Home Blog Page 285

NP (SL): A Trusted Partner in National Infrastructure and Economic Growth

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

NP (SL) Limited is on an ambitious trajectory toward becoming the most capitalized Sierra Leonean company, solidifying its position as a market leader in the country’s petroleum sector. From its early days in Sierra Leone’s local market, NP (SL) has steadily expanded its influence, with plans to extend its footprint at the sub-regional level. The company’s mission to maintain its dominant leadership role locally, while growing internationally, has been bolstered by its dedication to innovation, customer satisfaction and community development.

Celebrated for its outstanding customer service, NP (SL) has earned the prestigious title of “1st for Customer Care.” This recognition is a direct result of the company’s customer-centric approach, which places a high premium on consumer feedback and continuously adapts its policies to enhance service delivery. As a result, NP (SL) has fostered a strong and enduring relationship with its customers, creating a dynamic of trust, loyalty and mutual benefit that underpins the company’s long-term success.

A major component of NP (SL)’s growth strategy is its embrace of cutting-edge technology. The launch of the NP Energy Pass marked a significant milestone in the company’s digital transformation. This innovative smart card revolutionizes how customers access and purchase petroleum products, offering convenience and enhancing energy management. The NP Energy Pass provides an easy-to-use, cashless payment system that eliminates the need for traditional cash transactions. Equipped with advanced security features, the card ensures customer data protection while offering instant SMS notifications for every transaction, keeping users informed in real time.

Additionally, the NP Energy Pass offers flexible functionalities that further enhance user experience. Customers can easily recharge their cards at designated NP stations or the NP Head Office, and transactions can be reversed if required. In the event of an incorrect password attempt, the card is blocked, but an OTP (One-Time Password) is sent to users, ensuring swift and secure recovery. As it is now accepted at multiple NP stations across the country, including key locations such as Cotton Tree, Campbell Street, and Aberdeen, the NP Energy Pass has become a trusted tool for convenient and secure fuel purchases.

Beyond fuel and lubricants, NP (SL) has expanded its product offerings to include NP Gas, which is available in various cylinder sizes at authorized dealers and NP Filling Stations across Sierra Leone. NP Gas is a portable, fast and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional cooking fuel, making it a preferred choice for many households in the country.

The company also places a strong emphasis on transparency, a core value that is evident in its commitment to accurate and fair business practices. All NP (SL) Filling Stations are equipped with calibrated pumping machines that display the exact quantity of fuel dispensed and the corresponding price, ensuring customers receive what they pay for and reinforcing the trust between the company and its consumers.

NP (SL) Ltd is deeply committed to contributing to Sierra Leone’s socio-economic development. The company continues to implement the Local Content Policy by employing skilled Sierra Leoneans and creating job opportunities for the local workforce. This not only empowers individuals but also plays a pivotal role in reducing poverty through job creation. NP (SL) also offers flexible payment terms to Ministries, Departments and Agencies, ensuring that the supply of fuel remains uninterrupted even during periods of delayed government payments.

As one of the largest taxpayers in Sierra Leone, NP (SL) makes significant contributions to the national economy, supporting public infrastructure projects and services that are essential to the nation’s development. This commitment to national progress extends beyond Sierra Leone, as NP (SL) has expanded its operations to neighboring countries such as Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast and The Gambia, where it continues to provide exceptional service and high-quality petroleum products.

NP (SL) Ltd’s rise to prominence is a testament to its relentless pursuit of excellence, technological innovation and commitment to customer satisfaction. With a clear vision for growth and regional expansion, NP (SL) is well on its way to becoming Sierra Leone’s most capitalized company, setting the stage for even greater success in the years to come.

Choithram Memorial Hospital to Host Free Cleft Lip and Palate Surgery Camp this December

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In an effort to continue providing vital healthcare services to those in need, Choithram Memorial Hospital in Freetown is organizing a Free Surgery Camp for patients with cleft lip and palate. The event is scheduled to take place from December 9 to December 14, 2024, offering life-changing surgical care at no cost to the patients.

Renowned Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, Professor (Dr.) Bayo Aluko-Olokun from Abuja, Nigeria, will lead the surgical team. Dr. Aluko-Olokun, a prominent figure in the field for pioneering the Olokun-Olaitan approach for cleft lip and palate repairs, will be joined by Choithram Memorial Hospital’s own Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Eric Wongo, and his skilled team of medical professionals.

