Church Leaders Endorse ‘Healing Jesus Campaign’ Ahead of April 29 – May 3 Crusade

April 23, 2025

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The capital city of Sierra Leone is set to experience a spiritual revival as the Healing Jesus Campaign, a major evangelistic outreach led by renowned international preacher Evangelist Dag Heward-Mills, comes to Freetown from April 29 to May 3, 2025.

Announced recently, the campaign will be hosted at the Freetown Polytechnic (formerly Freetown Teachers College) Field in Jui and is expected to draw thousands of attendees from across the country and beyond.

What has made this crusade even more powerful is the endorsement it has received from the spiritual fathers and mothers, mighty men and women of God across the land of Sierra Leone.

Organized in collaboration with the Body of Christ in Sierra Leone, this non-denominational event is open to all regardless of background, denomination or faith and promises five nights of miracles, healing, deliverance and salvation, alongside three days of leadership training for pastors and church leaders.

The principal speaker for the ‘Healing Jesus Campaign’ is Evangelist Dag Heward-Mills, a globally respected preacher, author and founder of the United Denominations Originating from the Lighthouse Group of Churches (UDOLGC), which comprises more than 4,000 churches worldwide.

A trained medical doctor, Evangelist Dag Heward-Mills has dedicated over two decades to full-time ministry, bringing the message of Jesus Christ to millions. Since launching the Healing Jesus Campaign in 2004, he has preached in 38 countries through more than 250 campaigns, leading to over 10.5 million recorded decisions for Christ.

He is also the author of over 100 Christian books, translated into 58 languages and serves on international Christian platforms such as the Pentecostal World Fellowship and Church Growth International, founded by the late Dr. David Yonggi Cho of South Korea.

The week-long program will feature:

Five nights of open-air crusades (April 29 – May 3) starting at 5:00 PM nightly, at the Freetown Polytechnic (formerly Freetown Teachers College) Field in Jui, with spirit-filled worship, gospel preaching and divine healing services.
A three-day Pastors & Leaders Conference (April 30 – May 2), from 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM, at Flaming Evangelical Ministries on Syke Street in Freetown, aimed at equipping church leaders with biblical leadership principles and spiritual empowerment.

For the Pastors & Leaders Conference, participants are required to register and there will be two registration options: a standard registration fee of 50 Leones, which grants access to the conference, and a Makarios registration fee of 600 Leones, which includes conference access along with 50 books authored by Evangelist Dag Heward-Mills. The conference is designed to equip church leaders with biblical principles and spiritual tools for more effective ministry. These payments apply only to the Pastors & Leaders Conference, while the five nights of open-air crusades remain completely free and open to the public.

Organizers say the crusade will be a time of divine visitation, referencing testimonies from previous campaigns across Africa where attendees have reported miraculous healings, deliverance from oppression and spiritual transformation.

According to the organizing committee, the objectives of the Healing Jesus Campaign include preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ, fostering unity within the Christian community and promoting moral and spiritual revival particularly among the youth.

“This is a campaign of miracles and transformation,” a spokesperson said. “It is about healing not just bodies, but also hearts, communities and the soul of the nation.”

Excitement is already building across churches and communities in Sierra Leone. Many faith leaders have welcomed the campaign as a timely intervention in a country yearning for spiritual renewal, healing and peace.

“This will be a national blessing,” said Rev. Samuel Bangura, a local pastor in Freetown. “It’s a chance for Sierra Leone to encounter God in a powerful way. We are mobilizing our members and the entire community to attend.”

Everyone including individuals, families, churches and curious seekers is invited to take part in this historic event. Organizers are encouraging attendees to come with faith and expectancy.

“Come expecting a miracle. Come expecting healing. Come expecting salvation,” Evangelist Dag Heward-Mills said in a statement. “Jesus is ready to meet you right where you are.”

Joy Gborie Concludes 168-Hour Interview Marathon in Bid for Guinness World Record

April 23, 2025

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In what is being hailed as a groundbreaking moment for Sierra Leone, celebrated journalist and reality TV personality Joy Gborie on Sunday, April 20, 2025, concluded an extraordinary 168-hour interview marathon in a bold attempt to set a new Guinness World Record.

