Mandatory Biometric ID Cards and SIM Linking: What Sierra Leoneans Need to Know

September 4, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) is stepping up its campaign to require all individuals in Sierra Leone, both citizens and non-citizens, to obtain Biometric ID Cards at designated centers across the nation. These ID cards, which feature a unique National Identification Number (NIN), are designed to enhance identity verification, facilitate access to essential services and help prevent fraudulent activities.

In tandem with this initiative, the NCRA is urging all mobile phone users to link their NINs to their SIM cards between September 1 and November 30, 2024. This Government-mandated action aims to safeguard personal identities and curb the misuse of mobile services for illicit purposes. Those who fail to complete this linkage within the specified timeframe may face disruptions in their mobile services, including the inability to make or receive calls, send SMS messages or perform mobile money transactions.

The Biometric ID Card is not merely a form of identification but a critical advancement in managing and securing personal identities. Each card is issued with a distinct NIN, ensuring individual uniqueness and bolstering efforts to combat identity theft and fraud, which are becoming more prevalent in today’s digital landscape.

Additionally, the Biometric ID Card has become a prerequisite for accessing a variety of public and private services in Sierra Leone. Recent Cabinet decisions stipulate that the ID card must be presented for activities such as banking, where it provides an extra layer of security against fraud. Law enforcement agencies also use these cards for precise identification at checkpoints throughout the country.

The card’s significance extends to the educational sector as well. Students are now required to present their Biometric ID Cards to be eligible for national examinations like the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE). This requirement aims to verify candidates and uphold the integrity of the examination process by minimizing the risk of impersonation.

To facilitate easy access, the NCRA has set up numerous registration and collection centers nationwide, including:

NCRA Headquarters: 2 Walpole Street, Freetown
NCRA Office: 23B Off Kingharman Road, Freetown
NCRA Office: Kennedy Street, Freetown
NCRA Branch Office: 230 Lumley Road, Freetown (Near the Roundabout)
NCRA Office: Waterloo, along the Freetown Highway (Opposite the Police Station)
Regional NCRA Offices in Bo, Kenema, Makeni, and Port Loko

For further assistance or inquiries, individuals can reach the NCRA at:

– Mobile: +232 33 939740 / +232 79 578063

– Website: [www.ncra.gov.sl](http://www.ncra.gov.sl)

– Email: info@ncra.gov.sl

The NCRA also offers corporate Biometric ID Card issuance services for public and private institutions.

As Sierra Leone advances toward a more secure and efficient identification system, linking NINs to SIM cards is a crucial element of the government’s strategy to enhance national security, protect personal identities, and improve service delivery. The NCRA is dedicated to supporting these processes and ensuring that all eligible individuals take the necessary steps to secure their identities and access essential services.

September 4, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leone’s oil and gas sector is witnessing a transformative shift as NP (SL) Limited leads the charge with innovative digital advancements. As the leading fuel distributor in the country, NP (SL) is enhancing its market position through a strategic transition to digital and cashless transactions, boosting both efficiency and competitiveness.

NP(SL)’s push towards digital transformation comes in response to the increasing demand for petroleum and gas products, driven by population growth and industrial expansion. On April 24, 2024, NP (SL) launched the pilot phase of its Energy Pass Card, a groundbreaking initiative designed to modernize the fueling process and foster a cashless environment. This smart card aims to secure cash transactions, provides real-time fuel balance updates, ensures nationwide access and flexibility for users.

The Energy Pass Card is equipped with both online and offline functionality and incorporates advanced security measures. It features instant SMS notifications for each transaction, ensuring greater transparency and accountability. This initiative aligns with NP (SL)’s broader strategy to leverage digital technology for enhanced operational performance, reduced human error and improved efficiency.

In a highly competitive industry, NP (SL) stands out with its proactive approach to digitalization. The company’s transition to a cashless system not only enhances operational efficiency but also solidifies its status as the top fuel distributor in Sierra Leone. The Energy Pass Card, part of NP (SL)’s “FUBU” (For Us, By Us) initiative, represents a significant leap towards a cashless economy with its user-friendly design and robust security features, including One-Time Passwords (OTPs).

