Jennifer Thompson Calls on Sierra Leonean Youth to Embrace Digital Solutions for Sustainable Growth

August 14, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

On Monday, August 12th, 2024, Jennifer Thompson, a prominent philanthropist and Chief Executive Officer of The Jennifer Thompson Organization and The No Child Left Behind Initiatives, addressed the youth of Sierra Leone in celebration of International Youth Day 2024. The event focused on the global theme, “From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development,” with her delivering an inspiring message that emphasized the crucial role of young people in shaping the nation’s future.

In her speech, Jennifer Thompson expressed pride and optimism for the potential of Sierra Leone’s youth, referring to them as the “future leaders.” She highlighted the importance of the digital age, stating, “We are living in a time when technology is no longer a luxury but a necessity. It has the power to connect us, educate us and empower us. For Sierra Leone, the digital world offers an unprecedented opportunity to leapfrog challenges and build a sustainable future.”

The Philanthropist and Chief Executive Officer urged the youth to view technology as a tool for innovation, education and economic growth, encouraging them to harness the power of the internet, coding, data analysis and social media to create solutions for the challenges the country faces in health, education, agriculture and governance.

She called on the youth to think beyond traditional paths and explore how technology can help them create businesses that solve local problems. “Whether it’s a mobile app that improves access to healthcare, an online platform that connects farmers to markets or a digital campaign that raises awareness about environmental sustainability, innovation is within your reach,” she said.

Jennifer Thompson also emphasized the importance of education and skill development in the digital era, urging young people to learn new skills online, take courses in coding, digital marketing or data science and equip themselves with the tools to compete on a global scale. “In a world driven by technology, your skills are your currency. The sky is the limit,” she added.

For those involved in advocacy and social change, she highlighted the power of social media and digital platforms in giving the youth a voice to advocate for change and hold leaders accountable.

Jennifer Thompson encouraged them to use these platforms not just for entertainment, but as tools to organize, educate and inspire, advocating for policies that promote sustainability, equity and justice.

She stressed the importance of collaboration and global connectivity in achieving sustainable development, urging the youth to connect with like-minded individuals, organizations and experts across the globe. “Sustainable development is not an individual effort but a collective one. Together, you can build a network of change-makers who are committed to a better world,” she stated.

Concluding her speech, Thompson reminded the youth that technology is only as powerful as the hands that wield it. “You are the force behind the digital tools, and it is your creativity, your passion, and your dedication that will determine how effectively we use them,” she said.

The Philanthropist and Chief Executive Officer’s message was clear: the future of Sierra Leone is in the hands of its youth. She urged them to walk boldly on the digital pathway, innovate, educate, advocate and collaborate, working together to build a Sierra Leone that is not only prosperous but also sustainable—a beacon of hope for the rest of the world.

Exposed: The Deceit Behind Fawaz Building Material and Randlyn Holding Company

August 14, 2024

By Esther Wright

For years, the Proprietor of Fawaz Building Materials and Randlyn Holding Company has been deceiving the National Revenue Authority (NRA) by grossly abusing the duty-free system meant for road construction companies and dubious construction projects. This blatant misuse of Government provisions is a call for the NRA, Anti-Corruption Commission and the Government to conduct a thorough audit of his cement, iron rods and building material imports.

Operating under the guise of a legitimate business, he has been importing these products through the duty-free system, evading taxes and exploiting Sierra Leoneans by selling at exorbitant prices. The cement he imports is less than the stated 50kg and the iron rods are undersized, defrauding everyday citizens with substandard products.

But his deceit doesn’t end there. This individual is notorious for going around calling others names while failing to look in the mirror himself. He constantly enters partnerships with various people—ranging from mining licenses to Government procurement, to hotels—all with the aim of defrauding them. Once his schemes are in place, he uses the Judicial System to his advantage, boasting that he has the system “in his pocket” and that he can bribe his way through any obstacle.

His actions are not only a fraud against the Government and the people of Sierra Leone but also a threat to the integrity of the country’s legal and financial systems. It’s time to say enough is enough. In the coming days and weeks, more will be revealed about his extensive criminal network. His financing sources are linked to dangerous terrorist groups in the Middle East, involved in laundering and spreading illicit funds. This is not just a fraudster defrauding the Government and the people—he is a threat to national security.

