Vice President Leads High-Level Security Mission to Côte d’Ivoire for Counter-Terrorism Cooperation

January 12, 2026

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Vice President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, has led a high-level delegation of senior security sector officials to the International Counter-Terrorism Academy (AILCT) in Jacqueville, Côte d’Ivoire, as part of sustained efforts to strengthen regional security cooperation and enhance Sierra Leone’s counter-terrorism and peacekeeping capabilities.

The visit, undertaken on Thursday, January 8, 2026, reflects Sierra Leone’s growing commitment to regional and international collaboration in addressing evolving security threats across West Africa. During the mission, Vice President Jalloh and his delegation held extensive bilateral engagements with senior officials of the Ivorian Government, including the Minister of Defence, Téné Birahima Ouattara, and the Minister of the Interior and Security, General Vagondo Diomandé, as well as other top defence and security authorities.

Discussions centred on strengthening the regional security architecture through structured intelligence sharing, regular exchanges between security institutions and capacity-building support for specialized units. Both sides explored opportunities for joint training programmes, harmonization of counter-terrorism tactics and improved coordination in responding to cross-border security threats, including violent extremism, organized crime and terrorism.

The delegation also visited the International Counter-Terrorism Academy, a joint initiative of the French and Ivorian Governments that has become a continental centre of excellence for counter-terrorism training. The academy provides advanced training for special forces, law enforcement agencies, judicial officials, intelligence professionals and strategic researchers from across Africa, equipping them with modern tools and operational skills to confront complex security challenges.

Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh described the visit as a strategic engagement that underscores Sierra Leone’s proactive approach to security diplomacy. He noted that the mission aligns with the broader vision of Julius Maada Bio to deepen regional cooperation, promote African-led security solutions and strengthen the country’s role in peacekeeping and conflict prevention.

“This mission aligns with His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio’s broader vision of deepening regional security cooperation and bolstering Sierra Leone’s peacekeeping and counter-terrorism capabilities,” the Vice President stated following the meetings. He emphasized that sustained collaboration, knowledge exchange and institutional capacity development are essential to safeguarding peace and stability in the sub-region.

Sierra Leone’s engagement in Côte d’Ivoire forms part of a wider diplomatic and security strategy by the Bio administration to address rising insecurity in parts of West Africa. As Chair of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of ECOWAS, President Bio has consistently called for enhanced regional solidarity, collective security mechanisms and stronger partnerships to confront threats that transcend national borders.

Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh also expressed profound appreciation to the French Government and the Government of Côte d’Ivoire for their support and commitment to regional peace and stability. He noted that international partnerships remain vital to building resilient security institutions and ensuring long-term stability across the region.

Observers say the visit represents a significant step in strengthening the emerging “security corridor” among West African states, reinforcing trust, interoperability and shared responsibility in combating terrorism and violent extremism. The mission further positions Sierra Leone as an active and credible partner in regional security initiatives, aligned with continental and international efforts to promote peace, stability and sustainable development.

The outcomes of the engagement are expected to translate into enhanced cooperation, improved training opportunities for Sierra Leonean security personnel and deeper institutional ties with regional partners, as the country continues to invest in proactive security diplomacy and regional stability.

President Bio Directs Comprehensive Reform of Sierra Leone’s Mineral Wealth Governance

January 12, 2026

By Ibrahim Sesay

The Government of Sierra Leone has announced a decisive policy shift in the management of the country’s mineral assets, following directives issued by President Dr Julius Maada Bio aimed at strengthening national oversight and ensuring lasting benefits from the country’s natural resources.

In a public notice issued on January 8, 2026 by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education, the President directed the orderly wind-up of the Mineral Wealth Fund Sierra Leone Limited (MWFSL), the termination of its associated management arrangements and the cessation of the Fund’s participation in the Tonkolili North Iron Ore project under its current structure.

According to the notice, the transition is being implemented strictly in accordance with established laws and Government procedures and does not affect the State’s ownership or custodial management of Sierra Leone’s mineral assets. The underlying assets remain vested in the Sierra Leone Mines and Minerals Development and Management Corporation (SLMMDMC), held in trust on behalf of the people of Sierra Leone.

