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Higher Education Minister Tours Fourah Bay College Facilities, Commends Progress

By Foday Moriba Conteh

On Wednesday, November 15, 2023, Dr. Haja Ramatulai Wurie, the Minister of Technical and Higher Education, accompanied by her Deputy, Sarjoh Aziz-Kamara, undertook a comprehensive tour of selected facilities at the Fourah Bay College (FBC), University of Sierra Leone. Led by Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kelleh G. Mansaray and his team, the visit aimed to provide insights into the ongoing developments within the esteemed institution.

The tour commenced with a welcome by Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kelleh G. Mansaray, at the Administrative Building’s entrance. The Minister and her team explored various key areas, including the Water Reservoir, the Work Bank Building Project near the Amphitheatre, the UNIPOD Project, and the recently rehabilitated stairway adjacent to the Kennedy Building etc.

Briefing the Minister, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Fourah Bay College, Professor Kelleh G. Mansaray, said that he has spent one year six months in office as the 25th Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Fourah Bay College.

He said that his administration really sorts to build collaboration and affiliation with national and international universities, schools, Government and Non-Governmental institutions through visitations, signing MOUs and holding strategic engagements.

Professor Kelleh G. Mansaray noted that as a result of some of their collaboration, World Bank, has supported the college with a $200,000grant facilitated by the Ministry of Transport and Aviation for the Work Bank Building Project at the college.

He added that through the UNIPOD Project, UNDP has supplied $600,000 worth of equipment to the college and will be official opened earlier 2024, adding that the college has already signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Zoodlabs to provide internet service on campus.

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor also said that FBC has also signed an agreement with NP-Sierra Leone for the construction of a Gas Station and a Mini market which will be operated by the college administration.

He also informed the Minister that with the current Police Post the college has he is pleased to inform all that the college has also constructed a new Police Post to address security issues at the lecturers’ quarters.

Underscoring some of the challenges, he said one of the major challenges the college faces is power supply followed by internet connectivity, water supply in the dry season, insufficient hostels, poor road network leading to the college and transportation, stating that the college with over 15, 000 students and staff only has 2 buses.

In her remarks, the Minister of Technical and Higher Education Dr. Haja Ramatulai Wurie commended the Fourah Bay College administration for extending an invitation to the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education in order for the Ministry to see first-hand what the administration has been doing in transforming the educational sector and to restore the full potential of the college as the Athens of West Africa.

She said that the visit also provides an opportunity for them to celebrate the achievements at the college, adding that what they have seen so far is worth celebrating as it shows how they are intentional about how the college should been seen.

Dr. Haja Ramatulai Wurie commended the administration for the timely commencement of the 2023/2024academic year of which she encouraged members of staff to adhere to the calendar of events.

She said that she was pleased to see some of the projects the college has designed and currently implementing that speak to the needs of the college.

Giving the vote of thanks, the President of the Fourah Bay College Students’ Union Government, Alfred Sesay, commended the Minister of Technical and Higher Education, Dr. Haja Ramatulai Wurie and her Deputy, Sarjoh Aziz-Kamara, for taking their time to embark on the conducted tour of the college.

He highlighted some of the activities undertaken by the administration towards addressing the concerns of students but said, however, there are still challenges faced by students of which he appealed to the administration to work tirelessly towards addressing them.

Embassy of Japan Commits US$72,086 Grant to Sierra Grass-roots Agency

By Abubakarr Harding

In a bid to mitigate land degradation, combat declines in soil fertility, address climate change, curb deforestation, and reduce CO2 emissions, the Embassy of Japan in Sierra Leone sealed a grant contract of US$72,086 with the local Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) Sierra Grass-roots Agency (SIGA) on Wednesday, November 15, 2023, at Kissy Dock Yard, Freetown. This collaboration falls under the Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGHSP), focusing on the “Improvement of Cassava Processing Center at Mile 91.”

The Deputy Minister (2) of Agriculture and Food Security,  Sahr Hemore, extended sincere appreciation to the Ambassador of Japan, for acknowledging the invaluable support provided by Sierra Grass-roots Agency (SIGA) to farmers dependent on the Cassava Processing Center in Mile 91.

He hailed the shift towards sustainable energy, particularly solar power, as a pivotal step in addressing deforestation and making significant progress.

The Minister noted that the Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security aims to empower communities to be self-sufficient in basic essentials, aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, especially Goal 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and Goal 13 (Combating Climate Change).

He envisioned the Cassava Processing Center becoming the nation’s first climate-friendly and economically viable facility, eliminating the use of petrol and firewood, which contribute to deforestation and pollution.

