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As SL Mineral Wealth Fund Under Scrutiny… The Dubious Credentials of Igor Siberud: What’s Really Behind His CV?

Mineral Wealth Fund affair.

By Amin Kef Sesay

As our investigation into the Mineral Wealth Fund affair unfolds, more details have emerged about Igor Siberud, the controversial figure at the center of the scandal threatening President Bio’s well-meaning initiatives. Siberud is accused of attempting to hijack the Mineral Wealth Fund for personal gain, supported by a cadre of self-serving politicians.

His Curriculum Vitae portrays him as a “seasoned Executive with a proven track record of transforming state-owned industrial assets into profitable entities,” and as a specialist in governance, financial metrics, and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). He claims an “exceptional ability to collaborate with multiple stakeholders, including Government bodies and NGOs,” and a commitment to “social responsibility, sustainability and international legal frameworks.” However, our investigation reveals no verifiable evidence that he has ever managed critical national assets or Mineral Wealth Funds.

Siberud’s assertion that he “negotiated stakeholder interests” during the Zambia Sovereign Debt Crisis remains unverified. Given Sierra Leone’s need to avoid a Mineral Wealth Fund or Sovereign Wealth crisis, his purported expertise, if it exists, may not be necessary.

Additionally, his claims to have undertaken various roles at the partially Uzbekistani state-owned company, UzmetKombinat, from 2018 to 2020 involving geological work, mine management and environmental management are doubtful as there is nothing in his CV to suggest he possesses the education, training, or experience for these positions.

His highest verifiable qualification is a High School Diploma from the Leysin American High School in Switzerland. He also states he studied Business Management and Administration at Touro College, Berlin in Germany from 2005 to 2009 but does not specify any degree or qualification obtained.

The troubling aspect for many Sierra Leoneans is that this high school diploma holder is now parading as the Chief Executive Officer of the Sierra Leone Mineral Wealth Fund. He has even updated his CV to reflect this new role. At a time when qualified Sierra Leoneans are seeking opportunities to contribute to national development, placing our Mineral Wealth Fund in the hands of a foreigner with such limited qualifications is alarming.

The situation is exacerbated by high-ranking Government officials, including Cabinet Ministers, who are determined to keep Siberud as CEO of the Mineral Wealth Fund and pressuring President Bio to sign an agreement with his company, Mount View, for their own benefit at the expense of the country’s future. Fortunately, President Bio has resisted this pressure and is carefully reviewing the agreement before making any commitment.

We pledge to continue supporting the President by providing vital information on why this deal is detrimental to the country and exposing those behind it. Our investigation into Igor Siberud and his backers in Government will persist and we will keep the public informed as more details emerge.

Mercury International Awards Prizes to Euro Championship Raffle Winners

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Mercury International, one of the country’s premier betting platforms, held a prize distribution event on Monday for winners of the online raffle tied to the recent Euro competition in Germany. The ceremony took place at the New Sella Spot on Jomo Kenyatta Road in Freetown, drawing various stakeholders and enthusiastic participants.

17 lucky winners were awarded prizes, with the grand prize being a bike valued at NLe 28,000. Other notable prizes included an HP laptop, plasma televisions and Samsung mobile phones, collectively worth approximately NLe 100,000.

Octovos, the Deputy Online Manager at Mercury International, explained that participants qualified for the raffle by playing online games between June 14 and July 14, 2024. Each ticket, costing NLe 5, had to feature at least one Euro Championship game. Players needed a minimum of 10 tickets to enter the raffle, with each entry equivalent to NLe 50. Octovos emphasized the transparency and fairness of the independently managed raffle system. He noted that the grand prize winner had entered 13 tickets, spending a total of NLe 65.

Martin Edward Michael, CEO of Mercury International, highlighted the company’s commitment to creating opportunities beyond sports, through prize giveaways and other related events. He praised the raffle for offering participants a double chance to win—both from game played and raffle entry. He also lauded the simplicity and accessibility of the online platform, mercury.com, which facilitated wide participation.

