Prince of Wales @ 100: Amb. Anthony Navo Jr. Declares ‘Lion Mentality’ Ahead of Grand Celebration

April 2, 2025

The countdown has begun for a historic milestone as the prestigious Prince of Wales School marks its 100th anniversary. In anticipation of the grand event scheduled for Sunday, April 6, Ambassador Anthony Navo Jr., a proud Princewalean, has sent a bold message of pride and dominance, asserting the school’s unparalleled legacy in academics and leadership.

“This Sunday, April 6, we will know who is who and who truly runs the jungle—the city,” Ambassador Anthony Navo Jr. declared with confidence. “Let the Lion roar. Let the King prevail. Let the countdown begin.”

As part of the centenary celebrations, Princewaleans will hold a special Thanksgiving March, reinforcing their unity and historic achievements. The event is expected to draw alumni, students and well-wishers from across the nation, showcasing the institution’s unwavering commitment to excellence.

Ambassador Anthony Navo Jr. also took the opportunity to send a message to skeptics and rivals from other schools, emphasizing the unwavering ‘Lion Mentality’ that defines Princewaleans.

“The lion mentality is the ability to stay focused on your goals, even in the face of adversity. It’s the mindset of a champion, the mindset that separates the winners from the losers. To develop the lion mentality, you need to believe in yourself, trust your instincts and always stay hungry for success.”

He further encouraged alumni and supporters to turn out in large numbers on Sunday to experience the energy and unity of the Prince of Wales School, adding, “Join us on Sunday to witness the lion—the king of the jungle. You will understand why we have been crowned the king of the jungle.”

The Prince of Wales School, founded in 1925, has long been recognized as one of Sierra Leone’s most prestigious academic institutions, producing notable leaders in various sectors. As it celebrates its centenary, the school continues to stand as a beacon of excellence, embodying resilience, intelligence and the unwavering spirit of a lion.

As the excitement builds towards Sunday’s landmark event, one thing is clear—Princewaleans remain proud, powerful and ever-dominant as the true academic champions of Sierra Leone.

Let the celebrations begin!

Onga Celebrates Eid-Ul-Fitri with 3,000 Meal Packs for Worshippers

April 2, 2025

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In commemoration of Eid-Ul-Fitri, marking the end of the Holy Month of Ramadan, Sierra Leone’s favorite seasoning brand, Onga marketed by Premium Divine Trading Company Limited, an agent for Promasidor Holdings, distributed 3,000 packs of cooked food, exclusively prepared with Onga seasoning, to Muslims who performed their Eid-Ul-Fitri prayers on Sunday, March 30, 2025. The distribution took place at Victoria Park in central Freetown and Calaba Town Field in the east end of Freetown. Additionally, the company conducted wet sampling of its various products to thousands of worshippers, reinforcing its commitment to community engagement and brand loyalty.

Speaking during the event, Philip Kanu, Assistant National Marketing Lead of Premium Divine Trading Company Limited, stated that as the holy month of Ramadan was coming to an end, the company deemed it fit to provide meals for worshippers on Eid-Ul-Fitri. He emphasized that the initiative is a continuation of the company’s previous interventions throughout Ramadan.

Philip Kanu highlighted that during the fasting period, the company donated cartons of its various products to the National Council of Imams and also conducted wet sampling at 50 selected mosques across the country during Iftar (breaking of fast).

He expressed pride that the meals distributed on Eid-Ul-Fitri were prepared exclusively with Onga seasoning, which he described as highly nutritious. He further noted that Premium Divine Trading Company Ltd. is the official distributor and marketer of Cowbell, Miksi, Kremela, Twisco and Onga with Onga being Sierra Leone’s favorite food seasoning. The Assistant National Marketing Lead of Premium Divine Trading Company Limited detailed the various Onga variants available, including Onga Classic, Onga Shrimp Crevette, Onga Chicken Poulet, Onga 3-Mix and Onga Stew Flavour.

