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NCRA Pauses New Biometric Registrations for Maintenance, Assures Continuation of Other Services

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) has announced the temporary suspension of biometric registration for new applicants aged 12 and above due to mandatory maintenance on its National Automated Biometrics Identification System (ABIS). In a public notice dated October 11, 2024 and signed by NCRA’s Director General, Mohamed M. Massaquoi, the Authority highlighted that the maintenance is essential to address technical issues resulting from frequent power outages.

The ABIS Engine, a critical component of the National Identification Management System (IDMS), is responsible for the biometric de-duplication process and the assignment of the National Identification Number (NIN). Due to the ongoing maintenance, new registrations requiring biometric or fingerprint details have been paused until further notice.

Despite the temporary suspension for those aged 12 and above, the NCRA assured the public that all other routine services remain fully operational. This includes the issuance of ID cards, registration of minors (children under 12), the provision of identity documents and credentials for already-registered individuals, ID verification and authentication, updates to personal information and services related to births, deaths, marriages, divorces and adoptions.

The NCRA emphasized that the maintenance, though temporarily disruptive to new biometric registrations, is necessary to ensure the reliability and efficiency of the Authority’s services in the long run. The Authority further clarified that the suspension only affects first-time registrants aged 12 and older, with no impact on those who are already registered.

The NCRA has reassured the public that once the maintenance is complete, biometric registration services for new applicants will be promptly restored. Citizens and non-citizens residing in Sierra Leone are encouraged to visit any of the NCRA’s offices, centres or outlets during their regular hours, from Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., to access other available services.

The NCRA remains committed to delivering uninterrupted civil registration and identity management services across the country and will inform the public as soon as the system maintenance is concluded.

NP (SL) Concludes Customer Service Week, Recognizes Loyal Customers and Frontline Employees

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

NP (SL), Sierra Leone’s leading petroleum importing and marketing company, concluded its week-long celebration of Customer Service Week on Friday, October 11, 2024, expressing profound gratitude to its loyal customers for their continuous support. In a message from the company’s management, NP (SL) acknowledged, “We internationally recognize all of you for your patronage. Continue to stay loyal to us.”

The global Customer Service Week celebration, observed annually since 1987, served as an opportunity for businesses to recognize the invaluable contributions of their customers and staff. NP (SL) embraced this tradition by honoring its customers and frontline employees, particularly Station Managers and Pump Attendants, for their unwavering dedication to providing excellent service.

Throughout the week, NP (SL) made special efforts to thank customers for their loyalty by distributing gift bags at Filling Stations across the country. This thoughtful gesture underscored the company’s deep commitment to customer satisfaction and its determination to maintain its position as the trusted choice for petroleum products in Sierra Leone.

“Customer service is at the heart of everything we do at NP (SL),” stated a Senior Manager. “It is through excellent customer service that we build trust, strengthen relationships, and ultimately drive the growth of our business.” The company used the occasion to reaffirm its commitment to exceptional customer care, which it considers a cornerstone of its sustained success.

NP (SL) also highlighted the critical role of its employees in delivering top-notch service. Station Managers and Pump Attendants, who serve as the first point of contact for customers at Filling Stations, were celebrated for their professionalism and attentiveness. The company places great importance on the training and development of its staff to ensure that they can effectively engage with customers while adhering to high safety standards. Employees undergo regular training sessions in customer service, infrastructure management, and emergency response, which have solidified NP (SL)’s reputation for safety, reliability, and customer-centric service.

Customer feedback has always been essential to NP (SL)’s operations. The company prides itself on listening to its customers and promptly addressing any concerns they may have, a practice that has contributed to its success as the leading petroleum brand in Sierra Leone. Throughout Customer Service Week, customers across the country expressed their appreciation for the company’s initiative. One satisfied customer shared, “It’s great to see NP (SL) appreciating its customers in such a direct and personal way. This shows that they value us, and it makes me want to continue supporting them.”

Another loyal customer emphasized the importance of supporting NP (SL) as an indigenous company. “I always choose NP because I know that the money they make stays in the country and is used for its development,” the customer remarked.