Furthermore, the introduction of the NP Smart Card and NP Gas, an eco-friendly cooking device, reflects its commitment to meeting evolving customer needs.

Safety remains a cornerstone of NP (SL)’s operations, particularly given the risks associated with handling flammable substances like petrol and diesel. The company collaborates with the National Fire Force and invests in critical infrastructure such as advanced bore wells and standby generators to support effective firefighting and safety measures.

NP (SL) also excels in customer service, maintaining a top ranking status for service quality due to its adherence to strict safety protocols and continuous staff training. This dedication extends to its Filling Stations, where prompt emergency response and service excellence are paramount.

As a responsible corporate entity, NP (SL) Ltd significantly contributes to national development through substantial tax payments, supporting Government projects and public welfare initiatives under its Corporate Social Responsibility.

The company’s expansion efforts into underserved regions have not only addressed energy poverty but also created new job opportunities, supporting Sierra Leone’s economic growth. NP (SL)’s Local Content policy emphasizes hiring local talent, contributing to national development and poverty reduction.

Beyond Sierra Leone, NP (SL) operates in Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast, and The Gambia, playing a significant role in regional economic stability and job creation. Its commitment to transparency, customer care and community empowerment ensures its continued prominence in the petroleum industry and solidifies its role as a key player in Sierra Leone’s economic and social progress.

Indisputably, NP (SL) has established itself as a leader in Sierra Leone’s petroleum market through its commitment to safety, technological innovation and local economic development. The company is focused on maintaining its dominant position while expanding its footprint across West Africa, with a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability and customer satisfaction.

China and Africa Strengthen Economic Ties at 2024 FOCAC Summit in Beijing

September 4, 2024

By Abu Bakarr Kargbo in Beijing

At the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit held in Beijing, top officials from the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) highlighted the deepening economic relationship between China and African countries. The summit underscored the significant progress made in fostering mutually beneficial partnerships and promoting sustainable development across the continent.

Lin Honghong, Deputy Director General of CCPIT’s Department of International Relations, praised the long-standing friendship and strategic guidance that have driven successful collaboration between China and Africa. Lin reported a remarkable increase in foreign direct investment from China to Africa, which reached $40 billion in 2023. Additionally, Chinese companies have created over one million jobs in Africa, cementing China’s role as the continent’s largest development partner and employer.

During the press conference, Lin reaffirmed CCPIT’s commitment to maintaining close cooperation with African counterparts and advancing trade sessions to boost economic exchanges. The emphasis on increasing trade volumes and expanding commercial interactions highlights the shared goal of nurturing a thriving trade relationship and driving economic growth on both sides.

Zhang Shaogang, Vice Chairman of CCPIT, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the crucial role of FOCAC in strengthening ties between China and African nations. Zhang highlighted the collaborative efforts towards achieving win-win outcomes and fostering common prosperity. He stressed the importance of quality trade promotion and partnership for sustainable development.

Zhang also noted the significance of the upcoming FOCAC Summit, which will provide a platform for leaders to engage in in-depth discussions on economic cooperation and development initiatives. He reiterated China’s commitment to implementing the outcomes of the previous CPC session and enhancing trade cooperation, exploring new partnership avenues, and working towards a shared future with Africa.

The summit agenda includes discussions on promoting and integrating supply chains and developing industries. China and Africa will explore opportunities for deepening collaboration and advancing mutual interests.

A notable highlight of the summit is the Entrepreneurs Conference scheduled for September 6. Twelve entrepreneurs from China and Africa will gather to exchange insights, experiences, and development prospects. With a turnout of one thousand participants exceeding expectations, the conference is set to facilitate meaningful dialogue and strengthen business ties between the two regions.

