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UN Country Team to Hold Theory Change Workshop for New Cooperation Framework

The United Nations Country Team (UNCT) in Sierra Leone, headed by UN Resident Coordinator Ms Seraphine Wakana, has started the process of designing its next UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSCDF) for 2025 to 2030 in line with the Medium-Term Nations Development Plan (2024-2030) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Effective 1st January 2019, the UN development reform identified the UNSDCF as the most important strategic document for the UN Development System’s engagement with a host country. Being the UN system’s collective blueprint, the UNSDCF serves as the UNCT strategic plan for its contributions to the development aspirations of Sierra Leone.

The primary role of the collective UN system in Sierra Leone is to support the country on its path to sustainable development. In particular, the UN system supports the implementation of Sierra Leone’s Medium-term National Development Plan and its efforts to achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and other internationally agreed goals and treaties.

Through its Cooperation Framework, the UN agencies, funds, and programmes active in the country provide policy advice, capacity development, technical cooperation, and programme support in many substantive areas and economic sectors.

In preparation for the next Cooperation Framework, which comes into effect in January 2025, a series of regional stakeholder consultations were held, starting with Makeni on Wednesday, 31 January 2024, bringing together participants from the Northwest, including Port Loko, Kambia, Falaba, Kerena, Koinadugu, Tonkolili and Kono district in the East, including Local Council representatives. This was followed by another one-day consultation workshop in Bo town that brought together stakeholders from Pujehun, Bonth, Moyamba, Kailahun and Kenema districts, including Local Council representatives. The third regional consultation workshop was held in Freetown, bringing national-level stakeholders, including Ministries, Departments and Agencies, as well as Local Council representatives from the Freetown City Council, and Western Area Rural District Council, and other key umbrella organizations. They identified challenges in their communities and recommended what development priorities the UN should consider for them in the new plan.

Speaking at the consultations, the Resident Coordinator said that the gatherings signified a pivotal moment for the United Nations and the Government and people of Sierra Leone, as they came together to shape the blueprint for UN development programs in Sierra Leone for 2025-2030. “Our strength lies in our diversity, and these consultations are a testament to our commitment to inclusivity,” she said.

She added that the representatives drawn from various sectors, communities, and backgrounds were expected to bring unique perspectives to enrich the content of our cooperation framework.

Furthermore, the Resident Coordinator said that inclusivity is at the heart of our effort and that “We must ensure that our next cooperation framework addresses the needs of all citizens, leaving no one behind. Our aim is to create an environment where every individual, regardless of background or circumstance, can contribute to and benefit from our collective growth.”

The Resident Coordinator called on the participants to remember that the goal is not merely to contribute to drafting a document but to articulate shared aspirations. She said the next cooperation framework will not be static but a living testament to our commitment to progress, equity, and sustainable development. “It will serve as a reference document that will guide us through the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.”

She also recognized that the global economic situation and geopolitical risks have put extreme pressure on the country’s financial situation, clouded by headwinds from monetary tightening, weak global trade and investment, and rising debt vulnerabilities.

“That is why we believe sustainability in our development interventions, including financial sustainability, is not an option but a necessity.”

The next step of the CF design process is the Theory of Change Workshop. It is a method that explains how a given intervention, or set of interventions, is expected to lead to specific development change, drawing on a causal analysis based on available evidence.

Sierra Leone Emerges Regional Champion for 2023 Arms Trade Treaty Reporting

Program Manager of the Sierra Leone Commission on Arms and Ammunition (SLeCAA), Wilphred Samuel Taylor, presented the nation’s exemplary experience in Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) Reporting to the Working Group on Transparency and Reporting (WGTR)  in Geneva, Switzerland on Friday, February 23, 2024 .

It must be noted that Sierra Leone, having signed and ratified the ATT on 25th September 2013 and 12th August 2014, respectively, emerged as the 43rd country to sign and among the first 50 to ratify the treaty before its entry into force on 24th December 2014.

