Call for Urgent Investigation into ZoodLabs’ Internet Disruptions in Sierra Leone

August 4, 2024

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

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.

Parliament Probes Hotel and Guest House Compliance

August 2, 2024

By Esther Wright

The Parliamentary Committee on Tourism and Cultural Affairs, chaired by Hon. Mohamed Sheriff Rahman-Coker, on 31 July 2024 conducted a comprehensive investigation into the compliance of hotels and guest houses. The session took place in the Conference Room of the New Building at Parliament on Tower Hill, Freetown.

Committee members scrutinized various aspects of the establishments, including their registration with the National Tourist Board, adherence to minimum wage laws, recent audit reports, waste management practices, corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts, community relations, staff contributions to the National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT), possession of Environmental Impact Assessment licenses, staff welfare, Pay As You Earn (PAYE) compliance and working permits.

Compliance Findings:

– The View Hotel at Freetown City Council was compliant with all requirements except for the Environmental Impact Assessment license.

– Mozak Resorts was praised for its CSR activities in the York community, employing many local residents. However, they cited heavy government taxation as a significant challenge.

– Sellieu Babatel Hotel is currently non-operational due to ongoing renovations but is expected to resume operations next month.

– Medrie International Hotel at Lumely Beach was found lacking in several compliance documents and CSR initiatives.

– Malador Real Estate has not yet commenced operations but has completed its registration as it plans to enter the real estate market.

– Sweet Mother Guest House failed to present NASSIT contributions, PAYE records or a staff list for 2024.

– Franco Diving Center in Sussex has been operational since 1994 and is noted for its waste management and community support, despite facing challenges with electricity, water supply,and road conditions.

– The Place Guest lacked proper documentation and registration, with the Committee noting its illegal operations.

– Dupsal Resorts did not provide essential documents and was scheduled for further scrutiny.

Sky Inn Motel was unable to produce some required documents, prompting the Committee to summon the Manager or Proprietor to appear personally on Monday, instead of sending junior staff.

The Committee expressed concern over the trend of Proprietors or Senior Management sending junior staff to represent them during such important proceedings. Witnesses highlighted key challenges impacting their businesses, including issues with electricity, waste management, heavy taxation, inadequate water suppl, and poor road networks.

The Committee continues its efforts to ensure compliance and address the challenges faced by the hospitality industry in Freetown.

Foreign Minister Elaborates on Sierra Leone’s Upcoming UN Security Council Presidency

August 2, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Ministry of Information and Civic Education convened a special Press Conference at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation on Tower Hill in Freetown on August 1, 2024 chaired by Minister Chernor Bah.

In attendance were Radio Station Managers and Newspaper Editors and featured key speakers, including Minister of Foreign Affairs, Alhaji Timothy Musa Kabba, Deputy Minister Francess Alghali, and Deputy Director General of Policy, Allan Logan. The primary focus was Sierra Leone’s recent assumption of the Presidency of the United Nations Security Council.

In his introductory remarks, the Foreign Affairs Minister, Timothy Kabba, highlighted the significance of this milestone in Sierra Leone’s history. He noted that after a 35-year hiatus, Sierra Leone returned to the Security Council on January 1, 2024 and will remain a member until the end of 2025. He pointed out that as of August 1, 2024, the country assumed the presidency of the Security Council, the premier international body responsible for maintaining global peace and security.

Timothy Kabba emphasized that, despite the country’s modest economic and geographical size, Sierra Leone is now poised to lead the Security Council’s efforts for the next 30 days. “This week, we will focus on our plans for the Security Council and our accomplishments over the past seven months,” he stated. He outlined the global crises Sierra Leone has navigated since January, including the Israel-Palestine conflict, the ongoing violence in Gaza, the Russia-Ukraine war, the humanitarian disaster in Sudan and the political upheavals in West Africa.

Asserting Sierra Leone’s commitment to principled decision-making, Timothy Kabba underscored the nation’s reputation as a peacemaker dedicated to fairness and justice. He introduced his Deputy Minister, who elaborated on the agenda item concerning women in conflict and the Deputy Director General, who addressed multilateral issues.

