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University of Sierra Leone Chancellor Launches MMTU’s Diamond Jubilee

Dr. James Sanpha Koroma, Chancellor of the University of Sierra Leone and Chief Executive Officer of Union Trust Bank, officially initiated the Diamond Jubilee Celebrations of the Milton Margai Technical University (MMTU) and the Fourth Solade Adams Public Lecture Series. The launch took place at the Great Hall of the Goderich Campus in Freetown on Thursday, November 30th, 2023, focusing on the theme: “Institutional Reform and Change Management at the Milton Margai Technical University: Challenges and Prospects.”

Dr. Emmanuel Giama, Special Adviser on Local Government at State House, served as the Guest Lecturer for the fourth Solade Adams Public Lectures. Adams, the first African and Sierra Leonean principal of MMTU, was hailed as a dynamic figure.

During his lecture, Dr. Giama reflected on the evolution of education, emphasizing the significance of institutional reforms and change management. He stressed the importance of human capital development and described education as a passport to the future, especially when it serves society’s needs. Commending MMTU for immortalizing Solade Adams, he urged for wider discussions on education, noting that education has evolved into an industry.

Dr. Giama highlighted the rigorous evaluations undertaken by institutions like the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education and the Tertiary Education Commission, which certified MMTU’s transition to a Technical University. He discussed the changes, including the establishment of structures like the University Court and the shift in leadership from the President.

Addressing the challenges of change, he spoke about the demands for financial accountability, frustrations, and the potential prospects. He emphasized the University’s advancements, such as awarding degrees in technical/vocational education, admitting science students, and harmonizing lecturers’ salaries. He encouraged forming partnerships with domestic and international institutions.

Dr. Philip John Kanu, Vice Chancellor and Principal of MMTU, described the day as significant, marking the inauguration of the university’s 60th-anniversary celebrations with a series of activities.

Dr. Victor Kabia, Chancellor of MMTU, praised Solade Adams for his inspiration and commitment to improving academic performance. He highlighted the University’s aspirations for transformative students and its endeavor to secure additional financial support through an Endowment Fund.

Dr. James Sanpha Koroma, in his address, praised Sierra Leone’s educational system and pledged ongoing support to MMTU. Reflecting on his humble beginnings, he encouraged determination and self-belief, underscoring the importance of integrity and contributions beyond academia. He urged individuals to make a positive impact and wished all success in their pursuits.

The event featured pledges for the Diamond Jubilee Celebrations, alumni greetings, and a question-and-answer session, concluding with the Students’ Union President delivering the vote of thanks.

Koidu Ltd Prioritizes Safety, Conservation & Educational Empowerment

Koidu Limited, a prominent mining entity, has garnered praise and recognition from stakeholders in Kono District for its unwavering dedication to safety protocols, environmental preservation, and community support at its mining site.

The company’s steadfast commitment to ensuring safety measures for its workforce has set an industry standard, earning it accolades and admiration locally and beyond. Additionally, Koidu Limited’s proactive initiatives in environmental conservation have earned widespread acknowledgment and appreciation.

The mining giant has been lauded for fulfilling its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) with conscientiousness. Notably, Koidu Limited’s efforts in rebuilding the Kono Blind School have transformed the institution into a modern, disability-friendly facility, earning commendation from the visually impaired community.

Moreover, Koidu Limited has significantly contributed to employment opportunities within and beyond the diamond-rich Kono District, positively impacting the lives of numerous residents.

Earlier in 2023, the company entered a power purchase agreement with the Sierra Leonean Government, aimed at enhancing operational safety and efficiency.

As a longstanding pillar in the mining sector, Koidu Limited has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting and aiding the areas where it operates, standing ready to lend assistance whenever needed.

In alignment with President Julius Maada Bio’s Free Quality Education initiative, Koidu Limited has been providing scholarships to high-achieving students across the entire Kono District. This gesture underscores the company’s dedication to community development and educational advancement.

