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As Turkish Airlines Deploys Larger Aircraft to Resolve Baggage Backlog… SLCAA Confirms Successful Arrival of Delayed Luggage Following Dreamliner Operation

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Turkish Airlines on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, deployed a larger aircraft to Freetown International Airport (FIA) as part of efforts to resolve the issue of passengers’ luggage left behind on its previous flight to Sierra Leone.

The airline operated a Boeing 787 Dreamliner on the route, significantly increasing cargo capacity. As a result, the majority of delayed baggage was successfully transported to FIA, with only a few passengers’ items remaining outstanding.

Confirming the development, the Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), Musayeroh Barrie, said the action fulfilled earlier commitments made by the airline and aviation authorities.

“True to our word and the arrangements announced earlier this month in our press release, Turkish Airlines deployed the B787 Dreamliner to address the left baggage issue,” Barrie stated.

She assured affected passengers that systems are in place to ensure the remaining luggage is delivered promptly and advised them to contact Sea Coach or Turkish Airlines directly for updates and further assistance.

The intervention follows weeks of coordination between the SLCAA and the airline to address passenger concerns and improve service delivery, particularly during the busy end-of-year travel period.

Barrie also used the opportunity to extend seasonal goodwill to travelers and the general public, wishing everyone happy holidays as air traffic continues to increase during the festive season.

The SLCAA has reiterated its commitment to protecting passenger rights and working closely with international airlines to ensure efficient, safe, and reliable air transport services to and from Sierra Leone.

Vice President Says $129 Million U.S. Health Pact Reflects Deepening Sierra Leone–U.S. Relations

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leone has on December 22, 2025 signed a landmark five-year health cooperation agreement with the United States, unlocking more than $129 million in support to strengthen health infrastructure, combat infectious diseases, and consolidate recent gains in reducing maternal and child mortality.

Vice President Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh described the agreement as a major boost to the country’s public health agenda, noting that the resources will have a transformative impact over the next half-decade. He said the funding will significantly improve health facilities nationwide, enhance disease surveillance and response, and accelerate progress in safeguarding the lives of women, children, and adolescents.

Speaking in his capacity as Chair for health sector coordination and decentralization, the Vice President said he is actively supporting government initiatives to increase health spending and strengthen primary health care in line with Sierra Leone’s newly endorsed health compact. “These resources provided by the U.S. government are crucial to our efforts to improve healthcare services, particularly for women, children, and adolescents,” he said, adding that the partnership reflects strong bilateral collaboration across multiple sectors.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), covering the period 2026–2030, was signed in Freetown by Sierra Leone’s Minister of Health and the U.S. Chargé d’Affaires, making Sierra Leone one of a select group of African countries to enter into such a comprehensive global health partnership with Washington.

Minister of Health Austin Demby welcomed the agreement, calling it a “massive boost” that will deliver measurable and sustainable outcomes. He said the partnership aligns with national priorities to improve service delivery at community level, expand access to essential medicines and diagnostics, and strengthen the health workforce.

Under the agreement, both governments have set ambitious targets to sharply reduce maternal and child mortality and curb deaths from HIV, tuberculosis, malaria, and measles. Specific goals include achieving near-universal HIV testing and treatment coverage, improving routine immunization, and enhancing the country’s capacity to detect and respond to disease outbreaks within seven days—a critical benchmark for epidemic preparedness.

The Vice President also highlighted the broader context of U.S.–Sierra Leone cooperation, citing ongoing collaboration in areas such as energy and infrastructure, including a $480 million Millennium Challenge Corporation–funded compact. He expressed appreciation to the U.S. Embassy Sierra Leone for its continued support and to Minister Demby for leading the technical work that culminated in the signing.

Health sector stakeholders say the new funding will accelerate decentralization reforms by channeling resources closer to communities, improving primary care facilities, and strengthening data systems for accountability and results. With sustained implementation, officials believe the agreement will mark a decisive step toward resilient, people-centered healthcare and improved health outcomes nationwide.

Chief Justice Kamanda Reflects on One Year in Office, Reaffirms Drive for Judicial Transformation

Chief Justice Komba Kamanda

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Chief Justice Komba Kamanda has used the first anniversary of his tenure to take stock of progress made within Sierra Leone’s Judiciary, highlighting key reforms while renewing his pledge to deepen public confidence in the justice system.

