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Labour Minister Engages Chief Justice on Addressing Backlogs in Industrial Court

Minister of Employment, Labour, and Social Security, Mohamed Rahman Swaray, on Thursday January 18, 2024, in a bid to address the persistent challenges faced by the Industrial Court engaged the Chief Justice, Nicholas Browne Marke and High Court Judges on January 18, 2024.

Accompanied by the Ministry’s senior staff, including the Permanent Secretary, Fatmata Mustapha, Minister Swaray acknowledged the commendable efforts of the Judiciary in resolving labor disputes over the years. However, he highlighted pressing issues hindering the seamless administration of justice in the Industrial Court.

The establishment of the Industrial Court, mandated by Part 3 Section 34 of the Regulations of Wages and Industrial Relation Act number 18 of 1971, is designed to handle unresolved disputes related to labor and employment.

Minister Swaray expressed gratitude for the Chief Justice’s time and acknowledged the Judiciary’s dedication. However, he voiced concerns about delays caused by numerous adjournments, leading to unrest in workplaces. He called on the Judiciary to expedite proceedings to foster harmony in the labor industry.

Among the challenges outlined by Minister Swaray were non-appearance by the opposing party, the absence of assessors as stipulated in Section 33 Subsection 3 of the Regulation of Wages and Industrial Relation Act No. 18 of 1971, lack of paralegal training for labor officers, absence of a proper schedule for industrial matters, delayed judgments, and a prolonged process to deliver judgment copies by the Court Clerk.

President Bio’s vision for an environment where workers and employers can easily access justice was emphasized by Minister Swaray. He appealed to Chief Justice, Nicholas Browne Marke, to ensure the removal of bottlenecks causing delays in the Industrial Court’s dispensation of justice.

In response, Chief Justice Nicholas Browne Marke commended the Ministry for their cooperation and commitment to justice. He assured the Minister that the Judiciary is diligently working to address the challenges faced by the Industrial Court, emphasizing the need for continued collaboration and engagement.


As a solution to streamline the process, Minister Swaray disclosed plans to appoint a Legal Adviser within the Ministry to scrutinize all labor dispute matters before they reach the court. Additionally, he proposed training sessions on Labour Laws for Judges and Ministry Staff to enhance their understanding of the legal intricacies surrounding labor disputes.

The collaborative efforts between the Ministry of Employment, Labour, and Social Security, and the Judiciary are anticipated to bring about positive changes in the resolution of labor disputes and contribute to a more harmonious working environment for both employees and employers.

Korean Ambassador Bids Farewell to President Bio, Envisions Ongoing Bilateral Success

The Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Sierra Leone, His Excellency KIM Young Chae, bid a cordial farewell to His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio at State House, Freetown, on Thursday January 18, 2024, expressing optimism for further bilateral achievements and cooperation between the two nations.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Timothy Musa Kabba, outlined the purpose of the occasion and introduced Ambassador KIM Young Chae to President Bio. He highlighted the transformative journey that had evolved into a substantial and meaningful relationship over the past few years.

Minister Kabba commended Ambassador KIM for his instrumental role in advancing bilateral relations, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, education, and the establishment of Sierra Leone’s Foreign Service Academy.

In response, Ambassador KIM expressed gratitude to President Bio for the opportunity to bid farewell and for the personal support and encouragement extended towards enhancing relations between the Republic of Korea and Sierra Leone.

The Ambassador underscored the considerable progress achieved during his tenure, emphasizing milestones such as the recent celebration of the 60-year friendship between the two nations and the appointment of a consul. Ambassador KIM also reminded President Bio of their joint accomplishments, including plans to open the Korean Embassy in Freetown and significant investments in the agriculture sector, encompassing farmer training and the introduction of a new seed variety.

President Bio conveyed his appreciation to the outgoing Ambassador for his dedicated service and highlighted the positive collaboration between them. Acknowledging the significant strides made during Ambassador KIM’s term, President Bio, on behalf of the government and people of Sierra Leone, expressed gratitude for the efforts made to strengthen the bilateral relationship.

President Bio emphasized the accomplishments of the Republic of Korea as a great nation and noted the satisfaction in forging and expanding the connection under his leadership. He assured Ambassador KIM of a warm welcome whenever he chooses to return to Sierra Leone and wished him success in his future endeavors.

As the Republic of Korea bids farewell to Ambassador KIM Young Chae, both nations remain hopeful for sustained collaboration and the continued growth of their bilateral ties.

