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Mines Minister Pushes for Greater Investment in Africa’s Critical Minerals Sector at SPIEF 2026

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leone has reinforced its commitment to sustainable mining, foreign investment and international cooperation through its participation in the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) 2026, where the country joined world leaders, investors and industry experts to promote its growing mineral sector and strengthen global partnerships.

The high-profile Forum, which was held from 3 to 6 June 2026 in St. Petersburg, Russian Federation, served as one of the world’s foremost platforms for economic dialogue, investment promotion and international collaboration. The event brought together heads of state, senior Government officials, business executives, development partners and investors from across the world to explore emerging economic opportunities and strategic alliances.

Sierra Leone’s delegation was led by the Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, Julius D. Mattai and included the Leader of Government Business in Parliament, Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to the Russian Federation, the Director General of the National Minerals Agency (NMA), the Director of Policy and Research, the Director of Geological Surveys, together with other senior officials from the Ministry of Mines and Mineral Resources and the National Minerals Agency.

One of the major highlights of the country’s participation was the role played by Julius D. Mattai as a panelist during a high-level discussion themed : “Rare and Strategic: Sovereignty and International Cooperation in the Field of Rare Earth Elements and Critical Minerals.”

The session brought together Government representatives and industry experts from different regions of the world to examine the growing strategic significance of rare earth elements and critical minerals in driving the global energy transition, technological innovation and industrial growth.

During the discussion, Julius D. Mattai underscored Sierra Leone’s commitment to responsible mineral resource governance and the sustainable development of the country’s expanding portfolio of critical minerals. He noted that the increasing global demand for those resources presents an important opportunity for mineral-rich nations to diversify their economies and achieve long-term prosperity.

The Minister stressed that countries endowed with mineral wealth should secure greater benefits from their natural resources through local content policies, value addition, skills development and industrialization. He emphasized that those measures are vital to ensuring that the mining sector makes a meaningful contribution to national development and sustainable economic growth.

He further observed that the rapidly growing international demand for critical minerals calls for stronger global cooperation to establish transparent, resilient and sustainable supply chains. While advocating for the protection of national sovereignty over natural resources, he maintained that effective collaboration between producing and consuming nations remains essential to creating mutual benefits and ensuring long-term stability across the sector.

Julius D. Mattai also called for increased investment in Africa’s mining infrastructure, geological research, human capital development and downstream mineral processing industries. According to him, such investments are necessary to unlock the continent’s vast mineral potential and strengthen Africa’s position within the global critical minerals value chain.

The high-level panel further explored strategies for balancing national interests with international partnerships while promoting responsible sourcing standards, improving supply chain security and encouraging innovation in the extraction and processing of critical minerals.

Beyond the panel discussion, the Sierra Leone delegation participated in a series of bilateral meetings, strategic engagements and investment discussions designed to deepen cooperation with Governments, development partners, investors and industry stakeholders. The engagements focused on attracting new investments, strengthening technical partnerships, expanding geological knowledge and promoting downstream mineral development and value addition.

SPIEF 2026 also provided Sierra Leone with a valuable opportunity to showcase its growing potential in critical minerals, geological exploration and mineral processing while engaging international stakeholders on issues relating to economic development and the sustainable management of the country’s natural resources.

Sierra Leone’s participation at the Forum reflected the Government’s determination to leverage the mining sector as a key driver of economic transformation, industrialization, employment creation and sustainable development. It also demonstrated the country’s continued efforts to position itself as a competitive, reliable and responsible destination for global mining investment while playing an increasingly significant role in international conversations on the future of critical minerals.

Opposition Leader Raises Red Flag Over Sierra Leone’s Growing Drug Trafficking Reputation

Man in a navy pinstripe suit and red tie sits at a conference table with a red bottle, smartphone, and papers in front of him in a meeting room.

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

A new investigation by the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP) has alleged that one of Europe’s most wanted fugitives, Dutch drug trafficker Joseph “Jos” Leijdekkers, was behind a massive cocaine shipment intercepted by Spanish authorities in what has been described as one of the largest drug busts in international history.

According to the OCCRP report published on June 5, 2026, Spanish law enforcement officials believe Joseph “Jos” Leijdekkers masterminded the movement of more than 30 tons of cocaine that was seized aboard the cargo vessel Arconian in international waters off the West African coast on May 1.

The operation, led by Spain’s Civil Guard, resulted in the arrest of 23 suspects, including Dutch, Surinamese and Philippine nationals. Authorities estimated the value of the seized narcotics at more than US$954 million.

Spanish Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska reportedly described the seizure as “one of the biggest, not only nationally but internationally.”

According to Spanish investigators cited by OCCRP, the Arconian departed from Freetown before its interception. Lieutenant Colonel Oscar Remacha, Head of the Civil Guard’s anti-drug trafficking department, alleged that Joseph “Jos” Leijdekkers had stored the cocaine in Sierra Leone and coordinated its transportation.

