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NP-SL Earns High Praise from Customers Nationwide

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

With the main objective of gauging and assessing the perceptions of customers of NP-Sierra Leone Ltd. (NP-SL Ltd.), it was decided by the Editorial Team of this news medium to undertake a survey. Some of our ace reporters were assigned to various Filling Stations in Freetown and other main cities in the provinces to capture customers’ perceptions about the operations of the petroleum importing and marketing entity. What vividly came out of this significant undertaking was an impressive unanimous public endorsement that indeed, NP-SL Ltd truly deserves the accolade of 1st for Customer Care.

According to our active, who were on the ground interacting with customers from different backgrounds, a greater percentage of them said they profoundly appreciate the quality of petroleum products that the company imports and markets. They attested that they are of high quality, very good for engines of all types as well as copiously praising the lubricating oil that the entity offers with most of them speaking loftily of the Castrol Engine Oil which they maintained is one of the best.

Most of the commercial drivers , taxi, poda-poda drivers, Kekeh and bike riders informed of the satisfaction they get from purchasing fuel at various NP Filling Stations. The reason, which ran through, borders on transparency in the discharge or pumping of fuel into their engines saying they are very sure that they get the exact quantity of fuel that they pay for at Filling Stations. They mentioned the confidence reposed in the calibrated pumping machines emphasizing that what they see being displayed, in terms of quantity supplied and prize always tally. “We are not in the least bothered that any form of fraudulent cheating is taking place,” most of them expressed assurance.

When those who are using the NP Smart Card to procure fuel were asked on how they are experiencing the use of the technology, they responded positively by saying that it gives them great satisfaction in doing so. They excitedly pointed out that with the NP Smart Card it has eased them the burden of always accessing monies for the purpose of fuel purchase. These customers further elucidated that in as much as they have deliberated topped-up their NP Smart Cards they know for sure how long it will last them after which they will have to top-up again. To them it makes for appropriate budgetary planning while maintain that it also enhance safety as it promotes cashless transactions with the securitized cards that cannot be used by any other person other than the rightful owner.

As our reporters continue to interact with the customers, they came across those who went to either secure gas or those that went to do refill for their NP Gas gadgets. By the way, NP Gas is a cooking device that is manufactured in various cylinder sizes by the company and primarily used for cooking purposes. According to these customers or users of NP Gas, the gadget is not only environmentally friendly but emits less dangerous gases, is quick in terms of performance and could be easily refilled.

When asked,they denied of knowing any incidence when the gadget has caused any alarming fire incidence stressing that as long as it is used prudently then there is nothing absolutely to worry about.

Most, when asked to comment on the company’s policy of promoting local content by employing Sierra Leoneans as employees as well as contracting local entities to implement certain sub-projects for the entity, stated sincerely that it in tandem with enhancing overall national development. They expressed the view that the policy which runs through in all the company’s operational countries, including Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast and The Gambia leads to empowering the citizenry and fostering economic growth. “As long as they can deliver there is no need to contract foreigners who will eventually take whatever emolument received out of the country,” one of them succinctly opined.

Briefing them about the rolling out of some of the Corporate Social Responsibility of the company including its contributions to the setting up of a Burns Unit at Connaught Hospital, financial contributions to combat health emergencies, providing water points for the National Fire Force, supporting Muslims during the Month of Ramadan, they commended the company saying such is really complementing the efforts of the Government in its drive to enhance development and cater for the needs of the citizenry.

They also praised NP-SL Ltd for its timely honouring of its tax obligations saying by doing so it is aiding the Government to mobilize revenue for the funding of various development programmes countrywide.

In terms of how the personnel at the various Filling Stations are handling them, they praised some of the Station Managers and Pump Attendants for their polite demeanor as well as in attending to them with rapt attention. Although they complained about certain shortcomings, however, some attested that such is inevitable since it is natural for humans to err.

With the outcome of the survey, what became paramount was that NP-SL Ltd. stands tall as a customer-centric company that is offering the best in terms of petroleum products and services. It is therefore not surprising that the company is proudly known as the first for customer care.

NCRA Outlines the Importance of Citizens Securing the National Biometric ID Card

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) is urging all citizens to secure the National Biometric ID Cards that the entity started issuing last year. This call, on the part of the institution, comes against the backdrop that even the ID Cards can be obtained at a minimal cost at designed centres to suit the comfort of the citizenry, it has become noticeable that most are refraining from doing so.

