them.

This philosophy holds deep relevance for Sierra Leone. Like India, Sierra Leone has a youthful population, a large informal sector and immense human potential. AI, when deployed thoughtfully, can help unlock this potential by expanding access to skills, markets, finance and public services.

A Vision for Inclusive AI by 2035

The roadmap outlined in AI for Inclusive Societal Development envisions a future where frontier technologies, Artificial Intelligence, the Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain, robotics and immersive learning, work together to remove systemic barriers faced by informal workers.

By 2035, the report envisages voice-first AI interfaces that overcome literacy and language barriers, enabling workers to access information, training and Government services simply by speaking in their local languages. For Sierra Leone, where linguistic diversity and literacy gaps remain development challenges, such solutions could be transformative, particularly in rural communities.

The report also highlights the role of smart contracts and blockchain-based systems in ensuring transparent, timely payments and reducing exploitation. This has clear relevance for sectors such as agriculture, construction and small-scale services, areas where Sierra Leone’s economy is deeply rooted. Secure and transparent digital systems can strengthen trust, formalize economic activity and improve livelihoods.

Equally important is the emphasis on micro-credentials and on-demand learning, allowing workers to upskill continuously, at their own pace. This model aligns well with Sierra Leone’s aspiration to equip its youth and workforce with future-ready skills without disrupting livelihoods.

From Digital Public Infrastructure to Global Cooperation

India’s confidence in inclusive, at-scale digital transformation is rooted in its proven success with digital public infrastructure (DPI) platforms such as Aadhaar, UPI and Jan Dhan. These initiatives demonstrate that when technology is designed with inclusion at its core, it can reach hundreds of millions of people, reduce inefficiencies and unlock economic opportunity.

For Sierra Leone, the AI Summit provides a platform to explore how DPI-inspired approaches, adapted to local contexts, can support Sierra Leone’s goals in digital identity, payments, service delivery and data-driven governance.

By engaging at the Summit, Sierra Leone can:

Exchange best practices on inclusive AI deployment in agriculture, healthcare, education and governance
Explore partnerships with Indian and global technology companies working on affordable, scalable AI solutions
Strengthen capacity-building efforts, including skilling, research collaboration and institutional development
Position itself as an active voice of the Global South, contributing perspectives shaped by African realities

The participation of hi-tech companies and startups from Sierra Leone, alongside international technology firms, will further enrich this engagement. Exposure to India’s vibrant AI ecosystem, spanning startups, research institutions and public platforms, can help Sierra Leonean innovators identify new opportunities, business models and collaborative ventures.

AI as a Driver of Sierra Leone’s Progress and Prosperity

The relevance of AI for Sierra Leone’s development is already evident. In agriculture, AI-powered tools can support crop planning, weather prediction, pest management and market access. In healthcare, AI can help bridge shortages of specialists through telemedicine, diagnostics and data-driven planning. In education, personalized learning platforms can improve outcomes and expand access, particularly in underserved communities.

Governance stands to benefit significantly as well. AI-enabled systems can enhance transparency, improve service delivery, strengthen public financial management and support evidence-based policymaking. When aligned with strong institutions and ethical frameworks, AI can deepen trust between citizens and the state.

The India–AI Impact Summit offers Sierra Leone a unique opportunity to shape how these technologies are adopted; ensuring they are people-centric, inclusive and aligned with national development priorities.

Building a Shared Future

The global conversation on Artificial Intelligence is at a critical juncture. While AI capabilities are advancing rapidly, the risk of a widening global AI divide remains real. Without deliberate action, technological benefits could remain concentrated in a few regions, leaving much of the Global South behind.

India’s approach, reflected in NITI Aayog’s AI for Inclusive Societal Development report and embodied in the India–AI Impact Summit, offers an alternative vision. It emphasizes cooperation over competition, inclusion over exclusion and impact over rhetoric.

For Sierra Leone, engaging with this vision is not just about adopting new technologies; it is about shaping a future where innovation serves development goals, empowers citizens and strengthens sovereignty in the digital age.

