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Africa Global Logistics SL Offers Iftar to Moa Wharf and Seaside Communities

In a heartwarming display of corporate social responsibility, Africa Global Logistics Sierra Leone (AGL) made a significant donation of cooking items to the Moa Wharf and Seaside communities on Thursday, 14th March 2024, in support of Muslims observing the holy month of Ramadan. The donation, which included essential food supplies such as 50kg bags of rice, cube maggie, tomato paste, vegetable cooking oil, sugar, and bags of onions, aimed to provide assistance and sustenance to those in need during this auspicious time.

Speaking at the company’s compound in Cline Town, Freetown, Patrick B Sannoh, the Health, Safety, and Environment Manager at AGL Sierra Leone, expressed the company’s commitment to supporting the communities in which they operate. He highlighted that the annual partnership with Moa Wharf and Seaside communities reflects AGL’s dedication to giving back and supporting those who are impacted by their operations. Sannoh emphasized the importance of recognizing and assisting deprived communities, especially considering the economic challenges faced by many in the country.

The Chairman of Moa Wharf community, Abu Bakarr Barrie, expressed heartfelt gratitude to AGL for their continuous acts of kindness towards the residents of his community. Barrie noted that while such donations have been provided in the past, the impact and significance remain invaluable, particularly during these times of economic hardship.

He emphasized the dire living conditions in the community, where many individuals struggle to make ends meet on less than $1 USD per day, making AGL’s contributions even more vital.

Similarly, Lamin Koroma, the Chairman of the Seaside Community, echoed appreciation for AGL’s consistent support over the past five Ramadan seasons. He commended the company’s ongoing efforts to extend a helping hand to those in need and assured proper distribution of the donated cooking items among the residents of Seaside Community. Koroma’s pledge to ensure fair and transparent distribution underscored the importance of ensuring that the donations reach those most in need within the community.

The generous donation by AGL exemplifies the positive impact that corporate entities can have on local communities through their commitment to corporate social responsibility. By recognizing the vulnerabilities and challenges faced by marginalized populations, AGL has demonstrated a deep sense of compassion and solidarity with those in need, especially during significant religious observances such as Ramadan.

As the holy month progresses, the contributions from AGL will undoubtedly serve as a source of hope and sustenance for families in Moa Wharf and Seaside communities, fostering a sense of unity and goodwill among residents. The spirit of giving demonstrated by AGL sets a commendable example for other organizations to follow, emphasizing the importance of supporting and uplifting communities in times of need.

The collaborative efforts between AGL and the Moa Wharf and Seaside communities serve as a testament to the power of partnership in creating positive change and making a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals facing hardships. As the beneficiaries express their gratitude and appreciation, the impact of AGL’s donation reverberates throughout the communities, spreading joy and alleviating burdens during this special time of reflection and giving.

Africell Partners with Samsung to Enhance Tech Access in Sierra Leone

In a landmark move aimed at bolstering digital connectivity across Sierra Leone, Africell, entered into a strategic partnership with Samsung Electronics West Africa. The collaboration, formalized at the scenic LOR Restaurant, Levuma Beach, Freetown, signals a shared commitment to expanding access to cutting-edge technology and internet connectivity throughout the nation.

The alliance seeks to meet the surging demand for advanced mobile solutions, ensuring widespread access to state-of-the-art smartphones and high-speed connectivity for Sierra Leoneans. Under the initiative, Africell will roll out digital SIM cards and showcase Samsung’s latest innovations, enabling consumers to harness the full potential of modern smartphones.

Speaking on the collaboration, Africell’s Managing Director, Shadi Gerjawi, reiterated the company’s dedication to fostering digital inclusion and empowering communities through innovative telecommunications solutions. Gerjawi emphasized that partnering with Samsung would accelerate the adoption of advanced mobile technologies, paving the way for a more connected and digitally empowered society.

Likewise, Lucas Lee, Managing Director of Samsung Electronics West Africa, expressed excitement about the partnership, affirming Samsung’s commitment to providing cutting-edge products and services tailored to Sierra Leonean consumers. Through this collaboration, Samsung aims to leverage Africell’s extensive network and reach to make its latest innovations more accessible to the local market.

