Kenema Teen Sets Mother’s House Ablaze Over Relationship Dispute

April 16, 2025

16-year-old girl, identified as Bintu, allegedly set her mother’s house on fire

A tragic domestic incident has sent shockwaves through the quiet community of Bottom Mango in Tongoh, Kenema District, where a 16-year-old girl, identified as Bintu, allegedly set her mother’s house on fire following a dispute over her relationships with multiple men in the area.

According to eyewitnesses and local sources, the girl’s mother, Fanta Umaru, had persistently cautioned her daughter against what she described as inappropriate and risky relationships for someone her age. The mother reportedly advised Bintu out of concern for her well-being and future.

In a heart-wrenching account, Fanta tearfully recalled how her daughter had previously issued a grim warning. “She told me that if I didn’t stop advising her about her lifestyle, she would burn the house down. I thought she was joking,” she said, standing distraught in front of the charred remains of her home.

The incident reportedly occurred in broad daylight, shortly after Fanta had left for the market. “Before I left, I noticed she was packing a bag. She said no one would sleep in the house that night because she would bring it down. Still, I never imagined she meant it,” Fanta added.

Bintu is said to have carried out the act shortly after her mother’s departure, setting the house ablaze and fleeing the scene. The fire quickly engulfed the property, leaving nothing but ashes and rubble.

Community members were left in disbelief over the incident. “It’s shocking and heartbreaking. We never expected something like this from Bintu,” said one neighbor, who witnessed the aftermath. Many have expressed their sympathy for Fanta, who has now been left homeless and emotionally devastated.

Local authorities are currently investigating the incident. While Bintu’s whereabouts remain unknown at the time of reporting, efforts are underway to locate and apprehend her for questioning.

This disturbing incident has reignited conversations within the community about the growing gap between parents and their children, the influence of peer pressure and social dynamics on teenagers and the urgent need for counseling and youth support programs.

As Fanta attempts to rebuild her life from the ashes, the community is rallying around her, offering both emotional and material support in the wake of the tragedy. Authorities are urging parents and guardians to engage more closely with their children and seek community-based interventions to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The investigation continues.

Alpha Mohamed Jalloh Slams U.S. Tariffs as Economic Bullying

April 16, 2025

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Director of the China-Africa Institute Sierra Leone, Alpha Mohamed Jalloh, has strongly criticized the United States’ recent escalation of tariff policies under President Donald Trump, describing them as deliberate acts of economic aggression that undermine global trade balance, promote protectionism and endanger international cooperation.

Speaking to this medium, Alpha Mohamed Jalloh said the tariffs imposed by the U.S. represent “a shift towards unilateralism and economic dictatorship,” accusing the U.S. administration of pursuing a protectionist agenda “at the expense of multilateral trade harmony.” He further asserted that such actions weaken global institutions like the World Trade Organization (WTO), which he now describes as “a toothless bulldog” in the face of America’s economic might.

The latest figures highlight the extent of this escalation:

On April 9, 2025, tariffs on Chinese goods were raised to a staggering 104%, following a previous increase to 54%.
Canada and Mexico are currently facing 25% tariffs on imports, with Canadian energy products now taxed at 10%.

“These actions are not just unfortunate; they’re dangerous. They jeopardize years of effort in creating balanced global trade relations. The United States is no longer playing fair; it is bullying its partners under the guise of protecting domestic interests,” Alpha Mohamed Jalloh said.

He argued that the U.S. call for dialogue is disingenuous if it continues to unilaterally enforce economic restrictions. “If the United States genuinely wants an amicable resolution, it must cease its reckless actions. China’s position is clear: there are no winners in trade wars. While China does not seek conflict, it is not afraid to defend its interests,” he added.

