Jennifer Thompson Organization to Launch ‘Break the Silence: Stop Domestic Violence Now’ Campaign in Sierra Leone

September 4, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a bold move to combat domestic violence in Sierra Leone, the Jennifer Thompson Organization is launching a powerful new initiative titled: “Break the Silence: Stop Domestic Violence Now.” Through its Women Leading Change wing, the campaign aims to raise awareness about the devastating impact of domestic violence on individuals, families and communities across the country.

Domestic violence often thrives in silence, leaving countless victims feeling isolated and helpless. The campaign calls on survivors and allies to speak up against abuse and stand strong in the fight for justice and safety. The initiative seeks to empower victims through education, advocacy and community support, giving them the tools to reclaim their voices and lives.

“We believe that by breaking the silence, we can support survivors and build a stronger, safer Sierra Leone,” said Jennifer Thompson, founder of the organization. The campaign urges the public to join the movement, creating a future free from violence and ensuring a safer environment for all.

The “Break the Silence: Stop Domestic Violence Now” campaign arrives at a crucial time when domestic violence remains a critical issue in Sierra Leone. It seeks to raise awareness, empower survivors and foster community support. By encouraging open dialogue, the campaign aims to challenge the stigma surrounding domestic violence, helping survivors come forward and access support.

The initiative strengthens community networks by engaging local leaders and civil society to create a safety net for victims. Through advocacy, it pushes for legal reforms that protect victims and ensure accountability for perpetrators. Educational efforts targeting young people aim to prevent domestic violence by promoting healthy relationships.

Furthermore, the campaign contributes to breaking the silence around gender-based violence, advocating for cultural change and accountability. Overall, “Break the Silence” is poised to create lasting social cohesion, empowering communities and making Sierra Leone a safer place for all.

Acting Chief Justice Calls for Community-Based Approach to Combat Rising Crime in Bo

September 4, 2024

By Esther Wright

In a powerful address to over 200 inmates at the overcrowded Male Correctional Centre in Bo, Acting Chief Justice, Nicholas C. Browne-Marke, has on August 31, 2024 called on the community to embrace “community parenting” as a solution to the rising crime rate in the region.

The Chief Justice’s remarks came as he visited the facility, which was originally designed to house 80 inmates but now holds more than 240. Approximately 90% of the inmates are under the age of 30, raising significant concerns about the future of the young population in Sierra Leone.

“As a parent myself, it pains me to see so many young people behind bars,” Justice Browne-Marke said. “How can we talk about a future that belongs to the youth when so many are incarcerated?”

The Acting Chief Justice emphasized that the increasing involvement of young people in criminal activities is alarming. He called for a revival of community parenting, a traditional approach where the responsibility of raising children extends beyond individual families to the entire community.

Highlighting the urgent need for action, Justice Browne-Marke noted that the recent Prison Court exercise, which resulted in the release of over 100 inmates and the granting of bail to others, has not alleviated the problem. The Male Correctional Centre is once again overcrowded, underscoring the necessity for collaborative efforts from community leaders, paramount chiefs, religious figures and parents to address the crisis.

Chief Superintendent, David Kamara, Manager of the Correctional Centre, reported that the facility currently houses 249 inmates, including 66 on remand and 72 on trial. He acknowledged that without the recent Prison Court exercise, the numbers would be even higher. However, with new court facilities and a standby generator for electricity, the judicial process for trial and remand inmates is expected to proceed more efficiently.

Resident Judge Hon. Justice Abu Bakarr Sannoh, who also serves the Kenema district, informed the Chief Justice that many of the remand and trial inmates are on bail with flexible conditions. He pointed out that difficulty in meeting bail conditions are often due to the inmates’ lack of reliable sureties, as many are from outside Bo and came to the city for employment.

Local resident, Mohamed Sowa, praised the Chief Justice’s call for community parenting, highlighting the impact of illegal substances like Kush on community safety and child-rearing. “With the rise of harmful drugs, our communities have become unsafe for raising children, making the traditional community-based approach to parenting more important than ever,” Mohamed Sowa said.

