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Human Rights Commission Urges Stringent Action Against ‘Kush’ Amidst Surge in Fatalities

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone (HRCSL) has issued a Press Statement signed by its Chairperson, Patricia Narsu Ndanema (Mrs.),  on Thursday March 21, 2024, highlighting the alarming impact of the deadly drug “Kush” on the country’s youth.

The Commission expressed deep concern over the escalating use of Kush, particularly among young people, which has led to numerous deaths. Recently, 32 individuals reportedly died from Kush consumption, prompting a mass burial, with additional fatalities documented by authorities at the Connaught Hospital in Freetown.

HRCSL further raised an alarm over the inhumane treatment of Kush victims, including undignified burials, head shaving and physical abuse, perpetuated by some members of various communities noting that both male and female youths have fallen victim to this deadly substance.

Acknowledging the efforts of the Sierra Leone Police in combating Kush peddlers, HRCSL urged citizens to refrain from activities that endanger public welfare.

In order to address the crisis, the Commission also issued several recommendations:

1. Immediate declaration of a State of Public Health Emergency by the President, pursuant to Section 29(1) of the Constitution, to prevent further deaths and safeguard vulnerable populations.
2. Strengthening of security measures at border crossing points by security agencies, the Immigration Department, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, and the National Revenue Authority.
3. Identification of hotspot areas by the Government, in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Welfare and NaCSA, to establish rehabilitation centers for substance abuse victims.

HRCSL ended by reiterating its commitment to upholding human rights in Sierra Leone and vowed to continue advocating for the protection and promotion of the rights of all citizens.

Health Ministry to Reach Over 286,000 Children with Free Malaria Vaccine in Sierra Leone

In a concerted effort to combat malaria and reduce child mortality rates, the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with its partners, is set to launch a significant initiative targeting over 286,000 children in Sierra Leone. Scheduled for rollout in April this year, the program will introduce a new malaria vaccine across 15 selected districts, excluding the Western Area Urban region.

Desmond Maada Kangbai, the Program Manager of the Expanded Programme on Immunization, revealed that the aim is to provide four doses of the malaria vaccine to at least 80% of infants in the designated districts. The vaccine’s introduction will begin at six months of age, ensuring eligible children receive the first dose during the rollout period.

Emphasizing the safety and efficacy of the malaria vaccine, Dr. Kangbai assured the public that it has been prequalified by the World Health Organization (WHO) and approved by the Pharmacy Board of Sierra Leone. Drawing on successful administration in other countries, he highlighted its effectiveness in preventing severe malaria-related morbidity and mortality among children under five years old.

Dr. Kangbai outlined the specific objectives of the vaccine rollout, aiming to increase accessibility to healthcare services in remote communities while bolstering routine immunization coverage. Notably, the initiative seeks to minimize dropout rates between doses of other vaccines, presenting an opportunity for catch-up vaccinations and strengthening overall health service provision at the facility level.

Beyond vaccination, the program will also enhance malaria interventions, including the distribution of insecticide-treated mosquito nets and preventive treatments in infants and pregnant women. Additionally, it will integrate nutrition services such as Vitamin A supplementation and de-worming efforts.

With this comprehensive approach, the Ministry of Health endeavors to significantly reduce the burden of malaria and improve child health outcomes across Sierra Leone.

Government & FAO Partner to Bolster Forge the Rice Sector

The Government of Sierra Leone and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) have signed a transformative agreement in a historic move aimed at bolstering the country’s rice sector. The signing ceremony, held recently in Kenema, Eastern Sierra Leone, marked a significant milestone in the nation’s agricultural development.

Under the agreement, facilitated through a Unilateral Trust Fund (UTF), Sierra Leone will harness FAO’s technical prowess to revamp its rice industry. The UTF mechanism enables developing nations like Sierra Leone to tap into FAO’s expertise using funds sourced from national coffers or international financial institutions.

Attended by key stakeholders including FAO Representative, Saeed Abubakar Bancie and Sierra Leone’s Minister of Agriculture Dr. Henry Musa Kpaka, the ceremony emphasized the nation’s commitment to leveraging the UTF for agricultural advancement.

Sierra Leone’s endorsement of the UTF project, titled : “Strengthening the Rice Value Chain in Sierra Leone through South-South Cooperation,” underscores its resolve for agricultural growth. Minister Kpaka hailed the initiative as a potential game-changer for rice production and the government’s flagship program ‘Feed Salone.’

