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Labour Congress Expresses Gratitude to Pres Bio for Championing Legal Reforms

In a significant development, His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio engaged in a frank and productive discussion with the executive members of the Sierra Leone Labour Congress (SLLC) on Thursday, October 26, 2023, addressing a range of critical issues impacting consumers, laborers, and citizens in the nation.

Max K. Conteh, the Secretary General of the SLLC, expressed gratitude for the President’s efforts to champion the recognition of workers through legal reforms. He commended the nation’s labor laws, highlighting their effectiveness in safeguarding the rights of workers. Despite the labor union’s reputation for being a vocal advocate, Conteh emphasized their commitment to constructive dialogue with the government, guided by the welfare of both the state and its workforce. He conveyed optimism for a successful partnership with President Bio during his tenure.

During the engagement, the Sierra Leone Labour Congress presented a position statement outlining six key socio-economic factors that are affecting the country’s citizens. These factors include rising petroleum costs, transportation expenses, essential commodity prices, worker salaries and wages, taxation concerns, and electricity tariffs.

President Julius Maada Bio attentively listened to these concerns, acknowledging the labor union’s role in representing the interests of the broader workforce. He expressed appreciation for their commitment while underscoring the substantial efforts his administration had undertaken to mitigate the adverse impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing global crisis.

President Bio stated, “The global disruptions we are witnessing have reverberated within nations, affecting Sierra Leone as well. Despite the progress we made in controlling inflation, external shocks, such as the international financial crisis, supply chain disruptions, and the conflict in Ukraine, have posed significant challenges.”

He further explained, “As a fragile nation and economy, our capacity to respond is limited. We have shouldered the burden of substantial electricity costs, amounting to $50 million, and the government cannot indefinitely subsidize fuel costs while also fulfilling critical obligations in education, healthcare, agriculture, and other vital areas.”

Acknowledging the concerns about rising fuel prices and their cascading effects on other commodities, President Bio stressed, “The world is grappling with turmoil, and I share your concern about the impact of fuel costs on daily expenses. However, it is our duty as a government to safeguard the well-being of all workers. As President, I firmly believe in constructive dialogue for the betterment of our nation, the preservation of peace, and the promotion of national unity.”

The President’s engagement with the Sierra Leone Labour Congress underlines the administration’s commitment to open and constructive dialogue as an essential tool for addressing the challenges facing Sierra Leone’s workforce and citizens.

NaTCA Celebrates The Dawn Of The Era Of 5G Technology In Sierra Leone

Exciting times lie ahead for Sierra Leone as the nation gears up to usher in the era of 5G technology. The introduction of 5G is set to revolutionize the way Sierra Leoneans connect, communicate, and conduct business. The dawn of 5G in Sierra Leone promises to usher in an era of heightened connectivity, creativity, and innovation.

The introduction of 5G technology in Sierra Leone is a remarkable step toward embracing the digital age. It has the potential to boost economic growth, improve education, healthcare, and governance, and connect people like never before.

Spearheading this monumental transformation is Mr. Amara Brewah, the Director-General of the National Telecommunications Authority (NaTCA). Under his visionary leadership, the nation is witnessing an unparalleled leap in its telecommunications landscape. Within a span of merely three months, the two leading mobile operators, Orange and Africell, have integrated.

GYC & Partners Collaborate to Plant 250,000 Trees in Sierra Leone

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The Global Youth Counterpart for Sustainable Development (GYC), a youth-led Non-Governmental Organization operating in Sierra Leone, has embarked on a significant tree-planting initiative in collaboration with the World Bank’s NaCSA Productive Social Safety Network and Youth Employment (PSSNYE) Project, specifically under Component 2B – Public Green Work (PGW).

With the goal of addressing critical environmental and climate challenges, GYC has on 1st October, 2023 commenced the planting of 250,000 trees across thirteen catchments areas in partnership with the Freetown City Council (FCC) and Community-Based Organizations (CBOs). This ambitious endeavour aims to mitigate the adverse impacts of rapid urbanization, deforestation and climate change in Sierra Leone.

