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Pavi Fort Takes the Lead in President Bio’s Road Development with Traffic Light Installations

By Amin Kef-Ranger

In a commendable display of the transformative potential of efficient infrastructure development, Pavi Fort Roads Construction Company, led by CEO Alhaji Alimu Barrie, has emerged as a key player in President Julius Maada Bio’s ambitious road agenda. Under Barrie’s dynamic leadership, the company has made substantial progress in constructing and rehabilitating roads nationwide, ushering in a new era of connectivity and progress for Sierra Leone.

As this material moment, Pavi Fort is in the process of installing traffic lights at Ferry Junction, Congo Cross and Lumley Roundabouts, marking the final phase of the company’s implementation of an aspect of the  Integrated Resilient Urban Mobility Project (IRUMP), a World Bank funded Project that was successfully secured by the President Bio led Government. The installation work came in the wake of the completion of 99% of the Project.

These traffic lights are expected to enhance traffic control, especially during rush hours, and empower law enforcement officers to monitor errant drivers of vehicles, tricycles, and bikes.

For some, they see this remarkable transformation as truly awesome and modern. The installation of these traffic lights has also garnered praise for the Government and the company, symbolizing a shift from stagnation to progress in terms of infrastructural development. This initiative aligns with the broader objective of comprehensive corridor improvements, including coordinated traffic lights, pedestrian sidewalk enhancements, and drainage improvements, all aimed at enhancing traffic management in key areas.

Pavi Fort secured the contract for this vital project, a part of the Integrated Resilient Urban Mobility Project (IRUMP), which was funded by the World Bank under President Bio’s administration. The project targets three key areas: Ferry Junction in the East End of Freetown, Congo Cross Roundabout, and Lumley in the West End.

Despite encountering inevitable challenges during the implementation, Pavi Fort demonstrated its commitment and effectiveness in swiftly revolutionizing road conditions in these areas to the satisfaction of the World Bank, the Sierra Leone Government, and the public.

Pavi Fort has also been involved in the maintenance and upgrade of major township roads in Freetown. Roads such as Sani Abacha Street, East End Police Roundabout, Kennedy Street, Model Junction, Kissy By-Pass, City Road, Main Motor Road, Bai Bureh Road, Jenner Wright Road, Fourah Bay Road, Cline Town Roundabout, and Regent Road in the Peninsular have seen significant improvements, making them safer for both vehicles and pedestrians.

The company has further extended its impact to Lungi, Port Loko, and Kenema, where it has contributed to the construction and rehabilitation of roads, transforming them into safer and more accessible routes for residents and visitors.

Pavi Fort’s commitment to implementing road projects that meet international standards, ensure quality, and durability has made it a key player in national development. The company’s professionalism and competence in road construction and rehabilitation have underlined the significance of leveraging local content, contributing to job creation, tax revenue for the Government, corporate social responsibility, and the upgrading of neglected roads.

As Pavi Fort Roads Construction Company continues its journey across Sierra Leone, it serves as a beacon of hope, illustrating the transformative impact of visionary infrastructure development on a nation’s trajectory. The company’s dedication aligns with President Bio’s vision for improved road infrastructure that connects every citizen in Sierra Leone.

NP-SL Continues to Set the Benchmark for Customer Satisfaction and Quality Service Delivery

By Ranger

NP-SL Ltd, a reputable petroleum marketing company, is resolutely committed to maintaining high standards of customer satisfaction and service excellence across various aspects of its operations. With a wealth of experience and professionalism accumulated over the years, NP-SL consistently provides top-quality petroleum products and proudly stands as the largest importer and marketer of these products.

The company’s unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction and service excellence has earned it respect, accolades, and a well-deserved reputation as a leader in customer care.

While NP-SL primarily focuses on supplying high-grade petrol and diesel to enhance transportation nationwide, it is equally dedicated to vehicle maintenance, ensuring the safety and comfort of passengers, drivers, and pedestrians. To this end, NP-SL offers a range of high-quality lubricants for vehicles at its Filling Stations.

