Over Purchase of Vehicle… Corporate Affairs Director Clarifies SLCB’s Position

May 8, 2024

By Amin Kef Sesay

In a recent development, the Sierra Leone Commercial Bank (SLCB) finds itself under scrutiny regarding the procurement of a vehicle, as investigations by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) loom. Victor Baindoma Esq., the Director of Corporate Affairs at SLCB, has addressed the matter, shedding light on the situation.

He confirmed to our news outlet that despite the ongoing investigation, the purchase of the vehicle is anticipated to be beneficial for the bank, resulting in significant cost savings that will reflect positively on the institution’s upcoming financial statements.

While refraining from delving into specifics due to the ongoing ACC inquiry, Victor Baindoma expressed the satisfaction of both the Board and Management regarding the procurement. He emphasized that acquiring the vehicle has spared the Management from the expenses associated with vehicle hire.

According to him, the procured vehicle meets high standards and has not encountered any mechanical issues since its acquisition, with the bank making full use of it.

However, he cautioned against premature conclusions, urging patience for the outcome of the ACC’s investigation. Despite the current scrutiny, Victor Baindoma reassured stakeholders that SLCB remains financially robust, highlighting its profitability with a notable pre-tax income of Le132 billion in 2022.

Asserting SLCB’s pivotal role as the first indigenous commercial bank in Sierra Leone, wholly owned by the Government of Sierra Leone (GoSL), the stressed the institution’s commitment to the nation’s welfare. He underscored the professionalism of SLCB’s staff, all of whom are citizens of Sierra Leone.

Addressing concerns about media coverage, the Director of Corporate Affairs urged journalists to uphold ethical standards by verifying information before publication. He lamented what he termed as “unprofessional journalism,” criticizing the dissemination of negative information about the bank while overlooking its significant contributions and attractive banking products.

Despite SLCB’s efforts to support the Sierra Leonean media through loans and advertisements, Victor Baindoma expressed disappointment in the persistent negative portrayal by some journalists, branding it as detrimental to both the bank and the public interest.

As SLCB commemorates fifty years since its establishment, the Director of Corporate Affairs reiterated the institution’s commitment to delivering value, echoing the sentiment embodied in its logo. He affirmed SLCB’s resilience and dedication to serving the people of Sierra Leone, urging for fair and balanced reporting amidst ongoing challenges.

Orange Digital Center Partners with Coursera to Provide Free Certification Courses in Emerging Digital Careers

May 7, 2024

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Orange Sierra Leone Digital Center is launching a free high-level certification training program in partnership with Coursera, the world leader in online learning. This partnership aims to offer young people in Africa and the Middle East the opportunity to acquire essential skills in digital professions, free of charge and at their own pace.

The Orange Digital Center (ODC) network is driving digital inclusion for young people and entrepreneurs across Africa and the Middle East through its 16 centers.

It is launching this initiative to provide young people in the region with key skills in essential areas such as artificial intelligence, cyber-security, digital marketing and entrepreneurship. These programs are designed to meet the needs of the ever-evolving job market, providing talented young people with the knowledge and skills they need to enter the job market, develop their careers or encourage them to become digital entrepreneurs.
Orange Digital Centers are physical structures designed to be hubs of innovation and learning, free and open to all, providing a dynamic environment where young people can develop their skills, explore new technologies, and stimulate their creativity.

Equipped with the latest technologies, they support young people throughout the entire technological innovation and entrepreneurship value chain.

This innovation ecosystem consists of several spaces that offer free learning programs: a Code School, a Solidarity FabLab, an ‘Orange Fab’ startup accelerator, and Orange Ventures Middle East and Africa, the Orange Group’s investment fund that invests in the most promising startups.

Asma Ennaifer, Executive Director CSR, Orange Digital Centers and Communication, Orange Africa and Middle East, says: “At Orange, we firmly believe that digital inclusion is the key to creating a fairer and more prosperous future for everyone. In partnership with Coursera and through the Orange Digital Centers, we are opening the doors of certification training to all our beneficiaries, offering educational and professional development opportunities to those who need them most.”

