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As Press Freedom Threatened… Marrah & Associates to Probe Alleged Assault on Journalist by Security Forces

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a high-profile case, Ibrahim Alusine Kamara, a respected journalist working with the ‘Salone Compass Newspaper’ based in Freetown, has engaged the services of esteemed legal firm Marrah & Associates. The firm is to initiate a probe into an episode of alleged assault and property damage perpetrated by security personnel.

Kamara alleges that the incident took place on June 25, 2023, when he was covering a press conference held by the All Peoples Congress party (APC). Security personnel reportedly interrupted the event, firing rounds of tear gas and live ammunition. Kamara, along with fellow journalists, was compelled to take refuge in a nearby home until the situation was under control.

On returning to his vehicle, a Toyota Highlander with registration number AIJ-446, Kamara discovered severe damage he attributes to the chaos. Photographic evidence has been provided, illustrating the extent of destruction.

Kamara recounts that he was initially allowed to take his damaged vehicle to a repair shop by a security officer present at the scene. However, he was later stopped by two military personnel and an OSD officer who demanded that he return the vehicle. Despite his efforts to comply, one officer allegedly assaulted him with the butt of his gun, and another threatened to shoot him. This confrontation was defused by the timely intervention of Hon. Chernoh Bah.

The encounter led to Kamara seeking medical assistance at Choithrams Hospital due to physical injuries and psychological distress. The financial burden, including vehicle repairs and medical expenses, reportedly totaled USD 4,000.

Kamara previously reported the incident to the Inspector General of Police the day after the incident but has received no acknowledgement or response. Marrah & Associates has since taken up the matter, seeking an official investigation into the behaviour of the said police officers, in accordance with Regulation 3Sub Regulation 1(e) (d) &(h) of the Independent Police Complaints Board Regulations 203.

Kamara stands prepared to testify, furnishing documentary evidence and witnesses to support his allegations. The law firm has also notified the Executive Secretary of the Human Rights Commission Sierra Leone and the President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists about the incident.

Marrah & Associates anticipate a prompt response to address this grave matter and ensure justice for their client.

Liberty Online TV Emerges to Change the Face of Journalism in Sierra Leone

In a determined effort to combat the proliferation of fake news on social media and redefine the landscape of professional journalism in Sierra Leone, a group of former Radio Democracy staff members, renowned for their broadcasts on Frequency 98.1 FM, have united to launch Liberty Online Television. This groundbreaking online journalism platform is set to be spearheaded by veteran journalists such as Mabel Kabba and Kadijah Bangura, who recently resigned from their positions, driven by the vision of transforming media ethics and professionalism. The team will provide live broadcasts and real-time news dissemination.

Although the circumstances of their departures from Radio Democracy have triggered considerable speculation, it is evident that these respected journalists have sought new avenues to effect substantial change. Liberty Online Television aims to confront perceived issues of autocracy, professionalism deficits, and the lax adherence to media ethics prevalent in their former workplace.

With a dual emphasis on both online and mainstream journalism, Liberty Online Television will extend its content reach through popular platforms like Facebook and YouTube, ensuring a broader audience. The launch of this media venture represents a pivotal juncture in Sierra Leone’s media landscape, with a dedicated team of seasoned professionals committed to reshaping and elevating journalistic standards. Their new journey seeks to revamp the delivery and perception of news.

Liberty Online TV pledges to grant access to a diverse range of opinions without discrimination and to provide unbiased information on all discussed issues. It also plans to offer a platform for local artists, innovators, and young entrepreneurs to showcase their talents and ideas, with the overarching goal of broadening the spectrum of credible media sources that can be trusted for authenticity. In stark contrast to many other media outlets, these seasoned journalists vow to adhere to all the ethical standards governing media practice in the country, remaining steadfast in upholding international best practices. Liberty Online TV aspires to offer in-depth analysis of featured stories and current affairs, with esteemed guests of integrity and distinction.

