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Vice President, Trócaire CEO Discuss Longstanding Partnership With Sierra Leone

Two men shake hands indoors: one in a dark traditional outfit, the other in a suit, with a government-style seal in the bottom-left corner.

 

Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, has reaffirmed the Government of Sierra Leone’s commitment to strengthening its longstanding partnership with international humanitarian organisation, Trócaire, following high-level discussions with the organization’s Chief Executive Officer, Seán Farrell, on 28 July 2026.

The meeting focused on reinforcing collaboration in key development sectors, including gender equality, climate resilience, sustainable livelihoods and community development, areas that remain central to Sierra Leone’s national development agenda.

Speaking after the meeting, Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh described the engagement as productive, noting that discussions centred on Trócaire’s enduring partnership with Sierra Leone and its ongoing programmes aimed at improving the lives of vulnerable communities across the country.

“I met with Mr. Seán Farrell, the CEO of Trócaire, to discuss the organization’s longstanding partnership with Sierra Leone and its ongoing programmes supporting gender equality, climate resilience, sustainable livelihoods and community development,” the Vice President stated.

The discussions also highlighted the importance of maintaining strong cooperation between the Government and development partners in addressing pressing socio-economic and environmental challenges while promoting inclusive and sustainable growth.

For more than three decades, Trócaire has worked alongside the Government of Sierra Leone and local civil society organisations to implement programmes that improve livelihoods, strengthen community resilience and protect the rights of vulnerable populations.

Since establishing operations in Sierra Leone in 1995, the Irish-based international development agency has focused its interventions on climate and environmental justice, women’s and girls’ empowerment, humanitarian response and institutional capacity building through partnerships with local organisations.

A major area of Trócaire’s work has been climate and environmental justice, where the organisation supports communities in tackling the root causes of food insecurity while promoting climate-smart agriculture and sustainable natural resource management. The agency also supports initiatives that address climate-related loss and damage, helping vulnerable communities adapt to the increasing impacts of climate change.

The organisation has also made significant investments in women’s empowerment and leadership, implementing programmes designed to combat gender-based violence, strengthen the prevention of sexual and gender-based violence and increase women’s participation in political and socio-economic decision-making processes.

According to Trócaire, more than 22,000 people have benefited from its women’s empowerment programmes, which aim to promote equal opportunities, strengthen women’s leadership and improve access to economic opportunities across participating communities.

Humanitarian preparedness and localization remain another cornerstone of Trócaire’s operations in Sierra Leone. Rather than implementing projects directly, the organisation works through local Civil Society Organisations, including the Agency for Advocacy and Development Sierra Leone (AAD-SL) and the Kambia District Development and Rehabilitation Organisation (KADDRO), particularly during emergency responses.

Through those partnerships, Trócaire continues to strengthen the institutional and technical capacities of local organisations, enabling them to respond more effectively to humanitarian emergencies while promoting community ownership and sustainable development.

The meeting between Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh and Seán Farrell underscores the shared commitment of the Government of Sierra Leone and Trócaire to expanding cooperation in areas that directly improve the welfare of citizens, particularly women, young people and climate-vulnerable communities.

Observers say the continued partnership reflects the important role international development organisations play in supporting Sierra Leone’s efforts to achieve inclusive economic growth, strengthen community resilience and advance the Sustainable Development Goals through locally driven development initiatives.

President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema to Pay State Visit to Sierra Leone

Formal portrait of a bald man in a navy suit with a purple tie, standing with hands clasped beside a green-yellow-blue flag.
President of the Republic of Gabon, Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema

 

Sierra Leone is set to welcome the President of the Republic of Gabon, Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, who will undertake a State Visit to the country on August 2, 2026 at the invitation of President Dr. Julius Maada Bio. The visit is expected to further deepen bilateral relations and open new opportunities for cooperation in trade, investment, governance and sustainable development between the two countries.

The State Visit underscores the growing diplomatic relationship between Sierra Leone and Gabon, with both nations seeking to expand collaboration in key sectors, including agriculture, education, technology, mining and economic development.

