Orange SL exemplified its commitment to social responsibility by donating essential food items to the staff and pupils of Paul School for the Blind at their Baiama Road campus in Bo on the 23rd November, 2023.
The donation included rice, cooking oil, onions, tomatoes, mayonnaise, and Maggie, offered to support the school’s needs.
Augustus Bendu, the Area Business Manager South, highlighted the significance of the occasion, emphasizing Orange’s responsiveness to the school’s call for assistance. He praised the institution’s persistence in seeking external aid and reiterated Orange’s dedication to supporting physically challenged individuals, irrespective of their location.
Expressing gratitude for the timely donation, Mohamed S. Conteh, the Head Teacher, emphasized the critical need for such support, mentioning the school’s various requirements, including learning materials, computers, braille, and transportation for the students.
The Deputy Commercial Director, B2B at Bollor Orange, delivered the keynote address, underscoring the importance of kindness and the company’s commitment to social responsibility. He highlighted Orange’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) pillars, outlining the company’s endeavors in education, healthcare, women’s empowerment, and youth development.
The company’s consistent efforts in providing not just telecommunication services but also supporting marginalized communities were emphasized. Attendees praised Orange for its generosity and hoped for the continuation of such charitable initiatives.
The event concluded with a heartfelt appreciation song by the students, expressing gratitude to Orange’s leadership and the General Secretary for their support.
NP-SL Ltd has emerged as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs and investors seeking to establish thriving business ventures. With a rich history, the company has weathered various challenges and transformations, emerging as a privately owned indigenous business entity, free from Government interference.
One of the key factors contributing to the company’s success is its implementation of result-oriented initiatives, which have led to fruitful outcomes. The petroleum marketing entity can boast of an extensive network of 133 regional dealer distribution outlets, ensuring a continuous and reliable supply of petroleum products.
Customer satisfaction lies at the heart of NP Sierra Leone Limited’s operations. The Management team has consistently prioritized excellent service delivery, resulting in a broadened customer base and high levels of customer care. The introduction of modern calibrated pumping machines and the NP Smart Card for cashless fuel purchases have further enhanced the customer experience.
As a 100% indigenous company, NP-SL Ltd. adheres to the Local Content Policy, emphasizing the importance of employing local talents. This commitment not only provides employment opportunities for Sierra Leoneans but also contributes to poverty reduction in the country.
Innovation is a driving force behind the company’s growth. NP Gas, a popular cooking device, has received widespread acclaim for its safety, user-friendliness, and availability at NP Filling Stations. Additionally, the NP Smart Card has revolutionized fuel purchases, offering a secure and swift payment method for customers.
The company’s impact extends beyond Sierra Leone’s borders, as it operates in neighboring West African countries with the same dedication to local content and community empowerment. NP Sierra Leone Limited has been expanding its operations in hard-to-reach areas, providing accessible petroleum products and creating employment opportunities for the local population.
Despite facing occasional unwarranted criticism, NP Sierra Leone Limited remains steadfast in its mission to positively impact society. Its resilience and dedication to socio-economic development have earned it the admiration of Sierra Leoneans and neighboring nations.
Aspiring entrepreneurs and investors can draw valuable lessons from NP-SL Ltd’s success story. The company’s commitment to customer satisfaction, innovation, local talent, and community development sets a high standard for businesses to emulate.
The petroleum marketing company continues to forge ahead, making significant strides in the petroleum industry and positively transforming communities and lives.
As the company celebrates its achievements, it remains an embodiment of inspiration for all those looking to carve their path to success in the business world.
President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, on the 24th November, 2023 in Equatorial Guinea, wrapped up a pivotal Consultative Summit of the African Union (AU) in his role as the Coordinator of the AU Committee of Ten (C-10) Heads of State and Government focused on United Nations Security Council reform.
Hosted by President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo of Equatorial Guinea, this fifth summit primarily assessed the Committee’s eighteen-year endeavor, acknowledging significant strides in garnering support for the Common African Position (CAP) outlined in the Ezulwini Consensus and the Sirte Declaration.
