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Solidaridad & Partners Commission Waterloo Women’s Cashew Processing Factory

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a bid to modernize cashew processing methods, promoting efficiency, hygiene, and safety among over 300 women and youth engaged in local cashew processing within the Waterloo enclave of Sierra Leone, Solidaridad West Africa and Cotton Tree Foundation Sierra Leone, under the Boosting Agriculture and Food Security (BAFS) Project funded by the European Union, has on Tuesday 26th March, 2024 commissioned the Waterloo Women’s Cashew Processing Factory for the Waterloo Cashew Women Processors and Sellers Association. The facility, occupying 1 acre of land allocated by the Government of Sierra Leone, is a model mini cashew processing facility located at Newton in the Western Area Rural District.

In his welcome remarks, the Country Representative for Solidaridad Sierra Leone, Andrew Kojo Morrison, reflected on the journey leading to the establishment of the facility, highlighting the collaborative efforts of Solidaridad West Africa and the Cotton Tree Foundation Sierra Leone under the Boosting Agriculture and Food Security (BAFS) project which he added is  aimed to develop a vibrant and profitable cashew economy in Sierra Leone, driven by private supply chain actors within a national regulatory framework.

Andrew Morrison emphasized the importance of value addition in the cashew sector, citing the potential to attract investors and promote economic growth and job creation. He underscored the environmental benefits of cashew trees and called for increased investment in the cashew value chain. The completion of the cashew processing facility signifies a significant step towards sustainable development and economic empowerment in communities within the Waterloo, Newton, and its environs.

Acknowledging the contributions of partners and stakeholders, he expressed gratitude to all involved in the project’s success more especially the European Union that funded the project. He encouraged attendees to support local cashew products and highlighted the nutritional benefits of cashew nuts.

Yatta Samah, the President of the National Farmers Federation Sierra Leone, expressed gratitude to Solidaridad’s efforts in capacity building across various agriculture sectors, highlighting Solidaridad’s work in collaboration with farmers across the country, particularly in the rice, sugar, oil palm, cocoa and now cashew sectors, aligning with the Government’s Big Five Feed Salone initiative.

Emphasizing the significant role of women in agriculture, with 75% of farming activities in Sierra Leone being carried out by women, Samah underscored the importance of the cashew processing factory in improving the socioeconomic status of cashew farmers, especially women.

Isaac Gyamfi, Regional Director of Solidaridad West Africa, in his statement expressed delight at being part of the commissioning of the cashew processing factory. He provided insights into Solidaridad’s global operations, spanning 50 countries across five continents, with a focus on various agricultural sectors, including cocoa, oil palm, cashew, coffee and food crops.

Expressing gratitude to the European Union for their funding support, Isaac highlighted the collaborative efforts between Solidaridad, the Cotton Tree Foundation, and other stakeholders in making the project a reality. He emphasized the importance of cooperation in achieving sustainable agricultural development.

Isaac Gyamfi then shifted the focus to Solidaridad’s achievements in Sierra Leone, particularly in the cashew sector. He highlighted the successful transfer of cashew seedlings from Ghana to Sierra Leone, as well as similar initiatives in the cocoa and coffee sectors. He further underscored the importance of timely planting to ensure the viability of seedlings.

On his part, Manuel Müller, Head of the EU Delegation to Sierra Leone, commended the efforts of Solidaridad West Africa and the Cotton Tree Foundation Sierra Leone in securing the Boosting Agriculture and Food Security (BAFS) grant to implement the project, highlighting the significance of the event in the development of Sierra Leone’s agricultural sector and emphasized the European Union’s commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at strengthening agriculture and improving livelihoods.

The commissioning of the cashew processing factory represents a critical step in completing the cashew value chain in Sierra Leone, providing a safe and hygienic environment for women and youth involved in the cashew processing sector.

Müller emphasized the importance of sustainable ownership and governance of the factory, acknowledging the role of the Steering Committee in ensuring alignment with national development goals and the Management Committee in executing project plans effectively.

Head of the European Delegation extended appreciation to the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, the Western Area Rural District Council, Solidaridad West Africa, the Cotton Tree Foundation and all stakeholders involved in the project also reaffirming the EU’s commitment to supporting Sierra Leone’s development journey and promoting sustainable economic growth, food security, and poverty reduction.