Speaking to this medium, the Executive Director of Global Youth Counterpart for Sustainable Development (GYC), Abdul Karim Marah, said the country’s urban population has been rapidly increasing, particularly in Freetown, where urban expansion is encroaching into forested areas, adding that this uncontrolled growth has resulted in deforestation and habitat loss, posing threats such as landslides, floods, and sea-level rise of which the loss of forested areas is also affecting water reserves, which provide a critical water supply to Freetown.

He said that as part of the 250,000 trees to be planted across thirteen catchments areas within the Western Rural and Urban, they have already planted 150, 000 trees in different communities which include Mongeabga, Moyieba, Gloucester, Jui, Madina, Leicester Communities etc. and Fourah Bay College Campus.

Abdul Karim Marah revealed that after the 2017 mudslide in the country, the World Bank conducted a Multi-City Hazard Review and Assessment Report furthering how, in Sierra Leone, the thirteen catchment areas selected for the project are part of those identified as extremely prone disaster areas.

The Executive Director also disclosed how the GYC’s tree-planting approach utilizes a sustainable model that actively engages local citizens and community-based growers, stating that the approach not only promotes the planting of trees but also ensures their long-term survival.

He stated that they do not only plant and grow the trees but also digitally track as well as maintenance, using the Tree Tracker app, which is used on locally available smartphones saying it enables growers to geotag and monitor each newly planted tree.

Abdul Karim furthered that growers revisit seedlings to maintain and document their growth, with mobile money micropayments offered for their efforts and that the community-driven model is designed to achieve an 80% tree-survival rate while enhancing community ownership of the project.

The Executive Director also pointed out that additionally, the initiative incorporates various types of trees, including upper catchment and forest trees, economic trees, native trees, and mangrove trees.

According to him, the tree-planting effort serves to enhance environmental restoration, promote climate resilience, and alleviate the short-term economic and poverty impacts of COVID-19 on vulnerable households while creating long and short term job opportunities for 220, particularly for youth, women, migrants and other vulnerable groups and that the project is supported by a range of open-source applications and verification systems to ensure transparency and long-term success.

He concluded by saying that the GYC’s comprehensive and community-focused approach underscores its commitment to addressing environmental challenges, fostering sustainability and promoting economic empowerment in Sierra Leone.

With Opportunity for 1000 Scholarships… Ministry of Employment and SOS Global Facilitate Readiness Class & Info Seminar

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security, in collaboration with the NEKOTECH Center of Excellence and SOS Global Investment, concluded a one-day readiness class and info seminar on October 24, 2023. The event, held at the Bintumani Conference Room 1 in Aberdeen, Freetown, aims to guide Sierra Leonean students in securing Pre-Scholarship and no-collateral educational loans for USA Master’s Degree programs, offering 1000 scholarship opportunities.

In his remarks, the Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security, Mohamed Raman Swaray, expressed appreciation to SOS Global Investment for this initiative and his predecessor for laying the platform, adding that in the past, the space for post-graduate degree was a big challenge of which he used the opportunity to admonish students to grab the opportunity.

He said that President Bio is a man with vision and loves education, and therefore made it his flagship project in his first term, adding that despite focusing on his Big Five Initiatives, which includes Feed Salone and Job Creation, the President still puts premium on education.

Mohamed Raman Swaray maintained that as a Government they are ready to work closely with NEKOTECH Center of Excellence and SOS Global Investment in order to ensure that the proposed 1000 scholarships for Sierra Leonean students come to fruition.

He encouraged Sierra Leonean students to make use of the opportunity and the chances provided, as Education is the key and the President is a man who has laid his life for education and wants to see every young meaningful Sierra Leonean be educated.

Mohamed Raman Swaray maintained that the scholarship is going to last till 2025, which is very helpful to the free quality education, and citizens should know that the students that are applying should stay focused, adding that the entire program will go through a rigorous process.

On his part, the Presidential Adviser on Employment, Alpha Timbo, recalled that in 2018 President Bio announced his determination for Human Capital Development, and critics thought it was a pipe dream, but today, a lot has been achieved.

He stressed that in ensuring that the Human Capital Development is achieved, His Excellency introduced the Free Quality Education, which is now operational, with notable results. This was achieved by the team that the President appointed.

Alpha Timbo expressed optimism in the efficiency of Minister Swaray, whose exemplary performance in the Information Ministry is now being replicated in the Employment Ministry.