CHAMPS, Health Ministry Collaborate to Combat Stillbirths and Child Mortality

Taking a united stand against the critical challenges of stillbirths and child mortality in Sierra Leone, the Child Health and Mortality Prevention Surveillance (CHAMPS) Network, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, unveiled preliminary research outcomes at the 2023 CHAMPS National Advisory Forum.

The event, hosted on the 29th November, 2023 at the Bintumani Conference Centre in Aberdeen, Freetown, revolved around the theme: “Call to Action: Leveraging CHAMPS Data for Action, Policy, and Research.”

The CHAMPS National Advisory Forum served as a pivotal arena, gathering stakeholders for a constructive discourse to shape the trajectory of child health in Sierra Leone. Participants delved into initial research findings, explored avenues for collaboration and contributed insights to optimize the use of CHAMPS data for actionable initiatives.

Funded by the Gates Foundation and supported by Emory University, CHAMPS offers timely and precise monitoring of infectious and preventable causes of death among children under five. In Sierra Leone, the collaborative implementation involves Crown Agents, World Hope International, and Focus 1000 in the fight against child mortality.

During his keynote speech, Dr. Charles Senessie, Deputy Minister of Health, expressed gratitude for the invaluable data compiled by CHAMPS, highlighting its pivotal role in development. He stressed the Ministry’s dedication to partnering with CHAMPS and other stakeholders to tackle issues concerning stillbirths and child mortality.

Dr. Senessie acknowledged the challenge in hospitals and clinics where the underlying cause of a child’s illness often remains unexplored. He committed to ongoing collaboration with CHAMPS to address the country’s high child mortality rates and emphasized the necessity of fortifying the healthcare sector.

Dr. Ike Ogbuanu, CHAMPS Director in Sierra Leone, outlined the organization’s role in identifying and tracking the causes of mortality in children under five and stillbirths through epidemiological surveillance and advanced laboratory testing. Dr. Ogbuanu emphasized the imperative of reducing Sierra Leone’s high child mortality rates and encouraged mothers to provide nutritious food for their children.

Dr. Daphne Moffet, Country Director for the Centre for Disease Control, underscored the significance of data in informed decision-making and strategy development to diminish child mortality rates and fortify the nation’s healthcare system.

Representatives from WHO and UNICEF also spoke, emphasizing collaborative efforts’ importance in addressing Sierra Leone’s challenges related to stillbirths and child mortality. The event marked a significant stride towards a unified response to these critical health issues, instilling optimism for a healthier future for the country’s children.

Don Bosco Celebrates 25 Years of Dedicated Service in Sierra Leone

Don Bosco Fambul is a non-profit organization that works to improve the lives of vulnerable children and youth in Sierra Leone. The organization was founded in 1998 by Salesian missionaries and is inspired by the work of Saint John Bosco, who dedicated his life to helping disadvantaged youth. Don Bosco Fambul provides a range of services to support the well-being and development of young people in Sierra Leone. This includes education and vocational training programs, as well as support for street children, orphans, and those affected by poverty and conflict.

Don Bosco Fambul has been making a significant impact in Sierra Leone for the past 25 years, working to improve the lives of vulnerable children and youth. The organization provides a range of services, including education, vocational training, and support for street children, orphans, and those affected by poverty and conflict. Their holistic approach to care and support has contributed greatly to the protection and well-being of vulnerable children in the country.

The organization also focuses on promoting child rights, raising awareness about issues affecting young people, and advocating for policies and programs that benefit vulnerable populations. They are actively involved in efforts to prevent all forms of violence against minors and young people through advocacy activities and work with communities and local authorities to raise awareness about the risks and dangers faced by vulnerable children.

Don Bosco Fambul has been a source of refuge for orphaned children and those living on the streets, offering them a nurturing environment and access to healthcare and counselling services. The success stories of children who have benefited from the programs of Don Bosco Fambul serve as a testament to the positive impact of the organization.

As Sierra Leone continues to face the challenges of poverty and social inequality, the work of organizations like Don Bosco Fambul is crucial in providing hope and opportunities for vulnerable children. Through their tireless efforts, they are not only changing the lives of individual children but also contributing to the overall development and well-being of the country.