The visit follows President Julius Maada Bio’s official visit to Gabon in December 2020, during which he was received in Libreville by the then President of Gabon, Ali Bongo Ondimba and senior Government officials. The discussions centred on strengthening bilateral relations, promoting economic cooperation and advancing shared aspirations for democratic governance, trade, investment, technological innovation and educational development.

During his visit to Gabon, President Julius Maada Bio toured the Gabon Special Economic Zone, where he inspected major agricultural and industrial projects, including the Arise Integrated Industrial Platform. He also held discussions with chief executive officers of several industries, encouraging them to explore investment opportunities in Sierra Leone’s agriculture, mining, energy, technology and telecommunications sectors.

Since assuming office, President Julius Maada Bio has prioritized strengthening Sierra Leone’s diplomatic engagement with African and international partners as part of efforts to attract investment, promote economic diversification and enhance regional cooperation. His administration has consistently pursued partnerships aimed at supporting sustainable economic growth and democratic governance.

President Julius Maada Bio has also played an active leadership role within regional and continental institutions, including the Economic Community of West African States and the African Union. He currently serves as Chair of the African Union Committee of Ten Heads of State and Government on the Reform of the United Nations Security Council (C-10), where he has repeatedly called for greater African representation in the global body. He has argued that Africa’s limited representation on the United Nations Security Council remains a historical injustice that should be corrected through meaningful reforms.

The State Visit by President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema is expected to reaffirm the shared commitment of Sierra Leone and Gabon to strengthening political cooperation, expanding trade and investment, and promoting sustainable socio-economic development. The two leaders are also expected to discuss areas of mutual interest that will further enhance bilateral cooperation.

The visit will mark President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema’s first official trip to Sierra Leone since his election as President of Gabon on 3 May 2025. Since taking office, he has pledged to unite the Gabonese people, reform the country’s education system and address youth unemployment as part of his government’s national development agenda.

During his stay in Sierra Leone, President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema is expected to visit several tourist attractions in Freetown to experience the country’s cultural and natural heritage. He will also hold high-level meetings with senior government officials and members of the private sector to explore new investment opportunities and strengthen economic cooperation between the two countries.

The visit is expected to further consolidate the longstanding friendship between Sierra Leone and Gabon while creating fresh momentum for stronger diplomatic relations, increased trade, greater investment and broader collaboration in support of regional integration and sustainable development.

Africell Toll-Free Line Drives 65% of NDMA Disaster Reporting

NDMA alert ad: two surprised people peeking from a smartphone on a purple background; bold text with dial *1199#, 100% FREE OF CHARGE, Africell.

 

Africell Sierra Leone’s 1199 toll-free emergency line has become the National Disaster Management Agency’s primary public reporting platform, with the Agency disclosing that more than 65 percent of disaster-related calls are now received through the service, significantly improving disaster prevention and emergency response nationwide.

The revelation was made by the Director of Communication at the National Disaster Management Agency, Mohamed L. Bah, during an interview in which he praised Africell Sierra Leone for its sustained support through its Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives. He described the company’s partnership with the Agency as one of its most successful collaborations with the private sector, highlighting the toll-free emergency line as a major milestone in enhancing disaster management across the country.

Mohamed L. Bah explained that before the introduction and widespread promotion of the 1199 toll-free service, reporting emergencies was often difficult for many citizens. People frequently had to travel to the Agency’s headquarters or search online for contact information before they could report disasters, a process that often delayed emergency responses.

He said the introduction of the toll-free line has changed that situation dramatically by making it possible for people across the country to report emergencies quickly, easily and without incurring any cost.

“Today, about 65 percent of the disaster-related calls we receive come through the Africell 1199 toll-free line. It has been a significant achievement for us as an agency because people can now report incidents quickly and free of charge,” Mohamed L. Bah said.

He noted that while the toll-free service has significantly improved the Agency’s emergency response capability, its greatest contribution has been in disaster prevention. According to him, members of the public are increasingly using the service to report potential hazards before they develop into full-scale disasters, enabling the National Disaster Management Agency to intervene promptly, reduce risks and minimize damage to lives and property.