Conclusion

The India–AI Impact Summit 2026 comes at a moment of profound opportunity for the Global South. It reflects India’s belief that Artificial Intelligence, when guided by shared values and collective action, can become a powerful force for inclusive growth and shared prosperity.

Sierra Leone’s participation, through Government leadership, private sector engagement and institutional collaboration, will help ensure that this global conversation translates into real benefits at home. By learning from India’s experiences, sharing its own perspectives and forging new partnerships, Sierra Leone can harness AI to accelerate progress, empower its people and build a more prosperous and resilient future.

The growing bilateral partnership between India and Sierra Leone places emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence at the center of future cooperation. Through joint efforts, both countries can show that the future of AI should be inclusive and widely shared; powered by innovation, shaped by equity and rooted in collective progress.

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Inside Royal Fitness: Freetown’s Rising Hub for Premium Health and Wellness

February 2, 2026

Royal Fitness is steadily redefining modern fitness culture in the capital, positioning itself as one of the country’s leading health and wellness centres through a blend of premium facilities, professional coaching and a strong community-driven approach to healthy living.

Strategically located along the Peninsular Highway in Juba, the facility has become a preferred destination for professionals, athletes, lifestyle enthusiasts and beginners seeking a structured and internationally aligned workout experience. Its growing public reputation is reflected in its 4.5-star Google rating, with members frequently commending the gym’s cleanliness, modern layout, high-quality equipment and attentive customer service.

Industry observers note that Royal Fitness distinguishes itself through a holistic operational model that extends beyond conventional gym routines. The centre offers strength and weight training, functional workouts, cardiovascular programmes, group exercise sessions and recovery-focused routines such as stretching and flexibility training. This inclusive structure allows members across varying fitness levels to pursue personalized goals within a single, well-coordinated environment.

The gym has also built a strong digital footprint, particularly on Instagram, where it has attracted more than 17,000 followers. Operating under the brand theme “Where strength meets rhythm,” Royal Fitness integrates music-driven workouts and high-energy sessions, occasionally featuring international DJs to create an engaging and dynamic atmosphere. That fusion of fitness and entertainment has resonated strongly with younger urban audiences and contributed significantly to its expanding brand appeal.

Management places a premium on professionalism and consistency. Certified instructors and fitness coaches work closely with members to design structured programmes aimed at improving strength, endurance, flexibility and overall wellbeing. Many clients credit the gym’s supportive environment and systematic coaching methods for helping them achieve noticeable lifestyle transformations and enhanced discipline.

Operating daily with extended hours until 11:00 p.m., the facility caters to busy urban schedules, making it particularly attractive to working professionals. Visitor trends indicate that members typically spend between one and three hours per session, reflecting a commitment to comprehensive training rather than brief workouts.

In response to growing health consciousness across Sierra Leone, Royal Fitness has announced an ambitious 2026 wellness drive focused on tackling lifestyle-related diseases through structured physical training, professional supervision and nutrition-based guidance. Management says the initiative aims to reposition the facility as a comprehensive wellness hub that promotes long-term health outcomes rather than short-term aesthetic gains.

A spokesperson for the centre emphasized that sustainable wellness is achieved when physical training, mental discipline and proper nutrition function in harmony. As part of this vision, the gym has expanded its services to include nutrition and diet counselling, ensuring members receive integrated support to enhance performance and overall health.

The facility is equipped with internationally recognized fitness brands such as Technogym, Panatta of Italy and Arsenal Strength of the United States, reinforcing its commitment to global standards in performance, safety and durability.

With more Sierra Leoneans prioritizing preventive healthcare and active lifestyles, Royal Fitness continues to stand out as a driving force in the country’s evolving wellness movement, demonstrating that high-quality, professionally guided fitness services can be delivered locally while aligning with international standards of excellence.

For membership and registration enquiries, Royal Fitness can be contacted on (+232) 90 001000.

UNDP, Africell Partner to Boost Digital Connectivity for Young Innovators in Sierra Leone and The Gambia

January 31, 2026

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Africell have entered into a strategic partnership aimed at strengthening digital connectivity for young innovators in Sierra Leone and The Gambia, a move expected to significantly enhance youth-led innovation and entrepreneurship across the two countries.