Customers can find engine oil for heavy-duty vehicles and machines (diesel) as well as lubricants designed for jeeps and various vehicles with both petrol and diesel engines. These lubricants are engineered to meet specific engine specifications, crafted by a team of professional engineers under the vigilant supervision of the company’s management.

NP-SL has embraced technology to enhance customer convenience. The introduction of the NP Smart Card allows customers to purchase fuel with ease. This smart card, a form of prepaid system, offers customers a set amount of fuel corresponding to their payment. Customers can choose to refuel their vehicles with the desired quantity using the smart card, streamlining the fueling process. Notably, this system has found favor with private customers as well as international organizations, banks, Government institutions, and even the Judiciary. This innovation simplifies fuel procurement, reducing the need for lengthy Local Purchase Orders (LPOs).

Customer service is a top priority for NP-SL Ltd. Attendants at NP-SL Filling Stations are known for their professionalism and courtesy. They guide customers to different fueling points, provide assistance, and ensure the service quality aligns with the company’s reputation. NP-SL ensures that customers receive the exact quantity of fuel they pay for, making it a preferred choice for commercial drivers and other consumers. Drivers like Mohamed Kamara express their preference for NP due to the company’s reputation for quality and quantity.

NP-SL recognizes the importance of addressing domestic energy needs. The introduction of NP Cooking Gas, an eco-friendly alternative to traditional cooking fuels like firewood and charcoal, is aimed at promoting environmentally responsible cooking practices. NP Gas Cookers are readily available at the company’s Filling Stations and are competitively priced. Users appreciate the convenience and reliability of these cookers and find it easy to replenish their gas stock at NP Filling Stations.

The company also has plans to expand its network of Filling Stations to serve customers in various parts of the country, reinforcing its commitment to providing the best service and utmost customer satisfaction.

BAN Exposes Government’s NLe1, 350,160 Account Deficit in Recent Report

By Foday Moriba Conteh

During the unveiling of the Budget Credibility and Revenue Expenditure Analysis Report on November 9th, 2023, at the Freetown City Council Lobby Hall in Freetown, the Budget Advocacy Network (BAN) sounded the alarm on the financial challenges facing the Sierra Leone Government. The Report disclosed that the combination of domestic revenue, grants and various financing mechanisms from January to September 2023 failed to cover the total operating expenses for the same period.

BAN highlighted a substantial deficit of NLe1, 350,160 in the Government’s financial balance for January to September 2023. The breakdown revealed that the total income, comprising domestic revenue, grants, and financing mechanisms, amounted to NLe11, 153,111, while the total operating expenses reached a higher NLe12, 503,271.

Speaking at the ceremony, Abu Bakarr Kamara, the Coordinator of the Budget Advocacy Network, stressed the need for immediate action to rationalize Government expenses and implement cost-reduction measures. He proposed measures such as conducting routine expenditure reviews to identify inefficiencies, implementing e-government for efficiency gains, and strategies to limit recurrent expenditures, including salaries and allowances.

He emphasized the importance of reducing overseas travels through transparent travel policies, conducting cost-benefit analyses before approving trips, and centralizing travel management to ensure budget adherence.

The report underscored Sierra Leone’s ambitious goal in its Medium-Term Revenue Strategy, aiming for domestic revenue of 20% of GDP by 2027. It closely monitors monthly revenue collection and high-level expenditure, providing citizens with updates on Government’s efforts despite economic challenges in 2022, including the lingering COVID-19 pandemic and repercussions from the Ukraine-Russia war.

Analyzing data from the 2022 Fiscal Year and January to September 2023, the Report highlighted a positive trend in revenue collection, with FY2023 domestic revenue surpassing FY2022 by 18%. Contributions from various revenue streams, including Taxes on Income, Profits & Capital Gains and Non-Tax Revenue demonstrated significant performance.

