19.7 C
Sierra Leone
Monday, November 25, 2024
Facebook Instagram Linkedin Twitter
Facebook Instagram Linkedin Twitter
Home Blog Page 20

NDMA Introduces First-Ever Service Delivery Charter to Enhance Disaster Response

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

The National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) has officially unveiled its first-ever Service Delivery Charter, marking a significant advancement in its commitment to enhance transparency and service standards. The Charter, launched on Wednesday 9th October, 2024 at the NDMA headquarters in Freetown, outlines the Agency’s vision, mission, core values and policy priorities while clearly defining the roles and responsibilities of the NDMA. It sets forth the standards of service that stakeholders, partners and the general public can expect from the Agency.

During the launch, Lt. Gen. (Rtd.) Brima Sesay, the NDMA’s Director-General, emphasized the importance of the Service Delivery Charter in helping the public and various actors across Sierra Leone better understand the Agency’s mission and approach to disaster risk reduction, emergency preparedness and response. The Charter serves as a vital resource for accessing information about NDMA services, offering clear guidance on seeking assistance, making inquiries or lodging complaints.

In the foreword of the Charter, Lt. Gen. Sesay noted, “The Charter represents a key example of evidence-based policymaking that assures citizens of the quality of the NDMA’s services during emergencies and disasters. It will serve as an invaluable tool now and in the future to strengthen the relationship between the Agency and the people of Sierra Leone.”

Mohamed L. Bah, NDMA’s Director of Communications, shared that he was tasked with developing the Service Delivery Charter in July. After drafting the document in August, he submitted it for review, which included technical and academic input from Professor Lee Miles. This collaboration ensured that the final Charter met international standards and reflected best practices in disaster management.

One of the Charter’s notable innovations is its foundation on evidence and best practices drawn from two award-winning research projects: AFRICAB (Driving African Capacity-Building in Disaster Management) and EVALDIS (Evaluating Local Disaster Management in Sierra Leone). These initiatives, conducted in collaboration with the Bournemouth University Disaster Management Centre (BUDMC) and led by Professor Miles, played a pivotal role in shaping the Charter’s contents. The projects have been internationally recognized, with the UK Cabinet Office citing them in 2024 as exemplars of best practices. Furthermore, Bournemouth University received a prestigious “Innovation that Inspires” Award from AACSB in 2023 for its contributions.

Speaking via Zoom during the launch, Professor Miles stated, “The launch of this Charter is a significant step forward for the NDMA, reflecting its determination to work closely with partners and to continuously adopt best practices in disaster management. It stands as a testament to the Agency’s commitment to the citizens of Sierra Leone.”

Professor Miles commended the NDMA for evolving into a mature Government Agency dedicated to improving disaster risk management in Sierra Leone. He encouraged the public to engage with the Charter, as it offers a comprehensive overview of the NDMA’s services and its mission to protect communities from disaster impacts.

The Service Delivery Charter not only underscores the NDMA’s commitment to continuous improvement but also highlights its dedication to incorporating contemporary disaster management research and co-creation practices.

With the launch of this new Service Delivery Charter, the NDMA is poised to set a benchmark for disaster management standards, not only in Sierra Leone but across Africa and beyond.

Leo Network SL Unveils Android TV Boxes, Multimedia Gateways, and Internet TV Services at Press Launch

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Leo Network, a rising Technology, Multimedia and Telecommunications company founded in October 2023 in Sierra Leone, has officially announced the launch of its Android TV Boxes, Multimedia Gateways and Internet TV Services. The event took place on Thursday 10th October, 2024 at the company’s headquarters, located on 16 West Street in Freetown.

Ishmail Humarr Kargbo Jr., the Co-Founder and Head of Operations at Leo Network, addressed attendees, outlining the company’s commitment to providing accessible and affordable multimedia solutions for all Sierra Leoneans. Ishmail Humarr Kargbo Jr., a tech entrepreneur and innovator, highlighted the company’s focus on bridging the digital divide, aiming to make high-quality entertainment accessible to all, regardless of financial background.

