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NatCA’s DG to Chair West Africa Telecoms Conference

The National Telecommunications Authority (NaTCA) will host the West Africa Telecommunications Regulatory Assembly or WATRA from March 19 to 22, 2024.

During the regional body’s meeting, the Director General of NaTCA Mr. Amara Pedou Brewah will take over as Chairman of WATRA until the next meeting in 2025.

Minister of Communications, Technology and Innovation, Md. Salima Bah, will deliver the keynote address at the event and she is expected to show case Sierra Leone’s remarkable improvement in the telecommunications sector over the last five years of President Bio.

WATRA was established in November 2004 and is responsible for working with the telecommunications regulators of all 16 member States of ECOWAS to promote the adoption of regulations that stimulate economic growth through telecoms, deliver more affordable telecoms services to a greater number of West Africans, facilitate swift economic transactions using telecoms and improve wider and easier access to public services.

Last year, at a digital conference in Abuja, Nigeria held on the 31st January and 1st February Positioning West Africa’s Digital Economy for the Future was placed at the center of the two days deliberations and this year’s WATRA conference in Freetown will deepen that. WATRA seeks also to ensure West African countries collaborate and become proactive in leveraging the digital economy’s advantages and emerge as key players in the global digital world. It seeks to build synergy and collaboration within the West African region for greater impact across Africa and the world generally.

During the conference it is expected that WATRA would deliberate on the need for increased broadband penetration and facilitate digital education too. There’s a need for the West African sub-region to leverage its vast population with a view to positioning and boosting the West African digital economy. The need for West African countries to explore their strength and weaknesses to force efficient and productive collaboration for a sustainable digital economy would be discussed.

Digital Public Infrastructure which is the responsibility of everybody to build and not just Governments would be deliberated on. The positive strides by each participating country would be touched with a view to share knowledge and learn from varying experiences. The various challenges faced by each country towards the attainment of digital economy could also form a part of the conference.

The desire to close the skills gap in telecommunications and the digital economy of West African countries is an imperative that WATRA would deep dive during the conference. The upscaling of telecommunications and digital skills among West African citizens would be crucial to the conference.

𝐈𝐅𝐂 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐀𝐂𝐓𝐁 𝐒𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐋𝐨𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐒𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐒𝐦𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐁𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐆𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐭𝐡

To increase access to finance for micro and small businesses in underserved communities in Sierra Leone, the International Finance Corporation (IFC) announced a local currency loan to ACTB Savings and Loans, a leading microfinance institution that serves mainly women-run businesses in the country.

IFC’s $3 million loan, in the country’s Leones equivalent, will allow ACTB to increase local currency lending to smaller businesses in the country, supporting economic activities and job creation.

It is anticipated that roughly 70 percent of new loans will go to women borrowers in line with ACTB’s current customer base. ACTB focuses especially on lending to women because of the impact it delivers to them, their families and communities.

Micro, Small and Medium sized Enterprises (MSMEs) are crucial to Sierra Leone’s economy, comprising 90 percent of private sector businesses and providing livelihoods to about 70 percent of the population.

IFC’s loan to ACTB will broaden access to finance for these smaller businesses, helping them expand their operations and improve their productivity.

“The signing of this agreement is a significant step in our mission to increase our impact in Sierra Leone,” said David Kamara, CEO of ACTB Savings and Loans. “This loan will better enable MSMEs to obtain the financial services they require in a market where over 70 percent of Sierra Leoneans remain financially excluded. Together with IFC, we aim to bridge that gap and foster a more inclusive and resilient economy.”

“Financial inclusion is essential for sustainable development and our partnership with ACTB demonstrates our shared commitment to it,” said Dahlia Khalifa, IFC Regional Director, Central and Anglophone West Africa. “IFC’s investment will help smaller businesses access the funding they need to maintain and grow their operations and support job creation. This partnership is consistent with our strategy to support a stronger, more inclusive economy in Sierra Leone.”

In addition to providing financing and building on previous advisory support delivered to ACTB, IFC announced it would help the microfinance institution develop its five-year business plan and strengthen its strategic focus in the market.

