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SLAJ and Limkokwing University Ink Groundbreaking MoU to Advance Journalism

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By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) and Limkokwing University of Creative Technology have taken a monumental step towards advancing journalism and education in Sierra Leone by signing a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The official signing ceremony was held on Monday, January 20, 2025, at Limkokwing University’s Conference Hall on Hill Station in Freetown.

Representing Limkokwing University, Deputy Director of Campus, Aiah James, spoke about the University’s mission to empower students with skills that foster problem-solving and self-reliance. He stressed the importance of equipping students with practical tools to apply their knowledge effectively, contributing to the development of well-rounded, capable professionals.

Aiah James extended heartfelt thanks to SLAJ for its longstanding support, expressing confidence that the MoU would fortify their relationship and herald a new era of opportunities for both the media industry and the University.

SLAJ President, Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, expressed enthusiasm about the MoU, which he described as the result of meticulous planning and extensive consultations. He reiterated SLAJ’s mission to defend and promote press freedom and freedom of expression, while emphasizing its commitment to enhancing professionalism and ethical standards in journalism through continuous training.

Ahmed Sahid Nasralla highlighted the MoU as a significant milestone in the pursuit of advancing journalism education and practice in Sierra Leone. He thanked Limkokwing University for its collaboration and voiced optimism for similar future partnerships with other academic institutions.

The MoU outlines a collaborative framework encompassing various key areas:

  • Training, Mentorship and Internships: Journalists will benefit from structured programs aimed at enhancing their practical skills.
  • Capacity Building: Media professionals will have opportunities for further development through workshops and seminars.
  • Research and Development: Both institutions will engage in resource sharing to foster innovative research in media and communication.
  • Public Awareness and Advocacy: Joint efforts will promote media freedom and freedom of expression.

By merging SLAJ’s dedication to professional development with Limkokwing University’s focus on academic excellence, the partnership aims to elevate the standards of journalism in Sierra Leone.

The MoU is set to last for three years, with provisions for renewal based on mutual agreement. Both SLAJ and Limkokwing University have committed to maintaining confidentiality and upholding the terms of the agreement to ensure a productive and enduring partnership.

This collaboration symbolizes a shared vision of fostering a dynamic and informed society through the enhancement of journalistic education and practice in Sierra Leone.

Milton Margai Alumni Association, USA, Concludes Interviews for Phase 1 Scholarship Drive

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By Foday Moriba Conteh

The Milton Margai Technical University Alumni Association, USA, has on Tuesday 21st January 2025 successfully concluded a two-day interview process for applicants of Phase 1 of its scholarship drive. The initiative, which aims to support 15-20 deserving students at the Goderich Campus, was set to award scholarships before the end of 2024, with funding taking effect for the 2025 academic year. This scholarship program seeks to empower students with excellent academic performance, financial need and active community involvement.

Dr. Fatima Bangura, Chairperson of the Milton Margai Technical University Alumni Association, USA, emphasized the significance of the initiative and its potential impact on students’ educational journeys.

“This scholarship initiative is a collective effort by alumni in the United States, spearheaded by our able President, Sheka Kamara,” Dr. Fatima Bangura stated. “The aim is to assist current students at Milton Margai Technical University with tuition and scholarship benefits. It’s heartbreaking to see students drop out due to lack of funds, and this project seeks to alleviate such struggles for at least 15 to 20 students.”

Chairperson of the Milton Margai Technical University Alumni Association, USA, highlighted the critical need for such support, noting that financial constraints have led many capable students to abandon their educational pursuits. She expressed hope that the scholarship program would provide a lifeline for students, enabling them to continue their studies and contribute meaningfully to their communities and the nation.

The selection process has been designed to ensure fairness and transparency. Applications were submitted via email or through a designated WhatsApp contact managed by the alumni President in the United States. This method was implemented to eliminate local bias and ensure that beneficiaries are genuinely in need.

“We’ve shortlisted 50 students from second-year and above who meet the eligibility criteria,” Dr. Fatima Bangura explained. “First-year students who applied were informed that they do not qualify for this phase. Over the next two days, they interviewed the shortlisted candidates to finalize the list of beneficiaries,” she added.

Dr. Fatima Bangura emphasized the Alumni Association’s commitment to sustaining the scholarship program and expanding its reach in the coming years. “This is just the beginning. We hope to extend this initiative to support students across all campuses of Milton Margai Technical University and continue empowering young people to achieve their academic goals,” she concluded.