“Leo Network aims to enrich lives by enabling access to diverse content and entertainment options,” he said. “We believe that technology should empower communities and enhance digital literacy, ensuring that quality multimedia experiences are within everyone’s reach, regardless of economic status.”

At the heart of Leo Network’s offerings are their Android TV Boxes, Multimedia Gateways and Internet TV services, each designed to enhance users’ entertainment experiences. The Android TV Box, a compact yet powerful device, allows users to stream shows, movies and videos from a wide range of platforms. With access to thousands of applications and games, the device supports high-definition streaming for an immersive viewing experience.

The Multimedia Gateway serves as a central hub for digital content, enabling seamless integration with smart home devices and multiple streaming services. It offers reliable connectivity for enhanced streaming experiences, tailored to meet the evolving needs of users.

Additionally, Leo Network’s Internet TV service offers a diverse selection of local and international channels, with subscription plans designed to cater to different audiences. This ensures that quality entertainment is accessible to everyone, regardless of their economic situation.

Driven by a passion for technology, Leo Network is committed to making multimedia technology accessible to all. By focusing on affordable and innovative solutions, the company aims to provide every household with the opportunity to enjoy high-quality digital content.

“At Leo Network, we are dedicated to expanding our product range and improving our services as we grow. We are excited about the future and the positive impact our technology can have on communities across Sierra Leone,” Rima Martyn, the Business Development Officer noted.

In addition to its product offerings, Leo Network is deeply committed to empowering its community through digital literacy programs. The company engages in various initiatives to provide training and support on how to maximize the use of its products. By promoting digital literacy, Leo Network aims to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to confidently navigate the digital world.

Looking ahead, Leo Network plans to expand its product portfolio and explore new partnerships to further its mission of creating a more connected and informed society.

With a strong commitment to accessibility and community empowerment, Leo Network stands poised to become a leading force in Sierra Leone’s multimedia landscape.

WHH Hosts Two-Day Forum on Cocoa, Coffee & Cashew Production and Policies

By Millicent Senava Mannah

As part of the ADORE-Project SLE 1070, the Welt Hunger Hilfe (WHH) Sierra Leone organized a two-day discussion forum focusing on cocoa, coffee and cashew production, processing, value addition and policies. Held on October 10th and 11th, 2024, at the Family Kingdom on Lumley Beach Road, Freetown, the event brought together Government officials and Civil Society representatives to provide insights and support on navigating key issues in these sectors.

In his opening remarks, Gospell Matondi, Head of Programs at WHH, emphasized the importance of these three cash crops to Sierra Leone’s economy, heritage and resilience. He highlighted that the Forum’s primary goal was to address the challenges and opportunities within the value chain for these crops, particularly in preparation for the upcoming EU decortication-free regulations.

“The delay in the implementation of these regulations gives us a window of opportunity to exchange ideas, conduct actionable studies and discuss how to ensure sustainability, innovation and policy support for our farmers,” Gospell Matondi said. He also stressed the need to adopt sustainable agricultural practices, including climate-smart techniques, to align with global sustainability goals and promote climate resilience in farming operations. According to him, the Forum aimed to help farmers remain competitive in the global market while also boosting local economic benefits.

Delivering the keynote address, Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Theresa Dick, reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to sustainable agricultural development. She noted that the Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Henry Kpaka, is a passionate advocate for agricultural transformation and that the Forum aligns with the Government’s Feed Salone initiative, which seeks to revamp the nation’s agricultural landscape through both local and international collaboration.

Theresa Dick outlined the vision of Feed Salone, highlighting significant strides made in rice production, value chain development and climate resilience. “This forum provides a platform to reflect on the achievements in agriculture over the past year and chart the path forward for continued progress,” she said. The Deputy Minister emphasized the Government’s strategy to develop agriculture holistically, from production to market access, ensuring maximum value at every stage of the process.