As Don Bosco Fambul celebrates 25 years of dedicated service, its enduring commitment to creating a brighter and more secure future for the most vulnerable members of society is evident in its work.

President Bio Denounces Attempted Coup in Stern National Address

President Julius Maada Bio
President Julius Maada Bio

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

On Saturday, December 2, 2023, Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio addressed the nation for the second time, following an attempted coup d’état on November 26, 2023. The president’s address comes in the wake of violence and instability that has shaken the capital, Freetown.

President Bio began his address by greeting his fellow countrymen, acknowledging the assault on the Wilberforce Military Barracks in Freetown’s Western Area. He described the early morning gunfire as an attempt by ruthless hooligans to unleash anarchy on the city.

The Wilberforce Military Barracks was violently breached by unknown assailants, resulting in an intense gunfight. The attackers were eventually repelled by loyal forces but proceeded to cause widespread destruction of lives and property in various parts of Freetown.

The president mourned the loss of gallant officers who paid the ultimate price in the defense of the nation’s peace, security, and democracy. He extended his prayers and condolences to the bereaved families and wished the wounded a speedy recovery.

President Bio asserted that investigations conducted by the Security and Intelligence Community strongly point to the events of November 26 as an orchestrated coup attempt to overturn the elected government and disrupt constitutional order.

He confirmed that arrests have been made and full investigations launched. Furthermore, the Sierra Leone Police have released a list of wanted persons, and the President urged citizens to assist in providing information leading to the arrest of fugitives.

Reminding his fellow citizens of the peaceful elections held five months ago, President Bio condemned the coup attempt as a grave and unpardonable act. He reiterated his unwavering commitment to a multi-party democracy and to upholding the laws of the nation.

President Bio touched upon the nation’s resilience through past challenges, such as the ten-year civil war, the Ebola outbreak, the recent COVID-19 pandemic, and the 2017 mudslide disaster. He emphasized how these trials have not diminished the determination of his people but have fostered hope for a brighter future.

Expressing gratitude for his re-election in June 2023, the president pledged to improve the quality of life for Sierra Leone’s citizens and continue transformative socio-economic programs, with Feed Salone as the flagship initiative.

The president assured the nation that the response to the coup attempt will be measured and based solely on the rule of law. He pledged to follow the evidence wherever it leads, and hold all those found culpable accountable within the confines of the law.

President Bio expressed his gratitude to global leaders, bilateral and multilateral partners, including ECOWAS, the African Union, the Commonwealth, the European Union, and the United States of America, for their support during these challenging times.

In his closing statement, President Bio urged citizens to reject any attempts to divide the nation through violence and unconstitutional means. He encouraged his fellow Sierra Leoneans to remain united and resilient, guided solely by the rule of law.

“May God bless and protect the great people of Sierra Leone and our friends and partners living in Sierra Leone. Long live the Republic of Sierra Leone,” President Bio concluded his address.

SiLNoRF Represents Sierra Leone at West African Global Convergence 2023

By Abu Bakarr Munu, Communication Officer, SiLNoRF

The Sierra Network on the Right to Food (SiLNoRF) is presently representing Sierra Leone in the ongoing 4th Edition of the West African Global Convergence, Caravan 2023.

The Caravan is a biannual campaign carried out by grassroots social movements and civil society organizations (CSOs) including human rights defenders grouped within the Global Convergence of Struggles for Land and Water in West Africa.

The platform, which is made up of the 16 West African countries, constitutes a real means of advocacy and synergy for action against land grabbing and other natural resources in West Africa.

Land, Water and peasant seeds are assets of humanity. They must benefit communities and grassroots populations.

However, the monopolization and commercialization of these resources with excess profits by multinationals and certain national and foreign individuals have become a recurrent phenomenon especially in Africa.

Moreover, this phenomenon aggravates poverty and drastically slows down social transformation based on family farming, peasant agro-ecology and social justice.

