In a momentous event on November 13, 2023, the official handover ceremony for the Susan’s Bay Community Resilience Building Project took place, transitioning the initiative from its implementing partner, the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS), to the Freetown City Council (FCC).
The ceremony, attended by esteemed figures including Japanese Ambassador, His Excellency Mochizuki Hisanobu, celebrated the project’s success. Key attendees included UNOPS Regional Director, Ifeoma Charles Monwuba, the UNOPS Country Director, the FCC Deputy Mayor, the FCC Chief Administrator, past and present FCC Councillors, and the Community Chairman.
The Susan’s Bay Community initiative encompasses several critical elements: Installation of 20 public toilets (including 2 accessible to the disabled) across 5 locations, equipped with overhead water tanks,
implementation of 75 street lights, including illumination for the Hagan Street market,
enhanced drainage systems in selected areas of the community,
reconstruction of a staircase connecting Susan’s Bay to Rock Street, complete with safety railings,
establishment of two charging booths, each offering 24 charging outlets,
introduction of a bio-digester at Hagan’s Street Market, converting organic waste from the market and its surroundings into energy.
Notably, the energy produced by the bio-digester will power the streetlights, phone charging booths and facilitates water pumping for the toilets.
Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr of the Freetown Municipality expressed enthusiasm for the intervention, highlighting its profound impact on Susan’s Bay residents. She lauded the collaborative efforts involving community stakeholders who provided land for constructing three of the public toilets. The Mayor emphasized community engagement in construction and management, with residents overseeing the public toilets, supported by FCC oversight.
She extended gratitude to the Japanese Government for funding the initiative and recognized UNOPS for their collaboration. To ensure efficient management of the waste-to-energy bio-digester, she engaged representatives from Dutch manufacturer Waste Transformers, local representatives of Freetown Waste Transformers, as well as UNOPS and FCC engineers. Discussions revolved around maintenance plans and the possibility of installing more bio-digesters across communities in Freetown, showcasing a vision for sustainable development.
The Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Conrad Sackey, has extended commendations to the Vice Chancellor and Principal of the Milton Margai Technical University (MMTU), Dr. Philip John Kanu, for revitalizing the once-faltering institution.
Highlighting the importance of acknowledging leaders making significant contributions to the country’s development, Mr. Sackey praised Dr. Kanu during a courtesy visit at his New England Ville office in Freetown by representatives from three schools.
Accompanying Dr. Kanu were Principals, Board of Governors’ Chairpersons and students from the Government Technical Secondary School in Congo Cross, Lady Patricia Kabba Memorial Secondary School in Goderich and Benevolent Islamic Secondary School in Makeni.
Emphasizing his passion for technical and vocational education, Minister Sackey stressed its relevance for a developing nation like Sierra Leone, asserting its equivalence with entrepreneurship opportunities.
Addressing pertinent education aspects, the Minister highlighted the significance of research, cautioned against teacher-related monetary demands reported by parents and underscored fundamental learning’s pivotal role in education.
Revealing significant financial contributions to education, he announced funds amounting to $20 million from the World Bank, an additional $13 million for out-of-school children, and an extra $40 million, all aimed at enhancing the country’s education system. Assuring corrective measures, he emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to ensuring no child is excluded from education.
Dr. Kanu, who chaired the event, commended the Minister’s improvements in academia, noting the increase in public examination pass rates. He disclosed his research initiative on the schools’ underperformance in English Language compared to Mathematics. Dr. Kanu emphasized his goal of nurturing students for technical and scientific studies at the Technical University, as well as undertaking tracer studies at MMTU.
Identifying multiple factors affecting teacher performance beyond remuneration, Dr. Kanu invited the Minister to visit the schools. He hailed the Benevolent Islamic Secondary School in Makeni as one of the North’s best and highlighted ongoing infrastructure projects, including the recent launch of a fencing initiative.
