Home Blog Page 291

Vice President Visits Peace Museum, Reaffirms Commitment to National Unity

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leone’s journey from conflict to peace took center stage as Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh on Monday October 28, 2024 visited the Peace Museum on Monday. The museum, maintained by the Residual Special Court for Sierra Leone (RSCSL), stands as a lasting reminder of the nation’s resilience and the commitment to building an enduring peace. Dr. Jalloh’s visit underscored the museum’s vital role in educating citizens about Sierra Leone’s civil war history, its profound impacts, and the hard-fought path toward justice and unity.

During his tour, Vice President Dr. Jalloh expressed deep admiration for the exhibits, which showcase personal testimonies, historical artifacts, and documents that chronicle the nation’s journey from turmoil to stability. “Today, I visited the Peace Museum, which beautifully showcases the devastating impact of our civil war and the successful efforts to build lasting peace, justice, and national cohesion,” he said. “The museum is a powerful symbol of hope, and it is essential that its message endures across generations. The government is committed to supporting the vital work of the RSCSL,” Dr. Jalloh emphasized.

The Vice President praised the RSCSL team for their commitment to preserving Sierra Leone’s historical narrative through the museum’s carefully curated displays. He noted that these stories serve as both a warning and a beacon, ensuring future generations remember the strength and unity of Sierra Leoneans. Dr. Jalloh acknowledged the museum’s importance in fostering national cohesion, emphasizing that such initiatives not only commemorate the past but also contribute to building a peaceful future.

In reaffirming the government’s support, Dr. Jalloh pledged ongoing commitment to the RSCSL’s mission. He emphasized the importance of safeguarding these stories to ensure that the sacrifices and triumphs of the Sierra Leonean people are never forgotten. The visit concluded with a renewed promise to uphold the museum’s mission in preserving peace, justice, and unity as pillars of Sierra Leone’s national identity.

Musayeroh Barrie Strengthens Sierra Leone’s Aviation Sector with Strategic Qatar Partnership

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Qatar Civil Aviation Authority (QCAA) has engaged in a collaborative effort with the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) to enhance aviation security in the West African nation. On October 28, 2024, QCAA officials met with SLCAA Director General Madam Musayeroh Barrie to initiate a technical assistance program aimed at addressing critical issues highlighted in a 2019 aviation security audit.

The partnership seeks to bolster the safety and security framework within Sierra Leone’s aviation sector, marking a significant step toward international cooperation in aviation standards. Director General Barrie expressed gratitude for the support, stating, “It is a blessing to have friends turn up to support your commitment to delivering for your country. Thank you, Fahad and Qatar CAA.”

The QCAA’s technical assistance program is designed to systematically review and improve key components of aviation security in Sierra Leone. This initiative includes a comprehensive examination of vital documents such as the National Civil Aviation Security Programme (NCASP), which outlines the necessary security measures for civil aviation, and the National Civil Aviation Security Quality Control Programme (NCASQCP), aimed at maintaining high security standards.

Additionally, the program will assess the SLCAA’s oversight mechanisms, ensuring they effectively identify and mitigate potential security risks. Evaluations will also be conducted at Sierra Leone’s airports to confirm that security practices align with international standards.

Aviation security is paramount for ensuring the safety of passengers, crew, and cargo. By addressing the 2019 audit’s findings and implementing improvements, Sierra Leone seeks to fortify its aviation infrastructure, boost traveler confidence, and cultivate a secure environment for air travel.

This collaboration also highlights Madam Barrie’s commitment to building capacity within the SLCAA, ensuring that personnel are well-equipped to uphold aviation security standards. The objectives of the technical assistance program include developing a robust training policy for both regulatory and operational staff.

Moreover, during the recent ICAO Air Services Negotiation “ICAN2024” in Kuala Lumpur, Sierra Leone explored new air service agreements with countries including Uruguay, Benin, Switzerland, Russia, and Jamaica, while also updating its existing agreement with the United Kingdom.

Madam Barrie’s leadership and the support from the QCAA underscore a promising future for Sierra Leone’s aviation sector, setting the stage for enhanced security and efficiency in air travel.

