NCRA Urges Timely Collection of Biometric ID Cards as National Identification Becomes Essential

August 28, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) continues to highlight the importance of acquiring Biometric ID Cards, urging citizens and non-citizens across Sierra Leone to collect their cards at designated registration and collection centers. This initiative is part of the ongoing process to enhance identity security, ensure efficient service delivery, and prevent identity fraud.

The Biometric ID Card, which contains a unique National Identification Number (NIN), goes beyond standard identification. It offers a robust mechanism for securing individual identities. The NIN assigned to each cardholder is unique and cannot be shared, reducing the risks of identity theft and fraud—issues that are becoming increasingly problematic in today’s digital landscape.

In addition to strengthening identity security, the Biometric ID Card is now a mandatory requirement for accessing several critical services in Sierra Leone. A recent Cabinet directive mandates that both citizens and non-citizens present their ID cards when engaging in specific public and private transactions. This includes banking operations, where the ID card adds a layer of security to prevent fraudulent activities. Law enforcement agencies have also made the card a requirement at checkpoints across the country to ensure accurate identification of individuals.

Moreover, the Biometric ID Card is now a prerequisite for sitting various public exams. For instance, students intending to take national exams like the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) must present their Biometric ID Cards. This measure not only helps in verifying candidates but also strengthens exam integrity by reducing cases of impersonation.

Despite the card’s critical importance, the NCRA reports that many individuals have yet to collect their cards, even after being notified via SMS that their cards are ready. A significant number of these uncollected cards remain at district offices and collection centers across the country. Factors such as incorrect or inactive phone numbers provided during registration have hindered effective communication. In some instances, applicants used phone numbers belonging to relatives or friends, making it challenging for the NCRA to reach them directly.

To address this issue, the NCRA is urging all applicants who registered on or before July 31, 2024, to visit the registration or collection center where they initially applied, even if they have not received an SMS. Applicants are reminded to bring their ID application slips, which will expedite the collection process.

In a related development, the NCRA has rolled out a new initiative aimed at enhancing identity protection by linking the National Identification Number (NIN) to mobile phone SIM cards. This initiative is part of the Government’s broader effort to safeguard identities and prevent mobile networks from being exploited for criminal activities.

Between September 1 and November 30, 2024, all mobile phone users must link their NINs to their SIM cards. Failure to do so could result in service disruptions, including the inability to make calls, send SMS messages, or conduct mobile money transactions. The objective is to ensure that every active SIM card in Sierra Leone is tied to a verified identity, thereby bolstering national security across the communication network.

To facilitate the collection of Biometric ID Cards, the NCRA has established several registration and collection points, including:

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

For further information, the NCRA can be reached via the following contacts:

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

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

– Email: info@ncra.gov.sl

The NCRA also offers corporate issuance of Biometric ID Cards for both public and private institutions.

As Sierra Leone moves towards a more secure and efficient identification system, the Biometric ID Card has become a critical tool for identity management and access to essential services. Whether for banking, exam eligibility, or communications security, the ID card plays a vital role in the daily lives of residents. The NIN-SIM card linkage initiative further underscores the Government’s commitment to national security and service enhancement.

In light of these developments, it is imperative that all eligible individuals take immediate steps to secure their Biometric ID Cards. The NCRA remains dedicated to ensuring that no one is left behind in this nationwide effort to build a more secure identity management system for Sierra Leone.

Visionary Leadership Pivotal for SLPP’s 2028 Victory: Alhaji Musa Tarawally’s Lasting Legacy

August 28, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

As Sierra Leone approaches the 2028 elections, one name stands out as a pillar of leadership and grassroots mobilization within the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP)—Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally. His contributions over the years have been instrumental in shaping the party’s victories and solidifying its presence across the country.

Starting as a Young Generation Member, Alhaji Musa Tarawally worked alongside notable figures like the late SB Marah, Teacher Laggao, and Hinga Norman to bring the late President Ahmed Tejan Kabbah to power in 1996. As a District Young Generation Leader, he was among those who went into exile with President Kabbah and played a key role in restoring the SLPP government in 2008.