School Principals addressed the Minister, with Mrs. Katta from the Government Technical Secondary School discussing the school’s radical inclusion policy and impending subsidies. The Principal of the Benevolent Islamic Secondary School emphasized data analysis for learning processes and challenges, including teacher payments impacting other projects. Mrs. Beatrice Sillah from Lady Patricia Kabba Memorial School praised their academic achievement, seeking support for accommodation and fencing.
The ceremony featured the presentation of gifts to the Minister and concluded with a vote of thanks from the Head Boy of the Government Technical Secondary School.
Steadfastness in optimal service delivery has made the NP Sierra Leone Limited (NP-SL-Ltd) one of the most outstanding and vibrant companies that is steadily 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.
His Lordship, the Chief Justice, Desmond Babatunde Edwards, on the 17th November, 2023 at Radisson Blu, Aberdeen in Freetown, strongly condemned any form of discrimination against individuals living with HIV/AIDS as well as pledging to safeguard their rights in alignment with the Sierra Leone Constitution.
At a pivotal two-day consultative dialogue themed: “Promoting Social Justice and Equal Rights in the Context of HIV and AIDS in Sierra Leone,” Justice Edwards, the keynote speaker, emphasized that every person in Sierra Leone is entitled to fundamental human rights and freedoms as enshrined in the nation’s constitution.
Highlighting Section 15 of the Sierra Leone Constitution, Act No. 6 of 1991, the Chief Justice underscored the imperative to respect the rights of individuals infected or affected by HIV/AIDS, asserting that it is both unacceptable and unlawful to disregard those rights.
Referring to the National AIDS Commission Act, No. 11 of 2011, Justice Edwards reaffirmed the guarantees provided by the law, including access to HIV prevention and treatment services, protection of confidentiality and prevention of discrimination in various spheres of life.
Identifying stigma and discrimination as hurdles in the fight against HIV/AIDS, the Chief Justice expressed concern about the setbacks caused by such societal attitudes.
In a message of solidarity, US Ambassador, Bryan David Hunt, reiterated the United States’ commitment to advocating for a world where dignity, equality and justice prevail for all, irrespective of HIV status. Ambassador Hunt emphasized the US’s readiness to support efforts to combat discrimination and stigma.
Addressing the audience, Dr. Austin Demby, Minister of Health and Chairman of the ceremony, commended the National AIDS Secretariat and partners for organizing the dialogue. He praised the collaboration between the Executive and the Judiciary, asserting that such partnerships strengthen national responses to HIV/AIDS and ensure equitable access to healthcare for all Sierra Leoneans.
Abdul Rahman Sesay, Director General of the National AIDS Secretariat, emphasized the collaborative efforts between his institution and the Judiciary, stemming from the Chief Justice’s commitment declared on World AIDS Day in 2022. He emphasized the dialogue’s potential to either establish an Equity Court or expedite the law’s enforcement to counter discrimination against persons living with HIV/AIDS.
The dialogue, attended by Judges and Magistrates on the first day, is poised to pave the way for a more equitable and just society for those affected by HIV/AIDS in Sierra Leone.
In a momentous gathering, the Confucius Institute of Fourah Bay College, University of Sierra Leone has on Saturday 18th November, 2023 commemorated the 2023 World Confucius Institute Day Cultural Experiencing Series: Sino-Sierra Leone Cultural Exchanges Gala on the theme: “A Bright Future and A Wonderful World”. The event was held at Taiji Garden, Fourah Bay College Campus in Freetown.
Addressing Chinese leaders, staff members from various sectors in Sierra Leone, as well as leaders and lecturers from different Teaching Sites, the Chinese Director of the Confucius Institute, Prof. Chen Xuebin, highlighted the Institute’s mission to cultivate a passion for Chinese language teaching and foster cultural exchange.
Acknowledging the collective effort that led to this celebratory day, Prof. Chen recognized the dedication of learners, the hard work of instructors, and the unwavering support of partners, adding that the Institute has successfully built platforms for cultural exchanges and mutual learning, aiming to bridge the gap and promote understanding and friendship between the People of China and Sierra Leone.