“He is the one who allegedly set up the operation,” Oscar Remacha told OCCRP, claiming that the fugitive organized both the shipment and the supply of the narcotics.

However, the Spanish court documents referenced in the report do not list Joseph “Jos” Leijdekkers among those formally charged in connection with the case. His lawyer reportedly declined to comment on the allegations.

Joseph “Jos” Leijdekkers remains one of the European Union’s most wanted fugitives. Dutch authorities are offering a reward of 200,000 Euros for information leading to his arrest. A court in the Netherlands sentenced him in absentia in 2024 to 24 years in prison on charges including drug trafficking, armed robbery and ordering murder.

The OCCRP report noted that Dutch authorities have faced difficulties securing his extradition from Sierra Leone, where international media reports have alleged that he maintains influential connections. Dutch Police also reportedly carried out searches at the residences of four crew members linked to the intercepted vessel.

The revelations have reignited concerns over Sierra Leone’s vulnerability to international drug trafficking networks. The report states that the seizure has intensified political debate within the country, particularly following an open letter from Opposition Leader Abdul Kargbo to President Julius Maada Bio, calling for greater transparency and stronger Government action regarding allegations that Sierra Leone is being used as a transit point for cocaine trafficking.

Abdul Kargbo reportedly expressed concern over what he described as the Government’s prolonged silence on the matter and specifically referenced the alleged continued presence of Joseph “Jos” Leijdekkers in the country.

According to OCCRP, Spanish investigators believe the cargo ship was intended to transfer the cocaine to high-speed boats in international waters before the drugs were smuggled into Spain. Authorities say criminal organizations have increasingly adopted that strategy to avoid inspections at major ports.

Lieutenant Colonel Remacha said Spanish investigators, working alongside Dutch and United States law enforcement agencies, tracked the vessel after receiving intelligence about a major impending shipment.

He further alleged that Joseph “Jos” Leijdekkers’ organization had likely employed similar methods in previous trafficking operations and believed the route from Sierra Leone offered minimal risk of interception.

At the time of the report’s publication, OCCRP stated that the Sierra Leone Police and the Ministry of Internal Affairs had not responded to requests for comment. The report also acknowledged that the Government of Sierra Leone had earlier announced 52 convictions related to drug trafficking and organized crime, describing such activities as a serious threat to national security.

The allegations contained in the OCCRP investigation have once again placed Sierra Leone under international scrutiny, while highlighting the broader challenges facing West African nations in combating transnational organized crime and illicit drug trafficking.

Choithram Hospital Concludes Free Cataract Surgery Camp, Restoring Sight to Over 1,600 Patients Nationwide

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Choithram Memorial Hospital, in partnership with the Government of Sierra Leone through the Ministry of Health, on Monday, June 8, 2026, announced the successful completion of its two-month Free Cataract Surgery Camp, a landmark medical outreach that restored sight and transformed the lives of more than 1,600 patients from across the country.

The campaign, which ran from April 10 to June 8, 2026, at Choithram Memorial Hospital on Hill Station in Freetown, formed part of continuing efforts to reduce preventable blindness and expand access to quality eye healthcare services in Sierra Leone.

The initiative received support from several international and humanitarian organizations, including the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, Noor Dubai Foundation, Choithram International Foundation and Choithram Netralaya in Indore, India.

To enhance the quality of service delivery, a team of specialist eye surgeons and medical personnel from India joined the exercise. The visiting medical team comprised Dr. Meghna Shrishrimal, Dr. Abhishek Patel and Dr. Akash Kathole, assisted by three experienced theatre staff who supported surgical operations throughout the programme.

Speaking during the closing ceremony, Head of Choithram Group, Harish Agnani, described the outreach as one of the most extensive and impactful healthcare initiatives ever undertaken by the institution in Sierra Leone.

Harish Agnani disclosed that 6,000 patients were screened during the exercise, while 1,678 successful cataract surgeries were performed, exceeding the initial target of 1,550 operations and surpassing achievements recorded in previous years. He added that the programme also attracted patients from neighbouring Guinea and Liberia.

Harish Agnani explained that Choithram Memorial Hospital absorbed all expenses related to the initiative, including surgeries, medication, transportation, accommodation and post-operative care, describing the programme as a significant investment in restoring hope, dignity and independence to vulnerable people.

“This programme involved a huge expenditure, but it has been very satisfying for us because we have been able to give back to society,” Harish Agnani said.

Harish Agnani noted that unlike conventional medical camps that often last only a few days, the Free Cataract Surgery Camp was conducted continuously for two months, making it the largest eye care outreach in the hospital’s history.

He praised the dedication and commitment of staff across every department, emphasizing that the success of the programme was made possible through the collective efforts of doctors, nurses, theatre personnel, laboratory technicians, radiology teams, reception staff, security officers and administrators.