All the Orange SL Digital Center training courses are on the Coursera platform here https://www.coursera.org/

Orange Press release 2-0

SLAJ President Commends AYV for Penetrating Nigerian Market

May 7, 2024

SLAJ President Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, lauded Amb Anthony Navo Jnr, CEO and Owner of AYV

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a significant stride for Sierra Leonean media, the President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, lauded Africa Young Voices (AYV) for its entrance into the Nigerian market. On Monday, May 6, 2024, Nasralla joined Amb Anthony Navo Jnr, CEO and Owner of AYV, on the prime time program “Wake Up Sierra Leone” at 9 am to announce the launch of AYV DStv Channel 399 in Nigeria.

During the broadcast, Nasralla expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “This is great news and a huge development for media in Sierra Leone. It also presents a significant opportunity to showcase the beauty and potential of our country to the African continent.”

Reflecting on AYV’s journey, Nasralla remarked, “The story of AYV is remarkable and inspiring—a testament to determination, courage, and passion.” He acknowledged the expansion of AYV from a newspaper to multiple media platforms, spanning countries such as Liberia, Ghana, the United Kingdom, and now Nigeria.

Having served in various capacities within AYV, Nasralla commended Amb. Navo for his dedication to investing in Sierra Leone’s media sector. “AYV represents hope for young people and those who believe in our nation’s potential,” he remarked.

Nasralla emphasized the significance of AYV’s expansion into Nigeria, noting the plethora of opportunities it brings for business, collaboration, and partnerships in various sectors, including arts, entertainment, media development, filmmaking, music, and comedy.

However, he stressed the importance of upholding quality content, professionalism, and responsibility as AYV continues to grow and diversify its platform.

In conclusion, Nasralla thanked the entire AYV team and highlighted the company as a beacon of private sector investment in the media industry.

The expansion into the Nigerian market marks a milestone for AYV and signifies its commitment to amplifying voices across borders while showcasing Sierra Leone’s rich culture and potential.

Over Purchase Of Vehicle… Corporate Affairs Director Clarifies SLCB’s Position

May 6, 2024

In a recent development, the Sierra Leone Commercial Bank (SLCB) finds itself under scrutiny regarding the procurement of a vehicle, as investigations by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) loom. Victor Baindoma Esq., the Director of Corporate Affairs at SLCB, has addressed the matter, shedding light on the situation.

Baindoma confirmed to our news outlet that despite the ongoing investigation, the purchase of the vehicle is anticipated to be beneficial for the bank, resulting in significant cost savings that will reflect positively on the institution’s upcoming financial statements.

While refraining from delving into specifics due to the ongoing ACC inquiry, Baindoma expressed the satisfaction of both the Board and Management regarding the procurement. He emphasized that acquiring the vehicle has spared the Management from the expenses associated with vehicle hire.

According to Baindoma, the procured vehicle meets high standards and has not encountered any mechanical issues since its acquisition, with the bank making full use of it.

However, he cautioned against premature conclusions, urging patience for the outcome of the ACC’s investigation. Despite the current scrutiny, Baindoma reassured stakeholders that SLCB remains financially robust, highlighting its profitability with a notable pre-tax income of Le132 billion in 2022.

Asserting SLCB’s pivotal role as the first indigenous commercial bank in Sierra Leone, wholly owned by the Government of Sierra Leone (GoSL), Baindoma stressed the institution’s commitment to the nation’s welfare. He underscored the professionalism of SLCB’s staff, all of whom are citizens of Sierra Leone.

Addressing concerns about media coverage, Baindoma urged journalists to uphold ethical standards by verifying information before publication. He lamented what he termed as “unprofessional journalism,” criticizing the dissemination of negative information about the bank while overlooking its significant contributions and attractive banking products.

Despite SLCB’s efforts to support the Sierra Leonean media through loans and advertisements, Baindoma expressed disappointment in the persistent negative portrayal by some journalists, branding it as detrimental to both the bank and the public interest.