However, the expenditure analysis revealed that general Public Services, Economic Affairs, and Education Services were the top sectors in terms of spending, totaling operating expenses of Le 12,503,269 for January to September 2023.

He urged the Government to adopt the Report’s recommendations, including expenditure rationalization, e-government implementation, and strategies to limit recurrent expenditures. Abu Bakarr Kamara emphasized the importance of improving property tax collection, adopting a digital tax system, and building trust in Government through effective use of tax funds to enhance revenue.

The Report also raised concerns about over-executed budgets, which could lead to domestic borrowing, crowding out private sector borrowing, and macroeconomic instability. Kamara stressed the need for Governments to adhere to their budgetary commitments, enhance accountability and allow citizens and oversight bodies to track spending.

Concluding with a sectoral analysis of disbursements to key Ministries, the Report highlighted the importance of sustained efforts toward sound public financial management practices to address Sierra Leone’s budget credibility challenges. It emphasized that a committed Government could significantly enhance budget credibility, supporting efficient fund allocation to priority areas and improving overall service delivery.

Innovation SL Leads as National Host for Global Entrepreneurship Week, Set to Empower Entrepreneurs

By Foday Moriba Conteh

As November unfolds, the spotlight turns to the vibrant entrepreneurial landscape of Sierra Leone with the commencement of Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) 2023. Innovation SL, a pivotal entrepreneurship support organization, once again assumes the role of the national host, orchestrating a series of events aimed at celebrating, supporting, and inspiring entrepreneurs throughout the country.

Since 2017, Innovation SL has been the driving force behind GEW in Sierra Leone. From the inaugural event at Sensi Tech Hub to the grand gatherings at Limkokwing University of Creative Technology and the British Council Hall, GEW has evolved into a cornerstone of the nation’s entrepreneurial calendar. The week consistently brings together diverse stakeholders, including government representatives, financial institutions, educational bodies, NGOs, and ambassadors.

Last year’s GEW kicked off with a thought-provoking “state of the ecosystem” debate, featuring luminaries from SMEDA, DSTI, UNICEF, and SLEDP. The overarching theme, “Unleashing Ideas,” was echoed in national discussions on education, ecosystems, inclusion, and policy.

A notable highlight of GEW in Sierra Leone is the Dare2Aspire-Women in Entrepreneurship event. Aimed at unlocking the potential of women entrepreneurs, this day-long event includes a Women in Tech panel, a Dare2Aspire pitch event, and a Green Economy Fashion Show celebrating sustainable fashion.

“Dare2Aspire is dedicated to inspiring and empowering female entrepreneurs, fostering innovation, and creating an inclusive entrepreneurial environment,” highlighting the commitment to addressing challenges, providing opportunities, and promoting financial inclusion for women in business.

As the anticipation builds, GEW 2023 promises a week filled with innovation, inspiration, and entrepreneurial spirit. Each day is themed to address specific aspects of entrepreneurship, starting with “Education” on Day 1, followed by “Inclusion” on Day 2, and a focus on women in entrepreneurship on Day 3. Day 4 will delve into policy and ecosystem matters, concluding with a sustainable fashion show and networking cocktail party.

The theme for Day 1 is “Education”. Innovation SL will be partnering with the IPAM University of Sierra Leone to organize activities based on the theme. This year, the week will start off with an opening ceremony of Global Entrepreneurship Week 2023, followed by a poem from Innovation SL on entrepreneurship and education, a round table discussion on the challenges and opportunities for local small businesses, and a public lecture on entrepreneurship development in Sierra Leone, which will bring together entrepreneurs, educators, policymakers, students, and corporate executives.

Day 1 – Education Round Table Discussion on Challenges and Opportunities for Local Small Businesses (13:30 – 15:00) and Public Lecture on Entrepreneurship Development in Sierra Leone (15:30 – 16:30).

The theme for Day 2 is “Inclusion.” Innovation SL will partner with the National Youth Employment Entrepreneurship Fair (NYEEF), a networking and learning event for young people aged 18–35. The partnership between Innovation SL and NYEEF started in 2022. The partnership for this year will feature a pitch event hosted by Innovation SL at the Freetown International Conference Centre in Aberdeen at 14:00 – 16:00pm.