The celebration not only recognized the importance of customer loyalty but also shed light on the essential role that frontline employees play in the company’s success. Station Managers and Pump Attendants were lauded for their hard work and commitment to maintaining high standards of service. NP (SL) has long recognized that its employees are the backbone of its operations and their dedication to serving customers efficiently and courteously has been a driving force behind the company’s growth.

As NP (SL) continues to expand its operations and serve an ever-growing customer base, the company remains committed to providing quality service and fostering strong customer relationships. The conclusion of Customer Service Week marked another milestone in NP (SL)’s journey to solidify its position as the preferred petroleum provider in Sierra Leone, with loyal customers and dedicated employees at the heart of its success.

Looking ahead, NP (SL) expressed optimism for future achievements, thanking its customers once again for their unwavering loyalty and urging them to remain committed to the brand. With a strong focus on customer care and staff development, NP (SL) is poised to continue delivering excellence and driving growth in Sierra Leone’s petroleum industry.

In Delta State, Nigeria…   Dr. Walton Gilpin Honored by Nigerian Royalty as Elevate Africa’s Global Ambassador

By Amin Kef Sesay

In a momentous Pan-African honor, Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin, Managing Director of Rokel Commercial Bank in Sierra Leone, has been named Global Ambassador for Elevate Africa, a prominent African initiative. This prestigious title was bestowed by His Royal Majesty, the 21st Olu of Warri Kingdom, Ogiame Atuwatse III, from Delta State, Nigeria.

Elevate Africa, founded by King Atuwatse III and a collective of Pan-African visionaries, is committed to reshaping Africa’s global image. The initiative aims to highlight the continent’s rich cultural history and indigenous solutions while promoting a positive self-identity among young Africans. Elevate Africa’s mission is to inspire a new generation of African leaders and thinkers, ensuring that Africa’s heritage and potential are recognized and celebrated worldwide.

Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin is currently in Nigeria participating in a high-level, two-day event focused on Africa’s self-perception and how the world views the continent. He shared the stage with two other distinguished speakers: Lord Mayor Fabrice Rulinda of Entebbe, Uganda and Tim Hanstad, an award-winning social entrepreneur and Vice Chairman of the Chandler Foundation’s Board of Directors in the United States.

During the live-streamed panel discussion, Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin emphasized Africa’s untapped potential, noting the continent’s unique advantage in the global community. “Africa holds a special place in the world, yet we haven’t harnessed that to claim our rightful position among the community of nations,” he remarked. Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin called for deliberate efforts to end discrimination against Africans, stressing the importance of Africans controlling their own narrative.

“We need to lead by telling our own stories the way we want Africa to be seen,” he said, to resounding applause from the audience. “We should make ourselves felt as Africans. Respect must be earned and it starts with believing in ourselves.”

Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin concluded his speech by critiquing the Western media’s biased portrayal of Africa, which often focuses on negative stories such as conflict, poverty and disease, while neglecting the many positive developments happening across the continent.

The appointment of Dr. Walton Gilpin as Global Ambassador for Elevate Africa is seen as a recognition of his commitment to promoting Africa’s growth and leadership on the global stage. His new role will involve helping to reshape perceptions of Africa and inspiring the continent’s next generation of leaders.

Healey International Relief Foundation and USAID Equip Hospitals and Empower Youth in Sierra Leone

By Millicent Senava Mannah

In a major humanitarian initiative, the Healey International Relief Foundation (HIRF), with support from the U.S. Government, USAID, ASHA, American schools and hospitals, has provided eight anesthesia machines valued at $240,000 to five hospitals in remote areas of Sierra Leone. These life-saving machines are set to improve healthcare delivery in facilities lacking basic infrastructure such as electricity.

As part of this larger effort, HIRF, in partnership with Caritas Freetown, organized a youth empowerment program under the “Innovate Your Future Project” (IYFP), designed to inspire students, especially young girls, to pursue careers in science and innovation. The training took place on Friday, October 11, 2024, at Jefferson Baptist School in Kissi Town, Waterloo, in the Western Rural Area.

The “Innovate Your Future Project” aims to reach at-risk youth in Sierra Leone by demonstrating how teamwork, science and innovation can address the country’s pressing economic and healthcare challenges. According to Ishmeal Alfred Charles, the In-Country Manager for HIRF, the project is supported by USAID and the ASHA program and it seeks to integrate both American and Sierra Leonean values in young people.

