Inherit Friendship and Deepen Cooperation: Writing a New Chapter in China-Sierra Leone Relations

March 4, 2024

By H.E. Wang Qing, Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone

At the invitation of H.E. Xi Jinping, President of the People’s Republic of China, H.E. Julius Maada Bio, President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, paid a state visit to China from February 27 to March 2, 2024. It has been 6 years since the head of Sierra Leone visited China last time. The two presidents had an in-depth exchange of views on China-Sierra Leone relations, China-Africa relations, and international and regional issues of shared interest, which reached extensive and important common understandings. This visit has written an important chapter in the history of China-Sierra Leone friendship and unveiled a new era for the consolidation of bilateral relations and diversification of practical cooperation, which injected new momentum to the deepening of the China-Sierra Leone Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership.

Friendship is the main theme of this visit. There is an ancient Chinese poem that goes, “Distance cannot divide true friends who feel close even when thousands of miles apart.” Although China and Sierra Leone are separated by vast oceans, the two nations enjoyed a long history of friendship. As President Xi Jinping pointed out, since the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Sierra Leone 53 years ago, the two sides have supported each other on issues concerning their core interests and major concerns, carried out efficient cooperation in the fields of economic and social development, coordinated closely on issues such as world peace and development, and worked together to fight against Ebola and the COVID-19 pandemic. China-Sierra Leone relations are a good example of China-Africa solidarity and cooperation. President Bio said China is a trustworthy and reliable friend. The two sides have always respected each other, treated each other as equals, and have a profound traditional friendship.

Cooperation is the overall tone of this visit. During the visit, President Xi Jinping and President Bio witnessed the signing of bilateral cooperation documents in the fields of the Belt and Road Initiative, agriculture, economic development, and the implementation of the Global Development Initiative as well as China-Sierra Leone joint statement on deepening comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership, which draw a grand blueprint for China-Sierra Leone practical cooperation in the next stage. President Xi Jinping emphasized that China firmly supports the Sierra Leonean people in pursuing a development path suited to their national conditions. He said China stands ready to strengthen exchanges with Sierra Leone on national governance, and work with Sierra Leone to continue supporting each other’s major concerns and safeguarding their respective sovereignty, security and development interests. China is also willing to provide assistance and support to the best of its ability for Sierra Leone’s development in agriculture, infrastructure construction and human resources, and encourage Chinese enterprises to invest and do business in Sierra Leone.

President Bio said Sierra Leone is willing to strengthen cooperation with China on the Belt and Road Initiative, and tap the potential for cooperation on infrastructure, trade, education and public services. In China, President Bio hosted the Sierra Leone Investment Forum and visited China Kingho Group, China Railway Group Ltd., Chendge Jianlong Special Steel Co. Ltd. He also visited Institute of Food Crops of Hubei Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Huawei Wuhan Research Center and China University of Geosciences, where the President accepted Honorary Doctorate Degree, in Wuhan of Hubei Province, Central China. The two sides also signed a Memorandum of Cooperation between China University of Geosciences and Kono University of Science and Technology.

Win-win is the keyword of this visit. President Xi Jinping said that the people of China and Africa share a common destiny and China has always regarded solidarity and cooperation with African countries as an important cornerstone of its foreign policy. China will work with African countries to align its initiatives to support Africa’s industrialization, agricultural modernization and talent development with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the development strategies of African countries; to further integrate the development of China, Africa and the world to promote the upgrading of China-Africa cooperation and move the world towards a bright future of peace, security, prosperity and progress. China is ready to work with African friends, including Sierra Leone, to make this year’s session of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) a success. President Bio totally agreed with it and said that Sierra Leone is willing to inject new impetus into the traditional friendship and promote the further development of Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership between the two nations. Sierra Leone is also willing to strengthen coordination and cooperation with China in regional and international affairs to jointly promote world peace and development.

