Anti-Corruption Commission Recovers Over NLe 34 Million in Stolen Funds

November 27, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

During a Press Conference at the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) headquarters on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, Commissioner Francis Ben Kaifala announced a major success in the fight against corruption.

Referring to the recovery, Ben Kaifala stated, “This sea of money represents over NLe 34 million stolen by a single individual working quietly in a corner of a bank. The ACC has successfully recovered this amount, totaling approximately US$1.5 million.”

He identified the individual as Salim Mansaray, whom he described as a “criminal” who fled to Dubai but was later extradited back to Sierra Leone. According to Ben Kaifala, the ACC not only recovered the full amount stolen but also seized funds from Salim Mansaray’s personal accounts, amounting to over NLe 1 million. The Commissioner emphasized that Salim Mansaray has been left financially insolvent.

“He has been run bankrupt,” he declared. “In addition to recovering the stolen funds, he has been charged and he pleaded guilty to various corruption and money laundering offenses.”

Ben Kaifala reassured the public that the recovered funds would be returned to the people of Sierra Leone, reiterating the ACC’s commitment to holding corrupt individuals accountable.

“These criminals cannot hide. We will continue to pursue anyone who misappropriates money meant for the people of Sierra Leone. They will repay every penny and face the consequences of their actions. Enough is enough!”

The Commissioner’s remarks underscore the ACC’s determination to combat corruption and serve as a warning to those who might attempt to exploit public resources.

Odhav Multi Industries Unveils Cutting-Edge Iron Rod Manufacturing Factory

November 27, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has on Saturday November 23, 2024 inaugurated Sierra Leone’s first-ever iron rod manufacturing factory in Songo Village, Koya Chiefdom, marking a transformative step in the country’s industrial and economic development. Owned by Odhav Multi Industries (SL) Limited, the factory is expected to save the nation between USD 250 million and USD 500 million annually by reducing iron rod importation costs and easing pressure on foreign exchange reserves.

The facility, which boasts a production capacity of 120,000 metric tons of iron rods per year, represents a major leap towards industrial self-reliance, job creation and economic growth. Speaking during the launch, President Bio underscored its significance as a cornerstone of Sierra Leone’s industrial progress.

“This launch marks a new era of industrial take-off for Sierra Leone,” he stated. “We are committed to unlocking opportunities for foreign investments and our policies are tailored to support sustainable industrial growth. The presence of Odhav Multi Industries underscores our readiness for industrial transformation.”

President Bio acknowledged challenges faced by manufacturing enterprises, such as energy constraints and assured stakeholders that his administration is working to address those issues. He called on residents of Koya Chiefdom to protect the factory’s assets, emphasizing its value as a long-term community investment.

“Our Government remains committed to fostering an environment where private sector growth thrives, creating industries that can compete globally,” the President added, highlighting ongoing policy reforms aimed at incentivizing the manufacturing sector.

Minister of Trade and Industry, Ibrahim Sesay, celebrated the factory as a testament to President Bio’s vision of industrial self-reliance. He noted that since 2018, the administration has facilitated the establishment of 30 manufacturing plants nationwide, generating over 25,000 jobs.

“The iron rods produced here will not only save Sierra Leone $300 million in annual import costs but also ensure compliance with international quality standards,” Minister Ibrahim Sesay explained, adding that his Ministry is collaborating closely with the Sierra Leone Standards Bureau to prevent the influx of substandard products.

Odhav Multi Industries plans to expand its product range to include nails, wire meshes, binding wires and industrial gases such as oxygen and nitrogen, further diversifying Sierra Leone’s industrial portfolio.

Resident Minister for the North-Western Region, Ambassador Umaru Bond Wurie, highlighted the venture’s significance for Port Loko District. “This district has seen remarkable development under President Bio’s leadership, including the establishment of a new airport, the first girls’ school and a 100-bed hospital,” he noted, adding that the factory further cements the region’s importance in national development.

Paramount Chief Bai Kompa Bomboli IV of Koya Chiefdom echoed these sentiments, urging residents to safeguard the facility for the community’s benefit.

Chairman of Odhav Multi Industries, Nilesh Katarmal, expressed gratitude for the Government’s investor-friendly policies and revealed plans to expand into renewable energy, including solar and hydro power.

“We are committed to producing high-quality iron rods at affordable prices while contributing to Sierra Leone’s industrial growth,” he stated.

