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Accountable Governance Project Ends Assessment Visits to 15 Local District Councils

The Accountable Governance for Basic Service Delivery Project (AGBSDP), through its Project Management Unit (PMU) and in collaboration with the Project Implementing Units (IUs) of  Ministry of Finance and World Bank’s project support technical team, has successfully concluded joint field visits to all 15 beneficiary Local District Councils. This visit follows the disbursement of over US$1.6 million dollars for the implementation of 29 subprojects under round-one Local Development Grants (LDG).

The joint field visit, completed on Friday, 9th February, aimed to assess the progress of subproject implementation across the country. Under Component 2.1 of the AGBSD Project, which accounts for approximately US$17 million dollars, these grants are designated for small-scale community projects aligned with Local District Councils’ Development Plans.

John Hodge, the World Bank’s in-country Senior Financial Management Specialist and Co-Technical Team Lead for the Accountable Governance Project, led the monitoring briefing with each District Council. The visit outlined discussions on subproject implementation status, selection criteria, financial reports, environmental and social screening processes, and expected outcomes.

The field team visited all fifteen Local District Councils, including Bombali, Bo, Bonth, Moyamba, Pujehun, Falaba, Kambia, Karene, Koinadugu, Port Loko, Tonkolili, Kailahun, Kenema, Kono, and the Western Area Rural District Council. While most subprojects were reported to be almost complete, three faced delays due to various challenges, including logistical issues and capacity constraints.

Despite substantial progress, issues such as delayed implementation, ineffective project management, and breaches in environmental and social management were identified. Recommendations were made for comprehensive subproject designs and Budgets of Quantities (BoQs) to improve future implementations.

All fifteen Local Councils reported unspent balances following the completion of contractor payments, highlighting the need for operations and maintenance plans to ensure project sustainability. Subproject selection processes were deemed consultative and aligned with local development priorities.

Monitoring and supervision during implementation were conducted by core Council staff and community stakeholders. Environmental and social screenings were also rigorously undertaken to comply with World Bank standards.

Immediate outcomes of completed subprojects include increased school enrollment, improved access to healthcare, enhanced living conditions for public servants, and better revenue generation in certain areas.

Action points and recommendations derived from the monitoring findings include the development of reporting templates, submission of completion reports, and the establishment of comprehensive monitoring plans for future grant rounds.

Moving forward, the PMU, Ministry of Finance, and the World Bank’s technical team will continue to provide support to ensure the successful implementation of subsequent rounds of Local Development Grants.

The joint field visits represent a crucial step towards enhancing transparency, accountability, and service delivery at the local level, ultimately contributing to improved governance and development outcomes across the country.

Agric Ministry Holds Joint Meeting to Boost Feed Salone Strategy Implementation

By Tamba Tengbeh

The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has started a two-day joint planning meeting aimed at facilitating effective implementation of the Feed Salone strategy. The commencement of the meeting, held at the Diwazzard Complex in Bo City on Friday 16th February, 2024  saw the participation of councils, district agriculture officers, agricultural agencies, farmers and projects.

The primary focus of the meeting was geared towards deliberating  on strategic approaches for the successful execution of the Feed Salone Initiative, officially launched by President Julius Maada Bio on October 16th , 2023 during the World Food Day celebration in Pujehun District.

During his opening remarks, Andrew Sorie, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, underscored the significance of the meeting, urging key stakeholders in the agriculture sector to harness the strategy’s potential to make a tangible impact on the country’s economy.

The Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Dr.Tenneh Dicks, delivering her keynote address, highlighted the ‘Feed Salone Strategy’ as one of the Government’s ‘Big Five’. She outlined the strategy’s implementation through six pillars: mechanization and irrigation, input supplies, aggregation, processing and marketing, access to finance, empowering of women and youth, and Agricultural Technology (AgTech) and Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA) .

The purpose of the joint planning meeting, as stated by Minister Dicks, is to align key deliverables with the Feed Salone Strategy and engage local councils and MAFS district teams to take ownership of the vital activities within their districts.

Emphasizing the need for collaboration, the Deputy Minister stressed that all agricultural stakeholders must coordinate efforts and work closely with district agricultural officers to actualize the strategy’s objectives.

