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NP-SL’s Transparent Fuel Dispensing Machines Instill Trust in Customers

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a remarkable display of growth and commitment, NP-Sierra Leone (NP-SL) Limited, a leading company, is thriving across Sierra Leone, Guinea, Liberia, The Gambia, and Ivory Coast providing employment opportunities for indigenes in those West African countries. Through its contributions to taxation, NP-SL is aiding in revenue mobilization, supporting Governments in the region to fund essential development projects.

With its humble beginnings in Sierra Leone, NP-SL has steadily expanded its operations over the years, marking a clear testament to the determination of its local entrepreneurs. As a wholly Sierra Leonean-owned company, it is effectively managed, yielding significant gains in all the countries it operates. One of the key factors contributing to its success is its unwavering commitment to Customer Care, ensuring that customers are well-served and satisfied.

The Company places a strong emphasis on training its staff to be polite and efficient in attending to customers, making the entire experience smooth and pleasant. NP-SL is dedicated to ensuring the availability of petroleum products, including fuel and lubricants, in all the five countries, making life more convenient for residents.

An innovative feat that has garnered praise is the introduction of NP Smart Cards, simplifying fuel purchases and reducing the time spent acquiring petroleum products. This forward-thinking approach aligns with modern convenience and efficiency.

NP-SL is also addressing the need for cleaner cooking solutions by offering safe and affordable NP gas cookers. Gas is readily available at the company’s Filling Stations in these West African countries, further enhancing the quality of life for residents.

Beyond fuel, many NP-SL Filling Stations house mini-marts, offering a range of goods for customers to purchase conveniently. Even if individuals don’t visit for fuel, they can easily obtain their required items.

The socio-economic impacts of NP-SL’s operations in the region have been highly positive, with the company contributing significantly to local economies and communities. NP-SL Ltd’s proactive and customer-centric approach has resonated with citizens, positioning it as a leader in the energy sector.

Notably, NP-SL’s commitment to customer satisfaction includes the installation of modern calibrated pumping machines at its Filling Stations, ensuring transparency and accuracy in fuel dispensing. This initiative has earned NP-SL the prestigious title of “1st For Customer Care.”

A recent countrywide survey reaffirmed the company’s reputation for exceptional customer care, with customers praising the Shareholders and Management for their dedication to effective service delivery.

Economists and development specialists have commended NP-SL’s focus on local content and empowerment, as the company exclusively employs Sierra Leoneans, bolstering the nation’s economic growth and improving living standards.

NP-SL Ltd is indeed, a shining example of success and dedication to the welfare of Sierra Leone and its people. With its commitment to providing quality products and uplifting the nation through local initiatives, the company remains an inspiration for others to emulate.

 Interswitch Convenes Fintech Forum to Unlock Future Digital Payments

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

In a momentous event that promises to reshape Sierra Leone’s financial technology sector, Interswitch, Africa’s foremost integrated payments and digital commerce company, successfully convened the inaugural Sierra Leone Fintech Forum. This groundbreaking gathering of fintech leaders and industry experts took place on Thursday, November 2, 2023, at the Radisson Blu Mammy Yoko Hotel in Freetown, Sierra Leone.

Themed, “Unlocking the Future of Digital Payments in Sierra Leone,” the Forum attracted a diverse spectrum of key stakeholders, customers, and thought leaders in the fintech arena, united in their goal to stimulate innovation, collaboration, and economic prosperity in Sierra Leone.

The event marked a remarkable convergence of influential figures in Sierra Leone’s financial and fintech industries. Distinguished guests included the Bank of Sierra Leone Governor, Managing Directors of leading financial institutions like UBA – Sierra Leone, Rokel Commercial Bank, First Bank- Sierra Leone, Bloom Bank, Sierra Leone, and Sierra Leone Commercial Bank, among many other prominent attendees.

The Sierra Leone Fintech Forum provided a dynamic platform for dialogue, collaboration, and knowledge exchange within the burgeoning fintech ecosystem, aiming to deepen understanding of fintech’s transformative potential and its pivotal role in shaping Sierra Leone’s economic landscape.

