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104 Mabella Residents Treated for Food Poisoning, Two Remain in ICU

May 22, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Connaught Hospital has announced that all survivors of the alleged food poisoning incident in the Mabella Community have been discharged as of Monday, May 20, 2024, with the exception of two patients who remain in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Remarkably, no deaths have been recorded, thanks to the swift and robust medical intervention by hospital staff and the Ministry of Health.

On the morning of May 18, 2024, the hospital received an influx of 104 patients from Mabella, presenting symptoms indicative of food poisoning, such as vomiting, weakness, dizziness, malaise, bloody stools and seizures. The patients included 63 females, 41 males, and 26 children. Initial treatments were effective and the majority of the patients have responded well, with only two critical cases that have since stabilized and been moved to a step-down unit.

The situation prompted an immediate activation of the hospital’s emergency response team. With support from the Ministry of Health, the National Medical Supplies Agency (NMSA), and Médecins Sans Frontières-Holland, adequate medical supplies were secured swiftly. Blood, urine and vomitus samples have been collected for analysis and surveillance staff from the District Health Management Team (DHMT) and National Public Health Agency (NPHA) that are conducting data collection.

Police assistance has been crucial for crowd control and the ongoing investigation into the incident. The alleged source of the contamination has been traced to a local cookery shop, which has also impacted the shop owner and her daughters.

Key measures taken include:

– Activation of an emergency response team
– Swift medical treatment and stabilization of patients
– Securing medical supplies with the help of relevant authorities and organizations
– Collection and analysis of biological samples
– Police support for investigation and crowd control

The collaborative efforts of healthcare teams, authorities and support organizations have been instrumental in managing the crisis. Continued treatment and monitoring of the patients are ongoing and investigations into the source of contamination are being pursued rigorously.

As of the latest update, all affected individuals are showing positive responses to treatment and no fatalities have been reported. The response teams remain vigilant, ensuring comprehensive care and preventive measures to avert future incidents.

Further updates will be provided as the situation develops.

NP (SL) is a Strong Pillar of Corporate Citizenship in Sierra Leone

May 22, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Since its inception in 1996, NP-Sierra Leone Limited (NP-SL Ltd) has emerged as a model of corporate citizenship, significantly contributing to the national development of Sierra Leone. Established by thirty-five visionary Sierra Leoneans following the privatization of a Government-owned petroleum entity, NP-SL Ltd stands as a fully indigenous and leading petroleum importing and marketing company.

The founders of NP-SL Ltd demonstrated remarkable determination and an unwavering passion for success, diligently transforming their mission statement into tangible realities despite numerous challenges. This mission emphasizes maintaining a dominant local market position, expanding sub-regionally and ensuring the environmentally friendly supply of petroleum products. Additionally, it underscores the importance of offering superior value to customers, employees and stakeholders while prioritizing safety, profit optimization and corporate expansion.

Through strategic managerial initiatives, NP-SL Ltd has effectively realized its mission, growing from a modest enterprise into a mini multinational company with branches in Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast, and The Gambia. The company’s savvy business strategies have allowed it to out compete other petroleum marketing entities, earning it a prominent position in Sierra Leone’s petroleum landscape.

NP-SL Ltd’s commitment to quality and customer service has been recognized with the prestigious accolade of 1st for Customer Care. Safety is a cornerstone of NP-SL Ltd’s operations, with stringent measures in place at all Filling Stations. Clear signage such as “No Smoking,” “Avoid Naked Flame,” and “Switch Off Engine when fuel is pumped” are prominently displayed, along with strategically placed fire extinguishers.

The company regularly organizes training programs for Station Managers and Pump Attendants to ensure they are well-equipped to handle emergencies.

In its pursuit of corporate social responsibility, NP-SL Ltd has consistently supported national development initiatives, complementing Government efforts.

The company’s expansion into previously underserved areas has not only improved access to petroleum products but also created job opportunities and reduced transportation costs. NP-SL Ltd’s Filling Stations are now a common sight in every corner of the country, addressing energy poverty and contributing to community development.

A strong proponent of local content, NP-SL Ltd prioritizes employment for nationals in the countries where it operates.

Innovations like the NP Smart Card, a cashless payment method for fuel, have been widely commended for their safety and security.

Recently, the company launched the “FUBU” (For Us, By Us) Access and Energy Pass Card, enhancing transaction convenience and transparency with real-time SMS updates and direct financial operations for station owners.