In 2002, as a member of the SLPP Strategic Planning Committee, Tarawally’s strategic efforts contributed to securing over 70% of the vote for the SLPP. His leadership extended to his role as Moyamba District Chairman and Member of Parliament, where he worked tirelessly to secure political appointments for SLPP members and improve the conditions for MPs. His bold advocacy led to increased salaries and the provision of diplomatic passports for parliamentarians.

Under his chairmanship, the SLPP Working Group was established to evaluate the chances of the late Vice President Solomon Berewa in the 2007 presidential elections. Despite strong opposition, Alhaji Musa Tarawally was unafraid to confront harsh realities, warning that Berewa’s candidacy might not be successful. His frankness, although met with resistance, marked him as a leader with the foresight and courage to speak the truth.

Alhaji Musa Tarawally’s commitment to the SLPP was further demonstrated in 2005 when he met with the now-President, Retired Brigadier Julius Maada Bio, predicting his potential as a winning candidate. He mobilized key party figures, chiefs and district executives to support Bio’s candidacy.

Despite facing political victimization, both within the SLPP and later under the APC, Musa Tarawally’s dedication to the party never wavered. As Minister in the APC Government, he covertly protected SLPP interests, defending chiefs and party members, securing legal support for former Civil Defense Forces fighters, and driving development initiatives across southeastern districts.

Even after his removal as District Chairman and MP, his resilience saw him form a coalition under the CDP banner, ultimately playing a crucial role in the 2018 runoff, helping to bring the SLPP back to power.

In the 2023 elections, his grassroots engagement once again proved vital to the SLPP’s success. Hon Alhaji Musa Tarawally, described as a seasoned, visionary leader with unmatched grassroots influence, remains a driving force in Sierra Leonean politics.

As the SLPP looks toward the 2028 elections, many within the party believe that the leadership of Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally could be the key to securing another victory. His experience, resilience and unwavering commitment to the party’s ideals make him a legendary figure whose contributions continue to shape the future of the SLPP.

For the SLPP, 2028 could be the year where a tested and proven leader like Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally once again plays a pivotal role in guiding the party toward success. His legendary status and visionary grassroots leadership are what the SLPP needs to navigate the challenges ahead.

13.8% of Sierra Leoneans Live with Hepatitis B – Dr. Sulaiman Lakkoh Urges Urgent Action

August 28, 2024

By Ibrahim Sorie Koroma

Dr. Sulaiman Lakkoh, Director of the Directorate of Disease Prevention and Control (DPC) at the Ministry of Health, has raised concerns over the rising prevalence of Hepatitis B in Sierra Leone. He revealed that 13.8% of the population is currently living with the disease, warning that the trend is alarming and calls for immediate intervention from stakeholders to boost public awareness and prevention strategies. Dr. Lakkoh shared these insights during a recent stakeholders’ meeting held in Freetown.

Providing a global context, Dr. Lakkoh noted that 296 million people worldwide are living with Hepatitis B, while 58 million are affected by Hepatitis C. Tragically, almost 1.5 million people succumb to complications from viral hepatitis, such as liver cancer, every year.

Dr. Lakkoh further detailed the epidemiology of Hepatitis B within Sierra Leone, noting that the 13.8% infection rate spans various age groups. He reported that 8.7% of individuals aged 15 years are infected, with the rate increasing to 15.8% among those aged 15-29 years and 16.6% among those aged 30-44 years. The infection rate is also higher among males at 15.5% compared to 11.4% among females.

Explaining the nature of the disease, Dr. Lakkoh highlighted that hepatitis is a liver condition caused by various factors, including Hepatitis B, which can lead to liver cancer. The primary modes of transmission include mother-to-child transmission, sharing of contaminated needles, unprotected sex and unsafe blood transfusions.