“We conducted a baseline survey in several locations including Waterloo, Makeni, Kamakwie, Panguma and Lunsar,” Ishmeal Alfred Charles explained. “The survey showed a lack of awareness about American support and access to advanced medical equipment, which drove us to increase interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics), particularly among girls,” he underscored.

The donation of eight universal anesthesia machines targets hospitals in underserved areas like Christ the King Hospital in Waterloo, Holy Spirit Hospital, Panguma Hospital, Kamakwie Wesleyan Hospital and St. John of God Hospital in Lunsar. These machines, which operate independently with vaporizers, oxygen, anesthetics and inbuilt batteries providing 5 to 8 hours of power, are expected to revolutionize surgical procedures in regions with limited resources.

“The machines are designed to enhance surgical capabilities and reduce the need for external funding for patients,” Ishmeal Alfred Charles noted, adding that local training for repairs and maintenance is being provided, with a vendor identified to support the machines’ upkeep. Additionally, hospital staff including anesthetists, doctors and nurses have been trained on proper usage, minimizing the risk of breakdowns.

To ensure long-term functionality, HIRF brings biomedical technicians annually to service the machines, a practice already in place at Connaught Hospital.

In addition to healthcare support, the “Innovate Your Future Project” is focused on empowering young girls to overcome societal barriers in pursuing careers in STEM fields.

Executive Director of the Healey Foundation, Josephine Garnem, encouraged girls to challenge themselves, emphasizing that young people, particularly girls, should not shy away from math and science.

“You don’t have to be afraid of math; with practice, you can excel,” Garnem told the students. “Don’t let stereotypes about gender dictate what profession you pursue.”

Dr. Bernadette Sanko Kamara, President of Berny’s Hope Foundation, also spoke to the students, stressing that while education is important, attitude plays a critical role in how one is perceived. “Being a woman does not diminish the value of your title or your contributions,” she remarked.

Dr. Alexis Laccarino, a Board member of the Healey Foundation and a mother of three, served as an example of balancing professional and personal roles. “You can be anything you want to be; whether you’re a wife, mother or doctor. These roles do not limit your potential,” she said.

During the event, students received gifts including backpacks, pencils and books, and participated in group activities such as a robotics workshop. A similar training session had been conducted earlier at St. Joseph’s Convent in Makeni.

This initiative by HIRF and its partners represents a dual effort to both enhance healthcare delivery in remote regions and inspire the next generation of Sierra Leoneans to pursue STEM-related careers, with a particular focus on empowering young girls.

Jetty Trading Company Feeds Over 1,200 People Every Saturday in Lumley

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

In a display of community spirit and generosity, Jetty Trading Company, led by Mohinder Bir Singh Sachdeva, popularly known as Pa Jetty, CEO of Jetty Trading Company, has been feeding over 1,200 people every weekend in the Lumley area. That initiative, which started in February 2024, aims to provide meals to those in need, fostering a sense of support and togetherness among residents.

P a Jetty, the driving force behind the program, revealed that the inspiration for the community food distribution came from his brother’s charitable work in Liberia. “I wanted to do something similar here,” he shared in an interview. What began as a small effort, cooking and distributing a single bag of food each Saturday, has expanded significantly, he furthered. According to him, Jetty Trading Company cooks five bags of rice on a weekly basis, ensuring a vegetarian meal is available to a diverse range of beneficiaries, including children, women, the elderly and people with disabilities.

In addition to providing food, Pa Jetty prioritizes maintaining high hygiene standards during meal preparation. He believes in sharing meals alongside the community, demonstrating the quality and sincerity of his efforts. It was learnt that as word of the initiative has spread, people from different parts of the city have joined the queue every Saturday for a hot meal. Despite the growing demand, Pa Jetty remains committed to continuing the project for as long as possible, emphasizing that he relies on divine support to sustain the initiative.

“Our goal is to inspire others to do the same,” Pa Jetty stated. He has deliberately declined offers of external donations, instead encouraging people to start their own feeding programs in their communities. He urged individuals, regardless of background, be they Indian, Lebanese, or Sierra Leonean, to take time out of their schedules to help those in need, stressing that many people possess the resources but lack the initiative.