Philip Kanu also revealed that all the aforementioned products are produced in Ghana by Promasidor Ghana Limited for export to several West African countries, including Sierra Leone, where Premium Divine Trading is the sole distributor and marketer.

In conclusion, the Marketing Lead encouraged Sierra Leoneans to continue patronizing the company’s products, particularly the Onga seasoning range, which he described as one of the best and most popular food seasonings in the country.

Jelikatu Umu Conteh, a beneficiary and worshipper at Victoria Park, expressed gratitude to Onga and Premium Divine Trading Company Limited for their generosity during this year’s Eid-Ul-Fitri celebrations. She noted that the food packs distributed were not only timely but also well-prepared, providing much-needed nourishment after a month of fasting. “It was heartwarming to see a company recognize the importance of giving back to the community, especially on such a significant occasion for Muslims,” she stated.

“Beyond the food packs, I also had the opportunity to participate in the wet sampling of the company’s various products. The flavors were rich and well-balanced, making the meals more enjoyable. I have used Onga before, but this experience gave me a better understanding of the different variants available and how they enhance cooking. It was a wonderful initiative that allowed many of us to try and appreciate the quality of their products,” she added.

Similarly, Shiek Yusuf Kamara, a worshipper at Calaba Town Playing Field, commended Onga and Premium Divine Trading for their continuous efforts in supporting communities, not just during Ramadan but throughout the year.

He proudly mentioned that his mosque benefited from the product donations made by the company to the National Council of Imams, as well as from the wet sampling during one of their Iftar gatherings.

“Their commitment to providing quality food products and engaging with the people is truly commendable. I hope they continue this initiative in the coming years so that more people can benefit from their generosity and experience the great taste of Onga,” he concluded.

Onga and Premium Divine Trading Company Limited have once again demonstrated their commitment to community support and engagement, especially during significant religious occasions like Eid-Ul-Fitri. Through the distribution of 3,000 meal packs and wet sampling of their seasoning products, they not only provided nourishment to thousands of worshippers but also reinforced their reputation as a trusted brand in Sierra Leone.

President Bio, First Lady Mark End of Ramadan with National Eid Celebrations

April 2, 2025

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio and senior Government officials joined Muslims across Sierra Leone and the world to celebrate Eid-Al-Fitr, marking the end of the Holy Month of Ramadan. The grand celebration took place on Sunday March 30, 2025 at State Lodge on Hill Station in Freetown, bringing together thousands of Muslims who had observed the month-long fast to express gratitude and praise to Allah for His blessings.

Eid-Al-Fitr is regarded as a moment of divine reward, signifying the successful completion of fasting and spiritual purification. Delivering the sermon, Sheikh Abu Bakarr Conteh, Imam of Hamdallah Mosque, expressed gratitude to Allah for the gift of Ramadan. He reaffirmed the Islamic creed, testifying that there is no deity worthy of worship except Allah and that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is His Messenger.

Sheikh Conteh emphasized that on Pray-Day (Eid), Allah descends to bestow blessings and rewards upon all Muslims who have observed the holy month with devotion. He urged Muslims to uphold the values of unity, generosity and solidarity, encouraging them to continue embodying the discipline and spiritual consciousness acquired during Ramadan.

Speaking on the theme: “The Welfare of Planet Earth: A Concern for Mankind,” Sheikh Conteh underscored the Islamic obligation to protect the environment. He cited Quranic verses (Quran 44:38 and Quran 51:56) that mandate humanity to safeguard nature and honor Allah through stewardship of the earth. He urged all citizens to act responsibly towards the environment and resist destructive practices that threaten the planet’s sustainability.

The Imam concluded his sermon with prayers for Allah’s blessings, protection and guidance upon Sierra Leone. He called for patriotism, national unity and obedience to lawful authority, reminding all to respect one another and work towards the common good.