Mohamed L. Bah said the service has strengthened communication between the National Disaster Management Agency and the public by providing a reliable and accessible reporting channel. The improved flow of information, he explained, has enabled emergency responders to receive timely reports, coordinate more effectively and respond to incidents much faster than was previously possible.

He also commended Africell Sierra Leone for extending its support beyond the toll-free line through Afri Radio, where the telecommunications company provides free airtime for public education programmes focused on disaster preparedness, prevention and risk reduction. He said the initiative has played an important role in raising public awareness and equipping communities with the knowledge needed to reduce disaster risks.

“Our partnership with Africell has contributed meaningfully to the work of the National Disaster Management Agency. From the toll-free line to the free radio airtime for public education, Africell has continued to support our efforts to protect lives and property. We look forward to strengthening this partnership even further,” Mohamed L. Bah stated.

Looking to the future, Mohamed L. Bah disclosed that the National Disaster Management Agency intends to establish a dedicated emergency call centre to further improve its emergency communication system. He said the Agency also plans to expand the capacity of the 1199 toll-free service by increasing the number of SIM cards connected to the emergency line, thereby improving accessibility and ensuring faster handling of emergency calls.

He expressed confidence that Africell Sierra Leone would continue to support these initiatives as part of its commitment to national development, disaster resilience and public safety.

As Sierra Leone continues to face growing disaster risks, the partnership between Africell Sierra Leone and the National Disaster Management Agency stands as a strong example of how corporate social responsibility can make a tangible difference in protecting lives and communities. By providing free and accessible emergency communication services while supporting public education on disaster preparedness, Africell Sierra Leone continues to play a vital role in strengthening the country’s disaster management system and building a safer, more resilient nation.

NaTCA Launches Nationwide Campaign to Combat Online Fraud and Cyber Scams

Man in a light gray suit and glasses speaks into a handheld microphone at a podium.
Director General of NaTCA, Amara Brewah

 

The National Communications Authority (NaTCA) has intensified its nationwide consumer education campaign on internet safety, urging Sierra Leoneans to remain vigilant against fraudulent internet links and other forms of cybercrime that continue to target mobile phone and internet users.

According to the Authority, cybercriminals are increasingly using fake internet links distributed through SMS, WhatsApp, Facebook, email and other digital platforms to gain unauthorized access to messaging applications, steal personal information and impersonate victims in order to solicit money from their family members, friends and business associates.

Speaking on the growing threat of online fraud, Director General of NaTCA, Amara Brewah, clarified that such fraudulent messages do not originate from Sierra Leone’s mobile network operators. He disclosed that the Authority has engaged key stakeholders within the telecommunications sector to develop practical measures aimed at reducing internet-based scams while strengthening consumer protection nationwide.

Amara Brewah emphasized that internet scams are not unique to Sierra Leone but are a global challenge affecting countries at every level of technological development, including some of the world’s most advanced economies. He noted that while digital technology continues to evolve, cybercriminals are also becoming increasingly sophisticated in their methods of deceiving unsuspecting users.

“These scams happen all over the world, even in first-world countries. Consumer education is therefore the most effective defence and that is exactly what NaTCA is embarking on,” Amara Brewah stated.

He encouraged members of the public to rely only on information published through verified official websites and authenticated social media platforms whenever they receive messages requesting personal information, financial details or account verification.

As part of its ongoing public awareness campaign, NaTCA advised consumers never to click on suspicious internet links received from unknown or unverified sources. The Authority also cautioned against sharing One-Time Passwords (OTPs), downloading attachments from unfamiliar senders or disclosing confidential personal information through online platforms without proper verification.

The Director General further urged internet users to strengthen their cybersecurity practices by keeping mobile applications and device software updated, creating strong and unique passwords for online accounts and enabling two-factor authentication wherever available to provide an additional layer of protection against unauthorized access.

