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Offering Digital Skills Training… Huawei SL, Communications Ministry & Orange Empower 3,500 Secondary School Students

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

The Ministry of Communications, Technology and Innovation (MoCTI), in collaboration with Huawei Sierra Leone and supported by Orange Sierra Leone and UNICEF, on July 23, 2024 successfully concluded the first Sierra Leone ICT Talent Development Program. This initiative has provided digital skills training to over 3,500 Senior Secondary School (SSS) students.

The program, designed to bridge the ICT skills gap through knowledge transfer, commenced earlier this year with a graduate recruitment training. Fifty University graduates were equipped with skills in Cyber Security and Digital Marketing, which they then imparted to secondary school students.

Salima Monorma Bah, Minister of Communication, Technology and Innovation, praised Huawei and the Orange Foundation for their efforts. She emphasized that the training aligns with President Julius Maada Bio’s Big Five Game Changers, particularly focusing on human capital development and youth employment. “By equipping graduates with digital skills, we address two critical pillars of His Excellency’s vision to create 500,000 job opportunities for the youth while investing in human capital development,” she said.

Sekou Amadou Bah, CEO of Orange Sierra Leone, underscored the importance of digital literacy in today’s technological landscape. “Technology plays a crucial role in today’s world and it is essential that students are equipped with the necessary skills to thrive in the digital age. By offering these free trainings, we aim to bridge the digital divide and empower students with the skills they need to succeed,” he stated.

Dash Qiu, General Manager of Huawei Sierra Leone, highlighted that the training sessions are part of Huawei’s commitment to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education) while ensuring inclusivity in the digitalization process. “We are proud to contribute to Sierra Leone’s digital transformation and look forward to seeing these young talents become the driving force of innovation in their communities,” he added.

The pilot phase of the Sierra Leone Talent Development project, also supported by the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE), concluded on July 15, 2024. This year, 3,514 students from 61 schools across eight districts—Western Urban, Western Rural, Bo, Pujehun, Kono, Kenema, Moyamba and Bonthe—benefitted from the training.

Seasoned Journalist Asmaa James Appointed Deputy Ambassador to Belgium

Asmaa James

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Renowned Sierra Leonean media personality and women’s advocate, Asmaa James, has been appointed as the Deputy Ambassador Designate to Brussels, Belgium by His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio. This significant appointment was announced on July 24, 2024.

In an exclusive interview, Asmaa James shared her reflections on her twenty-three-year journey in the media, describing it as a period of learning and growth. She expressed excitement about the new challenges and opportunities ahead, viewing this diplomatic role as an unexplored path that promises new adventures and successes.

Asmaa James has distinguished herself over two decades at Radio Democracy, earning a reputation as an independent and objective journalist. She has been a steadfast voice against injustice, providing support and hope to the marginalized and oppressed. Her work at that radio station did not only inspire many but also contributed significantly to strengthening democratic governance in Sierra Leone.

She later founded her own radio station Rise Radio 96.3FM where she has been serving as the Chief Executive Officer until her latest appointment. At her station Asmaa has been mentoring young people imbibing in them professional skills.

In addition to her journalism career, Asmaa is a dedicated advocate for women’s and girls’ rights. She founded the Asmaa James Foundation (AJF), which promotes teenage sexual reproductive health and rights. AJF’s extension, Girls+, targets young boys to foster a comprehensive approach to sexual health education. Her advocacy efforts include leading peaceful protests and initiating Black Fridays to highlight gender issues, influencing the national declaration of rape as a state emergency and the launch of the “Hands Off Our Girls” program by the First Lady.

Asmaa’s contributions have been recognized with numerous awards, including being honored as an Officer of the Order of the Rokel (OOR) by President Bio in 2022. Her legacy in broadcasting and advocacy continues to inspire many in Sierra Leone and beyond.

