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SMYDU, Supported by SALBOT, Donates Textbooks to 13 Schools in Karene District

By Emmanuel Bangura

The Sanda Magbolontor Youths Development Union (SMYDU) with substantial assistance from the Sierra Leone Book Trust (SALBOT) has provided much-needed textbooks to schools in the region in a commendable effort aimed at bolstering education in the Karene District.

On Saturday, 9th March, 2024, SMYDU orchestrated the donation of textbooks to 13 schools, including 10 primary and 2 secondary institutions, situated in the Sanda Magbolontor Chiefdom.

During the distribution ceremony, Abass Kamara, President of SMYDU underscored the significance of the donated textbooks, emphasizing the challenges overcome to facilitate their delivery to the designated schools. He provided insights into the background of the Union and urged teachers to utilize the resources judiciously to meet the educational needs of their pupils.

Addressing the gathering, Sorie Pao Kamara, Councillor for Ward 228 in Constituency 62 of Karene District, and also the Head Teacher of DEC Primary School, Gbogbodo Town, hailed the initiative as a historic milestone for education in the chiefdom. He commended SMYDU for their unwavering commitment to the development of young people in the area, acknowledging the logistical challenges involved in transporting a significant quantity of books to remote locations.

Councillor Sorie Kamara stressed the paramount importance of education in fostering human capital development and urged teachers and pupils to fully embrace the donated resources. He pledged to oversee the proper utilization of the textbooks across the surrounding villages and towns, ensuring they remain accessible and safeguarded.

Expressing gratitude on behalf of the beneficiary schools, Mr. Bangura, Vice Principal of Barmin Junior Secondary School, Gbogbodo, affirmed their commitment to utilizing the textbooks for their intended purposes.

Joel Momodu Kargbo, Secretary General of SMYDU, urged teachers and pupils to establish secure semi-library boards in their schools to preserve the donated books. He emphasized that the donation marked only the beginning of their efforts, with future endeavours contingent upon collaboration and collective action.

Madam Ramatu Samura, Chairlady of SMYDU, emphasized the importance of wise utilization of the textbooks by both teachers and pupils, expressing appreciation for their cooperation.

Furthermore, Peter Kamara, Head Teacher of RC Primary School, Konakie village, and Secretary General of “Mathikepie” (Changes) Social Club, highlighted the collaboration between SMYDU and their club, pledging mutual support for the development of the chiefdom.

Prior to the distribution, SMYDU officials conducted a tour of the beneficiary schools, providing guidance to pupils on the proper care and use of the textbooks.

The collaboration between SMYDU and SALBOT, facilitated by the generous donation of textbooks, stands as a testament to the collective efforts towards advancing education in Karene District. Through such initiatives, the community strives to nurture a generation empowered by knowledge and equipped for a brighter future.

Africell Unveils 5 Billion Ramadan Wall of Fortune Promotion

In a bid to celebrate the Holy Month of Ramadan and give back to its subscribers, Africell Sierra Leone has officially launched the Ramadan Wall of Fortune promotion. This exciting initiative offers subscribers the chance to win a staggering sum of up to Five Billion Leones in prizes.

To participate in this rewarding promotion, subscribers can either call or send a blank SMS to 777, or purchase NLe 2 Afrimoney airtime, which will not only provide them with connectivity but also increase their chances of winning big. The promotion will be prominently featured on AYV TV, Star TV, FTN, Afriradio, and all other major radio stations across the country from 8:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. every Monday to Friday.

Additionally, Africell subscribers stand to win food condiments courtesy of Afrimoney. By purchasing NLe 10 worth of voucher top-up through Afrimoney, subscribers will automatically receive five cups of rice, adding a practical and valuable aspect to the promotion.

Moreover, to ensure widespread participation and engagement, the Africell truck will be traversing various localities in the country, providing opportunities for subscribers to partake in the festivities and potentially win exciting prizes.

These promotions will run simultaneously throughout the holy month of Ramadan, fostering a spirit of generosity, celebration, and community among Africell subscribers nationwide. Don’t miss out on this golden opportunity to win big and celebrate Ramadan with Africell Sierra Leone!