Government officials underscored that the decision represents “a change in vehicle, not a change in vision.” The administration, they said, remains firmly committed to establishing a robust, transparent and nationally anchored sovereign wealth framework aligned with Sierra Leone’s broader economic policy objectives and international best practice.

President Bio’s directive follows a strategic assessment that a stronger and more integrated framework is required to ensure Sierra Leoneans derive enduring value from the country’s finite natural resources. Under the new approach, work will advance toward the establishment of a Sierra Leone Sovereign Wealth Fund as the country’s apex investment vehicle.

Officials explained that the proposed framework will be legally grounded, professionally managed and guided by globally recognized standards, including the Santiago Principles, while operating in harmony with existing statutory institutions responsible for the ownership and management of state mineral assets.

“This is a strategic reset, not an abandonment of our sovereign wealth ambitions,” a senior Government official said. “The President is ensuring that Sierra Leone’s mineral wealth is managed through a structure that is transparent, cost-effective and firmly aligned with the national interest.”

A policy review by the Ministry of Mines and Mineral Resources concluded that the existing Mineral Wealth Fund framework was no longer best suited to advance the country’s long-term economic and governance objectives, citing concerns related to governance architecture, efficiency, transparency and integration with national fiscal policy.

As part of the directive, MWFSL has been instructed to end all further participation in the Tonkolili North Integrated Mining and Infrastructure Project under its Framework and Supplementary Agreements with China Overseas Engineering Company (COVEC). The Attorney-General and Minister of Justice has also been directed to terminate the associated management services agreement.

Crucially, the Government has emphasized that those actions do not diminish Sierra Leone’s ownership or sovereign control over the Tonkolili North asset. The resource remains fully vested in the State through the SLMMDMC and held in trust for the people.

The President has further directed that a competitive bidding process be undertaken to identify a suitable development partner for the project. In the interim, a project company or special-purpose vehicle, established under the chairmanship of the Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, will advance the project on behalf of the State and under the continued authority of the SLMMDMC.

Looking ahead, the Government plans to establish a Sierra Leone Sovereign Wealth Fund (SLSWF) designed to support macroeconomic stability, long-term development and intergenerational equity. The proposed fund is expected to be more closely integrated with Sierra Leone’s public financial management system, enabling disciplined savings for future generations alongside carefully governed investments that support national development priorities.

The Ministry of Mines’ memorandum accompanying the reforms highlights a core national reality: Sierra Leone’s mineral resources are finite. Once extracted, they cannot be replaced. The State’s responsibility, therefore, is to convert this wealth into enduring assets that continue to serve the nation long after the minerals are exhausted.

Government officials have framed the President’s decision as an act of patriotic stewardship and national responsibility. “Sierra Leone’s minerals belong to Sierra Leoneans,” one official said. “They must be managed transparently, responsibly and in a way that strengthens national sovereignty and long-term prosperity.”

The wind-up of the existing Mineral Wealth Fund will proceed in accordance with applicable law, while work continues on the design and legal establishment of the new sovereign wealth framework. Authorities have assured the public that further details regarding the structure and operationalization of the new system will be communicated in due course.

For now, the message from State House is clear: Sierra Leone is retaining full ownership of its strategic mineral assets, strengthening national oversight and reaffirming its commitment to ensure that the country’s natural wealth delivers lasting benefits for generations yet unborn.

Magistrate Daboh Remands Two Men in Kenema Over Separate Murder and Attempted Murder Cases

January 12, 2026

By Ibrahim Sesay

Two men have been remanded at the Sierra Leone Correctional Centre in Kenema after being arraigned before Magistrate Court No. 1 on serious criminal charges of murder and attempted murder.

The accused persons are Abu Kamando, a farmer from Madina Village in Wandor Chiefdom and Mohamed Sheriff, a herbalist based in Kenema City, Nongowa Chiefdom. Both defendants are residents of the Kenema Judicial District. They were brought before the court on January 8, 2025 and remanded by His Worship Magistrate Hadiru Daboh.

Abu Kamando is facing a charge of murder, contrary to Section 1 of the Offences Against the Persons Act of 1861, as repealed and replaced by Section 1 of the Abolition of the Death Penalty Act No. 6 of 2022. According to the prosecution, the accused allegedly murdered Bundu Kamando on Saturday, June 28, 2025, in the bush at Kamando Village, Wandor Chiefdom, within the Kenema Judicial District in Sierra Leone’s Eastern Province.