Liberty Online TV represents an online media entity committed to instigating positive change within the contemporary media landscape of Sierra Leone and beyond. This venture boasts a dedicated team of young professionals and change-makers ready to lead the way. Their mission is to produce widely accessible and impactful content, encompassing themes of Good Governance, Democracy, Human Rights, the Rights of Persons Living with Disabilities, Women and Girls’ Rights, and Peace in Sierra Leone.

EU, Government Foster Closer Ties in Annual Political Dialogue

The annual Political Dialogue between the Republic of Sierra Leone and the European Union (EU) took place on Tuesday October 17, 2023, fostering discussions on mutual interests. Chaired by H.E. Rtd. Brigadier General Julius Maada Bio, President of Sierra Leone, the meeting was held at State House in Freetown.

Key topics discussed during the dialogue included the economic situation in Sierra Leone, fostering an enabling business environment for European private sector companies operating in the country, and EU support for Sierra Leone’s development initiatives. These cooperative efforts align with Sierra Leone’s “Big 5” Priority National Development Agenda, focusing on food security, green economy, human capital development, and governance.

Both sides emphasized their commitment to a rules-based world order within the framework of the United Nations and discussed Sierra Leone’s upcoming non-permanent membership of the United Nations Security Council for 2024-2025. They also highlighted their dedication to universal respect for and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms.

At the conclusion of the dialogue, both the Government of Sierra Leone and the European Union reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening their partnership and continuing to hold regular political dialogues on issues of common interest.

The Sierra Leonean delegation, led by President Julius Maada Bio, included Vice President Dr. Juldeh Jalloh, Chief Minister Dr. David Monina Sengeh, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Mr. Timothy Kabbah, Attorney General and Minister of Justice Mr. Mohamed Lamin Tarawallie, Minister of Planning and Economic Development Ms. Kenyeh Barlay, Minister of Environment Mr. Jiwoh Abdulai, Deputy Minister of Finance 1 Madam Jeneba Bangura, Financial Secretary Mr. Mathew Dingie, and Development Secretary Mr. Peter Sam Kpakra.

Representatives from the European Union included H.E. Manuel Müller, Ambassador of the European Union to Sierra Leone; H.E. Jens Kraus-Massé, Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to Sierra Leone; H.E. Aidan Fitzpatrick, Ambassador of Ireland to Sierra Leone; Mr. Romain Vuillaume, Chargé d’Affaires a.i. of the Embassy of France; Ms. Trine Løber, Counsellor of the Embassy of Denmark; and Mr. Giovanni Fidele, Deputy Head of Mission of the Embassy of Italy.

Furthermore, European companies were represented by Ms. Estelle Van Eeckhout, General Manager of Brussels Airlines; Mr. Laurent Bukasa, Managing Director of Sierra Leone Brewery Limited; and Mr. Sékou Amadou Bah, CEO of Orange-Sonatel. This collaborative dialogue showcases a commitment to strengthening the ties between Sierra Leone and the European Union, enhancing mutual interests and cooperation.

US Embassy Launches Comprehensive Training for 40 RSLAF Personnel

 The U.S. Embassy in Freetown, in collaboration with its contracting partner, Triple Canopy, launched a comprehensive six-month training program for 40 members of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) on October 2, 2023. This specialized training, consisting of six distinct courses, is taking place at Triple Canopy’s Depot facility in Murray Town, Freetown. The primary objective of this initiative is to equip RSLAF personnel from the Engineering and Logistics Units with the necessary skills to operate and maintain heavy-duty equipment in both civilian and military contexts, including disaster response scenarios.

The initial course, set to run until October 31, 2023, is centered on driving, operating, and maintaining 3-ton forklift trucks. Upon successful completion of this training, RSLAF trainees will be proficient in utilizing these forklift trucks for various military and civilian construction projects.