NaTCA explained that fraudulent internet links are commonly used in phishing attacks, where fake websites are designed to closely resemble legitimate platforms in order to trick users into revealing passwords, banking information, mobile money credentials and other sensitive data. In many cases, compromised accounts are subsequently used to send fraudulent requests for money to the victim’s contacts.

The Authority therefore advised consumers to verify the sender of every message containing a link before opening it and to carefully examine website addresses for spelling errors, unusual characters or unfamiliar domain extensions. It also encouraged users conducting official transactions to access only verified Government or corporate websites, including official domains ending in .gov.sl, where applicable.

NaTCA highlighted the importance of strengthening digital literacy as internet access continues to expand across Sierra Leone. The Authority noted that ongoing initiatives, implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of Communication, Technology and Innovation and development partners, are helping to educate citizens on safe internet use, responsible digital behaviour and cybersecurity awareness.

The Authority stated that public education campaigns, including activities organized during Cyber Security Awareness Month, continue to raise awareness about phishing attacks, fraudulent internet links and other forms of online crime while promoting safer digital practices among internet users nationwide.

Reaffirming its commitment to protecting consumers against emerging cyber threats, NaTCA stressed that public education remains one of its highest priorities. The Authority urged citizens to remain cautious, think carefully before clicking unfamiliar links and promptly report suspected scams through its official communication channels.

NaTCA concluded that building a digitally secure Sierra Leone requires a collective effort, emphasizing that informed and vigilant consumers remain the country’s first line of defence against internet-based fraud and cybercrime.

Serving the People, Safeguarding Peace… Celebrating the 99th Anniversary of the Founding of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army

Professional headshot of a man in a dark suit and blue shirt, wearing a purple tie, facing the camera against a white background.
By Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone, H.E. Zhao Yong

 

On August 1, 2026, the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) will celebrate its 99th anniversary. Over the past 99 years, under the strong leadership of the Communist Party of China, the PLA has made indelible contributions to national independence, the liberation of the people, and the prosperity of the country. It has provided a solid guarantee for safeguarding China’s sovereignty, security, and development interests, and has actively contributed to world peace and security.

China consistently adheres to a defensive national defense policy. It never seeks hegemony, expansion, or spheres of influence. China regards the resolute safeguarding of its sovereignty, security, and development interests as the fundamental goal of its national defense. China believes that every country has the legitimate right to safeguard it’s own security and should respect the reasonable security concerns of other countries. China advocates a common, comprehensive, cooperative, and sustainable security concept, resolving disputes through dialogue and consultation, addressing common challenges through cooperation, and opposing the use of unilateral sanctions or war in international affairs. China’s national defense development is always tailored to meet its legitimate security needs, and the growth of the Chinese military has strengthened the forces for world peace.

The PLA comes from the people and serves the people. In addition to fulfilling its core duty of defending national security, the PLA has long undertaken military operations other than war, including disaster relief, emergency response, and epidemic prevention and control. Whenever major natural disasters such as floods, earthquakes, typhoons, or forest fires occur, the PLA swiftly mobilizes to assist local governments in search and rescue, evacuation, road repair, supply transport, and post-disaster reconstruction. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the PLA dispatched multiple medical teams to the front lines, undertook critical care and medical support tasks, and participated in the construction of emergency hospitals, playing a significant role in the fight against the pandemic. In recent years, the PLA has continuously strengthened its military operations other than war capabilities, enhancing its ability to respond to major natural disasters and other emergencies, so as to better protect the lives and property of the people.

While safeguarding its own national security and serving the Chinese people, the PLA is also actively engaged in international security cooperation, including UN peacekeeping, humanitarian relief, and maritime escort operations, providing public security goods to support world peace and stability.

China is a key contributor to UN peacekeeping operations and one of the largest troop contributors among the permanent members of the UN Security Council. Over the past 30 years, the PLA has dispatched more than 50,000 peacekeepers to UN missions in Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and other regions. They have built roads, bridges, airports, and water supply facilities, provided medical services to local residents, and earned wide recognition from the UN, host governments, and local communities.

