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Milla Group/Pee Cee and Sons (PCS) Officially Inaugurate Milla Bypass Road

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

In a remarkable and continued effort to foster development within Sierra Leone, Milla Group/Pee Cee and Sons (PCS), in collaboration with the Community Development Committee officially inaugurated the Milla Bypass Road within the Fisher Lane Community, Freetown on Saturday, October 28, 2023. The project, which saw the rehabilitation of that vital road, was entirely funded through the CDAP Fund 2023-2026 by PCS and Milla Group, exemplifying their strong commitment to Corporate Social responsibility and community development.

The event brought together a distinguished gathering of top individuals, including esteemed community stakeholders, a representative from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and members of the Sierra Leone Police. The occasion marked a significant milestone for the Fisher Lane Community, representing one of the most substantial development initiatives in recent memory.

Janneh, the Vice-Chairman of the Community Development Committee opened the proceedings with a warm welcome to the assembled guests. He expressed heartfelt gratitude for everyone’s presence and stressed the monumental importance of the event, hailing it as a landmark achievement for the community. Janneh emphasized the Committee’s desire to establish a lasting legacy and ensure that future Executive members continue to build upon their work. The ultimate goal is to make the Fisher Lane Community a source of pride and to create opportunities that benefit all its residents.

Janneh’s opening remarks underscored the fundamental principles of transparency and progress that underpin the collaboration between Fisher Lane and Milla Group. He applauded Milla and PCS for their unwavering commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility and highlighted the successful partnership between the companies and the community, which has led to the realization of numerous development projects, including improvements in water supply, education, sanitation, and the construction of roads. He commended the community for its exemplary stance against corruption and expressed optimism for future unity and continued development. He extended his gratitude to the security apparatus, specifically acknowledging Mr. Kamara for his leadership, and the entire community. He concluded with a promise that Milla and PCS would continue to set an example in community development, encouraging other companies to follow suit.

The Regional Commander for Freetown-East, ACP Dr. John Martin Senesie, expressed his gratitude to the local authorities and community members for their steadfast support in improving the roads within the East End of Freetown. Dr. Senesie emphasized the critical role of road infrastructure in supporting security operations and praised the cooperation between the Fisher Lane Community and the Sierra Leone Police. He assured the community that the Police Force is committed to serving them and encouraged residents to provide vital information and intelligence to assist in their efforts. His message was one of appreciation and a call for continued collaboration between the authorities and the community, highlighting the transformative impact of the new road and expressing the readiness of the Police to support the community in any way possible.

Representing the Member of Parliament, Councillor Bumpah Turay conveyed his deep appreciation for the Miller Group of Companies and PCS for their significant contributions to the Fisher Lane Community. He acknowledged the myriad challenges faced by the community, particularly concerning inadequate roads and water scarcity, and highlighted the extraordinary efforts made by Milla and PCS to provide support, including substantial improvements to infrastructure and scholarships for students, with a particular focus on promoting education for girls. Turay expressed his sincere gratitude for the companies’ work and underscored the profound positive impact they have had on the community. He commended Milla Group and PCS for their unwavering commitment to addressing the community’s needs, specifically in terms of enhancing water access and providing educational opportunities. He concluded by thanking and blessing Milla Group for their tireless efforts in making a positive difference in the community.

The General Manager of Milla Group, Rajesh Hemnani, began his statement by warmly greeting the community members and emphasizing that they are all part of one extended family. He recounted instances in which the Fisher Lane Community had extended its support to Milla Group during times of need, including a protest and a fire incident, highlighting the strong bond of reciprocity between the company and the community. Hemnani expressed his profound love for the community, underlining that all of the work he and the Milla Group have undertaken is a testament to that deep affection.

Hemnani went on to disclose that the initial budget for the road construction project last year was set at 300 Million Old Leones. However, this year, due to increased costs, the budget exceeded 600 Million Old Leones. He explained that these efforts were motivated by the love and support shown by the Fisher Lane Community, and he felt compelled to reciprocate this support.

The General Manager concluded by expressing gratitude to the Community Development Committee for their unwavering dedication to community development and thanked the community members for taking time out of their busy schedules to attend the program.

