NP (SL) Ltd has taken a significant step towards modernizing fuel purchasing and promoting a cashless economy with the introduction of the pilot phase of its Access and Energy Pass Card. This innovative smart card aims to enhance the efficiency of energy management systems and streamline the distribution of petroleum products across the country.
Designed for user-friendliness, the NP Energy Pass Card offers both online and offline functionalities with high-security features to safeguard customer information. One of its standout benefits is the instant SMS notification after every transaction, ensuring transparency and accountability.
Customers can conveniently recharge their cards at designated stations or the Head Office and have the option to reverse transactions if necessary. To bolster security, the system includes One-Time Passwords (OTP) for password changes in case of incorrect entries.
This initiative, aptly named “FUBU” (For Us, By Us), highlights NP (SL)’s commitment to a cashless future and addresses challenges identified through stakeholder consultations. The Access and Energy Pass Card promises a new era of self-service convenience eliminating the need for pump attendants and empowering customers to fuel their `vehicles independently. Its comprehensive features and user-friendly interface aim to meet the diverse needs of customers and Station Managers alike.
Integration with customers’ mobile numbers allows real-time transaction updates, empowering users with timely information. Station Owners benefit from streamlined financial operations, as transactions made through the Access and Energy Pass Card result in direct credits to their bank accounts.
With the pilot launch of the Access and Energy Pass Card, NP (SL) is set to lead a paradigm shift in the fuel industry, promoting efficiency, transparency, and unparalleled convenience. The card is now available at several NP Filling Stations, including NP Cotton Tree, NP Campbell Street, NP Brookfields, NP Pademba Road, NP Sander Street, NP Regent, NP Kissy Road, NP Blackhall Road, NP Motor Way, NP Deep-Eye Water, NP Aberdeen, and NP Mambo.
In addition to modernizing fuel transactions, NP (SL) introduced the NP Smart Card long ago, allowing customers to purchase fuel without using physical cash. The card can be presented at any NP Filling Station, loaded with money for fuel purchases, and used to dispense fuel directly into a vehicle or container. This cashless method saves customers the hassle of withdrawing cash and enhances security, as the card can only be used by its holder.
Beyond fuel, NP (SL) is also addressing environmental concerns with the introduction of NP Gas. This environmentally friendly cooking device, available in various cylinder sizes, offers high precision performance and is easily refillable at all NP Filling Stations. The initiative aims to reduce dependence on wood and charcoal, which negatively impact the environment.
NP (SL)’s expansion into neighboring countries such as Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast, and The Gambia, where it employs local residents and pays taxes, underscores its commitment to growth and regional development.
With these innovative solutions, NP (SL) is poised to significantly impact the energy and fuel sectors, promoting sustainable practices and enhancing customer convenience.
The Sierra Leone community in San Jose, California, made history on July 6th by hosting the largest awards event on the West Coast of the United States. The inaugural Salone Awards of Excellence celebrated individuals from all walks of life who have made significant contributions to the Sierra Leonean community, both at home and abroad.
The night was a resounding success, bringing together diverse personalities from African countries, Americans and Sierra Leonean. The event featured 11 awards categories and six honorary awards, recognizing outstanding achievements in various fields.
Notable winners included: Osman Kaunda Fofanah: Fashion Iconic Designer of the Year, Junior Kabba: Legendary Musician of the Year, Hamidu Bah: Tech Entrepreneur of the Year, Sheila JC Fofanah :Best Social Media Influencer of the Year etc.
These individuals have made significant contributions to the Sierra Leonean community, and their recognition is well-deserved.
James Barack Kamara, CEO of Salone Awards of Excellence, shared the vision behind the event: “We aim to appreciate modern heroes, represent Sierra Leone positively, unify the community, and teach the younger generation about our rich history and culture.”
This event marks a significant milestone in the history of California, showcasing the beauty of African culture and the achievements of Sierra Leoneans. The community looks forward to many more successful events, celebrating heritage and honoring modern heroes.
In a recent turn of events, a statement released by the Minister of Information and Civic Education has sparked curiosity surrounding the identity of an individual named, Hussain Antar, amidst serious allegations and arrests.
In response to mounting inquiries, Ibrahim D. Antar, commonly known as Hussein Antar, has come forward to set the record straight. Antar unequivocally declares that he is not the Hussain Antar mentioned in the press statement. He emphasizes that his name is spelt differently and asserts no association with the individual in question.