Chief Agriculture Officer: Prof. Abdulai Y. Jalloh highlighted the collective efforts required for the successful implementation of the Feed Salone Strategy, aiming to reshape the agricultural sector by enhancing production, supporting local economies, and addressing sector-specific challenges.

During the presentation of the Regional Rice Value Chain Project, the Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist, Brima Bangura, emphasized the focus key deliverables. He said the project aims to cultivate 1000 ha of farmland in Torma Bum and 500 ha in Mambolo and Samu Chiefdoms within the Kambia district. Additionally, it plans to provide services to 2000 farmers in collaboration with agribusiness companies.

Moreover, the project intends to install four integrated mill machines, including two in Torma Bum and one each in Mambolo and Samu, respectively.

He noted that the project would construct 2000 ha of irrigation in Torma bum to boost rice production and productivity and to support the Government’s efforts to substantially increase the production and productivity of rice using the private sector value chain-led approach. Additionally, training of trainers would be provided for women and youth, as well as for strengthening group formation.

Presentations were made by various agricultural projects on key deliverables for each district and aligned with the Feed Salone Strategy.

Sierra Leone Joins African Union Peace and Security Council for 2024-2026 Term

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Republic of Sierra Leone has been elected as a member of the African Union’s Peace and Security Council (PSC) for the 2024-2026 term, marking another significant stride in the nation’s contribution to continental leadership and peace efforts.

The election of Sierra Leone to the AU’s pivotal body in charge of peace and security reflects the recognition of President Julius Maada Bio’s legacy-based leadership and the country’s growing influence in African affairs. Sierra Leone is set to bring its wealth of experience to the table, collaborating with fellow council members to refine and implement strategies aimed at conflict prevention, management, and resolution as well as spearheading initiatives for post-conflict reconstruction and development.

This appointment comes on the heels of Sierra Leone’s recent ascension to a Non-Permanent Membership seat on the United Nations Security Council for the same term. The dual role of at the African and global levels underscores the country’s dedication to promote stability and security in the region.

As the continent grapples with various security challenges, Sierra Leone’s involvement in the African Union Peace and Security Council is poised to be a catalyst for positive change, drawing from its own experiences of recovery and peace-building after years of civil war. The nation’s commitment to the principles of the African Union and its readiness to contribute to a peaceful and prosperous Africa is now more evident than ever.

Pres. Bio Applauds Leadership, Advocacy Style of Outgoing Bar Association Executive

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio on Wednesday 14 February 2024 welcomed the outgoing executive members of the Sierra Leone Bar Association to discuss their achievements during their tenure. He commended their leadership and dedication to nation-building.

President Bio expressed gratitude for their support and lauded their successful initiatives, particularly highlighting their collaboration with UK Judges to provide advocacy training in Sierra Leone for the first time. He emphasized the importance of such training in enhancing the legal profession’s quality.

Eddinia Michaela Swallow Esq., the Bar Association’s President, expressed appreciation for President Bio’s support and outlined their successful projects, including the Dems Project for Boys. This initiative aimed to provide legal aid, skills training, and counselling to juvenile boys in conflict with the law, resulting in a significant percentage being acquitted and discharged since its launch in June 2023.

In response, President Bio acknowledged the crucial role of lawyers, both domestically and internationally and commended their collective leadership. He assured them of his ongoing support and encouraged their successor to rely on his assistance.

President Bio praised the Bar Association’s efforts in assisting young boys in conflict with the law, emphasizing the importance of offering second chances and rehabilitation opportunities. He expressed gratitude for their role in saving lives and futures and encouraged continued attention to juvenile justice issues.

The President concluded by advocating for a compassionate approach to juvenile offenders and urged future efforts to prioritize support for at-risk youth.

Overall, the meeting underscored the importance of collaboration between the Government and legal professionals in advancing the rule of law and ensuring access to justice in Sierra Leone.

APC Party Executive Updates the Public on Tripartite Committee Progress

By Alpha Sesay (Amb. Penpusher)

Representatives of the All People’s Congress (APC) Party convened a Press Briefing on Wednesday, February 14, 2024, to provide a comprehensive update on the progress of the Tripartite Committee. This briefing, attended by media personnel, development partners, APC members, and concerned citizens, aimed to shed light on recent developments within the Committee’s purview.

