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Wednesday, November 27, 2024
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Adjustment in Import Duty Tax Imperative in Combating Increasing Rice Prices

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By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The cost of rice in Sierra Leone has skyrocketed, leaving many households struggling to afford the staple food. The situation, which has been worsening over time, has now reached a critical point where even the smallest bag sizes are becoming prohibitively expensive for the majority of citizens.

Sierra Leone has long depended on imported rice, primarily supplied by private sector businesses. Although the country does produce rice locally, the quantity is far below the demand, and ironically, much of this domestic rice never reaches the capital, Freetown. Instead, it is often smuggled to neighboring countries, exacerbating the shortage at home.

The recent implementation of the 2024 Finance Act is a significant factor behind the soaring rice prices. Despite claims to the contrary, the Act’s restoration of a 5% import duty on rice has contributed to the sharp price increases. The Ministry of Finance justified this move by arguing that it would generate revenue for the Government and protect local rice production. Additionally, funds from this tax were supposed to support the Government’s flagship “Feed Salone” program, aimed at boosting domestic rice production.

Financial Secretary, Matthew Dingie, has promised that the Government would develop a pricing formula for essential commodities like rice, cement and iron rods to protect consumers. However, this plan has yet to materialize, leading many to question the Government’s commitment to addressing the crisis.

While the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security and its partners have made efforts to support the “Feed Salone” initiative, the impact on food security and rice production has been minimal. The lack of significant progress means that for the foreseeable future, households will continue to face exorbitant rice prices that strain their ability to secure enough food.

The delay in implementing a pricing formula and the persistent high prices has led to growing frustration among citizens. Economic principles dictate that when demand exceeds supply, prices will rise. However, the situation is compounded by the restored import duty and other costs that importers face, which are passed on to consumers. As a result, rice stocks that once sold out in a few months now linger in warehouses for nearly a year due to reduced purchasing power.

Immediate and long-term measures are urgently needed to address this dire situation. Waiving the 5% import duty on rice could provide some relief by encouraging importers to lower their prices. The Government should also continue to support farmers, as recently demonstrated by the distribution of fertilizers across the country. A shift from subsistence farming to mechanized agriculture, along with the expertise of agricultural professionals, is essential for transforming the sector.

Improving the road networks leading to farming communities is another critical step. Poor infrastructure not only hinders the transport of agricultural produce to markets but also drives up transportation costs, further inflating prices. Without viable transport options within the country, farmers may resort to smuggling their goods to neighboring nations where returns are higher.

In this troubling scenario, urgent action is required to prevent widespread hunger and ensure that rice, a staple food for Sierra Leoneans, remains accessible to all.

Press Statement by Planned Parenthood Association of Sierra Leone (PPASL) on the Recently Enacted Child Marriage Bill

PRESS STATEMENT

The Volunteers and Staff of the Planned Parenthood Association of Sierra Leone (PPASL), commends the Government and partners including Save the Children for taking the bold step to make Child Marriage illegal in Sierra Leone.

This is a significant milestone in protecting children and ensuring their well-being and future opportunities for their growth and development.

Child marriage is a harmful practice with devastating consequences for young girls, including negative impacts on their physical and mental health, and education. We believe that any legislation aimed at combating child marriage must prioritize the best interests of the child and uphold the fundamental rights of all children to be protected from all forms of abuse, exploitation, and harm as the bill ensures comprehensive protection for children, which includes measures to prevent and address the root causes of child marriage.

PPASL is implementing a six-year project on ‘Strengthening Adolescent Sexual Reproductive Health’, whose main goal is to empower adolescent girls to make informed decision and choices for their well-being and growth. The Association has been engaged in several radio and TV discussion programmes on various topics ranging from Adolescent SRHR – Teenage Pregnancy Reduction Programmes, Early Child Marriage. PPASL’s projects are youth-focused and utilize integrated approaches.

The Association contributes to the country’s DHIS2 platform and data includes adolescent SRHR, early child marriage, and teenage pregnancy reduction, which contributed to this achievement.

