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LUC Rutile Division, Framed Over Alleged Case of Sexual Penetration

By Jonathan Hindolo Kurabu Esq (D Catalyst)

18 year old Sarah Samking,who resides in Moriba Town, Imperi Chiefdom, Bonthe District has over the weekend admitted that the Local Unit Commander of the Rutile Division, Superintendent Mustapha Alhaji Senesie was framed by her father and one Councilor Edmond M Kabaingai of ward 326, Imperi Chiefdom, Bonthe District

Her admission comes in the wake of an ongoing police investigation at the Regional Department of the Family Support Unit in Bo where the said Councilor, Edmond M. Kabaingai and Sarah’s father conspired against the LUC by making a formal report at the Rutile Police Division that the said LUC Supt. Mustapha Alhaji Senesie sexually penetrated a 16 year old girl.

Sarah Samking further revealed that her Father, Sam Samking and Councilor Edmond M. Kabaingai forged her birth certificate using the false name, Amie Samking projecting her age as a minor (16 years) which she later rejected and the said birth certificate was again changed at the Moriba Town Peripheral Health Unit by a Deputy CHO, Christiana John, to now appear as Sarah Samking with the same age outlook (16 years.( Audio available).

Evidence adduced proved that notwithstanding these inherent anomalies, Councilor Edmond M. Kabaingai presented the birth certificate and another fictitious School Report card bearing the Name, Sarah Samking and age,16.

The birth certificate which appeared to be forged, however proved that it was printed in 2015 yet issued in 2009 by the Deputy CHO Christiana John,an allegation the hospital management vehemently denied stating that the signature of the said fictitious Birth Certificate was forged and was as well not issued by the Moriba Town PHU.

Sarah Samking admitted in a conversation that she is above 18 years and her boyfriend, an OSD officer named John Arthur Jusu has been arrested and brought over to the Bo West Police Station for allegedly having an affair with an under age.

She said her OSD boyfriend is fully recognized by her family adding that the OSD boyfriend had traditionally informed her relatives about their relationship which her family accepted and they have been moving on well save his arrest and detention and appealed that her boyfriend be released unconditionally remarking that “e nor do natin” ( he did nothing).(Audio available upon request).

The school report card from TVSS also showed lots of anomalies.

Regional Coordinator, Family Support Unit in Bo,ASP Kanneh confirmed that OSD Officer, John Arthur Jusu is being investigated for allegedly having a sexual affinity with an under age.

He also confirmed that they have commenced investigation into the initial report made by Councilor Edmond M Kabaingai, Pastor Rogera and Sarah’s father over alleged case of sexual penetration of a 16 year old by the Local Unit Commander, Supt. Mustapha Alhaji Senesie.

LUC Rutile Division Superintendent Mustapha Alhaji Senesie denied the allegations and affirmed that his relationship with the said Councilor Edmond M. Kabaingai became strained over the said Councilor being one of the major masterminds for unrest around the Rutile company sites and an assault on a local chief and an Imam which is still under investigation at the Rutile Division.

Incessant efforts to contact Councilor Edmond M. Kabaingai to respond to the allegations before and after these revelations proved futile, despite being a member of all Whatsapp groups where Sarah’s admission was shared hence having constructive and actual knowledge of same.

It’s alleged that the LUC’s high-handedness in tackling crimes and clampdown on some accepted illegal activities in the Rutile axis is among the major causes for this conspiracy hence Councilor Edmond M. Kabaingai in a widely shared audio said LUC Supt. Mustapha Alhaji Senesie MUST GO(audio available upon request).

Sources say, LUC Supt Mustapha Alhaji Senesie is among the third Local Unit Commanders that have been framed by certain cabal in Moriba Town. They alleged that it’s now a pattern in Moriba Town no sooner the Cabal dislikes the Public Officers, they resort to surreptitious means to defame that individual.

Records show that considerable number of convicts who have served their jail terms or are serving their respective jail terms for sexual offences insists being framed by mostly relatives of the purported victims.

The Sexual Offences (Amendment) Act 2019 makes provision for the increase of the maximum penalty for rape and sexual penetration of a child from fifteen years up life imprisonment.

