India Exim Bank Hosts 27 Journalists from West & Central Africa and Pacific Oceania in Mumbai

January 19, 2026

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

A high-powered delegation of 27 journalists from West Africa, Central Africa and Pacific Oceania on Monday, January 19, 2026, paid a familiarization visit to the Export-Import Bank of India (India Exim Bank) at the Centre One Building, Floor 21, World Trade Centre Complex, Cuffe Parade, Mumbai. The engagement formed part of a structured international media exposure programme designed to strengthen professional knowledge of development finance, international cooperation frameworks, and India’s growing partnerships with friendly countries across the Global South.

Hosted under the theme “Familiarization Visit of Foreign Media Journalists,” the programme brought visiting media professionals into direct engagement with senior officials of India Exim Bank—India’s premier export finance institution that supports trade growth, export promotion, overseas project financing, and development cooperation through targeted financial instruments.

Participants described the visit as a rare and high-impact opportunity for journalists to gain direct insight into the operations of a major international finance institution and better interpret complex economic and policy frameworks for public-interest reporting in their home countries.

Among the visiting delegation were prominent Sierra Leonean media practitioners, including Alhaji Manika Kamara, President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ); Amin Kef Sesay (Ranger), Managing Editor of The Calabash Newspaper; and Thomas Dixon, Managing Editor of The New Age Newspaper.

The Sierra Leonean representatives joined colleagues from multiple countries across Africa and the Pacific, reflecting the international scope of the programme and the growing recognition of the media’s role in shaping public understanding of development-oriented partnerships.

During the interactions, delegates noted that the exposure tour was strategically significant, particularly for journalists reporting on governance, development, infrastructure, and international relations. They emphasised that understanding development finance institutions is essential for accurate and balanced reportage on projects funded through bilateral credit facilities and international cooperation agreements.

T D Sivakumar, Chief General Manager and Kunal Gulati, Chief Manager

The session at India Exim Bank featured in-depth presentations by senior bank officials.

T. D. Sivakumar, Chief General Manager, provided an overview of India Exim Bank’s foundation, mandate, and operational scope. His presentation offered a broad explanation of how the institution functions as a specialised export finance bank and an important instrument of India’s global economic engagement.

Kunal Gulati, Chief Manager, delivered a comprehensive presentation on the bank’s services and global footprint, highlighting practical examples of how India Exim Bank supports trade development, project financing, and long-term partnerships between India and developing countries.

Their presentations helped visiting journalists understand the bank’s mechanisms for supporting trade and development—particularly through credit systems and structured financing arrangements that facilitate sustainable investments in partner countries.

India Exim Bank is India’s leading financial institution dedicated to promoting and financing the country’s international trade and cross-border investment. It was established under the Export-Import Bank of India Act, 1981, and commenced operations in March 1982.

Headquartered in Mumbai, Maharashtra, the bank is wholly owned by the Government of India and operates as a specialised development finance institution supporting India’s external economic strategy. Its creation responded to the need for a dedicated institution capable of providing long-term financing solutions and advisory services that conventional commercial banks may not fully provide—especially for international trade and overseas project development.

During the engagement, the journalists were briefed on India Exim Bank’s core services, including financial assistance and advisory support designed to help Indian businesses expand internationally while enabling partner countries to access concessional credit for development.

Officials explained that the bank provides a wide range of financing tools, including:

Export Credits, including both pre-shipment and post-shipment financing for exporters
Lines of Credit (LoCs) extended to overseas governments and financial institutions to facilitate imports of Indian goods and services
Project Finance for Indian companies executing overseas projects or setting up export-oriented units
Overseas Investment Finance to support Indian equity investments in foreign joint ventures and wholly owned subsidiaries
SME Financing, with tailored products and advisory support for small and medium enterprises to access international markets

In addition to financial support, India Exim Bank plays a strong advisory role through:

Market research and trade studies that assist businesses and policymakers to identify opportunities
Risk management services to mitigate trade-related risks such as political risk, credit risk, and non-payment exposure
Promotional initiatives, including workshops, trade fairs, research publications, and competitiveness support programmes

A major focus of the programme was strengthening journalists’ understanding of how development finance operates in real-world settings—especially in emerging economies where infrastructure expansion and public service investment remain pressing priorities.

India Exim Bank officials emphasised that financing solutions such as Lines of Credit are often structured around national development goals, linking capital support to areas that improve livelihoods and build long-term economic resilience.

Journalists were introduced to how Exim Bank’s interventions contribute to economic growth through:

Trade finance and export support
Structured project export financing
Advisory services for investment promotion
Development cooperation tools that support priority sectors

Officials highlighted that development finance is not simply about lending, but about enabling systems that lead to sustainable national progress through infrastructure, access to services, trade expansion, and institutional strengthening.

The presentations outlined key sectors that India Exim Bank supports globally, particularly in developing partner countries. These include:

Agriculture and irrigation
Water supply and sanitation systems
Energy and power development
Transport and infrastructure improvement
Telecommunications and ICT expansion
Healthcare and pharmaceuticals
Education and capacity building
Industrial growth and manufacturing development

These areas were described as essential pillars of long-term national development because they directly shape citizens’ quality of life and expand opportunities for trade, investment, and employment.

Delegates noted that for African and Pacific nations, such development-focused financing arrangements can make a significant difference by helping governments and institutions build and expand services in underserved communities.