Strengthening aviation security is crucial for the safety of passengers, crew, and cargo. By addressing the 2019 audit findings, Sierra Leone aims to improve traveler confidence and foster a secure environment for air travel.

This collaboration aligns with Qatar’s commitment to enhancing global aviation standards, which was underscored during recent air services negotiations in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. There, Qatar signed multiple air service agreements with several countries. The QCAA’s initiative not only aims to meet global aviation security norms but also emphasizes capacity building within Sierra Leone’s civil aviation authority, ultimately leading to a more secure and efficient aviation environment in the country.

EU Delegation to Sierra Leone and Local Partners Join Forces to Combat Plastic Pollution

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The European Union Delegation to Sierra Leone, in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, the National Tourist Board, and the Freetown City Council, successfully organized the 7th edition of the “EU Beach Clean-Up Day” at Lumley Beach on Saturday, October 26, 2024. This initiative is part of the EU’s global commitment to raising awareness about the pressing need to protect the environment and eliminate plastic pollution from oceans.

The event attracted a diverse group of participants, including government officials, civil society representatives, members of the diplomatic corps, business leaders, students, and dedicated volunteers from across the nation. Over 750 volunteers collected approximately 1,500 kilograms of plastic waste and various types of litter along the Lumley-Aberdeen beach stretch, showcasing the impact of collective action.

Freetown Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr commended the initiative, stating, “Our oceans are vital to our planet, providing air, supporting biodiversity, and sustaining communities. Unfortunately, they are threatened by plastic waste. We must adopt sustainable practices and improve waste management to protect our oceans. The Freetown City Council is proud to partner with the EU each year in this beach clean-up initiative, raising awareness of the necessity for a clean and healthy city.”

Sierra Leone’s Minister of Tourism and Culture, Nabeela Tunis, expressed gratitude upon receiving tools donated to enhance ongoing clean-up efforts. She noted, “The partnership between the EU and the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, along with the National Tourist Board, spans over a decade. The donated tools will augment previous contributions from the EU, assisting beach combers in their routine cleaning efforts.”

EU Ambassador to Sierra Leone Jacek Jankowski reiterated the EU’s commitment to environmental sustainability, emphasizing, “Every minute, a truckload of plastic waste is dumped into our oceans, endangering marine life and ecosystems. If we fail to act now, these impacts will extend to our health and well-being. The EU is dedicated to collaborating with Sierra Leone to address this crisis through events like today’s, alongside sustainable development projects aimed at environmental protection.”

Ambassador Jankowski highlighted the shared responsibility of maintaining the natural beauty of Freetown’s coastline, stating, “Today’s clean-up serves as a reminder that collective action is essential to protect our environment, ensuring our beaches, marine life, and ecosystems thrive for future generations. The EU stands with Sierra Leone in this fight for sustainability.”

The EU and its member states continue to bolster Sierra Leone’s environmental protection initiatives, with a focus on a Green Economy within the Development Partnership and Multiannual Indicative Programme for 2021-2027. Notably, the EU has allocated nearly €9 million toward mangrove restoration in areas such as Yawry Bay and the Sherbro Estuary, contributing to coastal resilience and promoting sustainable practices for local communities.

Sierra Leone grapples with severe environmental challenges, including plastic pollution, mangrove degradation, and beach litter, exacerbated by inadequate waste management and the prevalent use of single-use plastics (SUPs). The country generates approximately 130,000 tonnes of plastic waste annually, with only six percent recycled. This waste significantly contributes to the global plastic pollution crisis, threatening marine life and the economy.

With mangroves covering roughly 170,000 to 180,000 hectares along Sierra Leone’s coastline, they play a crucial role in preventing erosion, supporting fisheries, and acting as carbon sinks. However, land conversion for development has led to a loss of over 40 percent of mangrove cover since the 1980s. Coastal communities’ reliance on mangrove wood for smoking fish further exacerbates this problem.

The EU’s initiatives aim to restore mangroves, enhance coastal resilience, and support local communities while promoting sustainable practices. By advocating for stringent actions to tackle plastic pollution, the EU calls for a comprehensive lifecycle approach to plastics, emphasizing the need for global criteria and rules for sustainable product design.