The Human Resource Manager of Milton Margai Technical University (MMTU), Khadiatu Juanah, emphasized the program’s importance in addressing the financial challenges faced by many students.

“This scholarship is a great achievement for both the alumni and the university,” Khadiatu Juanah stated. “We’ve long sought ways to support students struggling with tuition fees. The alumni stepping in to provide this assistance is a significant step forward in ensuring students can pursue their education without interruption.”

The initiative comes at a critical time when many students are unable to meet tuition deadlines, despite showing great academic promise. Khadiatu Juanah highlighted that the scholarship would alleviate these challenges for deserving students, enabling them to focus on their studies.

“Many students have genuine issues paying fees, even though they have the passion and the potential to excel,” she noted. “This scholarship will go a long way in helping those who are truly in need, ensuring they can continue their academic journey.”

She assured the public of the transparency and accountability of the selection process. The shortlisted candidates were publicly announced and interviews were conducted to ensure that only deserving students benefit from the program.

“We’ve made the process open and inclusive,” she said. “Shortlisted applicants were selected based on clear criteria, including academic performance and financial need. The final list will undergo further checks with the finance and exams offices to ensure compliance with the set guidelines.”

Khadiatu Juanah also encouraged students to work hard and maintain high academic standards, noting that the scholarship rewards both merit and need.

“My message to students is simple: study hard, attend classes and perform well,” she said. “The alumni association is committed to supporting students who meet these criteria and we hope this scholarship will motivate many to strive for excellence.”

Looking ahead, she revealed that the alumni association plans to expand the scholarship program to other campuses and make it an ongoing initiative.

“This is just the beginning. The alumni have assured us that they intend to extend this scholarship scheme beyond this year and across all campuses of the university,” she concluded.

Commenting on behalf of applicants, Abdul Sheriff Conteh expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Milton Margai Technical University Alumni Association, USA, for the scholarship opportunity. He commended the transparency and encouragement demonstrated during the interview process and appreciated the panel for taking the time to listen to the stories and challenges faced by applicants.

Abdul Sheriff Conteh highlighted that the scholarship will significantly impact his academic journey, offering hope and the chance to pursue his dreams without the financial burden that often hinders students.

He concluded by applauding the alumni for their investment in the university’s students and their belief in the transformative power of education.

The scholarship initiative reflects the alumni association’s dedication to fostering educational advancement and empowering students to achieve their full potential. It also underscores the vital role alumni play in supporting their alma mater and addressing societal challenges.

 

Investigation Intensifies: Four Detained in Journalist’s Murder Case

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By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, along with key members of his Executive and a delegation from The Sports Writers Association of Sierra Leone (SWASAL), visited the Waterloo Police Division and various crime scenes on Friday, 17 January 2025, to follow up on the investigation into the murder of journalist Samuel Brima Mattia.

Superintendent Thomas Robyn Mansaray, the Support Officer at the Waterloo Police Division, informed the delegation that the investigation into Samuel Brima Mattia’s death is progressing, with four individuals currently in custody assisting with inquiries. He assured that the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) is handling the case with the utmost seriousness, aiming to uncover the truth and bring the perpetrators to justice.

The Support Officer explained that the police initially received a missing person report in the early hours of Thursday, 16 January 2025. This led to the discovery of a body near the perimeter fence of the Waterloo Correctional Centre, later identified as Samuel Brima Mattia by family and community members. Based on gathered intelligence, the police questioned the Station Manager of VOPAD Radio, Joseph Lamin, and another individual. Two additional staff members from the radio station were also invited for further questioning, with four individuals now aiding the investigation.

SLAJ President, Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, emphasized the need for a thorough investigation, urging the police to take the necessary time to ensure justice is served. While advocating for justice for their late colleague, Ahmed Sahid Nasralla highlighted that the detained individuals, who are also journalists, are of significant interest to SLAJ. He called on the police to conduct a professional and impartial investigation.

He also appealed to the detained journalists to cooperate fully with the police, providing any relevant information that could aid the investigation. He assured that SLAJ is closely monitoring the situation.

Following their visit to the police, the SLAJ and SWASAL delegation visited VOPAD Radio to extend their condolences to Samuel Brima Mattia’s bereaved family.

It is worth recalling that SLAJ expressed profound sorrow and distress over Samuel Brima Mattia’s tragic killing on 16 January 2025. A former reporter with VOPAD Radio 96.5 FM and an active SWASAL member, his death under brutal and unclear circumstances has shocked the media fraternity and the broader community.