Addressing the congregation, President Julius Maada Bio expressed joy in celebrating Eid-Al-Fitr with Muslims nationwide, acknowledging the significance of the occasion for both Muslims and Christians, as both faiths worship the same Almighty God. He praised Sierra Leone for its exceptional religious tolerance, highlighting the country as a model for peaceful coexistence between Muslims and Christians. He urged Muslims to continue adhering to the principles of Islam that promote unity and social cohesion, which have long contributed to Sierra Leone’s stability.

The President also commended Sheikh Conteh for his sermon, emphasizing the interconnectedness between humanity and the environment. He reiterated his Government’s commitment to environmental protection and encouraged citizens to be mindful of their responsibilities in preserving natural resources for future generations.

First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio expressed gratitude to Islamic scholars for their dedication throughout Ramadan, leading prayers and guiding the faithful. She also thanked President Bio for his unwavering support to Muslims across the country, including providing food assistance during the holy month.

She prayed for continued divine blessings upon the President, his family and all Sierra Leoneans, wishing the nation peace, prosperity and unity.

The Eid-Al-Fitr celebrations reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s commitment to religious harmony and national unity, showcasing the nation’s enduring spirit of peace and coexistence.

SLCAA Director General Strengthens Aviation Ties with Egypt During Presidential Visit

April 2, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), Madam Musayeroh Barrie, played a pivotal role in fostering enhanced aviation cooperation between Sierra Leone and Egypt during President Julius Maada Bio’s three-day state visit to Cairo. The visit, which commenced on March 26, 2025, underscored the commitment of both nations to strengthening diplomatic and economic ties.

As part of the high-level delegation accompanying President Bio, Madam Musayeroh Barrie engaged in a series of strategic discussions with key stakeholders in Egypt’s aviation sector. She met with Captain Sameh El Hefny, President of the Egyptian Civil Aviation Authority, and Amr Adawy, Head of Commercial for EgyptAir, to explore avenues for collaboration between the two nations.

One of the key highlights of the meeting was the ongoing negotiation for direct flights between Freetown and Cairo, a move anticipated to bolster trade, tourism and economic activities between the two countries. Speaking on the significance of these discussions, Madam Musayeroh Barrie stated, “We are in the advanced stages of negotiations with EgyptAir for direct flights between Freetown and Cairo. This initiative will not only enhance connectivity but also create significant opportunities for trade and tourism.”

The meeting was described as productive and promising, with both parties expressing enthusiasm for deepening aviation cooperation. Discussions also touched on knowledge-sharing, training opportunities for Sierra Leonean aviation professionals and potential joint projects aimed at strengthening the regulatory and operational capacities of the sector.

Madam Musayeroh Barrie’s participation in these discussions reflects her steadfast commitment to modernizing Sierra Leone’s aviation sector. Since her appointment by President Bio, she has spearheaded critical reforms that have significantly improved the country’s air transport infrastructure. Under her leadership, SLCAA has introduced modernized systems to enhance operational efficiency, improved safety standards and upgraded regulatory frameworks to align with international aviation norms.

Her efforts have also paved the way for stronger partnerships with international aviation entities, with Egypt emerging as a key ally. The recent developments between Sierra Leone and Egypt exemplify the growing bilateral relations in the aviation sector, with increased technical exchange, aviation training programs and joint air transport projects on the horizon.

Madam Musayeroh Barrie also played a welcoming role upon President Bio’s arrival in Cairo, further highlighting the importance of her engagement in this landmark visit. The strengthening of aviation ties aligns with President Bio’s broader vision of positioning Sierra Leone as a competitive player in regional and international air transport, ultimately attracting foreign investment and boosting the nation’s global connectivity.

As Sierra Leone continues to make strides in the aviation sector, the collaborative efforts with Egypt serve as a testament to the country’s commitment to fostering international partnerships, driving economic growth and advancing its aviation industry to new heights.