As part of its ongoing efforts, the EU continues to mobilize resources through bilateral, regional, and global programs to support partners in fulfilling the Global Biodiversity Framework.

President Bio’s Iowa Visit Highlights Mechanization’s Role in Boosting Agriculture

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

President Julius Maada Bio on Monday October 28, 2024 took part in a hands-on visit to Demoss Farm in Iowa, owned by Steven Kuiper, Director of the 8th Crop Reporting District, where he joined the corn harvest on the 80-acre family-run operation. The visit was part of a broader mission to enhance agricultural productivity in Sierra Leone through partnerships and advanced mechanization.

Steven Kuiper, a fourth-generation farmer, expressed enthusiasm for hosting President Bio, recognizing their mutual dedication to advancing agriculture. During their conversation, Kuiper recounted his farming journey, which began in 1987 and now encompasses over 3,000 acres dedicated to corn and soybeans. He provided an overview of his farm’s annual cultivation practices, highlighting Iowa’s seasonal crop cycle from planting to harvesting.

After participating in the harvest, President Bio emphasized that his Iowa trip is part of his commitment to supporting Sierra Leone’s “Feed Salone” program. He pointed out that mechanized farming, demonstrated on farms like Kuiper’s, holds the potential to transform Sierra Leone’s agricultural landscape. “Mechanization is key to agricultural efficiency,” President Bio stated, adding that Sierra Leoneans with financial resources should consider investing in the sector to foster economic growth and food security.

The President also acknowledged Kuiper’s enduring legacy and praised the dedication of his family, particularly Kuiper and his son, in sustaining agriculture as a viable enterprise.

In addition to his visit to Demoss Farm, President Bio toured a John Deere dealership in Knoxville, Iowa, where he inspected agricultural equipment including tractors, planters, and sprayers, assessing their potential to enhance farming practices in Sierra Leone.

President Bio’s visit to Iowa coincides with his role as Special Guest of Honor at the World Food Prize Foundation’s Norman E. Borlaug International Dialogue. He is expected to meet with senior officials from the United States Department of Agriculture, co-chair a roundtable discussion with the President of the African Development Bank Group, and present the 2024 World Food Prize, reinforcing Sierra Leone’s commitment to agricultural innovation and global food security.

 

Alhaji Musa Tarawally Empowers Women’s Cooperatives Across Sierra Leone with Le 4 Billion

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

In a significant boost for women’s empowerment across Sierra Leone, Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally, renowned politician and humanitarian, has pledged Le 4 billion to support women’s cooperative societies nationwide. The initiative, which took place at the Freetown Teachers’ College in Jui Junction, marked the launch of the Visionary Women’s Cooperative Society. This new cooperative aims to foster financial independence and economic stability for women, bringing hope and opportunity to communities across the country.

Representing Hon. Tarawally at the launch, Ambassador Bockarie Ensa, Coordinator of the Agenda Musa Tarawally 2028, highlighted that Hon. Tarawally has committed Le 200 million to each of 20 women’s cooperative societies nationwide. Ambassador Ensa described this initiative as part of their broader support for President Bio’s administration, underscoring the belief that sustainable development must include grassroots empowerment. “We know that government alone cannot provide employment for all,” he stated, “and Hon. Tarawally has stepped in to support women’s financial independence, thus uplifting communities from within.”

Ambassador Ensa further elaborated that their agenda aims to ensure the continuity of the SLPP administration in 2028. “This initiative strengthens our base and prepares the ground, reducing any potential friction in the future,” he added. He also revealed that all cooperative societies in the program have been formally registered and certified, with training support provided by the Sierra Leone Cooperative Society to equip the women with essential management skills.

The cooperative societies will engage in diverse economic activities, offering interest-free loans to their members. Ambassador Ensa assured the women that Hon. Tarawally remains committed to increasing his support if the cooperatives effectively manage their resources.

Madam Janet Moore, Chairlady of the Visionary Women’s Cooperative Society, shared her story of starting the initiative in January, driven by a vision to unite women for collective progress. “When I approached Hon. Tarawally, he supported the idea without hesitation and committed himself fully to our cause,” she said. The cooperative has since grown from an initial group of five women to over 150 members from various parts of Freetown, with numbers continuing to increase.