Keynote speakers and panel sessions enriched the event with valuable insights into how digital payments can bridge the financial inclusion gap in Sierra Leone, driving economic growth and inspiring innovation. Discussions were both informative and inspirational, offering a glimpse into the exciting future of digital payments in the country.

Jonah Adams, MD of Digital Infrastructure & Managed Services at Interswitch (Interswitch Systegra), stressed the transformative potential of fintech, declaring, “Fintech has the potential to revolutionize the way financial services are delivered in Sierra Leone. By embracing innovation, Sierra Leone can create a more inclusive and prosperous financial system, and with collaborations like the Interswitch Fintech Forum, Interswitch is committed to creating an enabling environment for fintech to thrive in Sierra Leone.”

The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Ibrahim Stevens, Governor of the Bank of Sierra Leone. He emphasized the need to strengthen Sierra Leone’s digital payments ecosystem and highlighted the rapid evolution of the payment industry. Governor Stevens underscored the importance of secure and efficient payments in facilitating trade and commerce, hinting at the Central Bank’s efforts to revolutionize retail payments and explore the potential of digital financial instruments, including Central Bank digital currencies, to boost the economy.

Governor Stevens also discussed the Central Bank’s role in shaping the evolving payment system landscape and promoting financial inclusion, highlighting key initiatives such as the AI cost-time settlement system, the Scraper Security Settlement System, and the national payment switch. The Governor expressed the Central Bank’s intent to reduce cash transactions and work towards a non-cash or digital financial economy in the future.

Akeem Lawal, the Managing Director of Payment Processing and Switching at Interswitch, added to the dynamic discussions by emphasizing the importance of fintech in driving innovation and growth in the African economy. He expressed Interswitch’s pride in bringing together the brightest minds in the fintech sector and its commitment to driving innovation and facilitating the digital transformation of financial services in Sierra Leone.

Lawal also introduced Interswitch, emphasizing the company’s commitment to Africa and its mission to inspire prosperity on the continent through technology solutions. He underscored Interswitch’s three primary business areas: digital payments, creating ecosystems, and promoting commerce and inclusion, emphasizing the need for African countries to build their payment infrastructure and digitize industries.

The event also provided attendees with the opportunity to engage in constructive conversations, explore potential synergies, and gain a comprehensive understanding of the regulatory framework and its implications for the growth of the fintech sector.

As the Sierra Leone Fintech Forum was reaching its climax, a double feature product presentation was conducted by the sales lead team of Interswitch Limited. Next that followed was the recognition by  the Governor of the Bank of Sierra Leone and their partners with prestigious awards, acknowledging their outstanding contributions to advancing the digital payments landscape in Sierra Leone.

The inaugural Sierra Leone Fintech Forum was an unequivocal success and has set the stage for a brighter, more digitally connected future for Sierra Leone and the broader African fintech ecosystem.

With the active participation and support of key stakeholders and industry leaders, Sierra Leone is poised to continue its journey toward a cashless, digital financial economy, providing greater financial inclusion and economic growth for its citizens. Fintech is playing a critical role in transforming the way people access and use financial services in Africa, and Interswitch is leading the way in driving financial inclusion and economic growth across the continent.

Tabital Pulaaku Leadership Conflict Officially Settled

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a highly anticipated judgment delivered on October 30, 2023, the Honorable Justice Adrian Fisher of the High Court has officially approved a consent judgment, bringing an end to the prolonged leadership dispute within Tabital Pulaaku International Sierra Leone Chapter.

Tabital Pulaaku International Sierra Leone Chapter LG (TPI SL), a non-profit organization committed to assisting indigent Fullahs and promoting unity, peace, and progress in the Fullah community, had taken legal action against individuals Alhaji Mohamed Sarjoh Jalloh (MED SAJ), Abdul Razak Bah, and Abdulai Barrie. The central issue revolved around these individuals falsely claiming leadership of Tabital Pulaaku International Sierra Leone and organizing events under its banner. TPI SL sought to establish its exclusive right to operate as the national chapter of Tabital Pulaaku International in Sierra Leone.

The resolution of this contentious case was achieved through a mediated agreement overseen by Fullah community elders and guided by the Honorable Vice President of the Republic, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh. Under this agreement, Alhaji Amadu Juldeh Sow was recognized as the legitimate President of Tabital Pulaaku in Sierra Leone. The terms of this agreement and the court’s judgment will be conveyed to Tabital Pulaaku International, the parent organization.

