Police Debunk Social Media Claims of Fatal Shooting at Songo Toll Gate

February 23, 2026

The Masiaka Division of the Sierra Leone Police has dismissed reports circulating on social media alleging that personnel of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) shot two civilians at the Songo Toll Gate in Makoloh, killing one and leaving another hospitalized.

In a detailed security update, the Local Unit Commander (LUC) of Masiaka Division confirmed that a fact-finding operation was launched following the viral claims. According to police findings, there was no evidence of any gunshot incident resulting in injury or death within the Makoloh community.

Community stakeholders, including the Headman of Makoloh, told investigators that no such incident had been reported in the area. Police further confirmed that no victim or relative had filed any complaint regarding gunshot wounds at the Masiaka Police Station.

Investigations revealed that the misinformation stemmed from an earlier incident involving two youths from Makoloh, identified as Daniel Sesay and Abass Sesay. The pair were invited for questioning on Wednesday, February 11, 2026 and provided statements clarifying the circumstances.

According to their account, in the early hours of Monday, February 9, 2026, between 3:00 a.m. and 4:00 a.m., they were onboard a Howo truck attempting to bypass the Songo Toll Gate by using the old Makoloh road. They stated that the vehicle was confronted by an RSLAF personnel. Upon the vehicle stopping, the two youths panicked, jumped out of the truck and fled.

Police say the youths admitted that contrary to claims circulating online, they were not shot. One of them, Daniel Sesay, sustained a minor injury to his left arm while escaping from the moving vehicle.

The Masiaka Division also referenced previous concerns raised by CRSG Management, the authority responsible for toll gate operations, regarding the unauthorized use of the old Makoloh road as an alternative route. Reports had indicated that some youths were allegedly collecting money from truck drivers for personal benefit. Police engagement with community stakeholders led to the closure of the route, a move that reportedly faced resistance from some youths.

As part of the inquiry, the LUC questioned Staff Sergeant Sankoh, who commands four RSLAF personnel deployed at the Songo Toll Gate. He confirmed that the team is issued three AK-47 rifles with 30 rounds of ammunition each. According to him, a check conducted by military authorities found that no ammunition was missing.

Police have urged members of the public to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information. Anyone with credible information relating to the matter has been encouraged to contact 078155481 or 030272724.

Investigations into the incident remain ongoing.

Shaping a Human-Centric Future for AI – AI Impact Summit 2026

February 23, 2026

By Narendra Modi Prime Minister of India

At a defining moment in human history, the world gathered at the AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi. For us in India, it was a moment of immense pride and joy to welcome Heads of State, Heads of Government, delegates and innovators from across the world.

India brings scale and energy to everything it does and this Summit was no exception. Representatives from over 100 nations came together. Innovators showcased cutting-edge AI products and services. Thousands of young people could be seen in the exhibition halls, asking questions and imagining possibilities. Their curiosity made this the largest and most democratized AI summit in the world. I see this as an important moment in India’s development journey, because a mass movement for AI innovation and adoption has truly taken off.

Human history has witnessed many technological shifts that changed the course of civilization. Artificial Intelligence belongs in the same league as fire, writing, electricity and the internet. But with AI, changes that once took decades can unfold within weeks and impact the entire planet.

AI is making machines intelligent, but it is even more a force multiplier for human intent. Making AI human-centric instead of machine-centric is vital. At this Summit, we placed human well-being at the heart of the global AI conversation, with the principle of ‘Sarvajana Hitaya, Sarvajana Sukhaya’ (Welfare for All, Happiness of All).

I have always believed that technology must serve people, not the other way around. Whether it is digital payments through UPI or COVID vaccination, we have ensured that Digital Public Infrastructure reaches everyone, leaving none behind. I could see the same spirit in the Summit, in the work of our innovators in domains like agriculture, security, assistance for Divyangjan and tools for multilingual populations.

There are already examples of the empowering potential of AI in India. Recently, ‘Sarlaben’, an AI powered digital assistant launched by Indian dairy cooperative AMUL, is providing real-time guidance to 3.6 million dairy farmers, mostly women, about cattle health and productivity in their own language. Similarly, an AI-based platform called Bharat VISTAAR gives multilingual inputs to farmers, empowering them with information about everything from weather to market prices.

