Leonoil Company Limited has taken a bold step to secure full ownership of Sierra Rutile Holdings Limited, presenting a comprehensive off-market takeover offer. The proposal targets all ordinary shares of Sierra Rutile that Leonoil does not already own, offering a cash price of $0.18 per share.
The bid, set to close on September 9, 2024, comes at a crucial time for Sierra Rutile. The company’s Board of Directors has unanimously recommended that shareholders accept the offer, highlighting the slim likelihood of a superior proposal and the company’s potential need for additional capital in the near future.
In a detailed update, Sierra Rutile emphasized that the offer represents a 12.5% premium over the previous bid from Gemcorp Commodities. With no minimum acceptance condition, the Leonoil offer provides shareholders greater certainty and an attractive premium.
Leonoil’s acquisition strategy marks the third significant takeover attempt for Sierra Rutile within the past four months. The Board of Sierra Rutile supports the proposal as it aligns with the company’s strategic goals, particularly with the development of the Sembehun project, which is critical to extending the mine’s lifespan.
Shareholders are advised to promptly accept the offer, as it provides a clear pathway toward financial stability and avoids potential dilution risks tied to future capital requirements.
In a Press Conference held on August 13, 2024, Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, issued a formal apology on behalf of the Government of Sierra Leone for the country’s ongoing internet service issues. He assured citizens that significant improvements are underway as mobile companies are currently engaged in extensive upgrades to enhance both the quality and reliability of internet services across the nation.
The Press Conference, led by Minister Chernor Bah and Minister of Communications, Technology and Innovation, Salima Monorma Bah, covered a broad spectrum of topics including the current internet service challenges and Sierra Leone’s position on the United Nations Security Council.
Minister Salima Bah highlighted the Government’s commitment to improving digital infrastructure, aligning with President Julius Maada Bio’s vision for enhanced connectivity. She noted that internet access is now viewed as a fundamental human right, prompting substantial investments from both the Government and private sector.
The Communications Minister also presented notable projects and initiatives:
– Tech Summit Achievements: The successful Tech Summit showcased President Bio’s launch of the $50 million Digital Transformation Project, Felei Tech City Project and Star Link initiative.
– National Fiber Backbone 2 Project: The project is expanding fiber optic coverage to 14 out of 16 districts, with efforts continuing to reach all districts. The Universal Access Development Fund (UADF) has also supported the launch of nine rural telephony sites.
– Cybersecurity and Digital Training: Over 3,200 pupils and 500 entrepreneurs have been trained in cybersecurity and digital marketing, with support from Orange and Huawei.
Despite these efforts, Minister Salima Bah acknowledged ongoing challenges, including recent internet outages caused by tampering with undersea fiber optic cables. She said the Government is exploring collaborative solutions with Guinea to enhance broadband speed and stability.
Infrastructure and Connectivity Statistics:
– Mobile Connectivity: 96.7% of the population has potential access to mobile connectivity.
– Coverage Rates: 96% for 2G, 95.9% for 3G, and 87.7% for 4G.
– Data Penetration: Increased to 2.1 million people, a 15% rise from the previous year.
Minister Bah’s delegation is negotiating an interconnection agreement with Guinea to ensure network stability. Additionally, a new pricing formula for mobile data, akin to the fuel industry model, is being developed to ensure fair pricing for consumers.
Mahmoud Idriss, Executive Director of Zoodlabs, discussed the company’s role in managing the subsea cable infrastructure, which is currently undergoing maintenance. Idriss acknowledged the issues with aging infrastructure and the need for additional cables to ensure connectivity.
Leonecom’s Alimamy Thomas Momodu and Abdul Ben-Foday from the National Telecommunications Authority (NatCA) also addressed ongoing efforts to improve internet service, including new tower constructions by Orange, Qcell, and Africell.
Despite assurances, public dissatisfaction with Zoodlabs persists, especially after a significant outage on August 4, 2024. Citizens are calling for immediate Government intervention and accountability from Zoodlabs, which has faced criticism for failing to upgrade outdated equipment and for a lack of transparency regarding recent disruptions.