The news of this judgment has been met with widespread relief within the Fullah community, which had been embroiled in the leadership conflict within Tabital Pulaaku International Sierra Leone. The executive team of Tabital Pulaaku International Sierra Leone Chapter has reaffirmed its dedication to working for the betterment of the Fullah community and all Sierra Leoneans. Their commitment to fostering lasting peace and unity among the Fullah community in Sierra Leone is evident, and they pledge to collaborate with all stakeholders to promote Fullah unity not only within Sierra Leone but also on a broader scale.

Alhaji Juldeh Sowe, affectionately known as Juldeh Sowe, expressed his elation after the court’s judgment, stating, “I am pleased that truth has prevailed, and I eagerly anticipate working alongside my brothers and sisters for the betterment of our people and our nation.”

Senior members of the Fullah community, when interviewed, expressed their joy at the resolution of the leadership dispute and conveyed their confidence in Alhaji Juldeh Sowe’s commitment to Human Capital Development, his dedication to improving the lives of his people, and his ability to bring about positive transformations.

 

Tony Morgan Empowers Sierra Leonean Youth to Revolutionize Movie Industry

Sierra Leone’s burgeoning movie industry is on the cusp of a groundbreaking transformation, thanks to the innovative vision of Tony Morgan, a dynamic film producer with a compelling mission to harness the power of the country’s youth for the sector’s prosperity and longevity. Morgan’s strategy seeks to not only make the movie business in Sierra Leone profitable but also to secure its sustainability for years to come.

Youth Empowerment at the Core:
Recognizing the influential role of young individuals in shaping the nation’s future, Tony Morgan has prioritized an empowerment strategy geared towards the youth. His belief in the potential of Sierra Leonean youth as catalysts for transformative growth is the driving force behind his approach. Collaborating with educational institutions and non-profit organizations, Morgan aims to roll out customized programs that cultivate talent, nurture discipline, and foster entrepreneurship among the youth.

Education and Skill Development:
Central to the goal of a sustainable movie industry is Tony Morgan’s plan to establish training centers throughout Sierra Leone, with particular emphasis on regions with a high passion for film. These centers will offer comprehensive courses covering various aspects of filmmaking, such as directing, scriptwriting, acting, editing, and cinematography. By equipping the youth with top-notch training, Morgan aims to create a pool of skilled professionals who will lead the industry’s growth.

Mentorship and Talent Cultivation:
Recognizing the importance of mentorship and support, Tony Morgan envisions mentorship programs that will pair experienced industry professionals with aspiring young filmmakers. These mentors will offer valuable guidance, advice, and insights, helping identify and nurture emerging talent. Furthermore, Morgan is committed to collaborating with local talent agencies and organizations to identify exceptional artists, fostering a creative environment that champions diversity.

Impactful Films for Behavioral Change:
Tony Morgan sees the film industry as a potent tool for driving behavioral change. His plan includes the production of high-quality, socially impactful movies that address critical issues faced by Sierra Leonean society. From advocating for education and gender equality to tackling challenges like poverty, corruption, and environmental degradation, these films will stimulate dialogue, raise awareness, and inspire action among the youth and the broader community.

Sustainable Funding Models:
To ensure financial sustainability, Morgan is actively working to establish partnerships with local and international stakeholders interested in supporting Sierra Leone’s movie industry. These collaborations are expected to yield robust financing models that ensure a continuous stream of funding for projects, fostering a thriving creative ecosystem.

In Conclusion:
Tony Morgan’s visionary approach of harnessing Sierra Leonean youth for positive change is poised to revolutionize the country’s movie industry, making it not only profitable but also a driving force for societal transformation. By empowering the youth, offering top-notch training and mentorship, producing impactful films, and securing sustainable financing, Morgan is steering the industry towards becoming a beacon of change, capturing global attention, and contributing to the nation’s economic and cultural advancement.

United States/ Sierra Leone Embark on Distribution of 5 Million Mosquito Nets

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The United States and Sierra Leone have embarked on a significant partnership aimed at distributing five million insecticide-treated mosquito nets to combat the rampant spread of malaria in Sierra Leone. U.S. Ambassador Bryan Hunt, in collaboration with H.E. President Julius Maada Bio and Government officials, initiated this nationwide campaign in Bo, which began on November 3 and will continue throughout the month.