After 53 years of development, China-Sierra Leone friendship has grown from small gravel to huge mountains, from trickles to rivers and seas, and has become a good example of China-Africa solidarity and cooperation. I believe that under the common care and strategic guidance of the two heads of state, China-Sierra Leone friendly cooperation will gain more visible outcome. China is ready to work together with Sierra Leone to promote the continuous development of the Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership between China and Sierra Leone and better benefit the two peoples.

NRA Launches Fuel Marking & Testing Initiative to Combat Fraud

March 4, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a ceremony held on Friday, March 1st, 2024, at the NP-Sierra Leone Terminal at Shell in the East End of Freetown, the Commissioner General of the National Revenue Authority (NRA), Jeneba J. Bangura, officially launched the Government of Sierra Leone’s Fuel Marking & Testing Program or Initiative in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance and the Petroleum Regulatory Agency (PRA).

The launch of the Fuel Marking & Testing Program, which Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) must comply with, was borne out of the collaborative effort among the Ministry of Finance, the National Revenue Authority (NRA) and the Petroleum Regulatory Agency (PRA) and is an initiative that is aimed at enhancing a robust molecular marking solution for hydrocarbons, providing traceability and fraud detection functionalities throughout the supply chain for petroleum products in the country.

Prior to the launch at the NP-Sierra Leone terminal, a high-level delegation led by the Commissioner General, Jeneba J. Bangura, along with her Deputy, Alfred Kobba, Deputy Executive Chairman of the Petroleum Regulatory Agency (PRA), Civil Society representatives and members of the Press went on a conducted tour of the SICPA (SL) Limited warehouse facilities at the Wellington Industrial Estate in the East End of Freetown to assess the preparedness of the company to implement the Fuel Marking initiative.

During the tour, the Operations and Customer Service Manager for SICPA (SL) Limited, Patrick Williams, intimated attendees with first-hand information about the task stamp machine, drum storage area, the lab and the mobile labs.

The NRA Commissioner General, Jeneba J. Bangura, before the launch, informed representatives of the Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) and the general public that the Government of Sierra Leone (GoSL) has introduced its flagship fuel marking program for all licensed petroleum products across the country, emphasizing that it is not an additional tax on petroleum products and will not change the pump price of fuel in the country.

She also highlighted that the fuel marking program offers a robust molecular marking solution for hydrocarbons, providing traceability and fraud detection functionalities throughout the supply chain for petroleum products in the country.

According to her the Fuel Integrity System (FIS) would serve as an effective tool against illicit activities such as smuggling, under-declaration, diversion, dumping, adulteration and dilution within the fuel market, ensuring the integrity of the petroleum product supply chain across Sierra Leone.

She explained that the program would categorize customers into three groups: retailers, commercial and concessions, each receiving fuel with different ink colors that are not visible to the naked eye, ensuring traceability. Additionally, she emphasized that the Fuel Marking program would detect any attempts to divert products to unauthorized customers.

The NRA Commissioner General also mentioned that the launch of the fuel marking program follows the introduction, on February 1st, 2024, of the Government’s Product Tracing System (PTS), a secured marking and traceability system for excisable products such as tobacco, wine, spirits and other alcoholic beverages. She underscored that all Petroleum products found unmarked after a period of three months after March 1, 2024 will be considered illegal, leading to NRA taking necessary actions as mandated by law. “The markings will not affect fuel quality, color, pump price or incur tax liabilities”, emphasized the Commissioner-General.

Earlier, Maxwell Massaquoi, the General Manager at SCIPA (SL) Limited, said Fuel Marking is a technological solution that will mark all petroleum products leaving depots across Sierra Leone before they reach the market, adding that these fuel products range from petrol, diesel etc.

He said they are going to be marking fuel from the 4 Oil Marketing Companies in the country including NP-Sierra Leone, Conex Energy SL Ltd, Aminata and Sons Inc and Leone Oil.

