Africell & NBA Africa Seal Landmark Partnership to Expand Youth Basketball Development Nationwide

December 8, 2025

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Africell Sierra Leone has on Friday December 6, 2025 officially launched a groundbreaking partnership with NBA Africa, marking a historic expansion of the global basketball brand’s youth development initiatives into Sierra Leone for the first time. The collaboration, unveiled as part of the broader Africell Group–NBA Africa framework, positions Sierra Leone as a rising hub for basketball talent in West Africa; unlocking transformative opportunities for thousands of young athletes.

The partnership builds on the achievements of the Africell/NBA Africa programme introduced in Angola in 2022, which has since provided world-class training, competitive structures and improved facilities to young basketball players. With Sierra Leone now added to the initiative, the country joins Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and The Gambia in benefiting from NBA Africa’s expanding development footprint.

A symbolic signing ceremony was held at the NBA’s global headquarters in New York City on 23 September 2025, where Africell CEO, President and Founder, Ziad Dalloul, and NBA Deputy Commissioner and Chief Operating Officer, Mark Tatum, signed the expanded agreement. The moment underscored a shared mission: to use sport as a platform for youth empowerment, community development and social transformation.

The introduction of NBA Africa programming promises to elevate the standard, visibility and reach of basketball nationwide. The partnership will roll out a comprehensive suite of youth-focused interventions, including:

High-quality training programmes and clinics led by qualified coaches.
Talent exposure opportunities, including a major Africell-supported 3-on-3 tournament in early 2026, with professional highlights to be shared directly with NBA Africa scouts.
Creation of training academies to support long-term development of promising young athletes.
Refurbishment and upgrade of basketball courts to improve access to standard playing surfaces.
Support to strengthen existing local basketball structures, helping expand grassroots participation.

These components are designed to cultivate the next generation of basketball stars while aligning with broader national goals for youth development, education and social growth. The initiative is expected to advance Sierra Leone’s position within Africa’s rapidly developing basketball ecosystem.

The collaboration resonates strongly with the Africell Impact Foundation’s strategic pillars: sports, health, education and community wellbeing. Through basketball, Africell hopes to inspire values such as teamwork, professionalism, discipline and healthy living among Sierra Leone’s youth.

“It is difficult to overstate the magnetic pull that the NBA brand enjoys in Africa,” Africell CEO Ziad Dalloul remarked. “The NBA represents excellence and aspiration; qualities that deeply inspire young Africans. Extending this collaboration to Sierra Leone reflects our ongoing commitment to youth empowerment and we are excited to see the long-term impact this partnership will have across communities.”

NBA Africa CEO, Clare Akamanzi, echoed those sentiments, noting that the success of the collaboration in Angola demonstrated the powerful role that basketball can play in shaping lives.

“Expanding into Sierra Leone, where Africell has deep community roots and where passion for sports runs high, gives us an opportunity to foster meaningful and lasting youth development,” she stated.

The partnership aligns with NBA Africa’s efforts to broaden its programmes across the continent, including its flagship projects under the Basketball Africa League (BAL). With vibrant youth demographics and a rising interest in sports, Sierra Leone stands to become a valuable contributor to Africa’s growing basketball story.

Africell is one of Africa’s fastest-growing telecommunications companies, providing reliable, affordable mobile and digital services to nearly 20 million customers across Sierra Leone, The Gambia, Angola and the DRC. Through the Africell Impact Foundation, the company supports initiatives in sports, health, education, entrepreneurship, arts and culture—aimed at narrowing opportunity gaps and empowering communities.

NBA Africa is the African regional affiliate of the National Basketball Association (NBA), focused on expanding the league’s footprint and growing the sport across all 54 African countries. Its work spans youth development programmes, social impact initiatives, partnerships, media distribution and the management of the Basketball Africa League (BAL).

President Bio Hosts Annual Presidential Media Cocktail at State House

December 8, 2025

President Bio interacting with journalists at the Annual Presidential Media Cocktail at State House

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio on Friday, 5th December 2025, hosted the sixth edition of the Presidential Media Cocktail on the State House Lawn, State Avenue, Freetown, an exclusive annual engagement that has become one of the country’s most anticipated events for the fourth estate. Commencing at 6:00 p.m., the gathering brought together editors, journalists, media executives, bloggers and communication stakeholders for an evening dedicated to reflection, dialogue and the deepening of partnership between the Presidency and the national media fraternity.