A key highlight of the engagement was the emphasis placed on India’s long-standing commitment to South–South cooperation, where development support is framed around partnership, shared priorities, and mutual benefit.

Officials explained that India Exim Bank plays a strategic role in India’s economic diplomacy by supporting development projects across Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Pacific, with financing arrangements that encourage trade relations and strengthen long-term collaboration.

For the visiting journalists, the engagement offered a clearer connection between international policy frameworks and the realities of development on the ground—showing how financing cooperation can translate into improved public utilities, increased trade opportunities, and wider economic transformation in partner nations.

Africa was highlighted as one of the most significant regions for India Exim Bank’s trade and development engagement. The bank has supported many projects across the continent through:

Government-backed Lines of Credit
Project export financing
Development partnerships between India and African states

In several African countries, Exim Bank-backed projects have supported national infrastructure, expanded rural electrification, improved water access, increased agricultural productivity, and strengthened technology connectivity.

For countries like Sierra Leone, such financing interventions have contributed to key sectors including agriculture support, water and sanitation development, energy improvements, and ICT expansion—strengthening long-term development goals.

Beyond technical presentations, the programme was marked by strong interaction between the visiting journalists and Exim Bank officials. Delegates engaged the officials on issues such as:

How development projects are selected and prioritised
How financing agreements are structured
Sustainability and long-term project viability
Accountability, transparency, and monitoring mechanisms
Risk management in trade and development financing

The interactive session concluded with a lively questions-and-answers segment that participants described as one of the most valuable moments of the visit, allowing journalists to clarify concepts and deepen their understanding through direct engagement.

Observers said the exchange was timely and necessary at a time when global development discussions increasingly demand stronger media literacy on financial institutions, international agreements, and the policy processes behind major investments.

The visit also reflected a growing international recognition that journalists play a major role in ensuring public understanding of development finance initiatives. As international partnerships expand and new infrastructure projects emerge, accurate reporting becomes essential for:

Public accountability
Citizen awareness and engagement
Informed national dialogue
Strengthening transparency around international agreements

Organisers of the programme said the exposure tour was designed to improve the depth and quality of media reporting on development finance while helping foreign journalists understand India’s institutional approach to global cooperation.

The delegation’s presence in Mumbai also reflected the broader importance of people-to-people engagement as a pillar of diplomacy—bringing journalists closer to the institutions shaping development outcomes across regions.

The Mumbai engagement formed part of a wider familiarization tour designed to expose foreign journalists to India’s major institutions, development strategy, and policy priorities. Delegates are expected to return to their home countries with improved insight, stronger professional capacity, and renewed ability to report on international cooperation with balance, clarity, and accuracy.

For many participants, the India Exim Bank session was more than a formal institutional engagement—it was a practical learning opportunity that revealed how development funding influences national projects and impacts everyday lives.

The visit ended with renewed appreciation from the delegation for India’s openness in promoting international engagement and institutional learning. Many participants described the programme as a valuable platform for professional growth and international understanding.

As development partnerships continue to influence economic transformation across Africa and the wider Global South, institutional engagements such as the India Exim Bank familiarization visit remain important in strengthening cooperation, improving information exchange, and supporting responsible journalism that advances informed public discourse.

The Export–Import Bank of India (India Exim Bank) was widely described during the engagement as a key pillar in India’s financial system—supporting exports, promoting trade competitiveness, and expanding development cooperation through strategic financing instruments, advisory services, and long-term partnerships.

Non-Citizens Given 45 Days to Replace Old Permits with New Biometric Cards

January 19, 2026

Minister of Employment, Mohamed Rahman Swaray Labour and Social Security,

The Government of Sierra Leone, through the Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security and the Sierra Leone Immigration Department, has announced a new nationwide permit replacement process targeting all non-citizens currently holding valid residence and work permits.

In a Press Release issued in Freetown on Thursday, 16th January 2026, authorities informed all foreign nationals living and working in Sierra Leone that they are now required to submit their existing valid Residence and Work Permit documents for replacement with newly introduced Biometric Residence and Work Permit Cards.

According to the statement, the replacement exercise is expected to be completed within forty-five (45) days and will be carried out at no cost to the applicants.

“This replacement initiative forms part of ongoing measures to improve the security, integrity and effective harmonization of data relating to Resident and Work permits,” the release stated.

Government officials explained that the introduction of biometric permits is part of a broader modernization drive aimed at strengthening immigration management and labour regulation. The Biometric Residence and Work Permit Cards are expected to improve efficiency in tracking legal residency and employment status, while also supporting national efforts to enhance data accuracy and reduce vulnerabilities associated with paper-based systems.

The Press Release further clarified that all holders of valid permits must submit their current Residence and Work Permits along with proof of payments within the stated period. The deadline for compliance has been set for on or before 1st March 2026.

Authorities stressed that foreign nationals should treat the notice as urgent and comply within the timeframe to avoid challenges in validating their legal status in the country.

To ensure easy access for applicants, the Ministry and Immigration Department outlined both physical and online options for submissions.

For those submitting in person, applicants are expected to visit either:

The Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security – Work Permit Office located at New England Ville, Freetown, or
The Sierra Leone Immigration Department – Residence Permit Office, located at 14 Gloucester Street, 4th Floor, Freetown.