President Bio underscored the Summit’s purpose, emphasizing the review of progress made in advocating for the Common African Position. He highlighted the strategies to bolster existing support while seeking pathways to engage with divergent viewpoints outside the CAP.
Referencing recommendations from the January 2023 Ministerial meeting in Brazzaville, Republic of Congo, President Bio emphasized the need for ‘enhanced engagement’ in the intergovernmental negotiations framework on Security Council reform. He stressed the wider recognition and backing from Member States for Africa’s rightful global role and rectifying historical injustices.
Under President Bio’s chairmanship, the closed session concluded with the issuance of the Oyala Consultative Summit Communiqué. The document reaffirmed the CAP as the sole viable option to address the historical injustice faced by Africa. It outlined strategies for increased engagement to advance the CAP, urging the acknowledgment of Africa’s underrepresentation in the UN Security Council’s permanent and non-permanent categories.
The Communiqué emphasized heightened engagement with the five Permanent Members of the UN Security Council, highlighting the C-10 Heads of State’s commitment to continued outreach to them.
President Bio’s leadership during this Summit signals Africa’s unified stance in advocating for equitable representation in the UN Security Council, striving for a more inclusive and just global governance framework.
Rokel Commercial Bank was honored with the esteemed “Environmental Excellent Bank of the Year” Award at the 7th Environmental Care Awards ceremony held on November 24th, 2023, in Freetown.
Besides, Dr. Walton Ekundayoh Gilpin, the Managing Director of RCBank was conferred the prestigious “Climate Change Champion CEO of the Year” award.
It must be noted that acknowledgment of RCBank’s unyielding dedication to environmental preservation has highlighted its proactive stance toward safeguarding nature. The bank’s collaboration with Keeping Hope Alive, leading to the plantation of forest trees along the Masiaka/Bo Highway, stands as a testament to its commitment to environmental sustainability.
RCBank’s consistent Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives reflect its unwavering pledge to nurture and conserve the environment. From the meticulous cleaning of the country’s pristine beaches to actively addressing plastic and inorganic waste across Freetown and other regions, RCBank strives to cultivate a clean, healthy, and safe environment for its clientele and the broader citizenry.
According to the Managing Director of RCBank, Dr. Walton Ekundayoh Gilpin, “This recognition serves as a profound source of inspiration for RCBank, reinforcing our commitment to intensify efforts toward ensuring a safer and healthier environment for future generations.”
The bank expressed gratitude to Shout Climate Change, the Sierra Leone Meteorological Agency, and the Freetown City Council for the honour.
During a well-attended ceremony held on Friday 24th November, 2023 at the Wellington Industrial Estate in the East End of Freetown, Sierra Leone Brewery Limited, a key player in the manufacturing of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages unveiled two new and exciting additions to its product line-up, Zagg Energy drink and Maltina Flavored drink.
Corporate Affairs Manager for Sierra Leone Brewery Limited, Foday Daboh, in his statement expressed commitment on the part of the company to innovation and consumer satisfaction.
Daboh underscored the company’s dedication to meeting the changing needs and demands of consumers in the country, maintaining how they do recognize the evolving landscape of the beverage industry. He furthered that the Sierra Leone Brewery Limited aims to continuously innovate and deliver products that resonate with its customers pointing out how these two non-alcoholic beverages are a testament to that commitment.
The Zagg Energy drink, according to him, is crafted to fuel the body and invigorate the senses, adding that it is packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and natural ingredients, revealing also that it aims to provide a healthier alternative to traditional energy drinks, ensuring consumers have the much-needed boost to navigate their busy schedules and days.
He intimated how in addition to Zagg, the company is also introducing the Maltina Pineapple Flavored drink, building upon the success of the beloved Maltina brand in the country, stressing that the new flavor added to Maltina is designed to tantalize taste buds and offer a delightful and non-alcoholic beverage option for consumers.
Daboh highlighted the company’s focus on quality, innovation, and meeting consumers’ demands which set them apart in the beverage industry, expressing gratitude for the trust and support Sierra Leoneans have placed in the company over the years.