Additionally, NP-SL Ltd offers NP Gas, an environmentally certified cooking gadget available in various sizes at their Filling Stations. This product underscores the company’s commitment to sustainable and clean energy solutions for domestic use.

Through its adherence to its founding mission and proactive expansion, NP-SL Ltd has firmly established itself as a forward-looking company, significantly contributing to Sierra Leone’s overall development. The company’s dedication to quality service, safety, community support and innovation highlights its role as a good corporate citizen, continuously working towards a better future for all.

NCRA’s DG Heads Sierra Leone Delegation at ID4AFRICA in South Africa

May 22, 2024

By Amin Kef Sesay

The Director General of NCRA, Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi, who is also the Ambassador for ID4AFRICA movement in Sierra Leone, on the 21^st May, 2024 led a delegation to South Africa for the ID4Africa AGM 2024 in Cape Town.

The ID4AFRICA movement supports African countries on their identity journey and the AGM brings together stakeholders from Government, private sector, development partners and experts to discuss as well as advance legal identity issues in Africa.

DG Massaquoi will be presenting Sierra Leone’s civil registration and legal identity progress and successes at the event to the rest of the world.

Over 2000 high-level officials from Government, NGOs, private sector and global identity experts have gathered in Cape Town, South Africa to attend this year’s ID4AFRICA AGM 2024.

Sierra Leone’s achievements in the Identity arena in the sub region are unmatched and DG Massaquoi will be sharing how Sierra Leone did it with the rest of the other countries.

The DG will use the podium to encourage other Leaders in Africa to emulate the spectacular example of His Excellency, President Julius Maada Bio for placing legal identity at the fore of public administration, governance and accountability in Sierra Leone.

IGR Launches Critical Perspectives of Governance Volume 17

May 22, 2024

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By Millicent Senava Mannah

The Institute of Governance Reform (IGR) launched Volume 17 of its quarterly publication, ‘Critical Perspectives of Governance’, titled “Front Group for Political Parties: Understanding the Capture of Civic Space in Sierra Leone,” on May 20, 2024 during an event that took place in the IGR Conference Room on Spur Road, Freetown.

The ‘Critical Perspectives of Governance’ series aims to generate debate among researchers and practitioners on pressing governance issues, often challenging conventional theories and practices.

In his address, IGR’s Executive Director, Andrew Lavalie, emphasized the publication’s recommendations for expanding and safeguarding the democratic space in Sierra Leone.

One key recommendation, he pointed out, is for Sierra Leone’s civil society organizations (CSOs) to develop a civic space project geared towards promoting mutual accountability and improve governance quality. He noted how the project could build on the existing Government-Civil Society dialogue platform in the Office of the Vice President, ensuring CSOs lead the agenda at national and district levels.

Andrew Lavalie also suggested that the Government should continue depoliticizing civil society, extending the progress made in minimizing political involvement in Student Union politics to other formal and informal groups.

The publication stresses the importance of the quality of elections in assessing the value of civic space in Sierra Leone. It recommends that local and international election observers maintain high standards and that civil society and development partners ensure inclusivity in the election observation process to represent diverse opinions.

Further recommendations include the Political Parties Registration Commission (PPRC) promoting political party reforms to encourage policy-based engagement, which could shift the focus from personality-driven politics to substantive issues. Development partners are urged to be aware of political actors’ manipulative agendas and to promote inclusivity in their information-gathering and engagement efforts.

The publication highlights the danger of path dependency breeding a cycle of impunity, warning that without support for political parties and democratic institutions to unlearn current institutional cultures, Sierra Leone may face ongoing cycles of vengeance, impunity and violence.

It also notes that the current administration’s policies are influenced by past grievances under the APC Government, contributing to a retaliatory political climate. The report points to appointments in the security and justice sectors, suggesting that individuals with past grievances may shape these sectors’ current policies.

Volume 17 of Critical Perspectives of Governance provides a comprehensive analysis of the capture of civic space in Sierra Leone, offering actionable recommendations to broaden and protect democratic practices in the country.

One Family People Unveils II Giardino Di Ngali 2 Project

May 22, 2024

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

In a bid to raise awareness, advocate for change, and provide crucial support to children; particularly children with disabilities in the country, One Family People, in partnership with the Italian organization, Nadia Onlu, has on Friday 17^th May, 2024 officially launched the II Giardino Di Ngali 2 Project spanning from 2023-2025. The launching ceremony which attracted key stakeholders and advocates for children’s welfare and rights was held at the Peace Museum Hall, Special Court on New England Ville in Freetown.