In a touching moment, the Community Development Committee Executive presented a Certificate of Appreciation to the Milla Group and offered a special gift to the General Manager, Rajesh Hemnani, in recognition of his remarkable contributions.

The event reached its climax with the official cutting of the ribbon, symbolizing the opening of the Milla Bypass Road, performed by the General Manager of Milla Group, accompanied by other distinguished officials in attendance.

This momentous occasion not only marked a new chapter in the Fisher Lane Community’s development but also served as an inspiring example of successful collaboration between corporate entities and local communities in Sierra Leone.

The completion of the Milla Bypass Road stands as a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives and corporate responsibility, promising a brighter future for all those residing in the Fisher Lane Community.

College of Digital Excellence (CODE) Matriculates Over 200 Students

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The College of Digital Excellence (CODE), one of the latest private tertiary institutions providing world-class ICT and Management Educational Courses in the country has on Friday 27th October, 2023 held its 2nd Matriculation ceremony for over 200 students at the institution’s premises situated on 36 Main Motor Road, Congo Cross in Freetown.

The matriculation ceremony, marking the formal process of students entering the College for various courses after fulfilling certain academic requirements, is a traditional event that confirms that they have been fully admitted by the institution during which the students make a pledge to abide by the rules and regulations governing the institution.

Present during the ceremony were the Minister of Technical and Higher Education, Dr. Haja Ramatulai Wurie, the Acting Executive Secretary at Tertiary Education Commission, Josephus Sawyer, Chief Executive Officer, Rise Radio, Asmaa James, the Verification Officer at the National Council for Technical/ Vocational and other Academic Awards (NCTVA), Komba Moiwa, the Founder/Director of CODE, Niharika Agnani, Head of the Institution, Madhusudan Mukerjee, the students, well-wishers.

In his address, the Co-founder and Director of CODE, Niharika Agnani, taking a moment to reflect on the significance of the ceremony said matriculation is not just a formality but symbolizes the beginning of an extraordinary adventure and marks the moment when promising students become an integral part of their academic family.

The Director said each one of the students brings unique talents, dreams and aspirations and together they form a diverse community with the potential to achieve great things.

She explained that the quality of digital excellence was founded with a vision, a vision that goes beyond traditional education. “We aim to nurture the next generation of digital leaders, innovators and problem solvers. In a world increasingly defined by technology and the digital landscape the importance of your education here cannot be overstated. Our curriculum is designed to empower you with knowledge and skills that are not only relevant today but also adaptable for the challenges of tomorrow.”

Niharika Agnani, emphasized that as the students step into the college there is a responsibility that comes with the privilege noting that the digital age has presented them with countless opportunities but it has also raised complex ethical, social and environmental questions.

She therefore encouraged them to not only be proficient in their chosen fields but also to be conscious and be responsible digital citizens as well as entreating them to embrace the challenges, celebrate the victories and always strive for excellence.

Josephus Sawyer, Acting Executive Secretary at Tertiary Education Commission, established that the College of Digital Excellence (CODE) is a certified accredited institution of the Tertiary Education Commission.

He explained that CODE’s application to operate as an educational institution was given due consideration and a team of experts were put together that visited the institution for assessment and suitability accreditation.

Josephus Sawyer added that accreditation was granted at the initial stage for a Category C institution, which they consider for Diploma and Higher National Diploma.

However, he said it did not stop there as from 2021 to date the institution, as an exemplary force, has grown to another level and  has aspired for another category, which is Category B, to offer undergraduate programs.

The Verification Officer at the National Council for Technical/ Vocational and other Academic Awards (NCTVA), Komba Moiwa commended CODE for creating the platform towards empowering youths by providing them the skills and knowledge that will transform the country for the better.

He said that the matriculation ceremony marks an important step in their journey towards personal development and fulfilment as well as encouraging the students to be very committed in their studies which he said is the only secret to success.

The Chief Executive Officer of Rise Radio, Asmaa James in her snap remarks also applauded CODE for its contributions towards empowering young people with ICT skills and knowledge which she noted is very important in the current world of digitalization.

She encouraged the students, especially girls, to be focused and consider themselves as the nation’s assets.