He expressed optimism for the continued success of the cashew processing factory and its positive impact on the lives of Sierra Leoneans, particularly women and youth in rural communities.

Giving his keynote address, Dr. Henry Musa Kpaka, the Minister of Agriculture, emphasized the importance of reserving land in Newton to enable the establishment of similar facilities in the future.

Acknowledging the European Union’s significant investment in the project, Minister Kpaka highlighted the partnership between the EU and the Government of Sierra Leone in initiatives such as the Sierra Leone Access to Finance Project, aimed at providing credit facilities and crop insurance to farmers.

He also commended Solidaridad for their contributions, particularly in providing high-quality planting materials and implementing the project efficiently, noting the long journey leading to the commissioning of the cashew processing factory and emphasized the collaborative efforts between Government agencies and partners in achieving success.

Reflecting on the significance of the project, Minister Kpaka underscored its role in advancing Sierra Leone’s agricultural sector, particularly in the production of cashew, cocoa, and coffee. He emphasized the importance of these cash crops in supporting the Government’s Feed Salone strategy and doubling export earnings.

Minister Kpaka highlighted the potential of the cashew processing factory to create job opportunities, particularly for women and youth, thereby contributing to economic development and poverty reduction. He emphasized the need for continued collaboration between Government and partners to further develop the agricultural sector and create sustainable livelihoods for Sierra Leoneans.

Climaxing the ceremony was the official commissioning of the Waterloo Women’s Cashew Processing Factory by Manuel Müller, Head of the EU Delegation to Sierra Leone, Dr. Henry Musa Kpaka, the Minister of Agriculture and other dignitaries present followed by the handing over of Tricycles and Motorbikes.

Indian Technical & Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Beneficiaries Share Experiences at Indian High Commission

Some of the Indian Technical & Economic Cooperation (ITEC) beneficiaries shared their experiences about courses they pursued in India during the 2023-24 academic year at the Indian High Commission in Freetown.

Five ITEC beneficiaries, while sharing their experiences, overwhelmingly elaborated on how the ITEC Programme has changed their skills, perceptions, careers and lives in a positive way.

Ramy Tommy, Head of Investigation at CDIID and  Dauda Solomon Conteh , of the Audit & Admin Department of the  Sierra Leone Police, who  pursued a course in Modern Techniques and Psychological Methods of Investigation  at the National Forensic Sciences University of  Gandhinagar, Gujarat, mentioned that during the training they learned how to utilize  advanced technology, such as Polygraph and other equipments, which would help them in modern-day crime investigation and police-related inquiries.

Dauda Jiba ,who is an Electrical Engineer at EDSA and completed a ‘Testing, Operation, Maintenance and Protection of EHV Substations and Lines’ course at REC Institute of Power Management & Training at New Delhi, disclosed how the REC Institute of Power Management & Training opened his eyes to the vast world of Electrical Engineering and the need to continually learn as India relies heavily on technology in this field.

He added that the training was modern and comprehensive, covering topics such as system protection against faults, various types of transformers furthering that visits were paid to different substations to understand how electricity is transmitted between 400 KV substations to 200 KV substations.

Amara S. Janneh, who is employed as Public Sector Auditor at Audit Service Sierra Leone, in sharing his experience, intimated that the course on ‘Receipt and Compliance Audit’ at the International Center for Information System & Audit in Delhi, made him realize that institutional corporations, network and the time-bound nature of conducting audits limit abilities to handle receipts, expenditures and audits effectively.

He said in India, the use of Information Technology, Applications and Data Analytics helps to enhance work efficiency, reduce time consumption, and improve work flow.

On his part, Aruna Bangura, a Trade Monitor, pursued an ‘International Training Programme on Standardization and Conformity Assessment’ at  the National Institute of Training for Standardization (BIS) at Noida, Utter, Pradesh. He mentioned that the course helped him to learn how to use technology to create confidence in buyers, both online and in person, by ensuring that the products they require meet their requirements.

All the ITEC beneficiaries expressed delight in sharing their experiences about the warm reception and comfortable stay in India adding how their visits to various Institutes, historical monuments and introduction to India’s rich culture, food delicacies etc were impressive and highly memorable.

