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President Bio Launches Justice Sector Reform Strategy 2024-2030

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a pivotal moment for Sierra Leone’s justice system, President Dr. Julius Maada Bio officially launched the Justice Sector Reform Strategy 2024-2030 on Thursday, September 12, 2024, at the New Brookfields Hotel in Freetown. The strategy represents a crucial effort to improve justice delivery across the country, ensuring fair, impartial, and accessible justice for all citizens, particularly the marginalized and vulnerable groups, including women.

The strategy, developed by the Government of Sierra Leone, aims to address gaps in the justice system while enhancing access to justice for every citizen, regardless of economic status. Speaking at the event, President Bio emphasized the importance of making justice services available to all.

“At the heart of these reforms is ensuring that justice services are accessible to every Sierra Leonean,” President Bio remarked. “We are committed to ensuring that no one is left behind, particularly the vulnerable and marginalized members of our society.”

During his keynote address, President Bio underscored his administration’s focus on advancing the rule of law, promoting justice, and upholding human rights—key pillars of the “New Direction” development agenda. He emphasized the link between justice sector reforms and the Government’s Medium-Term National Development Plan, which prioritizes justice, human rights, and equal economic opportunities.

“I was elected on a platform of reform, with a strong commitment to advancing the rule of law and promoting justice and human rights,” President Bio noted. “Justice and accountability are critical to our national development aspirations, and every citizen must be treated fairly in criminal and civil proceedings.”

President Bio also highlighted the government’s responsibility in creating a secure legal environment for businesses and investments, stating, “When businesses are assured of access to their legal rights, it provides a secure environment for growth and investment.”

He commended the efforts of the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Mohamed-Lamin Tarawalley, and his team for their hard work in preparing the strategy. President Bio further announced his assent to the Criminal Procedure Act of 2024, aligning it with the broader objectives of the justice sector reforms.

A key feature of the Justice Sector Reform Strategy is its “People-Centered Justice” approach, which places individuals and communities at the core of the justice delivery process. President Bio stated, “Our justice system must address the needs, rights, and participation of individuals and communities. This is the direction we are taking with our reforms.”

Since assuming office in 2018, President Bio has overseen significant investments in the justice sector. While acknowledging that more work lies ahead, he expressed satisfaction with the progress made in expanding access to justice, particularly for vulnerable populations. He also linked the reforms to Sierra Leone’s commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030, with access to justice seen as critical to achieving these global targets.

“Sierra Leone stands as a concrete example of how policy actions on access to justice can transform societies, consolidate peace, and foster sustainable development,” President Bio stated. “Our commitment to creating an enabling environment for access to justice is not a choice, but an obligation.”

In concluding his address, President Bio called on all Sierra Leoneans to support the implementation of the Justice Sector Reform Strategy 2024-2030, emphasizing that its success is vital for promoting human rights, the rule of law, and sustainable national development.

“Let us come together and work as a team for the success of this crucial reform,” he urged.

The launch of this reform strategy signifies a significant step forward in Sierra Leone’s efforts to modernize its justice sector and create a more inclusive and equitable society for all its citizens.

The launch event also featured participation from the Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone (HRCSL), a key institution within the justice sector. The HRCSL showcased its work through an exhibition that highlighted its role in promoting and protecting human rights. President Bio visited the HRCSL booth, where he reviewed materials, including a Public Inquiry Report on the Conduct of Law Enforcement Officials from 2015-2021, and received a copy of the report.

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) also played a visible role at the event, showcasing its ongoing efforts to fight corruption. President Bio, accompanied by the Chief Minister and the Attorney General, visited the ACC booth, where he was briefed on the commission’s initiatives to raise public awareness and enforce anti-corruption laws.

The interaction between President Bio and the ACC team was warm and collegial, with the President expressing his appreciation for the commission’s hard work. He praised the dedication of the staff and reiterated his government’s unwavering support for the fight against corruption, stressing that the integrity and accountability of national institutions are paramount for the country’s development.

President Bio’s engagement at the ACC booth reinforced the importance of collective effort in building a corruption-free society and left a sense of pride and motivation among the ACC staff.

The Justice Sector Reform Strategy 2024-2030 is a bold initiative that promises to reshape Sierra Leone’s justice landscape, fostering trust, equity, and sustainable development for all its citizens.

