Legal Aid Board Secures Release of Two Juveniles and the Discharge of Eight Defendants

April 22, 2024

By Esther Wright

In a recent legal development, the Legal Aid Board (LAB) has achieved notable successes in securing the release of two juveniles and the discharge of eight defendants from various court proceedings.

At Freetown Magistrate Court No. 7, presided over by Magistrate Wilbril Hamida Moira John, two juveniles, identified under pseudonyms Rahim Bangura and Jonathan Koroma, were released due to lack of prosecution as per Section 94 of the Criminal Procedure Act 1965. Rahim’s release occurred on Monday, April 15, while Jonathan regained freedom on Tuesday, April 16, 2024. The juveniles, previously held on separate trials for charges including housebreaking and larceny, were represented by Legal Aid Counsel Bankole C.E. Morgan.

Rahim, apprehended in November 2023 in Waterloo, and Jonathan, arrested in Calaba Town, had been in remand at the Kingtom Remand Home until their recent release. Following their discharge, Ms. Fatmata Claire Carlton-Hanciles, Executive Director of the Board, personally advised them at the Board’s headquarters in Freetown to return home, reunite with their families, and resume schooling. She urged them to avoid activities that might lead them into conflict with the law, emphasizing contentment with family provisions.

Additionally, the LAB facilitated the return and reunification of one juvenile with his family in Makeni through a partnership with Dream the Future Africa Initiative.

In a separate development, the Board achieved the discharge of eight accused individuals from Kono Magistrate Court between April 8 and April 15, 2024. Furthermore, it secured bail for four remaining accused individuals arraigned on manslaughter charges at Kambia Magistrate Court, presided over by Magistrate George B. Samai.

The accused individuals, including six women and two men, faced charges related to the alleged deaths of two teenagers following Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) or ‘Bondo’ initiation in Tonko Limba Chiefdom, Kambia district. Legal representation was provided by Counsel Mohamed Korie for those in Kambia and Counsel Alpha O. Kamara for those in Kono, both serving as LAB Resident Counsels for Port Loko and Kambia Districts.

These legal successes underscore the crucial role of the Legal Aid Board in safeguarding the rights and ensuring fair representation for individuals involved in legal proceedings across Sierra Leone.

A Study Worth Exploring… Perspective on Kush by the CEO & Founder of Phebean John Foundation

April 22, 2024

By Phebean John

As an avid observer like many others, I have dedicated considerable time and contemplation to the pressing issue plaguing our nation – Kush. During my regular commutes to Fourah Bay College for lectures, it pained me to discover that a significant number of young individuals engaged in illicit activities were ensnared by Kush addiction. It is disheartening to witness how their hard-earned money from hustling is squandered on a pernicious substance that brings them closer to the brink of destruction each passing day.

From my Krio Corner, I have encountered audio recordings, videos and screenshots showcasing allegations and counter-accusations among those implicated in the Kush trade. At this juncture, differentiating truth from falsehood becomes an arduous task.

Drawing an analogy from mafia movies, one can ascertain that these cartels operate within a highly organized syndicate. Similarly, the Kush trade exhibits a comparable structure.

Allow me to elaborate:

Stage 1 primarily consists of individuals holding influential positions in politics, media, security, corporate sectors and the entertainment industry. They wield significant control over the enterprise and often reap the most substantial rewards from their involvement.

Stage 2 encompasses proprietors of establishments such as restaurants, hotels, bars, parks, gas stations, mini-marts, gyms, cinemas, and more. These owners provide the essential platforms for transactions to occur.

Stage 3 involves intermediary brokers, young people caught between the elite and ordinary dealers. These individuals lead extravagant lifestyles without any discernible sources of legitimate income.

Stage 4 comprises the common dealers who directly sell to the brokers or purchase from them to cater to the needs of addicts and ardent consumers.

Now, let us delve into the necessary course of action:

Establishing a Task Force to investigate the Kush epidemic is a straightforward process. However, identifying individuals within the Committee devoid of any involvement in drug-related activities proves to be a challenge.