Humans must never become mere data points or raw material for machines. Instead, AI must become a tool for global good, opening new doors of progress for the Global South. To translate this vision into action, India presented the MANAV framework for human-centric AI governance.

M – Moral and Ethical Systems: AI should be based on ethical guidelines.

A – Accountable Governance: Transparent rules and robust oversight.

N – National Sovereignty: Respect for national rights over data.

A – Accessible and Inclusive: AI should not be a monopoly.

V – Valid and Legitimate: AI must adhere to laws and be verifiable.

MANAV, which means ‘human’, offers principles that anchor AI in human values in the 21^stcentury.

Trust is the foundation upon which AI’s future rests. As generative systems flood the world with content, democratic societies face risks from deepfakes and disinformation. Just as food carries nutrition labels, digital content must carry authenticity labels. I urge the global community to come together to create shared standards for watermarking and source verification. India has already taken a step in this direction by legally requiring clear labelling of synthetically generated content.

The welfare of our children is a matter close to our hearts. AI systems must be built with safeguards that encourage responsible, family-guided engagement, reflecting the same care we bring to education systems worldwide.

Technology yields its greatest benefit when shared, rather than guarded as a strategic asset. Open platforms can help millions of youth contribute to making technology safer and more human-centric. This collective intelligence is humanity’s greatest strength. AI must evolve as a global common good.

We are entering an era where humans and intelligent systems will co-create, co-work and co-evolve. Entirely new professions will emerge. When the internet began, no one could imagine the possibilities. It ended up creating a huge number of new opportunities and so will AI.

I am confident that our empowered youth will be the true drivers of the AI age. We are encouraging skilling, reskilling and lifelong learning by running some of the largest and most diverse skilling programmes in the world.

India is home to one of the world’s largest youth populations and technology talent. With our energy capacity and policy clarity, we are uniquely positioned to harness AI’s full potential. At this Summit, I was proud to see Indian companies launch indigenous AI models and applications, reflecting the technological depth of our young innovation community.

To fuel the growth of our AI ecosystem, we are building a robust infrastructure foundation. Under the India AI Mission, we have deployed thousands of GPUs and are set to deploy more soon. By accessing world-class computing power at highly affordable rates, even the smallest startups can become global players. Further, we have established a national AI Repository, democratizing access to datasets and AI models. From semiconductors and data infrastructure to vibrant startups and applied research, we are focusing on the complete value chain.

India’s diversity, democracy and demographic dynamism provide the right atmosphere for inclusive innovation. Solutions that succeed in India can serve humanity everywhere. That is why our invitation to the world is: Design and develop in India. Deliver to the world. Deliver to humanity.

Lydia Amputee Foundation Launched to Promote Dignity, Skills Development and Inclusion for Amputees

February 20, 2026

Chief Executive Officer Lydia Amputee Foundation , Lydia Gray

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Lydia Amputee Foundation was officially launched on Tuesday February 17th, 2026 at the Freetown City Council Hall, marking a new initiative aimed at equipping amputees with skills, resources and psychosocial support to facilitate their reintegration into society and promote independence and dignity

The Foundation’s stated objectives include partnering with medical professionals, educators, clinical directors and disability advocates to advance prosthetics development, serve as a reliable resource for emerging prosthetic technologies and products, and contribute knowledge to prosthetic engineering. It also seeks to mobilize funding, technical expertise and institutional partnerships to improve the livelihoods of amputees across Sierra Leone.

Speaking at the launch, the Chief Executive Officer, Lydia Gray, described the event as the formalization of years of informal support to amputees and a milestone for innovation in disability support services. She said her engagement with amputees began while she was living in the United States, where she provided assistance to individuals on an ad hoc basis. Persistent requests from beneficiaries in Sierra Leone, she noted, prompted her to establish a structured organization to address the growing needs.

Lydia Gray disclosed that between 2020 and 2022 she provided personal financial support to individuals requiring medical treatment, basic necessities and livelihood assistance. Some beneficiaries attended the launch, underscoring the Foundation’s early impact.