In her keynote address, Dr. Haja Ramatulai Wurie, said students are the human resources of a nation, and few stand out to support their skills, knowledge and innovation that will drive the country forward, referring to the investment as human development, saying it is also one of the five strategic areas that the Government has identified.
She added that such is why institutions like CODE fit into the performance of a very important educational role which holds the key to unlocking the vast potential of resources noting that it is through education that students will be equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to participate in a digital economy.

The Minister expressed hope that the curriculum was tailored to meet the needs of the digital era; designed to empower the students with the tools required to thrive within such a dynamic landscape; and to position them to not just be consumers of technology, but to also be innovators and leaders in the digital sector which can be achieved through a concerted effort.

She said the Government is dedicated to fostering collaboration so they are looking forward to potential collaboration with CODE, underscoring that as a Government they believe in strong partnerships between the Government  and private sector educational institutions – partnerships that will drive the digital initiative, especially when the job market in digital fields are expanding exponentially.

The Minister pointed out that there is a growing demand for professionals in areas like data science, cyber security, artificial intelligence and software development.

Dr. Haja Ramatulai Wurie ,therefore, reminded the students that their education is a ticket to a world of opportunities stressing how it is also essential for them to remember that learning does not end after graduation as the digital landscape is ever evolving and continuous skills development is a necessity, thus encouraging all of them to seek lifelong learning and the pursuit of knowledge throughout their careers.

She reiterated that as a Government their focus is on digital inclusion which ensures that no one is left behind; hence it is imperative to understand that human capital development and digitalization are both core to the national development agenda.

The highpoint of the ceremony was the signing of the college’s register by the students who went through the matriculation process

Africell Unveil Cutting-Edge 5G Network in Sierra Leone

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Africell, the largest mobile network provider in Sierra Leone, marked a significant milestone in the telecommunications industry with the launch of its Fifth Generation (5G) network on Thursday October 26, 2023. The high-profile event was attended by prominent Government officials, key industry figures, and members of the Press.

Among the distinguished guests at the launch were Chief Minister, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, Minister of Information and Civic Education Chernor Bah, Minister of Communication, Technology and Innovation, Hon. Salima Bah, Chairman of the Board of Directors NatCa Ambassador, Joe Blell and the Director-General of the National Telecommunications Authority (NaTCA), Mr. Amara Brewah.

The grand unveiling took place at the Sea View Lounge, New City Hall in Freetown, where Africell’s Chief Executive Officer, Shadi Gerjawi, emphasized the company’s dedication to transforming lives through technology. He highlighted Africell’s evolution from its inception as a Second Generation (2G) network, progressively advancing to Fourth Generation (4G), and now reaching the pinnacle of connectivity with 5G technology.

Gerjawi, an advocate of technology’s transformative power, pointed out the remarkable speed of 5G, which is 100 times faster than 4G, and its crucial role in bridging the digital divide. He praised Africell for its contribution to connecting the unconnected and facilitating access to the benefits of the digital age.

In addition to the 5G network launch, Africell introduced a versatile mobile app that can be accessed through a QR code. The app enables users to pay utility bills, including EDSA, WAEC, DSTV, and Mercury, as well as conduct postpaid transactions, bank-to-wallet and wallet-to-bank transfers, merchant payments, and offers free SMS services to customers.

Gerjawi stated, “Africell’s mission goes beyond being a telecommunications provider; it demonstrates our commitment to being a responsible corporate citizen.” He commended the company’s dedication to community development projects, such as education, healthcare programs, and youth empowerment.

Reflecting on Africell’s journey, Gerjawi underscored the company’s dedication to pushing boundaries, innovating, and delivering the latest technology to Sierra Leone. He described 5G as a revolutionary step that redefines communication, education, healthcare, and entrepreneurship.

A crucial point of gratitude was extended to the Government of Sierra Leone, Minister of Communication, Technology and Innovation Hon. Salima Bah, Chairman of Board of Directors NatCa Ambassador Joe Blell, and the Director-General of NaTCA Mr. Amara Brewah for their steadfast support and belief in Africell’s mission.

Mr. Amara Brewah, the Director-General of the National Telecommunications Authority (NaTCA), praised the introduction of 5G technology in Sierra Leone as a significant leap toward embracing the digital age. He acknowledged the proactive collaboration between mobile network giants and NaTCA, emphasizing the positive advancements in the quality of internet service and the potential for economic growth, improved education, healthcare, and governance.