Dr. Vibbi of the Produce Monitoring Board provided an overview of the policies and national regulations impacting the cocoa, coffee and cashew sectors. He pointed out several challenges in implementing policies and called for stronger collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture. He also stressed the need to update agricultural policies in line with current trends and proposed the creation of regulations to guide the influx of synthetic fertilizers into the country.

Dr. Aisie Nana Victoria, representing GIZ, highlighted that approximately 20 million people across Africa are involved in cocoa production, yet only about 30% of that production is processed locally. She noted that while Africa holds a significant comparative advantage in cocoa production, issues such as quality control, certification and policy challenges remain critical hurdles for the industry. Dr. Aisie further discussed the difficulties Sierra Leonean farmers face in calculating living income and the effective implementation of policies that would improve their livelihoods.

Speakers from Njala University, SLARI (Sierra Leone Agricultural Research Institute) and Solidaridad also contributed valuable insights during the discussions, underscoring the Forum’s collaborative approach.

The Forum concluded with a series of practical solutions and key recommendations aimed at supporting the growth of the cocoa, coffee and cashew sectors, focusing on sustainability, market dynamics and policy reform. These discussions mark an important step in enhancing Sierra Leone’s agricultural sector and ensuring that farmers can thrive both locally and globally.

Stats SL Embarks on 2025 Census Preparations with Inaugural Advisory Committee Meeting

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Towards the upcoming 2025 Population and Housing Census (PHC), Statistics Sierra Leone (Stats SL), with support from the Government of Sierra Leone and in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), held its Inaugural Advisory and Technical Committee Meetings on October 1st and 2nd, 2024, at New Brookfields Hotel in Freetown. The meetings marked the formal commencement of preparations for the census, which is scheduled to take place in December 2025.

The focus of these meetings was to determine the Terms of Reference (ToR) for both the Advisory and Technical Committees and to finalize the composition of their members. The Advisory Committee, as the highest decision-making body for the census, includes representatives from Sierra Leone’s major political parties, he All People’s Congress (APC) and the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), as well as members from the All Political Parties Association (APPA), key Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) and stakeholders such as the Inter-Religious Council, the Council of Paramount Chiefs and the Security Sector.

For the Technical Committee, participants were drawn from development partners including UNFPA, the United Nations Country Team (UNCT), the European Union (EU), the Department for International Development (DFID), the World Bank, universities and other relevant MDAs. These committees will play critical roles in ensuring the smooth execution of the 2025 census.

In his opening remarks, Moses L. J. Williams, Chairman of Stats SL Council and Head of the Advisory Committee, emphasized that the Advisory Committee is responsible for governance, policy-making and oversight of the census process, while the Technical Committee will focus on the technical aspects, such as finalizing the census tools and instruments. Moses L. J. Williams underscored the importance of collaboration and thorough preparation to achieve the desired outcome.

Peter Sam-Kpakra, Development Secretary at the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development, highlighted the pivotal role accurate data plays in national development. He called on all Sierra Leoneans to support the census process, stressing that no country can advance without reliable statistical information.

Chief Census Officer and Statistician-General, Andrew Bob Johnny, expressed satisfaction with the high turnout from committee members and reiterated Stats SL’s readiness to conduct the census successfully, provided adequate resources are made available. Andrew Bob Johnny further affirmed that his institution is prepared to oversee what could be the most comprehensive and effective census in Sierra Leone’s history.

UNFPA’s Deputy Country Representative, Sibeso Mululuma, echoed these sentiments, reaffirming the organization’s commitment to supporting Stats SL throughout the census process. She emphasized the importance of maintaining quality control and ethical standards to ensure that the data collected meets international benchmarks and serves the needs of all stakeholders.

During the meetings, Deputy Statistician-General Lansana Kpewolo Kanneh delivered a detailed presentation outlining the various stages of the census process, from preparation through to the final execution and post-census activities. He noted that Stats SL would require $37.5 million to conduct the census, of which the Government of Sierra Leone has pledged $33 million through a cabinet paper, showcasing the Government’s strong commitment to the project.