The II Giardino Di Ngali 2 Project is a comprehensive initiative designed to provide crucial awareness and support for children and young people, particularly those with disabilities. The project focuses on critical issues such as sexual reproductive health, gender-based violence, adoption and human trafficking.

Initially rolling out in the Freetown municipality, the project is set to expand to other provinces over its 18-month duration. Notably, the project is already six months into its implementation phase.

In her keynote address, Hon. Baindu Dassama, Inclusion Adviser from the Office of the President, emphasized the urgent need for robust strategies to tackle the challenges faced by vulnerable children. She highlighted the plight of orphans who often end up on the streets and become susceptible to trafficking.

Hon. Dassama commended the efforts to trace and reunite children with their families rather than placing them in alternative care and called for stricter penalties for perpetrators of rape and human trafficking.

She stressed the importance of a united effort to create an inclusive and equitable society that supports and protects all children adding how she also acknowledges existing laws and policies in Sierra Leone aimed at safeguarding children, emphasizing the need for community involvement, particularly from elders to ensure the well-being of vulnerable children.

Henry Mustapha Sheku, the Deputy Commissioner of the National Children’s Commission (NCC), highlighted the establishment and crucial role of the NCC in overseeing the implementation of children’s rights in Sierra Leone.

He praised One Family People and their partners for their unwavering dedication to children and young people with disabilities, reiterating the Government’s commitment to child welfare, as outlined in national development plans and pledged the NCC’s support in prioritizing children’s rights and ensuring their active participation in decision-making processes.

The Deputy Commissioner further emphasized the NCC’s intent to collaborate with stakeholders to address the challenges faced by children with disabilities, particularly in accessing essential social services. He said the Commission plans to leverage its monitoring and coordination mandate to support upcoming projects aimed at enhancing support for vulnerable children.

Beatrice Koroma, representing the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), discussed the organization’s collaborative efforts with other UN agencies to support individuals with disabilities in Sierra Leone.

She highlighted the focus on ensuring access to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) services, family planning and inclusive health policies.

Beatrice Koroma stressed the importance of partnerships with various entities, including the Ministry and non-governmental organizations like UNHCR to promote programs addressing the unique SRHR needs of children and women with disabilities.

She expressed optimism about the partnerships forged and emphasized the shared goal of enhancing the quality of life for people and children with disabilities through these collaborative efforts.

Sia Elizabeth Conteh, the Coordinator of the Family Support Unit and Line Manager at Lumley Police Station, discussed the project’s focus on addressing issues related to children, women and sexual and gender requirements.

She underscored the importance of reporting cases of abuse and violence to the Family Support Unit, which is dedicated to investigating cases involving trafficked individuals and providing support to those facing challenges, including disabled children.

The Coordinator of the Family Support Unit and Line Manager emphasized the need to create a safe and supportive environment for individuals with disabilities to report abuse and violence. She encouraged individuals to come forward to the Police and the Family Support Group for assistance and justice.

Susan Kargbo, Senior Protection Assistant from the International Organization for Migration (IOM), provided an overview of IOM’s work in combating child trafficking and protecting vulnerable children. She highlighted the organization’s focus on orderly and regular migration in line with Sustainable Development Goal 10.7 and emphasized the need for specialized support for children at risk of trafficking or exploitation.

She also stressed the importance of collaboration with State and non-state actors, particularly the Ministry of Social Welfare, to address child protection issues and raise awareness about human trafficking. Susan Kargbo mentioned the Global Compact on Migration developed by IOM, outlining key objectives aimed at creating regular pathways and reducing vulnerabilities for children on the move.

A representative from Marie Stopes Sierra Leone highlighted their organization’s work in providing family planning and sexual reproductive health services across the country. The representative emphasized inclusiveness as a key approach to ensure no one is left behind in accessing these essential services. She said, through partnerships with the European Union and local entities, Marie Stopes is working to expand access to adolescent sexual and reproductive health rights, particularly targeting vulnerable populations in rural and hard-to-reach areas.

She furthermore said the organization supports supply chain management, capacity building and training initiatives to empower individuals, especially women and adolescent girls, to make informed decisions about their reproductive health. The Marie Stopes representative stressed the importance of everyone, regardless of age, disability, or background, having the right to access reproductive health services and make choices that positively impact their future.