The establishment of this factory signals a pivotal moment in Sierra Leone’s journey towards economic diversification, industrial self-sufficiency and a brighter future for its citizens.

Orange and Partners Train 7,000 Pupils in ICT Skills Through Second Training Edition

November 27, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The Ministry of Communication, Technology and Innovation (MoCTI), in partnership with Huawei Sierra Leone, Orange Sierra Leone and UNICEF, has successfully completed the second edition of the Sierra Leone ICT Training Program. This initiative is designed to empower young graduates and secondary school students with essential digital skills, positioning them for success in the digital age.

The program concluded with a comprehensive web development and digital marketing exam, designed to assess participants’ progress. This year’s edition brought together two groups, divided into ten teams, guided by 50 trainers and five supervisors. Together, these teams are on track to deliver ICT training to 7,000 secondary school students across districts in the Eastern, Northern and North-Western regions of Sierra Leone.

In the Eastern region, the program reached eight schools in the Kailahun District. The Northern region saw training sessions conducted in 25 schools in Bombali, 20 in Tonkolili, 10 in Koinadugu and two in Falaba. Meanwhile, in the North-Western region, the initiative extended its efforts to 25 schools in Port Loko, 10 in Karene and eight in Kambia.

This extensive coverage demonstrates a commitment to ensuring that students in underserved areas gain access to vital digital education. By focusing on these regions, the program addresses educational disparities and promotes inclusivity in digital learning.

The training aligns closely with the Government of Sierra Leone’s “Big Five Game Changers,” particularly pillars two and three, which emphasize human capital development and youth employment. This initiative also directly supports His Excellency Rtd. Brig. Julius Maada Bio’s vision of creating 500,000 job opportunities for youth while strengthening investments in human capital development.

By equipping students with practical ICT skills, this program is bridging the digital divide and preparing a new generation of digitally literate youth to meet the demands of an increasingly technological world.

The Sierra Leone ICT Training Program underscores its contribution to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education) by fostering inclusive and equitable learning opportunities. Orange Sierra Leone and its partners have reaffirmed their commitment to driving Sierra Leone’s digital transformation, believing in the potential of these young learners to become catalysts for innovation and community development.

This collaborative effort highlights the transformative power of public-private partnerships in education. By leveraging technology as a tool for empowerment, the program not only enriches the lives of students but also contributes to economic growth.

Orange Sierra Leone and its partners expressed pride in playing a key role in Sierra Leone’s digital journey, emphasizing that the skills imparted during these sessions will empower students to thrive in a fast-evolving global landscape. As technology continues to reshape the future, initiatives like this one pave the way for a more inclusive and innovative Sierra Leone.

NDMA & IDMC Launch Report on Displacement Impacts, Highlighting Housing and Livelihood Challenges

November 27, 2024

By Millicent Senava Mannah

The National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA), in partnership with the Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre (IDMC), with support from the European Union and USAID’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance, launched the “Impacts of Displacement” report and held a workshop on data management best practices on Tuesday, November 26, 2024. The event took place at the NDMA Conference Hall, located on 64 Sir Samuel Lewis Road, Aberdeen, Freetown.

The report, which involved interviews with 197 internally displaced persons (IDPs) and 31 non-displaced individuals from Plantain Island, Shenge, Tissana and Tombo, focused primarily on the experiences of the displaced population. The findings provide crucial insights into the socio-economic impacts of displacement, touching on livelihoods, health, education, security and housing.

Lieutenant General (Rtd) Brima Sesay, Director-General of NDMA, emphasized the importance of the research in enhancing the Agency’s disaster response capabilities. He explained that the data would help tailor interventions to meet the specific needs of affected populations, prioritizing the most impactful activities.

He further highlighted that the study addressed a critical gap in global knowledge, particularly concerning internal displacement linked to rising sea levels. Many residents of the affected islands, he noted, have lost at least one home due to sea-level rise and coastal erosion.

The representative of the guest speaker, Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella, Chairman of the Presidential Initiative on Climate Change, Renewable Energy, and Food Security, also offered remarks. He described the research as a mirror reflecting the challenges faced by families forced to leave their homes out of necessity. The representative also stressed that climate change is not just an environmental issue but one deeply intertwined with justice, equality and human rights. He reaffirmed the commitment to supporting President Julius Maada Bio’s vision for a climate-resilient economic development strategy for Sierra Leone, an effort in which NDMA plays a key role.