Day 2 – Inclusion: Pitch Event at Freetown International Conference Centre in Aberdeen (14:00 – 16:00)

A standout event, day 3 the Dare2Aspire-Women in Entrepreneurship in Sierra Leone is dedicated to unlocking the potential of women in entrepreneurship, addressing challenges and opportunities, and promoting financial inclusion. With a women’s panel, Women & Girls pitch night (with a chance to win seed capital), business expo, and financial clinic, it aims to inspire and empower female (under 18 and above) entrepreneurs; foster innovation, and create an inclusive entrepreneurial environment.

Day 3 – Dare2Aspire Women in Entrepreneurship Demo Day Exhibition (Whole Day), Financial Clinic by JIT Capital (12:00 – 13:30), Women in Entrepreneurship Panel Discussion (14:30 – 15:15) and Dare2Aspire Junior & Senior Pitch Event (15:30 – 18:00) all at Bank Complex, Kingtom in Freetown.

Policy and Ecosystem are the themes for Day 4. A panel discussion will be hosted by Innovation SL composed of enablers in the ecosystem and policymakers who will be discussing the topic “Enabling the Ecosystem”. The panel will comprise representatives from DSTI, Limkokwing, IPAM, SMEDA, UNICEF etc. and a sustainable fashion show and a networking cocktail party will climax the week until next year.

Day 4 – Policy and Ecosystem: Panel Discussion: “Enabling the Ecosystem” (14:30 – 15:30), Sustainable Fashion Show (16:30 – 20:00) and Networking Cocktail Party all at Empower Africa 10th Floor New Freetown City Hall in Freetown.

GEW 2023 in Sierra Leone promises to be a pivotal moment for entrepreneurs, innovators, and all those passionate about the entrepreneurial spirit. Stay tuned for updates, insights, and success stories from this dynamic week dedicated to fostering collaboration and celebrating the entrepreneurial journey.

Finance Ministry to Strictly Enforce MDAs Policy Implementation to Align with Big 5 Changers

Finance Minister, Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura, has made it clear that the Ministry of Finance will enforce strict adherence to the projects and programs outlined in the 2024 budget, emphasizing the importance of fiscal responsibility.

“To achieve the deliverables of the Big Five Game Changers, MDAs [Ministries, Departments, and Agencies] must implement only policies, programs, and projects that have been agreed upon in this Budget,” Minister Bangura declared.

During his presentation of the FY2024 budget speech to Parliament on November 10, 2023, under the theme “Restoring Macroeconomic Stability while Protecting the Poor and Vulnerable,” Minister Bangura highlighted the economic performance of Sierra Leone in 2023 and the key priorities set out in the budget.

In his review of 2023, Minister Bangura noted that the Sierra Leone economy initially rebounded from the COVID-19 pandemic with a growth rate of 4.1 percent in 2021. However, it experienced a slowdown in 2022, with growth at 3.5 percent, and is projected to grow moderately by 2.7 percent in 2023. He attributed this to global economic uncertainty and challenges like high food and energy prices.

Despite facing fiscal constraints, the Government continues to fund important initiatives such as the Free Quality School Education (FQSE) Program and key infrastructure projects, including road, water, energy, and other development priorities.

The Minister revealed that total domestic revenue collected in the first half of 2023 amounted to NLe 166.4 million, while grants received from development partners reached NLe 1.1 billion. The World Bank is expected to disburse $65 Million as budget support in December 2023, bringing total grants to an estimated NLe 3.7 billion, equivalent to 4.7 percent of GDP in 2023.

Key priorities in the 2024 budget include improving the management of public finances, enhancing monetary and exchange rate policies to reduce inflation, stabilize exchange rates, lower living costs, and support the Feed Salone Program to enhance agricultural productivity and achieve food self-sufficiency.