Under the leadership of President Julius Maada Bio, Sierra Leone has maintained a steadfast commitment to the ATT, consistently meeting reporting and financial obligations.

In acknowledgment of Sierra Leone’s unwavering dedication, the ATT Secretariat bestowed upon Sierra Leone the prestigious title of Regional Champion for ATT Reporting in Africa in 2023. This recognition underscores Sierra Leone’s consistent commitment, highlighted by the timely submission of the 2023 Annual Report, distinguishing it as one of only two countries to do so before the February Working Group meeting.

Wilphred Samuel Taylor, the Program Manager, underscored Sierra Leone’s adherence to Article 13 of the ATT, emphasizing the establishment of a robust legal and institutional framework supporting the process of conventional arms import data collection.

Despite challenges such as insufficient funds for ATT implementation, he assured the ATT Secretariat of Sierra Leone’s unwavering dedication to fulfilling its reporting and financial obligations under the treaty.

Established by the Second Conference of States Parties to the ATT in 2016, the WGTR plays a crucial role in aiding states in meeting their reporting obligations by providing templates, assistance instruments, and presenting draft reports to the Conference of States Parties.

NP (SL): A Beacon of Success in Sierra Leone’s Business Landscape

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

NP (SL) Ltd stands as a beacon of hope for aspiring entrepreneurs in Sierra Leone,  showcasing the potential for remarkable success through determined investment and a clear vision. Founded by 35 Sierra Leonean nationals who wisely invested their end-of-service benefits, NP-SL has risen to become the foremost petroleum marketing company in Sierra Leone and beyond.

The success story of NP-SL Ltd serves as an inspiration for forward-thinking individuals, highlighting the potential for solid investment to yield fruitful dividends and foster private sector growth. Despite being a homegrown enterprise, NP-SL Ltd has embraced calculated risks, expanding its operations across various regions of the country. This expansionist strategy, fueled by a commitment to breaking new ground, has enabled the company to enhance its service delivery effectiveness through invaluable learning experiences.

Innovations such as the NP Smart Card have simplified fuel purchases, demonstrating NP-SL Ltd’s commitment to harnessing the power of technological advancements for seamless transactions.

Moreover, the company’s adherence to the Local Content Policy by exclusively hiring Sierra Leonean nationals has not only reduced costs but also fostered a sense of ownership and enhanced competencies.

NP-SL Ltd’s efforts extend beyond conventional petroleum marketing, as evidenced by its manufacturing of NP Gas cookers. These environmentally friendly devices promote sustainability by offering a safer alternative to cooking with charcoal and wood, aligning with the goal of preserving forests and safeguarding health.

Aspiring entrepreneurs can draw inspiration from NP (SL) Ltd’s journey, recognizing that with determined efforts and a commitment to translating ideas into action, dreams can indeed become tangible realities. The company’s success story stands as a testament to the potential for indigenous businesses to thrive and make a positive impact in Sierra Leone’s business landscape.

Indisputably, the company has solidified its position as a reputable and dependable provider of petroleum commodities, renowned for its unwavering dedication to quality, efficiency, and customer contentment. Upholding rigorous quality standards is a cornerstone of NP’s operations, ensured through comprehensive assessments by esteemed bodies such as the Sierra Leone Standards Bureau and the Petroleum Regulatory Agency.

Strategic investments in cutting-edge technology and infrastructure innovations have fostered streamlined operations, amplifying productivity across the board. The recent enhancement of the Kissy Terminal underscores NP’s commitment to punctual and cost-effective product deliveries.

Central to NP’s ethos is its relentless pursuit of customer satisfaction. A dedicated customer service and sales team operates around the clock, promptly addressing inquiries and concerns while actively incorporating customer insights to refine and enhance its offerings.