Chiara Valenti, a Research Associate at IDMC, presented findings on the situation in Tombo, where displacement has led household members to take on lower-paying, less secure jobs, disrupting traditional livelihoods. She noted that housing remains a critical issue for displaced individuals, with many facing financial strain due to the transition to renting homes.

“Displacement has significantly impacted the housing situation, with many families living in makeshift shelters, often without any Government or community support,” Chiara Valenti said.

The report revealed that in Tombo, 82% of IDPs rent homes at high costs but report better satisfaction due to improved safety and infrastructure. In contrast, all IDPs in Shenge own their homes, while those in Tissana rely entirely on renting, underscoring the importance of location in understanding the varying impacts of displacement on housing.

The disparities in housing conditions highlight the need for targeted interventions that address both the immediate housing needs of displaced individuals and long-term solutions for more sustainable living arrangements.

The event stands as a testament to the power of collaboration between the NDMA and IDMC in addressing the complex issues surrounding internal displacement in Sierra Leone.

MBSSE & Partners Wrap Up Two-Day Assessment of Free Education Project Progress in Makeni Schools

November 27, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE) led by the Deputy Minister 1 of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE), Emily Kadiatu Gogra has on Tuesday 26^th November, 2024 concluded a two-day World Bank Mission Assessment visit in Schools in Makeni in order to assess the impact of ongoing projects in these various schools under the Free Education Project and other programs.

The team comprises of various partners, including the World Bank, FCDO, EU, EAA and Local Governments, working together with the MBSSE and the Teaching Service Commission.

In her remarks, the Deputy Minister emphasized that the mission aims to evaluate school infrastructure, training initiatives and mechanisms addressing School-Related Gender-Based Violence (SRGBV) under the Free Education Project and other programs.

Deputy Minister, Emily Kadiatu Gogra highlighted key investments, including the construction and rehabilitation of schools, training programs for teachers and the implementation of a grievance mechanism to combat SRGBV. These efforts, she noted, are part of a broader vision to ensure sustainable development in the education sector. “We are here to assess the successes and identify what still needs to be done. Holistically, a very good mark has been made and there is progress. The goal is to build on these efforts for sustainable development that benefits all,” she said.

The mission also covers other regions, including Kenema, which encompasses the south and east of Sierra Leone, while Makeni represents the northern region.

The Deputy Minister underscored the collaborative efforts of various partners, including the World Bank, FCDO, EU, and Local Governments, working together with the MBSSE and the Teaching Service Commission.

“We are all combined to ensure progress. Local Governments play a vital role as they oversee schools within their jurisdictions. Together, we aim to achieve impactful results,” she explained.

The visit aims to deliver positive outcomes by showcasing successes and outlining strategies for areas requiring improvement. Deputy Minister Emily Kadiatu Gogra stated, “We are expecting a lot of good news that highlights the achievements, how they were accomplished and the way forward for unmet goals.”

She also pointed to the broader impact of these projects, particularly on students and their learning outcomes. “Our focus is on the children themselves and the learning outcomes achieved in classrooms. These initiatives are transforming education and providing a better future for our pupils,” she concluded.

The Deputy Minister concluded by stating that the assessment visit is part of a comprehensive review of education initiatives, is expected to inform future strategies and ensure the sustainability of the gains made in Sierra Leone’s education sector.

During the school visit, Julius Fornah, a local educationist in Makeni, expressed gratitude to the Government of Sierra Leone and its partners for implementing the Free Education Project.

He highlighted the significant impact the initiative has had on the education sector, noting improvements in his community school.

According to Julius Fornah, the school previously faced challenges related to hygiene and access to water. However, the project has addressed those issues by providing a reliable water supply and improved toilet facilities.

He emphasized that these developments have enhanced the overall educational environment and contributed to better learning outcomes for students.

Dr. Dennis Luseni, Component 2 Coordinator of the Free Education Project Secretariat, noted that the team visited various schools, representing a diverse range of Government, Local Council and religious-based institutions. Each school demonstrated tangible improvements, including infrastructure renovations, provision of teaching and learning materials and the implementation of performance-based financing initiatives.

One school received renovation grant that facilitated critical upgrades such as replacing leaking roofs, constructing proper toilet facilities and deepening water wells for improved access. These improvements, Dr. Dennis Luseni emphasized, directly address challenges that previously hindered pupils’ comfort and ability to focus on learning.