Analysts warn that the U.S. tariff hikes are already causing ripple effects both domestically and internationally:

Rising Inflation:
Tariffs have driven up the cost of imported goods, directly impacting American consumers. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that each U.S. household will bear an additional cost of approximately $1,300 annually due to the measures.
Small Business Struggles:
Smaller enterprises are particularly vulnerable, lacking the financial flexibility to absorb these increased costs or swiftly restructure their supply chains.
Retaliatory Measures from Trade Partners:
- Canada has responded by imposing tariffs on over $100 billion worth of American goods.
- The European Union has condemned the tariffs, citing threats to global economic stability.
- The World Bank has warned that retaliatory tariffs could lower global economic growth by 0.3 percentage points in 2025.
Strained Diplomatic Ties:
Traditional allies such as Japan, Germany, South Korea and Canada have expressed growing frustration, accusing the U.S. of undermining the principles of multilateral cooperation.
China has officially accused the U.S. of violating WTO rules and destabilizing the global economic order for selfish reasons.

“These reckless moves are weakening the U.S.’s global leadership and diminishing trust among key partners,” said Alpha Mohamed Jalloh.

Critics have also pointed out that the sweeping use of tariffs has occurred largely through executive orders, bypassing legislative oversight and broader public discourse. “This is not only undemocratic but dangerous. Such decisions should be subject to parliamentary or congressional scrutiny, not handed down by executive fiat,” the Director of the China-Africa Institute Sierra Leone emphasized.

He warned that framing these tariffs as tools to reduce trade deficits or protect U.S. industries ignores deeper economic realities. “High labor costs in the U.S., along with intricate global supply chains, mean such protectionist moves are short-sighted. They fail to address the root causes of trade imbalances and instead risk causing long-term damage to the very economy they aim to protect.”

Alpha Mohamed Jalloh concluded with a passionate appeal for a reactivation of what he called a “New Economic Order” based on mutual respect, fairness and collaboration. “In this journey, we must reject economic hegemony and stand firm for a global trade framework that works for everyone. The world must not allow this madness to become the new normal.”

As the global economy faces mounting challenges, from inflation and supply chain disruptions to geopolitical tensions, the call for renewed cooperation and equitable trade practices is growing louder. Observers agree: unless checked, the U.S.’s current approach to tariffs could trigger long-lasting harm not just to its own economy, but to global stability as a whole.

Africell Unveils Cutting-Edge Learning and Training Center to Boost Digital Empowerment

April 16, 2025

Shadi Al-Gerjawi, CEO of Africell Sierra Leone

By: Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Africell Sierra Leone, through its Impact Foundation, has launched a state-of-the-art Learning and Training Center on Wilkinson Road in Freetown. The unveiling ceremony, held on Monday 14th April, 2025, marks a significant milestone in the nation’s journey toward digital transformation and inclusive development.

The new facility is designed to provide free access to digital learning resources, skill-building programs and training opportunities for students, job seekers and aspiring entrepreneurs. The center is equipped with modern learning infrastructure to foster knowledge-sharing and enhance employability, especially among young people and marginalized groups.

The Learning and Training Center will offer structured digital literacy courses, ICT skill development, entrepreneurship training and access to eLearning platforms. The goal is to bridge the digital divide and prepare Sierra Leone’s youth for the demands of the global digital economy.

Speaking at the event, the Minister of Communication, Technology and Innovation, Madam Salima Bah, praised Africell for its steadfast dedication to corporate social responsibility and alignment with the Government’s National Development Plan. She highlighted Africell’s ongoing support for women in leadership, surpassing the Government’s 30% target as a model for private sector inclusion and empowerment. She also commended initiatives like the American Corner, Women in Tech and the company’s strategic partnerships with academic institutions to develop digital skills.

The Communication Minister lauded the Learning Centre’s role in enhancing Government-private sector collaboration, emphasizing that such facilities contribute significantly to youth employment and digital skills development. “This initiative complements our goal of creating 500,000 jobs, with 65,000 anticipated from the communications sector alone,” she stated, urging young people to embrace digital learning from an early age to compete in the global digital economy.

Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, in his address called Africell “a true partner to the people of Sierra Leone.” He applauded the company for investing in infrastructure, expanding connectivity and promoting inclusive opportunities despite challenging conditions. “This centre symbolizes Africell’s unwavering belief in the potential of Sierra Leone and its people,” he said.

Shadi Al-Gerjawi, CEO of Africell Sierra Leone, underscored the company’s commitment to inclusivity, empowerment and long-term social impact. “Telecommunications is more than just connectivity—it’s about creating sustainable pathways for growth,” he said. He announced the launch of Africell’s new customer care center alongside the Learning Centre, both forming part of the company’s broader strategy to improve lives and livelihoods.