He stressed that they will continue to give the Ministry the support he needs to deliver on his mandate, adding that they are quietly identifying sectors for the achievement of this mandate of providing employment. With respect to the current scholarship program, he maintained that they are strengthening collaboration with the various line Ministries and the US Embassy is to ensure that the program becomes a reality.

In his statement, Managing Director, SOS Global Investment, Umaru Jalloh, said the NEKOTEH Center of Excellence and SOS Global Investment are working on a guide to Prep scholarship with no collateral Education loans to pursue USA Master’s Degree for over 1000 Sierra Leonean students, adding that there will be a Special Edition of Readiness Class and INFO SEMINAR, which will enable the students in the application process.

He said that the readiness class forms part of the symbolic cheque presented to His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio about a week ago where there is a 1000 slot for Sierra Leonean Students to study in the United States of America and Canada, adding that the seminar is a manifestation to show Sierra Leoneans what they presented to the President has started which will now enable them to apply in order to be part of the opportunity.

The Managing Director maintained that for any student to join the NekoTech Virtual Readiness Class, they should pay $250 and enjoy all the benefits, which is free Prep School Scholarship, worth $2,500 up to $100,000, with No-collateral loan for 2 years’ Master’s Degree in STEM/AI/MBA in USA.

He concluded by commending the Ministry of Employment, Labour, and Social Security for the partnership and used the opportunity to call on Sierra Leonean students with first degrees to grab the opportunity to study in USA, adding that it will help them if they make good use of the opportunity.

The Associate Director, Northern America and UK Recruitment of EDUCO USA and SOS Nekotech USA Education Partner, Tyson Manering said that international students often wish to join a STEM-designated program because it will allow them to qualify for 36 months of work experience after graduation.

He said that students should find a university matching their interests and budget and that it is okay to consider universities that they haven’t heard of but encouraged them to work closely with SOS Nekoteck as their counsellors.

Tyson Manering revealed that there are nearly 5,000 higher educational institutions in the US with 20 million students in total and over 1.1 million international students and that 42,518 students from Africa growing at 9% per year.

The program also includes testimonial videos featuring current beneficiaries of the Work/Study initiative, a detailed presentation on how the programme operates, as well as a step-by-step guide on the application processes, including insights on accessing non-collateral loans with an aim to provide valuable information and resources for individuals interested in the Work/Study programme.

NCRA, SLRSA Collaborate to Enhance Identity Verification Integrity

By Abubakarr Harding

In a groundbreaking development aimed at bolstering the reliability of identity verification across various governmental sectors, the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) has forged a pivotal partnership with the Sierra Leone Roads Safety Authority (SLRSA). The agreement, which was finalized at the NCRA office on Thursday, October 26, 2023, seeks to ensure that every Sierra Leonean possesses a distinctive identification with consistent information accessible across all institutions.

The crux of the collaboration lies in granting the SLRSA authorized access to the NCRA’s identity verification platform. This strategic alliance empowers the SLRSA to meticulously authenticate and validate the personal information of their clientele, particularly those engaging in various services such as vehicle registration, driving license applications etc.

Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi, Director General of the NCRA, underscored the extensive efforts invested in testing the integration system alongside the technical teams of both institutions over the past months. “Our integrated system has seamlessly aligned with that of the SLRSA,” he confirmed. This compatibility guarantees the synchronization of personal data, ensuring uniformity and precision across all governmental sectors.

Massaquoi further stressed the vital necessity of ensuring accountability for all registered vehicles and issued licenses within the country. “Curbing corruption and malpractice is imperative,” he asserted, citing successful interventions by their system over the past month. With the National Identification Number (NIN) in place as a statutory requirement, he expressed confidence that this initiative would restore integrity and coherence to the identity framework, effectively resolving the persistent issue of data replication.

The Director General emphasized that the NIN serves as an exclusive identifier that remains unique even in the unfortunate event of an individual’s demise. “Our focus remains on spearheading Sierra Leone’s digital transformation,” he remarked. “As a Government, our goal is to enhance the overall quality of life for all citizens, particularly by facilitating seamless and secure personal transactions within the country.”

He added that the collaboration between the NCRA and SLRSA signifies a crucial milestone in Sierra Leone’s journey towards robust and responsible identity management. With an unwavering commitment to transparency and efficiency, according to him, the Government is resolute in its endeavors to foster a secure and dependable environment for all citizens, paving the way for a more streamlined and trustworthy public service experience.

