Home Blog Page 427

German Doctor Dilates on Ongoing Medical Camp at Choithram Hospital

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

A team of German medical specialists is currently in Sierra Leone under the auspices of the Choithram Memorial Hospital under a special arrangement facilitated by Dr. M. L. Baryoh, the Sierra Leonean Ambassador to Germany in collaboration with Interplast Germany, marking another trajectory in the annual event.

The German team comprises nine specialists, namely Dr. Med Lutz Gruhl, Dr. Bernd Heidemann, Dr. Olaf Weigt, Dr. Karolina Lischka, Dr. Franziska von Sievers, Mr. Nikolaus Brunner, Mrs. Andrea Schmidt, Dr. Friedrich Matthaei, and Mrs. Monika Schäfer.

With the aim at providing reconstructive surgery to those who heeded to a prior notice put out by the Management of the hospital, the German Medical Team has since the 9th January ,2024 commenced the free surgical camp.

After initially screening patients to determine the nature of specialized treatment to be administered to patients suffering from post-burn contractures, hand, feet or wrist disorders or deformities, hand and feet tumors and cleft lip and palate are now the main beneficiaries of the ongoing free medical treatments at Choithram Hospital and it must be underscored that the team’s primary emphasis lies in post-burn cases and congenital deformities.

In an exclusive interview conducted by this medium the Head of the Team, Dr. Med Lutz Gruhl, intimated that since the commencement of administering treatment, the team is performing approximately 10 to 15 surgical cases a day with the aim of targeting a total of 50 to 60 severe cases apart from other cases towards the end of their mission on the 23rd January, 2024.

He passionately pointed out they have another objective  conducting surgeries for severe cases especially on children with burns and disfigurements with the overarching goal of helping them socially reintegrate in their various communities.

Dr. Gruhl, the Head of Team, further expressed the view that their primary goal is to offer free reconstructive surgery to those who cannot afford it, with special focus on helping the neediest and economically disadvantaged in the country.

He acknowledged the pivotal role played by Dr. M. L. Baryoh in ensuring the holding of the annual medical camp and expressed hope to continue the mission with increased awareness and outreach in the future.

The team’s dedication extends beyond surgeries as they emphasize the importance of reaching out to more people in the provinces. Dr. Gruhl hopes to increase awareness and outreach for their work, aiming to help those in remote areas who may not have easy access to medical facilities.

Scheduled to conclude on January 23, 2024, it was also learnt that two of the team members will stay an extra week to ensure adequate post-operative care for the patients.

Dr. Friedrich Matthaei, a member of the team, also stressed the necessity to concentrate on the most severe cases and highlighted the challenges in reaching patients in rural areas. He emphasized the team’s commitment to avoiding luxury plastic surgery, instead prioritizing essential reconstructive surgeries for those who need them the most.

Regulatory Meeting Exposes Sabotage at Kingtom Station for Power Outages

A crucial meeting was convened on Friday, January 12th, 2024,by  the Sierra Leone Electricity and Water Regulatory Commission (SLEWRC)  at its headquarters on 55 Berwick Street in Freetown. The session involved discussions with the Boards and Managements of the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA) and the Electricity Generation and Transmission Commission (EGTC) to address the persistent power outages in the city.

Mohamed Sesay, Chairman of the SLEWRC Board, opened the meeting, emphasizing the regulatory role of the Commission and the flood of complaints from consumers and the media regarding inadequate electricity supply. Dr. Emmanuel Mannah, the Director-General of the SLEWRC, highlighted the meeting’s significance to the public, stressing the challenges faced by EDSA in December 2023.

The recent power outages were attributed to damage sustained by the transformer at the Kingtom power station on December 23, 2023.  Milton Kangbai, Director-General of EDSA, clarified that the incident was unforeseen and beyond their control. Criminals had broken into the Kingtom power station, damaging the transformer and causing a significant oil spillage. Kangbai reassured the public that EDSA had swiftly addressed the issue within 48 hours and had secured transmission oil from Liberia to refill the transformer.

Kangbai acknowledged the 30% drop in power supply during the incident but emphasized that EDSA had enough reserve transformer oil in-country, ensuring normal electricity provision. He also stated that the security at the Kingtom power station had been strengthened to prevent future incidents.

The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Energy, responsible for supervising EDSA and EGTC, provided additional insights during the meeting. The Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Energy urged regular meetings, criticized the unbundling of the electricity sector, and called for a review of regulations governing the sector. He highlighted the success of the sector, with electricity generation increasing from 16 to 30 megawatts.

