The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has on Thursday September 12, 2024 announced significant punitive actions against two officials of the Sierra Leone Immigration Department following a recent investigation into misappropriated funds. This development comes in line with the ACC’s ongoing efforts to safeguard public funds and ensure accountability in the public service sector.
Under the provisions of Section 7(1)(b) of the Anti-Corruption (Amendment Act), 2019, the ACC has entered into a Non-Prosecution Agreement with Alpha Brima Timbo and Clifford Bola Thomas, both employees of the Immigration Department’s Intelligence and Investigations Unit. Alpha Brima Timbo, of #2 Timbo Drive Avenue, Gloucester, Freetown, and Clifford Bola Thomas, of 13 Syke Street, Freetown, were implicated in a case of misappropriation involving funds meant for the issuance of residence permits.
According to the ACC, both misappropriated a total of Thirty Thousand Leones (Le 30,000), which they had received for issuing residence permits to five individuals. Following the Commission’s investigation, the full amount was recovered from the officials, along with an additional 20% interest, amounting to Six Thousand Leones (Le 6,000), in compliance with the ACC’s directive.
As a consequence, the ACC has imposed a strict three-year ban on both officials, preventing them from holding any public office in Sierra Leone, effective immediately. This decision is in line with Section 7(1)(b)(i) & (ii) of the Anti-Corruption (Amendment Act), 2019 and underscores the Commission’s commitment to ensuring accountability and upholding the highest standards of public service integrity.
In addition to the financial penalties, the ACC has ordered that both Timbo and Thomas be dismissed from their positions within the Immigration Department. Official notification will be sent to the department to ensure immediate enforcement of this directive.
The ACC further emphasized its dedication to protecting public funds and ensuring that those found guilty of corruption face the full weight of the law. The Commission reassured the public that it remains vigilant in its efforts to recover misappropriated public resources and hold offenders accountable with severe legal and professional consequences.
The public is urged to continue supporting the ACC in its fight against corruption, as the Commission vows to relentlessly pursue those who attempt to misuse public funds for personal gain.
In a pivotal nationwide consultation held on Wednesday, September 11, 2024, Sierra Leone’s Minister of Lands, Housing and Country Planning, Dr. Turad Senesie, called for transformative changes in land utilization and urban development to bolster national progress. The event, which took place at the Port Loko District Council Hall, drew a range of key Government figures and local leaders.
The consultation was attended by prominent officials including Tamba Lamina, Minister of Local Government and Community Affairs; Umaru Bond Wurie, Resident Minister North; Deputy Mayor of Port Loko City; Hon. Quinton Sallia, Chairman of the Parliamentary Oversight Committee on Land; as well as the District Council Chairman and the Senior District Officer (SDO), who chaired the proceedings.
Dr. Turad Senesie underscored the critical role of effective land use in alleviating poverty and driving national development. He clarified that all land in Sierra Leone is state-owned, with Paramount Chiefs and land-owning families serving as custodians for provincial territories on behalf of the State.
The Minister proposed modern governance reforms, advocating for the decentralization of building and development control functions to Local Councils. This move aims to enable local authorities to play a more substantial role in urban and town planning.
Highlighting the necessity for comprehensive urban redevelopment, Dr. Turad Senesie proposed several enhancements, including the creation of water fountains, green spaces, recreational parks, planned communities and zoos. These features are intended to improve the urban environment and reduce noise pollution.
The Minister also emphasized the importance of strategic zoning for essential services such as hospitals, places of worship, markets and cemeteries to ensure well-planned urban spaces.
To support these initiatives, Dr. Turad Senesie recommended introducing funding mechanisms through property taxes, which would include levies on unoccupied land, building permits and fines for non-compliance. He expressed his commitment to transferring some ministerial powers to Local Councils to foster better-planned communities and sustainable urban growth.
The consultation concluded with a unified call for stakeholders to collaborate on implementing updated laws, restructuring urban areas and promoting inclusive development throughout Sierra Leone. The commitment to effective land management and urban planning is seen as central to addressing poverty, stimulating economic growth and building vibrant, sustainable communities across the nation.