In a press release issued on the day of the incident, SLAJ unequivocally condemned violence against journalists and underscored the urgent need to protect press freedom and the lives of those committed to informing the public. SLAJ urged the Sierra Leone Police to conduct a comprehensive and prompt investigation to ensure the perpetrators are held accountable.

“Such a horrific crime must not go unpunished,” SLAJ stated. “As we mourn our colleague, we stand in solidarity with SWASAL, Mattia’s family and all affected by this tragic incident.”

SLAJ also confirmed that they are in communication with the CID Waterloo Division, which is handling the investigation, and reiterated their commitment to advocating for the safety and protection of journalists across the nation.

In a separate press release, the Western Area Rural District Council (WARDC), led by Chairman Kasho J. Holland-Cole, expressed shock and sadness over Samuel Brima Mattia’s death. WARDC condemned the violent act, describing it as a grave attack on freedom of speech and community safety. The Council called on the SLP to conduct an immediate, thorough and impartial investigation to bring the perpetrators to justice.

WARDC stressed that violence against journalists or any individual is unacceptable and urged community unity to ensure such acts are not repeated. The Council extended its deepest condolences to Samuel Brima Mattia’s family, friends and colleagues, pledging solidarity with the media community. They also appealed to anyone with relevant information to cooperate with authorities to aid the investigation and deliver justice for his family.

Sierra Leone Brewery Honors 11 Long-Serving Employees at Long Service Awards

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By Foday Moriba Conteh

During a well-attended ceremony held on Friday, January 17, 2025, Sierra Leone Brewery Limited (SLBL) celebrated the dedication and loyalty of its employees at the company’s annual Long Service Award ceremony, held at its headquarters in Wellington, East End of Freetown.

The ceremony recognized 11 employees from various departments for their years of service to the company. This year’s awardees included three employees who have served for 10 years, three for 20 years, one for 15 years and for the first time four employees who have completed five years of service. Previously, the company only recognized service of 10 years or more, but this year’s inclusion of five-year milestones highlights SLBL’s commitment to fostering a culture of appreciation and motivation.

Addressing the gathering, Humu Kamara Mansaray, Head of Human Resources at SLBL, welcomed guests and outlined the significance of the occasion. “This year, we have combined two events the Long Service Award and the staff party to honor our employees in a unique and meaningful way. SLBL is a company that places its people at the heart of the business and today we express our profound gratitude to employees who have served for 5, 10, 15 and 20 years,” she stated.

Among the honorees were three employees who have served for 10 years, three for 20 years, one for 15 years, and for the first time four employees who have completed five years of service. Humu Kamara Mansaray highlighted that the introduction of the five-year recognition category and the increased cash gifts for awardees demonstrate the company’s commitment to boosting morale and fostering a sense of belonging among its workforce.

Awardees received medals of merit, certificates, SLBL products and cash gifts, tailored to the years of service. The Head of Human Resources emphasized the critical role of employees and their families in the company’s success, stating, “We also extend our gratitude to the spouses and family members of our esteemed employees who, in every respect, have contributed to ensuring the company achieves its objectives despite challenging circumstances.”

She also acknowledged the importance of female representation among the awardees and expressed hope for more award ceremonies in the future. “Congratulations to all our colleagues. Your dedication continues to shape the culture and values of SLBL. Together, we are making SLBL an employer of choice in Sierra Leone,” Humu Kamara Mansaray complimented.

She concluded her address with a call to action for all employees to continue their relentless contributions toward making SLBL an employer of choice in Sierra Leone.

Commenting on being an awardee, Foday Daboh, Corporate Affairs Manager at Sierra Leone Brewery Limited, who has served the company for 10 years, expressed gratitude to the management for the recognition. He noted that the award would serve as a source of motivation for him and other staff members.

Reflecting on his journey, Foday Daboh shared that he began with humble beginnings at the company and expressed pride in receiving the award, which symbolizes both his professional growth and dedication.

He acknowledged the challenges of working at the company over the years but attributed his success to passion and perseverance. The Corporate Affairs Manager also took the opportunity to inspire younger employees, urging them to remain passionate and resilient in their roles to achieve similar success.

Neimatu M. Sannoh, Sales and Operations Manager at Sierra Leone Brewery Limited, who was recognized for her 15 years of service, expressed her heartfelt appreciation to the company for the recognition. She emphasized the importance of such awards in motivating staff and fostering a sense of belonging within the company.