In response, NatCA convened an emergency meeting to develop a contingency plan and explore alternative routes to enhance service resilience.
The ongoing scrutiny of Zoodlabs and the Government’s proactive measures are crucial for ensuring a reliable digital future for Sierra Leone. The public’s demand for stable and efficient internet services remains a top priority.
As identity verification becomes increasingly crucial in today’s world, the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) in Sierra Leone has launched a major initiative to issue Biometric ID Cards. These cards are not only key to accessing essential services but also play a vital role in safeguarding personal security and preventing fraud. With registration centers set up across Freetown, provincial towns and other locations nationwide, citizens and non-citizens alike are urged to obtain their Biometric ID Cards promptly.
Starting September 1, 2024 to November 30, 2024, all mobile phone users must ensure that their National Identification Number (NIN) is linked to their SIM card(s). This requirement aims to protect against mobile-related fraud such as SIM swaps, impersonation and unauthorized mobile money transactions. Failure to link your NIN will result in the inability to make or receive calls, send SMS messages or conduct mobile money transactions.
To link your NIN:
Obtain your National Identity Card from an NCRA office or ID Card Application Center.
Visit your nearest Mobile Operator Office between September 1 and November 30, 2024, to complete the linkage.
Don’t wait until the deadline—visit your nearest mobile operator now and secure your connection.
At the heart of the Biometric ID Card is the National Identification Number (NIN), a unique identifier that permanently links individuals to the National Identity Database. This secure system helps prevent identity theft and ensures accurate identity verification. The NIN is more than just a number; it is a gateway to various public and private services, from healthcare to banking.
A recent Cabinet decision mandates that individuals must have a Biometric ID Card to access essential services. Without it, citizens and non-citizens may face difficulties in securing healthcare, education financial services, and even travel.
The Biometric ID Card also strengthens national security by providing definitive proof of identity at key checkpoints across the country. Whether at airports, border crossings or routine security checks, the card ensures that only verified individuals are granted access.
Moreover, the card’s integration with Mobile Phone SIM cards marks a significant step in combating cybercrime. Linking the NIN to SIM cards allows authorities to trace and identify those engaged in criminal activities, thus curbing the growing threat of cyber fraud.
NCRA established multiple registration centers to streamline the process of obtaining a Biometric ID Card include:
NCRA Headquarters: 2 Walpole Street, Freetown
NCRA Office: 23B Off Kingharman Road, Freetown
NCRA Office: Kennedy Street, Freetown
NCRA Branch Office: 230 Lumley Road, Freetown (By the Roundabout)
NCRA Office: Waterloo along the Freetown Highway (Opposite the Police Station)
NCRA Offices in the regional headquarter towns of Bo, Kenema, Makeni, and Port Loko
For further assistance, the NCRA can be reached at +232-33-433-333, +232-30-500-000, +232-78-221-812, or via email at idverification@ncra.gov.
In addition to individual services, NCRA also offers corporate issuance of Biometric ID Cards to personnel in public and private institutions.
Obtaining a Biometric ID Card is vital for both citizens and non-citizens in Sierra Leone. It not only protects your identity but also ensures seamless access to essential services and enhances personal and national security. Make securing your Biometric ID Card a priority today.
Minister of Communications, Technology and Innovation, Salima Bah, has outlined a comprehensive plan to address the recent internet outages that have disrupted connectivity across Sierra Leone. Speaking at the Government’s weekly Press Briefing, the Minister emphasized both short-term and long-term strategies designed to ensure reliable internet access for all citizens, reflecting the Government’s commitment to treating internet connectivity as a fundamental right.
Driven by President Julius Maada Bio’s vision of universal internet access, Salima Bah expressed the urgency of the issue. “The President considers internet and mobile service as a basic human right, so we are all taking it very seriously,” she stated, underscoring the administration’s dedication to improving the country’s digital infrastructure.