Stakeholders also addressed challenges such as the vandalization of transformers, fire accidents in Kono District due to an overloaded network, and the identification of EDSA staff.  Joe Lahai, Director-General of EDSA, stressed the need for a deadline for the investigation into the Kingtom power station incident and highlighted increased revenue generation.

The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by the Legal Affairs and Compliance Officer at SLEWRC, underscoring the collaborative effort required to address the challenges facing the   electricity sector in Sierra Leone.

Africell Launches 2023 AFCON Predict & Win Promo, Offers Trip to Ivory Coast

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Recognizing the immense football enthusiasm among a substantial portion of the population, Africell Sierra Leone officially launched the 2023 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) Predict and Win promotion on Friday, January 12, 2024. The initiative not only invites participation in predicting match outcomes but also introduces a novel approach to ensure that both its customers and the general public can enjoy live match screenings, considering the challenges of traveling to witness the ongoing AFCON 2023 in Ivory Coast.

Africell’s Media Officer, Abdul Aziz Kamara, shared during the launch that the company had sponsored six winners of the Africell AFCON 2021 promo, providing them with air tickets, allowances, accommodations, and transportation to watch the African Cup of Nations in Cameroon. Expressing the company’s commitment to fostering engagement, he announced the launch of the 2023 AFCON Predict and Win Promotion.

In this edition of the promotion, subscribers have the opportunity to win various prizes, including Thousands of New Leone, Data, Talk Time, and, notably, two subscribers will secure a fully paid trip to Ivory Coast to witness the final match.

Kamara detailed that subscribers can participate by predicting match outcomes and dialing *777# for just NLe 1, receiving an instant reward of 50MB.

He elaborated on the mechanics of the promotion, explaining that correct predictions for each match will qualify participants for daily draws where 5 people will win prizes like Thousands of New Leones, Data, Talk Time, and Star Times subscriptions, adding that all participants, whether they win or not the daily draw, will be entered into a grand draw after the first rounds. The grand draw will determine the two lucky winners of the fully paid trip to Ivory Coast for the final match.

Afriradio’s Station Manager, Abdul Karim, highlighted that alongside the Predict and Win Promotion, Africell-SL is facilitating community viewings of AFCON matches. The company is placing large screens in strategic locations across various communities in Freetown and other areas, allowing members of the public to watch the matches together.

He revealed that the initiative commenced with the opening match between Ivory Coast and Guinea Bissau on Saturday, January 13, 2024, at Decode Beach Front on Lumley Beach in Freetown.

This community viewing approach has received commendation for providing people the opportunity to watch the AFCON matches live from Ivory Coast in a relaxed atmosphere.

Abdul Karim concluded by affirming that the free screens will be replicated in other communities, further enhancing the AFCON viewing experience for a wider audience.

PPASL Engages Education Ministry on Comprehensive Sexuality Education Implementation

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a significant move towards enhancing the implementation of Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) in the school curriculum in the country, the Planned Parenthood Association of Sierra Leone (PPASL) concluded a one-day engagement with the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE) on Thursday, January 11, 2024. The engagement, held at the Directorate’s Office on New England Ville, Freetown, aimed to strengthen the implementation of CSE in the country’s education system.

Osman Kamara, the Director of Curriculum and Research at MBSSE, emphasized the importance of the engagement with PPASL in advancing the Comprehensive Sexuality Education integrated into the school curriculum. He highlighted the positive impact of CSE, now named Adolescent Health and Life Skills, in significantly reducing teenage pregnancy and child marriage rates since its integration.

Kamara emphasized that CSE goes beyond teaching about bodies; it empowers girls to make informed decisions, stand up for themselves, and address sexual assault issues.

Currently undergoing implementation in two pilot districts, Koinadugu and Pujehun, with support from UNFPA, the Ministry is actively engaging stakeholders, including PPASL, religious leaders, and local authorities. Kamara stressed the importance of training teachers to implement the curriculum effectively and recognized the potential of CSE in reducing teenage pregnancy.

Acknowledging the need for proper mechanisms to address reported cases of sexual harassment and abuse, Kamara emphasized that the engagement with PPASL is a crucial step towards successful curriculum implementation, securing endorsements from key leaders.

Kamara also addressed the debate about making CSE a standalone subject, stating that discussions with the Minister and the Chief Executive Officer of MBSSE will be initiated. He concluded by urging individuals involved in child abuse to cease their actions, warning of strict legal consequences.

