Zion Praise Tabernacle Hosts Christ Invasion Crusade: A Powerful Blend of Spiritual & Humanitarian Outreach

October 4, 2024

By Millicent Senava Mannah

The Christ Invasion Crusade, led by Dr. Seth Amoah Boateng of Victory Faith Chapel from the United States, ended on a high note, blending spiritual revival with tangible humanitarian outreach. Themed: “Jesus the Burden Lifter” (Matthew 11:28-30), the three-day event took place from September 25th to 27th, 2024, at Zion Praise Tabernacle on Hill Station in Freetown and saw thousands in attendance.

In a remarkable display of compassion, Dr. Seth Amoah Boateng and his team undertook various charitable activities, emphasizing the practical application of the gospel. Notably, a borehole was constructed for the Back of Old School community at Hill Station, providing much-needed access to clean water. In addition, they visited the Old People’s Home, distributing essential food items such as rice and onions, valued at millions of Leones.

Furthermore, over 400 less privileged individuals from various communities were beneficiaries of humanitarian aid, receiving 5kg packets of rice and 0.92 liters of oil or palm oil. The support extended beyond food donations, as the team also conducted free medical screenings for hundreds, offering treatment for various ailments and providing reading glasses to those with vision challenges. Clothing and other essential items were also distributed to those in need.

The Crusade was a unifying event, drawing together believers from different Christian denominations, alongside Muslim attendees, demonstrating the boundless nature of Christ’s love. In addition to the nightly sessions filled with worship, healing and deliverance, there were two-day empowerment sessions held in the mornings. These sessions offered training and spiritual transformation for workers, members and ministers, facilitated by Dr. Seth Amoah Boateng.

Speaking at the conclusion of the Crusade, he commended the collaboration of local ministers and organizers who made the event possible. He expressed gratitude for the overwhelming attendance and the spiritual impact witnessed, with many participants, including Muslims, committing their lives to Christ, several of whom were baptized.

Sama Banya, one of the attendees, shared her testimony of being blessed by the powerful move of the Holy Spirit during the event. Meanwhile, Tamba Yaah, a beneficiary of the free medical screening, expressed gratitude for the treatment he received for a tropical ulcer.

Attendees and beneficiaries alike were filled with gratitude, praising God for the blessings received through Dr. Seth Amoah Boateng and his team. The combination of spiritual revival and humanitarian aid left a lasting impression on the lives of many, underscoring the message that the love of Christ transcends all boundaries and limitations.

Reverend James Bangura, General Overseer of Zion Praise Tabernacle, extended heartfelt thanks to Dr. Boateng for honoring their invitation, expressing pride in having him visit Sierra Leone. Reverend Idriss Wright Samura, General Overseer of Greater Evangelism World Crusade Ministries, echoed this sentiment, appreciating the humanitarian assistance provided and hoping for the continuation of this meaningful partnership.

The week concluded with a jubilant celebration, as thousands left feeling blessed and uplifted, united in their faith and the love of Christ.

Afrimoney Partners with GVWC to Simplify Water Bill Payments with Digital Solution

October 4, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Africell Sierra Leone, through its mobile money service Afrimoney, has launched a new partnership with Guma Valley Water Company (GVWC) aimed at streamlining water bill payments. The launch event took place on Tuesday, October 2, 2024, at the GVWC compound on Wilberforce Street, Freetown.

Marian Saata Karim, Acting Director of Commercial Services at GVWC, delivered the keynote address, expressing gratitude to attendees and underscoring the significance of the partnership, which has been in development since last year. “Water is life and no one can live without it. We use money to process and provide water to the public,” she said, emphasizing the essential nature of the new service.

The Acting Director encouraged the public to obtain an Africell SIM card and register for Afrimoney to conveniently pay their water bills from home. “This service allows customers to pay their water bills with ease,” she added.

John Konteh, Marketing Director of Africell Sierra Leone, praised GVWC for its efforts to improve water supply in Freetown and highlighted how the new digital payment platform would alleviate the inconvenience of in-person bill payments. “This platform reduces the stress of visiting GVWC offices by offering a simpler and more convenient method for our customers,” he said.