Section 19 of the Sexual Offences Amendment Act 2019 provides ” subject to Section 24 of the Children and Young Persons Act (Cap 44), a person who engages in an act of sexual penetration with a child commits an offence and is liable on conviction to life imprisonment”

Section 1 of the Sexual Offences Act 2012 provides” In this Act unless the context otherwise requires, “Child” means a person under the age of 18.”

Parliament Ratifies Historic $480 Million MCC Compact to Boost the Energy Sector

By Esther Wright

The Parliament of Sierra Leone on Tuesday, October 15, 2024 unanimously ratified two critical agreements: the Millennium Challenge Compact between Sierra Leone and the United States and the Programme Implementation Agreement. These historic agreements, spearheaded by the Minister of Finance, Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura, mark a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to strengthen its energy sector.

In an emergency sitting convened by President Julius Maada Bio, Members of Parliament thoroughly debated and unanimously approved the agreements, recognizing their vast potential for national development. President Bio highlighted the agreements as a transformative step towards improving Sierra Leone’s energy infrastructure, sparking hope for a brighter future.

During the debate, Hon. Ibrahim Barrie emphasized that the grant will be a significant boost to Sierra Leone’s energy sector. He underscored the importance of adhering to the recommendations attached to the Compact, particularly in ensuring free and fair elections. Hon. Ibrahim Barrie pointed out that these recommendations would bolster democratic governance and prevent election manipulation. He further expressed gratitude to the U.S. government for its support, stating that the Millennium Challenge Compact (MCC) would address many of the country’s pressing needs.

Hon. Hindolo Ngavao shared his optimism, stating that the MCC’s primary objectives are to reduce poverty and promote good governance. He applauded the people of Sierra Leone for supporting the fight against corruption, a crucial factor in qualifying for the MCC grant. Hindolo Ngavao also commended President Bio’s commitment to expanding energy access and assured the public that every dollar from the grant would be monitored to ensure proper usage.

Other MPs echoed similar sentiments. Hon. Tamba Kellie called for more focus on energy generation, while Hon. Ing. Fallah Tengbeh praised President Bio for his leadership, noting that the grant is unprecedented in Sierra Leone’s history. Hon. Ing. Fallah Tengbeh assured citizens that the project would improve energy distribution and reduce low-voltage issues across the country.

Hon. Peter Yamba Koroma, from Bombali, described the MCC grant as a transformative opportunity for Sierra Leone, particularly in the energy sector. He called for accountability in the implementation of the grant, warning that the nation must ensure transparency to avoid future setbacks.

Several MPs, including Hon. Tamba Johnny and Hon. Alpha Bah, voiced concerns about ensuring accountability in the administration of the funds. Bah noted the urgency with which the agreement was ratified, while Johnny emphasized the need to focus on energy generation alongside transmission and distribution.

Hon. Rebecca Y. Kamara highlighted the significance of gender empowerment in securing the MCC grant and praised the U.S. government for its continued support in renewable energy, education, and health sectors. She emphasized that the grant would not only benefit specific political parties but the entire nation.

Hon. Abdul Karim Kamara from Kambia District called for more investment in energy generation, stressing that Sierra Leone had long focused on energy distribution without adequately addressing the generation issue. He advocated for a more comprehensive approach to resolving the country’s energy challenges.

In closing, Hon. Daniel Brima Koroma, Deputy Opposition Leader, and Hon. Saa Emerson Lamina, Deputy Leader of Government Business, expressed their strong support for the agreements. Koroma commended the efforts of both the current and past governments in securing the MCC grant, while Lamina emphasized that the grant aligns with the Sierra Leone Development Plan, particularly in relation to the “Feed Salone” initiative.

The Acting Leader of Government Business, Hon. Bashiru Silikie, acknowledged the bipartisan support for the agreement and praised President Bio’s leadership in the fight against corruption, which played a pivotal role in securing the $480 million grant. He called for all citizens to rally behind the implementation of the MCC Compact for the country’s benefit.

In a separate development, Parliament commenced debate on the Child Rights Act, 2024. This bill seeks to repeal and replace the 2007 Child Rights Act, incorporating provisions from the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child and the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child. The bill aims to strengthen the rights and responsibilities of children and the state’s obligations towards their protection.