Sheikh Abdulai Turay, the Public Relations Officer of Jetty Trading Company, echoed this message during a separate interview. He highlighted the significance of the CEO’s effort in providing food to the needy every Saturday. Since the initiative’s inception on February, it has consistently provided sustenance to approximately 1,200 people weekly, fostering a strong sense of community among attendees, he intimated.

“The impact has been significant with a consistent turnout every Saturday,” Sheikh Turay noted. He emphasized the inclusivity of the program, which serves a diverse group of beneficiaries and addresses the struggles faced by many, particularly young people in the country. He affirmed that the initiative would continue as Jetty Trading Company remains dedicated to its mission.

The impact of this program is evident in the stories of the beneficiaries, like Abdul Kamara, a disabled resident of Lumley. For Abdul, the initiative has been a lifeline. “It has been a tremendous help to me,” he shared. “Before this, I often struggled to get even one meal a day. With the support from Jetty Trading Company, I now know that I can count on a hot meal every Saturday. It might seem like a small thing to some, but for me, it makes a big difference.”

Abdul also expressed appreciation for Pa Jetty’s approach of joining the community during the meals, describing it as a sign of respect. “When Pa Jetty sits down and eats with us, it shows that he respects us and sees us as equals. It’s not just about giving food; it’s about treating people with dignity,” he said. Abdul believes that the program has brought a sense of hope and community to those who participate, many of whom have faced hardship and isolation.

MBSSE Minister Inspects Kailahun Hostel Project, Highlights Key Developments

By Foday Moriba Conteh

On Tuesday, October 8, 2024, the Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Conrad Sackey, and his team engaged with community stakeholders of Kaniya, Luawa Chiefdom in Kailahun, to provide updates on the ongoing construction of a hostel/boarding home in the area. This project, part of the Free Education Project Secretariat (FEPS), aims to provide much-needed accommodation for pupils in Kailahun District.

During the visit, Minister Sackey, alongside the contractor Unique Solutions and key stakeholders, inspects the progress of the project and assessed its alignment with the broader goals of the Free Education Project.

Addressing the gathering, the Minister expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “We are making significant strides with the Free Education Project Secretariat and I am excited to share the progress of the hostel construction, which will offer crucial support to students in this community.”

He emphasized that the project, made possible through partnerships with Irish Aid, the Department of Foreign Affairs, the World Bank and the Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office, is focused on enhancing educational infrastructure and improving access to quality education for pupils in Sierra Leone.

Minister Sackey highlighted the unique challenges faced by girls in Sierra Leone, particularly the high dropout rates after completing primary education. He stressed the importance of gender-responsive interventions, specifically designed to address the needs of girls.

He noted that in many communities, the absence of secondary schools forces parents to send their daughters far from home, often resulting in teenage pregnancies. Citing Zambia as an example, he explained how girls’ hostels have helped mitigate this issue, which inspired the Government’s decision to construct hostels for girls to address the problem in Sierra Leone.

He also acknowledged the calls from stakeholders for the construction of a girls’ school in Kailahun District, noting that there is currently none in the district. He assured the community that he would engage relevant authorities to consider their request.

The Minister concluded by reassuring the community that the hostel project remains on track and with the continued support of international partners, has not been abandoned as purported on social media. He emphasized that the hostel will soon provide a safe and conducive environment for pupils.

Conrad Sackey emphasized that the initiative reflects the Government’s commitment to delivering vital infrastructure that supports the future of education in Sierra Leone.

Earlier Ibrahim Deen, CEO of Unique Solutions Company Ltd, explained that the construction of the hostel began in 2022 but encountered delays due to some unforeseen issues.

He assured that, as the contractor, they have the necessary manpower to complete the project, adding that most of the work is now done, with 95% of the project already completed.

Ibrahim Deen further explained that during the construction the donors requested additional extensions and facilities, which contributed to the delay. However, he confidently stated that the building will be fully completed and handed over by the end of the year.

Welcoming the gathering, the Paramount Chief of Luawa Chiefdom, Alhaji Mohamed Sama, expressed his appreciation to the Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Conrad Sackey, and his team for engaging with the community stakeholders of Kaniya, Luawa Chiefdom in Kailahun, to provide updates on the ongoing construction of a hostel/boarding home in the chiefdom.