He concluded by inviting all to experience the taste, quality, and innovation of Zagg Energy Drink and Maltina Flavored drink. The corporate affairs manager expressed enthusiasm for the exciting new chapter and the company’s ongoing commitment to raising the bar in the beverage industry.
On his part, the Marketing Manager, Olufunmilayo Ogunbodede, officially introduced the two ground-breaking additions to the company’s beverage line-up: Zagg Energy and Maltina Pineapple Flavour.
In her opening remarks, Ms. Ogunbodede expressed gratitude for the presence of the attendees, highlighting the honor of unveiling products that promise to redefine the energy and malt drink landscape in the Sierra Leonean market.
She addressed the societal inclination towards limiting choices, emphasizing the company’s commitment to challenging norms and introducing products that break away from conventional expectations. Non-conformity, she noted, is the foundation of success, and SLBL stands as a testament to that philosophy.
Both Zagg and Maltina Pineapple, according to Ms. Ogunbodede, represent distinction and dynamism adding that SLBL, known for prioritizing consumer satisfaction, has crafted these additions with the consumers’ well-being and preferences in mind.
Zagg Energy Drink, she explained, is designed to not only provide the required energy but also offer all-round nourishment that stimulates consumers mentally, physically, and otherwise.
“With a smooth taste, Zagg aims to strike a balance between nourishment and energy, positioning itself as the foremost energy drink in Sierra Leone that prioritizes health and goodness,” she said saying likewise, the Maltina Pineapple Flavour, an extension of the beloved Maltina brand, brings variety to the market, catering to diverse tastes and lifestyle needs as its flavored variant injects excitement into the category aiming to remain the undisputed number 1 malt drink in the country.
Ms. Ogunbodede concluded by inviting the Managing Director of Sierra Leone Brewery Limited, Mr. Laurent Nsenda Bukasa, to officially unveil both the Zagg Energy and Maltina Pineapple Flavoured drinks.
The event marked a significant milestone for SLBL, showcasing the company’s commitment to innovation and consumer satisfaction as industry stakeholders, media representatives, and dignitaries gathered to witness the unveiling of these two masterpieces, anticipating their impact on the Sierra Leonean beverage market.
During the Parliamentary debate on the 2024 budget, the All People’s Congress Party’s Honorable Member of Parliament for Karene District, Hon. Mohamed S. Kargbo, fervently called on the Government to prioritize the resumption of construction of the Makeni-Kamakwie-Madidawula Road describing the road as very crucial for the nation’s development which therefore must warrant the appropriate authorities to allocate resources for its completion.
Hon. Mohamed S. Kargbo emphasized the road’s current deplorable state making reference to the rapt attention it garnered during the tenure of former President Ernest Bai Koroma. It must be noted that the fifty-five miles Makeni-Kamakwie-Madidawula Road construction, which was initiated during the tenure of the All-People’s Congress Party in State Governance, had been fully funded by the Sierra Leonean Government.
Expressing concern, Mohamed S. Kargbo noted that after the 2018 elections and the formation of the SLPP led Government under the leadership of His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio, the construction abruptly halted. He mentioned the withdrawal of machinery and equipment from the site, redirecting them to other areas which are deemed to be of higher priority by the new administration.
The Parliamentarian stressed the strategic importance of the road, particularly in connecting Sierra Leone and fostering regional cooperation, especially with Mali. He underlined its potential to facilitate import and export activities, providing Mali with a closer and more convenient route through Sierra Leone, which, in turn, would contribute significantly to the country’s development.
Moreover, Mohamed S. Kargbo outlined the expected benefits of completing the Makeni-Kamakwie-Madidawula Road, envisioning it as a vital link that could enhance collaboration between Sierra Leone and neighbouring countries.