“Our progress is a testament to Hon. Tarawally’s unwavering support,” Madam Moore remarked, expressing gratitude on behalf of the cooperative. She pledged that the Visionary Women’s Cooperative Society would continue to stand by Hon. Tarawally and uphold his mission of empowering women across Sierra Leone.

 

National ID Cards Now Available for Sierra Leoneans 12 and Older: Here’s What You Need to Know

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leone is making significant progress in its initiative to provide citizens and residents with advanced National ID Cards featuring a National Identification Number (NIN). This unique, lifelong number links individuals’ biometric data and personal details within the National Identity Database, strengthening security and facilitating seamless access to essential services.

The National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) has outlined the costs and procedures for acquiring various categories of securitized, multi-purpose biometric identity cards. The NIN cards are available for citizens aged 12 and above at NCRA offices and designated centers nationwide. Plans for issuing ID cards to children under 12 will be announced soon.

Categories and Fees of Biometric ID Cards:

  1. National Identity Card (Sierra Leoneans, aged 12+) – Le 140.00 (NLe)
  2. ECOWAS ID Card (Optional for Sierra Leoneans) – Le 240.00 (NLe)
  3. ECOWAS ID Card (Citizens of ECOWAS Member States) – Le 400.00 (NLe)
  4. Non-National ID Card (Mandatory for foreign residents) – Le 2,000.00 (NLe)
  5. Application Fees – Le 5.00 (NLe)
  6. ID Verification – Variable by field

These fees are stipulated in line with the National Civil Registration Act of 2016, reflecting the NCRA’s commitment to secure, standardized identification.

Applicants are required to visit their nearest NCRA office to apply for their National ID Card. The card includes a secure chip embedded with biometric data, which facilitates identity verification, enhances financial inclusion, and provides streamlined access to multiple services. It is a critical tool for both citizens and non-citizens, promoting security and efficiency in public and private transactions.

The National ID Card’s integration with the financial sector enables remote “Know Your Customer” (KYC) checks, significantly reducing the cost and time of customer verification. This electronic KYC feature promotes financial inclusion, allowing providers to securely authenticate customers.

In education, the NIN is now required for students in public examination classes, underscoring the card’s value in various life aspects across Sierra Leone.

For non-citizens, the Non-National ID Card allows secure access to resident and work permits. This development is an important part of Sierra Leone’s strategy to enhance personal security, protect rights, and promote efficient service access.

The NIN, an 11-digit unique identifier, links individuals’ records within the National Identity Database. This system enables efficient service access, facilitates secure transactions, and ensures the protection of individual rights. The Biometric ID Card is now mandatory for identification at checkpoints nationwide.

The NCRA established application centers to ensure accessibility across the country:

  1. NCRA Headquarters: 2 Walpole Street, Freetown
  2. NCRA Office: 23B Off Kingharman Road, Freetown
  3. NCRA Office: Kennedy Street, Freetown
  4. NCRA Branch Office: 230 Lumley Road, Freetown (by the Roundabout)
  5. NCRA Office: Waterloo, Freetown Highway (Opposite Police Station)
  6. Regional Headquarters: Bo, Kenema, Makeni, and Port Loko

Corporate services tailored for organizations are also available. For inquiries, the NCRA can be reached at +232-33-433-333, +232-30-500-000, +232-78-221-812 or via email at idverification@ncra.gov.

Sierra Leoneans are strongly encouraged to obtain their Biometric ID Cards, recognizing the cards’ role in enhancing national security and contributing to development. The NCRA’s initiative aligns with the Government’s dedication to fostering a safer, more efficient, and accessible environment for all citizens and residents.

NP (SL): Sierra Leone’s Pride in the Petroleum Sector with High-Performance and Reliability

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In Sierra Leone’s competitive petroleum market, NP (SL) Ltd has emerged as a trailblazer, setting the standard for high-quality service, technological advancement, and dedication to customer satisfaction. As the nation’s leading indigenous petroleum company, NP (SL) has built a solid reputation for its seamless and transparent service, from fuel and gas to premium lubricants like Castrol oil.