As Sierra Leone moves forward with the MCC Compact and other legislative developments, the country’s leadership remains focused on fostering national progress, ensuring transparency, and improving the lives of all citizens.

At RAIC 10th Anniversary…   Minister Chernor Bah Urges Public Institutions to Embrace Transparency

By Esther Wright

In a major push for enhanced transparency, the Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, has called on public institutions to take a proactive stance in sharing information with the public. Speaking at the 10th-anniversary celebration of the Right to Access Information Commission (RAIC) held at the Foreign Service Academy on October 15, 2024, he emphasized that the initiative is vital for fostering transparency and curbing misinformation.

He underscored that the public’s right to access information is a fundamental civic right, not merely a privilege. “Public information must be regarded as a civic duty, integral to cultivating patriotism and love for the country,” Chernor Bah stated, highlighting the importance of keeping citizens informed about Government actions.

During his address, the Minister commended the RAIC for its impactful work over the past decade and acknowledged the efforts of the previous administration in establishing the Commission. He also credited civil society’s advocacy for the enactment of the Right to Access Information Act in 2013.

Emphasizing the critical role of access to information in Sierra Leone’s democracy, Minister Chernoh Bah noted that it played a key role in the country securing the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Compact. He praised the progressive reforms initiated by His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, including the repeal of the seditious libel law and the enactment of the Cybersecurity and Crime Act. According to the Minister, these reforms have expanded free expression and resulted in an increase in public information requests.

To further bolster transparency, the Minister announced that the Ministry of Information and Civic Education is developing a Records and Archive Policy and a Data Protection Bill. These initiatives are designed to protect public records and ensure timely access to information for citizens.

The event also featured remarks from the Deputy Minister of Information and Civic Education, Bockarie Abdel Aziz Bawoh, who raised concerns about the rising influence of artificial intelligence on freedom of information. He urged the RAIC to remain vigilant in addressing potential threats posed by AI while ensuring the public receives accurate information.

The 10th anniversary celebration of the RAIC served as a reaffirmation of the Government’s commitment to transparency and public accountability, with the Ministry of Information at the forefront of empowering citizens through access to information essential for active participation in the democratic process.

Case Closed on Unapproved Aircraft Landing: Crew Fined $100,000 Each, Air Traffic Controllers Released

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Government of Sierra Leone, through the Ministry of Information and Civic Education, has on October 15, 2024 announced the conclusion of investigations regarding the unauthorized landing of a fourteen-seater aircraft at Freetown International Airport (FNA) on September 20, 2024.

Upon the aircraft’s unsanctioned arrival, airport and security authorities promptly mobilized, seizing the aircraft and launching a thorough investigation. Four individuals were found on board, including the captain, with three identified as Mexican nationals and one as a Spanish passport holder. All four were subsequently taken to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) for further questioning. In addition, two air traffic controllers were also detained to aid the investigation.

Extensive police investigations, including rigorous searches and swabs conducted by both local and international investigators, yielded no items of police interest aboard the aircraft. As a result, the Director of Public Prosecutions has made several recommendations regarding the case.

The recommendations include civil charges against the crew members for multiple violations of the Civil Aviation Act of 2023. Specific offenses cited include:

– Operating an aircraft without a personnel certificate.

– Flying without an Air Operating Certificate.

– Unauthorized operation of an aircraft within Sierra Leonean airspace.

The Director proposed a penalty of $100,000 (One Hundred Thousand United States Dollars) for each crew member, to be paid before their release and the return of the aircraft. Following the recommendations, the crew’s legal representatives settled the fine on October 14, 2024.

Additionally, authorities stated that there was insufficient evidence to charge the two air traffic controllers, who have since been released. The matter is now considered closed, with the aircraft no longer in police custody.

NP (SL): Synonymous with Reliability & Quality in the Petroleum Sector

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In Sierra Leone’s dynamic socio-economic landscape, NP (SL) Ltd has firmly established itself as a central player in the nation’s progress and development. As the leading petroleum marketing company in the country, NP (SL) has garnered an outstanding reputation, not only within Sierra Leone but also across the West African sub-region, where its operations extend to neighboring countries like Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast, and The Gambia. With a long-standing commitment to quality and reliability, NP (SL) continues to be a driving force in the petroleum industry, fueling growth and shaping the nation’s future.