Minister Bangura informed his audience that the Government Wage Bill is projected to increase to NLe 6.5 billion (6.4 percent of GDP) in 2024, up from NLe 5.3 billion (6.7 percent of GDP) in 2023. The increase is due to the recruitment of healthcare workers, staff by sub-vented agencies, tertiary education institutions, military personnel, Correctional Services employees, Fire Force Officers, and teachers.

The revenue and expenditure measures in the budget are intended to create fiscal space for financing the Big Five Game Changers and the Feed Salone Program. Minister Bangura emphasized that sustainable financing of Government programs will reduce debt levels and complement the efforts of the Bank of Sierra Leone in lowering inflation and stabilizing the exchange rate.

Additionally, the budget outlines social safety nets to enhance the quality of life for vulnerable groups and various programs and projects to create job opportunities for women and youth, addressing the high cost of living. Total expenditure and net lending for 2024 are projected at NLe 23.5 billion, with recurrent expenditure at NLe 16.5 billion, and capital expenditure and net lending at NLe 7.1 billion.

The Government is allocating resources to various sectors, including NLe 1.1 billion to agriculture, NLe 3.0 billion to education, NLe 1.1 billion to health, and NLe 8.6 million to NaCSA for social safety nets. Additional allocations are directed to Water, Energy, Roads, Communications, and Technology. The allocations reflect the government’s commitment to addressing critical needs and priorities in these areas.

President Bio Calls on Sierra Leoneans in Morocco to be Good Citizens & Exemplary Ambassadors

President Julius Maada Bio delivered a compelling message to the Sierra Leonean community in Morocco, encompassing Sierra Leonean students, as he called upon them to embody good citizenship and serve as exemplary ambassadors representing the Republic of Sierra Leone.

The President’s impassioned address took place during his interaction with the Sierra Leone Community in the Kingdom of Morocco, just ahead of the highly anticipated 2023 Africa Investment Forum (AIF) Market Days Event, which took place from November 8th to 10th, 2023.

Throughout the meeting, several concerns and issues were raised by members of the Sierra Leone Community in Morocco. President Julius Maada Bio urged them to compile these issues in writing, assuring them that he would address and resolve those matters upon his return to Sierra Leone.

Emphasizing his administration’s steadfast commitment, President Bio reiterated the significance of the Big Five Game-Changer project and the “Feed Salone” initiative. These initiatives are the cornerstones of his Government’s flagship program, aimed at achieving food security in Sierra Leone by 2035, while capitalizing on investments in human capital development, technology, and infrastructure.

President Julius Maada Bio stated, “My Government is investing in the youth and empowering them through education, recognizing that no nation can progress without education.” His message resonated with the Sierra Leonean community in Morocco, particularly the students, who were encouraged to prioritize their studies, with the ultimate goal of utilizing their acquired skills for the betterment of their homeland.

Acknowledging the goodwill extended by the Moroccan Government, President Bio expressed gratitude for the increased number of scholarships awarded to Sierra Leoneans. He noted that this expansion is a testament to the strong bilateral relationship between the two nations and underscored his commitment to enhancing such relationships for the benefit of Sierra Leoneans.

In his remarks, Ambassador Atumanni Dainkeh highlighted the exceptional significance of President Julius Maada Bio’s interaction with Sierra Leoneans residing in Morocco, especially given the President’s busy schedule during the 2023 Africa Investment Forum.

Jeremiah Abdul Akim Jalloh, President of the Sierra Leone Students Association, extended congratulations to the President on his re-election and commended him for his exemplary leadership since 2018. He particularly praised President Bio for revitalizing Moroccan Government scholarships for Sierra Leoneans, which had languished for nearly five years prior to his Government’s tenure.

Members of the Sierra Leonean Community in Morocco expressed their gratitude to President Julius Maada Bio for his engagement, despite his demanding agenda.

The President’s visit to Morocco was warmly received, and he was honored by both the Sierra Leoneans and the Moroccan Government. Among the distinguished attendees was Madam Zainab Kandeh, the Sierra Leone Consul-General to the Kingdom of Morocco.

