Freetown’s Lungi Airport Projects 5,000 Passenger Increase in 2024

January 10, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a noteworthy update, Madam Musayeroh Barrie, Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), make known notable changes in passenger traffic for 2024. Madam Musayeroh Barrie highlighted that Freetown’s Lungi International Airport is set to welcome over 8,000 additional passengers this year, with incoming passenger numbers reaching 127,177 up from 119,005 in 2023. Meanwhile, departures are expected to decrease by approximately 3,000, totaling 121,486 compared to 124,440 in the previous year.

The overall passenger throughout for 2024 is anticipated to hit 248,583, surpassing the 243,445 recorded in 2023. This uptick reflects a positive trend in international travel for Sierra Leone, signaling recovery and growing interest in the region. The SLCAA remains optimistic about these developments, seeing them as a testament to the resilience and growth of the aviation sector.

Director General Madam Musayeroh Barrie’s leadership has also seen significant strides towards Sierra Leone’s removal from the European Union’s aviation blacklist, which has restricted airlines registered in Sierra Leone from flying into EU airspace since 2008. Since her appointment by President Dr. Julius Maada Bio in August 2023, Madam Musayeroh Barrie has spearheaded successful meetings with the EU safety commission, culminating in a roadmap that aims for Sierra Leone’s removal from the blacklist by 2025.

Under her stewardship, the SLCAA has also strengthened bilateral relations with Italy’s Civil Aviation Authority, evidenced by the historic Bilateral Air Service Agreement signed during President Pierlugu Umberto’s visit to Sierra Leone. This agreement lays the groundwork for enhanced cooperation and the development of air transport links between the two nations.

Madam Musayeroh Barrie’s proactive approach extends to consumer protection and regional cooperation, as demonstrated at the 1st Workshop of Air Transport Consumer Protection Focal Persons in West African States. Her unwavering commitment to safety has instituted rigorous protocols and oversight mechanisms, earning accolades from international regulatory bodies.

Her visionary leadership also focuses on capacity building and human resource development, championing initiatives that nurture talent and foster professional growth within the aviation sector. Through mentorship programs, training initiatives and educational outreach, she has empowered aspiring aviators and professionals, paving the way for a brighter future for the industry.

Madam Musayeroh Barrie’s leadership, marked by integrity, humility and a servant leadership ethos, continues to signify a new chapter of progress and excellence for Sierra Leone’s aviation sector. Her strategic vision and commitment are poised to steer the SLCAA towards greater heights, contributing to the nation’s socio-economic development and global standing in the aviation arena.

Ishmeal Alfred Charles Urges Government to Prioritize Local Healthcare

January 10, 2025

By Millicent Senava Mannah

The streets of Freetown buzzed with palpable energy as renowned humanitarian and children’s rights advocate, Ishmeal Alfred Charles, addressed a large gathering of concerned citizens. Known for his relentless efforts to champion the voiceless, Ishmeal Alfred Charles drew a diverse crowd eager to hear his stance on Sierra Leone’s healthcare crisis.

Standing atop a makeshift platform, Ishmeal Alfred Charles gazed over the sea of faces before him; mothers clutching their children, elderly citizens leaning on canes and young activists ready to rally for change. With a deep breath, he began his speech, capturing the crowd’s attention immediately.

“Today, we stand united in our demand for a healthcare system that serves every Sierra Leonean, not just the privileged few,” he declared, his voice brimming with conviction.

Ishmeal Alfred Charles recounted the daily struggles faced by families who cannot afford adequate medical care. “Every day, our leaders travel abroad for treatment while our hospitals languish in disrepair. This must end! If the President and his family, along with all Government officials, chose to seek care in our local hospitals, they would see the urgent need for improvement firsthand,” he emphasized.

The crowd erupted in applause, their spirits lifted by Ishmeal Alfred Charles’ passionate plea. He continued, “It is time for our leaders to invest in our healthcare system. We deserve facilities that are equipped to provide quality care. We deserve a system that prioritizes the health of our children and families over the convenience of foreign treatment.”