He said Africell’s learning initiative will offer a wide range of digital and technical courses, mentorship opportunities and e-learning content. According to him, it builds on past successes, such as digital training programs that have already led to employment for many graduates. The CEO also revealed that Africell has equipped over 500 schoolgirls and 60 female entrepreneurs in remote districts with essential digital skills. He announced that the company will soon launch Sierra Leone’s first-ever AI-powered call center, operating seven days a week with a customer satisfaction rate already above 98%.

The Deputy Director General of the National Communications Authority (NaCTA), Maama Seiwoh-Koroma, emphasized the initiative’s alignment with national goals to enhance connectivity and empower citizens. “In a fast-changing world, digital literacy is no longer optional; it is foundational,” she said. She encouraged future learners and entrepreneurs to fully utilize the center’s resources and drive innovation for Sierra Leone’s transformation.

In recognition of recent achievements, certificates were presented to 11 students who successfully completed the previous digital training program supported by Africell through the Africell Impact Foundation.

With this new facility, Africell continues to solidify its role not just as a telecommunications provider, but as a catalyst for national progress—empowering Sierra Leoneans with the tools they need to thrive in the digital era.

Minister of Communication, Technology and Innovation, Madam Salima Bah

NP (SL) Sets New Industry Standard with Triple ISO Certification

April 16, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

NP Sierra Leone Limited, the nation’s leading petroleum marketing company, has achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first oil marketing company in Sierra Leone to be awarded triple ISO certification. On Friday, April 11, 2025, the company was officially certified in three internationally acclaimed standards: ISO 9001:2015 (Quality Management), ISO 14001:2015 (Environmental Management) and ISO 45001:2018 (Occupational Health and Safety Management).

This landmark achievement underscores NP (SL)’s unwavering commitment to service excellence, environmental stewardship and employee welfare. By attaining those globally recognized standards, the company has further solidified its reputation as a forward-thinking and responsible corporate entity in Sierra Leone’s energy sector.

Speaking on the achievement, Chief Executive Officer of NP (SL), Saidu Mansaray, expressed immense pride and gratitude. “This achievement serves as a reminder of our unwavering dedication to our customers, whose trust inspires us to conduct our business with greater passion and excellence. We remain steadfast in our promise to always be 1st for Customer Care,” he stated.

The three ISO certifications reflect the company’s deep-rooted values and operational philosophy:

ISO 9001:2015 (Quality Management System): Demonstrates NP (SL)’s consistent ability to provide products and services that meet customer and regulatory requirements, while also enhancing customer satisfaction through continual process improvements.
ISO 14001:2015 (Environmental Management System): Highlights the company’s proactive measures to minimize environmental impact, promote sustainability and ensure efficient use of resources in compliance with environmental laws and regulations.
ISO 45001:2018 (Occupational Health and Safety Management System): Underscores NP (SL)’s firm commitment to ensuring a safe and healthy workplace, mitigating risks and fostering a culture of safety and well-being for all employees.

These certifications are a testament to NP (SL)’s relentless pursuit of excellence and innovation, setting the company apart not just in Sierra Leone, but within the wider West African petroleum industry.

By aligning with global best practices, NP (SL) is reinforcing trust with its stakeholders; customers, partners, regulators and the wider community. The triple certification serves as a strong foundation for the company’s continued growth and leadership, as it charts a path towards an even more sustainable and customer-focused future.

With this milestone, NP (SL) continues to raise the bar in the oil and gas sector, demonstrating that indigenous companies can compete at the highest international standards, while contributing meaningfully to national development.

Chief Executive Officer of NP (SL), Saidu Mansaray

I.B Taylor-Kamara Foundation Officially Launched in Freetown

April 16, 2025

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a well-attended ceremony held on Friday, April 11, 2025, at the New Brookfields Hotel in Freetown, the family of the late Ishmael Byne Taylor-Kamara officially launched the Ishmael Byne Taylor-Kamara Foundation. The Foundation aims to empower youth and uplift communities across Sierra Leone, reflecting the late statesman’s lifelong dedication to education, community service and youth development.