The CEO expressed his hopes that winners would find joy and utility in their prizes. He suggested that the bike could boost income through business opportunities, and the laptop could enhance productivity. The CEO hinted at upcoming activities, including an ongoing raffle ending on July 31, with a Keke as the main prize, alongside mobile phones and televisions. He said that on July 25 they will announce another draw, urging the public to stay tuned for details of another significant raffle.

The grand prize winner, Abu Koroma, shared his excitement and disbelief at winning the bike. “I never expected to win. When I received calls from Mercury International, I thought it was a prank,” he said. “I ignored the calls several times before realizing it was real. I am incredibly grateful to Mercury International for this opportunity and encourage others to participate in the games.”

He added that the bike would significantly impact his life, allowing him to improve his income. He thanked Mercury International for the chance and expressed his plans to use the prize beneficially.

Mercury International continues to demonstrate its dedication to rewarding its participants, ensuring excitement and opportunity through its innovative betting and raffle platforms.

Sierra Leone To Host Prestigious SAATM Conference, Paving the Way for Trade & Tourism Growth

Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA).jp

By Dr. Tony Morgan

Sierra Leone’s aviation and tourism sectors are set to receive a significant boost as the country hosts the prestigious Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) conference from July 29th to 30th. This event marks a monumental achievement, largely credited to the tireless efforts and exceptional expertise of Madam Musayeroh Barrie, the Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA).

Madam Barrie, renowned for her extensive knowledge of Sierra Leone’s aviation environment, has been a key figure in the industry for over a decade. As the Country Director for Westminster Aviation Security Services (WASS), she played a pivotal role in ensuring the security and efficiency of operations at Freetown International Airport. Her close collaboration with state authorities during the 2019 ICAO Security Audit resulted in Sierra Leone achieving an impressive pass mark of 71%.

Sierra Leone’s selection as the host for the SAATM conference is a testament to Madam Barrie’s tenacity, diplomacy and profound understanding of international aviation. Her contributions have not only elevated the country’s aviation standards but also positioned Sierra Leone as a vital player on the global aviation stage.

The SAATM conference, launched by the African Union, aims to create a unified air transport market across Africa. This event presents a unique opportunity to advance air transport liberalization, fostering economic growth, connectivity and cooperation among African nations. The proposed resolution at the conference will focus on promoting bilateral agreements among participating states to enhance air transport liberalization, remove barriers, increase competition and provide better services to passengers.

This conference is a significant milestone in President Bio’s development plan, reflecting the concerted efforts of key Government stakeholders. The Ministry of Transport, the Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation have all played crucial roles in ensuring the successful hosting of this event. Their combined efforts, along with the leadership from the Office of the President and the Vice President, have been instrumental in bringing this grand event to Freetown.

Hosting the SAATM conference is expected to boost Sierra Leone’s trade and tourism sectors, showcasing the country’s potential to a global audience. It highlights the Government’s commitment to enhancing the nation’s connectivity and economic prospects.

As the world turns its attention to Freetown, the SAATM conference symbolizes a new era of growth and collaboration for Sierra Leone and the entire African continent. With the foundation laid by Madam Barrie’s exceptional work, Sierra Leone is poised to lead the charge in transforming Africa’s air transport landscape.

Caritas Freetown Trains Slum and Coastal Communities in Disaster Management

By Millicent Senava Mannah

Caritas Freetown, with funding support from Trocaire, has successfully completed a two-day training of trainers for stakeholders and community members from five slum and coastal communities. The event took place on July 16th and 17th, 2024, at Saint Anthony Hall on Syke Street in Freetown.