IFC’s loan is supported by the International Development Association’s Private Sector Window Local Currency Facility (IDA PSW LCF) and is provided by IFC’s Base of the Pyramid Platform (BOP), which helps financial services providers deliver critical funding to small and informal businesses as well as low-income households.

Caritas Freetown Commemorates IWD in Two Waterloo Communities

By Millicent Senava Mannah

One of the leading organizations promoting women’s rights and other areas of development, Caritas Freetown, with support from Civil Peace Service, commemorated International Women’s Day with residents of two communities in Waterloo, Mansantigie and Matainkay, under the global theme, “Invest in Women, Accelerate Progress”, “Put Value Pa Uman for Den Quick Betteh” during an event that was held at the Mansantigie Community.

Tobias Grosse of Civil Peace Society said every day is an International Women’s day and that women must be celebrated on a daily basis.

According to him, women must be aware of the rights that have been given to them by the GEWE Act encouraging men to be protectors to women and not perpetrators enjoining investment in them to accelerate. He also maintained that more women need to participate in politics as the corridors have already been opened to them.

The Keynote Speaker from the Women’s Advocacy & Agricultural Organization, Madam Doris Webber, commended President Bio for the enactment of the GEWE Bill, which she said has opened the corridors for more women participation in politics. She however emphasized the need for more women participation in politics.

“With the GEWE Act, women now make up 34% of Councillors, 14% of Mayors, 28% of Deputy Mayors, 34% of Cabinet Ministers and 28% of Paramount Chiefs in the country,” Madam Webber further commended.

According to her,  the GEWE Act has not only given women 30% quota in politics  but it has also created access  to financial loans, land, property amongst others for women.

Madam Webber emphasized the need for them to join hands together in order to foster the growth of their communities.

She noted that Caritas and CPS have added value in the lives of women in these communities through their Village Savings Loan Account (VSLA), maintaining how women in these communities are now able to save and help cater for their family needs.

Sallaymatu Koroma of Family Support Unit, Waterloo Police Division admonished women in the two communities to speak up when they are assaulted, raped or when their children are sexually penetrated.

She maintained that women must add value to their men adding that they must empower themselves to help cater for their children and to contribute meaningfully in their communities.

Lucky Bah, from the Sexual Gender Based Violence Team, Caritas Freetown, said the organization has been working on the project catering for survivors of rape and sexual penetration, and that they understand that sometimes families do not have money to report sexual penetration cases, so they provide financial aid for them to seek justice, creating trainings for survivors and also provide educational support for young girls

“We also work with Law enforcement agencies to help in the fight against SGBV. We have worked in different communities across the country,” it was stated.

Gifty Johnson, Social Service Officer in the Ministry of Social Welfare encouraged women to be submissive to their husbands, stating how men can also be victims of Gender Based Violence.

She admonished for change of attitudes also appealing for them to be supportive to their husbands and ensure they take good care of their children.

Emma Kamara, who spoke on behalf of the women of Matainkay Community, said they are grateful to the organization for sensitizing them about their rights also disclosing that violence against women and girls has minimized.

She maintained that through the organization’s VSLA, they are now saving for their future and helping their husbands to take care of family needs.

Fatmata Kargbo of Mansantigie Community said with the Village Saving Loan Account, she can now boast of owning a house which she built by herself. She also stated that the more pressing challenge they are facing is the social malaise of Kush intake by some residents pleading to the organization to help them eradicate its presence.

Climaxing the event were a question and answer as well as an interactive session.

Dr.Sam Banya’s ‘Political Untimely’ Expressed View Sharply Refuted by Emerging School of Thought

 By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In reaction to the Publisher of Global Times Newspaper, Sorie Fofana’s commencement of an intended serialized profiling of key SLPP personalities that have demonstrated interest in succeeding President Julius Maada Bio as Leader of the Party and by extension to become the next Flagbearer of the Party dubbed: “𝐒𝐋𝐏𝐏 𝐅𝐥𝐚𝐠 𝐁𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐫 𝐀𝐬𝐩𝐢𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐀𝐬 𝐈 𝐊𝐧𝐨𝐰 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐦!”, Dr. Sama Banya commonly known as Puawai holds a contrary view.

