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Local Manufacturers’ Vital Roles Are Hampered by High/Multiple Taxes

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

It is no gainsaying that the current SLPP Led Government, headed by President Julius Maada Bio, is keen on revamping the Local Manufacturing sector in Sierra Leone with the strong objective of boosting economic development.

There is indeed no doubt that local or indigenous manufacturers have a crucial role to play in Sierra Leone’s economic development within the ambits of providing jobs, boosting local production and contributing, in major ways, to the overall growth of the nation.

However, they face a significant challenge in the form of high and multiple taxes, which make them vulnerable to economic instability and hinder their growth prospects.

Unfortunately, Local manufacturers are subjected to a complex and often overwhelming tax system. Finding themselves in this quagmire, they have to navigate these multiple taxes and levies including import duties, excise taxes and value added tax (VAT), income tax and local council rates. Undoubtedly, these various taxes create a significant financial burden for local manufacturers, reducing their ability to invest in other areas such as innovation, expansion and job creation.

In terms of import duties, they are imposed on raw materials and machinery necessary for production. Invariably, high import duties increase the cost of these inputs making it more expensive for manufacturers to produce goods. This, in turn, leads to higher prices for locally produced goods, which can discourage domestic consumption and make imported products more attractive.

With regards excise taxes they are imposed on specific goods, including alcohol, some of which are also used in the production chain and such can significantly increase production costs.

When a Value-Added Tax (VAT) is in place it is levied on the final price of goods and services. In this case, local manufacturers are required to charge VAT on their products and burden of the tax is ultimately borne by consumers. High VAT rates can reduce the competitiveness of locally produced goods in the market.

Lamentably, high and multiple taxes increase the cost of production and as a result, locally produced goods often have higher price tags than imported alternative goods making it very difficult for manufacturers to compete in both domestic and international markets.

To meet tax obligations places significant financial strain on local manufacturers as they struggle to fulfill tax liabilities while at the same time trying to maintain or expand their businesses. Such limit manufacturers’ ability to invest in latest technology, increase productivity and offer more job opportunities.

Expansion of businesses cannot successfully take place where multiple and burdensome taxes exist. The potential of indigenous manufacturers to positively contribute to the nation’s economic development cannot be fully utilized or maybe somehow impossible.

There is a danger that in situations where taxes are too much local manufacturers could resort to operate in the informal economy and try as much as possible to evade those taxes which could deprive the Government of much revenue and as well undermine the sustainable continuation of the manufacturing sector.

What is now needed is for Government to simplify the tax system by streamlining it in order to make it easier to understand and comply in honouring their tax obligations.

Incentives must be provided where necessary by reducing import duties on essential machinery and raw materials which will lower production costs and thereby encourage investments.

Support can be provided by the government in the form of access to finance and technical assistance.

In order to unlock the potential of the local manufacturing sector and thereby support economic development, it is imperative for the Government, under the dynamic leadership of President Julius Maada Bio, to address tax challenges by putting in place simplified, supportive and business-friendly tax regimes. It is only when such actions are taken that Government will promote a thriving local manufacturing sector that will significantly contribute to more employment opportunities, innovation and overall economic growth.

Labour Minister Commends JOLAKS for Employee Welfare and Gender Equality

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a positive move towards recognizing the efforts of private business establishments, the Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security, Mohamed Rahman Swaray, embarked on an inspection and familiarization tour to Jolaks (Wellington Industrial Estate), a notable manufacturer of Padi Products in Freetown.

During the visit on Friday, October 27, 2023, Minister Swaray and his team conducted a comprehensive inspection of the Jolaks factories. They also engaged with the dedicated workforce to gain firsthand insights into their welfare and working conditions. In addition, the Minister held discussions with the Management to explore opportunities for further enhancing employees’ conditions of service.

Minister Swaray fostered an environment of open communication by assuring the workers that their voices were valued. He encouraged them to speak freely, emphasizing that no one would face repercussions for expressing their concerns.

“I want us to talk like brothers and sisters, that is why I have asked everyone on the Management team to excuse us. So please feel free to talk to me,” he encouraged them.