During the opening ceremony, Major General Dauda Alpha, Commander of the Joint Force, stressed the critical importance of the training, encouraging RSLAF trainees to fully engage in the program, recognizing it as an essential capacity-building tool for the RSLAF. Brigadier General Abu Conteh, Assistant Chief of Defense Staff for Training and Doctrine at the Ministry of Defense, emphasized the vital role of training in the development of a military organization, likening it to oxygen for the armed forces. He expressed gratitude to the U.S. Embassy and the U.S. government for their unwavering support and commitment to training the RSLAF, acknowledging its significant impact on the military’s preparedness and relevance.

Gento Prioritizing National Development Over Politics

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

It is important to note that there are certain endeavours that demand absolute concentration and dedication rather than divided attention. Total commitment in seeing that an initiative is well accomplished may sometimes demand an individual’s time and attention if only the desired results are to be seen emanating.

Besides, there is the popular belief that there could be various channels through which an accomplished personality could immensely and meaningfully contribute to the development of his or her nation in order to contribute meaningfully in uplifting his compatriots from the doldrums of poverty.

The decision by popular businessman and philanthropist, Mohamed Gento Kamara, who was the endorsed SLPP Mayoral Candidate for the Freetown City Council (FCC), to shift away from active politics and concentrate on his business endeavours could largely be seen along those lines.

Recently, Gento announced that is officially stepping away from national politics in order to focus on national development, a surprising revelation that was widely acclaimed.

As a matter of fact, though his political bid as the aspiring FCC Mayor garnered widespread support within the Western Urban Area , with the belief that he is resourcefully equipped or placed to give the city of Freetown a thorough facelift, there were however, some who, strongly believed that Gento is actually cut out for business because throughout his life he has successfully made significant accomplishments through the business entity he singularly established, the GENTO Group.

There is also a school of thought that holds the view that it was actually his philanthropic attribute that lured him into politics. They maintained that as a renowned philanthropist who had tremendously lend support to various human causes, Gento was of the strong conviction that if elected as Mayor of the Freetown City Council, he will be strategically placed to extend his philanthropic gestures to communities within the Freetown Metropolis and invariably would have touched many lives as well as bailed many from the doldrums of poverty.

Though he still pledges his allegiance to the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), Gento’s clear preference for development over politics demonstrates his commitment to put the nation’s development at the centre stage.

Undoubtedly, the $1.5 billion Trans-Shipment Port, which he intends to roll out soon to be located at Banana Island, in the Dublin and Rickett Communities within the Western Rural District underscores and has further revealed his innate commitment to national development.

This significant project is expected to unlock substantial economic potential, lower fuel and rice prices, and generate thousands of jobs. It is estimated that during the construction phase of the project it will provide employment for over 1,000 people, with long-term employment for more than 10,000 individuals within the built trans-shipment Port.

Also, it will become a hub that has the potential to not only attract meaningful investors but significantly contribute in providing revenue for the Government, boost the country’s GDP, place the country in the spotlight and help in transforming Banana Island to become a thriving settlement.

Giving up politics has now availed Gento plenty of time to fully focus  attention on his business venture without any headache of having a divided mind; his ambition of turning around the Freetown metropolis into a buoyant and thriving city and at the same time be managing the GENTO GROUP.

For him prioritizing national development over politics could only be interpreted as a significant turning point in his life and holds the promise of him leaving a lasting and positive impact on the country’s future.

SLP Requests Le 501 Billion at Budget Hearing for 2024 Operations

By Millicent Senava Mannah

The Sierra Leone Police(SLP) has presented their budget proposal for the fiscal year 2024 during the ongoing budget hearing at the Ministry of Finance, where they requested approximately Le501 billion (in old notes) to fund their day-to-day operations, putting forward various essential activities and initiatives they aim to undertake next year (2024).

The Assistant Inspector General of Police, Sahr Senessie, piloted the proposed budget request at the Ministry of Finance were as Chief Superintendent Alieu Turay, the SLP’s Head of Procurement, underscored the multifaceted responsibilities of the Police Force which encompass safeguarding lives and property, maintaining law and order as well as upholding public peace and tranquility.