Applicants can also choose to submit their documentation online through the official government portal:
https://unifiedpermit.gov.sl/eligibilities

The release noted that applicants submitting online must ensure they upload their current permits and proof of payment as part of the submission process.

In addition, the public has been encouraged to call the official help line for clarification and assistance. The listed call centre contact is +232 30 300003.

The biometric permit replacement process is expected to enhance national immigration compliance and data coordination between relevant Government institutions. Observers say it may also support stronger labour monitoring and improved regulation of foreign employment in Sierra Leone.

The Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security and the Sierra Leone Immigration Department called on all affected non-citizens to cooperate fully, emphasizing that the move is intended to strengthen national systems while maintaining a transparent and accessible process for foreign residents and workers.

The Government has not indicated any extension beyond the stated deadline, urging applicants to complete the replacement process early to avoid last-minute congestion and delays.

The Two Faces of Power, Koroma’s “Democratic Dictatorship” Vs. Bio’s Distributed Leadership

January 19, 2026

By Samuel Wise Bangura

Sierra Leone’s political landscape since 2007 has been shaped by two opposing models of presidential power. Ernest Bai Koroma constructed a system of highly centralized, personalized control, a style that earned him the label of a “democratic dictator” formally legitimate yet intensely autocratic. In contrast, his successor, Julius Maada Bio, operates a visibly fragmented power structure, sharing authority among party barons, technocrats and family. This has led many to question whether he is truly in charge of his own Government. Their distinct approaches have deeply influenced their parties, governance and the nation’s trajectory.

The core difference lies in their execution of power. Ernest Bai Koroma’s leadership was defined by a vertical integration of authority. A former insurance executive, he ruled with a CEO’s top-down mindset, systematically neutralizing opposition to ensure the All Peoples Congress (APC) became an extension of his personal authority. His message, witnessed in the Bai Bureh Hall in Port Loko in 2017, was clear; ministerial power was a direct grant from him. This created strict party discipline but fostered dependency and stifled dissent.

President Julius Maada Bio, a former military brigadier who surprisingly championed a return to democracy, employs a horizontal, coalitional style. Power is distributed among figures like former party chairman Prince Alex Harding, technocrats like Chief Minister David Sengeh and even the First Lady, Fatima Maada Bio, who each wield significant autonomous influence. While this can be more inclusive, it fuels perceptions of a weak central authority and internal competition, often making the Government appear disjointed and slow to act.

Their leadership styles have created dramatically different party cultures. Under Ernest Bai Koroma, the APC became an efficient machine of loyalty, where personal allegiance was the primary currency. He created a potent, election-winning force, but this hollowed out the party’s institutional depth. His influence remains potent, as seen in his decisive role in handpicking Samura Kamara as the party’s 2018 flagbearer, proving the APC’s internal democracy is still subject to his shadow.

In contrast, Julius Maada Bio’s Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) operates as a competitive coalition of interests. Factions maintain notable autonomy, which allows for broader representation but often erupts into public factionalism and policy inconsistency. This model risks fragmentation and internal sabotage, as different power centers champion conflicting agendas, weakening the party’s cohesive narrative and electoral appeal.

Their philosophical differences translated into distinct policy legacies. Ernest Bai Koroma’s centralized authority enabled a focus on large-scale infrastructure, roads, energy and state rebuilding. Proponents credit this with making Sierra Leone one of Africa’s fastest-growing economies before the Ebola crisis. However, this centralized control also concentrated opportunities, fueling widespread allegations of corruption and crony capitalism.

Maada Bio’s administration has prioritized human capital development, notably through the Free Quality School Education program. This reflects a more social-democratic, distributive agenda. However, governing by coalition has struggled with economic turbulence, including protests over the cost of living. The diffuse power structure also complicates accountability; when multiple figures like the Chief Minister or First Lady hold sway, it becomes difficult for citizens to assign clear credit or blame to the presidency itself.

The Koroma-Bio dichotomy presents Sierra Leone with a core political dilemma. Koroma’s model delivered clarity, stability and tangible projects but at the cost of stifling internal democracy and encouraging authoritarian tendencies. Bio’s model offers a more pluralistic and participatory form of power but battles perceptions of weakness, inefficiency and internal conflict.

Neither model has successfully married effective governance with robust democratic deepening. Koroma’s strongman legacy is now under severe stress with his recent treason charges, which threaten to overshadow his achievements. Meanwhile, Bio’s experiment in shared governance faces its ultimate test amid economic hardship and the approaching 2028 elections. The future of Sierra Leone’s democracy may depend on a synthesis, a leader who can provide decisive direction without monopolizing power, building institutions robust enough to outlast any single individual. The nation’s path forward lies in navigating between the perils of over-concentrated authority and the chaos of power that is too widely diffused.

NCRA, IOM Provide National Identity Cards and Birth Certificates to Returning Migrants

January 19, 2026

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

The National Civil Registration Authority, in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration, has announced that it will issue National Identity Cards and birth certificates to Sierra Leoneans who travelled out of the country and later returned through the Migration Protection, Return and Reintegration Programme for Sub-Saharan Africa.

That disclosure was made on Friday, 16 January 2026, at the Scout Hall in New England Ville, Freetown, where officials revealed that 700 National Identity Cards and approximately 300 birth certificates will be provided to returnees as part of efforts to restore their legal identity and strengthen their reintegration process.