The late Ishmael Byne Taylor-Kamara, who passed away 51 years ago, was a British-trained lawyer, civil servant and diplomat. He served as a Senior Minister in Sierra Leone’s first cabinet, Permanent Representative to the United Nations, President of the UN Security Council in 1971 and Sierra Leone’s High Commissioner to Canada.

During the launch, Hawa Taylor-Kamara Diallor, CEO of the Foundation, described the initiative as a dynamic and impact-driven organization committed to empowering communities, advancing sustainable development and promoting social change. She highlighted its focus on women’s empowerment, youth leadership, education, climate action and entrepreneurship, with the overall goal of building resilient communities in Sierra Leone and beyond.

“Our father firmly believed that empowering the next generation is crucial for the development of a stronger, more resilient society,” she stated. “Following his passing, our family recognized the need to continue the work he so passionately pursued.”

Hawa Taylor-Kamara Diallor disclosed that the Foundation’s programs will include educational scholarships and mentorship opportunities designed to help young people develop the skills needed to succeed in today’s competitive world.

She also highlighted the Foundation’s flagship initiative, the SheRises Project, an ambitious women’s empowerment program that provides economic assistance and mentorship to women entrepreneurs and supports university students. The project aims to empower at least 500 women through intensive entrepreneurship training, offer direct investment in 50 small women-led businesses and promote economic independence.

The SheRises Project is currently being expanded to other African countries, including Nigeria, Kenya and additional West African nations.

Ishmael Taylor-Kamara, son of the late statesman, remarked that the Foundation is not only a tribute to their father’s legacy but also a vehicle for real, transformative impact. “We are not just remembering our father; we are taking actionable steps to ensure that his dreams of a better future for Sierra Leonean youth live on,” he said.

Several beneficiaries of the SheRises Project, including Zainab Kamara, a pepper, groundnut and rice farmer; Tity Kargbo, a seamstress; Zainab Konneh, a makeup artist and Snowsha Mariatu Taylor-Kamara, a university student, shared heartfelt testimonies about how the project has transformed their lives and expressed deep gratitude to the Foundation.

Closing the ceremony, Lois Sarah Taylor-Kamara, the 90-year-old widow of Ishmael Byne Taylor-Kamara, expressed joy and pride at seeing her children honor their father’s legacy through such a meaningful initiative. She encouraged young people and beneficiaries to make the most of the opportunities provided by the Foundation.

FCC Holds Environmental Assessment and Consultation on Cable Car Project

April 16, 2025

Mayor of Freetown, Yvonne Denise Aki-Sawyerr

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

In a groundbreaking step toward modernizing urban transportation and fostering environmentally conscious development, the Freetown City Council (FCC) convened a public consultation and Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) session for the highly anticipated Freetown Cable Car Project. Held on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at the Freetown City Hall Auditorium on Wallace Johnson Street, the event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders including community residents, traditional leaders, Government officials and representatives from the Environmental Protection Agency of Sierra Leone (EPA-SL).

The gathering marked a pivotal moment in the progression of the project, offering the public a direct platform to interact with technical experts, voice concerns and gain deeper insight into the cable car’s expected impact. Central to the discussions was a feasibility study undertaken by Integrated Geo-information and Environmental Management Services (INTEGEMS) Limited, which laid the groundwork for assessing the initiative’s environmental and socio-economic viability.

At its core, the Freetown Cable Car Project envisions a dramatic shift in the city’s transportation landscape, aimed at alleviating long-standing urban challenges and bridging socio-economic divides. The pilot phase features a 3.6-kilometre route linking Government Wharf in the Central Business District to the Kissy Ferry Terminal in the East, with five strategically located stations: Government Wharf, East-End Police, Mountain Cut, Up Gun and Ferry Junction. The full journey is projected to last just 15 minutes, offering a swift and reliable commuting option for thousands of residents.

Proponents of the project underscore its transformative potential, particularly in providing vital access to underserved hillside communities. By easing movement to key areas such as schools, markets, hospitals and workplaces, the system is expected to drive inclusive growth and reduce urban inequality. The cable cars will be entirely solar-powered, backed by generators and support from the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA) to ensure uninterrupted operation. With an affordable fare of NLe16 for the full ride, the project aims to remain accessible to all.

