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Tripartite Committee Co Chairs Sign ToR with Opposing Views on Election Review

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

During a special Press Conference convened by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education on Tuesday February 6th, 2024, at New the Brookfields Hotel on New England Ville in Freetown, the Co Chairs of the Tripartite Committee, Dr. Emmanuel Gaima representing the government of Sierra Leone and Dr. Kaifala Marah of the main opposition All Peoples Congress (APC) signed the Terms of Reference of the Tripartite Committee witnessed by the UN Resident Coordinator, Madam Seraphine Wakana.

Gracing the signing ceremony were eminent personalities including the United States Ambassador to Sierra Leone, the British High Commissioner, the European Union Head of Mission. Through electronic broadcast, the programme was also followed by a global audience via TV Stations and the Information Ministry’s Facebook platform and other outlets.

The Co Chair of the APC, Dr. Kaifala Marah, began by stating how the June 24, 2023 multi-tier elections ended in a controversy and standoff between the APC and the Government of Sierra Leone, prompted by many issues among which were lack of transparency in the tallying process and the deliberate refusal of the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone to publish the elections results.

He continued how such a situation made the independent verification of results impossible amidst serious concerns of the public and Election Observer Missions of electoral irregularities and fraud.  Dr. Marah underscored how on account of that, the APC Party decided not to participate in governance until its demands on the publication of results were met.

The APC Co-Chair intimated that in order to resolve the impasse, among other things, there was a mediated dialogue facilitated by the Commonwealth, the African Union and the Economic Community of West African States and supported by development partners on 16th to 18th October 2023 which culminated into an Agreement for National Unity with 8 Resolutions.

He disclosed how the parties to the agreement—the APC and the government—with support from Co-Chair, Seraphine Wakana the UN Resident Coordinator, they harmonized and finalized the terms of reference within the stipulated thirty days period further expressing hope to keep the same spirit for the remaining five months of the Committee’s work.

The APC Co-Chair, Kaifala Marah, said the ToR will guide the Committee in its examination of Elections Results Management, which will include the 2023 elections results and previous ones; shipment, tallying and announcement of results, the procedure for the certification and publication of results; electoral redress mechanisms, data migration and voter registration processes; reviewing the efficacy of our electoral laws and regulations, systems, and processes; reports of election observer missions such as the EU and Carter Centre and their recommendations; functional review of key elections management bodies including the ECSL; assessing campaigning and media coverage, etc.

According to him, the Committee will be supported by a Technical Secretariat with relevant expertise to be supported by development partners saying they will be guided by Rules of Proceedings, and a Communication Framework for outreach, sensitization and engagement of relevant stakeholders, including the public.

Dr. Marah highlighted that the assignment, therefore, comes as a sacred responsibility to clear doubts surrounding the 2023 multi-tier elections which, the APC and many others believe were compromised.

He expressed the view that it is in meeting the spirit of that monumental task that he would like to restate the commitment of the APC side of the Committee to ensuring that it is judiciously done and to reaffirm that they will collaborate and cooperate with the Government side, and the development partners to come out with recommendations that will be clearly informed by their findings.

The APC Co Chair then pointed out that all the parties of the Tripartite Committee will now officially append their signatures to the Terms of Reference marking such as the guide in the dispensation of their mandate. Dr. Marah made a passionate appeal to members of the public not to pre-empt the recommendations that will emanate from the Tripartite Committee.

On his part, the Government Co Chair, Dr. Emmanuel Gaima said he would like to remind all that the Tripartite Committee’s mandate, out of the eight (8) resolutions agreed upon at the Bintumani Dialogue Agreement , relates to Resolution 3, underscoring that its main import is for the Committee to review electoral systems and management bodies.

According to him, the national constitution of 1991 and the Public Elections Act of 2022 make provisions for how electoral issues must be addressed. He gave a synopsis of how previously President Bio announced in Parliament the setting up of the Committee but after doing so and with concerns raised he removed the Vice President as Head of the Committee and instead left the entire process to be in the hands of a Tripartite Committee.

Dr. Gaima reiterated President Bio’s commitment to peace and unity revealing that the Government has decided to commit some funds to add to what is being provided externally just to ensure that the process is owned by Sierra Leone.

He said as Co-Chair he is dedicated towards ensuring that the process is widely embraced and to work together with the APC to put Sierra Leone first in the spirit of inclusivity.