It must be noted that the initial budget ceiling for the Sierra Leone Police in the fiscal year 2024 was set at Le307.806 billion, for which the force has requested approximately Le501 billion, representing an increase of over Le193 billion as per their planned activities.

He mentioned their total involvement in various activities that extend beyond traditional law enforcement, which can be demanding as he justified their budget request for the 2024 financial year, adding that, among their key priorities for the upcoming year are the acquisition of 35 new Police patrol vehicles, the recruitment of 1000 Police personnel, and the completion of the Aberdeen Division Police Headquarters, along with other initiatives for which there is need for the increment in the budget.

Chief Superintendent Alieu also maintained that the additional activities are deemed critical and cost-effective.

Outlining their achievements over the past year, he said is the reconstruction of the Kamakwie Police Division Headquarters and Barracks, which were destroyed during the August 10th riot in 2022. He added that, they successfully established the SLP Radio Station 9.1 FM, and how they effectively managed to de-escalate several unlawful protests and riots throughout the country.

Chief Superintendent Turay also highlighted their challenges, which include shortage of personnel due to attrition rates, heightened demand for Police services in emerging communities, contemporary/emerging security issues and budgetary constraints stemming from delayed disbursements.

He pointed out that the Force has accumulated a combined debt of approximately Le 5.3 billion owed to the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA) and Guma Valley.

Stella Bangura Returns With Season 3 of “On The Spot With Stella”

By Sallu Kamuskay

Former beauty queen, accomplished media personality, and TV presenter, Stella Bangura, is making a much-anticipated comeback with the third season of her acclaimed talk show, “On The Spot With Stella.” After a hiatus spanning over two years, Bangura is all set to return to the television screens, with a renewed commitment to bringing the inspiring stories of African change makers to the forefront.

In an exclusive interview, Bangura revealed that the second season of her talk show concluded back in late 2021, and she has since been hard at work behind the scenes. During her time away from the spotlight, she dedicated her energy to her talk show and engaged in various business development activities after stepping down from her previous role. Simultaneously, she pursued a master’s program and became a prominent guest on the BBC program “Business Matters,” offering a Sierra Leonean perspective on global issues.

Speaking about her two-year break, Bangura stated, “After this much-needed rest, I embarked on pursuing a Master’s program and also resumed production for the new season of my talk show. Additionally, I became a frequent guest on the BBC program ‘Business Matters,’ where I provide a Sierra Leonean perspective on global issues. These past two years have been both incredibly busy and fascinating for me.”

An exciting development for fans and viewers is the expanded reach of her show. In the forthcoming season, “On The Spot With Stella” will be broadcast in Nigeria on two channels: TEN URBAN TV Channel 135 on Startimes and NIGEZIE XTREME on Startimes Channel 427. This expansion means that viewers in Sierra Leone who have the Startimes app can enjoy the show even before its official launch in Sierra Leone. Bangura has promised to release all the details regarding the show’s Sierra Leone launch soon.

Reflecting on her hiatus, Bangura described it as an incredible journey of personal and professional growth. She emphasized the importance of embracing change and leaving behind what no longer serves one’s growth. Her focus during this time was on producing remarkable content that highlights Sierra Leone’s potential to create globally appealing material. The show has gained international recognition, extending its reach from Africa to the Middle East and Europe.

As Bangura plans her return, she expresses her excitement about being in a different space. Her aim is to shed light on the remarkable work happening in Sierra Leone, beyond the realm of politics. Bangura believes that continuously asking critical questions about accountability, governance, the economy, and corruption, as a journalist, can become repetitive. Instead, she aspires to actively contribute to creating the Sierra Leone she envisions and to showcase the positive aspects of her country and the inspiring individuals making a difference.