As SLCB commemorates fifty years since its establishment, Baindoma reiterated the institution’s commitment to delivering value, echoing the sentiment embodied in its logo. He affirmed SLCB’s resilience and dedication to serving the people of Sierra Leone, urging for fair and balanced reporting amidst ongoing challenges.

On World Press Freedom Day… Calls Mounted to Stop Attacks On Journalists

May 6, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) joined Press Freedom Advocates across the World to Commemorate the ‘World Press Freedom Day’ 2024 in collaboration with the US Embassy in Sierra Leone. World Press Freedom Day 2024 was observed with a panel discussion on the theme: ‘Press Freedom and its Importance to Democracy’ at the American Shelf on Fourah Bay College, University of Sierra Leone on Friday, May 3, 2024.

Panelists included President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) , Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, the US Ambassador Bryan D. Hunt, the Deputy Minister of Information and Civic Education (MoICE) Bockarie Bawoh and the President of Women in the Media Sierra Leone, Eastina Taylor. The discussion was moderated by SLAJ Journalist of the Year 2023 Amadu Lamrana Bah.

Speaking on World Press Freedom Day 2024, SLAJ President Ahmed Sahid Nasralla highlighted the significant strides made in promoting and protecting freedom of expression, press freedom and media development in Sierra Leone.

“The historic repeal of the criminal libel law in 2021 set the foundation for all these gains we have made and continue to make,” President Ahmed Sahid Nasralla stated.

He emphasized the achievements, including the establishment of the National Fund for Public Interest Media (NaFPIM) and the enactment of the Gender Equality Policy for the media.

The SLAJ President also noted the successful implementation of initiatives like the SLAJ Media Manifesto and platforms such as I-Verify and SLAJ SuperNewsRooms, aimed at countering disinformation and promoting information integrity.

Despite these advancements, he acknowledged challenges such as journalists’ safety, welfare, and online threats further urging for continued support from the Government, politicians and law enforcement agencies to ensure the protection of journalists.

Ahmed Sahid Nasralla reiterated the importance of addressing online attacks on journalists and urged for collective efforts in promoting press freedom, defending journalists’ rights and advocating for a transparent and democratic society.

Other panelists made salient contributions with the unanimous call made to stop the attacks on journalists as well as underscoring the correlation between press freedom and democracy.

Moderating the panel discussion, Amadu Lamrana Bah underscored the critical need for a truthful and independent public interest media in Sierra Leone. He emphasized the symbiotic relationship between a government allowing media accountability and a media dedicated to truthfulness and public accountability.

It must be noted that in a recently released Reporters Without Borders World Press Freedom Index, Sierra Leone climbed from 74th in 2023 to 64th in 2024 out of 180 countries. However, the report also notes press freedom violations observed since President Julius Maada Bio’s reelection in 2023, despite the decriminalization of press offenses during his first term.

In another development, the Media Reform Coordinating Group-Sierra Leone (MRCG) also commemorated World Press Freedom Day on the theme: “A Press for the Planet: Journalism in the Face of Environmental Crisis.”

The organization celebrated the fundamental principles of press freedom emphasizing the Government’s commitment to upholding freedom of expression and bolstering media freedom continually.

It continued by maintaining how this year, the focus is on highlighting the crucial role of journalism and freedom of expression amidst the ongoing environmental crisis.

According to the MRCG, journalists grapple with challenges in sourcing and disseminating information on pressing issues like climate change, pollution, deforestation, and more underscoring that addressing those challenges is pivotal for promoting peace and democratic values globally.

The MRCG utilized the occasion to acknowledge the media’s role in reporting on environmental crises, climate change, democracy, peace, and human rights in Sierra Leone.

It disclosed how they have been actively engaging coastal communities on climate change awareness and mitigation while advocating for media reforms and capacity building for journalists nationwide.

Additionally, the MRCG reminded the Government and development partners of the importance of the public interest media initiative, a recommendation stemming from the 2022 Media Viability and Investment Conference.

It highlighted that despite challenges, it has made strides in enhancing media freedom in the country revealing how seventy-six cases have been monitored across eleven editions of MRCG’s Press Freedom reports, with ongoing efforts to report and address press freedom violations.