During question time, it was asked to what extent the Committee’s mandate will be exercised in the review of past elections.  In response Dr. Marah of the APC asserted:  “We have a mandate to examine or investigate the 2023 election data. Whatever comes out will be factored in the recommendations we will final make.” His statement did not actually confirm whether there will be a rerun of the 2023 elections, as it has been widely rumoured, but rather underscores the APC’s commitment to a thorough review of the electoral process.

In contrast, Dr. Emmanuel Gaima, representing the Government, adamantly opposed subjecting the Electoral Commission to an investigation, arguing that the Committee lacks the authority to do so. His stance reflects the Government’s concerns over the perceived overreach of the Committee’s powers and its potential implications for electoral integrity.

Some political pundits have argued that the conflicting positions of the Government and the APC representatives have cast doubt on the Committee’s ability to effectively carry out its mandate. They claimed that Dr. Marah’s insistence on examining the elections clashes with Dr. Gaima’s assertion, creating an atmosphere of mistrust and uncertainty surrounding the Committee’s proceedings.

Dr. Marah, however, appealed to the Government for collaboration in implementing the Committee’s resolutions. “We crave the indulgence of Government to collaborate with us to implement some of the resolutions so that people will have trust in the process,” he stated.

It has been concluded that his plea underscores the importance of political cooperation in ensuring the credibility and transparency of electoral reforms.

The highpoint of the Press engagement was the signing of the terms of Reference for the Tripartite Committee by all the relevant personalities.

As Sierra Leone grapples with these challenges, it is imperative for all parties involved to prioritize the interests of the electorate above partisan considerations. Achieving genuine electoral reform will require a concerted effort to overcome differences, foster dialogue, and uphold the principles of fairness and accountability.

Sierra Leone Land Alliance Calls for Action on Land Injustices

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a significant move to address longstanding land injustices in Sierra Leone, John Paul Bai, the Director of Sierra Leone Land Alliance, delivered a compelling statement during the launch of a Policy Brief titled: “Agony of Affected Landowners: A Case For National Land Commission.” The event took place on Wednesday, February 7th, 2024, at the prestigious Amnesty International Conference Hall on Water Street, Main Motor Road, Congo Cross in Freetown.

John Paul Bai revealed that over the years Sierra Leone has grappled with numerous land disputes, prompting the establishment of various Committees and Commissions to investigate and address those issues, adding that in 2021 similar Committees were formed to probe allegations of land corruption but their effectiveness varied.

He stated that His Excellency, President Julius Maada Bio, and the Minister of Lands, Housing and Country Planning, Dr. Turad Senessie, have shown a preference for forming Complaint Committees to tackle complex land issues, despite limited insight into the outcomes of past efforts, furthering that the Complaint Committee established by Dr. Turad Senessie in March 2021 to examine land disputes in the Western Area revealed alarming findings, including the manipulation of citizens through ethnic divisions and the unlawful seizure of prime land from rightful owners.

He disclosed that the delayed implementation of the Committee’s recommendations has led to frustration and even deaths among affected landowners, underscoring the urgent need for action.

Recognizing the need for comprehensive land reform, he said the Government enacted the National Land Commission Act 2022, establishing the National Land Commission. Endowed with broad investigative powers, the Commission is tasked with resolving disputes, promoting security of tenure and providing redress for those dispossessed of property due to past discriminatory laws or corrupt practices.

“Given the complexities of land disputes, litigation often proves inadequate for achieving satisfactory resolutions. Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms, such as mediation and negotiation, offer a more flexible and collaborative approach to resolving conflicts,” he maintained.

He pointed out that the Policy Brief advocates for the National Land Commission to leverage ADR to address historical injustices, ensuring equitable outcomes for all parties involved.

On behalf of the Sierra Leone Land Alliance, he outlined recommendations which include firstly the utilization of Traditional Dispute Resolution Mechanisms: Community-based approaches should be employed, particularly in resolving disputes over communal land in the peninsular areas.

Secondly Prioritization of Conciliation and Mediation: ADR methods should precede legal proceedings, fostering dialogue and compromise before resorting to litigation.

Thirdly the Expansion of National Land Commission’s Powers: Granting quasi-judicial status to the Commission, with oversight from the High Court, would enhance its ability to enforce recommendations, ensure compliance and finally be collaborative Engagement: The Commission should actively engage with affected landowners’ representatives to expedite the resolution of pending cases and deliver justice effectively.

In conclusion, he stated that the launch of the Policy Brief underscores the imperative for urgent action to address land injustices in Sierra Leone, by embracing ADR and empowering the National Land Commission, the nation can embark on a path toward equitable land governance and sustainable development.

