OFP Engages Medical Practitioners on Access to Healthcare for Disabled Women & Children

October 6, 2023

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a significant move to enhance access to healthcare for women and children with disabilities in Sierra Leone, the One Family People (OFP) organization, with support from Liliane Fonds and in partnership with various stakeholders, conducted a one-day engagement session with healthcare workers. The event, titled, “Access to Primary Healthcare for Women and Children with Disabilities,” was held at the Residual Special Court for Sierra Leone Peace Museum Hall in Freetown on September 28, 2023.

In his welcome address, the Program Manager at One Family People, Samuel P.O.V Macauley said in many communities, women and children with disabilities face significant barriers when it comes to accessing primary healthcare services saying that could be attributed to lack of awareness, stigma, physical inaccessibility and limited specialized resources, adding that as a result they often experience poorer health and are more vulnerable to preventable illnesses.

He, however, noted that the engagement is geared towards addressing the challenges faced by women and children with disabilities in accessing primary healthcare services in the country including the lack of awareness, limited resources, and inadequate training of healthcare workers resulting in reduced quality of healthcare for this vulnerable population.

Samuel P.O.V Macauley pointed out that engaging healthcare workers on access to primary healthcare for women and children with disabilities is important because it ensures that healthcare services are inclusive and accessible to all as the initiative seeks to address the specific healthcare needs of women and children with disabilities, ensuring they receive the care and support they require.

He said that as part of the objectives of the engagement it will enhance the knowledge and skills of healthcare workers relating to the specific healthcare needs of women and children with disabilities and also promote inclusivity and equality in healthcare services by ensuring that women and children with disabilities have equal access to primary healthcare.

The Program Manager expressed hope that at the end of the engagement, healthcare workers knowledge and skills will be improved in providing disability-inclusive primary healthcare services and also increase awareness and understanding among community residents regarding the healthcare needs of women and children with disabilities.

The Information Communication & Outreach Manager at the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities, Mawusie P I Dumbuya, commended One Family People and Partners for organizing the engagement on Access to Primary Healthcare for women and children with Disabilities.

He described the engagement as not only important but very timely, adding that over the years Access to Primary Healthcare for women and children with Disabilities has been very challenging for persons with disabilities in the country.

Mawusie P I Dumbuya said that the healthcare for persons with disabilities in the country must be treated seriously, furthering that the Commission is very much concerned about the healthcare of persons with disabilities which he said is one key issue that is in the Persons with Disabilities Act of which Section 17 of the Act states that all persons with disabilities should have access to free medical treatment.

He pointed out that even though the provision of healthcare is enshrined in the Act , lamentably, over the years they have had issues where persons with disabilities visit these healthcare centres but they are not treated with respect.

The Information Communication & Outreach Manager expressed optimism that with the one-day engagement with healthcare workers on Access to Primary Healthcare for women and children with Disabilities those issues if not eradicated completely will be minimized going forward.

The Senior Social Services Officer at the Ministry of Social Welfare, Edson A. Kamara, also applauded One Family People and Partners for organizing the engagement on Access to Primary Healthcare for Women and Children with Disabilities.

He said that the Ministry of Social Welfare is very committed towards addressing issues on Access to Primary Healthcare for Women and Children with Disabilities, adding that the significance of Primary healthcare for women and children cannot be overestimated owing to the fact that women and children with disabilities are among the most vulnerable population in society.

Edson A. Kamara said that primary healthcare plays a vital role in ensuring that women and children with disabilities live healthy and productive lives by providing preventive care and treatment.

He assured of the Ministry’s continued support towards addressing the numerous challenges faced by women and children with disabilities to access to Primary Healthcare in the country.

The Program Specialist at United Nations Development Programme, Mohamed Bah, said that access to healthcare is a key development challenge in the country adding that healthcare in general is a challenge for all citizens not to talk of women and children with disabilities for whom, he said , the scenario is worse for them.