Prosecutors told the court that the offence is indictable and therefore cannot be tried summarily at the magistrate level. In line with standard legal procedure, no plea was taken from the accused. Magistrate Daboh ordered that Abu Kamando be remanded at the Sierra Leone Correctional Centre in Kenema pending further proceedings. The matter has been adjourned to January 20, 2026, for continuation.

In a separate case, Mohamed Sheriff was arraigned on multiple counts, including attempted murder, wounding with intent and causing grievous bodily harm with intent, all contrary to Section 18 of the Offences Against the Persons Act of 1861. The prosecution alleged that on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, at No. 17 Sheikh Abubakarr Street, Lumbebu Axis, Kenema City, the accused attacked Michel Paul Nicole.

The court heard that Mohamed Sheriff allegedly inflicted severe injuries on the victim’s hands and legs, cut off the victim’s left thumb with a machete, and sprayed a liquid suspected to be acid into the victim’s eyes. Prosecutors said the nature of the injuries sustained was serious and life-threatening, prompting the charge of attempted murder.

As in the murder case, no plea was taken from Mohamed Sheriff due to the seriousness of the allegations. The magistrate ordered that he be remanded at the Sierra Leone Correctional Centre in Kenema. The matter has been adjourned to January 16, 2026, for preliminary investigation proceedings.

Both cases are being prosecuted by Sulaiman Kamara, an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) attached to the Legal and Justice Support Department of the Kenema Police Division.

Court officials emphasized that the remand of the accused persons does not imply guilt, noting that investigations and legal processes are still ongoing. The cases have drawn attention in Kenema due to the seriousness of the allegations, as the judiciary continues to process violent crime cases in accordance with the law and principles of fair hearing.

CHRDI Raises Alarm Over Prolonged Delays in Commission of Inquiry Appeal Cases

January 12, 2026

Abdul M. Fatoma, Chief Executive Officer of CHRDI

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Campaign for Human Rights and Development International (CHRDI) has expressed deep concern over what it describes as persistent failures within Sierra Leone’s judicial system, citing prolonged delays, poor record management and a lack of transparency in the handling of appeals arising from the 2018 Commissions of Inquiry (COIs).

In a statement released on Friday on January 9, 2026, CHRDI said that endemic challenges, including allegations of corruption, inadequate resources, weak accountability mechanisms and limited commitment to human rights protection, continue to undermine public confidence in the country’s courts.

The three Commissions of Inquiry were established in 2018 by President Julius Maada Bio to investigate alleged corruption and governance failures of past administrations. The final reports were submitted in March 2020, with individuals found culpable granted the right to appeal before the courts.

However, nearly seven years after the COIs were constituted and almost five years after the submission of the final reports, a significant number of appeal cases remain unresolved or inadequately documented at the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court.

CHRDI warned that those delays erode public trust in the judiciary and raise serious questions about efficiency, accountability and respect for the rule of law. “Justice delayed is justice denied,” the organization noted adding that prolonged litigation causes anxiety for litigants, risks the deterioration of evidence and weakens the authority of court judgments.

The rights group recalled that in September 2023, the leadership of the Judiciary issued a directive instructing judges handling COI matters to conclude all cases by mid-October 2023. CHRDI said that directive has not been fully complied with.

In an effort to obtain clarity, CHRDI on August 21, 2025 formally invoked the Right to Access Information Act of 2013, requesting comprehensive updates on COI appeal cases from 2021 to 2025. Following what CHRDI described as initial resistance, partial documents were eventually released after further intervention by the Right to Access Information Commission.

On September 23, 2025, CHRDI lodged a formal complaint with the Commission, accusing the Judiciary of non-compliance with the law. A subsequent directive issued on October 9, 2025 gave the Judiciary a seven-day ultimatum to submit the requested information, warning that failure to comply would trigger legal action.

Despite that, the Judiciary failed to meet the deadline and later sought an extension on November 28, 2025, citing a provision that CHRDI says does not exist under the Act. Partial information was eventually submitted on December 17, 2025, covering 108 COI cases across three appellate panels.