Solomon Sogbandi, a member of the Sierra Leone Land Alliance, emphasized the significance of the Policy Brief in guiding the National Land Commission toward fulfilling its mandate of safeguarding citizens’ access to and rights over land.

He acknowledged the potential challenges associated with implementing certain recommendations but emphasized that some are readily actionable. However, he expressed frustration over the Ministry of Land and Country Planning’s reluctance to enact certain recommendations.

For instance, he highlighted a specific recommendation advocating for the return of land to rightful owners, which has yet to be realized despite repeated calls.

NP (SL) Continues to Blaze the Trail in Petroleum Marketing

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

NP (SL) Ltd has solidified its reputation as an exceptional and resilient company, consistently delivering top-tier services even in challenging circumstances. The company has earned substantial acclaim for its outstanding performance in marketing high-quality petroleum products.

Renowned as the leading oil marketing company in Sierra Leone, it continues to push boundaries through strategic expansion initiatives.

This remarkable achievement is rooted in the resolute dedication of 35 former employees of the erstwhile British Petroleum, who pooled their end-of-service benefits to purchase shares and establish what has now become the esteemed NP-SL Ltd.

While the company’s inception marked a significant milestone, its journey from that point to its present stature is a testament to the altruism of its shareholders. Their collective vision for growth transcended personal gains, financial misconduct, and insincerity, culminating in an overarching success story.

The name NP has become synonymous with “1st for customer care.” This isn’t mere rhetoric but a genuine embodiment of the company’s ethos, unwaveringly dedicated to maintaining the highest standards. For both the shareholders and Management, ensuring utmost satisfaction in service delivery stands as paramount as the importation of petroleum products into the nation. A strong emphasis is placed on marketing premium-grade products that optimize vehicle and equipment performance.

The company’s commitment to customer care is reflected in its modern and standardized fuel dispensing machines at Filling Stations. These transparent machines display pumped liters and corresponding prices, fostering transparency and trust. Customers’ feedback and suggestions play a pivotal role in shaping policies and managerial decisions, allowing a diverse range of perspectives to shape the company’s operations.

In the pursuit of customer comfort, NP-SL-Ltd introduced the NP Smart Card, a technologically advanced device with embedded security features, rendering it resistant to counterfeit attempts. This card facilitates the easy and cashless purchase of  fuel at Filling Stations , helps in planning and budgeting for fuel purchases, and can be easily recharged to be ready for the next purchase.

NP Gas, another customer-oriented offering for cooking purposes, is available in various cylinder shapes at the company’s Filling stations and authorized dealers. It has been certified to environmentally friendly with a high performance rate. Gas for refills could be easily secured at NP Filling Stations.

Also, noteworthy is NP-SL-Ltd’s unwavering focus on employing local talent and utilizing indigenous materials, aligning with the Local Content Policy. This approach underscores the company’s ‘Sierra Leoneaness,’ with shareholders, Management and staff all hailing from the nation. The company also prioritizes awarding contracts to indigenous entities. By harnessing local expertise and providing training opportunities, NP-SL-Ltd not only ensures staff development but also plays a role in poverty reduction by creating job opportunities.

Beyond its corporate operations, NP-SL-Ltd actively contributes to corporate social responsibility, supporting various entities and complementing government initiatives to enhance living standards.

Its expansion into neighboring West African countries—Liberia, Guinea, Ivory Coast and The Gambia—illustrates its determination to grow and foster regional progress. The branches in these nations create jobs, generate revenue through taxes and contribute to development programs.

NP-SL Ltd’s trajectory of growth and impact warrants sustained support as it continues to blaze a trail for others in the industry. The company remains committed to setting standards, creating meaningful change and propelling Sierra Leone’s progress.

NCRA, SLP & ONS Urge Citizens, Non-Citizens to Obtain ID Cards Before 31st March, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

It is now within the public domain that the deadline for citizens and non-citizens to secure or obtain the Biometric Identification (ID) Cards currently being issued by the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) is the 31st March, 2024.

This notification came in the wake of a collaborative agreement among the NCRA, the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) and the Office of National Security (ONS) to robustly embark on implementing a Cabinet Directive Ratified by Parliament in March, 2022.