To ensure the safety of international maritime shipping lanes, the PLA Navy has continuously dispatched escort task forces to the Gulf of Aden and waters off Somalia to carry out international escort missions since 2008. Over the past 18 years, the PLA Navy has deployed over 150 vessels and 36,000 personnel, escorting more than 7,400 vessels and rescuing or assisting nearly 100 ships, of which over 50 percent were foreign ships. These efforts have made a significant contribution to the safety of international shipping.

In the face of major natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, and hurricanes, as well as public health emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic, the PLA has actively provided international humanitarian assistance. The PLA Air Force has delivered anti-epidemic and relief supplies to various countries, including Sierra Leone. The PLA has also organized multiple batches of military medical experts to carry out medical rescue missions in relevant countries, demonstrating the spirit of international humanitarianism. The PLA Navy hospital ships Peace Ark and Silk Road Ark have visited 53 countries and regions across Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Pacific Island countries, providing free medical services to nearly 400,000 local people. They have also conducted joint medical drills and training with host countries, helping to strengthen local health capacity.

Since the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Sierra Leone, military-to-military exchanges and cooperation between the two countries have grown steadily and achieved many notable results. China has helped build the Defense Headquarters, as well as the Wilberforce Mess and officers’ quarters for the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF). China has offered more than 500 military training slots to the RSLAF and has donated equipment, including naval vessels, to support the capacity-building of the RSLAF. China has also sent over 100 military medical experts to Sierra Leone, who have treated more than 10,000 patients.

In recent years, in response to global challenges, China has been striving to build a community with a shared future for mankind and has successively put forward the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, the Global Civilization Initiative, and the Global Governance Initiative. These initiatives aim to address new challenges in development, security, civilization, and governance through strengthening international cooperation. The PLA will actively participate in international exchanges and cooperation under the frameworks of these initiative, conduct joint exercises and training, military medical exchanges, and humanitarian assistance cooperation with friendly countries including Sierra Leone, and contribute to regional stability and global security.

SLRSA Strengthens Integrity with Ethics and Anti-Corruption Training for Road Safety Corps

Group photo of uniformed officers with red berets posing outside a building labeled SLASA.

 

The Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority (SLRSA), in partnership with the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), has concluded a two-day sensitization and capacity-building workshop on ethics, integrity and the Anti-Corruption Act for Road Safety Corps personnel. The training forms part of the Authority’s ongoing efforts to strengthen professionalism, accountability and ethical conduct among officers responsible for enforcing road safety laws across the country.

Speaking on behalf of the Executive Director and Management during the opening ceremony, the Director of Human Resource, Hassanatu Judith Mansaray-Bangura, expressed appreciation to the Anti-Corruption Commission for partnering with the Authority to deliver what she described as a timely and important training programme.

She noted that Road Safety Corps personnel serve as the public face of the Authority, emphasizing that their conduct and professionalism play a vital role in shaping public confidence and trust in the institution.

According to her, the workshop was designed to deepen participants’ understanding of ethical conduct, integrity and the provisions of the Anti-Corruption Act while equipping them with practical knowledge and skills to identify, prevent and appropriately respond to corrupt practices. She encouraged participants to apply the lessons learned in their daily duties, stressing that integrity, transparency and accountability remain the foundation of effective public service.

Addressing participants, Chairman of the SLRSA Board, Retired Assistant Inspector General of Police, Thomas Mustapha Lahai, reminded officers that they represent the image of the Authority and that their conduct directly influences public perception.

He urged personnel to uphold the Authority’s mission, vision and objectives by demonstrating the highest standards of discipline, professionalism and integrity while carrying out their responsibilities.

“You are the face of the Authority. The way you present yourselves and conduct your duties leaves a lasting impression on the public. I encourage you to remain professional at all times. While enforcing the law, ensure that you treat drivers, commercial motorbike riders, kekeh drivers and pedestrians with courtesy, fairness and respect,” the Board Chairman stated.

He further admonished officers to maintain self-discipline, present themselves professionally, treat every member of the public with dignity and respect, and perform their duties diligently, impartially and without favouritism or any form of corruption.