Leonco MD, 2 Others Set Unprecedented Record 

History was made on Monday 12th February, 2024 as the Budapest-Bamako-Freetown Rally reached the Western Area Urban with three prominent Sierra Leoneans at the Finish Line at Gigibonta Park, Lumley Beach in west end Freetown.

What was very unique about the Third Edition of the Budapest-Bamako-Freetown Rally was that this is the first time that three Sierra Leoneans fully participated in the rally. They are the Managing Director of Leonoil Company Limited (LEONCO), Ibrahim Derosimi Cole, popular Sierra Leonean Rapper, Benjamin John whose stage name is Drizilik, and Mohamed Waritay, the brain behind Puzzle Piece. The three are from Puzzle Piece who represented the country in this year’s Budapest-Bamako-Freetown Rally.

Puzzle Piece is an organization pushing for the awareness of Autism in Sierra Leone and around the world. Autism is an abnormal self-absorption, usually affecting children, characterized by lack of response to people and limited ability to communicate, such as children with mental illness or are blind.

According to the LEONCO Managing Director, Ibrahim Cole, he participated in the Budapest-Bamako-Freetown Rally to not only raise the Green, White and Blue Flag of Mama Salone, but to also raise awareness about Autism which is affecting millions of children around the world who are the future leaders, including Sierra Leone.

The MD averred that it was about time we started raising awareness about Autism to save the future generations as a nation.

Ibrahim Cole therefore called on Sierra Leoneans to complement the effort of Puzzle Piece in raising awareness on Autism.

At the Finish Line of the Budapest-Bamako-Freetown Rally at the Gigibonta Park, Lumley Beach, what drew the attention of the participants and the on-looking mammoth crowd was when the LEONCO MD Ibrahim Cole was warmly hugged by his biological father, Alhaji Dr. Mohamed Babatunde Cole, amidst family members, colleague workers, friends and well-wishers respectively.

Skye Bank (SL) Announces New Managing Director

Skye Bank (SL) Ltd has announced Fasasi Charles Adeniye as the new Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer of the Bank.

Fasasi Charles Adeniye has over two decades of banking experience. Prior to his appointment as the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Skye Bank, Sierra Leone Ltd, he was the acting Managing Director of Skye Bank in Guinea where he led the turn-around and transformation of the bank in information technology infrastructure, human resource and sound financial performance.

He started his career in Zenith Bank Plc in Nigeria and rose to Senior Management position. He is a consummate professional banker with expertise across Banking Operations, Corporate, Commercial, Retail and Branch Banking, Treasury, Structured Trade and Project Finance as well as General Management.

He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics with First Class Honors from Ogun State University Ago-Iwoye and a Master’s degree in Finance from the prestigious University of Lagos, Akoka all in Nigeria.

He is also a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (FCA)

He has attended various management development programs both in Nigeria and abroad some of which include Change Management, Strategy for Change, Power of Negotiation, Strategic Management and very recently Cyber Security.

Skye Bank (SL) Limited was incorporated in Sierra Leone on 10th August 2007 as a Private Limited Liability Company, a subsidiary of Sifax Group Nigeria Limited. Following the Banking Act 2000, it was licensed by the Bank of Sierra Leone (‘BSL’) on 19th August 2009 to carry on banking business in Sierra Leone.

Sifax Group Nigeria Limited is a large group that are into various sectors in investment, such as Maritime, Aviation, oil & gas, Haulage & logistics, financial services (Banks), and hospitality in West Africa and Central Africa. With headquarters in Nigeria, the bank maintains subsidiaries in Sierra Leone, The Gambia, the Republic of Guinea.

Skye Bank (SL) Limited operates as one of the leading financial services companies in Sierra Leone and provides facets of financial products and services powered by a purpose-built technological framework that supports the service delivery process to customers. Skye Bank (SL) Limited operates through Retail Banking, Commercial Banking, and Treasury, Corporate and Investment Banking segments.