The Cabinet Directive  provides for the mandatory link of the Identification Cards (National, Non-National and ECOWAS) with the National Identification Number (NIN) inscribed on the ID Cards to access services that includes: Transactions with Financial Institutions (Banks, Forex Bureau, Insurance, etc), Vehicle Registration and Licensing, Recruitment into Public and Private Institutions for consistency in personal information and verification, NASSIT Enrolment, Land and Property Registration, Enrolment into Educational Institutions including Public Exams, Sim Card Registration, Vital Events Registration, Immigration Services, Residence/Work Permits, Business Registration and Incorporation.

It pursuit of that cause the three entities have made it abundantly clear that it is advisable for citizens and non-citizens to obtain any of the Identification Cards (National, Non-National and ECOWAS) as may be applicable from any of the NCRA Offices or other Centres designated for issuance of ID Cards across the country by Friday, 31s March, 2024.

According  to them, the National and Non-National ID Cards are mandatory while ECOWAS ID Card is optional stressing how they will jointly collaborate to enforce compliance with the aforementioned Cabinet Directive and its Parliamentary Ratification effective 1s April, 2024.

They further stated that such is to ensure that all residents (citizens and foreign) are reliably identified and have consistency in their personal information irrespective of the use or purpose further maintaining how Identification Cards bearing the National Identification Numbers (NIN) is by law the primary source of personal identification in Sierra Leone.

Abdulai Caulker, the National Security Coordinator, stated, “Every resident in Sierra Leone must have a National Identity Card as it not only helps in identifying individuals accurately but also plays a vital role in maintaining national security.”

William Sellu, the Inspector General of Police, echoed this sentiment, saying, “Having a standardized form of identification will greatly assist law enforcement in carrying out their duties effectively and efficiently.”

They called on all to begin the process of obtaining their identity cards as soon as possible to avoid any last-minute rush. The NCRA has set up various registration centres across the country to facilitate this process.

Designated centers and six specific offices have been opened throughout the country in locations that are easily accessible as part of efforts to facilitate the ID registration process. The centres are:

  1. 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.

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

Mobile registration units will be deployed to remote areas to ensure that every resident, no matter where they are located, has access to this essential form of identification. Additionally, online registration options will be made available for those who are unable to visit a physical registration centre.

It is hoped that through embracing the ID Cards, Sierra Leoneans will pave the way towards a more connected, transparent, and prosperous nation.

2024 Budapest-Bamako Rally to End in Freetown with Two Participating Teams

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The first leg of the ongoing Budapest-Bamako Rally 2024, which commenced in Hungary on January 26, comprising participants who are now heading to the pristine and touristic scenes of Sierra Leone are expected arrive  on the 11th February, 2024 at Bureh Beach where a Beach Carnival will be organized in their honour and later proceed to the Finish Line on Gigibonta Restaurant Car Park, Lumley Beach in Sierra Leone on the 12th February, 2024. Another batch of participants will depart Hungary on the 12th February, 2024 and are expected to reach Sierra Leone on the 4th March, 2024.

Participants will go through a vast array of countries along the designated route to traverse 9000km from the heart of Europe to reach the finishing line on Gigibonta, thereby covering two continents and 10 countries.

According to the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, the event will mark the world’s largest amateur rally and will return to Sierra Leone twice in this year, 2024. The Tourism Ministry further reiterated that Sierra Leone will play host to the first batch of the Budapest-Bamako-Freetown Rally finish line 2024 event from the 11th to 12th February, 2024.

Dubbed as the: “Budapest-Bamako-Freetown Challenge” the Ministry highlighted that the event is the world’s largest amateur vehicular rally as well as Africa’s biggest humanitarian event.

According to the erudite Minister of Tourism, Nabeela Tunis, “The rally comprises 670 participants including three (3) Sierra Leoneans with over 300 vehicles arriving in Sierra Leone through Kambia on the 11th February, 2024 arriving at Bureh Beach where a Beach Carnival will be organized in their honour.”

She disclosed how on Monday 12th February, the teams will drive through Waterloo, Up Gun, Kissy Road, Goderich Street, Rokel Street, Siaka Stevens Street, Sanders Street, St. John, Savage Street, Congo Cross, Wilkinson Road, and Lumley Beach Road and arrive at the Finish Line, Gigibonta Restaurant car park, Lumley Beach where the Hon. Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, the Hungarian Consul and other State functionaries will receive them and deliver statements.

The result-oriented Tourism Minister informed that the second batch of 194 Budapest-Bamako- Freetown rally participants will depart Hungary on 12th February and will arrive in Freetown on the 4th March, 2024.