The Press Briefing, moderated by Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, echoed these sentiments, with a strong emphasis on the critical role of the internet in daily life. “Internet is part of our daily existence; it is our bread and butter. If the internet shuts down, everybody will know because of how much we rely on it,” said the Minister of Information, highlighting the far-reaching impact of internet disruptions.
Sierra Leone has recently experienced internet outages on both national and international scales. However, the Communications Minister reassured the public that significant investments in the country’s internet infrastructure have positioned Sierra Leone to respond effectively to these challenges. “Significant investment has gone into the infrastructure both by the Government and the private sector,” she noted, adding that in comparison to neighboring Liberia, which experienced a week-long outage, Sierra Leone was only offline for 45 minutes during the recent disruption.
To prevent future outages, Salima Bah revealed that the Government has already initiated discussions with Guinea to establish an “Emergency Bandwidth” connection. “Over the weekend, I led a delegation of sector players to Guinea. We want to create an interconnection with them so if we are down, we can get some bandwidth from them, and vice versa,” she explained. The Minister highlighted Guinea’s strategic importance due to its multiple international borders, which offer additional connectivity options.
Currently, Sierra Leone relies heavily on the ACE submarine cable, which connects multiple countries along the West African coast to Europe and South Africa. This critical infrastructure supports more than 455 million people but is increasingly vulnerable due to its age and the risks of accidental or intentional damage.
Mamoud Idris, Executive Director of Zoodlabs, acknowledged the challenges posed by the ageing cable, which was installed in 2012. “This cable is getting old… the risk of the cable cutting is increasing,” he warned.
In addition to the short-term measures, Minister Salima Bah outlined the Government’s long-term strategy to secure Sierra Leone’s digital future. “Ultimately, for true protection and to limit our vulnerability, we need two cables at any given time,” she said. She further announced that the private sector is forming a consortium to explore the Meta 2 Africa cable, while the Government is collaborating with ECOWAS on a program to support countries with only one undersea internet cable.
The Minister’s proactive approach highlights the Government’s commitment to ensuring uninterrupted internet access, recognizing its crucial role in the nation’s economic and social development.
In a significant diplomatic move, Madam Asmaa Angela James was appointed by His Excellency, Dr. Julius Maada Bio, President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, to serve as the Deputy Ambassador to the Kingdom of Belgium. Her appointment, which also covers the Kingdom of Netherlands, France, Greece, Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, the Holy See, and the European Union, was officially endorsed by the Parliament of Sierra Leone on August 8, 2024.
Madam Asmaa James, a respected figure in Sierra Leone’s media landscape, expressed her profound gratitude and humility upon receiving this prestigious appointment. “It is a great honor and privilege to have been appointed to this esteemed position. I am humbled by this incredible opportunity to serve our nation and to contribute to diplomacy on the global stage,” she stated.
With a commitment to public service and excellence, she pledged to work diligently with her team in Brussels, aiming to strengthen the bonds between Sierra Leone and the nations under her diplomatic purview. “I will work tirelessly to maintain and strengthen the bond between our two nations, representing our country with the utmost respect, diligence and professionalism,” she affirmed.
She extended her heartfelt thanks to the Members of Parliament for their unanimous approval of her appointment, recognizing their trust and the acknowledgment of her contributions over the years. She also expressed deep appreciation to her family, friends, supporters worldwide and her colleagues in the media, whose unwavering support has been instrumental in her personal and professional growth.
Madam Asmaa James’s transition from journalism to diplomacy follows an illustrious 22-year career at Radio Democracy 98.1, where she served as Manager and Executive Director for 11 years. She is celebrated for her work as a senior radio host, gender and human rights advocate and philanthropist. Her extensive experience in broadcast journalism and management has played a significant role in promoting democratic governance in Sierra Leone.
Hon. Zainab Catherine Tarawally, a Member of Parliament and former colleague, lauded Madam James for her dedication and hard work. “Mrs. James has always been a committed journalist. Her new role as Deputy Ambassador is a testament to her capabilities and I am confident she will represent Sierra Leone with distinction,” she remarked.