The close partnership between mobile network operators and the office of the NaTCA Director-General, Amara Brewah, has paved the way for substantial investments in state-of-the-art technology and equipment. While tariff increases are anticipated, the improved quality of internet service promises to deliver value that will make these increases reasonable for consumers.

As Africell’s 5G network revolutionizes the digital landscape of Sierra Leone, the nation takes a giant step toward a more connected and technologically advanced future.

IGR & Four Local Organizations Launched $3.38 Million BASE PROJECT

By Millicent Senava Mannah

The Institute of Governance Reform, in partnership with four local organizations and with support from USAID, has launched the Building Accountability Systems through Empowered Communities (BASE) on October 26, 2023. The auspicious event took place at the New Brookfields Hotel on Jomo Kenyatta Road in Freetown. The Keynote Speaker, Vice President Juldeh Jalloh intimated that the project is essential to ensuring decentralization, good governance and service delivery.

The BASE initiative is a $3.38 million, three-year partnership with five key local organizations, namely Institute of Governance Reform, 50/50 Group, Centre for Accountability and Rule of Law, Independent Radio Network and Budget Advocacy Network through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to build empowered communities for sustainable development in Sierra Leone.

The Keynote Speaker , who was the Vice President, Dr. Juldeh Jalloh, highlighted the importance of a community-involved approach to implementation of initiatives and corresponding impacts nationally, maintaining that such is integral to the achievement of the BASE initiative and the Government’s big five agenda.

He continued that re-centralization tendencies, which is the notion of central Government’s involvement in devolved activities, incapability to generate revenue and accountability factors, are challenges the country have faced in the aftermath of the civil war, stalling plans to focus on decentralization.

The Vice President boosts the confidence of the implementing consortium that its constitution of ministerial representatives, civil society and community stakeholders may bolster confidence and efficiency in all corridors necessary.

Andrew Lavallie, presenting on the baseline report and online tracker, highlights that the BASE project will erase the deficits of service delivery to ensure a theory of change, given the provision of critical services within these Councils, without dependence on central institutions only.

He pointed out the feat in reducing maternal mortality ratio as a success of decentralized services whose model can be replicated in other areas of governance for higher productivity and efficiency.

The United States Ambassador to Sierra Leone, David Hunt, assured their commitments to the project and to the people of Sierra Leone and applauded the organizations for forming such a consortium to promote national development.

According to him, communities will now be holding their local leaders responsible and accountable for the disbursement of funds and undertaking of projects.

Madam Valnora Edwin, explained that Institute of Governance Reform, Centre for Accountability and the Rule of Law, 50-50 group, Independent Radio Network, and Budget Advocacy Network, all possess proven records of expertise in governance, decentralized service delivery, girls, women & youth empowerment, media programming and communication, public finance management, and will be working in partnership with the Local Councils to ensure a smooth implementation of BASE.

The launch was climaxed with a symbolic signing of the BASE Agreement between USAID, represented by the U.S Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Ambassador Hunt & IGR, followed by the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with six Local Councils.

Julius Mattai in Conflict of Interest Spotlight

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

It has been maintained that the Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, Julius Mattai, has come under the spotlight as the main brain behind the recent award of the Rail and Port contract to Kingho due to the advice that he gave to the Government which influenced the Cabinet’s decision on the 25th October, 2023 to do so.

This came out glaringly during a Press Conference convened by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education on the 27th October, 2023 at Radisson Blu geared towards briefing journalists and Civil Society activists on the rationale behind  the Government of Sierra Leone’s decision to award the management and operation of the infrastructure of the railway and Pepel Port to Kingho Railway and Port Company Limited as against ARISE IIP ,that had shown a keen interest in also managing the aforementioned facilities, the Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources.

Julius Mattai, vividly and explicitly informed journalists that after carrying out thorough and extensive evaluation it was realized that Kingho was more competent to do so in that direction also emphasizing that in the past the company invested heavily in rehabilitated the facilities after Government took over the assets.