NP (SL) Sets the Standard for Superior Service in Petroleum Marketing

April 2, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

When discussing business entities that have left an indelible mark across the West African sub-region, NP (SL) Ltd emerges as a distinguished leader. This assertion is far from an overstatement, as the company’s remarkable journey from its modest beginnings to becoming a dominant force in the petroleum industry is well-documented.

Established by visionary Sierra Leoneans, all former employees of British Petroleum (BP), NP (SL) Ltd was borne when these individuals took a bold step to acquire shares following BP’s exit from the country. Through sheer determination, sound managerial acumen and a commitment to excellence, the company evolved into a thriving petroleum marketing enterprise with a strong footprint beyond Sierra Leone, extending its reach to Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast and The Gambia.

The presence of NP (SL) Ltd in these nations is unmistakable, marked by its signature green and yellow branding and its state-of-the-art Filling Stations, meticulously designed to accommodate multiple vehicles while offering additional services such as retail marts and vehicle maintenance sections. The company’s unwavering commitment to quality service delivery and customer satisfaction has earned it a well-deserved reputation as the industry benchmark for excellence, widely recognized as the foremost in customer care. This distinction is not merely theoretical but is substantiated by the company’s strategic initiatives, all aimed at ensuring customers receive top-tier service across all operational locations.

A prime example of this customer-centered approach is the deployment of calibrated pumping machines at all NP (SL) Ltd Filling Stations. These technologically advanced dispensers guarantee accuracy in fuel measurement, transparently displaying the volume in liters and corresponding prices, thereby fostering trust and confidence among customers. This emphasis on transaction transparency is a core principle upheld across all the company’s subsidiaries.

Recognizing the inherently volatile nature of petroleum products, NP (SL) Ltd prioritizes safety by instituting stringent precautionary measures at its Filling Stations. Clear signage warns against smoking, using mobile phones or lighting naked flames within the vicinity, while customers are advised to switch off vehicle engines during refueling. Furthermore, fire extinguishers are strategically positioned to swiftly mitigate any potential hazards, reflecting the company’s proactive stance on safety and reinforcing its commitment to safeguarding lives and property.

The company’s adherence to Sierra Leone’s Local Content Policy (LCP) underscores its dedication to national economic development. By emphasizing the employment of indigenous talent across its operations, NP (SL) Ltd contributes significantly to job creation and skill development. This policy is consistently upheld in all operating countries, ensuring that qualified nationals receive employment opportunities, thereby empowering communities and fostering economic growth.

NP(SL) Ltd has also pioneered digital innovations, notably the introduction of the NP Energy Pass Card, a cashless payment solution that has gained widespread popularity. This prepaid card allows customers to conveniently purchase fuel without carrying physical cash, enhancing financial security and enabling efficient budgeting for fuel expenses over extended periods. Its growing adoption reflects the company’s forward-thinking approach to enhancing customer convenience through modern technological solutions.

In addition to fuel products, the company markets NP Gas, a premium cooking gas available in various cylinder sizes and widely distributed across its Filling Stations. Designed for safety, efficiency and ease of use, NP Gas has gained commendations for its reliability and affordability, positioning it as a preferred choice for domestic and commercial consumers.

Beyond business operations, NP-SL Ltd remains deeply committed to corporate social responsibility, consistently demonstrating solidarity with the Government and people of Sierra Leone.

In light of its remarkable achievements, NP (SL) Ltd stands as an exemplary model of a thriving indigenous petroleum marketing entity that prioritizes exceptional service delivery. Its contributions to the socio-economic landscape of the West African sub-region are profound and with an ambitious vision for expansion, the company is poised to further cement its status as a leader in the industry. As it continues to innovate and expand, NP (S) Ltd remains dedicated to upholding its legacy of excellence, customer satisfaction and sustainable growth.

IMF Appoints Tony Elumelu to Advisory Council on Entrepreneurship and Growth

March 30, 2025

Lagos, March 27, 2025 – The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has appointed Heirs Holdings Founder and Group Chairman, Tony O. Elumelu, CFR, to its newly established Advisory Council on Entrepreneurship and Growth. The council, convened by IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva, is tasked with formulating policies to foster innovation, enhance resource allocation, and drive sustainable private sector-led economic growth globally.