Dr. Aluko-Olokun is widely recognized throughout West Africa for his expertise in cleft lip and palate repair surgeries, and his involvement in the upcoming surgery camp will provide patients in Sierra Leone an invaluable opportunity to receive top-tier medical care. Many of these patients may have previously been unable to access such treatments due to financial constraints.

Choithram Memorial Hospital has long been dedicated to serving its community through initiatives like this one, ensuring that individuals who may lack the resources for specialized care have access to the medical treatments they need. The camp will be open to patients requiring initial cleft lip and palate surgeries, as well as those in need of follow-up procedures after previous surgeries.

Dr. Gowrinath M. George, the Medical Superintendent of Choithram Memorial Hospital, expressed his gratitude to Dr. Aluko-Olokun and his team for accepting the hospital’s invitation. He encouraged Sierra Leoneans in need of this treatment to seize the opportunity and benefit from the free medical services being offered.

In addition to the surgery camp, Choithram Memorial Hospital recently installed a state-of-the-art MRI machine, which has been operational since January 2024. Harish Agnani, the Chief Administrator of the Choithram Group, highlighted the hospital’s ongoing commitment to providing accessible, high-quality healthcare. This has been a core part of the hospital’s mission since its establishment.

Registration for the free surgery camp opens on November 6, 2024. Eligible patients and their families can register by calling +232 76 541 331 or visiting Choithram Memorial Hospital at Hill Station, Freetown.

This initiative demonstrates Choithram Memorial Hospital’s unwavering dedication to improving community health and providing life-changing medical care to all Sierra Leoneans in need.

Caritas Freetown Launches Symbolic Registration for 669 Flood-Affected Households in Western Area

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

In an effort to provide vital support to the most vulnerable flood-affected households in the Western Area, Caritas Freetown, in partnership with its supporters, has launched the start of a symbolic registration event on 7th November, 2024. The event took place in Levuma Community in Western Area Urban and Grafton Community in Western Area Rural, with the primary aim of registering 669 households impacted by  devastating floods in September. This registration will ensure that the most severely affected households are prioritized for financial assistance to help them recover from their losses.

This initiative, titled ERRF II Flooding Emergency Support to 669 Affected Victims in the Western Area, was established in response to the September floods that left over 3,300 households across 12 communities in need of urgent help. The symbolic registration event is a continuation of an emergency response that aims to provide targeted support to families in dire need, particularly those facing severe challenges such as loss of homes, livelihoods and access to basic necessities.

Rev. Peter Konteh, Executive Director of Caritas Freetown, expressed deep gratitude to Caritas’ partners and donors, who made the initiative possible also emphasizing the importance of community involvement in disaster management efforts. “This registration is not just about providing immediate relief but about identifying the households that need it the most. Caritas is able to operate thanks to our donors and supporters. We ask the community to help us by reporting any risks and working together to prevent further disasters,” he said.

The registration process allows Caritas and its partners to gather essential data, ensuring transparency and accountability in the distribution of funds. This approach also validates the experiences of flood-affected individuals, giving them a voice in the aid process. In line with these objectives, Caritas has announced that the most vulnerable households among the registered will receive NLe 3,250 Multi-Purpose Cash Assistance (MPCA) to help cover urgent needs, including food, shelter repairs and medical care, and 100 of houses were more affected by the flooding will receive an extra NLe 2,500

Gerald King, Regional Coordinator of the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA), highlighted the importance of collaboration in disaster response. He noted that the symbolic registration process helps verify the needs of affected families, enabling targeted assistance to those who require it the most. “Caritas and other partners are helping us reach the people most impacted by this disaster and we urge community members to use this support responsibly,” he stated.

This partnership showcases the unified approach between Caritas, the NDMA, Freetown City Council, the Western Area Rural District Council and Community Disaster Management Committees. Together, they aim to enhance resilience in flood-prone areas, ensure aid is accessible to the most vulnerable and help affected families recover with dignity and respect.

With continued support, Caritas and its partners hope to address the immediate needs of the 669 registered households, laying the groundwork for more comprehensive recovery efforts across Sierra Leone’s affected communities.

 

 

Public Service Commission and Reform Unit Unveil Comprehensive Plan for Sector Overhaul

By Foday Moriba Conteh

A key update on public service reform efforts was presented during the weekly Ministry of Information and Civic Education press briefing held on November 5, 2024, at the Ministry of Energy conference hall on Siaka Stevens Street. The briefing featured remarks from Kalilu O. Bah, Chairman of the Public Service Commission (PSC) and Sulaiman Phoray-Musa, Director of the Public Service Reform Unit (PSRU), outlining crucial strides towards modernizing Sierra Leone’s public sector.