The seven-day event, which began on April 14 at the New Brookfields Hotel in Freetown, saw Joy Gborie tirelessly engage with over 100 guests drawn from diverse walks of life, including media, governance, academia, entrepreneurship, entertainment and hospitality.

Her attempt aims to shatter the existing world record of 55 hours and 24 seconds, currently held by Nigerian media entrepreneur Clara Chizoba Kronborg, who earned the title in Marbella, Spain, in March 2024.

“This is the loudest conversation in Sierra Leone,” Joy Gborie proclaimed to a cheering crowd after completing the final interview. “We did this for Sierra Leone to bring all hands on deck. I am happy and proud to put my country on the map for global recognition.”

Among the high-profile personalities interviewed were Chief Minister of Sierra Leone, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh and Freetown’s Mayor, Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr OBE, both of whom praised the bold initiative as a beacon of inspiration and resilience.

The event drew widespread public interest, with many Sierra Leoneans expressing pride in Joy Gborie’s attempt. Crowds gathered at the venue and followed online streams to witness what many described as a defining cultural moment for the country.

“I don’t know how she did it, but this woman just proved that Sierra Leoneans can achieve anything,” said Mariatu Kargbo, a university student. “She spoke for all of us and gave us hope.”

“I was so inspired,” said Samuel Bockarie, a young entrepreneur who attended one of the sessions. “Her energy, her consistency; it’s something we can all learn from. It was not just about interviews; it was about unity and elevating Sierra Leone.”

Beyond the world record goal, the marathon served as a platform to highlight the achievements and challenges of Sierra Leoneans across sectors. Joy Gborie used her platform to spotlight youth leaders, unsung heroes, women change makers and entrepreneurs driving change across the country.

“This was more than just an attempt to break a record,” said media analyst Ibrahim Sankoh. “It was a national dialogue, a showcase of Sierra Leonean excellence and a moment of national pride.”

Joy Gborie’s team has submitted the necessary documentation and footage to Guinness World Records for verification. The review process typically takes several weeks, but anticipation is already building across the country.

If confirmed, Joy Gborie will not only etch her name in history but also become the first Sierra Leonean to hold this particular world record. Until then, Sierra Leone celebrates her as a champion of national pride and perseverance.

SLCAA DG Participates in ICAO Facilitation Conference in Doha, Qatar

April 23, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), Madam Musayeroh Barrie, has represented Sierra Leone at the 2025 International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Facilitation Conference (FALC 2025) held from April 14 to 17, 2025 in Doha, Qatar. The high-level conference convened senior aviation officials from ICAO member states to discuss the future of global air transport under the theme: “Facilitating the Future of Air Transport.”

Throughout the conference, Madam Musayeroh Barrie engaged in strategic meetings with key ICAO leaders, including the President of the ICAO Council, the Secretary General and the head of the Air Transport Bureau (ATB). Discussions centered on strengthening Sierra Leone’s aviation sector, fostering cooperation and ensuring alignment with ICAO’s global standards.

The three-day conference, broadcast live via ICAO TV, focused on developing a forward-looking facilitation strategy for the aviation industry. Key discussion topics included:

• Agency Coordination
• Passenger Experience
• Cargo Release, Clearance and Automation
• Travel Document Integrity and Border Control
• Passenger Data Systems
• Innovation in Facilitation

Representing Sierra Leone on a high-level panel alongside other aviation experts and senior officials, Madam Musayeroh Barrie underscored the country’s progress in aviation safety, security and sustainability since November 2023. She highlighted the SLCAA’s efforts in compliance with ICAO regulations and its commitment to expanding Sierra Leone’s global aviation footprint.

A notable highlight of her participation was the announcement of a new international route by Air Sierra Leone. Madam Musayeroh Barrie shared the official public notice issued by the airline, confirming the launch of a direct flight from Freetown International Airport (FIA) to Gatwick Airport in London, United Kingdom; an important milestone for Sierra Leone’s aviation and tourism sectors.