A noteworthy aspect of the UTF is its ability to attract additional funding, exemplified by a supplementary grant of USD 2.7 million from the World Bank. This injection of funds underscores international support for Sierra Leone’s agricultural transformation.

Implemented through South-South and Triangular Cooperation (SSTC) with Vietnam, the UTF project aims to enhance rice productivity by providing access to advanced technologies and promoting best practices across the value chain.

FAO Representative Saeed Abubakar Bancie hailed the partnership as a means to harness Vietnam’s successful rice production practices for the benefit of Sierra Leone. He emphasized the project’s role in improving livelihoods and fueling economic growth.

The initiative will deploy skilled experts in various facets of rice production to national project sites and research stations. Capacity-building efforts such as study tours and training programs will empower local stakeholders, fostering sustainable agricultural practices.

FAO Director of the PST Division, Anping Ye, lauded Sierra Leone’s commitment to agri-food systems transformation through innovative cooperation models. FAO, a longstanding advocate of South-South and Triangular Cooperation, views the UTF as a potent tool for knowledge exchange among developing nations.

With the agreement sealed, Sierra Leone stands poised to embark on a transformative journey towards agricultural self-sufficiency, bolstered by international collaboration and FAO’s expertise.

Rising Kush Addiction: Sierra Leone Faces Pressure to Declare National Emergency

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leone is under increasing pressure to declare a State of emergency as the Kush epidemic continues to escalate, with concerned citizens and experts urging President Dr. Julius Maada Bio to take decisive action. The crisis, fuelled by the rapid spread of Kush addiction among the nation’s youth, has reached a critical point necessitating immediate intervention.

Kush, a dangerous drug that mirrors the effects of cannabis, has wreaked havoc on Sierra Leone’s young population, becoming readily available and enticing due to its affordability. The surge in addiction rates has sounded alarm bells, prompting urgent calls for measures to address this pressing issue before it spirals further out of control.

According to Dr. Sartie Kanneh, the Chief Medical Officer at the Ministry of Health, shocking statistics reveal that out of 2,955 patients admitted to Kissy Psychiatric Hospital for drug abuse in 2023, a staggering 1,865 cases were related to Kush, predominantly affecting individuals aged between 20 to 34 years.

The devastating consequences of Kush addiction extend beyond individual users, posing a grave threat to the nation’s stability and prosperity. Urgent action is imperative, as highlighted by the recent arrest of Juliet Kamara, wife of notorious drug lord, Abdul Kamara, alias Bigitel. The crackdown on drug dealers by the Police Harbour Division, resulting in the seizure of illicit drugs from Juliet Kamara’s residence, underscores the gravity of the situation.

Efforts to combat the Kush epidemic have intensified, with law enforcement agencies conducting operations such as “Operation Kush Must Go” to target peddlers across various communities. The arrest of Juliet Kamara and the ongoing crackdown signify the Government’s commitment to tackling the scourge of drug trafficking and addiction.

The outcry over the deaths of 32 individuals reportedly linked to drug abuse, buried in undignified mass graves, has galvanized citizens across political lines, demanding swift and decisive action from the Government. Activists, like Amina Sesay, stress the urgency of implementing concrete measures to address the crisis and save the nation’s youth from its clutches.

Critics have voiced concerns about the impunity enjoyed by drug traffickers, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive strategy targeting both the supply and demand sides of the issue. As Sierra Leone grapples with the Kush epidemic, the declaration of a state of national emergency emerges as a crucial step in safeguarding the future of its youth and ensuring a healthier society for generations to come.

Civil Society Challenges Tollgate Fee Hikes: Calls for Transparent Review

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a resolute and unified stance against proposed tollgate fee increases, citizens alongside over 200 Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) across Sierra Leone have delivered a comprehensive position paper to the Honorable Speaker of the Parliament, Dr. Abass Bundu, and the Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Works. The document emphasizes the necessity of maintaining existing toll rates and demands an impartial investigation into the contractual intricacies surrounding the tollgate project.

Led by Edmond Abu, Jr., Executive Director of the Native Consortium and Research Centre, a group advocating for economic reforms and equality, the coalition of CSOs represents a significant voice in Sierra Leonean civil society. Abu, known as one of the leading economists in the nation, has been vocal about the government’s handling of political and economic challenges, particularly in the realm of petroleum products.