Speaking on behalf of the Oil Marketing Companies, the Finance and Accounts Manager at NP-Sierra Leone, Consvonne Macrae, lauded the collaborative effort between the Ministry of Finance, the National Revenue Authority (NRA), and the Petroleum Regulatory Agency (PRA) on the launch of the fuel marking system in the country.

He said that when one hears about fuel marking one is not too certain about what is expected but said when once one interacts and read further discovering the advantages that the country stands to benefit one will welcome it.

“On behalf of members of the Board and Management of NP-Sierra Leone we will support this project to the best of our ability. We are available 24/7 for any stakeholder to get in touch with us,” he assured.

Alfred Kobba, Deputy Executive Chairman of the Petroleum Regulatory Agency (PRA), expressed appreciation to the Oil Marketing Companies for their support and assured of continued support from the PRA for the program’s implementation in the country emphasizing its role in preventing product diversion and ensuring fair distribution among customers.

CARL Trains CSOs, Media Practitioners, Local Council Staff & Traditional Authorities

March 4, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

As part of the implementation of the Building Accountability Systems Through Empowered Communities (BASE) Project, which is funded by United States Government through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the Center for Accountability and the Rule of Law (CARL), one of the five local organizations implementing the project in the country, has on Friday 1st March, 2024 concluded a two day comprehensive training for CSOs, media practitioners, local council staff and traditional authorities at the Western Rural District.

The training, held at the Western Rural District Council Hall in Waterloo targeted CSO representatives, media practitioners, local council staff and traditional authorities from six project districts and focused on identifying service delivery bottlenecks, fostering collaborative CSO/media advocacy, facilitating social accountability processes as well as on how to establish local development and accountability groups at the district level.

Addressing participants, the Project Officer, of the Center for Accountability and the Rule of Law (CARL), Alie Timbo, pointed out that the project is geared towards supporting Councils to improve on transparency and accountability with a feedback system geared towards improving service delivery and increasing trust in citizens’ perception on the delivery of services.

He said within its framework, CARL is committed to contributing to the achievement of two key outcome indicators which include increased participation of citizens in local government, political processes and promotion of transparency in local revenue management, fostering responsiveness among Local Councils and Chiefdom Authorities to citizens’ needs.

Alie Timbo further stated that the project’s focus spans six district local councils including Western Rural, Karene, Falaba, Karene Tonkolili, Kono and Moyamba.

He pointed out that the training sessions in all the project districts encompass various critical areas, including identifying bottlenecks in decentralized service delivery, collaborative CSO/media advocacy for enhanced service delivery, facilitating collaborative social accountability processes and Establishing District Local Development and Accountability Groups.

The Project Officer also disclosed that one of the primary activities within the training initiative focused on understanding the institutional landscape responsible for decentralized service delivery in Sierra Leone as participants delved into the roles and responsibilities of key institutions involved in decentralization and community service delivery across the country.

On her part, the Resident Technical Facilitator at the Western Area Rural District Council, Elizabeth Beah, expressed appreciation to the Center for Accountability and the Rule of Law for the training which she described as very important towards supporting Councils in order to improve on transparency and accountability with a feedback system to increase trust on service delivery and citizens’ perception on the delivery of services.

She maintained that the training will improve local revenue mobilization within the Council, adding that during the training they looked at identifying bottlenecks affecting them which includes late disbursement of funds to the Council, difficulties posed by Councillors especially on transparency and accountability but said with this training it has equipped them to address those bottlenecks.

Chief Muctar M. Sillah, Section Chief, Waterloo, also applauded the move by Center for Accountability and the Rule of Law in addressing some of the bottlenecks bedeviling Councils and by extension the people.

He said even as traditional leaders they also have an obligation to their people in terms of service delivery of which he stated that the training has equipped him to know the various areas which he said will improve service delivery in his community.

The training made provision for group discussions among the participants on various areas related to identifying service delivery bottlenecks, fostering collaborative CSO/media advocacy, facilitating social accountability processes and establishing local development and accountability groups at the district level.

Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally: A Renowned Figure in Business, Politics & Philanthropy

March 4, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In the bustling landscape of Sierra Leonean politics and business, one name stands out prominently – Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally. A seasoned Business Executive with over three decades of experience in both governance and the private sector, Hon. Tarawally has carved a niche for himself through his remarkable achievements and extensive global networks.

His journey into entrepreneurship began after completing his studies when he ventured into establishing his own construction company. Through sheer determination and enterprise, he secured lucrative infrastructure contracts, subsequently transforming his company into a thriving enterprise that continues to flourish.

However, it wasn’t just in the boardroom where Hon. Tarawally made his mark. Amidst the tumult of war, he displayed a profound commitment to humanitarian efforts. Fuelled by a desire to make a tangible difference, he delved into the realms of leadership, human development and advocacy, honing his skills at institutions such as Human Development International (HDI). This led to the establishment of the Advocate for Human Development Toward Self Reliance of Sierra Leone (AHDSS), a Non-Governmental Organization that spearheaded initiatives aimed at empowering communities across the nation.

His altruistic endeavors provided a springboard for a distinguished political career. Serving as a Member of Parliament from 2002 to 2007 under the banner of the SLPP, Hon. Tarawally championed various causes and spearheaded development projects within his constituency. Notably, his efforts led to the renegotiation of salaries and benefits for MPs, underscoring his commitment to public service.

Transitioning seamlessly into ministerial roles from 2007 to 2015, Hon. Tarawally’s impact reverberated across multiple sectors. As Resident Minister South, he played a pivotal role in consolidating regional peace and overseeing transformative infrastructure projects. His tenure as Minister of Internal Affairs was marked by ambitious security sector reforms and the modernization of law enforcement agencies, significantly reducing crime rates nationwide. Additionally, his stewardship as Minister of Lands, Country Planning and the Environment saw the formulation of progressive policies aimed at sustainable development and efficient land management.

Post-politics, Hon. Tarawally’s entrepreneurial spirit continued to thrive. Establishing a consultancy firm focused on facilitating Foreign Direct Investment in Africa, he has been instrumental in mobilizing investments and forging strategic partnerships across the continent. His foray into manufacturing and philanthropy further underscores his commitment to socio-economic development, with initiatives ranging from vocational training programs to humanitarian aid projects.

In essence, Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally epitomizes the quintessential renaissance figure – a visionary leader, astute businessman and compassionate philanthropist. His unwavering dedication to uplifting communities and fostering progress serves as a beacon of hope, illuminating the path towards a brighter future for Sierra Leone and beyond.

2024 Budapest-Bamako Rally Part 2 Ends on Gigibonta Today

March 4, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

As Sierra Leoneans heartily welcomed and hosted the first batch of participants of the 2024 Budapest-Bamako Rally on the 11th February, 2024 at Bureh Beach with them bravely proceeding on the 12^th February, 2024 to the Finish Line at Gigibonta Restaurant Car Park on Lumley Beach , it is again with great pleasure and open arms that the second batch of participants, in a 9000km on-the-road journey from Europe to Sierra Leone, were graciously received and accommodated at the same Bureh Beach, in the Western Rural District on the 3^rd March , 2024.

This took place after the Second Batch, comprising 194 participants with 96 vehicles entered Sierra Leone via the Kambia border and drove all the way to Bureh Beach, where a beach carnival with a live band show was held in their honour. The reception given to them was indeed warm with a lot of social interaction on the iconic beach with the participants visibly seen as feeling at ease with the hospitality and friendliness that were graciously accorded them.

After spending memorable times at Bureh Beach, in the morning hours of today 4th March, 2024 the participants, driving in their vehicles with some riding motor bikes, will go through Waterloo to Wellington to Up Gun, the East End of Freetown to Siaka Stevens Street, in the Central Part of Freetown to Wilkinson Road to Lumley Round About and end at Gigibonta Car Park at Lumley Beach in the West End of Freetown where a Finish Line Event will take place around 12:00pm.