“Having been a critical voice on TV as a journalist who consistently asked critical questions on accountability, governance, economy, and corruption, I started to feel like a broken record. We all know the problems, and governments promise yet fail to address these fundamental issues, so having to keep asking the same questions on these issues over and over again gets quite redundant. So, I decided that rather than just questioning, I can actively contribute to creating the Sierra Leone I want to see in my own little way. I wanted to be actively part of rebranding Sierra Leone and Africa, highlighting the many amazing people and work being done and inspiring people to do greater things through the content I push out. I think that has a profound impact as I focus on the people and inspire change for a better society. That’s the essence of what I do, and I love every bit of it and the journey so far,” she disclosed.

Fans and viewers can eagerly anticipate the third season of “On The Spot With Stella,” where Bangura will continue to shine a spotlight on African change makers and share their stories of impact and success. Her comeback promises fresh perspectives and captivating content on screens across Africa and beyond. You can follow her on her YouTube channel here.

Ms. Stella Bangura is the founder and CEO of On the Spot Limited, a media entity providing communication, branding, and media production services. She serves as the Executive Producer and host of the ‘On The Spot with Stella’ TV show and is a former co-host of the weekly morning TV show, “Wake Up Sierra Leone,” at the Africa Young Voices Media Empire (AYV) TV, where she also worked as the Director of Operations and Director of Administration and Branding for over three years. With over a decade of experience in the media industry, Stella is a media entrepreneur, multiple award-winning TV Presenter, MC, Breast Cancer Awareness advocate, and an international ex-beauty queen. She is also a frequent guest on the BBC program “Business Matters” and has received numerous awards, including the National Entertainment Awards (NEA) for Best Female TV Personality of the Year, 50 Most Influential Sierra Leonean Women award, Confederation of West African Youths Award for TV Personality of the Year, 100 Most Influential Professional, 100 Most Influential Young Leaders in Africa, 50 Most Influential Business Leaders in Africa, and many more.

Caritas’ “Youth in Politics and Peacebuilding” Project Sparks Hope and Dialogue

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at fostering political engagement and peacebuilding among the youth, the “Youth in Politics and Peacebuilding” Project, generously supported by the UN Peacebuilding Fund (UNPBF) which is 24-month project, executed in collaboration with the Catholic Relief Service (CRS) and Caritas Freetown, convened a significant gathering of diverse stakeholders on Wednesday, October 18, 2023. The event, facilitated by Rev Fornah, a representative from the Sierra Leone Religious Council, took place at Waterloo in the Western Rural District.

The visionary initiative, spearheaded by the Peace Building Project’s Coordinator, Eliza Sillah, seeks to empower Sierra Leonean youths through dialogue, awareness and education. With a focus on young people aged 18 to 24, as well as young women’s groups, the Project collaborates with key stakeholders such as the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs and the National Youth Commission.

Eliza Sillah outlined the Project’s objectives, which include promoting cohesion, providing civic education and conflict management skills to the youth, supporting economic empowerment, and enhancing women’s participation in decision-making processes.

It aims to reach out to 16 communities in the Western Area Urban and Rural, each equipped with a youth group and a young women’s group. As the project nears its seventh month, it strives to bring communities together for dialogue, peace promotion, and capacitating unemployed youth with essential skills.

The workshop, facilitated by Rev Fornah, explored the critical topics of post-election peace and national cohesion and discussions highlighted the role of the international community in promoting peace and unity, emphasizing the need for religious institutions to advocate for the rule of law and hold authorities accountable.

Rev Fornah clarified that their role is not tailored as activists but as lobbyists for the well-being of the people, engaging constructively with those in power.

The workshop delved into practical strategies for dealing with political conflicts to maintain peace and stability in the country. Participants engaged in group activities focusing on national cohesion, offering them hands-on experience in conflict resolution.

Abubakarr Mansaray, an enthusiastic participant, spoke highly of the workshop’s emphasis on political inclusion. He expressed optimism about the project’s outcomes, positioning himself as an ambassador to spread the message to those who could not attend. Stressing the need for continued efforts to capture the mindset of change-makers, Mansaray underscored the importance of political inclusion for Sierra Leone’s development.