Adolphus E. T. Beckley, the Volunteer Development Coordinator at PPASL, stressed the importance of CSE in empowering young individuals to understand their rights and bodies. Expressing dissatisfaction with the limited implementation in two districts, Beckley called for a nationwide rollout and pledged PPASL’s support in capacity building for teachers and key personnel.

Commending the Ministry for its commitment to implementing CSE, Beckley called for support from Principals, teachers, and parents. He reiterated PPASL’s dedication to assisting the Ministry in effective CSE program implementation through capacity building and advocacy efforts.

Beckley emphasized the significance of advocacy and education to dispel misconceptions and promote the benefits of CSE across Sierra Leone.

Clerk of Parliament & Wife in Big Corruption Scandal

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a shocking turn of events, the Clerk of Parliament, Hon. Paran Tarawally, and his wife, Abibatu Paran Tarawally, find themselves under investigation by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) over alleged corruption, prompting calls for their dismissal and legal action.

The controversy began when Social Media erupted with allegations of impropriety surrounding Abibatu Paran Tarawally’s employment as the Parliamentary Human Resources Officer. The ACC, taking cognizance of the public outcry, decided to intervene and initiated an investigation into the matter. Both Hon. Paran Tarawally and his wife were subsequently invited for questioning and placed on bail, contingent upon their regular reporting to the Commission.

During the ACC’s ongoing investigation, it was revealed that Abibatu Paran Tarawally, who allegedly never showed up for work, agreed to repay the salary she received since her appointment. The Commission confirmed that approximately ninety percent of the funds have been recovered, signaling a development in the case.

Abibatu Paran Tarawally’s appointment, allegedly orchestrated by her husband, raised eyebrows as she reportedly continued to receive a gross salary of Le31,735,839 (Old Leone) along with medical, rent, and utility allowances, despite her apparent absence from the workplace.

The controversy surrounding the Clerk’s wife comes amid a larger investigation by the Parliamentary Commission, which recently established a committee to probe the dismissal of over one hundred staff. This move triggered public outrage and led to leaks about the questionable hiring practices involving the Clerk’s spouse.

In response to mounting pressure, the Clerk of Parliament issued a Public Notice on January 5th, 2024, seeking to address concerns and requesting the formation of a Special Committee to independently investigate the matter. The aim is to ensure transparency and a comprehensive examination of the circumstances surrounding Abibatu Paran Tarawally’s employment.

Critics argue that the Clerk’s involvement in his wife’s hiring raises concerns of a conflict of interest, with the timing of events adding to skepticism and intensifying public scrutiny on parliamentary affairs.

As the investigations unfold, the public eagerly awaits the findings of the Special Committee tasked with scrutinizing the employment of the Clerk’s wife. This case not only spotlights potential corruption within the parliamentary system but also raises broader questions about accountability, transparency, and ethical practices within public institutions.

It is crucial to underscore the need for robust oversight mechanisms and accountability measures to uphold public trust. Speculation abounds regarding the far-reaching implications of the investigations on the perception of parliamentary integrity, with potential ramifications serving as a catalyst for reforms within the institution.

A prevailing sentiment suggests that if found guilty, Paran must face consequences, including termination from his position and legal repercussions. The unfolding drama serves as a stark reminder of the importance of maintaining integrity and accountability within public institutions.

A New Era in Gov’t Communication… The Impactful Leadership of Minister Chernor Bah

It must be made clear that this piece is far from giving praise where it is not due but rather an objective appraisal of the revolutionary trajectory that Government Communication has taken as seen in recent times devoid of outright propaganda aimed at hoodwinking the general public with the presentation of facts in the sincerest of manner.

Worthy of note is that in an age where effective communication is paramount, Governments worldwide grapple with the challenges of navigating an interconnected world marked by a constant flow of information and the pervasive threat of fake news. Sierra Leone, however, stands out as a beacon of change and efficacy in Government communication under the leadership of Minister Chernor Bah, who was appointed by President Bio.

Innovative Approach Redefining Government Communication:

President Bio’s discerning choice of Chernor Bah, a globally renowned public speaker and human rights activist, as the Minister of Information and Civic Education, signaled a shift in Sierra Leone’s communication landscape. Recognizing the need for proactive strategies, Bah’s tenure has marked a departure from reactive communication, aligning seamlessly with President Bio’s ‘Big 5’ agenda.

