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Sierra Leone, So Afri Loge Sign Landmark Housing Agreement for Public Servants

Officials sign documents at a formal meeting, with delegates standing around a long table and banners in the background.

The Government of Sierra Leone has taken a significant step towards addressing the housing needs of civil and public servants by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with So Afri Loge for the development of affordable housing units across the country.

The signing ceremony took place on Friday, 5 June 2026, at the Sierra Leone Embassy in Dakar, Senegal and was chaired by Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to Senegal, H.E. Ibrahim Turay, who described the initiative as a major achievement of President Julius Maada Bio’s economic diplomacy agenda.

The agreement was signed on behalf of the Government of Sierra Leone by the Minister of Lands, Housing and Country Planning, Dr. Turad Senesie and the Minister of Political Affairs and Public Administration, Amara Kallon. The event was attended by senior Government officials, including the Chairman of the Public Service Commission, K.O. Bah, the Director of the Public Sector Reform Unit, Sulaiman Phoray-Musa, the Professional Head and Director of Surveys and Lands, Tamba Dauda and the Communication Specialist of the Sierra Leone Land Administration Project, Abdul Fonti.

Speaking at the ceremony, Dr. Turad Senesie reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to ensuring the successful implementation of the project.

“With this MOU, we are not only pledging land and tax incentives but also our full institutional support. We are committed to moving swiftly towards the Joint Venture Agreement, securing Cabinet and Parliamentary approval and ensuring that construction begins without unnecessary delay. Providing decent and affordable housing for our workforce is a national priority,” he stated.

Minister Amara Kallon emphasized that the initiative aligns closely with the Government’s broader public sector reform programme.

“This project transforms our policy commitments into practical action. When civil servants have access to secure and dignified homes, their motivation and productivity improve, benefiting the entire public service. We will work closely with So Afri Loge to finalize the Joint Venture Agreement and complete all statutory processes to ensure the project commences as soon as possible,” he said.

Representatives of So Afri Loge also expressed confidence in the partnership and pledged to move quickly to the next phase of the project.

According to the company’s senior Management, the firm is fully aligned with the Government’s vision and is prepared to finalize the Joint Venture Agreement, complete project designs and financing arrangements and commence construction once all necessary approvals are obtained.

Chairing the event, Ambassador Ibrahim Turay welcomed the development, describing it as a clear demonstration of the success of Sierra Leone’s economic diplomacy efforts.

“I am delighted that our economic diplomacy agenda is yielding positive results. Attracting transformative investments such as this affordable housing project is exactly what we set out to achieve. I will continue to support the process to ensure that it receives Cabinet and Parliamentary consideration without delay,” the Ambassador said.

The Director of the Public Sector Reform Unit, Sulaiman Phoray-Musa, also noted that access to decent housing is essential for restoring the dignity and pride of public service and will contribute significantly to improved efficiency and productivity across the sector.

With the MOU now signed, both the Government of Sierra Leone and So Afri Loge have committed themselves to an ambitious timeline for concluding the Joint Venture Agreement and obtaining the legal and parliamentary approvals required to begin the construction of affordable homes for public servants.

Sierra Leone Facilitates Safe Return of Nine ECOWAS Nationals

Passengers boarding a small commercial jet via portable stairs on the tarmac, with ground crew and a white service van nearby.

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Government of Sierra Leone has successfully facilitated the safe return of nine nationals from member states of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), underscoring the country’s commitment to regional cooperation, humanitarian responsibility and the orderly management of migration.

According to a Press Release issued by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education on June 4, 2026, the nine individuals arrived in Sierra Leone from the United States on May 20 under the Third Country National Agreement between the two countries.

Government stated that upon their arrival, the ECOWAS nationals were received and accommodated in accordance with established humanitarian standards and international protocols for protection and care.

The process was coordinated through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, working closely with diplomatic missions, relevant Government institutions and Kenvah Solutions. Authorities provided temporary accommodation, meals, clothing, health screening, psychosocial support and other essential services during the individuals’ stay in Sierra Leone.

Officials noted that after the completion of all necessary administrative, consular and travel arrangements, the nine ECOWAS nationals voluntarily returned safely to their respective countries of origin.

The Government described the exercise as a successful demonstration of Sierra Leone’s dedication to regional solidarity and humanitarian assistance. Authorities further emphasized that the process reflects the country’s ability to provide temporary protection and support to people in transit while collaborating with regional and international partners to ensure safe and dignified solutions.