He outlined the easy steps for using Afrimoney to pay bills: “Africell subscribers registered with Afrimoney can dial *161*2*11*9#, enters their GVWC account number, confirms the payment amount and finalizes the transaction with their Afrimoney PIN. Both Afrimoney and GVWC will send confirmation notifications.”

John Konteh also confirmed that the Afrimoney platform could be used to pay GVWC bills not only in Freetown’s western area but in all locations where GVWC services are available.

Dr. Peter Lamin, from GVWC’s Communication Unit, welcomed the partnership, noting that it is the first collaboration of its kind with Africell. He emphasized how this initiative would make bill payments more accessible for customers who previously faced challenges visiting GVWC offices.

The event concluded with the official launch of the partnership between Afrimoney and Guma Valley Water Company.

Caritas Freetown Empowers 100 Women in Leadership Training to Boost Participation in Governance

October 4, 2024

By Millicent Senava Mannah

With regards promoting women’s leadership and participation in governance, Caritas Freetown, with funding support from Trocaire, has successfully empowered 100 women through a two-day leadership training held on the 1st and 2nd October, 2024. The event, aimed at enhancing the participants’ influence in governance processes, took place at the Western Rural District Council Hall in Waterloo, Western Rural Area.

The training brought together women from five wards: Ward 373 (Tombo, Russell, Kerry Town and Sattia), Ward 381 (Lumpa and Waterloo), Ward 392 (Hastings and Rogbangba), Ward 396 (Mongeba, Charlotte and Bathurst), and Ward 403 (Old Wharf, Tasso and Bottom Oku). The initiative forms part of Caritas Freetown’s “Strengthening Community Resilience, Women and Girls Protection Through Integrated Disaster Preparedness and Violence Mitigation” project, specifically targeting goals related to disaster preparedness and reducing violence against women and girls in the Western Area of Sierra Leone.

Eliza Sillah, Program Manager at Caritas Freetown, highlighted the importance of the training during the closing ceremony, stating, “The aim is to empower these women and enhance their ability to influence governance processes, contributing to a society where women’s voices are heard, their rights are respected and violence is minimized.” She emphasized the connection between leadership empowerment and reducing violence against women, noting that empowering women can lead to a more equitable and safer society.

Andrew Konneh, Project Supervisor at Caritas Freetown, further explained the motivation behind the training. “We discovered that women had limited space in decision-making, governance and leadership roles. Initially, we engaged these women to increase their voices within their households and communities. With the support of our donor partner we expanded our intervention to include leadership training,” he stated. The Project Supervisor also revealed that the project had been awarded a 10-month grant, running from March to December 2024, allowing them to strengthen their efforts to amplify women’s voices not only at the community level but also at the district level.

The Ministry of Gender, represented at the event, commended Caritas Freetown for their efforts, acknowledging that the training complemented the Ministry’s own mission of empowering women and girls across Sierra Leone.

Participants expressed their gratitude for the training, with Mariama Kamara, Chairlady of the Rogbangba Hastings Community, sharing how the program had helped them develop leadership qualities and boosted their confidence. “Before this training, we lacked the courage to contest against our male counterparts. Now, we’ve been taught how to be bold and fearless leaders,” she stated.

Another participant, Mabinty Mansaray, praised the inclusivity of the program, noting that young women were not left out. “We benefited a lot from this training and I am grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow,” she added.

The leadership training marks a crucial step toward ensuring that women in Sierra Leone have the knowledge and confidence to participate in governance and leadership, paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable society.

OHCHR Concludes One Day Regional Dialogue in Monrovia to Advance Human Rights Advocacy & Combat Corruption

October 2, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) on September 25, 2024 concluded a one-day regional dialogue in Monrovia, Liberia, aimed at enhancing human rights advocacy and the fight against corruption in Liberia, Sierra Leone and beyond. The event brought together key stakeholders from anti-corruption institutions, human rights commissions and civil society organizations to discuss strategies for addressing corruption’s impact on human rights.