Chairman Kalilu O. Bah underscored the importance of a strong and efficient public sector as a central pillar of Sierra Leone’s national development. He pointed out that wage disparities have long hindered the effectiveness of public service delivery. To address this, a newly established Wages and Compensation Commission (WCC) will oversee the standardization of salaries across the public sector, ensuring fairness and equity for public servants.

In a landmark development, Chairman Kalilu O. Bah announced the drafting of Sierra Leone’s first-ever Public Service Act. He explained that while the PSC has played a pivotal role in human resource management and recruitment for positions from grade 7 and above, the absence of a formal legislative framework had limited its effectiveness. The new Public Service Act will modernize the PSC’s mandate, enabling more streamlined and efficient operations.

The chairman also distinguished between the Civil Service and the broader Public Service. He clarified that while the Civil Service is made up of specialized professionals directly responsible for implementing Government programs and policies, the Public Service encompasses not only the Civil Service but also various parastatals and other public entities. The PSC regulates the human resources across these bodies, overseeing recruitment, supervision and termination when necessary.

Director Phoray-Musa provided an overview of ongoing reform efforts in areas like the Teaching Service Commission (TSC), the Pay Performance Project (PPP), the Wages and Compensation Commission (WCC) and the Financial Management Act (FMA). While these initiatives had made progress, he noted that their fragmented nature had hindered their broader impact on public sector transformation.

To address these challenges, President Julius Maada Bio in 2023 established the Ministry of Public Administration and Political Affairs. This new ministry is tasked with coordinating public sector reform efforts to ensure they are aligned and efficient. A key outcome of these efforts is the comprehensive Master Plan for public service reform, developed collaboratively by the PSRU and PSC. The plan aims to create a unified vision for reform and has undergone validation by key stakeholders to ensure its credibility and feasibility.

A significant element of the reform agenda is the transformation of the Civil Service College into a Public Service Academy, which will focus on enhancing the professional development and training of public servants. Phoray-Musa emphasized that this initiative is a vital part of the broader goal to standardize recruitment and employment processes within the public sector, underpinned by clear policies and procedures.

“The Master Plan for service delivery represents a unified approach to overhauling the public service architecture,” Phoray-Musa concluded.

The combined efforts of the PSRU and PSC are set to overhaul Sierra Leone’s public service system, bringing about legislative reforms, strategic coordination, and institutional strengthening. These changes are expected to enhance efficiency, equity and alignment with the country’s national development objectives, paving the way for a more robust and responsive public service.

Transport Minister Opens 32nd RMU Board of Governors Meeting in Monrovia

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Minister of Transport and Aviation, Ambassador Col. Rtd. Alhaji Fanday Turay Esq., who also serves as the Board Chairman of the Regional Maritime University (RMU), on November 8, 2024 officially opened the 32nd meeting of the RMU Board of Governors in Monrovia. During the event, Ambassador Alhaji Fanday Turay Esq highlighted the critical role RMU plays in advancing maritime expertise and enhancing operations within the West African sub-region.

In his opening remarks, he expressed his heartfelt appreciation to the Government of Liberia for hosting the meeting and conveyed warm greetings on behalf of Sierra Leone’s President, His Excellency Julius Maada Bio. He acknowledged Liberia’s longstanding commitment to supporting regional maritime education and fostering cooperation within the sector.

Ambassador Alhaji Fanday Turay Esq  further emphasized the importance of RMU as a premier institution for maritime studies, noting its significant contribution to the development of skilled professionals who drive maritime operations across West Africa. He underscored RMU’s role in equipping students with essential knowledge and technical skills required to navigate the complexities of the global maritime industry.

As Board Chairman, Ambassador Alhaji Fanday Turay Esq reaffirmed his dedication to improving RMU’s infrastructure and technological capabilities, ensuring the university meets modern educational standards and industry demands. He outlined several key initiatives aimed at boosting student enrollment, expanding revenue streams and implementing comprehensive online learning programs to enhance access to RMU’s offerings for students across the region.

The meeting, which brought together Transport Ministers from various member states and other key stakeholders, provided a platform for reviewing policies, setting strategic goals and evaluating the university’s achievements and challenges. These discussions are pivotal in shaping the future direction of RMU, ensuring it continues to play a vital role in promoting regional cooperation and providing high-quality maritime education.