He emphasized the significance of the project, noting its potential to enhance educational infrastructure and improve access to quality education for pupils in the district.

The chief assured the community’s support for the project’s completion and echoed the sentiments of other speakers regarding the need for the construction of a girls’ school in the district.

The visit concluded with a tour of the facility led by the Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Conrad Sackey, along with community stakeholders and other key participants.

Jennifer Thompson Urges Collective Action on International Day of the Girl Child

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By Foday Moriba Conteh

On Friday, October 11, 2024, Jennifer Thompson, renowned philanthropist and CEO of The Jennifer Thompson Organization and The No Child Left Behind Initiatives, delivered a stirring statement in honor of International Day of the Girl Child. Her message, anchored on the global theme “Girls’ Vision for the Future,” emphasized the need for continued efforts to uplift girls in Sierra Leone and across the world.

In her address, Thompson highlighted the daily struggles faced by many girls, from limited access to quality education to societal pressures that restrict their opportunities. However, she also celebrated the resilience and determination of these girls, recognizing their potential to drive change and shape the future.

“This day is not just a celebration, but a call to action. We must ensure that the dreams and visions of girls are nurtured, respected, and brought to life,” Thompson remarked. “The challenges girls face are real, but their courage and hope are equally strong. These girls are not just the future of Sierra Leone; they are the future leaders, innovators, and change agents of the world.”

Thompson’s speech urged communities and governments to work together to break down barriers to education and create opportunities for girls to thrive. She called for safe spaces where girls can express themselves freely and for platforms where their ideas and visions can be showcased.

“Empowering girls isn’t just about giving them tools; it’s about providing them the opportunity to dream big and to see those dreams come true,” she said. “The theme ‘Girls’ Vision for the Future’ reminds us of the limitless potential within every girl. When we support them, we build stronger communities and a brighter future for all.”

She further addressed the critical role education plays in this vision, stressing that every girl in Sierra Leone deserves a quality education to unlock her full potential. By advocating for stronger educational programs, gender equality, and support for girls, Thompson believes the country can build a generation of empowered women who will lead Sierra Leone into a prosperous future.

“To the girls of Sierra Leone: Your dreams are valid. Your voice matters. You are the architects of tomorrow, and we believe in your power to build a better world,” she concluded, leaving a resounding message of hope and inspiration.

Her message comes at a time when global conversations are focusing on the importance of investing in girls as key to sustainable development, making Thompson’s call for action both timely and relevant.

QNET Products Are Genuine And World-Class With International Certifications – Journalist At Qnet Vcon Webinar

QNET

QNET, a global wellness and lifestyle direct selling company may be embroiled in misrepresentation with some unscrupulous people misusing its brand name, journalists from top Sierra Leonean and Liberia media organisations, at a media webinar on 10th October, 2024, agreed that the company’s products are in a unique league and they represent the epitome of quality and functionality per international standards.

The Senior Legal Counsel of QNET for sub-Saharan Africa, Naana Quartey explained that the media webinar was designed to help the media familiarise with the brand, know its business model, products and the efforts it is making in fighting misrepresentation and scams.

“We are making it possible for those who have attended our annual global VCON in Malaysia to share their experience, first-hand with you. As part of our media engagement commitment, we continue to organise special media junkets to enable journalists from Sierra Leone, Senegal, Liberia, Burkina Faso, Ghana, Togo and Nigeria to witness and experience QNET at our global conference in Malaysia. These journalists have seen and experienced everything about our company and they are in a very informed position to retell the wonderful story of their positive encounter with QNET.”

Talking about QNET products, Moderator for the webinar and Senior Journalist for Ghana’s Business and Financial Times, Ghana’s biggest business newspaper, Bernard Ashaidey explained: “Some QNET products that require certifications, do have global certifications and they are usually approved by local regulatory authorities before they are sold in any country.”

He mentioned: “QNET’s Homepure products are beautifully designed, high-performance home appliances that simplify sophisticated technology for everyday home living. They are designed to purify and elevate your quality of life at home and on-the-go. Homepure products are highly certified by independent global authorities and are loved the world over by those who use it.”