FALC 2025 served as a unique platform for states and aviation industry stakeholders to collaborate on strategies aimed at adapting to the evolving dynamics of civil aviation. It also marked a continuation of ICAO’s commitment to enhancing global facilitation following key 2024 milestones, including the celebration of the Year of Facilitation, the 75th anniversary of Annex 9 (Facilitation) and ICAO’s 80th anniversary.

A key feature of the event was the high-level ministerial segment, where global leaders reaffirmed their dedication to improving international mobility, promoting seamless travel and strengthening the role of air transport in connecting communities.

It is also important to note that Madam Musayeroh Barrie had previously visited Doha in February 2025, where she held discussions with the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority on technical cooperation. Her leadership continues to position Sierra Leone as an emerging force in African aviation, particularly in the areas of security, compliance and modernization.

Ministry of Finance’s Silence on Security Rice Supply Draws Widespread Condemnation

April 23, 2025

Minister of Finance Sierra Leone, Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura

A wave of growing discontent is quietly but steadily rising within Sierra Leone’s security sector as persistent delays in rice supplies to key personnel threaten to undermine morale, discipline and operational readiness. The root cause, sources say, lies in the Ministry of Finance’s continued failure to disburse funds owed to rice suppliers, who have not been paid for months despite fulfilling their contractual obligations.

The Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) and the Prisons Department are among the hardest hit, with officers and soldiers now openly expressing frustration at what they see as a deepening crisis with far-reaching implications.

Rice, considered a staple entitlement and a critical support provision for security forces, has either been inconsistently delivered or entirely withheld for several months. In some quarters, personnel have not received their rice allocations for up to four months, creating an atmosphere of uncertainty and dissatisfaction.

A security personnel, speaking on condition of anonymity, lamented, “We are tired of empty promises. We’ve engaged the National Security Adviser and the Minister of Internal Affairs, but nothing has changed. Officers are reaching a breaking point.”

Sources within the RSLAF described the situation in even graver terms. While the Ministry of Defence has processed and forwarded payment vouchers covering nine months (2023–2024), the Ministry of Finance has yet to release the necessary funds to suppliers. This bureaucratic impasse has left military personnel without rice since early 2025.

The Prisons Department paints a similar picture. In 2023, the Government owed suppliers five months’ worth of rice for prison inmates, a backlog that has now ballooned to seven months in 2024. The consequence is a dire situation affecting both prisoners and the correctional officers responsible for maintaining security in the facilities.

Social commentators blame the bureaucratic bottlenecks and a lack of urgency on the part of the Ministry of Finance. Despite having submitted all required payment documentation, including verified and approved vouchers, contractors continue to wait in vain for their dues. The prolonged delays have led to logistical breakdowns, food shortages and growing anger across the ranks.

When approached for comment, an official of the Ministry of Finance acknowledged the existence of outstanding payments to various contractors but declined to provide specifics on the rice supply issue. “High-level discussions are ongoing,” the spokesperson stated vaguely, offering no timeline or definitive action plan.

Security analysts have sounded the alarm, warning that the situation is dire . “This is not just an administrative hiccup,” said one expert. “When frontline defenders of the nation go hungry, the consequences affect everyone. This is a matter of national security.”

The urgency of the issue cannot be overstated. As murmurs of dissatisfaction reverberate through barracks, police units and correctional institutions nationwide, there is an escalating demand for swift and decisive action. Many warn that if the situation is not addressed immediately, the Government risks compromising the effectiveness, loyalty and stability of the very forces tasked with protecting the country.

“A hungry force is a vulnerable force,” one security personnel stated starkly. “And a vulnerable force puts the nation at risk.”

As pressure mounts from both within and outside the security sector, the message is clear: the Government must act now, by paying the rice suppliers and restoring the supply chain, before the situation spirals into a threat far more serious than a delayed delivery.

Indian Community Hosts Baisakhi Celebration in Freetown, with a Spectacular Fusion of Cultures

April 23, 2025

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

The High Commission of India and the Indian community in Sierra Leone hosted Baisakhi celebration on Friday 18 April, 2025 at Sierra Palms Resort in Aberdeen. The event, attended by Indian expatriates, Sierra Leonean nationals and international guests, transformed the venue into a dazzling showcase of cultural harmony and festive exuberance.