Parliamentary Press Gallery Honors Orange SL for Excellence in Telecommunications

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Orange Sierra Leone was honored by the Sierra Leone Parliamentary Press Gallery (SLPPG) with a prestigious certificate of recognition. The ceremony, held on Thursday, September 12, 2024, at the Orange headquarters in Freetown, highlighted the company’s outstanding contribution to mobile telecommunications in the country.

The certificate was awarded in recognition of Orange Sierra Leone’s exceptional commitment to delivering reliable mobile services and ensuring customer satisfaction. The company’s dedication to maintaining high standards has set a new benchmark in the Mobile Network Operator (MNO) industry in Sierra Leone.

Amara Sewu, Executive Secretary of the SLPPG, presented the certificate to Madam Danetta Young, General Secretary of Orange Sierra Leone. During the presentation, Sewu praised the company’s continued efforts to meet the needs of its customers while demonstrating reliability and innovation in the telecommunications sector.

In response, Madam Danetta Young expressed her gratitude on behalf of Orange Sierra Leone. She thanked the Parliamentary Press Gallery for the recognition, emphasizing Orange’s unwavering dedication to customer service, technological advancement, and contributions to the media landscape in Sierra Leone. “Our commitment to excellence and support for the media is second to none,” she remarked.

This recent accolade adds to the growing list of awards and recognitions that Orange Sierra Leone has received over the years, including:

– Environmental Care Award: Orange Sierra Leone was named the Carbon Zero Champion Mobile Company of the year, while its CEO, Sekou Amadou Bah, was recognized as the Environmental Champion CEO of the year.

– Outstanding Humanitarian Award: In 2019, the company received this award from Shout Climate Change Africa for its humanitarian efforts.

– Compliance Award: In 2020, Orange Sierra Leone was honored by the National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT) for compliance.

– Fastest Growing Mobile Operator: The company was recognized by Advocacy Center as the fastest-growing mobile operator in 2020.

– Best CSR/Philanthropy Organization: The Sierra Business Awards in 2021 recognized Orange Sierra Leone for its outstanding corporate social responsibility and philanthropy efforts.

Additionally, Orange Sierra Leone hosts the annual Orange Social Venture Prize (OSVP), an international competition that supports businesses making a positive social and environmental impact. The OSVP also includes an International Women’s Prize, designed to promote and empower women-led businesses and initiatives aimed at improving the lives of women.

The OSVP, organized by Orange Group in partnership with Innovation Sierra Leone, helps to nurture young entrepreneurial minds by providing financial support and expert guidance to startups in the Information Communication Technology (ICT) sector.

This recognition from the Sierra Leone Parliamentary Press Gallery further cements Orange Sierra Leone’s role as a leader in telecommunications, corporate responsibility, and media support in the country.

Dr. Turad Senesie Pushes for Overhaul of Urban Development Laws

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a landmark move to reform urban development across Sierra Leone, the Minister of Lands, Housing, and Country Planning, Dr. Turad Senesie, has underscored the critical need for urban planning reform during a stakeholder consultation in Bombali District on Tuesday, September 10, 2024. The event, part of a nationwide consultation series, focused on reviewing the Country Planning Act to address pressing challenges in urban areas.

Held at the City Council Hall in Makeni, the consultation attracted a diverse group of participants, including representatives from Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), local authorities, civil society organizations, and the media. The event forms part of the Ministry’s broader effort to gather input from all sectors of society to ensure that the new urban planning framework reflects the needs and aspirations of all citizens.

In his keynote address, Minister Senesie emphasized that the current legislative review is essential for reshaping Sierra Leone’s towns and cities, while devolving development control responsibilities to local councils. He stressed that the proliferation of unplanned communities, inadequate infrastructure, and rampant noise pollution were among the major issues that urgently required attention.

“Unplanned development and haphazard construction not only disrupt the aesthetics of our urban areas but also pose serious threats to public health and safety,” said the Minister. He pointed out that many buildings are constructed without regard for zoning regulations, often blocking waterways and damaging the environment.

Dr. Senesie further revealed that the proposed revisions to the Country Planning Act would mandate the creation of green spaces, recreational centers, and urban beautification projects under a new initiative called the City Corridors Development Project. This project aims to collaborate with local councils to transform Sierra Leone’s urban areas into more livable and sustainable environments.