Beyond commercial endeavors, NP-SL Ltd is devoted to environmental welfare, adhering to stringent regulations and investing in eco-conscious practices. With a resolute commitment to reducing its carbon footprint, NP actively implements sustainable solutions, charting a course towards a more environmentally harmonious future.

As NP (SL) Ltd perpetuates its legacy as a paramount provider of petroleum products, marked by unparalleled quality, efficiency, and customer care, its steadfast commitment to excellence remains resolute. Holding firm as the premier supplier in the petroleum industry, NP’s operational principles underscore its unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction and paramount environmental safety.

EXPOSED!!! Metro Transport Company Calls for Enhanced Security Amidst Attempts to Set Ablaze ‘Waka Fine Buses’

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Recent ugly incidents related to serious and blatant attempts made by certain unscrupulous persons to set ablaze the Waka Fine Buses that were recently introduced to enhance urban transport mobility and reduce the transportation constraints that many residents face , on a daily basis, within the Freetown Metropolis have been condemned by patriotic citizens  as disingenuous acts bordering  on outright sabotage of a positive development geared towards improving the welfare of citizens.

In one of those incidents that took place just a few days ago, the driver and his handful of apprentices of a commercial bus, with Registration Number ATR 367 and inscribed on its sides IBP, desperately attempted to commit arson by sprinkling petrol on the frontage of one of the Waka Fine Buses,with Registration Number 709 at Wellington, opposite a well known location known as Coker Lane in the East End of Freetown. The swift intervention of majority of patriotic passengers in the Waka Fine Bus, amidst a small percentage of ill-motivated persons who were hell bent on heaping criticisms against the Government for what they termed “mismanagement of the Buses” restrained the diabolic attempt or plan and prevented the burning of the bus.

Noticing how determined the patriotic passengers were and realizing the criminal nature of their act the driver of the IBP Bus ran away when it dawned on him that he was about to be overpowered,  arrested and handed over to the Police.

According to some of the passengers it was not the first time that such an attempt of setting ablaze the buses has occurred as they narrated how they have experienced or witnessed other two occasions when similar attempts have been made.

When this news medium contacted the driver of the 709 Waka Fine Bus and conductor they expressed fear of grave insecurity in the course of discharging their services mentioning occasions when verbal threats of harming the buses have been made and even against them.

The same sentiment or fear was expressed by other drivers and conductors interviewed. All of them categorically lamented that they feel very insecure and vulnerable  in the face of such threats further expressing concern that if such a diabolic plan transpires they will not only be the ones to be affected as the passengers will also be at risk. They therefore said, through this medium, that Government and Management of the company should look at these threats seriously and institute measures that will provide security for the Waka Fine Buses and by extension the passengers and themselves. They stressed the urgency of the situation saying it must not be treated lightly.

When the Management of Metro Transport Company SL Ltd was also contacted for their reaction they vehemently cried down, what they referred to as, the dastardly acts. According to them, it is really sad and very heart rendering that some Sierra Leoneans do not want to embrace development.   “We have to be vigilant about our collective security,” a Senior Official admonished adding that they will not yield to the nefarious behaviours of saboteurs but rather will continue to focus on executing their mandate seamlessly. He continued that they will convene a meeting with the Inspector General of Police to discuss security and operational issues pertaining to the safety of passengers, staff and buses.

It could be recalled that fifty (50) state of the art buses recently became operational, with the main objective of addressing urban mobility challenges, under the Integrated and Resilient Urban Mobility Project (IRUMP) funded by a World Bank Grant of $50 Million and a   Government counterpart fund of $2 Million.

Named, “Waka Fine Buses”, each of the buses is accommodating over 70 passengers and is wheelchair accessible. The fifty Waka Fine Buses are currently plying designed routes within the capital city of Freetown since they were launched on the 29th January, 2024 by the Chief Minister, David Moinina Sengeh at Youyi Building compound during an auspicious ceremony that was graced by high ranking Government officials and development partners.