Another participant, Fatmata Sesay, praised the workshop for its practical and beneficial approach. She highlighted the significance of honesty and trust in creating a peaceful environment, emphasizing the importance of safety and conflict resolution for genuine peace. Expressing a desire for the project’s continuation, Sesay emphasized the need for youth involvement, citing her own interest in contributing to the initiative’s impact.

When questioned about plans to apply what they learned, Sesay affirmed their commitment to teaching others, creating a ripple effect that would enable more individuals to benefit from the transformative experiences gained during the workshop.

As the “Youth in Politics and Peacebuilding” project progresses, it seems to be sowing the seeds of positive change, empowering Sierra Leone’s youth to actively contribute to their nation’s development and fostering a culture of peace and unity.

Major Dialogue Breakthrough…   APC Ends Non-Political Participation Stance in State Governance

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a historic three-day mediated dialogue held from October 16th to 18th, 2023 at the Bintumani Hotel in Freetown, Sierra Leone, the Government of Sierra Leone (GoSL) and the All Peoples Congress Party (APC) achieved a landmark agreement aimed at resolving the political impasse that followed the multi-tier elections held on June 24, 2023.

The dialogue, facilitated by mediators from the African Union (AU), the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the Commonwealth, and the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC), brought the two opposing parties together with the goal of fostering national unity and addressing the post-election challenges.

The preamble of the agreement underscores the importance of respecting Sierra Leone’s constitution and the rule of law. It acknowledges legal cases filed in the Supreme Court against the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) and the APC’s demand for the release of polling station results, among other issues.

Key resolutions resulting from the dialogue include: A commitment from the President of Sierra Leone to make a ‘National Address’ focusing on unity, cohesion and peace, the APC’s decision to end its “non-participation in governance, the establishment of a cross-party Committee on Electoral Systems and Management Bodies Review. This Committee, with representation from the GoSL, APC and Development Partners, will examine electoral systems and processes, aiming to address contentious issues related to elections and result management to ensure credible future elections, agreements on the release of individuals arrested during election-related protests, the discontinuation of politically motivated court cases, and support for the resettlement of internally and externally displaced political party supporters, resolution of issues regarding the entitlements of elected APC officials, including Members of Parliament, Mayors, Chairpersons, and Councillors, commitment to address issues related to parliamentary leadership, Committee composition, and international representation, ensuring proportional representation according to the Constitution, the institutionalization of an inter-party dialogue framework between the APC, SLPP, and other political parties, facilitated by the Government, commitments to improve relationships within the national socio-political ecosystem and condemn any incitement of violence or hate speech, pledge to take action against citizens inciting violence or spreading hate speech online or offline.

The parties further committed to establishing an independent Committee of ‘Moral Guarantors’ to support and monitor the implementation of the agreement.

This historic dialogue and the resulting agreement mark a significant step toward national unity, political reconciliation, and the peaceful resolution of the political impasse in Sierra Leone. The implementation of these agreements is expected to contribute to a more stable and cohesive political landscape in the country.

The Leader of the All People’s Congress at the Dialogue, Dr. Samura Kamara expressed appreciation to the African Union (AU), the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the Commonwealth, and the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC) for facilitating the dialogue between his party and the Government of Sierra Leone.

He said that as an opposition they are looking forward to the implementation of the agreement to the letter for the interest of peace and national cohesion in the country.

The Leader of the Government of Sierra Leone at the Dialogue, Dr. David Sengeh who doubles as the Chief Minister also expressed appreciation to the APC Party leadership for their commitment towards peace and national cohesion which he said they have manifested throughout the dialogue.

He also applauded the African Union (AU), the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the Commonwealth, and the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC)for their tireless role throughout the dialogue.

Dr. David Sengeh concluded by assuring all that the agreement will be ensure the implementation of the agreement between the APC Party and the Government of Sierra Leone.

The Chairman of the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC), Shodankeh Johnson, said the signing of the agreement between the APC and the Government is just a beginning of the process, adding that all parties need to ensure the implementation of the agreement.