Baisakhi, one of India’s most significant festivals, holds deep religious and cultural importance, particularly for Sikhs and Punjabis worldwide. Originating in 1699, it commemorates the formation of the Khalsa by Guru Gobind Singh and marks the beginning of the harvest season; a time of gratitude, renewal and communal joy.

The Freetown celebration beautifully blended traditional Indian customs with local African influences, creating a unique fusion that delighted attendees. The venue was adorned with bright decorations, while the aroma of authentic Indian cuisine filled the air, offering guests a true taste of Punjab.

The highlight of the evening was the energetic Bhangra performances, a lively Punjabi folk dance that had the audience clapping and cheering. In a special display of cultural exchange, a dance troupe from India performed alongside a local Sierra Leonean group trained in Indian dance styles a powerful symbol of unity and shared artistry.

Adding to the excitement, a raffle draw gave attendees the chance to win prizes sponsored by event supporters, fostering a sense of communal fun and engagement.

Speaking at the event, S. Mohinder Bir Singh Sachdeva (popularly known as Pa Jeety), a prominent figure in the Indian-Sierra Leonean community and the CEO of Jeety Trading Company, shared his thoughts on the festival’s significance.

“Baisakhi is a celebration of happiness, togetherness and gratitude,” he said. “It’s not just about our traditions; it’s about embracing diversity and strengthening the bonds between India and Sierra Leone.”

A longtime advocate for cultural exchange and philanthropy, Pa Jeety emphasized how festivals like Baisakhi serve as platforms for fostering mutual understanding and friendship.

The successful event underscored the deepening ties between the Indian diaspora and Sierra Leone, proving that cultural celebrations can transcend borders and bring people together in shared joy.

Concluding with music, dance and laughter, the Baisakhi celebration stood as a shining example of how cultural festivals can illuminate not just a room, but the hearts of an entire community.

Orange Sierra Leone Breaks Ground on Lifesaving Health Centre in Wai Village

April 23, 2025

Sekou Amadou Bah, Chief Executive Officer of Orange Sierra Leone turning the sod

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a move geared towards strengthening healthcare delivery in rural Sierra Leone, Orange Sierra Leone has officially turned the sod for the construction of a fully-funded health centre in Wai Village, Soro Gbeima Chiefdom in Pujehun District, Southern Province of Sierra Leone.

The symbolic turning of the sod ceremony was held on Wednesday, 16th April 2025 and brought together Government officials, local authorities, development partners and community stakeholders. The project, spearheaded and financed entirely by Orange Sierra Leone, aims to improve access to quality healthcare services for residents of the chiefdom and surrounding communities.

In his welcome address, on behalf of the Paramount Chief of the chiefdom, Augustine Jah Zoker, Chiefdom Speaker of Soro Gbeima Chiefdom, described the initiative as a life-changing investment for the people of Wai and neighboring villages, all of which have long struggled with access to basic healthcare services.

“This health centre will not only serve the residents of Wai Village but also support surrounding communities in the chiefdom,” he stated. “It is a major step toward solving the long-standing health challenges our people have endured.”

He noted that the only existing health centre in Wai was severely under-resourced, lacking both equipment and personnel to effectively cater to the growing population. As a result, residents often had to travel long distances to seek medical attention in larger towns, a situation he described as unacceptable in the modern era.

Augustine Jah Zoker also acknowledged the strong community loyalty to Orange Sierra Leone also revealing that majority of residents in Wai are already subscribers to the network.

“Let me proudly inform Orange Sierra Leone that most of our people here are using your services. With this remarkable support to our community, we assure you that we will continue to support your brand. You are not just a company to us anymore you are a trusted partner in our development journey.”

Sheikh Hussein Feika, speaking on behalf of his elder brother, Sheikh Feika Salim, Chief of Staff in the Office of the First Lady, expressed deep appreciation to Orange Sierra Leone for its commitment to enhancing healthcare in the chiefdom.

He revealed that his brother, Sheikh Feika Salim, had played a vital role in advocating for the project on behalf of the community through the Office of the First Lady. He noted that the successful lobbying effort resulted in the selection of Wai Village for the construction of the facility.