On the occasion, Neeraj Kumar Saini, Cd’A in the  Indian High Commission in Freetown informed that the Indian Technical & Economic Cooperation (ITEC) is a Government of India’s flagship programme instituted on September 15, 1964, and has been a vehicle to share India’s vast and unique experience of growth and development through capacity building and training in a wide and diverse spectrum of skills.

He furthered that ITEC programme has created visible and growing awareness about the competence of India as provider of technical knowledge and expertise as well as training opportunities, and much more.

It must be noted that India offers 50 ITEC slots every year to Sierra Leoneans for short, medium and long-term capacity building programmes. Selected ITEC beneficiaries are provided to and fro air-tickets boarding and lodging by the Government of India to pursue these courses in India.

In addition to 50 ITEC slots, India also provides 15 full ICCR scholarships to Sierra Leone for under-graduate, post-graduate and Phd. courses in India.

Sierra Leone is also one of the beneficiaries of scholarships under India’s e-Vidya Bharati or tele-education programme for online under-graduate and post-graduate courses being offered by various reputable Universities in India.

So far, more than 400 students from Sierra Leone have enrolled/pursuing/completed various courses. For such students, a Learning Centre at Fourah Bay College, consisting of a Computer Lab & Multimedia Room has been established by the Government of India.

Harbour Police Division Makes Major Drug Busts in Freetown

In a meticulously planned dawn operation, authorities from the Harbour Police Division, in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies, have apprehended key figures in Freetown’s illicit drug trade. Among those arrested is 40-year-old Ibrahim Conteh, also known as Erifo, believed to be a prominent drug lord operating from Kelson Lane, Ferry Dockyard in the East End of Freetown. He was found in possession of numerous sachets of Kush and 132 wraps of the same substance, along with a significant quantity of Cannabis Sativa (jamba).

Furthermore, a crackdown on drug kingpins at the Peace Market, Ferry Junction, led to the arrest of four individuals, including 24-year-old Saffiatu Jalloh and the seizure of a substantial amount of Kush and Cannabis Sativa.

In response to these developments, LUC Kpulun, leading the charge against illicit drugs in the region, emphasized the need for perpetrators to abandon illegal activities and engage in lawful enterprises.

In a separate incident, the elusive drug lord of Fourah Bay Community, 38-year-old Omolabi Thomas, was apprehended during an intelligence-led raid. Attempting to evade capture, Thomas hired a commercial mini-bus, where he was found in possession of a significant quantity of compressed Cannabis Sativa.

The Harbour Police Division, under the strategic leadership of LUC Kpulun, remains at the forefront of the nationwide effort to combat drug proliferation. Urging the public to contribute to the fight against drug-related crimes, authorities emphasize the importance of providing actionable information to law enforcement agencies.

Sierra Leone Brewery to Shut Down If…

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

According to unconfirmed news so far accessed by this medium, at an entertainment spot,, particularly from certain individuals, learnt to be members of staff of the Sierra Leone Brewery Limited (SLBL) , a  staff downsizing  of  process is currently underway  within the company and may continue culminating to the ultimate shutting down of operations.

According to them the current situation could be attributed to teething challenges that the company is seriously grappling with after the enactment of the 2024 Finance Act.

Not aware that they were discussing with journalists, they went on to reveal that the emergence of this ugly development has left most of the employees of the company sad and worried about their employment status.

They also expressed the lamenting view that the retrenchment Management decision, that was communicated to them recently during a meeting, with the current redundancy of 6 percent of the staff with another 4 percent to go in early April, also has the propensity of seriously affecting over 25,000 sorghum farmers and their dependants right across the country as the company will continue to streamline its operations to a minimum level with further possibility of finally winding up.

“The situation is really scary and from what I certainly know, over 15,000 Sierra Leoneans will lose direct and indirect jobs and these include distributors, drivers, vendors, if it really comes to the worse,” one of them passionately bemoaned furthering how the host communities, closer to where the company is situated, will stop benefitting from SLBL’s Corporate Social Responsibility.