‘City of Light Helping Hand’ Offers Medical Services & Aid to Over 400

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

In a commendable humanitarian effort, the City of Light Helping Hand Organization, successfully conducted a two-day mobile clinic and feeding event on March 9th and 10th, 2024. The event, held at the Kings & Priests International Ministries in Benguema, Waterloo, aimed to raise awareness about personal health, offer medical treatment and distribute essential supplies to the community’s residents.

The organization, whose headquarter is based in Maryland, USA, and extending its outreach across Africa, including Sierra Leone, with branches in Lungi, Rokel, Tambaka, Waterloo, Hill Station and beyond, has established hospital, schools, orphanages, and water wells in order to address various community needs in the country.

During the two-day event, over 400 individuals received health screenings for various conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, and malaria. Those diagnosed were promptly provided with treatment, including medications sourced primarily from the United States. Attendees not only benefited from medical services but also received nutritious meals and gained insights into personal hygiene and infection prevention. Clothing items like clothes, shoes, and bras were also generously distributed to participants.

The City of Light Helping Hand Organization demonstrated its commitment to inclusivity by ensuring equal care and support for all attendees, irrespective of age, status, gender or religious affiliation. Christians, Muslims, persons with disabilities, and others were treated with dignity and respect.

Abdul K. Sesay, the General Overseer of the organization, expressed satisfaction with the event’s success, stating, “We are pleased with the positive impact our two-day mobile clinic and feeding event had on the residents of Benguema Community. The City of Light Helping Hand Organization remains committed to improving healthcare access and addressing essential needs in communities across Sierra Leone.”

Sarah Kargbo, the Director of Medical Services, expressed pride in the team’s efforts and vowed to do more. “As Director of Medical Services, I am proud of our team’s efforts in providing comprehensive health services to the residents of Benguema. We will continue to prioritize the well-being of those we serve and strive for excellence in our medical outreach programs.”

Santigie Kamara, one of the recipients, expressed gratitude to the City of Light Helping Hand Organization for providing medical treatment and essential supplies during the two-day event, emphasizing the significant difference it made in his life and the lives of many others in the community.

Mariatu Samai, another recipient, valued the organization’s support and care, highlighting their dedication to serving all members of the community, regardless of background or circumstance. She eagerly looks forward to more of the same.

Former Bo District Chairman Extols Alhaji Musa Tarawally During Ramadan Gala Launch

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

A well attended Ramadan Gala was recently launched in Bo City, Southern Sierra Leone, organized in appreciation of Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally’s dedication and landmark developments in that part of the country and the nation at large. The Ramadan Gala materialized when a request for support by football lovers was promptly endorsed by the charismatic philanthropist, Hon Musa Tarawally, who has always demonstrated willingness to support, empower and associate with youth programs including sports.

According to the organizers, the Ramadan Gala is geared towards providing entertainment for Muslims whilst fasting during this Holy Month of Ramadan.

Featuring prominently in the spectacular event that attracted Bo residents from all walks of life, including SLPP party members and Executives at all Levels, was the former Bo District Council Chairman, Raymond Cobba, who enthusiastically chaired the programme and took the kick off for the commencement of the Gala.

Choosing the former Bo District Council Chairman, Raymond Cobba, to perform those important roles in the much talked about social event was deliberate, according to the financier, Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally. He underscored that the former District Council Chairman’s ancestors were part of the founding members of SLPP just as his ancestors were. He continued that it must also be seen as the continuation of a move he has initiated to activate and bring respect to those who suffered for the success of the SLPP, be they young or old adding that Chairman Raymond Cobba is a highly respected senior citizen of Bo District and a symbolic personality of the great SLPP who deserves recognition and respect in any SLPP arrangement or programme.

The former Bo District Council Chairman, Raymond Cobba, while addressing the mammoth gathering, said Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally is the most God fearing, faithful, kindest person he has ever known and highly respects adding that like some other individuals he had earlier given up on Sierra Leone not until he recently met again with Alhaji Musa Tarawally who renewed his faith.

