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Nigeria LMA Woman of the Year Awards Crowns S/ L London-Based Female Entrepreneur as 2023 Queen

By:  Sallu Kamuskay

Sierra Leonean female entrepreneur based in the United Kingdom, Founder of Anaya Hair & Beauty and philanthropist, Anaya Kamara has been crowned LMA women of the year as the most determined woman on the earth in Delta state, Asaba, Nigeria yesterday at the official crowning of the event by the Delta state Queen.

During an exclusive interview with Sallu Kamuskay, Salone Messenger CEO, she noted : “Giving thanks and praise to the Most High God. I am Queen on top of my Entrepreneurial career. GOD has been my rock upon all the plenty challenges that came my way. I have been through a lot but I am glad that I fought very hard for my life and pulling myself back up. From Pain to Power. I dedicate this award to my late mother Mariatu Oya Kamara”

International LMA Awards is a registered organization that is registered in Nigeria with Govt approved documents/ international partnership with African Awakening International, UK. 

LMA is one of the Biggest Showbiz Media brands that covers more than 17 African countries, Asia, Europe, and America for awarding and celebrating leaders, models, beauty queens, celebrities, entrepreneurs, and business moguls. We interview, Award, and bring your image to the world.

Before becoming an Entrepreneur, Anaya Kamara studied IT, and Information Systems Development to be précised, with over 10 years of experience in the industry with a Masters’s degree in Information Systems Development & Mathematics. Specialized in databases and have worked for Housing associations, London Borough of Camden, and Hackney. Anaya was also doing network marketing on the side with a bit of hairdressing as a hobby since she is very creative and like to take on challenges. In January 2006, Anaya traveled to Sierra Leone for an introduction as her boyfriend at the time asked for a hand in marriage. Things became challenging for Anaya after a fatal accident and losing her Dad.

Since then Anaya suffered shock, memory loss, pain, severe trauma, depression, stress, a broken heart, broken engagement, a broken ankle, and self-pity, to name a few. It took her the first 2 years not able to discover herself and she was also very broke. “What kept me going were constant prayers, good friends, and neighbors that check on me daily and weekly,” she said. Anaya recovered after she just had her quiet time and a little voice inside her said snap out of it fast and turn your pain to gain, it won’t be easy but you will conquer. She became so determined and got very busy and very serious in the word of God.

Ever since Anaya began using her hairdressing skills to keep her mind focused and in so doing, it births out Anaya Hair & Beauty. She gained a lot of clients from all nations and this pushed her to go back to college and Asian hair. She later studied Beauty Therapy and Gler 50&1Qin

Anaya’s story is an incredible one that young people should learn from.

NP-SL Recognized for Outstanding Customer Service Practices During Customer Service Week

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

NP Sierra Leone, a prominent fuel supplier, joined the global celebration of Customer Service Week by expressing its gratitude to its cherished customers. This event, which took place on Friday, October 6, 2023, highlighted the company’s unwavering commitment to excellent customer service.

Customer Service Week is an annual worldwide celebration that emphasizes the importance of exceptional customer service. NP Sierra Leone marked this occasion by distributing gift bags to its loyal customers at various Filing Stations across the East, Central, and West End of Freetown.

The charismatic, erudite and result-oriented General Manager of NP-Sierra Leone, Saidu Mansaray, expressed the company’s dedication to customer satisfaction, stating, “Nothing brings us maximum fulfillment than making our customers smile. We cherish the satisfaction of our esteemed customers. That’s why we go the lengths and breadths to ensure we provide you with quality and maximum satisfaction. We take pride in always providing the best because we are 1st For Customer Care. You can count on us to supply your fuel needs.”

He further reassured customers by saying, “We want you to know that we appreciate you for buying our products and sticking with us all year around. We will continue to provide for your fuel needs through and through.”

Acting Sales Manager at NP-SL, John Conteh, emphasized the significance of Customer Service Week, which typically spans from Monday, October 2, to Friday, October 6, 2023. He noted that this global celebration is an opportunity to highlight the vital role of customer service in successful business practices and the growth of their company.