Funded by the European Union, the initiative forms part of a broader programme designed to support returning migrants through skills development, entrepreneurship training and access to employment opportunities. The project aims to promote sustainable reintegration by ensuring returnees are equipped with market-driven skills while also providing the legal documentation required for full participation in national life.

Speaking at the event, Director General of the National Civil Registration Authority, Mohamed M. Massaquoi, said the Government has a responsibility to identify, protect and care for Sierra Leonean citizens wherever they may be. He commended the International Organization for Migration for its continued support in facilitating safe return and reintegration for migrants, adding that Sierra Leone’s legal framework has evolved in a way that makes it increasingly necessary for every citizen to possess basic legal documents such as a National Identity Card and a birth certificate.

Mohamed M. Massaquoi stressed that national identification is essential not only for national security but also for the personal protection of citizens. He disclosed that 292 identity cards will be issued to returnees, as the first batch, free of charge. He also revealed that birth certificates are being provided for children of returnees who previously lacked documentation, noting that 85 certificates are currently available. He encouraged beneficiaries to make responsible use of the opportunity, describing the intervention as a critical step toward rebuilding lives and restoring full civic recognition.

International Organization for Migration Officer in Charge, Dr. Pauline Macharia, explained that the programme is structured to support returning migrants and ensure their sustainable reintegration into society. She said the organization has maintained continuous engagement with migrants before and after their return by providing protection services, documentation support and reintegration assistance. While acknowledging that migration is not necessarily negative, Dr. Pauline Macharia emphasized the need for safe and regular migration pathways, warning that irregular movement often exposes migrants to serious risks and undermines their chances of rebuilding stable livelihoods.

Deputy Commissioner of the National Youth Commission, Emerson Kamara, praised the collaboration between the International Organization for Migration and the National Civil Registration Authority, describing it as an important intervention that restores dignity and strengthens the sense of belonging for those who have returned home. He said providing National Identity Cards to returnees is not just a bureaucratic process but a meaningful step that reconnects individuals to the state and the opportunities they deserve.

Emerson Kamara cautioned that unsafe and irregular migration makes reintegration more difficult and called for stronger engagement with returnees to help them regain stability and rebuild their lives. He reaffirmed the National Youth Commission’s readiness to play its role in the partnership and urged a shift in the migration narrative toward safe and legal pathways, supported by expanded opportunities for young people in Sierra Leone.

Beneficiaries also shared personal accounts of hardship and survival, offering a human perspective to the programme’s importance. Joseph Moyeba recounted travelling through Niger under extremely difficult conditions and expressed gratitude to the International Organization for Migration and the National Civil Registration Authority for assisting him to obtain a National Identity Card. He advised young people to focus on opportunities within Sierra Leone and avoid risky journeys, especially those undertaken without proper travel documents.

Mariatu Kamara narrated her experience in Nigeria and her unsuccessful attempts to cross into Tunisia, which she said ended in arrest and deportation. She welcomed the issuance of her National Identity Card and warned young people against irregular migration, describing the journey as dangerous, unpredictable and filled with uncertainty.

Participants at the ceremony expressed satisfaction with the programme, noting that the intervention has eased access to legal documentation for returnees and their children. Many described the issuance of National Identity Cards and birth certificates as a crucial step that will strengthen returnees’ long-term reintegration and help them regain full access to services and opportunities across Sierra Leone.

27 Foreign Journalists Hold High-Level Talks at India’s National Maritime Foundation in New Delhi

January 19, 2026

By Amin Kef Sesay

A delegation of 27 journalists from West and Central Africa and Oceania on Friday, January 16, 2026, held a high-level engagement with the National Maritime Foundation (NMF) in New Delhi, India, as part of an ongoing media familiarization and professional exposure programme aimed at strengthening knowledge exchange, deepening international media cooperation and improving journalists’ understanding of development policy and resilient infrastructure conversations.

The engagement brought together media professionals from friendly countries to explore the theme: “Overview of India’s Maritime Interests”, offering participants a timely and practical understanding of why India places strategic significance on the maritime domain; not only for national defence planning but also for trade facilitation, energy security, diplomacy, ocean governance and regional leadership in the wider Indo-Pacific space.

The Sierra Leone delegation included Alhaji Manika Kamara, President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ); Amin Kef Sesay, Managing Editor of The Calabash Newspaper and Thomas Dixon, Managing Editor of The New Age Newspaper.

The engagement formed part of a broader international initiative designed to enhance newsroom standards through exposure to global best practices, deepen institutional learning and strengthen journalists’ capacity to report with context, accuracy and balance on complex policy issues increasingly shaping the modern world.

Presentations delivered by officials and experts of the National Maritime Foundation underscored that India’s maritime interests extend far beyond traditional naval operations. Participants were briefed that the sea remains a lifeline for India’s economic growth and connectivity to global markets, making stable sea lanes, secure maritime infrastructure and uninterrupted shipping corridors essential to national prosperity.

The journalists were guided through India’s growing maritime priorities, including the country’s heavy dependence on sea routes for the movement of critical imports and exports, the expansion of offshore economic activity and the rising importance of protecting maritime assets and coastal trade networks.