NCRA wants all and sundry to know that holding the National Biometric ID Card is a statutory obligation which all must try to fully as it will portray that an individual is a patriotic citizen.

Besides, the Identity Card issuance establishment wants it to make it categorically clear that securing the Biometric National ID Card will enhance a citizen’s security status providing guarantee that he or she is a bonafide citizen of Sierra Leone and should be privileged to certain facilities and opportunities.

In addition to that accessing certain national services and others could be contingent on owning a National ID Card. The opening of accounts at various commercial banks , accessing monies in accounts etc could be made possible and easy if one possesses an ID Card.

There is no way it could be swept under the carpet or in downplaying the fact that owning a National Biometric ID Card is a vital requirement which every citizen must fulfill. Owning one shows one’s identity as a citizen of Sierra Leone thereby helping to easily dispel doubts in questionable times. It saves one going through any identity check hassle at checkpoints during tense moments.

Besides, securing the National Biometric ID Card will save holders from the hassle and embarrassment of opening bank accounts, withdrawing monies from bank accounts and even at Foreign Bureaus, as it is an acceptable document in achieving or accessing those services.

Against such a backdrop, the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) is urging all citizens and residents in the country to secure their Biometric National ID cards which were introduced early last year.

The NCRA has reiterated that the campaign for the securing of the ID Cards is intended to enhancing holders’ personal security and as well enable them to easily have access to Government and private sector services. The ID-issuing authority says the cards will not only streamline the way individuals access public services, they will also contribute to the security architecture which the West African country is trying to build.

According to the NCRA, all citizens who have attained the age of 12 are eligible to secure Biometric ID Cards and can visit any of its nearest branches in various districts for an application. Emphasizing the importance of citizens acting as patriots in securing the ID Cards, NCRA hopes to see an increase in the number of registrants in the course of 2024.

It must be noted that the card contains an embedded chip which carries the biometric information of the holder, to enable easy ID authentication. It also has an 11-digit National Identification Number (NIN) which acts as a unique identifier linked to the personal details of the card holder in the national population registry. Officials say the NIN will henceforth be a requirement for students of the primary education sector preparing to take pubic examinations.

As part of the use cases, the NCRA has also directed that from this year, the biometric ID card will be required at all of the country’s checkpoints for those travelling around the country.

Significantly, NCRA’s transformative initiative aligns with the Government’s commitment to fostering a safer, more efficient and accessible environment for all citizens.

Designated centers and six specific offices have also been opened throughout the country, and 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.

In a bid to enhance accessibility, the NCRA has introduced corporate services tailored for organizations and institutions. For comprehensive information on these corporate services, interested parties can contact the following numbers: +232-33-433-333 / +232-30-500-000 / +232-60-000 / +232-78-221-812 or via EMAIL: idverification@ncra.gov.

Cognizance must be taken that it is a civil responsibility which citizens must fulfill.

DWANSL Concludes Three-Day Training for Hearing-Impaired Men and Women on SRH, GBV, and Human Trafficking

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The Deaf Women Advocacy Network Sierra Leone (DWAN-SL), with support from Plan International, through its She Leads Project, has successfully concluded a transformative Three-Day Training Workshop aimed at empowering hearing-impaired young men and women in the country. The event, held from January 17th to 19th, 2024, at the PLAN International Country Office Hall in Freetown, focused on critical issues such as Sexual Reproductive Health (SRH), Gender-Based Violence (GBV), Human Trafficking and Providing Referral Pathways and Call to Action for young hearing-impaired men and women.

DWAN-SL, established in September 2020 by three passionate Deaf and Hard of Hearing Young Women, has been committed to advocating for equality, human rights and empowerment among Deaf and Hard of Hearing Women and Girls in Sierra Leone. The organization addresses a spectrum of issues, including leadership, gender-based violence, self-awareness, healthcare, economic empowerment, early deaf girl-child marriage, teenage pregnancy and education.

Musu Kenyeh Golley, Executive Director of DWAN-SL, expressed heartfelt appreciation for the support from Plan International through its She Leads Project, highlighting the significance of addressing the challenges faced by Deaf and Hard of Hearing Women and Girls in Sierra Leone. She emphasized that the workshop played a crucial role in empowering the hearing-impaired community with essential information and resources.