Executive Director of SLRSA, Rev. Smart K. Senessie, highlighted the close collaboration between their technical teams in recent months, aimed at advancing the agenda of His Excellency the President for efficient service delivery. He noted that prior to January of this year, their systems faced challenges concerning licenses and vehicle registration. However, with the signing of agreements with Autospect, their license system has seen significant improvements, necessitating clients to undergo biometric fingerprinting and enjoy enhanced services.

He hailed the integration of their system with the NCRA database as a significant step in the right direction, emphasizing that it would help minimize errors, as individuals would need to provide their national identification number, present on the National ID card, for registration. The Executive Director added that once the NIN is inputted,  SLRSA would automatically receive the customer’s comprehensive details, reducing processing time and ensuring accurate documentation for services such as driver’s license issuance and life card registration without delay or errors.

NP SL: A Reliable Fuel Provider with Consistently High Stock Levels 

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a notable contribution to national development,  NP-Sierra Leone Limited (NP-SL Ltd) has emerged as a key player in the economic landscape, lauded for its unwavering commitment to providing essential services to the nation.

As an efficient petroleum marketing entity, NP-SL Ltd takes pride in its extensive network of  Filling Stations across Sierra Leone and its robust presence in Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast, and The Gambia. This 100% indigenous-owned company has significantly contributed to reducing poverty by creating job opportunities in these countries, aligning with the Local Content policy.

Moreover, NP-SL Ltd stands out as one of the largest contributors to national revenue generating institutions, enabling Governments, where it operates, to fund critical development projects through tax revenues.

The company’s capable and competent Management team consistently introduces and implements initiatives that create value for its customers. Commendably, since its establishment by 35 Sierra Leonean shareholders, who purchased shares from the Government, NP-SL Ltd has grown significantly, overcoming various challenges. The dedication of its shareholders and management has driven its success and positioned it as a leader in the sub-region.

Customer care is a top priority for NP-SL Ltd and its commitment to enhancing customer satisfaction has garnered widespread recognition. The company’s selfless shareholders have not only empowered many Sierra Leoneans but also facilitated the expansion of Filling Stations in countries where it is functioning.

The petroleum marketing entity maintains a strong and mutually beneficial relationship with its customers, offering a range of affordable petroleum products in approaches that have led to win-win situations, endearing the company to all.

The Petroleum Regulatory Agency (PRA), responsible for regulating petroleum companies in Sierra Leone, has on various occasions commended NP-SL Ltd for its efficient service delivery.

Besides petroleum products, the company also markets NP Gas cookers of various sizes, available at all its Filling Stations, providing a safe and user-friendly cooking solution for its customers.

In terms of the Local Content Policy, since its establishment, NP Sierra Leone Limited (NP-SL Ltd) has become an invaluable force in the realm of job creation and poverty reduction employing 100% Sierra Leonean workers, promoting the policy’s objectives by nurturing local talent through training programs.

Introducing the use of the NP Smart Card to procure fuel, the company has made it possible for its customers to conduct cashless transactions with the attendant benefits of optimizing accessibility easily without going through the hassle of having physical cash at all times customers may want to secure fuel. It enhances convenience and safety on the part of its esteemed customers.

With a result-oriented Managerial team, NP-SL Ltd is poised to maintain its leadership position. The company is excelling in all the countries in which it operates, with promising prospects for further expansion.

Excessive Taxation Threatens Business Viability in Freetown

A looming economic crisis is gripping Freetown’s Central Business District as shops struggle to keep their doors open amid soaring taxation rates imposed by the government’s National Revenue Authority (NRA). Numerous establishments have been forced to shut down operations, leaving the public with limited access to their essential services.

Sources within the NRA have disclosed that the prevailing situation has inflicted significant losses on the government’s revenue from goods and services. Shop owners, deeply affected by the heavier tax burdens, have raised their voices in protest, fearing that their businesses are on the brink of collapse due to what they perceive as excessive and detrimental government decisions.

Since shop owners united in their resolve on Monday to protest these onerous tax policies, the government has yet to address their concerns. Their primary grievances revolve around the imposition of double taxation and the introduction of NRA staff into their operations, with the cost being transferred to the taxpayers.