During the formal launching statement, the representative from Nadia Onlu discussed the organization’s focus on helping children and families in Sierra Leone. He said initially founded to facilitate adoptions, Nadia Onlu has since shifted its mission to keeping children with their parents and supporting families. According to him, the organization aims to empower children to have a better quality of life and maintain connections with their families whenever possible.

The representative expressed gratitude towards those who support Nadia’s mission and emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration in their work. He highlighted the significance of community support in achieving their goals and stressed the value of working together to help those in need.

The launch of the II Giardino Di Ngali 2 Project marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to support and protect vulnerable children and young people in Sierra Leone.

With a strong focus on collaboration, inclusivity and comprehensive support, the project aims to address critical issues and create a more equitable and supportive environment for all children, especially those with disabilities. As the project progresses, it is poised to make a lasting impact on the lives of many, contributing to the broader goal of leaving no one behind by 2030.

RSLAF to Join State Partnership Program with Michigan National Guard & Liberia

May 20, 2024

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By Amin Kef Sesay

The Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) is set to become a new member of the State Partnership Program, strengthening the existing alliance between the Michigan National Guard and the Armed Forces of Liberia. Michigan and Liberia have been collaborating under the SPP since 2009.

U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Paul Rogers, Michigan National Guard Adjutant General, expressed optimism about the expansion, stating, “Welcoming Sierra Leone to our partnership in West Africa will provide new opportunities to address security challenges through a trilateral approach. Michigan sees this as a new chapter in the history of one incredibly meaningful regional partnership.”

Initiated in 1993 with 13 partners, the SPP now encompasses over 100 nations, facilitating civil-military cooperation to support defence and security objectives globally.

Lt. Gen. Peter Lavahun, RSLAF Chief of Defence Staff, affirmed, “This partnership will strengthen defence, security cooperation and will address lingering security challenges in the West African sub-region and the Gulf of Guinea.”

Michigan and Liberia have collaborated extensively over the past 15 years on various fronts, including rule of law familiarization, non commissioned officer professional development, medical readiness and disease control.

Brig. Gen. Davidson Forleh, AFL Chief of Staff, emphasized the success of the State Partnership Program for Liberia, expressing eagerness to continue the collaboration with Michigan alongside Sierra Leone.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer highlighted Michigan’s longstanding involvement in the program, stressing the importance of reaffirming commitment to existing partnerships while forging new ones with Sierra Leone.

Sierra Leone, located west of Liberia in coastal West Africa, shares linguistic and historical ties with its neighbour. Both countries endured devastating civil wars during the 1990s and early 2000s.

U.S. Ambassador to Sierra Leone Bryan Hunt underscored the significance of Sierra Leone’s partnership with the U.S. in addressing regional security challenges, noting that the SPP will enhance the professionalization of the RSLAF and promote bilateral security cooperation.

An official signing ceremony for Sierra Leone’s SPP membership is scheduled for late 2024.

Get Your Biometric ID Card: A Vital Step in Fighting Identity Fraud

May 20, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a major step toward modernizing governance and enhancing efficiency, Sierra Leone’s National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) is urging all citizens to obtain Biometric Identification Cards across the country. These cards, each featuring a unique National Identification Number (NIN), are set to enhance security and inclusivity for all residents, including non-citizens. The NCRA is urging all Sierra Leoneans to prioritize obtaining these cards, stressing their importance for personal security, national development, and access to essential services.

The Biometric ID Cards marks a critical advancement in providing access to essential services and strengthening individual security while combating identity fraud. With the issuance deadline approaching, citizens are encouraged to promptly acquire their cards to benefit from improved service delivery in healthcare, education, and social welfare programs.

Historically, the lack of a robust identification system in Sierra Leone has created barriers, particularly for marginalized communities. The new Biometric ID Cards, equipped with NINs, aim to eliminate these barriers by offering a secure and reliable means of identification. These cards will streamline processes across various sectors, including government services, banking, electoral registration, and employment, ensuring efficient and effective service delivery.

In an era of heightened digital security concerns, the protection of personal information is paramount. The Biometric ID Cards employ advanced technologies such as fingerprints and facial recognition to authenticate identities with high accuracy, significantly reducing the risk of fraud and exploitation.

Identity theft is a major threat to individuals and institutions alike. The Biometric ID Cards, fortified with advanced security features and unique NINs, act as strong defences against such threats, ensuring the integrity of personal information and preventing fraudulent activities.