Former President Koroma To Depart for Medical Treatment in Nigeria

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a significant development, the High Court of Sierra Leone has modified the bail conditions for former President Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma, allowing him to travel outside the country to seek medical attention. The decision, handed down on Wednesday, January 17, 2024, comes after a formal application by Koroma’s lawyer, Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara, supported by a medical report (SB 001) and an affidavit sworn by Saidu Bangura on January 12, 2024.

Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara, Lead Counsel for Koroma, expressed apologies to the court for his client’s absence, attributing it to health reasons. The court, presided over by Justice S.O. Taylor, considered the medical report and granted the former President permission to travel to the Federal Republic of Nigeria for medical treatment.

The court order stipulates that the Accused/Applicant, Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma, remains released on bail, with the modification allowing him to be in Nigeria for a maximum period of three months from the date of the order.

During his stay abroad, his sureties are required to provide regular medical updates, signed and duly authorized by a specialist doctor, addressing the former President’s medical condition. These updates are to be sent to the Master and Registrar of the High Court while he is outside the jurisdiction.

The court emphasized that the Accused/Applicant must continue to adhere to the other terms of the previously granted bail conditions. The case has been adjourned to March 6, 2024.

The decision to grant travel permission comes amid speculation about a deal between the Government of Sierra Leone and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to facilitate the former president’s relocation to Nigeria. The ECOWAS Commission President, Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, visited Sierra Leone for the second time since the failed coup attempt in November. However, no official statement has been made regarding any such agreement.

Former President Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma, who served as President for 11 years until 2018, faces charges of treason and other offenses. The attempted coup occurred five months after a disputed election that saw the current President, Julius Maada Bio, re-elected for a second term. Koroma’s daughter, Dankay Koroma, has been named as a suspect in the investigation but has not issued any comments on the matter.

NP-SL Promises Continued Provision of Excellent Products & Services in 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In the face of persistent challenges, NP -Sierra Leone Limited (NP-SL Ltd) remains a stalwart business entity, dedicated to providing high-quality petroleum products throughout the country in the New Year, 2024. From a comprehensive range of fuels, including petrol and diesel, to lubricants suitable for all engine types, the petroleum marketing giant is geared to deliver unparalleled service.

In order, to broaden the accessibility of these products, NP-SL Ltd welcomes serious private investors to establish new Filling Stations, offering guidance to ensure a seamless realization of their investments.

As part of its operational strategy, the indigenous company plans to enhance its Customer Care services in the coming year. Prioritizing customer interests, NP-SL Ltd’s Management is unwavering in their commitment to providing optimal satisfaction. Employing cutting-edge technology, the company aims to address customer needs efficiently, ensuring value for money. The calibrated pumping machines at NP-SL’s Filling Stations will undergo regular maintenance and improvements, instilling confidence in customers regarding accurate fuel quantities.

As a major importer of petroleum products, NP-SL Ltd pledges to utilize its international connections to facilitate the smooth flow, timely storage, and widespread distribution of petroleum products. The company remains dedicated to preventing shortages that could disrupt the nation’s economy.

Staff training programs will continue to emphasize polite customer interactions and Filling Station maintenance, with recognition and rewards for outstanding performances by Station Managers and Pump Attendants.

The NP Smart Card will persist as a prominent feature in business transactions, offering customers a convenient and cashless method for fuel purchases, aiding in budgetary planning.

NP Gas, a kitchen essential, will be available at all Filling Stations and authorized dealers, providing secure and high-performance cooking options in various cylinder sizes. The company emphasizes its commitment to environmental standards, ensuring the responsible use of NP Gas.

Demonstrating corporate citizenship, NP-SL Ltd will maintain its Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives, supporting development aspirations and promoting safety awareness, particularly in the Kissy Terminal and surrounding areas. Timely fulfillment of tax obligations underscores the company’s dedication to contributing to Government revenue for developmental projects.

In its commitment to excellence, NP-SL Ltd intends to replicate its successful operational model in neighboring countries, including Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast, and The Gambia.

As NP-SL Ltd steps into 2024, it stands resolute in its position as a petroleum marketing leader, committed to being the foremost choice for Customer Care.

Journalist Slams BBC for Alleged Bias Documentary on Late TB Joshua & SCOAN

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a scathing critique expressed on Wednesday, January 17, 2024, Amin Kef Sesay, a renowned Sierra Leonean journalist and political commentator, has taken aim at the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) for what he perceives as an unprofessional and one-sided documentary. Kef argues that the BBC should have upheld a higher standard of journalism, refraining from releasing a documentary that appears to be both biased and manipulative.