Prominent Business Tycoon, in an exclusive statement to our press, shed light on the multifaceted economic ramifications of these burdensome taxes. “High taxation, particularly in terms of goods and services, creates a complex issue for economic development. It can deter businesses from investing and expanding, ultimately leading to reduced profits and limited capital available for research, development, innovation, and growth. This vicious cycle obstructs economic development, as businesses are less inclined to generate new jobs and contribute to technological progress.”

Moreover, he emphasized that excessive taxation renders businesses less competitive, resulting in higher prices for goods and services. This, in turn, diminishes their ability to compete with businesses in countries with more lenient tax structures, potentially leading to a decline in export competitiveness and a hindrance to overall economic growth.

“High taxation discourages entrepreneurship and hampers the establishment of small businesses. Entrepreneurs already face substantial risks when launching new ventures, and heavy taxation further discourages them from pursuing their innovative ideas. Small businesses play a pivotal role in stimulating economic growth by generating jobs and fostering innovation,” he underscored.

As the standoff between business owners and the government escalates, the economic stability of Freetown hangs in the balance, with the fate of countless businesses and livelihoods at risk. Stay tuned for further developments on this pressing issue.

Bio Promises Bipartisan Accord to Defuse Election-Related Tensions

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

President Julius Maada Bio unveiled his commitment to implementing an international-mediated agreement with opposition leaders to ease tensions arising from the disputed June elections.

As part of this accord, President Bio on Tuesday October 24, 2023, addressed the nation during a primetime slot on the country’s National  Broadcaster, SLBC/TV. His speech marked a significant stride towards achieving unity and enduring peace in Sierra Leone.

In the wake of this dialogue, President Bio emphasized the need for a comprehensive review of the electoral system, a key component of the agreement reached by the ruling party and opposition factions earlier in the month.

“Reevaluating our electoral systems is pivotal to fortifying our democracy,” President Bio remarked during his address. He also called upon all Sierra Leoneans to embrace a spirit of unity and reconciliation, urging the nation to set aside political differences and work together.

President Bio, who secured re-election in June with 56.17% of the vote, faced criticism from international observers regarding irregularities, a lack of transparency in the vote count and instances of violence as well as intimidation.

The primary opposition party, the All People’s Congress (APC), contested the results of the presidential, legislative, and local elections held on June 24. Subsequently, the APC boycotted all levels of government.

A breakthrough emerged following negotiations mediated by international entities, including the Commonwealth, the African Union, and the West African bloc ECOWAS. The APC agreed to cease its boycott and rejoin Government activities in exchange for the termination of politically motivated detentions and court cases. Additionally, both the Government and the APC consented to establish an inter-party committee aimed at reviewing the June elections in collaboration with development partners.

President Bio’s commitment to national unity and a thorough electoral system review signifies a hopeful transformation in Sierra Leone’s political landscape promising a future marked by cooperation and reconciliation.

Local Manufacturers Deserve Favourable Tax Regimes to Meaningfully Thrive

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

There is no denial of the fact that the ruling SLPP led Government under the indefatigable leadership of President Julius Maada Bio is keen on transforming Sierra Leone into a middle-level country. It is on record that in trying to achieve meaningful socio-economic transformation the President has been endeavouring to encourage investments into various sectors. In as much as the Government has been luring direct foreign investment, putting the right parameters in place, it has also been

desirous in driving local entrepreneurship of which local manufacturing, innovation are key aspects.

What is today apparent in the economic trajectory of the country is the outlining by the  Government of ambitious programmes as encompassed in President Bio’s five game changers, Feed Salone, Human Capital Development, Youth Employment Scheme, Public Transformation and Technology which it is determined to roll out.

Rolling out these game changers definitely require funding and in trying to mobilize the needed funding, imposition of taxes will form a key role in addition to donor funding. However, it could be counter-productive and inimical to economic transformation if manufacturing industries are targeted, through the imposition of burdensome taxes with the aim of generating revenue to actualize those game changers. Instead, of them becoming potential sources of revenue mobilization, their growth and activities will only be stifled or hampered.

Members of Parliament, who are the representatives of the people, should realize that their key responsibility is to promote the interest of their constituents. They must be mindful of the fact that when local manufacturing industries or companies bear heavy tax burdens such will have corresponding negative impact on the standard of living of their constituents, in the form of higher prices of the goods and services local manufacturers produce or offer.