In a major demonstration of commitment to agricultural development, President Dr. Julius Maada Bio participated in a successful harvesting event on Sunday, September 15, 2024. At his farm located in Mafintha, Masiaka Highway, Koya Chiefdom, Port Loko District, President Bio harvested 7 tonnes of fish alongside a variety of agricultural produce.
The event was intended to set an example of leadership and underscore the President’s dedication to the country’s Food Security Agenda. During the harvesting, President Bio highlighted the benefits of local agriculture, urging Sierra Leoneans to support home-grown products. He emphasized that engaging in farming should be viewed as a viable business opportunity and encouraged even those without professional backgrounds in agriculture to participate.
“I am involved in farming to inspire more Sierra Leoneans to consider agriculture seriously,” President Bio stated. “The Feed Salone Initiative is a national program that we should all embrace, regardless of our political or regional affiliations.”
In addition to the fish harvest, the President showcased the farm’s poultry section, where Poultry Consultant, Petemaa Sheriff, revealed that the operation produces an impressive 7,600 eggs daily. He announced plans to expand production, noting that the farm utilizes 100% organic, locally produced feeds to ensure high-quality eggs for households.
Petemaa Sheriff also shared that the farm provides technical services for those interested in various agricultural ventures, including fish, vegetable and poultry farming. Services offered include local feed production, chicken processing and packaging, vegetable cultivation, small and large ruminant raising and youth training in poultry management.
The event concluded with a display of the farm’s diverse products, including catfish, tilapia, peppers, eggs, potatoes and a variety of vegetables. The showcase underscored the President’s commitment to promoting local agriculture and supporting the nation’s food security efforts.
Afrimoney, a prominent mobile money service provider in Sierra Leone, has on Friday September 13, 2024 launched its new “Kam Join We” Campaign, aimed at increasing financial inclusion and attracting new users to its platform. The announcement was made by Afrimoney’s Chief Executive Officer, Martison Obeng-Agyei.
The “Kam Join We” Campaign seeks to educate potential customers about the advantages of joining Afrimoney, highlighting the exclusive benefits offered to its users. Martison Obeng-Agyei addressed the launch event, underscoring that many individuals who have not yet signed up for Afrimoney are missing out on valuable opportunities. “This campaign is designed to showcase the perks that Afrimoney users enjoy, encouraging more people to join our community,” he said, describing the initiative as an “invitation to treat.”
A notable feature of the campaign is the introduction of a 10% cashback offer for Afrimoney users who purchase EDSA electricity units within the first ten days of each month. “This promotion allows Afrimoney subscribers to save money on their electricity purchases,” the Chief Executive Officer explained.
In addition, Afrimoney is offering free person-to-person transactions, eliminating service fees. “We are proud to be the only mobile money operator in Sierra Leone that provides free peer-to-peer transactions,” the CEO added. He also highlighted that Afrimoney customers benefit from some of the most affordable data bundles available.
Running from September to December, the “Kam Join We” campaign targets both existing mobile money users and those who have yet to adopt the technology. Martison Obeng-Agyei emphasized the importance of financial inclusion, noting support from the World Bank and the Bank of Sierra Leone. “Financial inclusion brings safety and security,” he said, urging individuals to participate in the campaign.
Addressing concerns about unethical practices by agents charging additional fees for cash-ins, he condemned such behavior and encouraged customers to report any exploitation to the Afrimoney helpline at 100. “With Afrimoney, you can even register yourself and join the family without needing assistance from anyone,” he reassured.
As Afrimoney continues to expand, the company remains committed to enhancing service accessibility, with a focus on transparency and user benefits.
Over the weekend, Buakai Bindi Hindowa, Deputy Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs and current SLPP Chairman for Constituency 083, declared his candidacy for the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) Bo District Chairmanship. In a significant show of support, Buakai Bindi Hindowa also made a generous donation of 150 bags of rice and 80,000 Leones to 16 chiefdoms and 11 Constituency Executives within the district including various support groups like Long Bench.
The donation is aimed at supporting President Julius Maada Bio’s “Feed Salone” initiative and providing relief to Constituency Executives during the rainy season.