The development comes amid ongoing efforts by ECOWAS member states to strengthen cooperation on migration management, human mobility and the protection of vulnerable persons within the West African region.

Government reaffirmed its commitment to working with regional and international partners to promote safe migration pathways, uphold humanitarian principles and support initiatives that foster stability and cooperation across the ECOWAS sub-region.

Moyamba Delegates Declare Overwhelming Support for Musa Tarawally’s 2028 Flagbearer Bid

Man in a light blue shirt and blue cap steps out of a dark SUV with the door open, holding a phone.
Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally

By Ibrahim Sesay

Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally has received a significant political boost after delegates from Moyamba District declared overwhelming support for his bid to become the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) flagbearer ahead of the 2028 general elections.

According to supporters of the former Minister and presidential aspirant, representatives from all six constituencies in Moyamba District have endorsed his candidacy, strengthening his position within the party’s emerging leadership contest.

The endorsement reportedly took place on Friday, June 5, 2026, at Hon. Musa Tarawally’s residence in Freetown, where 22 out of the district’s 24 delegates gathered to publicly pledge their support for his presidential ambition. His supporters described the development as a clear demonstration of the confidence many party delegates have in his leadership vision.

Political observers say the latest endorsement could have a significant impact on the evolving dynamics of the SLPP flagbearer race, with reports suggesting that some delegates from other political camps are also expressing interest in aligning with the Musa Tarawally movement.

Supporters further believe that the growing momentum behind his campaign reflects a desire among delegates for experienced leadership as the party prepares for its internal elections and the 2028 national polls.

Speaking on his ambition, Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally emphasized the importance of respecting the democratic process within the party and appealed directly to the delegates who will ultimately determine the next SLPP flagbearer.

“Whilst other aspirants are boasting of President Bio’s favor to become the next flagbearer of the SLPP, I am appealing to and assuring the delegates, who have the constitutional right to vote, to support me as the next flagbearer of the great SLPP,” he said.

With political activities steadily intensifying, many analysts believe that support from influential districts such as Moyamba could prove decisive in the SLPP’s internal flagbearer race, potentially shaping the direction of the party ahead of the 2028 general elections.

Autopsy Report Raises Questions Over Death of APC Stalwart Abdul Rahmadan “Omega” Sesay

Man with a gray beard and light blue shirt posing against a pink background.

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

The family of Abdul Rahmadan “Omega” Sesay, a prominent member of the All People’s Congress (APC) in Port Loko District, has released what it describes as the findings of a post-mortem examination, claiming that the politician died as a result of strangulation and possible poisoning.

According to a public statement issued by the family, the autopsy conducted in Freetown reportedly found evidence of foul play, dismissing widespread social media speculation that Abdul Rahmadan “Omega” Sesay died from a drug or alcohol overdose.

The family stated that pathologists concluded that Abdul Rahmadan “Omega” Sesay suffered a broken neck consistent with strangulation. They further alleged that medical examiners observed signs suggestive of severe poisoning, noting abnormalities discovered during the examination.

Abdul Rahmadan “Omega” Sesay was reportedly found dead in a hotel room in Lungi, Kaffu Bullom Chiefdom, alongside a young woman identified as Mary Sia Bangura, who was also reported deceased. The circumstances surrounding the two deaths remain under active police investigation.

Law enforcement authorities in Lungi have reportedly taken three individuals into custody in connection with the case. However, the Sierra Leone Police have not yet publicly disclosed the identities of the suspects or officially confirmed the details contained in the family’s statement.

A respected academic and political figure, Abdul Rahmadan “Omega” Sesay served as a senior lecturer at the University of Management and Technology and was pursuing a PhD at the University of Makeni. Within the APC, he was widely known for his political activism and had served in several leadership capacities, including Resident Chairman, and Councillor in Port Loko District.

His sudden death has sent shockwaves through political and academic circles, with supporters, colleagues and community members calling for a transparent and comprehensive investigation.

Reports have also indicated that investigators may seek statements from individuals believed to have had contact with Abdul Rahmadan “Omega” Sesay  before his death, although official confirmation from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) is still pending.

The family has urged the authorities to ensure that justice is served and that all those responsible, if any wrongdoing is established, are brought before the law.

