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ID Card Deadline Extended to June 28, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) has issued an important reminder to the public that the deadline to obtain National, ECOWAS and Non-National ID Cards has been extended to June 28, 2024.  According to NCRA the extension aims to provide additional time for all residents to secure their ID cards in accordance with the Cabinet Directive Ratified by Parliament in March 2022.

NCRA maintains that obtaining the ID cards is not just a bureaucratic requirement but it is a critical step for accessing a wide range of essential services. It added that each card must be linked to the National Identification Number (NIN), a unique identifier that ensures streamlined service provision and personal identification. The institution informed that the NIN is a key player for various activities including financial transactions, vehicle registration, recruitment processes, enrollment in the National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT), and SIM card registration.

According to NCRA, the initial deadline for obtaining the ID cards was set earlier, but recognizing the challenges faced by many in meeting this requirement, they extended the deadline to June 28, 2024. It furthered that the extension is a significant let off, aimed at ensuring comprehensive compliance and giving everyone ample opportunity to obtain their necessary documentation.

The institution further stated that starting July 1, 2024, it will, in collaboration with the Security Sector,  enforce strict compliance measures adding that the enforcement will ensure that all residents, both citizens and foreigners, have consistent and accurate personal information on record.

It asserted that the mandatory requirement for National and Non-National ID Cards reflects their critical role in the country’s administrative and security framework. NCRA affirmed that although the ECOWAS ID Card remains optional, it is strongly encouraged for those who frequently travel within the Economic Community of West African States region.

In terms of impact on daily life and services the ID cards and the linked NIN will serve as foundational documents for a variety of everyday transactions and services.

The  impacts include: Banks and other financial institutions require a valid ID card linked to the NIN to process transactions. This measure is part of broader efforts to enhance financial security and prevent fraud.

With regards to vehicle registration it a crucial process for ownership and legal compliance, necessitating a valid ID. Linking this to the NIN ensures accurate records and reduces the potential for vehicle-related fraud or discrepancies.

Employers are increasingly requiring valid ID cards linked to the NIN during the hiring process. This practice ensures the legitimacy of the workforce and compliance with national employment regulations.

For those enrolling in the National Social Security and Insurance Trust, a valid ID linked to the NIN is mandatory. This linkage facilitates efficient management of social security benefits and records.

Mobile network providers require a valid ID card for SIM card registration. This process is crucial for maintaining accurate records of mobile users and enhancing national security.

To facilitate the process of obtaining these ID cards, the NCRA has established multiple offices and designated centers across the country. These centers are located at District Headquarters Offices and other convenient locations. Operating hours are from 08:30 AM to 05:30 PM, Monday to Friday, ensuring that the public has ample time to visit and complete the necessary procedures.

Citizens and Non-Citizens must sure to complete this process before the June 28, 2024 deadline as the enforcement phase, beginning on July 1, 2024, will see the NCRA and the Security Sector actively ensuring that all residents comply with the ID card and NIN requirements. This phase is critical for maintaining the integrity of the national identification system and ensuring that all personal information is accurate and up-to-date.

The extension of the deadline to June 28, 2024, for obtaining National, ECOWAS and Non-National ID Cards is a significant opportunity for all residents of Sierra Leone to comply with national identification requirements. The NCRA urges everyone to take this extension seriously and ensure that their ID cards are obtained and linked to their National Identification Number.

Tripartite Committee Faces Criticism for Lack of Communication

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By Alfie Barrie

The much-anticipated Tripartite Committee, established to address electoral disputes and foster political reconciliation, is concluding its activities amidst significant public confusion and misinformation. Veteran politician, statesman, and journalist, Hon. I.B Kargbo, has voiced concerns over the Committee’s failure to communicate effectively with the public, exacerbating tensions and misunderstandings.

I.B Kargbo highlighted that the Committee’s deliberate exclusion of the media from its proceedings has created an atmosphere of secrecy, likening it to a clandestine ‘bondo bush’ affair. He furthered that the lack of transparency has left the public in the dark, fueling speculation and mistrust among supporters of the two main political parties, the All People’s Congress (APC) and the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP).