In a commemorative message marking December 16, 2024, the Chief Justice unveiled a special anniversary edition of The Judiciary magazine, a new institutional publication designed to chronicle reforms, achievements, and the collective journey of the courts over the past year. The publication, he explained, captures both the challenges faced and the milestones achieved under his leadership.

Justice Kamanda described the past year as one defined by deliberate efforts to modernize the Judiciary through decentralization, innovation, and improved access to justice. He noted that expanding judicial services beyond traditional centers and embracing new approaches to case management have been central to restoring confidence in the courts.

Addressing judges, magistrates, and judicial support staff across the country, the Chief Justice paid glowing tribute to their professionalism and dedication. He acknowledged their role in sustaining the rule of law under demanding conditions, emphasizing that their daily commitment continues to strengthen the credibility of the justice system.

According to Justice Kamanda, the reform agenda has not been without difficulty. However, he stressed that perseverance and teamwork have helped to establish a solid foundation for a Judiciary that is independent, transparent, and responsive to the needs of citizens. He expressed gratitude to all judicial officers and partners who supported the reform process, often in challenging environments.

“The progress we have recorded is the result of collective sacrifice and shared purpose,” the Chief Justice noted, adding that the Judiciary’s transformation is firmly underway, even as more work lies ahead.

Looking to the future, Justice Kamanda reaffirmed his resolve to promote judicial excellence, reinforce institutional accountability, and safeguard the integrity of the courts. He said strengthening public trust remains a priority, as confidence in the justice system is essential to national stability and democratic governance.

He described The Judiciary magazine as both a mirror and a compass—reflecting achievements already made while guiding the institution toward higher standards of service delivery. The publication, he said, should encourage reflection, learning, and renewed commitment among judicial officers at all levels.

Inviting the public to engage with the anniversary edition, the Chief Justice underscored that justice reform is not an abstract goal but a continuous process that directly affects the lives of ordinary Sierra Leoneans. He emphasized that steady progress, rather than quick fixes, is key to building a resilient and credible Judiciary.

As the Judiciary moves into its next phase, Justice Kamanda expressed confidence that the courts are on a clear path toward greater efficiency and fairness. He concluded by reaffirming that the justice system is advancing with purpose, driven by a shared vision of a stronger, people-centered Judiciary.

The first anniversary of Justice Kamanda’s tenure thus marks not only a moment of reflection, but also a renewed commitment to sustained reform and a brighter future for justice in Sierra Leone.

Tourism Ministry Calls for Citizen Participation in 2026 Cultural Celebration

Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Nabeela Farida Tunis

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leone has officially declared 2026 as the Year of Culture and Creativity, a landmark step designed to elevate culture, heritage, and creative enterprise into the mainstream of national development. The announcement was made by Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Nabeela Farida Tunis, who said the declaration reflects the country’s renewed pride in its identity, as well as the Government’s commitment to using cultural capital as a catalyst for unity, economic empowerment, and global recognition.

Speaking under the leadership and vision of President Julius Maada Bio, Minister Tunis described the Year of Culture and Creativity as “a powerful national declaration of who we are as a people, defined by resilience, innovation, and rich cultural diversity and heritage.” She emphasised that culture is not simply a social expression but a strategic asset that drives national progress.

The Ministry noted that the Year of Culture and Creativity affirms the central role of Sierra Leone’s culture in promoting peace, fostering national unity, and supporting inclusive economic growth. It also highlights the contribution of Sierra Leoneans—at home and abroad—in shaping a dynamic creative future grounded in tradition, innovation, and self-expression.

With this declaration, culture and creativity are being elevated as engines of transformation—supporting livelihoods, strengthening identity, and positioning Sierra Leone as a destination defined by both heritage and possibility. Traditional music, dance, storytelling, film, fashion, visual arts, languages, festivals, and the country’s vibrant tourism landscape are expected to receive wider national and international attention throughout 2026.

Minister Tunis stressed that the year represents a journey of renewal. She called on Sierra Leoneans, development partners, artists, entrepreneurs, civil society organisations, and the private sector to join hands in building a cultural movement capable of restoring dignity, creating jobs, and unlocking opportunities for present and future generations.