Mohamed Bah said Governments over the years through policies have been making strides towards addressing challenges faced by women and children with disabilities in accessing healthcare but said the issue about access to healthcare for women and children with disabilities goes beyond just making policies as the implementation of those policies is also vital.

He disclosed that UNDP is currently supporting the review of the Persons with Disabilities Act and they are also working with the Association of Persons with Albinism to run a mobile health clinic.

Bah said the engagement is a must as it enables all to identify the barriers and challenges as well as the recommendations on how to Access to Primary Healthcare for Women and Children with Disabilities in the country.

The engagement also featured an open discussion which provided the opportunity for stakeholders and disable women and children to share their challenges and insights relating to access to primary healthcare services.

The “Access to Primary Healthcare for Women and Children with Disabilities” initiative is poised to make a positive impact on healthcare accessibility and inclusivity in Sierra Leone, particularly for one of its most vulnerable population.

US Embassy Ends a Week Long Training for 40 Military Personnel at 34 Military Hospital

October 6, 2023

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The U.S. Embassy Freetown Security Cooperation team successfully concluded a five-day training session on the Differentiated Service Delivery (DSD) model for the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) on September 22, 2023 at the 34 Military Hospital in Freetown. This transformative initiative aims to streamline HIV services for individuals living with HIV while alleviating pressure on the healthcare system.

Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Defence HIV and AIDS Prevention Program (DHAPP), a total of forty Sierra Leonean military personnel, comprising nurses, doctors, and pharmacists, actively participated in this week-long training program.

The DSD training was designed to tailor service delivery methods to cater to the unique requirements of RSLAF HIV patients. Furthermore, the DSD model will facilitate easier access to essential care by enabling drug distribution closer to patients’ residences. This decentralization of drug distribution will significantly reduce the necessity for frequent visits to healthcare facilities, thereby enhancing convenience and adherence to anti-retroviral treatments.

This collaborative training effort was made possible through the joint efforts of facilitators from the Ministry of Health and the National DSD program team. Common challenges such as long distances to treatment facilities, stigma, and limited transportation resources often hinder retention in HIV care programs. The implementation of the DSD model is expected to mitigate these barriers, ultimately leading to an improved quality of life for members of the Sierra Leonean military.

Africell Awards TVS Motorbike to 9th Lucky Winner in Ongoing Mega Promo

October 6, 2023

In a thrilling event on October 4th, 2023, Africell-SL, the foremost Mobile Network Operator in Sierra Leone, presented a gleaming TVS motorbike to its ninth fortunate winner, Sheku Sharba, a professional mason and contractor. This exciting giveaway is part of their ongoing “mega promo” campaign, which aims to reward loyal subscribers.

The official handover ceremony took place at Africell’s headquarters in Wilberforce, Freetown. Abdul Karim Sesay, Manager of Afri-Radio, congratulated, Sheku Sharba, on his remarkable win. He revealed the multitude of prizes available in the mega promotion, including daily cash prizes, weekly motorcycle giveaways, and monthly opportunities to win a brand-new Suzuki car. Abdul Karim Sesay further underlined that the initiative is a testament to Africell’s commitment to its valued subscribers.

To qualify for the Mega Promo, individuals are required to purchase an Africell SIM card if they are not already customers. Existing customers must recharge with at least 10 Leones daily to automatically enter the daily draw.

Abdul Aziz Kamara, Head of Media Relations at Africell, praised Sheku Sharba as the ninth lucky winner of the Africell Mega Promo emphasizing that the promotion aligns with Africell’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) values, demonstrating their dedication to their customers’ welfare.

“We want our cherished subscribers to know that we always hold them in high regard,” Kamara remarked. He went on to disclose that one fortunate Africell subscriber would be gifted a brand-new TVS motorbike every week, with fifteen more opportunities remaining in the ongoing promo.

The presentation of the TVS motorbike was conducted by John Konteh, Head of Marketing and Communications at Africell-SL and highlighted the transparency of the draw, emphasizing that subscribers need only recharge with 10 Leones daily or register a new Africell SIM to stand a chance of becoming the next lucky winner.