Harish Agnani further stressed that despite the high number of surgeries performed each day, Choithram Memorial Hospital maintained its routine services, including outpatient consultations, diagnostic procedures and other surgical operations without interruption.

“The hospital functioned normally throughout the camp. This was only possible because of the professionalism and commitment of our staff,” Harish Agnani said.

Harish Agnani also disclosed that the programme required extensive logistical arrangements, including transporting patients from various communities, conducting screenings, carrying out surgeries, providing post-operative care and ensuring beneficiaries returned safely to their homes after treatment.

He acknowledged the support received from the Ministry of Health, international partners and visiting medical specialists from India and the United Arab Emirates, noting that their contributions were instrumental to the success of the initiative.

Harish Agnani also highlighted efforts aimed at building local capacity, revealing that Sierra Leonean health workers had been trained in India to strengthen national expertise in eye care services.

According to Harish Agnani, two operating theatres were utilized during this year’s campaign, compared to one in previous editions, while plans are underway to further expand the hospital’s surgical capacity.

Harish Agnani estimated that the initiative represented an investment of more than half a million dollars, based on international cataract surgery costs, but maintained that the expenditure was worthwhile because of the profound impact it had on the lives of patients.

Consultant Ophthalmologist, Dr. Lloyd Harrison-Williams, commended the initiative and described it as the largest eye care outreach programme ever conducted in Sierra Leone.

Dr. Lloyd Harrison-Williams emphasized that while the number of surgeries performed was impressive, equal attention must be given to maintaining the highest standards of quality, warning against compromising surgical outcomes during large-scale medical interventions.

He also stressed the importance of proper post-operative monitoring, noting that continuous patient follow-up is essential for preventing complications and ensuring long-term recovery of vision.

National Eye Health Programme Manager, Dr. John G. Mattia, described the initiative as a major milestone for the country’s healthcare sector, noting that it was the first programme of such scale to be undertaken in Sierra Leone.

Dr. John G. Mattia stated that cataracts remain the leading cause of blindness in the country but can be effectively treated through surgery, adding that the programme had significantly improved the quality of life of beneficiaries.

The National Eye Health Programme Manager further highlighted the importance of expanding access to eye healthcare services across the country and strengthening collaboration between the Government and development partners.

He also praised the outreach strategy that extended services to rural and hard-to-reach communities, where many cases of preventable blindness are recorded.

Indian specialist eye surgeon, Dr. Abhishek Patel, applauded the efficient coordination of the programme, revealing that more than 200 patients were managed each day across outpatient clinics, operating theatres and recovery units.

Dr. Abhishek Patel said the success of the initiative was the result of effective planning, strong teamwork and the availability of adequate medical supplies, adding that the welcoming environment at Choithram Memorial Hospital made the visiting team feel at home.

He also thanked the Noor Dubai Foundation and Choithram Netralaya for their support and encouraged the continuation of the programme on an annual basis.

One of the beneficiaries, Isatu Kamara, expressed gratitude for the surgery and described the experience as life-changing.

Isatu Kamara said she had struggled with poor eyesight for a long time but can now see clearly following the operation.

“My right eye is now very bright. I am happy with the result and I look forward to coming back next year for the left eye,” Isatu Kamara said.

The successful conclusion of the Free Cataract Surgery Camp represents a major achievement for Sierra Leone’s healthcare sector, restoring sight to thousands of people and demonstrating the value of strong partnerships between Government, private institutions and international organizations in delivering quality medical services.

Many observers believe the programme has not only reduced the burden of preventable blindness but has also strengthened local medical capacity, laying a solid foundation for the expansion of eye healthcare services throughout Sierra Leone.

Ambassador John Azumah Reaffirms ECOWAS Support for Sierra Leone’s Clean Cooking Initiative

By Ibrahim Sesay

A Policy Familiarization Workshop on the Sierra Leone National Clean Cooking Strategy 2025–2035 has reinforced the country’s determination to expand access to safe, affordable and environmentally friendly cooking solutions, with stakeholders emphasizing the need for stronger collaboration to reduce dependence on firewood and charcoal and accelerate sustainable development.

The workshop, hosted by the Government of Sierra Leone through the Ministry of Energy, took place at the Sierra Palms Resort in Freetown on Tuesday, June 9, 2026. The event, which was supported by development and regional partners, brought together Government officials, development partners, private sector representatives, Civil Society Organizations, consultants and other stakeholders to deepen their understanding of the objectives and implementation framework of the National Clean Cooking Strategy.

As the lead institution spearheading the strategy, the Ministry of Energy used the forum to strengthen stakeholder engagement and build consensus around the country’s long-term roadmap for promoting cleaner cooking technologies and fuels.

The Sierra Leone National Clean Cooking Strategy 2025–2035, which was officially launched in 2025, seeks to transform the country’s household energy sector by reducing reliance on firewood and charcoal while addressing major public health, environmental and economic challenges associated with traditional cooking methods.