At the event, attended by dignitaries and stakeholders, the Minister of Information commended Africell for its steadfast commitment to expanding mobile penetration and internet access across Sierra Leone. Stressing the government’s focus on enhancing telecommunications services, the Minister highlighted the importance of initiatives like the Africell-Samsung partnership in driving socio-economic progress and empowering citizens with digital tools.

The event concluded with attendees receiving prizes of various Samsung smartphones, courtesy of Africell, symbolizing the company’s dedication to enriching the lives of Sierra Leoneans through technological advancement.

As Sierra Leone embraces digital transformation, partnerships like this are crucial in bridging the digital divide and unlocking new avenues for economic growth and development. With Africell and Samsung at the forefront, Sierra Leoneans can anticipate a future where access to advanced technology is not a luxury but a fundamental right for all.

Hon. Manty Tarawalli Emerges as Nominee for 2024 Women Changing the World Award

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Hon. Manty Tarawalli, the Minister of State for the Office of the Vice President, has been nominated for the prestigious 2024 Women Changing the World Awards in the category of Global Impact. The awards, organized by prominent figures such as Sarah – Duchess of York, Dr. Tererai Trent, Peace Mitchell, and Katy Garner, aim to honor women worldwide who are making significant contributions to change, both large and small.

The final decision on the winners will be made by the Board of Judges and announced on March 28th.

Expressing her gratitude, Hon. Manty Tarawalli remarked, “It is an absolute honor just to be recognized and nominated for such a prestigious award. To be one of the winners will be amazing.”

A distinguished development expert and politician, Manty Tarawalli previously received the Harvard Ministerial Leadership Medal for Outstanding Achievement in 2023. Her notable roles include serving as Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, where she spearheaded the development and passage of the groundbreaking Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Act 2022.

Under her leadership, Sierra Leone saw significant advancements in gender equality, including the largest caucus of women MPs in the country’s history and reforms enabling women to own and inherit land without restrictions. Currently, as Principal Assistant to the Vice President, her responsibilities include overseeing national inter-ministerial programs and representing Sierra Leone globally on matters of national development.

Prior to her current role, Hon. Manty Tarawalli served as Minister for Gender and Children’s Affairs, where she established a results-driven Ministry focused on addressing gender inequalities and strengthening child protection mechanisms. With extensive experience in project management and a Master’s degree in Project Management from Salford University, she has been instrumental in driving transformative initiatives, including Sierra Leone’s first National Maternal Health Social Franchise Network.

Hon. Manty Tarawalli’s nomination for the Women Changing the World Award underscores her dedication to women’s empowerment and her significant contributions to societal progress both nationally and globally.

Female Caucus Marks Orange Day with Inauguration of Executive Committee

In a vibrant ceremony held at the State Hall of Parliament Building, the Sierra Leone Female Parliamentary Caucus (SLeFPac), in collaboration with esteemed partners including the Westminster Foundation for Democracy and Orange Sierra Leone, inaugurated their new Executive Committee. This event, held on Thursday, March 14, 2024, was not only a symbolic passing of the torch but also a jubilant celebration of Orange Day, commemorating International Women’s Day 2024.

Under the theme: “Invest In Women: Amplifying Women’s Political Agenda in Parliament,” the gathering brought together a constellation of distinguished Sierra Leoneans and International Diplomats, highlighting the importance of women’s political empowerment.

In her opening remarks, Hon. Neneh Lebbie, President of the Female Caucus, expressed gratitude for the platform to reflect on achievements, address challenges, and set the course for the future. She credited the increased support from President Bio and Madam First Lady for the significant growth of their Caucus, emphasizing the crucial role of women’s emancipation, empowerment and participation in governance.

Dr. Sylvia Olayinka Blyden, Chairperson of the event, used the occasion to honor past leaders who championed women’s rights, stressing the journey towards achieving the 30% quota for women in Parliament. She urged female MPs to become the voice of the voiceless, particularly those in rural areas, while navigating challenges such as male chauvinism.