Co-Chairman Dr. Kaifala Marrah took the podium to deliver a detailed report, underscoring the significance of the press briefing in ensuring transparency and accountability to all stakeholders. Dr. Marrah highlighted the Committee’s milestone achievement of signing the Terms of Reference (TOR) on February 6th, 2024. The TOR serves as a guiding document, delineating the Committee’s scope of operation and mandates.

Among the key mandates outlined by Dr. Marrah were the examination of the 2023 general elections alongside previous electoral processes spanning from 2007 to 2018. Additionally, the Committee is tasked with scrutinizing existing electoral laws, data migration, reviewing elections observer reports, assessing redress mechanisms, evaluating elections management bodies (EMBs), and addressing issues pertaining to elections security. Dr. Marah stressed the importance of impartiality and thoroughness in executing these responsibilities.

Looking ahead, Dr. Marrah announced plans to establish the Committee’s Secretariat and recruit qualified professionals to support its mandate. He urged all Sierra Leoneans to refrain from pre-empting the Committee’s outcomes, emphasizing the need for support, clarification-seeking and the avoidance of misinformation dissemination, particularly through social media platforms.

The National Secretary General of the APC Party, Lansana Dumbuya Esq, reiterated the party’s commitment to the Bintumani Dialogue Agreement signed in October, which birthed the Tripartite Committee. However, he expressed concern over the Government’s failure to fulfil its obligations under the agreement, particularly regarding politically motivated cases, the release of political prisoners, and the resettlement of displaced individuals.

Lawyer Lansana Dumbuya urged the Government to prioritize peace-building efforts and refrain from actions that could undermine national cohesion. He condemned recent attacks on APC supporters allegedly perpetrated by Government loyalists and called upon the Inspector General of the Sierra Leone Police to ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice.

Furthermore, Lawyer Lansana Dumbuya addressed economic challenges, including the surge in prices of essential commodities, attributing it to what he described as deliberate Government actions detrimental to the populace. He called for urgent measures to curb arbitrary price hikes and alleviate the burdens faced by ordinary citizens.

On his part, the National Chairman of the APC Party, Hon. Minkailu Mansaray, appealed to party supporters to unite and prioritize peace, underscoring that unity is paramount for progress amidst prevailing challenges.

The press briefing concluded with a renewed sense of commitment from APC representatives to uphold democratic principles, foster national unity, and ensure the successful execution of the Tripartite Committee’s mandate.

In Response to Hon. Lahai Marah’s Social Media Post… Gento Group Sheds Light on $13M Payment for Delay in Project Implementation

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The 2022 Audit Report, released by the Audit Service Sierra Leone (ASSL), unfortunately contained an erroneous claim that the Gento Group of Company, led by CEO Mohamed Gento Kamara, received payment for loss in delay of works under the Waterloo Township Roads Contract.

Although, a succinct and veritable clarification had been made by the CEO of the company on the issue, which is in the public domain, it appears as if some are still missing the point, not actually knowledgeable as to what actually transpired during the implementation of the aforementioned contract.

Among such individuals is the highly respected former Member of Parliament of Constituency 42  , Falaba District , Hon Lahai Marah, who raised concern on Social Media over the 13 Million Dollars payment that was made to the Gento Group of Company in 2022 as loss in delay for work done in 2018.

He further went on to purport that there was no sign of inspection nor any assessment done but the $13M was given to Gento. The  Falaba District , Constituency 42  former MP maintained how the amount could construct over 100 Six Classroom Buildings with Staff Room, Head Teacher’s Office and proper Sanitary Facilities, stressing that corruption stinks.

In the clarification that was made by the Gento Group of Company against the Auditor General’s claim that there was lack of supporting documentation for the project’s suspension, for which claims were made for damages amounting to $13,524,419.34 (IPC 5), it was clearly pointed out that the Interim Payment Certificates (IPCs) in question were legitimate claims for delayed payment interest and the suspension of works, in accordance with the Contract Agreement.