Addressing prevention, Dr. Lakkoh stressed that vaccination is a critical tool, but currently, Hepatitis B vaccination is mostly available through private healthcare providers, making it costly for the average Sierra Leonean. He recommended early screening as another vital preventive measure, particularly since Hepatitis A and C are treatable when detected early.

He also emphasized the importance of early childhood vaccination adding that the Ministry of Health is planning to roll out a Hepatitis B birth dose for newborns in 2025, which would offer protection within the first 24 hours of life. This new vaccine will complement existing conjugate vaccines that protect infants against the disease.

In his concluding remarks, Dr. Lakkoh urged stakeholders to intensify efforts and provide the necessary resources to curb the spread of Hepatitis B stressing that the disease is largely preventable and that proactive measures can save lives and safeguard public health.

As Government Cracks Down on Substandard Iron Rods… Odhav Multi Industries Set to Revolutionize Sierra Leone’s Iron Rod Manufacturing Sector

August 26, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a Press Conference held on Tuesday, August 20, 2024, the Ministry of Information and Civic Education highlighted crucial updates on national initiatives designed to bolster peace, consumer protection and local manufacturing. Led by Minister Chernor Bah, the conference underscored the Government’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life for Sierra Leoneans through strategic industry regulations and partnerships.

One of the key announcements came from the Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry, Fatmata Kargbo, who revealed plans to commission Odhav Multi Industries (SL) Ltd., an iron rod manufacturing facility in Songo, by the end of the year. This project aligns with President Dr. Julius Maada Bio’s vision of reducing Sierra Leone’s dependence on imported iron rods while strengthening the country’s manufacturing sector.

To further safeguard consumer interests, she said the Ministry has intensified efforts to combat the importation of substandard iron rods. The Deputy Minister disclosed that the Ministry has successfully engaged importers, leading to the cessation of such imports. According to her, 10 shops found selling substandard iron rods have been shut down and stricter certification protocols for iron rod imports have been enforced. These measures, she said, are supported by comprehensive monitoring at Ports to ensure that only iron rods meeting the specified standards enter the market.

Jogor Bah, Deputy Executive Director of the Sierra Leone Standards Bureau, detailed the specifications for standard iron rods, ensuring consumers have accurate information:

– Quarter Rods: Length 40ft, Diameter 6mm, 377 pieces per ton.

– 1/2 Inch Iron Rods: Length 40ft, Diameter 12mm, 94 pieces per ton.

– 5/8 Inch Iron Rods: Length 40ft, Diameter 16mm, 53 pieces per ton.

The Deputy Executive Director also highlighted the Bureau’s plans to introduce a Consignment-Based Conformity Assessment Program by 2025, aimed at further reducing the prevalence of substandard goods in Sierra Leone. This initiative is expected to lower the rate of such products by 20%, with a long-term goal of reaching zero.

In his address, Lawrence Bassie, CEO of the National Consumer Protection Commission (NCPC), reaffirmed the Commission’s dedication to safeguarding consumer rights. He encouraged citizens to report issues related to substandard goods or services using the Commission’s hotline (+23230080527) or email (nationalconsumerprotectioncom@gmail.com). The CEO assured the public that violators would face legal consequences under the Consumer Protection Act of 2020.

These developments mark significant progress in the Government’s drive to enhance industry standards, protect consumers and promote local manufacturing, positioning Sierra Leone on a stronger economic path.

Expired SABCO Sardines Dumped at Bumeh Calls for Thorough Investigation

August 26, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Concerns have been raised following reports that vehicles bearing the SABCO Sardines logo were seen dumping large quantities of expired sardines on Friday August 23, 2024 at the Bumeh Dump site. Eyewitnesses noted that alongside the sardines, various other wastes were disposed of.

Authorities are being urged to investigate SABCO for not notifying the public earlier that some of their products have expired before they undertook the move to dump them because they are no longer fit for human consumption which may likely have created room for unsuspecting members of the public to have purchased them or give a leeway to unscrupulous traders to erase the expiry date in order to convincingly sell them out thereby putting the lives of victims at risks. The Standards Bureau is also called upon to ensure all expired items are accounted for and properly managed. SABCO should face scrutiny and transparency in this matter.