The workers expressed their gratitude to the Minister and his team for the visit and their commitment to dialogue. They also commended the Management of Jolaks for their exemplary treatment.

Workers highlighted various benefits of working for Jolaks, including skill training, a monthly supply of rice for all employees, occasional provision of assorted necessities, daily financial stipends, and assistance during personal challenges. However, they requested an increase in ‘Compassionate Leave’ days and improvements in medical facilities.

Employees from rural communities also urged the Management to consider expanding their operations to the provinces to create job opportunities for the youth in Sierra Leone’s rural areas.

Minister Swaray encouraged the workers to maintain their positive spirit and strive for greater efficiency and diligence in their work. He pledged to work towards improving their conditions.

In discussions with the Management, Minister Swaray applauded Jolaks for promoting gender equality in the workplace, their employee treatment, and the overall work environment.

“This is the decent work that the President spoke about when he promised to create 500,000 jobs for his people,” he added.

Minister Swaray encouraged the Management to address the challenges raised by their workers promptly and assured them that the Ministry’s team would continue engaging with Jolaks in the coming days to ensure that issues were resolved.

Jolaks, a company that currently employs approximately 400 Sierra Leoneans, is notably progressive, with at least 30% of its workforce comprising women.

Meet Marian Pleasant Kargbo Esq.

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a remarkable journey of advocacy and empowerment, Marian Pleasant Kargbo, a dynamic Sierra Leonean, has emerged as a prominent Barrister, Philanthropist, and Child Rights Activist, making waves in her relentless pursuit of justice and education for all, irrespective of gender or background.

Marian Pleasant Kargbo, currently the Chief Executive Officer of Pleasant Children’s Foundation and President of the Youth Action Movement, Sierra Leone, is leading the charge for youth empowerment, reproductive health and education, free from discrimination. The Youth Action Movement is affiliated with the Planned Parenthood Association of Sierra Leone (PPASL) and a member of the International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF).

Education stands as a cornerstone of Kargbo’s advocacy, signifying the path to transformation. She holds four degrees, including a Bachelor of Arts in History/Politics, LLB (Bachelor of Laws), BL (Barrister-at-Law), and LLM (Master of Laws), embodying her unyielding dedication to knowledge and personal growth.

Kargbo’s Pleasant Children’s Foundation is a beacon of hope, dedicated to providing education and support to vulnerable children, especially those who have suffered sexual abuse, forced early marriages, or rape. Despite encountering challenges, including financial constraints and threats, Kargbo is resolute in her mission to empower the youth, particularly girls, and break the cycle of adversity.

In addition to her educational endeavors, Kargbo has contributed immensely to her community during the Ebola outbreak by donating food, clothing, and toiletries worth millions of Leones.

Furthermore, Kargbo fights passionately for gender parity and against gender-based violence, challenging traditional gender norms in Sierra Leone. She advocates for equal opportunities, stating, “Give us the platform and see if we cannot serve well. We are passionate, we are strong, we know the issues affecting us, and so we want to deal with them for ourselves. If we are to see a better Africa, we need to set our priorities right and experience the change that we want to see.”

Kargbo’s remarkable work has not gone unnoticed. She has been recognized with numerous national awards and accolades and was named one of the 50 most influential Sierra Leonean women in 2020.

In 2016, Kargbo led the “Girls Should Be Girls and Not Mothers” campaign in the Western Area Rural District and has represented Sierra Leone at various international conferences, including the Gender is My Agenda Summit in Niamey, Niger, the Family Planning Conference in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and the Youth and Climate Change Summit, also in Niamey.

In the face of adversity and threats, Marian Pleasant Kargbo stands unwavering in her commitment to creating a society where every child has access to quality education, justice, and equal opportunities, making her a shining example of positive change in Sierra Leone.

Drug Kingpin Bigitel & Associates Committed to High Court Without Bail

In a significant development, Principal Magistrate Mark Ngegba, sitting at Pademba Road Magistrate’s Court No.1, on October 29, 2023, has made the decision to commit Abdul Kamara, commonly known as Bigitel, and his two associates to the High Court, denying them bail.

