Home Blog Page 329

Dr. Abdul Jalloh Earns Kofi Annan Global Health Leadership Fellowship

By Amin Kef Sesay

Dr. Abdul Jalloh from Sierra Leone has been selected as a Fellow for the prestigious 2024/2025 Kofi Annan Fellowship in Global Health Leadership. His selection is a testament to his exceptional qualifications and dedication to public health, standing out among over 6,000 applicants to be one of only 25 individuals chosen for this esteemed program. He is the only Fellow from Sierra Leone for this cohort and the second from the country, following the footsteps of the current Minister of Tertiary Education, Dr. Haja Ramatulai Wurie.

“It is with great pleasure that I write to congratulate you and to invite you to become a Fellow of the prestigious Kofi Annan Fellowship in Global Health Leadership programme. Your achievements reflect your excellent performance in the application and interview,” the letter of invitation reads.

The Kofi Annan Fellowship in Global Health Leadership seeks to cultivate exemplary African public health leaders who can emulate the late Secretary-General Kofi Annan’s leadership qualities. The program aims to equip these leaders with advanced skills and competencies necessary to strategize, manage and lead public health programs that will positively transform public health in Africa.

The letter further highlighted the Fellowship’s goal of developing a new public health order for Africa and nurturing the next generation of public health leaders. As a Fellow, Dr. Abdul Jalloh will join a network that offers the wealth of experience from the African Union (AU) and Africa CDC, leadership perspectives from faculty members and insights from his peers, alongside a formal coaching and mentoring program.

“We anticipate that this Fellowship will enable you to add value to your own institution, your country and the continent at large. Your selection from a pool of over 6,000 qualified applicants underscores your exceptional qualifications and your readiness to embrace this life-changing opportunity”.

The 12-month program will focus on high-level professional development in advanced public health leadership, including skills in health diplomacy, change management and policy influence. Fellows will be supported by experienced experts from Africa and the diaspora, helping them develop competencies in leadership styles that influence and empower others, frame viable strategic visions for positive health outcomes and navigate the complex environment of public health practice.

Dr. Abdul Jalloh’s selection gives him the opportunity to contribute significantly to his institution, country and the continent. His journey as a Kofi Annan Fellow is anticipated to be one of growth and self-development, further enhancing his ability to lead and innovate in the public health sector.

The Kofi Annan Fellowship not only celebrates the achievements of individuals like Dr. Abdul Jalloh but also reinforces the importance of building a strong cadre of public health leaders committed to achieving ambitious health goals and improving health outcomes across Africa. His participation in this Fellowship marks a significant milestone for Sierra Leone and sets a powerful example for aspiring public health leaders in the country.

Congratulations to Dr. Abdul Jalloh on this remarkable achievement. His selection as a Kofi Annan Fellow is a source of pride for Sierra Leone and an inspiration for all working towards a healthier, more prosperous future for Africa.

Civil Society Demands Transparency in Sierra Leone’s Sovereign Wealth Fund Creation

CREATOR: gd-jpeg v1.0 (using IJG JPEG v90), quality = 90

By Amin Kef Sesay

Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) operating in the extractives sector in Sierra Leone, particularly those serving on the Multi-Stakeholder Group in the Extractive Industry Transparency Initiative (EITI), have raised significant concerns regarding the establishment of the Sovereign Wealth Fund.

This Fund, a vision promoted by President Julius Maada Bio, aims to ensure Sierra Leone benefits more transparently and effectively from its mineral wealth. However, CSOs are urging for greater transparency and inclusivity in the process.

One of the primary concerns from civil society is the lack of information about the independent management firm contracted to work with the Sovereign Wealth Fund. CSOs are calling for the disclosure of the names of the individuals and entities behind this firm.

They believe that without knowing who is managing the fund, it will be challenging to ensure accountability and transparency. This call for transparency extends to the recruitment process of the independent management firm. CSOs are demanding that the process involves consultations with all relevant stakeholders, including mining companies and advocacy groups within the extractives sector.