In his opening remarks, Christian Mukosa, OHCHR’s Representative, emphasized the importance of the dialogue, noting its focus on creating strategies to mitigate the negative effects of corruption on human rights. Christian Mukosa highlighted the need for collaborative efforts and shared best practices to ensure human rights and anti-corruption institutions are fully involved in accountability mechanisms, particularly in the ongoing process of establishing the War and Economic Crimes Courts in Liberia.

Christine Umutoni, UN Resident Coordinator, commended OHCHR and other UN agencies for their role in supporting the initiative. She underscored the direct link between corruption and human rights violations, stating, “Strengthening national institutions and regional mechanisms is essential for providing redress for victims and ensuring accountability for human rights violations, including economic and social rights.”

Liberia’s Minister of Justice and Attorney General, Cllr. N. Oswald Tweh, delivered the keynote address, describing the dialogue as a timely opportunity for Liberia and Sierra Leone to exchange best practices. He stressed that cooperation between nations is vital in the fight against corruption and the promotion of human rights, saying, “Together, we can forge a future in which the rights of every individual are fiercely protected, and where corruption is not merely challenged but eradicated.”

Cllr. Alexandra Zoe, Executive Chairperson of the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC), emphasized the need to align policies with international standards. She called for strengthening the regional frameworks that bind the two nations in their collective efforts against corruption. Meanwhile, Augustine Ngobie, Sierra Leone’s Deputy Anti-Corruption Commissioner, expressed his agency’s commitment to supporting LACC in enhancing its international standing in the fight against corruption.

Victor Idrissa Lansana, Esq., Vice Chair of the Sierra Leone Human Rights Commission stressed the critical role of human rights in the fight against corruption. He urged OHCHR to expedite the establishment of a regional network, which would significantly bolster advocacy and accountability efforts across the region.

The Chairperson of Liberia’s Independent National Commission on Human Rights (INCHR), Cllr. T. Dempster Brown, echoed calls for greater action, urging his counterparts to intensify their efforts to combat corruption and human rights abuses. He also reiterated the ongoing debate about establishing War and Economic Crimes Courts in Liberia, emphasizing the importance of such institutions in ensuring justice.

The dialogue followed an OHCHR-supported exchange visit to Sierra Leone in May 2024, co-led by the heads of Liberia’s Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) and the Independent National Commission on Human Rights (INCHR). During that visit, participants learned about the role of Sierra Leone’s anti-corruption courts and their contribution to accountability processes. One of the key recommendations from that visit was to organize this one-day dialogue in Monrovia.

The discussions are expected to foster stronger cross-border collaboration, promoting the exchange of best practices and experiences between Liberia and Sierra Leone’s human rights and anti-corruption institutions. It is hoped that the dialogue will pave the way for more effective and coordinated efforts in both countries to combat corruption and uphold human rights.

At the close of the meeting, Christian Mukosa of OHCHR reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to compiling the dialogue’s recommendations. “These outcomes will serve as the foundation for the next steps in our collective fight against corruption and in upholding human rights,” he stated, reinforcing the resolve of the participating institutions to continue their efforts in these critical areas.

The regional dialogue marks another step forward in strengthening human rights advocacy and anti-corruption efforts across West Africa. As both Liberia and Sierra Leone continue to build on these initiatives, the hope is that greater collaboration will lead to lasting change in protecting human rights and eradicating corruption.

Njala University Joins Global Leaders at the 8th World One Health Congress in Cape Town

October 2, 2024

By Esther Wright

Njala University, represented by Professor Rashid Ansumana, Principal Investigator of the West African One Health (WAOH)-Actions for Understanding, Preventing and Mitigating Outbreaks project, recently participated in the 8th World One Health Congress (WOHC) held in Cape Town, South Africa. The event, which ran from September 20th to 23rd, 2024, saw global stakeholders gather to address critical One Health challenges.