The meetings culminated in the review, adjustment and adoption of the ToR and the composition of both committees, marking the official start of the 2025 PHC preparations. The importance of this census was also highlighted by President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, who had earlier laid the foundation for the process.

In his August 2024 address, President Bio emphasized the significance of the 2025 census in guiding national development programs such as the 2024-2030 Medium-Term National Development Plan and efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He noted that the data from this decennial census would provide a crucial baseline for assessing the impact of development initiatives and tracking the country’s progress.

The President further reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the census with the necessary financial and logistical resources and expressed his gratitude to international partners like UNFPA, the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), and the United States Census Bureau for their collaboration in ensuring the success of this national endeavor.

The 2025 Population and Housing Census is slated to begin on December 2nd, 2025, with December 1st declared as Census Night. The results from this census are expected to be instrumental in shaping Sierra Leone’s future development trajectory.

Bike Riders and Police Join Forces: New Agreement Aims to Tackle Road Safety Challenges

By Esther Wright

In a milestone achievement aimed at improving relations between the Sierra Leone Commercial Motor Bike Riders Union (BRU) and law enforcement, a national communiqué was signed on Monday October 7, 2024 in Freetown, signaling a new chapter of cooperation and mutual understanding. The signing ceremony, held at the Atlantic Hotel, brought together representatives from the Sierra Leone Police (SLP), the Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority (SLRSA) and leaders of the bike riders’ union.

Key figures in attendance included Deputy Inspector General of Police,  Aiah Edward Samadia, representing the Inspector General of Police; Honorable Minister of Youth Affairs,  Mohamed Osman Bangura; UNDP Resident Representative Fredrick Ampiah; and Executive Director of the SLRSA, Rev. Smart K. Senesie, among other distinguished guests.

Deputy Inspector General Samadia stressed the importance of fostering peace and cooperation between law enforcement and the bike riders’ union. He remarked, “Effective law enforcement requires collaboration, particularly when addressing the challenges faced by commercial motorbike riders. The Sierra Leone Police is committed to working alongside the BRU to ensure a peaceful and safe environment for all.” He underscored that the dialogue, which included various stakeholders like the Ministry of Youth Affairs and the Inter-religious Council, was vital for addressing the pressing issues between the two groups.

Highlighting the SLP’s focus on community policing, Aiah Edward Samadia stated, “This event demonstrates the inclusive and open-minded approach of the police force. While we remain steadfast in enforcing the law, we are equally dedicated to engaging with the community to promote lasting peace and development.”

Aiah Edward Samadia also reflected on the outcomes of the National Dialogue held at the Bintumani Hotel in June, noting that these discussions are now a priority in shaping law enforcement practices concerning motorbike riders. He acknowledged the challenges in the Central Business District (CBD) and expressed optimism that continued open dialogue would lead to mutual understanding and sustainable solutions.

In his closing remarks, the Deputy IGP urged the leadership of the BRU to actively raise awareness among their members about the communiqué’s terms, stressing that peace is a collective responsibility. He also thanked the UNDP and the Peacebuilding Fund for their support in facilitating the dialogue, emphasizing the importance of future cooperation between all parties involved.

Other notable speakers included the National Bike Riders Union Public Relations Officer and Minister of Youth Affairs, Mohamed Osman Bangura, who both reaffirmed the critical role of commercial motorbike riders in the country’s transportation sector. They emphasized the need for adherence to the communiqué to ensure its successful implementation.

The signing of this agreement represents a significant step forward in strengthening the relationship between bike riders and law enforcement, paving the way for a safer and more harmonious environment in Sierra Leone.

SLCB Opens New Doors in Grafton: A Commitment to Financial Accessibility and Growth

By Esther Wright

The Grafton community has come together to express its heartfelt gratitude to Yusufu Abdul Silla, the Managing Director of the Sierra Leone Commercial Bank (SLCB), following the successful inauguration of a new bank outlet at the J-Man Gas Station. This milestone significantly enhances the community’s access to vital financial services.