When this medium undertook an in-depth investigation, to have a better understanding of the situation, it was discovered that since the 2024 Finance Act was reviewed and promulgated it has seriously affected the operations of the Sierra Leone Brewery Limited (SLBL) especially as the Act makes provision for competitive imported products or beverages to gain momentum mainly reducing the cost on imported products, including beverages and increases dues on local production. In actual fact, the Act harmonizes Excise Duty Rates for domestic and import sectors except for beer and stout.

Further revealed was that, in contrast, the 2016 Finance Act was friendlier to local manufacturers, including the Sierra Leone Brewery Limited (SLBL), as it provided incentives to companies that use at least 80% of their products in the country’s production.  With the passage of the 2016 Finance Act, it gave the Sierra Leone Brewery Limited the impetus to willingly purchase sorghum and cassava grown in the country as well as acquiring machinery that produces 100% sorghum beer.

More importantly, there was an increase in Excise Tax for imported alcoholic drinks with the aim of encouraging companies to brew beer and alcoholic drinks with locally grown sorghum and cassava.

The use of sorghum and cassava for the production of beer, stout and other products was spelt out in Section 23 of the Act. For locally manufactured alcoholic drinks of more than 10% alcoholic content, the rate of excise was 30% and locally manufactured beer of more than 80% locally produced raw materials including sorghum and cassava, the rate of excise was 5%.

That Section of the Act was really meant to create a market for growers of sorghum and cassava and increase the number of agricultural jobs as spelt out in the post Ebola recovery document of the country.

It was clearly obvious that the country was gaining from the implementation of both Sections 22 and 23 of the  2016 Finance Act  by increasing revenue and  creating  more agricultural jobs  for smallholder farmers.

It was against that backdrop that  the Sierra Leone Brewery Limited (SLBL), in 2019 cleared four massive storage bright beer tanks from the Queen Elizabeth 11 Quay that were installed at its Wellington Industrial Estate production site . The four massive storage beer tanks were geared towards the further expansion of the company’s capacity as well as to help improve the quality of its beer products.

Prior to that, in July 2017, the company successfully installed seven new fermentation tanks to enable it satisfy current and future consumer demand.

SLBL’s total investment in Sierra Leone within that period rose to more than Le. 180 Billion and with the installation of seven massive Fermentation Storage Tanks (“FSTs”) the production capacity of the Brewery doubled.

However, with all the huge investments that were made, however, it is lamentable that the unfriendliness of the 2024 Finance Act, with provisions that are adversely affecting the profit margins of the company, it is obvious that inevitably such will impact negatively on the Brewery’s operational cost.

With such a reality lucking in the horizon, if the apprehension of the aforementioned members of staff is something to go by, especially with the looming closure of the Sierra Leone Brewery Limited, then such an unfortunate situation is bound to increase the unemployment rate in the country and create undue hardship for many.

Elba SL Hosts 2nd Digital ‘Her Conference’ to Address the Digital Gender Divide

By Millicent Senava Mannah

Elba Sierra Leone Limited, in collaboration with Africell, Eco Bank, Rokel Commercial Bank, Sierra Leone Commercial Bank, and PCS Group, proudly hosted the 2nd Digital Her Conference on Thursday, March 21st, 2024. The event, held at the 10th Floor of the Freetown City Council Building, marked a significant effort to address the digital gender divide and empower women in Sierra Leone’s burgeoning digital landscape.

Sierra Leone stands on the cusp of a digital revolution with vast potential to improve financial inclusion, access to services, job creation, and economic growth. However, amidst these opportunities, a growing digital gender gap threatens to leave women behind. Recognizing this challenge, the Digital Her Conference aimed to catalyze action and bridge this divide.

The conference highlighted Sierra Leone’s progress in digital development, with mobile internet penetration doubling from 13 percent in 2014 to an estimated 30 percent in 2021. Additionally, the country has witnessed a significant rise in internet users, social media usage, and adoption of digital financial services. Despite these advancements, disparities persist, particularly concerning women’s access and skills in the digital realm.

Edleen Elba, Managing Director of Elba SL Ltd, underscored the conference’s mission to empower women and foster innovation. “Digital Her is a platform to unlock women’s potential, foster innovation, and narrow the digital gap,” she stated. The event featured a diverse lineup of national and international speakers exploring topics such as Government initiatives supporting women’s entrepreneurship, digitization’s role in economic growth and essential digital skill acquisition.