Petroleum products play a critical role in daily life, from powering vehicles and generating electricity to fueling industrial machinery and supporting everyday household activities. In Sierra Leone, where economic and social transformation is in full swing, the demand for reliable energy solutions is high. As the largest indigenous petroleum company in the country, NP (SL) has positioned itself as a key player in meeting this demand. The company has become synonymous with reliability, delivering high-quality petroleum products that are indispensable to the country’s economy and development.

Despite the presence of other players in the market, NP (SL) has distinguished itself through exceptional service delivery. The company’s unwavering commitment to excellence has earned it the prestigious title of “1st for Customer Care,” a recognition of its dedication to customer satisfaction. NP (SL) understands that its customers are not merely consumers but essential partners in its success. This customer-centric approach has allowed the company to forge strong relationships, contributing to its continued growth and dominance in the petroleum sector.

NP (SL)’s service delivery model is built on the foundation of transparency, efficiency and customer care. The company goes beyond providing fuel by creating a pleasant and welcoming experience at its Filling Stations. These stations are equipped with modern facilities, ensuring that customers not only receive high-quality fuel but also enjoy a comfortable environment. The company’s well-calibrated pumps guarantee that customers get exactly what they pay for, reinforcing trust and confidence in NP (SL)’s operations. Additionally, some stations feature shopping marts and social spaces, allowing customers to unwind while refueling, enhancing the overall customer experience.

In its quest to modernize and simplify transactions, NP (SL) introduced the NP Smart Card, a cashless payment solution that has transformed the petroleum sector. The NP Smart Card allows customers to purchase fuel and other petroleum products without the need for physical cash, offering both convenience and enhanced security. Customers can recharge their Smart Cards and complete transactions by simply swiping the card at the point of sale. This system has been widely praised for its efficiency, as it saves time and reduces the risks associated with carrying large amounts of money.

Building on the success of the NP Smart Card, NP (SL) has taken a significant step forward with the launch of the NP Energy Pass. This advanced smart card is designed to further enhance customer experience and energy management. In addition to facilitating cashless transactions at Filling Stations across the country, the NP Energy Pass comes with advanced security features. Users receive instant SMS notifications for every transaction, and the card includes a One-Time Password (OTP) system for quick recovery if it is blocked due to incorrect password attempts. Currently in its pilot phase, the NP Energy Pass is accepted at several key locations in Freetown, including Cotton Tree, Campbell Street, Brookfields, and Pademba Road.

NP (SL)’s innovative approach is also reflected in its introduction of mobile fuel tanks. These 10,000-liter tanks, housed in containers with advanced safety and dispensing technology, provide mobile refueling services to ensure that fuel is available where it is most needed. The tanks are equipped with explosion-proof technology, flow meters, and fire suppression systems, ensuring both safety and efficiency in the refueling process. This mobile solution highlights NP (SL)’s dedication to innovation and its ability to meet the growing energy demands of Sierra Leone.

Beyond its contributions to the fuel industry, NP (SL) has also made strides in promoting clean and affordable cooking solutions with the introduction of NP Gas. Available at all NP Filling Stations, NP Gas is offered in various cylinder sizes to meet the diverse needs of households across Sierra Leone. This cooking solution is not only efficient but also environmentally friendly, making it a popular choice for many households. Users have praised NP Gas for its convenience, safety, and reliability, further solidifying NP (SL)’s reputation as a company that prioritizes the well-being of its customers.

NP (SL) is not only focused on commercial success but also deeply committed to giving back to the community. The company has consistently engaged in corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives aimed at uplifting communities and contributing to national development. Whether through charitable donations, community-building projects, or environmental sustainability efforts, NP (SL) continues to demonstrate its dedication to the well-being of Sierra Leone and its people.

In essence, NP (SL) is far more than just a petroleum company. It is a vital component of Sierra Leone’s developmental progress, playing a critical role in the country’s journey toward economic prosperity. By continuously innovating, expanding its services, and prioritizing customer satisfaction, NP (SL) has become a source of national pride and a shining example of indigenous business success.

As Sierra Leone continues to evolve, NP (SL) is poised to remain at the forefront of the nation’s socio-economic transformation, powering the engine of progress and contributing to a brighter, more prosperous future for all.