Karene District Council Showcases EU-Funded Infrastructure Projects

May 6, 2024

The Karene District Council, with support from the European Union, the Government of Sierra Leone and the people, on the 28 April 2024: celebrated the commissioning of a newly constructed Market, Rehabilitated Community Multi-purpose Hall, Water and Sanitation Facilities and newly constructed Bridges and Culverts in Kamakwie Town.

These infrastructural developments in Kamakwie and other parts of Karene district are significant development advantages that will benefit residents of the district in many ways. The EU’s support is to strengthen the Council’s capacity to deliver on its core mandate and to boost the district’s economic and social infrastructure, such as rural roads, bridges, provision of clean water and sanitation facilities, providing access for farm products to markets, creating inter-connectivity within the district for access to health and education centers to improve the wellbeing of citizens in the communities. The support is particularly designed for marginalized groups in the communities, such as women and youths.

The Ambassador of the European Union to Sierra Leone, Manuel Müller highlighted the positive impact of EU-funded projects in Karene District, including infrastructure improvements like bridges, culverts, water points, roads, market structures and a multipurpose hall. These investments aim to enhance the lives of Karene residents while bolstering the Council’s financial resources for effective governance. Ambassador Müller emphasized the EU’s commitment to supporting Sierra Leone’s development agenda, particularly through projects in various districts nationwide.

“Over the years, the EU has worked with Local Councils because they have an insider understanding of local challenges and are strategically placed to address those issues.” He further stated, “EU’s intervention promotes accountability and service delivery, especially with the support that came through the Support to Civil Society and Local Authorities for Local Development in Sierra Leone Project, which adds revenue generation to the mix.” Ambassador Müller encouraged the people to continue paying taxes so the Council could undertake more projects.

The event saw the esteemed presence of notable dignitaries, including Abdul Kandeh Turay, Chairman of Karene District Council. Their presence underscored the significance of this endeavor in fostering inclusive growth and enhancing public service delivery for the community.

“The commissioning of these facilities marks a new chapter in the development trajectory of Karene District,” remarked Chairman Abdul Kandeh Turay. “We are committed to ensuring that these resources are utilized effectively to benefit all residents and contribute to the overall progress of our district.”

The Chief Administrator of Karene District Council, Sorie Gbawuru Sillah, also reflected on the Council’s journey since its formation in 2016. Despite early challenges, EU support has provided essential resources like vehicles and motorbikes, enabling smoother operations.

He expressed gratitude for the EU project, citing its pivotal role in advancing their development aspirations, emphasizing the cadastral system, which is new to the Council and is set to bolster its revenue generation hugely. Equipped with newfound projects and financial management skills, he believes that they are poised to administer the District Council for effective service delivery to the citizens. He emphasized their commitment to maximizing the benefits of the investments by introducing the sustainable public-private partnerships model.

“Development happens when the people are happy and peaceful, and the Government has reliable development partners like the European Union,” remarked the Hon. Deputy Minister of Local Government and Community Affairs, Alfred Moi Jamiru. “Through collaboration with the European Union, we continue to prioritize enhancing public service delivery and promoting sustainable development in our communities.”

Providing an overview of the project, DAI Project Management Unit Lead, Lameck Siage celebrated its 100% success rate and expressed satisfaction with achieving project objectives. He highlighted the diverse impacts of the project, including construction works, water facilities, road improvements and capacity development for Councils. Karene District marks the culmination of the project’s implementation, with Lameck Siage expressing gratitude to the EU for their unwavering support.

“What remains now is for the Karene district to ensure that they maintain and benefit from these investment facilities. We applaud the Karene District for its cooperation in implementing this project and appreciate our working together in this district,” he said.

The newly inaugurated market and stalls provide local traders with a conducive environment to safely and securely showcase their products. The refurbished multipurpose hall also stands as a symbol of modernity, offering a venue for official gatherings and social events within Karene District.

Implemented with technical assistance from DAI, the initiative is part of the European Union’s broader efforts to support Civil Society Organisations and District Councils in Kenema, Bombali, Falaba, Kambia, Karene, and Pujehun. The project exemplifies unwavering commitment to promoting sustainable development and fostering resilience within Karene District and beyond.

