The Ministry of Communications, Technology and Innovation held a one day stakeholder engagement workshop on Thursday 9th November, 2023, at the New Brookfields Hotel, Jomo Kenyatta Road in Freetown to deliberate on the implementation of the Sierra Leone Digital Transformation Project which is a $50 Million Project that is funded by the World Bank.
In her address as the keynote speaker, the Minister of Communications Technology and Innovation, Madam Salima Bah, commended the World Bank for offering the grant and further extended gratitude to the Coordination Team for their hard work.
The Minister underscored that any country that does not prioritize technology could be equated to one that is 100 years backward, also emphasizing the importance of technology in every facet of life as well as revealing the establishment of a regulatory framework to address issues related to cybercrime and more pointing out how they are challenged with its implementation.
According to her, technology is very essential for the actualization of President’s Bio Big Five Game Changers adding that it will be utilized in the agricultural sector for enhancing the Feed Salone initiative by using drones for the purposes of surveillance, fertilization and so on.
The Minister informed that they will ensure that thorough sensitization is done right across the country on how to navigate technology in ways that will be beneficial also stating how they intend to introduce technology in primary schools for the younger folks to know the importance of it.`
She additionally intimated that technology provides lots of business opportunities that can create jobs for many people in the country making reference to the COVID-19 period during which she said lots of businesses emerged from using technology arguing that the world is taking a different stage in terms of digital transformation.
Salima Bah assured that the full fledge implementation of the Sierra Leone Digital Transformation Project will be next year.
A representative of the Minister of Finance, Simeon Jonjo, told the audience how the world is changing due to the emergence of Information Communications Technology (ICT) and digital transformation. He stated that 51.2% of the minimum population round the world is involved in using digital technology in their daily lives as well as acknowledging the roles their partners are playing further underscoring that the Project is to consolidate what has been achieved and at the same time develop digital governance.
The World Bank representative, Dr. Mensah, informed how digitalization is not just a luxury but a necessity further revealing that the project is to create a Sierra Leone where every citizen has a chance to strive in digital technology.
According to him, ICT is emerging lamenting that the country is ranked 131 out of 137 in terms of technology pinpointing the costs for digital services are quite high and somehow unaffordable.
The Sierra Leone Employers Federation has, on Friday, November 10, 2023, at the Mayenkineh Community in Calaba town informed that in collaboration with various implementing partners, support from the International Labour Office and with funding by the UNCDF and UN Peacebuilding Fund a project known as the ‘Women for Water and Peace Project’ will be implemented five communities: Mayenkineh, Rokupa, Dwarzack, Crab Town-Aberdeen, and Lumley Community geared towards the construction of water wells for the provision of purified water with the aim of addressing water scarcity and its associated challenges, particularly those that affect women and girls.
In an awareness raising campaign on gender-based violence, promote decent work, enhance grievance handling through social dialogue and to build the capacity of women in the water kiosk business, Albert Ojo Collier, the Executive Secretary of the Sierra Leone Employers Federation, emphasized the Project’s focus on women and girls.
He further highlighted their significant involvement in water-related activities and noted that water scarcity exposes women and girls to various risks, including physical violence and sexual exploitation during late-night water fetching.
The Executive Secretary expressed confidence that the Project would mitigate such challenges also underscoring the community’s responsibility to maintain the facilities for their sustained impact.
“The project is a crucial step in ensuring that women and girls no longer suffer in their pursuit of water. By putting the women’s groups in charge of the wells, we will not only address water-related issues but also empower the community economically,” Collier expressed optimism.
Memish Doherty, representing the Sierra Leone Employers Federation, delivered a presentation on sexual gender-based violence, stating that it poses a 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 be cautious, especially during nighttime activities.
Desrica Taylor, a member of the proposed Water Kiosk Management in the Mayenkineh Community, echoed the sentiments, emphasizing the project’s importance in alleviating the burden of water-fetching on women. She urged community residents to take ownership of the wells and ensure their proper maintenance, underscoring the need for transparency in handling funds generated through water sales for broader community development.