In less than six months, Bah has revolutionized Sierra Leone’s Government communication. A key initiative has been the introduction of Weekly Press Conferences, providing a direct platform for key Government officials to engage in transparent and timely conversations with the nation. This proactive approach ensures that the Government’s perspective is communicated clearly, countering misinformation.

Commitment to Clear Communication:

Bah’s commitment to constant and clear communication is evident in the increased issuance of public notices, ranging from one to five per day. These notices serve to keep the public well-informed about ongoing developments and policies, thereby mitigating the spread of rumors and misinformation.

The Ministry’s Social Media Platforms, under Bah’s guidance, have become the most reliable source of information. His measured communication style has earned him the moniker of the ‘Golden Voice’ of Sierra Leone, providing a trustworthy source amid a climate often plagued by misinformation.

An Oasis of Stability in Turbulent Times:

Chernor Bah’s leadership during challenging times, such as the failed coup attempt of November 26th, 2023, has showcased his ability to handle complex and sensitive issues with sincerity and efficiency. His honesty and clear communication have positioned him as an oasis of stability, establishing him as the most trusted voice on critical national issues.

What sets Bah apart is not just the frequency but also the nature of his communication. His calm and composed manner in addressing issues has fostered an atmosphere of trust and reliability in Government announcements, resonating well with the public.

Legacy and Future of Chernor Bah’s Communication Strategy:

Chernor Bah’s tenure as Minister of Information and Civic Education has left an indelible mark on Sierra Leone’s Government communication. His innovative strategies and calm demeanor have not only enhanced the credibility of the Government’s communication but have also set a high standard for future endeavors in this field.

As Chernor Bah continues to lead with vintage expertise, he stands as a pillar in the Bio administration, embodying the President’s impeccable judgment. His legacy, already significant, continues to unfold, positioning him as a young leader who has mastered every challenge in his path and distinguished himself not only in Sierra Leone but as a notable figure in Government communication across Africa.

Secure Your Biometric ID Cards for Security & Accessibility to Services

It is very important as a patriotic and smart citizen to make all necessary moves to secure the national Biometric ID Card which is an essential document to verify that you are a bona fide citizen of Sierra Leone. Besides, to save yourself from embarrassment like being denied access to open a bank account, withdraw money from the bank and even at Foreign Bureaus, it is prudent to contact any NCRA office and secure one.

It is against such a backdrop that, the National Civil Registration Authority of Sierra Leone (NCRA), is calling on all citizens and residents in the country to acquire biometric national ID cards which were introduced early last year.

Key to reiterate is 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, local newspaper The Calabash reports.

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.

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

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.

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.

To ensure accessibility, the NCRA has established specific offices and centers across key locations:

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.

Principal Accountant, Others Implicated for Alleged Le8 Billion Fraud

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a shocking revelation, the Ministry of Finance (MoF) disclosed on Friday, January 12, 2024, that an internal audit review has uncovered fraudulent activities within its ranks. The investigation centers around payments intended for Edward Davies and Associates Ltd, a Consultancy Firm engaged by the Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA) for work on the Kenema-Pendembu Road project.

According to the MoF, payments totaling Le 6.5 billion (Old Leones) were processed in December 2023 at the Accountant General’s Department (AGD) for the aforementioned consultancy. However, it has been discovered that these funds were diverted to a fictitious account at the Kabala Community Bank, instead of the legitimate account at Rokel Commercial Bank.

The Ministry, acting promptly, reported the findings of their internal investigation to the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) on Monday, January 8, 2024. A detailed Internal Audit Report was also submitted to the ACC on January 12, 2024, to assist in their ongoing investigation.

The individuals implicated in the alleged diversion of funds include:

1. Jacob Tenga Sessie – Deputy Director of Budget, MoF
2. Emmanuel Smart – Accounting Officer, SLRA
3. Starlyn Kemoh – Accountant, AGD
4. Ibrahim Bangura – Senior Accountant, AGD
5. John Ellie – Principal Accountant, AGD
6. Joseph Johnson – Accountant, AGD
7. Philip Yomba – Senior Accountant, AGD

The investigation has led to the detention of the Principal Accountant at the Ministry of Finance, John Ellie, along with other AGD officials at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Headquarters in Freetown. The alleged fraud is estimated to have defrauded the State of a staggering Le8 billion (Eight Billion Old Leones).