Held under the theme: “Strengthening Partnership and Empowering Media,” the 2025 edition provided a platform for candid exchanges on the state of media freedom, information access, emerging technologies and the collective responsibility of Government and journalists in nurturing Sierra Leone’s democracy. Entry was strictly by invitation, underscoring the high-level nature of the occasion.

Addressing the audience, President Julius Maada Bio expressed honour and appreciation for the tradition of engaging media practitioners, stating that the event not only celebrates a partnership but acknowledges a fundamental pillar of democracy. Quoting Maya Angelou, “All great achievements require time”, he remarked that the country’s media transformation has been long and sometimes challenging, but the progress achieved is both tangible and historic.

He recalled that in 2018, discussions about Sierra Leone’s media environment were dominated by concerns about shrinking press freedom, limited capacity, weak institutional structures and funding gaps. Today, he said, the landscape has been dramatically transformed.

President Bio highlighted Sierra Leone’s rise in the World Press Freedom Index, noting that in 2025 the country ranked 56 out of 180 nations, one of the most significant regional improvements and a testament to deliberate reforms and constructive collaboration with media institutions. Sierra Leone, he noted, is now widely recognized as a regional model for media freedom and journalist protection.

A central point in the President’s address was the approval of Sierra Leone’s first-ever National Information and Media Policy, described as a landmark framework modernizing the entire information ecosystem. The policy establishes standards for digital media regulation, outlines guidelines for the responsible use of artificial intelligence, strengthens media sustainability and protects citizens’ rights to accurate and verified information.

He also announced Sierra Leone’s 95% Freedom of Information Compliance Score, one of the highest in Africa. To further entrench transparency, he disclosed that the Right to Access Information Commission would be transformed into a stronger Access to Information Authority with enhanced enforcement powers.

The President further revealed that nationwide consultations for a new Data Protection and Privacy Bill have been completed, with full regulatory mechanisms set for finalization in early 2026. This framework, he said, will safeguard citizens’ data as the Government accelerates its digital transformation agenda.

President Bio underscored his Government’s commitment to broadening civic space through weekly press briefings, Civic Day Series and the National Civic Festival; mechanisms that have Institutionalised openness in governance.

He catalogued several initiatives undertaken in 2025 to enhance media independence, including increases in Government subvention to the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), capacity-building initiatives in fact-checking and digital literacy for over 500 journalists and information officers and extended support to community radio stations nationwide.

He further commended the Media Reform Coordinating Group and the Multi-Stakeholder Board for awarding the first set of grants to 14 media outlets under the National Fund for Public Interest Media.

The President used the occasion to highlight Sierra Leone’s achievements in 2025 on the global stage, including:

His election as Chairman of the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government, the first time Sierra Leone has held the position in over four decades.
The endorsement of the USD $2.2 billion Mission 300 Energy Compact, the largest infrastructure investment in the nation’s history.
Sierra Leone’s leadership during its final presidency of the United Nations Security Council, where it spotlighted food insecurity, terrorism in the Sahel, and successfully guided the adoption of historic Resolution 2803.
Participation for the first time by a sitting Sierra Leonean President in both the G20 Leaders’ Summit and the AU-EU Summit.

“These achievements are not self-praise,” he said. “They demonstrate Sierra Leone’s growing stature and underscore the importance of a strong media to tell our story with pride and accuracy.”

In a lighter segment, President Bio reflected on headlines throughout the year that captured national attention, from political debates on proportional representation to the opening of Sewa Grounds Market and even the dramatic episodes of Housemates Salone Season 4. The jokes drew warm laughter, reinforcing the convivial nature of the event.

Looking ahead, the President outlined key priorities for 2026, including promoting media entrepreneurship, advancing media sustainability, deepening media literacy, ensuring enhanced protection for journalists and strengthening civic education.

He announced an increase in Government subvention to SLAJ to Le 2.7 billion old Leones in 2026, a significant rise from the Le 200 million allocation in 2020. “For SLAJ, Christmas gift always comes early,” he joked.

Delivering his statement, SLAJ President Alhaji Manika Kamara thanked the President for sustaining the annual engagement and emphasized that partnership must never come at the expense of truth or independence. He stressed that the media is not an opponent of the State nor an extension of it but a development partner tasked with informing, educating, questioning and amplifying the voices of citizens.

He outlined SLAJ’s ACTION Manifesto; Accountability, Capacity Building, Transparency, Innovation, Open Collaboration, and National Cohesion, as the strategic guide for strengthening the media sector.

Alhaji Manika Kamara called for sustained support in improving journalists’ welfare, strengthening access to information, advancing media reform and promoting responsible journalism in the digital age.