CHRDI’s review of the documents revealed what it described as serious discrepancies, including 38 cases marked “No Record,” representing about 35 percent of the files, as well as three incomplete records. According to the organization, that raises grave concerns about fair hearing guarantees, record-keeping standards and the overall integrity of judicial processes.

CHRDI’s review of the documents revealed significant discrepancies and inaccuracies, including 38 “No Record” case files (35% of COI files) and three incomplete records. The absence of proper records in appellate matters raises serious concerns about fair hearing guarantees, poor record management and the integrity of judicial processes.

Summary of judgments provided is as follows:

2025: 2 appeals allowed; 1 appeal dismissed. (3)
2024: 3 appeals allowed; 1 appeal dismissed. (4)
2023: 5 appeals allowed; 4 appeals dismissed; 1 dismissed for want of prosecution. (10)
2022: 3 appeals allowed; 3 appeals dismissed. (6)
2021: 8 appeals allowed; 3 appeals dismissed. (11)

Overall, the Judiciary’s response has been insufficient, raising significant concerns about transparency and accountability in the handling of these cases.

The summary of judgments provided by the Judiciary shows limited progress between 2021 and 2025, with relatively few appeals concluded each year. CHRDI described the response as inadequate and insufficient to assure transparency and accountability.

Commenting on the situation, Abdul M. Fatoma, Chief Executive Officer of CHRDI, warned that continued inaction could have far-reaching consequences. “The Judiciary’s failure to address those issues will undermine the rule of law and diminish citizens’ right to timely justice,” he said. “When corruption penetrates the judicial system, it compromises the fundamental principle of fairness. A judge who accepts a bribe or obstructs justice cannot be considered independent or impartial.”

CHRDI concluded by calling for bold, honest and comprehensive judicial reforms, backed by adequate financial commitment from the Government to restore confidence in what it described as the nation’s “temple of justice” and to ensure timely and fair access to justice for all Sierra Leoneans.

Choithram International School Freetown Ranked No.1 Private School in Sierra Leone for 2026

January 12, 2026

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Choithram International School Freetown has been ranked the number one private school in Sierra Leone for 2026 by leading global education rankings platform Schoolbell.net, a remarkable achievement that underscores the school’s world-class quality of education despite having commenced operations only in September 2024.

The ranking, released under Schoolbell.net’s annual “10 Best Private Schools in Sierra Leone” list, assessed institutions using a Contextual Reputation Score, a metric that evaluates online credibility, digital presence and reputation signals among peer institutions. Choithram International School Freetown topped the list with a perfect score of 100.0, outperforming all other private schools nationwide.

Education analysts and stakeholders say the recognition is particularly significant given the school’s short operational history. In less than two years of operation, Choithram International School Freetown has risen to the top of Sierra Leone’s private education sector; a feat widely seen as strong evidence that the quality of education offered meets international and world-class standards.

According to Elmer Kang-Juk, Division Director for Africa at Schoolbell.net, the ranking reflects how schools are perceived within the broader educational ecosystem, particularly in terms of trust, visibility and consistency in delivering quality education. He noted that private schools in Sierra Leone play a critical role in offering comprehensive academic programmes that prepare pupils for both local and international opportunities.

The 2026 rankings placed The British International School and Montessori Education second with a score of 99.7, followed closely by American International School of Freetown in third place with 98.9. Other institutions in the top ten include Ayoub International School, Chester Academy of Sierra Leone and Providence International High Schoolamong others.

For Choithram International School Freetown, the number-one ranking is being widely interpreted as validation of its rapid but strategic investment in academic excellence, highly qualified teaching staff, modern learning facilities and a strong emphasis on holistic education. Since opening in September 2024, the school has quickly built a reputation for nurturing well-rounded students who excel academically while developing strong values, discipline and global awareness.

Observers also point to the school’s strong digital footprint, effective communication with parents and consistent engagement with the wider community as key contributors to its top reputation score; factors that typically take institutions many years to establish.

Schoolbell.net, a Singapore-based education analytics platform founded in 2021, uses publicly available data combined with proprietary metrics to benchmark education providers worldwide. Unlike traditional rankings that focus heavily on examination results alone, the platform’s Contextual Reputation Score measures how a school stands relative to similar institutions based on online signals and reputation indicators.

According to the platform, the goal of the ranking is to help parents and guardians make clear, fast and informed decisions when selecting schools, particularly in competitive education markets.