The public notice of her appointment also listed other key diplomatic and government positions filled by President Bio, including:

– Alhaji Brima E. Koroma as Ambassador Designate to Algiers, Algeria

– Mr. Ibrahim Turay as Ambassador Designate to Dakar, Senegal

– Ms. Fatmata Sawaneh as Deputy Ambassador Designate to Conakry, Guinea

– Ms. Princess Jah Turay as Deputy Ambassador Designate to Berlin, Germany

– Mr. Luseni Kallon as Deputy Ambassador Designate to Monrovia, Liberia

Other notable appointments include:

  • Ama Gborie Foday, Deputy Secretary General, Mano River Union
  • Andrew K. Keili, Chairman, Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority
  • Samuel J. Alpha, Chairman, Electrical Generation and Transmission Company
  • Kabineh Kallon, Chairman, National Revenue Authority
  • Edward L. Williams, Chairman, Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority
  • Patrick J. Kaikai, Chairman, Sierra Leone Airport Authority
  • Stephen I. Garnett, Chairman, National Protected Area Authority
  • John Paul Kaisam, Executive Director, Sierra Leone Standards Bureau
  • David Manley, Chief Executive Officer, Felei Tech City
  • Emmanuel Lansana, Deputy Executive Director, Sierra Leone Maritime Administration

The appointments, signed by Dr. Emmanuel A.R. Gaima, Secretary to the President, reflect the administration’s commitment to enhancing Sierra Leone’s diplomatic and governance landscape.

Don’t Wait—Obtain Your Biometric ID Card Now for Uninterrupted Access to Services

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In Sierra Leone, Biometric Identity Cards are rapidly gaining recognition as a dependable solution for resolving identity issues in crucial situations, such as confirming citizenship status or accessing essential services. These cards, which are issued to both Nationals and Non-Nationals, are equipped with unique chips containing biometric data to ensure precise identity verification.

Each Biometric ID Card is assigned a unique National Identification Number (NIN), linking individuals’ records in the National Identity Database for life. The National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) emphasizes the significance of the NIN, particularly in differentiating individuals with identical names and improving personal security.

According to the NCRA, the Biometric ID Cards play a crucial role in enhancing personal security and facilitating access to services from both government and private sectors. The NIN has become mandatory for students in public examination classes and foreign nationals seeking work and residence permits.

Mohamed M. Massaquoi, Director General of the NCRA, has highlighted the necessity of obtaining the National Identification Card and urged citizens to apply before the March 31, 2024 deadline.

In today’s Sierra Leone, the National ID Card has evolved beyond a simple identification document. It now serves as a fundamental element of legal identity, offering numerous benefits. Its importance in identity verification is particularly evident in the financial sector and various transactions.

Residents aged 12 and older can obtain their National ID Card at designated NCRA centers throughout the country. Non-citizens must also apply for the Non-National ID Card for relevant permits.

To ensure accessibility, the NCRA has established offices and centers nationwide, including at its Headquarters and regional offices in Bo, Kenema, Makeni, and Port Loko.

The specific NCRA locations 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 Headquarters in Bo, Kenema, Makeni, and Port Loko

With the deadline approaching, citizens and non-citizens alike are encouraged to act promptly to avoid a last-minute rush. Law enforcement officials stress the importance of meeting this deadline for compliance and smooth access to services.

For more information about obtaining Biometric Identity Cards, individuals can contact the NCRA at +232-33-433-333, +232-30-500-000, +232-60-000, +232-78-221-812, or via email at idverification@ncra.gov.

Sierra Leoneans are urged to prioritize obtaining their Biometric ID Cards, recognizing their importance in enhancing security and contributing to national development. The NCRA’s initiative aligns with the Government’s commitment to fostering a safer, more efficient, and accessible environment for all.

NP (SL) Sets the Standard for Innovation and Excellence

NP (SL) Ltd

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

NP (SL) Ltd has been effectively applying innovative tools that are enhancing efficient service delivery to its esteemed numerous customers with the avowed objective of availing them utmost satisfaction.

A recent addition to NP (SL) Ltd’s suite of innovations is the NP Energy Pass Card, designed for a seamless and secure fuel purchasing experience. This smart card supports both online and offline transactions, offers instant SMS notifications, and features robust security measures such as One-Time Passwords (OTPs) for password changes. As part of the “FUBU” (For Us, By Us) initiative, the NP Energy Pass Card marks a significant step towards a cashless economy, enabling customers to fuel their vehicles independently and providing real-time transaction updates. Station owners benefit from direct bank credits for card transactions.

Prior to the introduction of the NP Energy Pass Card, the company introduced and still continues to use the NP Smart Card which allows customers to conveniently purchase petroleum products by topping up their cards. This innovation is making transactions to be cashless and is working effectively, simplifying transactions for customers.
Another of its innovative offerings is the NP Gas Eco- friendly Cooker, providing a safer and cleaner cooking alternative. These affordable cookers are available at all NP (SL) Ltd outlets and through their agents.