Beyond her media career, Madam James is a prominent figure in civil society. She leads the ASMAA JAMES NETWORK, including Rise Radio 96.3FM, which focuses on amplifying the voices of women, girls and youth, promoting human rights and advocating for a more just and inclusive society. Her non-profit initiatives, such as Girls+ Plus and the Asmaa James Foundation, empower women and girls through mentorship, scholarships and advocacy for adolescent sexual reproductive health and rights.
A graduate of the London School of Journalism, Madam Asmaa James has participated in various training programs across Africa, Europe and the United States. She also gained valuable insights into EU operations through the European Union Visitor’s Program (EUVP), particularly in the context of relations between the EU and African nations, including Sierra Leone.
As Madam Asmaa Angela James prepares to embark on her diplomatic mission to Brussels, she carries with her a legacy of journalistic excellence and a commitment to furthering Sierra Leone’s international relations. “I departed the shores of Sierra Leone with a heart full of pride and gratitude. I am carrying with me the hope and dedication that will guide my work in representing our nation,” she intimated this medium.
In a significant move toward strengthening industry standards, the newly appointed Executive Director of the Sierra Leone Standards Bureau (SLSB), Dr. John Paul Kaisam and his team paid a courtesy visit to the NP (SL) Limited Management on Tuesday, August 13, 2024.
This visit marks an important milestone in the ongoing partnership between the SLSB and NP (SL) Limited, reflecting both entities’ commitment to closely collaborate for the advancement of quality and accountability in Sierra Leone’s petroleum sector.
During the meeting, NP (SL) Ltd’s Chief Executive Officer, Saidu Mansaray, warmly welcomed Dr. Kaisam and his team. He emphasized NP’s dedication to working assiduously with the SLSB, underscoring the importance of collaboration in promoting integrity and upholding high standards within the industry.
Dr. Kaisam expressed his appreciation for NP’s enduring partnership with the Standards Bureau over the years. He highlighted key joint achievements, such as the construction of a state-of-the-art petroleum lab at NP’s Terminal, which stands as a testament to their successful cooperation. Dr. Kaisam further reiterated his commitment to fostering strong ties between the SLSB and NP, with both parties agreeing on the importance of regular communication and coordination to drive tangible results in the petroleum industry.
The visit underscores the shared dedication to maintaining operational excellence and ensuring the delivery of quality petroleum products for the benefit of consumers and the overall economy.
The 78th Independence Day of India was celebrated by High Commission of India in Freetown on Thursday, 15 August 2024.
2. The celebrations commenced at Chancery premises with unfurling of the National Flag by Charge d’ Affaires a.i. Neeraj Kumar Saini, followed by singing of the National Anthem and reading of the Address of the President of India to the Nation. Brahmakumari Sisters enlighten the importance of climate change and spiritual meditation followed by patriotic cultural performances made by children of India diaspora.
3. The ceremony was attended by over 150 guests including Indian nationals, diaspora members and friends of India.
The Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Wang Qing, addressed a gathering at the “Face to Face with China” press reception held on Thursday, August 15, 2024, at the Chinese Embassy in Freetown. The event provided a platform for engaging with media representatives and friendship organizations, emphasizing the continued growth and cooperation between China and Sierra Leone.
In his remarks, Ambassador Wang underlined the significance of two major events impacting China’s development and its international relations, particularly with Africa. The first was the third plenary session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) held in Beijing in July. He highlighted the session’s focus on reform and opening-up, which remain crucial to China’s economic progress and global standing. The Ambassador shared insights on the session’s roadmap, which introduced over 300 initiatives across key areas including democracy, rule of law, culture, and economic development. These reforms aim to boost institutional support, develop high-tech industries, and advance integration between traditional and digital economies.
Ambassador Wang also discussed China’s commitment to promoting high-standard international economic engagement by fostering a transparent and predictable business environment. He noted the reduction of market access restrictions, increased support for innovation, and greater openness across sectors such as telecommunications, education, and healthcare.