Throughout the training, participants engaged in sessions that delved into the complexities of Sexual Reproductive Health, combating Gender-Based Violence and understanding the nuances of Human Trafficking. The Providing Referral Pathways and Call to Action initiatives were designed to equip young hearing-impaired men and women with the knowledge and skills to navigate these challenges effectively.

Golley underscored the profound difficulties faced by hearing-impaired women and girls, including discrimination, sexual harassment, and limited access to justice. She emphasized the urgent need for collaboration with other institutions to address the unique challenges faced by the hearing-impaired community in Sierra Leone.

Adama Finda Borway, the Global Representative for the She Leads Project in Sierra Leone, emphasized that various organizations have united to challenge negative social norms that limit the participation of women and girls in decision-making processes.

The She Leads Project receives support from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the Netherlands, she revealed while explaining that after its establishment, the project identified countries that would benefit from its implementation, furthering that currently, the project is active in 9 countries, including Liberia, Sierra Leone, Ghana, Uganda, Ethiopia, Kenya, Lebanon, Jordan, etc.

In Sierra Leone, the project has consortium partners, including Plan International, Defence for Children, and Women’s Forum Sierra Leone. Each consortium partner operates independently with its own organizations to achieve the aims and objectives of the project. Borway noted that Plan International is actively collaborating with 10 young women’s organizations, including the Deaf Women Advocacy Network Sierra Leone.

Borway disclosed that the training organized by the Deaf Women Advocacy Network Sierra Leone aims to gather perspectives from persons with disabilities, especially the hearing-impaired.

She clarified that the project is a five-year initiative scheduled to conclude in 2025. However, through their support to local organizations, they aim to enhance the continuation of the project in Sierra Leone.

Babyluvivian F. Caram, the Social Services Officer at the Ministry of Social Welfare, commended DWAN-SL and Plan International for organizing the workshop. She acknowledged the Ministry’s collaboration with different disability organizations, including DWAN-SL, to address the challenges faced by persons with disabilities, particularly the hearing-impaired.

She assured the hearing-impaired community that their challenges would be discussed with the Ministry’s management for appropriate action.

Fatima Kamara, the Communication Officer at Women’s Forum Sierra Leone, lauded DWAN-SL for the inclusive workshop, which covered SRH, GBV, Human Trafficking, and Sign American Sign Language basics. Kamara, representing the umbrella organization for women in Sierra Leone, pledged support for addressing the challenges faced by the hearing-impaired community.

She commended the Deaf Women Advocacy Network Sierra Leone for the three-day Workshop focused on enhancing Sexual Reproductive Health, combating Gender-Based Violence, Human Trafficking, and providing Referral Pathways and Call to Action, which also includes American Sign Language basics. She shared that throughout the training, she learned a great deal, particularly the basics of American Sign Language, enabling her to communicate with the hearing-impaired.

As a culmination of the training workshop, James Amara Jusu, the Communications Officer of DWAN-SL, officially launched the organization’s website (www.dwansl.org) and its Facebook page (Deaf Women Advocacy Network-Dwansl). The website will serve as a valuable resource for the hearing-impaired community, providing information on their well-being and related issues.

The Three-Day Training Workshop featured sign language interpretation by Pharm Susan E. M. S Martyn, One of the Pharmacists at the Kingharman Maternal and Child Health Hospital and Elizabeth Bundu, Project Manager Defence for Children Bo Branch, ensuring the full engagement of all participants.

With tailored content, interactive sessions, and a focus on empowerment and self-advocacy, the program successfully equipped young hearing-impaired men and women with essential knowledge and skills in SRH, GBV, and Human Trafficking. The event concluded with a focus group discussion allowing participants to reflect on and discuss what they learned during the training.

Baptist Convention Launches 50th Anniversary Celebrations, Awaits Golden Jubilee in April

By Erica Ruth Bangura

In a vibrant kick-off to their 50th-anniversary festivities, the Baptist Convention of Sierra Leone (BCSL) has officially launched a series of events leading up to their Golden Jubilee in April. The ceremonial launch, held on December 30th, 2023, was a jubilant beginning to what promises to be a memorable celebration.