Elumelu, widely regarded as Africa’s foremost advocate for entrepreneurship, has been instrumental in supporting and empowering African entrepreneurs through his philanthropic initiative, the Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF). Since 2015, the foundation has funded, mentored, and trained over 25,000 entrepreneurs across the continent, underscoring Elumelu’s commitment to leveraging entrepreneurship as a catalyst for Africa’s economic transformation. His philosophy of Africapitalism—a belief in the pivotal role of Africa’s private sector in the continent’s development through long-term investments that create both social and economic value—aligns with the objectives of the IMF Advisory Council.

The Advisory Council comprises distinguished global business leaders, policymakers, and academics dedicated to identifying and addressing regulatory barriers to entrepreneurship. Other notable members include Professor Ufuk Akcigit, Harberger Professor of Economics at the University of Chicago; HRH Ambassador Reema Bandar Al-Saud, Saudi Ambassador to the United States; Marc Benioff, Chair, CEO, and Co-Founder of Salesforce; Ana Botín, Executive Chair of Banco Santander; Natarajan Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Tata Group; Margherita Della Valle, Chief Executive of Vodafone Group; Robert Smith, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Vista Equity Partners; and Federico Sturzenegger, Argentina’s Minister of Deregulation and State Transformation.

Speaking at the council’s inaugural meeting on March 26, 2025, IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva emphasized the importance of a conducive macroeconomic and financial policy environment in fostering entrepreneurship and productivity. She stated, “The Council brings together a group of leading thinkers and practitioners in business, finance, academia, and policymaking to share their views and experiences on how macroeconomic and financial policies can provide a supportive environment for innovation, entrepreneurship, and productivity—key ingredients for a thriving private sector and strong economic growth.”

Elumelu’s inclusion in this high-level council reinforces the global recognition of his efforts to promote entrepreneurship as a driver of economic transformation. His contributions are expected to ensure that Africa’s entrepreneurial landscape remains a focal point in shaping international economic policies.

Orange Sierra Leone Spreads Ramadan Blessings with Nationwide Mosque Donations

March 30, 2025

In its ongoing commitment to corporate social responsibility, Orange Sierra Leone has extended goodwill gestures to ten mosques across the country as part of its 2025 Ramadan donations. The telecommunications company distributed assorted food items to masjids in Freetown, Bo, Kenema, Kono, and Tonkolili, supporting worshippers during the holy month of Ramadan.

Speaking at the Nurul Haqq Mosque in Goderich, Freetown, during one of the donation ceremonies, Mohamed Santos Bangura, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Officer at Orange Sierra Leone, reaffirmed the company’s dedication to supporting religious institutions during their respective holy periods. He emphasized that this initiative aligns with the company’s core values of care, responsibility, and boldness.

“Orange Sierra Leone has consistently extended goodwill gestures to both mosques and churches during Ramadan and Lent. This year’s selection process was open and fair, ensuring that different communities benefit. However, beneficiaries for this year’s donation may not necessarily be selected next year, as our goal is to impact as many communities as possible,” Bangura stated.

At the Ilmo Zikre Mosque in Hill Station, the Imam, Alhaji Chernor Mohamed Jalloh, expressed gratitude on behalf of the congregation. He commended Orange Sierra Leone for its unwavering support over the past decade, noting that the company has been a consistent partner in supporting religious institutions.

“As the host mosque of Orange Sierra Leone, we have always maintained a strong and cordial relationship with the company. This generous donation comes at a crucial time, especially as worshippers observe the last ten days of Ramadan, which require long hours of prayers and reflection,” Alhaji Jalloh remarked. He also invoked a supplication from the Holy Quran, highlighting the virtues of giving and community support.