As RMU enters this new phase, Ambassador Alhaji Fanday Turay Esq reaffirmed his commitment to advancing the university’s objectives, fostering greater collaboration and ensuring that RMU remains a cornerstone of maritime excellence in West Africa.

Air Sierra Leone’s New Flight Service Heralds New Era for Tourism in Sierra Leone

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leone is poised to see a significant rise in British visitors with the upcoming launch of a direct flight between the UK and the West African nation. Announced last month, the new service by Air Sierra Leone, the country’s national carrier, will connect Freetown and London Gatwick starting this December, marking the return of a non-stop route that has been absent since 2016.

Fatmata Mida Hamid Carew, General Manager of the National Tourist Board (NTB), expressed strong optimism about the impact the new flight will have on tourism. “I think it would make a tremendous difference,” she said when discussing the potential boost to British arrivals. She confirmed that work on the route is progressing, with further updates expected soon.

The last time a direct flight operated between Sierra Leone and the UK was in 2016 when Fly Salone briefly ran a leased aircraft service. British Airways had stopped its flights to Sierra Leone in 2014, leaving a gap in direct connectivity. In 2023, approximately 5,000 British tourists visited Sierra Leone between January and September, and the new flight is expected to attract even more.

Several UK-based tour operators, including Encounters Travel, Oasis Overland, Naturetrek, Rainbow Tours and Undiscovered Destinations, are planning to expand their offerings to Sierra Leone in 2024, with additional tours in the pipeline.

Sierra Leone’s appeal lies in its stunning beaches, rich wildlife, and vibrant cultural heritage. Carew emphasized the country’s long-standing peace and readiness for tourism: “Sierra Leone has been very peaceful for the last few decades and it’s ready for tourism. We have the product that the UK market is looking for.”

Carew also highlighted the authenticity of the country’s tourism experience, saying, “It’s a new destination, and we don’t stage-manage – what you see is what you get. We invite UK visitors to come and experience the richness of our culture and the warmth of our people. We’re some of the happiest people in the world.”

The return of direct flights from the UK to Sierra Leone is seen as a major milestone for the country’s tourism sector, and it is expected to strengthen its position as a must-visit destination for British travelers.

SLCAA Sets New Rules for Drone Operations in Sierra Leone to Boost Public Safety

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) has announced new guidelines for drone operators in the country. In a statement released on November 5, 2024, the institution’s Director General, Ms. Musayeroh Barrie, outlined the requirements for individuals and organizations using Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, in Sierra Leone.

Under the new regulations, all drones in Sierra Leone must be registered with the SLCAA. Additionally, operators are required to obtain official permission before flying. To apply, individuals must submit their names, addresses and phone numbers, as well as the location, date, time, duration and maximum flight height of their intended operations.

The SLCAA urges all drone operators to visit its headquarters at 21/23 Siaka Stevens Street, Freetown, or contact them via email at info@slena.gov.sl for registration and licensing. Non-compliance with these regulations may result in the confiscation of drones or legal action by authorities.

Furthermore, the SLCAA reminds operators of restricted no-fly zones across the country which include areas around the residences and offices of the President and Vice President, Government offices, military installations and all airports and airstrips. Special permissions must be obtained to operate in these sensitive areas.

These regulations are designed to enhance public safety and ensure responsible drone usage in Sierra Leone.

2nd Edition of Cowbell Kapu Sens Challenge sets off with Intense Preliminary Stage

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Cowbell, a popular brand under Premium Divine Trading Company Ltd, an agent of Promasidor, one of Africa’s leading food product giants, wrapped up the preliminary stage of its second annual Cowbell Kapu Sens Inter-School Quiz Competition on Friday, November 8, 2024. Themed: “Nurturing the Spirit of Patriotism Through Civic Education,” the competition drew 32 schools from the Western Area’s rural and urban regions, gathering at St. Edwards Secondary School in Kingtom, Freetown.

Participating schools were divided into four groups: Cowbell, Twisco, Miksi and Yumvita, each containing eight schools. Following an intense preliminary round, 16 schools emerged as qualifiers for the next stage, set for November 15th and 16th at the Multi-Purpose Hall of Fourah Bay College Campus. The advancing schools include prominent institutions such as Albert Academy, Methodist Girls High School, St. Edwards, Rokel, Sierra Leone Muslim Brotherhood, Government Model School and Bishop Johnson Memorial School etc.