Experts stressed that modern maritime interests must be understood as a complete strategic framework; linking defence readiness to economic resilience, trade performance, energy supply systems and diplomatic influence. They noted that in an era of shifting global security threats and rising competition for ocean resources, maritime stability has become one of the most decisive determinants of national development outcomes.

During the sessions, participants were also briefed on India’s trade engagement with Africa and how maritime connectivity continues to serve as the backbone of that expanding relationship.

Figures shared during the engagement indicated that India’s overall trade for the 2024/2025 period was estimated at about 1.1 trillion US dollars, reflecting the country’s deep integration into global economic systems and the growing relevance of maritime logistics in sustaining that performance. Presenters also highlighted that India’s trade with Africa in the same period stood at 81.9 billion US dollars, distributed across different regions of the continent, including West Africa, Central Africa and other sub-regions.

The presentation triggered broader discussions among journalists about the opportunities for deeper Africa–India cooperation, especially in areas such as port development, maritime infrastructure, value-added trade, logistics, security partnerships and blue economy expansion for coastal and island nations.

For journalists from countries that rely heavily on ocean trade, fisheries and maritime employment, the engagement helped connect global trade figures to real-world issues such as supply chain vulnerability, coastal governance and investment planning.

A major highlight of the engagement was the briefing on global maritime “choke points”; strategic narrow waterways through which a significant portion of global trade and energy shipments pass.

The National Maritime Foundation presentations identified major choke points in and around the Indian Ocean region, including the Suez Canal, Bab-el-Mandeb, Strait of Hormuz and the Malacca and Singapore Straits, among others. Experts explained that disruptions along any of those routes can trigger far-reaching global economic shocks, including delayed supply chains, increased shipping costs, fuel price volatility and shortages of essential commodities.

Journalists were reminded of the global impact of shipping disruptions, including real-world incidents where blockages in key routes led to major delays and losses, illustrating how fragile global trade can become when strategic sea lanes are compromised.

The sessions emphasized that those risks are not theoretical. They are real challenges confronting international governance, maritime security frameworks and global economic stability; issues that journalists increasingly must interpret and explain to their audiences with clarity.

The briefing also explored non-traditional maritime security threats that continue to influence the Indo-Pacific space and global ocean governance. It was stated that piracy is one f those issues.

Experts noted that those threats undermine trade safety, damage coastal livelihoods, weaken national revenue streams and create openings for organized crime networks operating across sea borders.

The journalists were also told that Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing remains one of the most persistent threats to sustainable marine development, particularly in regions where enforcement is weak, surveillance capacity is limited and transnational criminal patterns exploit gaps in maritime governance.

By connecting maritime crime trends with broader governance challenges, the engagement helped participants appreciate the role of intelligence cooperation, modern surveillance systems, coordinated enforcement and regional partnerships in protecting national interests.

Another key segment of the presentation addressed India’s energy security realities and how maritime routes continue to shape national planning.

Officials stressed that a large portion of the world’s energy supply is still transported by sea, making the protection of ocean routes vital; not only for fuel security but also for industrial output, economic growth and reliable household energy access.

The delegation was introduced to discussions surrounding offshore energy production and the maritime pathways through which oil and gas requirements are transported. Presenters explained that as global competition increases and geopolitical tensions impact supply routes, ensuring maritime security becomes a strategic necessity for national development and public stability.

For the visiting journalists, the energy segment provided additional context for understanding how maritime governance intersects with global energy debates, economic diplomacy and climate responsibility conversations.

For many participants, the day’s engagement was more than a formal institutional visit. It was described as a valuable learning opportunity that strengthened understanding of how major state institutions, strategic policy planning, diplomacy and public communication interact in a large democracy.

The programme was also seen as an important step in strengthening cross-border media collaboration between Africa, Oceania and Asia, especially as journalists face the growing challenge of reporting on complex issues such as maritime security, global trade systems, regional diplomacy and infrastructure resilience.

Participants noted that the presentations enhanced their ability to interpret maritime issues beyond headlines, helping them connect sea-based governance to national development priorities and international stability.

The engagement concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session, during which journalists sought further clarity on India’s maritime outlook, policy direction and strategic interests in the wider Indo-Pacific region.

Questions raised during the interaction centred on maritime security cooperation, economic opportunities linked to the blue economy, the future of ocean partnerships and how developing countries can strengthen maritime surveillance and infrastructure systems while supporting sustainable growth.

Organisers described the engagement as part of a larger series of institutional visits in New Delhi aimed at exposing journalists to India’s development frameworks, policy thinking and international cooperation strategies, with the goal of strengthening professional standards and enhancing public-interest reporting.

With the continuation of the familiarization visit, participating journalists are expected to engage additional institutions and policy stakeholders, expanding their understanding of governance models, strategic planning and development partnerships that increasingly shape global conversations on security, economic resilience and sustainable growth.

Deputy Mines Minister Calls for Responsible Investment at World Minerals Forum in Saudi Arabia

January 19, 2026

The Deputy Minister of Mines and Minerals Resources, Umaru Napoleon Koroma, has once again placed Sierra Leone in the global spotlight on minerals governance and sustainable development through his participation in the Future Minerals Forum (FMF) in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Widely described as one of the world’s leading platforms for shaping the future of the mineral and mining industry, the Future Minerals Forum brought together high-level policymakers, investors, industry leaders and technical experts from Africa, the Middle East, Asia, Europe and the Americas. Against that international backdrop, Umaru Napoleon Koroma’s presence highlighted Sierra Leone’s increasing relevance in global discussions on responsible mineral governance, value addition and sustainable resource development.