PPASL is a member of technical working groups (TWGs) on ‘Teenage Pregnancy Reduction Secretariat’, which encompasses Child Marriage,  Vice Chair for Peoples Alliance for Reproductive Health Advocacy, a CSO with over 60 membership advocating for the passage of the Safe Motherhood and Reproductive Health Bill; National SRH TWG.

It is crucial as a nation to work together, to raise awareness, enforce the law, and provide support to those at risk of child marriage. We recognise and appreciate the Office of the First Lady of the Republic of Sierra Leone Dr. Fatima Maada Bio for her commitment to ending this harmful practice and prioritizing the rights and welfare of children and the national launch to create public awareness.

As an organization committed to promoting the rights and well-being of children, we stand ready to work with the government, civil society, partners and other stakeholders to advocate for legislation that truly protect the rights of children in Sierra Leone.

We call on all Sierra Leoneans to prioritize the protection of children and to take immediate action to address the harmful practice of child marriage in the country.

About PPASL:

PPASL was founded on 19thAugust, 1959, is a leading service provider and advocate for SRHR services including Family Planning services, and employs these strategies to implement programmes – through static / outreach / mobiles clinics and Community Based Service Providers (CBSPs) in its operational districts in the Western Area, Bo, Kenema, Portloko, Bombali, and Kailahun Districts respectively.

PPASL is a member Association of the International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF), and gained full membership in 1973.

For further enquiries, please contact:

Dr Sarian Kamara

Executive Director

Email: sarian2007@yahoo.co.uk

Contact: +23278564251

OR

Samuel Yemeh Koroma

Youth and Communications Officer

Justice for Sia Fatu Kamara: A Call to End Domestic Violence

By Esther Wright

The tragic death of Sia Fatu Kamara, a young and promising Communications Executive at the Freetown City Council (FCC), has cast a harsh spotlight on the ongoing scourge of domestic violence in Sierra Leone. Her demise is not just a personal loss but a societal wound, demanding urgent attention and action.

Sia was more than just a public servant; she was a beacon of hope for Freetown’s vision of a greener and more sustainable city. However, her life was cut short under circumstances that reflect the harsh realities faced by too many women in our society. Allegations point to a brutal attack by her boyfriend, leaving her with fatal injuries, including broken ribs and a damaged spinal cord. While the accused remains in custody at the Lumley Police Station, the principle of presumed innocence remains.

Nonetheless, the Criminal Investigations Department of the Sierra Leone Police must conduct a thorough and transparent investigation. If the evidence supports the allegations, the justice system must act decisively, delivering the full weight of the law to the perpetrator if convicted. Such a response is essential not only for justice for Sia but as a clear message that domestic violence will not be tolerated.

Sia Fatu Kamara’s case is one of many that highlight the pervasiveness of domestic violence in Sierra Leone. Gender-Based Violence (GBV) remains deeply embedded in the cultural, economic and social fabric of the country. According to a World Bank report, 62% of women and girls aged 15-49 experience physical or sexual violence, with spousal violence accounting for 61%. For women and girls living with disabilities, the risk is even higher—two to three times that of their non-disabled counterparts.

These statistics reveal a grim reality, especially in regions like Port Loko, where 81% of married women in the same age group report experiencing violence. In contrast, Kenema records a lower rate of 35%. Despite the existence of laws like the Domestic Violence Act of 2007, enforcement remains weak, with systemic delays and societal stigma contributing to underreporting and secondary victimization of survivors.

The death of Sia Fatu Kamara should be a catalyst for profound cultural and systemic change. Domestic violence must no longer be seen as a private issue or justified by harmful societal norms. We need to challenge the toxic attitudes that perpetuate silence and suffering. Education and community engagement are key to this transformation. Schools, religious institutions, community leaders, and media outlets must collaborate in raising awareness and shifting public perception about domestic violence.