This year’s Presidential Media Cocktail also recognized the exceptional leadership of the Presidential Press Secretary Yusuf Keketoma Sandi Esq., whose meticulous coordination ensured the seamless execution of the event. His dedication, many attendees agreed, has been instrumental in institutionalizing this tradition of engagement.

As the evening concluded, participants described the 2025 Presidential Media Cocktail as a resounding success that reinforced mutual respect, trust and collaboration between the Presidency and the media. Anticipation is already building for December 2026, with confidence that under Yusuf Keketoma Sandi’s stewardship, the platform will continue to flourish.

President Bio ended by reaffirming his belief that a nation’s story must be told by its media, urging practitioners to remain committed to truth, accountability and nation-building.

“A President without a strong media is like Freetown without Cotton Tree; missing its heart, its identity and its voice.”

Vice President Engages MEDEF & French Officials in Paris to Expand Investment Opportunities for Sierra Leone

December 5, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Vice President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, is currently in Paris on an official working visit, where he held a series of high-level engagements with senior French Government officials, state institutions and major development partners. The visit forms part of Sierra Leone’s continued diplomatic and economic outreach aimed at strengthening international partnerships and expanding investment opportunities.

Upon arrival in France, the Vice President was warmly received by Deputy Ambassador, Mamadi Gobeh Kamara and staff of the Sierra Leone Mission in Paris. His schedule includes a strategic engagement with the Mouvement des Entreprises de France (MEDEF), the country’s largest private-sector federation representing more than 750,000 companies across all sectors. Discussions with MEDEF will centre on boosting bilateral investment flows, enhancing trade and identifying new partnership frameworks to support Sierra Leone’s economic transformation agenda.

Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh’s mission to France follows his departure from the Kingdom of Morocco, where he participated in the 2025 Africa Investment Forum (AIF) Market Days held under the theme: “Bridging the Gap: Mobilizing Private Capital to Unlock Africa’s Full Potential.” The high-level gathering brought together representatives from nearly 80 countries, including Governments, global financial institutions, entrepreneurs, multilateral bodies and private investors.

Throughout the three-day event, the Vice President engaged key development partners to strengthen Sierra Leone’s investment pipeline and widen opportunities for strategic cooperation. He highlighted Africa’s capacity to attract long-term capital in high-growth sectors and called for deeper collaboration between Governments, investors and development institutions. He praised the AIF for its impact in accelerating the bankability of projects and driving sustainable development across the continent.

While in Morocco, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh also paid a courtesy visit to the Sierra Leone Embassy in Rabat where he was received by Ambassador H.E. Alhaji Momodu Koroma and Embassy staff. Ambassador Alhaji Momodu Koroma conducted him on a tour of the Chancery and reaffirmed the Mission’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations between Sierra Leone and Morocco. Addressing Embassy staff, the Vice President reflected on longstanding cooperation between the two nations, noting Sierra Leone’s support for Morocco’s diplomatic initiatives, including the Autonomy Plan for the Sahara and the recent UN Security Council Resolution 2797 (2025). He recalled President Julius Maada Bio’s pledge to establish full diplomatic representation in Morocco fulfilled through the opening of Sierra Leone’s Embassy in Rabat and the reciprocal establishment of the Moroccan Embassy in Freetown.

Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, however, pointed out the slow implementation of several bilateral agreements and MOUs. He pledged to engage relevant Ministries upon his return to ensure accelerated action, particularly in education, investment promotion and technical cooperation. He also expressed concern over the limited benefits derived from Moroccan scholarships and committed to engaging the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education to improve student outcomes.

In Rabat, the Vice President joined African leaders and global development partners for the African Development Bank’s High-Level Investment Forum, where he stressed the need for stronger collaboration to expand Africa’s pipeline of bankable projects. Against a backdrop of tightening global development financing, he urged partners to use their catalytic tools, risk guarantees, policy support and de-risking instruments, to help African countries unlock capital and accelerate development.

“The continent needs accelerated support to grow the pipeline of bankable projects across critical sectors,” he stated. “This is essential to unlock economic growth and ensure that Africa’s opportunities translate into tangible development outcomes.”

Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh’s engagements in Morocco and his ongoing working visit in France reflect the Government of Sierra Leone’s foreign policy direction under President Julius Maada Bio; one that prioritizes economic diplomacy, investment mobilization and strategic partnerships as engines of national progress. His schedule in Paris continues as he meets development stakeholders, deepens private-sector cooperation and advances Sierra Leone’s global engagement agenda.