He said that all should learn from the past and don’t return to the past, adding that Sierra Leoneans should match on with unity and national cohesion.

Shodankeh Johnson also concluded by commending the African Union (AU), the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the Commonwealth for their intervention in resolving the impasse between the APC Party and the Government of Sierra Leone.

Closing the ceremony was the official signing of the agreement between the APC Party and the Government of Sierra Leone by the Leader of the All People’s Congress at the Dialogue Dr. Samura Kamara representing the APC Party and the Leader of the Government of Sierra Leone at the Dialogue, Dr. David Sengeh representing the Government of Sierra Leone followed by a vote of thanks by the Executive Secretary of the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC), Hawa Samai.

Daphne Joya Pratt Triumphs in DOFA’s 3rd Miss Old is Gold Beauty Pageant

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In celebration of the International Day of Older Persons, observed each year on October 1st, the Dorwontony Organization for the Aged (DOFA) has concluded its grand 3rd edition of the “Miss Old is Gold Beauty Pageant 2023” on Sunday, October 15, 2023. The remarkable event, held at the Freetown City Hall Auditorium on Wallace Johnson Street in Freetown, attracted participants from diverse backgrounds.

This year’s Miss Old is Gold Beauty Pageant featured five aspiring contestants, all aged 60 and above, representing different communities. After a meticulous evaluation by a panel of judges, Daphne Joya Pratt, representing Miss Mountain Cut, emerged as the shining star and winner of this prestigious beauty pageant. Miss Aberdeen, secured the 1st runner-up title while Salamatu Conteh, Miss Congo Town, earned the 2nd runner-up position. Isatu Bangura, Miss Magazine Cut, took the 4th place, and Mariama Jalloh, Miss Peninsula, claimed the 5th position.

Founder of the Dorwontony Organization for the Aged, Dorren Barrie, expressed that this year’s beauty pageant marked the 3rd edition of “Miss Old is Gold,” an event specially designed for individuals over 60 years old.

She emphasized the importance of commemorating the International Day of Older Persons, which seeks to raise awareness about the challenges faced by the elderly, not only in Sierra Leone but also globally.

Dorren Barrie highlighted that older individuals are often marginalized in Sierra Leone, and DOFA, through initiatives like the Miss Old is Gold Beauty Pageant, has been actively working to change such a societal perception.

She extended heartfelt appreciation to everyone who contributed to the event’s success, including fashion brands that assisted in preparing the contestants and designing their costumes.

Rev. Father Peter Konteh, Chairman of the Board of Dorwontony Organization for the Aged, emphasized the significant role older people play in society, even during their golden years.

He recognized that caring for the elderly can be challenging requiring patience, tolerance, and resilience, but he commended DOFA’s unwavering commitment to this cause.

He underlined the importance of prioritizing the care of older individuals, a responsibility that should be embraced by individuals, organizations, and governments worldwide.

Minister of Social Welfare, Melrose Karminty, stated that her Ministry is dedicated to ensuring that older people receive the utmost protection and respect they deserve. She acknowledged the invaluable contributions made by these elderly citizens to nation-building and stressed the importance of recognizing their efforts, especially in their later years.

Melrose Karminty praised DOFA’s continuous support for the elderly and assured the organization of the Ministry’s commitment to aiding older citizens in the country.

She called for a renewed respect for the elderly, emphasizing that many of society’s problems stem from the loss of the value of respecting older individuals.

The crowning of the winner was carried out by Minister of Social Welfare, Melrose Karminty, and other dignitaries present, marking the conclusion of a meaningful celebration dedicated to honoring older persons and challenging age-related stereotypes in society.

Daphne Joya Pratt, representing Miss Mountain Cut, the deserving winner of this year’s Miss Old is Gold Beauty Pageant, expressed her gratitude to DOFA for providing a platform for individuals like her to showcase their talents, even in their later years.

She called on organizations to continue supporting DOFA, enabling them to reach out and support more elderly citizens across the country, breaking the cycle of neglect and fostering respect and care for older individuals.

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