Presenting a five-point position paper to the Chairman and Clerk of the Parliamentary Oversight Committee on Works and Public Assets on Monday, March 18, 2024, Edmond Abu and his cohorts acted on behalf of Sierra Leonean citizens after conducting extensive consultations across the country’s 16 political districts.

The position paper addresses several key concerns raised by ordinary citizens and CSOs:

1. Rejection of Fee Increment: Citizens oppose any increase in tollgate fees, insisting that current rates remain unchanged until a thorough investigation is conducted.

2. Lack of Transparency and Accountability: Highlighting the lack of transparency and accountability within the tollgate project, the position paper calls for an independent investigation into legal, technical, and financial aspects of the agreement, amid allegations of governmental interference and corrupt practices.

3. Removal of Blockades: The immediate removal of blockades erected by the Concessionaire (CRSG) on alternative routes is demanded, citing national security risks and violations of citizens’ rights.

4. Contract Review: A comprehensive review of the tollgate contract is urged, in line with a promise made by President Maada Bio and the provisions of Article 22.15 of the agreement.

5. Reduction of Tollgates: CSOs advocate for the elimination of at least one tollgate to align with international standards and alleviate economic burdens on the populace.

Formally endorsed by 200 pressure groups, including CSOs, Trade Unions, Indigenous Transport Owners, and various stakeholders across all political districts, the position paper was submitted to the Parliamentary Committee on Works on March 19, 2024. Hon. Bashiru Silkie, Deputy Leader of Government Business and Chairman of the Parliamentary Oversight Committee on Works and Public Assets, received the submission at the Parliament Building in Tower Hill.

As the Parliament puts on hold the proposed increment on tollgate fees, scheduled to take effect on March 1, 2024, the Minister of Works and Public Affairs, Dr. Dennis Sandy, had earlier presented the review of toll fee charges to the House of Parliament. However, Speaker of Parliament, Hon. Dr. Chernor Abass Bundu, has insisted on delaying the review until the various concerns and proposals made by the public have been diligently investigated by Parliament.

With the nation awaits parliamentary deliberations on this critical issue, citizens and CSOs remain steadfast in their commitment to safeguarding the interests and rights of Sierra Leoneans, urging legislators to prioritize fairness, accountability, and transparency in the management of public infrastructure projects.

Safeguarding the Source: World Water Day and the Crucial Role of Home Water Filters

QNET's HomePure
QNET's HomePure

Accra, Ghana — March 20, 2024 – The global focus on the significance of freshwater highlights the urgent water challenges confronting our planet. With escalating scarcity and pollution endangering our water sources, it’s time for individuals to step up, taking center stage in addressing this issue. The spotlight now illuminates the transformative potential of home water filters, which not only help reduce the usage of single-use plastic water bottles but also lead to a more sustainable lifestyle Access to clean, safe water is not just a privilege; it’s a fundamental human right. In the face of mounting global water crises, home water filters emerge as a beacon of hope, offering a tangible solution to ensure the purity of our most precious resource. The World Health Organization warns of the grave health risks posed by contaminated water sources, underscoring the urgency of securing a safe water supply. Investing in home water filters isn’t just about personal health; it’s a collective commitment to safeguarding public health and well-being on a global scale.

Enter QNET, a global lifestyle and wellness focused direct selling company, and staunch advocate of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG). With a firm dedication to sustainability, QNET has pioneered a range of products that not only meet ethical manufacturing standards but also leave a positive impact on the planet.

In the quest for clean water, home water filters emerge as unsung heroes, diligently working to strip away impurities and contaminants, delivering a steady flow of clean, safe drinking water directly to your home.

Trevor Kuna, Chief Transformation & Reputation Officer at QNET, emphasizes the company’s unwavering commitment to sustainability and the UNSDG, stating, “Home water filters offer a sustainable and eco-friendly solution, reducing our reliance on single-use plastics and promoting responsible water consumption.”

Introducing QNET’s HomePure range, featuring the revolutionary HomePure Viva and HomePure Nova.These state-of-the-art home water filters boast a cutting-edge 9-stage water purification system, effectively eliminating an astounding 99.99% of bacteria and viruses, ensuring water that’s not just safe, but pristine.

Kuna also stated that “Investing in home water filters isn’t merely a personal choice; it’s a powerful statement in support of global water conservation efforts. By embracing sustainable water practices at the grassroots level, we can ease the burden on our planet’s water resources. World Water Day serves as a poignant reminder that every decision we make, including the choice to install a water filter, ripples outward, shaping the health of our planet”.