During the forum, the Deputy Minister engaged in strategic conversations on sustainable mining practices, critical minerals for the energy transition, local value addition and inclusive development. Drawing from Sierra Leone’s experience as a mineral-rich country, he emphasized the importance of policies that promote investment while ensuring environmental protection and stronger benefits for host communities.

Umaru Napoleon Koroma also used the opportunity to showcase Sierra Leone’s mineral potential, citing resources such as iron ore, rutile, bauxite and other precious minerals. He underscored the need for partnerships that extend beyond extraction, stressing the importance of technology transfer, skills development and downstream processing as key pathways to long-term national growth.

His interventions, observers noted, resonated with participants seeking stable, transparent and reform-oriented jurisdictions for responsible mineral investment, especially at a time when global demand for critical minerals continues to rise.

On the sidelines of the forum, Umaru Napoleon Koroma held a series of constructive engagements with international investors, Government representatives and development partners, exploring areas of collaboration aligned with Sierra Leone’s development priorities. The discussions further reinforced the country’s image as an emerging destination for responsible investment and innovation-driven reforms in the minerals sector.

Umaru Napoleon Koroma’s participation at the Future Minerals Forum reflects his continued commitment to advancing Sierra Leone’s strategic interests on the global stage. It also supports the country’s wider ambition to harness mineral wealth not merely as a source of revenue, but as a catalyst for industrialization, job creation and sustainable economic transformation.

With global attention increasingly shifting toward critical minerals and the green energy transition, Sierra Leone’s voice, articulated through leaders such as Umaru Napoleon Koroma continues to gain momentum in shaping the future direction of the global minerals economy.

Finance Ministry Reviews 2025 Performance, Sets New Policy Direction for 2026

January 19, 2026

Senior Management staff of the Ministry of Finance holds day Strategic Management Retreat

The Leadership and Senior Management staff of the Ministry of Finance on Thursday, January 15, 2026, commenced a three-day Strategic Management Retreat aimed at reviewing the Ministry’s performance in 2025 and repositioning it to roll out key economic policies for 2026.

The retreat is expected to assess the achievements and challenges recorded in 2025 while also examining the Ministry’s Strategic Plan for 2024–2026, with a focus on strengthening domestic revenue mobilization and improving service delivery across the country.

Opening the retreat, Financial Secretary, Matthew Dingie, welcomed participants and described the engagement as a timely platform to re-examine the Ministry’s overall performance as well as that of its various departments.

According to him, the retreat provides an opportunity for leaders to reflect on lessons learned, identify gaps and outline practical strategies that will guide the Ministry’s work throughout 2026.

He acknowledged that 2025 presented significant challenges but praised the economic management team for ending the year on a strong note, noting that Sierra Leone achieved almost all its macroeconomic targets.

Financial Secretary, Mathew Dingie, commended staff of the Ministry of Finance and other institutions within the broader economic management team for their commitment to meeting benchmarks and targets agreed with development partners; efforts he said have the potential to unlock additional avenues for resource mobilization.

He further stressed that the Ministry of Finance has the primary responsibility of mobilizing resources required to fund Government programmes and national development projects.

It was against that backdrop, he explained, that the retreat adopted the theme: “Repositioning the Ministry of Finance to Enhance Domestic Revenue Mobilization for Sustainable Economic Stability and Service Delivery.”

The Financial Secretary urged Directors and Senior Technical Staff to develop strong policies and programmes for 2026 that will directly support the Government’s national development drive, particularly the Big Five agenda, which remains a key priority in the administration’s reform and delivery framework.

In her statement, Deputy Minister of Finance I, Kadiatu Allie, described the retreat as a period of deep reflection on the Ministry’s successes and challenges, and an opportunity to identify ways of improving institutional performance going forward.

She said the engagement should further strengthen leadership responsibility around accountability and transparency, while helping to assess progress made in key areas of public finance management.

Deputy Minister, Kadiatu Allie, highlighted several focus areas for discussion during the retreat, including budget credibility and processes, debt management, revenue mobilization, the deepening of financial and macroeconomic reforms and improved expenditure management.

She also called for stronger and more impactful social spending in critical sectors such as education, health, agriculture and support to local councils, noting that sound economic management must translate into improved outcomes for citizens.

The retreat, which lasted three days, featured presentations and discussions on leadership development, professionalism and institutional reforms. Participants will also review the Ministry’s strategic plan and ongoing economic programmes being implemented with development partners.

Key sessions include presentations on the attributes of good leadership and professionalism by consultant Modupe Taylor-Pearce, deliberations on the revised Civil Service Code and Rules and discussions on administrative and policy priorities expected to shape the Ministry’s 2026 operational direction.

President Bio Reassures OMCs of Government Support, Calls for Continuous Dialogue

January 19, 2026

President Bio pose for picture after meeting with representatives of Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) at State House

President Dr Julius Maada Bio on Thursday January 15, 2026 met with representatives of Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) at State House, reaffirming his Government’s commitment to strengthening private sector growth through sustained dialogue, partnership, and responsive governance.