A key objective of the workshop was to prepare institutions and partners for the effective implementation of the strategy over the next decade and to raise awareness about the far-reaching benefits of clean cooking.

Participants were informed that indoor air pollution caused by traditional cooking methods remains a serious public health challenge, with thousands of deaths linked annually to prolonged exposure to smoke. The continued dependence on biomass fuels also contributes to deforestation, environmental degradation and climate change while placing a heavy social and economic burden on many households, particularly women and girls.

The workshop further highlighted the five strategic pillars of the National Clean Cooking Strategy 2025–2035, which include expanding affordability through subsidies and consumer financing, increasing public awareness and education, supporting private sector investment in clean cooking technologies, strengthening regulations and quality standards, and improving coordination among Government institutions, development partners and the private sector.

Stakeholders discussed their respective roles and responsibilities in implementing the strategy and stressed the importance of coordinated action to achieve universal access to clean cooking solutions while supporting Sierra Leone’s climate and sustainable development commitments.

Addressing the gathering, the ECOWAS Resident Representative to Sierra Leone, Ambassador John Azumah, conveyed warm greetings from the President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, and commended the Government and people of Sierra Leone for their commitment to inclusive and sustainable development.

Ambassador John Azumah also praised President Brigadier-General (Rtd) Dr. Julius Maada Bio, Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, for his leadership in advancing regional integration and promoting peace and stability across West Africa.

He noted that the workshop came shortly after the successful launch of the ECOWAS LPG 20/20 Initiative, which seeks to establish liquefied petroleum gas as the preferred household cooking fuel in the sub-region, with a target penetration rate of 45 percent by 2030.

According to Ambassador John Azumah, the low penetration of clean cooking solutions across West Africa has left millions of households dependent on traditional biomass fuels, contributing to the loss of hundreds of thousands of lives, particularly among women and children, due to indoor air pollution.

Ambassador John Azumah stressed that investment in clean cooking is an investment in health, prosperity and peace, noting that the transition to modern cooking fuels will save lives, create economic opportunities and improve the well-being of communities across the region.

He commended Sierra Leone for establishing the Clean Cooking Delivery Unit, describing it as an effective cross-sectoral mechanism that will coordinate implementation of the strategy and serve as the implementing agency for the ECOWAS LPG 20/20 Initiative in the country.

Ambassador John Azumah also applauded the emphasis placed on gender inclusion, noting that women and girls should not only benefit from clean cooking policies but should also be empowered as entrepreneurs, distributors and innovators within the clean energy value chain.

The workshop underscored the need for stronger collaboration among the ministries responsible for Energy, Education, Gender, Health, Water Resources and Finance, as well as Civil Society Organizations, development partners and the private sector to ensure the successful implementation of the strategy.

Stakeholders expressed optimism that the Sierra Leone National Clean Cooking Strategy 2025–2035 will significantly reduce preventable diseases associated with household air pollution, curb deforestation, create green jobs and support the country’s energy transition agenda. They also maintained that effective implementation of the strategy will improve the lives of millions of Sierra Leoneans while contributing to long-term environmental sustainability and national development.

Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally Secures NaCoS Endorsement Ahead of 2028 Elections

A group of people standing and mingling in a covered outdoor hall with green pillars and red chairs.

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

The National Constituency Secretaries (NaCoS) of the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) have unanimously endorsed Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally as their preferred candidate for the party’s flagbearership ahead of the 2028 General Elections, marking another significant development in the race to succeed President Julius Maada Bio.

The endorsement was made during a meeting of Constituency Secretaries held in Bo City on Sunday, June 7, 2026, where representatives from 32 constituencies across the country declared their support for Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally to become the SLPP’s presidential candidate for the next general elections.

The latest declaration of support follows an earlier endorsement in Moyamba District, where 22 out of 24 Constituency Secretaries reportedly backed the prospective flagbearership bid of Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally. Supporters have described the growing wave of endorsements as a reflection of increasing grassroots confidence in his leadership aspirations within the ruling party.

NaCoS, which serves as an important structure within the Sierra Leone People’s Party and is responsible for coordinating constituency-level administrative and organizational affairs, described Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally as a dedicated party stalwart with extensive experience in governance, public administration and political leadership.

According to members of the group, the endorsement followed broad consultations among Constituency Secretaries who examined the qualities needed to preserve the party’s unity, maintain its electoral strength and advance its development agenda beyond the tenure of President Julius Maada Bio.

Delegates at the meeting cited Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally’s long-standing service to the Sierra Leone People’s Party, his leadership experience and his contributions to national governance as some of the key factors that informed their decision. They noted that his deep understanding of the party’s structures and his experience in public service position him as a strong contender for the party’s highest office.

The Constituency Secretaries also pledged to mobilize support for Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally across their respective constituencies as preparations for the party’s internal flagbearership process continue. They expressed confidence in his ability to lead the Sierra Leone People’s Party into the 2028 elections and vowed to work collectively towards securing his emergence as the party’s standard bearer.