It should be noted that it is in this context that the CGLTE-OA organized another Edition of the West African Caravan under the label, “Right to Land, Water and Peasant Agro-ecology: A Common Struggle”. Held from November 20 in the Gambia via Senegal, Guinea Bissau, Guinea Conakry before ending in Sierra Leone in December 13, 2021, it is expected that more than 300 direct participants will be involved in 15 ECOWAS countries.

One of the specific objectives of the caravan is to promote awareness among the communities of the stopover towns of the different itinerary countries on issues and challenges linked to the environment, land, water, peasant seeds as well as the need to preserve them for the present and future generations in line with sustainable development.

The ongoing 4th Edition was officially launched on November 6 in Burkina Faso moved to Ivory Coast, Mali, Senegal and has just entered the Brikima West Coast Region of The Gambia with over 250 participants.

In all the itinerary countries so far targeted, series of lined up events were carried out and the Head of the Caravan, Massa Kone delivered speeches followed by the presentation of a Green Book to State authorities, forming the climax of the convergence that enjoys the support of the Alliance of Customary Chiefs, Traditional and Religious Leaders of Africa who turned out in large numbers.

In addition to the above, official ceremonies including conferences were held with participants carrying banners and chanting slogans: “My Land, My Life, My Water, My Life”
in different dialects and local languages interlaced with the rhythm of drums.

NP-SL Leads With Unmatched Service Excellence & Optimized Customer Care

By Amin Kef-Ranger

NP-SL’s steadfastness in optimal service delivery has made it one of the most outstanding  companies that is vibrantly operating, in thick and thin, in this country. Such largely emanates from the dogged determination on the part of 35 former employees of the then British Petroleum company, which decided to fold up its operations and sold shares, which these workers bought out of their end of service benefits and used as seed capital to commence the running of the now renowned NP-SL –Ltd.

Setting up the company was just one accomplished feat, but taking it from that level to where it is today, speaks volumes of the selflessness on the part of the shareholders, who were all Sierra Leoneans, to see their ‘baby’ grow and succeed up to an appreciable stage that they were yearning for. It is this selflessness on the part of the shareholders which eclipsed personal aggrandizement, misappropriation of funds and insincerity to such an extent that the resultant effect culminated into an overall success story.

At this material point in time the company has bagged a whole lot of recognition for its outstanding performances in the line of marketing qualitative petroleum products. It stands to be contested that NP-SL Ltd is the number one oil marketing company in this country, which is equal to none, as it continues to break new frontiers in its expansionist drive.

When the name NP is called, what immediately comes to mind is First for Customer Care and this is not a mere masquerading in borrowed robes, but rather a true accomplishment of what the company fervently believes in and is striving towards maintaining. To the Shareholders and Management of the company, providing utmost satisfaction in its service delivery to its esteemed as well as numerous customers is just as important as importing petroleum products into the country. Keen consideration is given to marketing high grade products that customers utilize for the effective performances of vehicles and other gadgets.

Besides, the company ensured that its pumping machines used in Filling Stations are modern and standardized in order to give customers their monies’ worth. These machines are very transparent, as it displays the number of litre pumped and the corresponding prices. Besides, customers concerns and suggestions are taken into consideration when policies are mapped out and Management decisions are arrived at, which makes it possible for various shades of opinions and inputs to be factored into how the company tailors its operations.

With the avowed aim of making their customers feel at home, NP-SL-Ltd has made the procurement of petroleum products very simple by introducing the use of NP Smart Card. NP Smart Card has unique embedded security features which cannot be easily faked by unscrupulous persons and the Card could be topped up to contain a considerable amount of money which a particular customer could use for purchasing purposes, with amounts deducted depending on the quantum of the products so far demanded. Indeed, it is a latest technological device and is becoming very trending.

For effective cooking purposes the company also has on offer for sale NP Gas, a device found in different cylinder shapes, that could be accessed at all the company’s Filling Stations as well as authorized dealers at affordable prices. Environmentally and medically certified as user friendly, NP Gas is presently going like hot cakes and there are energized workers in all the stations that readily offer tips or guidance as to how to optimally make use of this wonderful gadget. As a matter of fact a particular user can easily gain access to gas for refilling purpose.