Reflecting on her career, Neimatu M. Sannoh shared that she had worked across various departments during her time at the company, gaining invaluable experience and knowledge in each role. She credited these opportunities for broadening her professional skills and contributing to her growth within the company.

The Sales and Operations Manager further highlighted the role of leadership and teamwork in creating a supportive work environment. She encouraged her colleagues to embrace challenges, remain committed and take advantage of the learning opportunities provided by the company to grow both personally and professionally.

The event underscored SLBL’s commitment to celebrating loyalty, hard work and the collective contributions of its employees as it navigates its path to sustained excellence in the industry.

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Hon. Chernor Ramadan Bah: The Qualified Driver to Steer the APC to State House

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Hon. Chernor Ramadan Bah, affectionately known as Chericoco, stands as the most qualified and capable leader to drive the All People’s Congress (APC) party to victory in Sierra Leone’s 2028 national elections. Born on April 29, 1972, Hon. Chernor Bah is a distinguished Sierra Leonean lawyer, politician and a tireless servant of the people. His vast experience and unflinching dedication have made him a figure of unwavering support within the APC and he is widely seen as the beacon of hope for the party’s future.

Since his early days in politics, Hon. Chericoco has consistently demonstrated the leadership qualities needed to guide the APC toward progress. From serving as the Deputy Speaker of Parliament to leading the opposition in recent years, he has shown an exceptional ability to influence the direction of national politics. His role in shaping the APC as a party committed to progress and inclusivity cannot be overstated. As a third-term lawmaker and two-time running mate to Dr. Samura Kamara in both the 2018 and 2023 elections, Hon. Chericoco has proven himself to be a dedicated, reliable and trusted leader.

Political elites within the APC acknowledge that Hon. Chernor Ramadan Bah’s leadership goes beyond just political strategy. His unwavering commitment to the ideals of progress and inclusivity within the party and throughout Sierra Leone has earned him widespread admiration. His ability to bring together people from different regions, ethnicities and religions to work toward a common goal has been key to his success as a politician. As one of the most marketable and popular politicians in Sierra Leone, his leadership is seen as the bridge to securing a brighter future for the APC and the nation.

Hon. Chericoco’s deep commitment to youth development, education and human capital growth is particularly noteworthy. Known for his ability to improve educational infrastructure and foster meaningful opportunities for the youth, he has laid the groundwork for long-term progress. His efforts in these areas resonate with APC supporters, who view his dedication as crucial for the sustainability of the party’s future. The youth of the APC, who form the backbone of the party’s strength, have made it clear that they see Hon. Chericoco as a leader who will help cultivate the next generation of change-makers.

Supporters of Hon. Chericoco strongly believe that his vision, charisma and determination will not only lead the APC but also bring the much-needed transformation to Sierra Leone. They praise his ability to unite people across different divides, acknowledging that his appeal transcends regional, ethnic and religious boundaries. His leadership is expected to energize the party and inspire the country’s future leadership.

Moreover, Hon. Chericoco’s connection to the Eastern Region, through his wife who hails from Kenema District, adds an invaluable advantage for the APC in securing votes in that vital region come 2028. This connection, coupled with his widespread popularity, makes him the ideal candidate to lead the APC into the next era.

In recent times, it has become evident that the majority of APC youths, stalwarts and key political figures believe that Hon. Chernor Ramadan Bah is the one to steer the party to victory in 2028. His track record of loyalty to the party, coupled with his strategic vision for the nation, sets him apart as the leader of choice for the future.

As the APC looks ahead, the party finds itself at a crossroads, with Hon. Chericoco standing at the helm, ready to guide the party to a future marked by growth, unity and success. His leadership embodies the essence of what the APC needs—dedication, integrity and a shared vision for the prosperity of Sierra Leone. With Hon. Chericoco leading the way, the APC is poised to enter a new era of political strength and national transformation.

NCRA Reviews Progress of Civil Registration and Vital Statistics System at Stakeholders’ Meeting

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By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

The National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) convened a stakeholders’ meeting on Friday, January 17, 2025, at the Ministry of Finance Conference Room to review the progress and challenges of its Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (CRVS) and Identity Management Strategic Plan (2019–2024). The meeting also marked the beginning of efforts to develop a new strategic plan and Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) framework.

The event brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from Government Ministries, international organizations, development partners such as the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the World Bank.

In his address, NCRA Director General, Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi highlighted the significant strides made in identity management since 2016. He noted that Sierra Leone successfully aligned its operations with United Nations (UN) guidelines and international standards on personal data management, earning widespread recognition across Africa.