The summit’s inclusive nature is further underscored by the participation of heads of states, major companies, and small and medium-sized enterprises. Through robust engagement and dialogue, the China-Africa community aims to elevate trade cooperation, foster innovation, and drive economic growth across sectors.

Sun Xiao, CCPIT Spokesperson, highlighted the strides made in clean energy and development projects undertaken with African partners. CCPIT remains committed to exploring tailored development paths aligned with Africa’s needs and strengthening cooperation in clean energy initiatives under the FOCAC framework.

The 2024 FOCAC Summit in Beijing marks a pivotal moment for China and Africa to deepen economic ties, foster innovation, and pursue sustainable development. With a focus on inclusive growth, partnership building, and mutual prosperity, the summit sets the stage for enhanced collaboration and shared successes, marking a new chapter in the dynamic China-Africa relationship.

OpIndia’s Claims Against S.V. Electricals Debunked After Thorough Investigation

September 3, 2024

By Amin Kef Sesay

In journalism, the principle of objectivity is paramount, particularly when reporting on allegations against individuals, institutions or businesses. Ensuring that all sides of a story are presented is not just a matter of fairness it is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the reporting process and fostering public trust in the media.

The recent allegations made against an Indian national, Suresh Vatnani, the Proprietor of S.V. Electricals situated on 73 B, Siaka Stevens Street in Freetown by OpIndia , a news outlet in India, serve as a prime example of why balanced reportage is essential.

According to the claims, Arpit Kumar Pandey, who was residing in India was employed through an agent in 2020 to work for Suresh Vatnani, the Proprietor of S.V. Electricals in Sierra Leone as Shop Manager. It was further alleged that after an initial period where Pandey was paid regularly, his salary was withheld with the promise of a lump sum payment, which has yet to be delivered.

Furthermore, Arpit Kumar Pandey claims he has been mistreated and forced to work under harsh conditions, akin to bonded labor, with his parents’ efforts to have him returned to India allegedly thwarted by Suresh Vatnani.

However, when this news medium undertook a comprehensive investigation into the matter, significant details emerged that had not been previously reported. The Calabash Newspaper reached out to Suresh Vatnani for his perspective welcoming the investigative move, expressing confidence that it would reveal the truth. He confirmed that Arpit Kumar Pandey has been employed by him since 2020 and stated that their working relationship had been conducted in accordance with the agreed-upon terms.

He emphasized that when a proper accounting or stock taking was conducted it was realized that at the branch shop in Lumley in the West End of Freetown, where he was serving as the Shop Manager, Arpit Kumar Pandey, misappropriated electrical materials worth Twenty Two Thousand Dollars ($22,000).

After raising suspicion and an internal investigation was mounted he was transferred to the company’s other branch at Hastings in the far East End of Freetown where was not entering details of sales in the accounting system that was set up by SV Electricals to ensure transparency, to the tune of $2,500 with all the total amount of money fraudulently obtained amounting to $24,500.

Suresh Vatnani pointed out that it was understood that the accused has remitted the money to India after which he had been expressing a desire to return home.

Again when this medium went a step forward in its investigation by contacting the Indian High Commission’s Charge d’Affaires, Neeraj Kumar Saini, he explained that the Minister of State for External Affairs in India, Kirti Vardhan Singh, wrote a letter to him to repatriate Arpit Kumar Pandey to India adding that when they summoned Arpit Kumar Pandey to the High Commission he confessed his involvement and made an undertaking on the 19^th June, 2024 disclosing that he fraudulently converted the money for the electrical materials further promising to refund it.

Charge d’Affaires, Neeraj Kumar Saini also stated that he advised against legal action and suggested seeking an amicable resolution maintaining that Vatnani has since expressed his willingness to allow Arpit Kumar Pandey to return to India.

This case underscores the critical need for balanced reporting. By diligently seeking out and presenting all sides of the story, journalists not only uphold ethical standards but also contribute to a more transparent and just society.