During the opening ceremony, local leaders and residents praised Yusufu Abdul Silla for his vision and unwavering commitment to improving banking accessibility. His pivotal role in establishing this outlet was acknowledged as a major step forward in meeting the financial needs of the community.

Residents highlighted the importance of having a banking facility in such a convenient location, which will simplify access to services like deposits, withdrawals and loan applications. The new outlet is expected to foster economic growth by supporting local businesses and encouraging savings among residents.

In his address, Yusufu Abdul Silla reaffirmed SLCB’s dedication to promoting financial inclusion and serving underserved communities. He appreciated the warm reception from the Grafton community and expressed his resolve to ensure that the bank continues to evolve in response to their changing needs.

Community leaders noted that the initiative extends beyond banking; it serves as a vital resource for economic empowerment.

The establishment of SLCB in Grafton is seen as a catalyst for development, equipping residents with the tools to enhance their financial literacy and stability.

As the Grafton community looks forward to the advantages brought by the new bank outlet, appreciation for Yusufu Abdul Silla’s leadership and vision remains steadfast. His commitment to creating accessible financial solutions promises a bright future for both the bank and the community it serves.

As Jesmed Suma Refutes Claims… NGC Crisis Intensifies as Party Leaders Disagree Over Suspension of Acting Chairman

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

A major internal conflict has erupted within the National Grand Coalition (NGC) following the suspension of Jesmed Foday Mami Suma, the party’s Acting National Chairman and Leader. The National Executive Committee (NEC) of the NGC took this action on Saturday, October 5, 2024, in what many perceive as a turning point in the party’s leadership.

A formal letter signed on October 7, 2024 by Alhaji Amadu M. Sheriff, the NGC’s National Secretary-General and copied to the Political Party Registration Commission (PPRC), all registered political parties and major media houses, informed Jesmed Foday Mami Suma of his immediate suspension. The letter requested that he returns all party properties and documents in his possession within two days and emphasized that he no longer has the authority to speak on behalf of the NGC.

In response, Jesmed Suma, known for his no-nonsense leadership style, has vehemently refuted these claims. During a television interview shortly after the suspension, he maintained that his suspension was unconstitutional and illegitimate. “I was never suspended from the party, as falsely alleged by the Secretary-General,” Jesmed Foday Mami Suma declared.

Jesmed Foday Mami Suma further clarified that, according to the NGC constitution, any disciplinary action must be initiated by the party’s Disciplinary Committee, which would then refer its findings to the NEC for ratification. He emphasized that the NEC does not have the authority to take disciplinary action without such an investigation. “NEC cannot investigate and resolve disciplinary matters within five minutes of an accusation being made,” he noted, challenging the process that led to his suspension.

The conflict within the NGC was further fueled by Jesmed Foday Mami  Suma’s statement, made during a TV interview prior to the NEC meeting, where he asserted that while the NGC is theoretically in alliance with the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), the alliance was not practically active. That statement was a focal point of contention during the NEC meeting. According to Jesmed Foday Mami Suma , the Secretary-General urged a NEC member to propose that he apologize for his statement or face suspension. The Chairman refused to apologize, standing by his words.

Jesmed Foday Mami pointed to Article 16, Subsection 7 of the NGC constitution, which mandates that NEC decisions must be made through secret ballots. He argued that the chaotic atmosphere during the meeting, where members demanded an apology or suspension, could not be considered a legitimate vote.

“This is a failed hostile takeover attempt by outside forces, and we, the true members of the NGC, are determined to fight against it,” Jesmed Foday Mami Suma concluded, rallying support from party loyalists.

On the other hand, the NGC’s National Public Relations Officer (PRO) issued a public statement affirming Jesmed Foday Mami Suma’s position as the legitimate Chairman and Leader of the party. “Jesmed Foday Mami Suma is the bona fide Chairman of the NGC. No one or nobody has suspended him,” the PRO stated. He reiterated that Jesmed Foday Mami Suma was duly elected as Deputy Chairman and assumed the position of Chairman after the former Chair’s departure.

