Orange-SL and its partners celebrated Ethics & Compliance Day during an event that was held on 20th November, 2023 at the company’s Headquarters on Hill Station in Freetown as part of the company’s observance of its Ethics and Compliance Week.
The Governance, Internal Control and Audit Director, Cheik Diongue Mbaye intimated the event’s purpose saying it mainly borders on bringing together members of staff, vendors and subscribers to interact and discuss risk scenarios related to no compliance to corruption in the company and as well to create a user friendly environment among them.
He continued that it is also geared towards informing them that, in terms of purchasing, acquiring contracts and other services no one should pay a bribe to any member of staff admonishing all to report any known case or situation. The Director maintained that feedback from partners is very important to them as such will help to improve their fight against corruption.
According to him, they have identified 30 risk scenarios, revealing how most often they are linked to accepting or offering percentages when customers or partners want to access services or actualize deals with them.
Cheik Mbaye pointed out that Orange SL, as a company, is trying to raise awareness in order for their partners to desist from such behaviors which are not ethical and fair as well as not helping to build trust.
Elizabeth Fatorma, a staff of the company, in her presentation pointed out that the country is one of the riskiest places where corruption is prone to occur.
“When you see something, say something and if you commit fraud, you’re a criminal. If you don’t report it, you support it. It’s all about you,” she cautioned and added: “Orange SL says zero tolerance to corruption…. if anyone does not understand anything him or her should ask questions or do interviews for better understanding, instead of bribing.”
According to her, they have penalties for those that break the rules underscoring further that if someone is awarded a contract, that individual delays to deliver and no action is taken then it means there is something wrong.
Climaxing the event was a question and answer session during which pertinent questions posed were adequately responded to be the requisite personnel of the company.
The Mother’s Choice Foundation, through their ‘WASH TOK Project’, funded by USAID through YALI Regional Leadership Center, Accra, Ghana, and also complimented by local partners like Leone Rock Metal Group and World Vision SL, has held a one-day seminar where they donated WASH items to two universities and eight secondary schools within Freetown as part of their three-month WASH TOK Project. This auspicious event took place on Wednesday, November 22, 2023, at the Africell American Corner, Bathurst Street, in Freetown.
The items donated were trash cans, mops, brooms, and brushes. The beneficiaries are the Gender and Development Studies Department (FBC) and the Public Sector Management Department (IPAM). All Nations Secondary School, Sierra Leone Muslim Congress, and Government Rokel Secondary School, amongst others.
It must be noted that the Mother’s Choice Foundation is an organization that advocates for the privatization of sexual reproductive health and rights and equal opportunity for women in entrepreneurship, challenging all social norms and traditions and breaking barriers.
Santos Kamara, the founder and president of the aforementioned organization, intimated that the unappealing state of public WASH facilities in schools and universities has contributed to the spread of infectious diseases and that it has now become a tropical issue.
“Poor public wash and poor personal hygiene etiquette are unhealthy practices. During the Ebola epidemic as well as the COVID-19 pandemic in Sierra Leone, WASH TOK was everywhere; no sooner the number of patients declined, the WASH TOK was abandoned.” He stated.
Santos maintained that anyone can be infected by poor sanitation in public WASH; however, girls are more vulnerable and easy to contact for these infectious diseases because of the way their bodies are designed.
He pointed out that the WASH TOK aims to spark behavioral change and ensure these facilities are safe for girls in learning institutions.
The US Embassy representative, Mangiardi Krista, said that in Sierra Leone as well as many parts of the world, the availability of proper sanitation is not just a matter of convenience; it is a plight.
She commended the organization for undertaking such an initiative to improve Public WASH facilities in schools and universities.
Mangiardi advised the beneficiaries to handle the items well so they could serve the purpose much longer.
Peter Gaima, WASH Manager, World Vision International SL, stated that poor sanitation in public facilities is an alarming issue, stating how they have also been playing their own part in partnering with local organizations to cub the poor sanitation issue in the country.