The Chief Executive Officer identified common causes of limb loss among target beneficiaries, including road and motorcycle accidents, complications from conditions such as diabetes and sepsis, and injuries linked to past conflicts. She also shared her personal experience of losing her hand in a machine-related workplace accident approximately six years ago, noting that amputation was medically necessary to prevent life-threatening complications. According to her, the post-amputation period often involves psychological trauma, stigma, identity challenges and economic hardship, underscoring the need for comprehensive support systems.

The CEO emphasized that the Foundation’s launch represented the beginning of a long-term process of institutional growth and partnership development. She called for collaboration with Government agencies, private sector actors, development partners and civil society organizations to expand the Foundation’s reach and sustainability. The Chief Executive Officer said the organization aims to restore dignity, provide practical assistance and create economic and educational opportunities for amputees.

She reiterated that the Foundation stands for independence, hope and called on communities to replace stigma with inclusion and respect for persons living with disabilities. She said the Foundation’s programmes would prioritize safety, health, dignity and vulnerable groups, including children. Lydia Gray pledged accountability and transparency in the use of funds and invited public oversight to ensure that resources are directed solely toward programme implementation. She urged stakeholders to contribute to the initiative, emphasizing collective responsibility under the principle of “each one helping one.”

Delivering the keynote address, Albert Manley Mustapha, Public Relations Officer of the Single Leg Amputee Sport Association, criticized what he described as the persistent exclusion of persons with disabilities from decision-making and economic opportunities despite public commitments to inclusivity. He urged authorities and stakeholders to translate policy commitments into tangible participation and access.

Albert Manley Mustapha said persons with disabilities are capable contributors to society and should not be viewed as objects of pity. He called for changes in societal perceptions and encouraged amputees and other persons with disabilities to support one another through skills development, entrepreneurship and education. He stressed that empowerment, rather than charity, is critical to restoring dignity and building resilience.

Albert Manley Mustapha called on families, communities and institutions to provide sustained support and inclusion, arguing that people with disabilities can achieve comparable outcomes when given equal opportunities. He also appealed for financial, material and technical support from the private sector, international partners and Government to ensure the sustainability of the Foundation’s programmes. He noted plans for structured support initiatives designed to improve services and quality of life for amputees and other persons with disabilities.

The event concluded with a call for collective action under the theme: “Validation and Time for Transformation,” emphasizing the need for coordinated efforts to make inclusion a practical reality for people with disabilities in Sierra Leone.

Caritas Freetown Completes Two-Day Training on GBV Prevention in Western Rural Area

February 20, 2026

By Ibrahim Sesay

Caritas Freetown has completed a two-day training aimed at strengthening efforts to prevent Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) in schools and communities across the Western Rural Area.

The training, held on February 16 and 17 at the Twin Hall in Hastings, brought together 100 Advocacy School Club members and 10 focal teachers from 10 schools. The initiative is part of a project sponsored by Manos Unidas and focuses on understanding SGBV, referral pathways, gender laws and sensitization skills.

Providing an overview of the project, Project Lead, Kumba Emmanuella Gando, said the intervention is being implemented in 10 targeted rural communities and 10 schools. She noted that the project seeks to address SGBV issues both in communities and within school environments by promoting behavioral and attitudinal change.

“We are focusing on how to address sexual and gender-based violence issues in communities as well as in schools,” she said. “You will be the ambassadors for your school. That’s why you are called Advocacy School Clubs, advocating to your colleagues.”

Kumba Emmanuella Gando encouraged participants to speak up against abuse and report incidents through the appropriate channels. She stressed that silence makes it difficult for authorities and focal teachers to intervene.

During her presentation, Alice Johnson Bah explained the Sexual Offenses Act and Child Rights Act of Sierra Leone highlighting the various types of sexual offenses and punishments attached.

Concluding her presentation, Alice Johnson Bah urged participants to speak up against sexual abuse and report it.

‎”Know your right. Respect your self. Protect your future by speaking up today of any abuse,” she added.