These fifty buses are plying two corridors within the Freetown Municipality; some are taking off with passengers from Bus Station, in the Central Part of Freetown, to as far as Lumley in the West End were as the others are taking off from the same Bus Station to as far as Calaba Town in the East End of Freetown, making trips well over rush hours.

Contrary to the general and wrong perception harboured by many that the Fifty Buses are managed by the Government of Sierra Leone, the reality of the situation is that these buses were leased to a private company, known as Metro Transport Company (MTC) Sierra Leone Limited, in short MTC-SL Ltd, for the purpose of providing transport services. The company is tasked with the responsibility of managing the buses while the Sierra Leone Public Transport Authority (SLPTA) provides regulatory functions.

It is important to note that the Metro Transport Company SL Ltd is an indigenous company that was established by the Passenger Welfare Association, Poda-Poda & Bus Owners Association, Motor Drivers & General Workers Union and the Sierra Leone Commercial Tricycle Union with each stakeholder having a certain percentage share of the business.

As a new enterprise, which is expected to be commercially managed in the most viable way amidst a competitive transportation system that has been in operation, from the commencement of plying the aforementioned corridors, the Waka Fine Buses, were confronted with challenges.  Charging a transportation fare of Ten Thousand Leones (NLe10) was frowned upon by drivers of commercial mini buses and the fact that from Monday to Friday other commercial transportation drivers and riders are diverted to certain designated routes during a certain timeframe has been criticized on the basis of discouraging healthy competition.

However, with the passage of time it has  become clear that in terms of transport fares the distances covered  by the Waka Fine Buses are far more than those by the other buses  plus the comfort that  passengers derive of not being “crammed or choked” in addition to the free phone charging facility  offered. With regards to the diverted routes, it has become clear that the routes designated are passable and do not deter movements in any way, save only traffic jams or hold ups that do inevitably occur due to unforeseen circumstances.

Many that this medium further contacted on the attempts to harm the Waka Fine Buses maintained that anybody caught in such acts should be dealt with according to the law. They suggested that it is better to dialogue than to use violent means as ways of righting wrongs with many acclaiming the initiative of running the Waka Fine Buses saying whatever way it is looked at the buses are helping greatly in reducing transportation constraints.

RCBank & UK Firm Host Cyber Security & Financial Inclusion Symposium

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Rokel Commercial Bank (RCBank) on Thursday February 22, 2024 hosted one of Sierra Leone’s most historical and well attended symposiums in honour of Dr. Ekundayo Walton Gilpin, Managing Director of the Bank, who was recently awarded as Africa’s Best Banker for the Year 2023, in a highly competitive contest held in London.

In his address, Dr. Gilpin intimated participants at the Freetown City Council Hall that the award, which saw other prosperous African nations in the competition such as Kenya, Nigeria, Botswana, Ghana, Zimbabwe, among others, was symbolic of the successes he achieved by transforming the bank into a Sierra Leonean taste, with new competitive innovations, since it was transformed into the Rokel Commercial Bank twenty-five years ago.

He said the idea of hosting a symposium on Cyber Security and Financial Inclusion came into being at the House of Lords in London, where he received the best African Banker of the Year Award.

The exceptional Managing Director disclosed his plans for 2024, which aims at creating a new transformation system that will focus on top 5 priorities such as a Cashless Ecosystem, Banking Process Automation, Cyber Security Customize, Digital Transformation and Gender Parity.

He said discussions by various experts in the symposium were designed to  focus on introducing Cyber Security in the Educational curriculum, Cyber Security Capacity Building, the Evolving Services, Cyber Security -Catalyst for Innovation and Inclusion, Cyber Security State of the Nation, Recent Cyber Breaches and  Lessons Learnt, Data Protection and Regulatory Framework and a Case Study Presentation – Digital Transformation and Cyber Security are thematic issues, with broad base analysis given on Cyber Advantages and Disadvantages, especially in a developing nation like ours.