The role of Parliament in ensuring due diligence is crucial in this context. Parliament must oversee the establishment of the Sovereign Wealth Fund to guarantee that all procedures are transparent and that the Fund is managed in a manner that benefits the country.

This includes scrutinizing the selection of the independent management firm and the guidelines for the Fund’s operations. Parliamentary oversight can help prevent potential mismanagement and ensure that the Fund operates with the highest standards of integrity and accountability.

The Ministry of Mines and Mineral Resources has also come under scrutiny for its role in the process. There is a perception that the Ministry has failed to effectively manage the country’s mineral resources, contributing to the current lack of transparency and accountability in the sector.

Civil society groups argue that without significant reforms in the Ministry of Mines and Mineral Resources, the Sovereign Wealth Fund may not achieve its intended goals. They are calling for the Ministry to play a more active role in ensuring that the Fund is set up and managed transparently, with the involvement of all relevant stakeholders.

Minister of Finance, Sheku Fantamadi Bangura, has highlighted the importance of the Sovereign Wealth Fund in accruing more money from the mining sector and changing Sierra Leone’s approach to its mineral wealth. He acknowledged that the country has not benefited as much as it should from its resources and emphasized that the establishment of the Fund would bring more transparency to the sector.

According to the Minister, the Fund is expected to address the loopholes in the current mining laws and enhance the robustness of capital raising for the Government. He stressed that the Fund would ensure it is no longer “business as usual” in the mining sector, ultimately benefiting future generations.

As the Government works towards the establishment of the Sovereign Wealth Fund, the concerns of civil society must be addressed. Ensuring a transparent and inclusive process will not only build trust among stakeholders but also maximize the potential benefits from Sierra Leone’s mineral wealth.

The engagement of an independent management firm, along with the input from expert consultants, should be conducted openly, with regular updates and consultations involving all relevant parties. This approach will help build a robust framework for theFfund, supporting the country’s economic development and ensuring that its mineral resources benefit all citizens.

The establishment of the Sovereign Wealth Fund is a critical step towards ensuring that Sierra Leone can effectively manage its mineral wealth and use it to support national development. By addressing the concerns raised by civil society and ensuring that all processes are transparent and inclusive, the Government can build a Fund that truly benefits the people of Sierra Leone.

This will require a collaborative effort from all stakeholders, including Parliament, the Ministry of Mines and Mineral Resources and civil society, to ensure that the Fund operates with the highest standards of integrity and accountability.

SLURC Hosts Stakeholders Workshop on Flood Risk Assessment & Management

By Millicent Senava Mannah

The Sierra Leone Urban Research Centre (SLURC) held a pivotal one-day stakeholder workshop on August 5, 2024, focusing on flood hazard and risk assessment. This event, part of the “Development of a Strategic Flood Risk Assessment and Management Plan for Secondary Cities of Sierra Leone” project, was funded by the World Bank and took place at the Council of Churches Conference Hall (CCSL Hall) on 4 Kingharman Road in Freetown.

This workshop, a key component of SLURC’s Resilient Urban Sierra Leone Project, was conducted in partnership with Ambiente Risorse Sviluppo Progetti, SWS Consulting Engineering and HR Wallingford. The primary objective was to engage stakeholders in discussions about flood risk, flood protection, mitigation criteria  and emergency planning, enabling participants to explore potential options for reducing urban flood risk through a multi-criteria analysis approach.

Joseph Macarthy, Executive Director of SLURC, emphasized the importance of the workshop, stating, “We believe that by bringing together diverse stakeholders, we can foster collaboration and innovation in flood risk management. Our goal is to equip local authorities with the necessary tools and strategies to create safer and more resilient urban environments for all citizens.”