Konteh explained that they have ten qualifiers daily and he proudly mentioned the recent monthly grand prize winner, Ejatu Banya, from Bo city in Southern Sierra Leone, who won a brand-new Suzuki car.

“For every subscription you make, the more chances you will get to win,” Konteh asserted.

Sheku Sharba, the ecstatic recipient of the TVS motorbike, shared his initial disbelief upon receiving the call from Africell announcing his win while he was at a construction site. He believed it might have been a fraud until he was invited to Africell’s headquarters, where the staff heartily congratulated him. Sharba revealed that he had been diligently topping up with 10 Leones daily since the promotion’s launch, making him the proud owner of the valuable TVS motorbike.

He encouraged other Africell subscribers to continue participating, as they too might become fortunate winners in the exciting Mega Promo.

Tabital Pulaaku Alleged Illegal Ringleaders to Appear Before Justice Adrian Fisher on Monday

October 6, 2023

In a much-anticipated legal battle, the alleged ringleaders of the illegal Tabital Pulaaku Sierra Leone Chapter are set to appear before Justice Adrian Fisher at the High Court on Monday, October 9, 2023.

Tabital Pulaaku International Sierra Leone Chapter, a nonprofit organization, established in Sierra Leone and a National Chapter of the larger Tabital Pulaaku International Federation initiated legal proceedings against the defendants, namely Alhaji Mohamed Sarjoh Jalloh, commonly known as MED SAJ, Abdul Razak Bah and Abdulai Barrie. These defendants are accused of falsely claiming authority over Tabital Pulaaku International Sierra Leone and organizing events under its name within the country.

Justice Adrian Fisher, presiding over the case, initially encouraged a conciliatory approach despite the strong legal standing of the Plaintiff (that is those that brought the case before the court), which is Tabital Pulaaku International Sierra Leone Chapter, under Sierra Leonean law. The Judge urged both parties to seek a peaceful resolution in the interest of peace and unity within the Fullah Community.

Elders and senior members of the Fullah community made earnest efforts to facilitate a peaceful resolution. Meetings were convened at the Fullah Central Mosque on Magazine Cut, where the Imams unequivocally affirmed that MED SAJ and the other defendants were in the wrong. Additional meetings took place at the residence of Alhaji Monorma in Kingtom, with all relevant stakeholders striving to resolve the issues.

However, recent reports suggest that while the plaintiff and its officers exhibited a genuine commitment to lasting peace within the Fullah community, the defendants, particularly Razak Bah and Abdulai Barrie, have shown resistance and determination to continue the legal battle. Furthermore, it is reported that MED SAJ’s commitment to peace has been lukewarm, and he departed for the United States during the peace talks, designating emissaries who seem more interested in promoting personal, divisive agendas rather than pursuing peace in the Fullah community.

The defendants have engaged Legal Counsels to contest the case in court despite legal experts’ opinions that defending their position will prove challenging under Sierra Leonean law.

The matter is scheduled for a hearing before Justice Fisher on Monday, October 9, 2023.

Stay tuned for updates on this high-stakes legal showdown.

SLURC Trains 24 Residents on Addressing Energy Challenges of Community Kitchens

October 6, 2023

By Millicent Senava Mannah

The Sierra Leone Urban Research Centre, in collaboration with AfriGas, EGTC and Government Technical Institute has completed a two day Energy Champion for Community Kitchen Training Workshop with 24 community members from Portee and Rokupa in Freetown. This training was held on the 4th& 5th October, 2023 at the Government Technical Institute compound closer to the Kissy Ferry Junction in the East End of Freetown.

During the training workshop, various topics were delved into, including clean cooking technologies, energy-efficient practices, and community engagement strategies, with the objective that the beneficiaries will become catalysts for change in their respective communities.

The Executive Director for SLURC, Joseph McCarthy, intimated that the training marks a significant milestone in their collective efforts to address the energy challenges faced by their communities, particularly in the context of community kitchens.