It must be noted that this second batch of participants departed, Budapest in Hungary on the 12^th February, 2024 traversing a vast array of countries along the designated route to complete a 9000km journey that stretched from the heart of Europe that will end today at the finish line on Gigibonta, encompassing a journey across two continents and 10 countries.

At Gigibonta, the Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Nabeela Farida Tunis and her team will express gratitude to the participants as well as highlight the significance of their presence in Sierra Leone.

According to the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs in Sierra Leone the 2024 Budapest-Bamako Rally should be better referred to as the : “Budapest-Bamako-Freetown Challenge” claiming that it is the world’s largest amateur vehicular rally as well as Africa’s biggest humanitarian event further revealing that this will mark the third time that the country is hosting the Finish Line Event, with this year witnessing two participating teams.

In a rather ecstatic mood, during a snap interview, the enthusiastic Tourism Minister, Nabeela Tunis, intimated that she is delighted to again welcome another batch of participants to Freetown adding that their efforts are commendable in terms of promoting tourism and cultural exchange.

She disclosed how her Ministry recently launched a One Year “Tourism for All” campaign and briefly dilated on strides taken and plans mapped out towards actualizing the objective of the campaign underscoring the importance of domestic tourism.

On his part, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Edward Kwame Yankson, pointed out that what is today unfolding within the Tourism landscape of the country is a testimony that a strong political will could drive meaningful transformation. He lauded the support that President Bio and his Government have given to enhance the tourism sector. Kwame Yankson maintained that the event will immensely spotlight Sierra Leone as a peaceful tourist destination giving rise to various advantages also thanking all those that made it come to fruition.

When this medium caught up with the Honorary Consul of Hungary, Jihad N Eter, he expressed profound enthusiasm and optimism that the event will successfully end as planned. He extended thanks to President Julius Maada Bio for his positive support to enhance tourism in the country also commending the tireless efforts demonstrated by the Minister, Nabeela Tunis, in ensuring that Sierra Leone hosts this year’s event.

Jihad N Eter lucidly described the bilateral relationship between Hungary and Sierra Leone as one that is cordial and mutually beneficial. He mentioned how the Government of Hungary has been committed in offering fifty (50) scholarships, through the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education, on a yearly basis to Sierra Leonean students to study in Hungary in various fields of study, saying such a commitment is borne out of a willingness to support the country in its drive to enhance Quality Education.

He further revealed that forty-four (44) Sierra Leonean students were successful in the 2022 application to study in Hungary, another 47 in the 2023-2024 academic year further disclosing how 760 participants have so far applied for the program this year with 50 students to be chosen based on certain criteria for the 2024-2025 Academy Hungary scholarship. The Consul also informed this medium that the Hungarian Government plans to continue to offer the scholarships for an additional two years.

According to him, representatives of thirty business companies in Hungary, who accompanied the Hungarian Foreign Affairs Minister to Sierra Leone last year to hold a fruitful business meeting at the Radisson Blu Hotel, have expressed willingness to participate in any planned future Trade Fair that will be organized in Sierra Leone.

He ended up saying that the Rally, starting from Budapest in Hungary and ending in Sierra Leone will continue to be a bridge that will bring the two countries closer.

In a telephone conversation with the Director of Budapest-Bamako Rally, Andrew Szabo, he said the peacefulness of the country, the friendly nature of its people, its pristine beaches and natural beauty of the country are all attributes that befit Sierra Leone as a better choice for the finish line. He praised the importance that is being attached by the Government to tourism adding that they are grateful for the hospitality and warm reception that were accorded in the past expressing optimism that the Finishing Event will be a joyous and memorable one.