Braima Koroma, Director of Research at SLURC, along with Ansu Macarthy, presented insights from the socioeconomic survey data and analysis. They highlighted the social and economic factors influencing flood vulnerability within communities in Waterloo, noting that Waterloo’s rapid development into a bustling business hub presents unique challenges for flood mitigation.

Francesca from ARS Progetti discussed the Hydrological Study and Hydraulic Analysis of the Waterloo community. She explained that the Hydrological Study examines water flow patterns and their implications for flood risk, while Hydraulic Analysis assesses the physical characteristics of waterways and their capacity to manage flood events.

Matteo, also from ARS Progetti, demonstrated the use of web-based tools designed to enhance flood risk management and community engagement. Participants then engaged in group discussions to identify immediate actions to reduce flood impacts, evaluate various flood management strategies based on effectiveness and community needs, and explore a multi-criteria analysis approach to prioritize different flood risk reduction options.

Key findings from the workshop included:

– Socioeconomic Survey Data and Analysis: Insights into the social and economic factors influencing flood vulnerability within communities.

– Hydrological Study: Examination of water flow patterns and their implications for flood risk.

– Hydraulic Analysis: Assessment of the physical characteristics of waterways and their capacity to manage flood events.

– Web-Based Tools: Demonstrations of digital resources designed to enhance flood risk management and community engagement.

The workshop’s outcomes are expected to significantly contribute to the development of tailored flood risk assessments and management plans for each of the secondary cities, ultimately supporting the overarching goal of enhancing urban resilience in Sierra Leone.

SLURC urged all parties to collaborate towards sustainable urban development and the creation of resilient cities capable of effectively managing the risks associated with climate change and urbanization.

The Sierra Leone Urban Research Centre remains committed to addressing urban challenges and enhancing resilience in Sierra Leone’s cities through strategic planning and community engagement, aiming to improve the quality of life for all residents.

Chief Minister Engages Malen Stakeholders, Pledges to Renegotiate Socfin Agreement

By Amin Kef Sesay

In a major move towards resolving the long-standing tensions in Malen Chiefdom, Sierra Leone’s Chief Minister, Dr. Moinina David Sengeh, convened a comprehensive dialogue session on Sunday, August 4, 2024. The meeting aimed at fostering collaboration among stakeholders and assured the community of the Government’s commitment to renegotiate the contract with Socfin Agricultural Company.

The session brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including Government officials, development partners, political and traditional leaders, youths, women and security personnel. Held in Malen Chiefdom, the dialogue focused on addressing the various issues that have contributed to the protracted dispute between the local community and Socfin Agricultural Company, which operates a large-scale palm oil plantation in the area.

Chiefdom Speaker of Malen Chiefdom, Chief Robert Moigua, welcomed participants and urged the community to engage constructively in the dialogue, emphasizing the need to set aside hatred, malice, jealousy, backbiting, favoritism and political sentiments for the greater good.

The dialogues provided a platform for stakeholders to voice their concerns and seek solutions. Acting Chiefdom Youth Chairman, Mohamed Elleson Sengeh, highlighted the lack of youth representation in decision-making processes and the marginalization of young people regarding employment opportunities within Socfin.

Councilor Hindolo Sillah called on the youth and women to participate positively in the chiefdom’s development, stressing the importance of addressing the concerns raised during the dialogue. Mohamed Dao, representing motorcycle riders, raised issues related to environmental hazards and accidents, urging Socfin’s safety department to ensure road safety.

Regent Chief of Malen Chiefdom, Chief Alex B. Lamin, expressed gratitude for the dialogue, stating that while the community had given their land to the company, they faced inhumane treatment and significant hardships. He disclosed that despite engaging with the company’s stakeholders, issues such as the meager stipends for town and section chiefs remained unresolved.

Honorable Member of Parliament for the area, Hon. Shaka Musa Sama, commended the initiative, expressing his vision of improved living conditions for his people. He thanked the Secretary to the President for his involvement in the mediation process and expressed confidence in his expertise in local governance issues.