1. As conscientious citizens, we must persist in educating the masses, particularly the youth, about the perils associated with drug abuse.

2. The establishment of specialized rehabilitation centers solely dedicated to Kush addiction is imperative. These centers should provide comprehensive and holistic treatments.

3. It is advisable for the President to bolster existing structures rather than creating new ones to combat this menace effectively.

4. Intelligence gathering should be genuinely encouraged, free from the clutches of partisan politics, tribalism, nepotism, and class divisions.

5. Enforcement of stricter laws pertaining to the production, distribution, and sale of Kush is paramount.

In conclusion, as the proverbial saying goes, “an idle mind is the devil’s workshop.” I firmly believe that the lack of employment opportunities in our country primarily contributes to this predicament. If individuals were gainfully employed, they would not have the luxury of indulging in drugs that could jeopardize their livelihoods. A faction of the elite preys upon the vulnerability of unemployed youths and exploits their addiction and fragile mental states. The time to take action is now!

Phebean John
Graduate in Social Work, Fourah Bay College
CEO and Founder Phebean John’s Foundation ‎

Attorney General Tables Proclamation on Drug Regulation in Parliament

April 22, 2024

Attorney General and Minister of Justice.jpg

By Amin Kef Sesay

The Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Mohamed Lamin Tarawallie Esq., has presented a proclamation to the Sierra Leone Parliament on Thursday, April 18, 2024. The proclamation, made by His Excellency Brigadier Retired, Julius Maada Bio, President of the Republic, Supreme Head of State, Grand Commander of the Order of the Republic, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Fountain Head of Unity, Honour, Freedom, and Justice, relates to Constitutional Instrument No.6 of 2024, focusing on Kush and other harmful drugs.

During the parliamentary session, the Attorney General tabled several key documents:

1. Proclamation 2024 by President Julius Maada Bio
2. The Public Emergency Regulations, 2024
3. The Drug and Substance Abuse Public Emergency Response Regulation 2024
4. Statutory Instrument No.7 of 2024

In his remarks, Majority Leader and Leader of Government, Hon Mathew Sahr Nyuma, affirmed that all legal procedures regarding the President’s proclamation had been duly fulfilled. He commended the Attorney General for adhering to the advice of Parliament in the matter.

Acting Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Daniel Koroma, welcomed the new proclamation, emphasizing its importance and the adherence to parliamentary advice. He clarified that the previous proclamation, issued on the 9th, had elapsed, highlighting that the new proclamation was gazetted on April 17, 2024.

In a separate development during the parliamentary session, members extensively debated the ‘Criminal Procedure Act, 2024.’ This bill aims to repeal and replace the outdated Criminal Procedure Act of 1965, introducing new procedures related to summary trials, committal proceedings, trials on indictments, alternative sentences, and other relevant matters.

Both opposition and Government Members of Parliament contributed substantially to the discussions, raising concerns and questions. Following the debate, the bill was committed to the Legislative Committee for further amendments and scrutiny.

The Attorney General and Minister of Justice responded to the issues, concerns, and questions raised by Members of Parliament, providing clarifications where necessary. It must be noted that the parliamentary session marked a significant step in addressing drug abuse and reforming criminal procedures in Sierra Leone.

Fugitive Captain Gunned Down, Dies Later & Arrests Made Against Planned Subversion

April 22, 2024

By Esther Wright

In a dramatic turn of events, Captain John Conteh, a fugitive wanted for his alleged involvement in the failed November 26, 2023 coup, was fatally shot by law enforcement after attempting to evade capture once again.

The incident unfolded on Wednesday, April 17th, when authorities discovered the Captain hiding at his mother’s residence in Mayenkineh, Calaba Town, located in the East End part of Freetown.

Efforts to transport him to the Jui Detention Centre were interrupted when he exploited a moment of vulnerability during transit. Taking advantage of loosened restraints, he assaulted a nearby Police Officer and attempted to flee the scene. Despite efforts to halt his escape, he was shot and succumbed to his injuries en route to the hospital. Additionally, his mother was arrested for aiding and abetting his evasion.