As investigations continue, police are expected to provide further updates on what has become one of the country’s most closely watched criminal cases.

The matter remains a developing story.

Mercy Ships Honours President Bio for Three Years of Healthcare Collaboration

Nine professionals in formal attire pose for a group photo in a reception area, with a palm mural behind them on the wall.

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has hosted a farewell lunch for the Sierra Leonean crew members serving aboard the Global Mercy Ship and reaffirmed his Government’s commitment to strengthening the longstanding partnership between Mercy Ships and Sierra Leone.

The event, held on 4 June 2026 at State House in Freetown, celebrated another successful chapter in the collaboration between Mercy Ships and the Government of Sierra Leone, a partnership that has significantly improved access to life-changing surgical care, healthcare training and institutional capacity building across the country.

Speaking on behalf of the Mercy Ships leadership, Matthew Murray expressed profound appreciation to President Bio and the Government of Sierra Leone for the hospitality, support and cooperation extended to the organisation during its mission.

He noted that the people of Sierra Leone had been exceptionally welcoming and praised the dedication of the many Sierra Leonean volunteers who have served alongside the international team over the years.

Representing the Sierra Leonean volunteers, Albert Sam and Edward Carew shared emotional testimonies about the transformative impact of Mercy Ships on communities across the country. They described the organisation as a beacon of hope that has restored health, dignity and confidence to thousands of Sierra Leoneans.

They highlighted inspiring stories, including those of Amara and Mama Musu, as examples of the life-changing interventions made possible through the humanitarian mission.

Minister of Health, Dr. Austin Demby, commended President Bio for his visionary leadership and praised Mercy Ships for its exceptional contribution to Sierra Leone’s healthcare sector over the past three years.

Describing the occasion as one of the happiest moments of his life, Dr. Austin Demby said the more than 4,000 successful surgeries performed by Mercy Ships represented thousands of stories of hope, healing and renewed dignity for Sierra Leoneans.

He added that the organization’s impact extends beyond surgical care through investments in healthcare workforce development, institutional strengthening and long-term support for the country’s health system.

In his remarks, President Bio expressed profound gratitude to Mercy Ships for its invaluable contribution to healthcare delivery and human development in Sierra Leone.

The President thanked the organisation for providing life-changing and life-saving opportunities to many Sierra Leoneans and noted that its confidence in the country and commitment to partnership had created a lasting impact that would benefit future generations.

President Bio stressed that although the vessel would be departing Sierra Leonean shores, the legacy of Mercy Ships would remain through the thousands of lives transformed, healthcare professionals trained and institutions strengthened.

He also paid tribute to the Sierra Leonean volunteers who served alongside the organisation, describing them as exemplary ambassadors who demonstrated the nation’s values of compassion, professionalism and service.

The President said Sierra Leone is a resilient and welcoming nation and that the partnership with Mercy Ships had showcased the true character of its people. On behalf of the Government and citizens of Sierra Leone, he extended heartfelt appreciation to Mercy Ships and everyone who contributed to the success of the mission.

Throughout its mission in Sierra Leone, Mercy Ships provided thousands of free surgical procedures, delivered specialized medical training and supported critical health systems strengthening initiatives, leaving an enduring legacy that will continue to benefit communities across the country.

Following the farewell ceremony, the leadership of Mercy Ships held a briefing session with President Bio and presented him with a plaque of appreciation in recognition of his exemplary support during the organization’s three-year field service in Sierra Leone.

Lungi Conference Centre Nears Completion as Sierra Leone Prepares for ECOWAS Summit

Group of officials and workers in hard hats and safety vests touring a construction site, with a man in a pink suit at center addressing the group.

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has inspected the ongoing construction of the Conference Centre and Presidential Villas at Lungi, reaffirming his Government’s commitment to infrastructure development and national transformation ahead of the 69th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, scheduled for next month.

The inspection tour, conducted on 5 June 2026 at Lungi International Airport in Port Loko District, formed part of the Government’s preparations to host the high-level regional gathering and provided the President with an opportunity to assess progress on one of Sierra Leone’s most ambitious infrastructure projects.

The multi-purpose complex is expected to become a major national asset and includes Presidential Villas, a Presidential Conference Hall, a banquet hall, a dedicated media and press centre, a 1,500-seat auditorium, a five-star hotel, a recreational plaza and other modern facilities designed to position Sierra Leone as a preferred destination for regional and international conferences.