“Access to clean and affordable energy is essential for the well-being and sustainable development of our society,” he said adding that community kitchens serve as vital spaces where meals are prepared for schools, hospitals, and other communal settings. He continued that, many of these kitchens rely on traditional cooking methods that not only contribute to deforestation but also pose serious health risks due to indoor air pollution.
“It is imperative that we find innovative and sustainable solutions to transform these community kitchens into safe, efficient, and environmentally friendly spaces,” Joseph McCarthy recommended.

He disclosed that together with their esteemed partners, GTI, AfriGas, and EGTC, they are deeply committed to driving positive change in the energy landscape of Sierra Leone noting that their collaborative efforts aim at promoting clean cooking solutions, enhance energy access and foster inclusive development.

He pointed out that they are empowering them as Energy Champions, for them to lead the change within their communities, and how they can create a ripple effect that will transform countless lives and pave the way for a sustainable future.

“Together, we will explore innovative approaches to address the challenges faced by community kitchens, such as the adoption of clean cooking stoves, renewable energy solutions, and sustainable fuel alternatives,” the Executive Director expressed the need for synergy.
He averred that, through this collaborative effort, they can reduce the environmental impact, improve the health and well-being of kitchen workers and enhance the overall efficiency of their community kitchens.

The Executive Director encouraged all the trainees, as Energy Champions, to share their insights to their communities and how together, they can ignite a movement that will transform community kitchens into beacons of sustainability, health, and empowerment.
The Representative of AfriGas encouraged everyone to buy their products saying they do not only save time, but how with them, the cutting down of trees will be minimized and such will save the environment.
Zakiatu Sesay, one of the trainees said she learnt a lot one of which is that using innovative means of cooking save time and are more economical to use.
Another trainee also buttressed that time is saved as well as contributing in keeping the kitchen clean.
The issuing out of certificates to the trainees at the end of the training workshop formed the highpoint of the two day event .

RSPB Global Conservation Executive Director Visits Gola Rainforest National Park In Lalehun

October 6, 2023

By Philip Koroma in Kenema

The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) Global Conservation team, led by Executive Director Katie Jo Luxton, embarked on a significant visit to the Gola Rainforest National Park in the Lalehun Community of Gaura Chiefdom, Kenema district. This visit marks a critical step in evaluating the park’s protection level and identifying potential areas requiring intervention for funding proposals to various partners.

Jenna Barker, Acting Country Director of RSPB in Sierra Leone, shed light on the purpose of the visit, emphasizing RSPB’s status as the largest nature conservation charity with a proven track record of successful conservation efforts, burgeoning partnerships with diverse organizations, and a mission to inspire global efforts in protecting nature.

Ms. Barker urged the community of Lalehun to continue safeguarding the forest, highlighting RSPB’s global commitment to preserving wildlife habitats wherever they are threatened.

Executive Director, Katie Jo Luxton, elaborated on RSPB’s charitable mission, which centres on promoting the conservation and protection of birds and their environments through public awareness campaigns and the operation of nature reserves. She assured the Lalehun Community of ongoing support provided they remain vigilant against illegal activities that could harm the Gola Rainforest National Park.

Highlighting a two-decade collaboration with the Gola Rainforest Conservation Programme, Ms. Luxton praised the community’s dedication to forest protection. She underscored the Gola Rainforest’s significance as one of Sierra Leone’s last remaining bastions of Upper Guinean tropical rainforest, spanning nearly 700 square kilometres and boasting more than 330 bird species, 14 of which are at risk of global extinction.

Ms. Luxton stressed the importance of flagship species such as the elusive pygmy hippo (choeropsis liberiensis), emphasizing that their presence underscores the international recognition of the area as a global biodiversity hotspot deserving utmost attention and protection.

Fomba Maada Kanneh, Head of Gola, expressed gratitude to the RSPB team for their visit, acknowledging their pivotal role in protecting the Gola Rainforest National Park and improving the lives of forest-edge communities. He urged the Lalehun community to continue safeguarding the forest, emphasizing the importance of sustainable resource management and community involvement in forest protection.