On Saturday,20^th April, the Sierra Leone Police stated that he has passed away.

In a separate development, law enforcement authorities have announced a series of arrests targeting former and current military and police personnel suspected of orchestrating a subversive plot. Allegedly planning to disrupt the peace of the nation between Ramadan (Pray) Day and April 27, coinciding with Sierra Leone’s Independence Anniversary, the individuals detained are believed to have ties to previous disturbances.

Several of the apprehended individuals were among those sought for their roles in last year’s unrest. Arrests were carried out across various locations within the Western Area.

While specific details regarding the arrests remain limited, authorities have pledged to provide updates during their forthcoming weekly press briefings, ensuring the public remains informed of developments in this ongoing investigation.

As SLPP Govt Promised Bread & Butter… High Taxes on Essential Commodities Scaling Up Cost of Living

April 22, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In Sierra Leone, the burden of high living costs persists, largely attributed to the imposition of taxes on essential commodities by specific business entities. The Government, facing a pressing need for revenue in a largely unproductive economy, relies heavily on taxes as a primary means of mobilization. However, this strategy inadvertently leads to a vicious cycle where businesses, compelled to offset tax expenses, raise prices, ultimately causing economic strain for the majority of citizens.

Contrary to the promises made by the ruling SLPP Government to usher in a period of economic prosperity, upon assuming power, the reality of exorbitant prices makes the envisioned “Bread and Butter” lifestyle unattainable for many Sierra Leoneans.

Traditionally, the private sector is viewed as the engine for economic growth, generating employment opportunities and contributing significantly to revenue mobilization through tax payments. It is imperative for any Government to foster an environment conducive to private sector growth, as it plays a pivotal role in national development.

However, when policies or laws suffocate the business sector, hindering its growth, the consequences are dire. This scenario not only impedes development but also translates into high prices for locally produced or imported goods and services, burdening consumers further.

A prime example of this plight is the soaring price of butter, rendering it inaccessible to many households. The steep increase in price can be directly attributed to elevated taxes, including a 30% rise in import duty, a 10% increase in excise tax, and a 15% hike in GST. Importers now face substantially higher costs, reflected in the final price consumers must pay.

While it’s acknowledged that the Government requires revenue, it’s essential to recognize the adverse impact of disproportionately high taxes on the majority of Sierra Leoneans already struggling to make ends meet. Such policies risk exacerbating poverty levels in the country.

In light of these concerns, it is incumbent upon the Government, particularly the National Revenue Authority (NRA), to reassess their tax policies and take corrective measures to alleviate the burden on citizens.

Organizing a Separate Chop & Chat Session Event… Africell Offers NLe300 Win Kopo Grand Prize & Unveils Upcoming Edition

April 22, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a recent celebratory event, Africell Sierra Leone has once again proved its dedication to enriching the lives of its customers by awarding the grand prize of NLe 300 to the elated winner of the popular Win Kopo show. The occasion was doubly significant as it also served to announce the exciting new prize pool totaling over NLe 1,000,000 for the upcoming season of the game show.

The Win Kopo show, hosted by the vibrant Fatmata Jaria Bah, has been a staple of entertainment in households across the country, drawing in viewers for more than a year with its engaging content and generous prizes. She reminisced over the previous season’s success, which saw subscribers take home over a million daily prizes. From those daily giveaways to the weekly and biannual jackpots, the show has kept subscribers on the edge of their seats with its thrilling rewards system, she noted.

Mohamed Barrie, an octogenarian from Kamakwie in the Karene District and the latest grand prize winner, is a testament to the show’s wide-reaching impact. A loyal Africell user for over ten years, Mohamed Barrie, who is a cattle rearer by profession, expressed his deep gratitude towards Africell Sierra Leone for making his dream come true.