Fatmata Kamara, a student in the Mayenkineh community, expressed her gratitude for the proposed wells, anticipating a positive impact on their daily lives. She highlighted the challenges students face when fetching water, causing delay in attending school. She thanked the project stakeholders and urged swift commencement and completion of the wells to alleviate their struggles.
The ‘Women for Water and Peace Project’ stands as a testament to the commitment of the Sierra Leone Employers Federation, the International Labour Office, and other partners in addressing pressing issues faced by women and girls in accessing water resources. As the Project progresses, it is anticipated to create lasting change and contribute to the overall development of the communities involved.
President Julius Maada Bio has on the 8th November, 2023 in Marrakech, Morocco told African leaders that war is not the solution to the problems of any nation, as it only causes destruction that will only send a country backward.
President Bio made this comment at the 2023 African Investment Forum at the Marrakech, Morocco, while addressing a Panel where Heads of State discussed Africa’s potentials in enhancing cooperation and productivity in the global value chains.
The 2023 Africa Investment Forum (AIF) was officially opened with an address by HM King Mohammed VI which was read out by the Sovereign’s advisor, Omar Kabbaj.
Throwing light on the Sierra Leone bloody civil war, President Bio said that Sierra Leone lost many lives and property, adding that what came out of the civil war, as lessons learnt, is what he is showing the world that war is not the answer to any problem in any nation.
He appreciated the AIF for honoring him as part of the panelist.
Digressing on the Sierra Leone war, President Bio said Sierra Leone has taken great strides in rebuilding her economy further informing the gathering that Sierra Leone used to export rice from Tumabum, but since then, the country has resulted in importing rice. He noted that every year, the country spends US$240 million to import only rice into the country.
He underscored that successive Governments have tried to improve on the food production in Sierra Leone but failed.
According to President Bio, he believes that those efforts failed because they failed to remove the bottlenecks that have served as an impediment for sustainable agriculture.
President Bio called on other African leaders to make use of his ‘Big Five Game Changers’, which he said are not meant for Sierra Leone but Africa as a whole.
He reiterated that it is only diversification of the economy that would help move attention away from the mineral sector to the agricultural sector that will create more jobs for the youth and ensure sustained economic growth.
“No nation can develop without Education. That is why I am investing in Human Capital Development,” President Bio stated.
President Bio frowned at the risk being taken by some African youths to go through the Atlantic Ocean to look for jobs to better their lives, but in the end returned in a more devastating condition.
“It is time for Africa to invest in the necessary infrastructure such as roads, energy, technology, and innovation,” President Bio said.
When asked about his role on the Security Council as a representation of Africa, H.E. said Sierra Leone returns to the UN Security Council after 50 years, noting that Africa with a population of 1.2 billion people is not well represented in the Security Council.
He assured that he will share the Sierra Leone experience with other world leaders at a global stage, and as a member of the Coordinator of the C10, he will vigorously push for the restructuring of the UN Security Council by engaging the five permanent members (P5).
President Bio highlighted that only one or two countries among the P5 have been deciding the fate of the whole world, which, according to him, is not in the interest of other countries, particularly Africa.
He emphasized the need for an expansion for the Security Council so that Africa will be represented in the permanent seats.
The opening of the event was graced by Heads of States and Government, Public and Private decision-makers and investors involved in the continent’s economic and social development.
The AIF event has helped sells President Julius Maada Bio’s Big Five Game Changers to the world as it gained more momentum, recognition and support by other Heads of State and Government, development partners and investors who were part of the event.
The conference, which was geared towards providing a robust pipeline of deals across the continent for investors seeking opportunities in emerging markets, was actualized.
The platform provided efficient solutions to investors seeking to channel capital into critical sectors in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, the African Development Bank’s High 5s, and the African Union’s Agenda 2030.
In another development, President Bio met with the President of the African Development Bank (ADB) Dr. Akinwumi Adesina on the eve of the Africa Investment Forum.
President Julius Maada Bio highlighted his Government’s commitment to the Big Five priorities including “Feed Salone” initiative, and says his Government will leverage human capital development, trade, technology and Infrastructure.
President Bio expressed his thanks and appreciation to the ADB for implementing projects in Sierra Leone and for supporting his Government.