Before the captivating performances of the day, he said participants immersed themselves in diverse aspects of Chinese culture such as calligraphy, paper cutting, tea art and Chinese chess stressing how they are more than pastimes as he maintains how they served as gateways to a world shaped by thousands of years of history and tradition.
He said that the main highlight of the event is geared towards celebrating the talents and dedication of Chinese learners in Sierra Leone who are proficient in the Chinese language adding how these learners have showcased their skills in various forms of arts and culture, including poetry recitation, playing Chinese musical instruments, Taiji, and song, of which he stated that the performances not only demonstrated their mastery of the language but also painted a rich tapestry of Chinese cultural expressions.
However, he said that the festivities went beyond showcasing Chinese culture, as the Confucius Institute believes in the power of cultural exchange, the strength of diversity and spirit of mutual appreciation and understanding furthering that the event also celebrated the culture of Sierra Leone, emphasizing the bonds, friendships and unity forged through the cultural exchange.
As Prof. Chen emphasized the importance of coming together to celebrate not only the languages and cultures that make each community unique but also the connections that bind them, he invited everyone to enjoy the artistic expressions that will grace the stage.
He concluded by stating that the event symbolizes a commitment to cross-cultural understanding and the enduring friendship between China and Sierra Leone, thanking everyone for their support and enthusiasm in making such endeavors possible.
The Head of the Linguistics Department at Fourah Bay College, Dr. Abdulai Walon-Jalloh, commended the Confucius Institute at Fourah Bay College for their impactful work in empowering Sierra Leonean students.
He highlighted the Institute’s role in offering students an opportunity to acquire knowledge in Chinese, enabling them to compete globally.
Dr. Walon-Jalloh emphasized the success of the undergraduate program in Chinese Language and the HSK Program within the Confucius Institute, noting that students are progressing through various levels, with the first set of B.A Honors in Chinese Language soon to graduate.
Expressing gratitude for the Confucius Institute’s efforts, Dr. Walon-Jalloh highlighted the positive impact on student enrolment in the department, particularly for those interested in studying Chinese Language.
He affirmed the Department’s commitment to providing an enabling environment for the Confucius Institute to thrive, acknowledging the ongoing support from the University’s administration.
On his part, the Minister Counsellor of China to Sierra Leone, His Excellency Li Xiaoyong, expressed his delight during the commemoration of the 2023 Confucius Institute Day which he described as a way to showcase the flourishing cultural exchanges between China and Sierra Leone.
His Excellency Li Xiaoyong conveyed heartfelt thanks to the staff of the Confucius Institute at the University of Sierra Leone for their sustained efforts and significant contributions to facilitating language learning and promoting an understanding of Chinese culture in Sierra Leone. He revealed that since the establishment of Confucius Institute Day in 2014, international Chinese language education has thrived and cultural exchanges have become increasingly dynamic.
He disclosed that over the past nine years, many young people in Sierra Leone have embraced the opportunity to learn the Chinese language and explore Chinese culture, stating that the International Chinese Language Day and the International Tea Day saw enthusiastic participation from Sierra Leonean children, showcasing their curiosity and eagerness for knowledge.
He said that during the “Chinese Bridge” competition, Sierra Leonean youth demonstrated their deep understanding of Chinese culture, highlighting the robust people-to-people exchanges between China and Sierra Leone.
His Excellency Li Xiaoyong shared President Xi Jinping’s vision of the Global Civilization Initiative (GCI), emphasizing the respect for the diversity of civilizations, common human values, the importance of inheriting and innovating civilizations and fostering international people-to-people exchanges and cooperation.
He expressed China’s readiness to collaborate with the international community to enhance exchanges, understanding among different people and the integration of diverse cultures.