ACC Commissioner Urges Overhaul of Global Corruption Measurement Systems at UN Conference

December 5, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Commissioner of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) of Sierra Leone, Francis Ben Kaifala Esq., has called for a comprehensive rethink of global corruption measurement methodologies, stressing the need for fairness, transparency and data-driven accuracy. He delivered the remarks on Tuesday, 2 December 2025, at the 2nd Global Conference on Harnessing Data to Improve Corruption Measurement held at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, United States of America.

Commissioner Francis Ben Kaifala began by conveying warm greetings from the President and people of Sierra Leone, stating that the nation welcomes ongoing global efforts to “re-imagine and redefine” how corruption is assessed. He noted that current measurement tools, especially Transparency International’s Corruption Perception Index (CPI), have remained controversial for years, particularly among developing countries which repeatedly receive low rankings despite making visible progress.

Drawing from his experience as a former Board Member of the African Union Advisory Board on Corruption (AUABC) and former President of the Network of Anti-Corruption Institutions in West Africa (NACIWA), he observed that discussions about the CPI often generated “disapproval to outrage.” Many African Governments and anti-corruption advocates, he said, view the index and its commentaries as unfair and, at times, part of a “purpose-driven smear campaign.”

Commissioner Francis Ben Kaifala highlighted several limitations inherent in perception-based indexes. He argued that measuring perception rather than actual prevalence of corruption makes the CPI vulnerable to subjective opinion and unreliable judgments, especially when the identities and qualifications of contributing “experts” remain unclear. Moreover, he noted that major indices often fail to capture critical dimensions of corruption, such as illicit financial flows, tax fraud, money laundering and other sophisticated practices that significantly impact developing economies.

“These gaps result in inaccurate or unfair representations of the efforts anti-corruption agencies are making; especially in Africa,” he said. “It is discouraging for institutions that work tirelessly when their successes are overshadowed or discounted by perception-driven metrics.”

He stressed that this global initiative to improve corruption measurement is timely and invaluable to nations like Sierra Leone. A more robust and objective measurement framework, he said, would help countries learn from others performing better, replicate effective strategies and identify areas requiring improvement using reliable, country-specific data.

Commissioner Francis Ben Kaifala emphasized the need for constructive engagement with credible global assessment bodies and domestic civil society. Such collaboration, he argued, would help ensure that corruption measurements more accurately reflect realities on the ground while supporting continuous institutional improvement.

He also underscored that despite their flaws, indices remain important accountability tools. They enable anti-corruption agencies, civil society organizations and international partners to highlight persistent governance issues and advocate for stronger reforms.

“What we need now is a new methodology; one that captures real prevalence, incorporates genuine effort and moves beyond perception alone,” he stated. “Complaining about flawed methodologies will not change the negative outcomes they sometimes produce. Instead, we must work together to build a more balanced and acceptable system.”

The ACC Commissioner concluded by reaffirming Sierra Leone’s support for the ongoing global review. He expressed optimism that the outcomes of the conference would contribute to a more credible, equitable and evidence-based approach to assessing corruption worldwide.

“We welcome this process,” he declared, “and look forward to new measurement tools that strengthen global integrity and support the fight against corruption in all its forms.”

Chief Justice’s Drug Practice Direction Sparks National Debate: Senior Lawyers Defend Move, Rights Groups Raise Alarm

December 5, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Judiciary’s new Practice Direction on drug-related offences, issued by Chief Justice Komba Kamanda on 1 December 2025, continues to generate strong national debate, with several senior lawyers defending the directive as timely, lawful and essential for restoring order amid Sierra Leone’s worsening drug crisis. Leading this position is Joel Tejan Deen-Tarawally Esq., who argues that the directive has been widely misunderstood and that claims of constitutional violations are rooted in flawed interpretations of both the Criminal Procedure Act 2024 and the National Drugs Control Act 2008.

According to him, the directive in no way abolishes the presumption of innocence or bans bail, but simply reinforces the correct application of Section 76 of the CPA, which already guides courts on when bail may be withheld based on affidavits from the prosecution. He insists the Chief Justice acted fully within his authority to streamline procedures, promote consistency and reduce delays at a time when drug abuse, particularly Kush, has become a national emergency.