Resident Minister South,  Mohamed Elongima Kaindapa Alie, acknowledged the long-standing issues in Malen and assured the community of the Government’s commitment to addressing their concerns and supporting the peace process.

Chief Minister Dr. David Moinina Sengeh emphasized the importance of ongoing dialogue and patience as the Government engages with Socfin to address the community’s concerns. He promised that the Government would build a larger Court Barry for the community starting this year and assured that the renegotiation of the 2011 agreement with Socfin would continue to find lasting solutions.

The session concluded with Hon. Shaka Musa Sama outlining key issues affecting the Malen Chiefdom, including compensation payments, annual lease rent, alternative livelihoods, revenue from palm oil sales, employment and welfare of employees, human rights abuses, community development, recognition of traditional authorities, environmental protection and grievance redress mechanisms. Participants engaged in extensive discussions and provided recommendations to address these pressing concerns.

The successful dialogue session facilitated by the Chief Minister marks a significant step towards resolving the long-standing tensions in Malen Chiefdom, paving the way for a more collaborative and inclusive approach to addressing the community’s needs and grievances.

Secure Your Biometric ID Card Now for Enhanced Safety and Inclusivity

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In an era marked by rapid technological advancements and a global emphasis on security, Sierra Leone has embraced Biometric Identity Cards to enhance safety, efficiency, and inclusivity. This transformative technology is set to improve various aspects of public life for both citizens and non-citizens.

One of the primary reasons for adopting Biometric Identity Cards in Sierra Leone is to bolster national security. These cards utilize unique biometric features, such as National Identification Numbers and embedded chips containing individual information, to provide accurate identification. This not only helps prevent identity theft and fraud but also aids law enforcement agencies in maintaining a secure environment for all residents.

Biometric Identity Cards streamline government services and promote efficiency in public administration. From healthcare to education, a standardized identification system ensures that citizens and non-citizens receive the services they are entitled to in a timely and organized manner. This efficiency contributes to reducing bureaucracy, minimizing corruption, and fostering a more transparent government.

Access to financial services is crucial for individual and national economic development. Biometric Identity Cards play a pivotal role in promoting financial inclusion by enabling citizens and non-citizens to open bank accounts, access credit facilities, and participate in the formal economy. This stimulates economic growth and empowers individuals to improve their quality of life.

The implementation of Biometric Identity Cards is particularly important in the context of elections. By linking each voter to a unique biometric profile, Sierra Leone ensures a fair and transparent electoral process. This prevents electoral fraud and guarantees that every eligible citizen has the opportunity to exercise their democratic right without fear of manipulation.

For non-citizens residing in Sierra Leone, obtaining a Biometric Identity Card is crucial for legal residency. These cards serve as a means of identification and verification of one’s status in the country, promoting accountability and facilitating a more inclusive society.

Designated centers and six specific offices have been opened throughout the country to facilitate the ID registration process. The centers are:

  1. NCRA Headquarters: 2 Walpole Street, Freetown.
  2. NCRA Office: 23B Off Kingharman Road, Freetown.
  3. NCRA Office: Kennedy Street, Freetown.
  4. NCRA Branch Office: 230 Lumley Road, Freetown (By the Roundabout).
  5. NCRA Office: Waterloo along the Freetown Highway (opposite the Police Station).
  6. NCRA Offices: Regional Headquarter Towns of Bo, Kenema, Makeni, and Port Loko.

The NCRA has introduced specialized corporate services designed for organizations and institutions. For detailed information on these services, interested parties can contact the following numbers: +232-33-433-333, +232-30-500-000, +232-60-000, +232-78-221-812, or via email at idverification@ncra.gov.