The ACC officials, while confirming the investigation into the Ministry of Finance and the Accountant General’s Department, have not disclosed specific details regarding the nature of the fraud. However, an independent investigation has indicated the detection of a scheme known as “recycled payment.” Ironically, the suspicious payment, purportedly made to an SLRA contractor, reportedly passed through all approval processes within the Ministry of Finance.

The ongoing ACC investigations may reveal a broader spectrum of fraudulent activities within both the Ministry of Finance and the Accountant General’s Department, according to reliable sources. Senior officials at the Accountant General’s Department, including Kemoh Stanley and Philip Yomba, have also been detained at the CID Headquarters in connection with the ongoing investigations.

As investigations continue, the public awaits further developments on this disturbing case of financial misconduct within key government institutions.

President Bio Engages Council of Paramount Chiefs, Inter-Religious Council in Governance Dialogue

In a significant move to address key governance issues, President Dr. Julius Maada Bio convened separate meetings with the National Council of Paramount Chiefs (NCPC) and the Inter-Religious Council of Sierra Leone (IRC-SL) on Friday, January 12, 2024. The discussions primarily centered around the failed coup attempt that occurred on November 26 at State House, Freetown.

Accompanied by the Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh and the Chief Minister, Dr. Moinina David Sengeh, President Bio took the opportunity to offer a comprehensive update on the failed coup and the ongoing trials. During these engagements, the President underscored his Government’s steadfast commitment to peace, security and the rule of law.

In addition to addressing the security concerns, President Bio provided insights into the progress made in the implementation of the Five Big Game-changers. These initiatives, namely FEED SALONE, Human Capital Development, Youth Empowerment, Revamping the Public Service Architecture, and achieving Sustained Economic Growth through Technology and Infrastructure, are pivotal aspects of the government’s agenda.

The representatives of the National Council of Paramount Chiefs and the Inter-Religious Council commended President Bio for his administration’s swift and effective handling of the security situation following the failed coup attempt. They expressed their appreciation for the President’s commitment to restoring order and security.

During the discussions, both the NCPC and IRC-SL, an interfaith organization dedicated to national reconciliation, health, and religious harmony, pledged unwavering support to the government. They emphasized their commitment to actively contribute to peacebuilding, fostering cohesion, and promoting democracy in Sierra Leone.

The meetings concluded on a positive note, with a shared commitment to collaborative efforts between the government and these key councils in advancing the nation’s development, security, and overall well-being.

NP-SL Stands Tall for Offering Cutting Edge Petroleum Products & Services

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In the dynamic landscape of Sierra Leone’s petroleum industry, NP Sierra Leone Limited (NP-SL Ltd) stands tall in offering cutting edge petroleum products, including high quality petrol, diesel, lubricants one of which is the highly sought out Castrol Lubricating Oil to its numerous customers right across the country.

The indigenous petroleum marketing company has emerged as an undisputed leader, setting itself apart through an unwavering commitment to Customer Satisfaction and National Development. As the nation grapples with energy demands, NP-SL has become synonymous with reliability, efficiency and pioneering technologies.

NP-SL stands as the foremost company specializing in establishing operations to deliver premier petroleum products across the country. The company’s emphasis on quality, efficiency and customer satisfaction has firmly established NP as a reliable and trustworthy supplier in the petroleum sector.

Recognizing the transformative power of technology, NP has strategically invested in cutting-edge tools such as the NP Smart Card, Global Positioning System (GPS) and a Video Tracking System (VTS) to enhance service delivery. It is worthy of note that the introduction of the NP Smart Card reflects the company’s dedication to providing customers with fuel convenience on the go, emphasizing, “We are 1st for Customer Care!”

NP-SL Ltd doesn’t just focus on business success; it takes Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) seriously. The company aligns with Government development initiatives, actively contributing to societal well-being and positioning itself as a responsible corporate citizen.

Significantly, the company is adhering to Sierra Leone’s Local Content Policy, actively contributing to poverty reduction and economic growth by prioritizing the employment of Sierra Leoneans.

Among its flagship products, NP Gas has gained acclaim for its efficiency, environmental friendliness, and easy accessibility. NP Gas is marketed in various cylinder sizes at the company’s various Filling Stations and those who have used attested that it is worth trying.

The indigenous petroleum marketing company’s exceptional reputation extends beyond national borders, with successful branches established in Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast, and The Gambia. This expansion not only contributes significantly to local economies but also fosters regional socio-economic development.

As NP-SL Ltd continues to stand tall in the petroleum sector, it remains poised for further expansion and a continued positive impact on the communities it serves.

1...426427428...1,360Page 427 of 1,360