It is hoped that the inclusion of Suresh Vatnani’s account offers a more insightful understanding of the situation, allowing the public to form opinions based on a comprehensive view of the facts. It is through such balanced reporting that journalism can maintain its credibility and continue to be respected as a vital pillar of democracy.

DG Musayeroh Barrie Signs Management Service Agreement with ICAO for Aviation Reform

September 2, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a major development for the nation’s aviation industry, Sierra Leone has on August 30, 2024 signed a groundbreaking Management Service Agreement (MSA) with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), marking the first such collaboration since 2007. The agreement, signed by the Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), Musayeroh Barrie, aims to elevate the standards of aviation operations and safety within the country.

The MSA outlines several strategic initiatives, including the establishment of an ICAO TRAINAIR Plus Training Institution in Sierra Leone, which is expected to significantly enhance the training and expertise of SLCAA staff. This institution will play a crucial role in ensuring that the country’s aviation professionals are equipped with the latest knowledge and skills required for maintaining high safety standards.

Moreover, the agreement includes the development of a comprehensive Civil Aviation Master Plan (CAMP), which will serve as a long-term strategic roadmap for the modernization and growth of Sierra Leone’s aviation infrastructure. Additional provisions under the MSA involve the formulation of a National Aviation Safety Plan (NASP), a National Air Navigation Plan (NANP) and other vital frameworks aimed at enhancing the sector’s efficiency and security.

The successful negotiation of this agreement is attributed to the leadership of Musayeroh Barrie, whose commitment to international cooperation and capacity-building has been pivotal in advancing Sierra Leone’s aviation sector.

This partnership with ICAO is expected to significantly bolster Sierra Leone’s aviation capabilities, aligning the country with global standards and paving the way for sustained development in the industry.

MBSSE Hands Over Additional Classrooms & WASH Facility to R.C. Madonna Girls School in Bo

September 2, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

As part of Phase 1 of the Sierra Leone Free Education Project, the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary School Education, with support from the World Bank, handed over four additional classrooms and a WASH facility to the R.C. Madonna Girls Primary School in Bo City on Friday, August 30th, 2024.

This initiative, implemented by the Government of Sierra Leone through the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary School Education, is a significant step towards improving the education infrastructure for girls in the Southern Province. The new facilities aim to enhance the learning environment, reflecting the Government’s commitment to human capital development through education reform.

Giving an overview of the project, Ambrose T. Sesay, the Project Coordinator of the Free Education Project (FEP), emphasized the Government’s focus on improving girls’ education as part of its broader commitment to human capital development.

“The symbolic opening of additional classrooms at a girls’ school is a deliberate choice,” he stated, underscoring the importance of creating conducive learning environments for young girls. He explained that the Free Education Project, a multi-donor initiative funded by the World Bank, the European Union, FCDO and Irish Aid, is valued at $1.6 million and is one of the largest education projects in Sierra Leone.

Ambrose T. Sesay also highlighted the importance of inclusivity within the education system. The newly constructed classrooms are designed to accommodate all students, including those with physical challenges. “Our buildings are inclusive, with ramps to ensure accessibility for all,” he said. He also addressed the needs of girls facing pregnancy, ensuring that they will not be left out of the education system, with appropriate facilities in place to support them.

The Chair of the School Management Committee (SMC) at R.C. Madonna Girls Primary School, expressed gratitude to the Government of Sierra Leone and partners for the handing-over ceremony of the newly constructed classrooms and WASH facilities to the school which he described as a significant milestone in the institution’s development.

The SMC Chair emphasized the importance of the new infrastructure, calling it a “big occasion in the life of the Madonna Primary School.” He noted that the school, sponsored by the Catholic Mission, has long been a beacon of education for girls in the area and beyond.

Beyond the classrooms, the SMC Chair highlighted the installation of new toilet facilities, addressing a long-standing issue at the school. Previously, the pupils had been using inadequate and shared facilities with the surrounding community.