President of the African Development Bank, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina congratulated President Julius Maada Bio on his re-election and appreciated him for his Government’s support to ADB and to also honor the invitation to participate in the 2023 Africa Investment Forum Market Day’s Events in Marrakech to be held from the 8th to the 10th November, 2023.
Both sides exchanged pleasantries and spoke about issues of mutual interest, including President Bio’s Big Five Game Changers, particularly the Human Capital Development and Feed Salone Project.
It is a well established fact that NP (SL) Ltd is indeed an epitome of astute and admirable indigenous entrepreneurship which over the years has made commendable strides in modernizing petroleum marketing in the country with a view to ensure greater accessibility to petroleum products in order to give utmost satisfaction to its numerous customers across the country.
From a humble beginning, the company has turned out to be a truly successful business entity that is positively contributing towards overall national development in various ways.
With a capable Board of Directors and Management at the helm of affairs, NP(SL) Ltd has immensely contributed positively in the areas of job creation, timely payment of taxes to Government via the National Revenue Authority (NRA) as well as the steady and meaningfully execution of meaningful projects in fulfillment of its Corporate Social Responsibility.
Exclusively owned by private Sierra Leonean shareholders, the company typifies a real testimony of how local entrepreneurs could raise the bar high in the marketing of petroleum products.
It is an irrevocable fact that NP-SL Ltd continues to optimize Customer Care on a high pedestal everywhere the company has a presence. In no way can it be disputed that NP-SL Ltd is currently the leading petroleum marketing entity in the country.
One striking attribute which NP-SL Ltd has harnessed to the fullest is a no nonsense stance in enhancing customer care as the Shareholders and Management of the company takes it seriously and are doing everything within their ambit to optimize it with a view of giving maximum satisfaction to its numerous and cherished customers earning the company the enviable reputation as 1st for Customer Care.
To make the purchase of fuel very simple NP (SL) Ltd introduced the NP Smart Card, which enables organizations and individuals to purchase fuel at ease without using physical cash. By introducing this latest technology, it avails its customers the convenience of conducting smooth transactions at Filling Stations as long there is credit in the NP Smart Cards.
If there is any company that strictly adheres to the Local Content Policy that entity is indisputably NP (SL) Ltd. The Management always ensures, as a matter of policy, to give employment to only Sierra Leonean nationals. It is the same in all the other countries where the company operates.
Adherence to Local Content helps to reduce cost, instill a sense of ownership and improves competencies. Such could be well harnessed for the successful growth and expansion of any business entity.
Still within the realm of local content, the company manufactures a cooking device known as NP Gas which comes in different sizes. It has been proven to be a very good device which can be refilled with gas that could be secured at any NP Filling Station.
It has been established that using charcoal and wood for cooking purposes poses health hazards and leads to depletion of forests. Against such a backdrop many have commended the company for making it possible to get access to NP gas cookers, which are indeed safe and friendly for domestic use. Gas is as well available at the company’s filling stations which individuals can purchase at affordable prices.
The fact remains indisputable that the sustainability of the company is the outcome of timely implementation of incisive, innovative and sound entrepreneurial initiatives.
In a remarkable testament to the transformative power of efficient infrastructure development, Pavi Fort Roads Construction Company, led by the dynamic Chief Executive Officer, Alhaji Alimu Barrie, has emerged as a frontrunner in shaping President Julius Maada Bio’s ambitious road agenda. Under the CEO’s result-oriented leadership, the company has made significant strides in constructing and rehabilitating roads across the country, ushering in a new era of connectivity and progress for Sierra Leone.
As at this material moment of going to Press, Pavi Fort is installing traffic lights at Ferry Junction, Congo Cross and Lumley, marking the final phase of an aspect of the Integrated Resilient Urban Mobility Project (IRUMP) as was agreed upon. These lights will definitely help in the effective control of traffic, especially during rush hours and put law enforcement officers at a vantage position to trace errant drivers of vehicles, tricycles and bikes.
Some of the traffic lights, that are now working, have attracted praises for the Government and the company with many describing such as a manifestation of a radical departure from stagnation to progress with regards major improvements made towards infrastructural development, igniting confidence that the country is on the right development trajectory.