She revealed how the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs has embarked on a One Year “Tourism for All Campaign” and the theme for this month of February is: “Travel and Hospitality” which resonates with the arrival of the Budapest-Bamako-Freetown Rally adventure tourists to Sierra Leone.

In his words, the Permanent Secretary of the Tourism Ministry, Edward Kwame Yankson, said : “The Budapest-Bamako- Freetown Challenge aims at actualizing His Excellency the President, Dr. Julius Maada Bio’s vision of making Sierra Leone an attractive tourist destination, create a platform for cultural exchange, facilitate foreign direct investment and provide job opportunities.

The Honorary Consul of Hungary to Sierra Leone, Jihad N Eter, thanked President Julius Maada Bio and the Minister of Tourism, Nabeela Tunis, for making it possible for Sierra Leone to host this year’s event. He especially commended President Bio for his efforts made so far in revamping the Tourism industry.

The Consul pointed out how the Tourism Minister’s vision for Sierra Leone to be the hub of tourism and one of the best touristic destinations in the world is extremely encouraging.

He intimated that since 2018 when he assume office as the Honorary Consul of Hungary to Sierra Leone, his office has been working diligently to further strengthen the already existing friendly relations between the Republic of Sierra Leone and Hungary.

Jihad N Eter expressed delight when emphasizing that the Government of Hungary has been committed in offering fifty (50) scholarships, through the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education, every year 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 disclosed how 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 underscored how the Hungarian Government plans to continue offering the aforementioned scholarships for an additional two years.

The Consul also mentioned that last year the Hungarian Foreign Affairs Minister visited Sierra Leone accompanied by representatives of thirty business companies in Hungary. He said they held a business meeting at the Radisson Blu Hotel with local business personalities which was very fruitful adding that the Hungarian business personalities have shown keen interest and are eager to participate in any planned future Trade Fair that will be organized in Sierra Leone.

He also mentioned that there are ongoing negotiations related to the implementation of the Koidu-Sembehun Water Project that will supply water to the entire Kono District revealing how such a development was brought about through the collaborative efforts with the Ministry of Water Resources and Hungary via the Hungarian-Exim Bank among other interventions.

Andrew Szabo, the Director of Budapest-Bamako Rally, in an excited mood stated that Sierra Leone is a natural choice for the finish line as the Government and people of Sierra Leone, in the past, have been very hospitable with the country putting a premium on the Tourism industry. He expressed profound pleasure to be in Sierra Leone disclosing how there are future plans for more finish line events to be held in Sierra Leone.

It must be noted that what makes this Budapest-Bamako- Freetown Challenge very exceptional is the ongoing participation of an all-Sierra Leonean team, of a trio, that comprises a businessman in the Petroleum Sector, Ibrahim Cole (IB Cole), a renowned hip-hop artist, Benjamin Menelik George, popularly known  as Drizilik and  another entrepreneur, Mohamed Ibrahim Waritay (Med Iye). The three joined forces to form Team Puzzle Pieces and their mission is geared towards supporting a charity of the same name by raising funds and awareness for Autism.

Riding Car 61, the trio, Drizilik, IB Cole and Med-Iye are riding for autism awareness. The first leg of their journey is a 900km drive from Budapest to Milan.

Puzzle Pieces is the name of IB Cole’s autism support charity, which he co-founded with his wife Nalla. IB’s vision is to create a specialized autism resource center to support families and educate teachers and the community on how to support people with autism.

CRSG Recognizes Employee of the Year of 2023

From January 24th to 27th, 2024, China Railway Seventh Group (SL) Co., Ltd held a grand ceremony to recognize outstanding employees in 2023. Sierra Leonean employees from various fields such as mining, infrastructure, construction, and trade under the company participated in the event.

The commendation of Sierra Leonean employees is an important part of CRSG’s Management work and is held regularly every year. Great attention has been put in the preparations of the annual commendation ceremony. During the evaluation process, Chinese and Sierra Leonean Management teams participated together in the scoring. CRSG formulated a scientific and reasonable evaluation plan that treats all employees equally. In the end, 165 employees received outstanding individual awards, and 3 teams received outstanding team award.

These awards include not only regular awards such as Outstanding Manager of the Year, Outstanding Employee of the Year, and Outstanding Contribution Award, but also newly added awards such as Long-term Contribution Award, Best Progress Award, and Outstanding Team Award. The company prepared exquisite Certificates of Honor for each award-winning employee. Winners of different awards also received material rewards such as smart watches, food and cooking oil.