The Acting Chief Justice’s call to action reflects a growing recognition that tackling crime and supporting youth requires a collective effort from all sectors of society.

Napoleon Koroma Unveils Transformative Diamond Fund Projects in Kono District

September 4, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a major move aimed at empowering local communities, Deputy Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, Umaru Napoleon Koroma, alongside Deputy Minister of Local Government, Alfred Jamiru, inaugurated several development projects funded by mining revenues in Kono District on Saturday August 31, 2024. The initiative, known as the Diamond Area Community Development Fund (DACDF), represents a novel approach to ensuring that the benefits of mineral wealth directly reach the local population.

During the launch event, Deputy Minister Napoleon Koroma expressed his enthusiasm about the initiative, highlighting its alignment with President Julius Maada Bio’s broader development goals. “Our minerals are a divine gift and our Government believes in ensuring that the local communities reap the rewards of these natural resources,” Mines Deputy Minister stated. He further noted that President Bio had mandated the implementation of this project with utmost seriousness and transparency.

Napoleon Koroma also underscored the importance of responsible management of the funds by community leaders and assured that the Government would closely monitor the progress of the projects to ensure effective utilization of the resources.

The DACDF initiative is expected to bring tangible improvements to the Kono District, marking a new chapter in the equitable distribution of mineral wealth in the region.

SLAJ Pledges Support for IMC’s Media Register Clean-Up Initiative

September 4, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) has pledged to support the Independent Media Commission (IMC) in its efforts to clean up the media register, following a significant meeting between the two bodies on August 27, 2024. The courtesy call, the first since Joseph Egbenda Kapuwa Esq. assumed the role of IMC Chairman, highlighted the urgent need for collaboration between the two influential media organizations to address pressing issues within the industry.

The IMC is currently poised to take action against media houses that have failed to re-register under the IMC Act of 2020. This includes outlets that have not renewed their annual registration or have not complied with penalties imposed by the IMC Complaints Committee. President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, had previously requested a delay in these actions, emphasizing the importance of balancing Press Freedom with adherence to the rule of law.

“I understand the IMC’s position on enforcing compliance with the IMC Act 2020,” Ahmed Sahid Nasralla stated during the meeting. “However, suspending a large number of active media outlets could raise concerns both locally and internationally regarding press freedom and our democratic credentials. SLAJ remains committed to press freedom and the rule of law, and we are eager to work with the IMC to find a fair resolution.”

The SLAJ President also raised several key issues, including the enforcement of minimum wage standards and social security contributions for media workers, the ongoing review of the IMC Act 2020 and the need for enhanced training for journalists.

“Despite existing regulations, reports indicate that some journalists are still being paid below the minimum wage,” he noted. “We must address this issue collectively. Additionally, our stance on journalist registration is clear: we believe the IMC should not have the power to register journalists directly. We need a thorough discussion on this matter.”

IMC Chairman, Joseph Egbenda Kapuwa, responded by thanking SLAJ for the constructive dialogue. He acknowledged the critical role SLAJ plays in the media landscape and emphasized the need for media institutions to be held accountable while respecting media freedom.

“While we support media freedom, we must ensure that media institutions are held accountable,” Joseph Egbenda Kapuwa stated. “Allowing non-compliance to persist undermines our regulatory responsibilities. We must enforce the law and ensure that media houses fulfill their commitments, such as paying their staff as promised.”

The IMC Chairman outlined the institution’s approach to cleaning up the media register, emphasizing a systematic process rather than immediate suspension of defaulting outlets. The IMC plans to address newspapers first, followed by radio stations, ensuring that affected entities have an opportunity to address any issues before further actions are taken.

On the issue of online media, Joseph Egbenda Kapuwa highlighted the need for clear regulations and registration procedures to ensure that online platforms receive the same protections and rights as traditional media outlets.

Regarding journalist registration, he stressed the importance of protecting the profession and ensuring that only qualified individuals are recognized as journalists. He also called for ongoing dialogue and education to address these challenges effectively.

“Proper registration is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the profession,” Joseph Egbenda Kapuwa said. “We need to ensure that all media practitioners and institutions operate within the law and are properly recognized.”