Leonoil Sponsors Diaspora Conference, Encourages Global Sierra Leoneans to Invest Locally

By Amin Kef Sesay

Leonoil Limited, a prominent Sierra Leonean-owned oil and gas company, has been announced as the Headline Sponsor of the upcoming Sierra Leone Diaspora Investment Conference. The event is set to be the largest gathering of Sierra Leonean and American business leaders, policymakers and investors in North America, aiming to harness the potential of the Diaspora beyond remittances.

“We are thrilled to have Leonoil as our Headline Sponsor, supporting this important initiative to boost Diaspora investment in Sierra Leone,” said Vickie Remoe, CEO of VR&C Marketing and Founder of Make Sierra Leone Famous, the firm organizing the conference.

Vickie Remoe, praised Leonoil, led by Sierra Leonean-American business Executive, Ibrahim Cole, for its significant contribution to the nation’s economy. “Leonoil is a beacon of Sierra Leonean excellence,” she said. “For over 30 years, they’ve invested in local talent, ensuring the growth of Sierra Leone’s oil and gas industry. Their recent expansion into the mining sector is a game-changer.”

In August, Leonoil made history by acquiring Sierra Rutile, the world’s largest producer of rutile, a mineral used in titanium production. This acquisition marks a shift in ownership from foreign entities to local hands, a milestone for the country. Since its inception in 1971, Sierra Rutile had been under foreign ownership, most recently held by Australian interests.

In a LinkedIn post, Ibrahim Cole highlighted the significance of this achievement, stating, “Today is a historic day for Sierra Leone as Leonoil completes the acquisition of a publicly traded company with over five decades of mining operations. We look forward to building strong partnerships with the Government and key stakeholders to achieve shared goals.”

Founded in 1994, Leonoil is one of the largest locally-owned companies in Sierra Leone, specializing in petroleum products such as automotive gas oil, petroleum motor spirit and lubricants. The company operates 24 fuel stations across the country and manages Sierra Leone’s largest and most advanced fuel terminal. Leonoil serves a wide range of clients, including international organizations like the World Bank and major mining companies such as Seawright Mining and FG Gold.

Leonoil’s sponsorship of the Diaspora Investment Conference aligns with its broader mission to foster development in Sierra Leone. The company aims to encourage the Diaspora to invest directly in the country’s growing economy. “Our success is deeply connected to Sierra Leone’s progress,” Ibrahim Cole emphasized. “We invite the Diaspora to see beyond the challenges and focus on the opportunities that can drive meaningful change for the future of our country.”

The Sierra Leone Diaspora Investment Conference will take place on October 19th, 2024, at the DoubleTree Hotel by Hilton in Gaithersburg, Maryland. The one-day event will bring together 200 leaders from various sectors, including business, finance and policy, to discuss and promote strategies for economic growth in Sierra Leone. It will be the largest gathering of Sierra Leonean-American entrepreneurs and investors in North America.

Attendees will have the chance to network with fellow entrepreneurs, investors and industry experts, making it a key platform for building valuable connections. Tickets for both in-person and virtual attendance are available on the event website, www.MakeSierraLeoneFamous.com. Virtual attendees will have full access to the livestream, including interactive Q&A sessions.

Senior Sierra Leonean Journalist Participates in 6th World Media Summit in China

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Abu Bakarr Kargbo, a prominent Sierra Leonean journalist, is currently representing his country at the prestigious 6th World Media Summit (WMS) held in Urumqi, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China. The summit, which is slated for October 12 to 17, 2024, brought together over 500 media professionals, including media executives, Government officials and technology experts from 106 countries, to explore the future of media in the digital age under the theme: “Artificial Intelligence and Media Transformation.”

The event, co-hosted by Xinhua News Agency and the People’s Government of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, served as a global platform for thought leaders in journalism and technology. Discussions and knowledge-sharing are focusing on how artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping the media landscape. Attendees, including Abu Bakarr Kargbo, also known as “Fadda Bakish,” were joined by representatives from over 200 media outlets, Government agencies and tech companies, further cementing the summit’s global importance.

