Honoured as Commander of Peace… Dr. Memunatu Pratt Advocates for Cultural Diplomacy in Africa at PALESH Nigeria 2025

April 7, 2025

former Sierra Leonean Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Hon. Dr. Memunatu Pratt

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

At the 14th edition of the Pan African Leadership Symposium and Awards (PALESH) 2025, held on Friday April 4, 2025 at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) in Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria, former Sierra Leonean Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Hon. Dr. Memunatu Pratt, delivered a compelling keynote address advocating for cultural diplomacy as a crucial tool for fostering sustainable peace across Africa.

Addressing a distinguished gathering of African leaders, diplomats, scholars and policymakers, Dr. Memunatu Pratt spoke under the broader conference theme: “Adaptive Leadership & Stability in Africa: Prospects & Challenges.” Her keynote specifically focused on “The Role of Good Governance and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Mechanisms for Consolidating Peaceful Coexistence in Africa – A Conceptual Approach.”

She argued passionately that cultural diplomacy, as a form of soft power, holds immense potential to promote mutual understanding, resolve conflicts and bridge ideological divides across the African continent. According to her, true and lasting peace cannot simply be measured by the absence of conflict, but must be rooted in justice, equity, shared values and human wellbeing—what scholars term “positive peace.”

The former Minister emphasized that cultural exchanges, through tourism, the arts, education and intercultural dialogue, are essential mechanisms in today’s complex global environment for building trust, tolerance and mutual respect among nations and communities.

“Culture is not merely heritage—it is a living tool of diplomacy,” she said, citing international models such as the Fulbright Program, Alliance Française and the British Council as successful examples of how cultural diplomacy fosters international harmony.

Dr. Memunatu Pratt called for a renewed focus on cultural diplomacy in Africa’s peacebuilding strategies, advocating for inclusive dialogue among stakeholders, enhanced civic education and strategic deployment of Africa’s cultural assets as tools for uniting communities, promoting security and accelerating sustainable development.

Her insights were met with resounding applause, culminating in her receiving the prestigious Commander of Peace Award, a recognition of her enduring contributions to peacebuilding and cultural advocacy in Africa.

The PALESH 2025 Symposium convened under the auspices of the United Nations International Peace and Governance Council (UNIPGC), with African dignitaries and thought leaders in attendance. Key themes explored during the conference included:

The Implications of the Withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger from ECOWAS
Mediation, Reconciliation and ADR Mechanisms
Cultural Diplomacy as a Conceptual Approach to Sustainable Peace through Tourism
The Role of Traditional Institutions in Enhancing Peaceful Coexistence
The Nexus between Good Governance, Security and National Development

Other notable speakers included Professor Patrick Lumumba (PLO), former CEO of the Kenya Anti-Corruption Commission; Her Excellency Dr. Jewel Howard Taylor, former Vice President of Liberia; Hon. Grace Naledi Pandor, former South African Minister of Foreign Affairs; Senator Dr. Grace Folashade Bent, Pro-Chancellor of the University of Jos; and Mr. Samuel Kalkoumdo, Special Adviser to the President of Burkina Faso, among others.

The sessions were moderated by seasoned journalist and Channels TV anchor, Amarachi Ubani, who guided the discussions with sharp insight and professionalism.

According to the Convener and UNIPGC Global President, His Excellency Ambassador Dr. Jonathan Ojadah, PALESH 2025 aimed to tackle the most pressing issues threatening Africa’s stability and economic progress. The event also honored several African leaders for their contributions to peace and diplomacy, including:

E. Ambassador Selestine G. Kakele – Tanzania High Commissioner to Nigeria
E. Brig. Gen. (Rtd) Ambassador Dr. Chief Williams Wallace – Honorary Consul of Bermuda and Antigua
E. George Muhali Imbuwa – Zambia High Commissioner to Nigeria
E. Ambassador Julius F. Sandy – Sierra Leone High Commissioner to Nigeria
Beatrice Koko Kallay – Head of Liaison, Sierra Leone High Commission in Lagos

Dr. Memunatu Pratt’s thought leadership at PALESH 2025 reaffirmed her status as a leading voice in African diplomacy and cultural advocacy, with her message resonating as both timely and essential in Africa’s ongoing quest for peace, stability and unity.