Though the Mines Minister was indeed rational in his presentation, however, he was somehow disrespectful when he mentioned that members of the Fourth Estate were rather reckless in the way and manner in which they reported issues related to the build up of the award of the Rail and Port contract and not particularly taking into cognizance that the decision was to be made actually in the best interest of the country.

In his words, he stated that it sometimes saddens him when reading newspapers and sees the way people, meaning journalists who disseminate news items, are slightly reckless in reporting certain issues but cleverly tried to distance himself by saying he is not blaming anybody stressing that as citizens we have a responsibility or a job to do as the country is struggling financially.

He underscored that the country is not realizing much from its mineral resources adding that the issue under discussion should be given context in order to see why the right decision should be made noting that we need to develop the country to ensure that the economy works.

He continued that he heard that there were some people who went on a ‘pilgrimage’ to either Gabon or Benin, here and there thanking those who went adding that he too went on a pilgrimage to ensure that the right decision is to be taken in the best interest of the country.

Highlighting that he is not present to sing the praises of Kingho he stressed how the company spent a colossal amount of money on rehabilitating the rail apart from another spent on protecting the rail facilities from vandalization.

In his attempt to justify how Kingho has the required expertise on managing and operating railways he also maintained that the type of rail that is situated at Pepel is not suitable for the running of passenger trains and it will be suicidal if used for that purpose.

The response of the Minister, Julius Mattai, to a question posed during the Press Conference as to whether it could not be deemed as a conflict of interest for his privately owned company, INTERGEMS, to provide consultancy services for mining companies did not really sit well with journalists present as was evident from the side comments that emanated.

Some expressed dissatisfaction that though the Minister pointed out that at no given time had his company done any work for Kingho, maintaining that they concentrate on environmental impact assessments for mining companies which go through EPA, however, to some being the Proprietor of the Consultancy firm, INTERGEMS, could rather put him at a vantage position to favourably assess those companies and influence decisions doubting whether in such a kind of situation transparency and fairness could really take place.

According to a prominent Social Commentator, the Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, in justifying the reason why Kingho was favoured over ARISE IIP, manifested a Public Relations stunt or spectacular act for  Kingho which he cleverly presented as a fair decision arrived at based on expertise assessment which was made and on which he advised the Government.

There is a School of thought which believes that Julius Mattai is a man that is full of controversies since his days as NMA boss. He is said to have allegedly spearheaded the approval of the Pepel Rail and Port facility to the Chinese company, Kingho, and by extension prevented a development oriented companies from creating an avenue for the Government to benefit from much revenue that should have accrued.

He is said to have used every available means to undo the lease agreement between the Government of Sierra Leone and ARISE IIP for the development and management of the Pepel Rail and Port championing the cause of the Chinese company Kingho to take over the management of the Pepel Port and Rail.

Daizy Princess Mujeh Abdulai Emerges as 2023 Miss Sierra Leone

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

 The Miss Sierra Leone 2023 pageant reached its thrilling conclusion on October 21, 2023, with an extraordinary victory for Daizy Princess Mujeh Abdulai, the poised and accomplished representative of Moyamba District, known affectionately as Miss Moyamba. The prestigious event unfolded at the Bintumani Conference Centre on a glittering Saturday night, as Daizy Abdulai was crowned the new Miss Sierra Leone.

Amid fierce competition, Adel Caroline Jusu of Bo District secured the first runner-up position, while Mabinty Mansaray of Koinadugu District took the second runner-up spot. In a remarkable moment, the Chairman of the Board, Miss Sierra Leone Limited, Dr. Adonis Abboud presented the official Miss Sierra Leone 2023/24 car to Miss Moyamba District, Daizy Abdulai, amid thunderous applause.

Dr. Adonis Abboud expressed his congratulations to the winners, stating, “On behalf of Miss Sierra Leone Limited, I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate our new Miss Sierra Leone 2023, Daisy Mujeh Abdulai, the 1st Runner up, Adel Caroline Jusu, and the 2nd Runner up Mabinty Mansaray.” He emphasized the event’s significance as a platform for young Sierra Leonean women to showcase their beauty, intelligence, talent and culture on a national stage.