Mokhles Rahman, Project Task Team Lead at the World Bank Sierra Leone Country Office, emphasized the critical role that education plays in Sierra Leone’s development. “Education is the engine of growth,” he stated. “If children are not properly educated, the future of this country will face challenges.”

He acknowledged the challenges faced by many children in Sierra Leone, particularly the lack of educational resources at home, including books and the high rate of illiteracy among parents. These issues, he noted, are long-standing barriers that need to be addressed in order to improve learning outcomes across the country.

To tackle these challenges, the World Bank, in collaboration with the Government, has introduced a new program called foundational learning, which aims to raise the standard of education nationwide. The program is set to be rolled out across Sierra Leone starting in September 2024.

Mokhles Rahman called on teachers, parents and the community to support the initiative, saying, “Please help to make it a success. It will change the education scenario of this country.”

He also touched on the importance of girls’ education in Sierra Leone, noting that the country has made progress in this area, but there is still more work to be done. He urged communities to work together to prevent gender-based violence and ensure the safety of girls in schools and communities.

The Project Task Team Lead expressed the World Bank’s commitment to continued investment in Sierra Leone’s development, particularly in the area of human capital development. “Economic development is based on human capital development,” he noted. “We must equip our children with the skills they need to shape the future of this country.”

In his keynote address speech, Conrad Sackey, Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary School Education emphasized that this development reflects the broader national vision of building a brighter future for every child in Sierra Leone. “This event is not just about constructing classrooms. It is about constructing the future of Sierra Leone, one child at a time,” he remarked.

The Minister highlighted the impact of the Free Quality School Education Initiative, a central pillar of President Julius Maada Bio’s Big Five Agenda, which focuses on Human Capital Development, Economic Diversification, Infrastructure, Technology and Governance. Since its launch, the initiative has seen a significant increase in school enrollment, particularly among girls, as barriers such as financial constraints and inadequate infrastructure are gradually being dismantled.

“The additional classrooms being handed over today are part of our commitment to addressing overcrowding in schools and creating conducive learning environments for our children. These classrooms are not merely buildings of bricks and mortar; they represent hope, opportunity and our unwavering commitment to the education of our nation’s future leaders,” the Minister said.

He underscored the Government’s belief that through education, communities can be lifted out of poverty, citizens can be empowered and a prosperous future can be built for generations to come.

“To our teachers, we say thank you for your commitment to nurturing the minds of our children. To the parents, thank you for believing in the vision of a better future. And to the students, seize these opportunities, study hard and know that the future of Sierra Leone rests in your hands,” Conrad Sackey encouraged.

He concluded by extending gratitude to the World Bank and other international partners, including the Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office, the European Union and Irish Aid, for their support in making the project possible.

Climaxing the ceremony was cutting the ribbon, symbolizing the official opening of the new facilities by Conrad Sackey, Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary School Education and other dignitaries present.

Dr. Kandeh Yumkella Appointed Chair of New Energy Governance Coordination Group

September 2, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a move to enhance the effectiveness and coherence within Sierra Leone’s energy sector, President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has on Friday August 30, 2024 appointed Dr. Kandeh Yumkella as the Chair of the newly established Energy Governance Coordination Group (EGCG). This strategic initiative aims to streamline information sharing and coordination across various entities involved in energy governance.

Dr. Yumkella, who has been serving as Chairman of the Presidential Initiative on Climate Change, Renewable Energy and Food Security, will now take on this pivotal role as part of President Bio’s broader effort to tackle the sector’s challenges. The EGCG is designed to provide guidance on immediate and short-term issues, as well as oversee the development and implementation of investment promotion strategies within the energy sector.

The group will be comprised of key figures including the Deputy Ministers of Energy I & II, the Minister of Finance, the CEO of the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) and the Chairpersons of the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA), the Electricity Generation and Transmission Company (EGTC) and the Electricity and Water Regulatory Commission (EWRC).

Dr. Kandeh Yumkella’s appointment reflects his extensive experience and expertise in energy governance, which are expected to be instrumental in advancing President Bio’s vision for a reformed and sustainable energy sector. His role will be crucial in ensuring that the sector’s strategic goals are met and that energy governance is effectively aligned with national development objectives.