Acknowledging the sponsors’ support and the conference’s focus on women, Edleen Elba emphasized the importance of collective action in addressing existing barriers. Reflecting on her own experiences in business, she highlighted challenges such as access to affordable internet, bureaucratic hurdles and the need for digital skill development.

The conference attracted prominent leaders in African tech and innovation, including Keynote Speaker Efe Ukala, recognized for her advocacy for women’s empowerment, and Guest Speaker ,Nkemdilim Uwaje Begho, renowned for bridging the digital divide in Nigeria. Their insights underscored the imperative of inclusivity and technological advancement for women’s economic empowerment.

The event, featuring diverse sessions and interactive discussions, provided a platform for stakeholders to strategize on fostering women’s participation in Sierra Leone’s digital economy. Online viewers engaged via YouTube, enriching the dialogue on women’s professional and business growth in the digital era.

Looking ahead, the Digital Her initiative aims to further enhance women’s inclusion through initiatives such as a comprehensive online platform showcasing local businesses and legal frameworks. As Sierra Leone accelerates its digital transformation, ensuring women’s equal participation remains essential for realizing the country’s full potential.

The 2nd Digital Her Conference served as a rallying point for stakeholders to reaffirm their commitment to women’s empowerment and digital inclusion in Sierra Leone. With concerted efforts and collaborative partnerships, the nation moves closer to realizing a more equitable and prosperous digital future.

Orange SL Sponsors Leads Charge for Women in Renewable Energy Conference

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Orange Sierra Leone, one of the leading telecommunications network in Sierra Leone, demonstrated its commitment to supporting women in the renewable energy sector by sponsoring a one-day conference organized by Women in Renewable Energy Sierra Leone (WIRE). Held on March 22nd, 2024, at Sierra Palms in Aberdeen in Freetown, the event aimed to highlight the pivotal role of renewable energy in tackling global challenges such as climate change and sustainable economic development. It also provided a platform to promote gender equality, empower women, and foster a more inclusive and diverse renewable energy sector in Sierra Leone.

In her keynote address, N’deye Fatu Koroma, the National Coordinator of SLCDU, underscored the importance of women’s participation in Sierra Leone’s energy sector for achieving economic transformation through a just energy transition. She advocated for equal access and opportunities for women to contribute to renewable energy development, stressing the need for a gender-responsive approach to address inequalities and leverage women’s potential as agents of change. She highlighted the necessity for deep structural changes to increase female representation in leadership roles within the renewable energy industry.

She further delved into the current lack of female representation in STEM-related jobs, particularly in technical and engineering positions within Sierra Leone’s energy sector. N’deye Fatu Koroma attributed such a disparity to cultural norms, educational biases and institutional barriers that hinder women’s access to STEM programs and related jobs. Acknowledging that global trends of women being underrepresented in STEM fields she emphasizes the importance of addressing those challenges in a context-specific manner.

The SLCDU National Coordinator discussed the multifaceted roles that women play in the energy sector, balancing professional responsibilities with familial obligations. She also described how societal expectations and workplace biases can impact women’s experiences in technical fields, leading to stereotypes and prejudices that hinder their advancement.

Calling for workplace policies that support and prioritize women’s continued employment she also demanded the need to address systemic barriers to their full participation in the renewable energy space.

The President of the Renewable Energy Association of Sierra Leone (REASL), Muctarr Turay,in his statement, emphasized  the importance of ensuring women’s happiness for overall happiness and success in life.

He highlighted the need to empower and support women to drive positive change and innovation within the energy sector and reiterated REASL’s commitment to empowering women in technical and management roles, with a focus on increasing their involvement over the next two years.

Muctarr Turay stressed the need for women to play an active role in the energy transition with an  aim to demonstrate tangible results of their contributions to the sector. The conference, he stated, served as a platform to celebrate women’s achievements in the sector and provided opportunities for them to advance in their careers through collaboration, mentorship, and support.