Welcoming the President, Chairman of the Office of Presidential Infrastructure Initiatives (OPII), Dr. Eldred Taylor, expressed appreciation for the visit and commended President Bio’s vision and leadership in advancing key infrastructure projects across the country.

Dr. Eldred Taylor informed the President that construction work is at an advanced stage, with significant progress achieved across all major components of the development. He described President Bio as a transformational leader whose infrastructure agenda is laying the foundation for long-term economic growth and national development.

According to Dr. Eldred Taylor, the project will significantly strengthen Sierra Leone’s ability to host regional and international events, while boosting tourism, attracting investment and increasing passenger traffic through Lungi International Airport.

He noted that the Presidential Hall, designed to accommodate Heads of State and delegates, together with the banquet hall and the main plenary facilities, are all nearing completion.

Dr. Eldred Taylor further explained that the Conference Centre has been designed around three principal segments: the Presidential Segment, the Ministerial Segment and the Public Segment, making it one of the most comprehensive and modern conference facilities in the sub-region.

He also highlighted plans for a recreational plaza connected to the proposed five-star hotel, creating an integrated conference and hospitality destination capable of supporting major international events.

Speaking after the inspection, President Bio expressed satisfaction with the pace and quality of work and commended the Turkish construction company, FB Group, for its dedication to meeting project deadlines ahead of the ECOWAS Summit.

The President described the development as more than a conference venue, calling it a strategic national investment that will enhance Sierra Leone’s profile as a destination for diplomacy, business, tourism and international engagement.

“This project is part of our broader vision to transform Sierra Leone through strategic infrastructure investments. It will not only serve the immediate needs of hosting the ECOWAS Summit but will also create lasting opportunities for tourism, trade, investment and economic growth,” President Bio stated.

He reaffirmed his Government’s determination to deliver transformative infrastructure projects that improve national competitiveness and support sustainable development.

President Bio also called on the people of Lungi and the wider Port Loko District to take ownership of the facilities and help preserve them for future generations.

“These facilities belong to the people of Sierra Leone. I encourage all citizens, especially those in this community, to protect and preserve them. Their benefits will extend far beyond this summit and will contribute significantly to the development of this region and the country as a whole,” he said.

The Conference Centre is expected to stand as a lasting legacy project, strengthening Sierra Leone’s capacity to host major international events and reinforcing the country’s growing role in regional and continental affairs.

VP Juldeh Jalloh Wins Praise for Quiet Leadership and Unflinching Loyalty

Portrait of Hon. Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh in a white traditional outfit, hands folded, Vice President of Sierra Leone (text on shirt)

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh continues to attract commendation from supporters and political observers who describe him as one of the most loyal and dedicated leaders in President Dr. Julius Maada Bio’s administration.

Many of his supporters regard the Vice President as a humble public servant whose leadership style is defined by discipline, commitment and a strong sense of duty. Since taking office, they believe he has remained firmly committed to supporting the President’s vision for national transformation and inclusive development.

Throughout the tenure of the current administration, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh has played a visible role in promoting Government policies and programmes aimed at improving the lives of Sierra Leoneans. His involvement in initiatives relating to economic growth, education, healthcare, infrastructure development and youth empowerment has earned him recognition from many within the ruling party and beyond.

Political analysts and supporters often cite his unwavering support for President Bio as one of his strongest attributes. They note that during both challenging and successful periods of the administration, the Vice President has consistently defended Government policies and encouraged national unity.

Supporters also point to his modest approach to leadership, describing him as a public official who prioritizes service over personal recognition. Whether representing Sierra Leone at international forums, monitoring development projects or engaging with local communities, they say he has maintained a reputation for accessibility and respect for ordinary citizens.

Many believe that his cooperative style of leadership and willingness to work behind the scenes have contributed significantly to the implementation of key Government programmes. Development stakeholders and party loyalists have also praised his patient and results-oriented approach to governance.

Across different parts of the country, supporters continue to acknowledge the Vice President’s steadfast partnership with President Bio, viewing it as a reflection of his confidence in the administration’s agenda and its efforts to deliver sustainable national progress.

Discussions surrounding Sierra Leone’s future leadership and development priorities continue to highlight the role of key political figures. Many of Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh’s supporters believe that his humility, dedication and unwavering loyalty have enhanced his reputation in public service and further solidified his place in the country’s political landscape.