The adoption of Biometric Identity Cards in Sierra Leone marks a significant step towards building a secure, efficient, and inclusive society. Citizens and non-citizens alike should recognize the importance of obtaining these cards as a civic duty that contributes to the overall well-being of the nation. The benefits, ranging from enhanced security and streamlined services to economic growth and inclusive governance, underscore the pivotal role Biometric Identity Cards play in shaping Sierra Leone’s future. By embracing this technology, Sierra Leoneans have paved the way for a more connected, transparent, and prosperous nation.

NP-SL’s Access & Energy Pass Card is Gradually Gaining Momentum

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

NP Sierra Leone Limited (NP-SL) has launched a transformative initiative with the introduction of the Access And Energy Pass Card, designed to revolutionize the fueling experience and promote a cashless economy across the nation. This cutting-edge device aims to enhance energy management systems’ access and efficiency while ensuring a smooth flow of petroleum products.

The Access And Energy Pass Card is engineered to drive a cashless solution, protect cash sales amidst security breaches, provide real-time fuel balances, and ensure nationwide fuel availability with potential 24-hour service. The system prioritizes user flexibility and self-service capabilities, reflecting NP-SL’s commitment to modernizing the fuel industry.

The card features a user-friendly interface and robust security measures, including both online and offline functionality. It safeguards customer information with high-security protocols and sends instant SMS notifications for each transaction, ensuring transparency and accountability. Customers can recharge their cards at designated stations or the Head Office and reverse transactions if needed. Enhanced security includes One-Time Passwords (OTPs) for password changes, further protecting users from unauthorized access.

The Access And Energy Pass Card integrates seamlessly with customers’ mobile numbers, providing real-time transaction updates and empowering users with greater control over their fueling experience. For station owners, the card streamlines financial operations by directly crediting bank accounts for transactions processed through the card.

NP-SL’s initiative, aptly named “FUBU” (For Us, By Us), underscores the company’s dedication to a cashless future and addresses challenges identified through stakeholder feedback. Leon Aboko Cole, NP Sales Supervisor, highlighted the card’s role in fostering a cashless economy and enhancing security.

The Access And Energy Pass Card promises to usher in a new era of self-service convenience, allowing customers to fuel their vehicles independently without the need for pump attendants. Its user-friendly interface mimics an ATM screen, providing familiarity and ease of use, and its ability to function both online and offline ensures uninterrupted service.

The card’s flexible operation modes accommodate various conditions, including manual and online operations. Additionally, the card is linked to the customer’s phone number for real-time updates and includes a reversal feature to correct any errors in fund deposits.

NP-SL is piloting the Access And Energy Pass Card at several filling stations, including 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, and NP Mambo.

With its comprehensive features and commitment to customer satisfaction, NP-SL is set to lead a paradigm shift in the fuel industry, promising increased efficiency, transparency, and unparalleled convenience.

OFP Hosts Focus Group Discussion to Address Challenges for Students with Disabilities in Higher Education

By Foday Moriba Conteh

As part of their efforts towards empowering students with disabilities by advocating for their rights and fostering awareness and to identify and address the challenges faced by these students in universities and colleges in the country, One Family People with support from the Liliane Fonds, has Thursday 1st August, 204 concluded focus group discussion among students with disabilities from the University of Sierra Leone.

The focus group discussion, which brought together students with disabilities ,from the University of Sierra Leone, Fourah Bay College (FBC), Institute of Public Administration and Management (IPAM), and the College of Medicine and Allied Health Services (COMAHS) highlighted the significant challenges these students face in accessing higher education, particularly regarding physical accessibility, academic accommodations and social inclusion.

In his presentation, Samuel P.O.V Macauley, Programs Manager at OneFamilyPeople, emphasized the purpose of the focus group, noting that students with disabilities encounter unique challenges that significantly affect their quality of life and participation in society, highlighting the goal of sensitizing tertiary education stakeholders to the potentials, talents and challenges these students face while mapping out effective strategies to address these issues.