Mayor of Freetown, Yvonne Denise Aki-Sawyerr, addressed attendees with gratitude and optimism, acknowledging the community’s enthusiasm and support. She emphasized that what once seemed an ambitious dream is now on a clear path to reality, bolstered by its tangible benefits and growing international investment. Citing the $1 million funding from C40 Cities that enabled the detailed feasibility study, the Mayor reiterated that the cable car is more than an aspiration; it is a viable, bankable solution to the city’s chronic transportation woes.

She noted that the system is poised to deliver fast, clean and inclusive mobility, particularly benefiting school children, persons with disabilities and market women. By aligning with Freetown’s broader climate goals, the solar-powered infrastructure will not only provide convenience but also significantly reduce emissions and promote a healthier urban environment.

Mayor Aki-Sawyerr also revealed that technical representatives from global cable car manufacturers Doppelmayr of Austria and Poma of France are expected in Freetown later this year. In a major development, the French Government has pledged to cover half the cost of the equipment, while ongoing discussions with the Ministry of Finance and interest from international bodies such as the World Bank and African Development Bank further underscore the credibility and promise of the project.

Deputy Mayor, Kweku Lisk, emphasized the critical role of public participation and transparency in infrastructure development. He highlighted the consultation as part of a strategic approach rooted in international best practices, calling attention to the need for open engagement with communities affected by the proposed towers, stations and routes. According to him, building such a system is not only about physical infrastructure but about creating trust and fostering a sustainable future for all.

He reaffirmed the project’s inclusive design, pointing to its potential to enhance mobility for vulnerable populations including girls, school children and business operators. He also credited the vital support of C40 Cities, a global network of cities committed to climate leadership, in advancing the initiative.

INTEGEMS Managing Director, Samuella Faulkner, delivered an overview of the ESIA process, describing it as an essential statutory requirement for a development of this magnitude. She explained that the assessment evaluates both the benefits and possible risks of the project, with a focus on environmental and social concerns such as noise levels, air quality, waste management and biodiversity, particularly the impact on urban birdlife.

One significant challenge identified in the assessment is land acquisition, which may necessitate relocation for residents living along the proposed route. Samuella Faulkner assured the audience that comprehensive planning and inclusive stakeholder dialogue are being prioritized to address such issues responsibly. She concluded by reaffirming the environmentally friendly design and the commitment to passenger safety and comfort as cornerstones of the project.

With Freetown facing the growing pressures of urbanization, congestion and pollution, the cable car project stands out as a bold and innovative intervention. As the FCC and its partners press forward, the city is positioning itself as a pioneer in sustainable urban mobility in West Africa, with aspirations for the project to serve as a model for similar initiatives across the region.

The APC’s Unifying Force: Chericoco Gains Momentum Ahead of Party Decisions

April 16, 2025

By Ibrahim Sesay

As Sierra Leone stands at a crossroads marked by economic strain, political polarization and a growing yearning for visionary leadership, the question dominating public discourse is simple yet profound: Who can lead us toward national unity and renewal?

For many citizens, analysts, and political observers, the answer is increasingly evident, Hon. Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah, widely known as Chericoco.

In a political landscape where trust in leadership has waned and populist rhetoric often overshadows principle, Chericoco emerges as a figure of calm resolve and consistent service. His track record is not built on empty promises or fleeting popularity but on substantive leadership, earned through years of experience and dedication.

Having served three terms in Parliament, held the esteemed role of Deputy Speaker, led the Opposition in the House and chaired Sierra Leone’s delegation to ECOWAS, Chericoco is no political neophyte. His political maturity is complemented by a unique humility and a statesmanlike temperament that has endeared him across party lines and social divides.

What further distinguishes Chericoco is his close mentorship under H.E. Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma (EBK), former President of Sierra Leone and a transformative figure in the country’s recent political history. Under EBK’s stewardship, Sierra Leone made significant strides in infrastructure, energy, international diplomacy and political stabilization. The late President not only reshaped the country’s development agenda but also modernized the All People’s Congress (APC), instilling strategic coherence and institutional discipline.

Chericoco is widely seen as the custodian of that legacy; a man who has internalized EBK’s vision while developing his own identity as a forward-thinking, people-centered leader. His rise has not been propelled by showmanship or opportunism but by commitment to national service, emotional intelligence and a deep understanding of governance dynamics.