“For years, the people of Wai Village and neighboring communities have struggled with access to proper healthcare,” Sheikh Hussein Feika said. “Pregnant women, in particular, face great risks, as they are often forced to travel over 100 miles to Pujehun Township to access better-equipped medical facilities. Sadly, many are forced to give birth along the highway, putting both mothers and newborns at serious risk.”

He emphasized that the construction of the health centre would be a transformational development for the area, improving health outcomes and saving lives, especially for vulnerable women and children.

Despite the joyous occasion, he mentioned that the community was mourning the recent loss of a beloved resident, Ign. Munda Emmanuel Rogers, which slightly overshadowed the celebration. However, due to the significance of the project for the future of the village, the event proceeded as planned.

He concluded by noting that the new health centre when completed will bring relief to thousands of residents in Wai and surrounding villages who have long faced challenges in accessing timely and quality healthcare.

On his part, Sekou Amadou Bah, Chief Executive Officer of Orange Sierra Leone, emphasized that the project is more than just the construction of a building; it is a commitment to hope, dignity and a healthier future.

“Today, we are not only building walls. We are building hope. We are building dignity. We are building a healthier future for every man, woman and child of this region,” Sekou Amadou Bah declared. “At Orange Sierra Leone, we believe true development is about impact, supporting communities, empowering individuals and transforming lives.”

The Chief Executive Officer noted that Orange’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) framework rests on three core pillars: health, education and culture. He highlighted that this health centre stands as a living testament to the company’s promise to make healthcare a right for all, not a privilege for a few.

Sekou Amadou Bah further stressed that a truly healthy community must also be educated and culturally enriched. “That is why, across the country, we are investing in schools, supporting digital learning and promoting Sierra Leone’s rich cultural heritage,” he added.

The construction of the Wai Village Health Centre is the result of a collaborative vision supported by the Office of the First Lady, the Ministry of Health and local leadership, the CEO revealed. He extended appreciation to all stakeholders involved in bringing the project to life, including planners, architects and the future medical personnel who will serve the facility.

“To the people of Wai Town this is your project. This is your future. Orange is here not only as a company but as a partner investing in your health, your learning and your legacy,” Sekou Amadou Bah concluded.

In his keynote address, Dr. Charles Senessie, Deputy Minister I of Health and Sanitation, lauded Orange Sierra Leone for their support to rural healthcare through the turning of the sod for the construction of a new health centre in Wai Village, Soro Gbeima Chiefdom, fully funded by the company which he described as a vital step in complementing the Government’s efforts to improve healthcare delivery across the country.

“Government alone cannot do everything,” he said. “We rely on partnerships with the private sector and Orange is demonstrating a commendable commitment to national development.”

Dr. Charles Senessie explained that the Ministry of Health has adopted a comprehensive, life-saving approach to healthcare that addresses the needs of individuals from pregnancy to old age, instead of focusing on isolated issues.

He emphasized that improving access to health facilities remains a top priority and the construction of the health centre in Wai Village is aligned with that goal. He also revealed that the Ministry is pursuing an overall strategy to improve quality of life, which is anchored on four key pillars: infrastructure, human resources, medication and laboratory services.

“Orange Sierra Leone is helping us address one of those key pillar infrastructures,” he noted. “And this will also help complement the other areas such as laboratory services and availability of medication.”

Highlighting the impact of improved health infrastructure, Dr. Charles Senessie shared that Sierra Leone has recorded a significant drop in maternal mortality rates.

“In 2014, our maternal mortality rate stood at nearly 1,000 deaths per 100,000 live births. Today, I’m pleased to say we’ve reduced that figure to about 354 per 100,000. That is a major achievement,” he said.

He concluded by stating that the construction of the new health centre in Wai Village will further contribute to reducing maternal and child mortality in the region and enhance access to quality healthcare for surrounding communities.

The project marks a critical milestone in Orange Sierra Leone’s ongoing efforts to bridge healthcare gaps and uplift underserved communities across the country. The event ended with the official turning of the sod by key dignitaries present.