Bigitel, a resident of 3D Kamanda Farm, Mamba Ridge, Kissy, in the East End of Freetown, recently earned notoriety as a Drug Kingpin following a declaration by the Sierra Leone Police. He faces charges of unlawful possession of a prohibited drug, as per Section 8(a) of the National Drug Control Act, 2008, Act No. 10 of 2008.

The accusations stem from an incident on September 23, 2023, in Mamba Ridge, Kissy, within the Freetown Judicial District of the Republic of Sierra Leone. It is alleged that Bigitel was found in possession of a staggering 181 wraps of Kush, totaling 20.0 grams, without proper authorization.

His co-accused, Ishmael Koroma, residing at 78B Mamba Ridge, Kissy, and Sallieu Bangura, a resident of 7B Mamba Ridge, Kissy, were apprehended during the same incident. They were found in possession of a substantial 152.6 grams of Kush, along with a sachet of Ecstasy weighing 20.2 grams, all without lawful authority. Additionally, they were caught with an unregulated quantity of Cannabis Sativa, commonly known as Djamba, weighing 15.8 grams.

The trio faced a total of seven charges in court, and Magistrate Mark Ngegba deemed it necessary to remand them at the Pademba Road Correctional Centre in Freetown. The decision to commit them to the High Court without bail signifies the seriousness of the case and underscores the authorities’ commitment to combating drug-related crimes.

This development will undoubtedly be closely monitored as it progresses through the judicial system.

Stay tuned for further updates on this significant legal case.

Legal Trailblazer: Jonathan Hindolo Kurabu Esq.’s Remarkable Journey to Legal Success

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a remarkable and inspiring journey, Jonathan Hindolo Kurabu Esq., a graduate of Njala University with a unique background in agricultural law, has defied all odds to become a lawyer. He successfully overcame numerous challenges, proving that with determination and divine grace, seemingly impossible dreams can be achieved.

Kurabu, who holds a Bachelor of Laws degree, reflects on his extraordinary academic path, starting with his admission to Njala University as one of only 68 law students six years ago. The demanding legal program saw the initial number dwindle to just 28 students by the time they reached their final year. Despite these challenges, he persevered and ultimately earned his law degree, joining the ranks of 16 proud graduates from Njala University.

His journey continued as he pursued legal education at the Sierra Leone Law School, where he faced rigorous admission interviews and the demanding study of law modules. Through sheer determination and unwavering faith, he managed to secure a place at the Sierra Leone Bar, a feat many considered impossible.

Reflecting on the trials he faced, Mr. Kurabu shared that the path to the Bar Final was fraught with de-motivating, compelling, motivating, scary, and dreadful moments. He emphasized the importance of self-determination and faith in achieving his goals.

With a background that included two bachelor’s degrees in political science and law from two different universities in Sierra Leone, as well as a postgraduate degree in public administration, Mr. Kurabu remained resolute in his pursuit of the Bar Final. He maintained a low-key profile and stepped away from social media, focusing on his studies.

Upon the release of the final results, Mr. Kurabu proudly achieved a Second Class (2.2) in the midst of brilliant students from various universities across Sierra Leone, Africa, and the diaspora.

Mr. Kurabu’s achievements extend beyond the realm of academia. He is the first son from the FAI Ruling House, Sittia Chiefdom, Bonthe District, to become a lawyer. He is also the first son of Hon. Joseph Syl Kurabu and Nurse Kadie Josephine Kurabu to attain this distinction. His unique journey includes being the first staff member of Njala University to become a lawyer and the first practicing journalist and radio station manager in the Southern Province to become a lawyer, thus earning the title of Legal Media Practitioner.

Jonathan Hindolo Kurabu Esq. emphasized that his academic accomplishments, while seemingly extraordinary, should serve as an inspiration to those who share his fortitude, passion, and determination. He invoked the famous words of Nelson Mandela, “Yes, with God all things are possible, and it seems impossible until it’s done.”

Mr. Kurabu expressed his gratitude to all those who supported him on his journey, especially his family, colleagues, friends, and well-wishers. He looks forward to the next chapter as he continues to chase his dreams and prove that with unwavering faith and determination, there are no limits to what can be achieved.