Pikin Bizness Facilitates Critical Heart Surgery in France for Eight-Month-Old Mariama Juldeh Jalloh

April 7, 2025

By Ibrahim Sesay

In a remarkable demonstration of compassion and commitment to child welfare, Pikin Bizness, a renowned philanthropic organization in Sierra Leone, has pledged full support for eight-month-old Mariama Juldeh Jalloh, who requires urgent heart surgery abroad. Diagnosed with a ventricular septal defect, Mariama Juldeh Jalloh is scheduled to travel to Toulouse, France, on June 10, 2025, via Conakry, Guinea, for the life-saving operation.

According to Dr. Adonis Aboud, Executive Director of Pikin Bizness, the baby will remain in France for two months following the operation for post-surgical observation and recovery before returning home to Sierra Leone. He also revealed that Mariama Juldeh Jalloh is the 41st child to benefit from the organization’s free overseas critical healthcare intervention program.

“Our commitment to these children goes beyond the operation. We maintain contact and track their recovery because we believe in long-term care and support. Thankfully, every surgery we have facilitated has been successful, with no recorded fatalities to date,” he affirmed.

Reflecting on the origins of Pikin Bizness, Dr. Adonis Aboud noted that the inspiration to establish the organization came in 1998 upon his return from Guinea, where the aftermath of Sierra Leone’s civil war had left countless children orphaned, handicapped and vulnerable. Since then, the organization has grown into a vital lifeline for children in dire medical need.

While commending the Government of Sierra Leone for strides in strengthening healthcare infrastructure, Dr. Adonis Aboud emphasized the urgent need for more medical specialists, particularly in cardiology, pediatrics and orthopedics. “Our hospitals have the equipment, but without the expertise, we cannot optimize their use,” he noted, encouraging recent graduates of the College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences to remain in the country and serve where they are most needed.

Saudatu Barrie, Mariama Juldeh Jalloh’s mother, shared the emotional journey of seeking help for her daughter. Born sickly, she said her daughter was taken from their hometown of Kabala to Freetown for advanced medical assessment furthering how it was at Ola During Children’s Hospital that the family learned of Mariama’s heart condition.

“In our search for hope, someone referred us to Pikin Bizness. When I first met Dr. Adonis Aboud, Mariama was only five months old and he told us they could only assist children who are at least eight months. He gave me his word that once Mariama reached that age, they would help and he has kept that promise,” Saudatu Barrie recounted, noting with gratitude that no financial contribution was requested at any point in the process.

Though emotional about being separated from her child for two months during treatment, Saudatu Barrie expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity that now stands before her daughter. “It is not easy, but I will endure it. What matters most is that my daughter gets the chance to live a healthy life. Words cannot express the depth of my gratitude to Pikin Bizness,” she said.

Over the years, Pikin Bizness has worked in collaboration with esteemed international partners including Chain of Hope, La Chaîne de l’Espoir, the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health to facilitate critical medical interventions for vulnerable children. The organization continues to serve as a beacon of hope, transforming lives one child at a time.

Ambassadors-Designate Pledge Commitment to Advancing Sierra Leone’s Interests Abroad

April 7, 2025

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio today bid farewell to four distinguished diplomats in a formal ceremony on Friday April 4, 2025 at State House. The ceremony marked the official departure of three Ambassadors-Designate and one Deputy Ambassador-Designate, ahead of their deployments to their respective countries.

The diplomats include Ambassador Amara Sowa, appointed as Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to the United States of America; Dr. Mohamed Sesay, Ambassador-Designate to the French Republic; Philip Bob Jusu, Ambassador-Designate to the Kingdom of Belgium; and Madam Mamadi Gobeh-Kamara, Deputy Ambassador-Designate to the French Republic.

During the ceremony, the appointees expressed their deep gratitude to President Bio for the trust and opportunity to represent Sierra Leone on the global stage. They each pledged to work diligently to enhance bilateral relations, attract foreign investment, and promote the country’s interests in their host nations.

In his address, President Bio congratulated the appointees and emphasized his confidence in their ability to excel in their new roles.

“Sierra Leone is open for business, and I have no doubt that each of you will work tirelessly to strengthen our diplomatic and economic ties with your host nations,” President Bio said. “You have my full support as you embark on this new chapter of your service to the nation.”