The Deputy Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Hon. Mina Yema Sobba-Stephens, underscored the significance of empowering women in various sectors, including the energy sector, to move towards gender equality. She highlighted the need for women to have access to education, diversity building, and economic opportunities, including entrepreneurship and leadership roles.

Sobba-Stephens stressed the significance of clean energy in empowering women and achieving sustainable development, citing the benefits of providing women with access to clean cooking technologies.

She also emphasized that financial incentives, support mechanisms, and policy reforms are crucial for ensuring gender equality in the renewable energy sector. She concluded by stressing the importance of realizing the full potential of women and transitioning to cleaner energy for a sustainable future, maintaining that there is need for inclusive policies, fair regulations, financial support, educational programs and awareness campaigns.

Representing the EU Delegation to Sierra Leone, Elisa Tesselli highlighted the active participation of women in the energy transition and stressed the need for women to contribute actively to sustainable development through leadership training and participation in clean cooking solutions. She acknowledged the challenges faced by renewable energy companies in Sierra Leone and expressed optimism for increased female representation and contributions to discussions addressing gender disparities in the sector.

Adaku Ufere, Chief of Party for USAID and Power Africa, discussed the critical role women play in driving innovation and sustainable solutions within the clean energy sector in West Africa. She highlighted initiatives aimed at promoting gender equity and empowering women in leadership roles, emphasizing the significance of investing in women’s empowerment within the energy sector to drive positive change and promote sustainable development. Ufere expressed gratitude for organizations like the Renewable Energy Association of Sierra Leone and Power Africa for creating inclusive spaces and opportunities for women in the industry.

Orange SL Launches 6th Edition of Orange Social Venture Prize

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Orange Sierra Leone has announced the commencement of its 6th Edition of the Orange Social Venture Prize (OSVP) in Sierra Leone, marking the 14th edition across Africa and the Middle East. This initiative aims to bolster social innovation and foster local entrepreneurship.

The competition officially opens for submissions on Monday, March 25th, 2024, and applicants from the 19 Orange affiliates in Africa and the Middle East, including Sierra Leone, are encouraged to apply for both the National and International categories. The deadline for submissions is set for May 26th, 2024.

Applicants can register and submit their applications through the following links:

For registrations/applications: https://poesam.orange.com/en/
For additional information about OSVP: https://www.orange.com/en/osvp

The competition reflects Orange Sierra Leone’s commitment as a responsible corporate and social investor to contribute to human capital development, support local social and environmental innovations and stimulate entrepreneurship in Sierra Leone.

Since its inception in 2019, the OSVP prize has recognized innovative projects spanning education, healthcare, e-commerce, agriculture, and other areas contributing to sustainable development goals through digital technology.

The competition consists of two stages:

1. The National Stage:
During this phase, applications will be accepted from March 25th to May 26th, 2024, including submissions for the Women’s competition. In August 2024, a national pitch competition will be held to award winners in the National and Women’s categories. Prizes for the winners include NLe 200,000 for the National Winner and NLe 120,000 for the Women’s Winner.

2. The International Stage:
Winners from the National and Women’s categories across the 19 Orange affiliates in Africa and the Middle East will proceed to the international phase. Following evaluations, 10 finalists will be selected, with the top 3 winners of the OSVP International Grand Prize chosen by a final jury of African tech influencers in October/November 2024.

In line with Orange’s commitment to equal opportunity, an International Women’s Prize will also be awarded for the fifth consecutive year, recognizing a woman who offers a technological solution to improve women’s living conditions.

Prizes for the international and women’s competitions include:

€25,000 for 1st place international winner
€15,000 for 2nd place international winner
€10,000 for 3rd place international winner
€20,000 for Women’s international winner

Orange Sierra Leone is a leading telecommunications operator and service provider licensed by the National Communication Authority. The company is dedicated to meeting the socio-economic needs of society and aims to become a responsible Corporate Social Investor, enhancing the daily lives of people in Sierra Leone through digital experiences.

Orange operates in 18 countries in Africa and the Middle East, with over 143 million customers as of December 31st, 2022. Orange MEA is a key growth area for the Orange group, with revenues reaching 6.9 billion euros in 2022. Orange Money, its flagship mobile-based money transfer and financial services offer, is available in 17 countries, serving over 80 million customers. Orange remains a multi-services operator and a crucial partner in driving digital transformation across Africa and the Middle East.