Another beneficiary, the Islamic Primary School in Makeni, showcased similar enhancements, including new classrooms, upgraded sanitation facilities and the distribution of teaching aids. Dr.Dennis Luseni highlighted the link between these interventions and increased pupil and teacher attendance, further supporting improved educational outcomes.

The visit also provided an opportunity for community engagement. Stakeholders, including school management committees, parents and teachers, shared their stories and expressed appreciation for the government’s efforts and donor support. According to Dr. Dennis Luseni , these interactions provided valuable insights into the successes and challenges of the initiatives, paving the way for future interventions.

The donors’ presence, Dr. Dennis Luseni added, is vital as they assess the effectiveness of their investments firsthand. Positive feedback and lessons learned from these visits are expected to be documented in an aide-mémoire, which will outline achievements and propose solutions for ongoing challenges.

Dr. Dennis Luseni reiterated that the Free Education Project, supported by international donors, aims to create a conducive learning environment for students, improve teaching quality and ultimately enhance learning outcomes nationwide. The assessment underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in advancing Sierra Leone’s education sector toward sustainable development.

For Babies Six Months and Older: Nutrilac Baby Cereal Wheat+6 Months 400G – A Golden Choice for Growth

November 26, 2024

Nutrilac Baby Cereal Wheat+6 Months 400G has established itself as an ideal choice for ensuring the optimal growth and development of babies from six months and above. Packed with milk, wheat, nine essential vitamins, and iron, this baby cereal is a nutritional powerhouse designed to provide energy and vital nutrients for healthy development.

Nutrilac Baby Cereal serves as an excellent dietary addition during and after the weaning stage. It supports your baby’s adaptation to solid foods, promotes a robust digestive system, and helps reduce stress during this critical growth phase.

Why Nutrilac Baby Cereal Wheat+6 Months Stands Out

Rich Nutrition: Contains milk and wheat fortified with nine essential vitamins and iron, ensuring babies get the nutrients they need for physical and mental development.
Versatile Preparation: Can be enjoyed as porridge, shakes, or mixed with favorite fruits, making it a convenient and delicious choice for any time of the day.
Easy Digestion: Specially formulated for infants, ensuring easy digestion and less mess during feeding.

Directions for Use

To prepare, add seven tablespoons (50g) of Nutrilac to 170ml (one cup) of water or milk. Stir until you achieve the desired consistency. Remember not to keep unfinished portions and store the package in a cool, dry place after use.

Nutrilac Baby Cereal Wheat+6 Months 400G is available in additional flavors, including banana, three fruits, and honey, providing options that cater to varied tastes.

Having a baby is one of life’s most joyful experiences, and Nutrilac aims to be part of this journey. Designed to offer balanced nutrition, this product supports a healthy diet essential for babies’ growth and development.

Parents seeking affordable, high-quality baby food can trust Nutrilac Baby Cereal to provide satisfaction and energy after every meal. As one of the top-selling baby food brands in Sierra Leone, Nutrilac is a trusted name in infant nutrition.

Nutrilac Baby Cereal Wheat+6 Months 400G is distributed exclusively by Emkay Store SL Ltd, located at No. 12 Sani Abacha Street, Freetown, Sierra Leone. Customers can purchase wholesale or retail by contacting Emkay Store SL Ltd at +23288 604-402.

In addition to Nutrilac, Emkay Store SL Ltd also offers a range of products, including Nutribom Infant Cereal, H&H infant formulas, confectioneries, and flavored teas.

As babies grow, parents are encouraged to provide food that supports their steady and healthy development. Nutrilac Baby Cereal, with its comprehensive nutritional benefits, ensures that every spoonful contributes to your baby’s growth journey.

For the best prices and reliable service, visit Emkay Store SL Ltd at No. 12 Sani Abacha Street, Freetown, or call +23288 604-402. Nutrilac Baby Cereal is the golden standard for balanced, healthy nutrition for your little one.

Choose Nutrilac Baby Cereal Wheat +6 Months 400G and give your baby the best start to a healthy, happy life. With Nutrilac, you’re not just feeding your baby; you’re nurturing their growth, one delicious spoonful at a time.