Conteh also stressed the importance of safety, explaining that NP Sierra Leone conducts regular training programs for Station Managers and Pump Attendants to equip them with essential skills for managing critical infrastructure and handling emergencies.

He added that NP Sierra Leone’s success is rooted in its unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction and an exceptional dedication to meeting the diverse needs of its esteemed clientele across the nation.

Communications Manager at NP Sierra Leone, Dr. Willette James, highlighted the company’s ethos of prioritizing customer care. She noted that Management actively seeks feedback and promptly addresses concerns, strengthening customer relationships and emphasizing NP’s commitment to continuous improvement.

As part of their Customer Service Week celebration, NP Sierra Leone distributed gift bags at various Filling Stations across Freetown, a gesture demonstrating the company’s commitment to appreciating its loyal customers and acknowledging their role in its success.

NP Sierra Leone has consistently shown its dedication to delivering excellent customer service and nurturing lasting relationships with its clientele.

In addition to celebrating its customers, NP Sierra Leone was also honored by Access International Business Studies (AIBS) during Customer Service Week, reinforcing the idea that celebrating others brings one’s own celebration.

NP Sierra Leone reiterated its commitment to customer service with the hashtags #1stForCustomerCare, #NPSLTD, #SafetyIsParamount, and #NPGas.

As NP Sierra Leone concludes its Customer Service Week celebration, the company shared a video which captures highlights of the week, showcasing the genuine appreciation and dedication to customer care that defines their ethos.

NP Sierra Leone is a leading fuel supplier known for its unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction and safety. With a strong presence in Freetown and beyond, the company has established itself as a reliable source for high-quality fuel products.

Mediation Dialogue Between Government & APC Scheduled for October 16-18

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC) Board Chairman, Rev. Shodankeh Johnson, has formally communicated the dates and details of the mediation dialogue between the Government of Sierra Leone and the All People’s Congress Party (APC). In a letter addressed to the Chairman of the APC on October 6, 2023, Rev. Johnson laid out the plan for the upcoming peace talks.

The mediation team, composed of representatives from the Commonwealth, the African Union (AU), and the Economic Community for West African States (ECOWAS), is set to arrive in Freetown during the week of October 8, 2023. The team will engage in separate consultations with both the government and the APC on Friday, October 13, and Saturday, October 14, 2023, with Sunday, October 15, 2023, designated as a rest day.

The Mediation Dialogue is scheduled to take place from Monday, October 16, to Wednesday, October 18, 2023, starting at 9:00 AM daily. The venue for the discussions will be the Ballroom of the Bintumani Hotel in Aberdeen, Freetown. All participants are requested to be seated by 8:45 AM to ensure proper time management. An opening ceremony will kick off the dialogue on Monday, October 16, 2023, promptly at 9:00 AM.

Rev. Shodankeh Johnson emphasized that only those who have received invitations will be granted access to the dialogue venue. He urged the APC to confirm its availability to participate in the dialogue on the specified dates and to provide the names of delegates who will be part of their negotiation team.

For any clarification or additional information, interested parties are instructed to contact Ms. Hawa Sally Samai, the Executive Secretary of ICPNC, at 076 603159 or via email at hassamai@yahoo.com or icpncsl@gmail.com.

Rev. Shodankeh Johnson expressed gratitude for the anticipated cooperation and looked forward to an early response from the APC as preparations for the crucial mediation dialogue move forward.

Orange SL, Agro Fish Farm Celebrate 6th Anniversary, Emphasizing Empowerment and Innovation

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Orange Sierra Leone (OSL), one of the leading mobile telecommunications companies, partnered with Agro Fish Farm to celebrate the latter’s 6th anniversary in Sierra Leone. The event, held on Bathurst Street in Freetown took place on Wednesday, October 4, 2023 with the theme: “Inspiring Women and Youth to Embrace Fish Farming.”

Kamal Abass, the Head of Public Relations and Corporate Responsibility at OSL, highlighted the company’s commitment to empowering young people and contributing to financial inclusion in the country. Abass noted that OSL had 17 affiliates across the Middle East and Africa and emphasized that their approach in Sierra Leone mirrored their operations worldwide.