She highlighted that the Year of Culture and Creativity is especially significant for young people and women, who make up the backbone of Sierra Leone’s cultural and creative industries, yet often lack the investment, visibility, and market access needed to transform their talent into livelihoods.

The declaration is fully aligned with national development priorities outlined in government strategy frameworks and connected to global agendas on culture, sustainability, and inclusive growth.
According to the Ministry, Sierra Leone’s cultural and creative drive will be implemented in partnership with local institutions, international stakeholders, and diaspora networks, ensuring that the Year is both people-driven and globally relevant.

“This is not just a celebration—it is a national commitment,” Minister Tunis stated. She added that the initiative opens new pathways for investment opportunities, strengthens tourism competitiveness, and reinforces Sierra Leone’s image as a resilient, hospitable, and culturally vibrant nation.

In a portion of her message delivered in Krio, the Minister urged Sierra Leoneans across districts, chiefdoms, and communities to take ownership of the Year and safeguard Sierra Leone’s cultural identity.

“Leh we all kam together en hol we culture and creativity for betteh Salone. Enti una know say tourism business na all man business,” she said, reminding the public that cultural preservation, tourism promotion, and creative enterprise require national participation—not government efforts alone.

With preparations already underway, expectations are high that 2026 will energise heritage tourism, spotlight local talent, strengthen community identity, and advance the nation’s creative economy.

Stakeholders across the cultural sector have welcomed the announcement, describing it as long overdue and a bold step that places Sierra Leone among countries using culture as a tool for development, diplomacy, and global branding.

As Sierra Leone prepares to move into the Year of Culture and Creativity, citizens are being encouraged to reflect on who they are, celebrate what they have, and work collectively to shape the nation’s future—one in which culture is preserved, creativity is valued, and every Sierra Leonean feels part of the story.

Ministry of Youth Affairs Secures International Scholarships for Young Sierra Leoneans

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The Government of Sierra Leone, through the Ministry of Youth Affairs, has welcomed the approval of Sierra Leone as a beneficiary under the Global Goals 2030: Africa Scholarship Programme, a major international initiative aimed at expanding access to quality higher education for young Africans.

In an official press release issued on December 19, 2025, the Ministry confirmed receipt of an approval letter referenced GG30/EA958, which authorizes partially funded scholarships for eligible Sierra Leoneans to pursue internationally recognized academic programmes. The announcement marks a significant milestone in the country’s drive to invest in human capital development, digital transformation, and youth empowerment.

According to the Ministry, the scholarship programme aligns with Sierra Leone’s National Development Agenda and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in the areas of education, innovation, financial inclusion, governance, and private sector development.

Under the Global Goals 2030: Africa Scholarship Programme, several undergraduate and postgraduate courses have been approved and made available to Sierra Leonean applicants who meet the eligibility criteria. The approved programmes are offered through reputable institutions in the United States and are delivered via online asynchronous learning platforms, making them accessible to students within Sierra Leone.

The approved courses include:

  • BSc in Computer Science (100 slots) – Florida Memorial University, USA
  • BSc in Cyber Security (100 slots) – Florida Memorial University, USA
  • BSc in Information Systems (50 slots) – California Institute for Applied Financial Sciences, USA
  • BSc in Finance (50 slots) – California Institute for Applied Financial Sciences, USA
  • MSc in Business Administration (100 slots) – California Institute for Applied Financial Sciences, USA

All programmes will be delivered online, with examinations and assessments also conducted online, providing flexibility for working professionals and students across the country.

The Ministry of Youth Affairs noted that the selected programmes are strategically aligned with Sierra Leone’s development priorities, particularly in technology, innovation, financial systems, governance, and private sector growth. The initiative is expected to equip young Sierra Leoneans with globally competitive skills and competencies that will enhance employability and contribute meaningfully to national development.

“This approval represents a clear demonstration of the Government’s commitment to creating opportunities for young people to access quality education that meets global standards,” the Ministry stated. “It also reinforces Sierra Leone’s growing recognition as a partner country in prestigious international development initiatives.”