Deputy Minister, Francess Alghali, revealed that the Security Council’s focus will include Women, Peace and Security, structured around four pillars: women’s participation in conflict resolution, protection of women, prevention of violence and recovery and relief for women in conflict zones. She announced a session scheduled for August 7, 2024, to discuss these themes and emphasized the vital role of Civil Society Organizations in advancing women’s leadership. Special attention will be given to West Africa and other regions with reduced peacekeeping operations, aiming to garner support and secure protections for women in conflict.

Deputy Director General of Policy, Alan Logan, highlighted the push for Africa’s representation in the Security Council. He described it as historical justice for Africa, which has long been excluded from permanent membership. He detailed the demand for two permanent seats and three additional non-permanent seats for Africa, with a crucial deliberation set for August 12, 2024. Logan expressed hopes for unanimous support from the C-10, a coalition of African leaders advocating for Security Council reform saying Sierra Leone has invited C-10 members to participate in the advocacy.

The Press Conference culminated in a dynamic question-and-answer session, where senior journalists posed critical questions, and the Ministry officials provided comprehensive responses.

One significant question addressed the issue of Yenga, a longstanding territorial dispute. The Foreign Affairs Minister, Timothy Kabba revealed that President Bio and other stakeholders are engaged in ongoing diplomatic discussions with Guinea to find a lasting solution. He emphasized that President Bio is committed to resolving the Yenga issue, asserting that Yenga is indisputably Sierra Leonean territory and demobilization must occur.

Another question focused on the Security Council’s role in maintaining world peace and security. The Minister highlighted Sierra Leone’s historical contributions, including its pivotal role in China’s admission to the Security Council in 1972, which has fostered strong bilateral relations benefiting Sierra Leone through various infrastructure projects.

Regarding terrorism, he noted the increased threats in the Sahel region following the withdrawal of American bases, highlighting the perilous times faced by countries like Burkina Faso. He also mentioned that Sierra Leone will not open an embassy in Jerusalem but will continue to support efforts for de-escalation between Israel and Palestine, with the embassy to be located in Tel Aviv.

The Minister concluded by noting that Sierra Leone’s foreign policy stances have earned it global respect, with many countries seeking to establish embassies in Freetown.

President Bio to Lead Crucial Debate on UN Security Council Reform

August 2, 2024

By Amin Kef Sesay

President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone is poised to spearhead a significant debate on reforming the United Nations Security Council. This discussion is a cornerstone of Sierra Leone’s agenda during its leadership of the Council, marking a notable moment in the country’s diplomatic history.

The debate, chaired by President Bio, is scheduled for August 12, 2024, in New York. Sierra Leone’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Timothy Musa Kabba, highlighted the importance of this event: “For the first time in 53 years, we are back in the Security Council. Today, we are assuming the Presidency of the Council. We will guide the work of the Security Council for the next 30 days, marking a very important milestone.”

Information Minister Chernor Bah expressed pride in this achievement, commending President Bio for his visionary leadership. “Today, we should all be proud as Sierra Leoneans for what we have achieved. We should also take time to thank President Bio for leading us to the global stage,” the Minister stated during a special Press Conference on August 1, 2024, to commemorate the event.

Sierra Leone’s presidency of the Security Council throughout August provides a platform to advocate for key issues, including the campaign for two permanent seats for Africa on the Council. Alan Logan, Deputy Director of Policy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasized that reforming the Council has been a major pillar of Sierra Leone’s campaign. “Sierra Leone is leading the Security Council reform on behalf of Africa. We are asking for two permanent seats and three non-permanent seats on the Council, making it five in total for Africa,” Allan Logan said. He added, “We are undertaking this advocacy considering the historical injustice that the continent has faced.”

As a prominent leader in the C-10, a coalition of African leaders advocating for Security Council reform, Sierra Leone plans to bring this crucial debate to the forefront and invite C-10 members to participate. Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Francess Alghali, revealed that Sierra Leone would also lead major advocacy efforts on issues related to peace, women and security. “We have a unique experience due to the rebel war. We know the role women played in achieving our peace, so we will focus on this, with special attention to young people,” Francess Alghali said, adding, “We will ask countries to bring forward recommendations on how they can support the women, peace and security agenda.”

A special session on women, peace and security is set for August 7, preceding the critical debate on Security Council reform. This month-long presidency represents a significant opportunity for Sierra Leone to champion pivotal global issues and advocate for the continent’s representation on the international stage.