In a complimentary commendation, Pavi Fort has been rated as one of the strongest pillars of development in the current political dispensation of the current ruling SLPP Government of Sierra Leone, headed by President Julius Maada Bio. The company has indeed demonstrated astute leadership and effectiveness in the timely implementation of various roads projects, won through competitive bidding processes that have so far attracted laudable acclamations from near and far.
It could be recalled that after the SLPP Government, under the dynamic leadership of President Bio, successfully secured funding from the World Bank for the implementation of the Integrated Resilient Urban Mobility Project (IRUMP), a project that is implemented by the Ministry of Transport and Aviation, its relevant Agencies and other stakeholders, it was Pavi Fort that emerged as the competent roads construction company that won the bidding for the implementation of that contract.
The main objective of this aspect of such a major project is geared towards comprehensive corridor improvements that will cover complete traffic management measures including intersection improvements, coordinated traffic lights, improvement of sidewalks for pedestrian movement, drainages, etc. Three selected areas were earmarked for the project’s implementation namely Ferry Junction in the East End of Freetown, Congo Cross Roundabout and Lumley in the West End.
With a well trained workforce of engineers and other road-related employees, the company embarked on effective work with utmost dedication to deliver according to specifications. Though, inevitably, teething challenges were encountered during various stages in the implementation of the project, however, within record time Pavi Fort went a long way to revolutionize the conditions of the road corridors within the aforementioned locations to the consternation as well as the satisfaction of the donor, the World Bank, the Government of Sierra Leone and the wider populace. The installation of the aforementioned street lights marks the tail end of the implementation phase of an aspect of the overall project as was previously stated.
One thing that is also very glaring or outstanding around the country today is the engagement of Pavi Fort in the maintenance of major township roads with a focus on specified locations within Freetown. In the East End and Central Parts of Freetown the company has made considerable progress in upgrading certain major roads including 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, Regent Road in the Peninsular and other areas. Significant improvements have been made on these roads transforming them from their erstwhile status as death traps.
Cognizance must be taken that the dilapidation, wear and tear of these roads, with all of them harbouring considerable number of potholes actually reduced these roads to dangerous states that posed potential and teething hazards to vehicular and pedestrian movements sometimes resulting to fatal accidents and injuries. However, the professionalism so far displayed by employees of the company in upgrading them has radically transformed them into becoming vehicular and pedestrian friendly, more especially for persons with disability.
According to the outcome of a random survey conducted by this medium many have so far expressed utmost satisfaction for the improvements that they have seen made with some saying it is a true manifestation of a positive development that befits any modernized capital city.
Pavi Fort also effectively rehabilitated major streets in Lungi, including Maada Bio Street, significantly eliminating the hazardous potholes that formerly married or littered it.
In Port Loko, to the delight of residents and strangers, the company completed the constructing of a 2.2km road leading to a 100-bed Port Loko Government Hospital, which Pavi Fort also attractively rehabilitated to a state of art standard.
In Kenema, Eastern Sierra Leone, the company is in the final throes of rehabilitating and maintaining a 30km stretch of roads within the township. From the time it commenced work, the company has so made excellent progress on the two phases of the project with determination on the part of the company that it will be admirably completed in the early part of 2024.
The company has also displayed professional competence in the construction of the 261km Kabala-Krobola-Kono Road Project, a road that Pavi Fort was working on but the implementation phase was halted due to a change in Government.
However, due to the confidence reposed in the company for its effectiveness it was re-awarded the contract and since work commenced it has now reached an advance stage as major aspects of the work have been completed.
Without any iota of praise singing it could be objectively underscored that Pavi Fort’s display of professionalism and competence in road construction and rehabilitation has lend credence to the significance of making use of local content. Indeed, the company has immensely contributed in the areas of job creation, payment of taxes to Government, contributing to development through execution of its corporate social responsibility, the upgrading of neglected as well as hazardous roads among other accomplishments but most importantly in drastically reducing traffic related road crashes.
The company’s commitment to implement road projects that meet international standards and ensures quality, durability has been impressive, breath-taking earning it the covetous position as the foremost road construction company that has been receiving widespread acclamation as an important partner to national development and progress.