As we mark World Water Day, let’s take a moment to contemplate the indispensable role water plays in our lives and the weighty responsibility we shoulder in preserving this invaluable resource. By adopting home water filters, we take proactive steps to safeguard the health of our families and pave the way for a future where clean water flows freely for all generations. Together, as conscientious custodians of our planet, we can rewrite the narrative of the global water crisis, forging a path toward a sustainable, healthier world for all.

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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

QNET's HomePure
QNET’s HomePure

ARISE Consortium Hosts 7th City Learning Platform Meeting

By Millicent Senava Mannah

In a concerted effort to enhance urban wellbeing through participatory health governance, the Accountability and Responsiveness in Informal Settlements (ARISE) Consortium Sierra Leone convened its 7th City Learning Platform Meeting. Supported by the Global Challenge Research Fund, this significant gathering took place on Tuesday, March 19th, 2024, under the theme: “Achieving an Inclusive and Participatory Health Governance – Scaling Up Actions and Interventions for Improved Urban Wellbeing.” The venue for this impactful event was the CCSL Conference Hall on King Harman Road.

Comprising the Sierra Leone Urban Research Centre (SLURC), KOHDOSAPA, COMAHS, and FEDURP, the ARISE Consortium assembled community members, researchers, organizations, and Government officials. Braima Koroma, Director of Research at SLURC, emphasized the City Learning Platform (CiLP) as a crucial forum for collaborative learning and problem-solving in urban contexts. He highlighted three key objectives: fostering policy dialogue, establishing feedback mechanisms between communities and city authorities, and proposing participatory solutions to urban challenges.

Senior Researcher, Abu Conteh, representing SLURC, presented findings from an exploratory study on health and wellbeing drivers in informal settlements specifically  Dwarzack, Moyiba and Cockle bay.. He stressed the necessity of amplifying the voices of marginalized residents and addressing systemic challenges within the country’s health system, including budgetary constraints and urbanization.

Nathaniel Soloku from the Ministry of Health underscored the importance of stakeholder inclusion in national health planning and policymaking to achieve equity and accountability.

Sarah Cundy, Team Lead at CONCERN Worldwide, emphasized community empowerment and transparent information sharing as cornerstones of effective intervention strategies.

Housing emerged as a significant challenge for residents of informal settlements, compounded by inadequate access to basic amenities such as roads, electricity and healthcare. Cundy reiterated the importance of inclusivity in decision-making processes, emphasizing the need for stakeholder consultations and community partnerships.

The event featured group work sessions and participant presentations, culminating in a series of statements affirming the commitment to inclusive urban governance and collective action for improved urban wellbeing.

Variety Children & Family Services Hosts Interfaith Prayers to Honour Fallen Heroes

Variety Children and Family Services is a child-focused organization working with relevant agencies in Sierra Leone to foster the welfare of vulnerable children. Over the years the humanitarian organization has provided succor to several children by not only placing them in care homes but also educating them and giving them out for adoptions or in foster cares to responsible families.

Many of those working with variety children are doing so on humanitarian grounds for the love of humanity. To keep remembrance of those that dedicate their service to the Charity, the Board and Management immortalize them when they pass on to eternity by bestowing honour on them as “fallen humanitarian heroes”.

This year marks the second memorial service held in respect of those fallen heroes. The ceremony took place at their King Tom Orphanage on Friday 15th March, 2024. The interfaith religious service was jointly led by Pastor Eric Tamba M’bayo and Alhaji Mutarda Sesay from the Inter-Religious Council of Sierra Leone.

In a short address before the intercessory prayers, Chairman of the occasion, Mohamed Hajji Kella, who happens to be the Deputy Minister of Social Welfare, thanked the Board and Management of Variety Children and Family Services for taking a special day to remember colleagues who have died in the course of humanitarian duty and giving care to needy children. He said no gesture is too small to honour somebody who dedicated his/her service to humanity. He conveyed the Minister’s message of appreciation and promised that the Ministry would continue to stand with them as social service providers for children.

In a further show of gratitude to the departed heroes, the Management of Variety Children and Family Services presented awards of remembrance to family members present, as well as to sponsors for their commitment to supporting children. The presentation was done m by the Board Chairman, Mr. Ramesh and the President of Variety Foster Parents’ Association, Mrs. Sylvia Coker respectively.