For NP (SL), customer satisfaction is paramount, a principle that has guided the company’s growth and solidified its status in the industry. One of NP’s pioneering moves was investing in calibrated fuel pumps at its filling stations, ensuring customers receive the exact quantity they pay for, enhancing transparency and trust. Customers frequently praise the company’s stations, which are designed with modern layouts and offer a range of amenities, including shopping marts, ensuring a comfortable experience beyond just fuel.

NP (SL) is also a leader in introducing innovative services to improve the fuel-purchasing process. The NP Smart Card, a cashless payment option, allows customers to load funds onto the card, providing a quick and secure way to purchase fuel. The card’s popularity reflects its convenience, allowing customers to bypass long lines and avoid handling cash, a feature especially beneficial for business fleets and regular customers.

In an even more advanced step, NP (SL) recently introduced the Energy Pass Card as part of its “FUBU” (For Us, By Us) initiative. This smart card offers multiple layers of security, including SMS notifications and integration with mobile numbers. The Energy Pass Card allows both online and offline transactions, ensuring reliable service even in remote areas and offering real-time balance updates. By embracing this technology, NP (SL) is working to shift Sierra Leone’s fuel market towards a more secure, cashless future, with direct benefits to both customers and station operators.

In addition to fuel, NP (SL) has expanded its offerings to include NP Gas, an eco-friendly and efficient cooking gas option available in various cylinder sizes. NP Gas has quickly gained popularity due to its high performance and accessibility, with refill stations across NP’s network of filling stations. Customers have responded positively to this alternative, citing its convenience and environmental benefits.

NP (SL) remains committed to Sierra Leone’s Local Content Policy, making local employment a priority. The company’s hiring practices have supported economic development by providing stable jobs and reducing poverty. With a focus on hiring Sierra Leoneans for all local roles, NP (SL) aligns its business operations with national development goals.

Furthermore, NP (SL) has extended its presence regionally, operating in Liberia, Guinea, Ivory Coast, and The Gambia. This expansion has enabled NP (SL) to contribute to neighboring economies, creating jobs and enhancing regional growth while reinforcing Sierra Leone’s business footprint in West Africa.

NP (SL) actively supports initiatives that contribute to community well-being, from projects that raise living standards to corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs aligned with government development efforts. This commitment to giving back reflects NP (SL)’s vision of corporate success that extends beyond business goals to support broader social impact.

NP (SL) Ltd’s commitment to quality, transparency, and technological advancement is propelling it forward as an industry leader. The company’s focus on modernizing customer experiences and enhancing security, combined with its commitment to local development, positions NP (SL) as a cornerstone in Sierra Leone’s economic landscape. With its enduring dedication to service and community, NP (SL) is set to remain a formidable force in the petroleum industry for years to come.

World Food Programme Expression of Interest (EOI) – All Logistics Services

 

Expression of Interest (EOI) – All Logistics Services

The United Nations World Food Programme, Sierra Leone (WFP) invites interested companies with a proven track record of relevant experience to submit their Expression of Interest for the provision of the following services:

1. Provision of Road Transport (Food and Non-Food Items) to all locations in Sierra Leone.

2. Third Party Logistics Services, field-level warehousing, transport, and food handling.

3. Commodity handling, Labour, and Warehouse Cleaning Services.

4. Vehicle Workshop Waste Management Services.

5. Break bulk food import clearing and forwarding, logistics operations.

All interested and qualified companies are requested to email WFP at sierraleone.logisticsoperations@wfp.org with ‘logistics vendor EOI’ in the subject, to request a vendor questionnaire. WFP is interested in receiving Expressions of Interest nationally and has offices in Freetown, Makeni and Kenema.

The closing date for the EOI is 10 November at 18:00 and interested vendors are encouraged to submit their EOI before this date.

This Invitation for Expression of Interest does not amount to a commitment on the part of WFP either financially or otherwise. WFP reserves the right to accept or reject any or all requests for a questionnaire with no further obligation on the part of WFP.