A respected and law-abiding citizen of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Hussein Antar reassures the public of his unwavering commitment to upholding the values of democracy, the rule of law and the progress of the nation.
As the confusion unravels, Hussein Antar’s clarifying statement aims to dispel any misconceptions and reaffirm his dedication to the principles of justice and integrity.
See verbatim disclaimer below:
Disclaimer:
My attention has been drawn to a recent press statement issued by the Minister of Information and Civic Education regarding the arrest of certain persons including an individual named Hussain Antar on certain egregious allegations.
Following the press statement I have received inquiries as to who is this Hussain Antar?
I hereby wish to unequivocally inform the general public and assure all concerned that I am not the Hussain Antar. My common name, Hussein, is spelt differently from the person named in the statement. I have no connection with the named individual.
I have been and continue to be a law abiding citizen of the Republic of Sierra Leone committed to support our country’s democracy values, the rule of law and our progressive progress
By Order
(c) Ibrahim D. Antar,
commonly know as Hussein Antar
A notable member of the Parliamentary Committee on Works, Hon. Daniel Koroma of the main opposition APC Party, on the 11th July 2024 profusely commended Pavi Fort AL Associates (SL) Limited, under the leadership of Alimu Barrie, for the company’s exemplary work in road construction.
He heaped praises on the company during the ratification of the Concession Agreement between the Government of Sierra Leone and the Gento Group of Companies for the construction of a seaport at Banana Island and a logistics hub at Kent.
Expressing his full confidence in Pavi Fort, Hon. Daniel Koroma highlighted the company’s strong commitment to the development of Sierra Leone. He emphasized that awarding contracts to Pavi Fort, led by Alimu Barrie, is a wise decision and urged the Government to continue doing so.
The Member of Parliament noted that, unlike other companies that take Government funds out of the country, Pavi Fort reinvests in Sierra Leone. Hon. Daniel Koroma stressed the importance of road infrastructure in promoting development and attracting investors.
He concluded by thanking Pavi Fort for their contributions to the country and urging them to continue their diligent service. The MP also advocated for more road contracts to be awarded to Pavi Fort, praising the quality of their roads as comparable to those in Europe.
It could be recalled that the Parliamentary Committee on Works and Public Assets conducted an extensive oversight visit on June 8 and 9, 2024, to inspect ongoing road construction projects in Kenema and Kabala.
The Oversight Committee, led by Hon. Ing. Habib Fabbah, the Deputy Chairman of the Committee, aimed to evaluate the progress and quality of the work undertaken by Pavi Fort AL Associates (SL) Limited and assess the project’s adherence to set timelines and quality standards.
Hon. Daniel Koroma noted that the Kenema project is 74% complete, indicating substantial progress. He also addressed potential legal challenges, particularly concerning compensation for affected properties, assuring that the Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA) and Pavi Fort are actively resolving those issues.
Alimu Sanu Barrie, Chairman and CEO of Pavi Fort, provided updates on the project, initially planned for 25 kilometers with a 5-kilometer extension, adding that 20 kilometers have been completed and the project is on track for a December 2024 completion. He cited previous successful projects, such as the Kabala Township Road, to highlight their commitment to quality.
The Chairman and CEO also addressed challenges faced during construction, including initial delays due to the lack of a suitable quarry, which delayed the project by about a year.
According to Alimu Barrie, once a suitable quarry was found, the project gained momentum. He praised President Julius Maada Bio and the Government for their support and emphasized the role of strategic planning to mitigate weather-related challenges.
The Pavi Fort boss pointed out that the road construction project has created over 600 direct jobs for Sierra Leoneans, with additional employment through subcontractors.
Alimu Barrie highlighted the company’s focus on knowledge transfer by pairing local graduates with expatriates, enhancing local expertise. He also mentioned efforts to resolve community concerns, particularly regarding compensation for affected residents and noted that a meeting with parliamentarians resulted in a settlement plan to include compensation in their payment processes, ensuring timely and equitable solutions.
Hon. Daniel Koroma expressed satisfaction with the progress and quality observed and reposed confidence in meeting the project timeline despite potential weather-related challenges.