NP (SL) Ltd has earned widespread recognition for its state-of-the-art Filling Stations, distinguished by their signature green and yellow colors. These vibrant colors, proudly worn by staff nationwide and across the sub-region, symbolize the company’s unwavering dedication to quality and service.
Celebrated for its efficiency and effectiveness, NP (SL) Ltd consistently prioritizes customer respect and satisfaction. This commitment extends to both private and public entities, positioning NP (SL) Ltd as a leader in the petroleum industry within and beyond Sierra Leone.

As a dependable provider, NP (SL) Ltd ensures a consistent supply of high-grade petrol, diesel and gas, successfully avoiding shortages and meeting consumer demands. The company’s forward-thinking approach and reliable product provision have garnered it high esteem nationally and in neighboring regions. Our investigation confirmed NP (SL) Ltd’s relentless pursuit of quality products and services.

One of NP (SL) Ltd’s top Managers emphasized the uniqueness of a purely indigenously-owned and result-oriented company with an all-Sierra Leonean staff. Tackling unemployment, NP (SL) Ltd has played a crucial role in job creation, offering satisfactory working conditions that significantly contribute to poverty reduction and economic stability for many families.
The company’s strong customer relationships have fostered mutual benefits, creating a win-win situation that endears NP (SL) Ltd to all.

NP (SL) Ltd’s success extends beyond Sierra Leone, with thriving branches in Liberia, Guinea, Ivory Coast and The Gambia. This expansion testifies to NP (SL) Ltd’s remarkable achievements and has earned the company widespread praise.
Through its Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives, NP (SL) Ltd complements Government development efforts, making significant contributions during emergencies and supporting various worthy causes.

As one of the largest taxpayers to the National Revenue Authority, NP (SL) Ltd plays a crucial role in domestic revenue generation, aiding Government development projects.
Despite occasional criticisms, NP (SL) Ltd remains steadfast in its mission to positively impact Sierra Leone’s socio-economic landscape. The company’s resilience, innovation and dedication to customer care affirm its status as a leading force in the petroleum industry.
NP (SL) Ltd continues to excel in its operations, providing utmost satisfaction to its customers and serving as a beacon of pride for Sierra Leone.

TINAP Social Movement Wraps Up Youth Conference on Environmental Stewardship and Anti-Kush Campaign

By Abdul M. Jalloh

The TINAP Social Movement, in collaboration with Transit Hills Organization (THO), Transit College, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency and Leone Rock Metal Group, has concluded a three-day Youth Engagement Conference focused on: “Environmental Stewardship and Campaign Against Kush.” The event, held from July 19th to 21st, 2024, brought together over 200 youths from across Sierra Leone.

The conference, held at Saints Matthew’s Hall in Bumbuna Town, attracted a diverse group of participants, including youths, political and traditional leaders, administrative heads, academics and other opinion leaders from Bumbuna Town and beyond. The event featured discussions on various crucial topics, such as the importance of environmental stewardship, strategies for community engagement in environmental campaigns, the role of youths in environmental advocacy, and the negative effects of illicit drugs like Kush on communities and individuals.

Notable speakers and facilitators, including  George Gbenga,  Robert Salia Kamara (Community Affairs Manager of Leone Rock),  Francis Dawoh,  Africa Tako (an expert from Rwanda), Daniel Sara Turay,  Bowenson Phillips, Bockarie Marah (THO Board Chairperson) and representatives from the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, led engaging sessions throughout the conference.

Rev. Mbassi Steve Mansaray, CEO and Founder of The Independent National PAC (TINAP), joined the conference virtually from the United States. He emphasized the urgent need for collective efforts to protect the environment and combat the rampant consumption of Kush and other harmful substances. “With or without support, youths and communities must take immediate steps to address these environmental challenges. If we don’t act now, tomorrow will be too late. Kush intake is damaging the present and future generations. Please, let’s act now,” Rev. Mansaray urged.

Evangelist Paul Carlos Samuels, TINAP’s Country Director and Admin and Communications Director, highlighted the conference’s success in bringing together over 200 youths for educative sessions, football games, certification and networking experiences. He also revealed plans for nationwide tree planting initiatives to combat climate change. “This is a Training of Trainers where we taught delegates to be Environmental Stewardship Ambassadors and Drug Abuse Activists,” he remarked.

The conference concluded with a community sensitization march at Bumbuna Town Central Park. Delegates displayed placards with messages about environmental protection and the dangers of Kush, delivering speeches in various local languages. The event ended with the distribution of certificates to participants and dignitaries.