Under the theme: “A Healthy Environment in a World of Beauty, Peace & Integrity,” this year’s Miss Sierra Leone event emphasized the importance of a safe environment that promotes peace and integrity. Miss Sierra Leone Limited, a not-for-profit organization, dedicated to organizing national competitions to select a beauty queen for the country, successfully executed the event in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs.

The 2023 pageant featured 15 exceptional contestants representing various districts across Sierra Leone, with Daizy Princess Mujeh Abdulai emerging as the coveted Miss Sierra Leone. Beyond her stunning beauty and unwavering confidence, Daizy possesses a versatile talent with a passion for music, modeling, and advocacy.

Currently in her final year at Fourah Bay College, where she is pursuing a Bachelor of Science Degree in Chemistry, Daizy Abdulai is also the Vice President of the Chemistry Society at F.B.C., showcasing her dedication to academic excellence. Her academic achievements are only matched by her commitment to personal development and continuous learning.

Daizy’s participation in beauty pageants has given her a platform to champion important causes and drive positive change within society. As the emerging winner, she is deeply committed to empowering young women and girls in Sierra Leone, inspiring them to fearlessly pursue their dreams.

In addition to her aspirations as a teacher and medicinal chemist, Daizy Abdulai envisions a prominent role in the world of perfume production, aiming to create job opportunities for the unemployed youth of Sierra Leone, contributing to the nation’s economic development.

Aminata Adialin Bangura, Manager of Miss Sierra Leone Limited, expressed her heartfelt gratitude to all who contributed to the success of Miss Sierra Leone 2023. She emphasized the impact of the pageant, not only on the 16 talented queens but also on Sierra Leoneans at home and abroad, as it promoted the country’s culture and its beautiful and intelligent women to the world.

She extended special thanks to Her Excellency, Madam Fatima Maada Bio, the Honorable Minister of Cultural Affairs, Madam Nabeela Tunis, and Deputy Minister, Dr. Kadija Grace, for their support, as well as the Board members, sponsors, volunteers, and bloggers who played pivotal roles in making the event a reality. Aminata Adialin Bangura concluded by encouraging all contestants to continue to improve themselves and their platforms, with the assurance that the sky is the limit.

Daizy Princess Mujeh Abdulai, the new Miss Sierra Leone, stands as a shining example of fearlessness, fairness, civility, tolerance, creativity, and integrity, poised to inspire and uplift young women and girls in Sierra Leone.

Miss Sierra Leone 2023 exemplified the power of determination, hard work and a commitment to excellence while the event celebrated not only her triumph but the resilience and potential of Sierra Leonean women, affirming their beauty and talent on a grand stage.

NP-SL Refutes Report of Involvement of Staff in Theft Scandal

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Management of NP-SL Ltd is setting the record straight on an erroneous news item reported last week by some mainstream and online media platforms related to a theft said to have occurred, on Thursday 26th October 2023, at a purported NP-SL Ltd Filling Station said to be situated in Kailahun District, Eastern Sierra Leone perpetrated by a so called Sales Manager of the company who goes by the name of, Abubakarr Bah.

The report further stated that the accused person, Abu Bakarr Bah, was accused of defrauding one Sara Bailor Jalloh huge sums of money plus fuel, in a petroleum related deal,and has been remanded by Magistrate Mark Ngegba of the Pademba Road Court No.1 and the matter was adjourned to the 3rd November, 2023.

Management of NP-SL Ltd wants the general public to know that in the first place the company, NP-SL Ltd, does not have or operate any of its Filling Stations in Kailahun District and secondly, does not have in its employ any staff by the name of Abubakarr Bah.

It also wants to make it abundantly clear that it officially has only one position of Sales Manager of which the personnel occupying it is stationed in its Head Office in Freetown further maintaining that at all its Filling Stations there are only Station Managers and Pump Attendants, underscoring that it is important for that to be taken note of.

Management reiterates that the news report is totally misleading, unfounded and completely baseless maintaining that the company prides itself on integrity, transparency and enhanced customer care.

The Company has firmly established itself as the vanguard of exemplary customer care in the petroleum industry with its unrelenting focus on ensuring a superior service experience across various fronts.

At NP-Sierra Leone Limited, the customer is unequivocally paramount. Every transaction takes place within an atmosphere of congeniality, ensuring a mutually beneficial outcome—a true win-win scenario.