“The Tripartite Committee’s silence has allowed each political party to interpret the Committee’s purpose and activities according to their own narratives,” he noted. “APC followers, convinced that the June 23 elections were rigged, are demanding a rerun, while the ruling SLPP maintains that the elections were legitimate, much to the frustration of APC youths.”

I.B Kargbo emphasized the critical role of communication in managing public expectations and maintaining national peace and security. He pointed out that the absence of clear information has led to a dangerous polarization, with social media becoming the primary platform for disseminating often misleading and inflammatory political content.

The situation has been further complicated by the outspoken American Ambassador to Sierra Leone, whose comments have preempted the Committee’s findings and heightened political tensions, he maintained. I.B Kargbo urged the Tripartite Committee to adopt a more transparent approach, suggesting regular public briefings to clarify its mandate and progress.

“The Committee’s failure to engage with the public has resulted in widespread speculation about its objectives, including rumors of a rerun election or the establishment of a Government of national unity,” I.B Kargbo asserted saying it is imperative for the Committee to clearly communicate its mandate to prevent further misunderstandings.

He also criticized the Committee for its restrictive definition of stakeholders, excluding key elders from the APC, SLPP, the Judiciary, SLAJ and the Labor Congress who possess valuable historical knowledge and play crucial mentorship roles.

Historically, Sierra Leone has successfully mediated international disputes, such as those between Sudan and Ethiopia and between Chad and Libya, with significant public communication efforts. I.B Kargbo stressed that similar public relations strategies are essential for the Tripartite Committee to succeed.

As the Committee’s June 19 deadline approaches, I.B Kargbo called for an urgent public education campaign to elucidate the Committee’s terms of reference and dispel ongoing speculation. He suggested forming an Information Secretariat within the Committee to handle communication and ensure transparency.

“The mandate of the Tripartite Committee is clear: to inquire into electoral disputes and propose solutions to prevent future issues,” he concluded. “Effective communication is essential to achieving these goals and maintaining public trust,” he maintained

The Tripartite Committee’s silence has left the public speculating about its outcomes, with both APC and SLPP supporters interpreting the Committee’s purpose to suit their political agendas. I.B Kargbo’s call for transparency and communication underscore the importance of public engagement in resolving Sierra Leone’s political disputes and ensuring a stable future.

Saidu Mansaray, Newly Designated CEO, Aims to Infuse Growth Initiatives in NP (SL) Ltd

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By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The newly appointed Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of NP (SL) Ltd, Saidu Mansaray, brings charisma, hard work and ambition to his new role, backed by a wealth of managerial expertise. The new CEO, who previously served as the General Manager of Sierra Leone’s leading petroleum marketing company, joined NP (SL) Ltd in 2001. Starting as an Accounts Clerk, he rose through the ranks, demonstrating integrity and dedication, ultimately becoming the Finance Manager before his promotion to General Manager in 2022.

Educated at St Francis Boys School in the North and holding a degree in Accounting, he is also a professional Chartered Accountant and Business Administrator. His impressive trajectory within the company underscores his managerial prowess and deep understanding of the petroleum industry.

As the CEO, Saidu Mansaray has underscored NP (SL) Ltd’s unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. “Nothing brings us maximum fulfillment more than making our customers smile. We cherish the satisfaction of our esteemed customers, which is why we go to great lengths to ensure that they can count on us for their fuel needs,” he stated. Reassuring customers further, he added, “We appreciate you for buying our products and sticking with us all year round. We will continue to provide for your fuel needs through and through.”

Saidu Mansaray also plans to tackle emerging issues through innovation and digitization, aiming to make customer transactions more seamless. He emphasized his collaborative leadership style, highlighting the importance of engaging with people, listening to their ideas, and working together. He noted that the company values both its internal (staff) and external customers, stressing that satisfying external customers is impossible without first meeting the needs of internal ones.

One of his first notable actions as CEO was leading his Management team to meet with Dr. Brima M. Baluwa Koroma, the Executive Chairman of the Petroleum Regulatory Agency (PRA), on June 3, 2024. That visit aimed to establish a strong, collaborative relationship between NP (SL) Ltd and the regulatory agency. During the meeting, he expressed gratitude for the PRA’s crucial role in regulating the petroleum industry and reiterated NP’s commitment to operating at the highest standards. He also expressed a keen interest in working with the PRA to ensure the smooth distribution of petroleum products across the country.