The Gala featured various sessions infused with Chinese elements, including poetry recitation, acrobatics, Chinese Kung-fu demonstrations, and hands-on experiences such as paper cutting, the Arts of Tea, Chinese Calligraphy, and Chinese Chess. His Excellency Li Xiaoyong expressed optimism that the event’s joyful atmosphere would bring the two people closer together, fostering mutual understanding and strengthening the cultural bonds between China and Sierra Leone.
Closing the commemoration were performances which includes Allegro, Recess Exercise, Sierra Song and Dance Cabaret, Calligraphy Display & Tai Chi, Chinese Kung Fu-Shaolin Soul, Acrobatic, Poetry recitation and Chinese Song etc.
Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Joe Biden engaged in a substantial and wide-ranging discussion on Wednesday. The leaders delved into strategic and critical issues impacting China-U.S. relations, as well as global peace and development.
The meeting took place at the historic Filoli Estate, situated approximately 40 km south of San Francisco, California. Biden warmly welcomed Xi upon his arrival at the estate, setting the stage for a pivotal dialogue.
Xi emphasized the world’s unprecedented changes, offering two paths for China and the United States. One path promotes solidarity and cooperation, aiming to address global challenges, while the other clings to zero-sum thinking, potentially steering the world into turmoil. Stressing the importance of this choice for humanity’s future, Xi underscored the need to perceive and envision the China-U.S. relationship within this broader context.
The Chinese President highlighted that turning away from each other is not viable, urging against unrealistic attempts to remodel the other. He cautioned against conflict, emphasizing its detrimental consequences for both sides. Xi emphasized the importance of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and cooperation, drawing lessons from the historical conflicts among major nations.
Xi outlined China’s modernization and its significance, emphasizing that China’s development is driven by its own logic and dynamics. He clarified that China does not seek hegemony or export its ideology, urging the U.S. to avoid attempts to suppress or contain China.
The Chinese President stressed the importance of managing disagreements effectively and promoting beneficial cooperation between the two nations. He highlighted common interests in various sectors, advocating for utilizing mechanisms in foreign policy, economy, and technology to deepen cooperation.
Addressing people-to-people exchanges, Xi urged expanding tourism, educational collaboration, and reducing barriers to foster healthy relations. He also emphasized China’s principled position on the Taiwan issue, urging the U.S. to honor its commitment.
In response, Biden reiterated the U.S.’s commitment to avoid conflict, stating a stable China aligns with global interests. He reaffirmed the commitments made at the Bali summit and underscored the importance of mutual respect and cooperation.
Both leaders acknowledged the importance of respect, peaceful coexistence, open communication, and the UN Charter’s principles. They agreed to strengthen bilateral dialogue, resume military and climate talks, and enhance cultural and business exchanges.
Following the talks, Biden hosted a luncheon for Xi, further solidifying their engagement on international and regional matters. The meeting was constructive, charting a course for improved China-U.S. relations. The leaders directed their teams to build upon the Bali understandings, aiming to implement the new vision agreed upon in San Francisco.
Cowbell, a brand marketed by Premium Divine Trading Company Limited, concluded its maiden edition of the Cowbell Kapu Sens Inter-School Competition on November 17, 2023. Operated as an agent for Promasidor Holdings, a leading distributor of quality food products in Sierra Leone, the competition aimed at “Nurturing the Spirit of Patriotism Through Civic Education.” The two-day event took place at the Multi-Purpose Hall on Fourah Bay College Campus in Freetown.
Twenty selected senior secondary schools in Freetown, including Albert Academy, Prince of Wales, Methodist Girls High School, St. Edwards, Rokel, Sierra Leone Muslim Brotherhood, and Model School, participated in the competition. After preliminary stages, four secondary schools, Albert Academy, St. Edwards, Methodist Girls High School, and Bishop Johnson Memorial School proceeded to the finals.