Accompanying Professor Ansumana were key consortium members, including Amber E. Martin, Project Coordinator and Monya Konneh, Socio-Ecologist. Together, they contributed to the diverse agenda of the four-day congress, which focused on the science-policy interface, antimicrobial agents and resistance, and advancements in One Health science.

The Congress attracted over 1,400 participants from 87 countries, featuring 400 speakers and 600 scientific poster presentations. Attendees included scientists, policymakers, representatives of international institutions, civil society and the private sector, all keen to discuss recent research and policy developments in the One Health sphere.

Professor Ansumana, along with three other Principal Investigators from the COHRIE team, contributed to a key panel discussion titled : “IDRC’s Collaborative One Health Research Initiative on Epidemics (COHRIE): How Countries in Africa and Latin America are Responding to Infectious Diseases Using Coordinated One Health Approaches.” This discussion highlighted the importance of coordinated, cross-sectoral strategies to combat infectious diseases in Africa and Latin America.

One of the standout moments for Njala University came through the presentation of two research abstract posters by Monya Konneh. The first, “Leveraging AI-Driven Text Network Analysis for Community-Based Pathogen Surveillance: Evaluating the Effectiveness of InfraNodus in Enhancing One Health Outcomes in West Africa (Poster 3152),” explored the integration of AI tools in pathogen surveillance. The second, “Equity in One Health Implementations: Examining Gender and Social Group Dynamics through Community Action Networks in Sierra Leone,” delved into the socio-ecological aspects of One Health, focusing on inclusive, gender-responsive approaches within Community Action Networks (CANs).

These presentations underscored the WAOH consortium’s innovative contributions to zoonotic disease surveillance in West Africa. By blending AI technology with grassroots community engagement, Njala University’s team demonstrated a robust model for detecting and addressing health risks at the local level. Their approach has been instrumental in enhancing public health outcomes and encouraging community involvement, especially in Sierra Leone, Liberia, Guinea and Nigeria.

The 8th World One Health Congress was a pivotal event, providing attendees with the opportunity to hear from world-renowned experts on global One Health science and policy. The outcomes of the congress will contribute to discussions at the 79th United Nations General Assembly in New York, where cross-sectoral and trans-disciplinary aspects of the One Health paradigm will be addressed.

Notably, this year’s Congress, held for the first time in Africa, offered a unique opportunity to examine One Health science and policy from an African perspective. Through an open call for abstracts, groundbreaking research from distinguished scientists and thought leaders was showcased, contributing to the advancement of the One Health agenda globally.

Organized by the Global One Health Community (GOHC), the Congress was a reflection of the growing international commitment to fostering collaboration across sectors to improve the health of people, animals, and their environments. Established in 2011 in Melbourne, Australia, GOHC continues to bridge the gap between science and policy, promoting a unified approach to addressing health challenges worldwide.

Disregard Political Nuances: “MCC Compact is for All Sierra Leoneans” – SLPP Scribe, Umaru Napoleon Koroma

October 2, 2024

By Esther Wright

The Secretary General of the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), Umaru Napoleon Koroma, on Saturday, September 29th, 2024, called on Sierra Leoneans to set aside political differences and unite in celebrating the recent signing of the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Compact by President Julius Maada Bio. The signing, described as historic by Umaru Napoleon Koroma, took place in the United States and represents a significant milestone in Sierra Leone’s development agenda.

He emphasized that the MCC Compact, worth $480 million, marks a major boost to the country’s energy sector. At a time when citizens are growing increasingly anxious for improved electricity access, the Compact aims to deliver precisely that, a key component of President Bio’s “Big Five” development priorities, the SLPP Scribe added.

The agreement, signed at the MCC Headquarters in Washington D.C., will focus on expanding and strengthening Sierra Leone’s energy infrastructure. A statement from the Ministry of Information and Civic Education revealed that the Compact is expected to benefit over 4 million Sierra Leoneans, primarily by increasing access to electricity in key towns and cities. Additionally, the economic opportunities generated by this improved energy infrastructure are projected to uplift communities and foster growth across various sectors.