Addressing domestic violence requires a comprehensive strategy. Strengthening legal frameworks, increasing support for survivors and enhancing the capacity of law enforcement and judicial systems are crucial. Police Officers must receive specialized training to handle domestic violence cases with sensitivity and effectiveness. Additionally, the judiciary needs resources to expedite cases, reducing the delays that often exacerbate the trauma for survivors.

Psychosocial support services are equally critical. These services, which include counseling, mental health support and rehabilitation programs, must be made more accessible, especially in rural and underserved areas. Safe homes should be established for survivors, offering them refuge and necessary care. Health practitioners also need training to recognize and appropriately respond to signs of domestic violence.

Sia Fatu Kamara’s death must not be in vain. It should ignite a national movement to eradicate domestic violence. Her story is a stark reminder of the urgent need for collective action to protect women and girls in Sierra Leone. We must stand together—government, civil society, and communities—to declare that enough is enough.

In her memory, let us work toward a future where every woman and girl can live without fear in their own homes. We owe it to Sia, and to every citizen, to ensure a Sierra Leone free from violence.

President Bio’s “FEED SALONE” Initiative: A Bold Step Toward Food Security in Sierra Leone

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In of his addresses to Parliament, President Julius Maada Bio officially launched the “Feed Salone” initiative, an ambitious program designed to transform Sierra Leone’s agricultural landscape and secure food stability for the nation. Recognizing the critical importance of agriculture to national security, economic development and social welfare, this initiative represents a bold commitment to combating hunger and fostering self-reliance in food production. As Sierra Leone faces persistent food security challenges, the “Feed Salone” initiative outlines a comprehensive approach aimed at mitigating these issues and ensuring that every citizen has access to sufficient, safe and nutritious food.

Food insecurity remains a significant concern in Sierra Leone, with a large segment of the population still vulnerable to hunger and malnutrition. This situation is exacerbated by factors such as climate change, economic instability and infrastructural gaps. President Bio’s statement that “a hungry man is an angry man” highlights the direct link between food scarcity and social unrest, underscoring the urgency of tackling this issue as a matter of national security.

Recent studies indicate that Sierra Leone’s current agricultural output falls far short of meeting the country’s food needs. For instance, the nation requires around 800,000 tons of rice annually, yet current production levels are dangerously low. With only about 48 tons of rice being produced from limited cultivation areas, the gap between supply and demand is significant. To bridge this gap, approximately 266,667 hectares of rice would need to be cultivated—highlighting the urgent need for strategic agricultural interventions.

The “Feed Salone” initiative aims to create a sustainable food production system through strategic investments, improved productivity, value chain enhancement and the empowerment of marginalized groups. The Government has laid out several core objectives to drive this transformation:

  1. Investment in Agriculture: Recognizing the sector’s potential to drive economic growth, the initiative prioritizes significant investments in agriculture. By focusing on increasing agricultural funding, the Government aims to reduce dependency on food imports, stabilize prices, and build resilience against external market fluctuations and climate-related disruptions.
  2. Boosting Agricultural Productivity: A key pillar of the initiative is enhancing productivity through modern farming techniques, mechanization and the use of high-quality seeds. By addressing challenges such as soil fertility, water management and access to financing, the initiative seeks to empower farmers and increase food production nationwide.
  3. Strengthening Agricultural Value Chains: Transitioning from subsistence farming to commercial agriculture is a priority under “Feed Salone.” By developing agribusinesses, cooperatives and local processing facilities, the Government aims to create market opportunities for farmers and ensure fair prices for their produce.
  4. Empowering Women and Youth: The initiative emphasizes the crucial role of women and youth in agriculture. By expanding their participation and providing targeted support, the Government seeks to promote inclusive growth and ensure that the benefits of agricultural development reach all sectors of society.
  5. Promoting Sustainability and Climate Resilience: The long-term success of “Feed Salone” depends on the adoption of climate-smart agriculture and environmentally sustainable practices. By integrating these elements, the initiative seeks to protect natural resources while ensuring increased agricultural output.