St. Edwards Secondary School emerged as the champions, receiving a trophy and a cash prize of NLE5, 000, Methodist Girls High School secured the 2nd Runner-Up position earning a cash prize of NLE3,500, while Bishop Johnson Memorial School claimed the 1st Runner-Up spot with a cash prize of NLE1,500. Isatu Michella Bangura of Methodist Girls High School was recognized as the best quizzer of the competition.
Speaking during the opening ceremony of the competition, the Country Manager of Premium Divine Trading Ltd, Kenneth Konuah, said that in an era defined by rapid globalization and interconnectedness, the importance of nurturing the spirit of patriotism among young people through civic education cannot be overstated, adding that civic education plays a pivotal role in shaping the values, beliefs and sense of responsibility that are essential for the development of engaged and informed citizens.
He said that it is against that backdrop that Premium Divine Trading Company Ltd, as a responsible company, through its brand Cowbell thought it fit to organize the maiden edition of the Cowbell Kapu Sens Inter-School Competition on the theme: “Nurturing the Spirit of Patriotism Through Civic Education.”
Kenneth Konuah noted that the event was geared towards instilling a deep understanding of the rights and responsibilities that come with citizenship.
He disclosed that the company will be extending the competition to other parts of the country in the coming years, disclosing that this time around, the company gave NLE 10,000 to the top three schools plus cartoons of Cowbell products from which also all the 20 participating schools benefited from.
He used the opportunity to inform the gathering that Premium Divine Trading Company Limited operates as an agent for Promasidor Holdings, a leading distributor of quality food products in the country.
He emphasized on the importance of good nutrition with regards to milk for growth and vitality. Cowbell milk, he said, is a rich source of protein, calcium and Vitamins A, B9, C, D E and K otherwise referred to as Vitarich.
He encouraged all to go in for the company’s products especially the Cowbell products which he said are of high quality and when consumed will definitely nourish the body.
On his part, the Chief Patriot of the Patriotic Advocacy Network, Ansumana Keita, expressed appreciation to Premium Divine Trading Company Ltd for organizing the Cowbell Kapu Sens Inter-School Competition ,which he described as very important towards instilling a deep understanding of the rights and responsibilities that come with citizenship.
He said that the lack of patriotism among citizens, especially young people, is very high and such is affecting the development of the country of which he said that is why Patriotic Advocacy Network partnered with Premium Divine Trading Company Ltdfor the event.
Ansumana Keita noted that questions for the competition focused on patriotism in order to equip participants minds with critical thinking skills necessary to navigate the challenges of the modern world
He congratulated the winners of the competition and also encouraged all those that used the knowledge acquired during the competition on patriotism to teach others of its importance.
On his part, Joshua Alabi, the Political and Economic Counselor at the Ghana High Commission in Sierra Leone, while delivering a statement on behalf of Her Excellency Mrs. Worwornyo Agyeman, the High Commissioner of Ghana, conveyed warm greetings and best wishes from the people of Ghana to Sierra Leone, emphasizing the competition’s significance in fostering national pride and civic engagement among the youth.
Joshua Alabi encouraged participants to view the competition not solely in terms of winning or losing but as an opportunity for learning, growth, and the demonstration of their abilities. He stressed the importance of cultivating skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication to become future leaders of Sierra Leone.
Asking participants to approach the competition with teamwork, respect for competitors, and a thirst for knowledge, Joshua Alabi expressed confidence that the experience they will acquire would positively impact their academic and personal development.
He extended appreciation to the organizers, Premium Divine Trading Company Ltd, as well as teachers and parents for their support in nurturing the intellectual growth of students, urging students to make the most of the opportunity and continue pursuing excellence in their academic endeavors.
Isatu Michella Bangura of Methodist Girls High School, who was recognized as the best quiz respondent and took the 2nd position expressed appreciation to Premium Divine Trading Company Ltd through its Cowbell brand for organizing the competition which, she said, has contributed towards instilling the spirit of patriotism in her.