During the summit’s opening ceremony, Fu Hua, President of Xinhua News Agency, highlighted AI’s significant role in enhancing media operations, reporting that technological innovations had led to a 70% improvement in efficiency within the industry. Fu Hua emphasized that while AI offers immense potential, it should be viewed as a tool to augment human creativity, rather than replace it. He stressed the importance of maintaining the human touch in news reporting and content creation.

The discussions at the summit are exploring both the opportunities and challenges posed by AI in the media. A report presented at the event revealed that the majority of media professionals are embracing AI technology, but concerns about its regulation remain. Notably, 85.6% of those surveyed advocated for stricter regulations to ensure ethical and transparent use of AI in media.

In addition to the debates and presentations, Xinhua News Agency showcased cutting-edge AI technologies that are set to revolutionize content production and delivery in the near future. These displays captivated participants and offered a glimpse into the future of media innovation. A special plenary session was also held on the development of journalism in the digital era, providing valuable insights into emerging trends and best practices for the global media industry.

Since its establishment in 2009, the World Media Summit has become a key forum for fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange among media entities worldwide. This year’s summit built on the success of the 5th WMS, held in December 2023 in Guangdong and Yunnan provinces, with an increasing number of participants expressing eagerness to further strengthen international ties through future summits.

Beyond the summit’s intellectual exchanges, attendees had the opportunity to experience Xinjiang’s rich cultural history and natural beauty. Delegates were invited to explore the region’s connection to the ancient Silk Road and engage with local communities, promoting cross-cultural understanding in line with the summit’s goals of fostering global cooperation.

As AI continues to shape the media industry, bringing both innovations and challenges, the 6th World Media Summit underscored the importance of ethical AI practices and the role of journalists in maintaining a human-centric approach to storytelling. The summit is reaffirming the commitment of global media leaders to harnessing AI’s potential while preserving the core values of journalism.

EU Provides €200,000 in Humanitarian Aid for Flood Victims in Sierra Leone

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In response to the devastating floods that have severely impacted Sierra Leone, the European Union (EU) has on October 14, 2024 announced the release of €200,000 in humanitarian aid to support the most affected communities. The funds will be directed toward providing critical emergency assistance to over 1,800 households, benefiting around 12,600 individuals across the four worst-hit districts.

This EU contribution, channeled through the Sierra Leone Red Cross, will focus on multipurpose cash transfers to assist flood-affected families in addressing their urgent needs, such as replacing lost items, securing food, improving water and sanitation and accessing non-food essentials. Additionally, the funding will support health promotion, first-aid services and psychosocial support for those grappling with the emotional toll of the disaster. The aid will also be used for disaster mitigation interventions aimed at preventing further harm.

The floods have disrupted the lives and livelihoods of 23,596 people in 27 communities, with 167 buildings, including key infrastructure like schools, hospitals and places of worship, collapsing. The destruction extends to over 7,324 hectares of farmland, which has been submerged by the floodwaters, threatening food security and the long-term recovery of 1,500 farmers in the affected areas.

The EU’s financial aid is part of its broader commitment to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies’ (IFRC) Disaster Response Emergency Fund (DREF). This contribution reflects the EU’s dedication to providing swift and effective support during small-scale disasters that may not trigger formal international appeals but still require urgent attention.

The recent flooding in Sierra Leone has devastated both rural and urban areas, with heavy rains and runoff from neighboring Guinea exacerbating the crisis. This year’s floods have affected districts that had not experienced such severe flooding in previous years, further straining the country’s emergency response capabilities.

The European Union, alongside its Member States, is the world’s leading donor of humanitarian aid. Through its Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO), the EU works tirelessly to save lives and protect the dignity of those affected by natural disasters and man-made crises worldwide. With headquarters in Brussels and a network of field offices, the EU ensures that its humanitarian aid reaches the most vulnerable populations.

The EU’s collaboration with the IFRC includes a €9.5 million humanitarian delegation agreement, aimed at replenishing the DREF to respond swiftly to small-scale disasters. Since its establishment in 1979, the DREF has been a vital resource for National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, providing immediate financial support to mitigate the effects of disasters and aid affected populations.

The European Union’s latest support to Sierra Leone underscores its commitment to humanitarian relief efforts, emphasizing solidarity with communities in times of need. The EU’s timely intervention is expected to play a crucial role in helping Sierra Leone recover from the devastating floods and build resilience for the future.