Expressing dissatisfaction, Kef contends that the documentary lacks balance and objectivity, potentially damaging the BBC’s journalistic integrity and raising questions about its credibility and underlying objectives. He calls for accountability, demanding a public apology from the BBC to rectify what he characterizes as a “derogatory” documentary.

The controversy has triggered a broader discussion on media ethics and the responsibility of major news organizations in presenting information fairly and impartially. Critics argue that a failure to uphold these principles erodes public trust and undermines the media’s role in fostering an informed and engaged society.

It must be noted that as the debate intensifies, the British Broadcasting Corporation is facing mounting pressure to address concerns raised not only by Kef but also by others who share his sentiments. The public eagerly awaits the BBC’s response as the organization grapples with the fallout, with potential implications for its reputation as a trusted news source.

In a significant development, earlier on Tuesday, January 9, 2024, the Synagogue Church of All Nations (SCOAN), one of the world’s largest Christian Evangelical Churches, strongly dismissed the BBC documentary about its late Founder, Temitope Balogun Joshua, widely known as TB Joshua. In a statement, SCOAN labeled the documentary as “illogical, irritating, incomprehensible, unfathomable, and satanically dubious,” accusing the BBC of deviating from true journalism for personal gains.

SCOAN’s Public Affairs Director,  Dare Adejumo, questioned the credibility of the BBC, alleging a lack of direct engagement with the church and reliance on disgruntled and manipulated individuals. Adejumo expressed disbelief at the timing of the allegations, suggesting envy as a potential motivator for the sponsors of the documentary.

Allegations of sexual assault, physical abuse, fake miracles, and trauma detailed by at least 25 individuals in the report have sparked controversy and raised questions about the conduct and practices of TB Joshua and SCOAN. While former disciples support the allegations, SCOAN vehemently denies them and criticizes the BBC for what it perceives as a lack of journalistic integrity.

SCOAN argues that the BBC departed from ethical principles and professionalism, turning journalism into a tool for personal gains against a perceived enemy.

As the controversy unfolds, renowned figures, including Nigerian singer Eedris Abdulkareem, have joined the conversation, criticizing the BBC for its documentary and questioning its moral ground. The ongoing debate sheds light on the challenges of maintaining journalistic ethics in an era of media scrutiny and public accountability.

It must be noted that after the Founder of SCOAN, T.B Joshua died on June 5, 2021, Evelyn Joshua, widow of the late man was announced as the new leader of the church.

In conclusion, Amin Kef emphasizes the importance of the BBC to have reached out to SCOAN’s hierarchy in order to capture their views which could have offered them the opportunity to present a more balanced perspective in the documentary and series of others that followed, criticizing the portrayal as skewed and one-sided in a scenario involving many players.

NCRA DG Elaborates On Embedding NIN in Motor Insurance Payment System

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a momentous event at the Orange Money Headquarters, Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi, the Director General of the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA), delivered a concise and impactful address on January 18, 2024, during the launch of the Sierra Leone Insurance Commission’s eKYC Platform. This platform incorporates an Integrated National Identification Verification Number, marking a transformative digital leap for the nation.

Amidst a gathering of esteemed industry leaders and digital visionaries, the Director General highlighted the significance of the occasion as Sierra Leone stands on the brink of a technological renaissance. The collaboration between the Association of Insurance Companies, telecom giants, and the NCRA has given birth to a groundbreaking system redefining the intersection of technology and insurance.

Director General Massaquoi emphasized that the new system is not only about efficiency but seamlessly integrating financial transactions and identity management into the daily lives of the people. He noted that the National Identification Number (NIN) emerges as a decisive answer to the challenges of fragmented identity systems, paving the way for a unified and secure future.

With approximately 90% of the population now possessing a digital identity, Massaquoi envisioned a future where verified identities streamline instant services, marking a key aspiration of President Julius Maada Bio’s government. The NIN, according to him, goes beyond being a sequence of characters; it symbolizes freedom and opens doors to previously unreachable possibilities, driving the nation towards prosperity.

Massaquoi stressed that the integration of the NIN with insurance is a significant step, not only for the insurance and telecom sectors but for the nation’s well-being. The mandatory use of NIN in various services, including financial transactions, insurance, forex, and registration, reflects a legislative commitment made in March 2022.