Participants expressed their gratitude for the impactful messages received and committed to becoming ambassadors of change in their communities.

Solidaridad Concludes Second-Quarter Sierra Leone Cocoa, Coffee & Cashew Platform Meeting

By Foday Moriba Conteh

As part of their efforts towards enhancing regulatory frameworks and ensuring sustainable practices in Sierra Leone’s agricultural sector in the country, Solidaridad West Africa, in collaboration with the Produce Monitoring Board of Sierra Leone and Welt Hunger Hilfe (WHH), with funds from the European Union in Sierra Leone has no Thursday 25th July, 2014 concluded a two-day second stakeholders’ engagement meeting on Sierra Leone Cocoa, Cashew, Coffee (SLCCC) Platform. The meeting which brought together stakeholders from both the public and private sectors within the cocoa, coffee and cashew industries was held at Sierra Palms in Freetown.

Speaking to this medium, the Executive Chairman, Dr. James Vibbi, said during the two-day interactive meeting, stakeholders discussed relevant issues and policies aimed at promoting trade facilitation, inter-agency coordination and providing directives on major trade facilitation issues in these sectors.

He added that they will also use the opportunity to discuss on Agricultural Regulatory Reforms, specifically Chapter 185 (Cap 185) Native Produce Rules. This native Agricultural Act governs the inspection, storage, transportation and grading of produce for export. Additionally, the meeting will address the European Union Deforestation Regulations (EUDR).

On his part, Andrew Kojo Morrison, the Country Representative for Solidaridad in Sierra Leone, said that the gathering brought together key players within Sierra Leone’s cocoa, coffee and cashew sectors under the auspices of the Produce Monitoring Board (PMB) and the Ministry of Agriculture.

“This meeting is a crucial forum for stakeholders in the cocoa, coffee, and cashew industries to discuss pressing issues affecting these sectors,” said Andrew Kojo Morrison. He emphasized the importance of these engagements in fostering collaboration and addressing challenges within the industry.

The event was co-organized by Solidaridad, PMB and the Ministry of Agriculture. The Country Representative highlighted the role of Solidaridad, a Civil Society Organization, in the sector. “Solidaridad have been actively implementing projects in cocoa, coffee and cashew, mostly funded by the European Union,” he noted. “We collaborate closely with PMB as the regulator and the Ministry of Agriculture, the mainline Ministry, to convene these meetings.”

The meeting agenda included critical discussions on European Union regulations, specifically the European Union Deforestation Regulations (EUDR) and the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (EU CSDDD). “These regulations are vital for the sustainability of our exports,” Andrew Kojo Morrison explained. “The EUDR emphasizes the import of sustainable products into the European market and companies involved in cocoa, coffee and cashew must align with these standards.”

He stressed the importance of the new Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive, which mandates large companies to adhere to labour and environmental standards. “It is imperative for our companies to stay compliant with these regulations to ensure sustainable corporate practices within the European Union,” he added.

The two days meeting underscored the collaborative efforts of stakeholders in promoting sustainable practices and ensuring that Sierra Leone’s agricultural products meet international standards.

Mercurybet Fantasy Premier League Trophy Returns for 2024/25 Season

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Mercury International, one of the country’s largest betting platforms, has announced the launch of the Mercurybet Fantasy Premier League Trophy for the 2024/25 season. The event was held at the New Sella Spot on Jomo Kenyatta Road in Freetown.

The Mercury Fantasy Trophy, which had been temporarily halted last year for improvements, returns this season with enhanced features and more exciting prizes. Renamed and revamped, the competition promises greater rewards compared to previous years.

Prizes will be awarded to participants finishing in the top ten positions at the end of the season. The first prize is NLe 100,000, while the tenth prize is NLe 12,000. Additionally, the top two Managers each month will receive NLe 3,000 and NLe 1,500, respectively.

Martin Edward Michael, Managing Director of Mercury International, highlighted the accessibility of the competition during the event. “Participating in the Mercurybet Fantasy Premier League is entirely free. There’s no need to purchase tickets or pay any entry fees. This allows everyone to have a fair chance at winning cash prizes without any financial burden,” he stated.

The Managing Director elaborated on the enhancements made to the competition, saying, “We have listened to feedback from our users and have made significant improvements to ensure a more engaging and rewarding experience. Our goal is to create an exciting platform where football enthusiasts can showcase their managerial skills and win fantastic prizes.”