Following the Kenema visit, the Parliamentary Committee on Works and Public Assets moved to Kabala on Sunday, June 9, 2024, to assess the road construction project implemented by Pavi Fort Construction Company. After the assessment, the Committee proceeded to examine the project works of the company in Freetown on Monday, June 10, 2024.
The committee inspected the company’s implementation of the World Bank-funded Integrated Resilient Urban Mobility Project (IRUMP), which entails the enhancement of three specific areas in Freetown: Kissy Ferry Junction, Congo Cross Roundabout, and Lumley Roundabout. An examination of major streets that the company rehabilitated in Freetown was also done.
In its estimation after the completion of the oversight exercise, Members of the Parliamentary Committee on Works commended the impressive implementation of works by Pavi Fort in all the areas where the company implemented contracts won.
The Attorney General and Minister of Justice, in his capacity as the titular head of the Bar, on Friday, July 12, 2024, convened a critical meeting with the President of the Sierra Leone Bar Association (SLBA), Madam Tuma Adama Jabbi, alongside dissatisfied members of the Association, represented by Augustine Sorie-Sengbe Marrah Esq. and Ibrahim Y. Bangura Esq., a representative of Madam Wara Serry-Kamal.
During the meeting, the Attorney General formally recognized Madam Tuma Adama Jabbi as the President of the SLBA following the elections held at the recently concluded Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Kenema. He urged both the SLBA President and the dissatisfied members to avoid actions that could tarnish the reputation of the Association and the legal profession.
Emphasizing the importance of maintaining the profession’s dignity, respect and integrity, he advised members to seek legal recourse if they were unhappy with the AGM’s outcome, which was based on High Court decisions by Hon. Justice Momoh Jah Stevens and Hon. Justice Unisa Kamara.
The Attorney General expressed gratitude to both parties for attending the meeting and encouraged them to seek his assistance to keep the SLBA united and progressive.
Reacting to the Attorney General’s statement, Augustine Sorie-Sengbe Marrah outlined their dissatisfaction with the AGM’s outcome. Conversely, President Tuma Adama Jabbi thanked the Attorney General and his team for organizing the meeting and reiterated her commitment to the unity, progress and development of the SLBA.
Other notable attendees included Osman Kanu Esq., Director of Public Prosecutions, Robert Kowa Esq., Solicitor General, Alpha Sesay Esq., Deputy Justice Minister, Thomas Joe Freeman Esq., State Counsel, and Alfred Kamanda Esq., Public Relations Officer of the SLBA.
President Tuma Adama Jabbi remains dedicated to promoting unity within the Bar and fulfilling her election pledges focusing on standards, welfare and development.
On July 14th, 2024, Deen Lansana Dabor, Chief Executive Officer, Dabor’s Investment Company (SL) Limited will celebrate three years of his successful transition from a celebrated Disc Jockey to a pioneering carpenter. His unique journey from spinning records to creating exquisite woodwork has not only showcased his versatility but also provided job opportunities for young Sierra Leoneans, significantly contributing to the local economy.
Deen Lansana Dabor’s story began with a love for music. As a teenager, he was a fervent fan of good tunes, often inspired by international DJs he watched on DSTV. Driven by a desire to emulate his idols, he embarked on a quest to become a professional DJ. His journey took a significant turn when he discovered one of the best DJ academies in the world. With the support of his elder brother, who paid his fees, Dabor enrolled and travelled to South Africa to study live sound mixing.
After four years of rigorous training, he returned to Sierra Leone, where he began working at various radio stations, including UN Radio. There, he worked alongside the late DJ Pineapple, honing his craft and establishing himself in the local entertainment industry. His talent eventually led to an international DJ contract in Norway. However, despite the success and recognition, he faced disillusionment with the entertainment industry and decided to walk away from his DJ career.
Driven by a desire for greater financial stability and a new challenge, Deen Lansana Dabor ventured into the business world. He started by selling luxury cars and semi-finished wood. It was during this time that he discovered a passion for woodworking. Determined to master this new craft, he took classes and immersed himself in learning the intricacies of carpentry. This decision marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life.
In July 2021, Dabor opened a small wood factory in Sierra Leone, channeling his creativity and entrepreneurial spirit into this new venture. His vision was clear: to create high-quality, custom woodwork that enhances the beauty and functionality of homes and businesses. Over the past three years, his business has grown steadily, earning a reputation for excellence and innovation.