The initiative is part of a ten-month project aimed at strengthening community resilience and protecting women and girls through integrated disaster preparedness (Goal 4) and violence mitigation (Goal 3) in the Western Area of Sierra Leone. The participating communities included Lakka, Number Two, Portee Wharf, Wellington Old Wharf and Gloucester Village, with a total of seventy-five participants, including six persons with disabilities.

Idriss Gibson Mansaray, Disaster Management Focal Point at Caritas, highlighted that the training aimed to empower these communities by enhancing their resilience through integrated disaster preparedness and response. Using a problem tree analysis, participants were divided into groups to identify and categorize disasters affecting their lives and livelihoods, such as flooding, fire disasters, deforestation, stone mining and malaria.

Mohamed Sahid Conteh, National Administrative Secretary General of the Community Disaster Management Committee (CDMC), facilitated sessions on disaster risk reduction, basic disaster terminologies, community assessment, hazard and risk mapping and community timelines, among other topics.

Alie Kamara, a participant and Chairman of the Number Two community, praised Caritas and Trocaire for the timely training. He emphasized the importance of implementing preventive measures and pledged to engage his community members on the knowledge gained.

Jennifer Sesay, a participant with a disability from Gloucester, also commended the organization for the training. She highlighted deforestation as a significant issue in her community, leading to heavy winds ,unroofing houses. She committed to educating her community on the dangers of deforestation and its environmental impact.

Both participants expressed the need for the project to continue, allowing more people to benefit. The training concluded with the submission of identified problems and recommendations from the various groups.

Chinese Medical Team Achieves Breakthrough in Treating Humeral Shaft Nonunion

China-Sierra Leone Friendship Hospital.jpg

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a remarkable display of medical expertise, the 25th batch of the Chinese Medical Team (CMT) at the China-Sierra Leone Friendship Hospital successfully treated a 27-year-old patient from Sierra Leone suffering from a humeral shaft nonunion.

The patient, who had sustained a comminuted fracture of the left humerus seven months prior, had developed nonunion and pseudoarticulation due to improper treatment. This condition had caused prolonged pain and significant functional limitations in the patient’s left upper limb.

Associate Professor Xiang Liang, a seasoned orthopedist with CMT, thoroughly examined the patient’s medical history. He explained that surgery was the only viable option for treating the nonunion, despite its high risks. The potential for damage to the radial nerve during surgery posed a serious challenge, as it could lead to severe consequences such as the inability to extend the wrist and fingers.

Despite the risks, the patient expressed a strong desire for surgery, placing full trust in the expertise of the Chinese doctors. Recognizing the patient’s youth and the impact of the injury on his future prospects, Dr. Xiang and Dr. Wang Hui, also from CMT, collaborated closely with the surgical team at the China-Sierra Leone Friendship Hospital to meticulously plan and execute the procedure.

The surgery involved open reduction, internal fixation of the humerus fracture and a bone graft. The team executed each step with precision, from selecting the surgical approach to achieving intraoperative reduction and plate fixation. Their concerted efforts culminated in a successful operation, with no complications such as nerve damage and a restored function of the patient’s left upper limb.

Following the surgery, the patient expressed profound gratitude to the Chinese doctors for their role in his recovery. He credited them with restoring not only his health but also his hope for a brighter future.

Labour Minister Engages Guild of Newspaper Editors on Labour Law Compliance

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Against the backdrop of ensuring labor law compliance, the Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security, Mohamed Rahman Swaray, met with the Sierra Leone Guild of Newspaper Editors on Thursday, July 18, 2024, to discuss the implementation of the Employment Act 2023.

The Minister underscored the pivotal role journalists play as agenda setters in society. He emphasized their responsibility to inform and educate the public about labor laws, particularly concerning NASSIT contributions and to ensure compliance. “As you play your role, ensure that you are also compliant,” he admonished the media heads.

Highlighting the necessity for media alignment with these regulations, Minister Mohamed Swaray added, “Non-compliance will no longer be tolerated.” He called on the media to take its role seriously, stating, “Let’s do this for our people.” The Minister stressed that strict adherence to the new labor laws is essential for the well-being of workers and the overall progress of the nation.