The President further reminded the diplomats of the high expectations placed on them and encouraged them to continue serving with excellence.

“A lot is expected of you all, and I trust that you will continue to serve with the same dedication and excellence that have brought you this far,” President Bio concluded. “I wish you all the very best in your new roles. Congratulations and good luck.”

The envoys will now prepare for their official assignments, which are expected to play a crucial role in enhancing Sierra Leone’s global presence and diplomatic ties.

One Family People Holds Awareness Campaign on Protecting Children with Disabilities at Blind School

April 7, 2025

By Foday Moriba Conteh

As part of their efforts towards safeguarding children with disabilities and promoting inclusive child protection for them across the country, One Family People (OFP), with funding from Nadia Onlu through the Il Giardino di Ngali 2-NGA 2 (2023-2025) project, on Friday, March 28, 2025, successfully concluded a one-day education and awareness program on the protection of children with disabilities from sexual offenses and child labor in Sierra Leone.

The event, held at the Milton Margai School for the Blind, specifically targeted visually impaired pupils and aimed to equip them with knowledge and awareness of their rights and protection. Sessions were facilitated by representatives from One Family People, the Sierra Leone Special Court, and the Rainbow Initiative.

Addressing the gathering, Ibrahim Sorie Koroma, Monitoring and Evaluation Advisor at One Family People (OFP), emphasized the importance of raising awareness on the protection of children with disabilities from sexual offenses and child labor as part of the implementation of the Giardino di Ngali 2-NGA 2 (2023-2025) project in Sierra Leone. He stated that the organization saw it necessary to organize this education and awareness program, specifically targeting pupils of the Milton Margai School for the Blind, to equip them with knowledge on their rights and protection.

He highlighted that the awareness session focused on key issues such as sexual offenses, child labor, human trafficking and violence, drawing particular attention to the devastating effects of Sierra Leone’s civil war and its lingering impact on vulnerable communities. Ibrahim Sorie Koroma stressed that cases of sexual offenses and violence have been on the rise, not only among children with disabilities but across society, underscoring the urgent need for action to address those challenges.

Ibrahim Sorie Koroma further revealed that One Family People has already conducted similar awareness campaigns in 25 secondary schools across Western Urban and Rural districts, with plans to extend the initiative to other districts nationwide.

He also called on parents, teachers, policymakers and community leaders to take an active role in protecting children with disabilities by fostering inclusive and safe environments for them. He emphasized that tackling sexual offenses, child labor and violence requires a collective effort, including stronger enforcement of child protection laws, increased community awareness and improved support systems for survivors.

The Monitoring and Evaluation Advisor at One Family People (OFP) further encouraged continued partnerships with Government institutions, civil society organizations and international partners to sustain and expand the impact of such initiatives across Sierra Leone.

Ibrahim Sorie Koroma concluded by reaffirming the organization’s commitment to ensuring the safety and empowerment of children with disabilities, urging stakeholders to join efforts in combating those pressing issues.

Abubakar Koroma, Education and Outreach Officer of the Sierra Leone Special Court, focused his session on the devastating consequences of violence, using Sierra Leone’s 11-year civil war as a sobering example.

To help the pupils understand the long-term impact of conflict and cruelty, he played an audio recording of real-life testimonies from war victims. The harrowing stories included experiences of children being forced to watch their family members murdered, others coerced into committing incest, and many being conscripted as child soldiers.

He highlighted that countless victims now live with physical disabilities, bearing permanent reminders of the horrors they endured.

Addressing the pupils with heartfelt sincerity, Koroma urged them to recognize violence in all its forms physical, verbal, emotional, and psychological and to understand that such behavior should never be normalized, even among children. “Violence in any form is never acceptable,” he stated. “As children, you must learn to resolve conflicts peacefully and treat each other with dignity and love.”

He further emphasized the role of education as a powerful tool for liberation and protection, especially for children with disabilities.

Encouraging the pupils to embrace their worth and potential, he advised them to speak out against abuse, report any incidents to trusted adults or authorities, and never allow their impairments to make them feel less than others. “You are not alone, and your voice matters,” he added.

He said that the awareness session was a vital component of One Family People’s broader mission to promote inclusion, protection, and empowerment for children with disabilities in Sierra Leone of which he concluded by commending One Family People for the initiative.