As Pavi Fort Roads Construction Company continues to carve a path of progress across Sierra Leone, the nation eagerly anticipates a future where every citizen, regardless of location, is linked through a network of modern, well maintained roads.
Under the steadfast leadership of Alhaji Alimu Barrie, the company’s journey towards actualizing President Bio’s road agenda serves as a beacon of hope, illustrating the transformative impact that visionary infrastructure development can have on a nation’s trajectory.
ARISE Integrated Industrial Platforms (ARISE IIP), a pioneering developer and operator of industrial ecosystems across Africa, has been awarded the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Pioneer Award at the 14th Reuters Events Responsible Business Awards. The awards ceremony, held in London on November 1, 2023, brought together over 280 industry leaders from around the world and highlighted ARISE IIP’s innovative contributions to sustainable development.
ARISE IIP was selected from over 700 applications spanning 51 countries by an independent panel of 25 expert judges, who assessed candidates based on innovation, impact and sustainability. The award reaffirms ARISE IIP’s position as a trailblazer in promoting solutions that prioritize both people and the planet.
The Reuters Events Responsible Business Awards serve as a vital platform in the sustainability sector, recognizing exceptional projects across various industries that are driving positive change towards a sustainable future for all.
ARISE IIP was commended for its pioneering work, embodying a commitment to equity and livelihoods in its industry designs. The organization’s innovative and scalable model, currently implemented in Benin, offers a human-centered approach while meeting multiple SDG goals through one pilot business.
ARISE IIP’s mission focuses on designing, financing, conceiving, and operating industrial ecosystems across Africa, addressing industrial gaps in African countries and creating custom solutions for sustainable and local raw material transformation, increased exports, and trade promotion.
In Gabon, ARISE IIP manages the Gabon Special Economic Zone (GSEZ), which has led to the creation of 16,000 jobs, attracted 120 investors, and transformed Gabon into the world’s second-largest producer and exporter of veneer and Africa’s leading producer.
In Sierra Leone, ARISE IIP has initiated a multimillion-dollar sustainable development project, encompassing large-scale industrial manufacturing, railways, and job creation. This project aligns with Sierra Leone’s economic growth strategy, including plans for environmental sustainability, such as harnessing 100 megawatts of solar power, and is part of ARISE IIP’s US$1.2 billion investment aimed at bolstering Sierra Leone’s economy and creating over 34,000 jobs in the country.
ARISE Integrated Industrial Platforms is also bringing Passenger Railcars to Sierra Leone to revitalize the mining sector and enhance access to rail and port facilities, fostering economic growth. The government has signed the Pepel Port and Pepel – Tonkolili Railway Development, Expansion, and Management agreement with ARISE Integrated Industrial Platforms Ltd.
ARISE IIP’s initiatives in Sierra Leone represent a significant stride towards the nation’s industrialization, promising economic growth, job opportunities, and local development. The organization plans to bring its successful investment model to Sierra Leone, following its achievements in countries like Benin, where it has established an Industrial Zone.
ARISE IIP identifies industrial gaps in African countries, unlocking value and creating new industries. The organization’s mission is to industrialize key sectors, maximize production, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness, and generate local value addition, thus creating job opportunities, empowering local communities, and promoting economic growth through industrial development.
The Reuters Events Responsible Business Awards are globally renowned for celebrating advancements in sustainable business. These awards not only recognize but also inspire companies to lead the way in the “decade of action.” They spotlight remarkable innovations, strategies, and creations while gaining international recognition as a premier celebration of responsible business excellence.
The Responsible Business Honouree Award also acknowledges individuals who have dedicated their careers to driving change and have a proven track record of success. Past recipients include prominent figures like Lise Kingo, Mark Carney, John Elkington, Christiana Figueres, Paul Polman, and Mindy Lubber, among others.
Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi, the Director General of Sierra Leone’s National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA), has been reappointed as the ID4Africa Ambassador for Sierra Leone in late October this year.
According to a school of thought, such a significant milestone reaffirms his pivotal role in representing Sierra Leone on the African stage and underlines his unwavering commitment to identity management. It also reflects the dedication of His Excellency Brig. (Rtd.) Julius Maada Bio to advancing civil registration and identity management for a better Sierra Leone.