The IMC and SLAJ have committed to continuing their collaboration to address these issues and improve the media landscape in Sierra Leone.

SLAJ Advocates for Enhanced Journalist Registration to Combat Misrepresentation

September 4, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The leadership of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) on Tuesday, August 27, 2024 held a courtesy meeting with their counterparts at the Independent Media Commission (IMC). The key takeaway from the discussion was the urgent need for collaboration between these two major media organizations to initiate the reengineering process necessary to give the industry meaningful impact.

In a recent address, the President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, underscored the crucial need for proper registration of journalists to safeguard the integrity and credibility of the profession. The statement comes in response to growing concerns over the proliferation of individuals claiming to be journalists without legitimate credentials.

The SLAJ President highlighted that the evolving landscape of journalism, including the rise of bloggers and citizen journalists, necessitates rigorous measures to ensure that only true journalists are recognized and protected. The organization stressed that media registration is not merely a formality but a vital tool for verifying the authenticity of journalists.

“We must jealously guard our profession,” said President Ahmed Sahid Nasralla. “This isn’t just about rights; it’s about ensuring that those who claim to be journalists truly are. Many individuals claim to be journalists because they’ve done something somewhere, but they aren’t true journalists.”

SLAJ aims to create a scenario where journalists can proudly claim their registration status. The organization emphasized that media registration should be seen as a privilege rather than a material benefit, serving as a means of official recognition rather than a form of compensation.

The importance of proper registration extends beyond journalists to include photographers and other media practitioners. The Association noted the need for clear identification to manage the legal and technical aspects of image transmission, ensuring accurate representation of events and individuals.

SLAJ President also addressed concerns about the protection of its members. “When people register as a company, subscribers and members need to be identified,” he noted. “We already have records of SLAJ members and these individuals should be recognized as part of our professional community.”

The organization emphasized that registration is crucial not only for protection but also for maintaining credibility. “If you want to practice as a journalist, you should also have the opportunity to be recognized officially,” the President stated. “It’s not about censorship; it’s about proper registration and ensuring that all media practitioners are part of a recognized body.”

In light of these concerns, SLAJ is conducting consultations to open dialogue and address these issues comprehensively. The Association stressed the need for adherence to clear criteria for membership and the importance of avoiding the recruitment of individuals who do not meet those standards.

“We need to ensure that our membership is properly registered,” Ahmed Sahid Nasralla reiterated. “This isn’t something to frown upon; it’s about maintaining high standards within our profession.”

The SLAJ President also emphasized the importance of education and training to address these issues effectively and ensure that the Association continues to uphold its standards and protect its members.

As SLAJ moves forward, the organization remains committed to working together to safeguard the reputation of journalism and ensure that its members are recognized and respected within the industry.

Mandatory Biometric ID Cards and SIM Linking: What Sierra Leoneans Need to Know

September 4, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) is stepping up its campaign to require all individuals in Sierra Leone, both citizens and non-citizens, to obtain Biometric ID Cards at designated centers across the nation. These ID cards, which feature a unique National Identification Number (NIN), are designed to enhance identity verification, facilitate access to essential services and help prevent fraudulent activities.

In tandem with this initiative, the NCRA is urging all mobile phone users to link their NINs to their SIM cards between September 1 and November 30, 2024. This Government-mandated action aims to safeguard personal identities and curb the misuse of mobile services for illicit purposes. Those who fail to complete this linkage within the specified timeframe may face disruptions in their mobile services, including the inability to make or receive calls, send SMS messages or perform mobile money transactions.

The Biometric ID Card is not merely a form of identification but a critical advancement in managing and securing personal identities. Each card is issued with a distinct NIN, ensuring individual uniqueness and bolstering efforts to combat identity theft and fraud, which are becoming more prevalent in today’s digital landscape.

Additionally, the Biometric ID Card has become a prerequisite for accessing a variety of public and private services in Sierra Leone. Recent Cabinet decisions stipulate that the ID card must be presented for activities such as banking, where it provides an extra layer of security against fraud. Law enforcement agencies also use these cards for precise identification at checkpoints throughout the country.