Isha Success Sankoh, Outreach Intern at Rainbow Initiative, commended One Family People for organizing the awareness-raising session, particularly on sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), which she facilitated. She emphasized that her organization has been actively addressing such issues across the country.

She highlighted that Rainbow Initiative has recorded numerous cases of sexual and gender-based violence over the years, many of which affect children also adding that such awareness sessions are crucial in tackling such issues at both the community and national levels.

During the session, Isha Success Sankoh informed the children about the services provided by Rainbow Initiative, including the distribution of dignity kits for rape survivors, counseling, medical assistance and other support available at their one-stop centers. She also encouraged the children to report cases of SGBV to Rainbow Initiative by calling their helpline 599.

Mr. Jalloh, a teacher at the Milton Margai School for the Blind, emphasized the importance of protecting children with disabilities from sexual offenses and child labor, noting that children with disabilities are among the most vulnerable in society and often face exploitation and abuse. He commended the organizers for prioritizing the welfare of these children and ensuring that they are informed about their rights.

He further stated that many cases of sexual abuse and child labor involving children with disabilities go unreported, either due to a lack of awareness, fear or societal neglect, stressing that raising awareness within communities and schools is essential in addressing these challenges and ensuring that children with disabilities are protected from harm. He called on parents, caregivers and stakeholders to be more vigilant and proactive in safeguarding these children.

Mr. Jalloh encouraged the pupils to speak up and report any form of abuse they might experience or witness. He also urged authorities to strengthen laws and enforcement mechanisms to protect children with disabilities from exploitation. The teacher concluded by calling for continued advocacy and educational initiatives to empower children with disabilities, ensuring that they can grow and thrive in a safe and inclusive environment.

The event concluded with an interactive segment where pupils asked questions and reflected on what they had learned. Many expressed a renewed sense of awareness and hope, acknowledging the importance of standing up against violence in their communities and among their peers.

Land Sector Reforms… Minister Turad Senesie Unveils High-Precision GPS Stations to End Land Disputes

April 4, 2025

Ministry of Lands, Housing and Country Planning, Dr. Turad Senesie

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Ministry of Lands, Housing and Country Planning, under the leadership of Dr. Turad Senesie, has commenced the installation of “Continuous Operating Reference Stations” (CORS) across strategic locations in Sierra Leone. This initiative aims to enhance accuracy in surveying, mapping, agriculture, construction and geospatial research through improved Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) data.

CORS is a permanent GNSS-based technology that provides real-time, high-accuracy positioning data. According to Dr. Turad Senesie, this advancement will significantly improve the precision of cadastral surveys, reducing errors that have historically led to boundary overlaps and land disputes, particularly in urban areas.

“When installed, surveyors across the country will be able to achieve international accuracy standards for cadastral surveys, reducing positioning errors to about 5 cm or less. This is a major improvement from the previous 3-5 meter accuracy obtained through handheld GPS devices and mobile phones,” Dr. Turad Senesie stated.

The introduction of CORS will revolutionize land surveying and geospatial data management in Sierra Leone. Key benefits include:

High-precision surveys: Ensuring accuracy in land measurements and reducing discrepancies.
Time efficiency: Minimizing the time required for surveying processes.
Cost reduction: Lowering operational costs for surveyors and developers.
Enhanced spatial data quality: Providing more reliable and comprehensive geospatial information.

The Ministry has confirmed that installations are underway in all primary and secondary cities nationwide. This move is part of broader land sector reforms designed to modernize land administration and management.

To ensure effective utilization of the new technology, Dr. Turad Senesie disclosed that training sessions for Ministry staff, the National Land Commission and licensed surveyors will commence immediately after installation. This training will equip professionals with the necessary skills to operate and maximize the benefits of the CORS system.

The initiative reflects the Government’s commitment to land sector reforms, fostering progress and stability in land administration across Sierra Leone. Dr. Turad Senesie emphasized that these advancements are evidence of the Ministry’s dedication to addressing long-standing challenges in land governance while promoting sustainable development.

The installation of CORS marks a significant step in modernizing land surveying and geospatial data collection in Sierra Leone. With improved accuracy, efficiency and reliability, the initiative is expected to contribute to better land management, urban planning and infrastructure development across the country.