With this latest recognition, Choithram International School Freetown has firmly established itself as a leading force in Sierra Leone’s private education sector, proving that excellence, when built on strong foundations, can be achieved in a remarkably short time. The ranking reinforces the school’s commitment to delivering world-class education and shaping the next generation of global leaders.

Top 10 Private Schools in Sierra Leone – 2026 (by Reputation Score):

Choithram International School Freetown (100.0)
The British International School and Montessori Education (99.7)
American International School of Freetown (98.9)
Ayoub International School (97.5)
Chester Academy of Sierra Leone (95.7)
Providence International High School (93.3)
Lebanese International School (90.4)
Olive B. Academy (87.0)
Romans International Academy (83.0)
Sierra Leone Grammar School (75.0)

A Fact-Based Perspective on Shalimar Trading Company and the TVS Product Advantage in Sierra Leone

January 12, 2026

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The concerns raised about rising transport costs in Sierra Leone reflect real economic pressures faced by riders, kekeh operators and private motorbike owners. However, attributing those challenges to Shalimar Trading Company and characterizing its role as exploitative does not align with verifiable market facts or the operational realities of importing, distributing and servicing motor vehicles in the country.

Shalimar Trading Company is the authorized national distributor of TVS motorbikes and spare parts, representing TVS Motor Company, one of the world’s leading two- and three-wheeler manufacturers. Authorized distributorships are a standard global practice designed to ensure:

Product authenticity (protection against counterfeits),
Manufacturer-backed warranties,
Technical standards and safety compliance and
Structured after-sales service.

These safeguards matter in a transport ecosystem where reliability directly affects livelihoods and public safety.

TVS motorbikes are chosen across Sierra Leone for measurable practical reasons:

Fuel efficiency that lowers operating costs over time,
Durable engines and frames suited to local road conditions,
Consistent availability of genuine spare parts and
Lower lifecycle costs compared with unregulated imports that often fail early.

Those attributes explain why TVS models dominate commercial riding; not market coercion but product performance and reliability.

Price increases in bikes and spare parts mirror broader economic forces affecting all imported goods:

Exchange-rate volatility and foreign currency costs,
Global shipping and insurance expenses,
Customs duties, port charges and domestic taxes,
Inflation in logistics, fuel and operations.

No distributor can absorb those costs indefinitely. Import-dependent sectors, from food to medicine, face the same pressures. Assigning responsibility to a single company overlooks those systemic drivers.

Shalimar has built a nationwide distribution and service footprint, supporting:

Direct and indirect employment,
Dealer networks in major cities and regional hubs,
Trained technicians and service standards, and
Reliable access to genuine parts, which reduces breakdowns and safety risks.

Opening the market to unchecked alternatives would likely increase counterfeit parts, compromise road safety and raise long-term maintenance costs for riders.

Riders’ difficulties warrant solutions, financing options, duty reviews on commercial transport equipment, currency stabilization and sector reforms, not the vilification of a compliant private investor. Constructive engagement among regulators, transport unions, financiers and distributors offers a more credible path to affordability and sustainability.

Shalimar Trading Company’s role is best understood through facts: authorized distribution, proven products, national service coverage and compliance within a challenging macroeconomic environment. TVS motorbikes remain the backbone of daily mobility in Sierra Leone because they deliver value, safety and reliability; qualities that ultimately protect riders’ incomes and the public interest.

NP (SL) Boosts Staff Wellbeing with Health Walk and Burnout Awareness Session

January 12, 2026

NP (SL) staff participating in health walk and burnout session

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

NP (SL) Limited on Saturday, 10 January 2026, conducted its monthly staff health walk from the Freetown Golf Club to Aberdeen and back, reaffirming the company’s commitment to employee wellness as a key pillar of productivity and workplace sustainability. The early-morning exercise brought together the Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Mohamed S. Kanu and staff drawn from various departments, creating an opportunity for physical activity, team bonding and open engagement around health challenges increasingly associated with modern work environments.

The health walk, which has become a regular feature of NP (SL)’s internal wellness agenda, is designed to encourage employees to adopt healthier lifestyles by integrating exercise and health awareness into the company’s work culture. Management explained that the initiative aims to reduce stress, boost morale and build a resilient workforce capable of meeting the demands of daily operations without compromising personal wellbeing.