Abass revealed that OSL’s social investment grant initiative began in 2019 as a competition with a prize. The goal was to support and finance innovators while creating employment opportunities for young people in Sierra Leone. Initially, the grant had a modest sum, but over the course of five years, it grew to a substantial Le100 million (one hundred million Leones). Notably, Abass mentioned that women were prominent participants in this initiative. This year, eight female finalists from Limkokwing University competed for the grant.

Addressing the changing employment landscape, Abass emphasized the importance of e-commerce in creating job opportunities for the future. He also outlined OSL’s development trajectory, focusing on health, education, agriculture, and digital education. As part of their ongoing commitment, OSL planned to send their finalist, Hawanatu Sesay, to an international competition.

Abass highlighted OSL’s efforts to promote sustainability, including providing solar systems to their sites to mitigate environmental pollution. Over five years, the grant initiative had produced ten winners, with a majority being women. OSL expressed its dedication to supporting women, assuring Agro Fish Farm’s CEO, Aminata Kandeh, of continued financial assistance.

In response, Kandeh expressed her gratitude to OSL for their unwavering support over the years. She recounted the journey of Agro Fish Farm, which began six years ago. Despite facing various challenges, the company had worked tirelessly to sustain its operations.

“Today, we are celebrating our 6th anniversary, which marks a remarkable milestone, and I am immensely proud of it,” Kandeh expressed her joy. She emphasized Agro Fish Farm’s commitment to setting industry standards and providing sustainable and reliable fish for all Sierra Leoneans.

Kandeh disclosed that her company had represented Sierra Leone in international forums, including Ghana and the United States, and had gained valuable insights into the fishing industry. She pledged to continue producing quality fish and training women in the fish industry, with plans to establish a Fish Academy in Sierra Leone in the next six years.

Kandeh concluded by acknowledging OSL’s support in empowering women, noting that women could achieve more with OSL’s assistance. The celebration marked a significant partnership between Orange Sierra Leone and Agro Fish Farm in their shared mission to empower the youth, promote innovation and ensure a sustainable future for Sierra Leone’s fish farming industry.

President Bio Launches Presidential Council on Feed Salone, Declares Agriculture as Top Priority

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio officially inaugurated the Presidential Council for Delivering the Feed Salone Initiative on Monday, October 9, 2023, emphasizing the critical importance of agriculture to the nation’s future. The establishment of this Council aligns with President Bio’s commitment to prioritize agriculture and food security during his second term in office.

The Feed Salone initiative, unveiled as the flagship program, is designed to realize President Bio’s vision of revitalizing the agriculture sector. The primary objectives of this initiative are to achieve food sovereignty, generate employment opportunities, reduce hunger, and stimulate economic growth throughout Sierra Leone.

Addressing the Council members during the launch ceremony, President Julius Maada Bio underscored their expertise and their pivotal role in ensuring food security. He acknowledged past attempts to address the nation’s food challenges and called on the new generation to rise to the occasion.

“This is a working group,” President Bio asserted. “We cannot afford to fail. Food is a matter of survival, and we cannot continue to rely on food produced elsewhere while we grapple with food crises. We have vast arable land and ample rainfall; we need to blame ourselves for not harnessing these resources efficiently.”

President Bio stressed that the Council’s overarching goal is to feed Sierra Leone comprehensively. He highlighted that the Council, in collaboration with the Presidential Initiative led by Dr. Kandeh Kolleh Yumkela, would involve a diverse range of stakeholders, including researchers, bankers, farmers, nutritionists, civil society, the private sector, and politicians. The President emphasized that “feeding Salone is about all of us.”

“We have gathered a multitude of experts from various fields,” President Bio continued. “Together, we can lead an agricultural revolution that will set an example. The Council’s work is vast, spanning multiple Ministries and expert groups. We must identify our needs and execute them with excellence, even if it means we have to get our hands dirty on the farm. Agriculture is the foundation of industrialization, and we must stimulate economic growth through this initiative.”

President Bio outlined the importance of incorporating technology and modern agricultural practices to ensure success. He urged the Council to explore innovative approaches, stating, “We cannot rely on traditional farming methods. Let’s employ techniques that have been proven successful elsewhere. Feed Salone is not just about me; it’s about our nation’s collective progress.”