Amb. Kobi Walker Unveils Special Magazine for Methodist Boys’ High School Sesquicentennial

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

As part of its 150th  Anniversary Celebration, since its establishment in 1874, the Methodist Boys’ High School hosted a Sesquicentennial Extravaganza on the , 22nd March, 2024, at the New City Hall on Wallace Johnson Street in Freetown.  The event, which brought together prominent old pupils, both male and female as well as well-wishers, turned out to be a memorable evening of the school’s history, drama, music and amazing entertainment.

The Hall was electrified when immediately after the singing of the National Anthem, those in attendance heartily sang the  First Verse of the school’s song, with voices that reverberated within the four corners of the Hall and poignant emphasis on the school’s motto of : “Laboramus Expectantes”.

An interesting highpoint of the evening’s event was the launching of the “Sesquicentennial Magazine”, which was done, by the erudite Chief Executive Officer of NP (SL) Ltd, Amb Kobi Walker after being introduced as the Chief Launcher by the Chairman of the Magazine Publication Committee, Prof. Adolphos Johnson.

Before officially launching the Methodist Boys’ High School 150th Anniversary Magazine, Amb Kobi Walker, who was loftily recognized as an important personality, reflected on the school’s profound impact on society beyond academic learning. He emphasized High School’s role in shaping characters, tapping potentials and instilling hope, highlighting the 150 milestone as an opportunity to look back on past achievements while setting sights on a brighter future.

He stated that the launching of the magazine symbolizes more than just a collection of memories as it embodies the resilient spirit of the school characterized by excellence and camaraderie.

Amb. Kobi Walker praised the creativity, talent and vivacity instilled in students, showcased through an extravaganza leading to the momentous occasion. He stressed the importance of financial and material contributions toward constructing new facilities, emphasizing the commitment to providing an environment conducive to learning and growth for future generations.

As Chief Launcher, he further stated that the funds raised through support of the event could be seen as vital for breathing life into infrastructure that nurtures minds and lays the foundation for future leaders.

He also called for investments not only in finances but also in hearts, urging for a continued legacy of excellence to be passed on with an even brighter flame. Kobi Walker invited attendees to join in reminiscing, reconnecting and reaffirming dedication to the institution, positioning the school as a pivotal point in its history for renewed dedication to educational excellence.

He then officially launched the magazine disclosing that it is now open for those present to access and acquire.

In his statement, Conrad Sackey, the  Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary School Education, who was present as a Guest of Honour and not an old boy, highlighted the rich educational legacy of Sierra Leone particularly focusing on Methodist Boys High School celebrating its 150th anniversary.

He mentioned various esteemed educational institutions in the country, highlighting their historical significance and contribution to academic excellence.

Emphasizing the importance of education in shaping societies, the Minister acknowledged the role of alumni in advancing the school’s mission and values adding that the celebration serves as a tribute to the enduring legacy of the Methodist Boys High School and its commitment to educational excellence.

He expressed delight over the fundraising efforts to enhance the school’s infrastructure for future generations and recognized the strong network of accomplished alumni for their contributions to the school’s development and the broader community.

The Minister underscored the transformative power of education in individuals’ lives and society as a whole, reinforcing the value of educational excellence as embodied by the school’s motto.

He ended up by extending best wishes to the Methodist Boys High School as they embark on the next chapter of their journey also maintaining that the celebration signifies a cross-generational commitment to upholding high standards of education and fostering a spirit of continuous improvement.

Other highlights of the event included financial pledges made, the presentation of poetic works of Alumnae of yesterday and today by Rev. Moses Kainwo, an interlude of music by the past masters: Dr. Dymanite and Bunny Mark, live performance by Innocent, Comedy and Laughter by Richie Obama, the singing of the 150th Anniversary Song that was composed and presented by present pupils led by Charlie Haffner among others.

Climaxing the Sesquicentennial Extravaganza was a performance of Traditional Community Music by the Methodist Boys’ High School Band in an atmosphere of social interaction and camaraderie.