CEO of Variety Children and Family Services, Francis Lahai thanked all who graced the occasion in his closing remarks.  He especially thanked the members of staff and the Chief Financial Officer, in particular, for actualizing what he called, “a wonderful memorial day celebration.”

President Bio Urged to Address Demolition of Journalist’s Home and Innocent Land Owners’ Plight

Few days ago, in Angola Town, a distressing scene unfolded as properties, including the home of esteemed journalist, Alex Lawrence Koroma, were unexpectedly demolished by the Ministry of Lands and Country Planning.

Alex, a respected figure in the media industry and a member of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists, had purchased the land legally with all his documents intact.

However, with total disregard and reckless abandon, an abrupt and forceful demolition was undertaken without prior warning or legal recourse, a move that sent shockwaves through the community and left the affected persons psychologically disoriented. Indisputably, these hardworking Sierra Leoneans had invested significant amounts of money into building safe homes for their families on these lands. Unfortunately, the blatant lack of engagement, court orders or notifications prior to the demolition represents a blatant violation of their property rights.

What even made the situation worse was the alleged involvement of higher authorities. The heavy-handed approach taken by Ministry officials, accompanied by a significant Police presence, underscores the injustice and unfairness towards the rightful landowners.

As a journalist, dedicated to serving his country, Alex, finds himself in a vulnerable position, battling not only for his property but also for justice and accountability.

According to Social Media expressed views of many concerned citizens, the plight of the journalist, who has contributed to the dissemination of information and the upholding of truth, is deeply troubling.

In the candid estimation of this medium, his appeal to President Bio to intervene and address this unjust situation underscores the need to protect basic rights and uphold the rule of law. It was further underscored  that with all fairness, Alex’s investment in building a home for his family, using hard-earned money, should not fall victim to arbitrary and unlawful actions.

Further highlighted was that the fundamental importance of property rights cannot be overstated in any civilized society and without assurance that property is protected from unjust seizures or demolitions, the foundation of a stable and prosperous community is compromised. In this instance, the apparent disregard for legal processes and the rights of innocent citizens raises serious questions about the priorities and values of those in power.

This medium is also of the strong conviction that it is very crucial that the voices of those affected by this egregious act of demolition are amplified and that justice must prevail.

It can only be objectively concluded that the demand for accountability, transparency and a fair resolution to this issue, with the intervention of President Bio, is not just for the benefit of Alex Lawrence Koroma and other property owners but for the preservation of principles of fairness and legality.

NP (SL) is Optimizing Customer Satisfaction via Steady Flow of Petroleum Products

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

NP (SL) stands tall as a beacon of reliability in ensuring a steady flow of high-grade petroleum products into the market. Through continuous engagement with oil producing companies, the petroleum marketing company averts shortages, guaranteeing stocks last over time.

Contrary to misconceptions, NP (SL) is wholly indigenous, owned by ordinary Sierra Leoneans who initially invested their end-of-service benefits. Politicians have no stake in the company, which has emerged as a pivotal player in the nation’s business landscape.

The company’s commitment to local empowerment is unwavering. Adhering strictly to the Local Content Policy, it prioritizes indigenous employment, offering training to enhance skills and reduce poverty.

NP’s success isn’t just about business; it’s about caring for customers. Recognized for exceptional customer care, the business entity always ensures transparency with modern, calibrated pumping machines, earning trust and loyalty.

Moreover, NP(SL) facilitates payment plans for reliable customers, including corporate institutions, Government entities ensuring uninterrupted services even during budgetary constraints.

NP (SL) is also offering on sale a cooking gadget known as NP Gas. For those who have not tried NP Gas for the first time it is now time to give it a try. Designed in sizable varying cylinders and sold at various NP Filling Stations, this cooking device has been rated as one of the best in terms of being environmentally safe and its high performance. Trying it will spur you to recommend it to others.

NP Smart Card is now in vogue and is one of the latest technological devices used to purchase petroleum products. Using it has attendant advantages as evident in procuring fuel at any time of the day even during times when monies could not be accessed from banks. It is secured, easy to use and very quick. It is now trending.

The company is highly respected for its impactful projects that it has rolled out as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility contributing meaningfully in improving lives and communities as well as complementing the efforts of the  Government in terms of facilitating overall national development programmes.

Despite challenges, NP (SL) remains resolute, making tangible contributions to socioeconomic development and positively impacting communities and lives.

In essence, NP (SL) epitomizes dependability, innovation and social responsibility, shaping a brighter future for Sierra Leone.

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