NCRA has established accessible centers across the country to facilitate the application process, ensuring widespread adoption of this transformative system. Specialized corporate services have also been introduced to cater to the diverse needs of organizations, reflecting the NCRA’s commitment to accessibility and efficiency.

The NCRA has set up several centers to facilitate the issuance of the Biometric ID Cards:

1. NCRA Headquarters: 2 Walpole Street, Freetown
2. NCRA Office: 23B Off Kingharman Road, Freetown
3. NCRA Office: Kennedy Street, Freetown
4. NCRA Branch Office: 230 Lumley Road, Freetown (By the Roundabout)
5. NCRA Office: Waterloo along the Freetown Highway (Opposite the Police Station)
6. NCRA Offices: Regional Headquarter Towns of Bo, Kenema, Makeni, and Port Loko

Sierra Leoneans are urged to prioritize obtaining their Biometric ID Cards, recognizing their critical role in personal security, national development, and access to essential services. The NCRA emphasizes the statutory obligation and the importance of the unique National Identification Number (NIN), encouraging citizens to fulfill their civic duty by acquiring the cards.

With the implementation of Biometric ID Cards, Sierra Leone is poised to enter a new era of enhanced governance, efficiency, and security, marking a transformative milestone in its journey towards progress and inclusivity.

For detailed inquiries and assistance, individuals can contact the NCRA through the following channels: phone numbers +232-33-433-333, +232-30-500-000, +232-60-000, +232-78-221-812, or via email at idverification@ncra.gov.

At Bar Association AGM… Human Rights Commission Vice Chair Urges Commitment to Constitutional Roles for National Development

May 20, 2024

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By Esther Wright

At the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Sierra Leone Bar Association, Victor Idrissa Lansana Esq, the Vice Chairperson of the Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone, delivered a poignant address on Friday, May 17, 2024, in Kenema. Under the theme, “Unconstitutional Change of Government and its Threats to Democracy,” he called upon both the Government and citizens to diligently adhere to their constitutional roles, citing sections 5(2)(b) and 13 of the Constitution of Sierra Leone, 1991.

Victor Idrissa Lansana emphasized the historical backdrop of Africa’s struggle against human rights violations, ranging from slavery to colonialism and the more contemporary issue of unconstitutional changes in Government. He highlighted the significant impact of such unlawful transitions on the enjoyment of fundamental human rights, including the rights to life, privacy, freedom of assembly and association and freedom of expression and press, as well as economic, social and cultural rights.

Reflecting on the post-independence era, he noted the optimism that accompanied the liberation from colonial rule. However, he lamented that subsequent governance often fell short, with some regimes resorting to repressive measures that exacerbated suffering, sometimes leading to unconstitutional changes in power. Citing the African Peer Review Mechanism Report of 2023, he revealed that Africa had witnessed 18 successful attempts at unconstitutional takeovers between 2003 and 2023.

Addressing the obligations of Government, Victor Idrissa Lansana stressed the dual responsibility of upholding both international and national/constitutional obligations. He emphasized the duty to protect, respect and fulfil human rights aspirations at the international level, while domestically, the Government shoulders the responsibility for the welfare and security of Sierra Leonean citizens. The Vice Chair underscored the imperative for Governments to meet those obligations, cautioning against viewing Governmental failures as justification for unconstitutional actions.

Turning to the role of citizens, he referenced Section 13 of the Constitution, which outlines the duties of citizens, including patriotism, lawfulness and respect for national institutions. He highlighted instances of citizen misconduct, such as illegal electricity abstraction, as detrimental to national development and urged citizens to actively participate in governance processes while holding authorities accountable.

He concluded by calling upon the Government to prioritize the development aspirations of the people, foster a vibrant civic space and expand opportunities for citizens. Similarly, he urged citizens to engage constructively in governance and uphold their responsibilities as outlined in the Constitution.

The AGM concluded on Saturday, May 18, 2024.

Transport Minister, Aviation DG Facilitate Second Severance Payment for Former Airport Employees

May 20, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Freetown International Airport through the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) and the Ministry of Transport and Aviation on the 17^th May, 2024 paid the second tranche of end of service benefits to thirty seven former staffs of the Sierra Leone Airport Authority (SLAA) who were working at the Lungi International Airport comprising existing members of junior staff and retirees. It must be noted that forty former employees were paid during the first tranche.