As part of the programme, medical practitioner, Dr. Abdul Kalokoh, delivered an interactive session focused on workplace ergonomics and stress management. He explained that many office-related health complaints, including back pain, waist strain and joint discomfort, are often caused by poor sitting posture and improper body positioning rather than underlying medical conditions. He demonstrated correct sitting techniques, appropriate ways of bending, neck-stretching exercises and proper joint alignment to help staff minimize physical strain during office duties.

Dr. Abdul Kalokoh noted that it is common for employees to feel persistently unwell even when medical tests show no disease, stressing that such symptoms are frequently linked to stress and burnout. According to him, sudden changes in work responsibilities or personal circumstances can trigger stress responses that manifest as fatigue, discomfort and reduced concentration. He warned that extended work schedules without adequate rest push individuals beyond their natural limits, increasing the risk of burnout and diminishing overall performance.

He further highlighted poor time management as a major driver of workplace stress, explaining that postponing tasks until deadlines creates unnecessary pressure, lowers the quality of output and leaves employees overwhelmed. Describing NP (SL)’s operations as demanding across all roles, including support services such as security, he said neglecting self-care often results in repeated medical visits for stress-related conditions.

Dr. Abdul Kalokoh encouraged staff to understand their personal capacities, energy cycles and physical limits, noting that awareness of individual rhythms, including menstrual cycles for women, allows for better task planning and reduces last-minute pressure that fuels burnout. He cautioned that unmanaged burnout can progress to serious health conditions such as hypertension, stroke and depression, adding that younger workers are increasingly affected due to financial obligations and family pressures.

He also outlined behavioural signs that may indicate mental health strain, including persistent irritability, excessive complaints, disruptive behaviour and unusual emotional expressions, urging early recognition and professional referral. He emphasized that identifying burnout should not be left to medical personnel alone, but should be a shared responsibility across the workforce, from security staff to senior management.

The health walk and medical awareness session form part of NP (SL)’s broader strategy to institutionalize employee wellness as a core operational priority, reflecting the company’s focus on building a healthy, productive and sustainable workforce through proactive health and wellbeing initiatives.

Pa Jeety, Shri Gurudwara Sahib Resume Public Community Feeding Programme at Lumley

January 12, 2026

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The community feeding programme at Lumley was successfully resumed on Saturday, 10 January 2026, following a temporary suspension occasioned by public health concerns related to Mpox. The initiative, led by Mohinder Bir Singh, fondly known as Pa Jeety, in collaboration with Shri Gurudwara Sahib, Lumley, returned with renewed emphasis on compassion, order and dignity, serving hundreds of beneficiaries from Lumley and surrounding communities.

From the early hours of the exercise, beneficiaries formed peaceful and orderly queues, received plates of rice and then calmly moved away to nearby spaces to eat at their convenience. The feeding was conducted publicly along the pavement outside the Gurudwara, a deliberate arrangement designed to ensure accessibility, transparency and smooth flow while avoiding congestion. The open setting allowed the programme to reach a wide cross-section of the community without compromising safety or personal space.

Organisers explained that the structured approach was intentional. Rather than gathering crowds in one location, individuals were served in sequence and encouraged to disperse to eat at their own pace. This system not only promoted calm and respect but also reduced the risk of disorder, reflecting lessons learned from earlier phases of the programme and broader public health considerations.

The decision to carry out the feeding publicly along the pavement also underscored a commitment to inclusion. Elderly residents, young people and persons living with disabilities were able to approach the serving area with ease, receive their meals without delay and move to shaded or comfortable spots nearby. Wheelchair users and those with mobility challenges, in particular, benefited from the open layout, which eliminated physical barriers and ensured equal treatment for all.

Beneficiaries expressed appreciation for both the resumption of the programme and the manner in which it was conducted. Many described the feeding as timely, noting that ongoing economic pressures have made daily survival increasingly difficult for vulnerable households. For some families, the return of the Lumley feeding programme represents a vital source of relief at a moment when food insecurity remains a pressing concern.