Participants described the training as impactful and empowering. Hassan Sesay of Pathway Academy Secondary School said the training built on previous knowledge he had gained through child protection programs.

“This training has added to my existing knowledge. With this knowledge, I will serve as an advocate and strengthen behavioral change within my school and community,” he said.

Isatu Kanu of Anthem of Africa Academy said the sessions deepened her understanding of the different forms of SGBV and the relevant laws.

“This training has helped me to learn about the various types of SGBV and the laws,” she said, adding that her parents have always encouraged her to report any incident of abuse.

Also speaking, Mohammed Ali Kanu, Principal of Anthem of Africa Academy, said school authorities conduct preliminary fact-finding whenever SGBV cases are reported to ensure fairness before escalating matters to the relevant authorities for proper investigation.

“One major challenge we encounter in the fight against SGBV, especially in Western Area Rural, is poverty,” he noted. “Victims mostly come from deprived homes and the perpetrators are most times their benefactors. Speaking up becomes a serious challenge.”

He commended Caritas Freetown for the initiative stating that the knowledge gained would help schools develop improved strategies for handling SGBV cases.

The training forms part of broader efforts to promote access to justice and improve the wellbeing of vulnerable women and girls in the Western Area. Participants are expected to conduct awareness-raising activities in their respective schools as peer advocates against SGBV.

President Bio Announces 25% Salary Increase for RSLAF, Launches National Defence Policy and Strategy

February 20, 2026

President Brigadier (Rtd.) Julius Maada Bio, Commander-in-Chief of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), has announced a 25 percent salary increase for all ranks of the armed forces, effective April 2026.

The President made the announcement during the 17th Armed Forces Day celebrations, where he also officially launched Sierra Leone’s first home-grown National Defence Policy and Strategy. The new policy framework is aligned with national security priorities, development objectives and the Government’s Big Five Game Changers agenda.

Addressing the ceremony under the theme: “Rebuilding the RSLAF through Strategic Transformation for Enhanced National Security and Development in Sierra Leone,” President Bio said the salary increment reflects Government’s commitment to improving the welfare and morale of military personnel. He commended officers, men and women of the armed forces for their dedication and service to the nation.

In a move aimed at repositioning the military as an active contributor to national development, the President unveiled the establishment of Defence Enterprise Services. The initiative includes an Endowment and Loan Scheme for service personnel and the allocation of 10,000 acres of agricultural land to support production under the Feed Salone agenda.

President Bio also announced the approval for the operationalization of Explosive Management Services to support activities in the mining sector. In addition, he disclosed the creation of an Engineering Corporation within the RSLAF to strengthen national infrastructure delivery.

Among priority projects highlighted were the 52.3-kilometre Mile 91–Rosul Junction feeder road, a 1.5-kilometre paved road at the Armed Forces Training Centre and a 27-kilometre paved road in Kambia District. The President said those projects demonstrate the armed forces’ expanding role in supporting national development beyond traditional security functions.

On gender inclusion, President Bio revealed that female representation in the RSLAF has increased to 14.7 percent, up from single-digit levels at the start of his administration. He praised the progress made and called for sustained recruitment and promotion of women within the ranks to meet the statutory minimum 30 percent quota in line with the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Act of 2022.

Reaffirming his commitment to veterans’ welfare, the President pledged the swift passage of the Military Veterans Bill currently before Parliament and directed that the legislative process be concluded by May 2026.

The ceremony was marked by military tradition, including the presentation of new Presidential and Regimental Colours, regarded as the highest symbols of honour for the Services, Formations and Units of the RSLAF.

President Bio concluded by noting that while the nation’s past lessons have been painful, the present demands responsibility and the future inspires confidence. He expressed optimism that Sierra Leone will remain peaceful, democratic and secure for generations to come.

The event also featured the presentation of honours and awards to distinguished guests and serving officers in recognition of exemplary service.

Vice President Joins President Bio at 17th Armed Forces Day Parade, Launch of National Defence Policy

February 20, 2026

Vice President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, on Wednesday 18 February 2026 joined President Julius Maada Bio at the 17th Armed Forces Day Parade held at the Julius Maada Bio Parade Square in Wilberforce, Freetown.