Potential Saudi Partners Briefed on Sierra Leone’s Big Five Changers

Among a distinguished gathering of African Presidents and Heads of State convening at the Saudi-Africa Summit, on the 10th November, 2023, was President Julius Maada Bio, where he is poised to introduce his Government’s Big Five Game changers initiative to global business leaders and prospective Saudi collaborators.

During his sojourn in Riyadh, President Bio will engage in bilateral meetings of shared interest with key institutions, focusing on his Government’s 2023-2028 Big Five Game changers initiative. This holistic strategy encompasses the FEED SALONE Program, Human Capital Development, Youth Empowerment, the Revamping of the  Public Service Architecture, and the pursuit of Sustained Economic Growth through Technology and Infrastructure.

Historically, Africa and the Arab world have nurtured fruitful exchanges in trade, culture, and civilization through interpersonal interactions.

The Africa-Saudi collaboration, initially rooted in the Hajj pilgrimage, has diversified significantly over the past six decades, encompassing an array of mutually advantageous domains such as sustainable development, trade, investment, education, health, sports, culture, agriculture, mining, and oil and gas.

President Bio’s inaugural visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as the Head of the Republic of Sierra Leone coincides with his participation in the inaugural Saudi-Africa Summit—a historic event for the Kingdom.

Among the notable Heads of state in attendance are Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki, Gabonese interim President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, Mauritanian President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani, Mauritian President Prithvirajsing Roopun, Malawian President Lazarus Chakwera, Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, and Nigerien Prime Minister Ali Mahamane Lamine Zeine.

Simultaneously, Sierra Leone’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Timothy Musa Kabba, sealed two pivotal agreements with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The first, a Cooperation Agreement, is designed to bolster economic ties in sectors such as agriculture, infrastructure, education, defense, mining, marine resources, and energy.

The second, a Memorandum of Understanding on Political Consultation, seeks to foster collaboration between the two nations as members of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and underscores Sierra Leone’s role in global peace and security as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council.

In the lead-up to the summit, Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Dr. Ibrahim Jalloh, who pursued studies in the Kingdom during the 1980s, expressed his eagerness for increased collaboration between the two countries, particularly through university exchange programs.

First Lady Discloses Sierra Leone Hosting UN ‘Zero Waste Summit’ in Freetown

The First Lady of Sierra Leone, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, unveiled groundbreaking updates and major achievements in her global empowerment initiatives during a Government Press Conference, on the 7th November, 2023 heralding a new era for the nation’s involvement on the national and international stage.

Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, led the weekly Government Press Conference and commended Her Excellency’s punctuality, symbolizing a fresh beginning for Sierra Leone. That event marked the largest Press Conference held since his assumption of office.

Taking the spotlight, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio expressed her gratitude for the support of Sierra Leone and passionately advocated for the well-being of women and girls. Her dedication to this cause stemmed from her personal experiences with the prevalence of rape during her husband’s time in opposition. Determined to combat this injustice, she initiated the “Hands Off Our Girls” Campaign, which garnered international recognition at the United Nations.

During her UN address, she underscored the importance of her request for November 18 to be designated as the UN World Day for Rape Victims, Marginalized Women and Girls and attributed her accomplishments to the unwavering support of President Julius Maada Bio.

The First Lady proudly announced her role as one of Eight Eminent Persons Championing the Zero Waste Initiative, revealing Sierra Leone as the host country for the inaugural UN Summit on Zero Waste. Her multifaceted roles within the UN, including her latest volunteer work on road safety, illustrated her global impact.

The Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs commended Her Excellency’s initiatives and called for justice against gender violence perpetrators.

Representatives from civil society and the Social Welfare Ministry endorsed the First Lady’s efforts, urging collective support for national progress.

Dr. Fatima Maada Bio stressed the pivotal role of her advocacy in securing a designated day to commemorate rape victims in Sierra Leone and emphasized the transformative empowerment of survivors.