The company further clarified how it submitted the legitimate Interim Payment Certificates (IPC No.1A to IPC No.8) totalling USD$27,248,918.07 for work completed, emphasizing that the delayed payment interest and the claim for the suspension of works should, as per law,  not be deducted from the overall contract sum but  must be considered as contractual claims pursuant to specific clauses in the agreement.

As a matter of fact, the company argued that Clause 70.1 that relates to an increase in materials and labour (Price Adjustment) was never invoked during the contract’s implementation but stressed how the company faced challenges, such as high inflation rates and escalating material costs, while still executing the project within the original contractual sum.

With regards to the project’s suspension, the Gento Group of Companies justifiably clarified that the Ministry of Finance, in a meeting in 2018, verbally communicated the suspension of road works for a forensic audit. Unconventionally, the company was never issued a written notice of suspension but was quick to point out that the contract agreement did not stipulate such a requirement. It, however, maintained that they were really evidently notified that work should be suspended.

The company said in light of this clarification, it is somehow quite confusing as to what kind of inspection or form of assessment that should have been done as purported  by Hon. Lahai Marah when the Ministry of Finance and Sierra Leone Road Authority personnel  were privy to that development  and could sincerely attest that it was such that really transpired.

According to the company it was unfortunate, on the part of the Auditor General, while conducting the audit process, not to have contacted them for clarifications or be given an opportunity to comment before the report’s compilation.

In its clarification, the Gento Group of Company further underscored the company’s commitment to transparency and cooperation while expressing concern over flawed views being expressed over the $13M loss payment stressing optimism that enough light has been shed on the issue what some may misconstrued as an act bordering on corruption.

Deputy Health Minister Presents Progress in Global Health Review at WHO

By Mohamed Sheriff, Information Attaché, Geneva, Switzerland

In a significant development at the World Health Organization (WHO) Headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, Deputy Minister of Health 1, Professor Dr. Charles Senessie on Tuesday February 13, 2024 , showcased Sierra Leone’s commendable strides in combating both communicable and non-communicable diseases. This demonstration took place during the ongoing Universal Health and Preparedness Review (UHPR), a pivotal event aiming to strengthen national capacities for health emergencies and disaster preparedness.

The gathering, spanning from February 13 to February 14, has been pivotal in fostering intergovernmental dialogue among Member States. Dr. Mike Ryan, Executive Director of the WHO Health Emergency Programme, and Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, delivered crucial statements during the launch of the global peer review, focusing on countries such as the Central African Republic and Portugal.

Sierra Leone, standing alongside Iraq, the Central African Republic, Thailand, and Portugal, expressed its dedication to finalizing the piloting cycle after successfully completing the national review phase between December 2021 and September 2023.

Deputy Minister Senessie highlighted Sierra Leone’s advancements in global emergency responses, particularly addressing the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. He shared insights, best practices, and expressed gratitude to participating countries for their comprehensive national reports.

In acknowledging the governance initiatives of the Central African Republic, Dr. Senessie recommended strategic measures, including the formulation of a multisectoral health recovery plan and enhanced collaboration with non-health sector stakeholders to bolster preparedness and response to national and international events/outbreaks.

Furthermore, the Deputy Health Minister commended the Central African Republic’s resilience in managing the aftermath of the 2013 crisis, which significantly impacted health facilities.

The UHPR pilot countries, including Sierra Leone, are utilizing draft working methods as a blueprint for the inaugural peer review pilot slated for February 2024.

On Portugal, Deputy Health Minister 1 thanked the government for its impressive national report. Dr. Senessie recommended measures to address structural drought problems in regions such as Alentejo and Algarve, ensure the sustainability of vaccination programs for future outbreaks, and tackle challenges hindering equitable healthcare access.

It is anticipated that Sierra Leone’s UHPR report will undergo peer review by member states shortly.

Accompanying the Deputy Minister were Professor Foday Sahr, Executive Director of the National Public Health Agency, and Dr. Mohamed Alex Vandi, Deputy Director of the National Public Health Agency, who provided technical support during the national review of the Central African Republic and Portugal.

International Confidence in Sierra Leone Soars as Budapest-Bamako Rally Ends in Freetown

The Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, alongside its affiliated agencies including the National Tourist Board (NTB) and Monument and Relics Commission, extended a warm welcome to the culmination of the Budapest-Bamako Freetown Challenge. The event, which saw the participation of 690 individuals with 300 vehicles and motorbikes, marked a significant moment for Sierra Leone’s tourism sector.