SLPTA Confirms Five Government-Owned Buses Destroyed by Fire

Charred, burnt buses in a yard with doors open and ash on the ground; a man in a cap takes a selfie on the right side of the frame.

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Five Government-owned buses operating on provincial routes have been destroyed following a fire outbreak at the Kissy Bus Depot in Freetown, prompting an investigation by the Sierra Leone Public Transport Authority (SLPTA) and the Sierra Leone Fire Force.

According to an official public notice issued by the Management of SLPTA, the incident occurred at approximately 10:00 p.m. on Friday, 5th June 2026. The Authority disclosed that the fire consumed five buses assigned to serve various parts of the country, dealing a setback to public transportation services.

SLPTA, however, reassured the public that none of its Waka Fine buses were affected by the blaze. The Authority noted that the buses damaged in the incident were Government-owned vehicles used for provincial operations, while the Waka Fine fleet remained safe and fully operational.

The Sierra Leone Fire Force was commended for its swift intervention, which helped to contain the fire before it could spread to other buses and critical facilities within the depot. Emergency responders worked quickly to bring the situation under control, preventing what could have been a far more devastating incident.

Authorities also confirmed that no casualties or injuries were recorded during the fire, a development that has been welcomed by many members of the public and transport sector stakeholders.

The destruction of the buses is expected to have an impact on provincial transport services, as the affected vehicles play an important role in facilitating the movement of passengers and goods across different parts of the country. Public transport remains a critical component of Sierra Leone’s socio-economic activities, particularly for citizens who depend on Government-operated services for affordable travel.

Meanwhile, the Sierra Leone Fire Force, in collaboration with the Sierra Leone Public Transport Authority, has commenced investigations to establish the exact cause of the fire. Officials say all possible factors will be examined as part of efforts to determine how the incident occurred and to recommend measures that could prevent similar occurrences in the future.

SLPTA has assured the public that it remains committed to transparency and accountability and that the findings of the investigation will be made public once the process is completed. The Authority further reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the continued provision of safe and reliable public transportation services across the country.

The incident has once again highlighted the importance of strengthening fire safety measures and emergency preparedness at key public transport facilities, as authorities work to safeguard vital national assets and maintain uninterrupted transport services for the people of Sierra Leone.

Orange, Tacugama Plant 5,000 Trees at National Park to Mark World Environment Day 2026

Group of four volunteers planting a sapling during World Environment Week, smiling near an event banner.

By Foday Moriba Conteh

As part of activities marking World Environment Day 2026, Orange Sierra Leone, in partnership with Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary, on Friday, June 5, 2026, undertook a major tree-planting exercise at the Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary, planting 5,000 trees across six acres of degraded forest within the Western Area Peninsula National Park.

The initiative brought together Government officials, environmental advocates and more than 180 Orange Sierra Leone employees in a collective effort to promote reforestation, combat climate change and protect Sierra Leone’s fragile ecosystem.

Speaking at the event, Orange Sierra Leone’s Sales Director, Alpha Bundu, underscored the importance of environmental protection and called for collective action to safeguard nature.

He described World Environment Day as a global occasion that highlights the value of nature and its role in sustaining human life. According to him, Orange Sierra Leone’s responsibility extends beyond telecommunications to include protecting the environment and supporting sustainable development.

“As a company, we believe our responsibility goes beyond connecting people through telecommunications. We also have a duty to contribute to environmental protection and sustainability,” Alpha Bundu said.

He noted that environmental conservation requires collaboration among stakeholders and commended Tacugama’s Founder and Director, Bala Amarasekaran, for his longstanding commitment to wildlife conservation and environmental protection.

Alpha Bundu stressed that Orange Sierra Leone’s commitment goes beyond planting trees. He said the company hopes to inspire other institutions to undertake similar initiatives and work together to preserve the environment for future generations.

He highlighted the participation of more than 150 staff members, including senior Management and Directors, as evidence of the company’s dedication to environmental stewardship.

According to him, Orange Sierra Leone has previously planted more than 1,000 trees in the Tacugama area, many of which are now thriving. The company has also undertaken beach-cleaning exercises and other environmental activities under its “Engage for Change” campaign.

“The need to protect the environment goes beyond today’s activity. It is something we must do every day. We all have a responsibility to keep our environment safe,” he emphasized.