Several key figures also made significant contributions during the launch event, including Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, Chairman of the Presidential Initiative on Agriculture and Climate Change, Dr. Alfred G.O. Dixon, Dr. Roland Suluku, private sector representatives, and Government officials.

Dr. Henry Musa Kpaka, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, emphasized the Council’s vital role in addressing cross-cutting issues affecting the Feed Salone Initiative. While his Ministry would lead technical aspects, the Council, chaired by President Bio, would facilitate support in resolving challenges, coordinating investments, ensuring policy consistency, monitoring implementation and advocating for the initiative’s success.

The Feed Salone Initiative, with the newly established Presidential Council at its helm, holds the promise of transforming Sierra Leone’s agriculture sector, ensuring food security, and stimulating economic growth, thus securing a brighter future for all Sierra Leoneans.

Peace Commission Convenes District Post-Election Dialogue in Five Regions

By Millicent Senava Mannah

In a concerted effort to foster peace and national unity following the recent elections, the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC), in collaboration with UN Women, successfully concluded a series of Post-Elections Dialogue sessions across five districts in the East, North, and South regions of the country.

The districts that benefited from this pivotal initiative were Pujehun, Kono, Port Loko, Bombali and Kerene. The program was a vital component of the global observance of the International Day of Peace, celebrated in Freetown on September 21st, under the theme “ACTION FOR PEACE, OUR AMBITION FOR THE GLOBAL GOALS.” Additionally, this initiative formed an integral part of the Commission’s National Dialogue on Reconciliation, symbolized by the hashtag #BePartOfTheConversation.

A diverse range of participants, representing various sectors, including law enforcement agencies, political parties, women’s groups, civil society organizations, electoral management bodies, the transportation sector, youth groups, school children, religious leaders and local authorities, actively engaged in these dialogues.

In Pujehun and Kono, the welcome addresses were delivered by Board members Edward Kpakra and Alhaji Abdul Salam Conteh, respectively, representing the South and East regions. They took the opportunity to provide a historical context for the establishment of the Peace Commission and highlighted some of its notable achievements to date. Board members representing the North and Northwest, Joe Turay and Alhaji Sulaiman Bah, also shared similar insights.

Charles Lahai, Director of Conflict Resolution and Management provided an overview of the program and presented on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as they relate to peace, security and development. The event featured a series of presentations on various topics, including “Elections and Peace in Sierra Leone,” “Peace, Security, Human Rights, and Development,” delivered by Salia Kpaka, Deputy Director of Communications; Racheal Kuyembeh, Deputy Director of Conflict Resolution; Adekali Kamara, Deputy Director of Research; Henryson Jusu, Deputy Director of M&E; James T. Turay, Senior Prevention Manager; and Mand E. Lansana Sheriff, Senior Project Manager. Fatmatta Kamara Jalloh, Director of Communications, also discussed the establishment of the Peace Situation Room and the Toll-Free Line 898, urging people to utilize these resources to report issues affecting the peace in their communities.

This district engagement marked the first major outreach by the Commission since the June 2023 Election and provided a platform for citizens to voice their concerns regarding issues that could potentially threaten peace in the nation.

During the dialogues, participants raised several pressing issues affecting their respective communities, including political intolerance, rampant youth unemployment, drug abuse, rising crime rates (particularly theft), tribalism, high inflation, increased cost of living, injustice, and the misuse of social media to spread hate speech and violence.

Notable recommendations stemming from the group discussions included calls for state institutions, including security forces, to maintain neutrality, demands for justice and equal rights, a ban on the importation of illicit drugs (including kush), and a review of the 1991 constitution to bolster the independence of State institutions. Participants also stressed the need to empower law enforcement agencies to combat crime, create jobs and provide skills training through the strengthening of technical and vocational institutions to develop a skilled workforce. Moreover, they advocated for a conducive environment to attract private sector investment, Government subsidies for essential commodities to alleviate the high cost of living, and increased Government investment in the agricultural sector.

The significance of fostering nationalism through dialogue and community awareness campaigns was another key point of emphasis.