NP (SL) Remains a Leading Importer & Marketer of High-Quality Petroleum Products

March 4, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The NP-Sierra Leone Limited (NP-SL Ltd) is indisputably the dominant importer of petroleum products in Sierra Leone and has been well-positioned to pragmatically put concrete modalities in place to ensure that there is massive access to qualitative petroleum products, ranging from petrol, diesel, gas to lubricants, including the highly sought Castrol lubricant oil that has been rated as very good for proper lubrication of various engines. The company is doggedly poised to continue to be the premier oil importing and marketing entity in the nation with the avowed objective of availing its numerous and esteemed customers with qualitative products.

NP-SL has in its employ a network of industry players that are facilitating the smooth flow of its products to various marketing outlets within the country. The effective management of this seamless chain of operation has made it possible for fuel to be available in different parts of the country and greatly helping in preventing unwarranted shortages from occurring.

The company strongly believes in upholding best and ethical practices in the marketing of its various petroleum products always prioritizing transparency and fair play in all business transactions.

It is absolutely non-existent for individuals to complain that when they are in the process of procuring petroleum products, pump attendants cheat them in terms of not getting their money’s worth. The simple reason is because the Shareholders and Management of the company were indeed very business savvy to procure modern calibrated pumping machines that are capable of churning out the exact quantity of what is demanded for and the price to be paid. In this regard the company has bagged the covetous commendation of, “1^st For Customer Care”.

During a random survey conducted ,numerous customers across the country, reacted by stating that Management of the company is doing extremely well in driving effective service delivery and giving utmost satisfaction to customers.

It must be noted that as an indigenous business company, NP-SL is laying emphasis on adhering to the country’s Local Content Policy. The company give preferential employment opportunities to Sierra Leoneans as well as the award of contracts to home based entities. Making use of local brains has been identified as one of the conduits through which developing countries like Sierra Leone could attain economic empowerment and the company has been honing this effectively.

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

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

As a corporate citizen, NP-SL is very compliant as a big time tax payer while at the same time complementing Government’s development strides through the rolling out of its Corporate Social Responsibility.

It is crystal clear that NP-SL Ltd is the biggest player in the petroleum landscape of Sierra Leone when cognizance is taken of being the premier importer of petroleum products, efforts that are made to serve the petroleum needs of individuals, entities, marketing strategies, qualitative products, contributions to development all geared towards giving optimum satisfaction to many.

Biometric ID Cards Unlock Privileges & Opportunities While Enhancing Security

March 4, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Taking into cognizance the critical need for citizens and non-citizens to acquire the Biometric ID Cards, all must be reminded that the processes of obtaining these cards are ongoing in various designated centres across the country. Though the turn outs at the centres are encouraging, however, it is hoped that as the sensitization continues on the significance of securing the Biometric ID Cards more citizens and non-citizens will get onboard to fulfill this important statutory obligation.

Possessing the National Biometric ID Card is not just a choice but a statutory obligation that should reflect one’s commitment to national identity and citizenship. By holding this card, individuals affirm their status as bona fide citizens of Sierra Leone, unlocking various privileges and opportunities while enhancing their security.

Moreover, access to crucial national services hinges on the possession of a National ID Card. Whether it’s opening bank accounts, conducting financial transactions, or navigating through checkpoints, having this ID card streamlines processes and eliminates unnecessary hassles.

The pivotal role of these Biometric ID Cards in bolstering personal security and facilitating seamless access to both governmental and private sector services cannot be overemphasized. These cards not only enhance service delivery efficiency but also contribute significantly to the country’s overall security framework.

All citizens above the age of 12 are eligible to apply for Biometric ID Cards at their nearest NCRA branches or centres located across various districts..

Crucially, the Biometric ID Card features an embedded chip containing the holder’s biometric information, ensuring quick and reliable authentication. Additionally, each card is assigned a unique 11-digit National Identification Number (NIN), linking individuals to the national population registry, further enhancing identity verification processes.

It has become mandatory to use the Biometric ID Cards at all checkpoints across the country, a move that aligns with the Government’s commitment to creating a safer, more efficient and accessible environment for all citizens.