“The future of urban Sierra Leone must include well-planned spaces that promote the health, safety, and well-being of our citizens,” Dr. Senesie declared, highlighting that sustainable urban planning would improve the quality of life for all.

The Minister’s remarks were echoed by Hon. Quinton Sallia, Chairman of the Parliamentary Oversight Committee on Land, who lauded Dr. Senesie for his leadership and dedication to legal reform. “No country can develop without a robust planning framework,” he noted, commending the Minister’s courage in pursuing much-needed reforms that will enhance urban governance.

Stakeholders in attendance, including local council officials, civil society members, and urban planning experts, voiced their support for the initiative. They recognized that the proposed reforms would help address the long-standing challenges that have hindered urban development in Sierra Leone, from poor drainage systems to unregulated building practices.

Discussions during the consultation were robust and insightful, with participants sharing their experiences and suggestions for improving urban planning. The diverse input received during the consultation reflects the Ministry’s commitment to fostering an inclusive dialogue that ensures the voices of all citizens are heard.

As the consultation series continues in Bo, Kenema, Port Loko, Bombali, and Freetown, the Ministry remains focused on engaging stakeholders in meaningful discussions. The overarching goal is to create a more organized, sustainable, and inclusive urban landscape that benefits all Sierra Leoneans.

Minister Senesie’s call for reform comes at a critical time, as Sierra Leone faces rapid urbanization and the need for resilient infrastructure that can accommodate its growing population. The revisions to the Country Planning Act are expected to lay the groundwork for more efficient urban governance and sustainable development in the years to come.

Health Ministry Enforces Tobacco Ban in Public Spaces

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Public smoking is officially banned across Sierra Leone following the enactment of the Tobacco and Nicotine Act of 2022. Dr. Santigie Sesay, Director of the Directorate of Non-communicable Diseases and Mental Health at the Ministry of Health, has announced that smoking in public spaces is now unlawful, with offenders facing fines, imprisonment, or both.

Dr. Sesay explained that the legislation aims to safeguard public health by mitigating the harmful effects of tobacco smoke. While acknowledging that tobacco remains a legal product, he emphasized that individual rights to smoke should not jeopardize the health of others. “Your right to smoke ends where another person’s right to breathe clean air begins,” Dr. Sesay remarked.

He cited a study showing that tobacco use is a significant public health concern in Sierra Leone, with 18% of men and 3% of women aged 15 to 49 identified as tobacco users, despite growing awareness of its harmful effects.

“Tobacco kills half of all its users,” Dr. Sesay warned, stressing that tobacco consumption is a leading cause of cancer, chronic lung disease, and diabetes. Additionally, he highlighted tobacco’s role in infertility, miscarriage, bad breath, and high blood pressure. “Globally, tobacco causes over two million deaths from cardiovascular diseases annually, and one in ten heart disease deaths is linked to tobacco use,” he added. Second-hand smoke, he continued, accounts for an estimated 900,000 premature deaths each year worldwide.

The Tobacco and Nicotine Act is part of a comprehensive strategy to regulate tobacco use in Sierra Leone, offering protection not only to smokers but also to minors, non-smokers, and pregnant women, all of whom are at heightened risk from tobacco exposure. “We are not simply aiming to imprison offenders, but to ensure the health and safety of all citizens,” Dr. Sesay stated. “Additionally, the country stands to benefit financially through tobacco taxation, potentially generating billions of Leones.”

Dr. Sesay also noted that efforts are underway to establish the Tobacco and Nicotine Control Council, which will be tasked with raising awareness about the new law and working closely with stakeholders at all levels to ensure its enforcement.

He concluded by calling for concerted efforts from all stakeholders to promote awareness about the risks of tobacco consumption and to drive the popularization of the Tobacco and Nicotine Act across the country.

MTHE Bids Farewell to Hungarian Scholarship Awardees

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a ceremony held on September 10, 2024, the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education (MTHE) bid farewell to 32 Sierra Leonean students selected for a prestigious Hungarian scholarship programme. The students will be pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in various fields in Hungary, an opportunity aimed at enhancing their skills and knowledge to contribute to Sierra Leone’s national development.