Held at the Old Airport Terminal, the occasion was graced by the Minister of Transport and Aviation, Fanday Turay, the Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), Musayeroh Barrie, the new Airport Manager of the Freetown International Airport (FIA), Ibrahim Sheriff, the Assistant Director, Labour and Employment in the Ministry of Labour, the General Manager of the Sierra Leone Airport Authority, Jack Massaquoi, the beneficiaries and the Press.

In his opening remarks, the Chairman of the occasion , Jack Massaquoi, pointed out that all are aware of the recent transition that took place at the Airport informing all that main purpose of the gathering is to pay severance benefits to former employees that were working at the Lungi International Airport.

He commended the Minister of Transport and Aviation, Fanday Turay, for ensuring that a clause enshrined in the contractual agreement between SUMMA Group and the Government of Sierra Leone was implemented to the letter. The Chairman went on to reveal that the second tranche payment will benefit sixty-three former employees of the Sierra Leone Airport Authority (SLAA) highlighting how the payment was processed by the Bank of Sierra Leone and monies have been deposited into the accounts of the beneficiaries also mentioning that for the next tranche, the processing has commenced at the Bank of Sierra Leone.

He informed that as the programme progresses the beneficiaries will be called to collect their payment slips which they should properly peruse in order to verify that the right amount of monies were.

Jack Massaquoi disclosed that along the line they have been encountering certain challenges one of which is that those who were documented next of kins have passed away posing the difficulty as to certainly identify whom payment should be made to.

He said, however, it was agreed in a committee meeting that in such an instance family members should be consulted to appoint among themselves a family representative and that individual must sign a document as the rightful recipient which should be done in the presence of a lawyer to prevent any liability, on the part of the Airport, if a contention is raised.

The General Manager also stated that it was also agreed at the committee meeting that any former member of staff occupying a quarter should be given a grace period of three months after which he or she should quit and hand over the keys.

He concluded by expressing confidence that by the end of November the over 500 former members of staff would have been paid.

The Assistant Director of Labour, Abdulai Conteh, said he is stepping into the shoes of the Minister of Labour, Mohamed Rado Swarray, whom he said was unavoidably not chanced to be present as a result of a tight schedule. He said the long awaited period of when will be pay day finally occurred when payment of severance benefits commenced highlighting that this is the second time that payment will be effected. Abdulai Conteh expressed appreciation saying as a Ministry they recognize the significant efforts and inputs made by different personalities in ensuring that the payment process becomes a reality.

The Assistant Director praised the beneficiaries for the patience they exercised emphasizing that when once payments would have been completed such will mark the separation between the former employees and the Airport Management further admonishing that if any of them have properties belonging to the Airport they must ensure that those properties are returned. He assured the beneficiaries that the Ministry will continue to monitor the process to ensure that everybody that is supposed to be paid receives his or her.

In his brief statement, the new Airport Manager, Ibrahim Sherriff, assured that they are committed to make payments until the process is successfully completed. He noted that the total cost for all the payment that would be made stands at $7.5 Million and that every month they are paying $350,000 out of that amount to retirees and the staff that have been transferred to them stressing that by the end of November all payments would be completed.

Minister of Transport and Aviation, Fanday Turay, before commencing to make a statement called upon all the beneficiaries to clap for themselves and thanked them for their understanding as well as patience. He said two years ago a transition occurred when SUMMA Group took over the management of the Airport.

According to him, when he was appointed as Minister he decided to review the contractual agreement between SUMMA Group and the Government adding how he observed that there were certain obligations stated in the previous agreement one of which relates to payment of severance benefits. The Minister commended his Deputy for the efforts made in ensuring that the obligation was adhered to mentioning how his Deputy liaised with Parliament to make sure that the payment process was approved.

Fanday Turay revealed that the payment processes should have embarked upon by the SUMMA Group, according to the contractual agreement, only after approval had been given by the Bank of Sierra Leone but disclosed that, however, through their timely intervention and lobbying SUMMA Group finally decided otherwise by agreeing to pay even before getting the Bank of Sierra Leone approval.

“With $350,000 provided by SUMMA Group it was noticed that the money will not be enough to pay every one that is suppose to benefit and therefore we decided to start the first tranche of payment to retirees, the sick and those that desperately needed money,” the Minister underscored adding that the same criteria was applied in this second payment and they will continue to use it.