The agreement was formalized on Thursday, January 29, 2026, in New York and targets UNDP’s Timbuktoo University Innovation Pods (Uniods); high-tech maker and innovation spaces hosted within public universities. Under the partnership, Africell will provide critical digital connectivity infrastructure, including 4G MiFi devices, high-speed internet access and Internet of Things (IoT) tools to support innovators working within the UniPods.

Those resources will enable students and young entrepreneurs to design, test and scale technology-driven solutions addressing both local and global development challenges. The intervention is expected to remove one of the most persistent barriers to innovation in the region; reliable and affordable internet access.

Speaking on the collaboration, Ziad Dalloul, Group Chief Executive Officer of Africell and President of the Africell Impact Foundation, said the partnership aligns with Africell’s mission to empower Africa’s next generation of innovators.

“This collaboration plays to everyone’s strengths by combining Africell’s connectivity expertise with UNDP’s innovation network,” Ziad Dalloul noted. “By equipping the UniPods in Sierra Leone and The Gambia with Africell’s signature internet services, we are investing in young Africans and helping to turn raw talent into successful enterprise.”

Beyond infrastructure support, the partnership will also extend to joint innovation and accelerator programmes designed to increase youth participation in the UniPods and deepen their long-term social and economic impact. Those programmes will build on existing initiatives of the Africell Impact Foundation, including robotics training, entrepreneurship development and digital skills courses delivered through its learning centres across West Africa.

The collaboration forms part of UNDP’s broader Timbuktoo initiative, a flagship effort aimed at strengthening Africa’s home-grown innovation ecosystem. The Timbuktoo framework includes UniPods, Policy Labs and sector-focused innovation hubs in major African cities, all designed to unlock investment and growth opportunities for African startups and founders.

Ahunna Eziakonwa, Assistant United Nations Secretary-General and Director of UNDP’s Regional Bureau for Africa, emphasized the importance of digital inclusion in shaping Africa’s economic future.

“Digital inclusion is key to Africa’s innovation future,” she said. “This partnership expands digital access and gives young innovators the connectivity they need to turn ideas into impactful solutions. When we invest in young people’s talents and remove barriers to opportunity, we accelerate Africa’s path to competitiveness and inclusive growth.”

UNDP’s UniPods continue to play a growing role in equipping African youth with the tools, skills and networks needed to transform ideas into market-ready solutions. The partnership with Africell is expected to further strengthen this mission, positioning young innovators in Sierra Leone and The Gambia at the forefront of Africa’s digital transformation.

Government Orders One-Month Artisanal and Industrial Fishing Shutdown

January 30, 2026

By Ibrahim Sesay

The Government of Sierra Leone, through the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources, has announced a one-month closed fishing season for the artisanal fisheries subsector, effective from 1 to 28 February 2026, as part of broader efforts to conserve marine resources and promote long-term sustainability in the fisheries sector.

The announcement was contained in a public notice issued in Freetown on Wednesday, 7 January 2026, in which the Ministry explained that the temporary closure will allow fish stocks to spawn and rebuild their populations, consistent with global best practices in sustainable fisheries management. The intervention, the Ministry noted, falls squarely within its mandate to manage, conserve and maintain Sierra Leone’s fisheries and marine ecosystems.

Speaking on the development, the Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources, Princess Dugba, disclosed that the Ministry generated Le163 million in revenue in 2025, representing an increase from Le150 million in 2024. She expressed optimism that the sector would perform even better in 2026, adding that responsible resource management remains central to boosting fish production and national revenue.

While seasonal fishing closures have in the past applied mainly to industrial fishing companies, the Government acknowledged that artisanal fisheries, accounting for about 70 percent of the country’s fishing population, had largely been excluded from such conservation measures. The Ministry said the decision to include both subsectors is intended to curb overfishing and address the growing challenge of overexploitation of marine resources.

Under the new policy framework, closed fishing seasons have now been formally adopted as an annual activity. The artisanal fisheries subsector will observe a closure every February, from the 1st to the 28th or 29th, while the industrial fisheries subsector will continue to observe its annual closed season in April, from the 1st to the 30th.