This development comes just months after President Julius Maada Bio inaugurated the SABCO Fish Canning Factory, emphasizing the Government’s commitment to supporting private sector initiatives. The factory was hailed as a significant investment, with the potential to employ thousands.

The President had praised SABCO’s contribution to the FEED SALONE initiative, aimed at increasing locally sourced protein and enhancing food security. This incident, however, raises questions about the quality and safety standards maintained by the company.

Chief Financial Officer Abess Sabbagh had previously highlighted SABCO’s dedication to quality and community growth.

According to reliable sources, Sardines are a popular fish preserved through canning and known for their long shelf life making them a staple in many pantries. Besides, the preserved process allows these small, oily fish to be stored for extended periods without spoiling. Furthermore, typically unopened canned sardines can last from two to five years with the longevity depending on factors such as the manufacturing date and storage conditions.

This incident of dumping expired sardines by SABCO less than two years of the commencement of manufacturing of canned sardines really casts doubt on the company’s adherence to these commitments.
As the situation unfolds, the media will continue to investigate and monitor developments closely.

EU Ambassador Bids Farewell to Sierra Leone’s Independent Media Commission

August 26, 2024

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By Esther Wright

Manuel Müller, the European Union Ambassador to Sierra Leone, on August 20, 2024 paid a farewell visit to the Independent Media Commission (IMC) at its headquarters on 54 Siaka Stevens Street, Freetown.

Ambassador Müller was warmly received by IMC Chairman, Joseph Egbenda Kapuwa, alongside other Commissioners and staff members. The visit commenced with Chairman, Joseph Egbenda Kapuwa, delivering a welcome address, followed by the Executive Secretary, Khalil Kallon, introducing the Commissioners and staff.

In his speech, Ambassador Müller underscored his dedication to Press Freedom, highlighting his close collaboration with the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) and media practitioners. He praised the successful Press Freedom Day held in 2022, sponsored by the EU, and stressed the importance of ongoing cooperation among journalists. He also reflected on the EU’s recent countrywide tour aimed at promoting press freedom and media inclusivity.

Ambassador Müller shared insights from his tour, which provided a deeper understanding of media-related initiatives in Sierra Leone. He noted that the tour allowed media practitioners, including bloggers and social media journalists, to connect more deeply with various regions of the country.

The Ambassador described his visit to the IMC as both a farewell and a chance to understand the challenges facing the media sector and the Commission’s future plans for media development.

In response, IMC Chairman Kapuwa outlined several challenges, including difficulties in monitoring media content and the issue of media institutions failing to renew their registrations. He highlighted the need for merging media entities, improving training for community radio Station Managers and enhancing governance structures within community radios. Egbenda Kapuwa also discussed the ongoing review of the IMC Act 2020, aimed at incorporating new media into the regulatory framework.

Executive Secretary, Khalil Kallon emphasized the critical role of community radios in Sierra Leone’s democratic process and accountability. He expressed concern over the takeover of community radios by individuals, leading to a loss of community ownership. Khalil Kallon revealed that the IMC has developed a framework to strengthen governance and management structures for community radios and advocated for sustainable solutions, such as solar panels, to address electricity issues. He also expressed gratitude for the EU’s support in monitoring media coverage during the recent elections.

In his closing remarks, Ambassador Müller reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to supporting community radios and pledged that the EU would address these issues early next year. He shared his experiences with social media and stressed the need to adapt to the evolving media landscape.

The visit concluded with Ambassador Müller expressing his appreciation for the IMC’s support and his hope to return to Sierra Leone in the future.

IOM, Social Welfare Ministry Raise Awareness on Human Trafficking in Waterloo

August 26, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) Sierra Leone, in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Welfare and the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Task Force Secretariat, organized a significant community stakeholders’ awareness-raising session on Friday, August 23, 2024, at the Western Area Rural District Council Hall in Waterloo. The session aimed to intensify efforts in combating human trafficking in the Western Area Rural District.