Kanneh unveiled sustainable farming practices developed by the Gola Rainforest Program, aimed at enhancing livelihoods and promoting conservation. He also highlighted the establishment of the Gola Rainforest Company Ltd in 2014, a joint effort with the Government of Sierra Leone and the Conservation Society of Sierra Leone to secure the park’s future.

Furthermore, he emphasized the vital role of collaboration between local communities, conservation, and sustainable resource management, underscoring the multifaceted approach taken to ensure the forest’s long-term protection.

Representing the land-owning families in Lalehun, Mustapha Mansaray praised the Gola Rainforest Conservation Programme for their alternative livelihood support and scholarship scheme. He appealed for an extension of the scholarship program to university levels, addressing pressing community needs, such as clean drinking water, road infrastructure, and healthcare facilities, to fortify the forest’s enduring protection.

In a remarkable display of commitment, Mustapha Mansaray announced the formation of a ten-member committee to support forest rangers in patrolling the national forest, further solidifying the community’s dedication to safeguarding this vital natural treasure.

The RSPB’s visit to the Gola Rainforest National Park underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in preserving biodiversity and uplifting the lives of local communities, exemplifying the organization’s global mission to protect and nurture nature.

DoFA Celebrates Three Years Anniversary & Launches its Website

October 6, 2023

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

The Dorwontony Organization for the Aged (DoFA), on Tuesday, October 3rd, 2023, celebrated three years of dedicated service during which the organization’s website was unveiled. The event, held at their office on Albert Street, Off Circular Road, Freetown, was a momentous occasion, graced by esteemed guests including representatives from the Ministry of Labour and the National Telecommunications Commission of (NATCA), alongside prominent figures like Asmaa James amongst others.

DoFA, a non-profit organization, was established three years ago with a noble mission: to ensure a dignified life for elderly individuals aged 60 and above who often find themselves marginalized, neglected and unsupported. Over the years, the organization has touched the lives of thousands of elderly citizens in various regions across Sierra Leone, including Freetown, Kenema, Bo, Kono, and Makeni.

CEO of DoFA, Doreen Barrie, shared her joy and gratitude for the progress made during the organization’s brief but impactful existence. She called upon the Government to collaborate with them in providing the basic necessities that older citizens require to live dignified lives.

The highlight of the celebration was the launch of DoFA’s website, a pioneering initiative in Sierra Leone dedicated to showcasing the activities, stories, and achievements of elderly citizens. CEO Doreen Barrie emphasized the importance of this online platform as a means for the international community to gain insight into the lives of elderly Sierra Leoneans and to facilitate support from organizations worldwide.

“We have observed other nations successfully highlighting the activities of their elderly populations through the web, and we are determined to follow suit here in Sierra Leone. With this website, people from across the globe will now have a window into the lives of our elderly citizens,” she enthused.

Reverend Father Peter Conteh, the Board Chairman of DoFA, marvelled at the organization’s accomplishments, equating their three years of work to that of a fifteen-year-old institution. He underscored the need for Sierra Leone to grant special privileges and attention to its aging population, as is common in many other countries.

Cassandra Garber, the matron of DoFA, expressed her enthusiasm for the progress the organization has made, applauding the dedication of CEO Doreen Barrie and all DoFA members. She urged them to continue their selfless work reminding them that their reward lay not only in human recognition but also in the blessings of God.

Commissioner Robert Kondima Kargbo, the representative from NATCA, commended DoFA for taking on the crucial task of caring for Sierra Leone’s elderly people, emphasizing that their approach set them apart from other organizations. As the body responsible for network connectivity in the country, NATCA pledged to support DoFA, especially in maintaining the newly launched website and encouraged them to persevere in their noble mission.