Expressing his gratitude, His Excellency Mr. Hisanobu Mochizuki, the Ambassador of Japan, thanked and appreciated Sierra Grass-roots Agency (SIGA) for their ongoing support to farmers reliant on the Cassava Processing Center in Mile 91. He commended SIGA’s foresight in expanding the center’s activities through the initiative backed by the Japanese Government, emphasizing the potential for significant improvements in the lives of the local community and steering Sierra Leone towards a more sustainable future.

Ambassador Mochizuki highlighted the environmental consequences of relying on non-renewable energy sources at the processing center, stressing the global impact of deforestation and climate change. He celebrated the shift towards sustainable energy, specifically solar power, as a crucial step in addressing deforestation and making substantial progress.

Revealing the broader significance of the project, Ambassador Mochizuki underscored Japan’s commitment to aiding Sierra Leone in sustainable development, economic expansion, and the enhancement of living standards. He emphasized that the Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security aims to make communities self-sufficient in basic essentials, aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and Goal 13 (Combating Climate Change).

The Executive Director of SIGA, Vidal Robert, shared insights into the project’s components, including the installation of a 30KVA solar system, construction of an underground water collection system, and installation of an electric gari fryer. He envisioned the cassava processing center becoming the country’s first climate-friendly and economically viable facility, eliminating the use of petrol and firewood, which contribute to deforestation and pollution.

Robert emphasized the project’s potential to reverse the decline in land productivity caused by deforestation and pollution, contributing to global warming. He highlighted the economic benefits for farmers, as the project would reduce processing costs by eliminating the need for firewood or petrol.

In conclusion, Robert expressed gratitude to the Government and people of Sierra Leone for the impactful contribution to livelihood improvement and poverty alleviation. The collaborative efforts between Japan and Sierra Leone date back to 2016, demonstrating a sustained commitment to the welfare of Sierra Leonean farmers.

Employers Federation Schools Residents of Dwarzack on ‘Women for Water and Peace Project’

By Abubakarr Harding

In a historic move, the Sierra Leone Employers Federation (SLEF) declared the initiation of the ‘Women for Water and Peace Project’ on Thursday, November 16, 2023. This collaborative venture, supported by key partners, including the International Labour Office, and generously funded by the UNCDF and UN Peacebuilding Fund, is set to combat water scarcity issues in five targeted communities: Mayenkineh, Rokupa, Dwarzack, Crab Town-Aberdeen, and Lumley Community.

The primary objective of the project is the installation of water wells to ensure a sustainable supply of purified water, with a specific focus on addressing the challenges confronted by women and girls in these communities.

Addressing the residents of Dwarzack Community on November 16, 2023, Albert Ojo Collier, the Executive Secretary of SLEF, underscored the pivotal role women play in water-related activities and the risks they encounter, including physical violence and sexual exploitation during late-night water retrieval.

Collier emphasized, “The ‘Women for Water and Peace Project’ is a crucial stride towards ensuring that women and girls no longer endure hardships in their quest for water.” He stressed the significance of placing women’s groups in charge of the wells, not only to tackle water-related issues but also to economically empower the community.

In a detailed presentation on the role of women in the water kiosk business, Fatmata Kamara from the West Africa Network for Peace Building highlighted the employment opportunities it presents for women in the community. Kamara expressed optimism that the kiosk business would enhance women’s self-reliance, boost confidence, and decrease instances of child pregnancies. She urged community residents to take ownership of the wells, ensuring proper maintenance and transparency in handling funds generated through water sales for broader community development.

Representing the Sierra Leone Employers Federation, Memish Doherty delivered a presentation on sexual gender-based violence, emphasizing its significant threat to the education of young girls. Doherty expressed hope that the construction of wells would contribute to reducing such incidents and urged girls to exercise caution, especially during nighttime activities.

Expressing gratitude for the proposed wells, Fatmata Kamara, a student in the Dwarzack community, anticipated a positive impact on their daily lives. She highlighted the challenges students face when fetching water, causing delays in attending school. Kamara thanked the project stakeholders and urged a swift commencement and completion of the wells to alleviate their struggles.

Partnering to Serve Humanity Consortium Extends Aid to Kroo Bay Fire Victims

By Abubakarr Harding

The Kroo Bay Community witnessed a remarkable display of solidarity as the Partnering to Serve Humanity Consortium, comprising the Tzu Chi Foundation, Healey International Relief Foundation, Lanyi Foundation, and Caritas Freetown, On Thursday, November 16, 2023, joined forces to provide aid to victims of a devastating fire.