With a mix of nostalgia and enthusiasm, the Baptist Convention of Sierra Leone initiated the countdown to its 50th-anniversary Golden Jubilee. The event, graced by the Executive President of the Baptist Convention and other high-profile personalities, marked the official start of what is anticipated to be a significant milestone in the Convention’s history.

Rev. Dr. Joseph Samuel Fornah, the Executive President of BCSL, set the tone by expressing his conviction that the Convention’s journey, set to reach its half-century milestone in April, was divinely orchestrated. Even before the formal celebrations commence, he emphasized the deep satisfaction derived from the Convention’s profound impact on countless lives.

The launch resonated with heartfelt testimonies, offering a glimpse into the transformative power of the Baptist Convention. Testifiers, particularly from Mambolo, shared stories of humble beginnings transcended by the Convention’s unwavering support, foreshadowing a series of narratives that will unfold throughout the anniversary celebrations.

A compelling call to action echoed through the testimonies, urging members to contribute willingly to the Convention’s upcoming festivities. A testifier recalled receiving a letter requesting his presence, highlighting his steadfast commitment to giving back willingly in acknowledgment of the Convention’s instrumental role in shaping his life.

The launch also featured a powerful narrative from a beneficiary of Baptist education, Madam Grace Kargbo, who shared her journey from academic success to community impact. Her story exemplified the Convention’s dedication to nurturing leaders who contribute positively to Sierra Leonean society.

The President emphasized divine intervention throughout the Convention’s 50-year history and announced the relocation of the BCSL office to Lunsar in anticipation of the Golden Jubilee. This move, despite challenges from past conflicts, symbolizes the Convention’s resilience and unwavering commitment to its mission.

Highlighting upcoming milestones, the President showcased ongoing construction projects, including a multi-purpose building set for completion before the Golden Jubilee. The Golden Jubilee House, a personal project undertaken by the President and his family, symbolizes gratitude to God for 50 years of blessings.

Various Baptist congregations pledged their commitment through building projects, showing appreciation for all the Lord has done in their different congregations. Several churches are putting up these structures in honor of their past Senior Reverends who have labored and toiled in God’s vineyard. Emmanuel Baptist Kingtom building is in honor of the late Rev. Dr. Sylvanus O. Valcarcel, Wilberforce Baptist in honor of Rev. Sam Sesay, Loko Baptist in honor of the late Rev K.S Kamara, Bethany Baptist, and Regent Road Baptist in honor of Rev. Tani B. Johnson for being the longest-serving pastor in the mission’s oldest church.

These collective efforts underscore the Convention’s unity and dedication to furthering its mission.

Gento Group of Companies Refutes Allegations of Double Payment in the 2022 Audit Report

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In the wake of the 2022 Audit Report released by the Audit Service Sierra Leone (ASSL), the Gento Group of Companies, led by CEO Mohamed Gento Kamara, vehemently denies accusations of receiving double payment for the Waterloo Township Roads Contract.

The audit report, which raised concerns over the handling of funds in the $42,782,727 contract with the Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA), alleges that the Gento Group received an additional payment of $5,439,499.26 from the Road Maintenance Fund Administration (RMFA) in 2018. This payment, made under an Interim Payment Certificate (IPC 1A), triggered suspicions of double payment, as the RMFA had reportedly already settled the payment for IPC 1 in 2016.

The report also highlights claims for loss and damages amounting to $13,524,419.34 (IPC 5), citing a lack of supporting documentation for the project’s suspension. The Gento Group refutes these claims, asserting that the IPCs in question were legitimate claims for delay payment interest and the suspension of works, in accordance with the contract agreement.

In an exclusive interview, CEO Mohamed Gento Kamara dismissed the allegations as “totally erroneous and misleading.” He clarified that the company submitted legitimate Interim Payment Certificates (IPC No.1A to IPC No.8) totaling USD$27,248,918.07 for work completed. Gento emphasized that the delay payment interest and the claim for the suspension of works should not be deducted from the overall contract sum but considered as contractual claims pursuant to specific clauses in the agreement.

Furthermore, Gento asserted that Clause 70.1, relating to an increase in materials and labor (Price Adjustment), was never invoked during the contract’s implementation. He highlighted the challenges faced by the company, such as high inflation rates and escalating material costs, while still executing the project within the original contractual sum.