As part of enforcement measures, the Ministry directed that all artisanal fishing canoes must anchor at their respective landing sites by midnight on 31 January 2026. It warned that the closure will be strictly enforced through enhanced monitoring and surveillance, with sanctions for defaulters. Penalties include forfeiture of fish catches, outboard engines and fishing gear, in addition to the imposition of heavy fines.

To ensure compliance, the Ministry said it will continue to work through the Joint Maritime Committee in collaboration with the Sierra Leone Navy, Sierra Leone Police, Office of National Security, Sierra Leone Maritime Administration, artisanal fishermen’s associations, community management groups for marine protected areas, Paramount chiefs, and the eight fisheries outstations nationwide.

The Ministry also assured the public that arrangements have been made with industrial fishing companies to ensure an uninterrupted supply of fish to local markets during the closure period.

While acknowledging the temporary hardship the measure may pose to artisanal fishing households, the Government stressed that the closure is not intended as punishment. Rather, it is designed to secure healthier fish stocks, safeguard livelihoods and build a more resilient fisheries sector.

The Ministry has therefore called on all stakeholders to fully cooperate during the closed season, emphasizing that the short-term sacrifice will yield long-term benefits for coastal communities and the nation as a whole.

Magistrate Hadiru Daboh Jails Sudanese National Over US$14,135 Fraud Case

January 30, 2026

A Sudanese national, Mohamed Harovna Adam, has been sentenced to thirty-eight (38) months’ imprisonment by the Magistrate Court No.1 in Kenema for fraudulent conversion.

The conviction was handed down on January 27, 2025, by His Worship Magistrate Hadiru Daboh, following Adam’s guilty plea to one count of fraudulent conversion contrary to Section 20(1)(iv)(a) of the Larceny Act of 1916.

Court records revealed that Mohamed Harovna Adam fraudulently converted the sum of Fourteen Thousand, One Hundred and Thirty-Five United States Dollars (US$14,135) entrusted to him by the complainant, Khamis Abdalla Adam, for business purposes. The offence was said to have been committed on diverse dates between 2024 and February 6, 2025, in Kenema City.

The charge was read and explained to the accused in open court by the court clerk, Ibrahim Tomboyeke, after which the accused pleaded guilty without contest.

In delivering his judgment, Magistrate Hadiru Daboh sentenced the accused to 38 months’ imprisonment at the Sierra Leone Correctional Centre (SLCC) in Kenema. The court, however, offered the option of restitution, ordering that the convict may avoid the custodial sentence if he pays the full amount stated in the particulars of the offence.

The complainant, Khamis Abdalla Adam, was represented by prosecuting counsel Joseph Bandabla Dauda, popularly known as JBD Esq., in association with Lawyer Dauda Chorane Gbow. The accused was not represented by legal counsel during the proceedings.

Following the judgment, Mohamed Harovna Adam was remanded at the Sierra Leone Correctional Centre in Kenema to begin serving his sentence.

Tourism Ministry & Partners Gear Up for 2026 Budapest–Bamako–Freetown Challenge

January 30, 2026

Sierra Leone is strengthening its position on the global adventure tourism map as it prepares to host the finish line of the 2026 Budapest–Bamako Rally, one of the world’s largest amateur vehicular and charitable adventure rallies. The landmark event will culminate in Freetown, drawing hundreds of international participants after a transcontinental journey from Europe across North and West Africa.

The Government of Sierra Leone, through the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, is leading preparations in collaboration with the National Tourist Board, the Monuments and Relics Commission, VSLTRAVEL, Harmony Travel and Tourism Investment Services (HATTIS) and other public and private sector partners. Together, stakeholders are coordinating logistics, security, route management and community engagement to ensure the successful hosting of the rally’s grand finale.

The 2026 edition of the rally will arrive in Sierra Leone in two major waves. The first batch is expected to enter the country on 8 February 2026, comprising 352 vehicles and 794 participants. This group will proceed to Bureh Beach for an overnight camping experience on 9 February, followed by a finish line ceremony the same day. The second batch will arrive on 5 March 2026 with 203 vehicles and 492 participants, overnighting at Bureh Beach before concluding with a finish line ceremony on 6 March.