The tragic incident left 65 households and 325 individuals’ homeless, with their homes and belongings reduced to ashes. Responding swiftly to the urgent needs of the affected community, the Consortium distributed both essential food and non-food items.

Addressing the residents of Kroo Bay, Ambassador Adekunte King, the Minister of the Western Region, offered words of encouragement, urging the community to remain resilient in the face of adversity.

He emphasized the importance of responsible waste disposal, cautioning against the potential for disaster and sickness that can arise from improper waste management.

Ambassador King stressed the need to engage professionals for electrical services and discouraged the hazardous practice of connecting multiple houses to a single electric pole.

Tzu Chi Foundation’s country representative, Margaret Bassie, shed light on the root cause of the fire, attributing it to an electrical fault. She detailed the aid packages, which included 325 bags of rice, 130 blankets, 325 multigrain items, 3 sets of clothing for 150 women and girls, 63 bundles of zinc, and 3 packets of various sizes of nails.

Expressing gratitude, on behalf of the affected community, Rev. Father Peter Konteh, the Executive Director, thanked the Tzu Chi Foundation for their support, both in prayers and material assistance.

Father Konteh underscored the vital role of their organization as an intermediary, facilitating connections between donors and communities in need.

He emphasized the shared philosophy of Caritas and the Partnering to Serve Humanity Consortium, focusing on uplifting the lives of the less privileged.

In conclusion, the Executive Director urged the fire victims to remain vigilant and to seek professional assistance for their electrical needs, reinforcing the importance of safety and responsible community practices.

Public Calls for Dismissal of Resident Minister Over Tribal Statements

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

A video featuring North-East Resident Minister, Abu-Abu Abdulai Koroma, has stirred widespread controversy, prompting calls for his immediate dismissal. Critics describe the footage as the embodiment of tribalism, promoting hatred, malice and personal vendettas.

In the video, Koroma is heard saying: “One of the main reasons I chose to build in Bo, and not Makeni, is because the Temne people are not civilized, unlike the Mende people,” a comment that has been widely condemned.

Experts view this statement as not only deeply offensive, but potentially disruptive to the unity and cohesion of Sierra Leone. It contradicts the President’s commitment to uphold peaceful co-existence, a principle founded on the appreciation of tribal diversity.

Peace advocates regard Koroma’s words as a direct threat to national harmony, particularly coming from a political figure that represents the Presidency in his administered territory. They argue that such rhetoric obstructs progressive reforms aimed at embracing cultural diversity, stifles tolerance, and exacerbates divisions at regional, sectional, and tribal levels.

Koroma continues to draw ire with his comments, adding: “We have many Temne people who own houses, but you never hear of their houses being burnt; I, however, live under constant threat, which is why I decided to move my family to Bo.”

These statements have raised more questions than answers, and have left critics questioning Koroma’s understanding of the political climate and his capacity as a Minister.

The backlash against Koroma’s comments has been swift and vocal. Critics argue that his remarks are especially untimely, given the country’s current need for peace and stability.

One resident expressed his disappointment, stating, “You and your family have been in the Temne Land since the beginning, but just five years of politics, and you have turned against us. Now we are the worst people…”

Prominent Political Commentators have similarly voiced their concerns. They emphasize the potential for these statements to widen the existing divisions in Sierra Leone, already strained by ethnic and political lines.

The presidency is now under pressure to demonstrate that Koroma’s views do not reflect those of the Government. While an apology or dismissal may not fully heal the wounds caused by Koroma’s comments, a lack of action could be seen as an endorsement of tribalism within the Sierra Leone People’s Party.

Critics argue that this is not the first time Koroma has made incendiary comments. In a previous video, he threatened to shoot and kill protesters in the North, a threat that tragically materialized.

The question now is: How does a Resident Minister justify making such statements against the very people he is meant to serve? The answer will determine the future of tribal relations and political decorum in Sierra Leone.

There are widespread calls for Koroma to either apologize or face immediate dismissal. The country watches and waits for the presidency’s response.

Vice President Applauds Africell’s Engaging Presence at NYEEF 2023

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a remarkable display of innovation and commitment to youth empowerment, Africell Sierra Leone garnered praise from His Excellency, Vice President Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, during the official opening of the 2nd edition of the National Youth Employment and Entrepreneurship Fair (NYEEF) on Monday, November 13th, 2023. The four-day event, organized by the Government of Sierra Leone through the Office of the Vice President, took place at the Bintumani Conference Centre in Freetown.