In an era where many leaders prioritize noise over nuance, Chericoco stands out for his quiet effectiveness and consistent engagement with the grassroots. Through initiatives such as scholarship programs, women’s empowerment, youth mentorship and community development, he has established himself as a true servant of the people. His leadership model is anchored in empathy, not entitlement.

Within the APC, Chericoco is increasingly regarded as the candidate most capable of unifying the party’s divergent wings and ushering in a period of disciplined renewal. He commands trust among both elders and the youth, drawing respect from across the political spectrum. More importantly, he speaks the language of reconciliation, inclusivity and hope; elements sorely needed in a fragmented national climate.

He has demonstrated a rare ability to listen more than he speaks, to build rather than to boast and to lead without arrogance. At a time when politics often rewards populism over principle, Chericoco has held firm to values of unity, competence and nation-first governance.

Crucially, he understands the real and pressing challenges facing Sierra Leoneans; youth unemployment, failing health systems, inadequate infrastructure and rising inequality. Yet he has never resorted to weaponizing those issues for personal gain. Instead, he has spent years engaging with communities, crafting policy ideas and preparing to govern with both vision and pragmatism.

If given the mandate, Chericoco is expected to surround himself not with praise-singers, but with credible, capable and patriotic minds from all regions of Sierra Leone. He is seen as someone who will govern not with vengeance but with vision and not through ego but principled leadership.

This is the leadership Sierra Leone urgently needs—measured, mature and mission-driven. A leader, who can protect the gains of the past while boldly confronting the challenges of the present. A leader, who not only evokes applause but earns genuine, lasting respect. A leader prepared to govern on day one, because he has already demonstrated what effective leadership looks like; in conduct, character and community service.

In the grand narrative of Sierra Leone’s political evolution, few figures embody the clarity, competence and compassion of Chericoco. He is the bridge between the APC’s historic legacy and its future relevance. More than that, he is the glue that can hold a divided nation together.

As the country prepares for a new chapter, Sierra Leone must rise above distractions and divisions. It must choose maturity over noise, unity over partisanship and leadership over theatrics.

This moment calls for foresight. The people deserve a better path. And Chericoco may well be the leader to take us there.

FG Gold Accused of Withholding Payments, Misusing Contractor Resources

April 16, 2025

Nigerian Businessman Oliver Andrews – Executive Chairman, FG Gold (SL) Ltd.

A serious allegation of exploitation has been leveled against FG Gold Limited by a Sierra Leonean construction company, CL Group Limited, over unresolved claims including inflated cement prices, non-payment for imported materials and prolonged equipment downtime.

According to documents and statements obtained by this medium, CL Group alleges that FG Gold, in 2023, sold cement to them at a staggering cost of NLe190 per bag, far above the prevailing market price at the time, which ranged between NLe125 and NLe160 even in the remotest parts of the country. That, the company claims, was unjustifiable and may have been a tactic by FG Gold to offset financial constraints affecting their Baomahun operation.

“It is unacceptable for an international mining company to exploit its local contractor under the guise of material supply,” a representative of CL Group stated. “What FG Gold did amounts to profiteering at our expense.”

The issue stems from a contract signed on April 5, 2023, for the construction of FG Gold’s New Camp Site in Baomahun, Bo District. Under the agreement, CL Group was responsible for providing management, labor, materials and equipment to execute the project. However, tensions grew when certified invoices submitted by CL Group were not paid on time, with delays reportedly exceeding 200 days in some cases.

The project contract was eventually terminated in November 2024 after both parties failed to reach a renegotiated agreement. Despite the termination, CL Group claims that in January 2025, FG Gold requested access to five (5) containers of imported finishing materials, originally procured for the camp project, promising that payment would follow shortly.

“They asked us to release our materials to help them finish some camp structures ahead of a site visit by their Board of Directors,” said the Managing Director of CL Group. “They needed to impress their stakeholders and we acted in good faith. But since then, we have not been paid and it has left us in a financially precarious position.”

The company further states that the delay in receiving payment, combined with equipment left idle and exposed at the project site, has had devastating consequences for their operations.