Since its launch last October, the “Feed Salone” initiative has made notable strides. The expansion of rice production areas, including the development of inland valley swamps and irrigated fields, is a key achievement in reducing the country’s reliance on imports. The Government’s focus on mechanization has also led to the provision of tractors, harvesters and rice mills, significantly boosting productivity and efficiency.

The revival of cooperative farming systems has provided farmers with greater bargaining power and access to markets, while the establishment of agribusinesses, such as processing facilities for cocoa and sardines, has added value to local products and created new jobs. Additionally, financial instruments like the US$10 million Agriculture Credit Facility and a pioneering crop insurance scheme have been introduced to support farmers and safeguard against unexpected losses.

Despite these promising developments, the “Feed Salone” initiative faces significant challenges. One major concern is the lack of detailed implementation plans. While the vision is commendable, there is a need for clear timelines, resource allocation and accountability measures to ensure effective execution. Without a comprehensive strategy the initiative risks falling short of its ambitious goals.

Sustainability also remains a critical issue. The emphasis on mechanization may not be feasible for many smallholder farmers who constitute the backbone of the agricultural sector. It is vital that environmentally friendly and economically viable practices are adopted to balance productivity with sustainability.

Access to finance continues to be a barrier for many farmers, especially smallholders. While financial instruments have been introduced, ensuring that they are accessible and tailored to meet the diverse needs of all agricultural producers is essential for fostering inclusive growth.

Market access and value chain development are other areas that require attention. Connecting farmers to reliable markets is crucial for ensuring that increased production translates into economic benefits for local communities.

The success of the “Feed Salone” initiative depends on strong collaboration among all stakeholders, including the Government, private sector, civil society and international partners. Engaging local communities in planning and implementation will ensure that solutions are practical, relevant,and sustainable.

President Bio’s “Feed Salone” initiative represents a critical opportunity for Sierra Leone to achieve food security and strengthen its agricultural sector. However, the Government must address the challenges ahead with transparency, effective planning and a commitment to sustainability. By doing so, Sierra Leone can pave the way for a secure and prosperous future where every citizen has access to adequate food and the nation’s agricultural potential is fully realized.

Chieftaincy Dispute in Magbolontor Escalates as Succession Crisis Delays Election

By Emmanuel Bangura

The Sanda Magbolontor Chiefdom in the Karene District has been embroiled in a chieftaincy succession crisis that has lingered for eight years, resulting in the recent cancellation of an election intended to appoint a new Paramount Chief. The unresolved dispute over the rightful lineage to the traditional throne has divided the community, with no Government intervention to mediate and bring about a lasting resolution.

The ongoing crisis underscores the broader challenges faced by traditional communities in Sierra Leone and West Africa, where chieftaincy disputes often spiral into social unrest and political instability. In this particular case, the community’s failure to resolve the succession issue has led to a failed election, deepening the tensions and uncertainties surrounding the chiefdom’s leadership.

Despite the prolonged nature of the conflict in Sanda Magbolontor, both local and national Government authorities have remained on the sidelines, failing to intervene and address the deepening crisis. The lack of mediation or a coordinated effort by the Government has allowed the conflict to fester, leaving the community to grapple with the consequences on its own.

Without decisive Government involvement, the community remains unable to find a peaceful and acceptable solution to the succession dispute. The absence of clear and authoritative mechanisms to resolve such traditional leadership conflicts has only prolonged the crisis, further undermining the stability and social cohesion among the people of Sanda Magbolontor.

The abandonment of the election is a stark indication of the severity of the chieftaincy dispute and the challenges the community faces in restoring its traditional governance structure. The continued absence of a legitimate and recognized chief threatens to exacerbate existing tensions, potentially hampering the overall social and economic development of the area.

To resolve this crisis, it is crucial for the Government to step in and initiate a process of mediation and conflict resolution among the various factions. Establishing a neutral and impartial mechanism to investigate the legitimacy of the competing claimants to the throne, along with facilitating a consensus-based solution, is key to restoring stability.