A marked feature of the company has to do with its one hundred percent ‘Sierra Leoneaness’, having shareholders, Management and general staff who are all indigenes. Such a premium placed on making use of local talents and raw materials are parts of the core bedrock of the much talked about Local Content Policy.

Employing knowledgeable Sierra Leoneans to execute certain tasks has been a cardinal principle that has permeated the company’s existence throughout the periods it has been in active existence and such has been paying meaningful dividends. It also means offering various training opportunities to broaden the knowledge horizons of its members of staff for sound contributions to the company’s viability and buoyancy.

Bent on maintaining that stance, the company has been helping in poverty reduction because by offering job opportunities, either directly or otherwise, it is putting monies in the pockets of individuals to take care of responsibilities. Monies are spent internally as opposed to a situation where the company should have concentrated on importing foreign expatriates to do tasks that indigenes could do better.

NP-SL Ltd has, over the years, in its drive to roll out the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility complementing Government’s efforts to enhance improved standards of living. It has offered institutional capacity supports to vibrant entities.

To have branches in different parts of the country and going further to have presence within the West African sub-region tells of how the company is determined to grow. There are NP branches in Liberia, Guinea, Ivory Coast and The Gambia and the vibrant functioning of  all those branches is a true testimony of how successful its shareholders and Management want to see customers enjoying qualitative petroleum products. The company is providing job opportunities in those countries and at the same time paying taxes, which form components of generated revenues that are used by the respective Governments to undertake the implementation of various development programmes and projects.

NP-SL is moving on the right trajectory and deserves all the necessary support it requires to move from one height to another. The company is poised to continue creating meaningful impacts and consciously moving towards the direction of always setting the pace for others to follow.

Peace Commission Denounces Failed Coup Attempt, Urges Peace and Unity

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC) has issued a strong condemnation of the attempted coup that took place in Sierra Leone on Sunday, November 26, 2023, describing it as a significant threat to the nation’s hard-fought peace and unity.

In a statement, the ICPNC criticized the violent act for undermining the recent constructive series of stakeholder discussions and the mediated dialogue held on September 18th, 2023. The Commission emphasized that such violent incidents are a severe deviation from the principles of democratic governance and a tragic cause for the loss of lives and property.

According to the Commission, the attempted coup on November 26th has incited widespread unrest and fear, disrupting the peace that has been earnestly established through the joint efforts of citizens, political parties, religious and traditional leaders, the Government and development partners stressing the importance of maintaining this invaluable peace and urging citizens to protect as well as preserve it at all costs.

It also advised citizens to collaborate with the authorities, particularly the security sectors in order to maintain the regained peace also commending the swift response from State security forces to the attempted breach and called for continued cooperation to ensure the nation’s safety and well-being.

In a call to encourage responsible information sharing, the ICPNC appealed to citizens to refrain from disseminating unverified news, especially via social media, warning that such actions could breed unnecessary tension and panic and potentially trigger chaos and social disorder.

The ICPNC reiterated its commitment to fostering peace and national unity and called for a comprehensive and unbiased investigation into the attempted coup. The Commission urged the need for accountability, justice and the rule of law as well as an open and inclusive dialogue to address the country’s political and economic challenges.

According to the Commission, these steps are vital to preventing further instability and fostering sustainable peace in Sierra Leone calling on all parties to work together to address the root causes of the unrest and to work towards building a more equitable society for all Sierra Leoneans.

The ICPNC reaffirmed its belief in Sierra Leone’s potential to be a beacon of peace and democracy in West Africa and committed to working towards this vision.

The Commission concluded its statement with a call for unity and a shared responsibility to maintain peace in the country, with the phrase, “Leh we all join han for maintain pis na Salone.”

US Peace Corps & Government Ministries Join Forces to Renew Partnership

The United States Peace Corps in Sierra Leone, in continuing its legacy of service, has on November 29,2023 in Freetown reaffirmed its commitment to collaboration by signing Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE) and the Ministry of Health (MOH). These agreements signify a steadfast dedication to fostering partnerships that have spanned decades.