Delivering the keynote presentation, the Deputy Director of the Prevention Department at the Anti-Corruption Commission, Samuel Marah Esq., underscored the importance of integrity in public service. He emphasized that Road Safety Corps personnel, entrusted with enforcing road safety regulations, must consistently uphold the highest standards of honesty, fairness and professionalism in the execution of their duties.

Samuel Marah highlighted common forms of corruption that may arise during law enforcement operations, including bribery, abuse of office and conflicts of interest. He also educated participants on the legal consequences of engaging in corrupt practices and outlined the established mechanisms for reporting suspected acts of corruption.

He noted that corruption erodes public trust in state institutions, weakens service delivery and undermines national development. He reminded participants that every public officer has a responsibility to reject corruption in all its forms and to serve the nation with integrity, accountability and an unwavering commitment to the public interest.

The workshop forms part of the Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority’s broader commitment, under the leadership of Executive Director, James Bagie Bio, to promoting ethical leadership, strengthening institutional accountability and building a professional Road Safety Corps capable of delivering efficient, transparent and people-centred services across Sierra Leone.

FENCO Newsletter Spotlights Sierra Leone Honorary Consul General Dr. Luigi Manganiello

Dr. Luigi Manganiello, Honorary Consul General of the Republic of Sierra Leone in Italy

 

Issue No. 83 (July–August 2026) of the official newsletter of the National Federation of Foreign Diplomats and Consuls in Italy (FENCO) has featured an extensive profile of Dr. Luigi Manganiello, Honorary Consul General of the Republic of Sierra Leone in Italy, in recognition of his appointment to the Federation’s National Executive Board for the 2025–2027 term.

Published on 23 July 2026 in Rome, the institutional periodical provides news and in-depth coverage of the activities of the Diplomatic and Consular Corps accredited in Italy. The latest edition dedicates significant attention to Dr. Luigi Manganiello’s diplomatic and professional journey, highlighting his longstanding contributions to strengthening relations between Sierra Leone and Italy.

The publication outlines the Consul General’s efforts in advancing consular diplomacy, international cooperation, economic development, investment promotion, education, and cultural and academic exchanges between the two countries. It underscores his role in fostering stronger institutional ties while encouraging partnerships that contribute to sustainable development and mutual prosperity.

According to the feature, consular diplomacy remains a vital instrument for promoting dialogue among Governments, institutions, businesses and civil society. It further notes that the work of Honorary Consuls extends beyond protecting the interests of citizens to facilitating initiatives that deepen bilateral relations and expand opportunities for international cooperation.

The article also highlights projects undertaken in collaboration with public institutions, universities, business organizations and other institutional partners. Those initiatives focus on attracting investment, supporting sustainable development and enhancing economic, educational, cultural and scientific cooperation between Italy and Sierra Leone.

The Honorary Consulate General of the Republic of Sierra Leone expressed appreciation to FENCO for recognizing its work, describing the publication as an important acknowledgement of its continued commitment to promoting diplomacy, cooperation and friendship between nations.

The Consulate noted that Dr. Luigi Manganiello’s appointment to FENCO’s National Executive Board presents a valuable opportunity to work alongside fellow members of the Diplomatic and Consular Corps in advancing initiatives that strengthen international dialogue, institutional collaboration and relations among states.

Reaffirming its dedication to public service, the Honorary Consulate General emphasized that it will continue to discharge its responsibilities in accordance with the principles of the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations while promoting initiatives that enhance economic, cultural, scientific and social cooperation between the Republic of Sierra Leone and the Italian Republic.

Fourah Bay College Honours Dr. Mohamed Babatunde Cole’s Legacy as Bicentennial Celebrations Gather Momentum

Portrait of a man in a gray suit and blue tie on the left, next to a modern white building with green-framed windows on the right, featuring a circular seal near the entrance.

 

As Fourah Bay College (FBC), University of Sierra Leone, marks its 200th anniversary, the institution has paid glowing tribute to one of its most distinguished alumni, Alhaji Dr. Ing. Mohamed Babatunde Cole, recognizing his exceptional contributions to engineering, industry, philanthropy and national development.