Furthermore, the Government should consider reviewing and enhancing the legal and regulatory frameworks governing traditional leadership succession. By providing clear guidelines and dispute resolution mechanisms, the Government can help prevent such protracted chieftaincy conflicts in the future, safeguarding the stability and continuity of traditional institutions across the country.

 

NCRA Urges Public to Collect Biometric ID Cards as Deadline Approaches

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) has issued an important public notice regarding the collection of National, ECOWAS, and Non-National ID Cards. Despite the ongoing production and issuance of these ID Cards since January 2023, many remain uncollected at NCRA District Offices and designated outlets across Sierra Leone.

The NCRA on Thursday August 15, 2024 has highlighted that clients receive SMS notifications on the mobile numbers provided during the application process once their ID Cards are ready. However, the Authority has observed that numerous clients have not turned up to collect their ID Cards, even after receiving these notifications.

Investigations carried out by NCRA’s Technical Teams revealed that some applicants provided mobile numbers belonging to relatives or friends, which has hindered their ability to receive collection notifications. Additionally, some of the phone numbers provided during the application process were found to be non-functional. As a result, a significant number of ID Cards remain uncollected at various NCRA offices and outlets nationwide.

The NCRA is therefore urging all individuals who applied for ID Cards on or before July 31, 2024, to visit the NCRA Offices or outlets where they initially applied, whether they have received a notification or not. Applicants are advised to bring their ID Card application slip for easy reference during collection.

In line with its broader mandate to enhance identity verification and security, the NCRA has also emphasized the importance of linking the National Identification Number (NIN) to mobile phone SIM cards. From September 1, 2024, to November 30, 2024, all mobile phone users must link their NIN to their SIM cards to avoid disruptions in service, including the inability to make or receive calls, send SMS messages, or conduct mobile money transactions.

The NIN, a unique identifier embedded in the Biometric ID Card, plays a crucial role in securing personal identity and ensuring accurate verification. It serves as a gateway to a range of essential public and private services, from healthcare to financial access. A recent Cabinet decision further mandates that individuals must have a Biometric ID Card to access these services, making it imperative for both citizens and non-citizens to obtain their cards.

The Biometric ID Card also enhances national security by providing a reliable form of identification at key checkpoints, such as airports and border crossings. Additionally, integrating the NIN with SIM cards helps combat cybercrime, enabling authorities to trace and identify individuals involved in fraudulent activities.

To facilitate the collection of Biometric ID Cards, the NCRA has set up multiple registration and collection centers, including:

  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 Roundabout)
  5. NCRA Office: Waterloo, along the Freetown Highway (Opposite the Police Station)
  6. Regional NCRA Offices in Bo, Kenema, Makeni, and Port Loko

For further assistance, the NCRA can be contacted via:

– Mobile: +232 33 939740 / +232 79 578063

– Website: [www.ncra.gov.sl](http://www.ncra.gov.sl)

– Email: info@ncra.gov.sl

In addition to individual services, NCRA offers corporate issuance of Biometric ID Cards to public and private institutions.

As the deadline approaches, citizens and non-citizens are urged to prioritize securing their Biometric ID Cards to ensure uninterrupted access to essential services and enhanced personal and national security.

NP (SL) is a Symbol of Resilience and Excellence in Service Delivery

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

NP (SL) Ltd continues to stand as a model of steadfastness and excellence in service delivery within the country’s petroleum sector. The company’s resilience, even during challenging times, can be traced back to the determined efforts of 35 former employees of British Petroleum (BP). When BP decided to exit the market, these visionary Sierra Leoneans seized the opportunity by using their end-of-service benefits to acquire shares, laying the foundation for what has become one of the most outstanding and vibrant companies in Sierra Leone.

Establishing NP (SL) Ltd was a significant achievement in itself. However, the journey from its humble beginnings to its current status as a market leader is a testament to the selflessness and dedication of its Management. Their focus on collective success over personal gain has shaped a company that today exemplifies integrity, sound financial management, and an unwavering commitment to quality.