At the award ceremony, CRSG management said: Employees are the company’s most valuable treasure. We sincerely thank all Sierra Leonean employees for their hard work for the company in the past year, and we look forward to creating more brilliance with our employees in the future.

For a long time, CRSG has continuously promoted the development strategy of deeply exploring the Sierra Leone market and strengthening employee team building, and is committed to building a cultural atmosphere of mutual respect, mutual understanding, and mutual achievement between Chinese and Sierra Leonean employees. From standardizing the entire process of employment to establishing strong management system, from breaking traditional stereotypes to increasing trust and delegating power to national employees, from increasing the proportion of national managers to in-depth giving full play to management personnel, CRSG actively explores cross-cultural management, and has found a path of international operation and development that is suitable for its own operating characteristics and in line with the common vision of the company and employees.

Over the years, CRSG has adhered to the concept of “Family Culture” and insisted on giving back benefits to its employees in the process of corporate development. While achieving excellent results in corporate safety, quality, and operating efficiency, it is committed to allowing national employees to grow together with the company and gain more happiness. By strengthening technical training for various positions, it has cultivated and reserved various technical talents.

At the same time, it has established promotion channels for Sierra Leonean employees, provided equal competition opportunities and diversified promotion space, actively carried out cross-cultural integration and exchange activities, and created Harmonious employment relationship.

This commendation event stimulated a strong response among national employees, greatly enhancing their recognition of corporate management. It will also lay a solid foundation to future human resources management and continue to consolidate the company’s development advantages, win good reputation, and enhance the corporate brand and competitiveness.

Minister Barlay Commends Action Aid Sierra Leone’s Fourth Country Strategy Launch

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Minister of Planning and Economic Development, Madam Kenyeh Barlay has on February 7, 2024 , extended her full support and appreciation for Action Aid Sierra Leone’s Fourth Country Strategy during its official launch ceremony held at the New Brookfields Hotel in Freetown. Hon. Chief Minister, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, presided over the event, underscoring the government’s commitment to sustainable development goals.

Titled: “The Transformative Action for Inclusive and Resilient Communities (2024-2028),” the strategy aligns closely with the Government’s vision for fostering inclusive and resilient communities. Minister Barlay lauded Action Aid’s dedication to community-driven development, emphasizing its harmony with the nation’s economic development objectives.

“Action Aid Sierra Leone has consistently been at the forefront of community-driven development and this strategic plan further underscores their commitment to fostering inclusive and resilient communities. This aligns seamlessly with our Government’s overarching goals and vision for sustainable economic development,” remarked Madam Barlay.

Recognizing the pivotal role of NGOs in supporting governmental agendas, particularly in reaching marginalized communities, Minister Barlay outlined key areas where NGOs like Action Aid could contribute significantly. These encompassed food security, human capital development, youth employment, infrastructure, technology, innovation, governance and climate resilience.

“My Ministry recognizes the significant role played by NGOs as critical partners in achieving the development goals of the MTNDP. Working hand in hand with the Government to create positive impact and sustainable change, their efforts in reaching the last mile with development programs despite sector-specific challenges are laudable and worth appreciating,” affirmed Madam Barlay.

Encouraging Action Aid to expand its projects to other districts and align initiatives with Government priorities, Minister Barlay stressed the importance of promoting community ownership and ensuring effective service delivery. She concluded by assuring continued cooperation and collaboration between the government and NGOs for transformative community development.

The launch of Action Aid Sierra Leone’s Fourth Country Strategy marks a significant step towards fostering sustainable development and inclusive growth in the region, highlighting the vital partnership between the Government and non-governmental organizations in driving positive change.

Lloyd’s & Sherbro Alliance Partners Sign MoU to Develop Eco-City

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Lloyd’s has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Sherbro Alliance Partners to support economic resilience and growth opportunities on Sherbro Island, Sierra Leone.

Considered as a significant move towards promoting sustainable development, Lloyd’s partnership with Sherbro Alliance Partners (SAP) is geared towards facilitating economic resilience and growth in Sherbro Island, Sierra Leone.

The collaboration, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at Lloyd’s headquarters in London, underscores the commitment of both entities to foster regional growth and sustainability on the island.

The agreement outlines Lloyd’s role in marshalling its extensive network and expertise in specialist insurance and risk management to aid the project’s sustainable and regional development objectives. Lloyd’s, alongside strategic partners, including the international professional services firm Aon and insurer Tokio Marine Kiln (TMK), will contribute its vast knowledge and resources to support the initiative.