With Saidu Mansaray at the helm, it is expected that NP (SL) Ltd will continue to lead the petroleum sector in Sierra Leone, maintaining its reputation for excellence and customer satisfaction.

NCPC Concludes Briefing on Consumer Protection Issues with Stakeholders and Business Community

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By Foday Moriba Conteh

As part of its efforts to address consumer protection issues in the country, the National Consumer Protection Commission (NCPC) concluded a one-day briefing with stakeholders, consumers and members of the business community on Wednesday, June 5, 2024. The event, held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Conference Hall on Tower Hill in Freetown, aimed to discuss and find solutions to pressing consumer protection concerns.

Addressing the gathering, Frank Martin, Manager of the Metrology Department at the Sierra Leone Standards Bureau, emphasized that the Sierra Leone Standards Bureau was established to safeguard consumer interests.

He highlighted the Bureau’s collaboration with the Consumer Protection Unit, now recognized as a civil society organization, underscoring its commitment to quality infrastructure akin to the Ghana Standards Authority in Ghana.

He elaborated on the pillars of the Sierra Leone Standards Bureau which includes standards of which he compared standards to laws essential for maintaining order in society, explaining that without standards, chaos would ensue. The Bureau’s establishment ensures the protection of consumers through well-defined standards, he informed.

He added that Metrology is another pillar which focuses on accurate measurements crucial for maintaining consistency and correctness in various processes and that the Metrology Department sets the measurement requirements to prevent errors and ensure precision.

Frank Martin outlined the three divisions within the pillar of Conformity Assessment: testing, inspection and certification, adding that testing ensures that products meet set standards through rigorous examination, furthering that inspection conducted at production points, import locations, and other relevant sites are geared to verify compliance.

He pointed out that certification finalizes the process by certifying products and systems that meet the standards which he said involves market surveillance in collaboration with the National Consumer Protection Commission to address issues like expired or substandard products.

Frank Martin acknowledged the challenges faced by the Sierra Leone Standards Bureau but assured that efforts are ongoing to manage and overcome those obstacles. He reiterated the Bureau’s dedication to improving consumer protection and maintaining high standards in the marketplace.

Lawrence Landi Bassie, Chief Executive Officer of the National Consumer Protection Commission (NCPC), highlighted the challenges faced by Sierra Leoneans, including unfair trade practices and widespread poverty, which necessitate value for money on essential goods and services.

He added that the Government of Sierra Leone (GoSL) established the NCPC through Act No. 7 of the National Consumer Protection Act 2020 to place consumers at the center of decision-making, ensuring a fair and transparent complaints process benefiting both citizens and the economy.

He maintained that the mission of the Commission is to protect and promote consumer welfare in the economy for the overall benefit of all Sierra Leoneans with the vision to be a world-class Commission in protecting and promoting consumer interests and contributing to maximizing the performance of the economy.

Lawrence Bassie elaborated on the legal foundation of the NCPC quoting Section 3 (1) and (2) of the National Consumer Protection Act 2020 which he said established the NCPC as a body corporate with perpetual succession and a common seal.

He disclosed that the functions of the Commission include monitoring consumer markets of which he added that the NCPC has developed a systematic approach for ongoing monitoring of consumer markets, assessing conditions, and identifying areas for improvement saying such involves collaboration with relevant stakeholders to gather market intelligence.

He pointed out that another function of the Commission is research and policy enhancement, stating that the NCPC conducts in-depth research on existing consumer protection policies, identifies gaps and proposes amendments or new policies as needed. According to him, the Commission regularly reviews international best practices in consumer protection.

“In terms of dissemination of Consumer Information, the NCPC is developing consumer education materials and utilizing various communication channels to inform the public about consumer rights and obligations,” he pointed out adding that the briefing is one such channels and that the NCPC will continue to organize awareness campaigns and workshops for consumers.

In her keynote address, Fatmata Wurie, Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry, emphasized the importance of consumer protection and the Government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and rights of consumers in Sierra Leone.