The Acting Student Secretary of MTHE, George Dambo, addressed the gathering, highlighting the significance of this scholarship opportunity. He noted that the scholarship covers full tuition, a monthly stipend, accommodation contribution, and medical insurance, but emphasized that the provisions are supplementary. The students were reminded to prepare for additional living costs and to be responsible for their airfare to and from Hungary upon completing their studies.

Khadijatu Alpha, the Acting Director of Europe at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MOFAIC), commended MTHE for its transparent and fair selection process. She stressed the importance of human capital development, a priority of President Julius Maada Bio’s government, and expressed MOFAIC’s commitment to securing more scholarship opportunities for Sierra Leoneans in the future. Congratulating the awardees, she described the scholarships as life-changing and urged them to make the most of this opportunity.

MTHE’s Chief Technical and Higher Education Officer, Dr. Josephus Brimah, urged the students to serve as ambassadors of Sierra Leone while in Hungary. He advised them to focus on their studies and avoid engaging in Hungary’s political affairs. Brimah expressed optimism that the students’ performance could potentially lead to an increase in scholarship quotas for Sierra Leonean students in subsequent years. He also encouraged them to return to Sierra Leone after completing their studies to contribute to the nation’s development.

The keynote address was delivered by MTHE’s Minister, Dr. Haja Ramatulai Wurie, who described the ceremony as a pivotal moment for the awardees. “Today we recognize not only your achievements but also the immense potential you hold as future leaders, innovators, and professionals of Sierra Leone,” she said. Dr. Wurie extended her gratitude to the Hungarian government for its continued support, emphasizing that these scholarships represent an investment in the future of Sierra Leone, enabling young minds to acquire the skills necessary for national development.

Dr. Wurie congratulated the students on their selection, noting that their hard work and dedication had earned them the opportunity to represent Sierra Leone on the international stage. She encouraged them to immerse themselves in Hungarian culture, embrace diverse ideas, and develop a global perspective. She also urged them to seize every opportunity during their studies to enhance their personal and professional growth.

The scholarship programme, which is part of Hungary’s contribution to Sierra Leone’s human capital development, represents a significant step in fostering international collaboration in education, ultimately benefiting the nation as the students return with enhanced knowledge and skills to contribute to Sierra Leone’s progress.

RSLAF Partners with Michigan National Guard for Enhanced Military Cooperation

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a landmark ceremony held at the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) Joint Forces Command Headquarters, Sierra Leone officially joined the State Partnership Program (SPP) with the Michigan National Guard (MING). This collaboration marks a significant step forward in security cooperation between the two nations.

The signing ceremony was attended by key officials, including Lt. Gen. Peter Lavahun, Chief of Defense Staff for RSLAF; U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Paul D. Rogers, Adjutant General of Michigan; Sierra Leone’s Deputy Minister of Defense Muana Massaquoi; and U.S. Ambassador to Sierra Leone Bryan Hunt.

U.S. Ambassador Hunt hailed the partnership as “a new and exciting chapter in our joint security cooperation.” The SPP, a U.S. initiative, aims to build mutually beneficial relationships by pairing a U.S. state’s National Guard with the armed forces of a partner nation. This collaboration provides an avenue for military training and knowledge exchange, particularly with the unique blend of civilian and military expertise the National Guard brings.

Maj. Gen. Rogers emphasized the program’s benefits: “The SPP offers our Soldiers and Airmen the chance to increase global awareness and preparedness, enhancing our readiness for deployment in diverse environments.”

Lt. Gen. Lavahun underscored the strategic importance of the partnership, stating, “This agreement will strengthen our defense and security cooperation and help address ongoing security challenges in the West African region and the Gulf of Guinea.”

Key areas of collaboration under the SPP include professional military education, humanitarian and disaster response operations, peacekeeping efforts, and joint skill-building opportunities. These initiatives are expected to commence by the end of 2024.

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer praised the long-standing success of MING’s involvement in the State Partnership Program, noting that Michigan was one of the first participants in 1993 with its partnership with Latvia, followed by Liberia in 2009. “These state-to-state relationships have fostered a valuable exchange of ideas and expertise for everyone involved,” Whitmer said.

The Michigan National Guard, which plays a crucial role in supporting U.S. national security strategies, stands ready to contribute to both federal and state emergencies.