The PRO also dismissed claims that Jesmed Foday Mami Suma’s statements regarding the NGC-SLPP alliance constituted “anti-party” behavior, pointing out that he merely stated facts and that any disciplinary measures must follow due process through the Disciplinary Committee.

“This is a clear attempt to undermine our Chairman and disrupt the party from within. But let them wait for our next National Delegates Conference—Suma is still in charge,” the PRO added.

However, Alhaji K. Tarawally (Laj-K), the Deputy Secretary-General of the NGC, defended the NEC’s decision. In a statement, Alhaji K. Tarawally expressed disappointment over the timing of the action but urged party members to respect the NEC’s authority. “The suspension of Jesmed Suma was passed following a democratic vote by the NEC, reflecting the majority will of its members. This decision, while difficult, is binding and necessary to maintain the integrity of the party,” he stated.

Alhaji K. Tarawally also called for unity and reconciliation within the NGC, warning that the current divisions could jeopardize the party’s prospects ahead of the 2028 elections. “We must focus on fostering collaboration and solidarity to position the NGC as a formidable force,” he added.

As tensions escalate, it remains to be seen whether the NGC will overcome this internal crisis or continue to grapple with deepening divisions. The party’s next National Delegates Conference will likely be the battleground for determining its future leadership and direction.

U.S. Embassy Partners with Sierra Leone on $308,874 Fiscal Transparency Initiative

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The U.S. Embassy in Freetown, in partnership with the Government of Sierra Leone, on Monday October 7, 2024 launched a $308,874 Fiscal Transparency Innovation Fund (FTIF) project aimed at enhancing transparency, accountability and improving public service delivery. The project aligns with Sierra Leone’s Medium-Term National Development Plan (2024-2030) and the Big Five Game Changers initiative.

The project will be executed by the Institute for State Effectiveness, a U.S.-based nonprofit organization renowned for its global expertise in state-building and governance, working closely with key Government bodies, including the Presidential Delivery Unit and the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development.

Speaking at the virtual launch, U.S. Embassy Economic Officer, Chloe Combes, emphasized the role of the Sierra Leonean Government in the project’s success. “The U.S. Embassy is proud to support this important initiative, but it is the Government of Sierra Leone’s ownership and leadership of the project that will ensure its success,” she stated. Chloe Combes further highlighted the project’s potential to enhance transparency, foster collaboration and strengthen accountability within the Government, laying a robust foundation for more effective public service delivery across the nation.

The project focuses on several critical areas, including the development of a budgetary and performance monitoring system, the facilitation of Government collaboration workshops, an assessment of transparency systems at the local level and the creation of citizen-friendly tools to promote open governance.

Since its inception, the Fiscal Transparency Innovation Fund has allocated around $57 million to support initiatives in over 65 countries. These projects are geared towards enhancing budget transparency, advancing public financial management and improving the transparency of licensing and contracting processes, particularly in the natural resource sector.

The launch of the FTIF project marks a significant step forward for Sierra Leone in its efforts to bolster governance, accountability and transparency in line with its national development priorities.

Orange SL Launches Customer Service Week 2024, Celebrating Excellence in Customer Care

By Foday Moriba, Intern, Public Relations Unit, Orange Sierra Leone

Orange Sierra Leone on Monday, October 7, 2024, kicked off its annual Customer Service Week under the theme: “Celebrating Excellence in Customer Service.” Held at the company’s headquarters on Hill Station, Freetown, the event gathered top executives, Government officials and industry stakeholders to honor the unwavering dedication of Orange Sierra Leone’s employees in providing exceptional service to customers.

This celebration aligns with the global observance of Customer Service Week, an international event that underscores the importance of customer service and the individuals who work to meet the needs of customers every day.