Members of the group further emphasized the importance of maintaining party cohesion throughout the flagbearership process and expressed optimism that their endorsement would encourage wider consultations and support from other stakeholders across the country.

As political activities gradually intensify ahead of the 2028 General Elections, endorsements from influential party structures and grassroots stakeholders are expected to play an important role in shaping the Sierra Leone People’s Party’s flagbearership contest.

Political observers believe that the backing of representatives from 32 constituencies, together with the earlier endorsement by 22 Constituency Secretaries in Moyamba District, represents a significant boost for the emerging bid of Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally to lead the ruling party into the next electoral cycle.

The development is also expected to add momentum to ongoing political consultations within the Sierra Leone People’s Party as various stakeholders continue to position themselves ahead of the selection of the party’s presidential candidate for the 2028 elections.

NCRA Mobilizes Tribal Heads to Expand National Identification Coverage

Group of people in traditional attire seated around a long conference table in a meeting room, engaged in discussion with papers and water bottles on the table.

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

The National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) has stepped up efforts to expand the registration and issuance of national identity cards by engaging traditional leaders in a high-level consultative meeting held on Tuesday, 9 June 2026, at the Authority’s headquarters on Kingharman Road in Freetown.

The meeting brought together senior officials of the National Civil Registration Authority and leaders of tribal councils from the Western Area to chart a common strategy for increasing the number of citizens obtaining national identity cards, improving access to registration services and strengthening public awareness of the importance of the country’s national identification system.

Addressing the gathering, the Director General of the National Civil Registration Authority, Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi, described the national ID programme as a key pillar of national development and governance. He said the engagement with tribal authorities was intended to build stronger community partnerships and secure the support of traditional leaders in encouraging citizens to comply with national identification requirements.

Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi reminded participants that legislation enacted by the Government in March 2022 made the possession of a national identity card mandatory for accessing numerous public and private sector services. He explained that citizens without valid identification often face challenges in securing public sector employment, enrolling in educational institutions, registering businesses and vehicles, obtaining passports and accessing banking and financial services.

He noted that despite the legal requirement, many Sierra Leoneans are yet to obtain national identity cards because of limited public awareness and inadequate enforcement. According to him, increasing the number of registered citizens remains vital for strengthening governance, improving service delivery and enhancing national security.

The Director General observed that many developed nations maintain comprehensive identification databases that support effective public administration and law enforcement. He explained that reliable identification systems help governments verify identities, reduce fraudulent activities and improve accountability across critical sectors, including healthcare, transportation and financial services.

Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi further highlighted the value of national identification in the healthcare sector, where proper age verification can assist medical professionals in providing appropriate treatment and medication. He also pointed out that the absence of valid identification has created difficulties for some citizens seeking driver’s licences and other official documents.

As part of plans to accelerate registration, he announced that the National Civil Registration Authority would collaborate closely with tribal authorities, market women, transport unions, truck drivers and commercial motorbike riders to intensify public sensitization campaigns. He disclosed that thousands of citizens have already been mobilised and expressed confidence that community leaders would play a major role in expanding the exercise.

He assured tribal leaders that the Authority is prepared to deploy mobile registration teams directly into communities. According to him, where chiefs successfully mobilize residents, National Civil Registration Authority officials will conduct registration exercises within those communities for up to one week, reducing the burden on citizens who would otherwise travel long distances to registration centres.

Speaking on behalf of the tribal authorities, the Chairman of the Western Area Tribal Heads Council, Chief Sahr Orlando Gbekie, popularly known as S.O. Gbekie, welcomed the initiative and pledged the support of traditional leaders for the national identification campaign.

Chief Sahr Orlando Gbekie said tribal leaders should lead by example by obtaining national identity cards before encouraging members of their communities to do the same. He emphasized that identification carries both legal and social importance, noting that individuals without valid identification often encounter difficulties during travel and in their dealings with law enforcement agencies.

He also expressed concern over the affordability of registration-related expenses for some residents, especially those travelling from provincial areas to the Western Area. He called for an increase in the number of registration centres and the deployment of more mobile registration teams to improve accessibility.

Chief Sahr Orlando Gbekie clarified that citizens become eligible to obtain national identity cards from the age of 12 and called for sustained public education to address misconceptions surrounding the registration process. He assured the meeting that the Tribal Council Administration in the Western Area would work closely with the National Civil Registration Authority to educate residents and promote wider registration.

Also contributing to the discussions, the Mende Tribal Headman for the Western Area and Secretary General of the Western Area Tribal Heads Council, Chief Matthew Jibao Young, advocated for stronger enforcement measures and broader community mobilisation to increase national ID card ownership.

Chief Matthew Jibao Young expressed optimism that the meeting would lead to a significant rise in registration and proposed that possession of a national identity card should become a requirement for recognition and continued service as a tribal leader within the Western Area. He stressed that national identity cards are essential for education, employment and access to government services, while also playing an important role in strengthening national security, identifying non-citizens and assisting law enforcement agencies in combating crime.