The high-level engagement brought together key stakeholders from Sierra Leone’s petroleum downstream sector, a critical component of the country’s economy that affects transportation, industrial productivity, energy access and the everyday cost of living for citizens. President Bio described the meeting as part of his administration’s efforts to build a stronger working relationship with the business community, especially industries that play a central role in national development.

In his address, the President underscored the importance of oil marketing companies in driving economic activities noting that the sector’s performance directly impacts households, commercial operations and national revenue generation.

“This year, I am not only acting; I want to act with haste. If we are to work together we must continue to engage in dialogue,” President Bio told participants, signaling his intention to adopt a faster and more collaborative approach to addressing national priorities and private sector concerns.

The President described the OMCs as strategic development partners, emphasizing that the engagement was not merely ceremonial but aimed at deepening trust and cooperation. He explained that his Government was determined to listen to stakeholders, assess the strength of existing partnerships and work jointly toward solutions that promote stability and shared prosperity.

“We are here to listen to you, to understand your concerns, assess our partnership and explore how we can further strengthen it,” the President said.

President Bio stressed that regular engagement between Government institutions and private sector actors is essential for sustainable economic growth. He said such discussions provide opportunities for Government to understand operational challenges within industries, while allowing businesses to align their contributions with the national development agenda.

According to him, continuous consultations will help create a more predictable and supportive business environment, enabling companies to operate efficiently, grow investments and support job creation for Sierra Leoneans. He also maintained that open communication remains a key ingredient for resolving issues before they escalate and for building long-term confidence in governance.

The President further noted that his administration will continue to prioritize dialogue-driven leadership as it enhances accountability, strengthens partnerships and improves policy responses that affect businesses and citizens alike.

Chief Minister, Dr David Moinina Sengeh, who also spoke at the meeting, said the engagement was convened at the initiative of President Bio, demonstrating the Government’s recognition of oil marketing companies as major contributors to the country’s economy and development objectives.

Dr David Moinina Sengeh described the sector as an important partner in national progress and said the meeting reflects the President’s determination to work closely with private sector institutions in achieving economic growth, investment expansion and national stability.

The State House engagement is expected to serve as a foundation for ongoing dialogue between Government and oil industry stakeholders, with the shared goal of improving collaboration and supporting a stronger and more resilient economy.

APC Releases Revised Internal Elections Timeline Ahead of 2026 National Delegates Conference

January 19, 2026

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The All Peoples Congress (APC) has officially released a revised internal elections timeline, detailing key dates and activities leading to the Party’s highly anticipated National Delegates Conference (NDC) scheduled for 9th to 12th August 2026.

The revised programme, dated 15th January 2026, was issued by the APC National Secretariat and outlines the procedures and deadlines for elections and conventions at ward, constituency, district, regional and special organs levels, including diaspora structures. The APC said the timeline follows the successful re-publication of the re-gazetted APC Elections Rules by the Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC) on the same date, 15th January 2026.

According to the Party, the revised elections roadmap is designed to provide a clear guide for internal governance and ensure that all activities are conducted in line with national electoral regulations and party rules. The calendar is expected to shape the Party’s internal preparations toward the NDC, which is widely regarded as a major decision-making moment for the APC.

The internal process begins with the publication of the voter/membership register for ward elections on 16th January 2026, a key step meant to allow party members to verify their status ahead of voting.

The timeline confirms that ward elections are scheduled to take place on 7th February 2026. The ward level elections form the foundation of the Party’s broader internal leadership structure, as they influence representation and delegate selection at higher party conventions.

Following the ward elections, the APC plans to publish the delegates list for constituency conventions on 8th February 2026, with the constituency conventions themselves planned for 1st March 2026. The Party noted that this stage will also include diaspora chapters and constituencies, reflecting the APC’s recognition of its overseas membership and contributions.

Next in the sequence is the publication of delegates list for district conventions on 2nd March 2026, with the district conventions, including diaspora districts and branches, slated for 24th March, 2026.

The programme further outlines the publication of the regional delegates list including the diaspora region, on 25th March 2026, setting the stage for the APC’s regional conventions, scheduled for 16th April 2026. The regional conventions are expected to consolidate leadership positions and harmonize party structures in preparation for major national-level decisions.

In addition to mainstream party elections the revised timetable includes several special organs conventions and affiliate engagements.

The APC set 22nd February 2026 for the publication of delegates list for a number of Party wings and associations. These include the Local Council Group, Former Councillors, National Union of APC Students, Former MPs Group, Persons with Disability Wing, as well as other associate groups and affiliates.

The timeline also highlights the involvement of major party structures such as the Women’s Congress, Veterans Congress and Young Congress, which will participate under the special organs arrangement. The publication of delegates list for special organs conventions is scheduled for 17th April 2026, while the Special Organs Conventions will be held on 9th May 2026.

Those stages are expected to strengthen internal inclusion and ensure that all party bodies play a role in shaping delegate representation ahead of the National Delegates Conference.

The APC has officially fixed the dates for the National Delegates Conference (NDC) on 9th, 10th, 11th and 12th August 2026, marking one of the most significant political events on the Party’s calendar.

In preparation for the conference, the APC National Secretariat General is expected to announce the date and place of the NDC on 30th January 2026. The timeline also sets 8th May 2026 as the final date for submission of proposed constitutional amendments, highlighting that internal reforms and policy restructuring may also form part of the conference agenda.