Ishmeal Alfred Charles shared heart-wrenching stories of children who had died from preventable diseases, families driven to bankruptcy seeking treatment abroad and communities left to fend for themselves. Each tale served as a stark reminder of the urgent need for healthcare reform.

“Let us hold our leaders accountable!” he urged, raising his fist in solidarity. “We must demand transparency in healthcare funding and advocate for the resources our hospitals desperately need. Together, we can transform our healthcare system into one that is accessible and effective for all.”

The crowd responded with chants of “Change begins at home!” and “Healthcare for all!” The atmosphere was electric, filled with a sense of purpose and determination. Ishmeal Alfred Charles’ words had ignited a fire within the hearts of the people, inspiring them to take action.

As the sun set, casting a warm glow over the gathering, Ishmeal Alfred Charles knew this was just the beginning. The movement he had sparked would grow, fueled by the collective will of the people. They would not rest until their leaders listened and local hospitals were equipped to provide the care every Sierra Leonean deserved.

With renewed hope, Ishmeal Alfred Charles stepped down from the platform, surrounded by supporters ready to join him in the fight for a better healthcare system. Together, they vowed to ensure that no child would ever suffer due to neglect and that the promise of a healthier future would be fulfilled for all.

Dr. Kaifala Marah Visits Kroo Bay Community, Calls for Peace and Unity

January 10, 2025

By Ibrahim Sesay

Former presidential aspirant of the All People’s Congress (APC) Party, Dr. Kaifala Marah, on Wednesday, January 8, 2024 paid a social visit to the Kroo Bay community, delivering a message of peace, unity and support for the people. The gathering, which included residents from surrounding slum communities such as King Jimmy and Spain, served as an opportunity for Dr. Kaifala Marah to engage with the local population and foster open dialogue on critical issues affecting their lives.

He made it clear that his visit was purely social and not politically motivated. “I want to thank you all for this warm welcome,” he stated. “My reason for being here today is not to discuss politics. I’m here on a social visit. Let’s talk and eat as a family.” His remarks emphasized the importance of community engagement and the need to build bridges of understanding among all citizens, irrespective of political affiliations.

Addressing the community’s concerns, Dr. Kaifala Marah acknowledged the dire state of the national economy and affirmed his commitment to standing in solidarity with the grassroots population. “This is the time for me to meet our grassroots population and show that we understand the plight they’re going through,” he remarked, reflecting on the difficulties many face in their everyday lives.

The former Finance Minister also highlighted the specific challenges confronting the Kroo Bay community, such as the recurrent flooding that has caused extensive damage in recent years. Dr. Kaifala Marah reassured the residents of his commitment to advocating for their needs, including improvements in infrastructure and disaster relief efforts.

During the visit, he also took the opportunity to call for peace and discipline within the APC, stressing the importance of unity and lawfulness both within the party and at the national level. “I have been to several states in America calling for peace and unity within the party,” he noted. “Whether inside the party or outside, it is befitting that we conduct ourselves within the confines of the law.”

While his message was one of peace and unity, Dr. Kaifala Marah also subtly critiqued the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), suggesting that their governance has not been able to address key national challenges effectively. “The SLPP lacks the know-how to make our country sweet,” he remarked, adding, “When the time is right, I will begin to highlight the areas where they are failing, including the economy, education and the financial sector.”

Local resident, Aminata Kamara, expressed her gratitude for Dr. Kaifala Marah’s visit, emphasizing the positive impact of his engagement with the community. “We are very happy to have Dr. Kaifala Marah here with us today. He’s a man of the people, and I pray he will help us address some of the challenges we face as a community,” Aminata Kamara said.

Dr. Kaifala Marah’s visit to Kroo Bay underscored his ongoing efforts to remain connected to the people of Sierra Leone and advocate for positive change. His call for peace, unity and a focus on grassroots issues resonated with many, further solidifying his position as a prominent figure within the APC and a potential leader of change for the nation.