In an exclusive conversation with this publication, Umaru Napoleon Koroma, who also serves as the Deputy Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, expressed disappointment with those who oppose the Compact on political grounds. He argued that it is unpatriotic to view the agreement through a partisan lens, emphasizing that the benefits transcend political affiliation.

“This is not about political ideologies,” Umaru Napoleon Koroma said. “We must all embrace this Compact and disregard irrelevant political nuances. The MCC Compact is for all Sierra Leoneans and it’s our collective responsibility to ensure its success.”

Umaru Napoleon Koroma reassured citizens that, despite the Compact’s conditions, the Government remains steadfast in its commitment to fulfilling the obligations laid out in President Bio’s “Big Five Game Changers” strategy. These key reforms, he noted, will not only ensure the country meets the MCC requirements but will also transform the nation’s energy sector to benefit all Sierra Leoneans, irrespective of their political alignment.

He reiterated that the Compact comes at a critical time when Sierra Leone is grappling with power challenges and its successful implementation will have a direct impact on improving the quality of life for millions across the country.

Umaru Napoleon Koroma concluded by urging Sierra Leoneans to focus on the collective good, emphasizing that national development should always take precedence over political rivalry. “At the end of the day, the MCC Compact represents a win for every Sierra Leonean and it is time we all put country first.

NCRA Renews Call for Citizens and Residents to Obtain Biometric ID Cards

October 2, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a move to bolster national security and streamline access to essential services, the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) of Sierra Leone has renewed its call for citizens and residents to acquire biometric national ID cards. Introduced in early 2023, these advanced identification cards aim to enhance personal security while offering easier access to both Government and private sector services.

The personalization of the cards, which feature ICAO-compliant biometrics and cutting-edge public key infrastructure (PKI) for data security, is provided by X Infotech, a global leader in secure identity solutions. This initiative forms part of Sierra Leone’s broader national digital transformation agenda.

The NCRA has announced that all citizens aged 12 and above are eligible for the cards. Citizens can apply at any of the designated NCRA branches across the country, including newly established centers in regional headquarter towns such as Bo, Kenema, Makeni and Port Loko. The Government has also opened six additional offices in easily accessible locations to facilitate the registration process.

As part of its 2024 goals, the NCRA is intensifying efforts to increase the number of registered individuals. The Authority emphasizes that obtaining a Biometric ID Card is not only a personal security measure but also a civil responsibility for all citizens.

The NCRA has highlighted the critical role the biometric ID cards will play in improving the nation’s security infrastructure. Equipped with an embedded chip that stores facial biometric data, the cards allow for easy authentication and verification. Each card also contains an 11-digit National Identification Number (NIN), which serves as a unique identifier linked to personal details in the national population registry.

The NIN is a requirement for students in primary education preparing for public examinations, as well as for individuals travelling within the country. Furthermore, the biometric ID cards could be mandatory at all checkpoints across Sierra Leone to enhance national security and ensure the proper identification of travelers.

The NCRA has issued three types of biometric ID cards:

National ID Cards: For Sierra Leonean citizens aged 12 and above.
ECOWAS ID Cards: For citizens of ECOWAS member States.
Non-National ID Cards: For foreign residents, which are now mandatory for obtaining work and residence permits.

According to a mandate passed by Parliament, foreign nationals residing in Sierra Leone must obtain Non-National ID Cards and their access to essential services will be contingent upon the NIN embedded within these cards.

The Biometric ID Cards come equipped with multiple layers of security, including fingerprint scans and facial recognition technology, which significantly reduce the risk of identity fraud. “The primary goal of introducing these advanced Biometric ID Cards is to enhance both national and individual security,” an NCRA official said. The cards provide robust verification measures, ensuring that businesses and Government institutions are protected from the financial and reputational risks associated with identity theft.

In addition to improving security, the cards are essential for accessing a variety of services, such as opening bank accounts or collecting remittances from foreign exchange bureaus. This standardized identification process ensures a secure, streamlined approach to service access across all sectors.