The transition from DJ to carpenter was not without its challenges. Deen Lansana Dabor faced the typical hurdles associated with starting a new business. “In the beginning, it was difficult because whenever you start something new, challenges will definitely be there,” he recalls. However, his determination and resilience saw him through the tough times. He worked tirelessly to overcome obstacles, continuously improving his skills and expanding his business.
His journey has not only been a personal success story but also a beacon of hope for many young Sierra Leoneans. Deen Lansana Dabor wood factory has created numerous job opportunities, providing stable employment and skill development for the local youth. Through his unique art and dedication, he has contributed to the economic development of his community, proving that with passion and hard work, one can achieve great things.
As he marks the third anniversary of his woodworking venture, Deen Lansana Dabor reflects on his journey with gratitude. “Alhamdulillah, it’s going on well,” he says, expressing his satisfaction with the progress he has made. Looking ahead, he envisions further growth and innovation in his business, with plans to expand his product line and reach a broader market.
Deen Lansana Dabor studied wood science for about two years and then travelled to five Asian countries to gain experience and learn about advanced machinery used in woodworking. This extensive education and international exposure laid the foundation for his venture into the carpentry industry.
When Dabor’s wood factory started, they used small machines. Within a year of production, they upgraded to bigger machines and acquired 4.5 acres of land for factory expansion in Songo. However, the journey was not without challenges. One major issue has been electricity; the factory relies on generators, spending nearly NLe7,000 to NLe10,000 daily on diesel. Additionally, there were initial difficulties with the skill level of local workers, which led Deen Lansana Dabor to bring in foreign experts to train Sierra Leonean employees, ensuring professional and high-quality woodwork.
Looking forward, he plans to further expand his business, focusing on innovation and quality. He aims to broaden his product line and reach a wider market, continuing to provide job opportunities and contribute to the local economy. His vision includes creating a sustainable and impactful business that enhances the beauty and functionality of homes and businesses while fostering economic growth in Sierra Leone.
Deen Lansana Dabor’s journey from the DJ booth to the woodworking shop is a testament to the power of adaptability and resilience. His story serves as an inspiration to many, illustrating that with determination and a willingness to embrace change, one can carve out new paths and create lasting impacts. As he continues to innovate and inspire, his legacy in both the music and woodworking industries is sure to endure.
QNET, a 26-year-old lifestyle and wellness-focused global direct selling company has been made aware of a news item in Daybreak Newspaper published on June 25th, 2024, with the headline: “QNET Staff Dragged for Fraud”. The story alleges that an individual named, Alie Mohammed Conteh, who is being charged for conspiracy to defraud and obtaining of money by false pretence, is an employee of QNET. This claim is completely false and without basis.
QNET does not have any employees in Sierra Leona and is not associated with the individual in question. QNET stated how it is aware of the misuse of its brand name by unscrupulous individuals for illegal activities and strongly condemns such actions.
The company wishes to clearly state that it has no involvement whatsoever in these reprehensible actions and strongly condemns the unauthorized use of its brand name by dishonest individuals or group.
QNET is a prominent wellness and lifestyle company that provides a wide range of products in areas of health, wellness, lifestyle and education, utilizing the power of e-commerce. Thousands worldwide have experienced the benefits of the company’s offerings, with many opting to become Independent Representatives (IRs). This allows them to establish their own sales business by promoting QNET products.
The lifestyle and wellness-focused business entity strictly forbids its IRs from engaging in any form of unethical or illegal activities in the conduct of their direct selling business. Where necessary, QNET collaborates with law enforcement and relevant Government agencies to support investigations into instances where individuals have unlawfully exploited the QNET name for criminal purposes.
QNET has also taken significant steps to address disinformation about the company, its business model and the direct-selling industry in general in the Sub-Saharan Africa region and has established a WhatsApp compliance hotline +233256630005 where violations can be reported.
ABOUT QNET
QNET, a global lifestyle and wellness company uses a direct selling business model to promote unique products that enable people to take charge of their health, well-being and lifestyle.
Since 1998, QNET’s innovative products and e-commerce-driven business model have helped build a global community of satisfied customers and micro entrepreneurs, who are driven by the mission of RYTHM – Raise Yourself To Help Mankind. Popular product brands offered by QNET include the Bernhard H. Mayer range of luxury watches and jewellery, HomePure range of home care products, the Amezcua wellness range, Physio Radiance personal care range, and QVI branded holiday packages.