FEMAB Reaffirms Dedication to Completing IPAM Bureh Campus

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

FEMAB Properties Limited has reaffirmed its commitment to completing the Institute of Public Administration and Management (IPAM) Bureh Campus project in response to a statement made by the University of Sierra Leone (USL) on September 4, 2024. The Nigerian real estate developer, in a press release, acknowledged the transparency of USL and assured that it remains fully committed to finishing the long-awaited state-of-the-art campus, despite ongoing financial challenges.

FEMAB’s involvement in the project supports President Maada Bio’s agenda for educational development, a key pillar in his government’s priorities. Over the years, FEMAB has collaborated closely with USL and other stakeholders to establish this new residential campus at Bureh Town. However, delays in securing financial guarantees have posed significant obstacles to progress.

USL’s statement detailed the extensive due diligence, appraisals, and negotiations that have been conducted, involving the Ministry of Finance and other governmental bodies. According to the release, FEMAB has diligently fulfilled its obligations in resource mobilization, site preparation, and initial construction efforts. These efforts were made even during the global COVID-19 pandemic, which further complicated the financial landscape for large-scale projects like the IPAM campus.

In light of the current challenges, FEMAB is now engaged in discussions with USL to finalize a new financial model that can facilitate the project’s completion. The new model under consideration includes a Build, Operate, and Transfer (BOT) structure, which is expected to address financing gaps and align with the long-term vision of both FEMAB and IPAM. FEMAB expressed optimism about these negotiations, stating that they will result in an agreement that supports the goals of both institutions.

“We assure all stakeholders—government, university, and the public—that FEMAB remains fully committed to the IPAM Bureh Campus Project. We are determined to deliver a facility that will serve as a beacon of educational excellence in Sierra Leone,” the release signed by Sina Aguda, Corporate Communications Department at FEMAB, stated.

The announcement has been met with optimism by both staff and students at IPAM. The need for a new campus has been felt acutely due to the congestion at the current Tower Hill location in Freetown. The overpopulation of students has led to daily struggles for classroom space, which hampers the university’s ability to deliver quality education. The construction of the new Bureh campus is seen as a solution that will ease these challenges and expand opportunities for students and faculty alike.

An insider at IPAM indicated that although the university initially committed to a $12.5 million payment to FEMAB, only a partial payment of $4.5 million was made, which allowed the project to begin. The insider noted that hopes had been high for securing a Sovereign Guarantee from the Government of Sierra Leone to fulfill the remaining financial obligations outlined in the $50 million contract. However, this guarantee has not yet been secured, leading to a temporary halt in the project.

Nonetheless, both IPAM and FEMAB have continued to engage in high-level discussions, with meetings as recent as August 2024 in Nigeria, where both parties expressed optimism about moving the project forward. FEMAB’s willingness to re-engage and explore alternative financing options, such as the BOT model, has been seen as a positive step in overcoming these financial hurdles.

For students, alumni, and staff of IPAM, the completion of the new campus would not only alleviate the overcrowding at Tower Hill but also enhance the university’s capacity to contribute to human capital development in Sierra Leone. “It will also add value to President Bio’s agenda of free quality education and be a win-win situation for all parties involved,” a government source familiar with the project remarked.

As discussions continue, there is widespread hope that the Bureh campus project will soon be back on track, providing a modern, spacious facility that will elevate the standard of education at IPAM and contribute to the broader development goals of Sierra Leone.

First Lady Champions Global Fight to Protect Education

By Esther Wright

During the 5th Observance of the United Nations International Day to Protect Education from Attack, held in Doha, Qatar, Sierra Leone’s First Lady, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, took a powerful stand advocating for global unity to protect education from the devastation caused by armed conflict. The event served as a critical platform to raise awareness of the dire consequences that violence and warfare impose on educational systems around the world.

Reflecting on Sierra Leone’s painful history, particularly the 11-year civil war that ravaged the country from 1991 to 2002, Dr. Bio highlighted the significant damage done to the nation’s educational infrastructure. The war not only demolished schools but also disrupted the lives of children and educators, leaving a permanent scar on Sierra Leone, a country once revered as the “Athens of West Africa.” She emphasized that education is more than an academic pursuit—it is a fundamental human right and a crucial pillar for sustainable development.