China-Sierra Leone Friendship Celebrated Through Historic Book Launch

January 10, 2025

China-Sierra Leone Relations—Friendship, H.E. Wang Qing, Professor David J. Francis and Minister Timothy Musa Kabba

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

The Chinese Embassy in Freetown was the site of a historic event on January 8, 2025, as Ambassador Wang Qing, in collaboration with Timothy Musa Kabba, Sierra Leone’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and Professor David J. Francis, a former Foreign Minister launched the first-ever comprehensive documentation of the 54-year friendship between China and Sierra Leone. It was a book edited by Professor David J. Francis.

The book, titled: “China-Sierra Leone Relations: Friendship, Cooperation and Win-Win Diplomacy,” provides an in-depth analysis of the historical, cultural and geopolitical ties between the two nations. The event underscored the enduring bond and mutual respect that have characterized the relationship since the establishment of diplomatic ties on July 29, 1971.

In his keynote address, Timothy Musa Kabba described the book as a vital academic and policy tool that encapsulates the progress and significance of China-Sierra Leone relations. He highlighted how the partnership has evolved over the years, yielding mutual benefits and fostering sustainable development.

The minister commended China’s contributions to Sierra Leone, particularly in infrastructure projects such as the China-Sierra Leone Friendship Hospital and the fish power project. He praised China’s advocacy for a reformed international market system and its solidarity with developing nations.

Timothy Musa Kabba also lauded President Xi Jinping’s global initiatives, emphasizing their focus on connectivity, development cooperation and common security. He highlighted the resilience of Sierra Leone’s economy during the COVID-19 pandemic, citing significant foreign direct investment in the mining sector.

Concluding his address, the minister called for effective management of partnerships and reforms in international institutions to reflect contemporary realities, reiterating the strategic importance of the China-Sierra Leone relationship in education, culture and international diplomacy.

Ambassador Wang Qing celebrated the launch as a milestone in China-Sierra Leone relations. He expressed gratitude to Professor Francis and his team for their dedication to the project and emphasized the book’s role in strengthening bilateral ties.

The Ambassador highlighted key milestones in the partnership, including the establishment of a comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership in 2016. He praised the unwavering political trust and mutual respect between the two nations, even amid shifting global dynamics.

Ambassador Wang noted significant progress in areas such as infrastructure, education, human resource development and trade, reaffirming China’s commitment to supporting Sierra Leone’s development while respecting its sovereignty. He concluded by underscoring China’s role as Sierra Leone’s largest trading partner and its support for Sierra Leone on the global stage.

Professor David J. Francis reflected on the unique significance of the China-Sierra Leone relationship. He explored why a relatively small nation like Sierra Leone holds such importance to a global superpower like China, pointing to shared values and strategic interests.

The former Foreign Affairs Minister emphasized that the book serves as the first comprehensive academic and policy-relevant documentation of the bilateral relationship, offering insights into its historical evolution and dynamics. He acknowledged the contributions of academics, policy practitioners and the Chinese Government in making the project a reality.

The professor also highlighted the strategic role Sierra Leone plays in China’s global agenda, including its support for Sierra Leone’s bid for a seat on the United Nations Security Council.

The book launch was not just an academic milestone but a celebration of a partnership that has grown stronger over more than five decades. It serves as a recognition of the contributions of individuals and institutions in fostering the China-Sierra Leone relationship, which continues to flourish across various sectors.

The event was attended by diplomats, Government officials, academics and members of the public, marking a momentous occasion in the history of China-Sierra Leone relations.

Alie Kanu’s Life in Danger Amid Coup Allegation and Political Persecution in Sierra Leone

January 10, 2025

By Mohamed Mattia

The life of Alie Kanu, a well-known youth influencer and sportsman from Karene District, born at 15 Renka Street in Makeni, is now hanging in the balance after his name surfaced indirectly in connection with the failed coup attempt of November 26th, 2023. Though never officially declared wanted, information unearthed by The Calabash Newspaper after weeks of deep investigation suggests that Alie may be one of the individuals quietly pursued by state authorities. His condition has triggered fear and concern among his family, friends and human rights defenders as he remains in hiding, gripped by a fear for his life.