The Party further indicated that the publication of eligible delegates list for the NDC will take place on 18th July 2026 while 25th July 2026 is the deadline for submission of objections regarding the delegates list. Any decisions on objections are expected by 1st August 2026, ensuring that disputes are resolved before the NDC begins.

The revised internal elections timeline was signed by Lansana Dumbuya, Esq, the National Secretary-General of the All Peoples Congress (APC), in Freetown.

The publication of the revised calendar signals the APC’s push for structured planning and compliance ahead of its major 2026 political convention, as party members prepare for a full cycle of internal elections and decision-making processes across Sierra Leone and diaspora communities.

CRN-SL Dismisses CSO’s KADCO “Expired Ethanol” Claim, Says it Lack Scientific Proof

January 19, 2026

By Ibrahim Sesay

A fact-finding report by the Citizen Rights Network Sierra Leone (CRN-SL) has rejected public claims by certain Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) that ethanol products stored by KADCO Company are “expired” and unsafe, stating that such conclusions are technically inaccurate without laboratory verification.

The report, dated 16 January 2026, is titled :“CRN-SL Fact Findings Report on the Status and Alternative Use of Stored Ethanol Products at KADCO Company” and was issued following public concerns raised by CSOs operating under the theme of food and feed safety.

According to the report, KADCO Company has been in possession of a bulk quantity of ethanol-based products stored over an extended period. The company reportedly raised official concerns as far back as two years ago, notifying the Ministry of Health (MoH), the Sierra Leone Standards Bureau and the National Consumer Protection Commission, requesting technical guidance on how to handle the stored ethanol amid fears it may have suffered reduced potency due to prolonged storage.

Despite repeated follow-ups, CRN-SL noted that no formal directive, inspection report, disposal plan or reclassification guidance was provided by the Ministry during that period; leaving the company without clear regulatory direction on what practical steps to take.

The report explains that certain CSOs recently conducted an inspection and publicly described the stored ethanol as “expired,” suggesting regulatory non-compliance and possible risks to public health and safety.

However, CRN-SL warned that publicly branding ethanol products as “expired” without scientific confirmation may be misleading and could unjustly damage lawful businesses.

“Labeling the product as ‘expired’ without laboratory analysis is technically inaccurate,” the report emphasized.

CRN-SL’s report offers a technical explanation of ethanol and how it behaves over time. It notes that ethanol, also known as ethyl alcohol, is chemically stable and does not degrade into toxic substances in the same way pharmaceuticals or consumable goods do.

The report highlights that ethanol’s effectiveness depends largely on its concentration level, rather than its age alone. It further stated that ethanol does not decompose into harmful compounds over time and that what changes in storage conditions is usually potency not safety.

CRN-SL attributed the reduction in ethanol potency to factors considered legitimate and non-negligent, including:

Long-term storage, which can trigger gradual evaporation, especially where containers are not fully filled
High temperatures, which can accelerate evaporation
Minor seal degradation over time, causing vapor loss
Delayed regulatory guidance, which prevented early reprocessing or reallocation

Importantly, the report noted that none of those factors automatically makes ethanol unsafe. Instead, the report emphasized that such conditions mainly affect whether the product can still meet the 70% standard required for medical-grade disinfection in clinical environments.

CRN-SL said internal assessments suggest the ethanol concentration has dropped below 70%, but the report maintained that ethanol at lower concentrations still has significant value for multiple operational and industrial purposes.

The report stated that there is no evidence the ethanol is contaminated, toxic or harmful and that it remains suitable for repurposing under the correct classification.

Among the recommended alternative uses, CRN-SL listed:

Industrial cleaning and degreasing of machinery, tools and metal surfaces
Surface sanitization for non-clinical areas such as offices, warehouses and vehicles
Use as a laboratory solvent
Manufacturing inputs including detergents and recalibrated disinfectant concentrates
Fuel and energy applications such as ethanol burners and biofuel blending

The report also listed examples of affected products, including 95% ethanol, 90% ethanol, 80% ethanol, ethanol-based surface cleaners and ethanol solutions for non-medical sterilization.

CRN-SL concluded that KADCO Company acted in good faith and in a responsible manner, citing steps taken by the company, including notifying relevant authorities early, storing the products securely, documenting the materials and refraining from distributing the ethanol for medical or consumer use while waiting for guidance.

“That demonstrates responsible corporate conduct not negligence,” CRN-SL stated.

CRN-SL criticized the CSO claims, stating that describing the ethanol as expired lacked laboratory confirmation, regulatory authority and consideration of ethanol’s chemical properties. The report also warned that such claims could misinform the public and damage lawful enterprises unnecessarily.

In its recommendations, CRN-SL called for:

Immediate reclassification of ethanol for non-medical use
Relevant MDAs to issue formal guidance instead of punitive assumptions
Independent laboratory testing to confirm exact concentrations
Protection of the company’s reputation against unverified public claims
A repurposing and relabeling plan under regulatory supervision

The report was signed by Ibrahim Bai Koroma, Executive Director of CRN-SL, under the subject: “Assessment of Ethanol Products Alleged to Be ‘Expired’.”

CRN-SL urged stakeholders to adopt evidence-based assessments, stressing that regulatory response and scientific verification remain essential to protect public safety while ensuring fairness to compliant businesses operating within the law.