“Our integrated CRVS and identity management system sets us apart from many African countries, where these functions remain separate,” the Director General said. He emphasized the importance of implementing the laws enacted in 2016 to sustain compliance with global principles.

The NCRA’s 2019–2024 strategic plan, developed in collaboration with 70 institutions, has guided the Authority’s operations but however, incomplete activities over the five-year period necessitate a renewed strategic direction, he intimated. Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi outlined ongoing consultations with partners, including UNECA, UNICEF and UNFPA, which have secured technical and financial support for the upcoming initiatives.

The Director General also announced that the NCRA, in collaboration with international and local partners, is working on a comprehensive new strategy. This framework aims to strengthen data management, ensure legal identity for all citizens and align with international digital identity laws.

A goodwill message from the UNFPA commended the NCRA for its exceptional leadership and achievements in identity management. The message underscored the importance of CRVS systems in documenting key life events such as births, deaths, marriages and causes of death.

“With an advanced system in place, real-time data provides essential insights into sexual and reproductive health outcomes, maternal mortality and teenage pregnancy trends,” the message noted. The UNFPA reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Sierra Leone’s CRVS initiatives and emphasized the urgency of developing a new strategic plan to enhance national development efforts.

The stakeholders’ meeting reinforced the importance of collaboration in addressing challenges and leveraging opportunities for Sierra Leone’s development. With support from partners and the Government, the NCRA remains committed to its mandate of ensuring efficient and inclusive civil registration and identity management systems.

Peace Commission Urged to Implement Reforms Following Comprehensive Review

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By Millicent Senava Mannah

The Director of the Public Sector Reform Unit (PSRU), Sulaiman Phoray-Musa, has submitted a comprehensive Management and Functional Review report to the Board of the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC).

According to Sulaiman Phoray-Musa, the review was conducted to identify institutional weaknesses and provide recommendations for improved service delivery. The report highlighted several irregularities in administrative processes and systems that were found to be inconsistent with the ICPNC Act.

Key recommendations include a comprehensive review of the ICPNC Act to ensure functionality, the development of new policies and regulations and the adoption of a revised organogram. The report further called for the regularization of senior management staff appointments, with the exception of the Executive Secretary, whose appointment is made by the President.

Additionally, the review identified inadequate resources, poor working conditions and logistical constraints as critical issues affecting the Commission’s efficiency. Sulaiman Phoray-Musa urged the Board to carefully review the report and collaborate with the PSRU to ensure the full implementation of its recommendations.

The chairman of the Board, Rev. Shodankeh Johnson, commended the PSRU for its thorough and professional work. He assured stakeholders that the Board would work closely with the PSRU to implement the recommendations, aiming to strengthen the Commission’s operations.

The Executive Secretary, Hawa Samai, along with other Board members, also praised the PSRU, noting that the recommendations would help address the Commission’s challenges and improve public perception of its independence and effectiveness.

Suadu Sumah Shares Emotional Story of Pain, Survival and Defiance Against FGM in Sierra Leone

Suadu Sumah
Suadu Sumah

By Ibrahim Sesay

It was in a moment of fear and desperation, while trying to escape grave danger that Suadu Sumah came across one of our ace reporters, Alvin Lansana Kargbo. Exhausted and shaken, she stopped long enough to explain the ordeal that has turned her life into a fight for survival. Her voice carried both pain and determination as she spoke of her past as a survivor of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and her present battle to protect her four-year-old daughter from the same fate.

“I was cut as a baby,” she said quietly, her face tightening as she forced out the words. “I never had a choice. They did it to me when I was too small to understand. But the pain has followed me every day of my life. And now they want to do the same to my daughter.”

Suadu Sumah explained to reporter Alvin Lansana Kargbo that she had endured a lifetime of suffering since undergoing FGM in Sierra Leone. The procedure, performed without anesthesia or medical care, left her with chronic pain, repeated infections, difficulties during childbirth and lasting psychological scars. “It destroyed my health and it destroyed my marriage,” she admitted. “But worst of all, it destroyed my sense of safety in my own body.”

Now, she fears the cycle of violence is tightening around her daughter. According to Suadu Sumah, her former mother-in-law has been relentless in demanding that the child be subjected to the ritual. The threats, she says, have been direct and explicit, accompanied by warnings that her life will be in danger if she continues to resist.