In her stirring address, Dr. Bio called for global cooperation to address this pressing issue. She issued a special plea to men, who are often seen as perpetrators of violence, urging them to break their silence and join the movement to safeguard education. “If you see something, say something,” she stressed, emphasizing the importance of vigilance and proactive action in the fight to protect schools and students from violence.

Her Excellency’s remarks align with broader international concerns about the intersection of armed conflict and education. Various studies have shown that conflicts disproportionately affect access to quality education, resulting in long-term socio-economic challenges for affected communities. Dr. Bio’s call for action is not only timely but vital in fostering a united global response to this growing crisis.

As nations continue to contend with ongoing conflicts and their lasting impact on future generations, prioritizing educational protection initiatives becomes increasingly urgent. Dr. Bio’s appeal is a reminder that safeguarding education requires collective efforts from all sectors of society—governments, NGOs, communities, and individuals alike. Her passionate advocacy reinforces the idea that education is a right that must be defended at all costs, ensuring that every child can learn and grow in a safe environment.

Dr. Fatima Maada Bio’s leadership at the event further solidifies her position as a global champion for peace and education, echoing the sentiment that global solidarity is essential in confronting this issue head-on.

The Growing Importance of Sierra Leone’s National Identification Card

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leone’s National Identification Card has evolved beyond a simple form of identification, becoming a critical component in ensuring legal identity and enhancing access to essential services. The card’s importance is particularly evident in the financial sector, where it plays a pivotal role in verifying identities, securing transactions, and safeguarding sensitive services.

Today, Biometric Identity Cards have gained widespread acceptance as a reliable solution to identity-related challenges, including citizenship verification and access to essential services. Issued to both nationals and non-nationals, the cards contain unique biometric data embedded in chips, enabling secure and precise identity verification.

This evolution underscores the growing importance of the National Identification Card in legal, financial, and service sectors, solidifying its role as a cornerstone of identity management in Sierra Leone.

The Biometric Identity Card, recognized nationwide for its reliability in resolving identity challenges, is embedded with vital biometric data such as fingerprints and photographs. This ensures precise identity verification and offers crucial benefits, including confirming citizenship and accessing key services.

A unique National Identification Number (NIN), permanently linked to a centralized National Identity Database, is assigned to each cardholder. This lifelong identifier helps distinguish individuals who may share similar names, making it indispensable for both government and private sector services. For instance, students taking public exams and foreign nationals applying for work or residence permits must provide their NIN as part of the verification process.

The National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA), responsible for issuing the cards, emphasizes the importance of securing a Biometric ID Card for personal protection and easy access to services. To facilitate this, the NCRA has established registration centers nationwide, including its headquarters at 2 Walpole Street, Freetown, and regional offices in Bo, Kenema, Makeni, and Port Loko. Corporate services are also available to help organizations verify the identities of their employees and clients.

For assistance with the registration process, individuals can contact the NCRA through dedicated phone lines at +232-33-433-333 or +232-30-500-000, or via email at idverification@ncra.gov.

Beyond identity verification, the Biometric ID Card has become essential for accessing services in banking, law enforcement, and education. This underscores the NCRA’s ongoing call for all citizens and non-citizens to obtain their cards, safeguarding themselves against identity theft and fraud.

In a related development, the NCRA has launched a national campaign to link NINs with mobile phone SIM cards. This new requirement, effective from September 1, 2024, to November 30, 2024, aims to improve identity verification and prevent mobile service misuse, protecting users from fraud. Mobile users are urged to link their NIN to their SIM cards, with failure to do so potentially leading to suspended mobile services, including calls, SMS, and access to mobile money platforms.

The NCRA views this initiative as critical for fostering a secure digital environment in Sierra Leone. As mobile communication plays a significant role in daily life, ensuring that every SIM card is tied to a verified identity will help curb illegal activities and improve service delivery across sectors.

To meet the anticipated demand for NIN-SIM linkage, the NCRA has established additional centers to streamline the process, allowing both citizens and foreign nationals to complete the task before the November 30 deadline. The NCRA urges all residents to act quickly to avoid penalties that may disrupt access to vital mobile services.

The Biometric ID Card and the NIN-SIM linkage initiative represent significant advancements in Sierra Leone’s efforts to enhance identity security and ensure seamless access to services. The NCRA reminds everyone to comply with these measures to protect their identities and prevent service disruptions.

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