The Director of Employment and Labour, Judah Bockarie, complemented the discussion with a PowerPoint presentation outlining the basic employment obligations under the new Act.

This engagement aimed to foster a collaborative effort between the Ministry and the media, ensuring that labor laws are effectively communicated and enforced, thereby promoting a fair and just working environment across Sierra Leone.

Grab Your Multi-Purpose Biometric ID Cards for Enhanced Identity Verification

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leone is making significant strides in its new initiative to provide citizens and residents with advanced National ID Cards, featuring a National Identification Number (NIN) as a key security component. This unique number, which remains constant throughout an individual’s life, links biometric data and personal details within the National Identity Database.

The National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) has outlined the costs and procedures for obtaining various categories of securitized and multi-purpose biometric identity cards. Citizens aged 12 and above can acquire these cards at NCRA offices and designated centers nationwide. Details regarding ID cards for children under 12 will be shared soon.

The Biometric ID Cards are categorized as follows:

  1. National Identity Cards for Sierra Leoneans aged 12 and above – Le 140.00 (NLe)
  2. ECOWAS ID Cards (optional for Sierra Leoneans) – Le 240.00 (NLe)
  3. ECOWAS ID Cards for Citizens of ECOWAS Member States – 400.00 (Nle)
  4. Non-National ID Cards (mandatory for foreign residents) – 2,000.00 (NLe)
  5. Application Fees – 5.00 (NLe)
  6. ID Verification – varies by field

These cards and the associated ID Verification platform ensure reliable identification, authentication and consistency of personal information. The fees align with the National Civil Registration Act of 2016.

Applicants must visit the nearest NCRA office to apply for their National ID Card. The card, embedded with a chip containing biometric data, facilitates identity verification, financial inclusion and access to various services. It is a crucial tool for citizens and non-citizens, streamlining processes and contributing to the nation’s progress.

One notable advantage of the National ID Card is its integration with the financial sector, enabling efficient remote know-your-customer (KYC) checks and reducing verification costs. This electronic KYC feature enhances financial inclusion by allowing providers to authenticate customers seamlessly.

In the education sector, the NIN has become mandatory for pupils in public examination classes, underscoring the card’s growing importance across different areas of life in Sierra Leone.

For residents aged 12 and above, obtaining the National ID Card is straightforward. Non-citizens can also apply for the Non-National ID Card to secure resident and work permits.

The NCRA has rolled out these advanced Biometric Identity Cards to enhance personal security and streamline transactions. In 2024, acquiring a National Biometric ID Card is a civic responsibility vital for security and convenience.

The NIN, an 11-digit unique identifier, links individual records within the National Identity Database, ensuring improved access to services and protection of individual rights. These cards are now mandatory at checkpoints nationwide, facilitating secure transactions.

Application centers include:

  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 Regional Headquarters: Bo, Kenema, Makeni, and Port Loko

Corporate services tailored for organizations are also available. For more information, contact the NCRA at +232-33-433-333 / +232-30-500-000 / +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): A Beacon of Socio-Economic Progress & Innovation in Sierra Leone

NP (SL) Limited.jpg

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

NP (SL) Limited is making headlines for its unwavering commitment to advancing socio-economic development in Sierra Leone. As the leading provider of petroleum products, NP (SL) Ltd. is not only enhancing the accessibility of quality fuel but is also fostering growth for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) across the nation.

Despite numerous challenges, NP (SL) Ltd. remains steadfast in its mission to deliver superior petroleum products. The company’s Management and Stakeholders view this as a moral obligation, aiming to improve the standard of living for Sierra Leoneans through consistent service and innovation.