Madam Wurie underscored the importance of World Consumer Rights Day, initially established by President Kennedy in 1962 and observed annually on March 15th. She noted that the Sierra Leonean Government, under the leadership of President Julius Maada Bio, recognizes this day as a vital opportunity to promote consumer rights and safety.

She praised President Bio’s vision for transforming consumer protection in the country, aligning with his broader goal of human capital development, highlighting the NCPC’s role in addressing consumer grievances and ensuring fair practices in the marketplace.

The Deputy Minister stressed that the agency provides a platform for citizens to voice concerns about pricing, safety, and consumer rights, fulfilling a long-standing need in Sierra Leone.

She also acknowledged the tireless efforts of Lawrence Landi Bassie, Chief Executive Officer of the National Consumer Protection Commission (NCPC), whose leadership at the NCPC has been instrumental in advocating for consumer rights. Fatmata Wurie reiterated the significance of the National Consumer Protection Act of 2020, which safeguards consumer interests and promotes a fair and competitive marketplace.

Madam Wurie concluded her address by urging all citizens to utilize the resources and support offered by the NCPC, encouraging collaboration to enhance consumer protection in Sierra Leone.

She praised the collective efforts of the Ministry of Trade and Industry, the NCPC and the broader community in advancing consumer rights and fostering an equitable business environment.

 

AGM & Sorry Heart Foundation Donate Assistive Devices to Cotton Tree Disabled Association

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By Foday Moriba Conteh 

In concerted efforts towards enhancing the lives of persons with disabilities in the country, the Amazing Glory Ministries in collaboration with Sorry Heart Foundation has presented assistive devices which include wheelchairs, crutches and other assistive devices to Kadiatu Sillah, Chairlady of the Cotton Tree Disabled Association. The presentation was done during the church Sunday Service held on the 2nd June, 2024 at the Church Premises on Janju Street on Brookfields in Freetown.

Addressing the congregation, Rev. Moses A. Serry, the General Overseer of Amazing Glory Ministries and Founder of the Sorry Heart Foundation, said the donation by the Amazing Glory Ministries and the Sorry Heart Foundation demonstrates their dedication to promoting inclusivity and supporting the well-being of all community members.

Rev. Serry emphasized the importance of such contributions in fostering a more inclusive society and reaffirmed the commitment of both the church and the Foundation to continuing their support for the less privileged especially persons with disabilities.

He said that it underscores the vital role of community and faith-based initiatives in addressing the needs of marginalized groups and enhancing the quality of life for all individuals.

Handing over the items, the Resident Pastor, Amazing Glory Ministries, Mother Rev. Moses A. Serry expressed appreciation to all those who supported them with the assistive devices in order to support persons with disabilities in the country.

She said that the church has been supporting the less privileged in the country and the donation is just one of their supports to less privileged people in the country.

“On behalf of the Amazing Glory Ministries and the Sorry Heart Foundation I want to present these assistive devices to the Chairlady of Cotton Tree Disabled Association, Kadiatu Sillah in order to support persons with disabilities,” she concluded.

In a heartfelt statement, Kadiatu Sillah, Chairlady of the Cotton Tree Disabled Association conveyed the appreciation of all persons with disabilities in the community for the invaluable contribution. She appreciated that the donation includes a range of assistive devices, from wheelchairs to crutches, which hold immense significance for the Association saying they not only address immediate needs, but they also symbolize a profound commitment to enhancing the quality of life and promoting inclusivity for persons with disabilities.

The Chairlady emphasized that with the assistive devices, members of the Association would experience greater mobility, independence, and dignity in their daily lives. According to her, they will be able to navigate their surroundings with increased ease and participate more actively in social, educational and economic activities.

She said they are pledging to ensure equitable distribution of the assistive devices among its members, prioritizing those with the greatest needs. The Chairlady maintained that they are committed to fostering an environment of inclusivity and empowerment where all individuals, regardless of ability can thrive and contribute meaningfully to society.

Kadiatu Sillah extended sincerest appreciation to Rev. Moses A. Serry and the entire team at Amazing Glory Ministries and the Sorry Heart Foundation for the transformative donation, adding that together, they are making a tangible difference in the lives of persons with disabilities and the Association looks forward to continued collaboration and partnership in their shared mission of social justice and equality.