Africell, the leading Mobile Network Operator in Sierra Leone, showcased its digital prowess at NYEEF 2023, impressing attendees and dignitaries alike. The company’s exhibition featured cutting-edge products, including a 5G experience and PlayStation 5 competitions. Winners of the gaming competition were promised a prize of Ten Thousand New Leones (Le 10,000) as well as participants who do Afrimoney services were also given the opportunity to spin where they also won attractive prizes.

During the Vice President’s tour of Africell’s space, he experienced the company’s virtual reality offerings, adding an interactive element to the NYEEF experience.

In an exclusive interview, Shadi Gerjawi, the Managing Director of Africell Sierra Leone Limited, highlighted the significance of NYEEF as a bridge between employers and potential employees. He emphasized the importance of providing a platform for individuals to interact with employers, showcase their talents, submit resumes and establish direct contacts.

This marks Africell’s second consecutive participation in the NYEEF, with the company taking on a significant role as the lead sponsor in the previous edition.

Gerjawi expressed Africell’s pride in being part of the event and reiterated the company’s commitment to supporting educational initiatives for young people.

Africell’s booth at NYEEF offers attendees the opportunity to submit physical resumes or apply directly by scanning a QR code. The company provided valuable tips and guidance on crafting effective resumes for job applications.

Gerjawi emphasized that Africell seeks individuals with potential, aiming to provide them with the right knowledge for future success. The company, boasting one of the largest workforces in the country, with approximately 1000 direct staff, is dedicated to fostering talent and contributing to the professional development of Sierra Leone’s youth.

Finance Minister Justifies 5% Import Duty on Rice to Boost Local Production

The Minister of Finance, Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura, has defended the restoration of the 5% import duty tax on imported rice, emphasizing its dual role in bolstering Government revenue while fostering and safeguarding local rice production.

In response to queries from Members of Parliament during the discussion on the FY 2024 Finance Act, the Minister underscored that this levy not only contributes to Government income but also buttresses the Feed Salone program by channeling these funds specifically to support rice cultivation.

Highlighting further aspects of the Act, the Minister outlined exemptions on GST for agricultural equipment and machinery imports, alongside efforts to broaden the tax bracket and enhance tax administration efficiency.

The FY 2024 Finance Act encompasses a spectrum of changes, including modifications in excise duties on alcohol and sugary beverages, alterations in taxes concerning cigarettes, cement, and iron rods, as well as a reduction in Minimum Alternate Tax (MAT) for loss-making businesses, and the introduction of excise tax on gambling.

In a Government Press Briefing, Financial Secretary Matthew Dingie clarified that the rice import duty, previously suspended in 2009 due to global circumstances, resulted in an annual loss of approximately 18 million dollars for the Government. He emphasized that this exemption did not significantly affect the cost of a bag of rice.

Dingie referenced various low-income African countries imposing higher import duties on rice to support local farmers, citing examples such as Nigeria (70%), Malawi (35%), Rwanda (35%), and The Gambia (73%). Sierra Leone maintains one of the lowest rates in Sub-Saharan Africa.

He elaborated on the Government’s intention to establish pricing formulas for rice, cement and iron rods, ensuring fair pricing for these vital commodities in the interest of citizens.

Moreover, Dingie announced the Government’s plan to create an Agriculture Fund Account using revenue from the rice tax. This fund aims to bolster the Feed Salone Program, diminish rice imports and amplify local production by empowering local farmers through targeted projects.

Africell Angola Names Telecom Expert, Jorge Vazquez, as CEO

Africell Angola, a prominent mobile network provider, has on the  15th November, 2023, announced the appointment of Jorge Vazquez as its new Chief Executive Officer, tasked with steering the company’s next phase of growth in the country.

Bringing a wealth of experience from leadership roles in renowned telecom firms in the USA, Jorge Vazquez,  comes to Africell from Mobilelink, a Houston-based telecommunications company, where he served as Vice President for Sales and Strategy. His career also includes stints at AT&T, the largest mobile network operator in the United States, where he held the position of Vice President and General Manager of the South Texas market, overseeing a substantial business unit with over 2,200 employees.

With over 15 years of executive-level experience in rapidly evolving and expansive telecommunications corporations, Jorge has been instrumental in overseeing fourteen new market launches and establishing over 2,000 retail outlets. His profound expertise positions him well to lead Africell Angola into its next phase of development.

“I am thrilled to be joining Africell Angola at this crucial juncture of its growth,” expressed Jorge Vazquez. “Despite Africell’s significant market share in Angola, the company has retained the agility and innovation of a startup. I thrive in leading teams during periods of dynamic expansion, and I am eager to accelerate Africell’s journey towards becoming the foremost mobile service provider in Angola.”