QNET proudly exemplifies high industry standards and is a member of numerous Direct Selling Associations worldwide. Its active engagement in several global sports sponsorships including its role as the official direct selling partner of the Manchester City Football Club (MCFC) and the Confederation of African Football (CAF), highlights the company’s commitment to excellence. Discover a world of new possibilities with QNET by visiting www.qnet.net
In the heart of Sierra Leone, according to one of our ace reporters, Alvin Lansana Kargbo who residents narrated to in this human interest story, a young man named Alie Hassan Komeh, born on December 10, 2002, is trapped in a deadly struggle for survival. Declared wanted by law enforcement officials and members of the powerful Poro Society, his life hangs precariously in the balance. Once a resident of Magburuka Town in the Northern Province of Sierra Leone Alie Hassan Komeh, is now a fugitive on the run, accused of defying both legal and cultural authority in a story that epitomizes the complex interplay between tradition and the rule of law.
The Poro Society, a revered and secretive male cultural institution in Sierra Leone, plays an influential role in the country’s cultural and social fabric. With roots tracing back centuries, its rituals, customs and laws are guarded with strict confidentiality. Breaches of these traditions are considered sacrilegious, often met with severe and sometimes fatal consequences.
Alie Hassan Komeh’s troubles began when he became entangled in this cultural web. His uncle, a staunch member of the society, forcibly took him to the initiation bush; a secluded area where the Poro Society conducts its sacred ceremonies. Initiation into the society is a rite of passage for many young men in Sierra Leone, but it is also shrouded in mystery and fear for outsiders.
Despite his resistance, Alie Hassan Komeh, was coerced into witnessing rituals meant exclusively for initiated members. These rituals are considered deeply sacred and the presence of an uninitiated individual is regarded as a grave transgression. In the dead of night, overwhelmed with fear and desperation, Alie Hassan Komeh, made a daring escape from the initiation bush.
Fleeing Magburuka, he sought refuge with a compassionate stranger who helped him reach Freetown. However, his escape incited the wrath of his uncle and the Poro Society. His uncle, enraged by the perceived dishonor, launched a relentless campaign to track him down.
The first step was to lodge a formal complaint with the Sierra Leone Police. Fabricated charges of grand theft and other offenses were filed against Alie Hassan Komeh, branding him as a criminal in the eyes of the law. The police declared him wanted, amplifying his vulnerability. Simultaneously, influential elders in Magburuka, including the Paramount Chief, filed a separate complaint accusing him of violating sacred Poro Society traditions. These accusations, though rooted in cultural beliefs, carry life-threatening implications. His plight was first captured and reported by a local tabloid in Freetown on April 5,2021 as it was intimated by residents to one of our ace reporters, Alvin Kargbo who was on a three-day assignment in Magburuka to cover a groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of a community centre and the commissioning of a six classroom building by an International Non-Governmental Organization in that part of the country.
The gravity of the situation escalated on July 10, 2024, when Alie Hassan Komeh, born was once again declared wanted, this time with a renewed vigor from both the police and the Poro Society. His predicament had become a chilling tale of being hunted by two powerful forces: the formal legal system and a traditional institution capable of exacting brutal justice.
Alie Hassan Komeh’s plight highlights the peril of living at the intersection of tradition and modernity. If apprehended by the Poro Society, he faces the very real possibility of torture or even death. The society views his actions not merely as a personal affront but as a violation of its core principles; a betrayal that demands retribution.
On the other hand, being caught by the police presents its own risks. The fabricated charges leveled against him by his uncle could lead to imprisonment, further compounded by his limited resources to mount a defense. In a legal system where influence and connections can overshadow fairness, Alie Hassan Komeh’s chances of a fair trial appear slim.
Adding to his woes, the cultural stigma surrounding his alleged transgressions isolates him further. Even those who might sympathize with his plight are reluctant to intervene, fearing repercussions from the powerful Poro Society.
Despite his desperate escape, Alie Hassan Komeh, remains a wanted man. His exact whereabouts are unknown, but speculation among residents of Magburuka suggests he may still be in hiding somewhere in Sierra Leone. The pursuit, however, has not waned. In July 2024, the search for him intensified, with his name resurfacing in police announcements and local tabloid reports.