A key highlight of the launch was a panel discussion moderated by Kadijah Bangura, Managing Partner of Liberty Online TV, featuring notable speakers such as the Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah; Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Timothy Musa Kabba; Executive Director of Accountability Now-Sierra Leone, Sao Lamin and Orange CEO, Sekou Amadou Bah.

During his opening remarks, Sekou Amadou Bah, CEO of Orange Sierra Leone, emphasized the importance of the celebration, which coincided with the global Customer Service Week. He lauded the contributions of Orange’s workforce, stating, “Customer service is more than just a department; it’s a culture we cultivate throughout the company.” Sekou Amadou Bah, emphasized Orange’s brand promise, “Orange is Here,” reflecting the company’s commitment to fostering strong connections and delivering positive customer experiences.

The CEO also acknowledged the challenges faced by frontline customer service employees, praising their resilience and professionalism. “I’ve seen our team members manage difficult situations with grace. It’s not easy, but they continue to offer exceptional service, showing great maturity and dedication,” Sekou Amadou Bah noted.

Throughout the week, Orange will celebrate its customer service teams, including shop agents, call center operators and trade teams. The CEO commended these employees, referring to them as “the frontline ambassadors of our brand,” and reaffirmed Orange Sierra Leone’s long-term commitment to serving the nation.

Executive Director of Accountability Now-Sierra Leone, Sao Lamin, during the panel discussion, spoke on the significance of inclusivity and consumer rights in the telecommunications and ICT sectors. He commended Orange Sierra Leone for its progress in enhancing services and for contributing to job creation, particularly through mobile money services like Orange Money, which has had a positive impact on the local economy.

Sao Lamin shared a personal story from years ago, recalling how his mother had to travel long distances and wait for days to receive money from abroad. He contrasted this with the present, where services like Orange Money allow such transactions to be completed in minutes, even in remote communities. “While we’ve made gains, there are still a few challenges ahead,” he said, affirming Civil Society’s ongoing role in holding companies accountable and advocating for consumer rights.

Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Timothy Musa Kabba, also contributed to the panel discussion, sharing a personal experience. He revealed that earlier this year, after returning from China, his SIM card malfunctioned due to exceeding mobile service limits. He praised Orange for swiftly resolving the issue, saying, “Orange is my company.” Timothy Musa Kabba expressed his loyalty to Orange, despite occasional challenges and emphasized the critical role telecommunications services, like Orange Money, play in Sierra Leone, particularly in facilitating Government operations and international partnerships.

He also encouraged Orange to invest more in human capital development, particularly through education and corporate social responsibility initiatives. The Foreign Affairs Minister highlighted that empowering Sierra Leoneans through training is essential for reducing reliance on foreign expertise and supporting the country’s long-term development.

Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, commended Orange for its contributions to nation-building. A long-time customer himself, he praised the evolution of Orange’s services, particularly the transformative impact of the Orange Money app, which he described as “life-changing.” He encouraged wider adoption of the service but stressed the need for continuous improvements to meet the growing demand for reliable communication services.

Chernoh Bah also advocated for more transparency and customer engagement, emphasizing the importance of proactive communication when issues arise. “People are reasonable, but they want to know what’s happening when there’s an issue and they want to be treated with respect,” he stated, urging Orange to foster stronger relationships with customers by promoting open dialogue.

The event concluded with the presentation of plaques to customers who have been with Orange for over 20 years, as well as long-standing partners. Among the recipients were Madam Theresa Sheriff and Abu Bakarr Turay, while institutional partners like Balani & Sons, Zain, the World Bank and the World Food Programme (WFP) were also honored. These awards highlighted the loyalty and support of both individual customers and corporate partners, acknowledging their critical role in Orange Sierra Leone’s success over the years.

NP (SL) Kicks Off Customer Service Week: A Celebration of Customer Care Excellence

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In honor of Customer Service Week, NP (SL) Limited, on October 7, 2024, kicked off a week of celebrations to recognize its esteemed customers for their vital role in the company’s success. This global event emphasizes the significance of exceptional customer service and NP (SL) joined numerous organizations to mark the occasion.