NP (SL) Ltd.’s dedication has earned it substantial local and international recognition for its stellar service delivery. Customers and industry experts alike praise the company for its resilience in navigating external pressures and maintaining high service standards. The company’s expansion efforts have extended beyond Sierra Leone to neighboring countr ies, including Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast and The Gambia, solidifying its regional presence.

One of NP (SL) Ltd.’s standout innovations is the NP Energy Pass Card. This smart card is designed to provide a seamless and secure fuel purchasing experience. The NP Energy Pass 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.

The introduction of the NP Energy Pass Card, part of the “FUBU” (For Us, By Us) initiative, represents a significant leap towards a cashless economy. This user-friendly card enables customers to fuel their vehicles independently, streamlines station operations, and offers real-time transaction updates. It also benefits station owners with direct bank credits for card transactions.

Launching the Access and Energy Pass Card marks a pivotal moment in NP (SL) Ltd.’s modernization efforts, promoting efficiency and transparency in fuel management.

NP (SL) Ltd. stands out as a 100% indigenous Sierra Leonean company committed to maintaining a consistent fuel supply through strategic partnerships with oil producers. This approach has effectively mitigated shortages and ensured reliable service.

The company’s adherence to the Local Content Policy is a testament to its dedication to national development. NP (SL) Ltd. not only maximizes local employment but also invests in staff development through various training programs.

NP (SL) Ltd.’s flexible payment plans for reliable customers, including Government agencies, further showcase its dedication to maintaining continuous fuel and lubricant supplies.

The company has also introduced NP Gas, a safe and portable cooking solution available in various sizes, and the NP Smart Card, a popular payment method for petroleum products.

As a major taxpayer and regional player, NP (SL) Ltd. continues to support government initiatives, reduce energy poverty, and enhance the quality of life for local communities.

Despite occasional criticisms, NP (SL) Ltd. remains unwavering in its mission to contribute positively to Sierra Leone’s socio-economic landscape. The company’s resilience, innovation and dedication to customer care affirm its role as a leading force in the petroleum industry.

Chief Minister Dr. David Moinina Sengeh Calls for Citizen Participation in Nation Building

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By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a recent audio message dated July 19th, 2024, Chief Minister Dr. David Moinina Sengeh clarified and expanded on the widely discussed concept of “We Will Deliver.” Dr. Sengeh emphasized that the phrase is rooted in the collective efforts of citizens towards nation-building.

Dr. Sengeh explained that regardless of one’s status, location or identity, every citizen’s contribution is vital for the country’s development and the implementation of positive changes in various communities. He highlighted the importance of public cleaning and urged those responsible to carry out their duties with dedication and integrity. Proper execution of public sanitization tasks, he noted, would prevent flooding and save children from drowning during the rainy season.

“When everybody delivers in what they do in their little corners, in the end, all of us will benefit,” he stated.

Addressing misconceptions about the phrase “We Will Deliver,” Dr. Moinina Sengeh reassured the public that the Government is diligently working to fulfill President Bio’s promise of establishing Peripheral Health Units (PHUs) and Community Health Centers (CHCs) nationwide. He elaborated that when the Minister of Health says he will deliver, it means monitoring ambulance operations, collaborating with donor partners to supply essential medications and ensuring timely medical interventions for women during post-natal hemorrhage.

He also called on those managing public service ambulances to ensure timely dispatches and urged drivers to refrain from stealing ambulance parts. He appealed to doctors to give their best in hospitals and encouraged fathers to support their wives, especially during pregnancy and post-natal periods.

“Whatever we want to do as people, as long as we are resolute in our intentions to do it the right way, together we will solve complex problems,” he emphasized.

Turning to the education sector, the Chief Minister appealed to teachers and examiners to deliver quality education and urged students to study hard. He called on the Minister of Education to provide students with the necessary materials for public examinations.

Dr. Sengeh advised those considering protests to focus on their careers instead, noting that sitting idly at home equates to a lack of contribution to the nation’s progress. He expressed his commitment to ensuring President Bio’s success and the implementation of the national development plan.