While clarifying her role as First Lady, she highlighted her limited powers but vocal stance in addressing pertinent issues with the authorities.

During the Q&A session, she emphasized the importance of empowering victims on November 18 and advocated for appropriate attire and the discouragement of commercial sex work among women.

In a related development, on November 8, 2023, the First Lady, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, led a crucial Dialogue on the World Day for Rape Victims, uniting security personnel and the Deputy Minister of Health.

Amid the global observance of November 18th as World Day for Rape Victims, Her Excellency Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, the esteemed First Lady of Sierra Leone, orchestrated a profound discourse at her office, bringing together security personnel and the Deputy Minister of Health. This pivotal gathering highlighted the pressing need for cohesive measures and comprehensive strategies to combat and prevent gender-based violence, marking a significant step towards fostering a more secured and empathetic society.

The First Lady’s impassioned call for a comprehensive support system for survivors resonated deeply, emphasizing the pivotal role of law enforcement in safeguarding all citizens, particularly the vulnerable.

Dr. Fatima Maada Bio underscored the critical importance of collaboration among law enforcement, healthcare professionals, and community leaders, advocating for policy reforms to hold perpetrators accountable and deter future incidents of gender-based violence.

Her emphasis on comprehensive educational programs and increased public awareness initiatives underscored the significance of early intervention and preventive measures in curbing the prevalence of sexual violence.

Furthermore, on November 10, 2023, the First Lady, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, actively participated in strategic planning meetings with the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces, the Sierra Leone Police, and development partners. The purpose of such collaboration was to ensure a secure environment for the upcoming World Day for the Prevention of and Healing from Sexual Exploitation, Violence, and Abuse, scheduled for November 18th. This joint initiative underscores her commitment and aspirations for the successful execution of the commemoration event.

In a related development, she revealed plans to establish a scholarship and business startup initiative for victims of rape, as part of the commemoration of November 18.

In 2022, the First Lady spearheaded an initiative at the United Nations to designate a dedicated day for survivors of rape and sexual violence. Her advocacy led to the United Nations proclaiming November 18 as the ‘United Nations World Day for the Prevention of and Healing from Child Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Violence’.

To mark the ‘United Nations World Day for the Prevention of and Healing from Child Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Violence’ for the first time in Sierra Leone, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio pledged to offer university scholarships, vocational training, and business capital to rape victims.

“I want to commemorate this important day in Sierra Leone with rape victims, pray with them, and also, for a start, my Foundation will provide university support, vocational training, and business capital,” she stated.

This year’s commemoration will take place in Sierra Leone, with the participation of First Ladies from Nigeria, represented by Her Excellency Senator Oluremi Tinubu and Angola, represented by Her Excellency Ana Dias Lourenco. The renowned Nigerian singer, Osinachi Kalu, will also perform as a guest singer at the event, hosted at the Winners Chapel.

During the press briefing, the First Lady additionally disclosed that Sierra Leone will host the United Nations ‘Zero Waste Summit’ in Freetown next year.

Dr. Fatima Maada Bio has been selected as one of eight eminent members by the United Nations to champion ‘Zero Waste’ initiatives worldwide. The Chair of the Advisory Board of Zero Waste, Her Excellency Emine Erdogan, the First Lady of Turkey, is expected to visit Sierra Leone to witness the event.

Rokel Commercial Bank’s Delegation Takes Part in Inter-African Trade Fair

Senior members of Rokel Commercial Bank, led by the Managing Director, Dr. Walton Gilpin, are participating in the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) in Egypt which commenced on the 9th November, 2023 and will end on the 15th November, 2023. The delegation also includes senior staff members from its sister bank, Sierra Leone Commercial Bank.

As a pivotal component of the African Union Agenda 2063, known as “The Africa We Want,” the Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) unites 55 African countries, boasting a collective population of over 1.2 billion people and a combined gross domestic product (GDP) exceeding US$2.5 trillion. This monumental endeavor positions the continent as the largest free trade area established since the creation of the World Trade Organization (WTO).