The card’s significance extends to the educational sector as well. Students are now required to present their Biometric ID Cards to be eligible for national examinations like the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE). This requirement aims to verify candidates and uphold the integrity of the examination process by minimizing the risk of impersonation.

To facilitate easy access, the NCRA has set up numerous registration and collection centers nationwide, including:

NCRA Headquarters: 2 Walpole Street, Freetown
NCRA Office: 23B Off Kingharman Road, Freetown
NCRA Office: Kennedy Street, Freetown
NCRA Branch Office: 230 Lumley Road, Freetown (Near the Roundabout)
NCRA Office: Waterloo, along the Freetown Highway (Opposite the Police Station)
Regional NCRA Offices in Bo, Kenema, Makeni, and Port Loko

For further assistance or inquiries, individuals can reach the NCRA at:

– Mobile: +232 33 939740 / +232 79 578063

– Website: [www.ncra.gov.sl](http://www.ncra.gov.sl)

– Email: info@ncra.gov.sl

The NCRA also offers corporate Biometric ID Card issuance services for public and private institutions.

As Sierra Leone advances toward a more secure and efficient identification system, linking NINs to SIM cards is a crucial element of the government’s strategy to enhance national security, protect personal identities, and improve service delivery. The NCRA is dedicated to supporting these processes and ensuring that all eligible individuals take the necessary steps to secure their identities and access essential services.

September 4, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leone’s oil and gas sector is witnessing a transformative shift as NP (SL) Limited leads the charge with innovative digital advancements. As the leading fuel distributor in the country, NP (SL) is enhancing its market position through a strategic transition to digital and cashless transactions, boosting both efficiency and competitiveness.

NP(SL)’s push towards digital transformation comes in response to the increasing demand for petroleum and gas products, driven by population growth and industrial expansion. On April 24, 2024, NP (SL) launched the pilot phase of its Energy Pass Card, a groundbreaking initiative designed to modernize the fueling process and foster a cashless environment. This smart card aims to secure cash transactions, provides real-time fuel balance updates, ensures nationwide access and flexibility for users.

The Energy Pass Card is equipped with both online and offline functionality and incorporates advanced security measures. It features instant SMS notifications for each transaction, ensuring greater transparency and accountability. This initiative aligns with NP (SL)’s broader strategy to leverage digital technology for enhanced operational performance, reduced human error and improved efficiency.

In a highly competitive industry, NP (SL) stands out with its proactive approach to digitalization. The company’s transition to a cashless system not only enhances operational efficiency but also solidifies its status as the top fuel distributor in Sierra Leone. The Energy Pass Card, part of NP (SL)’s “FUBU” (For Us, By Us) initiative, represents a significant leap towards a cashless economy with its user-friendly design and robust security features, including One-Time Passwords (OTPs).

Furthermore, the introduction of the NP Smart Card and NP Gas, an eco-friendly cooking device, reflects its commitment to meeting evolving customer needs.

Safety remains a cornerstone of NP (SL)’s operations, particularly given the risks associated with handling flammable substances like petrol and diesel. The company collaborates with the National Fire Force and invests in critical infrastructure such as advanced bore wells and standby generators to support effective firefighting and safety measures.

NP (SL) also excels in customer service, maintaining a top ranking status for service quality due to its adherence to strict safety protocols and continuous staff training. This dedication extends to its Filling Stations, where prompt emergency response and service excellence are paramount.

As a responsible corporate entity, NP (SL) Ltd significantly contributes to national development through substantial tax payments, supporting Government projects and public welfare initiatives under its Corporate Social Responsibility.

The company’s expansion efforts into underserved regions have not only addressed energy poverty but also created new job opportunities, supporting Sierra Leone’s economic growth. NP (SL)’s Local Content policy emphasizes hiring local talent, contributing to national development and poverty reduction.

Beyond Sierra Leone, NP (SL) operates in Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast, and The Gambia, playing a significant role in regional economic stability and job creation. Its commitment to transparency, customer care and community empowerment ensures its continued prominence in the petroleum industry and solidifies its role as a key player in Sierra Leone’s economic and social progress.