“This has been a strategic act of deception,” the Managing Director added. “FG Gold has used our resources to project an image of progress and financial credibility to their board and investors without fulfilling their own obligations to us. It is both unethical and economically harmful to local businesses like ours.”

These allegations come just months after press reports in November 2024 exposed FG Gold’s mistreatment of local workers and raised concerns over the company’s employment practices.

Many observers are now questioning the due diligence process employed by Government authorities before granting FG Gold the license to mine in Baomahun. There are renewed calls for the Ministry of Trade and Industry, as well as other relevant ministries, to investigate not only the claims made by CL Group but also FG Gold’s overall operations and compliance with corporate governance standards.

Efforts to get FG Gold’s side of the story have been largely unfruitful. When contacted, Project Director, Bolaji Okubajo, declined to comment, instead referring this medium to the company’s Freetown head office. He stated, “You can forward all your demands for clarifications to our Head Office in Freetown. We have a department that normally responds to any concerns.”

Finance Director, Francis Boateng also declined to comment directly, instead pointing to the company’s website and asking that inquiries be submitted through an online form. As of press time, no official response has been received from FG Gold Limited regarding the specific allegations made by CL Group.

The situation has raised broader questions about whether FG Gold’s Management, particularly its Executive Chairman, Oliver Andrews and the Board are using the company as a façade to impress shareholders while exploiting local firms and resources. In light of the growing number of complaints against the company, stakeholders are calling for a thorough and independent investigation into its conduct.

As the allegations pile up, many are left wondering: Can FG Gold be trusted to operate ethically in Sierra Leone? And how many more local businesses must suffer before action is taken?

This medium remains open to publishing FG Gold’s official response should it be made available.

Minister Sackey Reassures Left-Out WASSCE Candidates

April 16, 2025

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Conrad Sackey, has assured the public of the Government’s commitment to transparency, accountability and timely reforms in the education sector, particularly concerning the 2025 WASSCE candidates.

Speaking during a Press Conference organized by the Children’s Forum Network (CFN) at the Miatta Conference Hall, Youyi Building, the Minister addressed multiple concerns surrounding the fate of pupils from 82 schools whose West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) status remains uncertain.

“We are not magicians. It’s not about waving a magic wand it’s a process of continuous improvement,” Conrad Sackey noted. “We’ve initiated an investigation into the issue of non-compliance by certain schools. The Education Assessment Team (EAT) schools will be invited to provide evidence. The Ministry has its own findings and a determination will be made accordingly.”

The Minister revealed that the investigation is already underway and is expected to be concluded by the end of April 2025 to ensure readiness for the next academic cycle. He also emphasized the Ministry’s intention to publicly publish examination procedures and timelines on its website and in local newspapers. “We plan to engage parents more robustly, making them partners in ensuring that schools meet all set deadlines,” he added.

Regarding the affected students, the Education Minister confirmed that the Government has committed to covering the cost for those students to sit private WASSCE exams. In addition, partnerships with non-state actors are being pursued to provide supplementary tutoring for disadvantaged pupils.

“We want to ensure that no child is left out of the system. Whether you sat the exam in a public or private setting, as long as you have a valid WASSCE certificate, it will grant you access to post-secondary education,” he assured.

On the question of potential disciplinary actions against the 82 schools, Conrad Sackey clarified that due process must be followed. “We are a democracy. The Teaching Service Commission (TSC) is currently handling the matter and based on their findings, recommendations will be made and considered at the leadership level of the Ministry.”

In response to speculation about the postponement of the new WASSCE syllabus, the Minister said discussions are ongoing with the West African Examinations Council (WAEC). “Implementing a new syllabus is a complex process involving coordination with WAEC’s four other member states. It requires careful consideration and technical input. We are still in talks and I cannot make any conclusive statements yet.”

Conrad Sackey concluded by stressing the need to put an end to recurring administrative challenges. “We are only two years into this new system, and we’ve had our teething problems. But I hope this will be the final year we face these kinds of issues. We are committed to making the process open, fair and accountable.”

Esther Mansaray, a left-out pupil from Methodist Girls High School, has expressed deep disappointment over the exclusion of thousands of pupils from this year’s WASSCE exams.