Despite the road construction initiative commencing during the APC regime under former President Ernest Bai Koroma, Hon. Ahmed Kargbo expressed disappointment that the project faced discontinuation after the 2018 elections. He emphasized that the completion of the road is crucial for the socio-economic development of Sierra Leone, that will bring relief to travelers, boost agriculture and commerce in the Bombali district, and foster connectivity among important districts.
Many citizens are questioning the discontinuation of road projects, particularly those in the northern region, considered to be the APC stronghold. The advocacy by Mohamed S. Kargbo underscores the belief in the continuity of Government projects for national development, irrespective of political boundaries.
In a significant humanitarian effort, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) of Sierra Leone orchestrated the voluntary return of 107 Sierra Leonean migrants who found themselves stranded in Niger while attempting to reach Europe.
The returnees, consisting of 68 men, 25 women, 8 girls, and 6 boys, including an 11-month-old baby, arrived at the Freetown International Airport in Lungi.
These migrants had taken diverse routes in pursuit of their European destinations but were apprehended and deported to Niger. It was in Niger that the IOM intervened, ensuring their safe return to Sierra Leone.
Manuel Muller, the Ambassador of the European Union to Sierra Leone, expressed his joy at witnessing the return of Sierra Leoneans to their homeland. He conveyed confidence in their potential to contribute significantly to Sierra Leone’s development.
The Ambassador acknowledged the challenging circumstances faced by the returnees during their time away, highlighting the European Union’s financial support through the IOM for this voluntary repatriation initiative.
Aidan Fitzpatrick, the Irish Ambassador to Sierra Leone, echoed sentiments of warmth and welcome to the returning migrants. He recognized the challenges they endured during their extended time abroad and emphasized Ireland’s commitment to supporting their reintegration through the IOM.
Fitzpatrick commended the strength and ambition of the returnees and extended best wishes for their successful reunification with family and reintegration into society.
Christos Christodoulides, the Head of Mission for IOM in Sierra Leone, outlined the complexities of the reintegration process. He emphasized the organization’s commitment to tailored support, including training packages, business training, and startup kits for each individual.
Christodoulides stressed collaboration with existing programs and educational opportunities to facilitate successful reintegration.
Melrose Karmity, the Minister of Social Welfare, shed light on the opportunities and challenges facing returning migrants. She outlined Government initiatives, including agricultural activities and youth employment schemes, to support their reintegration. She emphasized the prevention of drug use and trafficking among returnees, underscoring ongoing programs and collaborative efforts with IOM.
Ernest Mbaimba Ndomahina, the Commissioner for the National Commission for Social Action (NaCSA), expressed gratitude for the support of the President of Sierra Leone and IOM in reintegrating migrants from Niger.
He encouraged returning migrants to contribute to the country’s development and highlighted NaCSA’s role in collaborating with partners and Government Ministries for effective reintegration.
Desmond Pessima, the Presidential Adviser on Youth, discussed the Government’s commitment to supporting Sierra Leonean youth. He expressed optimism about the voluntary repatriation of young people and emphasized the President’s dedication to youth empowerment, job creation, and skills development through collaboration with various ministries.
Fayah Saffa Gbanya, a returning migrant, shared a harrowing account of his journey through Mali and Algeria before being deported to Niger. He described facing extreme danger, encounters with criminals, and brutal conditions in jail. Gbanya expressed relief and gratitude upon returning to Sierra Leone, emphasizing the importance of skepticism about the dangers of such journeys and cautioning others against similar perilous experiences.
Sierra Leone kicked off 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) with an event hosted by the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs (MGCA), in collaboration with the Office of the First Lady on Saturday, November 25th, 2023.
The launch, held at the Freetown City Council Hall, marked the beginning of a global movement aimed at combating violence against women and girls under the theme: “Unite! Invest to Prevent Violence Against Women and Girls.
The launch brought together pupils and esteemed partners including UNFPA, Irish Aid, UNICEF, UNAIDS, UN Women and Care Sierra Leone etc.
In her keynote address and officially launching the 16 Days of Activism Against GBV, the First Lady, Dr. Fatima Bio articulated that the day is special, that the future is bright for Sierra Leonean women, acclaimed the MGCA for its commitment and dedication to the campaign, that this year the 16 days of activism started earlier and that she is fascinated by this year’s theme.