The Ministry clarified that the scholarship is partially funded. Successful applicants will be required to contribute up to 10 percent of the total programme cost, which will be charged by the host universities. The remaining 90 percent of the tuition cost will be covered by Global Goals 2030, significantly reducing the financial burden on beneficiaries.

This cost-sharing arrangement is intended to promote ownership and commitment among beneficiaries while ensuring broad access to the programme.

Interested and qualified Sierra Leonean youths are encouraged to take advantage of the opportunity by submitting their applications online. Applicants are required to provide all supporting documents, including:

  • A recommendation letter
  • A motivation letter
  • WASSCE results
  • A valid National Identification Card or passport bio page
  • Relevant academic transcripts for applicants seeking admission into the Master’s programme

Applications must be submitted via the official Ministry email: info@moya.gov.sl.

The deadline for submission of all applications has been set for Tuesday, January 20, 2026. The Ministry also advised applicants who had submitted applications through a previous portal to resubmit their documents using the newly provided contact details.

The Government of Sierra Leone, through the Ministry of Youth Affairs, expressed appreciation to the Global Goals 2030 initiative for recognizing Sierra Leone as a beneficiary country under the scholarship scheme. The Ministry described the programme as a valuable contribution to national capacity building and long-term development.

Qualified and interested youths across the country have been urged to apply promptly and ensure that all required documents are submitted before the deadline.

For further information, applicants are advised to contact Mr. Henry King of the Ministry of Youth Affairs via email at henry.king@moya.gov.sl or by phone on +232 80 691447.

The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to supporting youth-focused initiatives that expand access to education, promote innovation, and empower the next generation of leaders to drive Sierra Leone’s development agenda forward.

Shalimar Trading Rings in 2026 with Renewed Commitment to Mobility, Growth and Customer Value

By Foday Moriba Conteh

As Sierra Leone ushers in 2026, Shalimar Trading Limited is celebrating a year of remarkable growth and innovation, while reaffirming its pledge to deliver affordable, reliable and world-class transportation solutions to customers nationwide.

Over the past year, Shalimar Trading has continued to redefine Sierra Leone’s motorcycle and light-transport market through its exclusive partnership with TVS Motor Company, one of India’s most respected motorcycle manufacturers headquartered in Chennai. As India’s third-largest motorcycle producer, TVS is globally renowned for cutting-edge engineering, fuel efficiency and durability—qualities that have resonated strongly with Sierra Leonean riders.

As the sole authorized distributor of TVS motorcycles and three-wheelers in Sierra Leone, Shalimar Trading has expanded access to dependable mobility solutions for both private individuals and commercial operators. With an ever-growing nationwide distribution and service network, the company has strengthened its position as a key driver of transportation development and economic activity.

Throughout 2025, customers continued to embrace Shalimar’s diverse TVS product range. The TVS Star LX remained a household favorite for its outstanding fuel economy, rugged build and low maintenance cost—ideal for daily commuting. Professionals seeking comfort and style relied on the TVS Victor, while urban riders navigating busy city roads found smooth convenience in the TVS Jupiter scooter.

In the commercial transport segment, the TVS King Deluxe tricycle stood out as a reliable multi-passenger option, supporting families and entrepreneurs alike. The rugged TVS Star HLX series—including the 100ES, 100KS and 150cc models—continued to dominate both urban and rural routes, trusted by riders for their resilience and load-bearing strength.

Performance lovers were not left out. The TVS Apache RTR 200 thrilled speed enthusiasts with its precision handling and power, while younger, style-conscious riders gravitated toward the TVS NEO XR and TVS ZT 125, bikes designed to combine modern aesthetics with road-ready toughness. Meanwhile, the versatile TVS XL 100 moped remained indispensable to families and small businesses, thanks to its practicality, strength and impressive fuel efficiency.

Beyond products, Shalimar Trading deepened customer confidence through expanded service centers, guaranteed genuine spare parts and a strong customer-first culture. This commitment has helped position TVS as one of the most trusted motorcycle brands in Sierra Leone.

Shalimar Trading’s success story also extends beyond TVS. The company proudly distributes globally respected brands such as Suzuki, Sonalika International, Isuzu, CFMOTO and Leyland, reinforcing its leadership in the wider automotive sector. With operations now stretching into Liberia, Shalimar is steadily contributing to transportation development across West Africa.