Support for the directive has also come from other senior legal voices. Austina Abioseh Thompson Esq., writing from Toronto, described the Chief Justice’s action as a bold continuation of a long-standing judicial tradition in Sierra Leone and elsewhere, where Practice Directions are used in emergency situations to ensure courts respond effectively to major threats to public safety. She noted that during Ebola, COVID-19 and the surge in sexual offences, similar directions were issued to guide Judges and Magistrates, and none were found to violate the law. She cautioned that resistance to the current directive appears driven by ill-motivated interests rather than a genuine concern for constitutional order, adding that no part of the directive prohibits bail absolutely. Instead, it merely restricts the power to grant bail to the High Court; an approach she likens to how murder, treason and life-sentence offences are handled.

In the United States, Dr. Abdul Rahman Bangura also defended the Judiciary, arguing that the directive provides necessary clarity for sentencing and ensures that drug manufacturers, traffickers and transporters face penalties commensurate with the gravity of their offences. He expressed concern that some critics may be attempting to shift public attention away from the severity of the drug epidemic for reasons he described as self-serving. For him, the directive neither undermines judicial independence nor contradicts existing laws, but instead helps close gaps that have long been exploited by those profiting from the drug trade.

However, despite strong backing from several legal practitioners, significant opposition has emerged from the Campaign for Human Rights and Development International (CHRDI) and the Lawyers’ Society of Sierra Leone, both of which argue that the directive is inconsistent with statutory provisions and risks weakening constitutional guarantees. CHRDI maintains that the National Drugs Control Act already grants Judges wide discretion to impose life sentences, minimum terms or suspended sentences depending on the facts before them. It argues that the new directive effectively limits those powers by introducing procedures not provided for in the Act, thereby elevating administrative instructions above the authority of Parliament. CHRDI further notes that Section 76 of the Criminal Procedure Act permits bail even in capital offences, provided certain conditions are met and warns that treating drug offences as non-bailable by default undermines due process, exacerbates prison congestion and could produce long-term economic and security challenges.

The Lawyers’ Society echoes those concerns, emphasizing that Practice Directions only carry legal force when supported by explicit statutory authority, which they say does not exist in the NDCA 2008. They argue that the Act assigns regulatory power to the Minister of Internal Affairs, not the Judiciary, and contend that the directive’s requirement that all drug cases be tried exclusively in the High Court contradicts provisions allowing summary trials for certain offences. According to the Society, treating all drug offences as High Court matters and tightening bail to the extent implied in the directive may amount to amending an Act of Parliament through administrative decision-making—an action they insist cannot stand under constitutional scrutiny. They caution that even in the fight against drugs, the presumption of innocence must remain intact, and judges must retain full discretion to determine bail and sentencing based on the individual circumstances of each case.

As both sides continue to press their positions, what emerges is a deeply felt national conversation on how Sierra Leone should confront its escalating drug crisis while preserving the rule of law. Supporters believe the Practice Direction strengthens the Judiciary’s capacity to respond decisively to a national emergency, while critics warn that no matter how dire the crisis, reforms must remain firmly within the bounds of constitutional and statutory authority. The debate is expected to continue as citizens, legal experts and policymakers weigh the delicate balance between urgent state action and the enduring principles of justice.

Hon. Chernor Maju Bah Gains National Spotlight as Calls Grow for Experienced, Consensus-Driven Leadership

December 5, 2025

Hon. Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah, widely known as Chericoco, is increasingly emerging as one of the most prominent political figures shaping Sierra Leone’s national conversation, as stakeholders across the country highlight the need for a unifying and experienced leader ahead of the 2028 elections.

A long-serving Member of Parliament with over 15 years of legislative experience, Hon. Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah has built a reputation as a calm, principled and consensus-driven leader. His parliamentary track record, spanning youth empowerment initiatives, community development interventions and support for education reforms continues to position him as a statesman capable of fostering national cohesion.

Observers note that while political rhetoric often dominates the public space, Chericoco has distinguished himself through a results-oriented style of governance. His approach emphasizes practical solutions over speeches and action over political grandstanding. Within Parliament, he is widely recognized for his ability to navigate complex debates, build cross-party cooperation and promote democratic values.

Hon. Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah has long advocated for inclusive governance and civic participation, encouraging engagement from young people, traditional leaders, women’s groups and marginalized communities. His political message has consistently underscored the importance of bringing Sierra Leoneans together, regardless of region, ethnicity or party affiliation.

At the heart of his public service philosophy is a vision of Sierra Leone built on unity, shared opportunity and transparent leadership. Chericoco has repeatedly emphasized that national progress requires dialogue, trust and a collective commitment to development particularly at a time when citizens are calling for stronger institutions and broader economic opportunities.