Since its inception in 1962, American Peace Corps Volunteers have been an integral part of Sierra Leone’s educational landscape. Teaching alongside local educators in mathematics, science, and literacy, the Volunteers have left an indelible mark across the country. Additionally, the Peace Corps has expanded its presence in the health sector since 2016, deploying Volunteers to clinics in tandem with community health workers across ten districts in Sierra Leone.

The Minister  of Basic and Senior Education, Conrad Sackey, warmly welcomed Natalie Gill-Mensah, the Peace Corps’ Country Director and Mohamed Dumbuya, Education Program Manager, to discuss the organization’s ongoing contributions.

Reflecting on his own experiences with the Peace Corps, Minister Sackey highlighted its positive impact from his early years at Albert Academy to a fellowship in the United States, where he visited the Peace Corps headquarters in Washington DC.

Meanwhile, the Acting Minister of Health, Dr. Charles Senessie, Gill-Mensah and the Peace Corps Program Manager, Zainab Kamara, convened to sign the MOU.

Currently, twelve Peace Corps Volunteers are actively involved in clinics, providing crucial support in maternal child health, reproductive health education, and malaria prevention. The discussion emphasized the pivotal role played by this partnership, acknowledging the Ministry’s support as the Peace Corps continues to identify clinics for Volunteer service.

Expressing her enthusiasm, Gill-Mensah stated, “Peace Corps’ commitment to Sierra Leone and its people has a long-storied history, and I am thrilled and honored to continue this tradition by renewing our MOUs with the Ministries.”

These recent meetings and the signing of the MOUs underscore the enduring alliance between the United States Peace Corps and the Government of Sierra Leone, signaling a mutual intention to sustain this collaboration for years to come.

NCD Condemns November 26 Ugly Incident & Stresses Application of the Rule of Law

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In the wake of the disturbing incident that unfolded on Sunday, November 26, 2023, posing a serious threat to the nation’s security, the National Commission for Democracy (NCD) has issued a strong condemnation of the events and called for the steadfast application of the rule of law.

The NCD, in categorical terms, denounced the orchestrated attacks on the Military Armory at Wilberforce Barracks, the Military Headquarters at Cockerill and the security breach at the Male Correctional Centre. Recognizing the gravity of these actions, the NCD highlighted their potential to undermine the peace, stability and democratic good governance that Sierra Leone has been striving to consolidate.

Given Sierra Leone’s historical experiences with conflict, the NCD emphasized the nation’s collective determination to avoid a return to such dark times. The loss of any life through unscrupulous means is deemed detrimental to the overall development of the country and NCD urges all well-meaning Sierra Leoneans to unite in condemning these acts and to work collectively to prevent further bloodshed.

The NCD expressed deep concern about the sense of panic and fear that has gripped the nation, particularly in Freetown, following the release of inmates from the Male Correctional Centre. Questions were raised regarding whether the people of Sierra Leone deserve such a situation and whether they can enjoy the dividends of democracy, including peace, human dignity and sustainable development.

Despite the challenging circumstances, the NCD asserted that Sierra Leone deserves better, emphasizing the need for all stakeholders to prioritize the well-being of the people. While acknowledging the bravery of the military officers and security personnel who repelled the attackers, the NCD calls for a thorough and sincere investigation to prevent a recurrence of such incidents.

As the investigation unfolds, the NCD is reminding both the Government and the citizens that Sierra Leone is a nation under the rule of law. It emphasized the importance of legal accountability and remedies, urging everyone to refrain from taking the law into their own hands. The NCD expresses confidence that upholding the rule of law would lead to the identification and prosecution of perpetrators, restoring normalcy to the nation.

In concluding its press release, the NCD affirmed its commitment to the peace and stability of Sierra Leone, advocating for the prevalence of the rule of law over lawlessness and arbitrariness.

It urges the nation to move in the right direction, allowing democracy to work in the best interest of Sierra Leone with a message that echoes a resounding “Yes” to peace and stability with the rule of law and a firm “No” to lawlessness as the country navigates through these challenging times.

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