Stay tuned for more as we delve deeper into the criminal enterprise of this petty criminal-turned-businessman, whose illegal activities have been hiding in plain sight for far too long.

Road Maintenance Wellington-Masiaka Highway constructed by CRSG Case Study

August 14, 2024

The Wellington-Masiaka Highway which was constructed by China Railway Seventh Group (SL) Co., Ltd. (CRSG) since 2016 has been carefully managed by the company in order to ensure smooth and safe route to all road users. Despite of its efforts, there have been unforeseen circumstances that have greatly contributed to causing short lifespan to the road.

Generally, the issue of damage to the road infrastructure is not new in this country and other places in the world. In Sierra Leone, damage to our roads often occur in the rainy season. Citizens are very quick in placing blame on poor road construction as the major factor.

The claim by some citizens is far from the truth. The road organization has carried the blame for the whole of time.

The realities in this country are as follows:

Heavy rainfall in the rainy season. In Freetown as in other parts of the country the rainfall is one of the highest in west Africa. The rainfall is so heavy in the month of July and August that the drains are over flooded and rain water finds its way on the road carriageway. According to statistics, the rainfall along the Wellington-Masiaka Highway reached a shocking 983 mm in July 2024, which is far more than the 627 mm recorded in July 2023. The effect of flooding is one of the main causes of road damage. Flooding could be seen in nearly all parts of Freetown.
Freetown and its environs have a very peculiar terrain. It has a mountain range on one side and the Atlantic Ocean on the other. The mountains of Freetown have witness deforestation as a result of building construction etc. and thus disturbing the soil.

In the event of heavy rains the disturbed soil is eroded and move downwards to the city. The silt (mud) fills the drains and thus increase flooding and subsequent damage not only to roads but also to buildings, etc.

The human effect is very crucial. Some of the citizens are using the road drainage system as a dust bin thus blocking the drains. This effect enhances more flooding. Citizens are not obeying the government regulations is another major factor. The excavation of embankment and cuttings for the construction of buildings within the right-of-way is very evident along the Wellington-Masiaka Highway. They sometimes undermine the road carriageway and slopes. The violation of the right-of-way not only destroys the road itself, but also poses a great threat to the road traffic safety.
Overloaded heavy vehicles and increased in the volume of heavy vehicles on our roads have done severe damage to the road infrastructure. Road destruction is related to the volume of heavy traffic including the overloaded ones. The effect of the road damage shows itself in the form of potholes and failure at major intersection.
In some countries in the world including African countries there are overload charges levied on trucks that exceed the stipulated government (design) load.

Sierra Leone has not levied in overload charges as a way of reducing the financial burden on its citizens. The above discussion will be properly understood if we take an example – the Wellington-Masiaka Highway.

This highway is the major road connecting the city of Freetown to the interior of the country. A visual inspection of this road depicts the following:

a) Very heavy and overloaded trucks and trailers plying the road thus causing severe damage to the carriageway potholes and deformation.

b) From Wellington to Masiaka citizens are busy excavating into cuttings and embankments and sometimes extending it to the road drainage and carriageway. This has encouraged mudslide and heavy washing of mud on the road carriageway.

c) One could also see household garbages on the side of this road. It does not only give an unsightly effect but affects the drainage system on the road.

d) One could clearly see the excessive turning, breaking, abrupt stopping and parking of vehicles for commercial purpose including heavy overloaded vehicles at major junctions. All vehicles that concentrated in one lane abandoned the original two-way traffic of four lanes road at the junctions and squeezed into two lanes which resulting traffic congestion. The frequent braking and starting of vehicles cause the remaining lanes to suffer enormous pressure several times higher than normal traffic. These high conflict locations exhibit potholes and deformation of pavement.

The honest analysis of these problems requires twenty-four hours care of the road. This is being religiously done by the contractor CRSG. After every heavy rain, the maintenance team of the company will check the road conditions along the whole line, and timely clean up the rain-washed and congested ditches, road silt and garbage to ensure that the road continues to be smooth, they have followed the prescription (maintenance schedule) developed by their company and approved by government through the Sierra Leone Road Authority.