During the event, Joe Abass Bangura, the Chief Corporate Affairs Officer of Africell Sierra Leone, took the limelight to unveil the upcoming edition of the Win Kopo show. He detailed the enhanced format designed to increase winning chances for subscribers, which now includes daily prizes of NLe 500, weekly windfalls of NLe 5000 for four winner, and substantial quarterly jackpots.

According to him, participation in the Win Kopo show remains straightforward and inclusive as Africell customers can enter the competition by purchasing a top-up of any amount or engaging with questions by dialing *4888#. He continued that this user-friendly participation mechanism allows all subscribers an equal shot at the big wins.

The event reached its high point with the symbolic presentation of the cheque to the grand prize winner, followed by a celebratory photo session featuring Africell Sierra Leone’s Management and the winner’s representative.

As Africell furthers its mission to empower its customers, the anticipation builds for a new season of the Win Kopo show, where fortunes are made and dreams realized.

In another development, Afrimoney organized an engaging “Chop and Chat” session at the prestigious Lagoonda complex in Aberdeen, Freetown to highlight the diverse range of products and services it is offering. The event, attended by various partners and stakeholders, served as a platform to underscore the pivotal role of mobile money in today’s banking landscape.

Speaking at the event, Shadi Gerjawi, the Managing Director of Africell Sierra Leone, emphasized the growing significance of mobile money as the new standard for banking and financial transactions. He urged attendees to leverage the speed, reliability and affordability of the Afrimoney mobile system for their financial needs.

Highlighting the national agenda for financial inclusion, Madam Esther Johnson of the Bank of Sierra Leone commended Afrimoney for its substantial contributions in advancing accessibility and usability in the country’s financial ecosystem. She praised Afrimoney’s extensive agent network and user-friendly interface, which have played a crucial role in enhancing financial inclusion.

Echoing these sentiments, Martinson Obeng-Agyei an official of Africell, reiterated the company’s commitment to fostering a cashless digital economy across Sierra Leone. He emphasized Afrimoney’s efforts in providing widespread access to its platform, agents and management, with the ultimate goal of achieving a seamless, SIM-free transaction system in the future.

The event culminated in an interactive question and answer session, allowing participants to provide valuable feedback on the Afrimoney mobile system. As a token of appreciation, all attendees were presented with gift bags, underscoring Afrimoney’s gratitude for their presence and support at this significant gathering.

The Chop and Chat session not only showcased Afrimoney’s innovative solutions but also highlighted its pivotal role in driving financial inclusion and shaping the future of digital banking in Sierra Leone. With continued collaboration and commitment from all stakeholders, Afrimoney aims to further expand its reach and impact, making financial services more accessible and inclusive for all.

It is Crucial for You as Citizens & Non-Citizens to Obtain Your Biometric ID Cards

April 22, 2024

By Amin Kef Sesay

An extended opportunity has been granted to Sierra Leoneans and Non-Citizens to secure their Biometric National ID Cards, following a Public Notice issued by the Government through the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA). The new deadline, now set for June 28th, 2024, provides citizens and non-nationals with ample time to obtain their crucial identification documents.

That decision made known on March 28th, 2024, aims to ensure widespread access to essential services and compliance with a Cabinet Directive ratified by Parliament in 2022.

The integration of National Identification Numbers (NIN) in the ID Cards facilitates access to a wide range of services, including financial transactions, vehicle registration, educational institution enrollment, and more. Individuals are encouraged to acquire their ID Cards from any NCRA office or designated center nationwide, operating from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm, Monday to Friday. While National and Non-National ID Cards are mandatory, obtaining an ECOWAS identity card remains optional.

Effective July 1st, 2024, the NCRA will collaborate with the security sector to ensure compliance with the Cabinet Directive and Parliamentary Ratification, ensuring accurate identification of all residents. The NIN embedded in the ID Cards serves as the primary means of personal identification in Sierra Leone, underscoring the importance for all residents to obtain and carry their ID Cards.

For further guidance, individuals can contact the NCRA or visit their nearest registration center. This extension follows a previous Public Notice issued in February 2024, aiming to provide ample opportunity for the public to acquire their ID Cards.