The Director General outlined the transformative impact of the NIN on insurance, bringing peace of mind to individuals, farmers, market traders, and entrepreneurs. He asserted that linking insurance to the NIN empowers people to take control of their lives, build resilience, and navigate the challenges of life with confidence.

In his address, Massaquoi also highlighted the collaboration between NCRA and the Sierra Leone Insurance Commission (SLICOM), envisioning a digital insurance landscape that benefits both insurers and policyholders. He assured that the platform is highly secure, adhering to international best practices in data protection and privacy.

As the event marked a significant milestone, Director General Massaquoi acknowledged the collective efforts of stakeholders, including insurance companies and telecom operators. He called on all stakeholders, from the Governmental landscape to the private sector, to embrace the capabilities of the NIN and usher in a digital era that ensures the right to identity for every resident.

Massaquoi extended his gratitude to President Julius Maada Bio, whose unwavering support for legal identity has been a critical pillar in the institution’s pursuits. He concluded by encouraging every resident to obtain their ID cards, emphasizing the end of an era of multiple IDs with inconsistent information.

The convergence of the NIN and insurance services, according to Massaquoi, marks a leap towards a future where digital solutions drive prosperity and inclusiveness in Sierra Leone, setting an example for the African continent.

The event concluded with salient contributions from other stakeholders present during the launch.

Orange Money & Partners Launch Motor Insurance Card Payment System

By Millicent Senava Mannah

Orange Money has on 18th January, 2024, in partnership with the Sierra Leone Insurance Association (SLIA), Sierra Leone Insurance Commission (SLICOM), National Civil Registration Authority and others to launch the Motor Insurance Card Payment System. This revolutionary event took place at the company’s Headquarters on Hill Station.

Worthy of note is that the motor insurance card payment system is a digitized means to aid seamless transactions, eliminating the prevailing challenges. It offers an Insurance Cover to motor vehicle, motorcycle, tricycle owners.

The Motor Insurance Card Payment System will enable all vehicle, motorcycle and tricycle owners to now pay for their insurance covers using the Orange Money platform by merely applying and using the code #144*10#.

Chief Executive Officer of Orange Money, David Mansaray, said such is a concrete  step towards achieving financial inclusion and further encouraged all stakeholders including the motor vehicle, motorcycle, tricycle owners to make use of such a big time saving opportunity.

He thanked all their partners and key players for making such possible adding that as a result of this Insurance Cover, people will now sit at their comfort zones of their homes and make their payments for their insurance adding how they can now display their digital insurance stickers in their phones whenever and wherever they go.

The Orange Money Boss furthered that they as a company are committed to make the lives of even the ordinary Sierra Leonean easy and comfortable, and that they will continue to bring in more ground breaking financial inclusion ideas.

The Director General, NCRA, Mohamed Massaquoi, commended Orange money for what he called a ground breaking revolution saying such is one of the key aspirations of President Bio.

Mohamed Massaquoi spoke on the role his institution is playing in providing a unique and secured identification system through the National Identification Number (NIN), which will eliminate all forms of fraud and delays. “By linking insurance with NIN, we are empowering our people to take control of the business,” he said. He encouraged every resident in Sierra Leone to obtain their national ID cards – for both citizens and non-citizens.

He also underscored that the launch of the Insurance Cover is not just for the mobile company and the insurance companies but for the very good of the nation maintaining that it is a catalyst for the economy to grow.

The Commissioner of the Sierra Leone Insurance Commission, Arthur Yaskey, said that they partnered with Orange Money because it is the leading mobile company in the country. He expressed optimism that they looking forward to seeing a positive impact on the side of their customers.

Arthur Yaskey said they feel elated adding that they cannot wait to see how it will transform the way they handle insurance in the country and went on to encourage everyone to look forward to a future of convenience and how the transformation will bring comfort and ease to customers and that it will minimize constraints since they can now do their payment at the comfort of their homes or anywhere.

According to him, the developers have worked effortlessly to ensure that the service is reliable and secured noting that they as regulating body for Insurance Companies in the country are excited about the benefits of the Insurance Cover.

The Managing Director of Aureol Insurance, Raymond Macauley, said on behalf of his colleagues, that this is going to be seamless and also the utmost aim is to minimize constraints.

According to him, mobile money is here with them, and how it is here to stay. He assured them that as insurance companies they are willing to work with insurance providers so that transactions will be seamless.