As 2026 begins, Shalimar Trading thanks its customers, partners and staff for their unwavering support and looks ahead with optimism—focused on innovation, expansion and empowering communities through mobility.

Contact Information
📍 39A Freetown Road, Freetown
📞 +232 76 308184
🔔 Follow Shalimar Trading on Facebook and Instagram for New Year promotions, updates and product announcements.

Happy New Year 2026 from Shalimar Trading Limited — Driving Progress, One Ride at a Time.

Bonthe Island Hosts President Bio for Christmas Mass, Development Commitments Reaffirmed

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

President Julius Maada Bio spent Christmas Day in Bonthe Island where he joined the Catholic faithful for the Holy Mass and used the occasion to reaffirm his administration’s commitment to the sustainable development of island communities, particularly Bonthe, while also calling on Sierra Leoneans to embrace unity, compassion, and shared responsibility for national progress.

The President worshipped alongside priests, parishioners, traditional authorities, local government officials, and residents at the Catholic Church on Bonthe Island, continuing a Christmas tradition he has maintained over the years. Church leaders described his presence as a powerful demonstration of humility, faith, and solidarity with ordinary citizens, especially those living in geographically isolated areas.

In welcoming remarks delivered on behalf of the parish, church authorities congratulated President Bio on his growing international and regional leadership roles and offered prayers for divine wisdom, strength, and protection over him and his family. They also expressed appreciation to Fatima Maada Bio for supporting the renovation of the parish house, a historic structure more than a century old that has now been rehabilitated into a modern and functional facility for clergy and church administration.

The parish address further highlighted what it described as tangible development gains in Bonthe District under the current administration. Particular emphasis was placed on progress in education and healthcare, including the implementation of the Free Quality School Education Programme, the deployment of digital learning tools such as tablets to support literacy, upgrades to hospital infrastructure, and continued investment in the Free Health Care Initiative for pregnant women, lactating mothers, and young children.

Community representatives also acknowledged improvements in security on the island, noting that increased military and security presence has enhanced safety and confidence among residents. At the same time, they raised concerns about unresolved challenges facing the district, including shortages of healthcare personnel, limited internet connectivity, delays in fully operationalising the township electrification project, and the urgent need to complete strategic infrastructure such as the long-awaited Gbongboma–Bonthe Bridge.

Responding during his engagement with the congregation, President Bio acknowledged the concerns raised and reiterated his administration’s commitment to inclusive development. He noted that while government resources are constrained, national development must be pursued progressively and equitably.

“Development is a process. We may not address every challenge at once, but we remain committed to moving steadily and deliberately to improve lives,” the President stated.

He stressed that the completion of the Gbongboma–Bonthe Bridge remains a national priority, describing it as essential to the island’s economic survival, improved access to markets and services, and long-term integration into the national economy.

Following the church service, President Bio joined local authorities for a civic ceremony during which a major street—formerly known as Heddle Road—was officially renamed Julius Maada Bio Road. The Mayor of Bonthe, His Worship Mohamed Robinson, explained that the decision was endorsed by the Bonthe City Council and community stakeholders in recognition of the President’s development interventions and sustained engagement with the island.

President Bio accepted the honour with humility, describing it as a collective recognition of partnership between government and the people of Bonthe. He said the gesture served as a reminder of the shared responsibility to preserve development gains and work together for the district’s future.

Beyond his engagements on Bonthe Island, President Bio also addressed the nation in his annual Christmas Day broadcast, using the festive platform to reflect on the state of the nation and to outline values needed to advance Sierra Leone’s development agenda. The nationwide message, transmitted on radio and television throughout the day, blended the spiritual meaning of Christmas with a call for national unity and resilience.

In his address, the President extended warm Christmas greetings to Sierra Leoneans at home and abroad, reminding citizens that the season symbolizes reflection, compassion, and collective renewal.

“As we celebrate the birth of Christ, we are reminded of the values that hold us together as a people—love, empathy, and unity of purpose,” he said.

President Bio acknowledged the economic pressures facing households, including global inflationary trends and domestic structural challenges, but emphasized that these difficulties can be overcome through solidarity and shared sacrifice. He reaffirmed his government’s commitment to strengthening economic resilience, expanding opportunities for young people, and improving the delivery of essential public services.