The NINs embedded in the ID Cards will become prerequisites for various transactions and services, highlighting their significance in accessing essential services and rights. The NCRA has established multiple centers across Sierra Leone to streamline the acquisition process for individuals aged 12 and above, including non-citizens applying for Non-National ID Cards.

The introduction of ECOWAS compliant Identity Cards has not only instilled a sense of pride among cardholders but has also unlocked seamless opportunities for accessing social services and government provisions.

Some of the designated Centers for Acquiring Biometric ID Cards are as follows:

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 (By the Roundabout).
NCRA Office: Waterloo along the Freetown Highway (Opposite the Police Station).
NCRA Offices: Regional Headquarter Towns of Bo, Kenema, Makeni, and Port Loko.

For detailed inquiries regarding these services, interested parties can contact the NCRA via the following phone numbers: +232-33-433-333, +232-30-500-000, +232-60-000, +232-78-221-812, or through email at idverification@ncra.gov.

QNET Triumphs at PR Awards 2024 with Three Prestigious Wins

April 19, 2024

In a remarkable acknowledgment of its excellence in public relations and communications, QNET, a leading lifestyle and wellness direct-selling company, proudly announces its victory in three distinguished categories at the 11th annual PR Awards. Demonstrating its prowess in crisis management, corporate strategy, and technological innovation, QNET is setting new standards for excellence in Direct Selling.

This year, QNET was honoured with the following recognitions:

Silver Award for Best Corporate Strategy – An endorsement for QNET’s Fingreen financial literacy programme that has been rolled out in three countries over the last 18 months and has helped over 7000 people, including college students, home makers, street vendors, and female small traders, with the tools they need to take charge of their financial future.

Silver Award for Best Use of Technology – An important recognition for QNET’s QBuzz Blog, an innovative platform that leverages technology to foster community engagement and provide insightful company and industry content.

Bronze Award for Best Crisis Management Strategy – Celebrating the success of the “Truth About QNET” campaign, which effectively navigated the company through challenging times with transparency and integrity.

The PR Awards, renowned for highlighting the best in the PR and communications sector across South Asia, Southeast Asia, and Oceania, saw entries from the most prominent brands and organisations in the region. An independent panel of senior industry experts from leading brands selected this year’s winners, underscoring the credibility and prestige of the awards.

Biram Fall, Regional General Manager for sub-Saharan Africa at QNET, expressed his enthusiasm: “We are profoundly honored by the recognition at the PR Awards 2024, which reflects our unwavering dedication to excellence, innovative strategies, and our commitment to providing outstanding value to our customers. These awards are a testament to the hard work and ingenuity of our team, and they motivate us to continue setting new benchmarks in the industry.”

QNET’s success at the PR Awards is not just a celebration of its achievements but also a promise to its stakeholders of its dedication to excellence and innovation. As the company looks forward to future challenges and opportunities, it remains committed to upholding the highest standards of quality and service in the industry.

For more information about QNET and its achievements, please visit QNET’s website.

ABOUT QNET

QNET, a global lifestyle and wellness company, uses a direct selling business model to promote unique products that enable people to take charge of their health, well-being, and lifestyle.

Since 1998, QNET’s innovative products and e-commerce-driven business model have helped build a global community of satisfied customers and microentrepreneurs, who are driven by the mission of RYTHM – Raise Yourself To Help Mankind. Popular product brands offered by QNET include the Bernhard H. Mayer range of luxury watches and jewellery, HomePure range of home care products, the Amezcua wellness range, Physio Radiance personal care range, and QVI branded holiday packages.

QNET proudly exemplifies high industry standards and is a member of numerous Direct Selling Associations worldwide. Its active engagement in several global sports sponsorships including in its role as the official direct selling partner of the Manchester City Football Club (MCFC) and the Confederation of African Football (CAF), highlights the company’s commitment to excellence.