AdvocAid Facilitates “Microcredit Dialogue”

August 2, 2024

By Ibrahim Mansaray

On Thursday July 18 2024, AdvocAid Sierra Leone facilitated what they referred to as a “ microcredit dialogue”. The roundtable engagement is part of the organisation’s Petty Offences Project which is jointly implemented with the Centre for Accountability and Rule of Law (CARL). The project, which is coming to its end, pushes for the decriminalisation and declassification of petty offences in Sierra Leone, which include loitering, traffic offences and fraudulent conversion. According to AdvocAid, they learnt through research that petty offences have been one of the major causes of incarceration and overcrowding of correctional facilities around the world and in Sierra Leone.

Women in particular have been caught in the web of fraudulent conversion in Sierra Leone when they default in the repayment of loans from microfinance institutions. As a result, AdvocAid created a platform for an all-inclusive conversation which was graced by women who have been locked away for petty offences, the Sierra Leone Police, Ministries of Gender and Trade, and microfinance institutions.

For many female petty traders in Sierra Leone looking to expand, obtaining loans is a way to go. However, the women say there are a lot of challenges associated with securing loans. “When we opt for loans, we don’t only have to deal with the high interest rates, staff of the institutions providing these loans request bribes and small favours before and after the loan is secured,” says Mariama B. Jalloh, a market woman. The 40-year-old adds that these are some of the causes of the difficulty in repaying the loans. As meagre as the sum may be, people still demand a deduction from it for doing the job they are paid to do, according to the market women.

The problem doesn’t end there. “When time is due for the repayment, we face multiple issues again including abuses and other unethical displays by the debt collectors,” adds another market woman. The women say when there is a delay in the loan settlement the institutions hastily resort to Police involvement. And in the absence of sureties and guarantors, the case is charged to court and they are sent behind bars.

The incarceration can only come to an end when there is a payment plan in place. Thanks to the intervention of organisations like AdvocAid, Don Bosco Fambul Dem and others who intervene on behalf of these women to secure their release and chart a way forward for their creditors to be settled.

The microfinance institutions refute the bribery allegations. Most of them say they have a zero-tolerance policy for bribery or asking for small favours from loan seekers. They argue that the problem of being unable to repay the loan on time as agreed, entirely rests on the women and how they manage the money given to them. “Most of the women misuse the loans, either spending on purposes different from that which the loan was granted for or entrusting the money with people who end up misusing it,”says Badamasie Cole from Oya Micro-Credit Company, an institution providing “working capital” loans.

“Most of these women also don’t know how to manage loans, so it’s important they are capacitated,” says Baimba Tejan Fofanah from A Call To Business (ACTB), a savings and loans company.

“Market women also take multiple loans and there are others who, in addition to not having an existing business, do not have a plan to set up one,” says Jimmilia Johnson from Aziza Financial and Commercial Enterprise. Jimmilia adds that they have had instances where women who do not have businesses connive with real business owners to obtain loans. The institutions say these are some of the reasons for the involvement of the Police.

The Sierra Leone Police say that when the elements of an offence are involved, the law is applied. “But we hardly detain people for such issues these days,” says ASP Dahlia Wellington, Deputy Head of the Legal and Justice Department of the Sierra Leone Police.

To reduce the issue of women borrowing from microfinance institutions, the Ministry of Trade says there are funding opportunities for those who own registered businesses. “There are even opportunities to showcase Sierra Leonean businesses in international trade fairs. However, branding is important,” says Jim B. Kosseh from the Ministry of Trade and Industry. Market women, however, say that they are unaware of these opportunities.

Assistant Director of Gender and Children’s Affairs at the Ministry of Gender, Hannah A. Lahai-Robinson calls for the popularisation of opportunities for women and the lowering of the collateral requirements for loans. She adds that women should also be provided with training on entrepreneurship.

AdvocAid was instrumental in the Passing of the Criminal Procedure Act 2024.With the recent success, the organisation says it will continue lobbying for legislative reforms for the freedom and empowerment of women in particular.

Sierra Leone Institute of Architects Inducts Four New Qualified Architects

August 2, 2024

By Esther Wright

Four newly qualified Architects were on Thursday 25^th July 2024 formally inducted into the Sierra Leone Institute of Architects after scaling through the mandatory Professional Practice Examination which was introduced last year as the new route for full membership by young Architects. The newly registered Architects were Arc Michael Adebiyi-Bamigbala, Arc Yusufu Kamara, Arc Aaron Onomake and Arc Oladapo Olayanju. Other existing members whose certificates of membership were recently issued were: Arc Antony Moiba, Arc Aiah E. Pessima, Arc Joe L. Aruna, Arc Cyril Grant, Arc Ben Okagbue and Arc Joseph Conteh respectively.