Musa Bockarie, the representative from the Ministry of Labour, explained the Ministry’s role in supporting the elderly population. He emphasized that it is part the Ministry’s duties to ensure the welfare of older citizens and affirmed their commitment to assisting DoFA whenever needed.

The website developer provided a detailed presentation of the features and security measures of the newly launched website. Asmaa James was then invited to officially launch the website, www.dofa.org.sl. She commended CEO Doreen Barrie and the entire DoFA team for their dedicated service to the elderly. With pride and enthusiasm, she clicked the mouse to mark the website’s official launch.

The celebratory event concluded with a symbolic act of unity and gratitude as senior dignitaries joined together to cut a celebratory anniversary cake. It was a day filled with hope, compassion, and a renewed commitment to ensuring that Sierra Leone’s elderly population could live out their golden years with the dignity and care they rightfully deserve.

ARISE IIP’s Investment in Sierra Leone’s Railway & Industrial Zone Promises Economic Revitalization

October 6, 2023

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a recent nationwide survey conducted by this medium, Sierra Leoneans have shown overwhelming support for the revival of rail transportation in the country. This resurgence is not merely a nostalgic sentiment but a calculated move to stimulate economic growth based on historical data. Sierra Leone’s railway history dates back to 1893 and during its peak, it played a pivotal role in connecting the country’s interior with the capital city, Freetown, and its seaport. At the time of independence in 1961, the railway was thriving, employing over 10,000 Sierra Leoneans and serving 49 train stations.

The railway’s golden era was characterized by two types of trains: the Goods Train, which transported economic commodities such as cocoa, coffee, and oil palm, and the Passenger Train, catering to the transportation needs of thousands of people daily. This thriving railway network not only created employment but also boosted the nation’s wealth. However, corruption and mismanagement eventually led to its closure in 1975.

Fast forward to recent years, significant developments have taken place in Sierra Leone’s railway sector. African Minerals Limited invested in the Pepel Railway and Port during President Ernest Bai Koroma’s tenure, under a Build, Operate, and Transfer (BOT) framework. However, in 2020, they handed over these assets to the Government of Sierra Leone. Subsequently, in 2021, the government leased the assets to Kingho Railway and Port Company. Still, concerns arose over the low annual lease rent and the high fees charged to other mining companies for transportation.

In January 2023, the Government terminated the lease agreement with Kingho, and this decision was legally sound as it had been subject to revision after two years. During this period, ARISE Integrated Industrial Platforms (ARISE IIP) stepped in with an enticing proposal. ARISE IIP offered a $476 million investment to refurbish the Pepel Tonkolili Railway and Port, with plans to reintroduce passenger rail services connecting provincial areas up to neighboring Guinea. A 10% dividend to the Government and surface rents to landowners sweetened the deal.

The unanimous approval of this new lease agreement by the Cabinet was no surprise given its substantial benefits. The railway network revitalized by African Minerals Limited passes through over 200 villages in the provinces, promising widespread advantages with the reintroduction of passenger train services. The increased transportation of goods and produce is expected to have a positive impact on the country’s economy.

As of now, ARISE IIP has secured seven passenger railcars from Japan, scheduled to arrive at the Port on October 26, 2023. This development marks a significant milestone in Sierra Leone’s efforts to rejuvenate its railway system.

In addition to its railway investment, ARISE IIP is making substantial strides in Sierra Leone’s industrialization. The company is investing $120 million in the SIZ – Koya (Sierra Leone Industrial Zones) development, a public-private partnership that was launched by President Julius Maada Bio on the 26^th April, 2023.

The first phase of this project includes 16 production units focused on import substitution industries, generating an estimated $165 million in private investment and creating 2,500 direct jobs. Phase 2 will expand this with 37 production units and an additional 6,500 jobs.

The SIZ-Koya integrated industrial zone is set to host companies specializing in agro-industry, timber processing, pharmaceuticals, consumer goods manufacturing, electric vehicle manufacturing, cement, and tile manufacturing.