Expressing caution, Dr.  Sama Banya maintained: “The period ahead will not be easy but President Bio is urging us to support his FIVE Agenda objectives for the country’s emancipation from our current and international world’s difficulties, the causes of which are well known. It is my very strong conviction that all our endeavours as a party should be directed and concentrated on that agenda. Anything outside this for now, including the almost vulgar conversation together over the mad rush to identify prospective Party 2028 flag bearers is premature and unhelpful. Worse still it is a dangerous distraction from our important AGENDA to feed the nation, transform the economy and other equally important agenda items.”

Inferred from Puawai’s expressed view, the showing of political interest by certain SLPP bigwigs and holding discussions on their ambition are not timely especially at this material time when much attention must be focused on rallying around President Julius Maada Bio with the primary goal of successfully rolling out the Big 5 Agenda and mainly the Feed Salone Initiative.

Plausibly reasonable as the sagacious octogenarian’s cautionary view may sound, however, there has been an emerging School of Thought that begs to differ on the timeliness of the ambitious SLPP Flagbearer aspirations known so far and to hold discussions around them.

A staunch SLPP supporter, John B.S Tucker  residing in the USA argued that President Julius Maada Bio in his wisdom has carefully appointed a hard working team he believes will implement, achieve his Big 5 and to leave behind him a remarkable record of success. He added that the 2028 elections is not about the President and went on to point out that the late President Ahmad Tejan Kabba made a mistake personalizing the 2007 SLPP Presidential campaign process and moving the party’s activities to his house to the extent of crippling the party to a point that even making the choice of the Flagbearer and the running mate was his own decision.

He highlighted that with the 2007 at the back of their minds, he believes it is not early for the party to start thinking about who should succeed President Bio and to unite as well as mobilize members in preparation to win 2028 elections.

John B.S Tucker then went on to ask a rhetorical question:  “If the party members do not engage in this long marathon for the success of the party what do you expect the party to be doing in the Big 5?”

He said they should not be observing whilst there is work to do in consolidating and strengthening the party stressing that knowing members of the party who are interested in taking over JMB is not only timely but will give enough time to the membership of the party to be able to scrutinize their candidates, resolve disputes and pick the best out of the rest within a good time.

John B.S Tucker ended postulating politics has become so dynamic that time should not be wasted to prepare for 2028 and to choose leaders in the party.

According to another SLPP stalwart who refers to himself as a Political Prophet, it’s crucial to acknowledge that healthy political discourse and strategic planning for the future, including discussions about potential party flag bearers for 2028, are integral to democratic processes. He continued by maintaining that those discussions should not be dismissed as premature or unhelpful but should be approached with pragmatism and inclusivity.

The Political Prophet opined that while President Bio’s leadership and agenda are paramount, it’s also essential to address ongoing challenges and opportunities comprehensively and such includes engaging in constructive dialogues about the party’s future leadership and strategies that align with broader national development goals.

He continued, “Furthermore, as we navigate complex political landscapes, it’s vital to uphold principles of transparency, accountability and democratic participation within party frameworks,” adding how open dialogue and collaboration can foster stronger party cohesion and effectiveness in achieving long-term objectives.

In his view he expressed that while supporting President Bio’s agenda remains crucial, embracing constructive debates and planning for the future are vital aspects of democratic governance and effective leadership within political parties furthering that balancing immediate priorities with long-term vision ensures holistic progress and resilience in addressing evolving national needs.

This new development within the political landscape of the country, the open Flagbearer declaration of intent, has indeed opened a Pandora’s Box with some buying the view of Dr. Sama Banya that it is untimely while an emergent School of Thought argues that it is highly advantageous for the political enhancement of the SLPP. Whatever may be said the debate continues.

NP (SL) Embraces Fuel Marking System to Transform Sierra Leone’s Petroleum Sector

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a significant development for Sierra Leone’s oil and gas industry, NP (SL) has thrown its weight behind the introduction of the Fuel Marking System, launched at its Kissy Terminal. This endorsement marks a crucial step forward in enhancing efficiency and transparency in the sector.