Acceptance into the full (corporate) membership category became aligned with the registration route used by the Commonwealth Association of Architects of which Sierra Leone became a member in 2023 after decades of non-participation.

The new registration route requires two (2) years of mentored professional work under the supervision of a registered Architect as stipulated in the Constitution and Bye Laws of the SLIA. This will be followed by the approval or otherwise, of a properly filled out Technical Logbook that fully captures the stated 2-years of professional monitoring.

Next is the 6-month of preparation for the Professional Practice Examinations (PPE) covering topics on :-

Sierra Leone Physical Planning Regulations
The Architects Act of 1986
Construction Project Management
The Sierra Leone Institute of Architects Constitution and Byelaws
Contract for Consulting Services, Conditions of Engagement and Scale of Professional Fees for Architects and allied professionals
Code of Professional Conduct and Ethics of the SLIA
The Building Permit Issuance Process
Composition of Contract Document
The JCT Conditions of Contract
Fire Protection and Means of Escape in Buildings
Types of Construction Contracts
Construction Site Management
Architectural Firm Management

Passing this 3 hour written examination will lead to a 30 minutes interview (focusing on the aforementioned topics) by a panel of three (3) registered architects, each of over 15 years of Practice experience. Success in the interview amongst the past tests, culminates in corporate (full) membership.

These new members have come onboard at a time when the built environment of Sierra Leone is in dire need of the heightened attention of the relevant authorities, for a wholesome regulation and a development control process that will result in better planned towns in Sierra Leone.

It is also high time, that the National Building Code that was painstakingly articulated by the SLIA in 2021 was passed into law. Operating a physical planning process with the now antiquated, Freetown Improvement Act of 1960 will continue to support the haphazard development of our cities with little or no proper physical planning and lacking in environmentally conscious, zoning plans if any at all.

Ministers Kenyeh Barlay and Princess Dugba Unite to Launch Rural Resilience Project

August 2, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

At a vibrant ceremony at the Bintumani Hotel in Freetown, the Minister of Planning and Economic Development, Madam Kenyeh Barlay, alongside the Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources, Madam Princess Dugba, on July 30, 2024 officially launched the “Enhanced Resilience of Rural Communities through Women-led Conservation, Financial Inclusion and Livelihood Diversification Project.” This initiative, spearheaded by GOAL-SL and funded by Jersey Overseas Aid, aims to fortify Sierra Leone’s Blue Economy, focusing on the Western Area Rural and Kambia Districts.

The project’s core mission is to combat climate change effects on food security and biodiversity, boost community resilience and enhance nutrition and economic livelihoods. Minister Kenyeh Barlay highlighted the project’s alignment with the nation’s Medium-Term National Development Plan 2024-2030 and the Blue Economy Strategy, stressing its vital role in operationalizing these frameworks.

“The launch and implementation of this project are crucial steps in bringing our Medium-Term National Development Plan and the Blue Economy Strategy to life,” she stated. “We extend our profound gratitude to GOAL Sierra Leone for their efforts in supporting Government initiatives.”

Minister Kenyeh Barlay further emphasized the project’s alignment with sustainable development goals, particularly in promoting food security, economic diversification and sustainable coastal and marine environments. “This project underscores our collective commitment to inclusive, sustainable development,” she added.

Kjartan Atli Oskarsson, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Iceland in Sierra Leone, lauded the initiative, noting, “The Blue Economy is vital to us as an island nation. Our collaboration with Sierra Leone, which began in 2018, has always centered on sustainable development in coastal communities. We eagerly anticipate the impactful progress of this project.”

Foday Suma, Paramount Chief of Samu Chiefdom, expressed his support for the project, noting Kambia’s reputation for rice production and commitment to mangrove conservation. “We are ready to support and ensure the sustainability of this project,” he affirmed.

In her keynote address, Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources, Madam Princess Dugba expressed her honor in launching the initiative, funded by a £1,500,000 grant from Jersey Overseas Aid. “This project will enhance the productivity and conservation practices of small-scale fisheries in Western Rural and Kambia Districts,” she said, emphasizing its goal to improve food security, nutrition and economic resilience.