Acknowledging the collaborative efforts, representatives from various organizations pledged ongoing support for women’s empowerment. They highlighted initiatives aimed at enhancing gender inclusion and promoting democracy, reaffirming commitments to remove barriers and uphold women’s rights.

In a gesture of solidarity, both the Government and Opposition Leaders adorned the new Executive with their rosettes of authority, symbolizing bipartisan support for women’s advancement in governance. They reiterated Parliament’s dedication to promoting women’s exclusivity and participation, citing statistical data on female representation.

Hon. Abdul Kargbo, Opposition Leader, emphasized the urgency of eradicating gender-based violence and called for unity among female MPs to advance women’s interests. He praised President Bio’s support for gender inclusion and drew inspiration from global examples like India and Rwanda.

As the event concluded, Hon. Dr. Bernadette Lahai underscored the importance of sustained advocacy and policy interventions to advance the women’s agenda. She called for increased budgetary allocation to female MPs for effective parliamentary oversight and commended male MPs for their support.

The celebration of Orange Day marked not only a moment of reflection and solidarity but also a reinvigorated commitment towards achieving gender equality and women’s empowerment in Sierra Leone’s political landscape.

FAO, USAID Collaborate to Fortify Veterinary Lab in Makeni

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a significant development for Sierra Leone’s veterinary capabilities, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) have joined forces to fortify the Central Veterinary Laboratory (CVL) in Makeni.

On March 13, 2024, a pivotal visit to the CVL in Makeni marked a milestone in the collaboration between FAO and USAID. Through the Global Health Security Agenda (GHSA), funded by USAID and implemented by FAO’s Emergency Centre for Transboundary Animal Diseases (ECTAD), efforts have been underway since October 2018 to bolster Sierra Leone’s ability to prevent, detect, and control both emerging and endemic diseases.

Over the past five years, GHSA has focused on strengthening various aspects including human resources, disease surveillance, laboratory infrastructure, bio-safety, bio-security and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) capacities, all under a comprehensive One Health approach.

Recognizing the pivotal role of veterinary laboratories in disease control, FAO ECTAD collaborated closely with Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (MAFS) to develop strategies for managing diseases like anthrax, brucellosis, peste des petits ruminants (PPR), and rabies.

As part of this collaboration, the CVL in Makeni, located in the Bombali district, has undergone extensive renovation and upgrading, supported by USAID funding. With these enhancements, the CVL now meets Bio-safety Level 2 (BSL-2) standards, enabling it to conduct testing with improved safety and accuracy.

To celebrate this achievement, the United States Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Bryan David Hunt, and the USAID team visited the CVL in Makeni from March 12 to 14, 2024. FAO ECTAD organized a symbolic handover ceremony during the visit, emphasizing the commitment to advancing animal health and disease surveillance in Sierra Leone.

During the ceremony, Ambassador Hunt highlighted the critical importance of robust animal disease control programs, particularly in light of zoonotic disease threats like Ebola, Zika, and COVID-19. He reaffirmed the United States Government’s dedication to supporting Sierra Leone’s efforts to enhance health security and readiness for infectious disease outbreaks.

Deputy Minister II at the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Sahr Hemore, expressed gratitude for the partnership between USAID and FAO, emphasizing the CVL’s significance as a regional hub for animal health. He urged all stakeholders to protect the facility as a national asset, stressing the interconnectedness between animal and human health.

The inauguration of the Sierra Leone Central Veterinary Laboratory in Makeni on December 14, 2017, marked a significant step towards improving food security, nutrition, and employment opportunities in the country. With continued support from FAO and USAID, the CVL is poised to effectively address disease outbreaks and safeguard public health in Sierra Leone and beyond.

The collaboration between FAO ECTAD and USAID underscores the importance of international cooperation in strengthening veterinary capabilities and disease monitoring. The upgraded CVL in Makeni stands as a testament to the commitment to advancing global health security objectives and protecting public health in Sierra Leone.