NP Sierra Leon: Leading Provider of High-Quality Petroleum Products

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a tireless effort to maintain a steady supply of high-grade petroleum products, NP Sierra Leone Limited (NP-SL Ltd) has been actively engaging oil-producing companies in business discussions. This proactive approach ensures a continuous flow of petroleum products, thereby preventing shortages over extended periods.

Contrary to unfounded claims, NP-SL is not influenced by politicians or Government entities. Established by ordinary Sierra Leoneans who purchased shares from the Government, the company has grown into a significant player in the business landscape, boasting a 100% indigenous ownership structure.

Maintaining its commitment to the Local Content Policy, NP-SL prioritizes the employment of Sierra Leoneans, contributing to poverty reduction and skills development through various training programs. This nationalistic approach aligns with the broader goals of national development.

Renowned for its exceptional customer service, NP-SL has earned accolades for its attentive and transparent approach. The installation of modern, calibrated pumping machines ensures accuracy and reliability, instilling confidence in customers. Additionally, the company offers flexible payment plans to accommodate the needs of its diverse clientele, including Government institutions with intermittent budgetary allocations.

Introducing NP Gas, a safe and user-friendly cooking device available at NP Filling Stations, the company continues to innovate and meet the evolving needs of consumers. NP Smart Card, a technological advancement for purchasing petroleum products, offers convenience and security, revolutionizing the transaction process.

As a major taxpayer, NP-SL contributes significantly to Government revenue, supporting the realization of vital projects and initiatives.

Despite challenges, the company remains steadfast in its commitment to socio-economic development, positively impacting communities and livelihoods across Sierra Leone.

As Deadline Looms: Sierra Leoneans Are Encouraged to Secure Biometric National ID Cards

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

As the end of March deadline is fast approaching, Sierra Leonean authorities are issuing a stern reminder to all residents that failure to comply in obtaining the Biometric ID Cards could result in non-accessibility to certain essential services as the Government will enforce a Cabinet Directive Ratified by Parliament in March 2022.

To streamline various services and bolster national security, the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) partnered with the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) and the Office of National Security (ONS) and together, they implemented a directive mandating the linkage of Identification Cards—National, Non-National, and ECOWAS—with unique National Identification Numbers (NIN).

The scope of services requiring this linkage is extensive, ranging from financial transactions to educational enrollment, immigration services, and business incorporation. With the deadline looming, the urgency to obtain these ID cards cannot be overstated.

“The deadline of March 31st is non-negotiable,” emphasized government spokesperson, urging citizens to act promptly. “It is imperative for all residents, citizens, and foreign nationals alike, to secure their Biometric ID Cards.”

The rationale behind this initiative is clear: to establish a reliable means of identification for every individual within Sierra Leone’s borders, fostering consistency in personal information and bolstering national security efforts.

Law enforcement agencies are poised to enforce compliance with the directive starting April 1st, 2024. Those without the required ID cards may find themselves barred from accessing essential services and facing legal repercussions.

Additionally, specialized corporate services have been introduced for organizations and institutions. Those seeking detailed information or assistance can contact designated numbers or email addresses provided by the NCRA.

Recognizing the diverse geographic landscape of Sierra Leone, mobile registration units were deployed to remote areas, ensuring that every resident has the opportunity to obtain the necessary identification. To facilitate the registration process, numerous centres have been established nationwide. These include six specific NCRA Offices strategically located across the country, ensuring accessibility for all residents:

  1. NCRA Headquarters: 2 Walpole Street, Freetown.
    NCRA Office: 23B Off Kingharman Road, Freetown.
    3. NCRA Office: Kennedy Street, Freetown.
    4. NCRA Branch Office: 230 Lumley Road, Freetown (By the Round- About).
    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.

It must be mentioned again that the NCRA has introduced specialized corporate services designed for organizations and institutions. For detailed information on these services, interested parties can reach out to the following contact numbers: +232-33-433-333, +232-30-500-000, +232-60-000, +232-78-221-812, or via email at idverification@ncra.gov

By embracing this initiative, Sierra Leoneans are not only complying with legal mandates but also contributing to the establishment of a more connected, transparent, and prosperous nation.

With the deadline fast approaching, the message is clear: obtain your Biometric ID Card before March 31st to avoid any last-minute rush or potential consequences.

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