While many may not be aware of it, NP-SL Ltd is proudly Sierra Leonean-owned, a fact that speaks to the company’s remarkable success and expansion. It was a group of 35 Sierra Leonean former employees of British Petroleum (BP) who pooled their end-of-service benefits to purchase shares, laying the foundation for NP’s triumph as an indigenous enterprise.

NP-Sierra Leone Limited is unquestionably on an upward trajectory, scaling new heights with each passing day.

Local Manufacturers Call for Protection Over Unfair Tax Treatment

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Sierra Leonean government, led by the dedicated leadership of President Julius Maada Bio, is committed to elevating the nation to a middle-level country. In pursuit of significant socio-economic transformation, the President has been actively promoting investments across various sectors. While foreign investments have been encouraged, the government is equally focused on nurturing local entrepreneurship, with a particular emphasis on local manufacturing and innovation.

Currently, the economic trajectory of the country reflects the government’s ambitious programs, encapsulated in President Bio’s five game changers: Feed Salone, Human Capital Development, Youth Employment Scheme, Public Transformation, and Technology, which are set to be rolled out.

Implementing these game changers naturally requires funding, and taxation is expected to play a pivotal role in mobilizing the necessary resources, in addition to donor funding. However, imposing excessive taxes on manufacturing industries with the goal of generating revenue for these initiatives could prove counterproductive and detrimental to the economic transformation. Instead of serving as potential revenue sources, these industries could suffer stunted growth and restricted activities.

Members of Parliament, as representatives of the people, should recognize their primary duty to advocate for the interests of their constituents. They must acknowledge that burdensome taxes on local manufacturing will lead to higher prices for the goods and services produced, affecting the living standards of their constituents. The blame for these higher prices cannot be solely placed on local manufacturers when considering the high production costs and tax burdens they face.

It is imperative for Members of Parliament to advocate for favorable tax policies on behalf of local manufacturers when Finance Acts are presented in Parliament.

Furthermore, the government should recognize that while imports serve a vital role in supplying goods and services, a robust economic landscape requires the growth and sustainability of local manufacturing. If the government aims to promote the thriving of local manufacturers, it should implement tax policies that favor them over importers of consumer goods and services. A well-structured tax regime has the potential to invigorate the economy, fostering self-sufficiency and prosperity.

Importantly, if the government intends to create 5,000 jobs for the youth, as outlined in one of its game changers, it is essential to establish tax regimes that encourage the growth of local manufacturers. These businesses can generate employment opportunities for both skilled and unskilled labor, playing a significant role in reducing unemployment rates.

The expansion of the manufacturing sector will undoubtedly boost economic activity, driving GDP growth and stimulating investments in technology, infrastructure, and innovation, ultimately leading to a flourishing industrial foundation.

In conclusion, the implementation of favorable tax policies can ignite enthusiasm among local manufacturers, encouraging expansion and attracting new investments. This, in turn, reduces reliance on imported goods as incentivized local manufacturers offer domestically produced alternatives, diminishing the need for foreign products.

Tax incentives, such as reduced corporate income tax rates, investment tax credits, and accelerated depreciation for manufacturers, can spur economic growth and attract investments in local production. Adjustments to customs and import duties can also favor domestic goods, making imported products comparatively more expensive and stimulating domestic consumption.

In light of these considerations, President Bio and Members of Parliament must carefully assess tax levies on local manufacturers. Members of Parliament should actively advocate for favorable tax policies to protect local manufacturing entities from burdensome tax regimes, in order to safeguard the interests of their constituents.

By implementing these policies, President Bio and Members of Parliament can inspire entrepreneurship among local manufacturers, reduce their tax burdens, and provide them with the opportunity to invest in research, innovation, and skilled labor. This, in turn, enhances productivity, quality, and competitiveness, paving the way for a prosperous future where local manufacturers thrive and meaningfully contribute to the nation’s development.

Interswitch Announces its First Sierra Leone Fintech Forum

Africa’s leading integrated payments and digital commerce company, Interswitch, has announced the maiden edition of its Interswitch Fintech Forum slated to hold on Thursday, November 2, 2023, at the Radisson Blu Mammy Yoko Hotel, Freetown, Sierra Leone.