Consequently, this year’s IATF is regarded as the gateway into the AfCFTA and is poised to become the largest free trade area in the world.

The trade fair plays a significant role in supporting the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), promoting exports, and fortifying trade relations between Sierra Leone and the broader sub-region.

Under the theme, “Building Bridges for a Successful AfCFTA,” the trade fair places a strong emphasis on identifying growth opportunities for intra-African cross-border trade and investments.

Finance Act 2024 Successfully Ratified by Parliament

Parliament convened on Thursday, November 9, 2023, was engaged in a comprehensive debate prior to the approval of the ‘Finance Act 2024’. This pivotal legislation, aimed at bolstering economic growth and development within Sierra Leone, was passed or ratified with some amendments.

The ‘Finance Act 2024′ serves to establish and amend tax provisions, execute the Government’s financial proposals and address other related matters for the Financial Year 2024.

In presenting the bill to Parliament, the Minister of Finance, Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura, emphasized its role in augmenting revenue generation for the State. The Finance Act endeavors to enhance and safeguard local farmers while also providing incentives for local markets.

The Finance Minister outlined the proposed amendments to various Acts, highlighting their contributions to revenue mobilization for the State by optimizing domestic revenue collection through various taxes.

Contributing to the debate, the Parliamentary Chairperson on Finance, Hon. Francis Amara Kai-Samba, stressed that any adjustments to established laws necessitate parliamentary approval. He commended the Minister of Finance for his diligence and for introducing the bill to Parliament. Hon. Kai-Samba referenced past amendments to the Act that facilitated revenue generation for the country.

Deputy Leader 2 of the Opposition, Hon. Aaron Aruna Koroma, underscored the significance of the bill, particularly its impact on the welfare of the citizens. He praised the Minister for his adjustment of the GST threshold and extended demurrage time at the Customs Services Department of the Sierra Leone Port Authority. Hon. Koroma expressed that the nation’s hardships were primarily due to the Government’s actions and referenced neighboring countries offering subsidies on essential food items.

Hon. Alpha Bah from the Western Area Urban voiced concerns that the Finance Act, if enacted, would adversely affect the people. He stressed the need for prudent expenditure management and urged the Minister to maintain zero taxation on rice, advocating for the protection of local industries.

Hon. Mustapha Sallu from Moyamba District contested the assertion that the Government was responsible for the people’s suffering, emphasizing that the bill aimed to bolster revenue mobilization for development.

Hon. Sallieu Osman Sesay from Bombali District acknowledged the importance of tax increments but cautioned against levying them on essential commodities.

In his inaugural speech, Hon. Ibrahim Barrie from Bombali District addressed the country’s current economic challenges and referred to a World Bank report on Sierra Leone’s economy in 2022. He urged the Government to prioritize citizens’ interests and confront the nation’s economic challenges.

Closing the debate, Opposition Leader, Hon. Abdul Kargbo, acknowledged the challenging economic circumstances faced by Sierra Leoneans. He stressed the need for the Government to implement policies to alleviate the difficulties, referencing the “Feed Salone” flagship Project, which he characterized as non-operational. He expressed his opposition to the proposed tax increases on rice and implored the House to pass a people-centered Finance Act.

Concluding the debate, Leader of Government Business, Hon. Mathew Sahr Nyuma, elucidated the memorandum of objects and reasons behind the bill. He delineated the distinctions between excise duties and import duties within the Finance Act.

Hon. Nyuma emphasized the essential role of tax increases in controlling the economy and highlighted the Government’s commitment to economic improvement. He defended the decision to impose taxes on cement and iron rods.

He underscored the non-political nature of the Audit Report and detailed measures within the Finance Act designed to address audit-related issues.

The Leader of Government Business concluded by asserting that the tax adjustments were necessary to address the nation’s economic challenges based on current circumstances, while also emphasizing the Government’s commitment to national development.

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