He also commended the organization for such an initiative, urging them to continue. He maintained that the wellbeing of people living in a community depends on their level of sanitation. Further, poor sanitation in public WASH can lead to infections and other diseases.
The seminar was also graced by Dr. Hawanatu Barrie, who spoke on the importance of WASH to sexual reproductive health rights; Dr. Ahmed Alhassan Sheriff, Oral and Dental Relations to WASH; and Dr. Manni Amara, who also spoke on personal hygiene and sanitation.
One of the beneficiaries, Hassan Kargbo, a student of IPAM, commended the organization and their partners for undertaking such a laudable venture. Maintaining how the event was an enlightening journey, and the wealth of knowledge imparted has undeniably enriched their understanding of the subject matter.
Another participant, Zainab Mansaray, expressed how genuinely thankful he is for the opportunity to engage in such a thought-provoking experience. According to her, the efforts of the organizers have not gone unnoticed, furthering how their collective learning journey has been immensely enhanced.
His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio has on the 21st November, 2023 launched the Independent Committee for Electoral Systems Review at State House during an event that was graced by dignitaries, political leaders, representatives, media, Civil Society, and esteemed guests who witnessed a pivotal step towards fortifying Sierra Leone’s democratic foundations.
It must be noted that this development came in the wake of the mediated ‘Agreement for National Unity’ between the Government of Sierra Leone (GoSL) and the All Peoples Congress Party (APC), that took place from October 16-18, 2023 in Freetown and in the process a pivotal resolution was adopted which was to establish a ‘Cross Party Committee on Electoral Systems and Management Bodies Review with a three-way Leadership.
Following the adoption, subsequent engagements between the GoSL and the APC took place and it was agreed that the APC would nominate up to seven members for the Committee, which they did and approved by the President, who emphasized the need for an inclusive representation of stakeholders in addition to the nominated members.
In order to initiate the Committee’s operationalization, President Julius Maada Bio yesterday spearheaded the official launch of the Independent Cross-Party Committee on Electoral Systems and Management Bodies Review.
In his address, President Bio emphasized the nation’s dedication to fortify democratic values, underscoring the collective commitment transcending political and individual differences for the greater national interest. He reflected on the post-election concerns following his 2023 election, highlighting his proposal to establish a National Electoral Systems Review Committee to fortify institutional, legal, and operational frameworks for future elections.
Acknowledging the instrumental role played by inter-party dialogues facilitated by ECOWAS, the African Union, and the Commonwealth, President Bio expressed pride in the adoption of a 7-point resolution for national unity and cohesion. Notably, his proposal for an electoral systems review was embraced as the third resolution, marking a significant step toward reconciling political differences.
The President extended gratitude to opposition leaders, particularly Dr. Samura Kamara, and the Government team led by Dr. David Sengeh, for their commitment during deliberations aimed at fostering national reconciliation. He highlighted the swift implementation of Resolution Number 1, addressing the nation on October 24th, and the subsequent compliance by the main opposition in ending their non-participation in governance as per Resolution Number 2.
(The launch of the tripartite committee for electoral systems and management bodies was heralded as a crucial stride in institutionalizing dialogue within the nation’s political landscape.)
He stressed the importance of political dialogue as a symbol of commitment to peace and national unity, citing past initiatives such as the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion established after the 2018 general elections.
The President affirmed the nation’s democratic growth and resilience in overcoming challenges, expressing satisfaction in collaborating with local and international partners to deepen congeniality in political discourse. He reiterated his Government’s unwavering support for the Committee and pledged full implementation of the remaining resolutions from the dialogue agreement.
In a moment brimming with pride and honor, President Julius Maada Bio officially inaugurated the Independent Three-Way Committee on Electoral Systems and Management Bodies Review, signifying a home-grown initiative poised to fortify Sierra Leone’s democratic landscape.