Unity Through Sport: CRSG Hosts Intercultural Friendship Football Match in Freetown

April 23, 2025

On Saturday, April 19, 2025, the vibrant atmosphere of Freetown transformed into a bustling hub of athletic enthusiasm as the China Railway Seventh Group (CRSG) hosted an Intercultural Friendship Football Match. The event saw the CRSG Football Team, made up of both Chinese and local employees face off against a spirited team representing its surrounding communities. The friendly match was more than just a display of sporting prowess; it was a testament to CRSG’s commitment to integration, unity and community development in Sierra Leone.

As the sun shone brightly, local residents flocked to the pitch, eager to witness a celebration of sportsmanship that transcends cultural boundaries. Xiang Wang, the Chief Supervisor of CRSG, opened the event with a heartfelt address emphasizing the significance of football within Sierra Leonean culture. “Football is very popular in Sierra Leone. Our company has always believed that true success lies in rooting ourselves in the local soil,” said Xiang Wang. He elaborated on the company’s ongoing efforts to support various aspects of community development, including education, construction and skill training, all while cultivating a bond with local residents.

The image of diverse teams donning jerseys in the colors of their respective communities illustrated Xiang Wang’s point about the power of sport as a universal language. The match was a blend of energetic gameplay and mutual respect among participants, showcasing their shared passion for football. That initiative not only provided an opportunity for entertaining competition but also promoted understanding and harmony across cultures.

Xiang Wang continued, emphasizing the internal benefits of such events for CRSG employees, stating, “Internally, this event reinforces our company’s identity as a united family.” He spoke of the daily collaboration between Chinese and African employees in various projects, from construction engineering to trade. The teamwork required on the football field served as a reminder of their shared mission in the workplace. “By striving together in a team, we deepen bonds and inspire collective pride in our shared mission.” he said.

One of the highlights of the day came when local Member of Parliament, Hon. John Sattie Kargbo, addressed the crowd, praising CRSG for its contributions to community development. He noted that such friendly matches reflect the existing unity fostered by the company. “We are not surprised to see such a friendly match, as it spells out the existing unity.” he remarked. Hon. John Sattie Kargbo acknowledged that CRSG has played a significant role in providing employment opportunities for local residents while supporting national development initiatives.

The MP highlighted the company’s Community Development Fund and reaffirmed the positive impacts of CRSG’s operations on both local and national levels. “They have been instrumental towards community and local development,” he asserted, echoing Xiang Wang’s sentiments regarding the role of football in bringing people together. “We are happy with the operations of CRSG and we assure you that the community will continue to protect your operations.”

After the speeches, the much-anticipated kick-off commenced, with enthusiastic cheers resonating from the sidelines. Players showcased their skills and finesse on the pitch, as friendly rivalries unfolded amid jovial banter. Both teams exhibited commendable sportsmanship, embodying the spirit of cooperation and camaraderie that CRSG aims to promote within its operational areas.

The sense of community extended beyond the match itself. Booths offering local foods and crafts filled the periphery of the event, allowing attendees to engage in cultural exchange beyond just football. Community members interacted, discussing not only the game but also the ongoing efforts by CRSG in improving local infrastructure and access to essential services.

Xiang Wang reflected on the broader implications of the event, noting that sporting events can act as catalysts for socio-economic development. “Just as CRSG created thousands of jobs and revitalized entire neighborhoods we see football as another important part of community life,” he declared. By investing in sports and other engaging activities, CRSG hopes to foster a healthier lifestyle among local residents, ultimately contributing to enhanced overall well-being.

The unity displayed during the event was palpable, with smiles and laughter bridging any divides that may exist between Chinese employees and local friends. As the players embraced at the final whistle, regardless of who scored the most goals, it was evident that the day’s true victory lay in the connections forged across cultures.

After a successful football match, it was clear that the Intercultural Friendship Football Match had succeeded in its objective of promoting unity and camaraderie. Xiang Wang’s final words resonated with those in attendance: “Victory is measured not just by goals scored, but by the connections we forge.”

CRSG actively integrates into the local society and participate in activities that are popular among the Sierra Leonean people. CRSG strongly supports various development activities in the community, including sports undertakings. The company demonstrates the sports spirit and cultural integration that transcend national boundaries; the construction of internal team cohesion.