Over the years, NP(SL) has earned widespread recognition for its superior performance in marketing petroleum products. The company’s reputation as the leading oil marketing entity in Sierra Leone is uncontested, thanks to its ongoing expansion and drive to break new frontiers.

NP (SL)’s brand is synonymous with exceptional customer care—a core value that is not just a slogan but a deeply ingrained practice. The company’s commitment to customer satisfaction is as crucial as its responsibility to import high-grade petroleum products. By prioritizing the provision of quality fuels that ensure optimal vehicle and machinery performance, NP (SL) Ltd has built lasting trust with its customers.

One of the hallmarks of the petroleum marketing entity’s service excellence is the use of modern and standardized fuel dispensing machines at its Filling Stations. These machines, which transparently display the exact volume and cost of fuel pumped, guarantee customers receive full value for their money. The company’s management actively incorporates customer feedback into its policies, ensuring that decisions reflect diverse perspectives and are tailored to meet evolving consumer needs.

NP-SL Ltd’s dedication to innovation is also evident in the introduction of the NP Smart Card. This convenient payment solution simplifies the purchase of petroleum products, offering enhanced security features that safeguard against fraud. Customers can top up the card with funds and use it seamlessly at any NP station, making it a popular choice in today’s tech-driven environment.

Among its recent innovations is the NP Energy Pass Card, a cutting-edge solution designed to provide a seamless and secure fuel purchasing experience.

This smart card, part of the company’s “FUBU” (For Us, By Us) initiative, supports both online and offline transactions, offers instant SMS notifications, and features robust security measures, including One-Time Passwords (OTPs) for password changes. The NP Energy Pass Card is a significant step toward a cashless economy, allowing customers to independently fuel their vehicles while receiving real-time transaction updates. Additionally, station owners benefit from direct bank credits for card transactions, streamlining their operations.

In addition to petroleum products, NP-SL Ltd offers NP Gas, a  cooking solution available in various cylinder sizes. Widely accessible at all NP stations and authorized dealers, NP Gas is both environmentally friendly and medically certified as safe for household use. The company’s trained personnel are always on hand to provide tips and guidance, ensuring users make the most of this reliable cooking device.

A standout feature of NP-SL Ltd is its unwavering commitment to Sierra Leone’s Local Content Policy. As a fully Sierra Leonean-owned company, NP employs local talent at all levels of its operations, from shareholders and management to general staff. This approach not only empowers citizens through job creation but also contributes to poverty alleviation by circulating income within the local economy.

By providing training and development opportunities for its staff, NP-SL Ltd continuously enhances the skill set of its workforce, ensuring they can make significant contributions to the company’s growth. The decision to prioritize local employment over importing foreign expertise has been a key driver of the company’s success.

NP-SL Ltd’s contributions extend beyond business operations. Through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, the company has consistently supported Government efforts to improve living standards across the country. From capacity building for institutions to community-focused programs, NP has played an active role in national development.

The company’s expansion across West Africa, with branches in Liberia, Guinea, Ivory Coast, and The Gambia, speaks to its ambition and determination. These branches not only provide quality petroleum products but also create jobs and generate tax revenue that supports development initiatives in these countries.

As NP-SL Ltd continues to scale new heights, it remains a shining example of how an indigenous company can thrive, setting industry benchmarks and leading by example. The company’s journey is far from over, and with continued support, it is poised to achieve even greater success in the years ahead.

Africell Honors Loyal Customer with Gold in “Old is Gold” Promotion

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In an atmosphere filled with celebration, Sahr Komba Sheku Ngaujah was named the latest grand winner in Africell Sierra Leone’s “Old is Gold” promotion. Overwhelmed with joy, he was awarded a Valcambi Suisse gold bar worth over forty-six million new Leones. Expressing his excitement, he shared, “I’ve been with Africell since two years after it started in Sierra Leone. My SIM card is older than my first daughter. Even after losing it twice, I made sure to replace it because that number is special to me.”