“Let’s think about the fact that most Sierra Leoneans, myself included, left and are still leaving Sierra Leone for greener pastures.  Alhaji Musa Tarawally, on the other hand, spent all of his vital formative period in Sierra Leone and was able to achieve massive success with tangible investment landmarks in different countries,” he expressed admiration, stressing that it is for such a singular reason like that why Sierra Leone needs a Musa Tarawally under his Agenda MT Vision 2028 which is geared to work towards a progressive, thriving and inclusive nation.

The former Council Chairman maintained that in the realm of Sierra Leonean politics and development, few figures stand as prominently as Hon. Musa Tarawally.

“A steadfast supporter of the Government and advocate for the people, Hon. Tarawally has dedicated his career to fostering positive change and progress in various areas across the nation,” he commended furthering how his unwavering commitment to the advancement of Sierra Leone is evident through his tireless efforts in both political and developmental spheres.

He also informed how Hon. Tarawally’s belief in the transformative power of political engagement and constructive dialogue is reflected in his commitment to collaboration and cooperation within Sierra Leone’s political landscape.

According to him, the Honourable once remarked, “Unity and solidarity are the cornerstones of progress in our nation. By working together, we can overcome any obstacle and achieve our shared goals for a better Sierra Leone.” He asserted that such a sentiment encapsulates his approach to politics, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and collective action in driving meaningful change.

He continued to intimate the audience that Hon. Tarawally’s dedication to developmental initiatives has left an indelible mark on communities throughout Sierra Leone. Raymond Cobba pointed out that from infrastructure projects to educational initiatives his efforts have positively impacted countless lives across the nation.

Reflecting on the importance of investing in development, he said Hon. Musa Tarawally once stated, “Education is the key to unlocking the full potential of our nation. By prioritizing access to quality education and infrastructure development, we can lay the foundation for a prosperous future for all Sierra Leoneans.”

He revealed that in addition to his advocacy for education and infrastructure, Hon. Tarawally has been a vocal proponent of economic empowerment and poverty alleviation initiatives.

According to the former Chairman, recognizing the importance of economic stability in fostering sustainable development, Hon. Musa Tarawally has championed policies aimed at creating opportunities for entrepreneurship and job creation. He added that his vision for a thriving economy is encapsulated in his belief that: “Empowering individuals and communities to become self-reliant is essential for sustainable development. By investing in skills training and entrepreneurship, we can unlock the potential of every Sierra Leonean to contribute to our nation’s growth.”

He ended by saying beyond his policy advocacy Hon. Tarawally’s leadership is characterized by a deep commitment to serving the people of Sierra Leone with integrity and compassion.

“He has consistently prioritized the needs of his constituents, working tirelessly to address their concerns and improve their quality of life,” Raymond Cobba said adding that with regards to his dedication to public service, he once remarked, “As leaders, our foremost duty is to serve the people with honesty and humility. By listening to their voices and advocating for their needs, we can build a brighter future for all Sierra Leoneans.”

The sentiment expressed by the former Bo District Council Chairman elicited choruses of applause from the ecstatic audience that graciously expressed appreciation and gratitude for having someone like Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally whose calibre, pedigree and aspirations they pledged will be always embraced.

Climaxing the event was the locking horn of two teams in a football encounter marking the commencement of the Ramadan Gala.

It could be deduced that Hon. Musa Tarawally’s positive political and developmental contributions to Sierra Leone are a testament to his unwavering commitment to the nation and its people. Through his advocacy for unity, investment in development and dedication to public service, he continues to inspire hope and progress in communities across the country.

Amb. Kobi Walker Calls for Concerted Efforts to Enhance Safety at NP (SL) Terminals

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a recent conversation with the media, Ambassador Kobi Walker, CEO of NP Sierra Leone Limited (NP-SL), commended the Parliamentary Oversight Committee of Trade for their initiative in engaging with the operations at NP (SL) terminals. During the interview, Ambassador Walker highlighted the need for collective action to tackle the challenges faced by the company and to bolster the safety measures surrounding its terminals.