The ceremony brought together the First Lady, the Chief Minister, senior Government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, serving and retired military personnel, veterans, families of fallen heroes and citizens from across the country to commemorate the annual national event.

Held under the theme : “Rebuilding the RSLAF Through Strategic Transformation for Enhanced National Security and Development in Sierra Leone,” the parade celebrated the courage, discipline and dedication of the men and women of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), while reaffirming their role in safeguarding the nation’s peace, stability and democratic order.

Addressing the gathering, President Julius Maada Bio, who is also Minister of Defence and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, described Armed Forces Day as a solemn moment of honour, reflection and national pride. He paid tribute to officers and enlisted personnel for their bravery and sacrifice, noting that the peace and stability currently enjoyed by the country are secured through their vigilance and loyalty to the Constitution.

Reflecting on Sierra Leone’s civil war history, the President cautioned against any return to instability and firmly rejected unconstitutional changes of Government. He urged the armed forces to remain steadfast in their allegiance to democratic governance and constitutional rule.

A key highlight of the ceremony was the official launch of Sierra Leone’s first homegrown National Defence Policy and Strategy. President Bio said the new policy provides a clear framework for transforming the armed forces into a professional, disciplined and modern institution capable of responding effectively to emerging security challenges.

He outlined ongoing reforms within the military, including expanded peacekeeping commitments and improved welfare measures for personnel. The President announced approved salary increases for all ranks, effective April 2026, and reiterated his commitment to the passage of the long-awaited Veterans Bill.

President Bio also expressed appreciation to ECOWAS, the United Nations, the African Union and other international partners for their continued support in strengthening peace and security in Sierra Leone.

Observed annually on 18 February, Armed Forces Day honours military personnel, dead, retired and serving, who have defended the country, including those who served during the civil war and those currently deployed on peacekeeping and disaster-response missions at home and abroad. The celebration also incorporates the legacy of Myohaung Day, commemorating Sierra Leone’s 1945 victory in the Battle of Myohaung during the Second World War.

The ceremony concluded with the presentation of awards to distinguished officers and personnel for exemplary service. Among those honoured was the Chief of Defence Staff, Lieutenant General Idara Bangura, who was recognized for his leadership and commitment to advancing reforms within the armed forces.

The parade ended on a high note, underscoring the shared commitment of President Bio and Vice President Juldeh Jalloh to building a professional, disciplined and constitutionally loyal armed force dedicated to safeguarding Sierra Leone’s peace, sovereignty and national development.

From Swamp to Sustenance: How Women and Youth Are Transforming Agriculture in Falaba

February 20, 2026

When the morning mist lifts over the inland valley swamps of Danyoro village in Mongo Chiefdom, Falaba District, it reveals more than green rice fields. It reveals a quiet transformation led by women, strengthened by youth and rooted in hope.

At the centre of this change is Adama Mansaray, a mother of five and the chairlady of her farmers’ group. Standing barefoot at the edge of a five‑hectare swamp, Adama recalls how life used to be before the Mercy Ships Austria‑funded project began.

“Before the project, we worked on individual farms, mostly upland,” she explains. “We always struggled with money, with labour and with low yields.”

Farming alone meant higher costs, limited tools and constant uncertainty. But that reality began to shift when inland valley swamp (IVS) farming was introduced with support from WFP and the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security. For the first time, farmers like Adama were organized to work collectively sharing labour, resources and responsibility.

Through the project, Adama’s group received agricultural tools, quality seeds and conditional cash support while rehabilitating the swamp. Water control structures were rehabilitated, restoring the land’s ability to hold and regulate water for year-round rice cultivation. In total, 50 hectares of inland valley swamps were rehabilitated and over 600 farmers supported in 2025, laying the foundation for sustainable, climate‑resilient food production.

Today, Adama speaks with pride about the group’s plans for their rice harvest.

“We will keep some rice for food and seed,” she says, “and sell the rest to WFP’s home‑grown school feeding programme.”