On his part Dr. Samura Kamara, the Leader of the All People’s Congress (APC), underscored the necessity for a peaceful resolution following the contentious June 24, 2023 multitier elections.
He emphasized the significance of seeking a peaceful resolution amid the stalemate that ensued after the contested elections highlighting the commitment of both parties to finding a peaceful resolution and urged fellow political leaders to prioritize dialogue over conflicts and violence.
Touching upon electoral malpractices and the need for transparency, Dr. Kamara stressed the importance of scrutinizing the electoral processes, particularly in relation to the publication of disaggregated election results. He called for mutual respect and emphasized the complexities in handling political, economic, and governance challenges.
Expressing gratitude to involved parties and development partners for their support, Dr. Kamara emphasized the imperative of jointly agreed terms of reference for the committee. He underscored the need for an in-depth review of electoral procedures, including voter registration, polling, vote counting, and result announcement, to ensure future elections are credible, transparent, and free from irregularities.
The composition and independence of the committee were highlighted as critical factors for its effectiveness. Dr. Kamara affirmed the APC’s selection of members based on integrity, expertise in electoral processes, and patriotic values. He stressed the need for the Committee’s autonomy and access to all pertinent documents and information to execute its duties effectively.
Babatunde A. Ahonsi, the UN Resident Coordinator in Sierra Leone, in his statement maintained that the establishment of the Committee stands as a key provision of the National Unity Agreement inked on October 18, 2023, between the Government and the main opposing party, APC.
He emphasized the paramount importance of promoting unity and national cohesion, particularly following a divisive electoral campaign and the tense post-election period.
The Resident Coordinator lauded the opposition’s return to governance and commended President Bio’s commitment expressed during his national address on October 24, 2023, to prioritize the agreement’s implementation underscoring how the review of the electoral system, as highlighted by the President, holds critical significance in bolstering Sierra Leone’s democratic foundations.
Ahonsi reiterated the United Nations’ unwavering commitment to supporting the agreement’s implementation. Responding to both the President’s and APC’s requests, he said the UN pledges to serve as representatives in the Committee’s tripartite leadership, participate as moral guarantors and provide essential technical assistance for implementing the Committee’s recommendations.
He concluded that in collaboration with development partners and under the leadership of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for West Africa, the UN’s Department of Political and Peace Building Affairs and Electoral Assistance Division stands prepared to contribute significantly to this crucial process in Sierra Leone.
The composition of the Committee includes: Dr. Kaifala Marah as Co-Chair on the side of the main opposition APC. Other key figures of the APC include Dr. Richard Konteh, Ambassador Alimamy Petito Koroma, Boniface Sidikie Kamara, David Fornah, Bernadette Kargbo, and Prince Tholley.
On the side of the Government, Dr. Emmanuel Giama will serve as Co-Chair and other members include Hon. Dr. Fatmata Hassan, Madam Isatu J. Kabba, Hon. Helen Kuyembeh, Napoleon Koroma, Hon. Alpha Sesay and Rtd. Hon. Justice Komba Kamanda.
Representatives from CSOs include: 1 from IGR ,1 from 50/50 Group ,1 from the Human Right Commission of Sierra Leone ,1 from SLAJ, 1 from the National Council for Civic Education and Democracy.
The Moral Guarantors include: ECOWAS, African Union, Commonwealth, United Nations, ICPNC, Women’s Forum, National Council of Paramount Chiefs, Sierra Leone Labour Congress, Children Forum Network, District Youth Representatives and the Inter-Religious Council of Sierra Leone.
His Excellency Wang Qing, the Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone, on November 16, 2023 orchestrated a significant handover event at the Chinese Embassy, Spur Loop, delivering state-of-the-art digital forensic laboratory equipment to the Inspector General of Police (IGP), William Fayia Sellu.