The objectives of the discussion, as outlined by Samuel P.O.V Macauley, were to empower students with disabilities by advocating for their rights and fostering awareness and to identify and address the challenges faced by these students in universities and colleges, thereby promoting positive change.

Samuel P.O.V Macauley then encouraged participants to share ideas and suggestions on how higher education institutions can better support students with disabilities to ensure their rights are upheld and their needs are met. This included improving support services, policies and practices within universities and colleges.

The discussion also explored the dynamics of partnership and communication among students, faculty and administration. Samuel P.O.V Macauley emphasized the importance of teamwork in fostering an inclusive educational environment and sought insights on how this collaboration could be strengthened.

Lastly, insights were gathered on practical strategies for raising awareness and creating a culture of inclusion within higher education institutions. Samuel P.O.V Macauley focused on empowering students with disabilities to participate in advocacy efforts, aiming to implement effective advocacy and awareness campaigns to promote disability rights.

Key questions guided the focus group discussion. Firstly, participants were asked about the primary challenges they have faced in accessing higher education, particularly regarding physical accessibility, academic accommodations and social inclusion. This question aimed to elicit specific examples and experiences highlighting the unique barriers encountered by students with disabilities in educational settings.

James Abraham, Senior Admin Assistant for Students with Special Needs at Fourah Bay College commended OneFamilyPeople for organizing a focus group discussion aimed at highlighting the significant challenges faced by students with disabilities at the University of Sierra Leone. The discussion focused on issues such as physical accessibility, academic accommodations and social inclusion.

Abraham pointed out that students with special needs face numerous challenges, including infrastructural and technological accessibility, as well as extra charges. He acknowledged the efforts made by the college administration to address some of these issues but emphasized that much more needs to be done.

He urged other institutions to follow OneFamilyPeople’s example by engaging in direct conversations with students with special needs to gain firsthand insights into their challenges.

James Abraham concluded by calling on all stakeholders to continue the conversation and work towards meaningful change in higher education for students with disabilities.

Gibrilla Kargbo, President of Students with Special Needs at Fourah Bay College, also praised OneFamilyPeople for the focus group discussion, describing it as not only important but also very timely.

He reiterated the challenges faced by students with special needs, particularly in terms of accessibility and the burden of extra charges imposed by the university. These additional costs, he noted, have prevented many students with special needs from completing their registration for the past three years.

Gibrilla Kargbo called on the administration of the University of Sierra Leone to address these challenges, especially the issue of extra charges. He emphasized the need for a more inclusive and supportive environment for students with disabilities, urging the University to take concrete steps to ensure their needs are met.

With Management to Fulfill $20 Million Investment Promise…   ZoodLabs Under Fire for Frequent Internet Disruptions in Sierra Leone

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Concerns are escalating over the frequent internet connectivity issues plaguing Sierra Leone since technology and smart utility infrastructure company, ZoodLabs, assumed control of the International Gateway. The recent disruptions have prompted calls for an urgent investigation into the company’s management and service reliability.

On Sunday, August 4, 2024, ZoodLabs experienced a significant outage that lasted nearly four hours, severely impacting data services, international voice calls, roaming and other operational services. According to a network incident notice, the issue originated from ZoodLabs’ end and was eventually resolved, but not before causing widespread inconvenience.

Incident Summary:

– Date: August 4, 2024

– Duration: Approximately 4 hours

– Impact: Data services, international voice calls, international roaming, and operational services

– Status: Resolved

– Start Time: 06:52 AM

– End Time: 10:10 AM

In a press announcement from the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA) on August 4, 2024, it was stated, “At about 7:45 a.m. today, the nation experienced internet fluctuations caused by an Africa Coast to Europe (ACE) Cable shunt fault. These fluctuations have now been restored nationwide.” Henry Benson, CEO of the Cable Consortium of Liberia (CCL), added that ACE and CCL technicians are still conducting tests to stabilize and fully restore connectivity, emphasizing that the temporary fluctuation was through no fault of service providers and apologizing for any inconvenience caused.