Regarding the project’s suspension, Gento clarified that the Ministry of Finance, in a meeting in 2018, verbally communicated the suspension of road works for a forensic audit. The company was not issued a written notice of suspension, and Gento emphasized that the contract did not stipulate such a requirement.

Expressing disappointment in the audit process, Gento disclosed that his company was never contacted by Audit Service Sierra Leone (ASSL) and Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA) for clarifications or given an opportunity to comment before the report’s compilation. He questioned the procedures applied and the conclusions reached, maintaining that at no point in time did the Gento Group receive double payment during the Waterloo Township Roads Project’s implementation.

The CEO underscored the company’s commitment to transparency and cooperation while expressing concern about the impact of the allegations on their reputation and ongoing projects.

Financial Secretary Clears Netpage of No Royalty Payment Obligation to Government

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

A spokesperson for the Ministry of Finance has made it abundantly clear that on the 29th May, 2023 the Financial Secretary within the Ministry, Matthew Dingie, intimated the Managing Director of Netpage Sierra Leone Limited, the company responsible for producing e-passports, that they are “not obligated to make any royalty payments to the Government based on the agreed sale price of e-passports.” He further pointed out how auditors have also stated that the issue has been clarified based on the letter from the Financial Secretary dated 29th May, 2023.

That statement follows a recent revelation by the Audit Service Sierra Leone which was posted on their website last week indicating that Netpage Sierra Leone Limited owes an outstanding amount of US$429,627 in unpaid royalties to the Government of Sierra Leone.

Responding promptly to the allegations, Netpage Sierra Leone Limited penned a letter to the Acting Auditor General of Audit Service Sierra Leone, seeking clarification on the matter of the purported ‘unpaid royalties’ to the Government.

While confirming the legitimacy of the letter dated 29th May, 2023, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Finance declined to provide further details.

However, Auditors involved in the case contend that the issue has been effectively addressed and clarified, relying on the contents of the letter from the Financial Secretary.

Nonetheless, this apparent contradiction between the Financial Secretary’s statement and the earlier reports of unpaid royalties has left stakeholders awaiting additional developments in this ongoing financial dispute.

With the revelation made by the spokesperson it is expected that such will lay to rest certain media castigations against Netpage bordering on not only exposing financial impropriety but the ferocious call on the entity to honour its obligation.

Attorney General Provides Detailed Update on Charges Against 27 Military Personnel, 13 Civilians  

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a joint press conference held at the Guma Building on Friday, January 19, 2024, the Office of the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, in collaboration with the Ministry of Information and Civic Education, provided the public with essential updates on the ongoing trials related to the failed coup attempt that took place on November 26th, 2023.

Honourable Chernor Bah, the Minister of Information and Civic Education, opened the conference by emphasizing the commitment to a fair trial process guided by the rule of law, emphasizing that the Government’s objective is not to witch-hunt individuals.

He underscored the Government’s dedication to upholding the principles of the rule of law and ensuring that justice is served through evidence-based proceedings. Minister Bah also highlighted the Ministry’s campaign, “Salone Above All,” aligning with President Bio’s call for unity and the breaking down of walls to foster peace.

Attorney General ,Mohamed Lamin Tarawalley, provided a comprehensive overview of the ongoing trials and addressed the recent decision of the High Court concerning the trial of Former President Koroma.

According to Tarawalley, the charges in connection with the November 26th incident include 27 serving military personnel and 13 civilians, facing various offenses such as treason, murder, misprision of treason, and harboring. The military personnel are confronted with 88 counts, while civilians face 20 counts.

The Attorney General explicitly mentioned that among the civilians charged is the former President, facing 4 counts of treason, 1 count of misprision of treason, and 2 counts of harboring. He clarified that these charges were not motivated by malice but were based on substantial evidence gathered through police investigations and statements.

Regarding Former President Koroma’s medical leave, Tarawalley explained that despite the Government’s opposition to granting bail for medical reasons, they respected the Court’s decision in adherence to the principles of the rule of law. He reiterated the Government’s confidence in possessing sufficient evidence to ensure justice for the events of November 26th, 2023.

The matter concerning Former President Koroma was adjourned to March 6th, 2024.