President Bio Launches Youth Empowerment Programme to Benefit Over 2,700 Young Sierra Leoneans

November 25, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a landmark move to combat youth unemployment and foster economic growth, President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has on November 21, 2024 officially launched the Youth Empowerment Promotion and Livelihood Programme, aimed at benefitting over 2,700 young people across Sierra Leone. The initiative, unveiled during a ceremony at Kallon Car Park in Aberdeen, Freetown, will focus on creating opportunities in key sectors such as transportation, fishing, farming, and entrepreneurship, with special provisions for empowering female-led organizations.

As part of the programme, the government is providing 200 tricycles to enhance small-scale transportation, 50 modern fishing boats equipped with advanced accessories to support sustainable fishing practices, and grants to 40 female-led organizations to promote gender equity in economic participation. Additionally, 864 rural youth will receive startup grants to encourage entrepreneurship, while 200 young people will be trained in aquaculture, poultry farming, and animal husbandry.

In his address at the launch event, President Bio reiterated his administration’s commitment to addressing the challenges of youth unemployment and creating sustainable livelihoods for young Sierra Leoneans. He emphasized that the programme aligns with the government’s Medium-Term National Development Plan and the ongoing Free Quality Education Programme, which aims to prepare the youth for the future by equipping them with the necessary education and skills.

“Our young people are the backbone of this nation. Investing in their education and skills is not just a promise – it’s our responsibility to prepare them for the challenges of the future,” said President Bio. He urged the beneficiaries to take full advantage of the resources available, stressing that the programme was about providing rights, not political favors.

International organizations have expressed strong support for the programme. Fredrick Ampiah, Country Representative for the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), praised the initiative, calling it a pivotal step toward improving the livelihoods of young Sierra Leoneans. “This initiative represents a concrete commitment to improving the lives of youth and aligns perfectly with global frameworks like the Timbuktu Declaration,” Ampiah noted.

Similarly, Nadia Rasheed, the UNFPA Country Representative, affirmed international backing for Sierra Leone’s youth empowerment efforts, stressing the importance of partnerships in advancing youth-centered development.

Minister of Youth Affairs, Mohamed Orman Bangura, thanked President Bio for his leadership in prioritizing youth empowerment. He highlighted the Ministry’s recent achievements, including securing $1 million for youth-focused programs and engaging over 4,200 young people in agriculture through the Food Systems Resilience Programme (FSRP). Minister Bangura assured that the Youth Empowerment Promotion and Livelihood Programme would significantly improve the living conditions of young people and contribute to the nation’s long-term development.

The event also marked the spotlight on the Feed Salone Initiative, a collaborative effort spearheaded by President Bio and First Lady Fatima Maada Bio. This initiative focuses on empowering rural communities by providing them with the tools and resources to thrive. Notably, 200 tricycles, 50 fishing boats, and grants for female-led organizations are part of this strategy to enhance agricultural productivity and boost income for coastal communities.

First Lady Fatima Maada Bio, an advocate for gender equity, emphasized the importance of empowering women and girls. “These grants will help women establish small businesses, improve household income, and strengthen families,” she said, encouraging the beneficiaries to use the resources wisely to achieve sustainable development in their communities.

Beneficiaries expressed profound gratitude, calling the programme a life-changing opportunity that would enhance their livelihoods and enable them to contribute more to the economy. One beneficiary remarked, “This program is a game-changer. It provides us with the tools we need to improve our lives and contribute to the economy.”

As the ceremony concluded, President Bio reaffirmed his government’s commitment to youth empowerment, declaring that this initiative would help chart a path toward a brighter future for Sierra Leone. With such transformative efforts, young Sierra Leoneans are positioned to play a pivotal role in the country’s ongoing development and progress.

GIABA Holds High-Level Meeting to Tackle Financial Crimes in West Africa

November 25, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Inter-Governmental Action Group against Money Laundering in West Africa (GIABA) is holding its Statutory Meeting in Sierra Leone’s capital, Freetown, from November 17 to 26, 2024. The high-profile event, taking place at the New Brookfields Hotel, has gathered over 200 delegates, including heads of Financial Intelligence Units (FIUs) from 16 ECOWAS member states, experts in financial crimes, regional and international partners.

The meeting, which marks the 42nd Technical Commission/Plenary and 29th Ministerial Committee Meeting, is a biannual event dedicated to assessing progress and addressing challenges in combating money laundering, terrorist financing, and illicit financial flows.