Sherbro Island is set to undergo a transformation into an eco-city, incorporating sustainability with Sierra Leonean culture, history, and traditions. The project aims to create a hub for global visitors, offering modern amenities, business-friendly regulations, and opportunities for tourism, arts, culture, residency, work, investment, education, recreation, and retirement.

Currently, SAP is working in collaboration with the Government of Sierra Leone to conduct further feasibility studies. These studies are crucial for detailing the insurance requirements associated with Sherbro Island’s ambitious plans for renewable energy, eco-tourism, and business ventures.

Lloyd’s CEO, John Neal, highlighted the company’s role in supporting innovative and regenerative projects worldwide, noting Lloyd’s position as chair of the SMI’s Insurance Taskforce.

“Sherbro Alliance Partners’ vision for Sherbro Island is to bring long-term prosperity and growth to the region, while providing access to cutting-edge renewable energy and technology. We look forward to working closely with SAP to help bring this project to life,” Neal said.

He furthered that: “As Chair of the SMI’s Insurance Taskforce, Lloyd’s has a leading role to play in helping to bring innovative and regenerative projects to life around the world..”

Idris Elba, Co-Founder of Sherbro Alliance Partners said: “This partnership represents a significant milestone in our efforts to make Sherbro Island a reality. Lloyds’s commitment to backing regenerative projects globally positions them as an ideal partner. Together we are at the forefront of pioneering a fresh approach to developing African cities, with a strong focus on sustainable and renewable energy. Lloyd’s support will fuel our growth as we work towards achieving our shared vision of a more sustainable future.”

Siaka Stevens, Co-Founder of Sherbro Alliance Partners stated: “Building African cities that prioritize sustainable growth and development require strong partnerships. By collaborating with Lloyd’s we can harness collective expertise, resources and innovation to create a thriving modern city. Partnerships like these our crucial in shaping Africa’s sustainable development to ensure our cities are not only technologically advanced but also environmentally conscious, socially inclusive and economically vibrant.”

Africell Commemorates 11 Years of ISO 9001 Certification

In a landmark achievement, Africell commemorates more than 11 years of holding the ISO 9001 certification, a feat attained on August 14, 2012, setting a historic precedent as Sierra Leone’s pioneering telecommunications company to earn this prestigious accreditation.

From its inception in Sierra Leone, Africell prioritized fostering trust with its clientele, recognizing it as pivotal to securing and upholding its position as a telecommunications leader in the nation’s market. The cornerstone of this trust lay in consistently delivering top-tier services, benchmarked against global professional standards as affirmed by independent certification entities rather than subjective criteria.

Embarking on the journey towards ISO 9001 certification spanned over 18 months, encompassing the establishment, training, and certification of a dedicated quality management team. This process entailed meticulous documentation of all company procedures, alongside the implementation of requisite systems and structures stipulated by the standard, ensuring Africell’s capability to:

a) Consistently furnish products and services aligning with customer expectations and pertinent statutory and regulatory mandates.
b) Cultivate avenues for augmenting customer satisfaction.
c) Mitigate risks and capitalize on opportunities inherent in its operational environment and objectives.
d) Validate adherence to specified quality management system requisites.

To uphold the integrity of the Quality Management System and sustain certification, Africell diligently underwent three triennial recertification audits and eight annual surveillance audits over the past eleven years.

Joe Abass Bangura, Africell’s Head of Quality Management Systems, boasts a prestigious Quality Management Systems Lead Auditors Certificate from the CSA Group in Ontario, Canada, a distinction held by a select few in Sierra Leone. Complementing Bangura, Africell’s Quality Management Team comprises six adept and certified QMS Auditors.

Rooted in the seven principles of quality management, Africell’s system prioritizes: engaging personnel, customer-centricity, leadership, process optimization, continual enhancement, evidence-driven decision-making, and relationship nurturing.

Reflecting on Africell’s enduring ISO 9001 certification journey, Managing Director Mr. Shadi Gerjawi emphasized its significance, affirming that sustaining the Quality Management System’s certification for over a decade through a reputable Canadian certification body underscores Africell’s unwavering dedication to delivering superior services, meeting customer expectations, and complying with regulatory mandates, thus reinforcing its market leadership position. Gerjawi reassured Africell subscribers of the company’s steadfast commitment to maintaining these standards.