She also underscored that if all are in the campaign together the world would listen and catalogued some of the progress made so far including sweeping reforms, the Hands Off Our Girls Campaign, Government’s declaration of the State of Emergency on rape, that penalties for perpetrators have been reviewed, that the Ministry of GCA has been separated from Social Welfare, Government’s flagship project, the Free Quality Education, that infant and maternal mortality has reduced by 60%, that the Sexual Offences Act has been reviewed, that girls now top public examinations, the free distribution of sanitary pads and scholarships to girls offering the sciences and engineering.
The First Lady continued that other successes are the appointments of more female Ministers and election of female Members of Parliament observing that although women are considered weak and inferior they shall overcome and appealed to all to adopt new strategies to build on the successes made over the years.
She also talked about the launch of the Real Men Champions, called on campaigners not to operate in silos but to build and strengthen relationships, both locally and internationally as well as do solid investments to protect women and girls not only in Sierra Leone but worldwide.
Dr. Aisha Fofanah-Ibrahim also commended the First Lady for her invaluable support to the campaign, observed that it is important to acknowledge her work, that we must not be complacent, hold the State accountable and take a holistic approach on the issues.
In her statement, the Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Dr. Isata Mahoi revealed that the event is to launch the public campaign to kick-start the 16 Days of Activism against GBV, noted that this year’s campaign has a global theme, that GBV is preventable, disclosed that Sierra Leone has taken steps to address the issue and signed several international treaties and domesticated others citing achievements like the Sexual Offences Model Court, the One Stop Center all of which she noted are significant milestones to end violence against women and children.
She further underscored that GBV is unacceptable assuring that campaigners can end it if they forget about the politics and work together, reiterating that concrete steps must be taken to protect survivors and disclosed that this year the campaign would be taken to communities, the ‘Sowies’ and traditional leaders and commended development partners and the First Lady for their invaluable support, appealed to all to come onboard the campaign, strengthen preventive measures and be catalysts for change.
In his PowerPoint presentation on Situational Context of GBV, Progress and Challenges, Charles Vandy, Deputy Chief Director, MGCA, highlighted some of their achievements as the enactment of the 2020 Sexual Offences Act, development of the Male Involvement Strategy, the GBV Integrated Management System but observed that domestic violence is on the increase while sexual offenses are decreasing.
He added that in 2019 they recorded one of the highest cases of GBV and appealed to all to put premium on pair sex intimating that parents are no longer taking care of their children.
Charles Vandy also called for sustained practical will and commitment, that survivors have confidence in the system due to increase in reported cases, that there has been increase in the conviction rate and highlighted some of their challenges as the absence of a forensic laboratory, strong specific technical support, fragmented data from partners, inadequate medical supplies, lack of logistics and coordination of comprehensive services on GBV.
The Minister of Sports, Augusta James-Taimeh revealed that there is more violence in sports than elsewhere due to the fact that there are few women in sports, that violence against women and girls cannot be overestimated, that violence is psychological, economic and physical and commended the President and First Lady for their support asserting that violence is not only at home but in all spheres of life.
Other dignitaries present included Ministers of Government, Hon. Members of Parliament, Ambassador of Ireland, the European Head of Delegation, the UN Resident Coordinator, Representatives of the Community of Practice Women of Sierra Leone, and Members of the Fourth Estate.
It must be noted that the launch of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence served as a powerful platform for Her Excellency Dr. Fatima Maada Bio and the Ministry of Gender and Children Affairs to unite their voices in the pursuit of a safer, more equitable society for women and girls in Sierra Leone. The theme: “Unite! Invest to Prevent Violence Against Women and Girls” resonated as a clarion call for collective action and a brighter future for all.
In a well-attended ceremony held at Tic Tac Bar & Restaurant on Lumley Beach in Freetown, the Dream Africa Franchise Sierra Leone Limited has on Saturday, November 25th, 2023 officially launched its highly anticipated Job Fair & Graduate Festival 2024. The event also featured the signing ceremony of Ambassadors for the occasion.