The compassion and generosity of Rev. Serry, along with the unwavering support of Amazing Glory Ministries and the Sorry Heart Foundation, inspired hope and optimism within the community. Their dedication to serving the marginalized and vulnerable is truly commendable.

Police in Top Gear to Ensure National Peace and Security

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By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sources from the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) have confirmed the implementation of robust security measures to maintain peace and tranquility across the country. The SLP has reiterated its support for peaceful protests but insists that specific criteria and procedures must be followed to obtain permission.

According to the Public Order Act, organizers of a protest must write to the Inspector General of Police (IGP) requesting clearance. “If we receive a letter addressed to the IGP we will then invite the organizers to a roundtable discussion, map out the route and agree on specific terms. This way, in case of any breach of agreement, we will have accountable parties,” explained a senior Police Officer. He noted that recent planned protests have often been organized by faceless individuals on social media, lacking proper authorization.

The Police Officer emphasized that as the moral guarantors of law and order, the SLP will not yield to unauthorized protests, citing the events of June 19, 2024, as a case study. He assured the public that the Police Force is fully prepared to enforce law and order to ensure the continued peace and tranquility in the country.

It was underscored that the SLP remains committed to safeguarding public safety and security before, during, and after June 19, 2024, emphasizing their readiness to address any potential disruptions.

Magistrate Hadiru Daboh Delivers Judgment in Kabala Trespass Case

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By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Magistrate Hadiru Daboh on April 28, 2024, delivered a judgment in the Kabala Magistrate’s Court, concluding a high-profile criminal trespass case. Representing the complainant was D. B. Stark Esq.  while A. S. Faroh Esq. defended the accused.

The case involved Mohamed Foday Kamara of Makeni Road, Kabala Town, against Edward Koroma, Chernoh Jalloh, Isata Conteh, Katie Conteh, Mohamed Conteh and Amie, all residents of Market Square, Kabala Town. The defendants were charged with trespass under Section 15(1)(c) of the Public Order Act, No. 46 of 1965. They all pleaded not guilty on March 15, 2024, and were subsequently granted bail.

The Prosecution presented three witnesses, while the Defense brought forward two. Mohamed Foday Kamara, the complainant, testified that the defendants unlawfully installed market stalls on the staircases leading to his parlor. This testimony was corroborated by two other prosecution witnesses. The defendants did not deny the ownership of the property but claimed they had been granted permission by a family member, a claim which was denied in court.

A worker from the Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA), Ballah Musa Sesay, testified for the defense, stating that the area in question was a ‘right of way.’ However, Magistrate Daboh dismissed this, noting that SLRA does not have the authority to allocate another person’s property as a right of way.

Magistrate Daboh pointed out that the defense failed to produce any of the defendants as witnesses, which weakened their case. He affirmed that trespassing requires both the act (actus reus) and intent (mens rea), both of which were present in this case.

“The evidence is overwhelming,” Magistrate Daboh stated. “The defendants occupied the complainant’s property without permission, making them trespassers. This was confirmed during two site visits.”

In his judgment, Magistrate Daboh found the defendants guilty of trespass. He referenced legal precedents, noting that property owners have the right to remove trespassers without a court order, although it is not recommended due to potential disturbances.

The defendants were sentenced to three months imprisonment or alternatively, to vacate the property within two weeks, handing it over to the complainant through the Bailiff. No costs were awarded.

Magistrate Daboh concluded by emphasizing that trespass is a serious offense under both civil and criminal law, underscoring the rights of property owners against unauthorized occupation.

Magistrate Daboh posed critical questions during his deliberation:

1. Did any of the defendants testify?
2. Does SLRA have the authority to designate private property as a ‘right of way’?
3. Does payment of market dues grant a ‘right of way’?

He concluded that the answers were ‘No.’ He criticized the Defense Counsel for not calling any defendants to testify, stating that the principle of easement was misused by the defendants.

Magistrate Daboh referenced the legal principle from DPP vs. Woolmington (1935) that actus reus and mens rea must be present for criminal culpability. He found that the defendants were trespassers, occupying Mohamed Foday Kamara’s property without permission.

The Magistrate declared the defendants guilty of trespass, sentencing them to three months imprisonment. Alternatively, they could vacate the premises within two weeks. No costs were ordered.