Pentecostal Fellowship of Sierra Leone Raises Alarm Over Surge in Attacks on Churches

By Abubakarr Harding

The Pentecostal Fellowship of Sierra Leone (PFSL), in an engagement with the Press on Friday, March 15, 2024, at the Living Word of Faith Outreach Ministry International expressed deep apprehension regarding the escalating frequency of attacks on Pentecostal Churches across the country.

Bishop Akintayo Sam-Jolly, the esteemed President of PFSL, spoke with a heavy heart as he addressed the media, highlighting the alarming conditions besieging the welfare and tranquility of Pentecostal Churches in the nation.

“With grave concern,” remarked Bishop Akintayo Sam-Jolly, “we bring attention to the deteriorating circumstances surrounding the safety and harmonious existence of Pentecostal Churches in Sierra Leone.”

He lamented on the mounting tensions as Churches and Ministers face disenfranchisement, with scant recourse to justice for reported incidents. The Bishop underscored the distressing reality of matters brought to the court and their inadequate resolution, noting the blatant disregard for religious sanctity and the rule of law.

“Sacrilege, desecration, destruction, and violence persist against churches, with land disputes being arbitrarily overturned,” he further bemoaned adding that the egregious acts unfold before the eyes of authorities, yet justice remains elusive, fostering feelings of marginalization among their community.

Emphasizing Sierra Leone’s pride in religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence, Bishop Akintayo Sam-Jolly urged the preservation of these values for the collective good. He outlined a litany of grievances, including the unlawful seizure of church properties, law enforcement’s failure to prosecute offenders and infringements upon the freedom of worship.

“These injustices, ranging from property disputes to physical assaults, erode the fabric of our society,” Bishop Akintayo Sam-Jolly stated.

He cautioned that: “Without decisive action to defend the rights of the afflicted, this pattern of neglect poses a grave threat to the Pentecostal Community in Sierra Leone.”

While advocating for restraint and adherence to legal recourse, the PFSL President implored for justice and equitable treatment, admonishing against a descent into religious inequality akin to other nations’ tumultuous histories.

Bishop Akintayo Sam-Jolly urged the implementation of redress mechanisms to address grievances promptly and fairly. “We seek dialogue with relevant authorities, hopeful that our concerns will be earnestly considered,” he stated. “In pursuit of reconciliation, we call for a comprehensive review of past and ongoing disputes.”

As the Pentecostal Fellowship of Sierra Leone amplifies its plea for justice and solidarity, the nation stands at a crossroads, tasked with safeguarding its cherished principles of religious freedom and communal harmony.

Orange SL Supports Female Caucus Parliamentarians to Commemorate IWD

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Orange Sierra Leone, one of the leading mobile telecommunication companies in the country, demonstrated its commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment by supporting the Female Caucus in Parliament during an organized one-day symposium to commemorate International Women’s Day 2024. Held on the 14th of March, 2024 at Parliament Building on Tower Hill in Freetown, the event brought together key stakeholders to celebrate the progress made by women in politics and to discuss strategies for further advancement.

In a statement delivered during the symposium, the General Secretary of Orange SL, Danetta Younge, conveyed a message of solidarity and celebration towards the strides made by women in politics. Commending the Government for its dedication to women empowerment through legislative measures such as the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Act, the General Secretary emphasized the crucial role of female parliamentarians in championing gender equality. Acknowledging that achieving gender equality is an ongoing process, she expressed gratitude to those leading the fight for creating a more equitable society.

Highlighting the significance of investing in women, Danetta Younge, proudly announced that their company is compliant with the GEWE Act, with 30% of the workforce being women and an increasing number of women holding leadership roles. She said such a commitment reflects a dedication to fostering a fair and inclusive workspace where women can excel based on their merit and abilities. According to her it is important to provide resources and support for women’s growth and called for equal access to opportunities across all platforms.

The symposium underscored the importance of supporting women’s development and providing them with necessary resources to further progress towards achieving gender equality. Orange SL expressed solidarity with the female members of Parliament, pledging continued support for their endeavors.