Drawing attention to an unfortunate event in Guinea, Kobi Walker underscored the critical importance of preventing similar incidents in Sierra Leone by enhancing security protocols at NP (SL) facilities. He stressed that the proximity of NP terminals to residential zones is uncommon in Western countries and it is vital to acknowledge and address the unique risks this presents.

Ambassador Walker shed light on the economic hurdles of fuel importation and distribution, pointing out the difficulty inherent in purchasing fuel with dollars and selling it in Leones. However, he acknowledged the support from the Bank of Sierra Leone, the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Trade, and the Petroleum Regulatory Agency (PRA), which have been instrumental in securing the necessary foreign currency for fuel imports.

In terms of employment, Ambassador Walker proudly noted that NP (SL) is setting an example in gender diversity with over 42% of its workforce being female. He credited this to the company’s conviction that women are exceptionally capable in the industry. Furthermore, the CEO expressed his advocacy for gender equality, referencing his support for the HE for SHE campaign, which champions women’s empowerment.

He ended up calling for a unified approach among stakeholders to ensure the uninterrupted operation of NP (SL) terminals and the consistent supply of petroleum products throughout the country. Kobi Walker emphasized the paramount importance of maintaining safety standards to protect both the infrastructure and the citizens living in the vicinity of these facilities.

Karpowership’s Uninterrupted Service Remains A Vital Lifeline for the Western Area

Since 2018, when Karpowership was initially contracted to supply 65 Megawatts of electricity supply it has remained the backbone of the Government’s energy supply strategy, primarily catering to the Western Area. However, the 65 Megawatts electricity supply falls short of the Western Area energy needs.

Notably, during the rainy season, the Bumbuna Hydro Power Project provides 40 to 45 Megawatts to the North and Western Areas. However, the CLSG’s recent decision to reduce supply from 36MW to 10MW has heightened dependence on Karpowership for power supply.

Presently, Karpowership is delivering between 65 to 75 Megawatts to the Western Area, despite the Government’s outstanding debt exceeding US35 million.

The prospect of Karpowership discontinuing service due to unpaid dues will indeed pose a dire situation and with the aforementioned CLSG’s reduced capacity the Western Area is vulnerable to an energy crisis, especially during this Holy Month of Ramadan.

Acknowledging Karpowership’s patience amidst financial challenges, it could only be prudent to honor payment agreements especially when cognizance is taken of the fact that despite dire economic straits, Karpowership remains steadfast since 2018, contributing significantly to the Government’s development strides.

With a capacity to supply up to 100MW consistently, Karpowership stands out as a reliable ally in the nation’s power provision efforts, surpassing other sources like Bumbuna and CLSG in both capacity and reliability.

In light of this unwavering commitment, Karpowership deserves commendation for their integral role in the country’s power stability.

Chief Minister Reacts to Dr Samura Kamara’s Allegation of Intimidating Top Brass APC Members

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a recent exchange on Twitter, the Chief Minister, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, responded to allegations raised by Dr Samura Mathew Wilson Kamara, the 2023 Presidential candidate for the All Peoples Congress (APC), regarding purported unwarranted visits by armed security forces to residences of top brass APC members.

According to Dr. Samura Mathew Wilson Kamara’s Twitter post on Thursday, March 7, 2024, he expressed deep concern over “unwarranted visits” by heavily armed military and police personnel to the homes of key stakeholders of the APC party.

He emphasized the importance of upholding democratic principles, rule of law and human rights, urging local authorities and international bodies to intervene and ensure proper adherence to legal protocols.

Two specific APC strongmen were named by Dr Samura Kamara as victims: Hon. Kemoh Sesay and Rtd Major Palo Conteh. The houses in question are situated at Aberdeen in the West End of Freetown. These houses were seized by the Anti Corruption Commission pending investigation in the wake of the recommendations of the Commissions of Inquiry. Whether such was tantamount to confiscation is yet to be known.

However, in a response by the Chief Minister, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, he expressed regret and stated, “I am sorry, sir. I think you’ve been misinformed.” He clarified that the Police visited houses that had been confiscated by the State as per the completed Commission of Inquiry (COI) for some ECOWAS-State security activities. The Chief Minister emphasized that those actions were not targeting opposition members and asserted that the Government had no intention to do so.