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, in addressing participants on the 23^rd November, 2024, emphasized Sierra Leone’s unwavering dedication to combating money laundering and terrorism financing.

He reaffirmed the nation’s alignment with global best practices and standards established by the United Nations, the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and other international organizations to counter financial crimes effectively.

“Our commitment to the fight against money laundering and terrorism financing remains resolute,” he declared. “We have taken significant steps to ensure our policies meet international benchmarks, safeguarding not only our nation but also the wider West African region.”

President Bio also highlighted the importance of collaboration among ECOWAS member states, urging the continuation and strengthening of joint efforts. “We must build on the gains we have made as ECOWAS member states by deepening our collaboration to combat money laundering and terrorism financing,” he stated.

The President’s remarks underscored Sierra Leone’s leadership role in regional security and economic integrity, reflecting the country’s broader strategy to uphold transparency and accountability while fostering sustainable development.

His call to action serves as a reminder of the shared responsibility of nations in safeguarding financial systems and promoting regional stability.

It must be noted that one of the major highlights of this year’s meeting is the consideration and adoption of the 2nd Round of the Mutual Evaluation Report for São Tomé and Príncipe. This report is a critical tool for evaluating member states’ compliance with the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) recommendations, which form the global standards for combating financial crimes.

Delegates are also reviewing Follow-Up Reports for Nigeria, Sierra Leone, and Senegal and discussing strategies to enhance compliance and strengthen anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing (CFT) frameworks across the region. Several memoranda aimed at ensuring the effective implementation of FATF standards are also being deliberated upon.

Sierra Leone’s Minister of Finance, Sheku Fantamadi Bangura, officially opened the Technical Commission/Plenary session on November 21. He emphasized the need for a proactive approach to combat evolving financial crimes, driven by advancements in technology.

“Economic crimes know no boundaries. Recent advancements in technology, while offering opportunities for growth, also present significant risks. These risks must be addressed to safeguard our economies and ensure regional peace and stability,” said Bangura.

This is the first time in 15 years that Sierra Leone is hosting this significant event. David Borbor, Director General of the Financial Intelligence Agency of Sierra Leone, described the occasion as a testament to Sierra Leone’s dedication to fostering transparent financial systems.

The meeting also addressed the growing drug crisis in West Africa, which has become a significant concern due to its potential to fuel terrorism. GIABA’s Director General, Edwin Harris Jnr, who assumed office in August 2022, highlighted the urgency of addressing the issue.

“Drug trafficking continues to erode the future of our member states. Criminal networks benefit from the proceeds of this illicit trade, undermining governance and security,” Edwin Harris warned.

Edwin Harris called on ECOWAS member states to declare a state of emergency on drug trafficking and adopt stringent legislative measures to punish traffickers while providing rehabilitation for victims. He stressed that removing the profit motive from criminal activities is one of the most effective ways to combat such crimes.

The ECOWAS Commission President, represented by Special Technical Adviser Mamburay Njie, emphasized the importance of unity and cooperation in tackling financial crimes. Njie acknowledged progress made during the second round of Mutual Evaluations but raised concerns over the low effectiveness of implementation by member states.

“The lack of effective implementation poses a threat to regional integration and security. We must work together to overcome these challenges,” Njie stated.

The meeting will culminate on November 26 with the Ministerial Committee Meeting, during which delegates will consider and adopt the Director General’s Summary Activity Report, the Report of the 42nd Technical Commission/Plenary, and other confidential documents.

The gathering underscores GIABA’s commitment to fostering regional solidarity, sharing best practices, and addressing emerging challenges in combating financial crimes and terrorist financing. As Sierra Leone hosts this pivotal meeting, it reaffirms its leadership in promoting secure and transparent financial systems in West Africa.

Iceland Embassy Boosts School Feeding Programme In Bonthe District

November 25, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a significant boost to food security and education in Sierra Leone, the Head of Mission for Iceland, Ásdís Bjarnadóttir, alongside the World Food Programme (WFP) Country Director, Yvonne Forsen, embarked on a two-day visit to Bonthe Island from November 18 to 20, 2024. The visit aimed to monitor the implementation of the WFP’s Home-Grown School Feeding (HGSF) initiative, funded by Iceland’s recent contribution of $2.4 million.

This generous support is providing nutritious, locally sourced meals to over 40,000 schoolchildren across 184 public schools in Bonthe District, reinforcing Iceland’s commitment to fostering education and community development in Sierra Leone.