As the sole US-owned mobile network operator in Sub-Saharan Africa, Africell has made significant strides in Angola since its launch in April 2022. Notably, the company introduced 5G services in July 2022 and unveiled Afrimoney, its mobile money platform, in April 2023, aiming to enhance financial inclusion and integrate more Angolans into the formal economy. Presently, Africell offers connectivity in Luanda, Benguela, Huíla, and Cuanza Sul provinces, catering to a population of over 15 million.

“Angola represents a substantial growth market for Africell, and we require a leader with the right blend of skills and experience to capitalize on this opportunity,” stated Ziad Dalloul, Africell Group’s CEO and Founder. “Jorge brings an extensive understanding of the telecommunications sector and a commendable track record of steering large teams toward ambitious growth objectives. As Africell Angola continues its rapid expansion, Jorge will drive our strategies on the ground while upholding Africell’s hallmark of reliability, affordability, and accessibility.”

Africell’s network infrastructure in Angola, developed using secure Nokia technology, stands as the sole commercial mobile network in Africa compliant with the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Despite this cutting-edge technology, Africell maintains competitive pricing, ensuring customers in Angola enjoy high-speed connectivity at unparalleled value.

Bio Addresses Human Rights Issues, Stresses Collective Efforts in Nation-Building

President Julius Maada Bio engaged in a crucial dialogue with the Chairperson and Members of the Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone (HRCSL), at State House, on the 14th November, 2023, delving into pivotal human rights concerns and operational matters concerning the Commission.

The discussions centered on three significant facets: the ongoing re-accreditation process of the Commission, preparations for the 75th International Human Rights Day Celebration, and an in-depth review of the Commission’s Act while addressing logistical challenges.

Madam Patricia Narsu Ndanema, Chairperson of the HRCSL, stressed the importance of the ongoing re-accreditation process, underscoring its role in upholding the Commission’s credibility and effectiveness in safeguarding human rights across the nation. She also highlighted Sierra Leone’s commitment through the Abolition of the Death Penalty Act 2022 and the continuous pursuit of funding to sustain the Commission’s operations and fulfill its mandate.

President Julius Maada Bio expressed appreciation to the Chairperson and members for their comprehensive updates. He emphasized the necessity to enhance Sierra Leone’s global stature, emphasizing the collective effort required to address the country’s challenges.

Acknowledging Sierra Leone’s upcoming tenure as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council, slated to commence in January 2024 for a two-year term, President Bio highlighted the unique opportunity it presents for the nation. He emphasized that this position would enable Sierra Leone to make substantial contributions to global peace, security, and development.

“With Sierra Leone returning as a non-permanent member to the UN Security Council, the nation holds a significant platform to actively shape global conversations on human rights and other critical matters,” he remarked, underscoring the country’s potential pivotal role on the international stage.

NaCOVERC Presents Two Significant Reports to President Bio

The National COVID-19 Emergency Response Center (NaCOVERC), presented two crucial reports to President Bio at State House on the 14th November, 2023 during which the President highlighted the Government’s well-informed strategies and response to the global pandemic, which garnered admiration from across the globe.

Dr. Amara Jambai, Head of the NaCOVERC delegation, conveyed pleasure in presenting two significant reports to the President: the Intra-Action Review Report (IAR) and the National COVID-19 Report spanning the period 2020-2022.

The IAR findings focused on reviewing Sierra Leone’s COVID-19 response in crucial areas like Surveillance, Laboratories, Case Management, Risk Communications, Food and Nutrition, and National Coordination, held on the 22nd and 23rd of September 2020. Dr. Jambai highlighted the exceptional efforts of strategic individuals—a military personnel, a finance expert, and a technical specialist—whose collective coordination set a benchmark for other nations. He credited President Bio’s leadership in guiding the nation through uncharted territory.

Acknowledging the inter-multi-sectoral approach led by the Presidential Task Force, Dr. Jambai stressed its pivotal role amid the global impact of COVID-19.

President Bio extended congratulations and appreciation to all involved, commending their resilience, collaboration, and effective crisis management. Drawing from the Ebola outbreak experience, he recognized the crucial roles played by the Police, Healthcare Workers, and Paramount Chiefs, emphasizing their significant contributions.

It’s notable that Sierra Leone confirmed its first COVID-19 case on March 31, 2020, becoming the last country in West Africa to do so. Shifting focus from prevention to delaying the spread, the Ministry of Health escalated its response on April 2, 2020, formally handing over lead response coordination to NaCOVERC, leveraging the institutional memory from the Ebola response structures.

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