In a further step to enhance security, the Government has mandated that all mobile phone users in Sierra Leone must link their NINs to their SIM cards by November 30, 2024. Failure to comply will result in service deactivation. This initiative is designed to combat cybercrime and identity theft, strengthening the country’s control over its communication networks.

The ongoing registration process is available at various NCRA offices across Sierra Leone, including key locations in Freetown:

– NCRA Headquarters, 2 Walpole Street

– NCRA Office, 23B Off Kingharman Road

– NCRA Office, Kennedy Street

– NCRA Branch Office, 230 Lumley Road (By the Round & About)

– NCRA Office, Waterloo, along the Freetown Highway (Opposite the Police Station)

These offices, along with branches in other regional towns, offer a range of corporate services for public and private entities.

The biometric ID card rollout represents a significant advancement in Sierra Leone’s efforts to secure its borders, protect citizens and streamline service delivery. By embracing this innovative identification system, the Government is reaffirming its commitment to national security, digital transformation and the well-being of its people. With the continued expansion of this program, Sierra Leone is positioning itself for a more secure and efficient future, where access to vital services is guaranteed for all.

NP (SL) Donates Vital School Materials to Children’s Foundation in Kissy

October 2, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

NP (SL) Limited, Sierra Leone’s leading petroleum importer and marketer, continues to demonstrate its commitment to excellence in customer service, operational efficiency and corporate social responsibility. This week, the company reaffirmed its dedication to community development by donating essential school materials to the Children Academic Investment Foundation (CAIF) at its Terminal in Kissy, Freetown. The gesture underscores NP’s focus on improving education for underprivileged children, a key element of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) agenda.

The donation ceremony was graced by NP SL’s Communication Manager, Dr. Williette James and Hon. Princess Daramy, the Member of Parliament for the Kissy Dockyard community. Handing over the materials on behalf of NP (SL), Dr. Williette James praised CAIF’s efforts to support the less privileged and highlighted the company’s enthusiasm in contributing to the Foundation’s mission. “The work CAIF is doing is nothing short of admirable and we felt it was necessary to support this noble cause that uplifts children in our communities,” she remarked.

The donation included essential school materials such as books, pencils, erasers and school bags, benefitting 50 disadvantaged and homeless children.

Sayoh Sesay, Chairman of CAIF, expressed deep gratitude to NP (SL), stating that the company is the first major sponsor to provide such extensive support to the Foundation. “This is a landmark moment for CAIF. Since our establishment in 2019, NP (SL) is the first company to extend this level of assistance to the children we serve. We are extremely grateful,” he said.

Jeremiah Mansaray, Secretary of the Community Development Action Plan (CDAP), also applauded the gesture, noting the timeliness of the donation, which came on the first day of the school reopening. He emphasized how much the educational supplies would help alleviate the burden on families in the community.

The event also saw the participation of Councilor Sarah Amara and other local stakeholders, all of whom praised NP (SL)’s commitment to giving back to the community, particularly through educational support.

This latest donation to CAIF highlights NP (SL)’s longstanding commitment to corporate social responsibility. The company has long recognized the importance of supporting education as a means of fostering community growth and reducing disparities in access to educational resources. By providing these school materials, NP (SL) is directly contributing to the future of the children in Kissy and beyond.

NP (SL) has solidified its reputation not only as a leader in the petroleum industry but also as a beacon of success in Sierra Leone’s business landscape. The company’s “customer-first” philosophy has driven its operations, allowing it to become a trusted name in fuel supply, both domestically and regionally.

As a wholly Sierra Leonean-owned company, NP (SL)’s roots date back to its founding by 35 former employees of British Petroleum (BP), who pooled their resources to create a successful indigenous enterprise. Today, the company operates not only in Sierra Leone but also in Liberia, Guinea, Ivory Coast and The Gambia, contributing to job creation and economic growth across West Africa.

NP (SL)’s contributions extend beyond the petroleum sector. The company has diversified its offerings to include NP Gas, a popular line of gas cookers that provide a safer and more affordable alternative to traditional cooking fuels. This expansion into household products reflects NP (SL)’s broader vision of improving the quality of life for Sierra Leoneans.