Participants will enter Sierra Leone through the Balamuya/Kamakwie and Madina Oula border crossing points in Kambia District. From there, rally convoys will follow designated routes via Kambia, Kamakwie, Kabba Ferry and Gbaray Junction, before passing through Masiaka, Mile 91 and Waterloo. The procession will continue along the Waterloo–Tombo Highway to Bureh Beach, where teams will camp before embarking on a final celebratory drive into Freetown. The victory lap will pass through key city routes including Kissy Road, Siaka Stevens Street, Congo Cross and Wilkinson Road, ending at the Gigibonta Car Park at Lumley Beach, the official finish line venue.

Since 2020, Sierra Leone has successfully hosted five Budapest–Bamako Rally finish line events, a track record that convinced organisers to retain Freetown as the rally’s official destination for a ten-year period running from 2024 to 2034. The continued selection of Sierra Leone follows ongoing security concerns in Mali, which have led to adjustments in the traditional route while keeping Bamako as the symbolic or “spiritual” finish point of the rally.

Declared the Year of Culture and Creativity, 2026 presents an added opportunity for Sierra Leone to showcase its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty and renowned hospitality. Tourism authorities believe the rally will deliver significant socio-economic benefits, including increased international visibility, job creation, revenue generation for local businesses, community development initiatives and cross-cultural exchange.

Beyond adventure and competition, the Budapest–Bamako Rally maintains a strong humanitarian focus. The 2026 edition will include charitable projects across Sierra Leone, Senegal and Guinea, with planned community support activities such as assistance to grassroots initiatives, including the Budapest Beach Boys football team at Bureh Beach.

HATTIS has issued a public appeal to Paramount Chiefs and residents of communities along the rally corridor, particularly in northern districts such as Gbalamuya, Kambia, Barmoi Luma and Port Loko, to turn out in large numbers to welcome participants and demonstrate Sierra Leonean warmth. Authorities have also urged residents to maintain peace and order throughout the event period, noting that the conduct of host communities will shape global perceptions of the country.

With preparations intensifying, tourism stakeholders remain confident that the 2026 Budapest–Bamako–Freetown Challenge will once again affirm Sierra Leone’s growing reputation as a safe, vibrant and attractive destination for international adventure tourism.

No Third-Term Agenda, Says Government; Opposition Warns Against Skipping Due Process

January 30, 2026

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Government of Sierra Leone has firmly dismissed any prospect of a third-term presidency, as senior officials reaffirmed President Julius Maada Bio’s commitment to constitutionalism and democratic governance during the Ministry of Information and Civic Education’s Weekly Press Conference held on Tuesday, January 27, 2026.

Addressing journalists at the Miatta Conference Centre in Brookfields, the Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, said this was the first time in Sierra Leone’s democratic history that discussions around a third-term presidency had not surfaced. He attributed that development to President Bio’s unequivocal respect for the two-term constitutional limit, stressing that the President has made it “abundantly clear” that no third-term agenda would be tolerated.

The Minister emphasized that the ongoing constitutional review process is designed solely to serve the national interest, not the ambitions of any political party. He clarified that the Constitutional Amendment Bill currently before Parliament primarily addresses election-related matters, while other entrenched constitutional reforms would proceed through a broader review process culminating in a national referendum.

The Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Alpha Sesay, also addressed the press conference, providing a detailed briefing on the constitutional review process and the contents of the proposed Constitutional Amendment Bill tabled in Parliament earlier that day.

Tracing Sierra Leone’s constitutional evolution, the Attorney General recalled that the 1978 Constitution established a one-party state, which was later replaced by the 1991 multiparty Constitution shortly before the outbreak of the civil war. He noted that Article 10 of the 1999 Lomé Peace Agreement recommended a comprehensive review of the 1991 Constitution to prevent democratic regression, a call later reinforced by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC).

Acting on those recommendations, the late Ahmad Tejan Kabbah issued a White Paper and established the Peter Tucker Constitutional Review Committee. That effort was later advanced under former President Ernest Bai Koroma, who constituted the Justice Edmond Cowan Constitutional Review Committee in 2013. The committee, comprising over 80 representatives from political parties, civil society, youth groups and women’s organisations, conducted extensive nationwide consultations.