He continued: “For example, QNET’s Homepure Nova is an NSF certified water filtration system. NSF is a US-based independent, internationally recognized organization, playing pivotal role in the development of robust public health standards since 1944. NSF engages in the rigorous testing, auditing, and certification of products and services. The NSF mark serves as an emblem of assurance, signifying to consumers, retailers, and regulatory bodies that NSF certified products meet or exceed requisite international standards.”

Other seasoned journalists from the Calabash, Sierraloaded, Daily Observer who visited the Head Office of QNET and attended the VCON in Malaysia between 2022 and 2024 shared their testimonials about QNET during the webinar. They agreed that QNET is a legitimate wellness and lifestyle direct selling company that is unfairly facing challenges of misrepresentation. They reiterated their willingness to help the brand regain its reputation and fight scam.

In conclusion, Ms Quartey reiterated: “We continue to commit a lot of resources to our stakeholder and media engagement process. From 2022 till date, we have hosted four batches of journalists from Ghana, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Nigeria, Senegal, Burkina Faso, Togo and Benin at the VCON in Malaysia. In some countries, we are implementing 360-degree public and media education campaigns such as the “QNET Against Scams” and the “Say No” to help everyone understand QNET’s business model better and to be able to identify and report scam. We thank you for your support and we urge you to continue to join us as we commit more time, resources and efforts to winning the fight against misrepresentation and misuse of the QNET brand.”

Vice President Champions Regional Health Security as Sierra Leone Supports Rwanda

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a noteworthy show of international solidarity, Sierra Leone has deployed a team of 20 medical professionals to Rwanda to assist in managing an ongoing outbreak of Marburg Virus Disease (MVD). The deployment follows the official farewell given by Sierra Leone’s Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, during a ceremony held on October 8, 2024.

The Vice President, in his remarks, emphasized the country’s commitment to global health security, particularly in times of crisis. “Sierra Leone is committed to standing with our African brothers and sisters in their time of need,” Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh stated. “This mission underscores our dedication to supporting regional health initiatives, particularly in managing epidemic outbreaks.”

Rwanda declared the Marburg outbreak on September 27, 2024, and as of October 7, the Rwandan Ministry of Health reported 56 confirmed cases, with 12 fatalities. Among the victims, many are healthcare workers, highlighting the urgent need for international support.

Marburg virus, part of the same family as the Ebola virus, causes severe hemorrhagic fever and is often fatal. With symptoms closely resembling Ebola, the virus is known to spread through contact with bodily fluids or contaminated surfaces. Sierra Leone’s familiarity with managing outbreaks, especially following the 2014-2016 Ebola epidemic, positions its medical professionals to provide critical aid in Rwanda.

The Sierra Leonean medical team will support Rwanda’s Case Management Pillar, providing essential care, training and resources. This mission marks the fourth time Sierra Leone has deployed a medical team to assist other nations since President Julius Maada Bio established the National Public Health Agency (NPHA). The deployment is a collaborative effort involving Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Health, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Africa Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC).

In a statement shared on the National Public Health Agency’s Facebook page, the Government highlighted the deployment as a testament to Sierra Leone’s “commitment to global health security.” Vice President Juldeh Jalloh, flanked by WHO Country Representative, Dr. Innocent Bright Nuwagira and Sierra Leone’s Deputy Minister of Health, Dr. Charles Senessie, led the farewell event.

Rwanda’s ongoing Marburg outbreak is the first reported in the country and health authorities are still investigating its origin. The Marburg virus was first discovered in a laboratory in Germany in 1967, believed to have been transmitted from African green monkeys. Since then, several outbreaks have been recorded in Sub-Saharan Africa, including in Angola, Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania. The largest Marburg outbreak to date occurred in Angola in 2005, claiming over 300 lives.

Although there is no approved antiviral drug for treating Marburg Virus Disease, patients receive supportive care to manage symptoms such as dehydration and blood loss. The Africa CDC recently announced a donation of 5,100 vials of remdesivir, a drug used in treating COVID-19, as part of an emergency effort to provide treatment for those affected by the virus. The donation was secured through a collaboration with Gilead Sciences, Inc.