It could be recalled that when he took the reins in 2018, Massaquoi was faced with a multitude of challenges within the NCRA. However, his visionary leadership, tenacity, and pursuit of excellence swiftly propelled the organization forward, revolutionizing identity management in Sierra Leone. Indisputably, his remarkable achievements did not go unnoticed, garnering recognition from countries and organizations across Africa with an interest in identity management. These entities acknowledged his accomplishments and appointed him Ambassador of Identity Management with ID4Africa being one of the notable organizations to do so.
Massaquoi was first named the prestigious ID4Africa Ambassador for Sierra Leone in 2020, in recognition of his transformative efforts and exceptional contributions to identity management through the NCRA. Joining a distinguished group of Ambassadors committed to championing identity-related issues in their respective African nations, there is no iota of doubt that Massaquoi has demonstrated exemplary leadership and made substantial contributions over the past three years, advocating for profound change and innovation in identity management, not just in Sierra Leone, but across the African continent.
His reappointment is more than an extension of his term; it serves as an affirmation of his unwavering dedication and commitment to the ID4Africa Movement. The renewal for an additional year signifies his active and involved presence in the public sector identity space and acknowledges his outstanding contributions and passionate commitment to the cause.
ID4Africa, renowned for its commitment to ethical and responsible identity development, relies on a network of dedicated Ambassadors representing various African nations. Massaquoi, as the head of the ID4Africa Ambassadors Bureau for Sierra Leone, plays a pivotal role that extends beyond representation. He is entrusted with the responsibility of fostering a vital connection between the ID4Africa Movement and local institutions and identity stakeholders in Sierra Leone.
By the end of the coming year, Massaquoi will have served for four years, making him eligible for the prestigious recognition of ID4Africa Ambassador Emeritus—a status reserved exclusively for those who have left a lasting impact. At that point, his name will be etched in the annals of African identity management as one of those who pushed boundaries for a better Africa through identity management.
As Africa embarks on a journey towards comprehensive digital identity solutions, Massaquoi’s reappointment as ID4Africa Ambassador for Sierra Leone signifies a renewed commitment to driving transformation and realizing the vision of universal identity for the continent. The Movement has pledged unwavering support, standing shoulder to shoulder with Director General Massaquoi, as he leads civil registration and identity management in Sierra Leone, contributing to socio-economic development and digital transformation.
It is an open secret that Local Manufacturers in Sierra Leone are facing teething challenges and one that is debilitating has to do with payment of high and multiple taxes. However, there is hope at the end of the tunnel especially as the Government, headed by President Julius Maada Bio is keen on promoting entrepreneurship as seen in strides that have been taken. There is every possibility that the issue of multiple taxes could be addressed in ways that could encourage the local manufacturing sector to thrive.
But as the situation now stands, Local manufacturers are burdened by a complex and onerous tax system and they have to navigate through import duties, excise taxes, value-added tax (VAT), income tax and local council rates. These multiple taxes place a substantial financial strain on local manufacturers, constraining their ability to invest in innovation, expansion and job creation.
Import duties, imposed on essential raw materials and machinery required for production, inflate the costs of inputs, rendering local goods more expensive to produce. Consequently, these higher production costs result in elevated prices for locally manufactured products, which can dissuade domestic consumption and make imported alternatives more appealing.
Excise taxes, levied on specific goods, including items used in the production process, further escalate production costs.
Value-Added Tax (VAT), when applicable, is levied on the final price of goods and services. Local manufacturers are compelled to pass on this tax to consumers, potentially compromising the competitiveness of their products in the market, especially with high VAT rates.
The cumulative effect of high and multiple taxes is the increased cost of production, rendering locally manufactured goods less competitive compared to imported alternatives in both domestic and international markets. Fulfilling tax obligations strains local manufacturers, making it challenging for them to invest in technology, enhance productivity and create more employment opportunities.
Business expansion is hindered by the presence of numerous and burdensome taxes. The potential of indigenous manufacturers to contribute positively to the nation’s economic development remains untapped, if not rendered virtually impossible.