This ruling by Magistrate Hadiru Daboh underscores the importance of property rights and the illegality of unauthorized occupation, setting a precedent for similar cases in Kabala Town.

 

Africell Sponsors 2024 Sierra Leone Innovates Tech Summit

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By Esther Wright

Africell Sierra Leone, one of the leading telecommunications company, is set to play a pivotal role in advancing technological innovation in Sierra Leone as the primary sponsor of the 2024 Sierra Leone Innovates Tech Summit. Organized by the Ministry of Communication, Technology and Innovation, the summit is scheduled from June 11 to 13, 2024, at the Freetown International Conference Center, Bintumani.

Shadi Gerjawi, Managing Director of Africell Sierra Leone, highlighted the importance of providing a platform for young tech enthusiasts to flourish. “At Africell, we firmly believe that supporting education, technology and innovation is vital for the growth and development of our country,” he stated.

The Managing Director expressed his pride in Africell’s sponsorship underscoring the company’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for young innovators. “We are dedicated to establishing a state-of-the-art Tech and Innovation Center where young minds can explore and realize their potential,” he added.

Africell’s participation in the summit will feature an engaging booth with tech-driven activities and experiences. Shadi Gerjawi warmly invited all attendees to visit the Africell booth and immerse themselves in the world of technology and innovation.

Minister of Communications, Technology and Innovation, Salima Monorma Bah, emphasized the summit’s goal of bringing together innovators, stakeholders and global tech giants to advance innovation in Sierra Leone and showcase local talent. “The Government is committed to fostering a culture of innovation. Our agenda is to create a dynamic platform for young people to showcase their talents, develop solutions and bring their creative ideas to fruition,” Minister Bah stated.

She highlighted the need to support innovation across various sectors, including agriculture, mining and transportation. “To transition from ideas to market-ready products, our innovators need access to resources such as finance, infrastructure and regulatory support,” the Minister noted.

The Tech and Innovation Summit aims to address those challenges by connecting innovators, industry leaders and venture capitalists. “The summit is not just a showcase event. It is a platform for meaningful conversations about integrating innovative solutions into our national plans. We will discuss access to finance, regulatory reforms  and creating a conducive environment for innovation,” Minister Bah concluded.

Dr. Williette James Sails Through Parliament as Chairperson of SLBC Board of Trustees

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By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Dr. Williette P.R.O. James was on Tuesday June 4, 2024 officially approved by the Parliamentary Appointments Committee to serve as the Chairperson on the Board of Trustees of the Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation (SLBC). The decision followed the unanimous approval of the Sixteenth Report of the Committee of Appointments and Public Service, led by Hon. Mathew Nyuma, Leader of Government Business.

During the parliamentary session, Hon. Bashiru Silikie, Deputy Majority Leader of Government, praised President Julius Maada Bio for his selection of Dr. James and others to occupy key positions, urging the appointees to prioritize national interests and maintain openness to both MPs and the public.

Hon. Abdul Kargbo, the Opposition Leader, also commended President Bio for the appointments and encouraged a nationalistic approach in selecting individuals for public service roles. He emphasized the importance of the SLBC’s transition from analog to digital broadcasting, noting its longstanding history in West Africa.

The Speaker of Parliament, Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas, advised the nominees to align their work with President Bio’s agenda and wished them success in their new roles.

Dr. James expressed gratitude for her appointment, reflecting on the professional ethos instilled by her mentor, emphasizing her commitment to serve under any Government for the nation’s benefit.

President Bio highlighted the crucial role of the SLBC in providing quality broadcasting services and expressed confidence in Dr. James’ leadership to drive the Corporation forward.

Dr. Williette James, a renowned journalist and academician, brings extensive experience in journalism and gender advocacy. She holds a Ph.D. in Communication and Media Studies and has held numerous leadership positions, including being the first female President of the Academic Staff Association at Fourah Bay College.

SLBC Director General, Josephine Kamara, remarked on the significant contributions of women at the SLBC, advocating for recognition based on merit rather than gender. She also addressed concerns about financial management and committed to working with the existing team to ensure financial accountability and growth.

Dr. James’ leadership is expected to enhance the SLBC’s operations, ensuring effective service to the public and supporting national development.