The generous donation, a gesture from the Chinese Government, aims to bolster the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) in their fight against crime. The advanced equipment holds paramount importance in collecting and presenting scientific evidence within the judicial system, fortifying the process of investigating and prosecuting offenders.
Ambassador Wang Qing underscored the enduring friendship and historical cooperation between China and Sierra Leone across various sectors. He commended the SLP for their dedication in safeguarding the people, particularly during the recent elections, and emphasized the significance of this partnership in fostering mutual development.
During the equipment handover, the Ambassador lauded the SLP’s recent achievements in combating drug abuse, emphasizing how the cutting-edge forensic laboratory will enhance investigation capabilities. He expressed confidence in the equipment’s utilization and announced forthcoming training sessions by a specialized team. Additionally, the Chinese Government will provide software and hardware kits to bolster the laboratory’s operations, reaffirming their commitment to supporting the SLP’s capacity building endeavors.
The Ambassador recalled the recent training of twenty-five SLP personnel at the Shandong Police College, highlighting China’s commitment to strengthening the SLP in tackling crime and ensuring citizen safety in Sierra Leone.
In response, the IGP, William Fayia Sellu, expressed gratitude for China’s various interventions, including infrastructural support and educational opportunities for police personnel. He reiterated the SLP’s unwavering commitment to collaboration with the Chinese Embassy, pledging ongoing support and envisioning a robust, enduring partnership.
The ceremony reached its pinnacle with the signing and exchange of certificates, symbolizing the strengthening bond and shared commitment between China and Sierra Leone in fortifying law enforcement capacities.
India hosted the Second Edition of Voice of Global South Summit which was held on 17 November 2023 virtually. The Inaugural Leaders’ Session of the Summit was chaired by Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi.
The Summit is an initiative of the Government of India aimed at providing a common platform for the countries of Global South to share their perspectives and priorities. The overarching theme of the Summit was “Together, for Everyone’s Growth, with Everyone’s Trust”. India hosted the first ever Voice of Global South Summit on 12-13 January 2023 with the theme, ‘Unity of Voice, Unity of Purpose’.
H.E. Francess Piagie Alghali, Hon. Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Republic of Sierra Leone participated in the 2nd Foreign Minister’s Session with the theme “Global South and One Development”, chaired by Dr. S. Jaishankar, External Affairs Minister of India.
Hon’ble Deputy Minister, in delivering her statement, expressed gratitude to the Government of India for organizing such a laudable forum in the bid to provide global leadership to countries of the Global South. She also appreciated India to provide such a platform through the Summit for articulating common challenges and also most importantly to pull out collective strength of the countries of the Global South for making proposals to enhance living conditions and development.
She further stated that the world continues to face many challenges which are impacting negatively on the Global South, from climate change to food insecurity.
Many of these challenges, such as climate change, are not created by the Global South, yet these countries suffer proportionately by their effects. She mentioned that many countries of the Global South, specially from Africa, are advocating for Just Energy Transition.
She also stated that conditions of these countries necessitates to abridge the enormous gap between the developed and developing countries which would allow these countries to advance towards common development, peace and respect of all human rights for all, including the right to development in the context of human dignity for every country and every people. She said that the countries of the Global South need to focus seriously on development issues including eradication of poverty, reforming the International financial architecture and establishing measures going beyond GDP to ensure a more inclusive approach to International cooperation and the reform of the peace and security architecture of the multilateral institutions such as the United Nations.
In her statement, the Hon’ble Deputy Minister also conveyed sincere thanks to the Government and People of India for their continued support for Sierra Leone’s development priorities, including education and agriculture.
She mentioned that India and Sierra Leone enjoy friendly and cooperative relations since both countries gained Independence in mid 20thcentury adding that India is one of the largest trading partner of Sierra Leone and Indian companies have invested heavily in Sierra Loene’s different sectors.
Francess Piagie Alghali furthered that India has been a major provider of development assistance to Sierra Leone having provided over US $ 300 Million to the country so far.