According to the Attorney General, the committee held more than 10,000 public consultations, received over 150 position papers, conducted 80 expert engagements and 180 direct stakeholder meetings, distributed more than 70,000 consultation forms nationwide and recorded 40,960 website visits. Its report was submitted in 2017, followed by a Government White Paper that accepted some recommendations while modifying others.

In 2021, President Julius Maada Bio issued an additional White Paper, incorporating progressive provisions such as gender equality and women’s empowerment into the proposed new Constitution. Following the 2023 National Peace and Unity Agreement, a Tripartite Committee agreed on 80 recommendations, with non-entrenched clauses tabled as electoral reforms ahead of the 2028 general elections, while entrenched clauses will proceed to a referendum.

Highlighting key amendments in the current Bill, the Attorney General explained that Section 49(1) seeks to empower Parliament to remove a Vice President who is expelled from the political party under which he or she was elected. The Bill also proposes reforms to the proportional representation system by repealing Section 38A and amending Section 74 to allow a category of Members of Parliament to be elected through proportional representation.

Another major proposal seeks to replace the long-standing 55 percent presidential victory threshold with a simple majority of 50 percent plus one vote, alongside a requirement for candidates to secure at least 20 percent of votes in two-thirds of districts nationwide. The Bill also introduces provisions allowing independent candidates to contest presidential elections, subject to strict eligibility criteria.

The Attorney General noted that adopting proportional representation has proven cost-effective, revealing that the Government saved approximately NLe20 million between 2023 and 2025 by avoiding by-elections, with savings redirected to education, health and agriculture.

Civil society voices also featured in the process. Mariama Jalloh, National Director of the Young Women in Governance Network, called for clearly defined women’s rights in the new Constitution, including pay equity, a 30 percent quota for women and improved access to education and healthcare.

Meanwhile, Parliament on Monday, January 26, 2026, held a pre-legislative engagement on the Bill. Welcoming lawmakers and stakeholders, the Clerk of Parliament, Karmoh K. Conteh, assured the nation that due process would be strictly observed. The session featured robust debate, with the Leader of the Opposition, Abdul Kargbo, urging transparency and warning against procedural shortcuts, while the Majority Leader, Matthew Sahr Nyuma, expressed confidence in Parliament’s consultative approach.

The engagement concluded on an optimistic note, with civil society representative, Basita Michael, describing the process as encouraging and reflective of a genuine opportunity to shape a Constitution that serves the people of Sierra Leone.

Orange Sierra Leone Re-Certified as Top Employer for 2026

January 30, 2026

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Orange Sierra Leone has once again been re-certified as a Top Employer for 2026 by the Top Employers Institute, reaffirming its position as the first telecommunications operator in Sierra Leone to achieve and retain the prestigious global recognition.

The re-certification follows a comprehensive and independent assessment carried out through the Institute’s HR Best Practices Survey, a globally recognized framework that evaluates organisations against internationally benchmarked people-management standards. The assessment covers six core human resources domains, including People Strategy, Work Environment, Talent Acquisition, Learning and Development, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and Employee Wellbeing.

According to the Top Employers Institute, the recognition reflects Orange Sierra Leone’s sustained commitment to fostering a high-performing, inclusive and engaging workplace culture. The company’s people practices were assessed as being data-driven, structured and aligned with global best practices, reinforcing its focus on employee empowerment, capability development and long-term organizational sustainability.

Commenting on the achievement, Chief Executive Officer of the Top Employers Institute, Adrian Seligman, said the certification highlights Orange Sierra Leone’s strong alignment between its people strategy and organizational objectives.

“Achieving a Country Top Employer Certification for 2026 reflects Orange Sierra Leone’s dedication to building an outstanding workplace that enables sustained business performance,” he said. “Their strong alignment between people strategy and organizational goals, combined with a commitment to continuous improvement, demonstrates the impact of their transformative people practices. We are proud to recognize Orange Sierra Leone for their meaningful contribution to creating a better world of work.”