It a further development, former President Ernest Bai Koroma left Sierra Leone on a Nigerian Air Force flight bound for Abuja, Nigeria, on Friday 19th January, 2024 in the afternoon hours from the Freetown International Airport, Lungi. The former President, charged in connection with the failed coup attempt, was permitted to travel for specialized medical reasons as a humanitarian gesture, according to President Bio.

Former President Koroma was accompanied from his residence to the Water Taxi to Lungi by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Timothy Kabba, Chief of Defense Staff, Lieutenant General Peter Lavahun, Inspector General of Police, William Fayia Sellu, and his Lead Attorney, Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara.

Worthy of note is that Nigeria offered to host Former President Koroma in Abuja as part of the agreement for his temporary relocation proposed by ECOWAS to President Bio.

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has so far expressed its profound gratitude to the authorities of Sierra Leone for granting permission to former President Ernest Bai Koroma to travel out of Sierra Leone on medical and health grounds.

“ECOWAS commends the humanitarian gesture that stands to serve the greater interest of Sierra Leone and the ECOWAS region,” they said in a communiqué released on Saturday, 20th January, 2024.

They renewed their commitment to supporting the Government and the people of Sierra Leone in their efforts to foster peace and security as well as to deepen democracy and good governance.

President Bio in his address to the nation on Thursday, 18th January, 2024 said the former President who was charged for his alleged involvement in the 26th November failed attempted coup was allowed to travel out of the country on an humanitarian gesture for specialized medical reasons.

Lansana Kpewolo Kanneh Appointed Substantive Deputy Statistician General

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a significant development at Statistic Sierra Leone (Stats SL), Lansana Kpewolo Kanneh has been appointed as the substantive Deputy Statistician General, following the successful completion of a meticulous recruitment process. The announcement was made on Friday, January 19, 2024, at the temporary headquarters of Stats SL, Kona Lodge, King Street, Freetown.

Mr. Kanneh, who has been serving as the Acting Deputy Statistician General since May 2023, emerged as the top candidate after impressing the Stats SL Council during the rigorous recruitment process. With over 13 years of dedicated service to Stats SL, Mr. Kanneh is set to fill the vacancy left by the current Statistician General and CEO, which had been unoccupied since April 1, 2023.

Prior to his role as the Acting Deputy Statistician General, Mr. Kanneh served as the Director of Finance and Support Services for eight years, overseeing finance, administration, human resources, and procurement. Holding qualifications including FCCA, M.Sc., MBA, and BSc, Mr. Kanneh brings a wealth of experience in multi-donor funded project planning, implementation, and fiduciary management processes.

His expertise extends to the management and execution of censuses, surveys, administrative data collection, analysis, report writing, and data dissemination. Proficient in the use of data management and analysis tools such as SQL, SPSS, Python, and R, Mr. Kanneh is well-equipped to contribute to Stats SL’s continued success.

In a separate development, on Tuesday, January 16, 2024, Stats SL engaged representatives from the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) to discuss the Comprehensive Health and Epidemiological Surveillance System (CHESS) research implementation plans. The meeting aimed to update NCRA representatives on the progress made by the CHESS Technical Committee and inform them of Stats SL’s readiness to conduct a successful research project.

During the engagement, the Statistician General & CEO of Stats SL, Andrew Bob Johnny, expressed satisfaction with the longstanding collaborative relationship between Stats SL and NCRA. The Deputy Director General of NCRA, Brima Kamara, commended Stats SL for their efforts and highlighted the importance of the CHESS research project in enhancing their database for national registration processes. Acting Deputy Statistician General Lansana Kpewolo Kanneh welcomed the NCRA team and expressed the desire to build a lasting working relationship beyond the CHESS research project.

CHESS represents a new era of population surveillance operations, aiming to deliver high-quality data for disease-specific and pathogen-specific morbidity, along with data on overall and cause-specific mortality. The collaborative efforts between Stats SL and NCRA are poised to contribute significantly to the success of this groundbreaking research initiative.

Communications Minister Applauds Africell’s Women Empowerment Initiatives

In a commendation that resonated with praise, the Minister of Communication, Madam Salima Mornorna Bah, lauded Africell’s exemplary commitment to advancing gender equality within its corporate structure. The acknowledgment was made during the minister’s address at Africell’s 2024 annual retreat, where the telecommunication giant’s dedication to fostering women’s empowerment took center stage.