He further called for stronger collaboration between the National Civil Registration Authority, the Freetown City Council and other local authorities to integrate national ID card requirements into business licensing, local tax administration and municipal service delivery.

Participants agreed that the Western Area, being the country’s most densely populated region, requires special attention in the national identification drive. Discussions focused on expanding community outreach programmes before the height of the rainy season and strengthening cooperation between traditional authorities and the National Civil Registration Authority.

At the end of the meeting, several resolutions were adopted. Tribal leaders committed themselves to obtaining national identity cards and encouraging their communities to register, while the National Civil Registration Authority agreed to deploy mobile registration teams to communities where chiefs successfully mobilize residents. Both sides also agreed to intensify public sensitization through tribal structures and community networks.

It was further resolved that a major coordination meeting involving all 16 tribal heads, more than 500 sub chiefs and officials of the National Civil Registration Authority would be held at Attouga Mini Stadium in the Western Area. The gathering is expected to serve as a platform for mass mobilization, public awareness and the development of practical measures to accelerate national ID card registration and issuance across the region.

The engagement forms part of the National Civil Registration Authority’s broader strategy to achieve universal national identification coverage and ensure that every eligible citizen is captured within Sierra Leone’s civil registration and identification system.

Mohinder Bir Singh Sachdeva Assumes Office as Côte d’Ivoire’s Honorary Consul in Sierra Leone

Two formally dressed individuals exchange a folded orange flag during a ceremony, with balloons in the background.

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Popular businessman and philanthropist, Mohinder Bir Singh Sachdeva, widely known as “Pa Jetty,” has officially assumed office as Honorary Consul of the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire in Sierra Leone following the formal handover ceremony and inauguration of the Honorary Consulate of the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire in Freetown.

The historic ceremony, held on Friday, 5 June 2026, at the newly established consulate office in Aberdeen, marked a major step in strengthening diplomatic and economic relations between Sierra Leone and Côte d’Ivoire. The event was held under the grand chief patronage of Her Excellency M’Brah Aya Georgette, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire accredited to Sierra Leone and Liberia.

The occasion attracted senior Government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, representatives of international organizations, business leaders and media practitioners, reflecting the importance both countries attach to expanding bilateral cooperation.

Delivering her remarks, Her Excellency M’Brah Aya Georgette disclosed that the appointment of Mohinder Bir Singh Sachdeva followed a thorough and highly competitive selection process approved by the President of Côte d’Ivoire, Alassane Ouattara. She also conveyed congratulations from Côte d’Ivoire’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Niale Kaba, and expressed confidence that the new Honorary Consul would further deepen relations between the two nations.

The Ambassador praised Mohinder Bir Singh Sachdeva for his strong presence in Sierra Leone, extensive business experience, integrity and commitment to public service. She said those qualities made him an ideal choice to represent the interests of Côte d’Ivoire and would help strengthen cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, culture and people-to-people exchanges.

Her Excellency M’Brah Aya Georgette described Sierra Leone and Côte d’Ivoire as sister nations whose relationship has long been built on friendship, cooperation and mutual respect. She assured the new Honorary Consul of the full support of the Ivorian Government in carrying out his responsibilities.

In his acceptance address, Mohinder Bir Singh Sachdeva described his appointment as both an honour and a significant responsibility. He said the establishment of the Honorary Consulate represents a new chapter in the enduring friendship between Sierra Leone and Côte d’Ivoire and demonstrates the shared commitment of both countries to closer cooperation.

Mohinder Bir Singh Sachdeva expressed gratitude to President Alassane Ouattara, the Ministry of State for Foreign Affairs of Côte d’Ivoire and Her Excellency M’Brah Aya Georgette for the trust and confidence reposed in him.

He noted that the relationship between the two countries is anchored on common values, including peace, democratic governance, regional cooperation and sustainable development. He pledged to discharge his duties with dedication, integrity and respect for the principles and values of the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire.

The new Honorary Consul also outlined his vision for the consulate, identifying trade promotion, cultural exchanges, educational partnerships and stronger people-to-people relations as key priorities. He stressed that diplomacy remains an important instrument for fostering mutual understanding and advancing shared interests.

Mohinder Bir Singh Sachdeva paid tribute to the Ivorian community residing in Sierra Leone, describing them as a living bridge connecting the two countries. He assured them that the consulate would remain open, accessible and responsive to their needs while promoting their welfare and interests.

Representing Sierra Leone’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Siku Jalloh, Director of the Africa Division at the Ministry, welcomed the opening of the Honorary Consulate and congratulated Mohinder Bir Singh Sachdeva on his appointment.

Siku Jalloh said the establishment of the consulate reflects the strong bilateral relationship between Sierra Leone and Côte d’Ivoire, founded on a shared history and strengthened through cooperation within the Mano River Union and the Economic Community of West African States.