Discover a world of new possibilities with QNET by visiting www.qnet.net

SL Brewery Supports Sorghum Farmers Nationally with Free Seeds & Pre-Planting Training

April 19, 2024

By Amin Kef Sesay

Sierra Leone Brewery Limited (SLBL) is actively engaged in supporting local farmers and promoting robust sorghum harvests through its ongoing initiative of free seed distribution and pre-planting training. The endeavor, geared towards fulfilling SL Brewery Limited’s sorghum needs and enhancing local agricultural output, seeks to empower sorghum farmers across diverse districts.

On Tuesday, 16th April, the Bombali District witnessed the enthusiastic participation of numerous households in the training sessions. These sessions provided invaluable knowledge and skills essential for the forthcoming planting season.

Furthermore, aspiring new farmers keen on joining the Sorghum Farmers Association received complimentary sorghum seed quantities as a jumpstart incentive. SL Brewery Limited has pledged to directly purchase the yields from these farmers, providing a vital source of income.

The initiative is set to extend its reach to other districts throughout the month, with an event that took place on Wednesday, 17th April, in Bo District.

This extensive outreach endeavor aims to offer livelihood opportunities to thousands of households while aligning with the HEINEKEN BaBW Local Sourcing agenda.

Joseph Sesay, the Local Sourcing Coordinator, spearheads the initiative following the successful conclusion of the initial phase of a Sorghum Awareness Campaign spanning several districts just days prior. SLBL’s efforts are complementing the Government’s endeavors to generate employment opportunities for local Sierra Leoneans within the agricultural sector.

Orange Money Partners with MiKashBoks to Drive Financial Inclusion

April 19, 2024

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

In a bid to accelerate the drive towards ensuring access to formal financial services for all, Orange Money Sierra Leone has forged a strategic partnership with MiKashBoks, marking a pivotal moment in the country’s financial landscape. The official launch of this groundbreaking collaboration took place on Thursday, 18th April, 2024, at the Orange Office on Hill Station in Freetown.

CEO of Orange Money, David Mansaray, in his statement, expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership with MiKashBoks, highlighting the concerted efforts that went into seamlessly integrating the service into Orange Money’s offerings. He commended the dedication of the technical teams from both organizations and underscored the positive impact envisaged for Orange Money, MiKashBoks, customers and other partners. The CEO encouraged attendees to seize the opportunities presented by MiKashBoks, envisioning a future where individuals can efficiently manage their finances for various purposes such as Christmas, car purchases, and school fees through this innovative digital platform.

Reflecting on childhood experiences with physical cash boxes, David Mansaray emphasized the transformative benefits of digitizing the savings process. He noted the advantages of transitioning from the informal to the formal financial sector, improving creditworthiness, and accessing a myriad of financial services including loans.

The Orange Money Boss stressed the importance of responsible debt management and urged individuals to leverage financial tools like MiKashBoks for savings, earning interests and facilitating diverse financial transactions.

Introducing MiKashBoks, Kelvin Logan, the Customer Support Lead, shed light on the mobile financial app designed to promote savings and foster financial inclusion in Sierra Leone.

Founded by Simon Levell, MiKashBoks offers features such as the “Osusu Na U Phone” option and “Personal Cashbox” to facilitate saving and lending among individuals and groups. He articulated MiKashBoks’ mission to bridge the gap between informal and formal financial markets, empowering users to build financial profiles and access superior financial products through their savings.

He emphasized that the partnership between MiKashBoks and Orange Money signifies a significant stride towards enhancing financial literacy and inclusion in Sierra Leone. According to him, with over 11,000 customers already leveraging the app, the collaboration is poised to revolutionize access to financial services and empower communities across the country. He expressed gratitude towards Orange Money for the partnership and optimism for the transformative impact MiKashBoks can have on the people of Sierra Leone.

The partnership between Orange Money Sierra Leone and MiKashBoks represents a paradigm shift in the financial landscape of Sierra Leone, promising to democratize access to formal financial services and drive socio-economic empowerment at the grassroots level.

As both entities continue to innovate and collaborate, the future of financial inclusion in Sierra Leone looks increasingly promising, heralding a new era of prosperity and opportunity for all.