In facilitating the registration process, the NCRA has established designated centers and six specific offices in easily accessible locations nationwide. These include:

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.

To ensure accessibility, the NCRA has introduced corporate services tailored for organizations and institutions. For detailed information on these services, interested parties can reach out via the provided contact numbers or email address: +232-33-433-333, +232-30-500-000, +232-60-000, +232-78-221-812, or via email at idverification@ncra.gov.

It is incumbent upon citizens to fulfill this civil responsibility because by securing their Biometric ID Cards citizens not only affirm their allegiance to Sierra Leone but also contribute to a more secure and efficient national environment. For non-citizens it is also important for access to certain services and for proper identification.

QNET Dissociates Itself from Two Fraudsters Remanded In Sierra Leone

March 4, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

QNET, a global lifestyle and wellness company, has refuted an erroneous local newspaper publication in which it was categorically reported that ‘Two QNET Staff Docked for Le 100m Fraud”. In its rebuttal, QNET strongly maintained that it wishes to emphatically make it known that the business entity is in no way connected to the two individuals reported to be in conflict with the law further underscoring how it does not have any of its member of staff stationed in Sierra Leone.

The international business marketing company said it wants to make it categorically known that people who engage in the QNET business to sell or introduce QNET products to others are not in the gainful employment of the company but rather they are Independent Representatives (IRs) and are personally liable for any act of misconduct they commit.

Regional Manager for QNET Sub-Saharan Africa, Biram Fall, clearly pointed out: “We are fully committed to cooperating with the local police to address any allegation of fraud by any individual purportedly working in the name of QNET. We take allegations of illegal or fraudulent activity very seriously and will take strong action against anyone found to be misrepresenting QNET.”

He reiterated that: “QNET is not an employment agency and does not make offers of “guaranteed income” or “travel opportunities” in exchange for money. As a legitimate global direct selling company, QNET provides a safe, legitimate business model where distributors earn an income only by selling our high-quality, life-enhancing products. If you are approached by someone claiming to be from QNET and promising employment or travel opportunities in exchange for payment or administrative charges, please contact the relevant authorities or QNET’s Network Integrity team immediately.”

He furthered that QNET holds its employees and distributors to the highest ethical standards and implements strict policies and procedures to protect customers from unlawful, fraudulent, or unprofessional behaviour.

“Unfortunately, some individuals behave in unethical and unprofessional ways, thereby causing reputational damage to the company’s image,” he asserted adding how in some cases, people who are not associated with the company in any way, attempt to scam others using the company’s name.

He intimated how QNET has actively combated misinformation surrounding its operations and the direct-selling sector in Sub-Saharan Africa, taking notable measures to address misconceptions.

According to him, a key initiative is the establishment of a WhatsApp Compliance Hotline (+233256630005) since September 1, 2023, enabling individuals to report any unethical use of the QNET name directly.

He revealed that the hotline serves customers across Sub-Saharan African markets, including Ghana, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Burkina Faso, Liberia, Cameroon, Mali, Guinea, Benin, Togo, among others, providing support in both English and French languages.

The Regional Manager ended stating that for more information individuals must visit, https://www.directsellingdisinformation.org/.

CTC Mining, COSCO Shipping & Baometal Collaborate to Construct Largest Port in SL

March 4, 2024

In a groundbreaking development set to revolutionize mining and shipping industries in West Africa, COSCO Shipping Bulk Co Ltd, CTC Mining (SL) Limited and Baometal Minerals International Trade Ltd have collaborated to implement the ambitious CTC Port Loko Port Project in partnership with the New CTC Port Construction Consortium.

This partnership, announced in Beijing as part of the Sino-Sierra Leone Summit, marks a significant step forward in Sierra Leone’s infrastructure and mineral resource development efforts.