This campaign, supported by the United States through the U.S. President’s Malaria Initiative (PMI), represents a pivotal effort in the ongoing fight against malaria in Sierra Leone. The PMI has been working in collaboration with Sierra Leone since 2017, having contributed a total of $120 million towards malaria control and eradication. This long-standing partnership has facilitated the delivery of essential resources and support for the nation’s health services, ensuring the continuity of effective malaria services into 2023.

Malaria is a significant health challenge in Sierra Leone, with the entire population of 8.5 million people at risk. The World Health Organization estimates that malaria claims the lives of over 5,000 children under the age of 5 each year and poses life-threatening complications for pregnant women in the country.

Ambassador Bryan Hunt stressed the importance of using mosquito nets correctly and consistently to effectively prevent the spread of malaria. He urged every citizen to take responsibility for their health and the well-being of their families by utilizing the provided nets every night without fail. Ambassador Hunt commended Sierra Leone’s government for its steadfast commitment to malaria elimination and expressed the importance of long-term, action-oriented approaches to public health.

The United States, through PMI funding and USAID programs, has provided millions of bed nets, fast-acting medicines, malaria test kits, and preventive treatment doses to Sierra Leone since 2018. Additionally, indoor residual spraying has been conducted in key districts, protecting over 600,000 Sierra Leoneans. Over the past year, more than 28,800 health workers received training to enhance their capacity to detect and treat malaria, contributing to a stronger healthcare system in the country.

Ambassador Bryan Hunt emphasized the interconnectedness of Sierra Leone’s democracy and prosperity with the health of its population. He highlighted the historic progress made in combatting malaria through the PMI partnership, which has delivered millions of bed nets, rapid tests, and treatment doses, resulting in a remarkable 22% reduction in total child mortality since 2017.

The decline of malaria in Sierra Leone has also been attributed to the government’s commitment to improving health services access through the installation of community health posts, with support from the United States. These efforts have led to more children being tested and receiving life-saving treatment for malaria.

Ambassador Hunt noted that while significant progress has been made, there is still work to be done to eradicate malaria completely. He stressed the need for a comprehensive societal approach and encouraged all Sierra Leoneans to take personal responsibility for their health, emphasizing the proper and consistent use of mosquito nets and seeking immediate treatment for fevers at health posts or government health centers.

In closing, Ambassador Hunt expressed his admiration for Sierra Leone’s commitment to controlling and eliminating malaria. He pledged the United States’ continued support in this vital endeavor to achieve zero malaria in Sierra Leone while working towards a prosperous and democratic future for all its citizens.

Esther Mansaray, a School Leaver, Appeals for Urgent Medical Assistance

In a desperate plea for urgent medical attention, 19-year-old Esther Mansaray, a recent secondary school graduate, is seeking assistance to combat her debilitating condition, Fibrosis of the Lungs. Esther has reached out to the global community, including humanitarian individuals, healthcare and charitable organizations, religious groups, Governmental bodies, and both local and international entities, in a bid to secure necessary medical treatment, possibly abroad in India.

Esther’s health has rapidly deteriorated, rendering her reliant on an oxygen machine to survive for more than thirty minutes at a time. She has been under the care of Connaught Hospital in Sierra Leone since August 2023. In her own words, “I want to be healed so that I can pursue my dream of studying medicine at a university.”

Esther’s situation is further compounded by her mother’s plight as a single parent, who has been tirelessly providing for Esther and her siblings through small-scale trading. However, her current commitment to care for Esther at the hospital has disrupted her ability to support the family financially.

For more details regarding Esther’s condition and opportunities to provide financial support, please contact her mother at 075 347642. You can also visit their family at the Love of God compound, located on Osman Lane in Calaba Town. Your assistance can make a life-saving difference for this young school leaver in dire need.