Addressing the audience during the launch, Alhaji Osman Suma, the Director of Dream Africa Franchise, shared insights into the vision behind the Job Fair & Graduate Fest.
He emphasized that the initiative aims to celebrate students from various institutions, recognizing their dedication to years of academic pursuits, adding that in a country where youth unemployment stands at an estimated 3.63%, the event seeks to address this challenge by providing a platform for interaction between graduates and potential employers.
Alhaji Osman Suma said that with 30 institutions expected to participate, the Job Fair will serve as a space for young graduates, graduands, prospective graduates, and others to engage with employers and job creators, highlighting the importance of bridging the gap of job experience, a common challenge faced by those entering the job market.
He outlined two major highlights of the event which include the Job Fair which he said will facilitate interactions between attendees and institutions during the day, while the Graduate Festival will celebrate current, outgoing, and former students from various formal and informal institutions. This two-in-one event is expected to attract over 1,500 people, including students, Government officials, non-governmental officials, influencers, dignitaries, and other personalities across Sierra Leone.
The Director noted that during the Job Fair, students from universities, technical and vocational institutions, and entertainers are anticipated to connect with diverse institutions, expanding their networks for job-seeking opportunities, emphasizing that the event aims to be an annual occasion, contributing to increased job opportunities and emphasizing the importance of national productivity for young Sierra Leoneans.
He also highlighted the participation of pupils from different schools, providing them the opportunity to interact with inspirational figures, public figures, and graduates. Additionally, women and youth organizations will be present to promote youth leadership, women empowerment, and gender inclusivity.
Alhaji Osman Suma concluded by informing all that the Job Fair& Graduate Fest, scheduled for January 5th, 2024, will take place at the Gigibonta Car Park, Beach Road. The Job Fair will run from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, while the Graduate Festival will commence at 9:00 pm and conclude at 6:00 am the next day. He however said that the Job Fair is free while the Graduate Festival attendees will pay a small fee of 70 New Leones early bid and 80 New Leones at the gate.
The Dream Africa Franchise looks forward to the support of partners in development for the success of the Job Fair & Graduate Festival.
The event was climaxed by the official launching of the Job Fair & Graduate Festival 2024 followed by the signing ceremony of Ambassadors for the occasion.
The Ministry of Planning and Economic Development, under the leadership of Madam Kenyeh Barlay and Deputy, Rev. Dr. Jonathan Titus-Williams, has initiated a comprehensive series of stakeholder engagements across all 16 districts. These discussions aim to shape the forthcoming Medium-Term National Development Plan (MTNDP) for the period 2024-2030.
The ongoing consultations target the identification and prioritization of district-specific needs. These discussions play a critical role in informing the formulation of the MTNDP, aligning it with the ambitious objectives outlined in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for 2030 and the African Union’s Agenda 2063. Additionally, the plan integrates the Government’s Big Five Game Changers and four enablers, all essential national priorities.
Working in close partnership with the Bi-Monthly Districts Development Coordination Committees (DDCC), operational at Councils, the Ministry is orchestrating these dialogues. Diverse stakeholders from various sectors actively participate, voicing their perspectives on critical issues and outlining needs crucial for inclusion in the upcoming development plan.
This participatory approach ensures that the MTNDP (2024-2030) is tailored to reflect the specific development priorities of each district, synchronizing with their individual Development Plans.
The engagements serve a dual purpose: apart from informing stakeholders about the Government’s strategic direction with the Big Five Game Changers, they also aim to raise awareness among District and Chiefdom stakeholders about these key national priorities.
The Ministry’s proactive outreach not only educates participants on the broader national strategic focus but also fosters inclusive governance in the national development planning process.
To further engage communities, informative phone-in radio discussions follow these sessions, allowing residents to share their perspectives. This approach ensures that even those unable to attend in person have a platform to contribute to the shaping of the upcoming national development plan for 2024-2030.