The event was welcomed by Deputy Chairman of the Western Area Rural District Council (WARD-C), Robert Brown, who highlighted his personal commitment to anti-trafficking advocacy. Recalling his earlier years of advocacy with World Hope International, he emphasized the importance of community involvement in eradicating modern-day slavery. He commended the IOM, Ministry of Social Welfare and the Anti-Trafficking Secretariat for prioritizing awareness as a critical step in the fight against trafficking.

Representing the Ministry of Social Welfare, Deputy Director, Hawanatu Koloneh Koroma underscored the Ministry’s mandate to support vulnerable groups, including those affected by trafficking. The Deputy Director also discussed the Ministry’s five-year strategic plan focused on improving social services, which aligns with President Julius Maada Bio’s Big Five Game Changers. She reaffirmed the Ministry’s dedication to addressing human trafficking through a comprehensive approach that includes victim support and community outreach.

Albert George Sheriff, Director of Public Prevention and Public Education at the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Task Force Secretariat (ATIPS), highlighted the session as part of ongoing efforts following the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons. He explained that raising public awareness is a core objective in the recently launched National Action Plan Against Trafficking in Persons 2024-2028.

Albert George Sheriff pointed out that Waterloo is a trafficking hotspot and that similar community engagements will soon be replicated in other high-risk areas, including schools.

The session also featured contributions from various stakeholders, including the Sierra Leone Police, military, community leaders and civil society groups. They shared insights into their experiences with trafficking cases and reinforced the need for increased collaboration and proactive measures. Additionally, a video screening depicted the different forms of trafficking prevalent in the region, such as forced labor, sex trafficking and exploitation of vulnerable individuals.

Mangeh Sesay, National Project Officer for the Africa Regional Migration Project, emphasized the importance of understanding the Anti-Human Trafficking and Migrant Smuggling Act of 2022. He explained that the Act provides the legal framework for prosecuting traffickers and protecting victims. Sesay stressed that stakeholders in Waterloo, a community that has grown rapidly due to urbanization, must step up efforts to protect vulnerable populations from exploitation.

The session concluded with renewed commitments from all participants to intensify their efforts in combating trafficking, focusing on public awareness, community vigilance, and the enforcement of anti-trafficking laws. The awareness-raising event was part of the Africa Regional Migration Project, funded by the US Bureau for Population, Refugees, and Migration.

President Bio Breaks Ground for Bo School Educational Project, Pledges Rigorous Oversight

August 26, 2024

By Esther Wright

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio on Friday, 23 August 2024, officially launched a major educational project at Bo Government Secondary School, signaling his commitment to Sierra Leone’s educational reform. During the groundbreaking ceremony in Bo City, the President turned the sod for the construction of seven new buildings and the rehabilitation of 24 existing structures as part of a $65 million initiative funded by the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA).

The President expressed deep gratitude to the Principal, Board of Directors and other stakeholders for their unwavering support of his educational agenda. He highlighted his enthusiasm for the project, emphasizing that it would be closely monitored to ensure the use of quality materials, timely completion and the construction of durable infrastructure.

In his address, the President urged the contractor to meet high standards, warning that any company delivering substandard work would be blacklisted. “My Government is giving you the tool to navigate the world because I believe that with education, you will never get stuck anywhere in the world,” he stated. He also called on the nation to embrace education for the benefit of future generations, noting that the expansion and refurbishment of the school would help reduce overcrowding in classrooms and dormitories.

“This is one of the biggest projects and I am happy because Bo School has contributed immensely to national development,” President Bio added.