As the EGCG takes shape, it will focus on providing strategic oversight and addressing immediate challenges within the energy sector, while also guiding the rollout of investment initiatives aimed at boosting sector performance.

This development underscores President Bio’s commitment to enhancing Sierra Leone’s energy infrastructure and supporting the ongoing reforms linked to the Feed Salone agenda. Dr. Kandeh Yumkella’s leadership in this new capacity is anticipated to significantly impact the sector’s progress and reform efforts.

ECOWAS Logistics Depot 99% Finished, Set to Launch Soon

September 2, 2024

By Amin Kef Sesay

The Ministry of Planning and Economic Development (MoPED) and delegation, including Members of the Parliamentary Oversight Committee on Planning and Economic Development and local authorities from Kaffu Bullom Chiefdom, Port Loko District on Friday 23^rd August 2024 visited the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Logistics Depot in Lungi, Kaffu Bullom Chiefdom, Port Loko District.

The MoPED Minister, Madam Kenyeh Barlay commended the Members of Parliament from Port Loko District, the chiefdom authorities and ECOWAS for their support towards the completion of the project, noted that the depot is not only important to ECOWAS but Sierra Leone and that the main opposition leader for the APC and MPs from the District were invited to the event.

She went on to recall that they visited the depot in May this year during which they promised to engage stakeholders to address the challenges affecting its timely completion , especially land grabbing, security and stressed the need for stakeholders to raise-awareness and misconceptions about the project.

The Minister went on to state that the visit is to ensure that action is taken on the parcel of land on the seafront that the depot wants access to intimating that the project start in Jeduly 2000 but that it is only now that it has developed rapidly to 99% completion rate in spite of the EBOLA and COVID-10 outbreaks and other challenges and stressed that she wants the project to be handed over to Government by the end of this year.

Madam Kenyeh Barlay also appealed to the people of Kaffu Bullom Chiefdom to offer about an acre of land to the project citing the opportunities to them including jobs and capacity building and disclosed that discussions are underway with the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority that has quarters on the land earmarked for expansion for an amicable resolution.

The ECOWAS Representative in Sierra Leone, Alhaji Aruna Musa revealed that the depot was established through the United Nations and African Union Protocols for peacekeeping operations as well as to serve as a standby force to produce a combination of forces to maintain peace adding that the depot is the baby of ECOWAS.

According to Alhaji Aruna Musa, the ECOWAS Depot is a logistics hub within the sub-region underscoring that no mission would succeed without logistics.

The representative of the project consultants disclosed that the project is over 97% complete citing the water supply, fire equipment, planting of trees, fencing and installation of fire hydrants remaining and the additional building for soldiers of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces.

The Speaker of Kaffu Bullum Chiefdom, Alhaji Alimamy Dumbuya commended Government for constructing the new airport and pledged their unflinching support to the project underlining that they are development-oriented and proud of the depot.

Earlier welcoming the delegation, the Head of the Logistics Depot, retired Lieutenant-Colonel Dr. Bala Mohamed described the day as historic, commended the Government of President Dr. Julius Maada Bio for taking Sierra Leone higher to the United Nations Security Council and the opportunity to establish the ECOWAS Logistics Depot in Sierra Leone as well as taking the project as the country’s baby especially the time and resources allocated to it.

NAYCOM, World Bank to Roll Out Major Youth Employment Program with $40 Million

September 2, 2024

By Dauda Koroma

Sierra Leone’s National Youth Commission (NAYCOM), in collaboration with the World Bank, the National Commission for Social Action (NaCSA), and the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), on August 30, 2024, hosted a media engagement event to discuss the Productive Social Safety Net and Youth Employment (PSSNYE) Project. Held at the New Connection Hotel in Makeni, the event was themed: “Empowering Youth, Amplifying Voices: Media as a Catalyst for Youth-Led Enterprises in Sierra Leone.”