Following the Government’s announcement on the failed coup, Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, confirmed that several individuals were still being tracked, although their names were not on the official wanted list. When pressed specifically about Alie Kanu, who was a close associate of the late social media activist Hassan S. Dumbuya, also known as Evangelist Samson, the Minister refused to comment further, echoing his earlier statement on radio and television that additional names were under private scrutiny. This vague response only deepened suspicions surrounding Alie’s safety and status.

The Calabash Newspaper has since uncovered that just four days before the coup attempt, Alie Kanu made a strongly worded critique in a WhatsApp group chat, sharply criticizing the conduct of the June 24th 2023 elections and expressing frustration over the leadership style of President Julius Maada Bio and other African heads of state. Although this outburst came days before the coup, there is no evidence to suggest he had any part in the planning or execution of the attack. It now appears that the timing of his comments, more than any action, may have placed him in the crosshairs of suspicion.

Sources further confirm that Alie has long been vocal on WhatsApp, frequently criticizing what he described as the Government’s poor governance and disregard for ordinary citizens. His persistent activism, though peaceful, now seems to be interpreted by some within the establishment as a threat rather than a right, especially as his social influence continues to grow in the northern region.

Alie Kanu is also a committed supporter of former opposition Presidential aspirant, Dr. Samura Kamara, and has played a significant role in youth development through sports in Karene. Friends and community members describe him as patriotic and nonviolent, someone who believes in constructive dialogue and civic participation, not rebellion. But his association with Evangelist Samson, who was brutally gunned down by military forces in Makeni following the August 10th 2022 protest, has likely heightened the suspicions around him, even in the absence of proof.

A leaked audio made by the current Resident Minister North, Ibrahim “Jallomy” Jalloh, recently added fuel to the fire when Alie’s name was clearly mentioned as someone of interest. Though no formal charges have been filed and no credible evidence links him to the coup attempt, Alie Kanu has been forced into hiding. His family now pleads for justice and protection, warning that in a country still healing from conflict, the unchecked targeting of citizens for their political views could erode the very democratic principles the nation claims to uphold.

Notably, a second failed coup attempt occurred on November 26th, 2024 and it was in the wake of this latest incident that Resident Minister North, Ibrahim “Jallomy” Jalloh, made his statement in December 2024, further intensifying tensions and casting a longer shadow over individuals already under suspicion.

Political Intimidation and Harassment Target Humanitarian Advocate Ishmeal Alfred Charles

January 10, 2025

By Foday Moriba Conteh

A prominent humanitarian advocate known for his tireless efforts to support critically ill children in Sierra Leone is facing intimidation and harassment from political figures and law enforcement authorities.

The situation arose after Ishmeal Alfred Charles publicly urged President Julius Maada Bio and his family to utilize local hospitals, arguing that their patronage would help improve confidence in the country’s healthcare system and encourage much-needed investment in medical infrastructure.

Charles, a former child soldier turned humanitarian, has dedicated his life to assisting vulnerable children in need. He has successfully supported over 219 critically ill children from impoverished backgrounds, many of whom required expensive medical treatment abroad. In some cases, life-saving surgeries—such as those for congenital heart disease—can cost up to $15,000, often requiring travel to India.

To fund these critical medical procedures, Charles has organized street fundraising activities, television appeals, and social media campaigns, rallying support from compassionate members of the public.

However, his recent advocacy for the President and First Lady to rely on Sierra Leone’s healthcare facilities has reportedly angered some political stakeholders. One such individual allegedly reported Charles to the police, accusing him of inciting public dissent against the government.

Charles maintains that if the First Family were to depend on local hospitals, it would not only boost confidence in the healthcare system but also motivate health professionals and the Ministry of Health to further enhance service delivery.

Despite his noble intentions, Charles found himself at the center of controversy when he was summoned by the police, where he faced intimidation and threats linked to his advocacy work. In a recent interview, he reaffirmed his determination to continue his humanitarian mission, stating: “My advocacy is about doing what is right and serving humanity. My only aim is to help improve the lives of the people in my country.”

The situation has sparked concern over the state of political freedom and the safety of activists in Sierra Leone. Many fear that intimidation faced by Charles could discourage others from speaking out on critical national issues affecting the most vulnerable.