NP (SL) is also at the forefront of technological innovation in the industry. Recently, the company introduced mobile fuel tanks equipped with state-of-the-art safety features, including explosion-proof technology and real-time fuel tracking systems. These tanks provide businesses with on-the-go fuel services and have been deployed to support the Sierra Leone Police Force, ensuring that law enforcement vehicles remain operational at all times.

Additionally, NP (SL)’s introduction of the NP Energy Pass, a smart card for cashless fuel transactions, marks a significant advancement in customer convenience. With features such as SMS notifications and a One-Time Password (OTP) recovery system, the NP Energy Pass allows for secure and hassle-free fuel purchases at any NP station.

As NP (SL) continues to grow, it remains committed to its role as a driver of economic development in Sierra Leone and beyond. The company’s adherence to Sierra Leone’s Local Content Policy, which ensures that nearly all of its employees are Sierra Leoneans, further solidifies its position as a champion of local empowerment.

NP (SL)’s ongoing initiatives, such as the donation to CAIF, are a testament to its dedication to making a lasting impact on the communities it serves. Through its innovative products, technological advancements and CSR activities, NP (SL) continues to set the benchmark for excellence in Sierra Leone’s business landscape.

IFJ and FAJ Commend AU Peace and Security Council for Landmark Decision to Safeguard Journalists

October 2, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) and its Pan-African counterpart, the Federation of African Journalists (FAJ), have lauded a groundbreaking decision by the African Union (AU) Peace and Security Council (PSC) to prioritize the protection of journalists across the continent. The decision, made on September 2, 2024, places journalist safety at the forefront of AU security discussions for the first time.

During the PSC’s 1230th meeting, chaired by Ambassador Churchill Ewumbue-Monono, Permanent Representative of Cameroon to the AU, the Council addressed pressing concerns regarding the safety of journalists working in conflict zones and the critical need for access to information. This move marks a significant step forward in safeguarding the Freedom of the Press in Africa, an issue long championed by the IFJ and FAJ.

At the meeting, FAJ President, Omar Faruk Osman, provided a detailed briefing to the 15-member PSC, highlighting the dangers journalists face across Africa, especially in conflict regions. These dangers include harassment, arbitrary arrests, attacks and even killings. Omar Faruk Osman emphasized that female journalists often face additional challenges, while restricted access to information disproportionately affects African citizens during crises.

Ambassador Bankole Adeoye, AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, reinforced this, stating that attacks on journalists are tantamount to attacks on all African citizens. He stressed the importance of collective efforts to protect the rights of journalists, noting that freedom of expression is essential for Africa’s development.

Honourable Ourveena Geereesha Topsy-Sonoo, Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Expression and Access to Information in Africa at the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR), also contributed to the discussion, highlighting the ACHPR’s initiatives to protect journalists through key resolutions and direct communication with AU member states.

In a press statement following the meeting, Ambassador Ewumbue-Monono reiterated the Council’s commitment to enhancing the safety of journalists, commending their role in promoting democracy, freedom of speech and political accountability. The Council also emphasized the importance of journalists in providing early warnings that can help prevent conflicts.

The PSC condemned the rising violence and threats against journalists, particularly in conflict areas and paid tribute to those who lost their lives in the line of duty. The Council called on AU member States to hold accountable those responsible for such crimes.

Furthermore, the PSC encouraged member States to develop and implement national strategies that align with AU guidelines on journalist safety. These include the Johannesburg Principles on National Security, Freedom of Expression and Access to Information (1995), the AU Model Law on Access to Information (2013),and the Declaration of Principles on Freedom of Expression and Access to Information in Africa (2019).

The PSC called for the establishment of a Working Group on the Protection of Journalists to improve coordination and safety mechanisms. It also requested the AU Commission to develop strategies that integrate media safety into military operations, ensuring compliance with international humanitarian law.

The Council expressed concern over the rise of misinformation and disinformation, particularly on digital platforms and called for strengthened efforts to combat those issues while protecting media infrastructure in conflict zones.