At the heart of the initiative is Pa Jeety, whose humanitarian work has earned widespread respect across Sierra Leone. Known for his humility and quiet generosity, Mohinder Bir Singh has consistently supported community feeding efforts inspired by the Sikh principle of selfless service, which emphasises equality, compassion and care for the needy regardless of background, religion or social status. His sustained commitment has helped make the Lumley feeding programme a dependable lifeline for many residents over the years.

The success of Saturday’s exercise was also driven by the dedication of volunteers who worked behind the scenes to ensure the process ran smoothly and peacefully. The programme was facilitated by Raju Dutt, popularly known as Rocky, alongside Jagat Ram, Bhawar Preet Singh (Sonny), Abdulai Bah, Abu Bakarr Sesay, Ronald Sawyer and Alie Kanu. Together, they coordinated the serving process, guided queues and offered assistance to vulnerable individuals, maintaining a calm and respectful atmosphere throughout.

Beyond the immediate distribution of food, the programme continues to convey a broader message of solidarity and social responsibility. Public feeding carried out openly and in an orderly manner sends a strong signal of accountability and community trust. It demonstrates that humanitarian support can be delivered with dignity, without spectacle or disorder, and in a way that respects the humanity of beneficiaries.

As recipients collected their meals and quietly moved away to eat, many offered prayers for the sustainability of the programme and for the continued strength of those who make it possible. The scene was marked by quiet gratitude rather than noise, reflecting the deep appreciation felt by those who rely on such support for daily survival.

The resumption of the Lumley community feeding programme once again highlights the enduring impact of compassionate leadership and collective effort. Through the generosity of Pa Jeety, the support of the Shri Gurudwara Sahib and the dedication of volunteers, the initiative continues to ease hardship, restore dignity and remind society that simple, well-organised acts of kindness can make a profound difference in the lives of the most vulnerable.

Africell Hands Over Completed House to Jubilee Jumbo Winner Amidu Kamara at TAF Salone Micro City

January 12, 2026

Africell Chief Executive Officer Shadi Gerjawi presenting house documents and keys to winner, Amidu Kamara (in the middle) of Jubilee Jumbo promotion

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Amidu Kamara, a 23-year-old resident of Kabala, has emerged as the grand prize winner of Africell Sierra Leone’s Jubilee Jumbo Promotion, walking away with a fully completed residential house at TAF Salone Micro City. The grand finale of the nationwide promotion was held on Friday, 9 January 2026, at the Taf Micro City estate, bringing to a close Africell’s 25th anniversary customer reward campaign.

The Jubilee Jumbo Promotion was launched in April 2025 as part of Africell’s celebration of 25 years of operations in Sierra Leone. Designed to reward customer loyalty, the promotion enabled subscribers to accumulate points through everyday usage. Customers earned one point for every Africell airtime recharge and two points for AfriMoney transactions. Accumulated points qualified participants for the final draw, which ran until December 2025, with the ultimate prize being a completed, ready-to-occupy house.

Speaking at the grand finale, Africell Chief Executive Officer Shadi Gerjawi described the promotion as a tangible demonstration of the company’s commitment to giving back to its customers. He said the house giveaway fulfilled a pledge made during the anniversary celebrations and symbolized Africell’s transition from 25 years of service into a new phase of operations in 2026.

Gerjawi noted that Africell remains firmly customer-focused, stressing that every product and promotion is assessed based on the value it delivers to subscribers. While acknowledging that service improvement is an ongoing process, he reaffirmed the company’s commitment to affordable connectivity and expanded internet access nationwide.

He also disclosed the recent launch of Kidsonet, a child online protection service that enables parents to restrict access to harmful digital content. According to him, the initiative aligns with national child protection priorities and reflects Africell’s broader responsibility beyond telecommunications.

The Chief Executive Officer further announced plans to intensify network expansion, particularly in underserved upcountry communities, with the aim of bringing more areas online. He assured attendees that the house draw process would be transparent and credible, noting that all qualifying entries were verified and openly displayed prior to selection.

“There are no hidden conditions attached to this prize,” Gerjawi emphasized. “Once the key is handed over, ownership of the house becomes absolute. The winner is free to live in it, rent it out, or sell it.”

Also addressing the gathering, Afrimoney Chief Executive Officer Martinson Obeng-Agyei said the promotion demonstrated the company’s commitment to delivering on promises made to customers. He recalled that the house giveaway was announced in April 2025 and confirmed that the property had been completed and branded in Africell colours. He encouraged customers to continue using AfriMoney services to benefit from future reward programmes.