During its long-term development, CRSG has always emphasized the capacity building and quality cultivation of its employees. It has established outstanding mechanisms in areas such as skill improvement, management efficiency, medical and health care. By integrating sports, including football, into health management and corporate culture, CRSG has successfully shaped an organizational ecosystem that is “people-oriented and sustainable”. Inject lasting impetus into long-term development.

Brewery Unveils New Heineken 33cl Bottle and 50cl Can at Champions League Viewing Party

April 23, 2025

By Ibrahim Sesay

It was a night of football, music and celebration as Sierra Leone Brewery Limited (SLBL) unveiled the new Heineken 33cl bottle and 50cl can in a thrilling UEFA Champions League viewing party held on April 16, 2025, at the Country Lodge Hotel in Freetown. The event drew together loyal customers, trade partners and passionate football fans who gathered to enjoy world-class football while experiencing the crisp, refreshing taste of Heineken in its exciting new formats.

The launch marked a major milestone for SLBL as it expands its product offering to meet the evolving preferences of its consumers. SLBL’s Managing Director, Ayokunle Owoniyi, expressed his pride in the launch, calling it a significant moment for both the company and its consumers. He noted that the goal behind the new packaging was to provide more choice to customers while maintaining the premium Heineken experience. Whether it’s the handy 33cl bottle or the generously sized 50cl can, he said, the aim is to ensure everyone finds their perfect Heineken. He also announced that SLBL plans to host another Champions League viewing party for the final match, with details to be revealed soon.

The company’s Commercial Director, Jean Remy Abera, explained that the introduction of the 33cl bottle and 50cl can came directly from consumer demand, emphasizing that SLBL listens and responds to its customers. He said the new packaging is not just about variety but about enhancing the Heineken experience at every occasion and delivering the same quality taste in formats that suit different moments.

Reflecting on Heineken’s legacy, Jean Remy Abera took guests on a journey through the brand’s rich history. He spoke of Gerard Adriaan Heineken, the visionary who started it all in 19th century Amsterdam. He continued that by 1875, Heineken had already captured international recognition, winning the prestigious Medaille d’Or in France. Jean Remy Abera described how the brand’s unique yeast strain, discovered over a century ago, remains at the heart of Heineken’s signature flavor; one that has earned the loyalty of drinkers around the world.

The Commercial Director informed how under the leadership of Henry Pierre Heineken in 1917, the brand embraced science and innovation to become a global name and by the 1930s, it had made history as the first imported beer in the United States.

The excitement didn’t end with football and drinks. Popular musician Drizilik electrified the crowd with a live performance that kept the energy high throughout the night. The celebration wrapped up with a thrilling raffle, and three lucky guests walked away with an exclusive prize ; a night’s stay at the luxurious Country Lodge Hotel.

Among the guests was Mohamed Tommy Kamara, a football enthusiast who praised the new Heineken packaging for offering more choice and enhancing the match day experience. “A Champions League night without Heineken is incomplete,” he said, smiling as he raised his bottle in celebration.

SLBL’s drive to innovate and deliver fresh experiences to its customers is clearly reflected in the launch of the Heineken 33cl bottle and 50cl can; a bold testament to the company’s commitment to quality, customer satisfaction and aligning with modern consumer lifestyles. The night’s celebrations may be over, but the impact of Heineken’s refreshed look is only beginning to ripple across Sierra Leone.

Transport Minister Showcases Sierra Leone’s Aviation Progress at ICAO FALC 2025 in Doha

April 18, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leone’s Minister of Transport and Aviation, Alhaji Fanday Turay Esq., has reaffirmed the country’s commitment to aviation advancement during his address at the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Facilitation Panel (#FALC2025) held in Doha. Representing Sierra Leone on the global stage, Minister Turay highlighted key milestones in the country’s aviation sector and called for collective action in shaping the future of global air travel.

Speaking to delegates from around the world, Minister Turay proudly shared Sierra Leone’s significant progress in aviation facilitation, including the successful commissioning of a new international airport, enhanced national coordination efforts, and a growing number of international airline partners now operating in the country.