The highpoint of the ceremony was the official launch and product illustration.

Opposition Chief Whip Says Creating Political Tension is Counter-Productive to People’s Welfare

The Opposition Chief Whip, Hon. Abdul Karim Kamara, on Wednesday, January 17, 2024, during the Africa Young Voices (AYV)’Good Morning Salone’ with their programme refuted the false information that has been circulating on social media that the opposition party is saddled for what is unfolding in the country.

Hon. Abdul Karim Kamara made it clear that the country had faced worst times, especially during the days of former President Alhaji Tejan Kabba (RIP), maintaining how Johnny Paul became like a thorn in the flesh but that the government was very smart to include the opposition party and at the end of the day they were able to settle down the impasse.

The Member of Parliament also mentioned that when President Koroma was in power he supported the opposition party in all aspects of life to foster peace and development for the common good.

He states that the APC ,as a structured political party, if it wants to demonstrate such would be officially communicated as a party saying the Government is randomly arresting people linked to the 26th November incident and as well linking them to the party.

The Opposition Chief Whip expressed the view that if one commits a crime as a citizen one is supposed to be treated as an individual and not as a political party member.

“Creating tension for our people would not create an enabling environment for their well welfare,” he said pointing out that as political actors there is urgent need for them to engage themselves as that would aid to restore sanity in the country.

He emphasized that politicians should work together as a country because if they do not succeed nobody would say it was the SLPP or APC that failed the country.

SLBL Hands Over VIP Toilets, Water Wells to Three Communities in Calaba Town

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Sierra Leone Brewery Limited (SLBL), in the implementation of its Corporate Social Responsibility, has demonstrated its commitment to community development. Such materialized on Thursday, January 18, 2024, when the company handed over VIP Toilets and Water Wells worth €70,585 to residents of Wharf Community, Pamuronko Community and Pa Morlai Field Community within Calaba Town, Constituency 114.

The ceremony, held at the Old Wharf Community, marked a significant milestone in SLBL’s WASH Project, funded by the Heineken Africa Foundation (HAF). The symbolic handover was met with appreciation and praise from stakeholders, residents, and dignitaries in attendance.

Corporate Affairs Manager of Sierra Leone Brewery Limited, Foday Daboh, explained that the initiative was a response to the Calaba Town community’s request for assistance in providing essential facilities.

He revealed how the company, as part of its caring ethos, forwarded the request to the Heineken Africa Foundation, which subsequently approved and funded the implementation of the project within the Old Wharf Community, Pamuronko Community and Pa Morlai Field Community.

Expressing gratitude to the Community and the Project Contractor, Community Agricultural Development Association (CADA-SL), Daboh revealed that over 22,000 residents in these communities would benefit from the completed project.

He urged residents to take ownership of the facilities by ensuring their sustainability and encouraged support for Sierra Leone Brewery Limited through product patronage.

The Corporate Affairs Manager also took the opportunity to appreciate the Sierra Leonean Government for supporting local manufacturers. He noted that the Government’s favorable tax policies, advocated for by local manufacturers, would contribute to the protection of local businesses.

Member of Parliament for Western Urban District, Dr. Unpha Sorie Koroma, expressed excitement and gratitude for the completion of the project and further thanked the Heineken Africa Foundation for the funds and SLBL for addressing the community’s needs. He emphasized the responsibility of corporate entities like SLBL in community development and urged residents to make good use of the facilities.

Denis Jusu, CEO of the Community Agricultural Development Association, praised the communities for their support during the construction process and urged them to utilize the facilities for their collective benefits.

Councillor Mary Kamara, representing one of the WASH facilities Ward, highlighted the significant impact of the project on addressing the felt needs of the community. She commended SLBL and the Heineken Africa Foundation for their support and assured that the facilities would be valued by the community residents.

The official handover ceremony concluded with the transfer of responsibility from the contractor, Community Agricultural Development Association, to Sierra Leone Brewery Limited (SLBL), and then to Member of Parliament Dr. Unpha Sorie Koroma on behalf of the communities.

Hunan Children’s Hospital Facilitates Specialized Training for 25 Local Medical Staff in China

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a significant step towards fostering mutual learning and international cooperation, the 24th Batch of the China Medical Team to Sierra Leone conducted specialized training for six batches of 25 local medical staff at the Hunan Children’s Hospital in China from August to December 2023. The initiative, part of China’s commitment to the Republic of Sierra Leone, covered essential medical areas such as pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, surgery, anesthesia, nursing, and infection control.