Indisputably, NP (SL) has established itself as a leader in Sierra Leone’s petroleum market through its commitment to safety, technological innovation and local economic development. The company is focused on maintaining its dominant position while expanding its footprint across West Africa, with a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability and customer satisfaction.

China and Africa Strengthen Economic Ties at 2024 FOCAC Summit in Beijing

September 4, 2024

By Abu Bakarr Kargbo in Beijing

At the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit held in Beijing, top officials from the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) highlighted the deepening economic relationship between China and African countries. The summit underscored the significant progress made in fostering mutually beneficial partnerships and promoting sustainable development across the continent.

Lin Honghong, Deputy Director General of CCPIT’s Department of International Relations, praised the long-standing friendship and strategic guidance that have driven successful collaboration between China and Africa. Lin reported a remarkable increase in foreign direct investment from China to Africa, which reached $40 billion in 2023. Additionally, Chinese companies have created over one million jobs in Africa, cementing China’s role as the continent’s largest development partner and employer.

During the press conference, Lin reaffirmed CCPIT’s commitment to maintaining close cooperation with African counterparts and advancing trade sessions to boost economic exchanges. The emphasis on increasing trade volumes and expanding commercial interactions highlights the shared goal of nurturing a thriving trade relationship and driving economic growth on both sides.

Zhang Shaogang, Vice Chairman of CCPIT, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the crucial role of FOCAC in strengthening ties between China and African nations. Zhang highlighted the collaborative efforts towards achieving win-win outcomes and fostering common prosperity. He stressed the importance of quality trade promotion and partnership for sustainable development.

Zhang also noted the significance of the upcoming FOCAC Summit, which will provide a platform for leaders to engage in in-depth discussions on economic cooperation and development initiatives. He reiterated China’s commitment to implementing the outcomes of the previous CPC session and enhancing trade cooperation, exploring new partnership avenues, and working towards a shared future with Africa.

The summit agenda includes discussions on promoting and integrating supply chains and developing industries. China and Africa will explore opportunities for deepening collaboration and advancing mutual interests.

A notable highlight of the summit is the Entrepreneurs Conference scheduled for September 6. Twelve entrepreneurs from China and Africa will gather to exchange insights, experiences, and development prospects. With a turnout of one thousand participants exceeding expectations, the conference is set to facilitate meaningful dialogue and strengthen business ties between the two regions.

The summit’s inclusive nature is further underscored by the participation of heads of states, major companies, and small and medium-sized enterprises. Through robust engagement and dialogue, the China-Africa community aims to elevate trade cooperation, foster innovation, and drive economic growth across sectors.

Sun Xiao, CCPIT Spokesperson, highlighted the strides made in clean energy and development projects undertaken with African partners. CCPIT remains committed to exploring tailored development paths aligned with Africa’s needs and strengthening cooperation in clean energy initiatives under the FOCAC framework.

The 2024 FOCAC Summit in Beijing marks a pivotal moment for China and Africa to deepen economic ties, foster innovation, and pursue sustainable development. With a focus on inclusive growth, partnership building, and mutual prosperity, the summit sets the stage for enhanced collaboration and shared successes, marking a new chapter in the dynamic China-Africa relationship.

OpIndia’s Claims Against S.V. Electricals Debunked After Thorough Investigation

September 3, 2024

By Amin Kef Sesay

In journalism, the principle of objectivity is paramount, particularly when reporting on allegations against individuals, institutions or businesses. Ensuring that all sides of a story are presented is not just a matter of fairness it is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the reporting process and fostering public trust in the media.

The recent allegations made against an Indian national, Suresh Vatnani, the Proprietor of S.V. Electricals situated on 73 B, Siaka Stevens Street in Freetown by OpIndia , a news outlet in India, serve as a prime example of why balanced reportage is essential.