Legal Aid Board Secures Release of 19 Accused in Freetown High Court Sessions

By Esther Wright

In a series of High Court sittings presided over by Acting Chief Justice His Lordship Justice Nicholas Browne-Marke, the Legal Aid Board (LAB) has successfully secured the discharge of 19 accused persons in Freetown. These releases, spanning October 7 to October 21, 2024, were part of the LAB’s efforts to provide legal representation to the indigent accused.

The individuals discharged include Alhassan Bangura, Mohamed Lamin Gobba, Alex Kamara, Alusine Conteh, Sheka Kamara, Foday Koroma, Alpha Koroma, Foday Mansaray (alias Rap Jay), Komba Fomba, Alusine Sesay, Ibrahim Kamara, Alhassan Marrah, Daniel Conteh, Mustapha Kargbo, Amadu Samba, Alhassan Conteh, Sulaiman Kamara, Ballay Kamara, and Alie Conteh. Among them, three were acquitted, while sixteen were discharged for lack of prosecution.

Since the start of the September Criminal Session, this brings the total number of LAB-represented individuals discharged from High Court in Freetown to twenty-six. The accused faced a range of charges, including conspiracy, robbery with aggravation, wounding with intent, fraudulent conversion, and shop breaking and larceny.

Executive Director of the Legal Aid Board, Ms. Fatmata Claire Carlton-Hanciles, addressed the discharged individuals with words of caution and encouragement. She advised them to embrace hard work, live within their means, and avoid any actions that could lead to further legal troubles. Ms. Carlton-Hanciles highlighted the perseverance of differently-abled individuals on Sani Abacha Street, who support themselves with small jobs despite hardships, as a positive example of resilience. She urged the released individuals to contribute positively to their communities.

Ms. Carlton-Hanciles praised Acting Chief Justice Browne-Marke for his commitment to fair and timely justice and affirmed the Board’s dedication to defending those unable to afford legal representation.

One of the beneficiaries, Alusine Conteh, who was acquitted of conspiracy and shop breaking charges, expressed gratitude to the LAB for their support and pledged to remain a law-abiding citizen. He and others received representation from Legal Aid Counsels Cecilia Tucker, Ibrahim Samba, and Cyril Taylor-Younge.

In a related development, the LAB’s resident lawyer for Kono district, Counsel Alpha O. Kamara, secured the release of six more individuals from the Sefadu Magistrate Court in Koidu City. Magistrate Joseph Tobby presided over these cases, which involved charges ranging from threatening to kill to other allegations.

The Legal Aid Board’s ongoing efforts reflect its commitment to ensuring justice for those without means, reinforcing the rule of law, and contributing to societal stability by supporting fair legal outcomes for all.

Mohamed Bah Honored with 2024 Afrocentrik Award as Public Servant of the Year

By Mamadu Sallieu Barrie

Mohamed Bah, former Chairman of the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) North America chapter, has been awarded the prestigious 2024 Afrocentrik Award in the United States, recognizing his exemplary leadership and contributions to the public. Held on October 16, the event celebrated Mohamed Bah as an outstanding figure among 297 nominees, distinguishing him as one of the 12 honorees whose work has had a lasting impact on Sierra Leoneans worldwide.

The Public Servant of the Year Award 2024 celebrates Chairman Mohamed Bah’s dedication to community upliftment and his unwavering commitment to the development of his people and nation. Through the Mohamed Bah Foundation, he has spearheaded numerous initiatives that have positively influenced lives across Sierra Leone, embodying a spirit of compassion and selflessness in his philanthropic endeavors.

In his acceptance speech, Mohamed Bah expressed deep gratitude for the honor, acknowledging the support of those who have shared his vision for a better Sierra Leone. He extended heartfelt thanks to the Afrocentrik Awards community for recognizing the value of his efforts and the causes he champions, remarking on the shared commitment to impactful change.

Mohamed Bah’s receipt of the 2024 Afrocentrik Television Award is a testament to his visionary leadership and his dedication to service. His work serves as an inspiration, showcasing the transformative power of altruism and community engagement in creating meaningful change.

Chairman Mohamed Bah’s legacy of service and excellence continues to leave an indelible mark both in Sierra Leone and abroad, reflecting a commitment that shines as a beacon of hope and progress.

1...290291292...1,355Page 291 of 1,355