The reception party for Sierra Leone Trainees, which took place on Tuesday, January 16, 2023, at the Sierra Leone-China Friendship Hospital, served as a platform for Captain Chen Yongjun, Leader of the 24th China Medical Team, to express the team’s pride and commitment to the enhancement of education and training in China’s foreign aid program.

Captain Chen emphasized the program’s success in improving professional abilities, broadening horizons, and fostering a valuable platform for future international cooperation and academic exchange.

He revealed that during their one-year mission in Sierra Leone in 2023, the team is proud to have facilitated specialized training for six batches of 25 local medical staff of the Sierra Leone-China Friendship Hospital at Hunan Children’s Hospital in China, adding that the comprehensive training covered pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, surgery, anesthesia, nursing, and infection control through lectures, demonstrations, simulations, and hands-on practice.

He noted that the positive feedback from trainees underscored the program’s success in not only improving professional abilities but also broadening horizons, emphasizing the enriching experience gained from exposure to advanced equipment, facilities, and management practices at the Chinese hospital, along with the warm hospitality extended by the Chinese people.

Captain Chen highlighted the training’s value as a platform for mutual learning, fostering future international cooperation and academic exchange. Expressing pride in the team’s accomplishments, he thanked the Governments, health authorities, and the Hunan Children’s Hospital for their unwavering support.

Looking forward, Captain Chen pledged the team’s commitment to working even harder, promising more projects and activities in the realm of medical education and training. The focus remains on providing continued support to the Sierra Leone-China Friendship Hospital and contributing to the overall development of Sierra Leone’s health sector.

In closing, Captain Chen conveyed his best wishes for good health, peace, and positivity to all attendees, expressing gratitude for the collaborative efforts that have strengthened the bonds of friendship and cooperation between China and Sierra Leone.

In his statement, Liu Siyu, the Second Secretary of the Chinese Embassy in Sierra Leone, expressed gratitude for the invitation to the event and emphasized the enduring friendship between China and Sierra Leone, spanning over 52 years. Notably, the China-Sierra Leone Friendship Hospital stands as a testament to this enduring relationship. Over the past half-century, China has consistently supported the health and well-being of the people of Sierra Leone by dispatching 24 medical teams to the country.

The Second Secretary underscored China’s commitment to continue assisting Sierra Leone in medical, health, and sanitation endeavors. He highlighted the pivotal role of health and medicine as a focal point of cooperation between the two nations.

In 2023, the Chinese medical team commemorated the 50th anniversary of the Chinese-Aid-Sierra Medical Team with a photo exhibition. President Bio graciously received members of the 24th Medical Aid Team, the 7th Military Medical-aid Team, and the 8th Group of Experts in the Fixed Bio-Safety Laboratory in Sierra Leone.

Liu Siyu commended the compassionate and public-serving nature of the hospital staff, expressing appreciation for their grateful hearts. He highlighted the collaborative efforts with the Chinese Embassy in Sierra Leone, which organized six batches of 25 local Sierra Leonean medical staff for short-term expertise training at Hunan Provincial Children’s Hospital in China.

The training covered critical pediatric illnesses, neonatal care, maternal and child health, testing techniques, infectious disease prevention, and hospital management. Liu Siyu emphasized the importance of such training in the professional development of the participants.

Concluding his statement, Liu Siyu affirmed the continuation of long-term friendly cooperation and academic exchanges with Sierra Leone on medical and health matters. He announced the upcoming establishment of the Phase IV virus testing laboratory with the support of the Sierra Leonean Government.

China pledged to sustain cooperation with the Government of Sierra Leone and medical institutions in various health projects to bolster the development of the health sector in Sierra Leone.

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, the Medical Superintendent, Sierra Leone-China Friendship Hospital, Dr. Sarah Conteh, expressed appreciation to the 24th Batch of the China Medical Team to Sierra Leone facilitated specialized training for six batches of 25 local medical staff of the Sierra Leone-China Friendship Hospital at the Hunan Children’s Hospital in China in August to December, 2023.

Dr. Sarah Conteh maintained that since their return and the implementation of the knowledge and skills they acquired has created improvements in terms of their patients’ care at the hospital.

She stated that 25 local medical staff who benefited from the specialized training are currently transferring the knowledge and skills to other local medical staff who were not fortunate to benefit from the training in China which she said will help to improve the general patient care at the hospital.

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