He added that the consulate would serve as an important platform for promoting business opportunities, enhancing diplomatic engagement and expanding cooperation between the Governments and peoples of both countries. He assured the new Honorary Consul of the Ministry’s full support in fulfilling his mandate.

Later in the evening, a cocktail reception was held at the Lagoonda Entertainment Complex in Aberdeen to commemorate the official handover and inauguration of the Honorary Consulate. In addition to personalities present during the official inauguration ceremony earlier in the day, those in attendance at the reception included the Chief Minister, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, certain Government officials, Chairman of Pee Cee and Sons, Mahesh Nandwani, Head of Choithrams, Harish Agnani, Chief Executive Officer of Emkay Stores, Manoj Rajwani, Chief Executive Officer of Balani and Sons, Pa Balani, Ugandan Honorary Consul and Chief Executive Officer of AP Business Venture (SL) Ltd, Deepak Bhurani, as well as several other distinguished guests including members of the Ivorian community.

Speaking at the reception, Chief Minister, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh described Sierra Leone and Côte d’Ivoire as strategic partners within the Mano River Union and the wider ECOWAS region. He noted that President Julius Maada Bio, as Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, continues to champion regional integration, economic cooperation and the free movement of people and goods across West Africa.

The Chief Minister  highlighted ongoing areas of collaboration between the two countries, including the Côte d’Ivoire-Liberia-Sierra Leone-Guinea electricity interconnection project and the growing trade relationship between the ports of Abidjan and Freetown.

He also identified the restoration of direct Air Côte d’Ivoire flights between Sierra Leone and Côte d’Ivoire as an important priority, noting that improved air connectivity would promote business, tourism and diplomatic exchanges while strengthening bilateral ties.

The inauguration of the Honorary Consulate and the appointment of Mohinder Bir Singh Sachdeva are expected to open a new era of cooperation between Sierra Leone and Côte d’Ivoire, with greater emphasis on economic partnerships, investment promotion, regional integration and stronger diplomatic engagement between the two neighbouring West African nations.

Mohinder Bir Singh Sachdeva
Chief Minister, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh

27th Chinese Medical Team Conducts Free Health Clinic for Sierra Leone Government Workers

Group of people in dark shirts posing under a concrete canopy, holding a blue banner that reads 'China Medical Team to Sierra Leone' with buses in the background.

The 27th Chinese Medical Team to Sierra Leone has organized a comprehensive free health clinic for staff of the Government of Sierra Leone, reaffirming the growing medical cooperation and longstanding friendship between China and Sierra Leone.

The medical outreach programme was held on 4 June at the Youyi Building Plaza in Freetown, which houses the Ministry of Health and Sanitation. The initiative was organized by the Chinese Medical Team with the support of the Ministry of Health, the building management and the Pinkang Clinic. The exercise commenced at 9:00 a.m. and attracted hundreds of public servants from the Ministry of Health and other key Government institutions.

Deputy Minister of Health and Sanitation, Charles Senessie, visited the clinic to interact with members of the Chinese Medical Team and express appreciation for their continued support to Sierra Leone’s healthcare sector.

He commended the team for extending medical services to Government workers, noting that the partnership between China and Sierra Leone in the health sector has produced significant achievements over the years. According to the Deputy Minister, the special clinic addressed the healthcare needs of civil servants who often work under demanding conditions, while also strengthening bilateral cooperation between the two countries.

To ensure efficient service delivery and maintain patient confidentiality, the medical team established separate functional areas for registration, consultations and specialized examinations. Basic internal medicine and surgery services were provided under a shaded pavilion, while two China-donated mobile medical vehicles were deployed for private examinations and advanced diagnostic procedures.

Inside the mobile medical units, specialists carried out ultrasound scans, electrocardiogram (ECG) tests and traditional Chinese acupuncture treatments for patients requiring specialized care. The mobile facilities enabled the team to conduct examinations in a professional environment while safeguarding patient privacy.

As news of the outreach spread among Government offices, the number of patients increased significantly, resulting in long queues at the venue. Many participants received consultations from multiple medical departments, leading to a demand that exceeded initial expectations.

Despite the large turnout, members of the Chinese Medical Team maintained high clinical standards, dedicating adequate time to each patient and carefully addressing their health concerns. Doctors and medical staff patiently explained diagnoses, offered professional medical advice and guided patients on proper healthcare practices.

Official figures indicated that more than 400 consultations were provided during the one-day clinic. Services included screening for common and chronic diseases, blood pressure and blood sugar checks, ECG and ultrasound examinations, health education, medical counselling and the free distribution of medicines.

The Chinese Medical Team described the initiative as part of its ongoing commitment to supporting local Government institutions and promoting preventive healthcare and health management. The team further reaffirmed its determination to continue providing quality medical services and strengthening health cooperation between China and Sierra Leone.