The Chief Executive Officer of NP Sierra Leone, Saidu Mansaray, highlighted the company’s achievements, attributing them to a steadfast dedication to customer satisfaction. He stated, “Our consistent commitment to meeting the diverse needs of our esteemed clientele nationwide has fostered an environment of trust and reliability.”

Dr. Willette James, Communications Manager for NP Sierra Leone, reinforced the company’s ethos of prioritizing customer care. She emphasized the Management’s proactive engagement with customers and the importance of soliciting feedback to address concerns promptly. “This practice not only strengthens our relationship with customers but also underscores our commitment to continuous improvement,” she noted.

She further explained that expressing gratitude to valued customers is a key aspect of NP Sierra Leone’s mission. This initiative, Dr. Willette James added, reflects the company’s dedication to acknowledging its loyal patrons and recognizing their essential role in its growth.

As a leader in the importation and marketing of petroleum products, NP Sierra Leone has established itself as a significant player in the nation’s energy sector. With a robust presence across West Africa, including branches in Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast and The Gambia, NP Sierra Leone remains committed to excellence, innovation and national development.

The company’s strategic approach, centered around customer needs, has driven its impressive growth. NP Sierra Leone aims to ensure that quality petroleum products are readily accessible throughout the country, positioning Filling Stations in strategic locations, including hard-to-reach provincial areas. This initiative effectively bridges the gap between rural and urban communities, providing a steady supply of fuel.

One of the cornerstones of NP Sierra Leone’s success is its integration of cutting-edge technology to enhance service delivery. The installation of advanced calibrated pumping machines at its stations guarantees that customers receive the exact amount of fuel they pay for, fostering trust and confidence. This commitment to transparency has earned NP Sierra Leone the accolade of “1st for Customer Care,” solidifying its reputation as a customer-centric company.

The petroleum importing and marketing company also prioritizes local employment, hiring Sierra Leoneans at all levels of the organization and investing in training programs. This approach not only creates jobs but empowers the workforce, contributing to the country’s economic development and aligning with the Government’s local content policy.

In a bid to reduce carbon footprint, NP Sierra Leone introduced NP Gas, an environmentally friendly cooking solution certified by the Environment Protection Agency (EPA). This innovative product has gained popularity as a clean and reliable energy source, available in various sizes at Filling Stations and authorized dealers.

Further enhancing customer convenience, NP Sierra Leone launched the NP Smart Card, a digital payment solution that allows customers to purchase fuel without cash. This card, equipped with an embedded chip, can be recharged for future purchases, simplifying fuel management and enhancing security.

Continuing its commitment to innovation, NP Sierra Leone introduced the NP Energy Pass, an advanced smart card that facilitates cashless transactions at Filling Stations nationwide. With state-of-the-art security features, the NP Energy Pass offers instant SMS notifications for every transaction and includes measures for swift recovery in case of blockages due to incorrect password attempts.

The NP Energy Pass is accepted at multiple locations across Freetown and beyond, reinforcing NP Sierra Leone’s commitment to making energy products more accessible and convenient for all.

Additionally, NP Sierra Leone has unveiled mobile fuel tanks designed to streamline refueling operations. These 10,000-liter tanks, equipped with advanced safety and dispensing technology, ensure that fuel is readily available where needed while maintaining high safety standards.

As a responsible corporate citizen, NP Sierra Leone consistently supports social initiatives beyond the energy sector. The company has contributed to the development of sports, healthcare and education, including financing the construction of a Burns Unit at Connaught Hospital and providing essential school materials to underprivileged children.

NP Sierra Leone is also among the largest taxpayers to the National Revenue Authority, significantly contributing to the Government’s development projects.

With an unwavering commitment to innovation, customer care and national development, NP Sierra Leone continues to lead the petroleum sector in Sierra Leone, demonstrating its integral role in the country’s economic and social landscape.

1...192021...1,073Page 20 of 1,073

© Copyright - The Calabash Newspaper