As the story unfolds, Ishmeal Alfred Charles remains resolute in his mission to advocate for better healthcare for Sierra Leone’s most vulnerable citizens, undeterred by the political pressure he faces.

The Dilemma of Feed Salone: Aspirations vs. Reality in Rice Self-Sufficiency

January 8, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

With over 60% of our rice being imported, the quest for local rice self-sufficiency has never been more critical. Recently, Pa Lamin Banya raised a compelling point about the Feed Salone initiative, which was launched with great expectations to empower local farmers and reduce our dependence on imported rice. Yet, as we see the SLPP Government shifting back to negotiate with rice importers, many are left wondering: is this initiative truly committed to its original goals or has it become just another over-hyped development program?

Feed Salone was introduced with the aspiration of creating a sustainable agricultural landscape where local producers could thrive. The initiative aimed to bolster domestic rice production and ensure that consumers benefit from affordable, locally grown agricultural produce including rice. However, the reality of its implementation raises significant concerns. If Government is now engaging with the very importers it initially sought to challenge, can we reasonably conclude that the initiative is losing its way? For many, especially those who have witnessed similar programs come and go, this shift raises questions about the authenticity of Feed Salone’s objectives.

The challenges facing Feed Salone are not unique to our nation. Global market dynamics, climate change and shifting consumer demands create a complex landscape that can impede progress toward self-sufficiency. For instance, local farmers often struggle with inadequate access to resources, technology and markets, making it difficult for them to compete with imported rice. While the aspiration to reduce dependence on rice imports is commendable, the path to achieving this goal is fraught with obstacles that can lead to compromises.

Moreover, the need for transparency and accountability remains paramount for any program of such significance. If negotiations with rice importers become a regular occurrence, it is essential that stakeholders, including farmers, consumers and policymakers, are informed about the rationale behind these decisions and their potential impact on local production and pricing. For example, farmers need to know how pricing strategies will affect their livelihoods and whether they will receive adequate support to enhance their production capabilities.

To truly support local farmers and enhance domestic rice production, Government must focus on empowering its stakeholders. This could involve investing in agricultural technology, providing training programs for farmers and promoting cooperative models that enable smallholders to pool resources and access larger markets. Countries that have successfully achieved rice self-sufficiency often emphasize the importance of local investment and farmer education as critical components of their strategies.

In conclusion, while Pa Banya’s concerns stem from a place of skepticism, they highlight an essential conversation that must take place within our society. Is Feed Salone a genuine initiative aimed at bolstering agricultural productivity or has it become an over-hyped program that ultimately serves the interests of a few? As we navigate these complex challenges, let us advocate for policies that prioritize our farmers, boost local production and ensure that the aspirations of Feed Salone are grounded in reality.

Together, we can work towards a future where our nation is not only self-sufficient in rice production but also supports the livelihoods of our farmers and contributes to the overall well-being of our communities. It is time for all of us to engage in this critical dialogue and hold our leaders accountable for delivering on the promise of food security.

2025: A Year of Progress – Sierra Leoneans Urged to Obtain ID Cards for a Secure Future

January 8, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

As we step into 2025, a year marked for progress, the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) has made a clarion call to every Sierra Leonean, urging both citizens and non-citizens to obtain their National, Non-National or ECOWAS ID Cards. This is a critical step towards a more secure and efficient nation.

In a public notice issued on December 20, 2024, the NCRA, in collaboration with the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) and the Office of National Security (ONS), emphasized the urgency of obtaining these essential documents. The notice, signed by NCRA Director-General Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi, National Security Coordinator Abdulai Caulker and Inspector General of Police William Fayia Sellu, highlighted that ID card checks would begin across the country on January 1, 2025.

These checks will take place at security checkpoints and in communities nationwide, as part of efforts to enhance identification systems and ensure the safety and security of all residents. Heads of state institutions have been instructed to ensure compliance with laws requiring the use of National Identification Numbers (NINs) or ID Cards for accessing essential services.