The Ambassador traced the roots of China’s reform and opening-up policy back to 1978, marking it as a transformative decision that lifted over 700 million people out of poverty and positioned China as a global economic powerhouse. With China’s continued push for reform in today’s challenging environment, he emphasized President Xi Jinping’s call for unwavering commitment to this strategy, highlighting its relevance for both China and the international community.
The second event discussed was the upcoming Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit, scheduled for early September in Beijing. Established in 2000, FOCAC has grown into a vital platform for China-Africa dialogue and cooperation. Ambassador Wang highlighted that China has been Africa’s largest trading partner since 2009, with trade between the two regions reaching $282 billion in 2023. He also emphasized the positive impact of China-Africa cooperation in areas like infrastructure, investment, and job creation, as well as mutual support during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Turning to Sierra Leone, the Ambassador noted that President Julius Maada Bio’s state visit to China earlier this year has deepened bilateral cooperation in agriculture, human capital development, and infrastructure. Projects such as the China-Aided Fish Harbour and the ongoing renovation of the National Stadium were cited as examples of strengthened ties. The Ambassador also revealed upcoming plans in technology and digital infrastructure, including discussions on the “Smart Sierra” initiative aimed at increasing internet coverage in rural areas.
Ambassador Wang reaffirmed China’s commitment to turning the shared vision of the two countries’ leaders into tangible benefits for both nations. He expressed optimism that the upcoming FOCAC Summit will further enhance China-Africa cooperation and reinforce a shared future of mutual development and prosperity.
As part of their aim towards establishing a robust and actionable framework to guide the sustainable development of Sierra Leone’s mining sector in order to align the growth of the mining industry with the country’s broader economic goals and international best practices, the Ministry of Mines and Mineral Resources, in collaboration with the National Mineral Agency (NMA) will today Friday 16th August, 2014 conclude a three day retreat. The event themed: “Shaping the Future of Sierra Leone’s Mining Sector: Strategic Planning and Policy Development for Sustainable Growth,” commenced on Wednesday, August 14, 2024 at the Sierra Palm Resort at Aberdeen in Freetown.
In his remarks during the opening ceremony, the Director General of the National Mineral Agency, Ing. Alhaji Daboh emphasized the critical importance of Sierra Leone’s mineral sector, describing it as the nation’s “breadbasket.”
However, he acknowledged that the sector has not yet delivered the expected benefits to the citizens. He also expressed optimism about the current strategic planning and policy development efforts for sustainable growth, stating, “I am impressed and, above all, happy that the Ministry of Mines and Mineral Resources and the National Mineral Agency are committed to working together to achieve the goals set for this retreat. This collaborative approach puts us in an advantageous position. We’ve chosen a secluded environment for this retreat to minimize distractions and focus on our objectives.”
The Director General further highlighted that the ongoing three-day deliberation is crucial in addressing the challenges that have hindered the full potential of the mining sector. “The mining sector is the breadbasket of this nation, but the citizens have yet to see its true benefits. This retreat is a step toward changing that narrative,” DG Daboh remarked, praising the Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources for his innovative leadership in initiating the retreat.
Alhaji M. Turay, Chairman of the National Mineral Agency Board, echoed these sentiments, noting that the event underscores their commitment to advancing the mineral sector. He acknowledged the sector’s significant contributions to national revenue and employment but emphasized that there is still much room for improvement. “While the mineral sector presents both challenges and opportunities, it is imperative that we create an environment conducive to attracting Foreign Direct Investments,” the Chairman stated.
He also highlighted the country’s vast resources, including diamonds, bauxite, iron ore, gold and the recently discovered nickel. “The National Mineral Agency is committed to enhancing our strategy, promoting transparency and efficiency as well as collaborating closely with all stakeholders to achieve our goals. This retreat is an opportunity to reflect on our progress, identify areas for improvement and chart a course for a prosperous mineral sector that can unlock the full potential of our resources and create lasting benefits for our nation and its people,” Alhaji Turay said.