He added that as a responsible Government they will ensure the rights of citizens are upheld stressing it was that spirit which made them committed in ensuring that they receive what is rightfully due them. Minister Fanday Turay assured them that if whenever an employee is treated unfairly they are always there to assert and defend the right of that employee as they will step in to ensure that the right things are done.

The Minister admonished them to do the right things and focus on their jobs furthering that anything that goes bad at the Airport will have rippling effects internationally calling on them to be professionals and to work together as a team to make the Airport safe and peaceful.

“You will be given your end of service payment advice slips which you should properly scrutinize and if you note that there are discrepancies then you should bring it to our notice for rectifications to be made,” the Minister advised.

He concluded by commending the SLCAA Director General, Muasyeroh Barrie, the General Manager of the Sierra Leone Airport Authority ,Jack Massaquoi and the New Airport Manager of FIA, Ibrahim Sheriff for the initiative and flexibility adding that the Minister of Labour, Mohamed Rado Swarray, copiously supported the process.

One of the beneficiaries, Zainab, on behalf of others, expressed profound thanks to all that contributed to make the process become a reality including the Minister of Transport and Aviation. She emphasized the role of women in development and expressed a concern that the list of beneficiaries was not gender balanced as there were only two female names as well as appealing for transparency to be applied in the process.

The highpoint of the occasion was the calling of the names of individual beneficiaries to collect their severance or end of service payment advice slips for verification.

Tuma Adama Gento Jabbi Elected President of Bar Association

May 20, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Sierra Leone Bar Association (SLBA) held its Elective Congress 2024 from Friday, May 17 to Saturday May 18, 2024 in Kenema with the election of a new Executive climaxing the august gathering. After the elections were conducted and the results announced by the Chief Electoral Commissioner cum Returning Officer, Francis Ben Kaifala, who doubles as the Commissioner of the Anti Corruption Commission, (ACC) it was revealed that Tuma Adama Gento Jabbi won by a landslide victory as she was declared as the duly elected President of the Sierra Leone Bar Association (SLBA).

In the contest, she defeated the other contenders for the position by securing 560 votes while the other two contenders, Wara Serry Kamal pulled 23 votes and Augustine S. Marah got only 15 votes. There were 28 void votes out of total number of 1,200 registered voters.

Prior to the Elective Congress Tuma Adama Gento Jabbi vigorously and passionately campaigned under the theme: “Raise The Bar”. In her manifesto, she outlined her vision for the SLBA presidency, focusing on the pillars of Standards, Empowerment and Welfare.

The result oriented personality promised to elevate the standards within the legal profession, empower legal practitioners and address welfare concerns for members of the Bar.

Tuma Adama Jabbi further emphasized her deep-rooted commitment to the legal profession, drawing inspiration from her father’s legacy and her own fourteen years of experience as a legal practitioner. She highlighted her contributions to legal education, including the introduction of the Tax/Revenue Law module at Fourah Bay College in 2014, which has impacted hundreds of students.

Central to her vision is the concept of “Standards, Empowerment and Welfare” (#SEW), which she believes are interconnected and essential for the advancement of the legal profession in Sierra Leone. Tuma Adama Jabbi debunked the myth that pursuing high ethical standards and advancing human rights are mutually exclusive, asserting that the SLBA can simultaneously elevate standards while defending constitutionalism and human rights.

She also highlighted concrete plans to raise standards within the legal profession, including the introduction of clerkships as part of pupilage to provide support for Judges and Senior Magistrates. Also, she proposed the operationalization of the Legal Practitioner’s Privileges Committee to recognize deserving senior advocates, thereby fostering respect for the legal profession.

Furthermore, the newly elected Bar Association President stressed the importance of empowerment, advocating for continuous legal education (CLE) and scholarship opportunities to capacitate legal practitioners in various areas of law. She expressed her commitment to exploring internship opportunities with international bodies to broaden the exposure of SLBA members to international legal practice.

Addressing welfare concerns, Tuma Adama Jabbi acknowledged the need for a permanent Bar Secretariat and pledged to secure suitable land for its construction. She also proposed the establishment of a private pension scheme in collaboration with NASSIT to support retired members of the Bar, emphasizing the importance of collective action and solidarity within the legal fraternity.

In her victory remarks, Tuma Adama Jabbi, promised to build upon the progress made under the outgoing President’s leadership and lead the Association towards a future where it will serve as a beacon of hope, positive change and justice for all.

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