At junctions where potholes have been created due to the above reasons, the maintenance team will use high strength concreted materials to repair the road surface, which is strong and durable, rather than the traditional methods of residents using simple materials to fill the potholes. Due to the timely and careful maintenance and responsible solution of many road problems by CRSG, the Wellington-Masiaka Highway remains one of the best roads in Sierra Leone.

It is obvious to commuters on this road that CRSG are constantly undertaking road maintenance activities which is the required engineering solution.

However, it remains with the citizenry of the country to ensure that they stop all illegal activities such as excavating, cuttings and embankments, throwing garbages on the side walk and drainage system, etc.

It is good for citizens to raise concerns but it is equally important to give praise where it is due.

Let us don’t forget the great reduction of accident, travel time and vehicle wear and tear this road has brought to us. The numerous developments now taking place along the road corridor and the enhancement of accessibility to transportation safety, health care, education and generation of commerce and trade.

The few potholes deformation, drainage cleaning, brushing etc. are done promptly.

Court Martial Ruling… 24 Soldiers Sentenced Up to 120 Years Over November 26 Coup Attempt

August 12, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Freetown High Court has on Friday August 9, 2024 concluded an extensive eight-month trial involving 26 military officers accused of participating in the November 2023 coup attempt. Judge Advocate Mark Ngegba pronounced severe sentences for the convicted officers, with 24 of them receiving prison terms of up to 120 years each. These sentences will run concurrently.

The court martial, overseen by President Captain Lawrence Jabati and a six-member Board delivered a verdict of guilty for 24 of the accused, while the 19th defendant, RSLAF Woi Sitta Dumbuya, was acquitted and discharged. He had faced multiple charges, including conspiracy to commit mutiny and conduct prejudicing military discipline, but was found not guilty on all counts.

Sergeant Ibrahim Bundu Kamara (2nd accused) was found guilty on all 19 counts and sentenced to a maximum jail term of 120 years.
Staff Sergeant Albert Bassie Conteh (3rd accused) found guilty on all 29 counts and sentenced to maximum jail term of 120 years.
Staff Sergeant Abu Dauda (4th accused): Guilty on all 32 counts. Maximum jail term of 120 years.
Corporal Thalie Marah (5th accused): Guilty on all 44 counts. Maximum jail term of 120 years.
Corporal Edward Koroma (6th accused): Guilty on all 14 counts. Maximum jail term of 120 years.
Sergeant Mohamed Kamara (7th accused): Guilty on all 16 counts. Maximum jail term of 80 years.
Lance Corporal Eustace Neka (8th accused): Guilty on all 31 counts. Maximum jail term of 120 years.
Staff Sergeant Idrissa Kallon (9th accused): Guilty on all 39 counts. Maximum jail term of 120 years.
Corporal John Turay (10th accused): Guilty on all 16 counts. Maximum jail term of 80 years.
Corporal Aiah Gbenda (11th accused): Guilty on all 7 counts. Maximum jail term of 70 years.
Corporal Alie Kamara (12th accused): Guilty on all 11 counts. Maximum jail term of 120 years.
Lance Corporal Musa Maligie (13th accused): Guilty on all 40 counts. Maximum jail term of 120 years.
Private Abdul Razack Kamara (14th accused): Guilty on all 40 counts. Maximum jail term of 120 years.
Sergeant Momoh Kargbo (15th accused): Guilty on all 41 counts. Maximum jail term of 100 years.
Warrant Officer Class 2 Philip Adikalie Turay (16th accused): Guilty on all 9 counts. Maximum jail term of 80 years.
Lieutenant Colonel Charles James Mishek Yamba (17th accused): Guilty on all 6 counts. Maximum jail term of 120 years.
Warrant Officer Class 1 Sitta Dumbuya (19th accused): Not guilty on all 4 counts. Acquitted and discharged.
Sergeant Kemoh Fofanah (20th accused): Guilty on all 18 counts. Maximum jail term of 120 years.
Staff Sergeant Ibrahim Thorlu Bangura (21st accused): Guilty on all 40 counts. Maximum jail term of 120 years.
Warrant Officer Class 2 Alpha Turay (22nd accused): Guilty on all 7 counts. Maximum jail term of 120 years.
Corporal Abu Bakarr Turay (23rd accused): Guilty on all 5 counts. Maximum jail term of 90 years.
Sergeant Rashid Koroma (24th accused): Guilty on all 5 counts. Maximum jail term of 90 years.
Sergeant Omar Fayiah Lebbie (25th accused): Guilty on all 5 counts. Maximum jail term of 50 years.
Lance Corporal Hassan Sesay (26th accused): Guilty on all 5 counts. Maximum jail term of 80 years.
Lance Corporal Abu Samuel Kamara (27th accused): Guilty on all 6 counts. Maximum jail term of 80 years.