Orange Sierra Leone’s Ramadan donations are part of an annual tradition that extends to both Muslim and Christian communities during Ramadan and Lent. The initiative reflects the company’s commitment to corporate social responsibility and community support.

Key highlights of the donation program include:

• A commitment to donating food items to selected mosques and churches each year.
• An open, competitive, and fair selection process to ensure inclusivity.
• Reinforcement of Orange Sierra Leone’s core values: Care, Responsibility, and Boldness.
• Supporting religious institutions and worshippers in their spiritual endeavors.

Mosques Benefiting from the 2025 Ramadan Donations
1. Nurul Haqq Mosque – New Jersey, Peninsular
2. Masjid Musa Khalamulah – Lower Allen Town Reservation
3. Masjid Makfira – 121 Taylor Street, Wellington
4. Masjid Yasin – Bo City, Southern Region
5. Masjid Darul Hadith – Mountain Cut
6. Jamatul Baiti Nurr – Peacock Lane, Kissy Road
7. Koidu Town Central Mosque – Kono
8. Ilmo Zikre Mosque – Hill Station
9. Water Works Road Mosque – Yele Town
10. Dr. Demby Mosque – Kenema

This year’s donations have been widely appreciated by the Islamic community, as they provide much-needed relief to worshippers during the sacred period of fasting and prayer. Orange Sierra Leone remains committed to positively impacting communities through its CSR initiatives, reinforcing its role as a responsible corporate entity.

As Ramadan continues, the company’s efforts serve as a testament to the importance of solidarity, kindness, and shared humanity during this holy month.

Three RCBank Employees Inducted as Chartered Bankers by CIBN in Nigeria

March 28, 2025

In a momentous achievement for the banking sector, three employees of Rokel Commercial Bank (RCBank) have been conferred the prestigious Chartered Banker status by the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN). The induction ceremony, which took place on March 22, 2025, in Lagos, Nigeria, also recognized a Sierra Leone Commercial Bank (SLCB) employee, Miriam Kama Konteh, as an Associate Member of the Institute.

The three distinguished RCBank staff members who earned this recognition after successfully completing their final examination papers in the October 2024 exam diet are now entitled to use the initials ‘ACIB’ after their names. They are:

Adikali S. Kamara – Head of Operations, RCBank
Aruna Dumbuya – Head of Public Relations, RCBank
Kadie Abdulai – Supervisor, Finance Department, RCBank

The induction was part of the CIBN 2025 Stream One Induction & Prize Awards Day, themed: “What Next.” The event was hosted by Akin Morakinyo, HCIB, the current Registrar and Chief Executive of CIBN, who was also officially sworn in as an Associate of the Institute.

The ceremony commenced with a warm welcome and appreciation from the President/Chairman of the CIBN Council, Prof. Pius Deji Olarewaju, PhD, FCIB. He later presented an Award of Commendation and Recognition to the Keynote Speaker, Dr. Sarah Alade, OON, FCIB, former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

In a keynote statement, the erstwhile Deputy Governor of CBN emphasized the importance of continuous learning, strategic thinking and professionalism in the banking industry. He encouraged the new inductees to not only celebrate their achievement but to also prepare for future challenges and opportunities in the financial sector.

Several distinguished personalities were also honored during the event, including:

Dr. Bala M. Bello, HCIB – Deputy Governor, Operations Directorate, CBN
Mr. Kayode Falowo, HCIB – Chairman, Greenwich Merchant Bank Limited
Mr. Victor Etuokwu, MON, HCIB – Chairman, Board of Directors, Unified Payments Services Ltd

Their inspirational speeches urged the inductees to uphold excellence, integrity and professionalism as they step into their new roles as Chartered Bankers under the esteemed CIBN.

The RCBank inductees earned their ACIB status after demonstrating expertise in banking and financial services, having undergone rigorous training and assessments, including:

Comprehensive educational programs and examinations covering risk management, ethics, financial analysis and banking regulations.
Successfully passing the professional examinations set by CIBN.
Gaining relevant work experience in banking and financial services.
Committing to continuous professional development (CPD) to keep their knowledge up to date.

The Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) is the apex professional body for bankers in Nigeria. It was originally incorporated in 1976 as the Nigerian Institute of Bankers and attained its Chartered Status in 1990. The Institute, governed under the CIBN Act 5 of 2007, regulates the banking profession, sets industry standards and upholds professional ethics among its members.

Speaking on behalf of the awardees from Sierra Leone, Adikali S. Kamara, Head of Operations at RCBank, expressed profound gratitude for the honor and reflected on the significance of the milestone.

He highlighted the critical role of the partnership between the Sierra Leone Association of Commercial Banks (SLACB) and CIBN in promoting banking professionalism in Sierra Leone. Adikali S. Kamara acknowledged the challenges faced in pursuing professional banking education in Sierra Leone but praised the resilience of the inductees and the impact of the SLACB-CIBN collaboration in aligning their skills with global banking standards.

Adikali S. Kamara also extended appreciation to key stakeholders and tuition providers, including Epitoney Investment, Opsy Consult Limited and CIBN Lagos, along with individuals such as Shola Taylor-Pearce, Ajayi Rahman and Apeoluwa Awolesi. He further acknowledged the Governor of the Bank of Sierra Leone for his unwavering support in strengthening the country’s banking sector.

Encouraging his fellow inductees, Adikali S. Kamara urged them to uphold the core values of Trust, Honesty and Competence while striving for excellence in the industry. He expressed special gratitude to his Managing Director, Dr. Walton E. Gilpin, for his mentorship and guidance.

Ending on a hopeful note, Adikali S. Kamara reaffirmed the inductees’ commitment to contributing meaningfully to the growth and prosperity of the banking industry in Sierra Leone, Africa and the world at large.

RCBank – The Bank of Choice

NP (SL) – A Trailblazer in Petroleum Marketing and Service Excellence

March 28, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

NP Sierra Leone (SL) stands as an unrivaled leader in Sierra Leone’s petroleum industry, consistently delivering top-tier petroleum products, including petrol, diesel, gas and lubricants, with Castrol oil as a standout offering. As a 100% indigenous company, NP (SL) has not only cemented its legacy but continues to receive widespread commendation for its commitment to efficiency, reliability and service excellence.

With an unwavering focus on ensuring the seamless importation and nationwide distribution of premium petroleum products, NP (SL) has maintained an unshakable presence in the industry. Even in the face of unforeseen challenges, the company has demonstrated remarkable resilience, swiftly implementing effective measures to restore normalcy whenever disruptions arise. Such an impeccable track record can only be attributed to visionary leadership, sound management practices and an unrelenting commitment to customer satisfaction.

Founded by enterprising Sierra Leoneans, NP (SL) embodies the essence of selfless service, with a corporate philosophy rooted in delivering value and enhancing customer experiences. Central to its operational framework is an exceptional customer care strategy, designed to foster trust, convenience and satisfaction. By prioritizing customer engagement, the company has successfully cultivated a loyal customer base, drawing more individuals into its expanding network.

NP (SL)’s commitment to excellence extends to its state-of-the-art Filling Stations, which are not only visually striking with their signature yellow and green branding but also designed to offer unmatched convenience. These spacious stations accommodate high volumes of vehicles and, in select locations, feature well-stocked shopping marts where customers can purchase essential items.

Transparency and fairness are cornerstones of NP (SL)’s operations. The company has invested heavily in calibrated digital pumping machines that guarantee precise fuel measurements, reinforcing its reputation for integrity and quality assurance. Customers consistently express confidence in NP (SL), knowing they receive exactly what they pay for. “Every time I refuel at NP, I am certain that I am getting my money’s worth,” a satisfied customer remarked.