In its Bicentennial Profile series, the College described Alhaji Dr. Ing. Mohamed Babatunde Cole as an accomplished engineer, industrial leader, patriot and philanthropist whose life and career continue to inspire generations of Sierra Leoneans. The recognition forms part of activities commemorating the College’s bicentenary celebration spanning 1827 to 2027.

Alhaji Dr. Ing. Mohamed Babatunde Cole graduated from the Fourah Bay College School of Engineering in 1977 with a Division One degree in Mechanical Engineering, finishing among the top students in his class. Following his graduation, he furthered his professional education overseas, specializing in marketing, operations, enterprise development, risk management, leadership and finance.

Throughout his distinguished career, Alhaji Dr. Ing. Mohamed Babatunde Cole has held several high-profile leadership positions across Sierra Leone’s corporate sector. His appointments have included Director and later Board Chairman of Leoneoil Company Limited, President of the Sierra Leone Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture, Fellow of the Sierra Leone Institution of Engineers, Director and Chairman of Ecobank Sierra Leone, Director of Leone Dock Labour Company, Managing Director of NP (Sierra Leone) Limited, Executive Chairman of NP Group Limited and Chairman of the Board of Standard Chartered Bank Sierra Leone, among many other notable responsibilities.

Beyond his professional achievements, Fourah Bay College highlighted Alhaji Dr. Ing. Mohamed Babatunde Cole’s longstanding commitment to philanthropy and educational development. Over the years, he has supported countless deserving and underprivileged students, enabling many to pursue university education and graduate in disciplines including engineering, medicine, law and business.

The College particularly acknowledged Alhaji Dr. Ing. Mohamed Babatunde Cole’s landmark contribution to his alma mater through the donation of a US$2.5 million multipurpose Engineering Building. Officially commissioned by His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio, the modern facility features smart classrooms, Wi-Fi connectivity, offices, a canteen and lecture halls capable of accommodating up to 700 students, significantly enhancing engineering education and academic excellence at the institution.

According to Fourah Bay College, Alhaji Dr. Ing. Mohamed Babatunde Cole’s remarkable legacy extends beyond his financial contributions, reflecting his unwavering commitment to service, humility and national development. The institution noted that despite his many accomplishments, he has consistently shunned public recognition, allowing his work and impact to speak for themselves.

The College further described his legacy as a shining example of visionary leadership, selfless service and unwavering dedication to the advancement of Fourah Bay College and Sierra Leone.

As part of its bicentennial celebrations, Fourah Bay College also called on the private sector, development partners, alumni and other donors to support strategic bankable projects identified for the historic anniversary, emphasizing that collective partnerships will play a vital role in shaping the institution’s future while preserving its rich legacy of excellence spanning two centuries.

SLBA Members Urged to Embrace E-Registration and ID Badge System Ahead of AGM 2026

Front badge: Sierra Leone Bar Association with portrait of a female lawyer, 'Annual General Meeting and Elections 2026' and 'LAWYER' at the bottom.

 

The call for members of the Sierra Leone Bar Association (SLBA) to embrace the E-Registration and ID Badge system has intensified ahead of the Association’s 2026 Annual General Meeting (AGM), with supporters describing the initiative as a critical safeguard for ensuring credible, transparent and dispute-free elections.

Developed through a collaboration between the Sierra Leone Bar Association (SLBA) and the Directorate of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), the E-Registration and ID Badge system is designed to verify the identity of individuals attending the AGM and clearly distinguish eligible voting members from guests.

Advocates of the initiative maintain that the digital identification system serves one primary purpose: ensuring that only qualified legal practitioners are permitted to participate in the Association’s electoral process.

According to supporters, the badge system provides instant identification of lawyers, prevents non-lawyers from casting ballots and offers a faster and more reliable verification process than traditional paper-based sign-in registers. They argue that the visible identification badges also enhance transparency, allowing election officials and members alike to easily confirm who is eligible to vote.