During her visit, Ásdís Bjarnadóttir toured the FAWE Primary School in Imperri Chiefdom, a World Vision-assisted institution with Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) facilities. She also ventured to remote coastal communities, including Delken, Mbokie, Jamaica and Choekolo , by boat. Here, she witnessed firsthand the school feeding programme’s implementation and visited orange-fleshed sweet potato (OFSP) gardens and woodlots established as part of the initiative.

The Head of Mission engaged with head teachers, farmers and School Management Committee representatives to understand the programme’s transformative impact on education and local agriculture.

A cornerstone of the HGSF initiative is its support for Farmer-Based Organizations (FBOs), which receive training, agricultural inputs and market opportunities. The programme empowers 1,740 women and youth farmers in the cultivation of OFSP, promoting sustainable agriculture and economic self-reliance.

Reflecting on her visit, Ásdís Bjarnadóttir described it as an “insightful experience” and highlighted the vital role of the home-grown school feeding initiative in advancing education and strengthening local food production.

The Iceland-WFP partnership exemplifies a commitment to sustainable and innovative approaches to school feeding in Sierra Leone. WFP currently provides school meals to 255,167 pupils across five districts, with 55,313 of these benefiting from the home-grown model.

This initiative aligns with the Government of Sierra Leone’s National School Feeding Policy and the Feed Salone programme, which leverages school feeding as a tool to boost local food production and procurement. By linking education to agricultural development, the programme fosters social and economic growth within communities.

The visit underscores Iceland’s and WFP’s dedication to creating long-lasting change, ensuring that children in Bonthe and beyond have access to nutritious meals while empowering local farmers and supporting community development.

Choithram Memorial Hospital Brings Hope with Free Cleft Lip and Palate Surgeries in December

November 25, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a groundbreaking move to improve healthcare accessibility in Sierra Leone, Choithram Memorial Hospital has announced a Free Surgery Camp scheduled to take place from December 9 to December 14, 2024. This initiative aims to provide life-changing cleft lip and palate surgeries at no cost, offering vital medical interventions to individuals who might otherwise be unable to afford such treatments.

The camp will be led by the internationally acclaimed Professor (Dr.) Bayo Aluko-Olokun, an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon from Abuja, Nigeria. Renowned for his innovative Olokun-Olaitan technique for cleft lip and palate repair, Dr. Aluko-Olokun brings exceptional expertise to this initiative. He will be joined by Choithram Memorial Hospital’s own accomplished Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Eric Wongo, along with a team of seasoned medical professionals from Sierra Leone and Nigeria. Together, this dedicated team is set to deliver world-class surgical care to those in need.

The Free Surgery Camp is open to new patients requiring initial surgeries as well as individuals in need of follow-up procedures. By offering these services free of charge, Choithram Memorial Hospital reaffirms its commitment to removing financial barriers and ensuring that essential healthcare services are accessible to all Sierra Leoneans.

Dr. Gowrinath M. George, the Medical Superintendent of Choithram Memorial Hospital, highlighted the significance of the initiative. “This is a unique opportunity for many Sierra Leoneans to receive life-changing surgeries. We strongly encourage those who qualify to take advantage of this invaluable service,” he stated.

The hospital’s commitment to enhancing healthcare extends beyond this initiative. Earlier this year, Choithram Memorial Hospital launched a state-of-the-art MRI machine, significantly boosting its diagnostic capabilities. This advancement underscores the hospital’s dedication to delivering comprehensive, high-quality care to the community.

Harish Agnani, Chief Administrator of Choithram Group, emphasized the organization’s focus on innovation and community support. “Our commitment is to provide comprehensive, cutting-edge healthcare to the community, and the Free Surgery Camp is a testament to that dedication,” he remarked.

Registration for the Free Surgery Camp opened on November 6, 2024. Families and individuals interested in participating are encouraged to contact the hospital at +232 76 541 331 or visit Choithram Memorial Hospital at Hill Station, Freetown, to secure their place.

Through this remarkable initiative, Choithram Memorial Hospital continues to make a profound impact on the lives of Sierra Leoneans, ensuring that even the most vulnerable members of society can access critical healthcare services. This effort exemplifies the hospital’s vision of breaking down barriers to healthcare and transforming lives through compassion and innovation.