The guest speaker, Lawrence McEwen, Executive Director, EST Applied Intelligence based in the United Kingdom, was man of the occasion, as he thrilled his audience with his expert lectures on the evolving landscape of Cyber Security in Financial Inclusion, recent Cyber Breaches and Compromise Lessons Learnt and through an initiative round table discussion, in which he hosted guests from the public sector and a Ghanaian World Bank Cyber Expert.

Furthermore, discussions among invited speakers varied from Strategies and Road Map, Awareness to a Broad Analysis of a Global View on Cyber Security and its Advantages and Disadvantages, which, it was emphasized, should not be neglected by individuals, private and public organizations.

It was reiterated that the criminals behind Cyber insecurity are well organized and therefore protective actions are the only remedy.

Yusufu Abdul Silla Revolutionizes Sierra Leone Commercial Bank

The tenure of , Yusufu Abdul Silla, as the Managing Director of Sierra Leone Commercial Bank Ltd (SLCB) has been marked by a remarkable transformation across various aspects of the institution. Despite facing challenges, including unwarranted attacks on his character through Social Media, this charismatic personality has consistently demonstrated his unwavering commitment to enhancing the bank’s operations, human resources, administration, treasury management, forex services, profitability, credit risk management, and procurement processes. His reputation soars and has remained intact in the face of adversity.

Upon assuming the role of Managing Director, Yusufu Abdul Silla recognized the pivotal role of human resources in driving organizational success. He initiated comprehensive reforms aimed at improving employee engagement, talent development and performance management.

The Managing Director introduced innovative systems, operational programs, mentoring schemes and career advancement opportunities, fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional growth within SLCB. His emphasis on meritocracy and inclusivity has not only boosted employee morale but also enhanced productivity and efficiency across the organization.

Under his leadership, SLCB has undergone significant operational and administrative enhancements to streamline processes, enhance transparency and mitigate operational risks. Leveraging technology, he spearheaded the digitization of various banking operations, introducing cutting-edge systems for online banking, customer service, and data management. These initiatives have not only improved service delivery but also positioned SLCB as a leader in digital banking innovation within Sierra Leone’s financial sector.

Yusufu Silla’s strategic acumen and expertise in treasury and Forex management have played a pivotal role in optimizing SLCB’s financial performance and mitigating risks. By implementing robust risk management strategies and forging strategic partnerships with international financial institutions, he has effectively navigated market volatility and optimized the bank’s investment portfolio.

His proactive approach to Forex management has ensured competitive pricing and timely execution of foreign exchange transactions, thereby bolstering SLCB’s reputation as a trusted financial partner for its customers.

Under Silla’s stewardship, SLCB has witnessed a significant improvement in profitability and credit risk management.

Through prudent lending practices, rigorous credit risk assessment and proactive loan portfolio management he has minimized credit losses and enhanced the bank’s asset quality. His focus on diversifying revenue streams and optimizing operational efficiencies has led to sustainable revenue growth and improved bottom-line performance, despite the challenging economic environment.

Today the Non-Performing Loan stands below regulatory limit of 5% from a staggering 28% he inherited.

Recognizing the importance of efficient procurement practices in driving cost savings and operational effectiveness, The Managing Director has implemented robust procurement policies and procedures at SLCB. By promoting transparency, accountability, and competitive bidding processes, he has optimized procurement expenditures while ensuring quality standards and regulatory compliance.

Silla’s emphasis on integrity and fairness in procurement has fostered trust among stakeholders and enhanced SLCB’s reputation as a responsible corporate citizen, and his non compromising posture at reviewing the processes as best practice demands may have awoken change resisting energies against him.

Despite his outstanding achievements, Yusufu Abdul Silla has been subjected to unjustified attacks on his character through Social Media platforms. However, Silla has demonstrated remarkable resilience and integrity, refusing to be deterred by baseless allegations and misinformation. Instead, he has remained focused on his vision for SLCB and continued to lead by example, earning the respect and admiration of his colleagues, clients, and the wider community. His tenure has been characterized by transformative leadership, innovation, and unwavering integrity.