Although the problem on Sunday morning affected not only Sierra Leone but also Liberia, ZoodLabs failed to communicate this to the public, unlike their Liberian counterparts.

In response to the significant internet outage caused by the subsea cable disruption on August 4, 2024, the National Communications Authority (NatCA) convened an emergency meeting on Monday, August 5, 2024. The meeting involved key stakeholders including the ACE Consortium member Zoodlabs, Leonecom—the terrestrial fibre provider, major Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), and Internet Service Providers (ISPs).

The primary focus of the meeting was to establish a robust short-term redundancy plan to restore connectivity. Discussions also focused on addressing the immediate and future options for internet connectivity through alternative routes, such as the Terrestrial Fibre Backbone with Guinea, the 2 Africa cable, the Amilcar Cabral cable and the Transco cable on the CLSG transmission line. The aim was to ensure continuity and enhance the resilience of internet services in the region.

ZoodLabs, known for its high-speed internet services through a wireless broadband network in Freetown, had previously committed to providing efficient internet connectivity in Sierra Leone. This commitment was highlighted during the launch of the Agenda for the Earth System Modifying Framework (ESMF), an open-source software initiative for climate numerical weather prediction.

The company has been integral to Sierra Leone’s technological development since Parliament ratified an agreement on April 28, 2022, between the Ministry of Information and Communications and ZoodLabs (SL) Ltd. This agreement entrusted ZoodLabs with the management of the Cable Landing Station, a critical infrastructure component for the nation’s connectivity.

However, the repeated internet disruptions since ZoodLabs’ takeover have raised serious concerns about their capacity to manage such essential services. Stakeholders and citizens alike are now demanding a thorough investigation to determine the root causes of these disruptions and to ensure that future connectivity is stable and reliable.

Sources close to Zoodlabs have revealed concerning details about the company’s actions since taking over from SALCAB in December 2020. Zoodlabs had pledged to invest $20 million to replace outdated equipment at the landing station. However, these promises remain unfulfilled.

Contrary to their commitments to the Government through the Ministry of Information and Communication (MIC), Zoodlabs has not invested the promised amount. Instead, it has come to light that the company relied solely on bank loans and payments from Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to sustain their operations. Despite inheriting Le6 billion from SALCAB as seed money, Zoodlabs exhausted these funds within a month.

Reports indicate that the Founder and CEO, of Zoodlabs, Davar Fazaeli, along with his associate David Tamba Kpakima, leveraged their Government connections to take over the business from SALCAB. Allegedly, both individuals have since acquired luxury vehicles, including a $150,000 customized G-Wagon Mercedes-Benz, financed with Government money.

The unfulfilled investment promises and alleged misuse of funds have raised significant concerns. Zoodlabs had agreed to replace all obsolete equipment inherited from SALCAB when the landing station assets were leased to them for fifteen years. Although they pay $450,000 annually to the Government as lease, this amount is reportedly much less than their monthly revenue.

The decision to unbundle SALCAB has faced criticism, with the Ministry of Finance expressing opposition in a letter from then Financial Secretary, Sahr Jusu. As scrutiny intensifies, there is growing demand for Zoodlabs to honor its original promise and invest the $20 million to upgrade the landing station’s outdated equipment. Fulfilling this commitment is the least they can do for Sierra Leone.

As the situation develops, the need for transparency and accountability from ZoodLabs is paramount. The investigation will aim to provide insights and solutions to prevent further disruptions, safeguarding Sierra Leone’s digital infrastructure and its users’ trust.

President Bio, Where is Our National Diagnostic and Radiotherapy Cancer Treatment Centre?