The President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists, Alhaji Manika Kamara, who observed the proceedings, commended Africell for conducting a fair and transparent draw. He said there was no evidence of manipulation and urged the company to maintain integrity in its services to the public.

During the final draw, all qualified participants were invited on stage to submit their folded tickets into a transparent box. Blindfolded, the SLAJ President thoroughly mixed the entries before selecting the winning ticket. The name Amidu Kamara was announced to loud applause as the recipient of the house.

The win marks the conclusion of Africell’s Jubilee Jumbo Promotion and stands as one of the largest customer reward initiatives ever undertaken by a telecommunications company in Sierra Leone, reinforcing Africell’s positioning as a brand that rewards loyalty with life-changing opportunities.

Amidu Kamara winner of Africell Sierra Leone’s Jubilee Jumbo Promotion

Recording 268,929 in 2025… SLCAA Reports Steady Rise in Passenger Traffic Through Freetown International Airport

January 9, 2026

Musayeroh Barrie, Director General of the SLCAA

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Passenger movement through Freetown International Airport recorded a strong and encouraging increase in 2025, signaling renewed confidence in Sierra Leone’s aviation sector and the impact of sustained reforms in air transport management. Official data released by the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) show that a total of 268,929 passengers were processed through the airport during the year, marking one of the strongest performances in recent times.

The 2025 figure represents a clear rise from the 250,606 passengers recorded in 2024, translating into a year-on-year increase of 18,323 passengers. Aviation authorities attribute this growth to improved airline connectivity, increased airline movements, enhanced operational efficiency and sustained confidence by both travelers and airline operators in Sierra Leone’s air transport system.

According to the SLCAA, passenger growth in 2025 was supported by over 2,000 airline movements, reflecting a steady expansion in flight activity to and from the country. The data indicate that both international and regional routes contributed to the increased traffic, reinforcing Sierra Leone’s position as a steadily growing aviation destination in West Africa.

Monthly passenger statistics released by the Authority show consistent gains across most months of the year. January 2025 opened with higher passenger numbers compared to the same period in 2024, setting a positive tone for the year. While some mid-year months experienced moderate fluctuations, overall traffic levels remained above those of the previous year. The final quarter of 2025, traditionally a peak travel period, recorded particularly strong performance, with December pushing annual passenger totals to their highest level in recent years.

Commenting on the milestone, Musayeroh Barrie, Director General of the SLCAA, described the figures as a clear reflection of progress in the country’s aviation sector.

“Passenger growth of this nature demonstrates renewed confidence in our skies,” she said. “It shows that the reforms we are implementing, particularly in safety oversight, regulatory compliance and stakeholder collaboration, are yielding tangible results. Our priority remains ensuring safe, secure and efficient air transport services while supporting national development.”

Aviation analysts note that the improved performance is also linked to stronger engagement with international and regional airlines, improved coordination among aviation stakeholders and ongoing investments in airport systems, personnel training and regulatory oversight. Those factors, they say, have helped create a more reliable and predictable operating environment for airlines while improving the passenger experience.

The increase in passenger throughput is expected to have positive spillover effects on tourism, trade and the wider economy. Higher passenger volumes translate into increased demand for hospitality services, ground handling, transportation and other related sectors, contributing to job creation and economic activity.

The yearly comparison chart released by the SLCAA shows a clear upward trajectory, with 2025 outperforming 2024 by a wide margin. Officials believe that with sustained policy consistency, infrastructure upgrades and continued collaboration with airline partners, passenger numbers could continue to rise in the coming years.

As Sierra Leone positions itself as an emerging aviation hub in the sub-region, the SLCAA has reiterated its commitment to international best practices, capacity building and strategic partnerships that strengthen the sector. The Authority has emphasized that safety, security and efficiency will remain at the core of its mandate as traffic volumes grow.

For aviation authorities, the 2025 passenger movement figures represent more than just statistics. They are seen as a strong signal of growing trust in Sierra Leone’s aviation system and a testament to what can be achieved when vision is matched with leadership. As progress takes flight, Sierra Leone appears increasingly connected; both to the region and to the wider world.