The campaign has been encapsulated in the slogan, “If you trust the vote, trust the tag,” emphasizing that confidence in election outcomes should be matched by confidence in the mechanisms used to verify voter eligibility.

Supporters acknowledge that some members have expressed concerns regarding data privacy and governance. They, however, stress that while such concerns deserve clear answers and appropriate safeguards, they should not be confused with the objective of ensuring that only eligible members participate in the voting process.

They further argue that discussions on data governance should be addressed separately from the practical need to verify identities at the entrance to the election venue.

Proponents of the initiative also contend that concerns about electoral integrity cannot be reconciled with opposition to a system specifically designed to identify those entitled to vote. They believe that the E-Registration and ID Badge system strengthens the credibility of the electoral process by reducing opportunities for unauthorized participation and increasing public confidence in the final outcome.

As preparations continue for the SLBA AGM 2026, members are being encouraged to wear their identification badges, support the digital verification system and contribute to an electoral process founded on accountability, transparency and fairness.

The campaign concludes with the legal maxim, “Fiat Justitia”; Latin for “Let Justice Be Done”,reinforcing the Association’s commitment to justice, integrity and the rule of law throughout its electoral process.

SLCAA DG Earns Continental Recognition at ICAO Aviation Gender Summit in Luanda

Five women posing on stage in front of a blue banner that reads 'ICAO Global Aviation Gender Summit 2026' with the subtitle 'Advancing Aviation through the Empowerment of Women'

 

The Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), Madam Musayeroh Barrie, has been recognized among Africa’s most distinguished women leaders shaping the future of the continent’s aviation industry during the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Global Aviation Gender Summit 2026, held in Luanda, Angola, from 21 to 23 July 2026.

The recognition celebrates her outstanding leadership and contribution to the advancement of civil aviation in Sierra Leone and across Africa, placing her among a distinguished group of women leading technical civil aviation organizations on the continent.

Expressing appreciation for the honor, Madam Musayeroh Barrie described the recognition as a testament to the dedication, resilience and determination of women who continue to break barriers and drive meaningful progress within the aviation sector.

“I am honored to be recognized among legendary African women who are working hard to shape the future of Africa’s aviation industry during the ICAO Global Aviation Gender Summit 2026. This recognition is a testament to the dedication, resilience and commitment of women who continue to break barriers and drive progress in the aviation sector across the continent. I remain committed to contributing to the growth and transformation of Africa’s aviation industry while inspiring more women to pursue leadership and excellence in the field,” she stated.

The summit, held under the theme: “Advancing Aviation Through the Empowerment of Women,” focused on translating international commitments into measurable, accountable and sustainable actions that promote gender equality across the global aviation industry.

Building on the momentum of the previous ICAO Global Aviation Gender Summits held in 2018 and 2023, the 2026 gathering brought together Government representatives, aviation regulators, industry leaders, international organizations and development partners to assess progress made in advancing women’s participation while identifying practical strategies for closing existing gender gaps.

Participants explored emerging trends shaping the future of aviation and discussed policies, workforce strategies, leadership pathways and innovative tools designed to strengthen women’s participation across regulatory, operational and technical fields. The summit also emphasized the importance of data-driven decision-making, skills development, training opportunities and stronger partnerships to accelerate women’s empowerment throughout the aviation ecosystem.

The event highlighted the growing number of women leading Africa’s aviation institutions, including the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC) and Civil Aviation Authorities in Angola, Cameroon, Eswatini, Namibia, Sierra Leone and South Africa.

Discussions further underscored the need to create safer workplaces, promote equitable pay, improve work-life balance and eliminate societal barriers that continue to limit women’s advancement in aviation. Delegates agreed that a diverse and inclusive workforce is essential to meeting the increasing demands of the rapidly evolving global aviation industry.

Madam Musayeroh Barrie’s recognition marks another significant milestone for Sierra Leone’s aviation sector, reflecting the country’s growing visibility in international aviation leadership while reinforcing the SLCAA’s commitment to promoting excellence, innovation and gender inclusion within the industry.

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