Reacting to the decision, FAJ President Omar Faruk Osman described the AU’s move as a “beacon of hope” for journalists across the continent, stating, “This is a transformative step towards creating a safe environment for media professionals who risk their lives to expose the truth.” he reaffirmed the FAJ’s commitment to ensuring these decisions are implemented.

Anthony Bellanger, General Secretary of the IFJ, echoed this sentiment, praising the AU’s decision as a “game-changer for press freedom in Africa.” He emphasized that the Council’s action reflects a significant policy shift aimed at curbing impunity for crimes against journalists.

As the AU transitions from policy-making to implementation, the IFJ and FAJ pledged to continue collaborating with the AU Commission, PSC, ACHPR and other relevant bodies to ensure that Africa becomes a safer place for journalists. This bold step signals the AU’s deep commitment to defending democracy, freedom of expression and access to information across the continent.

For more information, contact the IFJ at +32 2 235 22 16.

The IFJ represents over 600,000 journalists in 146 countries.

In Securing $480 Million MCC Agreement.. President Bio Hails Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh’s Leadership & Dedication

October 2, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a remarkable achievement for Sierra Leone, President Julius Maada Bio has commended his Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, for playing a pivotal role in securing a $480 million agreement under the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC). This landmark deal, set to transform the country’s energy infrastructure, is seen as a testament to the leadership and capability of Dr. Juldeh Jalloh.

During a celebratory address following the signing ceremony, President Bio revealed that he had personally urged the Vice President to pursue the MCC funds with utmost determination. “Despite the challenges, I encouraged him to do everything within his power to ensure that Sierra Leone secures this vital funding,” President Bio remarked, praising the Vice President’s perseverance and successful negotiation of the significant support from the U.S. Government. He added that this achievement is a clear demonstration of Dr. Juldeh Jalloh’s unwavering commitment to Sierra Leone’s development.

The MCC Energy Compact, signed in Washington D.C., represents a major stride towards fostering economic growth, enhancing the country’s energy sector and improving the quality of life for Sierra Leoneans. “This grant will transform the energy infrastructure in Sierra Leone and unleash immense investment opportunities and private sector growth,” President Bio stated, further expressing his gratitude to the U.S. Government and the American people for their continued partnership.

The agreement is also viewed as a well-deserved recognition of Sierra Leone’s commitment to good governance. “This grant is a reward for the strides we’ve made in governance reforms,” President Bio emphasized. He also reiterated his administration’s focus on the “five transformational big game changers” aimed at achieving sustainable development for the nation.

Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, who led the negotiations, took to X (formerly Twitter) to congratulate President Bio and expressed his gratitude to all Sierra Leoneans. “This feat is a demonstration of the President’s unwavering commitment to social, economic and governance reforms,” Dr. Juldeh Jalloh tweeted. “His directive and encouragement to secure the MCC compact has paid off and I am proud to have played a part in this milestone for our country.”

First Lady, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, also lauded Vice President Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh for his instrumental role in the MCC agreement. “Let me take this opportunity to salute Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, the Vice President and the nation’s MCC chairperson,” she said. “Your leadership has made the difference we needed to see our nation achieve this monumental success.”

She further acknowledged the collective efforts of the team led by Dr. Jalloh, including Ndeh Koroma, Minister of Finance, Fantamadi Bangura and Financial Secretary Mathew Dingy. “You took the instructions of President Bio seriously and ensured Sierra Leone’s victory at the end of the day,” the First Lady noted, highlighting the collaborative spirit that made the MCC Energy Compact a reality.

Dr. Fatima Maada Bio concluded by celebrating Vice President Juldeh Jalloh’s visionary leadership. “Leading with no noise, yet delivering with a BANG. We are grateful for your dedication and hard work, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh. Thank you, Sir.”

The $480 million compact is poised to significantly boost Sierra Leone’s energy capacity and serves as a beacon of the Government’s commitment to long-term national development, with Vice President Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh’s leadership standing at the forefront of this progress.

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