The PSSNYE Project, which has received a substantial $40 million funding boost from the World Bank, aims to support 8,000 young people across Sierra Leone, including major cities like Freetown, Bo, Kenema, Makeni and Port Loko. The initiative focuses on developing youth-led household enterprises, with a strategic emphasis on promoting business growth and sustainability among the youth.

Emerson Kamara, Deputy Commissioner of NAYCOM, highlighted the urgent need to address high youth unemployment to ensure the country’s peaceful development. He emphasized that President Julius Maada Bio is committed to improving youth employment through this project. The funding will enable training and support for young entrepreneurs to help their businesses thrive, with monitoring from NaCSA and ACC to ensure transparency and prevent corruption.

Isata M. Blake, Senior Development Social Safety Network at NaCSA, affirmed the project’s commitment to fairness and sustainability. She noted that the initiative not only provides micro-social training but also focuses on empowering women, ensuring a broad impact.

Patrick Monrovia, Projects Coordinator at ACC, emphasized the importance of integrating the Governance Redress Mechanism (GRM) into the project. He assured that the ACC is prepared to address any grievances, particularly those related to corruption, to maintain project integrity.

Momodu Woodie, NAYCOM Programme Manager, underscored the significance of media involvement in the PSSNYE Project. He explained that media can enhance the project’s visibility, attract stakeholders and foster transparency by keeping the community informed. Woodie noted that the initiative aims to provide both financial and social support to vulnerable populations, thereby equipping them with skills for sustainable livelihoods.

The PSSNYE Project, which is set to run until June 30, 2027, will be implemented by NaCSA in collaboration with partners including ACC, NAYCOM, and the Freetown City Council. The project’s objective is to improve access to social safety nets and income-generating opportunities, marking a significant step towards addressing Sierra Leone’s youth unemployment crisis.

Yusuf Kamara, NAYCOM Monitoring and Evaluation Manager, outlined the project’s alignment with the country’s medium-term national development plan, highlighting key sectors for investment, including microfinance and large-scale machinery.

This ambitious project represents a crucial investment in Sierra Leone’s future, aiming to drive economic stability and social equity through targeted support for its youth.

From Beyond the Grave: Sia’s Call for Change Highlights Dire Need to Address Intimate Partner Violence

September 2, 2024

By Phebe Conteh

In a poignant message addressed to the residents of Leo Land, the late Sia Fatu Kamara has made a heartfelt plea for change in the fight against intimate partner violence. In a message written from beyond the grave, Sia, whose life was tragically cut short by such violence, shares her vision for a society free from abuse. The message, conveyed through celestial guidance, emphasizes three critical pillars: Education, Empowerment, and Enforcement.

Sia’s message, which reverberates with a deep sense of urgency, outlines a clear path to ending intimate partner violence. She urges everyone, regardless of gender, to embrace these principles to foster a safer and more supportive community.

Sia stresses the importance of understanding oneself before entering any romantic relationship or marriage. She advocates for personal growth and mutual understanding within relationships, urging individuals to seek partners who support and complement their aspirations. Effective communication about core aspects such as values, boundaries and conflict resolution is crucial in nurturing a healthy relationship and preventing violence.

Acknowledging that conflicts are a natural part of relationships, Sia highlights the strength required to address and resolve disagreements healthily. She encourages individuals to prioritize their well-being and consider leaving toxic relationships. Access to resources such as clinical services and safety shelters is vital for victims of intimate partner violence, she emphasizes.

Sia calls for rigorous enforcement of laws against intimate partner violence. She demands thorough investigation and prosecution of perpetrators, insisting that those who commit such heinous acts face appropriate consequences. Her message concludes with a powerful assertion that the fight against abuse must be active and relentless.

The call to action is clear: educate about healthy relationships, empower victims and enforce the law to protect women. Sia’s final words echo a resolve that the revolution against intimate partner violence must begin immediately, with collective effort and unwavering commitment.