The President of the Female Caucus in Parliament, Hon. Neneh Lebbie, in her address acknowledged the efforts of past members and expressed gratitude to various partners for their support in increasing female representation in Parliament. She highlighted the enactment of gender equality and women’s empowerment laws which have led to a significant rise in the number of female MPs, surpassing the West Africa average at 38.2%. Stressing the importance of continued support, Hon. Lebbie called for ongoing commitment to gender equality and ending violence against women and girls.

Jack Burns, representing the British High Commission, emphasized the importance of women’s political participation and empowerment. He discussed the impact of involving women in democracy, citing benefits such as improved economic growth, better policy representation and enhanced diplomatic missions. He encouraged collaboration among women leaders from diverse constituencies to address common issues, promoting unity and prioritizing constituents’ needs.

Sharing personal experiences, he expressed support for initiatives like U-Map aimed at connecting women politicians to advocate for important issues. He called on women leaders to transcend political differences and focus on serving their communities, underscoring the transformative power of women’s leadership.

The symposium concluded with messages of gratitude to all attendees for their presence and contribution to the cause of inclusion and equality. As discussions continue, the collective commitment to advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment remains steadfast, fueled by the dedication of organizations like Orange Sierra Leone and the unwavering advocacy of women leaders in Parliament.

Craig Dean, Marampa Mines CEO, Recognized Among Key North American Mining Figures in Africa

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Craig Dean, the Executive Chairman and CEO of Gerald Group, has been spotlighted as a prominent figure among North American players in the African mining sector. The accolade comes from the prestigious African Report Magazine, featuring Dean in their column titled “North America: Who’s Who in African Mining.”

The Gerald Group, under Craig Dean’s leadership since 2012, has emerged as a leading independent metals trading house, expanding its footprint across new African markets. Founded in 1962, the Group operates in Sierra Leone, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and the Republic of Congo, with trading hubs in strategic locations like Shanghai, Stamford, and Switzerland, and headquarters in London.

Notably, Gerald Group’s flagship subsidiary, Marampa Mines Limited, under Dean’s chairmanship and CEO role, has significantly contributed to the iron ore mining sector in Northern Sierra Leone. The company’s operations focus on exploring, developing, and producing high-grade iron ore concentrate, known as Marampa BlueTM, recognized globally for its quality and sustainability.

His transformative leadership has propelled Marampa Mines from obscurity to one of Africa’s premier iron ore producers, stimulating economic growth and social development in Sierra Leone. The company’s recent commissioning of an expansion project, increasing production to 3.25 million tonnes per annum, marks a significant milestone in its journey.

During a notable commissioning event attended by Sierra Leone’s President, Retired Brigadier Julius Maada Bio, Dean reiterated Gerald Group’s commitment to advancing economies sustainably. He emphasized the company’s role in producing high-grade ore, contributing to global trade while prioritizing environmental responsibility and social impact.

Craig Dean’s vision extends beyond corporate success, as evidenced by Gerald Group’s engagement in community development projects.

Gerald Metals Sarl, a subsidiary of Gerald Group, on the 14th November, 2019 confirmed funding of US$126,000 for a vital community water project being undertaken by the Lowa Alliance ASBL in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where the Group has a strategic investment in the world’s premier emerging tin deposit project. It must be noted that the Logu Potable Water Project is benefitting over 500 households, enabling the community to access potable water at 9 points in the Logu village next to where Alphamin Bisie’s logistics and export hub is based. With the development of the Bisie Tin Project, the population of Logu has increased significantly. To source water the villagers used to walk to the nearest river and the water must be carried back from several kilometres away. Water-borne diseases in Africa constitute a major hazard to health and life span.

Such an initiative in the Democratic Republic of Congo demonstrates the Group’s commitment to local communities and sustainable practices.

Notably, in the latest edition of the African Report Magazine Craig Dean was featured among other North American key players in the Mining Sector in Africa.

Arguably, the recognition of North American players like Craig Dean underscores a broader trend of increased interest from the United States and Canada in Africa’s mining sector. Fuelled by the Green Energy Revolution, companies are strategically positioning themselves to secure critical minerals essential for clean energy technologies.