She stated that India has also played a significant role in peacekeeping efforts in Sierra Leone during the civil war. India contributed troops to the United Nations Mission in Sierra Leone from 2000-2001.
The Deputy Minister ended expressing hope that partnerships of both countries would be further strengthened.
Dr. Emmanuel Mannah, the Director-General of the Electricity and Water Regulatory Commission (EWRC), has on the 20th November, 2023 shared exclusive insights during an interview at the EWRC headquarters on 55 Berwick Street, revealing a significant achievement for Sierra Leone in the African Development Bank’s (AFDB) 2022 Country Scores and Rankings.
Sierra Leone has been ranked 8th in the AFDB’s assessment, marking a remarkable rise in the Electricity Regulatory Index (ERI). Dr. Mannah highlighted the ERI as a composite index that evaluates the development level of electricity sector regulatory frameworks across African nations, aligning them with international standards and best practices. This index comprises three primary pillars crucial to evaluating regulatory performance.
Dr. Mannah pointed out the steady ascent of Sierra Leone in this index, showcasing the country’s progression over the years. Since assuming office, the nation has witnessed a notable climb: from 19th in 2019 to 8th in 2022. He emphasized the components of the Regulatory Governance Index (RGI) and the Regulatory Substance Index (RSI), essential in assessing the institutional design and actual regulatory outcomes within the electricity sector.
The Regulatory Outcome Index (ROI), as explained by Dr. Mannah, measures the regulator’s impact from the perspective of distribution utility companies and consumers. It gauges the effectiveness of regulatory decisions in yielding expected sector outcomes, utilizing survey responses from electricity distribution utilities and consumers.
The meticulous calculation of ERI scores involved comprehensive surveys distributed to regulatory institutions and utilities across 45 African countries. Dr. Mannah highlighted the extensive participation, with 44 regulatory agencies and utilities from 43 countries providing validated data, affirming the thoroughness of the assessment.
Furthermore, the ERIGS (ERI for Governance and Substance) was constructed using primary data obtained from questionnaires sent to regulators. This assessment, comprising RGI and RSI, evaluates the effectiveness of the regulatory environment in facilitating sector reforms and efficiency while aligning with national objectives.
Dr. Mannah concluded by emphasizing the significance of ERIGS in portraying national regulatory development and highlighted the assessment’s focus on understanding the impact of regulatory decisions on the performance of power utilities and the sector at large.
President Bio’s administration celebrates this achievement, viewing it as a testament to Sierra Leone’s commitment to enhancing its regulatory frameworks and fostering a conducive environment for electricity sector reforms.
Her Excellency Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, the First Lady of Sierra Leone, has urged members of the Network of Women Ministers and Parliamentarians (NeWMaP) to collaborate collectively, setting aside their political affiliations. The call for unity came during the official launch of NeWMaP by His Excellency President Dr. Rtd Brig Julius Maada Bio at the Radisson Blue Hotel in Freetown on Tuesday, November 21, 2023.
In her address, First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio emphasized the crucial role that women play in shaping policies and driving positive change in society. Her remarks reflected a commitment to advancing gender equality and promoting women’s empowerment within Sierra Leone’s political landscape.
The event marked a significant milestone in establishing a supportive network for women leaders, offering them a platform to advocate for gender-responsive policies and initiatives. The First Lady challenged NeWMaP to undertake joint programs, promote collaboration, design interventions, and ensure holistic inclusivity in their activities. She addressed the impact of climate change on women and children, expressing gratitude to individuals, groups, and the government of Sierra Leone for their efforts.
Delivering the keynote address, President Dr. Julius Maada Bio recognized the achievements of women, emphasizing that their contributions can no longer be ignored. He encouraged women to be role models and mentors, stating that investing in women is the best kind of investment. President Bio confirmed the enactment of the 30% quota for women, congratulated the elected and appointed female members, and called for unity across political spectrums. The President concluded by officially launching NeWMaP, marking a testament to women leading and striving.