 

Vice President’s Diplomatic Mission to Ivory Coast Advances Sierra Leone’s Energy Goals

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a key development for regional energy collaboration, Sierra Leone’s Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, held high-level talks in Abidjan with Ivory Coast’s Minister of Mines, Petroleum and Energy, Mamadou Sangafowa Coulibaly. The meeting, which took place on Monday, October 14, focused on advancing the Côte d’Ivoire-Liberia-Sierra Leone-Guinea (CLSG) interconnection project, a major initiative aimed at stabilizing energy supply across West Africa, particularly to Sierra Leone.

Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, accompanied by Sierra Leone’s Energy Governance Coordination Team, emphasized the importance of deepening cooperation to strengthen the CLSG project and the broader West Africa Power Pool (WAPP). The discussions highlighted the mutual goal of enhancing electricity supply, marking a significant step toward regional energy security.

“Today, with members of our Energy Governance Coordination Team, we met with Minister Mamadou Sangafowa Coulibaly to finalize discussions on electricity supply to Sierra Leone,” Vice President Jalloh said. “We reiterated the need to deepen cooperation to strengthen CLSG and the broader West Africa Power Pool.”

A central topic of the meeting was the finalization of plans to accelerate the CLSG interconnection project, a strategic initiative aimed at integrating power networks across the region. The discussions also addressed challenges in Sierra Leone’s electricity supply chain, exploring solutions for long-term energy sustainability. Dr. Jalloh stressed the importance of collective efforts to enhance the West Africa Power Pool, which seeks to ensure reliable and sustainable energy access across the region.

The Vice President underscored the economic benefits of improving energy infrastructure, noting that reliable electricity is critical for Sierra Leone’s economic growth and regional development. Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to working together to deliver a stable and sustainable electricity supply to Sierra Leone.

This visit follows Dr. Jalloh’s arrival in Abidjan on Friday, October 11, for a series of meetings with Ivorian authorities and Transco, the agency responsible for managing the CLSG interconnection. The talks come on the heels of President Julius Maada Bio’s recent efforts to strengthen energy cooperation with Ivory Coast, signaling a shared vision for a more interconnected and resilient power network in West Africa.

The engagement builds on earlier efforts by President Bio, who in 2021 tasked Dr. Jalloh with negotiating with Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara to accelerate the delivery of electricity to Sierra Leone. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to bolster the country’s energy infrastructure and ensure a reliable power supply for its citizens.

Speaking on the broader implications of the partnership, Vice President Jalloh highlighted the importance of regional unity and private sector involvement in overcoming the infrastructure challenges that have long hindered West Africa’s energy market. “This isn’t just about electricity,” he remarked. “It’s about unlocking economic growth and improving the quality of life for our people.”

The talks in Abidjan represent a crucial step in Sierra Leone’s ongoing journey toward energy security. Dr. Jalloh’s diplomatic efforts continue to pave the way for a more integrated and prosperous West Africa, where electricity is seen not as a luxury, but a fundamental right for all.

Leone Rock Metal Group Clinches Top Award as Africa’s Premier Mining Powerhouse

Leone Rock Metal Group (LRMG) has been awarded the prestigious title of “Most Outstanding Mining Company in Africa” at the 2024 Africa Development Conference, held on October 10, 2024. This recognition cements LRMG’s reputation as a leader in Africa’s mining industry, celebrating its remarkable achievements and contributions to sustainable development.

The accolade is a reflection of LRMG’s unwavering commitment to operational excellence, environmental sustainability and its transformative impact on the local economy. By fostering strong relationships with communities and stakeholders through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, the company continues to set the benchmark for responsible mining practices on the continent.

In accepting the award, LRMG’s leadership highlighted the collective efforts of their workforce and the partnerships they’ve built with local communities. “This recognition is a testament to the dedication of our entire team and the meaningful work we’ve done in collaboration with the people we serve,” said a spokesperson for LRMG.

With this recognition, Leone Rock Metal Group reinforces its position as a driving force behind Africa’s mining sector, contributing to both the economic growth of Sierra Leone and the continent at large. The company has pledged to continue its pursuit of innovation, sustainability and further milestones in the future.

Congratulations to the entire Leone Rock Metal Group family on this momentous achievement!

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