What is not clear to this medium is that if the houses had been confiscated then the former owners or their relatives should not be occupying them and therefore they would not have faced “unwarranted visits”.

It must be noted that the exchange comes amid heightened political tensions in Sierra Leone and underscores the importance of transparency, accountability and adherence to due process in safeguarding democratic values. While Dr Samura Kamara’s allegations raised concerns about potential misuse of state power, Chief Minister, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, response sought to provide clarity and reassurance regarding the Government’s actions.

The differing perspectives presented in this Twitter exchange highlight the complexities of political discourse and the challenges of maintaining trust and confidence in governance, particularly in contexts where perceptions of bias or intimidation may arise.

As Sierra Leone navigates its political landscape, it remains crucial for all stakeholders to engage constructively uphold the rule of law, and respect the rights of all citizens, regardless of their political affiliations. Only through such collective efforts can the country progress towards a just and equitable society.

Deadline for Obtaining Biometric ID Cards is Less Than Three Weeks from Now

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Cognizance must be taken that the deadline for obtaining the Biometric ID Cards is the end of this month, the 31st. It could be recalled that through a previous Public Notice, the general public was informed that NCRA, in collaboration with the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) and the Office of National Security (ONS) will embark on robustly implementing a Cabinet Directive Ratified by Parliament in March, 2022 which provides for the mandatory link of the Identification Cards (National, Non-National and ECOWAS) with the National Identification Number (NIN) inscribed on the ID Cards to access services that includes: Transactions with Financial Institutions (Banks, Forex Bureau, Insurance, etc), Vehicle Registration and Licensing, Recruitment into Public and Private Institutions for consistency in personal information and verification, NASSIT Enrolment, Land and Property Registration, Enrolment into Educational Institutions including Public Exams, Sim Card Registration, Vital Events Registration, Immigration Services, Residence/Work Permits, Business Registration and Incorporation.

Emphasis was placed on the need  for the general public is hereby advised to obtain any of the Identification Cards as may be applicable from any of the NCRA Offices or other Centres designated for issuance of ID Cards across the country by Friday, 31s March, 2024.

Worthy of note is that the National and Non-National ID Cards are mandatory while ECOWAS ID Card and that NCRA, the Security Sector will jointly collaborate to enforce compliance with the Cabinet Directive and its Parliamentary Ratification effective 1s April, 2024.

The rationale behind the move is to ensure that all residents (citizens and foreign) are reliably identified and have consistency in their personal information irrespective of the use or purpose.

Of significance is that the Identification Cards bearing the National Identification Numbers (NIN) are by law the primary sources of personal identification in Sierra Leone. In that regard every resident in Sierra Leone must have a National Identity Card as it not only helps in identifying individuals accurately but also plays a vital role in maintaining national security.

It is also an acceptable fact that having a standardized form of identification will greatly assist law enforcement personnel  in carrying out their duties effectively and efficiently.

Residents are therefore urged to obtain their National Identity Cards as soon as possible to avoid any last-minute rush. Various registration centres were set up across the country to facilitate the process.

Designated centers and six specific offices that are opened throughout the country in locations that are easily-accessible, as part of efforts to facilitate the ID registration process are:

  1. NCRA Headquarters: 2 Walpole Street, Freetown.
    NCRA Office: 23B Off Kingharman Road, Freetown.
    3. NCRA Office: Kennedy Street, Freetown.
    4. NCRA Branch Office: 230 Lumley Road, Freetown (By the Round- About).
    5. NCRA Office: Waterloo along the Freetown High Way (Opposite the Police Station).
    6. NCRA Offices: Regional Headquarter Towns of Bo, Kenema, Makeni, and Port Loko.

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

Mobile registration units are also deployed to remote areas to ensure that every resident, no matter where they are located, has access to this essential form of identification.

Through embracing the ID Cards, Sierra Leoneans are paving the way for a more connected, transparent, and prosperous nation.

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