The event themed “Unlocking the Future of Digital Payments in Sierra Leone” will bring together key stakeholders, customers and thought leaders in the fintech sector to foster innovation, collaboration, and economic growth in Sierra Leone.

The event will also feature keynote speakers and panel sessions that will provide valuable insights intohow digital payments can bridge the financial inclusion gap in Sierra Leone.

Speaking about the forthcoming event, Akeem Lawal, the Managing Director, Payment Processing and Switching (Interswitch Purepay), said it is important to bring together players in the financial industry to deliberate on ways to leverage digital payment to transform the Sierra Leone payment landscape.

Lawal explained that Sierra Leone, like many other countries across Africa, is experiencing a rapid shift towards digital payments, driven by the need for financial inclusion noting that Interswitch recognizes the immense potential of Sierra Leone’s digital payment ecosystem and is committed to playing a pivotal role in its growth.

He said “We are excited to announce the maiden edition of Interswitch Fintech Forum in Sierra Leone. As a company deeply committed to driving financial inclusion and innovation in Africa, we believe that enhancing the Sierra Leonean payment landscape with secure and efficient payment solutions is essential for economic progress.”

He further said “Sierra Leone has enormous potential for digital payments to drive economic growth and financial inclusion and Interswitch is proud to be at the forefront of this transformation.We are excited to bring together stakeholders to collectively strategize to create a robust and inclusive digital payment ecosystem that serves the needs of all citizens.”

Interswitch believes that this collaborative effort will not only benefit the economy of Sierra Leone but also empower its citizens by offering them more convenient, secure, and accessible topnotch payment solutions.

The event is expected to be a key milestone in the journey towards a more inclusive, cashless, and technologically advanced Sierra Leone. Attendees can expect to connect with top experts, explore investment opportunities, and gain a deeper understanding of the latest trends shaping the financial technology sector.

President Bio Engages IMC on Repeal of 1965 Public Order Act

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio held a significant engagement with the Chairman and Commissioners of the Independent Media Commission (IMC) on October 26, 2023 to discuss the aftermath of the repeal of Part Five of the Public Order Act of 1965, which had previously criminalized free speech and hindered professional journalism in Sierra Leone.

During this meeting, the IMC provided updates on the overall progress in the media landscape. They highlighted a noteworthy shift, revealing that following the repeal of the oppressive legislation, an impressive 90 percent of individuals with grievances against the media and press now turn to the commission for resolution, rather than seeking redress through the courts.

Dr. Victor Massaquoi, the Chairman of the IMC, commended President Bio for the repeal of this antiquated law, recognizing it as one of the most substantial achievements in Sierra Leone’s history since gaining independence in 1961. Dr. Massaquoi elaborated on the IMC’s accomplishments during their 20 months in office, including the development of a strategic vision that bolstered the commission’s reputation, advancements in monitoring, research, and staff development.

He emphasized that the removal of the anti-press law had further empowered the commission, resulting in an increased reliance on them by the public for addressing media-related concerns. This shift has led to heightened public trust and confidence in the IMC’s ability to regulate the media.

While acknowledging the commission’s successes, Dr. Massaquoi also outlined some of the challenges they face. However, he highlighted positive aspects such as securing scholarships for staff members to pursue professional training abroad. Additionally, he called on President Bio to support community radio stations in championing the government’s Big Five Game changer initiative, particularly the FEED SALONE program.

President Julius Maada Bio expressed gratitude to the Chairman and Commissioners of the IMC for their commitment to updating him on their activities. He underscored the Commission’s direct accountability to his office and the importance of staying informed about their operations.

President Bio emphasized his dedication to ensuring that all sectors of Sierra Leone work together effectively. He acknowledged that the government’s capacity to absorb graduates into the public service is limited and expressed hope that the FEED SALONE initiative would stimulate widespread development, create employment opportunities, enhance food security, and drive economic growth for the nation.

“The FEED SALONE initiative will engage our youth and help make our public sector more productive. Our government is determined to deliver results, and our machinery must be up to the task. Accelerating development is a top priority, and integrating the Big Five Gamechanger into your activities will provide valuable insights on how we can promote our nation. This should be the concern of all citizens,” President Bio urged.

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