These are not idle threats. In August 2021, Suadu Sumah was ambushed by armed men in Sierra Leone. She survived the attack but described it as a deliberate warning to comply with cultural expectations. “That night, I realized they would do whatever it takes to break me,” she told Alvin Lansana Kargbo. More recently, during a visit to Sierra Leone in December 2024, she was once again targeted, narrowly escaping another assault that left her deeply shaken. Those incidents confirmed to her that the threats are escalating and deadly serious.

Female Genital Mutilation remains one of the most widespread and harmful practices in Sierra Leone, often enforced through family and community pressure. It is framed by some as a rite of passage, but its consequences are devastating. Survivors endure lifelong health complications, from infections to infertility and are haunted by the trauma of being violated at such a young age. International organizations have long condemned FGM as a gross violation of human rights, yet the practice persists, fueled by tradition and fear of ostracism.

Suadu Sumah’s story, shared in such a vulnerable moment, revealed both the immense cost of FGM and the extraordinary courage it takes to resist it. “If I give in, my daughter’s life will be destroyed before it even begins,” she said, her voice breaking. “But if I continue to refuse, they may kill me. Either way, the danger is real.”

Her refusal to comply has placed her in open conflict with powerful cultural forces, leaving her vulnerable to violence from those determined to uphold tradition. Eyewitnesses who have followed her case describe her situation as perilous, stressing that both she and her daughter are under credible threat.

As she spoke with Alvin Lansana Kargbo, her story unfolded as both personal testimony and universal warning. Suadu Sumah embodies the struggle of countless women across Sierra Leone who wish to break the cycle of FGM but find themselves trapped between cultural expectations and the instinct to protect their children.

The pain in her eyes was unmistakable as she summed up her ordeal. “I am living proof of what FGM does,” she said. “Every day I feel its pain. Every day I carry its scars. But I will not let them put those same scars on my little girl. I would rather risk my life than allow that to happen.”

Her words leave no doubt that this is not simply a family dispute but a crisis that strikes at the heart of human dignity and safety. For Suadu Sumah, every step she takes away from danger is a step toward hope but the shadow of FGM looms over her and her daughter like a persistent threat.

In telling her story to our reporter, she gave voice to a struggle that is often hidden in silence and fear. Her defiance may have placed her life in peril, but it has also illuminated the courage of a mother determined to protect her child from the same suffering that has defined her own life.

Mines Minister Showcases Sierra Leone’s Mineral Wealth at the Future Minerals Forum 2025 in Riyadh

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Sierra Leone’s Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, Julius Daniel Mattai, successfully led a technical delegation at the Future Minerals Forum (FMF) 2025, which took place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The three-day event, held from January 14, 2025, at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Center, gathered Government officials, international organizations and industry stakeholders to discuss and shape the future of the global minerals sector.
The Sierra Leone delegation included prominent figures such as Ing. Hadji Dabo, Director-General of the National Minerals Agency (NMA); Joseph Lebbie, Acting Director of Geological Survey at NMA; and Alusine Timbo, Deputy Director of Mines at NMA. They were accompanied by Sierra Leone’s Ambassador Extraordinary & Plenipotentiary to Saudi Arabia, His Excellency Mohammed S. Barrie.
On the opening day, the delegation participated in the 4th FMF’s Ministerial Roundtable (MRT), moderated by Hon. Dr. Kandeh Yumkella, Chairman of the Presidential Initiative on Climate Change, Renewable Energy and Food Security of the Republic of Sierra Leone. During the roundtable, the Mines Minister highlighted Sierra Leone’s exceptional geology and vast array of mineral resources.
In his address, Julius Daniel Mattai underscored the growing importance of critical minerals such as lithium, nickel and graphite, particularly in the context of modern technologies, global economies and national security. He also addressed the challenges facing Sierra Leone’s mining sector, including the lack of value addition, limited exploration investments and insufficient infrastructure. The Minister emphasized the need for robust international collaboration to overcome those challenges and unlock investment opportunities that could foster sustainable growth in the sector.
The FMF provided Sierra Leone with a valuable platform to engage with global stakeholders, explore policy and investment opportunities and build strategic partnerships to advance the country’s national development. Beyond the MRT, the delegation also participated in the International Geological Survey Meeting (IGSM), which promotes global cooperation in geological surveying.
The outcomes of the FMF are poised to play a crucial role in helping Sierra Leone unlock investments in critical minerals, accelerate infrastructure development and establish resilient and sustainable value chains within the mining sector. As the forum concluded, Sierra Leone further solidified its position as a key player in the global minerals market, leveraging its rich resources to drive long-term economic growth and national prosperity.
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