Stakeholders in the various districts commended the Peace Commission and UN Women for initiating such a vital dialogue and urged the Commission to extend these dialogues to chiefdom and community levels to ensure long-term peace and unity in the nation. Furthermore, they pledged to disseminate the knowledge gained within their respective communities, ensuring that the spirit of peace and cohesion continues to thrive.

SLAJ President Honors VOA’s David Vandy with Maiden Presidential Award

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a touching ceremony held at the BSK Cultural Center in Hillcrest, Virginia, the President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, bestowed the inaugural SLAJ Presidential Award upon (Rev.) David Buakei Vandy, an esteemed compatriot known for his remarkable career spanning over 17 years as the Host/Producer of Voice of America’s (VOA) beloved musical program, African Beat.

The event, which took place on the evening of Friday, October 6, 2023, gathered a diverse group of SLAJ Diaspora members at the Iverson Mall’s Suite 1000. President Nasralla took the opportunity to reminisce about David’s significant contributions to broadcasting, theater, arts, and entertainment in Sierra Leone during the 1990s and beyond, highlighting his outstanding work at VOA.

“David Vandy was a household name in broadcasting, theater, arts, and entertainment in Sierra Leone before he traveled to live and work in the US. Since he joined VOA about 17 years ago, he has had an extraordinary journalism career presenting Africa Beat and promoting African music to the world. He is a very good example of what we call a professional journalist, and he has been a true Ambassador of Sierra Leone,” President Nasralla stated proudly.

Moreover, President Nasralla emphasized David’s contributions beyond journalism, particularly his support for the Sierra Leonean community in the United States. “Beyond journalism, I have heard heartwarming stories about David and the Sierra Leonean community here. Despite his busy schedule, he always makes time for his compatriots, including those visiting, and also supports our Embassy here to organize and bring Sierra Leoneans together. This award is also in recognition of the selfless and leadership role he is playing to unite his compatriots living and working in the US. You deserve this recognition, and I am truly happy that this is happening while you are at the peak of your career. I hope this award will further motivate you to continue the good work and may it inspire others to emulate your good example,” President Nasralla added.

Receiving the award, David expressed his surprise and delight, stating, “The SLAJ President summoned this meeting to discuss how we could organize ourselves into a SLAJ Diaspora group to bring us together as professionals and to support SLAJ and media development back home; I never knew I was going to be awarded anything. This is a shock to me, and I must say a pleasant surprise. I have received many awards, but this one coming from SLAJ is unique. This is special. This is huge. I don’t really know what to say right now.”

David assured the SLAJ President, his colleagues, and the Sierra Leone community that he would continue to be a professional and a pillar of support. This marks the first award presented by the SLAJ President to a deserving Sierra Leonean.

About (Rev.) David Buakei Vandy

(Rev.) David Buakei Vandy is an International Multimedia Journalist currently with the Voice of America in Washington, DC, a role he has held since 2006. He is best known as the Host/Producer of Voice of America’s musical program, African Beat.

David Vandy is a native of Sierra Leone, West Africa, and received his education at Fourah Bay College, University of Sierra Leone, and Logos University, USA. Beyond his journalism career, he is a professional stage and film actor and director. In 1990, David joined the first FM Radio Station in Sierra Leone, Atlantic Broadcasting Cooperation (ABC FM 94), and later worked with the Sierra Leone Broadcasting Service (SLBC) Radio and TV. He also served as a Commercial Manager, Producer, and Anchor with Radio Democracy FM 98.1 from 1998 to 2000.

In November 2000, he joined the United Nations Mission in Sierra Leone (UNAMSIL) and served as Programs Coordinator, News Reader and Producer for Radio UNAMSIL. In 2002, he was appointed as General Manager of Skyy Radio 106.6 FM in Freetown.

David Buakei Vandy is also the Founder and Director of the first all-Sierra Leonean Theatre Company, Sierra Theatre Production, in the United States. He has written, produced and directed plays performed at prestigious venues such as the John F. Kennedy Center for Performing Arts in Washington, DC, Smithsonian Museum for African American Arts and Culture, Lee Center for Performing Arts in Alexandria, VA, and New York. Additionally, he is the Founder and Chairman of the VANDY CHRISTIAN NETWORK (VCN), an Online Christian Radio and Television platform.