Additional statements were made by the Country Director of Trocaire and the Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs. The meeting was chaired by the Special Adviser to the President on Gender, Madam I.J Kabba.
The official launch of the Network of Women Ministers and Parliamentarians represented a pivotal moment in promoting women’s participation in governance. The event signaled a concerted effort to create avenues for women to actively engage in decision-making processes and contribute to national development. It demonstrated a commitment to breaking barriers and fostering an inclusive environment where women can play significant roles in shaping policies and driving progress.
The Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Nabeela Tunis, officially inaugurated the National Animal Week at a Cocktail ceremony held on the 20th November 2023 at Country Lodge Hotel in Freetown. The Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, in collaboration with Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary, is organizing the National Animal Week to raise awareness about the critical state of the Chimpanzee, recognized as Sierra Leone’s National Animal and the face of tourism.
The week-long event will be filled with a variety of activities aimed at providing a platform for Sierra Leoneans to express their views and appreciation for the benefits of protecting their national animal. The initiative also encourages Government officials and agencies to actively participate in the cause, utilizing the National Animal Week to lobby for wildlife law reforms and policy changes.
Additionally, the event aims to showcase the beauty of Sierra Leone’s wildlife and landscape, raise awareness for the Chimpanzee and the threats they face and reshape the narrative around the national animal.
In his statement, Bala Amarasekaran, the Founder of Tacugama Chimps Sanctuary, emphasized the celebration of the symbol of the country’s rich biodiversity, the Chimpanzee. He reminded the audience that despite the declaration of the Chimpanzee as the national animal in 2019, threats to Chimps persist.
Amarasekaran highlighted Tacugama’s expanded focus, evolving into a powerhouse of conservation that extends beyond the welfare of Chimps to encompass the protection of the entire forest and its inhabitants. He concluded by urging everyone to embark on a journey to secure a future where the national animal thrives, and the beauty of Sierra Leone’s wildlife continues to captivate the world.
Minister Nabeela Tunis officially launched the Animal Week, stating that the week-long celebration of the diverse and incredible fauna is the hallmark of what makes Sierra Leone unique.
She emphasized that the declaration of the Western Chimpanzee as the national animal symbolizes not just the species but the commitment to conservation, understanding, and co-existence.
Minister Tunis called for reflection on the inter-connectiveness of all the Line MDA’s, noting that the Western Chimpanzee reminds them of the delicate balance of nature and the importance of preserving their ecosystem.
The Minister of Environment, Jiwoh Abdulai, the Mayor of Freetown, Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, and the General Manager of the National Tourist Board, Fatmata Hamid Carew, all made valuable contributions during the launch, emphasizing the importance of collective responsibility to protect vital habitats and engage in activities promoting environmental stewardship, tree planting, wildlife education and reforestation initiatives.
His Excellency Dr. Julius Maada Bio, the President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, delivered a keynote address on the momentous occasion of the official launch of the Network of Women Ministers and Parliamentarians (NeWMaP) during an event that took place on Tuesday, November 21, 2023, at the Radisson Blu Mammy Yoko Hotel in Freetown.
The distinguished gathering included the Honourable Vice President, the Honourable Speaker of Parliament, the First Lady, Ministers of Government, Members of the Diplomatic Community, Members of Parliament, and representatives of the Fourth Estate.
President Bio commenced his address by expressing great pleasure in launching NeWMaP at the Radisson Blu Mammy Yoko Hotel, named after Mammy Yoko, the ruler of the vast Kpa Mende Confederacy and a leader known for building alliances.
The primary objective of NeWMaP is to build strong alliances among female Government-appointed Ministers and elected Parliamentarians, promoting the representation of women and their full and equal participation in political and parliamentary leadership.
President Bio highlighted the significance of the occasion, marking a significant step forward for Sierra Leone and symbolizing a collective commitment to fostering gender equality, empowering women, and ensuring their active participation in shaping the future of the nation.