Collaborative efforts between the US and Canada, such as the Minerals Security Partnership (MSP), further underline the commitment to Africa’s mining future. These developments signal a significant shift in the global mining industry, with North American companies poised to shape Africa’s mineral landscape and ensure resource security in the era of sustainable energy.

It can be deduced that under the managerial direction of Craig Dean, the US has made considerable inroads within the African mining landscape as is evident in the vibrant operations of Gerald Group in different parts of the continent.

African and Chinese Think Tanks on Advancing Global Development Collaboration

African and Chinese
African and Chinese

By Alpha Mohamed Jalloh: Director China Africa Institute, University of MakeniTop of Form

(The Africa-China Dar es Salaam Consensus)

The globe is facing difficulties right now, but there is still hope for peace and progress. Currently, more wisdom must be woven and a wider consensus must be reached in the field of information and ideas because human society depends more on one another to exchange good and bad things. China and Africa both have the historical mandate of development and rejuvenation to benefit their people as significant members of the Global South. Together, they ought to actively engage in international governance structures, encourage modernizing nations, and create a global society with a common destiny for all people. In order to improve knowledge-sharing, ideological consensus, and cultural co-prosperity, we have reached a consensus during the 13th Meeting of the China-Africa Think Tanks Forum and have called on the international community to deepen development cooperation based on the principles of mutual respect, solidarity, win-win cooperation, openness, and common prosperity.

We demand that development be prioritized and that autonomous, human-centered pathways of respect and mutual learning be investigated. In addition to implementing the Global Development Initiative, we promote the shared ideals of justice, fairness, democracy, peace, and freedom for all people. We commit to assisting nations in investigating modernization models that take into account their unique cultural traits and development requirements, promoting communication over confrontation, and sharing governance best practices. In an effort to safeguard everyone’s right to pursue a better life, we will make sure that our growth is for the people, by the people, and that the benefits of development are shared among all people.

To enable shared progress, we demand that the establishment of a multipolar, equitable, and well-ordered world be encouraged. In the international system, we support expanding democracy, giving developing nations more voice and representation, and promptly redressing historical injustices that Africa has endured. We uphold and protect the territorial integrity, national sovereignty, and development rights of every nation. Additionally, under the framework of the Global Development Initiative, we will optimize the distribution of resources worldwide and address the disparity in development between and within nations so that any nation, large or little, powerful or weak, rich or poor, can take advantage of equal development chances.

We demand the advancement of an inclusive and broadly beneficial economic globalization so that everyone can benefit from development. Our goals include removing trade and economic obstacles, fortifying global economic governance, and creating a global supply chain that is more robust, inclusive, seamless, and effective. We think that both African nations and non-African nations can benefit from their comparative advantages, continue to advance industrialization and modernize their agriculture, engage more effectively in the global division of labor, and positively impact global economic circulation, global economic growth, and the welfare of all peoples.

To close the development gap, we demand that the international financial system be actively reformed. We consent to providing international development banks, such the World Bank (WB), with more capital in order to strengthen their financial standing and expand their capacity to provide loans. Additionally, we decide to respect each other’s policies, ideas, and actual demands while increasing our financial tools for development and poverty reduction. We will expand emerging markets’ and developing nations’ voting and shareholding rights in the International Monetary Fund (IMF), create a third executive director seat for African nations, and give the least developed nations.

We demand that national policies and international activities be coordinated in order to reinforce premium sustainable development bonds. As part of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), the African Union’s Agenda 2063, the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and other frameworks, we are dedicated to enhancing infrastructure connectivity and the free flow of production factors in accordance with national plans in each country. In addition, we support the advancement of high-tech sectors like aerospace, IT, clean energy, and others. In tackling climate change and advancing green development, we abide by the idea of “common but differentiated responsibilities” (CBDR)

We demand that proactive governments and efficient markets be used to stimulate domestic development. In order to promote market vitality, we support the development of effective, impartial, and law-based governance; we also work to improve macroeconomic regulation and public services; and we support the industrialization and modernization of African agriculture. The legitimate rights and interests of enterprises should be protected, economic policy coordination and standardization of regulatory standards should be improved, trade and investment should be further liberalized and facilitated, and new financing models like public-private partnerships, investment-construction-operation integration, and loan investment coordination to increase liquidity and efficiency of fund utilization.