Gagan Gupta, Founder and CEO of ARISE IIP, expressed the company’s commitment to building a sustainable future through industrial development, creating job opportunities and fostering economic growth in Sierra Leone.

ARISE IIP’s management of the Pepel Rail and Port, in conjunction with the development of the SIZ – Koya industrial zone, promises to facilitate the transportation of agricultural products, generate employment opportunities, and reduce the cost of transporting goods for various companies.

Respondents in our nationwide survey believe that the reintroduction of rail services by ARISE IIP will significantly improve Sierra Leone’s economy compared to the previous operator, Kingho.

Indisputably, Sierra Leone is witnessing a resurgence in its railway and industrial sectors spearheaded by ARISE IIP’s substantial investments. These initiatives have the potential to stimulate economic growth, create employment opportunities and position the country on a path to prosperity.

Orange Sierra Leone Launches Customer Service Week with a Focus on Excellence

October 6, 2023

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Under the theme, “One Team, One Goal”, Orange Sierra Leone on Monday, October 2nd, 2023, commenced its Customer Service Week at the company’s Hill Station headquarters in Freetown.

The event was organized to not only celebrate the core values held by Orange Sierra Leone but also to reflect on the journey they have undertaken thus far, with a hopeful eye towards their future endeavors.

Contextually, the primary objectives of the launch were to celebrate the company’s core values, reflect on its journey thus far, set the stage for a promising future. It aligns with the global observance of Customer Service Week from October 2nd to 6th, 2023, a crucial period to recognize and applaud Orange Sierra Leone’s employees for their outstanding dedication to serving their customers.

The launch ceremony was graced by the presence of dignitaries representing the Ministry of Communication, Innovation and Technology, alongside representatives from DSTI (Directorate of Science, Technology and Innovation), Orange Money and dedicated Orange Sierra Leone staff among other distinguished guests.

CEO of Orange Sierra Leone, Sheku Amadu Bah, conveyed his immense pleasure in addressing the gathering as they inaugurate Customer Service Week. He underscored the company’s unwavering commitment to excellence, dedication to innovation and their relentless pursuit of delivering exceptional customer service making reference to the Customer Perception initiative as concrete proof of their dedication to that cause.

Bah went on to express his immense pride in the team’s achievement of bridging the gap between the Orange Sierra Leone brand and its customers in Casablanca. He emphasized that these achievements were the result of collective effort further extending his heartfelt gratitude to every member of the team for their unwavering dedication and exceptional work.

The overarching goal of the event, as reiterated by Bah, was twofold: firstly, to take a moment to acknowledge and appreciate the significant strides they have made as a pillar within the Sierra Leonean community and, secondly, to celebrate the paramount importance of customer service and the dedicated individuals who serve and support customers on a daily basis.

Alpha (Sulaiman) Bundu, Director of Customer Experience at Orange Sierra Leone, stressed the paramount significance of Customer Service Week, emphasizing that this period serves as a unique opportunity to recognize and applaud the outstanding work carried out by Orange Sierra Leone employees in serving their cherished customers. He stressed the need to embrace customer-centric principles and encouraged all staff to proactively seek to understand customer needs and expectations.

Bundu called for unity among the Orange Sierra Leone staff in their shared mission to become the most customer-centric and transversal company emphasizing that customer service transcends departmental boundaries. He underscored the collective responsibility of each and every employee to consistently provide a positive and exceptional experience to both internal and external customers.

He further emphasized Orange Sierra Leone’s commitment to transparency, direct customer interaction, trust-building, and a continuous pursuit of excellence.

Bundu also delved into the pivotal role of AI (Artificial Intelligence) in enhancing customer experiences, asserting that harnessing AI for this purpose not only benefits business operations but also contributes positively to society as a whole. He challenged the conventional notion of “Why AI?” and instead championed the idea that Orange Sierra Leone must actively embrace AI to elevate its service delivery and deepen its commitment to customer satisfaction.