Stay tuned for more updates on Jonathan Hindolo Kurabu Esq.’s inspiring journey as he embarks on the next phase of his legal career.

United States, Sierra Leone Partner to Enhance Citizen Participation/Access to Information

The United States Government, in collaboration with the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), unveiled a groundbreaking initiative on October 26, 2023, in Freetown. This partnership aims to enhance citizen participation and improve public access to information in Sierra Leone.

The initiative, named “Building Accountability Systems through Empowered Communities” (BASE), was officially launched on October 26, 2023, in Freetown, Sierra Leone. With a budget of $3.38 million over the course of three years, this program will have a substantial impact on Sierra Leone’s democratic processes and transparency. It will be rolled out in several districts, including Western Rural, Moyamba, Karene, Falaba, Tonkolili, and Kono.

During the launch event, U.S. Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Bryan David Hunt, emphasized the enduring commitment of the United States to the people of Sierra Leone and their democratic journey. He underscored the fundamental role of citizen engagement in shaping Government policies and programs, asserting that the strength of Sierra Leone’s democracy relies on active citizen participation.

Hunt stated, “Citizen participation in democratic governance and decision-making is a cornerstone of good governance. It reinforces the social contract between Government and its citizens, fostering trust in Government institutions and the political process.”

Given Sierra Leone’s youthful population, where nearly 80 percent are under the age of 34, Ambassador Hunt stressed the importance of involving young people and women in decision-making processes. He highlighted the significance of tapping into the potential of these demographic groups for transparency, accountability, and the overall well-being of Sierra Leoneans. The “Building Accountability Systems through Empowered Communities” initiative will prioritize empowering women and youth, enabling them to play a pivotal role in promoting good governance and peace.

The launch of this program comes at a crucial time, following the signing of the Agreement for National Cohesion between the Sierra Leonean Government and the opposition All Peoples’ Congress. Hunt expressed optimism that the partnership would equip ordinary Sierra Leoneans with the skills and tools needed to ensure their voices are heard in critical national processes.

In his concluding remarks, Ambassador Hunt reaffirmed, “Citizen participation in their country’s governance is not just a privilege; it is both a right and a responsibility. The United States will continue working in partnership with Sierra Leone to nurture democracy and good governance through citizen participation. Whether through the Building Accountability Systems through Empowered Communities partnership or our various other development initiatives, the United States is unwavering in its commitment to standing with the people of Sierra Leone and jointly advancing democracy, health, and prosperity.”

This partnership signifies a significant step forward in advancing Sierra Leone’s development agenda and fostering inclusive governance, with a specific focus on engaging youth and women in shaping the nation’s future.

Sierra Leone’s ambition for Mobile Healthcare is raised with the presence of Mercy Ship

During a visit on Friday to the Mercy Ship docked at Queen Elizabeth 11 Quay in Freetown since August this year, United Nations Resident Coordinator (RC), Babatunde Ahonsi, said the UN Country Team is uplifted by the difference that the service rendered by the Ship, known as the Global Mercy, is making to the surrounding community, to benefiting patients, and to Sierra Leone.

During a tour conducted by Mercy Ship’s Country Director, Dr Sandra Lako, of the eleven-deck world’s largest non-governmental hospital ship, the RC said that for the individuals benefiting from the surgeries, the experience is life-transforming and that the boost to specialized human resources for health in the country through the training component could be significant.

Through Dr Lako, the RC congratulated the 641 volunteers comprising medical, technical, and general personnel, 300 of whom are from Sierra Leone, for the work they continue to do till June next year when the Ship is expected to depart the shores of Sierra Leone.

“I hope the country appreciates the difference it has made,”he said, adding that Sierra Leone is lucky to have the Global Mercy Ship around.

After a briefing on the traineeship opportunities that the medical practitioners in the country, especially from the Connaught Hospital, will benefit from during the Ship’s stay in Sierra Leone, the UN Resident Coordinator emphasized that he hopes that it will help raise the level of ambition for mobile health care in the country. “Anything that helps to strengthen healthcare delivery is good for Sierra Leone,” he said.