According to the claims, Arpit Kumar Pandey, who was residing in India was employed through an agent in 2020 to work for Suresh Vatnani, the Proprietor of S.V. Electricals in Sierra Leone as Shop Manager. It was further alleged that after an initial period where Pandey was paid regularly, his salary was withheld with the promise of a lump sum payment, which has yet to be delivered.

Furthermore, Arpit Kumar Pandey claims he has been mistreated and forced to work under harsh conditions, akin to bonded labor, with his parents’ efforts to have him returned to India allegedly thwarted by Suresh Vatnani.

However, when this news medium undertook a comprehensive investigation into the matter, significant details emerged that had not been previously reported. The Calabash Newspaper reached out to Suresh Vatnani for his perspective welcoming the investigative move, expressing confidence that it would reveal the truth. He confirmed that Arpit Kumar Pandey has been employed by him since 2020 and stated that their working relationship had been conducted in accordance with the agreed-upon terms.

He emphasized that when a proper accounting or stock taking was conducted it was realized that at the branch shop in Lumley in the West End of Freetown, where he was serving as the Shop Manager, Arpit Kumar Pandey, misappropriated electrical materials worth Twenty Two Thousand Dollars ($22,000).

After raising suspicion and an internal investigation was mounted he was transferred to the company’s other branch at Hastings in the far East End of Freetown where was not entering details of sales in the accounting system that was set up by SV Electricals to ensure transparency, to the tune of $2,500 with all the total amount of money fraudulently obtained amounting to $24,500.

Suresh Vatnani pointed out that it was understood that the accused has remitted the money to India after which he had been expressing a desire to return home.

Again when this medium went a step forward in its investigation by contacting the Indian High Commission’s Charge d’Affaires, Neeraj Kumar Saini, he explained that the Minister of State for External Affairs in India, Kirti Vardhan Singh, wrote a letter to him to repatriate Arpit Kumar Pandey to India adding that when they summoned Arpit Kumar Pandey to the High Commission he confessed his involvement and made an undertaking on the 19^th June, 2024 disclosing that he fraudulently converted the money for the electrical materials further promising to refund it.

Charge d’Affaires, Neeraj Kumar Saini also stated that he advised against legal action and suggested seeking an amicable resolution maintaining that Vatnani has since expressed his willingness to allow Arpit Kumar Pandey to return to India.

This case underscores the critical need for balanced reporting. By diligently seeking out and presenting all sides of the story, journalists not only uphold ethical standards but also contribute to a more transparent and just society.

It is hoped that the inclusion of Suresh Vatnani’s account offers a more insightful understanding of the situation, allowing the public to form opinions based on a comprehensive view of the facts. It is through such balanced reporting that journalism can maintain its credibility and continue to be respected as a vital pillar of democracy.

DG Musayeroh Barrie Signs Management Service Agreement with ICAO for Aviation Reform

September 2, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a major development for the nation’s aviation industry, Sierra Leone has on August 30, 2024 signed a groundbreaking Management Service Agreement (MSA) with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), marking the first such collaboration since 2007. The agreement, signed by the Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), Musayeroh Barrie, aims to elevate the standards of aviation operations and safety within the country.

The MSA outlines several strategic initiatives, including the establishment of an ICAO TRAINAIR Plus Training Institution in Sierra Leone, which is expected to significantly enhance the training and expertise of SLCAA staff. This institution will play a crucial role in ensuring that the country’s aviation professionals are equipped with the latest knowledge and skills required for maintaining high safety standards.

Moreover, the agreement includes the development of a comprehensive Civil Aviation Master Plan (CAMP), which will serve as a long-term strategic roadmap for the modernization and growth of Sierra Leone’s aviation infrastructure. Additional provisions under the MSA involve the formulation of a National Aviation Safety Plan (NASP), a National Air Navigation Plan (NANP) and other vital frameworks aimed at enhancing the sector’s efficiency and security.

The successful negotiation of this agreement is attributed to the leadership of Musayeroh Barrie, whose commitment to international cooperation and capacity-building has been pivotal in advancing Sierra Leone’s aviation sector.

This partnership with ICAO is expected to significantly bolster Sierra Leone’s aviation capabilities, aligning the country with global standards and paving the way for sustained development in the industry.