NP (SL)’s success is also deeply intertwined with its steadfast adherence to Sierra Leone’s Local Content Policy. By prioritizing the employment of Sierra Leoneans across all levels of its operations, the company not only creates job opportunities but also ensures that economic benefits remain within the country. This commitment to local content development has earned NP (SL) admiration as a responsible corporate entity contributing meaningfully to national economic growth.

Among its innovative solutions, NP Gas has gained remarkable traction due to its efficiency, environmental friendliness and accessibility. Available in various cylinder sizes, it provides a reliable and hassle-free cooking alternative, further demonstrating the company’s dedication to customer convenience. “NP Gas has been a game-changer for my household. It’s safe, easy to use and incredibly efficient,” a Makeni resident shared.

Equally groundbreaking is the NP Energy Pass Card, a revolutionary digital payment system that streamlines fuel purchases with speed and security. Once loaded with funds, the card enables seamless transactions at NP’s digital pumps, enhancing customer experience with precision and ease. “The NP Energy Pass Card has simplified my fuel purchases tremendously. It’s secure, fast and eliminates the need for cash transactions,” a civil servant noted.

Beyond business, NP (SL) takes its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) seriously, consistently stepping up to support national development initiatives.

NP (SL)’s influence extends beyond national borders, with thriving branches in Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast and The Gambia, each operating efficiently, creating employment and contributing to economic development. As the company continues to expand its footprint, one thing remains certain, NP (SL) is a formidable force in the petroleum industry, committed to delivering excellence, innovation and selfless service.

Solidaridad West Africa Engages Stakeholders to Strengthen Land Governance in Sierra Leone

March 28, 2025

Solidaridad West Africa has engaged over 50 stakeholders, including members of Village Area Land Committees (VALC) and Chiefdom Land Committees (CLC) in Bo and Kenema districts, to review and validate the findings of a needs assessment and capacity development study.

The one-day session, held at the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security training hall in Kenema, provided stakeholders the opportunity to assess and validate the study conducted by an independent consultant.

The assessment aims to enhance the knowledge of VALC and CLC members, particularly women, in land governance, thereby promoting inclusive and sustainable land management across Kakua and Nongowa chiefdoms in Sierra Leone.

This initiative supports the implementation of the Sierra Leone Land Administration Project (SLLAP), which is led by the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Country Planning in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Bank.

Andrew Kojo Morrison, Country Representative of Solidaridad Sierra Leone, emphasized the significance of the initiative, stating:

“Our collaboration with FAO and the World Bank under the Sierra Leone Land Administration Project represents a critical step toward inclusive land governance. By engaging directly with traditional authorities in Nongowa and Kakua, we are ensuring that land committees truly understand the laws governing their responsibilities.

This is not just about policy awareness; it’s about transforming rural land management by amplifying women’s voices in decision-making and building sustainable local capacity. The validated findings will guide our efforts to create a land administration system that honors customary rights while meeting modern governance standards across Sierra Leone.”

The findings from the needs assessment will inform a follow-up program designed to further strengthen these committees, enhance their operational structures under SLLAP and contribute to the development of an efficient and accessible land administration system in Sierra Leone.

A local authority representative expressed support for the initiative, highlighting the importance of addressing land governance issues:

“This project is highly significant. If land issues are not properly addressed, they could lead to serious disputes in our communities. We encourage Solidaridad and FAO to support the Government in training VALC and CLC members across all districts. Ensuring that they fully understand their roles and responsibilities will help establish effective land governance systems and prevent conflicts in our districts and communities.”

Consultant, Kadija Jalloh, who conducted the study, explained that the objectives of the study were to determine whether land committee members have the necessary tools and understanding of key policies, including the Gender and Women’s Empowerment Act, the Land Commission Act and the Customary Land Rights Act. This knowledge is crucial in enabling them to handle land governance issues effectively within their communities.

“It is important that committee members are well-versed in these national policies as they will need to reference them when addressing land-related matters. Our goal is to ensure they are fully equipped to support the Government in establishing a standardized land governance system across the country,” she said.

The activity is supported by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).