The relentless hunt for Alie Hassan Komeh is a testament to the enduring influence of cultural institutions like the Poro Society in Sierra Leone. It also underscores the potential misuse of legal mechanisms to settle personal and cultural vendettas, as evidenced by his uncle’s fabricated accusations.
Alie Hassan Komeh’s case has drawn the attention of human rights advocates and legal experts, who argue that his situation demands urgent intervention. They emphasize the need for a balanced approach that respects cultural traditions while safeguarding individual rights.
Legal experts have called for an impartial investigation into the charges against him, insisting that due process must be followed to ensure justice. At the same time, human rights organizations are urging authorities to address the broader issue of cultural practices that conflict with fundamental human rights.
The Government of Sierra Leone is being urged to mediate between the Poro Society and individuals like Alie Hassan Komeh, who find themselves at odds with its traditions. Advocacy groups argue that such mediation could pave the way for a more harmonious coexistence between traditional practices and the rule of law.
As Alie Hassan Komeh, born remains in hiding, his future is fraught with uncertainty. The dual threats of legal prosecution and cultural retribution weigh heavily on him. His story is a sobering reminder of the dangers faced by individuals caught between the demands of tradition and the complexities of modern legal systems.
It also raises critical questions about the role of cultural institutions in contemporary society and the extent to which they should influence individual rights and freedoms.
The case of Alie Hassan Komeh serves as a wake-up call for Sierra Leonean society. It highlights the urgent need to address the tensions between deeply ingrained cultural practices and the principles of justice and human rights.
For Alie Hassan Komeh the stakes could not be higher. His life and freedom depend on a swift and balanced resolution to his plight. The question remains: will Sierra Leone rise to the occasion and reconcile the demands of tradition with the imperatives of justice or will Alie Hassan Komeh become yet another victim of a system where cultural norms and legal frameworks are at odds?
His story is a powerful reminder that no one should have to choose between their life and their principles. The time for action is now, before it is too late for Alie Hassan Komeh.
In a landmark decision, Sierra Leone’s Parliament has ratified a Concession Agreement with Gento Group of Companies (SL) Limited for the development of a state-of-the-art seaport project. The agreement, passed on July 11th, 2024, marks a significant milestone in the country’s infrastructure development and economic growth strategy.
The project, located in the Dublin and Ricket communities of Banana Island and Kent, respectively, aims to establish a world-class seaport facility. According to the Speaker of Parliament, The Right Honourable Solomon Sengehpoh Thomas, the project holds immense promise for Sierra Leone, emphasizing its potential to enhance national revenue streams and bolster economic stability.
The Deputy Speaker, Hon. Ibrahim Tawa Conteh, urged financial institutions to provide robust support for the seaport’s realization, underscoring its pivotal role in transforming Sierra Leone into a regional transshipment hub.
Hon. Aaron Aruna Koroma highlighted the historical significance of the project, noting it as the first 100% Sierra Leonean-owned initiative of its scale. He praised Gento Group’s CEO, Mohamed Gento Kamara, for his vision and commitment to national development, foreseeing substantial benefits in terms of job creation, economic stimulation and infrastructure enhancement.
Hon. Abdul Karim Kamara, Opposition Whip pointed out that they have seen school, community center and health center constructed in the project area before commencement of the project.
“We have seen effective community involvement and participation. The company is ours and we should own it as it will empower our people, especially young people. I see economic growth based on this agreement,” he continued.
Hon. Dixon Rogers, Chief Whip of Parliament, said the agreement is for all Sierra Leoneans. “It will boost tourism potential, maintain the old edifice that is in Banana Island, it will support community development, create businesses and provide $50,000 annually for community development for the people,” he stated saying whatever they can do as a Government to support the project they must do.
Members of Parliament echoed these sentiments, affirming their oversight commitment to ensure the project’s transparent and efficient implementation.
Minister of Transport and Aviation, Alhaji Fanday Turay, outlined the strategic importance of the seaport in meeting the country’s burgeoning trade demands. With a natural deep-water harbor boasting a depth of 23 meters—the deepest in Africa—the facility is poised to accommodate significant cargo volumes, potentially handling up to 60 million tons annually. The Minister emphasized the project’s alignment with global standards, anticipating a substantial economic impact through job creation and revenue generation.