Mustapha Wai, the Project Lead for the Project Fiduciary Management Unit (PFMU) at the Ministry of Finance, praised President Bio’s leadership in advancing human capital development. He outlined that the BADEA-funded project would extend to other institutions, including Magburaka Government Secondary School for Boys, Kenema Secondary School for Boys, the Prince of Wales Secondary School, Milton Margai Technical College and Kenema Technical College. He also highlighted that the project would create around 1,000 jobs for locals, promote infrastructure development and support the local economy, with completion expected on schedule.

Both the Minister and Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Basic Education expressed their appreciation for the project, noting that the additional classrooms and dormitories would enable more students to benefit from the Free Quality Education initiative. They stressed the importance of cooperation between stakeholders and school authorities to achieve the President’s vision for education in Sierra Leone.

The ceremony also featured remarks from the Paramount Chief of Kakua Chiefdom and the Principal of Bo Government Secondary School, followed by a tour of the school’s facilities.

MBSSE Minister Cautions Education Stakeholders, Vows to Uproot Unethical Practices

August 26, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a decisive meeting held on Thursday, August 22, 2024, Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE), Conrad Sackey, delivered a stern message to Deputy Directors of Education, Members of Parliament from the Committee on Basic and Senior Secondary Education, the Sierra Leone Teachers Union, and the National Council of Head Teachers. The Minister’s focus was on rooting out unethical practices within the education system and prioritizing accountability as the new academic year approaches.

The Minister emphasized that this year will mark a turning point, where responsibility and transparency will be strictly enforced. “This year is going to be different,” he declared. “People will be held responsible and that starts now. When you submit anything, I expect you to sign against it—no more hiding behind the system.”

He also expressed concern over the growing issue of absenteeism, which drains Government resources. “If someone is invited to an exam and doesn’t show up, the Government still pays for that seat. That’s money wasted—money that could be used to recruit more teachers or pay school fees. This cannot continue. Those responsible for this wastage will be held accountable,” he warned.

Conrad Sackey did not hold back in addressing fraudulent activities. He stated that any Head Teacher found submitting false lists with fake names will face suspension, with their salary redirected to cover the financial losses incurred.

However, the Minister also extended support to educational leaders. “I’m not just here to wield the stick. I’m committed to supporting our educational leaders. If you need resources, I will do everything in my power to provide them, even if it means asking donors for help. We have to get this right,” he assured.

He highlighted that accountability starts within the MBSSE itself before it can be demanded from the public. “I won’t account for things that aren’t my responsibility, but I will ensure that those under my leadership are held to the highest standards.”

The Minister’s firm stance reflects his commitment to ensuring that Sierra Leone’s education sector operates with integrity. “Those who undermine this system will face the consequences. It’s the right thing to do and we must get it right,” he concluded.

As Minister of Mines Reveals… Meya Mining Company Unearthed 391-Carat Diamond in Kono

August 26, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, Julius Daniel Mattai, has unveiled a remarkable 391-carat diamond recovered by Meya Mining Company in the Kono District. The impressive stone was extracted on August 20, 2024, using the company’s Tomra Coarse XRT sorter at the Meya River Underground Mine in Tankoro Chiefdom, located in the Eastern region of Sierra Leone.

The 391-carat diamond, described as a near-gem piece, was initially part of a larger stone estimated to be over 500 carats. Just a day after the initial discovery, two additional diamonds weighing 105 and 18 carats were recovered from the same area, underscoring the rich potential of the mining site.

The diamonds were unearthed during underground stoping operations at depths ranging from 279 to 295 meters above mean sea level. The discovery took place within the same geological zone where the famous 476-carat “Meya Prosperity” diamond was found in November 2017. That stone, a Type IIa D-color diamond, was sold to GRAFF for a staggering $16.5 million, further enhancing Sierra Leone’s reputation as a significant player in the global diamond market.

Experts note that the newly discovered 391-carat diamond and the 476-carat “Meya Prosperity” stone are located vertically within the same zone, just 100 meters apart, indicating the area’s potential for future high-value finds.

The discovery of this diamond reinforces Sierra Leone’s standing as a major diamond producer and highlights the continued potential of the Kono District for yielding valuable gemstones.

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