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a solemn keynote address commemorating World Cancer Day 2019, His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio pledged to the people of Sierra Leone the establishment of a Radiotherapy Cancer Treatment Centre and a National Diagnostic Centre. This commitment was further solidified in December 2020 when the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) of Sierra Leone made a significant stride towards recovering stolen public funds. The ACC presented a cheque of Le 7,578,449.077 to President Bio, who announced that these funds would be allocated to the construction of the promised medical facilities.

However, years have passed since this promise was made and despite the initial anticipation, there has been no visible progress towards the construction of the National Diagnostic Centre and the Radiotherapy Cancer Treatment Centre. This delay has led to growing concerns among citizens, who are now asking: “President Bio, where is our National Diagnostic Centre and the Radiotherapy Cancer Treatment Centre?”

On Thursday, August 17, 2023, the Minister of Health, Dr. Austin Demby, in an exclusive interview, reaffirmed President Bio’s commitment to fulfilling this promise. He assured that the cheque of Le 7,578,449.077 remains intact and dedicated to the project. However, Dr. Demby explained that the delay in construction is due to the complexities involved in selecting the appropriate equipment for the new centre.

Traditionally, a radioactive mineral (Cobalt-60) is used in such facilities. For Sierra Leone to proceed with constructing the Diagnostic and Treatment Centre, consultations with the International Energy Agency (IEA) were necessary to determine the best equipment. The IEA initially recommended the Cobalt-60 product, but newer technologies, such as the Linear Accelerator Machine, have since become available. The back-and-forth discussions with the IEA have contributed to the delays, as the Government sought to ensure the most suitable and advanced technology is procured.

Dr. Austin Demby revealed that the Government has now agreed with the IEA to include both the Cobalt-60 and the Linear Accelerator Machine. In December 2022, the Government met with Varian Medical Systems, leading to the signing of a 10-year Memorandum of Understanding. This agreement covers screening, diagnosis, advanced treatment and the training of local staff.

“We are now working to activate this engagement with Varian Medical Systems to help us with the right specifications,” Dr. Demby stated. He apologized for the delay, emphasizing the importance of bringing in equipment that meets the country’s requirements and ensures the longevity of the Centre. Dr. Demby reassured the nation that the funds are secure and reiterated the Government’s commitment to constructing the Diagnostic Centre and the Radiotherapy Cancer Treatment Centre.

Despite these assurances, nearly a year has passed since Dr. Demby’s interview, and citizens have yet to see tangible progress. As the nation continues to wait for the fulfillment of President Bio’s promise, the need for accessible and modern healthcare facilities remains urgent. Citizens are calling on the Government to prioritize the establishment of these crucial medical centres, essential for the well-being of the population.

The question on everyone’s mind is clear: “President Bio, where is our National Diagnostic Centre and the Radiotherapy Cancer Treatment Centre?” The people of Sierra Leone are hopeful that the Government will take swift and decisive action to honor this commitment, ensuring that the promised healthcare facilities become a reality.

This medium will continue to follow the issue keenly.

 

VP Juldeh Jalloh Champions Police Reform in Bo

By Amin Kef Sesay

During an official visit to Bo, Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh engaged with Regional Police Commanders in the Southern Region this past weekend. The meeting included all seven regional commanders, the AIG and his support team.

Vice President Jalloh outlined the Government’s initiatives to support the Sierra Leone Police. He emphasized efforts to improve service conditions, enhance operational capacity and implement an ultra-modern radio communication system. He also reiterated the Government’s commitment to procuring additional vehicles and motorcycles for the Police Force.

A central focus of Dr. Juldeh Jalloh’s address was the ongoing police reform aimed at transforming the Sierra Leone Police into a more professional service. The reform seeks to improve recruitment, training, promotions and overall conditions of service.

Expressing gratitude for the officers’ dedication, the Vice President encouraged them to continue their exemplary service. The senior police officers thanked the Vice President for his leadership and described the meeting as a significant milestone for the Sierra Leone Police. They also urged continued advocacy for better service conditions across all ranks.

1...328329330...1,358Page 329 of 1,358