As Sierra Leone continues to embrace digital transformation in governance, the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Country Planning remains committed to implementing cutting-edge solutions that will enhance service delivery and ensure the equitable management of land resources.

USL Leadership Faces Scrutiny as University Court Investigates Corruption Allegations

April 4, 2025

Minister of Technical and Higher Education is Dr. Haja Ramatulai Wurie

The University of Sierra Leone (USL) is under intense scrutiny following a high-level University Court session convened on Thursday, April 3, 2025, to deliberate on the findings of a corruption investigation that unearthed extensive administrative, financial and procurement malpractices spanning June 2018 to January 2024.

The probe, commissioned by the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education, was conducted by an independent committee in accordance with statutory guidelines, including the Universities Act 2021 and USL’s internal financial and human resource policies. The investigative report, submitted in January, highlights systemic governance lapses at the institution’s highest echelons, implicating key offices such as the former Vice-Chancellor and Principal (VC&P), the Finance Director and the Registrar in the breakdown of financial accountability and operational oversight.

Among the damning revelations are irregular recruitment practices, mismanagement of university funds and blatant non-compliance with procurement regulations. The report further underscores a troubling lack of institutional memory, exacerbated by inadequate handover processes and a pattern of non-cooperation from certain former officials.

In light of these findings, the report recommends establishing sub-committees to conduct deeper inquiries into specific cases of malpractice, reflecting the scale and intricacy of the issues at hand. Analysts believe the investigation’s fallout could catalyze sweeping reforms aimed at reinforcing governance structures within Sierra Leone’s premier academic institution.

Presiding over the closed-door session, Chancellor and Paramount Chief, Dr. Margret Baio Gbannie IV, faces mounting pressure to spearhead a credible reform agenda that restores confidence in the University’s administration and upholds principles of transparency, professionalism and integrity.

While the proceedings remained exclusive to University Court members, sources within the institution have confirmed that key decisions, particularly those of public significance, will be formally communicated in due course.

NCRA Launches Strategic Plan Review to Shape a Bold Future

April 4, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) initiated a two-day internal review of its 2019–2024 Strategic Plan, which commenced, on April 2, 2025, at the Sierra Palms Resort, marking a pivotal moment in Sierra Leone’s advancement in Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (CRVS) and Identity Management. Supported by the World Bank/Global Financing Facility (GFF) and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), this exercise serves as the foundation for the NCRA’s future, paving the way for the “Vision 2030 Strategic Plan (2025–2030”). The review will assess the institution’s achievements and challenges over the last five years as it works toward creating a robust Civil Registration and Identity Management System.

This introspective exercise is pivotal in setting the stage for NCRA’s ambitious future. It follows the authority’s continuous commitment to building a robust Civil Registration and Identity Management System. The review will focus on assessing the successes, challenges, and lessons learned during the 2019–2024 period, providing essential insights to inform the institution’s strategic direction for the coming years.

Following the internal review, a National Stakeholders Workshop will take place from April 8–10, 2025, at the Bank Complex in King Tom, Freetown. The workshop is expected to gather key national and international stakeholders to engage in discussions about the future of civil registration in Sierra Leone. This review and workshop serve as crucial precursors to the NCRA’s next phase, which will culminate in the Vision 2030 Strategic Plan (2025–2030). The new plan aims to fortify the NCRA’s mission of enhancing the country’s Civil Registration and Identity Management System.

To ensure a thorough and effective assessment, the review process is being led by two experienced consultants. Mr. Ibrahim Sahr Kamara, a seasoned local consultant, and Ms. Anette Forsingdal, an international expert specializing in CRVS systems, are driving the review process. Forsingdal, who previously contributed her expertise in 2021 to develop procedures for Statelessness and Migrant Registration, is collaborating with Mr. Kamara to ensure the process aligns with both international standards and national goals.

Adding an international dimension to the process, Ms. Violet Kinuthia, the Technical Specialist and Manager of the Centre of Excellence for CRVS Systems at UNFPA’s New York headquarters, is lending her expertise. Kinuthia’s involvement underscores Sierra Leone’s pivotal role as one of nine African countries selected to advance the UN’s Legal Identity Agenda. Having visited Sierra Leone in 2020 as part of a UNECA initiative, her continued involvement highlights the strong support from the international community in enhancing the country’s CRVS system, which is key to achieving sustainable development.