COSCO Shipping Bulk Co Ltd, renowned as China’s largest state-owned shipping enterprise, brings its unparalleled expertise in global dry bulk cargo logistics and port operations to the table. With the world’s most extensive fleet for dry bulk shipping, COSCO is poised to play a pivotal role in the success of the project.

CTC Mining (SL) Limited, operating out of Sierra Leone, oversees a massive bauxite resource project in Port Loko. With production already underway and initial exports directed to China, the project is slated to achieve an impressive annual production capacity, marking substantial growth for Sierra Leone’s mining sector.

Baometal Minerals International Trade Ltd, based in Hong Kong, contributes specialized knowledge in mineral and commodity trading, bolstering the project’s foundation and enhancing its global reach.

The construction of the CTC Port promises to be a game-changer for Sierra Leone, aiming to elevate the nation’s stature in the global maritime logistics chain and establish it as a significant player in bauxite exports. With an estimated investment of around $200 million, the port terminal is expected to have a shipping capacity of 15 to 20 million tons, making it Sierra Leone’s largest international port upon completion.

The project will unfold in three phases, with the first phase set to become operational in Q1 2025. This strategic endeavor will not only benefit the involved parties but also holds immense promise for Sierra Leone’s economy, enhancing its export capabilities and solidifying its position in the West African maritime and mining industries.

During the signing ceremony, attended by esteemed dignitaries including the Honorable Chief Minister, Dr. David Sengeh, the Honorable Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Timothy Kabba and the Minister of Transport of Aviation Amb Fanday Turay, the Chairman of COSCO expressed gratitude to His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio and the Sierra Leonean Government for their exemplary leadership and support, underscoring the strategic importance of the Chinese-Sierra Leonean relationship for future bilateral achievements.

Hisham Mackie, Chairman of CTC Mining SL, echoed these sentiments, attributing the project’s realization to President Bio’s visionary leadership and Government policies conducive to foreign investment. He emphasized the transformative impact of the project on Sierra Leone’s economic landscape, heralding it as a beacon of hope for the nation’s future prosperity.

The ceremony also served as an occasion to express gratitude to the Chinese leadership and people for their hospitality and commitment to fostering strong bilateral relations with Sierra Leone, further solidifying the foundation for mutual success and prosperity.

U.S. Military Ends Critical Site & Asset Security Training for 80 RSLAF Soldiers

March 4, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The United States Army Security Force Assistance Brigade has honored eighty (80) Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) soldiers ranging from Lance Corporals to Warrant Officers 1 on the 23^rd February, 2024 in a commendable display of cooperation. Their recognition followed a successful completion of a rigorous three-week training program focused on Critical Site and Asset Security.

The Security Force Assistance Brigade, renowned for its specialized expertise, spearheaded the training initiative. Tasked with advising and assisting partner nations, the brigade aims to bolster their threat-response capabilities in alignment with democratic principles and human rights standards. By collaborating with the Security Force Assistance Brigade, RSLAF underscores its commitment to modernization and the professional advancement of its personnel.

The intensive training regimen aimed to fortify RSLAF’s defense technical prowess. Over the course of three weeks, participants delved into various facets of security operations, including perimeter patrolling, critical site and asset protection, and entrance and access control procedures. These sessions not only reinforced existing protocols within RSLAF but also introduced new techniques aimed at fostering growth and proficiency.

Beyond the acquisition of essential skills, the training fostered a dynamic environment for professional growth and knowledge exchange, benefiting both U.S. Army and RSLAF personnel.

This collaborative endeavor between the United States and Sierra Leone represents a significant milestone in bilateral relations. By bolstering Sierra Leone’s defensive capabilities, the partnership aims to instill professionalism, uphold human rights and reinforce democratic values within RSLAF. Furthermore, it is poised to contribute to regional security and stability.

The United States reaffirms its steadfast commitment to supporting Sierra Leone in its pursuit of democracy, health and prosperity. This partnership stands as a testament to the mutual benefits derived from fostering strong and enduring ties between nations.