Among the numerous awards he has received for his service to the community, David was honored in 2022 with the African Community Achievement Award in Hollywood, California, the African Community Service Award in Alexandria, VA, and the prestigious Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award and The President’s Volunteer Service Awards Medal by President Joseph R. Biden in September 2022.

The SLAJ Presidential Award now stands as a testament to David Buakei Vandy’s extraordinary contributions to journalism, culture, and community-building.

Hon. Sualiho M. Koroma Donates Rice and Millions to SLPP Executives in Bo

By Jonathan Hindolo Kurabu Esq

In the midst of global economic uncertainty and rising commodity prices, Hon. Sualiho Monyaba Koroma, the former lead mayoral candidate for the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) in Bo City, made a remarkable gesture over the weekend. On October 7, 2023, at the SLPP Party Office in Bo, he generously donated One Hundred (100) bags of rice and Forty Million old Leones (LE 40,000,0000) to SLPP Zonal, Constituency, District Executives, Key Party Stakeholders, and Support Groups in Bo City.

This generous contribution, totaling One Hundred and Ten Million Old Leones (Le 110,000,000), comes five months after Hon. Sualiho Monyaba Koroma was denied the SLPP mayoral symbol for Bo City, despite winning almost 90% of the votes during the SLPP Primaries in Bo City. This decision had sparked resentment and discontent among constituents, voters, and party members.

In a statement, Hon. Sualiho M. Koroma clarified that his donation was not a display of wealth but rather a fulfillment of his annual support to the Sierra Leone People’s Party. He also expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming re-election of President Dr. Julius Maada Bio. He appealed to the SLPP Executives present to respect the party’s decision, support the elected Mayor, and assist all elected officials in carrying out their political duties. Furthermore, he urged patience in the face of the current global economic challenges.

Foday Abdulai, the SLPP Bo District Secretary, commended Hon. Sualiho M. Koroma for his ongoing financial support to the party, highlighting that few elected representatives in Bo City have shown such magnanimity, with the exception of Alhaji Dr. Kanja Sesay. He also appealed to all present executives to respect the party’s decisions.

Haja Mary Katta, the SLPP Bo District Women’s Leader, expressed profound gratitude to Hon. Sualiho Koroma for his consistent support over the past five years. She raised concerns about the intimidation faced by Zonal and Constituency executives who are loyal to Hon. Sualiho, emphasizing that such actions could undermine party unity and peace.

Constituency Executives thanked Hon. Sualiho M. Koroma for his generous donation, emphasizing that his generosity was well-known. They also expressed their concerns about the mistreatment of some elected councilors and supporters who are perceived to support Hon. Sualiho.

Despite the party’s decision to deny him the mayoral symbol, Hon. Sualiho Monyaba Koroma, a private entrepreneur, has remained committed to supporting the SLPP and the elected Mayor of Bo City Council. His dedication to the party and its objectives remains unwavering.

ARISE IIP On Massive Infrastructural & Industrial Development In Koya

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

ARISE Integrated Industrial Platforms (ARISE IIP) is making substantial strides in transforming the Sierra Leone Industrial Zone (SIZ) at Koya Chiefdom, Port Loko District. The ongoing massive infrastructural development project, which began in May of this year, is a significant step towards realizing President Bio’s vision for the country’s industrialization. This initiative is the result of a groundbreaking Public Private Partnership (PPP) agreement between ARISE and the Government of Sierra Leone, officially launched by President Bio on April 26, 2023.

The Project is set to inject a significant boost into Sierra Leone’s economy by creating over five thousand jobs and facilitate the development of a world-class industrial ecosystem. The investment will integrate the Rail and Ports corridor, which is expected to unlock Sierra Leone’s industrial potential.

ARISE IIP, renowned for developing and operating cutting-edge industrial ecosystems across Africa, has committed a staggering USD 120 million to the development of the SIZ – Koya (Sierra Leone Industrial Zones) as part of Phase 1. This initial phase, spanning 150 hectares, will include the establishment of 16 production units, primarily focused on import substitution industries. The private investment generated during this phase is estimated at a remarkable $165 million, with the creation of 2,500 direct jobs.