Africa’s Audacious Bid to Compete in the Global Economy

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a world driven by technology and globalization, Sheku Mohamed Matthew Kallon, a business and technology consultant hailing from Sierra Leone, stands as a symbol of Africa’s audacity to compete in the global economy. As a naturalized American citizen with an extensive professional background in leading technology and management consulting firms, Kallon is currently spearheading a technology startup in Sierra Leone, combining the forces of Visionary System Technologies and Global Action Business Consulting LLC. Their collaborative international network has delivered innovative technology solutions to Fortune 100 companies worldwide.

Kallon draws inspiration from former U.S. President Barack Obama’s “The Audacity of Hope” and envisions a future where Africa reclaims its economic prowess. However, the path to such a transformation is fraught with complexity. Kallon acknowledges that factors like historical handicaps, access to knowledge capital, military strength, prejudices, geopolitics, and rapidly evolving landscapes play significant roles in shaping Africa’s place in the global economy.

Kallon’s belief lies in a few key adjustments that can unlock Africa’s economic potential. Efficient political power transfer for stability, a fair and just legal system, and the integration of the African Diaspora are essential elements. The Diaspora encompasses those who identify with their African heritage, whether recent immigrants to the West or descendants of those sold or kidnapped into slavery. With these changes, Kallon foresees a shift in the global economic dynamics, with Africa  emerging as a formidable contender against North America, Europe, and China.

One pressing issue that Kallon addresses is the historical imbalance in trade. Africa has often imported manufactured goods while exporting raw materials. Prices for African exports have fallen while import values have risen. While acknowledging past injustices, Kallon contends that Africa can shed its victim mentality and adopt a can-do attitude. To do this, he calls for a shift from being mere consumers of finished products to becoming producers and exporters, harnessing available technologies.

African engineers and IT professionals are already contributing to innovation in developed economies. With the right incentives and political environment, these experts could return to Africa, fueling economic growth that rivals China and India. The key difference, Kallon points out, is that the BRIC nations (Brazil, Russia, India, and China) have embraced policies to encourage such repatriation of talent, while African nations have been hesitant until recently.

Kallon’s optimism is shared by many in Africa who believe in the potential of their continent. They argue that Africa must challenge the current global economic status quo. By generating capital through exports rather than relying on loans and aid, African nations can attract more investors and create an environment where private sector investment thrives. This, they argue, will stimulate economic growth and reduce the need for external financial assistance.

Despite the challenges, there is evidence that Africa can compete and lead in the global economy. Countries like Botswana, Mauritius, Ghana, and Uganda have managed substantial reform programs and private sector revitalization, achieving growth rates akin to those in East Asia. African professionals are eager to return and contribute to this growth, provided they receive the necessary support from their governments.

In a world where African nations have historically faced trade imbalances, bureaucratic hurdles, and debt, Sheku Mohamed Matthew Kallon and many like him see the audacious potential for Africa to rise and lead in the global economy. As they advocate for change, they believe that Africa’s future generations, as well as the continent’s storied history, demand nothing less.

Craving 4 Development Gears Up for 4th Edition of Pan-African Symposium on Agriculture

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Craving 4 Development, a prominent organization dedicated to fostering agricultural progress, organized a Press Conference on Tuesday, October 31, 2023. The event took place at the Institute of Public Administration and Management Campus on Tower Hill in Freetown. The purpose of the Press Conference was geared towards providing the Sierra Leonean media with insights into the upcoming Fourth Edition of the Pan-African Symposium on Agriculture (PASA).

The Pan-African Symposium on Agriculture will be held in Freetown, Sierra Leone, from November 27 to November 29, 2023, at the Bintumani Conference Center with a vision is to establish a regional platform rooted in knowledge and partnerships. This platform aims to harness the potential of youth engagement in agriculture, industrialization, mechanization, food sovereignty, investments, and interconnected supply chains across Africa.

PASA’s mission is to initiate a valuable endeavour focused on practical knowledge sharing, export readiness, exposure to various systems, businesses, enablers and innovations. Its goal is to construct robust frameworks and agro-industrial enterprises, cultivate enhanced human capital, establish interconnected networks of experts, structured and accessible markets and opportunities for enduring collaborations.

The symposium’s journey commenced in 2020, with its First Edition held virtually in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Second Edition took place in Senegal in November 2021, featuring both physical participants and over 1,000 African youth engaging through virtual platforms.