Emphasizing the essential role of women in political and public life, President Bio acknowledged the under-representation of women at all levels of decision-making. Despite progress, achieving gender parity in political life remains a challenge.
President Bio asserted that the women of Sierra Leone are a political force that can no longer be ignored. For too long, women in the country have been marginalized and under-represented in positions of power and decision-making. Their voices have been silenced, their contributions overlooked, and their potential untapped.
The President identified the re-establishment of NeWMaP as a powerful commitment to amplifying the voices of women, harnessing their expertise, and ensuring their rightful place in the corridors of power. He thanked the pioneers of NeWMaP for promoting greater cooperation among women public servants and working together to improve the lives and livelihoods of women and girls in the country.
President Bio highlighted the Government’s commitment to gender equality, citing the landmark Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Bill that promotes gender parity and the social and economic empowerment of women in Sierra Leone. The President confirmed adherence to the minimum 30% representation of women in elective and appointive positions as stipulated in the GEWE Bill during the last election cycle.
He emphasized that his Government’s approach to gender equality and women’s empowerment has been holistic, citing several legislations such as the Public Elections Act 2022, Land Commission Act 2022, Customary Land Rights Act 2022, Political Parties Regulations Commissions Act 2022, and the Mines and Mineral Development Act 2022.
As the Principal He-For-She Champion in Sierra Leone, President Bio expressed a strong commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment, inspired by justice and fidelity to fundamental human rights. He highlighted his historic choice of a female running mate in 2012, emphasizing that gender equality is a necessary foundation for a peaceful, prosperous, and sustainable world.
President Bio expressed confidence that NeWMaP will play a pivotal role in advancing the agenda of gender equality and women’s empowerment in Sierra Leone. He urged members to commit themselves to concrete actions that will bring about positive change and help reshape the landscape of political governance in the country.
In concluding his address, President Bio charged NeWMaP to bring on board male allies in both Cabinet and Parliament to support their work. On November 21, 2023, President Bio officially launched the resuscitation of the Network of Women Ministers and Parliamentarians (NeWMaP) in Sierra Leone, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to creating an environment where women can thrive, lead, and contribute meaningfully to the socio-economic and political fabric of the nation.
U.S. Ambassador, Bryan Hunt, made a significant visit to Kenema this week, aimed at assessing the impact of U.S. Government aid facilitated by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) in combating food insecurity.
A grant totaling $3.2 million was allocated to the UN World Food Programme (WFP) in 2022 channeling support toward vulnerable households struggling amidst soaring food and fuel prices and bolstering the school feeding initiative.
Ambassador Hunt engaged directly with smallholder farmers affiliated with the Gbotima Farmers’ Association in Bandawor town, emphasizing the strides made toward achieving food security. His visit also encompassed an inspection of the school feeding program at the National Islamic Primary School within the same town.
In Kenema district alone, a staggering 69,700 children—52 percent of whom are girls—across 328 schools are benefitting from daily hot meals, courtesy of the initiative. The U.S. Government-backed financial aid has additionally empowered WFP to assist over 1,400 smallholder farmers in cultivating 181 hectares of inland valley swamp. This effort ensures year-round cultivation in alignment with the Government of Sierra Leone’s ‘Feed Salone’ initiative.
Expressing commendation for the proactive engagement of local leaders in Kenema, Ambassador Hunt highlighted the collaborative efforts between farmers and school administrators. Despite persisting challenges in fortifying Sierra Leone’s food systems, he acknowledged the reassuring community-driven solutions, stating, “It is reassuring to see how community members are working together to build sustainable solutions. I’m proud that the U.S. Government can support these efforts.”
The ongoing support provided by the U.S. Government serves as a testament to the commitment toward forging a sustainable and resilient food security framework, underlining the importance of collaborative efforts in combating global food crises.