The Country Top Employer Certification also provides organisations with access to globally benchmarked insights, expert validation and data-driven recommendations designed to strengthen people strategies. Certified organisations benefit from enhanced employer branding, clearer strategic focus, improved decision-making and stronger engagement with talent markets, while also gaining opportunities to connect with a global community of certified Top Employers.

Chief Executive Officer of Orange Sierra Leone, Aicha Toure, described the re-certification as a powerful endorsement of the company’s people-first culture and commitment to excellence.

“This certification is a strong recognition of our people-first culture and our continuous commitment to excellence,” she said. “It reinforces our ambition to be the employer of choice by consistently investing in our employees, promoting inclusion and creating an environment where talent can thrive. Our people are central to our success and to delivering meaningful value to our customers and the communities we serve.”

Human Resources Director at Orange Sierra Leone, Agnes M Songa, also emphasized the company’s focus on employee experience and long-term development.

“Being certified as a Top Employer affirms our focus on delivering a positive and enriching employee experience,” she said. “We remain committed to developing our people through continuous learning, career development opportunities and supportive workplace practices. Our employees are the foundation of our performance today and our growth in the future.”

The Top Employers Institute has certified more than 2,500 organisations across 131 countries and regions worldwide, recognizing companies that place people at the centre of their business strategies and demonstrate excellence in human resources practices.

Orange Sierra Leone is a leading telecommunications operator licensed by the National Communications Authority and is part of the Orange Group. The company continues to play a key role in Sierra Leone’s socio-economic development by delivering responsible, innovative and accessible digital services that improve everyday life while supporting workforce development and national progress.

Vice President Urges Peace, Apolitical Leadership as Bakeloko Installs New Paramount Chief

January 30, 2026

Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh shaking hands with the newly installed Paramount Chief, PC Adikaili Mellah (OPAPA) III in Bakeloko Chiefdom in Port Loko District

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leone’s Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, on Friday, January 23, 2026, joined residents of Bakeloko Chiefdom in Port Loko District to formally welcome the newly installed Paramount Chief, PC Adikaili Mellah (OPAPA) III, using the occasion to underscore the central role of unity, peace and responsible leadership in driving grassroots development.

The Vice President attended the official home-calling ceremony, a traditional event that marks the return of a newly elected Paramount Chief to his people following the successful conclusion of the chieftaincy election process. The ceremony attracted traditional authorities, elders, youth groups, women’s organisations, local council representatives and community stakeholders from across Bakeloko Chiefdom and neighbouring areas.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh praised the people of Bakeloko and the wider Port Loko District for the calm, inclusive and peaceful manner in which the chieftaincy elections were conducted. He described the process as a strong demonstration of maturity and collective responsibility, noting that peace at the community level remains the foundation upon which national stability and development are built.

The Vice President urged all sections of the chiefdom to continue working together as one family, cautioning that division and prolonged disputes could undermine progress. He encouraged residents to rally behind the new Paramount Chief and support him in promoting reconciliation, dialogue and cooperation among all clans and interest groups within the chiefdom.

Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh noted that the installation of a young and forward-looking Paramount Chief presents Bakeloko Chiefdom with a unique opportunity to reposition itself for accelerated development. According to him, effective and visionary traditional leadership can strengthen local governance, improve coordination with Government institutions and attract development partners to the area.

Speaking on the role of traditional authorities, the Vice President emphasized that Paramount Chiefs are expected to remain apolitical and serve the interests of all their people without discrimination. He stressed that chiefs must act as custodians of peace, arbiters of justice and champions of development, rather than align themselves with partisan politics.

“Traditional leadership carries a sacred responsibility,” Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh said, adding that chiefs must always put the welfare, unity and progress of their people above personal or political considerations.

Highlighting Government investments in Port Loko District, the Vice President outlined several infrastructure and social development projects currently underway. These include the construction of new public office complexes, the establishment of a girls’ secondary school, improvements in healthcare facilities and the provision of other essential social services that were previously lacking in some communities within the district.

He explained that those interventions reflect the Government’s commitment to inclusive development and its determination to ensure that rural and semi-urban communities benefit from national growth initiatives. Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh assured residents that additional projects are in the pipeline, aimed at improving livelihoods, expanding access to education and healthcare and creating economic opportunities, particularly for young people and women.