In addition to remdesivir, approximately 700 doses of an experimental Marburg vaccine have been shipped to Rwanda as part of a clinical trial aimed at controlling the spread of the virus. WHO has launched an appeal for $7.7 million to support the Rwandan Government in its efforts to manage the outbreak. The funding will be used to bolster surveillance, infection prevention, community engagement and cross-border collaboration between Rwanda and neighboring countries.

This outbreak adds to the continent’s current health challenges, particularly with ongoing Mpox virus epidemics affecting countries like the Democratic Republic of Congo. As global and regional efforts intensify to curb the spread of these diseases, Sierra Leone’s proactive role in responding to the Marburg outbreak stands as a powerful example of African cooperation in the face of public health crises.

 

NaTCA Fines Africell and Orange: Misapplication of 2022 Act Sparks controversy

By Esther Wright

It has been reported recently by mainstream and social media that the National Telecommunications Communications Authority (NaTCA) has imposed a significant fine of Le500 million (old Leones) each on Sierra Leone’s two largest mobile network operators, Africell and Orange. The fines, issued on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, stem from allegations that both companies have been operating their mobile money services without proper licensing in violation of the National Communications Authority Act 2022.

According to sources within NaTCA, the fines are being levied due to the operators’ alleged deliberate contravention of the 2022 Act. It was further learnt that in a letter addressed to the companies, NaTCA warned of severe consequences for further non-compliance, stating: “Failure to comply with the National Communications Act 2022 would leave the Authority with no alternative, but to conclude that your institutions are illegal entities, and they would be treated as such.”

However, it must be highlighted that this sensitive issue revolves around whether Africell and Orange’s mobile money services fall under the purview of NaTCA’s regulatory authority, as stipulated in the 2022 Communications Act.

The seriousness of the situation is that both companies have been accused by NaTCA of running these services without the requisite licenses from them as the country’s communications regulator. NaTCA has emphasized that its mandate is to regulate all forms of electronic communication services, including mobile money, to ensure compliance with national standards and consumer protection laws.

However, after a thorough investigation and a closer look by this medium into the NaTCA Act and relevant provisions, it appears that the situation is more complex than initially reported. Upon careful review, several important considerations must be taken into account regarding the applicability of the National Communications Act 2022.

Before delving into the nitty-gritty of the Act, this medium is privy to the fact that there have been numerous meetings, correspondences and exchanges between NaTCA, the Bank of Sierra Leone, and mobile money operators like Africell and Orange. Our understanding is that the two regulatory bodies, NaTCA and the Bank of Sierra Leone, had initially agreed to address these concerns jointly, through a specific regulation that would cover both telecommunications and financial services. Mobile money services, which overlap both communications and financial sectors, were expected to be regulated under this joint framework.

It must be underscored that NaTCA’s primary mandate, according to the Communications Act 2022, is to establish technical and performance standards for electronic communications equipment and appliances. The key question here is whether this mandate extends to mobile money services, which, while reliant on telecommunications infrastructure, are fundamentally financial services.

The Act defines “electronic communications operators” and the types of services they are expected to provide. Orange Mobile Finance, for instance, does not seem to fit the traditional definition of an “electronic communications operator” as outlined in the Act. This distinction is crucial, as it may indicate that Orange Mobile Finance falls outside the regulatory authority of NaTCA, as their services primarily involve financial transactions rather than telecommunications.

As the situation stands, the fines imposed by NaTCA have raised concerns about whether mobile money operators like Africell and Orange are being penalized unfairly. From our investigation conducted both operators have maintained that they are in compliance with the applicable financial regulations under the oversight of the Bank of Sierra Leone and that their mobile money services do not fall under NaTCA’s current licensing framework.

What is clear is that there needs to be a more coordinated approach between NaTCA and the Bank of Sierra Leone to resolve the regulatory ambiguity surrounding mobile money services. The joint regulation that was initially proposed may provide the clarity and framework needed to avoid further conflicts and ensure that the rapidly growing mobile money sector remains compliant with all legal and technical standards.

As mobile money services continue to play a vital role in the country’s financial inclusion efforts, resolving this regulatory dispute is crucial. The hope is that dialogue between NaTCA, the Bank of Sierra Leone and the mobile operators will lead to a solution that promotes both compliance and the continued growth of these essential services.

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