In Kabala… Deputy Head Teacher Jailed in Kabala for 8-Month for Kush & Diamba

May 6, 2024

By Amin Kef Sesay

In Kabala, Sierra Leone, the relentless efforts of the local police division, spearheaded by CSP Ibrahim Barrie, have led to significant strides in combating the proliferation of illicit substances, particularly ‘kush’. Following diligent surveillance, raids and subsequent arrests, the Legal & Justice Department has secured convictions against multiple suspects recently apprehended and brought before the courts.

Among those convicted is Ibrahim Sorie Kanu, a forty-three-year-old Deputy Head Teacher of the District Education Community (DEC) Primary School (Central), along with nineteen-year-old Yelie Conteh. Their arrest on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, at Rottom Mango Kabala, revealed possession of 11 wraps of kush, 2 wraps of cannabis sativa, and a packet of ‘rizla’ in a prohibited area.

Charged under Section 8(a) of the Pharmacy and Drugs Control Act 1988 for unlawful possession of cannabis sativa, Ibrahim Sorie Kanu faced trial before Magistrate Daboh.

After careful consideration of the evidence presented, Magistrate Daboh handed down a verdict, sentencing the Deputy Head Teacher to 8 months imprisonment. He was found guilty of unlawfully possessing prohibited substances (kush & cannabis sativa), frequenting areas notorious for illicit drug trade and consumption, among other related offenses.

Additionally, other accomplices in the case received varying sentences: Alie Sillah was sentenced to 12 months imprisonment, Sahr Jeremiah Komba to 8 months, while Yatie Conteh and Poreh Sankoh received 1-month imprisonment each. The prosecution was led by Police Constable 14071 Mustapha Massaquoi, while A. T Jalloh-Esq represented the accused persons in court.

Marie Stopes Engages Stakeholders in Kenema on SMRH Bill

May 6, 2024

By Philip Koroma, Kenema

In a concerted effort to address critical reproductive health challenges faced by women and girls in Sierra Leone, Marie Stopes Sierra Leone recently concluded a two-day awareness-raising event aimed at influential women and community stakeholders regarding the Safe Motherhood and Reproductive Health Care (SMRH) Bill. The event took place at Luawa Hotel in Kenema.

Sandi Massaquoi, the Advocacy and Outreach Manager at Marie Stopes Sierra Leone, highlighted the collaborative efforts between Marie Stopes, the Ministry of Health, and various Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), including the People Alliance for Reproductive Health Advocacy (PARHA), in drafting the proposed SMRH Bill. The bill seeks to enhance access to safe termination of pregnancies resulting from rape or fetal abnormalities, and to promote the overall well-being of women and girls in the country.

He stressed the importance of engaging influential women and community stakeholders to familiarize them with the contents of the proposed bill, aligning with the strategic roadmap established by the technical working group. The two-day event aimed to raise awareness, deepen understanding, garner support, and facilitate effective navigation of the legislative process to promote reproductive health rights in Sierra Leone.

Participants were encouraged to actively engage with their Members of Parliament to emphasize the significance of the proposed SMRH Bill, with the hope of facilitating its smooth passage once introduced in Parliament.

Furthermore, the Advocacy and Outreach Manager disclosed that in December 2023, Marie Stopes Sierra Leone specifically targeted Members of Parliament representing the female caucus on health, gender, legislative, and human rights committees to ensure women’s voices are central in the legislative process.

He added that upon completion, the revised draft of the bill will undergo validation by the ministerial cabinet before being tabled in Parliament.

Employers Federation Commences 2nd Phase of ‘Women for Water & Peace Project’

May 6, 2024

Sierra Leone Employers Federation (SLEF).jpg

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

In a concerted effort to combat gender-based violence and improve access to clean water, the Sierra Leone Employers Federation (SLEF) spearheaded its second awareness-raising campaign on Friday, May 3rd, 2024, in the Mayenkineh Community, Calaba Town. The campaign, which was part of the ‘Women for Water and Peace Project,’ aims to promote decent work, enhance grievance handling through social dialogue and build the capacity of women in the water kiosk business.