NCRA Director General, Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi, who is leading this transformative effort, expressed his optimism about the review. In his remarks, Massaquoi emphasized the importance of the internal review, calling it “a vital step towards operational excellence.” He also praised the unwavering commitment of the Government of Sierra Leone, noting that the President’s “undiluted political will” is crucial for the success of the NCRA’s mandate.

The outcome of the internal review and the subsequent stakeholders’ workshop will play a critical role in shaping the Vision 2030 plan, which aims to elevate Sierra Leone’s Civil Registration System by the end of the decade. The Vision 2030 strategy is designed to create an inclusive, comprehensive identity and registration system, ensuring that every citizen of Sierra Leone is empowered with a secure and reliable identity.

As the NCRA reflects on its past achievements, it is also focused on charting a bold future, with the goal of enhancing the accessibility and efficiency of Civil Registration and Identity Management services across the country.

VP Juldeh Jalloh Engages British Investment Chief on Boosting Private Sector Growth

April 4, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, held a strategic meeting on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, with Chris Chijiutomi, Managing Director and Head of Africa at British International Investment (BII), to discuss ways to enhance private sector participation in Sierra Leone’s economic development.

During the meeting, the Vice President emphasized the Government’s commitment to strengthening the country’s investment climate, highlighting ongoing reforms aimed at attracting foreign investment. He underscored the critical role of the private sector in advancing key industries such as agriculture and energy, which are pivotal to the nation’s economic transformation.

A key aspect of the discussion was the energy sector’s foundational role in unlocking broader economic growth. Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh elaborated on opportunities for private sector investment across the entire energy value chain, from generation to distribution and how reliable and sufficient energy could spur investment in other industries.

“We spoke at length about the foundational role of the energy sector in unlocking growth,” Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh stated after the meeting. “I identified opportunities for private sector investment across the entire energy value chain , from generation to distribution and its potential to scale private sector participation in other sectors once reliable and sufficient energy is available for productive use.”

In a social media post following the engagement, the Vice President reaffirmed the Government’s dedication to fostering a conducive environment for investors. He stated, “I used the opportunity to highlight efforts by the Government to strengthen the investment climate in Sierra Leone and our interest in deepening private sector participation in a range of catalytic sectors like agriculture and energy.”

The meeting between the Vice President and BII’s Chris Chijiutomi signals Sierra Leone’s ongoing drive to attract strategic investments that will propel economic growth and development. The Government remains committed to building partnerships that will create a more vibrant private sector and drive sustainable progress across key economic sectors.

Africell Sierra Leone Supports Thousands of Worshippers During Eid-Ul-Fitr

April 4, 2025

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Africell Sierra Leone has once again demonstrated its commitment to community support by providing essential aid to thousands of Muslims across the country during this year’s Eid-ul-Fitr celebration on March 31, 2025.

As worshippers gathered to mark the end of Ramadan, Africell distributed over 14,000 bottles of water, date palm fruits and sound systems at various prayer grounds nationwide. The initiative, which was part of the company’s broader Ramadan support program aimed to foster unity and goodwill among the Muslim community.

Speaking on the initiative, Abdul Karim Sesay, Media Manager at Africell Sierra Leone, reaffirmed the company’s dedication to giving back to society.

“Throughout Ramadan, we have actively supported our Muslim brothers and sisters through various initiatives, including rice distribution and a special Ramadan TV show. As we conclude this sacred month, we remain committed to supporting the community during this significant moment of prayer,” Abdul Karim Sesay stated.

He emphasized that Africell’s commitment goes beyond business operations, highlighting its dedication to social responsibility and community engagement.

“As a business, we believe in forging strong connections with the people we serve. Giving back is a fundamental part of our corporate philosophy, and we take immense pride in supporting meaningful causes,” he added.

The Muslim community warmly received the gesture, with many expressing gratitude for Africell’s generosity. Several worshippers also encouraged other corporate entities to emulate Africell’s example in fostering inclusivity and promoting social responsibility.

Africell Sierra Leone continues to set a benchmark for corporate philanthropy, reinforcing its dedication to both its customers and the wider community through impactful initiatives.