He encouraged fellow Africell subscribers with older SIM cards to reactivate their numbers, pointing out that more rewards await loyal customers in the promotion.

Speaking at the event, Africell’s Assistant Media Manager, Abdul Aziz Kamara, reaffirmed the company’s dedication to rewarding customer loyalty. “The ‘Old is Gold’ promotion is part of our effort to encourage long-standing subscribers to reactivate their old SIM cards. It also serves as a prelude to Africell’s upcoming celebration of twenty years in Sierra Leone,” Abdul Aziz remarked.

He further highlighted the importance of Africell’s promotional initiatives, stressing that the company considers its subscribers as family and is committed to giving back to those who have remained loyal over the years. He urged all subscribers to easily reactivate their old SIM cards by simply inserting them into any phone or visiting an Africell point of sale (POS) nationwide.

In a separate ceremony, Africell also awarded fifteen thousand new Leones to Abu Bakarr Bah, the monthly winner of the “Win Korpor” promotion. Having been an Africell subscriber for sixteen years, he expressed his delight, stating, “I’ve never won anything before, but I stayed loyal and now I’ve finally been rewarded.”

He also warned potential winners to be wary of scammers who might try to exploit those participating in Africell’s various promotions.

Escalating Rice Prices in Sierra Leone Spur Calls for Government Action on Import Taxes

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

As rice prices soar in Sierra Leone, there is growing pressure on the Government to address the burden of importation costs by reducing or removing taxes on imported rice. This call comes amid rising global challenges and local economic strains.

The recently published ‘RAM Sierra Leone Market Prices Bulletin / Quarter 2, 2024’ by the World Food Programme (WFP) highlights a sharp increase in rice prices. Imported rice prices have surged by 15 percent from the previous quarter, while local rice has increased by 13 percent. Year-on-year comparisons show even steeper hikes of 41 percent for imported rice and 40.8 percent for local varieties.

Several factors contribute to this crisis. India, a major rice exporter, has restricted shipments to prioritize local demand, causing a significant gap in the global supply chain. Additionally, the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict has forced ships to take longer, costlier routes, exacerbating freight costs. Other countries’ reluctance to export rice further complicates the situation.

The World Food Programme report indicates that the average Sierra Leonean’s purchasing power is dwindling, with wages stagnating against the backdrop of rising staple costs. As of June 2024, a monthly minimum wage can only purchase 34 kg of imported rice, a decline from 44 kg the previous year.

Despite a decline in national headline inflation from 47.42 percent in January to 31.93 percent in June and relative stability of the Leones against the US dollar, food inflation remains a pressing issue.

Globally, India’s export restrictions have removed 9 million metric tons of rice from the market, driving up prices worldwide. The situation is compounded by climate anomalies like El Niño, which threaten production in major rice-producing regions.

Experts suggest that Sierra Leone’s G overnment should not only reduce import taxes but also focus on high freight costs. This could help align with international standards and ensure food security for its population.

Joseph Glauber, of the International Food Policy Research Institute, warns that without alternative suppliers, countries reliant on Indian rice face increased food insecurity. The World Bank anticipates that rice prices will remain elevated into 2024, assuming India’s restrictions persist.

As Sierra Leone navigates this crisis, attention is turning to sustainable solutions and potential policy shifts that could stabilize the local rice market and cushion its citizens against further economic hardship.

Hungarian Consul Issues Resident Visas to 32 Sierra Leonean Students

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Head of the Consular Section of the Embassy of Hungary in Accra accredited to Sierra Leone, Richard Majtan, embarked on a significant official assignment in Sierra Leone on the 11th August, 2024. His visit was marked by the issuance of Resident Visas to thirty-two (32) Sierra Leonean students who have been awarded scholarships to pursue higher education in Hungary.

The Resident Visas were accepted on the 12th and 13th of August, 2024, at 20 A Spur Road, Matu Close in Freetown, in the presence of key personalities, including the Honorary Consul of Hungary in Sierra Leone, Jihad N. Eter, other relevant stakeholders and family members of the awardees. These scholarships, awarded under the prestigious Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship Programme, enable the selected students to pursue Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees, with one scholarship specifically designated for a Doctorate degree.

The Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship Programme is a testament to the deepening bilateral relations between Sierra Leone and Hungary, a relationship that has been formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in 2021. This agreement represents a shared commitment by both countries to promote educational development and foster stronger ties through academic exchange.

Addressing the gathering before the awarding of the visas, Richard Majtan emphasized the importance of the growing diplomatic connection between Sierra Leone and Hungary. He highlighted how the scholarship programme is a clear demonstration of the partnership’s continued strength and growth. He praised Sierra Leone’s President, Julius Maada Bio, for prioritizing Human Capital Development, stating that access to quality education is a crucial factor for any country seeking to accelerate its development.

“The yearly offering of scholarships to outstanding young Sierra Leoneans can go a long way in complementing the aspirations of the Government of Sierra Leone,” Richard Majtan stated. He expressed optimism that the scholarship recipients would make the most of this opportunity, establish valuable personal and professional connections in Hungary and ultimately return to Sierra Leone to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s development.

The Honorary Consul of Hungary in Sierra Leone, Jihad N. Eter, echoed these sentiments, expressing his pleasure in witnessing the issuance of Resident Visas to the 32 students. He remarked that the scholarships align with Hungary’s efforts to support Sierra Leone’s Human Capital Development initiative, further strengthening the educational framework of the nation.

According to him, the scholarship programme was borne out of a strategic plan agreed upon in 2021 between Hungary and Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. The plan stipulates that Hungary will at that time, over the next five years, continue to award scholarships annually to deserving Sierra Leonean students. He noted that the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education had earlier invited applications from qualified Sierra Leoneans, receiving a significant number of submissions from students eager to pursue undergraduate and postgraduate courses in Hungary. Following a rigorous selection process, the final 32 students were chosen based on their exceptional performance.

Jihad Eter congratulated the scholarship recipients for their hard work and dedication, urging them to take their studies seriously and to return to Sierra Leone upon completion of their courses to contribute to the country’s development. He also commended Dr. Ramatulai Wurie, the Minister of Higher Education, for her instrumental role in ensuring the scholarship process was conducted smoothly and transparently.

In his remarks, the Students Secretary of the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education, George Agbeigeima Dambo, expressed gratitude to the Hungarian Government for its commitment to strengthening education in Sierra Leone further emphasizing that the scholarship awards are a clear reflection of President Bio’s dedication to Human Capital Development, which is a cornerstone of his administration.

George Dambo lauded the current leadership of Sierra Leone, noting that the country is now under a leadership that is deeply committed to providing opportunities for young people and women to take on key roles in the nation’s development. He encouraged the scholarship recipients to make the most of this opportunity and urged their parents to continue supporting and encouraging them throughout their academic journey in Hungary.

It must be noted that the bilateral relationship between Sierra Leone and Hungary dates back to 1961 with the partnership now reaching new heights under the leadership of Sierra Leone’s current Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Musa Timothy Kabba.

In a significant step earlier this year, a delegation led by Hon. Kabba signed Hungary’s first Joint Economic Committee agreement in Budapest, further solidifying the economic and diplomatic ties between the two nations.

During the visit, the delegation engaged in fruitful discussions with various stakeholders, including private sector representatives and key institutions, positioning Sierra Leone as a prime destination for investment with ample commercial opportunities and a stable political climate. One of the highlights of the trip was the delegation’s meeting with the ANY Security and Printing Company and the Hungarian Water Partnership, where they explored potential collaborations in the printing, security and water management sectors.

The inaugural meeting of the Joint Economic and Technical Commission on April 11, 2024, marked the official signing of the agreement, with high-ranking representatives from both countries in attendance. The continued collaboration between Sierra Leone and Hungary promises to bring significant benefits, particularly in the fields of education, economic development and technological advancement, ensuring a brighter future for the citizens of both nations.

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