Understandably, Members of Parliament should not blame the local manufacturers of selling their goods or offering their services at higher prices when cognizance is taken of the high cost of production involved and the higher taxes that they incur.

It is therefore incumbent on them to realistically advocate, on behalf of local manufacturers, for favourable taxes, whenever Finance Acts are tabled before them in Parliament.

Also, Government must note that while imports serve the vital purpose in supplying goods and services, a robust economic landscape should necessitate the growth and sustainability of local manufacturing.

In as much as the Government is trying to encourage local manufacturers to thrive, it should institute tax policies that favor them over importers of consumer goods and services. It goes without saying that a well-structured tax regime holds the potential to substantially invigorate the economy, fostering self-sufficiency and prosperity.

Significantly, if Government is to actualize its plan to create 5,000 jobs for the youth, as one of its game changers, then it is important for tax regimes to be put in place that encourage local manufacturers to thrive and expand. Their businesses will not only generate employment opportunities for both skilled and unskilled labor but also play a pivotal role in reducing unemployment rates.

Indisputably, the expansion of the manufacturing sector will lead to heightened economic activity, propelling GDP growth and encouraging investments in technology, infrastructure, and innovation, ultimately resulting in a flourishing industrial foundation.

Rationally speaking, when favourable tax regimes are in place there will be zest, on the part of local manufacturers, to expand and others will feel free or be enthusiastic to invest. When such materializes there will be decreased reliance on imported goods, as incentivized local manufacturers provide consumers with domestically produced alternatives, reducing the need for foreign products.

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

Against this backdrop, the Government, under President Bio’s astute leadership which prioritizes investments to drive economic development must be considerate in levying taxes on local manufacturers.

Members of Parliament must also play a key advocacy role geared towards protecting local manufacturing entities from bearing the brunt of burdensome tax regimes otherwise they will be deemed as doing nothing to seek the interest of their constituents.

By implementing favourable tax policies, President Bio and Members of Parliament can inspire entrepreneurship among local manufacturers. Reduced tax burdens create breathing room for these businesses, allowing them to invest in research, innovation and skilled labour. This in turn enhances productivity, quality and competitiveness.

Through collaborative efforts and strategic policymaking, Sierra Leone can pave the way for a prosperous future where local manufacturers thrive and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s development.

CARL Concludes Validation Session for Amendments of Correctional Service Act

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The Center for Accountability and Rule of Law (CARL), in collaboration with the Sierra Leone Correctional Service, with funds from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has successfully wrapped up a two-day validation session for proposed amendments to the Sierra Leone Correctional Service Act. This significant event took place at the New Brookfields Hotel in Freetown on Wednesday, October 25, 2023.

The Two-day validation retreat brought together leaders from various sectors, including the justice sector, Sierra Leone Correctional Service, civil society, the Sierra Leone Police, and the Sierra Leone Parliament, among others.

Addressing members of the Press, the Head of Programs at the Center for Accountability and Rule of Law (CARL), Jeremy Ben Simbo, said the Sierra Leone Government initially enacted the Sierra Leone Correctional Service Act (SLCS) in 2014 to establish the Sierra Leone Correctional Service, introduce provisions for the organization and management of correctional centers and address the welfare and needs of inmates.

He added that after a few years of implementation, several changes have been proposed to enhance the management system’s effectiveness, address the welfare of correctional officers and protect the rights of inmates.

Jeremy Ben Simbo revealed that the two-day session provided a platform for additional suggestions, improvements to the existing legal text and recommendations on safeguarding the rights of inmates against abuse, furthering that topics discussed included the appointment process for the institution’s leadership, the relationship between the Sierra Leone Correctional Service Council and the Director-General, expanding the rights of female inmates, and ensuring the protection of children born in or living in correctional facilities.

He said that the finalized document will be submitted to the leadership of the Law Officers’ Department for a final review before its introduction in Parliament and that CARL remains committed to supporting this process and keeping citizens informed and engaged.

The Head of Programs concluded by stating that the ongoing review represents a collective effort by the Government of Sierra Leone and its partners to establish an accessible, fair and affordable justice system in the country.

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