His outstanding achievements across various facets of the bank’s operations have not only propelled SLCB to new heights of success but also cemented its reputation as a leading financial institution in Sierra Leone.

Despite facing unwarranted attacks on his character, Silla’s resilience and commitment to excellence serve as an inspiration to aspiring leaders and a testament to the power of integrity in navigating challenges and driving positive change.

First Lady Leads Drive to Combat Human Trafficking

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, the First Lady of Sierra Leone, has taken a significant step in the fight against human trafficking by partnering with the Ministry of Social Welfare and the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Task Force to launch the, “Victims of Human Trafficking Trust Fund” on Friday February 23, 2024. The formal inauguration took place at the Freetown City Council Hall.

During her keynote address at the launch, Her Excellency Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, underscored the gravity of human trafficking, a focal point of the “Hands Off Our Girls” campaign. She reaffirmed her unwavering commitment to eradicating this scourge in collaboration with relevant authorities.

Highlighting the harrowing realities of human trafficking, Her Excellency shared the tragic story of a 17-year-old girl deceived with promises of a computer science program in Dubai, only to face exploitation and abuse in Freetown. She emphasized the prevalence of such cases, urging heightened awareness and psychosocial support for victims.

In a passionate call to action, the First Lady urged mothers to protect their children and emphasized the importance of unity in addressing this issue, transcending political divides. She announced plans to integrate anti-trafficking messaging into the upcoming free Sanitary Pads campaign and encouraged vigilance among school children.

Concluding her address, Her Excellency implored the Government, partners, and stakeholders to generously support the Trust Fund, ensuring targeted assistance for survivors.

In recognition of her tireless efforts to safeguard children from exploitation, Her Excellency was honored as the National Anti-Human Trafficking Champion. “I’m very proud but humbled at the same time to be named the National Anti-Human Trafficking Champion,” she remarked.

Mrs. Narsu Ndemema, Chairperson of the event, underscored the Trust Fund’s significance as a testament to the government’s determination to combat human trafficking and protect its citizens.

Hon. Melrose Karminty, Minister of Social Welfare, welcomed attendees and stressed the pivotal role of the initiative in combating trafficking and supporting survivors. She reiterated the government’s commitment to shielding vulnerable groups and ensuring freedom from trafficking for all Sierra Leoneans.

Christopher Christodoulies, Country Representative of the International Organization for Migration, emphasized the importance of restoring dignity to survivors and called for increased financial support for the Trust Fund to effectively fulfill its mandate.

In another momentous event held on Thursday February 22, 2024 at the Sierra Palms Hotel in Aberdeen, Freetown, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, the First Lady of Sierra Leone, unveiled the National Commission for Children’s Strategic Plan 2024-2028.

The strategic blueprint, unveiled on February 22, 2024, maps out a comprehensive trajectory aimed at bolstering the well-being and prospects of children across Sierra Leone over the next five years. It places particular emphasis on pivotal sectors such as education, healthcare, child protection, and advocacy for the rights of children.

During the launch ceremony, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio underscored the critical significance of investing in the nation’s youth, asserting, “Our children represent not just our tomorrow, but also our today. By furnishing them with indispensable resources and opportunities, we are erecting the foundation for a more robust and prosperous Sierra Leone that benefits all.”

Founded in 2007, the National Commission for Children (NCC) holds a pivotal role in championing and safeguarding the rights of children throughout Sierra Leone. Formulated through extensive consultations with stakeholders, this freshly introduced strategic plan is poised to steer the Commission toward realizing its objectives for the advancement of Sierra Leone’s youth.

The ceremony witnessed the presence of Government dignitaries, delegates from international bodies, representatives of civil society organizations, and advocates for children’s rights. This event underscores Sierra Leone’s unwavering commitment to securing a promising future for its youngest populace.