The milestone event took place across two key locations: first at SICPA (SL) Limited’s warehouse at the Wellington Industrial Estate, followed by NP’s Kissy Terminal. The system aims to revolutionize the market and ensure efficient revenue generation for the Government.

Worthy to note is that fact NP-SL played a pivotal role in the process of the launch by providing its Terminal facility for the symbolic fuel marking exercise. During this period, the system’s significance was showcased in the presence of relevant stakeholders, including representatives from the Petroleum Regulatory Agency (PRA), National Revenue Authority (NRA), Civil Society Organizations, the Media and other Oil Marketing Companies.

The representative of NP-SL Ltd, Consvonne Macrae, the company’s Finance & Accounts Manager, expressed the company’s full support for the system, recognizing it as a game-changer for revenue collection and fair business practices in Sierra Leone. He highlighted the system’s ability to address issues like fuel diversion, ensuring that tax concession products reach their intended recipients.

Earlier, the NRA Commissioner General, Jeneba Kpaka-Bangura, emphasized the system’s benefits for all customers, especially concessional ones. She stressed its role in safeguarding tax revenue and protecting investments in the sector, dispelling concerns of any potential increase in fuel pump prices.

It must be noted that the Fuel Marking System involves the addition of an invisible ink-like solution to petroleum products loaded in BRVs (fuel tankers). This solution, undetectable to the human eye, can be uniquely identified in a chemical laboratory to determine product ownership or category. Importantly, it does not alter the quality, quantity, or color of the fuel.

The introduction of patrolling Mobile labs will further bolster the system’s effectiveness. These vehicles will inspect fuel storage facilities at Filling Stations, identifying the category of fuel supplied by BRVs and ensuring compliance with regulations.

Significantly, the Fuel Marking System rep resents a significant leap forward for Sierra Leone’s petroleum sector, promising enhanced transparency, revenue generation and fair play. NP’s endorsement underscores the industry’s commitment to embracing technological advancements for the greater good of the nation.

As Deadline Looms: Secure Your Biometric ID Cards by March 31st,   2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

It’s imperative for both Citizens and Non-Citizens to take action now and secure their Biometric ID Cards issued by the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) before the approaching deadline of March 31st, 2024. While some may think there’s plenty of time left to act, it’s crucial to recognize the fleeting nature of time and avoid procrastination.

It’s been suggested that obtaining these ID cards shouldn’t be mandatory, but it’s important to clarify that encouraging individuals to fulfill their statutory responsibility isn’t coercion but rather ensuring compliance with legal obligations.

The urgency stems from a recent collaborative agreement among the NCRA, Sierra Leone Police (SLP), and the Office of National Security (ONS), following a Parliamentary Directive ratified in March 2022. This directive mandates linking Identification Cards (National, Non-National, and ECOWAS) with the National Identification Number (NIN) for various services including financial transactions, vehicle registration, public and private institution recruitment, among others.

The NCRA, SLP, and ONS stress the importance of obtaining these ID cards, emphasizing the deadline of March 31st, 2024. National and Non-National ID cards are compulsory, while ECOWAS ID cards are optional, but compliance will be enforced from April 1st, 2024.

According to officials, these measures aim to ensure accurate identification and consistency in personal information, crucial for national security and effective law enforcement.

The public is urged to begin the registration process at various NCRA centers across the country without delay. The centres are:

  1. NCRA Headquarters: 2 Walpole Street, Freetown.
    2. 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 High Way (Opposite the Police Station).
    6. NCRA Offices: Regional Headquarter Towns of Bo, Kenema, Makeni, and Port Loko.

The NCRA has also 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

Mobile registration units have been deployed in remote areas to ensure that every resident, no matter where they are located, has access to this essential form of identification. Additionally, online registration options will be made available for those who are unable to visit a physical registration centre.