His contributions to national governance have earned him several recognitions, including a Lifetime Achievement Award honoring his leadership and advocacy in promoting democratic participation. Supporters within the All People’s Congress (APC) believe he represents a new generation of leadership one rooted in experience yet forward-looking in approach.

As the country gradually approaches another election cycle, discussions within political circles suggest that Hon. Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah’s profile is gaining momentum. Many see him as a bridge between the APC’s institutional legacy and the aspirations of a youthful, increasingly dynamic electorate seeking stability and reform.

Although formal campaigns have yet to begin, voices across the political spectrum acknowledge that Chericoco’s blend of experience, humility and unifying leadership makes him one of the figures to watch closely in Sierra Leone’s evolving political landscape.

Dr. Staneala Beckley to Deliver 13th Rajiv Bendre Women in Public Life Lecture on “One World, Many Lessons”

December 5, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The 50/50 Group, Sierra Leone’s leading non-partisan organisation committed to strengthening women’s participation in politics, governance and public life, has announced the upcoming 13th Annual Rajiv Bendre Women in Public Life Lecture; one of the country’s most respected platforms for honouring outstanding women leaders. The landmark event is scheduled for Friday, 5 December 2025, at 3:00 p.m. at the Freetown City Council Auditorium.

This year’s edition will feature eminent Sierra Leonean educationist and global development expert, Dr. Staneala Beckley, as the Guest Lecturer. Themed: “One World, Many Lessons,” the lecture is expected to deliver profound reflections on leadership, resilience, service and the meaningful intersections of global and local experiences.

Dr. Staneala Beckley’s selection comes as a testament to her remarkable contributions to education, public administration and international development. As former Chair of the Teaching Service Commission (TSC), she led one of the most significant reforms in Sierra Leone’s education sector overseeing the historic transfer of teacher management from the Ministry of Education to the newly created Commission. This restructuring strengthened teacher professionalism, institutional accountability and the overall governance of the sector.

Her international career spans leadership positions with UNICEF across Nigeria, Pakistan, the Middle East and North Africa. Dr. Staneala Beckley worked in diverse cultural contexts, including conflict-affected and politically sensitive regions, where she championed education as a tool for stability, dignity and social cohesion. Her global journey, from encounters with Yasser Arafat’s Palestine to engagements in remote crisis settings, shaped her philosophy of learning, empathy and shared humanity.

Before joining UNICEF, she served as Deputy Director of the Research and Development Services Bureau at the University of Sierra Leone, where she played a pivotal role in advancing education research, policy development and academic innovation.

Her outstanding service has earned widespread recognition, including Sierra Leone’s Commander of the Order of the Rokel (2019) and France’s distinguished Chevalier dans l’Ordre des Palmes Académiques, awarded for exceptional contributions to global education.

The 2025 lecture promises to be especially transformative. Dr. Staneala Beckley will share lessons drawn from decades of navigating cultures, crises and communities; lessons that speak to embracing diversity, confronting adversity and elevating human dignity.

The event is expected to attract participants from the diplomatic community, civil society, academia, international development organisations, private-sector leadership and young people from secondary schools and universities.

For over twelve years, the 50/50 Group has hosted the Rajiv Bendre Women in Public Life Lecture as part of its broader mission to highlight women’s leadership and promote gender-balanced governance. The annual lecture provides a national stage for reflection, dialogue and inspiration; celebrating women whose lives and work demonstrate excellence, courage and transformative public service.

Ahead of the event, the 50/50 Group shared an abstract of Dr. Staneala Beckley’s lecture, revealing a powerful message rooted in faith, resilience, compassion and purpose. Described as “a heartfelt reflection on a life shaped by movement, meaning and mission,” her narrative draws from experiences as a Sierra Leonean woman, an African, a Christian and an international civil servant.

Dr. Staneala Beckley recounts overcoming stereotypes while working in countries where her identity sharply contrasted with societal expectations; most notably during her six-year leadership role in Pakistan. Rather than allow labels to define her, she leaned into professionalism, empathy and a firm belief in shared humanity. She also reflects on the emotional weight of navigating politically sensitive humanitarian contexts, especially in UNICEF’s work with children.

Her return to Sierra Leone after two decades abroad brought another profound lesson: the value of transcending partisan divisions. Having served under both major political administrations, she emphasizes that national progress depends on unity, civic engagement and a willingness to place country above politics.

Ultimately, her lecture is an ode to gratitude and grace, honouring two great influences in her life; her father’s wisdom and God’s guiding presence.