The income will not stop at meeting immediate needs. The group has clear ambitions: to invest in a power tiller and a threshing machine to reduce labour burdens, increase efficiency and expand production. They also plan to establish a small internal loan system to help members pay college fees for their children; ensuring that the benefits of farming reach the next generation.

While women like Adama lead production, youth are powering knowledge and sustainability behind the scenes.

Twenty-two-year-old Hawa Sannoh, a trained community youth contractor, has been working closely with the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security to provide extension services in the same communities. Having received training in the Technical Package for Rice Production, Hawa now supports farmers from land preparation through to harvest.

“I help farmers focus on proper seed selection, timely nutrient management and water control,” she explains. “These practices increase yields and make farming more sustainable.”

Her role bridges the gap between technical expertise and community practice ensuring that investments in land and inputs translate into lasting results.

Beyond rice, the project is improving nutrition and environmental resilience. Communities have been introduced to orange‑fleshed sweet potato (OFSP), with vines distributed and farmers trained on best cultivation practices to improve household diets and food security. At the same time, 5,000 economic trees have been planted to revegetate degraded water catchment areas; restoring ecosystems while providing future nutritional and income benefits.

For Adama, the impact of the project goes beyond hectares rehabilitated or trees planted. It is about dignity, unity and possibility.

“This project has brought us together,” she says. “Now we farm as one group, we plan together and we build a future together.”

With support from Mercy Ships Australia, what was once an undeveloped swamp has become a shared asset; feeding families, financing education, empowering women and anchoring hope in the fertile soil of Falaba. This supports the Government’s Feed Salone Strategy and strengthens the national food systems.

University Court Declines Renewal of Njala Campus Deputy Vice-Chancellor

February 20, 2026

By Ibrahim Sesay

Njala University has issued a formal clarification regarding the non-extension of the term of the former Deputy Vice-Chancellor for the Njala Campus, Dr. Alieu Mohamed Bah (Associate Professor), following what it described as widespread inaccurate reports circulating online.

In a Press Release dated 17th February 2026, the University explained that Dr. Alieu Mohamed Bah was appointed as Deputy Vice-Chancellor in 2022 in accordance with the Universities Act, 2021. Under Part IV, Section 10, Subsection 2(a) of the Act, the tenure for the position is three years. The University stated that his term has therefore expired in line with the provisions of the law.

According to the release, Dr. Alieu Mohamed Bah’s performance was reviewed for possible renewal by a five-member body known as the University Court Committee for the Renewal/Appointment of Deputy Vice-Chancellors. The Committee conducted what the University described as a comprehensive review process, which included appraisal reports submitted by Deans, the Student Union President, the Vice-Chancellor and Principal. A face-to-face interview was also held with Dr. Alieu Mohamed Bah as part of the evaluation.

Following deliberations on the Committee’s report, the University Court did not approve the renewal of his appointment. The establishment of the review committee, the statement noted, is provided for under Part V, Section 12, Subsection 1(i) of the Universities Act, 2021.

The University further disclosed that on 22nd January 2026, the University Court declared the position of Deputy Vice-Chancellor for the Njala Campus vacant and constituted a Search Committee to begin the process of appointing a new Deputy Vice-Chancellor. That action, the University emphasized, was taken in accordance with Part V, Section 12, Subsection 2(a) of the Universities Act, 2021.

Njala University reiterated its commitment to transparency, due process and strict adherence to the Universities Act, 2021 in the governance of its affairs.

SLAJ Unveils Maiden “InFocus” Newsletter, Showcases Reform Milestones and New Leadership Vision

February 20, 2026

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) has officially unveiled the maiden edition of its newsletter, SLAJ InFocus, marking a significant milestone in the Association’s efforts to strengthen internal communication, institutional transparency and professional development within the country’s media landscape.

The first edition of the newsletter, which covers the period June to December 2025, provides a comprehensive account of the Association’s activities, reforms, diplomatic engagements and capacity-building initiatives undertaken during the period.

In his welcome message, SLAJ President ,Alhaji Manika Kamara, described the publication as an important platform designed to document achievements, challenges and institutional progress while keeping members informed and engaged . He noted that the period under review was characterised by active advocacy, resilience and sustained efforts to defend press freedom and promote professionalism across Sierra Leone .