Phase 2 of the SIZ – Koya Project will encompass the establishment of 37 production units over 350 hectares within the zone. This phase will also emphasize import substitution industries and the local processing of raw materials into high-value-added products. A substantial investment of $140 million is anticipated, attracting an additional 6,500 jobs to the region.

The integrated industrial zone at SIZ-Koya is designed to accommodate companies specializing in various sectors, including agro-industry, timber processing, pharmaceuticals, consumer goods manufacturing, electric vehicle manufacturing, and cement and tile manufacturing.

Gagan Gupta, the Founder and CEO of ARISE IIP, expressed his commitment to building a sustainable future, stating, “ARISE IIP is committed to creating job opportunities, empowering local communities, and promoting economic growth through industrial development. Our partnership with the Republic of Sierra Leone is a testament to our commitment to making a positive impact in Africa.”

He continued, “Through the SIZ-Koya project, we aim to create world-class industrial infrastructure that will attract local and international investors to the region. We are confident that this integrated infrastructure will not only lead to job creation but also contribute more broadly to the industrialization of Sierra Leone in a sustainable and responsible way.”

ARISE IIP has experienced remarkable expansion across more than a dozen African countries, with a track record of catalyzing industrial growth and job creation. In Gabon, for example, the company’s management of the Gabon Special Economic Zone (GSEZ) has resulted in the creation of 16,000 jobs, the attraction of 120 investors, and the transformation of Gabon into the world’s second-largest producer and exporter of veneer, as well as the first in Africa.

ARISE IIP’s primary focus has always been the creation of industrial ecosystems committed to generating high local added value along with sustainable growth. Their presence extends to Benin (GDIZ), Togo (PIA), Gabon (GSEZ), Côte d’Ivoire (ZIC), and more, where they are actively working to help countries transition to industrial economies while minimizing carbon emissions and climate impact.

NP-SL Shows Appreciation to Customers during Customer Service Week

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In recognition of this year’s Customer Service Week, a global event that highlights the importance of exceptional customer service, NP Sierra Leone, on Friday, October 6, 2023, joined numerous institutions to commemorate the occasion. The company celebrated Customer Service Week by expressing gratitude to its cherished customers through the generous distribution of gift bags at various Filling Stations situated across the East, Central, and West Ends of Freetown.

John Conteh, Acting Sales Manager for NP-SL provided insights into the significance of Customer Service Week during an interview with this medium. He emphasized that the worldwide celebration typically spans from Monday, October 2, to Friday, October 6, 2023 adding that during this period an opportunity is offered to underscore the importance of customer service and its pivotal role in fostering successful business relationships that immensely contribute to the growth of the company.

Conteh further highlighted the company’s unwavering commitment to safety referencing regular training programs organized by them targeting Station Managers and Pump Attendants geared towards equipping the beneficiaries with essential skills to enable them manage critical infrastructure and effectively handle emergencies.

He underscored that NP-SL’s significant achievements stem from their dedication to customer satisfaction disclosing how the company has consistently demonstrated exceptional commitment to meeting the diverse needs of its esteemed clientele nationwide, thus fostering an environment of trust and reliability.

Dr. Willette James, Communications Manager for NP Sierra Leone, emphasized that NP’s core ethos revolves around an unwavering focus on customer care. She noted Management’s active engagements with customers as well as in soliciting feedback that helps greatly in addressing concerns promptly. Such a practice, she also pointed out, not only strengthens their relationship with customers but also underscores NP’s commitment to continuous improvement.

Dr. James concluded by highlighting the importance of the company’s  decision to express gratitude to its valued customers by distributing gift bags at various Filling Stations across the East, Central, and West End of Freetown during this year’s Customer Service Week celebration.

One of the beneficiaries, Ibrahim Kamara, a Bike Rider, commended NP-Sierra Leone for appreciating them as customers during this year’s Customer Service Week.

He said that he has always been patronizing with NP-Sierra Leone owing to the fact that the company is an indigenous business entity saying the revenue they generate is often used for the development of the country.

This initiative by NP Sierra Leone exemplifies the company’s dedication to acknowledge its loyal customers and recognize their vital role in the growth of the entity.

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