The seaport is expected to commence operations within three years, with projections indicating initial profitability margins and long-term economic benefits. It is positioned to attract international shipping lines, bolster export capabilities and streamline import processes, thereby reducing costs of goods, services and enhancing national competitiveness.
Environmental sustainability remains a priority, with comprehensive measures in place to mitigate ecological impacts. Local communities are set to benefit through employment opportunities and community development initiatives, underlining Gento Group’s commitment to inclusive growth.
Alhaji Fanday Turay reiterated the seaport project as a cornerstone of President Julius Maada Bio’s vision for national progress and prosperity. The unanimous ratification by Parliament underscores bipartisan support for advancing Sierra Leone’s infrastructure and economic landscape into a new era of growth.
The approval of the Gento 100% Sierra Leonean Seaport Project signals a transformative phase in the nation’s development trajectory, promising far-reaching benefits for generations to come.
First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, a distinguished human rights activist, writer and artist, has become a beacon of hope and progress in Sierra Leone. Serving as the First Lady of the Republic of Sierra Leone, she is renowned for her unwavering dedication to women’s empowerment, public health, and social development across the African continent.
Dr. Fatima Bio has been a vocal advocate for gender equality, championing the rights of women and girls from the grassroots level to the United Nations. Her flagship “Hands Off Our Girls” initiative has made significant strides in reducing sexual and gender-based violence, early marriage, teenage pregnancy and child trafficking in Sierra Leone and beyond. The First Lady’s efforts have raised public awareness about crucial issues such as HIV/AIDS and cancer, enhanced access to justice and ensured the availability of free sanitary pads for school children.
In a monumental move, Dr. Fatima Bio spearheaded the transformation of the “34 Military Hospital” in Freetown. This facility has expanded from a 70-bed medical center to a 600-bed multipurpose hospital complex, featuring a Centre of Excellence dedicated to the care of survivors of sexual and gender-based violence. This ultramodern hospital is now the largest in the country, equipped with the latest medical technology and state-of-the-art facilities, promising top-quality healthcare for the people of Sierra Leone.
The hospital includes a Nursing School aimed at training a new generation of healthcare professionals, as well as a dedicated Center of Excellence for Survivors of Rape Victims, providing comprehensive care including medical treatment, psychological support and legal assistance. The hospital’s specialized wards for men, women and children ensure that all patients receive tailored care in a comfortable and secure environment.
Her leadership in healthcare extends beyond hospital walls. In 2023, she was appointed the Champion for Adolescent Girls and Young Women by the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV and AIDS (UNAIDS). Her advocacy for the Education Plus initiative, launched by UNAIDS, UNESCO, UNICEF, UNFPA and UN Women, seeks to prevent HIV infections through free, quality secondary education for all African children, supported by comprehensive empowerment programs.
Her commitment to education is unwavering. Recognizing its power to uplift individuals and communities, Dr. Fatima Bio has advocated for improved access to education, enhanced school infrastructure and scholarship programs, opening doors of opportunity for countless young minds.
The First Lady’s dedication to social welfare and community development is reflected in her multifaceted initiatives. Through strategic partnerships and grassroots engagement, she continues to drive progress, inspire hope and foster resilience across Sierra Leone. Her efforts were honored during the 18th Graduation Ceremony of the Regional Maritime University in Accra, Ghana, where she received an Honorary Doctor of Letters degree for her contributions as a gender advocate and role model.
Her Excellency’s international advocacy for survivors of rape, the fight against menstrual stigmas and the enactment of laws prohibiting child marriage and promoting gender empowerment highlight her relentless pursuit of justice and equality. Dr. Fatima Bio calls for enforceable laws and policies to punish discrimination and urges stakeholders to act decisively for the inclusion and meaningful participation of women in all sectors, including the maritime industry.
Dr. Bio’s visionary leadership and tireless efforts have earned her recognition as a catalyst for societal transformation. Her initiatives have touched the lives of countless individuals, driving positive change and shaping a brighter, more equitable future for Sierra Leone and beyond.
As Sierra Leone continues its journey of growth and development under President Bio’s leadership, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio’s role remains instrumental in shaping the nation’s future. Her courage, compassion, and relentless pursuit of positive change make her a beacon of inspiration and a driving force for progress, embodying the hope and resilience of Sierra Leone.