According to him, the newsletter reflects the Association’s commitment to projecting its values to the wider public and strengthening unity among journalists nationwide.

A central highlight of the publication is the historic leadership transition that took place in July 2025 at the Bintumani Hotel in Freetown. The ceremony, themed: “Celebrating Service, Honouring Partnership, Ushering in a New Era,” symbolized continuity, accountability and institutional renewal.

During his inaugural address, Alhaji Manika Kamara pledged to implement his ACTION Manifesto, Advocacy, Commitment, Transparency, Innovation, Organisation and Networking, aimed at consolidating gains and repositioning SLAJ for greater impact.

He outlined five key priorities for his administration: enhancing safety and welfare protections for journalists, strengthening capacity and professionalism through sustained training, promoting unity and inclusion within the Association, deepening national and international partnerships and reinforcing institutional systems for long-term sustainability .

He stressed that leadership within SLAJ is a shared responsibility and called on members, regional executives and partners to work collectively in safeguarding the integrity and credibility of the profession.

The newsletter also captures the valedictory address of outgoing President Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, who reflected on key milestones achieved during his tenure. Among them were the historic repeal of the criminal libel law, the enactment of the IMC Act 2020 and the establishment of the National Fund for Public Interest Media (NaFPIM).

Ahmed Sahid Nasralla also highlighted the development of major policy frameworks including the SLAJ Media Manifesto and the Gender Equality Policy for the Media, alongside strengthened partnerships both locally and internationally.

He described the Association’s reform journey as one driven by unity, strategic engagement and unwavering commitment to press freedom.

Beyond leadership matters, the newsletter documents a series of high-level courtesy visits and engagements undertaken by the new executive.

In October 2025, SLAJ paid a courtesy call on the Chinese Embassy in Freetown, where discussions focused on media training, exchange programmes and investment opportunities aimed at strengthening journalists’ professional capacity.

The Association also engaged the United States Embassy, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to press freedom and digital capacity building, including training in digital literacy and financial literacy for journalists.

Engagements with the British High Commission further reinforced long-standing collaboration, particularly around media reforms following the repeal of criminal libel and ongoing legislative review processes.

In a move to broaden international cooperation, SLAJ opened discussions with the Cuban Embassy aimed at fostering strategic media partnerships, professional exchanges and collaborative storytelling on Sierra Leone–Cuba relations.

On the domestic front, SLAJ engaged key state institutions including the Ministry of Information and Civic Education, the Independent Media Commission (IMC) and the National Telecommunications Authority (NaTCA).

During those engagements, the Association raised concerns regarding regulatory challenges affecting certain media institutions and reiterated its advocacy for a stand-alone constitutional chapter guaranteeing press freedom and freedom of expression.

Those discussions underscore SLAJ’s commitment to constructive dialogue with Government and regulatory bodies in protecting media independence while promoting compliance and professionalism.

The publication also chronicles SLAJ’s continued collaboration with the Sierra Leone Police, building on the historic 2021 Memorandum of Understanding aimed at improving relations between journalists and law enforcement agencies.

The Association reaffirmed its commitment to renewing and expanding the MoU to enhance mutual understanding, professional ethics and respect for democratic principles.

Capacity development remains central to SLAJ’s strategy. The newsletter documents a range of training workshops organized in partnership with development partners and institutions.

Those include training on transitional justice reporting, strengthening police communication capacity, environmental information access under the Right to Access Information Act, strategic communication workshops in collaboration with UNDP and audit reporting training with the Audit Service Sierra Leone.

Through those initiatives, SLAJ aims to equip journalists with technical knowledge and practical tools necessary to enhance investigative reporting, accountability journalism and professional standards nationwide.

The review of the Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation (SLBC) Act also featured prominently in the newsletter. SLAJ reiterated its support for transforming SLBC into an independent, financially autonomous public service broadcaster that serves all citizens impartially.

Alhaji Manika Kamara emphasized that a reformed SLBC would strengthen democracy by promoting editorial independence, diverse voices and improved working conditions for media professionals.