Africell Sierra Leone has distinguished itself as a pioneer in the corporate arena by not only endorsing but actively implementing the Women’s Empowerment Principles (WEPs). This landmark commitment sets a precedent for other companies in the country, positioning Africell as a trailblazer in the drive towards a more inclusive and gender-equitable workplace.

During her address, the Minister commended Africell’s role in shattering the glass ceiling and creating avenues for women to ascend to leadership positions. She underscored the pivotal contribution of women to innovation, creativity, and sustainable development within the corporate sector.

“I applaud Africell Sierra Leone for its unwavering commitment to promoting gender diversity in its leadership ranks. By actively domesticating the Women’s Empowerment Principles, Africell is not only talking the talk but walking the walk in creating a workplace that truly values and leverages the unique contributions of both men and women,” remarked the Minister.

The Women’s Empowerment Principles, developed by UN Women and the United Nations Global Compact, provide a framework for businesses to champion gender equality and empower women across the workplace, marketplace, and community. Africell’s adoption of these principles signifies a proactive step towards building a more inclusive working environment and contributing to broader societal goals of advancing gender equality.


At the annual retreat, Africell Sierra Leone showcased a range of initiatives aimed at empowering women, including mentorship programs, leadership development opportunities, and policies supporting work-life balance. The company’s leadership emphasized the importance of diversity and inclusion as integral components of its corporate culture and future success.

Encouraging other companies to follow Africell’s lead, the Minister concluded her address by highlighting the transformative impact that businesses can have on society when actively embracing and implementing principles that empower and uplift women. Africell Sierra Leone’s dedication to gender equality stands as a beacon of hope and a testament to the strides possible in creating a more equitable future in the corporate world, making it the sole frontrunner in this transformative journey.

President Bio Urges Citizens To Build Bridges, Not Walls

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a nationally televised address on Thursday, January 18, 2024, President Julius Maada Bio of the Republic of Sierra Leone shared a message of hope and optimism, echoing the sentiments expressed in his New Year’s Message. The President highlighted the significant achievements in the first two weeks of the year, including assuming the UN Security Council seat and the re-selection for the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Compact, reinforcing Sierra Leone’s standing on the global stage.

President Bio underlined the importance of unity, freedom, and justice, emphasizing that only through unity can the nation achieve a peaceful and prosperous future. He acknowledged the challenges faced by the country and reiterated the government’s commitment to promoting peaceful coexistence.

In recent days, the President engaged with key stakeholders, including Paramount Chiefs, the Inter-Religious Council, opposition leaders, and families of security officers lost during the November 26th failed coup. These meetings aimed to reinforce the government’s dedication to peace and security.

President Bio clarified that unity does not imply uniformity but involves acknowledging and celebrating differences while embracing shared values. The government continues to prioritize dialogue and understanding, as evident in the sustained implementation of mediated dialogue elements, including the establishment of the tripartite electoral review committee and the inter-party dialogue.

Despite efforts to promote peace, the President warned against unpatriotic elements disrupting the peace and tranquility of the country, affirming that the rule of law would prevail. He highlighted the recent trial of former President Ernest Bai Koroma, emphasizing that the judiciary’s decision to grant his temporary departure for medical reasons does not diminish the trial’s seriousness.

Commending the professionalism of the police and judiciary in handling the trial, President Bio assured Sierra Leoneans that the government would uncover the truth behind the events of November 26, 2023, and bring those involved to justice.

On economic matters, President Bio emphasized efforts to stabilize the economy and attract foreign direct investments. He stressed the importance of a peaceful and secure environment for economic growth, calling for investments in building peace and unity.

Acknowledging Sierra Leone’s diverse cultures and traditions, President Bio viewed this diversity as a source of strength. He urged the nation to see national pride as a driving force for collective efforts in overcoming challenges and achieving greatness.

Concluding his address, President Bio called for building bridges, not walls, celebrating differences, and finding strength in shared aspirations. He expressed confidence that together, Sierra Leoneans could forge a path towards a brighter and more prosperous nation. The President concluded with a rallying cry: “Long live the Republic of Sierra Leone, and God bless you all.”

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