He underscored that everyone’s collaboration is essential for President Bio to deliver on his national development agenda. In such a scenario, he noted, children would benefit, national security would be strengthened, and the economy would prosper for all. “If citizens work to deliver in their respective positions, we will have justice, better peace, better governance, a secured brighter future for our children and above all, we will realize President Bio’s goal of attaining middle-income status for all Sierra Leoneans by the year 2038,” he concluded.

SLRA Board Reviews and Praises Progress of Pavi Fort Road Project in Koinadugu & Falaba

Pavi Fort AL Associates.jpg

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Sierra Leone Road Authority (SLRA) Board of Directors, led by Chairman J.S. Kaifala,  the Director General Ing Alfred Jalil Momodu,  the Directors of Admin and Information/ Communications ,Jacob Sama and Roselyn Percival Deigh respectively, the Director of Trunk Roads, Ing Kenei Kuyembeh and the Public Relations Officer, Mariama Kargbo on Friday July 19, 2024 conducted a comprehensive site visit to inspect the ongoing road construction project by Pavi Fort AL Associates in Koinadugu and Falaba Districts. The visit was part of a broader effort to ensure quality and progress on the 261-kilometer Kabala-Mongor-Krobola-Kono road project.

The inspection team focused on the first 60-kilometer segment stretching from Kabala to Limbaia. They also reviewed work in Kanuka, Dogoloyia, and Manah to assess the standard of construction. The visit aimed to verify reports and witness firsthand the quality of work completed.

In an exclusive interview, District SLRA Engineer Ing. Francis Koroma expressed satisfaction with the progress. He highlighted that this was the first time the Board had undertaken such an inspection tour in Koinadugu and Falaba, demonstrating their commitment to oversight and quality assurance. The Board was reportedly pleased with the contractor’s performance and the progress made.

Ing. Francis Koroma also addressed concerns regarding houses close to the road. He revealed that an inventory of affected houses, termed “Road Prison” due to their proximity to the planned 10.3-meter-wide road, has been compiled. This list has been sent to the SLRA Department of Assets for assessment and compensation. The Director General is currently working on the compensation plans.

The District Engineer emphasized the project’s high standards and its potential for durability, depending on road usage and maintenance practices. He warned that improper handling, such as leaving oil spills or grass on the road, could damage its longevity.

Significant progress has been made on the Kabala to Limbaia segment, with 44 kilometers of pavement completed. Plans for constructing three bridges during the dry season are underway, and the design for further work is being finalized.

Pavi Fort Project Manager, Ing Kistet, assured that despite the rainy season causing some delays, new machinery, including a crusher, is enhancing their efficiency. The goal is to complete the segment ahead of the October 2025 deadline, with focus shifting to road markings and final touches thereafter.

He pointed out that in terms of funding it is a Government funded project pointing out that after achieving certain aspects of the project they do request for respective payments like in 3 Payment Certificates maintaining that when once such are approved they will get it.

“If there is any financial constraint on the part of the Government such will have a little impact on our operations,” he said but was quick to maintain that the project is prefinanced and if there is no funding from the Government the company and their Chairman, in particular, Alhaji Alimu Sanu Barrie will find a way to finance the project in order for them to continue work.

Board Chairman, J.S. Kaifala, praised the advancements, noting that the project is on track and showing impressive results. Reflecting on past challenges, Kaifala underscored that the project’s progress has resolved previous issues of extended travel times between Kabala and Falaba. He also mentioned plans for a dry dock to facilitate trade through Sierra Leone rather than neighboring countries.

With 10 kilometers of the first phase already tarred and 40 kilometers primed, J.S Kaifala expressed optimism about completing this phase by early next year, despite the original three-year timeline.

He concluded by stating that the SLRA Board remains committed to improving the road network across Sierra Leone, with ongoing and future plans aimed at enhancing infrastructure throughout the country.

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