She also highlighted an ongoing GOAL Sierra Leone project, worth approximately US$676,000 and running until 2026, focused on diversifying livelihoods and building capacity in fish processing and community management. “Supporting communities to cope with climate disasters and providing fishermen with safety tools to minimize illegal fishing practices are crucial aspects of this project,” she noted.

Concluding her speech, the Minister called on all stakeholders to support the initiative and prioritize the health of beneficiaries, especially fishermen. “Our Ministry is committed to fostering sustainable fisheries within a diversified Blue Economy to ensure food and nutrition security for our people,” she declared.

The event culminated with the signing of the Service Level Agreement for the new project by Minister Princess Dugba, witnessed by Minister Kenyeh Barlay, marking a significant milestone in Sierra Leone’s journey toward sustainable development.

IGP Fayia Sellu’s Transformative Two Years: A New Era for Sierra Leone Policing

August 2, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In an impressive display of leadership and dedication, Inspector General of the Sierra Leone Police (SLP), William Fayia Sellu, marked his second anniversary in office on July 27, 2024. Over these two years, IGP Fayia Sellu has singlehandedly carried the immense responsibility of policing Sierra Leone, achieving significant milestones in the process.

Appointed by President Julius Maada Bio on July 27, 2022, IGP Fayia Sellu took over from Ambrose Sovula and quickly set about addressing key challenges within the Sierra Leone Police. Despite the absence of a Deputy Inspector General (DIG) for a considerable period, IGP Fayia Sellu has demonstrated unwavering commitment and resilience in leading the force.

His tenure has seen substantial improvements in the welfare of police personnel. He addressed the backlog of rice supply and ensured continuous and timely distribution of quality rice to all serving members. Furthermore, he transformed the Police Hospital into a teaching hospital complex with decentralized services at regional levels, enhancing healthcare access for officers and their families.

Under IGP Fayia Sellu’s leadership, the SLP has prioritized capacity building through numerous training programs. With support from international partners, the Force has conducted training on electoral security management, the Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS) and International Humanitarian Law, among others. Additionally, IGP Fayia Sellu has spearheaded the digital transformation of the SLP, introducing intercom systems at Police Headquarters and installing GPS in operational vehicles to improve efficiency and community access to police services.

IGP Fayia Sellu has made significant strides in gender empowerment, becoming the first IG to allocate a 100% quota to female personnel in the Formed Police Unit (FPU-5). He has also facilitated the deployment of female officers to international peace missions, including the African Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS).

The creation of new police divisions and the establishment of Filling Stations at regional headquarters have improved the operational efficiency of the SLP. With support from the Government, over 80 vehicles and five marine patrol boats have been procured, enhancing the force’s response capabilities.

He has successfully built strong collaborations with Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to combat fraudulent activities and improve investigative processes. His tenure has also been marked by a commitment to instilling discipline within the force, with stringent measures against misconduct and a focus on regaining public trust.

IGP Fayia Sellu’s accomplishments have earned him recognition and respect both within the SLP and among the public. The recent appointment of Aiah Edward Samadia as the new DIG is expected to further strengthen the leadership team. As he continues to lead the SLP, his focus remains on upholding the core values of the organization and contributing to the peace and security of Sierra Leone.

In his two years in office, IGP Fayia Sellu has demonstrated exceptional leadership, transforming the Sierra Leone Police into a more efficient, disciplined and digitally advanced force, ready to tackle the evolving challenges of law enforcement in the country.

SLAJ Joins Calls for Release of Auditor-General Investigation Report

August 2, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a significant move to uphold transparency and accountability, a coalition of local and international organizations has on July 30, 2024 formally requested the release of the detailed final report from the tribunal that investigated the suspended Auditor-General and Deputy Auditor-General of Sierra Leone, Lara Taylor-Pearce and Tamba Momoh. The request was made under Sierra Leone’s Right to Access Information Law and directed to the Secretary to the President, as well as the Attorney General and Minister of Justice.

The coalition, which includes organizations such as Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), Christian Aid Sierra Leone (CASL), Campaign for Good Governance (CGG), Network Movement for Justice and Development (NMJD), Western Area Budget Education Advocacy Network (WABEAN), ActionAid Sierra Leone (AASL), Talking Drum Studio (TDS) and Transparency International Sierra Leone (TISL), emphasizes that access to this report is vital for promoting public trust in Government and judicial systems.