It’s crucial for all residents, citizens, and foreigners alike, to obtain their ID cards to avoid any last-minute rush. Let’s embrace this initiative to foster a more connected and prosperous Sierra Leone.

Tourism Minister and NTB GM Reveal Latest Developments & Plans

Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Nabeela Farida Tunis, alongside the General Manager of the National Tourism Board (NTB), Fatmata Carew, shared key insights during the Ministry of Information and Civic Education Weekly Press Briefing held on Tuesday, March 12, 2024, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Conference Room.

The Tourism Minister commended the Ministry of Information and Civic Education for facilitating a platform where Ministries, Departments and Agencies can showcase their initiatives, emphasizing the importance of effective communication strategies. Highlighting the significant strides in Sierra Leone’s tourism sector, she underscored ongoing efforts to align with international standards to attract a broader spectrum of tourists, both domestic and international. The Minister reiterated tourism’s pivotal role in President Julius Maada Bio’s economic diversification agenda for sustainable development in Sierra Leone.

She revealed collaborative efforts within the Ministry, alongside Agencies and partners, to revitalize the sector, emphasizing job creation, revenue enhancement and ensuring a conducive environment for stakeholders.

Nabeela Tunis concluded by affirming the Ministry of Tourism’s commitment, alongside its affiliated Agencies, to amplify awareness through the, “Tourism for All Campaign” which she said aims to foster collaboration and engagement from the public to elevate the quality and appeal of Sierra Leone’s tourism sector.

On her part, the General Manager of NTB, Fatmata Carew, elaborated on the Agency’s innovative endeavours to showcase Sierra Leone’s tourism potential globally. Noting recent features in top international tourism publications, she highlighted Sierra Leone’s emergence as a coveted destination for its safety and allure. She proposed the establishment of permanent structures for beach bars to modernize facilities and enhance beachfront environments, aligning with Government objectives.

SABCO Sardine & Allied Products Factory Commissioned

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

President Julius Maada Bio, in a significant move aimed at bolstering the country’s private sector, unveiled the newly established SABCO Sardine and allied products factory at Jui. Commissioned on Tuesday, March 12, 2024, the factory marks a pivotal step in Sierra Leone’s economic landscape that will potentially generate employment opportunities for up to a million youths in the foreseeable future.

SABCO Fishing Company, with its roots tracing back to the Sabbagh Supermarket in Bo City in 2001, has undergone a transformative journey, evolving into SABCO Fishing Company in 2013.

Speaking during the event, Abess Sabbagh, the Chief Financial Officer of SABCO Fishing Company, reflected on the challenges encountered and strategic decisions made by the company over the years. Notably, Sabbagh highlighted the transition from a supermarket chain to a fishing enterprise, emphasizing the strategic move to expand operations to the fishing hub in Kissy and the acquisition of eight fishing vessels from Chinese partners to meet market demands.

Abess Sabbagh reiterated SABCO Fishing Company’s commitment to excellence and community development, emphasizing the launch of the SABCO Sardines processing facility as a testament to their dedication to quality and customer satisfaction.

In his address, President Bio commended the Management and Staff of SABCO Fishing Company for their dedication and foresight in establishing the new factory. He hailed the inauguration as a significant milestone in the implementation of his Government’s Medium-Term Development Plan particularly the Feed Salone Initiative. The President reiterated the Government’s commitment to fostering a conducive environment for private sector growth and development.

Under the Feed Salone Initiative, President Bio emphasized the importance of diversifying food sources and increasing local production of protein-rich foods such as fish. He underscored the potential of Sierra Leone’s marine resources, with its expansive coastline and abundant marine life, in driving economic growth and food security.

Moreover, President Bio highlighted the role of value addition, particularly in processing sardines and mackerels into canned food, as a means of creating employment opportunities and enhancing export potential.

He encouraged collaboration between the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources and SABCO Fishing Company to explore export opportunities in the region and beyond. Drawing inspiration from successful models like Morocco, President Bio envisioned Sierra Leone becoming a leading producer in the sub-region, contributing to the reduction of a trade deficit.