The event emphasized networking and reached an impressive 11 million African youth. The Third Edition, held in Sierra Leone, centered on “Strengthening Agri-Food Supply Chains in Africa” and had a remarkable impact on Sierra Leonean MSMEs, agricultural experts, and enthusiasts significantly influencing the agribusiness ecosystem.

Building on the momentum generated by the 2023 Edition, Craving 4 Development is bringing the Fourth Edition of the symposium back to Sierra Leone. This Edition’s focus is on, “Leveraging Technological Breakthroughs to Drive Industrialization in African Agriculture.” It will unite 23 African countries through an array of African experts.

PASA will encompass panel sessions, breakout sessions, a match-making event connecting entrepreneurs with service providers, an exhibition floor, and an Innovation Fair.

Furthermore, an Access to Finance round table will be featured, enhancing the potential for robust collaboration in the African agricultural sector.

Salone Messenger’s CEO Sallu Kamuskay to participate in DCN Global’s first- Ever Africa Forum in Zambia

By: Abu Bakarr Jalloh

Founder and Executive Director of Salone Messenger, Sierra Leonean communication strategist, fixer, blogger, youth organiser, event manager, spokesperson, and public relations expert Sallu Kamuskay will be participating on a panel discussion on “How Tradition and Innovation Influence African Storytelling in the Digital Age organized by the Digital Communication Network (DCN) Global and World Learning  for  The upcoming Digital Communication Network Global (DCN) event is  scheduled for November 8-9, 2023 in Zambia, Africa.

The upcoming Digital Communication Network Global (DCN) event, scheduled for November 8-9, 2023 in Zambia, Africa, promises an engaging assembly of digital professionals, influencers, and thought leaders from diverse fields. The forum, aimed at launching DCN Africa, delves into the far-reaching impacts and implications of digital transformations and innovations on our society.

A key theme of discussion will be the transformative influence of digital communication tools on civic participation and democracy. The Forum will further explore the technologies and digital communication trends that are reshaping our world.

Another focus will be the importance of information integrity in our data-heavy world. The Forum will also probe the significant role of digital tools in societal and economic advancement. A crucial aspect under scrutiny will be the intersection between digital communication and human rights. The event will address how digital platforms can both safeguard and impinge on privacy rights and freedom of expression, a discussion illuminated by instances.

DCN Global is a collaborative network working across borders, sectors, and generations to track digital trends, amplify credible voices, foster digitally responsible citizens, and build resilient communities to able to live and thrive in the digital world. DCN’s premise is that, in an age of informational disruptions, only coalitions of like-minded professionals can harness cross-sector innovation to address the multiple challenges facing 21st-century information systems.

Comparable to previous DCN inaugural events in Europe, East Asia and the Pacific, and the Western Hemisphere, this two-day Forum will be the first step in the creation of a regional network of digital innovators and consumers. The Regional Forum will be followed by virtual events and opportunities for collaboration. The launch event will be conducted in English.

Sallu Kamuskay is a communication strategic, fixer, blogger, youth organiser, event manager, spokesperson, and public relation expert. His work has been regularly referenced and published by national and international media and public policy institutions.

Sallu was a child during the brutal war in Sierra Leone. Growing up in the midst of conflict, Sallu witnessed unimaginable abuse of children and gross violations of human rights. The horrors he witnessed during the Civil War had a terrible impact on him at a very tender age. But despite the shock of the war, Sallu never lost hope. He started on a journey of recovery, studying, and working for a better future. At age 15, Sallu entered into the world of activism and advocacy.

Sallu Kamuskay is co-founder and Executive Director of the Salone Messenger, a Global Multimedia and Public relations firm based in Sierra Leone with the latest news and information, on top stories, business, politics, entertainment, and more. Sallu has worked on various developmental and policy issues such as Poverty, Climate Change, Human rights, Child Rights, Education, Health, Gender Equality, Civic Engagement, Government policies, Information Communication Technology for Development and the Sustainable Development Goals, and has also been contributing to various global events and advocacy campaigns.

Sallu is working with a leading technology company in Africa, Techfrica, that have recently develop and launched a social media, messaging Supfrica with over 150,000 downloads on Google play store in less than 4 days. He is the Adviser and Media coordinator for the App to give people the platform to connect and communicate to help shape their future with a very faster internet that allows users that live in deprived and hard to reach areas with poor internet facility to be able to communicate as it allows and stronger on 2 and 3 G network reception.