Speaking at the event, Kenneth Konuah, Country Manager of Premium Divine Trading Ltd., emphasized the company’s dedication to national development by instilling a sense of civic responsibility in the nation’s youth. “We believe our contribution to national development is to encourage youth to take an active role in their communities rather than just relying on government support,” Kenneth Konuah said.

He expressed hope that the competition would serve as a foundation for young people to engage meaningfully in the nation-building process, adding, “National development is a shared responsibility and it should be inclusive of everyone, especially the youth who are the future leaders.”

This year’s competition, which saw an expansion in prize offerings, will award Le 20,000 to the winning school, with Le 15,000 for second place and Le 10,000 for third as well as all participating schools will also receive Cowbell products and certificate of participation.

Kenneth Konuah  stressed the importance of this initiative in fostering a collective drive toward Sierra Leone’s growth, advocating that national progress is a collaborative effort.

Beyond the competition, Kenneth Konuah highlighted Cowbell’s commitment to nutrition, noting that Cowbell milk is fortified with essential nutrients including protein, calcium and Vitamins A, B9, C, D, E, and K, or “Vitarich.” He encouraged Sierra Leoneans to support Cowbell products, emphasizing their role in promoting growth and vitality.

The competition’s rounds 16 and the final will take place on November 15th and 16th at the Multi-Purpose Hall at Fourah Bay College Campus, where the remaining schools will continue to demonstrate their commitment to civic responsibility.

Emily Gogra, Deputy Minister One of the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE), praised the ongoing Cowbell Kapu Sens Inter-Secondary Schools Competition, describing it as a vital initiative that supports the national drive for civic education in schools.

She highlighted the alignment of the event with President Bio’s vision to integrate civic education across all schools in Sierra Leone.

Expressing her delight in partnering with Premium Divine Trading Limited, Emily Gogra noted the competition’s impact on reinforcing civic knowledge among pupils. “This competition, which covers questions on civic education, is a refresher for pupils, reinforcing lessons learned in the classroom and encouraging a healthy spirit of patriotism,” she stated.

She emphasized that such initiatives help pupils demonstrate ethical values such as friendship, effective communication and healthy competition, as well as reinforce lessons on national identity and civic-mindedness, which are central to MBSSE’s curriculum goals.

The event, which brought together 32 schools from Western Urban and Rural areas, marks the second time Premium Divine has hosted this competition. Emily Gogra expressed hope that the competition will be extended to districts across the country, enabling more pupils to participate and showcase their civic understanding.

Reflecting on her own school days, she applauded the enthusiasm displayed by the pupils and encouraged them to support one another, emphasizing that while only one school will win, all participants represent their schools, families and country.

“My takeaway message is that civic-mindedness is essential and this competition offers an avenue for pupils to demonstrate patriotism and community spirit,” she said, advocating for continued support from partners to expand the program nationwide.

Ansumana Keita, the Chief Patriot of the Patriotic Advocacy Network and quiz master for the competition, expressed his appreciation to Premium Divine Trading Company Ltd for organizing the Cowbell Kapu Sens Inter-Secondary School Competition. He described the event as crucial for fostering a deeper understanding of the rights and responsibilities of citizenship among students.

Ansumana Keita highlighted the pressing issue of low patriotism, particularly among young people, which he believes is hindering national development. He noted that the competition’s focus on questions related to patriotism was designed to equip participants with critical thinking skills needed to address the challenges of the modern world.

He congratulated the students who advanced to the round of 16 and encouraged all participants to share their newly gained insights on patriotism with others, promoting a greater sense of civic responsibility.

Commenting on the schools advancing to the Round of 16 in the Cowbell Kapu Sens Inter-School Competition, Kelvin S. Kargbo, one of the quiz coaches for Albert Academy, expressed confidence in his team’s progress. “It’s no surprise that we qualified for the next round. We came prepared, learning from our performance in last year’s inaugural competition where we secured the fourth place,” he said.

He also shared that Albert Academy’s team had dedicated significant time to preparing for this year’s contest, working through various topics in civic education and general knowledge. “Our goal is to go beyond last year’s results and make it to the finals. This competition not only encourages academic excellence but also instills a strong sense of patriotism and civic responsibility in our students, which motivates them to excel even further,” he added.

He concluded by stating that the Albert Academy will join other top-ranking schools in the upcoming Round 16, scheduled to take place on November 15 and 16, 2024, at the Multi-Purpose Hall on Fourah Bay College Campus and that he is very sure that the Albert Academy will emerge as the winner.