The NCRA has made it clear that ID Cards are now mandatory for various services, including:

Financial transactions (banks, forex bureaus, insurance)
Vehicle registration and licensing
Public and private sector recruitment
NASSIT enrollment
Land and property registration
Enrollment in educational institutions and public exams
SIM card registration
Vital events registration (birth, death, marriage, etc.)
Immigration services (resident/work permits)
Business registration and incorporation

The NCRA has urged citizens and foreign residents to obtain their Biometric ID Cards from any NCRA office or registration center nationwide. The National and Non-National ID Cards are mandatory, while the ECOWAS ID Card is available upon request.

The Biometric ID Cards, introduced in 2023, come with advanced security features such as fingerprint scanning, facial recognition and embedded secure chips. These cards are designed to:

Strengthen national and individual security.
Simplify access to essential public and private services.
Prevent identity theft and fraudulent activities.

An NCRA official noted, “These Biometric ID Cards enhance security and ensure that citizens and institutions are safeguarded from identity fraud.”

The Biometric ID Cards are available to:

Sierra Leonean citizens aged 12 and above.
ECOWAS nationals residing in Sierra Leone.
Foreign residents who are legally required to obtain Non-National ID Cards for work and residence permits.

To apply for an ID Card:

Visit an NCRA office or registration center.
Complete the registration form with your personal details.
Provide biometric data, including fingerprints and facial scans.
Collect your ID card after processing.

Registration centers are available in major towns, including Bo, Kenema, Makeni, Port Loko and several locations in Freetown.

In addition to this, the NCRA is working to enhance security by linking National Identification Numbers (NINs) to mobile phone SIM cards. This initiative aims to reduce cybercrime, with the possibility of deactivating telecommunications services, including mobile money transfers and voice calls, for those who fail to comply.

Director-General, Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi, recently led a high-level meeting with stakeholders from the National Telecommunications Commission (NaCTA), Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and the SLP to ensure smooth implementation of this integration.

The NCRA urges all citizens and residents to treat the acquisition of a Biometric ID Card as both a personal responsibility and a civic duty. By carrying your ID Card and linking your NIN to your SIM card, you play a vital role in enhancing national security and helping create a more digitally inclusive and efficient Sierra Leone.

For more information, visit any NCRA office, or contact the authority through their website at www.ncra.gov.sl, or call +232 33 939740 / +232 79 578063.

This year, make security and compliance a priority. Secure your Biometric ID Card today for a brighter, safer future in Sierra Leone.

World Hope International Names Jenn Petersen as New President and CEO

January 8, 2025

By Foday Moriba Conteh

World Hope International (WHI) has announced the appointment of Jenn Petersen as its new President and CEO, effective February 1, 2025. Jenn Petersen, a pastor and worship leader, previously served as the Director of Mobilization for the International Justice Mission (IJM) in New York City.

She brings a unique blend of church and non-profit experience to her new role at WHI. Throughout her career, she has worked with teams in the Philippines, Ghana and other countries, focusing on justice and compassion. Her extensive background in church mobilization and leadership is expected to drive WHI’s mission forward.

“I have long been inspired by the tangible, consistent and loving presence of World Hope International, empowering the vulnerable in some of the hardest places so they can flourish, thrive and lead,” Jenn Petersen said. “During this next chapter, we will continue courageously and creatively following Jesus into the work of justice, mercy and compassion.”

She succeeds John Clause, who announced his decision to step down in November to pursue other opportunities. Her predecessor will collaborate with Jenn Petersen to ensure a seamless transition, according to Dr. Jo Anne Lyon, Board Chair and Founder of WHI.

“The Board, Staff and I thank John for developing our new five-year strategic plan, boosting operational efficiencies and sharing his leadership insights with Jenn,” Dr. Jo Anne Lyon said. “Please join me in wishing John well and welcoming Jenn, who is an exceptional and respected leader.”

Before her tenure at IJM, Jenn Petersen served as the Senior Lead of Church Mobilization in the northeast U.S. She is also a co-founder and co-lead pastor of Resurrection Life NYC, where she has served for nearly a decade. Jenn Petersen holds a Master of Divinity from Wesley Seminary and a Bachelor of Music from the University of Northern Iowa.