The ‘Women for Water and Peace Project’ is nearing completion in the Mayenkineh Community, thanks to collaboration with various implementing partners, support from the International Labour Office, and funding from the UNCDF and UN Peacebuilding Fund. The project focuses on constructing water wells to provide purified water, addressing water scarcity challenges, particularly affecting women and girls.

Albert Ojo Collier, Executive Secretary of the Sierra Leone Employers Federation, emphasized the life-changing impact of the project on the community. He urged residents to view the project as a business opportunity for community development, highlighting the role of women in its success.

He underscored the significant role of women in water-related activities, noting how water scarcity exposes them to risks like physical violence and sexual exploitation during late-night water fetching. He expressed confidence that the project would mitigate such challenges while stressing the community’s responsibility to maintain the facilities for sustained impact.

Memish Doherty, representing the Sierra Leone Employers Federation, highlighted the importance of women’s involvement in the water project and its potential to empower them within their households. She emphasized the project’s role in alleviating the burden of water-fetching on women and urged community residents to take ownership of the wells for proper maintenance and transparent fund handling.

The ‘Women for Water and Peace Project’ signifies the commitment of the Sierra Leone Employers Federation, the International Labour Office, and other partners in addressing pressing issues faced by women and girls in accessing water resources. As the project progresses, it is expected to bring lasting change and contribute to the overall development of the communities involved.

WFP Receives $1.4 M from Government of Iceland to Bolster School Feeding in Sierra Leone

May 6, 2024

By Amin Kef Sesay

To bolster food security and education in Sierra Leone, the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has received a generous contribution of US$1.4 million from the Government of Iceland. This substantial donation is earmarked for providing nutritious meals to 30,000 school children across 136 public schools in Bonthe district.

The funding will not only fortify the existing school feeding program but also forge partnerships with local smallholder farmers to source at least one food commodity from them, thereby creating a reliable market and enhancing dietary diversity for pupils.

Yvonne Forsen, WFP Representative and Country Director in Sierra Leone, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “When farmers are linked to predictable markets (schools), this will incentivize them to produce more nutritious crops and increase their income.” She described the donation by the Government of Iceland as “a historic first direct contribution from the Government of Iceland to WFP in Sierra Leone.” Adding, “Your commitment is not just a donation; it’s a partnership towards a sustainable future for our children.”

Under this program, WFP, in collaboration with the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, will implement a climate-sensitive Home-Grown School Feeding (HGSF) initiative targeting 136 primary schools in Bonthe district. This initiative will not only support local women Farmer Based Organizations (FBOs) but also provide training, agricultural inputs, and market opportunities to empower 1,140 women.

The Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Conrad Sackey underscored the gains made so far stating, “The HGFS is integral with the Free Quality Education which has seen 69% increase in retention and an additional enrolment of 1 million children into the school systems and a reduction in absenteeism in school since it was first launched in 2018.”

A key aspect of the program is the introduction of fresh vegetables, orange-fleshed sweet potatoes, and locally sourced fish in school meals, thereby enhancing the nutritional content while supporting local agriculture and fisheries. Additionally, the funding will facilitate improvements in school infrastructure, including kitchens and storage facilities, benefiting 1,500 students.

To address sustainability concerns, WFP plans to establish woodlots at schools and provide fuel-efficient stoves to reduce firewood consumption and safeguard the health of cooks.

Elin Rosa Sigurdardottir, Director General at the Embassy of Iceland, expressed optimism about the program’s potential impact, stating, “Our contribution will boost the Feed Salone initiative of the Government of Sierra Leone and enhance access and retention in schools for all children in Bonthe district to reach their full potentials.”

Overall, WFP provides school meals to 238,000 pupils in Sierra Leone across five districts, with 28,000 children covered under the home-grown school feeding program. This initiative aligns with the Government of Sierra Leone’s National School Feeding Policy, underscoring its commitment to leveraging school feeding activities for local food production and procurement, thereby fostering social and economic development within communities.