The Court Martial, which began on January 8, 2024, initially involved 27 defendants facing 88 charges. All accused, except Staff Sergeant Alhaji Koroma (1st accused), pleaded not guilty. He admitted guilt to nine charges, leading to a 30-year prison term for those counts, with the remaining charges dropped.

Lance Corporal Abu Bakarr Koroma (18th accused) was granted a separate trial due to a medical condition. His case will resume at a later date.

The defendants faced charges including mutiny, conspiracy to commit mutiny, murder, and aiding the enemy. The prosecution, led by YS Koroma, JAK Sesay, and Colonel MBS Kamara, presented 37 witnesses and 188 exhibits. The defense, represented by Ady Macauley, Ibrahim Bangura, Julius Kofi, and others, countered with 29 witnesses, including two unsworn statements.

The Court Martial was presided over by Judge Advocate Mark Ngegba, with Captain Lawrence Jabati and a board of seven military officers overseeing the proceedings.

This trial marks a significant chapter in Sierra Leone’s legal history, holding accountable those involved in the violent coup attempt against the government.

Lans Corporal Abubakar Koroma, was tried separately due to health issues.

The charges against the 24 convicted officers included mutiny, aiding the enemy, communication with the enemy, murder, and other serious violations. The prosecution presented a robust case with 37 witnesses and 188 exhibits. In contrast, the defense called 27 witnesses in support of the accused.

During sentencing, Defense Attorneys emphasized the defendants’ long service in the military and their family responsibilities, pleading for leniency. Despite these appeals, the court’s decision reflects the gravity of the attempted coup, which saw armed men storm the nation’s armory and a prison, resulting in the deaths of 18 security personnel.

The trial’s conclusion marks a pivotal moment in Sierra Leone’s legal and political history, holding the coup plotters accountable for their actions. The court announced that a separate trial date would be set for Lans Corporal Abubakar Koroma due to his ongoing health condition.

The November 2023 coup attempt led to a significant security crisis in Sierra Leone. Armed insurgents breached military and prison facilities, leading to the release of over 2,000 inmates and the deaths of numerous security personnel. Authorities apprehended around 80 suspects, including former President Ernest Bai Koroma, who was later granted medical leave. The court’s decision follows the recent sentencing of 11 civilians involved in the coup, with alleged leader Amadu Koita Makalo receiving a 182-year prison term.

Orange SL Awards NLe 320,000 to Winners of Orange Social Venture Prize

August 12, 2024

By Ajoke Mulicatu Afolabi

Orange Sierra Leone held its prestigious Orange Innovations Awards 2024 on August 9, 2024, at the New Brookfields Hotel in Freetown. The event, which highlighted the importance of innovation and entrepreneurship in Sierra Leone, was graced by prominent figures such as Orange SL CEO, Sekou Amadou Bah, Minister of Youth Affairs Mohamed Orman Bangura and the Ministry of Communication, Technology, and Innovation’s Communications Director Kumba Musa, representing Minister Salima Monorma Bah. Also in attendance were the Chief Executive Officer of Innovation Sierra Leone, Francis Stevens George and other distinguished guests.