The President paid special tribute to frontline workers—healthcare professionals, teachers, farmers, security personnel, and civil servants—describing them as the backbone of national stability and progress. He also commended the contributions of Sierra Leoneans in the diaspora, whose remittances, expertise, and international engagement continue to support national development.

A central theme of the broadcast was social cohesion. President Bio urged citizens to reject division and intolerance, especially in a period characterized by heightened political debate, and instead embrace mutual respect and peaceful coexistence.

“Our strength as a nation lies not in our differences, but in our ability to live together in harmony as Sierra Leoneans,” he emphasized.

As he concluded his Christmas message, President Bio called on families and communities to support the vulnerable, promote peace, and approach the New Year with renewed hope and determination. He encouraged citizens to anchor their actions in integrity, compassion, and a shared commitment to nation-building.

President Bio’s Christmas Day engagements—both on Bonthe Island and through his national address—once again underscored his administration’s focus on inclusive development, community engagement, and the enduring importance of unity as Sierra Leone charts its path toward sustainable growth and social transformation.

As He Feeds Over 300 Children in Makeni… EBK Trophy Festivities Highlight Growing Grassroots Support for Chericoco in Northern Sierra Leone

Hon. Chernor Ramadan Bah

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Hon. Chernor Ramadan Bah, popularly known as Chericoco, is steadily consolidating his position as one of the most influential and widely respected figures within the All People’s Congress (APC), as political conversations intensify ahead of Sierra Leone’s 2028 general elections. A seasoned lawyer, experienced parliamentarian, and long-time party stalwart, Chericoco is increasingly being described by supporters and political observers as a unifying leader capable of steering the APC into a new era of national relevance and electoral success.

Born on April 29, 1972, Hon. Chernor Ramadan Bah has spent over two decades in public service, building a reputation grounded in loyalty, consistency, and people-centred leadership. Currently serving as Leader of the Opposition, he has previously held the position of Deputy Speaker of Parliament and remains one of the longest-serving Members of Parliament in the country. His political journey, marked by resilience and dedication, has placed him at the heart of Sierra Leone’s democratic evolution.

A powerful blend of sport, culture, and politics unfolded in Makeni during the just-concluded EBK Trophy, when an unexpected but deeply symbolic moment captured national attention. At the Wusum Mini Stadium, competitive football briefly gave way to tradition as Hon. Chericoco was ceremonially crowned Pa Alimamy of Football during the second half of play.

Traditional authorities and community representatives entered the pitch to perform the crowning ceremony, presenting him with a traditional cloth amid thunderous applause from the crowd. The moment transformed the stadium atmosphere into a celebration of culture, unity, and appreciation for a leader many described as “the people’s pillar.”

The title Pa Alimamy is traditionally reserved for individuals known for integrity, generosity, and strong leadership. For many in attendance, the honour symbolised Chericoco’s longstanding contributions to youth empowerment, sports development, and community cohesion across the Northern Region and beyond.

Beyond ceremonial recognition, Chericoco’s impact continues to be felt most strongly at the grassroots level. On Friday, December 26, 2025, he once again hosted more than 300 less-privileged children at the Makeni City Council Auditorium as part of his annual Feed the Children Programme.

The Boxing Day initiative, which has become a cherished tradition in Makeni, brought together children from different communities for a special meal and moments of joy. The programme began during the tenure of former Mayor Sunkarie Kabba-Kamara and has been sustained for over a decade through Chericoco’s personal commitment.

Makeni Mayor Abubakarr Lamtales Kamara, addressing the gathering, praised the consistency of the initiative, describing it as a lifeline for many families during challenging economic times. “When many parents struggle to provide decent meals for their children, this programme offers relief, dignity, and happiness,” the Mayor said.

In a gesture that deeply moved onlookers, Chericoco personally served food to the children, sharing smiles and words of encouragement. He urged them to prioritise education, stay away from drugs, alcohol, and cigarettes, and to report any negative influences to parents or teachers. He cited former President Ernest Bai Koroma as an example of discipline, perseverance, and national service.