Excessive taxation could drive local manufacturers to operate in the informal economy and seek ways to evade taxes, potentially depriving the Government of significant revenue and undermining the sustainability of the manufacturing sector.
The solution lies in simplifying the tax system to make it more comprehensible and easier for manufacturers to fulfill their tax obligations. Additionally, incentives, such as reducing import duties on essential machinery and raw materials to lower production costs, are vital for encouraging investments.
Government’s support, including access to finance and technical assistance, can further bolster the local manufacturing sector.
To unlock the full potential of the local manufacturing sector and promote economic development, it is imperative for the Government, under the leadership of President Julius Maada Bio, to address tax challenges by implementing simplified, supportive and business-friendly tax regulations. These actions will pave the way for a thriving local manufacturing sector, resulting in increased employment opportunities, innovation and overall economic growth.
The Government of Sierra Leone is gearing up for its highly anticipated 2nd National Youth Employment and Entrepreneurship Fair (NYEEF 23), and Sonoco Group has stepped in as the Double Gold Package Sponsor to propel President Bio’s vision for youth development.
President Julius Maada Bio expressed the fair’s significance, stating, “This fair not only connects young people to opportunities but also provides a platform for engaging all stakeholders about designing a cohesive, integrated, and sustainable job creation strategy.”
In its role as the headline sponsor, Sonoco, comprising Sonoco, ‘Salam’, Bread Avenue, and Bread Avenue Training Academy, is committed to actively supporting Sierra Leone’s economic development. Mark Pritchard, General Manager of Sonoco Sierra Leone, emphasized the company’s dedication, saying, “Through our partnership with NYEEF, we are determined to contribute to the well-being of Sierra Leone, addressing the essential needs of its population and investing in the training and mentoring of young talents.”
NYEEF 23, themed: “Creating Employment, Entrepreneurship, and Growth Opportunities for the Development of Future-Ready Youth,” will take place from November 13th to 16th, 2023, at the Freetown International Conference Centre.
Building on the success of NYEEF 22, this year’s event will focus on learning, skills development, networking, and career advice for job seekers and entrepreneurs. It aims to improve employability, enhance competencies, connect students and job seekers with potential employers and contribute to the development of the National Job Creation Strategy and the National Internship Framework.
Out of 1,354 registrants, 500 final year students, job seekers, and aspiring entrepreneurs have been selected to attend the four-day event. Over 50 employing organizations, recruiters, and tertiary institutions have registered to participate, offering opportunities for recruitment, skills development, and critical advice.
NYEEF is committed to inclusivity, with a focus on achieving a 50% female participation and at least a 100% increase in persons with disabilities compared to NYEEF 22. The planning committee considered factors such as women’s inclusion, persons with disabilities, job seekers with technical and vocational skills, and regional representation during the shortlisting process.
The event will feature exciting learning and networking activities, including sectoral conversations, Creative Lab events, agriculture-focused panel discussions, wellbeing panels, financing options for entrepreneurs, trade facilitation discussions, innovation pitches, women in business sessions, and a trade fair showcasing participants’ products and services.
As part of its commitment to creating 500,000 jobs for the youth in Sierra Leone, the Government will host a Job Creation Conference on November 14th, 2023. The conference, themed ‘Sustainable Job Creation: Everyone’s Business,’ will bring together stakeholders from the private and public sectors, NGOs, and development partners. It aims to highlight job creation opportunities, address private sector growth challenges, and recommend workable solutions.
Besides Sonoco Group as the headline sponsor, the event has garnered support from various partners and sponsors, including relevant government ministries, Africa Global Logistics, Africell, Ecobank, Leonoil, Leone Rock, Marampa Mines, NASSIT, NP, Orange, Pee Cee Holdings, Sierra Leone Commercial Bank, Sierra Rutile Limited, UBA, UNFPA, Afriqia HR Solutions, Creative Hub Africa, Easy Stem, Elba, Freetown ReunionInnohub Sierra Leone, JobSearch, SBTS, and Sigiay Group.
The general public is invited to participate, and the schedule of activities has been published through NYEEF Sierra Leone on Facebook and X.