World Hope International is a faith-based, nonprofit humanitarian organization committed to alleviating poverty, suffering and injustice worldwide. The organization works with vulnerable and exploited communities, providing market-based, community-driven solutions and emergency disaster response. WHI’s programs focus on delivering clean water and energy solutions, healthcare, nutrition, disease prevention and protecting the world’s most vulnerable from abuse and exploitation.

Government Lauds Rice Importers for Unified Nationwide Pricing Formula

January 8, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Government of Sierra Leone (GoSL), led by Chief Minister Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, has unveiled a new rice pricing formula aimed at stabilizing the market, providing consumer relief and bolstering food security. The announcement came during a meeting on January 6, 2025, which gathered key officials from the Ministries of Finance, Agriculture and Food Security, alongside major industry stakeholders.

Dr. David Moinina Sengeh emphasized the urgency of addressing the rising cost of rice, stressing that the new pricing strategy would ensure fair compensation for producers while making rice more affordable for the public. This initiative is part of the Government’s broader strategy to improve food security and the livelihoods of Sierra Leoneans.

Prominent industry leaders, including Ahmed H. Hashim (CEO of VIP Group), Daniel Shallop (GM of Golden Trading), Emad Taleb (DMD of Saad Group), Yash K. Sharma, Pee Cee and Sons; Hicham El Zain, CTC; Jaafar Tajeddine, Two Trade Solutions; Hussein Safieddine, Safco Ltd; and Ibrahim Mohsen & Sons, Mohamad Mohsen and others, participated in the discussions. Their collective aim was to address the challenges of rising costs and enhance market efficiency.

Key Highlights of the New Pricing Formula:

Wholesale Price Reduction: Effective January 9, 2025, the wholesale price for a 50kg bag of parboiled rice will be set at NLE 840, with a further reduction to NLE 799 by February 14, 2025. This aims to alleviate consumer expenses and improve access to affordable rice.
Support for Importers: The Government will implement policies to assist importers, ensuring consistent rice supply and stable market conditions.
Stakeholder Collaboration: The GoSL commits to ongoing collaboration with stakeholders across the rice supply chain, including importers, retailers and consumers, to ensure the effective execution of the new pricing strategy.
Immediate Implementation: The pricing adjustments will be enacted immediately, providing quick relief from the high cost of rice.

The initiative has garnered support from rice industry stakeholders, who acknowledge the need for a sustainable pricing strategy to combat food inflation. The reduction in wholesale prices is expected to positively impact consumers, easing the financial burden of rising food costs.

In a related development, the Ministry of Trade and Industry has issued an important public notice emphasizing its commitment to transparency and accountability within the rice supply chain. This initiative comes in response to the growing demand for better regulation and stability in rice pricing.

The notice highlights the ongoing collaboration between the Government and private sector stakeholders to ensure more stable rice prices across the nation. The Minister of Trade and Industry expressed appreciation for the cooperation of rice importers over the past eight months in the development and implementation of a Pricing Formula. This formula is intended to regulate rice prices, ensuring they remain consistent and fair for both consumers and traders.

In addition, the Ministry emphasized the importance of regular updates on rice pricing and supply. In partnership with Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs), the Ministry plans to publish bi-weekly reports on rice pricing and availability. This initiative is aimed at ensuring the consistent supply of rice and preventing price fluctuations that could disrupt the market.

The Minister of Trade and Industry reaffirmed the Ministry’s dedication to enhancing market efficiency, promoting fairness and supporting sustainable practices within the rice supply chain. By publishing these regular reports, the Ministry aims to foster greater transparency, which will benefit both consumers and traders in the long run.

The Ministry has called for continued cooperation from all stakeholders involved in the rice supply chain to help further engage in this vital initiative and ensure the success of the effort. This commitment to transparency and market stability is part of the Ministry’s broader strategy to improve the availability and affordability of essential commodities in the country.

By proactively adjusting rice prices, the GoSL aims to foster a stable and sustainable rice market. This initiative is a significant step towards enhancing food security and making essential commodities more affordable for all Sierra Leoneans. The implementation and impact of the new pricing formula will be closely monitored by Government officials and industry analysts to ensure its effectiveness.