One of the beneficiaries, Aminata Conteh, expressed gratitude on behalf of the children, saying the event made them feel loved and remembered. “We are very happy today. Hon. Chericoco made sure we are well fed and smiling,” she said.

The EBK Trophy festivities also provided a vivid display of Chericoco’s growing grassroots support. On Christmas Day, multiple support groups turned out in large numbers for the EBK Trophy Health Walk and Grand Final at the Wusum Hotel and Wusum Stadium.

Dressed in party colours and branded outfits, groups such as the Coco Queens, Coco Ladies, Chericoco Medical Team, and Coco Babes marched, danced, and sang songs celebrating their leader. Their peaceful engagement with the public added vibrancy to the event while reinforcing messages of unity, continuity, and hope.

Observers noted that the turnout reflected not only political strength but also genuine appreciation for Chericoco’s role in sustaining the legacy of former President Ernest Bai Koroma and supporting development initiatives in Makeni. Videos from the event showed the Coco Ladies, led by CEO Mam-K, dancing joyfully as the tournament concluded.

Adding further significance to the celebrations, the Coco Queens marked their one-year anniversary during the 16th edition of the EBK Trophy. The dynamic women’s support group used the occasion to celebrate their milestone and reaffirm their commitment to Chericoco’s leadership journey.

From coordinating logistics to providing food and refreshments, the Coco Queens played an active role throughout the festivities. Members described the anniversary as a moment to re-energise their movement and strengthen networks inspired by Chericoco’s humility, consistency, and loyalty to the APC’s core values.

“This is not just about celebrating one year,” one member noted. “It is about standing firmly behind a leader we believe can unite the party and the nation.”

Within APC circles, Chericoco is increasingly viewed as one of the party’s most marketable and unifying figures. He has served as a two-time running mate in the 2018 and 2023 elections and has over 15 years of parliamentary experience. Supporters point to his advocacy for democracy, women’s and children’s rights, youth empowerment, and education as defining elements of his public service.

His ability to connect across regional, ethnic, and religious lines is often cited as one of his greatest strengths. Additionally, his family ties to the Eastern Region through his wife from Kenema District are seen by political analysts as a strategic advantage in building nationwide appeal ahead of 2028.

As the APC reflects on its future direction, many youths, stalwarts, and community leaders are openly expressing confidence in Chericoco’s leadership. For them, his blend of experience, compassion, and vision represents the leadership style needed to rejuvenate the party and inspire a new generation.

From cultural honours on the football field to feeding children on Boxing Day and mobilising support groups during national festivities, Hon. Chernor Ramadan Bah continues to reinforce his image as a leader grounded in service and connection with the people.

As Sierra Leone gradually approaches another critical electoral cycle, the APC faces key decisions about unity, leadership, and vision. In the eyes of his supporters, Chericoco stands at the centre of that conversation—seen not just as a politician, but as a bridge between the party’s legacy and its aspirations for national renewal.

High Court Jails Two NRA Customs Officers Over Bribery at Queen Elizabeth Quay

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has secured the conviction of two customs officers of the National Revenue Authority (NRA), Akmed Karim and Mary Banya, on two counts of corruption offences, following a High Court judgment delivered in Freetown.

The conviction was handed down on Thursday, December 18, 2025, by the High Court of Sierra Leone sitting in Freetown, presided over by the Honourable Justice Aiah Simeon Alieu, JA. The court found Akmed Karim, of No. 49 Matindi House, Brookfields, Freetown, and Mary Banya, of No. 26 Parsonage Street, Kissy, Freetown, guilty on two counts each of corruption-related offences.

Both convicts were customs officers attached to the National Revenue Authority and were, at the time of the offence, stationed at Queen Elizabeth Quay II in Freetown. They were charged and convicted on two counts of Soliciting an Advantage and Accepting an Advantage, contrary to Section 28(2) of the Anti-Corruption Act No. 12 of 2008.

According to the evidence presented by the prosecution, the offences were committed on February 28, 2019. The court heard that Akmed Karim and Mary Banya jointly solicited and received the sum of Two Million, Five Hundred Thousand Old Leones (Le 2,500,000) from a staff member of Bolloré Logistics. The illicit payment was demanded in order to facilitate and fast-track the clearing process of a 40-foot container owned by Juan Ruiz, an American businessman.