In recognition of World Quality Week, observed annually in November to emphasize the significance of quality for organizations’ successes and people’s well-being, the Institute of Public Administration and Management, University of Sierra Leone (IPAM-USL), in collaboration with the University of the West of Scotland, successfully concluded a one-day student dialogue seminar on quality management on the theme: “Realizing Your Competitive Potential.”
The seminar, held on Tuesday, November 7th, 2023, brought together students from various departments, including the Accounting and Finance, Public Administration and Governance, Project Management, and more. The event took place at the IPAM Campus on Tower Hill in Freetown.
In his remarks, the Deputy Registrar of IPAM-USL, Munda Lebbie, said that the dialogue seminar transcends border and cultures, a purpose that unites them in their commitment to excellence in education-Global Quality Week.
He said that the Quality Week should motivate them to aim for excellence in whatever they do, even when there is no immediate oversight, adding that according to Henry Ford setting high standards is the foundation of quality which means doing it right when no one is looking.
Munda Lebbie pointed out that the theme for this year’s World Quality Week is “Realizing Your Competitive Potential” which, he said, is a testament to the intelligent efforts of educational institutions across the globe, the dedicated professionals who work tirelessly to uphold the highest standards, and the collaborative spirit that unites individuals in their pursuits of quality.
He said that the week promises a rich needlepoint of knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and reflection as it offers all the opportunity to learn from each other’s experiences, to exchange best practices and to reaffirm their collective commitment to quality education.
“I want to extend gratitude to the University of the West of Scotland and all stakeholders for making the effort to be with us, for it is through these collaborative efforts that we can enrich our own educational landscape. Alone, we can do so little; but together we can do so much. So let us make this a testament to the power of unity, cooperation and shared purpose,” the Deputy Registrar concluded.
On her part, the Deputy Vice Chancellor of IPAM, Prof. Miriam Conteh-Morgan, said that in recognition of World Quality Week, observed annually in November, the Institute of Public Administration and Management (IPAM) deemed it fit to participate in the global week by organizing a one-day student dialogue seminar on quality management.
She added that the whole idea of recognizing the World Quality Week is part of the University of Sierra Leone and the University of the West of Scotland signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on Quality Management Systems in May this year.
Prof. Miriam Conteh-Morgan maintained that as part of the MOU the two institutions will collaboratively training professionals, lecturers etc. on quality management by offering ISO9001 courses.
She maintained that is not all about the quality of their processes but also how they see their students and how their students see them of which she noted that the idea of holding a one-day student dialogue seminar on quality management is for them to have an engagement.
The DVC also informed all that this also falls under two of the DVC’s Agenda which are I-infusing quality into all of their systems and processes and P- promoting students enrichment activities.
She revealed that the course on quality management is the first in the West Africa sub-region and IPAM is very proud to be hosting the course on quality management in the country.
On her part, the Program Leader, Msc. Quality Management at the University of the West of Scotland, Dr. Evi Viza who gave her remarks virtually, commended the Institute of Public Administration and Management, University of Sierra Leone (IPAM-USL) for holding the student dialogue seminar on quality management which she described as the first ever in the country.
She further described the event as very historic as the World Quality Week, observed annually in November, emphasizes the significance of quality for organizations’ success and people’s well-being.
Dr. Evi Viza said that the theme for this year’s World Quality Week is very appropriate for what is happening in the university and the country as a whole.
She said that the University of Sierra Leone has a long legacy of academic integrity and they are fully aware of students realizing their competitive potential which she said the University has been doing for centuries.
Presentations were done by students from various departments at IPAM which includes the Accounting and Finance, Public Administration and Governance, Information Systems and Technology, Human Resource and Entrepreneurship, Procurement and Project Management.
In their presentations these students highlighted some of the quality issues within their respective departments that prevent them from realizing their competitive potentials which includes classroom management, cases of missing grades, sex for grades. These issues were backed up with recommendations from the students to the institutions on how quality can be enhanced.
However, the Deputy Vice Chancellor of IPAM, Prof. Miriam Conteh-Morgan assured all that after listening to the issues raised by students and their recommendations IPAM will ensure that they are looked into and also implement the recommendations on how quality can be enhanced in the institution.