“The right of the public to information is a foundational principle of democracy and we are committed to maintaining its protection,” stated the coalition in their Press Release. They urged the Office of the President and the Attorney General and Minister of Justice to respond promptly and thoroughly, in line with Section 2 of the Right to Access Information Act of 2013.

Other notable signatories include the 50/50 Group Sierra Leone, advocating for women’s equal rights and political participation and the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), the umbrella body for media in Sierra Leone dedicated to free speech and press freedom.

Citizens’ Barray, known for promoting civic empowerment and social justice and the Elections Women’s Peace Monitoring Group-Sierra Leone (EWPM-SL), which has monitored election cycles to prevent conflicts, also joined the call for transparency.

This united demand underscores the critical need for openness and accountability in Sierra Leone’s governance, reinforcing the principle that public access to information is essential for a healthy democracy.

Try & Obtain Yours Now as …. NCRA Rolls Out Advanced Biometric ID Cards for All Residents

August 2, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) is actively issuing securitized, multi-purpose biometric identity cards across Sierra Leone. These cards, available at NCRA offices and designated centers nationwide, are part of a comprehensive initiative to provide biometric national ID cards to both citizens and non-citizens residing in Sierra Leone. This significant move aims to bolster the country’s security infrastructure and streamline access to public services.

The National ID Card serves as a legal identity document for both citizens and non-citizens residing in Sierra Leone, featuring a National Identification Number (NIN) for enhanced security. Individuals aged 12 and above can apply for their National ID Card at the nearest NCRA office.

Biometric ID Cards utilize advanced identification technology, recognizing and analyzing individuals based on physical and behavioral traits such as fingerprints, retinal and iris scans, voice recognition, facial patterns and gait. The cards feature unique, non-replicable NIN codes, ensuring each Sierra Leonean resident is distinctly identifiable.

The NCRA urges all eligible individuals to obtain their biometric ID cards to enhance personal security and facilitate access to public services. This initiative represents a critical step in the nation’s ongoing efforts to create a safer and more efficient environment for all residents.

The biometric ID cards, available to all Sierra Leoneans aged 12 and above, can be obtained by visiting the nearest NCRA office in your district. These advanced identification cards incorporate a variety of biometric features, including fingerprints and face scans, to ensure the uniqueness and security of each card. Each ID card comes with an embedded chip that contains facial biometric information and an 11-digit National Identification Number (NIN), acting as a unique identifier in the national population registry.

-Enhanced Security: The biometric ID cards are designed to prevent duplication and fraud, contributing to the overall security architecture of Sierra Leone. The NIN code assigned to each resident ensures that everyone registered is uniquely identified.

– Streamlined Service Access: The NIN is now a prerequisite for accessing a wide range of services, including primary education, public examinations and banking services. This measure is expected to significantly improve the efficiency and reliability of service delivery.

– Mandatory for Travel: The biometric ID card are required at all checkpoints within the country, making it essential for travelers to obtain their cards to avoid inconveniences.

The NCRA offers three types of biometric ID cards:

National Identity Cards: For Sierra Leonean citizens aged 12 and above.
ECOWAS ID Cards: Available upon request for Sierra Leonean and ECOWAS citizens.
Non-National ID Cards: Mandatory for all foreign residents in Sierra Leone, required for processing work and residence permits.

To facilitate the application process, the NCRA has established several offices and designated centers throughout the country. Applicants are encouraged to visit these locations to obtain their ID cards:

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)
Regional headquarters towns of Bo, Kenema, Makeni, and Port Loko

The NCRA also provides corporate services for organizations and institutions, making it easier for large groups to acquire their ID cards. For more information, individuals can contact the NCRA at +232-33-433-333, +232-30-500-000, +232-78-221-812 or via email at idverification@ncra.gov.

The NCRA urges all responsible citizens and residents to prioritize obtaining their biometric ID cards. This initiative is a critical step towards enhancing personal security, improving access to essential services, and supporting national development. By securing their ID cards, individuals can avoid potential inconveniences and contribute to a safer, more efficient Sierra Leone.

It aligns with the Government’s commitment to fostering a secure and accessible environment for all residents, ensuring that Sierra Leone continues to develop as a nation.