Expressing gratitude for his appointment as Deputy Minister and for the trust placed in him by the people, Buakai Bindi Hindowa, emphasized his extensive experience as a Constituency Chairman over the past 13 years. He believes it is the right time for him to advance to the SLPP Bo District Chairmanship. If elected, he pledged to complete the construction of the SLPP Regional Party Headquarters in Bo.
“I understand that Bo is a challenging district to govern, but I am committed, capable and ready to serve as your SLPP Bo District Chairman. I ask for your support and the chance to prove myself,” Buakai Bindi Hindowa stated.
He lauded the leadership of SLPP Regional Chairman South, Alhaji Kanja I. Sesay, and the current SLPP Bo District Chairman, Mohamed Alie. Buakai Bindi Hindowa promised to act as a unifying force and a driver of development for the district.
SLPP Bo District Secretary, Foday Abdulai, expressed appreciation for Buakai Bindi Hindowa’s donation and encouraged political appointees to continually support their communities.
Ibrahim S. Kabba (SKB), representing fellow Constituency Chairmen, welcomed the gesture and pledged support for Hindowa’s candidacy.
Constituency Women’s Representative, Haja Aminata Daboh, thanked Buakai Bindi Hindowa for his generosity and urged him to continue addressing the needs of women.
The event concluded with the distribution of the rice and monetary aid, marking a significant step in Buakai Bindi Hindowa’s campaign for the SLPP Bo District Chairmanship.
Sierra Leone’s National Identification Card (NIC) has undergone a significant transformation, emerging as a vital tool in safeguarding legal identity and facilitating access to essential services. The card’s role has become especially critical in the financial sector, where it is integral to verifying identities, securing transactions and protecting sensitive services.
The introduction of Biometric Identity Cards has been widely embraced as a robust solution to identity verification issues, including citizenship confirmation and access to key services. These cards, issued to both citizens and non-citizens, feature unique biometric data embedded in secure chips, allowing for accurate and reliable identity checks.
The evolution of the NIC highlights its increasing significance across various sectors, solidifying its place as a cornerstone of identity management in Sierra Leone.
Embedded with essential biometric information such as fingerprints and photographs, the Biometric Identity Card provides precise identity verification. This card not only confirms citizenship but also facilitates access to crucial services.
Each cardholder is assigned a unique National Identification Number (NIN), permanently linked to a centralized National Identity Database. This lifelong identifier helps distinguish individuals with similar names, making it an essential tool for both Governmental and private sector services. For example, students sitting public exams and foreign nationals applying for work or residence permits must present their NIN for verification.
The National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA), the agency responsible for issuing these cards, underscores the importance of obtaining a Biometric ID Card for personal security and ease of service access. To support this, the NCRA has set up registration centers across the country, including its headquarters at 2 Walpole Street, Freetown, as well as regional offices in Bo, Kenema, Makeni and Port Loko. Corporate services are also available to assist organizations in verifying the identities of their employees and clients.
Individuals seeking assistance with the registration process can reach out to the NCRA through dedicated phone lines at +232-33-433-333 or +232-30-500-000, or via email at idverification@ncra.gov.
The NCRA continues to urge all citizens and non-citizens to secure their cards to protect against identity theft and fraud.
In a related move, the NCRA has launched a national initiative to link NINs with mobile phone SIM cards. This requirement, effective from September 1, 2024, through November 30, 2024, aims to enhance identity verification and curb mobile service misuse, thereby protecting users from fraud. Mobile users are advised to link their NIN to their SIM cards to avoid service disruptions, including calls, SMS and access to mobile money services.
The NCRA regards this initiative as crucial for creating a secure digital environment in Sierra Leone. Given the pivotal role of mobile communication in daily life, linking SIM cards to verified identities is expected to reduce illegal activities and improve service delivery.
To accommodate the expected demand for NIN-SIM linkage, the NCRA has opened additional centres to facilitate the process. Both citizens and foreign nationals are encouraged to complete the linkage before the November 30 deadline to avoid potential penalties that could disrupt access to essential mobile services.