We advocate for the creation of a secure development environment by taking into account both conventional and non-traditional security concerns. We make a plea to respect the justifiable security concerns of all nations, settle disputes by negotiation and consultation, and work to prevent pan-securitization “traps” that impede growth as well as wars, conflicts, terrorism, and diseases. We think that the Global Security Initiative’s implementation would help bring about peace and security on a global scale. We collectively implore the world to use all peaceful avenues to avert war and pay attention to the people affected by conflicts.

We will also explore the establishment of a fair and objective international credit rating agency within the frame works of forum on China Africa –Cooperation (FOCAC), BRICS and other cooperatives.

We urge the establishment of more useful and efficient policies to encourage the exchange of knowledge. We work together to further the Global Civilization Initiative’s implementation and strengthen mutual learning and exchanges between China and Africa. In order to do this, we support and encourage the development of a close-knit network of think tank alliances as well as the augmentation of communication and collaboration between think tanks and the media. Our goals are to advance the China-Africa Consortium of Universities Exchange Mechanism’s excellent development, boost scientific and technological, health, cultural, and artistic exchanges, and carry out the Plan for China and Africa cooperation on talent development to enhance qualified personnel that would stand the test of time.

 

IGR Unveils ‘Tragedies in Politics’ Volume 2 & Calls for Private Collaboration

By Millicent Senava Mannah

The Institute of Governance Reform (IGR) launched its much-anticipated ‘Tragedies in Politics’ Volume 2 on March 12th, 2014, shedding light on the critical need for Governmental collaboration with the private sector to bolster economic growth and service delivery.

During the launch event held at the IGR Conference Room, Off Spur Road, Freetown, Andrew Lavalie, the Executive Director of IGR, emphasized the potential benefits of such partnerships. He underscored that embracing collaboration could lead to increased revenue, the creation of decent jobs and enhanced services.

Highlighting the historical backdrop of failed Government-run enterprises across Africa, Andrew Lavalie pointed out the adverse effects on poverty alleviation efforts. Drawing from the findings of Volume 1, which delved into the repercussions of failed privatization attempts in the economy, he stressed the urgency for a paradigm shift in Governmental approaches.

The Executive Director elucidated on the mismanagement of State assets, citing examples such as Sierratel, Road Transport Corporation, and EDSA, which collectively suffered losses exceeding $1.5 billion in the past 15 years. He lamented the detrimental impact on employment, revenue generation, and service provision due to nepotistic appointments and undervalued asset sales.

Moreover, the Executive Director unveiled a stark comparison between the management of internet infrastructure by Government agencies versus private entities. He presented a case study involving the Africa Coast to Europe’s Submarine Fiber Optic Cable Infrastructure, initially overseen by a Government agency called SALCAB.

Andrew Lavalie revealed that Governmental management led to financial mismanagement and deteriorating service quality, culminating in mounting debts and inadequate bandwidth delivery. However, a shift to private sector management, exemplified by the engagement of Zood Labs, a US-owned company, resulted in remarkable improvements.

According to him, under private management, the former SALCAB experienced a resurgence, with substantial tax revenues and concession fees benefiting the national treasury. He argued that the wholesale fiber internet prices plummeted promising more affordable internet access for households and businesses, thereby stimulating economic growth.

The Executive Director concluded by urging Governments to foster constructive partnerships with the private sector, emphasizing the importance of policy frameworks and governance mechanisms. He advocated for diligent enforcement and monitoring to ensure mutually beneficial collaborations and sustainable development.

As ‘Tragedies in Politics’ Volume 2 ignites discourse on effective governance strategies, the call for public-private collaboration echoes louder signalling a potential turning point in Africa’s socio-economic landscape.

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