The 50/50 Group is encouraging Sierra Leoneans, especially youth and aspiring leaders, to attend what promises to be an enriching and thought-provoking national event.

Event Details:
Date: 5 December 2025
Time: 3:00 p.m.
Venue: Freetown City Council Auditorium

The Group reaffirmed that the Rajiv Bendre Lecture remains a cornerstone of national dialogue on gender inclusion, leadership and the celebration of extraordinary Sierra Leonean women who continue to shape the country’s development.

Sonatel Group CEO Reaffirms Strong Commitment to Sierra Leone’s Digital Transformation

December 5, 2025

Director General of the Sonatel Group, Brelotte BA shaking hands with President Dr. Julius Maada Bio

The Director General of the Sonatel Group, Brelotte BA, has reaffirmed the Group’s long-term commitment to supporting Sierra Leone’s digital transformation agenda, pledging intensified investments in nationwide connectivity, 4G expansion and modern telecommunications infrastructure.

Brelotte BA made the assurance on Friday, 28 November 2025, during a high-level courtesy visit to His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio at State House in Freetown. The engagement focused on strengthening digital inclusion, enhancing connectivity and unlocking the pivotal role of telecommunications in accelerating national development.

Introducing the delegation, the Chief Executive Officer of Orange Sierra Leone, Sekou Amadou Bah, described the Sonatel Group CEO as a seasoned telecoms leader with more than two decades of experience across Orange and Sonatel operations in Senegal, Mali, Guinea and Guinea-Bissau. He stressed that Brelotte BA’s regional expertise is instrumental in driving Orange Sierra Leone’s growth and improving service quality for customers nationwide.

During the discussion, Brelotte BA outlined Sonatel’s strategic priorities for Sierra Leone, including the accelerated expansion of 4G services to underserved and rural areas, continued investment in network modernization and deeper alignment with Government’s broader digital transformation and innovation goals. He disclosed that all Orange Sierra Leone network macro sites are already delivering 4G services, adding that the Group is stepping up efforts to extend high-speed connectivity to additional districts and hard-to-reach communities.

“Our investments are focused on building robust, future-ready infrastructure that can support education, entrepreneurship, public service delivery and broader economic growth,” Brelotte BA said, emphasizing that reliable digital systems are foundational to inclusive development.

The Sonatel Group CEO’s visit precedes the commissioning of Orange Sierra Leone’s second data centre in Bo, a major infrastructure investment expected to improve network reliability, enhance resilience and strengthen the backbone for future digital services. He noted that the new facility represents a strategic step in solidifying Sierra Leone’s digital infrastructure and improving service availability across the Southern and Eastern regions.

Brelotte BA further highlighted the Group’s commitment to digital inclusion, pointing out that Orange Sierra Leone has already established seven digital schools nationwide. He said the company plans to scale up more technology-driven programmes to empower young people, students, entrepreneurs and innovators.

He commended President Bio for consistently providing strong leadership in the telecommunications sector and creating an enabling environment that supports private-sector investment and digital growth.

In response, President Julius Maada Bio welcomed the delegation and applauded Sonatel Group, Orange Middle East and Africa, and Orange Sierra Leone for their continued contribution to the nation’s digital and socio-economic progress. He underscored that telecommunications remains a powerful engine for national development, enabling access to education, commerce, governance and innovation.

The President also welcomed the accelerated rollout of 4G services, the forthcoming inauguration of the Bo Data Centre and sustained investments in telecommunications infrastructure. He described those initiatives as critical to advancing inclusive growth, boosting competitiveness and expanding opportunities for citizens and businesses across Sierra Leone.

President Bio reaffirmed Government’s commitment to fostering partnerships that strengthen the digital ecosystem, noting that such collaboration is essential for Sierra Leone to thrive in a rapidly evolving global technology landscape.

Sierraloaded Announces Return of The 20 Hottest Artiste in Sierra Leone For 2025

December 5, 2025

After a one-year hiatus, Sierraloaded, Sierra Leone’s leading digital media platform, is proud to announce the return of its highly anticipated annual ranking: The 20 Hottest Artiste in Sierra Leone (2025 Edition).

Following a strategic break in 2024, the list returns bigger and more comprehensive than ever, ready to document a year that has seen Sierra Leonean music break new boundaries globally.

From Famous and Drizilik dominating international tours, to the rise of viral sensations like Bakitenno and Incredible JJ, the competition for the top spot has never been fiercer.