In responding, Dr Lako said that the need for surgical care, both in Freetown and upcountry, could be addressed to a certain extent by mobile clinics and indicated that it is great that the Ship’s visit has encouraged others to be more focused on engaging in mobile healthcare. For now, she does not think this would be a particular area that Mercy Ships would get involved in.

On their collaboration with the Connaught Hospital, she said, “Mercy Ships is working in partnership with Connaught Hospital to strengthen surgical care. This programme is still being developed together with our partners. We also have surgical and anaesthetic doctors and nurses from Connaught Hospital rotating on board for training and shared learning opportunities,” she said.

For ten months, according to Dr Lako, the Ship will provide some 2,350 safe and free surgeries on board to Sierra Leoneans, and it will include safe surgical and dental care, as well as advanced medical training and mentoring.

She said she was grateful for the visit led by the RC and accompanied by the Heads of FAO, Saeed Bancie, and UNIDO, Mariatu Swaray. “We are grateful we are in a country where our services are appreciated,” the Country Director said.

The team had the opportunity to meet with the Captain of the Ship and also visited the hospital and learning academy, among others.

Mercy Ship came to Sierra Leone due to an invitation by the Government, and it marks the sixth instance of the collaboration between the Ship and the country.

Sierra Leone Soars in Global Justice Index, Chief Justice Edwards Applauded

In a significant milestone marking the culmination of groundbreaking reforms within the Sierra Leonean judiciary, the World Justice Rule of Law Index Report has on October 30, 2023 positioned Sierra Leone ahead of Egypt, Nigeria, Liberia, Guinea, Uganda, Ethiopia, Mali, Cameroon, Sudan, Congo, Mozambique, Mauritania, and 22 other African nations. Sierra Leone now stands at the 18th position out of 34 African countries, showcasing the country’s substantial progress in the realm of justice.

On a global scale, Sierra Leone has surged past Mexico, Bolivia, Venezuela, Russia, Iran, Cambodia, Myanmar, Turkiye, Honduras, Haiti, and various other nations. This remarkable feat marks a significant departure from the past when the Sierra Leonean judiciary went unconsidered in international rankings.

In a world where the Global Rule of Law Index has documented the continual decline in the rule of law in most countries for the sixth consecutive year, Sierra Leone’s consistent progress stands as an exceptional accomplishment.

The drive for improved access to justice in Sierra Leone, under the stewardship of His Lordship Justice Desmond Babatunde Edwards, has garnered widespread acclaim. The transformation of the judiciary, under Chief Justice Edwards’s leadership, reflects an unwavering dedication to the expeditious delivery of justice.

Commenting on the international recognition, Honorable Chief Justice Edwards humbly stated, “People are celebrating this remarkable gain, but I don’t need to celebrate because I’m just doing what is right. Our duty is to uphold the Constitution and to adjudicate over matters, civil and criminal, in order to promote national peace, security, and development.” He further emphasized, “We are ready to do more.”

The Global Rule of Law Index Report assessed Sierra Leone’s Civil and Criminal Justice system, as well as the protection of fundamental Human Rights for individuals accessing the Courts. For more detailed information, please visit the World Justice Project’s official website: www.worldjusticeproject.org.

6th Annual Bai Bureh Service Delivery Awards to Celebrate Excellence in Service Delivery

The prestigious Bai Bureh Service Delivery Awards are set to return for the 6th consecutive year, celebrating outstanding service providers who have consistently delivered excellence in Sierra Leone. This year’s event promises to be a game-changer as it not only recognizes remarkable individuals and organizations but also marks the official launch of the Bai Bureh Heritage Foundation Five Years Development Impacts Magazine.

In a groundbreaking collaboration, the Bai Bureh Service Delivery Awards 2023 will be hosted in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Leone Rock Metal Group, Kambia District Development and Rehabilitation Organization, Safe Water for Sierra Leone, Port Loko District Council, Fruitful Healthcare Sierra Leone, and Amazonian Initiative Movement Sierra Leone. Further partnerships with renowned institutions are expected to be confirmed in the coming days.