NP (SL) Limited, a leading name in Sierra Leone’s petroleum industry, has introduced the innovative NP Energy Pass, an advanced smart card designed to transform energy management and facilitate cashless transactions across the country.
The NP Energy Pass is set to significantly enhance accessibility and efficiency in the nation’s energy sector. This cutting-edge card features robust security measures to protect customer information and provides instant SMS notifications for each transaction. Users can easily recharge their cards at designated stations and the NP Head Office and they can also reverse transactions at the stations. In case of a blocked card due to incorrect password attempts, customers will receive a One-Time Password (OTP) to reset their credentials.
List of Stations Accepting the NP Energy Pass:
– NP Cotton Tree
– NP Campbell Street
– NP Brookfields
– NP Pademba Road
– NP Sander Street
– NP Regent
– NP Kissy Road
– NP Blackhall Road
– NP Motor Way
– NP Deepeye Water
– NP Aberdeen
– NP Mambo
It must be noted that NP (SL) Ltd has reaffirmed its leadership in the petroleum sector with a robust focus on quality, efficiency and customer satisfaction. The company is recognized for its rigorous product quality control, with regular testing conducted by the Sierra Leone Standards Bureau and the Petroleum Regulatory Agency. This ensures that customers receive petroleum products that meet exacting vehicle specifications.
The company also places significant emphasis on operational efficiency. Investments in advanced technology and infrastructure, including the recent upgrades to the Kissy Terminal, have optimized NP’s processes to deliver petroleum products in a timely and cost-effective manner.
Customer satisfaction remains central to NP’s operations. The company’s dedicated customer service team is available around the clock to address inquiries and concerns and NP actively seeks customer feedback to refine its products and services.
In line with its commitment to sustainability, NP (SL) Ltd adheres to stringent environmental regulations and invests in eco-friendly practices, contributing to a greener future by minimizing its carbon footprint.
NP’s technological advancements extend beyond the NP Energy Pass. The company employs modern tools such as Global Positioning System (GPS) and Video Tracking System (VTS) to streamline operations and enhance consumer experiences. The NP Smart Card provides a convenient method for fuel purchases, allowing customers to manage their fuel needs efficiently.
The company’s commitment to transparent operations has been praised for eliminating inaccuracies in fuel measurements, ensuring that customers receive exactly what they pay for. Social commentator Mohamed Bai Sesay has lauded NP (SL) Ltd as a leader in customer care and transparency.
NP (SL)’s role extends beyond energy supply; it significantly contributes to local employment by exclusively hiring Sierra Leoneans, thus supporting national economic growth. As a fully indigenous company, the petroleum marketing company exemplifies the positive impact of local ownership on national pride and economic self-sufficiency.
Additionally, NP’s portfolio includes NP Gas, recognized for its environmental benefits and efficiency.
The company’s expansion into neighbouring countries such as Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast and The Gambia underscores its growing influence in the regional petroleum industry.
A recent nationwide survey highlighted high customer satisfaction with NP (SL) Ltd’s services, particularly its reliable supply of petrol, diesel, gas and lubricants like Castrol Oil, crucial for preventing fuel shortages.
NP (SL) Ltd is also noted for its substantial contributions to national development through tax payments and support for local content policies.
The introduction of the Energy Pass Card marks another step in NP’s innovative approach, further solidifying its status as Sierra Leone’s leading petroleum dealer.
In every facet of its operations, from innovation to customer care, NP (SL) Ltd exemplifies excellence and continues to drive national development while enhancing the quality of life for Sierra Leone’s citizens.
Discover Nutribom Infant Cereal – Enriched with all the vitamins and nutrients your baby needs to grow healthy, strong and happy!
Nutrilon is now Nutribom
Nutribom, the trusted choice in baby nutrition, available in six delicious flavors: Rice, Maize, Oats, Multigrain, Banana & Apple, Honey & Wheat.
Enriched with essential vitamins and zinc Nutribom contributes to a healthy growth and development with a balanced mix of vital nutrients. Perfect for babies from 6 months and older!
Easy to prepare, gentle on the stomach, and full of energy, Nutribom is a nutritious and tasty meal that your baby will love every day!
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.
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.