The ceremony marked the culmination of the 6th Edition of the Orange Social Venture Prize (OSVP) in Sierra Leone, coinciding with the 14th edition of the award across Africa and the Middle East. This initiative, which began with the opening of submissions on March 25th, 2024, seeks to foster social innovation and support local entrepreneurship through a competitive process. Applicants from 19 Orange affiliates across Africa and the Middle East, including Sierra Leone, were invited to participate in both national and international categories.

In her welcome address, Madam Finnah Stevens, the Orange Foundation Manager, highlighted the OSVP as a platform for transformation, urging attendees to embrace the possibilities it offers and to remain open to the extraordinary potentials ahead. She introduced the evaluators and judges, including William Conteh, Alpha Sulaiman Bund, Haja Mariama F. Myers, Mohamed Sheriff Bah, Bashir M. Idris, Sia Foday Iscanderia, and Jestina Patricia Betts.

Minister of Youth Affairs, Mohamed Orman Bangura, reflected on the nation’s progress over the past 20 years, emphasizing the importance of self-esteem and the courage to face challenges. He spoke about the close partnership between the Ministry and Orange, noting the significant strides made in fostering innovation since 2018. The Minister praised the annual continuity of such efforts, urging young entrepreneurs to think globally to achieve meaningful milestones.

He also shared his personal experience as an accountant, stressing the importance of maintaining high standards and recognizing the hard work behind the scenes. He highlighted the potential of young innovators in addressing societal challenges and the need to provide them with opportunities for growth.

Kumba Musa, Communications Director in the Ministry of Communication, Technology and Innovation, delivered a speech on behalf of Minister Salima Monorma Bah. She described the Sixth Local Edition of the OSVP as a celebration of innovation and determination among young people, particularly in driving social and environmental change through technology. Kumba Musa underscored the critical role of youth in shaping Sierra Leone’s future and emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to fostering an environment where innovation can flourish.

Orange Sierra Leone CEO, Sekou Amadou Bah, reaffirmed the company’s dedication to supporting young innovators and entrepreneurs. He highlighted the OSVP as an investment fund that provides funding, mentorship, and opportunities for business expansion across 17 regions in Africa and the Middle East. According to him, since its inception in 2019, the initiative has trained over 3,000 individuals, with more than 70% securing employment. He celebrated the finalists’ innovative use of digital tools and emphasized the endless opportunities that the digital revolution offers.

During the pitching session, five contestants vied for the Grand Prize of NLe 200,000. Abdul Karim Sesay of EMOTIONS emerged victorious with his mobile application offering inclusive mental therapeutic solutions through social media platforms.

In the Tech Queens category, Monica Jackson of Why Educube won NLe 120,000 for her innovative Container Classroom equipped with digital learning tools, designed to bridge the educational divide, especially in rural communities.

The competition exemplifies Orange Sierra Leone’s commitment to human capital development, supporting local social and environmental innovations, and stimulating entrepreneurship in Sierra Leone.

Since 2019, the OSVP has recognized projects that contribute to sustainable development goals through digital technology, making a lasting impact on communities across the country.

Global Spotlight on Sierra Leone as… President Bio Assumes Leadership of UN Security Council

August 12, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has on Friday August 9, 2024 land in New York to take on his new role as the President of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the month of August. This event marks a significant milestone, as it is the first time in over 50 years that Sierra Leone has held such a prestigious position within the world’s foremost body dedicated to maintaining international peace and security.

Upon his arrival, President Bio expressed both pride and optimism for the month ahead. “I am pleased to announce my safe arrival in New York, where I look forward to presiding over several critical sessions as we lead the United Nations Security Council this August,” he said. “I am confident that our efforts will yield significant and impactful outcomes.”

President Bio highlighted the historic nature of Sierra Leone’s presidency, underscoring its importance for the nation and the African continent. “Today is truly a landmark moment in our history as we begin our presidency of the United Nations Security Council,” he stated. “Our goal is to facilitate meaningful dialogue rooted in mutual trust and respect, aiming for peaceful and sustainable resolutions to conflicts and addressing global challenges collectively.”