The inauguration ceremony witnessed meaningful contributions from key stakeholders, including the Parliamentary Committee on Fisheries, the Ministers of Fisheries and Marine Resources, Trade and Industry, and the President of the Industrial Fishing Companies Association. Their collective efforts underscored the collaborative approach towards promoting private sector growth and harnessing the potential of Sierra Leone’s marine resources for socio-economic development.

As Sierra Leone embarks on this new chapter in its economic trajectory, the inauguration of the SABCO Sardine and allied products factory stands as a symbol of progress and prosperity, reflecting the government’s commitment to transforming the country’s economic landscape through private sector-led initiatives.

Finance Minister, NaCCED Launch ‘Citizen Guide to National Budget’

The Ministry of Finance, in collaboration with the National Council for Civic Education (NaCCED), has unveiled the Citizen Guide to the National Budget on Tuesday, March 12th, 2024 in a bid to enhance public understanding of fiscal matters. The launch took place at the Ministry of Finance Conference Hall on George Street in Freetown.

Chairing the ceremony, the Financial Secretary, Matthew Dingie, emphasized the importance of simplifying the national budget to ensure accessibility for ordinary citizens. He highlighted that while the 2024 Appropriation Act has been ratified by Parliament, its complexity often hinders public comprehension hence the collaboration with NaCCED and other civil society organizations aimed to elucidate key budgetary aspects.

Kalilu Totangi, Chairman of NaCCED, delineated the contents of the document, which covers various facets including the budget’s objectives, revenue sources, expenditure areas and associated risks.

Minister of Finance, Sheku Fantamadi Bangura, expressed gratitude to attendees and urged them to disseminate critical budgetary information. He underscored the Government’s commitment to transparency, citing the budget’s presentation to Parliament as evidence.

The Minister emphasized the interconnectedness of global economic dynamics with Sierra Leone’s economic management, affirming the Government’s proactive approach in confronting external challenges. He outlined the budget’s overarching theme, “Restoring Macro-Economic Stability While Protecting the Poor and Vulnerable,” underscoring its focus on citizen welfare and economic revival.

While prioritizing agriculture, the Finance Minister noted the Government’s efforts in bolstering sectors such as education, energy, health, transportation, roads and mining. He acknowledged the support of international partners like the International Monetary Fund (IMF), World Bank, FCDO and EU in fortifying Sierra Leone’s financial management systems.

The launch of the Citizen Guide to the National Budget signifies a concerted effort towards fostering financial literacy and public engagement in Sierra Leone’s fiscal affairs.

Napoleon Koroma Talks Tough on Diamond Beneficiation & Value Addition

The Deputy Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, Umaru Napoleon Koroma vehemently denounced the practice of mining and exportation of diamonds from diamond-rich African countries without adding value to bring increased revenue to these countries. He made that denouncement on Wednesday 13th March, 2024 at Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe as Guest Speaker at the Intra-Africa Dialogue on Rough Diamonds Beneficiation and Value Addition.

He highlighted how it is high time the continent rejects what he described as “the outdated practice of dig and ship” of its precious diamonds reiterating that mineral rich nations have lagged behind as a result of their inability to fully harness their mineral potentials.

Umaru Napoleon Koroma, who has now become a well- known advocate against foreign exploitation of Africa’s natural resources, said only a small number of countries like South Africa, Botswana, Namibia and Angola have been able to add value to their rough diamonds and this has had a  significant impact on the economies.

To that end, the Deputy Minister believes it is imperative for nations to prioritize the establishment of local diamond beneficiation industries if they were to have a competitive advantage in global markets. He posited that consequently the adoption of cutting technologies will be central in achieving that goal. “It is of utmost importance that beneficiation and value-addition processes within the diamond value chain takes place within the respective countries to maximize economic contribution,” he reiterated.

Umaru Napoleon Koroma also re-emphasized the need for new laws and policy frameworks that would reflect  the will of citizens and expressed the  hope that issues discussed at the event are translated into tangible outcomes for the benefit of citizens in member countries.

Sierra Leone currently holds the position of Vice Chair of the African Diamond Producers Association (ADPA).