“The future of aviation is now, and Sierra Leone is ready to lead with action and collaboration,” he stated. Emphasizing the importance of moving beyond discussion, Minister Turay urged his counterparts to embrace decisive action: “We should not be content with dialogue alone—let us commit to action. The skies we share demand bold vision, unwavering integrity, and collective resolve. The time for delay is over. The future of aviation is now, and it is ours to shape!”

Minister Turay also underscored the alignment of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) with ICAO’s global facilitation priorities. These include improving passenger experience, streamlining border procedures, enhancing aviation security, and fostering seamless cross-sector collaboration.

“We are not just investing in infrastructure,” he explained. “We are investing in people, in systems, and in partnerships that will ensure sustainability, security, and resilience in our aviation landscape.”

Sierra Leone’s participation at the ICAO FALC 2025 reaffirms its proactive stance in contributing to international aviation standards and development. Minister Turay’s message was one of unity, forward-thinking, and action-oriented leadership—a call to fellow member states to match ambition with tangible results in creating a safer, more efficient, and more inclusive global aviation system.

The ICAO Facilitation Panel serves as a platform for member states to collaborate on standards and practices that streamline air travel, reduce bottlenecks, and promote sustainable development in aviation.

Finance Ministry’s Delays Put Strain on Sierra Leone’s Security Sector

April 17, 2025

A quiet but growing wave of dissatisfaction is building within Sierra Leone’s security sector as prolonged delays in the supply of their entitled bags of rice threaten to erode morale and compromise operational effectiveness. Personnel from the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), Sierra Leone Police (SLP) and the Prisons Department are expressing increasing frustration over what they describe as a deepening crisis linked to the non-disbursement of funds by the Ministry of Finance.

The issue, which began as sporadic delays, has now escalated into what security experts warn could become a serious threat to national stability. For several months, rice allocations, a long-standing staple entitlement for security forces, have either been delayed or halted entirely.

According to police sources, rice supplies have been delivered intermittently over the last five months, but arrears dating back three months remain unsettled. “The rice we receive is neither consistent nor adequate,” said a senior police officer. “Despite numerous engagements with both the National Security Adviser and the Minister of Internal Affairs, the problem remains unresolved. Officers are losing patience.”

The situation within the military is reported to be even more severe. Reliable sources within the armed forces reveal that soldiers have gone without rice supplies for a cumulative four months 2024. While the Ministry of Defence has reportedly fulfilled its obligations by processing and forwarding vouchers for nine months (2023-2024) to the Ministry of Finance, the funds necessary for disbursement to contractors remain unreleased. “Many soldiers feel disillusioned and abandoned,” one military source disclosed. “There’s a growing sense of neglect from the Government.”

Equally troubling is the status of the Prisons Department. In 2023, the Government owed five months’ worth of rice supply for inmates. That figure has now risen to seven months in 2024, affecting not only the prison population but also correctional officers. “We are operating in a volatile environment. The absence of basic food provisions is a recipe for chaos,” one prison staff member lamented. “This situation is unsustainable.”

Insiders from across the security sector cite bureaucratic bottlenecks and a lack of urgency within the Ministry of Finance as the primary reasons for the delays. Despite meeting all administrative requirements, including the submission of duly processed payment vouchers, suppliers remain unpaid, leading to widespread shortages.

Inquiries to the Ministry of Finance yielded little clarity. A spokesperson confirmed that the Government is indebted to various contractors but declined to comment specifically on the rice supply issue. “High-level discussions are ongoing,” the spokesperson said, without providing a timeline for resolution, a response that has done little to ease tensions.

Security analysts warn that the implications go far beyond the lack of bags of rice. “This is not just about rice; it’s about the welfare and readiness of the forces responsible for protecting the country,” one analyst noted. “Prolonged neglect of their basic needs risks weakening the pillars of national security.”

One senior officer summed up the gravity of the crisis: “A hungry force is a weak force. And a weak force puts the whole country at risk.”

As murmurs of discontent echo through barracks, police stations and correctional facilities, the need for urgent intervention has become critical. Investigations into the issue are ongoing, but with pressure mounting, the Government faces increasing calls to take immediate and decisive action before the situation spirals beyond control.