A key focus of President Bio’s tenure will be advocating for reforms within the Security Council, particularly regarding Africa’s representation. “We will work closely with the P5 and regional groups to vigorously pursue Security Council reform, ensuring the inclusive and equitable representation of Africa’s 1.2 billion people. Seventy-nine years after the founding of the United Nations, it is time to correct this historical injustice,” he asserted.

During his time at the helm of the UNSC, President Bio will be briefed by Michael Imran Kanu, Sierra Leone’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations, as well as by Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister, Alhaji Timothy Kabba.

On August 12, President Bio will lead a high-profile UNSC debate titled “Addressing the Historical Injustice and Enhancing Africa’s Effective Representation in the UN Security Council,” which is expected to be a cornerstone of his presidency.

Sierra Leone’s assumption of the UNSC presidency follows its successful bid for a non-permanent seat on the Council, which began on January 1, 2024. For the month of August, the country will guide the Council’s agenda, preside over meetings and collaborate with other members to address any international crises that may arise.

President Bio’s schedule also includes a series of high-level bilateral meetings, including discussions with UN Secretary-General António Guterres and Dr. Dennis Francis, President of the General Assembly. Additionally, he will inaugurate the Sierra Leone Peace Exhibition at the United Nations, curated by the Sierra Leone Peace Museum and organized by the country’s Permanent Mission to the UN.

This prestigious role not only elevates Sierra Leone’s standing on the global stage but also presents an opportunity to contribute significantly to international peace and security.

Celebrating 20 Years: Dr. Abdul K. Sesay’s Transformative Impact on Communities Worldwide

August 12, 2024

By Esther Wright

Dr. Abdul K. Sesay, the General Overseer of Kings & Priests Court Int’l Ministries and City of Light Church in Silver Spring, MD, United State of America, stands as a beacon of faith and compassion, dedicated to spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ and uplifting communities worldwide. Dr. Sesay, who was born and raised in a Muslim household, experienced a profound transformation after an encounter with Christ, leading him to a life devoted to ministry and service.

Dr. Sesay’s unique drive and passion for preaching the Gospel have resonated with many, drawing them to his God-given vision, “Gather My People.” His teachings and outreach efforts have gained prominence, inspiring countless individuals to embrace his mission.

A graduate of Liberty University in Lynchburg, VA, Dr. Sesay earned his Master of Divinity in 2008 and Doctor of Ministry in 2010. Additionally, he holds a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology and a Master of Arts in Mental Health Clinical Counseling, both from Washington Adventist University in Takoma Park, MD. His extensive education has equipped him to serve not only as a pastor and prophet but also as a psycho-therapist, offering holistic support to those in need.

Since founding Kings & Priests Court Int’l Ministries, Dr. Sesay has been unwavering in his commitment to serving as a “father” to the fatherless, with a particular focus on orphans. This dedication to caring for vulnerable populations is also reflected in his work with City of Light Helping Hands, a community development initiative that provides essential support to approximately four to five hundred families weekly in Montgomery County, Maryland and Columbus, Ohio.

City of Light Helping Hands goes beyond food distribution, offering culturally appropriate and relevant food, hygiene products, backpacks, school supplies, health and medical supplies, and household goods to those in need. The organization’s impact was notably highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic when its efforts caught the attention of NBC 4 and ABC 7, both of which aired segments on their work.

The reach of City of Light Helping Hands extends far beyond the United States, with active engagements in food distributions, backpack drives, clothing donations and mobile health and wellness clinics in countries such as India, Zambia, Tanzania, Ghana, Nigeria and Sierra Leone. In these regions, the organization has also contributed to the construction of schools, hospitals, clinics and orphanages.

For his philanthropic and humanitarian contributions, Dr. Sesay has received numerous accolades and awards, both in the United States and internationally. Residing in Silver Spring, Maryland, Dr. Sesay is blessed with two daughters, Absat Abigail Sesay and Anna Absatta Sesay, who share in his legacy of faith and service.

As Kings & Priests Court Int’l Ministries celebrates 20 years of impactful ministry, the congregation and community are invited to honor Dr. Abdul K. Sesay, a transformative leader whose life’s work continues to inspire and uplift countless lives across the globe.