Amidst the participants, three Sierra Leoneans—Drizilik, Ibrahim Cole, and Mohamed Waritay—used the rally as a platform to raise awareness about autism, a cause close to their hearts. Another Sierra Leonean, Akiwumi Attawia, also partook in the rally, adding local flavor to the international event. He is among the second batch of 194 rally participants slated to arrive in Freetown on March 4th, 2024.

The Ministry of Tourism, in collaboration with the Sierra Leone Police, ensured a seamless transition for the participants, escorting them from various border points to the finish line at Gigibonta Car Park, Lumley Beach, Freetown. Along the journey, the rally convoy made a humanitarian stop, donating educational materials to REC Primary School at Bureh Beach.

In a vibrant ceremony at the finish line, Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Nabeela Farida Tunis, expressed her gratitude to the participants, highlighting the significance of their presence in Sierra Leone.

She emphasized that hosting the event for the third consecutive time underscores the country’s exceptional hospitality and conducive environment.

“We are delighted to welcome participants to Freetown and commend their efforts in promoting tourism and cultural exchange,” stated Minister Tunis. She also applauded the Sierra Leonean participants for championing the cause of autism awareness on a global platform.
Andrew Szabo, the founder of the Budapest-Bamako Freetown Rally, echoed Minister Tunis’ sentiments, affirming Sierra Leone’s status as a “special, fantastic gem” in West Africa. Szabo hinted at future collaborations between the rally and Sierra Leone, aiming to make Freetown a permanent fixture in the event’s itinerary.


The ceremony concluded with a poignant moment as a plaque was unveiled in memory of Solboch Petery, a Hungarian rally participant who tragically passed away during last year’s event.

The Budapest-Bamako Freetown Challenge aligns with President Bio’s vision of positioning Sierra Leone as a premier tourist destination, fostering cultural exchange, attracting foreign investment, and generating employment opportunities. Furthermore, the rally serves as a testament to the international community’s confidence in Sierra Leone’s potential.

As the event draws to a close, Sierra Leone looks forward to leveraging this momentum to further bolster its tourism sector and strengthen its ties with the global community.

Jagaban Offers Financial Support to Churches as Lenten Season Commences

Before the approach of the Lenten season, Sheikh Alhaji Mohamed Omodu Kamara, popularly known as “Jagaban,” extended a helping hand to churches across Sierra Leone with a generous donation of Le 220 million. This act of kindness is aimed at supporting Christians as they commence their observance of Lent, a period of solemn reflection on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ.

Jagaban’s philanthropic gesture underscores his steadfast dedication to promoting peace and religious harmony in Sierra Leone. Despite his adherence to the Muslim faith, he has consistently displayed his generosity towards his Christian brethren by providing vital assistance to churches in various communities throughout the country. Speaking from the United States via telephone interview, Sheikh Mohamed Omodu Kamara expressed profound gratitude for Sierra Leone’s religious tolerance, emphasizing the need to preserve it for future generations.

In Port Loko, Reverend Father Simeon Foday Kamara of Our Lady of Lourdes Parish extended heartfelt appreciation for the timely donation of Le 20 million, which will facilitate the renovation of the church ahead of an important pastoral visit. Furthermore, Jagaban was warmly embraced by the Anglican community at St. James Anglican Church, marking a historic moment as the first Muslim to extend such significant support to the church.

The generous contributions were disbursed among five churches in Port Loko, Tonkolili, and Kono, encompassing Catholic, Anglican, Wesleyan, and Holy Ghost Bible Churches. In Freetown, the Jesus is Lord Ministry and the Limba Pentecostal Church each received Le 35 million, while the Seek Ye First Assembly was granted Le 30 million. Additionally, Le 20 million was allocated to the Eastern Covenant Pastors Network, a coalition representing over 100 churches in Sierra Leone.

These donations were presented by Abu Bakar Baturay, Vice President of the global Jagaban Foundation, and Sulivan Khallon, the domestic National Coordinator, underscoring the organization’s commitment to supporting communities throughout Sierra Leone.

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