Alpha Bundu also expressed concern over increasing construction and human activities around protected areas, warning that such developments threaten biodiversity and critical water sources that supply much of Freetown. He called for stronger public-private partnerships to address environmental challenges and ensure the sustainable management of Sierra Leone’s natural resources.

Also speaking at the event, Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary Founder and Director, Bala Amarasekaran, raised alarm over the rapid destruction of forest cover within the Western Area National Park, warning that continued encroachment threatens water security, biodiversity and the future of Freetown.

He explained that the area where the tree-planting exercise took place was once covered by dense forest but has been significantly degraded over the past three years due to encroachment.

“We are standing within the National Park. In fact, we should not even be planting here because there was already a forest in this area. Unfortunately, most of the destruction you see has happened within the last three years,” he said.

Bala Amarasekaran warned that increasing construction activities within and around protected areas pose serious risks to water catchment systems that serve hundreds of thousands of residents in Freetown. He noted that poor waste management and sanitation practices could contaminate underground water sources and worsen environmental degradation.

He commended Orange Sierra Leone for supporting the initiative, describing the partnership as an important step toward restoring degraded ecosystems.

“For 32 years, Tacugama has worked to protect this environment. Today we are planting 5,000 trees, but this is only the beginning,” he said.

According to him, the long-term objective is not simply to plant trees but to restore degraded landscapes and reclaim protected areas for future generations.

Bala Amarasekaran attributed the growing deforestation problem to weak enforcement of existing environmental laws. While noting that Sierra Leone possesses strong wildlife and forestry legislation, he argued that authorities must do more to enforce those laws and prevent illegal encroachment.

“If people are encroaching on protected areas, the answer cannot simply be to describe it as lawlessness. The laws exist and must be enforced,” he stated.

He further warned that continued destruction of forest cover could increase the risk of landslides and other environmental disasters. Referring to the devastating 2017 mudslide, he stressed the importance of preventive action rather than reacting after disasters occur.

“I am not interested in simply planting 5,000 trees and walking away. The priority is to maintain and protect them and ensure that this area remains preserved,” he added.

Bala Amarasekaran called for greater political commitment to environmental protection, urging leaders to place environmental issues at the center of national development discussions.

Representing the Government of Sierra Leone, Deputy Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Mima Yema Mimi Sobba-Stephens, commended Orange Sierra Leone and Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary for demonstrating leadership in environmental conservation.

She described the initiative as an investment in the future, emphasizing the critical role trees play in sustaining life and maintaining healthy ecosystems.

“I want to say a big thank you to Orange Sierra Leone for taking this bold step. This is exactly the direction we need to move as a country because the future of our children, our nation and the world depends on how well we protect our environment today,” she said.

According to the Deputy Minister, tree planting is essential because trees provide oxygen, improve air quality, and help combat climate change.

“What has been done today is highly symbolic. Planting trees is like giving life to future generations,” she noted.

Responding to concerns about increasing encroachment on protected lands, Mima Yema Mimi Sobba-Stephens disclosed that the Government is working toward establishing a specialized Environmental Court to handle environmental violations more effectively.

“We are working towards setting up an Environmental Court that will specifically handle environmental cases. This court will ensure that environmental violations are addressed more effectively and promptly,” she revealed.

She added that the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change is collaborating with the judiciary, the Ministry of Lands and other stakeholders to tackle environmental challenges and strengthen enforcement mechanisms.

The Deputy Minister assured Sierra Leoneans of the Government’s commitment to protecting forests, biodiversity and natural resources, while calling on citizens and institutions to support environmental conservation efforts.

Meanwhile, Orange Sierra Leone’s Chief Climate Officer, Danetta Younge, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to sustainability and climate action.

She disclosed that more than 180 Orange Sierra Leone employees volunteered for the initiative, demonstrating the company’s dedication to restoring nature and creating a greener future.

“On this World Environment Day, we reaffirm our commitment to protecting our planet through sustainable actions and collective responsibility. Today, over 180 employees volunteered to plant 5,000 trees, symbolizing our dedication to restoring nature, combating climate change and building a greener future for generations to come,” she said.

The event concluded with participants planting thousands of trees across degraded sections of the national park, reinforcing calls for stronger environmental protection, sustainable land management and collective action to preserve Sierra Leone’s natural heritage for future generations.

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