Africell’s distinction as Sierra Leone’s inaugural telecommunications entity to obtain ISO 9001 certification remains undisputed, with comprehensive details accessible through certification bodies’ websites and archived news articles from 2012.

ISO, denoting the International Organization for Standardization, serves as an impartial global entity that formulates and disseminates standards to ensure quality, safety, and efficacy across diverse industries. ISO 9001, the international benchmark for Quality Management, is embraced by over a million enterprises worldwide, fostering a culture of continual improvement anchored in customer exigencies.

FAHP & Equality Now Demand Justice for Deaths of Three Girls to FGM

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Forum Against Harmful Practices and Equality Now are calling for a thorough investigation into the deaths of three girls who lost their lives while undergoing Female Genital Mutilation during secret society initiation ceremonies as well as demanding justice stressing that affirmative action must be taken against the perpetrators.

This came in the wake of reports that three girls lost their lives in January of 2024 to Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in Sierra Leone. The deaths occurred in the Kambia District and according to Police Chief Superintendent, Abu Bakarr Magona, one of the victims was Salamatu Jalloh, 13 years old and was one of eight girls being “initiated” in Kabailor village.

The other victim is said to be Kadiatu Bangura, aged 17, from Bubuya whom local reports say was “forcefully initiated” and buried before the Police arrived. A Police Officer, Claudius Moses Gray, has stated that the Police are investigating into the matter.

A 12 year old girl by the name of Adamsay Sesay is furthermore reported as a victim that succumbed to death in January, 2024 to FGM in that part of the country but details surrounding her case were not provided.

It could be recalled that it was also reported in December 2021, that a 21-year-old woman by the name of Maseray Sei died as a result of FGM. The alleged perpetrator of carrying out the FGM, a Sowei, known as Sowoh Sandy was arrested, and the case went to trial, but a Magistrate discharged the case in October 2023 over alleged issues with the medical report. The issue was highlighted in an earlier publication titled: “Family Demands Justice as FGM Practitioner Evades Charges Due to Language Error in Medical Report”.

Equality Now and its Sierra Leone partners are working on a legal appeal of the case. The organization is calling for perpetrators to be held to account and for the Government of SL to criminalize FGM.

Police in Sierra Leone are investigating the deaths of three girls who underwent female genital mutilation (FGM).

FGM involves the partial or total removal of the external female genitalia, and is considered a violation of women’s and girls’ human rights. In 2012 the UN passed a resolution to ban it, but it is still practiced in about 30 countries.

UNICEF will publish new figures on its global prevalence next month, but current estimates show at least 200 million women and girls have been subjected to FGM.

Despite calls from activists and human rights advocates for the practice to be criminalized – including from the UN Special Rapporteur on Violence against Women and Girls – it remains legal in Sierra Leone. A national survey in 2019 found that 83% of women had undergone FGM, a slight drop from 90% in 2013.

The procedure is part of a traditional initiation ritual that marks a girl’s entry into womanhood and it is carried out by Soweis, senior members of the all-women Bondo Secret Societies.

Rugiatu Neneh Turay, the Chairperson of the Forum Against Harmful Practices (FAHP), an organization working to end FGM in Sierra Leone, said the girls’ parents and those who cut them were in police custody.

FAHP is lobbying for a law that would criminalize FGM, and is working to promote alternative rite-of-passage ceremonies that forgo the practice. Last year, the organization piloted FGM-free initiation ceremonies in three districts, and it hopes to extend the trial to two more this year. “The results have been very encouraging,” Rugiatu Turay revealed.

“There are many positive aspects of the Bondo Society,” she said. “They teach girls about medicinal properties of plants and pass down the history of our culture. Our slogan is, ‘Say yes to Bondo, no to cutting.’”

Research has found that the most effective FGM-free ceremonies are still those facilitated by the Soweis.

“When we meet with Soweis they often say that FGM is an important source of income for them,” Aminata Koroma said. “Families can spend between $300 and $400 on the whole ceremony, which lasts three weeks. We have to be able to replace it with something else.”

She added, “People’s minds about FGM are changing but it is a gradual change. I don’t think I will see FGM completely eradicated in my lifetime, but I am very optimistic about the new generation. They will be the ones to end it.”

Divya Srinivasan, who leads on ending harmful practices at the NGO Equality Now, said: “It is completely unacceptable that despite women and girls continuing to die from FGM in Sierra Leone, there remains complete apathy from the Government and an unwillingness to take desperately needed action to prevent these deaths or prohibit the practice.

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