The newsletter further highlights courtesy visits to former SLAJ Presidents as part of efforts to reinforce institutional memory and continuity within the Association.

These engagements were described as symbolic affirmations of unity and respect for past leadership contributions, while seeking guidance for future reforms.

The unveiling of SLAJ InFocus signals more than the launch of a publication; it reflects a deliberate effort by the Association to institutionalize transparency, strengthen communication and preserve its reform legacy.

By documenting diplomatic engagements, advocacy initiatives, policy interventions and training programmes, the newsletter provides members and stakeholders with a structured account of the Association’s direction and priorities.

SLAJ continues to position itself as a leading voice in defending press freedom and advancing responsible journalism and the maiden edition of SLAJ InFocus stands as both a record of progress and a roadmap for the future.

With renewed leadership, strengthened partnerships and sustained reform advocacy, the Association appears poised to consolidate its gains and navigate the evolving media landscape with resilience and purpose.

SLCAA Concludes FASAP-RAMP Training to Boost Aviation Safety Oversight

February 20, 2026

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) has concluded a five-day FASAP-RAMP Onsite Training for Safety Inspectors, reinforcing the country’s commitment to aviation safety and regulatory compliance.

The intensive training programme was held from 9–13 February 2026 at the Freetown International Airport (FIA) Conference Room and brought together Safety Inspectors tasked with overseeing aircraft operations and ensuring adherence to international aviation standards.

The exercise focused on strengthening technical expertise in ramp inspection procedures, aircraft ground safety oversight and compliance monitoring in line with global best practices. Participants underwent practical sessions designed to sharpen their inspection techniques, improve risk identification skills and enhance their understanding of regulatory frameworks governing aviation safety.

Ramp inspections are a critical component of aviation oversight. They involve detailed checks on aircraft while on the ground to ensure conformity with safety requirements, operational standards and airworthiness protocols. Through the FASAP-RAMP training, inspectors were equipped with updated knowledge and practical tools necessary to effectively monitor aircraft operations within Sierra Leone’s airspace.

Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority, Musayeroh Barrie, described the training as a significant milestone for the institution. She noted that the successful conclusion of the FASAP-RAMP Onsite Training demonstrates SLCAA’s resolve to continuously strengthen its safety oversight systems and institutional capacity.

“The SLCAA has successfully concluded the FASAP-RAMP Onsite Training held from 9–13 February 2026 at the FNA. This milestone strengthens our safety oversight, enhances institutional capacity and reaffirms our commitment to international standards and regulatory excellence,” she stated.

According to the Authority, the programme forms part of broader efforts to align Sierra Leone’s aviation regulatory environment with standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and other global aviation bodies. By building the competence of frontline inspectors, SLCAA aims to improve operational surveillance and ensure that both domestic and international operators comply with prescribed safety requirements.

Officials emphasized that a well-trained inspectorate is essential for maintaining a safe and secure aviation ecosystem. The aviation sector plays a strategic role in national development, facilitating trade, tourism, and international connectivity. As such, maintaining high safety standards remains a top priority for the Authority.

The training concluded with a certificate presentation ceremony, marking another step in SLCAA’s ongoing drive to strengthen human resource capacity and reinforce operational safety across the aviation sector. Participants received certificates in recognition of their successful completion of the programme and their commitment to upholding aviation safety standards.

Industry stakeholders have welcomed the initiative, describing it as timely and necessary, particularly at a period when air travel continues to grow and regulatory scrutiny worldwide remains high. Enhanced inspection capacity is expected to contribute to improved compliance levels and bolster confidence in Sierra Leone’s aviation system.

The FASAP-RAMP Onsite Training underscores SLCAA’s broader strategy of continuous professional development, institutional strengthening and regulatory modernization. By investing in training and capacity building, the Authority seeks to ensure that Sierra Leone’s aviation industry remains competitive, compliant and responsive to emerging global safety demands.

With the completion of the programme, SLCAA has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to promoting aviation safety, regulatory excellence and alignment with international best practices. The Authority maintains that safeguarding the travelling public and ensuring operational integrity within Sierra Leone’s airspace will remain central to its mandate.