Kings’ & Priests Court Int’l Ministries Celebrates 20 Years of Service and Impact

August 12, 2024

Kings’ & Priests Court Int’l Ministries (KPCIM).jpg

By Amin Kef Sesay

Kings’ & Priests Court Int’l Ministries (KPCIM), a non-denominational Christian Ministry, is celebrating 20 years of dedicated service and spiritual leadership. Founded in 2003 with just 17 members, KPCIM has grown into a vibrant community that touches thousands of lives across the globe.

Since its humble beginnings, KPCIM has remained steadfast in its mission to liberate people from spiritual bondage and guide them to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. The Ministry’s reach extends far beyond its base in Silver Spring, Maryland, with weekly services, television broadcasts and outreach programs in the Washington, DC Metro Area and as far afield as mainland Europe, Uganda, Kenya, Nigeria and Sierra Leone.

KPCIM’s focus on community is evident in its various initiatives, including the development of an orphanage and school in Sierra Leone to support children in impoverished communities. This Ministry is committed to gathering people of all creeds, colors and nationalities into the Christian family, fostering a spirit of love, healing and deliverance.

The church’s vision is clear: to gather God’s people, sanctify them and empower them to become kings and priests on earth, reaching the unreached in nations worldwide. Through its mission to “Redeem, Raise, Reproduce,” KPCIM seeks to nurture new believers within the local church, helping them grow into effective disciples who can make a lasting difference in their communities.

As KPCIM marks this milestone anniversary, the Ministry acknowledges that it cannot continue this work alone. The church calls upon the support of its members and the wider community to help meet the growing needs of the people it serves.

KPCIM remains committed to its core beliefs: being biblically oriented, striving for excellence, making disciples and becoming imitators of Christ. The Ministry extends an open invitation to all who seek rest and spiritual guidance, in line with the promise of Matthew 11:28: “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden and I will give you rest.”

Worship Location:

City of Light

520 Randolph Road

Silver Spring, MD 20904

Contact Information:

Telephone: 1-301-890-4545

Email: admin@kpcim.org

Service Times:

– Sunday Services/Activities:

– Adult Sunday School: 9:30am – 10am

– Morning Worship: 10am – 12:30pm

– Children’s Sunday School: 9:30am – 12:30pm

– Bible Study/Prayer Revival:

– Thursdays: 7 pm – 9 pm

– Intercessory Prayer Meetings:

– Tuesdays: 12pm – 1pm

– Saturdays: 7pm – 8pm

– Daily Prayer Line:

– Morning Prayer: 6:30 am – 7:30 am – 240-343-9292

For those in need of prayer or assistance, KPCIM is here to help. Please reach out via the contact details provided.

As Kings’ & Priests Court Int’l Ministries celebrates two decades of impactful Ministry, it looks forward to continuing its mission of service, love, and spiritual growth for many more years to come.

Dr. Walton Gilpin Elected 2nd Vice President of WABA

August 12, 2024

2nd Vice President of the West African Bankers Association (WABA).jpg

By Esther Wright

In a significant development for Sierra Leone’s banking sector, Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin, Managing Director of Rokel Commercial Bank, has on Friday August 9, 2024 been unanimously elected as the 2nd Vice President of the West African Bankers Association (WABA). The decision was made during WABA’s 78th Executive Council Meeting and 42nd General Assembly, held at the Freetown International Conference Centre in Aberdeen.

The twin event, organized by the WABA Secretariat in collaboration with the Sierra Leone Association of Commercial Banks, marked a pivotal moment for the country’s banking industry. The vacancy for the 2nd Vice Presidency arose following Senegal’s withdrawal from the organization, creating an opportunity for Sierra Leone to secure a key leadership position within the sub-regional group.

Dr. Gilpin’s nomination was supported by key figures in the banking industry, including WABA’s 1st Vice President, Dele Alabi from Nigeria and former WABA Secretary Generals, Alie Ceesay from The Gambia and Hanson Abosi from Nigeria. The endorsement was further solidified by Akin Morakinyo, Registrar/Chief Executive Officer of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN).