She said that her intension was for her school to emerge the winner of the competition but said unfortunately they took the 2nd Runner Up position but assured all that they will be better prepared for the next edition of the competition.
Ishmeal Barrie, one of the quiz respondents from the St. Edwards Secondary School, who emerged as champions of the competition, also commended the company for the event.
He said that their hard work and commitment towards the competition finally paid them off.
The Cowbell Kapu Sens Inter-School Competition not only showcased academic excellence but also served as a beacon in promoting civic education and patriotism among the youth. As Cowbell continues to contribute to the intellectual growth of students, the event sets the stage for future editions that promise even greater success in building the leaders of tomorrow.
It would be recalled that on Monday 7th November 2022 Her Excellency, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, the First Lady of the Republic of Sierra Leone introduced a Draft Resolution to Declare November 18 the “World Day for the Prevention of, and Healing from Child Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Violence” at the UN General Assembly of which the General Assembly on the same day adopted a resolution proclaiming 18 November of each year as the World Day for the Prevention of and Healing from Child Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Violence.
According to WHO, millions of children fall victim to sexual violence each year and many victims and survivors never come forward to disclose their experiences, seek justice or support due to the overwhelming shame associated with such incidents.
The groundbreaking resolution was initiated by Sierra Leone, in collaboration with Nigeria, to declare November 18 the “World Day for the Prevention of, and Healing from Child Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Violence”.
The First Lady of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, joined forces with the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Her Excellency ,Senator Oluremi Tinubu and the First Lady of the Republic of Angola, Ana Dias Lourenço, to commemorate the maiden edition of the United Nations World Day for the Prevention of and Healing from Child Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Violence in the country.
The commemoration, which commenced on Friday 17th November, 2023 with a Muslim prayer at the State Lodge on Hill Station in Freetown was climaxed with a Christian prayer on Saturday 18th November, 2023 at the Winners Chapel International Church on Hillside Bye-Pass Road in Freetown.
Both events aimed at raising awareness about preventing and healing victims of child sexual exploitation, abuse, and violence. It symbolized solidarity and a shared commitment to addressing such critical issues.
Her Excellency, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio stressed the importance of safeguarding children from exploitation, abuse, and violence, emphasizing the need for collective action in order to create a safe environment for them to thrive.
Highlighting Sierra Leone’s commitment to gender equality, she shared insights into the religious tolerance in the country, evident in her, a Muslim, marriage to President Julius Maada Bio, a devout Christian. This diversity was reflected in the Islamic prayer held on Friday, 17th November, 2023 and the Christian commemoration that took place on Saturday, 18th November, 2023.
Acknowledging the Nigerian First Lady’s commitment to championing women and girls’ protection globally, she commended her as a role model.
Addressing survivors, First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio urged them not to see themselves as victims but to recognize that the shame lies with those who harmed them. She assured survivors of the Government’s commitment to stand with them, provide healing and encouraged them to reclaim their pride as Sierra Leoneans.
Her Excellency, The First Lady of Angola, Dr. Ana Dias Lourenco, emphasized the urgency of addressing child sexual exploitation, abuse, and violence, urging concerted efforts to support and protect vulnerable children.
Her Excellency, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the First Lady of the Federal of Nigeria, echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the importance of proactive measures, education, awareness, and advocacy in combating child sexual exploitation.
The Minister Social Welfare, Melrose Kaminty, expressed solidarity with survivors, shedding light on the country’s efforts to combat sexual and gender-based violence, including President Bio’s commitment to declare rape a public health emergency.
Highlighting the establishment of the Sexual Offences Act of 2012 and a model court for sexual offences, she called for collective collaboration to reduce this global crisis. She urged the use of technology to prevent online and offline offences and to improve the criminal justice system.
In his keynote address, His Excellency Dr. Julius Maada Bio highlighted the Government’s strides in empowering women and girls mentioning the Human Capital Development Initiative and the Gender Equality and Women Empowerment Act.