The Vice President reiterated that development efforts must be people-centred and guided by the real needs and priorities of local communities. He pledged his continued support to Bakeloko Chiefdom and expressed readiness to work closely with Paramount Chief Adikaili Mellah (OPAPA) III, the local council and development partners to deliver sustainable and impactful projects.

Congratulating PC Adikaili Mellah (OPAPA) III on his installation, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh encouraged him to lead with humility, integrity and a strong sense of service. He described the Paramount Chief as a critical link between the people and the central Government, whose leadership would be instrumental in maintaining peace and fostering development in the chiefdom.

The ceremony concluded with a renewed call for unity and cooperation, as the Vice President commended Port Loko District for preserving peace throughout the chieftaincy process. He urged all stakeholders to remain committed to dialogue, mutual respect and collective action in order to secure lasting peace, progress and development in Bakeloko Chiefdom.

The installation of PC Adikaili Mellah (OPAPA) III marks the sixth chieftaincy event across the country witnessed by Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, reflecting his continued engagement with traditional institutions as key partners in Sierra Leone’s development agenda.

Lǒr Restaurant Emerges as a Premier Lifestyle Dining Destination in Sierra Leone

January 30, 2026

Freetown’s hospitality and lifestyle sector continues to witness remarkable growth, with Lǒr Restaurant emerging as one of the city’s most celebrated upscale dining destinations. Strategically located along the Peninsular Highway in Juba/Goderich, the restaurant has steadily built a reputation for blending refined cuisine, professional service and breathtaking coastal views into a complete dining experience.

Since opening its doors, Lǒr Restaurant has attracted a diverse clientele, ranging from business executives and diplomats to tourists, families and social groups. Patrons consistently highlight not only the quality of the food but also the attention to detail that defines the restaurant’s service culture; an approach that Management says is anchored on consistency, warmth and guest satisfaction.

At the heart of Lǒr’s growing popularity is its impressively diverse international menu. The restaurant offers a carefully curated selection of Italian, Japanese, Lebanese, Indian and traditional Sierra Leonean dishes, with particular strength in premium grilled meats and seafood. Signature items such as the golden tomahawk steak, T-bone steak, volcano shrimp and Ebi tempura shrimp have become customer favourites, often described as both visually striking and expertly prepared. The menu also caters to lighter tastes, with options such as salmon salad and a variety of seafood platters.

Complementing the cuisine is an ambiance that many diners describe as vibrant yet relaxed. Designed with modern architectural elements, soft lighting and elegant décor, Lǒr Restaurant provides a refined setting that enhances the overall dining experience. Its rooftop bar and dining area, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, have become especially popular for sunset dinners, celebrations and private events, offering guests a scenic escape from the bustle of the city.

Customer service remains a key pillar of the restaurant’s appeal. Staff members are frequently praised for being courteous, attentive and professional, ensuring that guests feel welcomed and well cared for from arrival to departure. Management officials note that dining at Lǒr is intentionally crafted as an experience rather than a routine meal, combining hospitality, presentation and atmosphere.

To meet the expectations of modern diners, Lǒr Restaurant operates daily from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. on weekdays and extends service until 12:15 a.m. on weekends. The restaurant accepts multiple payment options, including cash, Visa, Mastercard and digital transfers, while also providing free parking, valet services and private event spaces for added convenience.

While peak hours can occasionally be busy due to high demand, regular patrons recommend making reservations in advance to ensure a seamless experience. Industry observers believe the restaurant’s success reflects a broader shift toward premium dining and lifestyle experiences in Sierra Leone’s capital.

As Freetown positions itself as an emerging tourism and leisure hub, Lǒr Restaurant continues to stand out as a symbol of culinary excellence and modern hospitality where fine dining truly meets the Atlantic horizon.

Key Information:
Location: Peninsular Highway, Juba/Goderich, Freetown
Phone: +232 90 002000
Cuisine: International (Sierra Leonean, Italian, Japanese, Lebanese, Indian)
Hours: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM (Weekdays); until 12:15 AM (Weekends)