The two-day event featured discussions on critical issues such as Cross Border Settlement Systems, International Financial Reporting Standards, Risk Management, Technology Adoption, as well as presentations of annual financial and audit reports.

As WABA aims to become the most impactful Bankers’ Association on the continent by 2030, Dr. Gilpin’s election comes at a crucial time. The Association has been instrumental in supporting ECOWAS and other sub-regional entities, particularly in the ongoing efforts to establish a single currency in West Africa.

The assembly attracted numerous distinguished personalities, including Sierra Leone’s Deputy Minister of Finance, Kadiatu Allie, who represented the Minister of Finance, Sheku Fantamadi Bangura, as the keynote speaker. Other notable attendees included Sierra Leone Central Bank Governor, Dr. Ibrahim Steven, Central Bank of Guinea Governor, Karamo Kabah, Director General of the West African Monetary Agency (WAMA), Momodu Samba Saho, Director General of the West African Monetary Institute (WAMI), Olorunsonla Olowofeso and Dr. Baba Y. Musa from the West African Institute for Financial and Economic Management (WAIFEM).

Dr. Gilpin’s appointment is expected to further enhance Sierra Leone’s influence within WABA and contribute significantly to the Association’s ambitious goals for the future.

U.S. Ambassador Bryan Hunt Swears in New Peace Corps Volunteers

August 12, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The U.S. Peace Corps on Friday August 9, 2024 held a significant ceremony at the Peace Corps Training Center in Kambia, where six new volunteers were officially sworn in and commissioned for service. U.S. Ambassador Bryan Hunt presided over the event, which was attended by representatives from the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Basic, Senior & Secondary Education, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other distinguished guests.

Among the attendees were Deputy Ministers from the Health, Education and Foreign Affairs Ministries, the Deputy Chief Education Officer, District Council representatives, the Paramount Chief and Peace Corps staff. The ceremony marked the culmination of ten weeks of intensive training for the new volunteers, who will serve in the health and education sectors across three districts in Sierra Leone.

During the ceremony, Ambassador Hunt administered the oath of service and highlighted the significance of the Peace Corps program in Sierra Leone. “The U.S. Government is honored to have a Peace Corps program here,” he remarked. “These volunteers are joining the ranks of over 3,000 Peace Corps volunteers who have served in Sierra Leone, becoming part of a legacy of dedication and service.”

The Peace Corps program in Sierra Leone, established in 1962 through a memorandum of understanding between the Sierra Leonean and U.S. Governments, has seen volunteers contribute to the country’s development and foster mutual understanding between the two nations for over six decades. Ambassador Hunt emphasized the importance of the volunteers’ work in Sierra Leone, noting that their integration into local communities exemplifies the spirit of cooperation between the Sierra Leonean and American people.

“The work of Peace Corps Volunteers in Sierra Leone is crucial,” Ambassador Hunt said. “Their collaboration with host communities and the shared commitment to advancing health, democracy and prosperity in Sierra Leone underscores our common goal of fostering unity and inclusion across political, geographic, and ethnic lines.”

The new volunteers will live and work alongside local communities, often in rural areas, as they support primary and secondary schools and local health programs. Their service will continue the long-standing tradition of Peace Corps Volunteers making significant contributions to Sierra Leone’s national development.

As the newly sworn-in volunteers embark on their two-year service, they join one of the longest-standing and most impactful Peace Corps programs in the world. Ambassador Hunt expressed confidence in their ability to contribute to sustainable development efforts, build on the work of previous volunteers, and further strengthen the partnership between the peoples and Governments of Sierra Leone and the United States.

In his closing remarks, Ambassador Hunt shared stories of former volunteers who had formed lasting bonds with their host communities, illustrating the deep connections and impact that Peace Corps service fosters. He congratulated the new volunteers on their successful completion of training and wished them well in their upcoming service.

“On behalf of the United States Government, I thank you for your commitment,” Ambassador Hunt said. “I will be eager to hear about what you achieve with your communities.”

The ceremony marks the beginning of a new chapter for the six volunteers, who will now join the ranks of those who have left a lasting legacy of service and dedication in Sierra Leone.