Since its inception in 2018, the Bai Bureh Service Delivery Awards have become the leading service providers’ accolade in Sierra Leone, significantly contributing to both community and national development. Notably, the awards focus on promoting citizens’ recognition of effective service delivery within the private and public sectors.

The awards, which are customized and printed in the People’s Republic of China, serve as a motivation and recognition package. They reward those who consistently provide high-quality services to the community, thereby boosting morale and encouraging them to maintain their exceptional work. Furthermore, the awards inspire others to enhance their own services, leading to an overall improvement in service delivery and innovation.

Transparency and accountability are at the core of these awards. By evaluating and comparing the performance of different service providers based on factors such as customer satisfaction, responsiveness, efficiency, and effectiveness, the awards create a competitive environment that motivates continuous improvement.

The recognition achieved, through the Bai Bureh Service Delivery Awards, enhances the reputation and credibility of both individuals and organizations. It also attracts investment in various sectors, contributing to the overall development of communities and the nation.

These awards have not only celebrated excellence in service delivery but have also instilled a sense of pride and ownership among citizens, encouraging their active involvement in community and national development. This culture of civic participation strengthens governance by promoting mutual responsibility between service providers and the community.

The Bai Bureh Heritage Foundation, the lead organizer of the event, is calling upon like-minded individuals and institutions for partnership and sponsorship to further bolster their citizens’ recognition agenda for effective service delivery.

To learn more about this year’s event, please contact the Bai Bureh Heritage Foundation Media and Communications Department at +23230087623, +23234391577, +23279070999, or via email at bbhf1808@gmail.com.

The Bai Bureh Service Delivery Awards continue to be a driving force for continuous improvement and a better quality of life for all citizens in Sierra Leone.

#BaiBurehServiceAwards #SierraLeoneServiceExcellence #CommunityDevelopment

Opinion piece: West Africa – the drive towards digitisation

By Ajibola Akindele, Country President, Nigeria, Schneider Electric West Africa

31 October 2023

According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), more than 140 million people in Nigeria don’t have access to energy. In an effort to address this fundamental challenge, the World Economy Forum (WEF) recently hosted 40 stakeholders from Nigeria’s energy and finance sectors at a “deep five” roundtable event, held in Abuja.

“When we talk about energy access, we refer to people’s ability to access modern energy services, including electricity, clean cooking facilities, and modern fuels. Energy inaccessibility has significant negative impacts on health, education, and economic development,” said the WEF.

Another important challenge, cited by the event, was the dire need for technology supply and technical know-how in operating the equipment.

Digitisation forms a vital role in in West Africa’s efforts to bolster its economies. Already, digitisation is transforming African retail payment systems, allowing consumers and businesses to save billions in transaction costs, facilitating financial inclusion, and enhancing the efficiency of fiscal and revenue administration.

However, to harness the benefits of digitisation, the region – as emphasised by the WEF summit – must address the provision of basic infrastructure particularly in remote areas. Access to electricity and basic Internet infrastructure are lacking which will have a ripple effect on the adoption of digital solutions.

Furthermore, addressing the basic skills gap is vital. Many people in these remote areas need training to understand these digital solutions, its impact, and how it can benefit their small businesses and local economies.

Promising developments

Despite the abovementioned challenges, there’s also some important, encouraging developments. West Africa has a young population; in Nigeria the median age in 17.2 years which gives way to a population that is becoming increasingly tech-savvy and digitally proficient.

There’s also a strong focus on digital initiatives in the country. The government has established a Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, emphasizing the importance of this sector.

Given the country’s youthful population, there is also concerted effort to promote digitalisation, increase capacity building, enhance Internet connectivity, and reduce costs in areas where access is less affordable. The government is committed to these goals and is driving this commitment through the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy

At Schneider Electric we are also doing our part, providing industries with solutions that will accelerate digitisation. We are involved in a multitude of sectors which include building automation and microgrids driving investment in clean energy solutions.

Our support network is vast, with 300 partners in West Africa promoting, distributing, building and integrating our solution throughout the region. We also actively promote training and upskilling of not only our partners but the community through various educational campaigns and initiatives.

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