C40 Cities Pledges $100,000 Grant Support for Freetown’s Climate Resilience Projects

April 4, 2025

C40 Co-Chair and Mayor of Freetown, Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, OBE and Executive Director of C40 Cities, Mark Watts.

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The Executive Director of C40 Cities, Mark Watts, has announced a $100,000 grant to study urban heat impacts in Freetown. This announcement was made during a Press Conference held on April 2, 2025, at the Freetown City Council (FCC) Headquarters on Wallace Johnson Street. Mark Watts is currently on a four-day visit to Freetown, from April 1 to 4, to strengthen climate action efforts and collaborate with the city’s leadership, including C40 Co-Chair and Mayor of Freetown, Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, OBE.

During his visit, Mark Watts engaged with local Government officials and stakeholders to discuss ongoing and future climate initiatives. His presence underscores Sierra Leone’s growing role in global climate action and its active participation in the C40 Global Leadership network.

“This visit is an opportunity for us to see firsthand how we can bolster climate action,” Mark Watts stated. He emphasized the need for cities to work together in addressing climate crises through community engagement and sustainable initiatives.

Reaffirming C40’s commitment to supporting Freetown’s climate initiatives, Mark Watts highlighted the organization’s role in providing both technical guidance and financial resources. “We are excited to support projects that play a crucial role in mitigating climate change, reducing carbon emissions and enhancing urban infrastructure,” he added.

A key focus of Mark Watts’ visit is youth engagement in climate initiatives. Through the Bloomberg Philanthropies-funded youth program, young individuals are being empowered to develop climate-resilient innovations. “We acknowledge that our youth are the future and providing them with the tools and support for climate solutions is crucial,” he emphasized.

In a bid to further support climate adaptation efforts, Mark Watts announced the $100,000 grant for studying urban heat impacts in Freetown. “We are committed to working with the city to provide the necessary tools to combat heat effects, improve air quality and promote sustainable living,” he affirmed.

Additionally, Mark Watts expressed C40 Cities’ commitment to supporting Freetown’s climate resilience efforts through projects that enhance urban sustainability. This includes plans to introduce low-cost, accurate air pollution monitoring centers to reduce air pollution. The organization also pledged support for the Cable Car project, an initiative aimed at increasing mobility and reducing carbon emissions in the city.

The Executive Director of C40 Cities commended Mayor Aki-Sawyerr’s leadership in implementing sustainable urban development projects despite budget constraints. He reaffirmed C40 Cities’ goal of supporting member cities in reducing carbon emissions and providing clean energy solutions by 2027.

Freetown’s membership in C40 Cities has positioned it as a key player in advocating for climate action. The city’s leadership continues to push for community engagement initiatives such as tree planting, job creation and equitable climate policies to ensure a sustainable future.

C40 Co-Chair and Mayor of Freetown, Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr OBE, outlined Freetown’s ambitious climate initiatives, emphasizing access to climate finance, multi-government collaboration, youth engagement and strategies to mitigate extreme heat in urban areas.

She highlighted key projects, including the cable car initiative, which received $1 million in feasibility study funding from C40 Cities. “This project aims to significantly reduce travel times and is a vital component of our strategy to enhance urban mobility,” she stated.

Freetown’s commitment to urban sustainability is further demonstrated by its large-scale tree-planting program, which has planted 1.2 million trees to combat deforestation and expand green spaces. “In 2023, we achieved 82% of our tree-planting target, reaffirming our dedication to a healthier urban environment,” Mayor Aki-Sawyerr added.

As C40 Co-Chair, she has prioritized four key areas: access to finance, multi-government collaboration, youth engagement and reducing extreme heat. She emphasized the importance of C40 Cities being recognized and appreciated at the national level, noting that the organization provides funding for health and heat-related initiatives to combat climate challenges.

Recognizing the pressing issue of deforestation, she expressed pride in the city’s reforestation efforts and revealed that research is underway to implement nature-based solutions for harvesting rainwater. This initiative aims to provide water access to communities currently underserved by the Guma Valley Water Company.

Additionally, the Bloomberg Youth-funded program continues to support young people in developing climate-resilient innovations.

Throughout the visit, discussions focused on strengthening Freetown’s partnership with the C40 network, creating a platform for cities to share experiences and resources. Local officials remain hopeful that this collaboration will inspire stronger climate action and resilience-building measures for the city.