Third Xiangya Hospital & Sierra Leone-China Friendship Hospital Sign Partnership Agreement

In a significant stride towards bolstering medical cooperation, a Chinese hospital and the Sierra Leone-China Friendship Hospital signed a pivotal agreement on Thursday, February 22, 2024. The signed pact at Jui, a suburban town near Freetown, the capital of Sierra Leone, aims to fortify ties between the healthcare sectors of the two nations.

The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, a renowned medical institution in Hunan Province, China, pledged extensive support to its Sierra Leonean counterpart, particularly focusing on enhancing nursing services. This collaboration marks a milestone in the enduring partnership between the Chinese hospital and healthcare facilities across Africa, with nearly 20 medical professionals having been dispatched to the continent over the years.

Yan Jin, Director of the Chinese hospital’s nursing department, highlighted their commitment to facilitating knowledge exchange by inviting personnel from the Sierra Leone-China Friendship Hospital for specialized training, notably in managing the special care baby unit.

Sarah Conteh, President of the Sierra Leone-China Friendship Hospital, expressed gratitude for the ongoing support from the Chinese medical community. She underscored the challenges faced by their special care baby unit and welcomed the opportunity for staff training and capacity building.

The Sierra Leone-China Friendship Hospital, serving as the base for Chinese medical teams, stands as one of the premier comprehensive healthcare facilities in Sierra Leone. This partnership signifies a concerted effort to address healthcare challenges and foster mutual learning and growth in medical practices between China and Sierra Leone.

NRA Product Tracing System Implementation Deadline is Set for March 15

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a recent development, the National Revenue Authority (NRA) has issued a decisive deadline regarding the implementation of the Product Tracing System (PTS). The announcement came through a Public Notice by Order of the Commissioner General on Friday, February 23, 2024.

Effective February 1, 2024, the NRA initiated the live operation of the Product Tracking System (PTS) for all stakeholders involved in the production, importation, distribution, and retailing of excisable goods, including tobacco, wine, spirituous beverages and beer products. The NRA commends the business community for recognizing the significance of this vital reform.

Nevertheless, the NRA underscores the obligations outlined in the Excise Stamps and Other Markings Regulations 2023. According to these regulations, importers, manufacturers, and retailers of gazetted excisable products are mandated to ensure that products in their inventory are affixed with digital tax stamps no later than March 15, 2024.

Failure to comply with the stipulated regulations beyond March 15, 2024, will result in severe penalties as prescribed by law. These penalties include, but are not limited to, the seizure of goods, the sealing of factory or business premises, public disclosure of the taxpayer’s identity, and potential imprisonment.

The implementation of the Excise Tax Stamp by the Government serves multiple objectives, including the efficient collection of government revenues to support national development programs, safeguarding citizens from harmful and counterfeit goods, curbing smuggling activities, and fostering a fair business environment for compliant importers and manufacturers of excisable products.

SLAJ Urges Minister of Information for Fair and Transparent Oversight at SLBC

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a bid to ensure transparency and fairness in the governance of the Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation (SLBC), the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) has officially presented its representative for the Board of Trustees to the Ministry of Information and Civic Education (MoICE). The association is calling on the MoICE to expedite the establishment and functioning of the Board.

Moreover, SLAJ is urging the MoICE to guarantee the lawful and transparent execution of the recommendations provided by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) concerning SLBC affairs.

Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, President of SLAJ, emphasized the significance of addressing the concerns of SLBC staff while also considering the objectives outlined by the MoICE Minister regarding the intervention at the national broadcaster. Nasralla stated, “We have facilitated constructive dialogues between the Minister and some distressed SLBC staff, prioritizing the welfare of the employees and the efficient operation of SLBC to cater to the interests of all stakeholders.”

Simultaneously, SLAJ extends its support and cooperation to the newly-appointed Director General of SLBC, affirming its commitment to aiding the transformation of SLBC into a genuine public broadcaster.

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