In his official declaration of the competition’s launch, he emphasized the importance of the event. “The Mercurybet Fantasy Premier League Trophy is a testament to our commitment to providing thrilling opportunities for our users. We are ready and excited to see participants join and compete.”

To participate in the Mercurybet Fantasy Premier League, players must first open an account on the Fantasy Premier League official website or application. They then need to scan the code from the Mercurybet Fantasy Premier League flyer or enter the code provided by Mercury International.

The Mercurybet Fantasy Premier League Trophy for the 2024/25 season is now officially open for registration, inviting football fans across the country to join and compete for a chance to win substantial cash prizes.

EXPRESSION OF INTEREST [EOI] FOR UPDATING WFP SUPPLIER DATABASE FOR SUPPLIERS OF FOOD AND NON-FOOD ITEMS

WFP Sierra Leone

WFP is pleased to invite expressions of interest for the provision of goods and services of various categories.

Purpose:The purpose of this request for EOI is to identify suppliers and service providers with verified technical and financial capacity that will be supplying and providing various goods and services to WFP as listed below. Eligible suppliers and service providers may be invited to participate in the bidding process for a proposed tender based on their specific categories.

Please note that UN WFP requires supporting documentation to register a vendor successfully.
Minimum requirements will be:

  1. Company’s confirmation in writing of interest to participate in the prequalification process.
  2. Valid business license.
  3. Legal registration certificate from Inland Revenue Administration, GST registration certificate.
  4. A minimum 3 years of experience in the sector.
  5. Company profile.
  6. Willing and ready to work with WFP according to its terms and conditions.

Existing registered vendors are also required to re-submit their interest, indicating any new goods or services now available.

This expression of interest will open on 26 July and close on 8 August.

Please reply to the WFP Procurement Unit with the categories of Goods and, or Services applicable. Companies that are unable to satisfy the minimum requirements as above will not be considered for registration.

Contact details: freetown.procurement@wfp.org

Table of Goods and services

GOODSSERVICES

 

Stationery suppliesPrinting (warehouse ledger Books, waybills, stack cards)

Printing services (Posters banner signpost) and designing of items etc.

IT items: Computers and accessories, printers and printing consumables, Cisco access Point Cat 7 patch cords OWL conference cameras, Mobile Phones, Mobile portable projector screen, projector Mobile PA system, PDAs etc.Engineering Consultancy firms, design, soil test, etc
Light Vehicle Spare PartsConsultancy Services, evaluation, value chain, etc
Heavy Duty Vehicles (Trucks) Spare PartsConsultants for workshops, trainings…
Furniture supplies.Car Rental Services
Plastic products (Plates, Jogs, Cups, Basin, Jerri Cans, Tarpaulins, Prepack PlasticsOutsourcing companies (Security, Janitorial & Cleaning, ICT maintenance services, etc)
Electrical supplies -extensions AVR UPSConsulting firms for maintenance/servicing of copiers
Visibility items (T-shirt, Caps with Logo printing),Consulting firms for network, tower, etc installations
Cooking UtensilsMaintenance/Servicing of Fire extinguishers
Guesthouse items (bed, mattresses, etc)Maintenance/Servicing of Air Conditions
Warehouse Equipment: weighing scale, stitching machine, stitching needles stitching threads, Stitching Machine oil, Empty Polypropylene bags with WFP Logos, Plastic Bags, Padlocks, empty Jerry can, warehouse thermometers, food packaging materialCivil Constructions Contractors (Building, Road, Bridge, etc)
Generator, pump, suppliersInsurance Services
 Fuel Storage tank suppliesGarages specialised in Toyota vehicles
Fuel supplyCourier services
ToiletriesNews Advertising
Electronics materialsGenerator maintenance/servicing
Water and Fuel PumpsRe-bagging food
Fire ExtinguishersProfessional Education Services
Generators and generator parts & consumablesCatering Services
Building construction materialsEvent Planning and Organizing Services
Agricultural equipment and tools (Power Tillers, Rice milling Machine, Rice Threshers, moisture meterVideography and Photography
Pharmaceutical DrugsInstallation and maintenance of solar panels
Plastic Hermetic Grain SilosCar Repair Services (Body Works and mechanical)

 