He further acknowledged the Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, Julius D. Mattai, as the architect of the retreat, stating that his leadership would guide them toward success. Reflecting on the history of mining in Sierra Leone, he noted that despite the country’s abundance of world-class minerals, the sector has not contributed significantly to national development. “Our minerals have enriched other countries, including The Gambia, Ivory Coast, Liberia and even the United States, due to a lack of the correct strategy,” he lamented.
In his keynote address, Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, Julius D. Mattai, emphasized that the three-day retreat aims to align the growth of Sierra Leone’s mining sector with national economic objectives and international best practices. He highlighted key goals, including enhancing governance, transparency and accountability, as well as promoting investment and innovation in mining operations.
The Minister noted that the retreat involves conducting a comprehensive assessment of the mining sector’s current state, engaging a broad spectrum of stakeholders in the strategic planning process and establishing clear targets and timelines for sustainable development. He described the retreat as a crucial step towards ensuring that Sierra Leone’s mining industry continues to contribute positively to the nation’s economy while upholding the highest standards of governance and sustainability.
He also underscored the collective responsibility of all participants to ensure the effective, efficient and transparent management of the mining sector. “With your passion, commitment and best abilities, we can properly manage the mining sector,” Julius Mattai stated. He further committed to addressing the sector’s challenges; including eliminating leakages and ensuring that funds disbursed to communities are utilized effectively.
Other stakeholders, including Ambassador Sahr Jonny, Board Chairman of MAB and Hon. Emmerson S. Lamina, Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Mines and Mineral Resources, also delivered statements at the opening ceremony.
The ceremony featured presentations on various topics, including An Overview of the Development of the Strategic Plan for the Mines and Mineral sector by Peter K. Bangura, An Overview of the Development of Critical or Strategic Mineral Policy by Prince Cuffey and Dr. John D. Cooper and the Sierra Leone Mines & Mineral Policy by Alhaji S. Bah. These presentations were followed by group discussions and reporting sessions.
United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, has lauded the leadership of Sierra Leone’s President, Dr. Julius Maada Bio, in championing the call for reform of the United Nations Security Council, emphasizing the need for increased representation of Africa. In a bilateral meeting on Wednesday August 13, 2024 at the UN Headquarters in New York, António Guterres commended President Bio’s pivotal role in steering the debate on Security Council reform, acknowledging the historical injustices that have marginalized the continent for decades.
“I want to congratulate you on the extraordinary success in yesterday’s debate. Your role and voice have been instrumental, particularly in addressing the challenges in the Sahel, and we deeply appreciate your efforts,” he said. He reiterated his commitment to rectifying the underrepresentation of Africa on the Security Council, a stance he has consistently upheld.
President Bio expressed his gratitude to the Secretary-General for his unwavering support, while urging the international community to take concrete action on their commitments. He highlighted the worsening security situation in the Sahel region, underscoring the need for sustained global attention and intervention.
“We, as a continent, admire your steadfastness not only because you have stood by us, but also because you have consistently spoken out against the injustices in the current structure of the Security Council. I remain committed to promoting peace and stability in the Sahel region,” President Bio affirmed.
This meeting comes on the heels of President Bio’s address to the Security Council on August 12, where he leveraged Sierra Leone’s presidency to advocate for more seats for Africa on the Council. “The time for half-measures and incremental progress is over. Africa must be heard and its demands for justice and equity must be met,” he asserted during the session.
President Bio’s call for reform is part of a broader African initiative seeking to secure two permanent seats with veto power and additional non-permanent seats on the Council. This initiative reflects Africa’s growing clout on the global stage, with its 1.3 billion people and 54 nations representing a significant portion of the UN’s membership.
The push for reform has gained momentum ahead of the upcoming UN “Summit of the Future” and the annual General Assembly, where leaders from around the world are expected to discuss the future of international cooperation, including Security Council reform.
“We are certain that it is only a matter of time before Africa’s rightful place is recognized. The gatekeepers will find it increasingly difficult to deny us,” President Bio remarked at a news briefing, reinforcing his determination to see Africa’s voice amplified on the world’s most powerful decision-making body.