Internal Affairs Ministry Strengthens Security Coordination Through Regular Inter-Agency Meeting

Two men sit at a conference table; one in white traditional attire and the other in a tan military uniform holding a microphone.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening national security and improving inter-agency collaboration through its regular rotating inter-agency meeting, which was recently hosted by the Sierra Leone Correctional Service (SLCS) in Freetown.

The meeting, held on June 4, 2026, brought together heads of agencies and departments under the Ministry to review operational progress, discuss emerging security challenges and enhance cooperation across the country’s security sector.

Chairing the meeting, the Minister of Internal Affairs, AIG (Rtd.) Morie Lengor Esq., commended the leadership of the various agencies for their unwavering commitment and the collective synergy that continues to drive the Ministry’s mandate. He assured participants of his determination to utilize effective oversight, sound policies and strong political will to transform the Ministry’s agencies and departments and further improve their performance.

The Minister called for sustained collaboration among all security institutions, emphasizing that dedicated teamwork and professionalism remain essential to addressing the country’s security challenges. He urged officers and staff to discharge their responsibilities with diligence, integrity and the highest level of professionalism.

AIG (Rtd.) Morie Lengor also disclosed that he had engaged the Sierra Leone Police across the Western Area and other regions as part of a proactive security strategy aimed at reducing crime. He noted that criminal activities often increase during the rainy season, particularly when heavy rains create opportunities for criminals to target vulnerable households.

In his welcome address, the Director General of the Sierra Leone Correctional Service, Joseph J. Senesie, thanked the Ministry’s Management and Staff for selecting the institution to host the meeting. He briefed participants on the operations of the Correctional Service and highlighted ongoing efforts to ease congestion at the Pademba Road Correctional Centre.

According to Joseph J. Senesie, the Government of Sierra Leone, in collaboration with the Ministry of Works and Public Assets, is advancing plans to construct a modern state-of-the-art correctional facility to provide improved accommodation and rehabilitation services for inmates.

The Chief Immigration Officer of the Sierra Leone Immigration Department (SLID), Dr. Moses Tiffa Baio Esq., also updated participants on the progress of the country’s online passport application system. He noted that significant reforms introduced over the past year have transformed passport services through a fully digitized process.

The modern system now allows citizens to apply for passports online from any location, schedule biometric appointments at their preferred centres and choose any SLID office for passport collection, making the process more efficient and accessible.

Other heads of agencies also presented updates on their respective institutions, highlighting key achievements, ongoing challenges and strategic areas for improvement as the Ministry continues to strengthen coordination and operational effectiveness across the security sector.

LAJ Emerges as Freetown’s Favourite Music Artist in Meraki Analytics Survey

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

A recent public perception survey conducted by Meraki Analytics has ranked Sierra Leonean musician and rapper LAJ as the most popular music artist in Freetown, with 11.4 percent of respondents naming him as their favourite performer.

The survey, carried out under the Meraki Analytics-Citizen Lens/OneField Public Perception Survey initiative, gathered responses from 1,217 residents across the capital city between 13 April and 4 May 2026. The study sought to determine who currently holds the title of the “King of Freetown” in Sierra Leone’s music industry.

According to the findings, LAJ secured the top spot, reflecting his growing popularity and strong influence within the country’s entertainment sector. Drizilik followed closely in second place with 10.5 percent, while Famous claimed third position with 8.0 percent of the votes.

Veteran rapper Kao Denero ranked fourth with 6.7 percent, while renowned singer Emmerson came fifth with 5.4 percent. The survey highlighted the continued relevance of established performers alongside the rise of a new generation of entertainers.

Legacy Boi, widely known for his hit song The Money Necessary, finished sixth with 4.6 percent, followed by K Man with 3.9 percent. Star Zee placed eighth with 1.7 percent, Steady Bongo came ninth with 1.6 percent and Pretty S completed the top ten with 1.3 percent.

Meraki Analytics noted that the results reflect the diversity of Freetown’s musical landscape, where both veteran acts and emerging talents continue to enjoy strong public support.

The survey also revealed that nearly one-third of respondents, representing 30 percent, either do not listen to Sierra Leonean music or do not have a favourite local artist, highlighting the varied entertainment preferences among residents of the capital.

A total of 85 different artists were mentioned during the survey. Other musicians receiving recognition included Jimmy B, Pupa Banja, Incredible JJ, Bakiteno, M2, Kracktwist, Samza, Rozay, Empress P, Apreel and several others.

In its analysis, Meraki Analytics stated that LAJ’s emergence as Freetown’s favourite artist underscores his increasing influence in the local music industry while also demonstrating the highly competitive nature of Sierra Leone’s entertainment scene.

The survey was conducted with support from Meraki Analytics’ partners as part of its ongoing Citizen Lens/OneField Public Perception Survey initiative aimed at capturing public opinion on key social and cultural issues.

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