The Anti-Corruption Commission, through its prosecution team, adduced what the court described as sufficient and credible evidence to establish the elements of the offences beyond reasonable doubt. The prosecution demonstrated that the accused persons abused their positions as public officers by demanding and receiving an unlawful advantage in the course of performing their official duties.

In delivering sentence, the Honourable Justice Aiah Simeon Alieu imposed a custodial sentence of three years’ imprisonment on each of the convicts. Alternatively, the court ordered that each convict may pay a fine of Sixty Thousand New Leones (NLe 60,000) on the two counts.

The conviction is being hailed by the Anti-Corruption Commission as another significant milestone in its sustained efforts to combat bribery, abuse of office, and other corrupt practices within public institutions, particularly at revenue-generating points of entry such as the ports.

In a statement following the judgment, the Commission reassured the general public of its unwavering commitment to fighting corruption at all levels, emphasizing that no public officer is above the law. The ACC reiterated that it will continue to investigate, prosecute, and secure convictions against individuals who abuse their offices for personal gain, regardless of their status or position.

The Commission further encouraged members of the public and the business community to report all acts of bribery and corruption, assuring them of confidentiality and protection under the law. According to the ACC, public cooperation remains critical in strengthening integrity, accountability, and transparency in public service.

The case forms part of the ACC’s broader anti-corruption drive aimed at promoting good governance, safeguarding public resources, and restoring public confidence in state institutions.

Magistrate Hadiru Daboh Commits Four Drug Suspects to High Court in Kenema

By Ibrahim Sesay

Four defendants accused of possession and use of illegal drugs have been committed to stand trial at the High Court of Sierra Leone following a ruling by Magistrate Hadiru Daboh at the Kenema Magistrate Court.

The committal, which took place on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, is in line with the enforcement of the National Drugs Control Act No. 10 of 2008 and recent Practice Directions issued by the Chief Justice of Sierra Leone, Hon. Justice Kumba Kamanda, aimed at ensuring the speedy trial of drug and drug-related offences across the country.

According to the prosecution, the four accused persons were arraigned for offences contrary to Section 8(a) of the National Drugs Control Act, which criminalises the possession and use of controlled substances. The suspects were arrested on different dates in Kenema City and surrounding communities with substances suspected to be kush and cannabis sativa.

One of the defendants, Musa Sannoh, a resident of 3 Kpasamoi Street in Kenema City, was allegedly found in possession of 26 wraps of kush on December 2, 2025. Another accused, Cherinoh Sannoh, a Sierra Leonean civil servant from Pandebu Town in Kenema District, was arrested on November 30, 2025, with quantities of dried leaves suspected to be cannabis sativa.

The third defendant, Moinina Musa, who resides at 10 Pujeboi Street in Kenema City, was apprehended on November 3, 2025, in possession of dried leaves believed to be kush. Meanwhile, Tamba Nyuma, a resident of 13 Kpasamoi Street in Kenema City, was arrested on December 1, 2025, with 26 wraps of kush, according to police testimony.

During the proceedings, no pleas were taken from the accused persons. Magistrate Daboh declined to grant bail, citing the seriousness of the offences and the need to comply with the Chief Justice’s directive on expediting drug-related cases. The four defendants were subsequently remanded at the Sierra Leone Correctional Centre in Kenema pending their appearance before the High Court.

In delivering his ruling, Magistrate Hadiru Daboh stated that he had carefully examined the evidence presented by the prosecution and was satisfied that a prima facie case had been established against all four defendants. He noted that the prosecution had fully discharged its responsibility at the committal stage, leaving the court with no alternative but to commit the matters to the High Court for trial.

The cases were prosecuted by Police Sergeant David Idriss of the Legal and Justice Support Department, attached to the Kenema Police Division.

The committal forms part of broader national efforts by law enforcement agencies and the judiciary to address the growing challenge of drug abuse and trafficking, particularly the increasing prevalence of kush and other narcotic substances. Authorities have repeatedly warned that drug-related crimes pose serious risks to public health, security, and social stability, especially among young people.

Legal observers say the swift handling of the cases demonstrates the judiciary’s commitment to upholding the law and supporting government efforts to combat drug abuse through decisive legal action.

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