Speaking during the event, Esther Mansaray shared that her mother had made significant financial sacrifices in preparation for her to sit the exams, only to be told she would not be writing them. “This situation has left many of us devastated,” she said. “A friend of mine, upon hearing that her name was not on the list, overdosed on drugs and had to be rushed to the hospital.”

She emphasized that such incidents contribute to the growing issue of drug abuse among young people, as well as rising cases of early marriage and teenage pregnancy.

Esther Mansaray called on the Government to urgently implement mechanisms to address the crisis, warning that its implications are far-reaching and detrimental to the future of pupils across the country.

Osman A. Bah, President of the Western Area Rural District Children’s Forum Network (CFN), has voiced serious concern over the exclusion of pupils from the upcoming WASSCE exams.

He revealed that the CFN has received numerous complaints from both pupils and parents, expressing frustration and disappointment over the issue.

Osman Bah extended appreciation to the Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Conrad Sackey, for honoring their invitation to engage in dialogue about the way forward. He emphasized that as a child-led organization, the CFN’s core responsibility is to advocate for the rights and wellbeing of children across the country.

He noted that the exclusion of pupils from the WASSCE has severe implications on their academic and personal development. He therefore urged the Government to take concrete steps to address the situation and prevent similar occurrences in the future.

“We are encouraged by the Minister’s commitment that the Government will fund the private WASSCE exams for affected pupils,” he said. “However, we also want to stress the need for proactive measures to ensure such an issue does not repeat itself.”

He concluded by reaffirming CFN’s support for the affected pupils: “We stand in solidarity with the thousands of pupils who will not be writing the WASSCE this year.”

NCPD Leads Disability Advocacy on Global Stage, Forging Key Alliances in Berlin

April 14, 2025

By Mohamed Yayah Kanneh

Sierra Leone made a resounding impression on the international stage as the country’s delegation, led by Ambassador Dr. Vandy Konneh, Chief Commissioner of the National Commission for Persons with Disability (NCPD) and Executive Secretary Saa Lamin Kortequee, actively participated in the 2025 Global Disability Summit held in Berlin, Germany.

The high-profile summit, which brought together representatives from over 150 countries, centered on the theme: “Inclusive Futures: Building Resilient Societies through Disability-Inclusive Development.” Over the course of three days, the Sierra Leone delegation engaged in critical discussions, forging new partnerships and amplifying the nation’s voice in global disability policy dialogue.

Amb. Dr. Vandy Konneh took part in several high-level panel discussions, during which he shared Sierra Leone’s unique journey in implementing the 2011 Persons with Disability Act. He underscored the challenges encountered in the post-conflict and post-Ebola recovery periods, while also highlighting ongoing national efforts to advance disability rights and inclusion.

Significantly, the NCPD leadership used the summit as a platform to engage with key international partners. These strategic engagements culminated in new agreements aimed at strengthening Sierra Leone’s disability sector through capacity-building initiatives for both NCPD staff and Disabled Persons’ Organizations (DPOs) across the country.

Speaking to the press shortly after the summit, Dr. Vandy Konneh reiterated Sierra Leone’s dedication to improving disability data collection. He emphasized the critical need for evidence-based policymaking, noting that reliable data remains essential for the design and delivery of effective disability inclusion programs.

Dr. Vandy Konneh further announced plans to convene a national stakeholders’ meeting upon returning home. That meeting, he said, will focus on crafting a comprehensive action plan to implement the partnerships and commitments secured at the summit. Additionally, he revealed that the Commission is preparing to launch an enhanced nationwide public awareness campaign to promote disability rights and inclusion. The campaign will incorporate innovative communication strategies drawn from successful models in other African countries.

The NCPD’s active participation in the Global Disability Summit represents a major milestone in Sierra Leone’s ongoing efforts to fully realize disability inclusion and to give life to the aspirations enshrined in its national legislation. The knowledge gained and partnerships formed at the summit, are expected to catalyze substantial progress toward ensuring that persons with disabilities are not left behind in the country’s development agenda.

As Sierra Leone continues to push forward with its disability-inclusive vision, the outcomes of the Berlin summit will serve as a vital blueprint for future action, policy reform and sustainable development that uplifts all citizens, regardless of ability.