Both the Muslim and the Christian prayers conducted by these influential figures served as a poignant reminder of the global commitment to protecting children and promoting their well-being.
In a benevolent initiative, the 24th batch of the China Medical Team to Sierra Leone joined forces with Abdullah Aid, an international relief charity, to launch a free cataract surgery program on November 15th. Dr. Wang Wanpeng, the Sole Chinese Ophthalmologist at the China-Sierra Leone Friendship Hospital led the efforts providing essential cataract surgeries for local residents.
Addressing the prevalent issue of cataracts in Sierra Leone, exacerbated by the year-round exposure to strong ultraviolet light, Dr. Wang Wanpeng emphasized the high incidence of the condition among the local population.
Despite the China Medical Team offering free medical services at the China-Sierra Leone Friendship Hospital, a considerable number of individuals cannot afford the expenses associated with basic drugs and consumables, leading to the progression of the disease.
Expressing gratitude for the medical assistance provided by the China Medical Team, Anthony, a 65-year-old patient, shared his appreciation. Dr. Wang Wanpeng underscored the challenges faced, including a shortage of medical supplies and the demanding workload, as the team worked tirelessly to safeguard the eyesight of local residents through this altruistic initiative.
The Centre for Accountability and Rule of Law-Sierra Leone (CARL-SL) and the Justice Sector Coordination Office (JSCO), funded by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), successfully wrapped up a Two-Day Stakeholders Retreat on Wednesday, November 15, 2023. The retreat, held at Sierra Palms Hotel, Beach Road, Aberdeen, Freetown, involved members of the Legislative Committee, along with other Members of Parliament, focusing on the Draft Criminal Procedure Bill, 2023.
Ibrahim Tommy, the Executive Director of CARL-SL, highlighted the lengthy process of reviewing the Criminal Procedure Act 1965, which has been in progress since 2005, stating that significant strides have been made in the past year, with collective efforts aimed at enacting the revised Criminal Procedure Bill.
He said that the Stakeholders’ Retreat provided an opportunity for Legislative Committee members and other Parliamentarians to preview the Criminal Procedure Bill before its formal introduction in Parliament as participants examined proposed provisions in the Bill, fostering a better understanding, furthering that comments or objections raised during the retreat will be conveyed to the Law Officers Department, who will then respond or incorporate them into the final Bill presented in Parliament.
Ibrahim Tommy noted that the proposed provisions include changes to enhance the efficiency of trials adding that the Bill suggests two new sentencing options: suspended sentence and deferred sentence, offering alternatives to the traditional fine or imprisonment.
On his part, the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Mohamed Lamin Tarawalley Esq expressed appreciation to UNDP and CARL-SL for their support. He commended Members of Parliament for their active participation, showcasing their commitment to the review process.
He emphasized the Government’s alignment with efforts to address challenges in the justice system.
While acknowledging the challenges in the justice sector, Tarawalley highlighted President Julius Maada Bio’s significant efforts in the last five years, reiterating the Government’s commitment to enacting the New Criminal Procedure Act, as it aligns to the Government’s efforts to address challenges that confront the country’s justice system in line with one of the pillars of the Government’s Big Five Changes that is Revamping the Public Service Architecture.
The Attorney General and Minister of Justice maintained that the Two-Day Stakeholders Retreat aimed to facilitate the review of the draft Criminal Procedure Act, enabling meaningful input from participants before formal Parliamentary introduction.
He assured that the Government plans to pass the Bill into law by the end of the year, coordinating with various stakeholders to ensure a participatory process. The ongoing review seeks to align the Criminal Procedure Act 1965 and the Criminal Justice Service with the country’s constitution and international best practices, ensuring accessible, fair, speedy and transparent justice.
Attorney General and Minister of Justice pointed out that once enacted, the law is expected to enhance access to justice, simplify and make the process fairer and respond to the justice needs of all citizens, including those with disabilities.