Sallu Kamuskay has over 9 years of experience in youth engagement, inclusion and coordination both at local and global level, giving voice to young people and engaging young people to build better world. He has served as coordinator for the Wave Alliance that brought together youth-led organizations who attended an international training in South Africa organized by the international Organization – Waves for Change.

Sallu is working with the MLT, Waves For Change and Government to develop safe spaces for young people, with a view to contribute to the overall development goals of young people including health, as well as to community rebuilding.

Sallu Kamuskay is currently the Programme Director for the Wave Alliance, which is a coalition of youth-led and community-based organizations that have successfully introduced evidence-based Surf Therapy programmes to young people in communities, with a focus on mental health, peace building and sustainable development.

Sallu has devoted his time in working for or contributing to a number of national and international organizations and companies, including the Techfrica Technology Company, United Nations, ECOWAS, European Union, Commonwealth Africa Initiatives. This work has led him to travel to a number of countries to contribute to global youth platforms. Sallu is the lead Coordinator for Peace Tour programme, an initiative supported by the European Union, Africa Union, ECOWAS focusing on uniting and empowering young people and local communities.

Dr. Samura Kamara Cautious Government Over Potential State Embarrassment

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The  Leader of main opposition All People’s Congress (APC) Leader, Dr. Samura Kamara, has lend his voice to the controversy surrounding Government’s award of the Rail and Port Contract to Kingho Mining Company as opposed to ARISE IIP, a credible business entity that, many have stated, presented a better bid for the development, expansion, and management of the Pepel Rail and Port that even included, to the joy of many, the introduction of passenger train services and for whose termination of a signed Lease Agreement with the Government of Sierra Leone that was still in force, without convincing reasons given by the country’s Attorney General and Minister of Justice , Mohamed Lamin Tarawallie, during a Press Conference, convened by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education on Friday 27 October 2023 at the Radisson Blu Hotel Conference Centre, in Freetown.

Dr. Samura Kamara, in a tweet message on Wednesday 2nd November 2023, cautioned that after listening with keen interest as an experienced personality and Sierra Leonean in national economic management and nation building, to recent broadcasts by very Senior Government Officials relative to a tripartite investment relationship between Government of Sierra Leone, ARISE and KINGHO, he would want to caution that whatever difficulties there are bordering on the aforementioned relationship, as a nation, we ,as a nation, must desist from going public until the relationship is orderly mended adding that it is not impossible.

The main opposition APC Strongman also urged all parties to handle the matter thoughtfully in order to prevent any potential State embarrassment. He again maintained that investor appetite for Sierra Leone is still lukewarm maintaining how it is strongly advisable to bring both companies to the table for resolution and avert any subsequent legal entanglements.

Dr Samura Kamara’ statement came in the wake of a significant development,  as ARISE IIP’s UK legal representatives, LinkLaters, have sent a “Letter Before Action” to the Government of Sierra Leone. The letter, dated November 1, 2023, is addressed to the Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources. It sternly advises the Government against proceeding with their recently announced plans, which were unveiled during a Press Conference at the Radisson Blu Mammy Yoko Hotel in Freetown on October 27, 2023.

The legal notice issued by LinkLaters contains a clear warning, stating that they intend to pursue legal action against the Government of Sierra Leone if it proceeds with its current course of action. This action pertains to the approval of a new lease agreement with Kingho Railway and Port Company Limited, aimed at overseeing the development, expansion and management of the Pepel Railway and Port.

The ARISE lawyers have set a deadline of November 3, 2023, for the Government of Sierra Leone to provide written confirmation that they will not proceed with the actions outlined in the October 27, 2023 Press Conference held in Freetown.

In the event that the Government fails to comply with this demand, LinkLaters’ letter explicitly reserves the right for their client to initiate legal proceedings against the Government of Sierra Leone. These potential legal actions may include but are not limited to seeking injunctions, pursuing arbitral claims for interim relief and filing claims for damages.

As at the time of going to Press, the response from the Sierra Leonean Government remains uncertain. The situation is under investigation and further developments are anticipated.

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