Magistrate Daboh Sentences Alie Marah to Two Years for Damaging EDSA Transformer in Kabala

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a decisive ruling at the Kabala Magistrate Court on November 8, 2024, Alie Marah, a resident of Cow-Yard, was sentenced to two years in prison on charges of fraud and malicious tampering with public infrastructure. Presiding over the case, Magistrate Hadiru Daboh delivered the verdict following a rigorous trial marked by compelling evidence presented by the prosecution.

The case began on October 18, 2024, with Police Prosecutor, Inspector Abdul Rahman Fofanah laying out a substantial body of evidence, including key exhibits such as physical items and photographs that substantiated Alie Marah’s involvement. These pieces of evidence were instrumental in linking him to fraudulent activities involving both identity and financial manipulation.

Alie Marah was initially taken into custody by the Sierra Leone Police on October 13, 2024, after allegedly tampering with an Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA) transformer in Bilmaia. The damage to this essential public resource underscored the gravity of the allegations, as it directly impacted electricity distribution to local residents.

During the trial, Alie Marah pleaded guilty to the charges, acknowledging his role in activities that violated statutory laws. His admission and the Prosecution’s evidence convinced the court of his culpability, leading to the two-year sentence.

The Kabala Police Division’s Local Unit Commander, CSP Ibrahim Barrie, emphasized the police’s commitment to upholding law and order, underscoring a zero-tolerance stance on any acts that disrupt public services or endanger community safety. The Commander commended the collaborative efforts of law enforcement and the court in delivering justice swiftly.

Alie Marah’s conviction stands as a warning to others, illustrating the legal system’s readiness to address crimes that threaten public infrastructure and order.

President Bio Launches National Poppy Week, Pledges Continued Support to RSLAF

By Foday Moriba Conteh

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio officially launched the National Poppy Week celebrations at State House on Tuesday, November 5, 2024, in a ceremony dedicated to honoring the service and sacrifices of the country’s military personnel. Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to supporting the armed forces, President Bio addressed current and former service members, pledging financial aid and necessary resources for military personnel and promising veterans the respect and opportunities they deserve.

President Bio urged Sierra Leoneans to use Remembrance Day on Sunday, November 10, as a moment to reflect on the courage of those who have defended the nation’s peace and values. “This year’s Remembrance Day serves as a profound tribute to the men and women who have stood on the frontlines, defending our way of life and safeguarding the future of all Sierra Leoneans,” he stated during the solemn ceremony.

The President acknowledged the legacy of those who served in both World Wars, recognizing their sacrifices not only for Sierra Leone but also for global peace and human dignity. He also honored those who have perished in recent national service, including the tragic loss of 18 security personnel on November 26, 2023, underscoring the continued dedication of the nation’s defenders in times of crisis.

“The military remains a pillar of strength, resilience, and unity for our country,” President Bio emphasized. “We owe a debt to our veterans – those who have served and those who continue to serve – that can never be fully repaid. Their sacrifices allow us to live in peace, with the freedom to thrive and build a secure future,” he added, acknowledging the soldiers’ commitment to Sierra Leone’s safety and well-being.

President Bio also paid tribute to the families of fallen servicemen and women, acknowledging their role in keeping the memory of their loved ones alive. He noted that Sierra Leone’s recent history has underscored the value of peace and the importance of safeguarding it, reinforcing the government’s support for the military through fair remuneration, essential resources, and respect for veterans’ contributions to the country.

Expressing his gratitude, President Bio extended thanks to the British government and the Royal Commonwealth Ex-Services League for their support of Sierra Leone’s veterans and widows from World War II and the pre-independence era.

Retired Lieutenant Colonel Abubakar Kamara, acting chairman of the Sierra Leone Ex-Servicemen Association, praised President Bio, the Poppy Day planning committee, and the citizens of Sierra Leone for joining the Commonwealth in honoring those who served in the World Wars. He stressed the importance of recognizing not only the military’s wartime efforts but also their roles in peacekeeping missions across Africa. Kamara expressed gratitude for British assistance to the registered families of fallen soldiers and pledged the association’s unwavering loyalty to President Bio and his administration.

As the National Poppy Week unfolds, Sierra Leoneans are encouraged to wear poppies in honor of veterans and to participate in Remembrance Day events across the country.

1...284285286...1,355Page 285 of 1,355