Solar driersAluminium Works
Solar PannelsAnimation
Motorbikes and spare partsProvision of outsourced staffing services for auxiliary staff, drivers, mechanics, logistics
Solar water pumps and irrigation systems
Sanitary and cleaning items
Office Equipment (copiers, fax machines, etc)
Agricultural Input (vegetable seed, Nutritious grass seeds, Fruit and forest tree seedlings, fertilizer)
Local Complementary Food processing  equipment& installationMaintenance of food processing equipment
Food graded packaging materials for finish productand Secondary Packaging – CartonsJingles production
Food packaging machinePotential organisation or institutions able to provide:

  • Provide qualified enumerator for conducting survey, assesment
  • Providing conducive training environment for the enumerator
  • Field management during the survey, for quality control

 

 

Food Procurement – Food Suppliers

Milled rice 25% and 100% brokenWe buy both locally produced & Imported Rice
Pulses – cow peas and pigeon peasMainly Pigeon Peas and black-eyed peas
Vegetable OilWFP may buy both locally produced oil and Imported oil
SaltIodized salt
Micronutrient Premix-FBF-V13, Potassium Chloride, DCP.

 

SLeCAD, ACBF Launch Program to Support and Empower Port Loko Farmers

By Yusufu S. Bangura

In a move to bolster agricultural development in Sierra Leone, the Sierra Leone Chamber for Agribusiness Development (SLeCAD) has partnered with the African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF) to launch a transformative capacity-building project. This initiative, unveiled to local farmers and stakeholders on Thursday, July 11, will officially commence on Friday, July 20, 2024.

Ahmed Nanoh, Executive Secretary of SLeCAD, underscored the project’s goal of empowering women and youth as pivotal drivers of Sierra Leone’s economic growth. “Women and youth are crucial to our nation’s development, yet many rural farmers, predominantly women, lack essential farming knowledge. This project is designed to bridge that gap and transform them into productive entrepreneurs,” Ahmed Nanoh explained.

The initiative will focus on providing training in entrepreneurship, business development, and processing techniques specifically for onions and cassava. This approach aims to shift participants from being job seekers to job creators, enhancing their economic stability and self-sufficiency.

Ahmed Nanoh highlighted the ‘Feed Salone’ initiative, a strategic effort to reduce rice importation by 50%, which is expected to stabilize the country’s economy and improve living conditions. “The cost of rice importation is significant. Cutting this expenditure in half will contribute greatly to national economic stability,” he said.

SLeCAD plans to address critical issues raised by farmers, such as access to fertilizers, seeds, and equipment. Ahmed Nanoh encouraged farmers to leverage the support provided, noting that Port Loko has the potential to become one of Sierra Leone’s wealthiest districts.

Abdul Karim Kamara, Secretary General of the Kamaranka Farmers Association, expressed appreciation for SLeCAD’s efforts and committed to making the most of the opportunity. He welcomed the initiative’s focus on addressing the challenges faced by farmers.

In conclusion, Ahmed Nanoh urged farmers to engage fully with the project, emphasizing that the selection of 120 dedicated farmers to benefit from this program reflects its importance not just as a business endeavor, but as a significant step towards national progress.

US Seminar Aims to Combat Illegal Fishing for Sierra Leone’s Joint Maritime Committee

By Amin Kef Sesay

The U.S. Embassy in Freetown spearheaded a crucial seminar addressing Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing from July 15-19, 2024, at the Sierra Leone Naval Base in Murray Town. The event brought together members of Sierra Leone’s Joint Maritime Committee, including personnel from the Sierra Leone Navy, Sierra Leone Police Marine Division, Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources, Office of National Security, Maritime Administration, and Ports and Harbor Authority.

The seminar, led by a delegation from the U.S. Coast Guard and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Office of Law Enforcement, focused on enhancing accountability measures against IUU fishing, which jeopardizes local livelihoods and inflicts severe environmental damage.

The event was inaugurated by Commodore Philip Jesbert Juana of the Sierra Leone Navy, who highlighted the urgent need for the Joint Maritime Committee to intensify efforts in apprehending illegal fishers, tracking transnational criminal networks and enforcing regulations to safeguard marine resources.

Throughout the week, discussions centered on collaborative strategies to protect Sierra Leone’s marine environment, emphasizing its crucial role in the local economy and ecosystem. The U.S. delegation underscored that Sierra Leone is not alone in this battle and a coalition of international partners is essential in countering criminal activities that exploit enforcement challenges.

It must be noted that the seminar follows last month’s maritime emergency course also led by the U.S. Embassy in partnership with the U.S. Coast Guard. The Embassy anticipates ongoing collaboration to address maritime security challenges.

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