The unveiling of the 2025 list will follow a suspense-filled, 20-day countdown format. Starting December 10, 2025, Sierraloaded will reveal one artist per day across its social media platforms and website, culminating in the crowning of the #1 Hottest Artiste of the Year on December 30, 2025.

Staying true to their commitment to credibility, the “20 Hottest Artiste List” remains an undiluted assessment of the industry. The 2025 ranking will be based on a rigorous evaluation of the last 12 months, including:

Musical Impact: Chart-topping hits, viral songs and consistency in releasing quality music.

Digital Footprint: Streaming numbers (Audiomack, iTunes, Spotify, YouTube, Boomplay, Deezer, Tidal, Amazon and Apple Music), social media engagement and online influence.

Offline Reach: Local and international tours, sold-out concerts and street popularity.

Brand Value: Endorsements, awards and major collaborations.

“The absence of the list in 2024 allowed us to refine our metrics and observe the shifting landscape of our music industry,” says Alhaji Gamanga, Head of Business at Sierraloaded.

“2025 has been a year of resilience and global exportation for Salone music. This list is not just a ranking; it is a celebration of the culture, the hard work and the voices that defined the year. We are excited to reignite the conversation, celebrate the giants and spotlight the breakthrough talents who moved the needle,” Alhaji Gamanga added.

Fans are encouraged to join the conversation using the official hashtag #SaloneHottest and to follow @Sierraloaded on all social media platforms to participate in polls, debates and exclusive behind-the-scenes content throughout the reveal period.

The stage is set. The music has been heard. Now, it is time to decide who ruled the year.

About Sierraloaded

Sierraloaded is the leading digital destination for Sierra Leonean youth, delivering breaking news, exclusive entertainment, pulsating music and engaging cultural content. As a trusted authority in the Salone pop culture landscape, Sierraloaded sets trends and amplifies the voices defining a generation.

Ride and Win: Shalimar Trading Opens 2025 End-of-Year Raffle Draw

December 5, 2025

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Shalimar Trading, one of Sierra Leone’s most reputable and fast-expanding distributors of motorcycles and tricycles, has launched a nationwide “End of Year Raffle Draw” designed to reward customers with the opportunity to win a brand-new HLX 125 motorbike. The festive promotion, which commenced recently, will run until 22 December 2025, bringing renewed excitement to commercial riders, small-scale transport operators and individual buyers across the country.

Under the terms of the promotion, any customer who purchases a motorbike or kekeh from any Shalimar Trading outlet automatically earns an entry into the raffle draw. Each purchase counts as a ticket, giving buyers the chance to win an HLX 125; an iconic model widely recognized for its robustness, fuel efficiency and suitability for both commercial and domestic use. The grand draw is scheduled to take place live on AYV Television on 22 December 2025, where the lucky winner will be officially announced.

For years, Shalimar Trading has established itself as a household name in Sierra Leone’s transportation and light automotive market. The company has gained a reputation for supplying high-quality motorbikes, tricycles and accessories that meet the needs of both urban and rural riders. Its extensive network of outlets across the country ensures accessibility, while its commitment to providing genuine spare parts and reliable after-sales services has helped maintain customer trust and satisfaction.

Management of Shalimar Trading explained that the “End of Year Raffle Draw” forms part of the company’s broader strategy to reward customer loyalty and give back to the communities it serves. With thousands of riders depending on motorbikes and tricycles for daily income generation, the company notes that supporting transport operators translates into strengthening local economies and improving livelihoods.

They further emphasized that the promotion is not merely a marketing initiative but a gesture of appreciation, especially as the festive season approaches; a period when many families and businesses seek financial relief and opportunities for growth. By offering customers the chance to win a valuable asset like the HLX 125, the company hopes to make the end-of-year celebrations more meaningful.

Since the announcement of the campaign, Shalimar Trading outlets nationwide have reported increased customer turnout as buyers rush to secure entries before the deadline. The company has reiterated its readiness to serve the growing demand, assuring customers of high-quality products, efficient service delivery and a transparent raffle process.

As expectations continue to build ahead of the live draw, Shalimar Trading is urging existing and prospective customers to make their purchases early in order to participate. The company remains confident that the promotion will not only boost customer engagement but also reinforce its standing as a leader in customer-oriented initiatives within Sierra Leone’s transport sector.

With the “End of Year Raffle Draw,” Shalimar Trading ends 2025 on a high note; celebrating its customers, enhancing livelihoods and reinforcing its commitment to delivering value across the nation.