Representing the HR Director, Gina, highlighted that customer service is not merely about selling a product or providing a service; rather, it is about crafting exceptional experiences that leave lasting impressions on customers. She extended her heartfelt thanks to the customer service unit for their diligent efforts in ensuring customer satisfaction and urged them to continue their commendable work.

Haffie Haffner, Chief Commercial Officer at Orange Sierra Leone, took the opportunity to express gratitude to the entire Orange Sierra Leone staff, acknowledging their dedication in going above and beyond to serve customers and ensure that everything runs smoothly. She urged everyone to persevere in their commitment to excellent customer service, underscoring that customers are the lifeblood of the company.

As part of the event, various departments within Orange Sierra Leone had representatives who shared insights into customer interactions and satisfaction. Teams from the Trade, Call Center, and Shop departments recounted their experiences in ensuring customer retention and satisfaction.

Abibatu Baxter, Head of Strategy, Partnership, and Marketing at Orange SL, expressed heartfelt appreciation to those who diligently address customer complaints and called upon everyone to work cohesively as a team to promote the company’s growth and acquire more customers along the way.

Ahmed Tejan Foday, a Data Scientist at DSTI, shed light on how AI can contribute to national innovation and digital strategy, citing three innovative projects currently underway: the Prestract Project (for pregnancy and stillbirth data), the IGS Project, and the Education Project for student placement. He emphasized that these projects not only represent innovation but also hold the potential for a sustainable impact on Sierra Leone.

Dr. Abdulai Sankoh, representing the Ministry of Communication, Innovation, and Technology, expounded on the ways in which AI and technology can significantly contribute to national development. He lauded Orange Sierra Leone’s commendable work as one of the foremost telecommunications network providers in Sierra Leone and expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the organization. Dr. Sankoh encouraged Orange Sierra Leone to continue its invaluable contributions to the nation’s development.

The launch of Customer Service Week by Orange Sierra Leone signified the organization’s unwavering commitment and determination to provide the people of Sierra Leone with the best telecommunication network service. The event placed a significant emphasis on the importance of customer service, the transformative power of AI, and the collective responsibility of every employee in creating exceptional customer experiences. Orange Sierra Leone stands poised to embrace innovation and continue serving its customers with care and excellence.

NP-SL Remains a Leading Importer & Marketer of Premium Petroleum Products

October 6, 2023

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a journey that harks back to its origins, NP-Sierra Leone Limited (NP-SL Ltd), a dynamic player in the import and marketing of petroleum products, remains a stalwart in Sierra Leone’s energy sector. Founded over two decades ago, this remarkable enterprise owes its existence to a dedicated group of former British Petroleum (BP) employees who acquired 60% of the Government’s shares in 1996, thus initiating its indigenous ownership.

The genesis of this transition was influenced by the World Bank’s counsel to privatize, prompting the sale of the majority of Government-held shares. With 55% of shares acquired through the end-of-service benefits of BP workers and an additional 5% offered to all other employees, NP-SL Ltd emerged as a wholly Sierra Leonean-owned entity.

In the years since its inception, NP-SL Ltd has solidified its position as the premier oil marketing company in the nation, excelling in the importation and marketing of various petroleum products, including gasoline, diesel, gas, and lubricants—among them, the renowned Castrol oil.

The company’s commitment to uninterrupted supply is unwavering, except in instances of unforeseen circumstances, often beyond its control, where it has taken swift measures to mitigate delays and restore the supply chain to normalcy.

A cornerstone of NP-SL Ltd’s philosophy lies in prioritizing exceptional customer care to ensure customer satisfaction. This ethos extends to the company’s well-designed and spacious Filling Stations, featuring vibrant yellow and green aesthetics, and even integrated shopping marts, providing essential items and a space for relaxation and socializing.

To enhance transparency and align with international standards, NP-SL Ltd has heavily invested in calibrated pumping machines that precisely dispense fuel, assuring buyers of accurate quantities.

Remarkably, NP-SL Ltd has demonstrated its dedication to Sierra Leone’s Local Content Policy, making a significant impact by offering employment opportunities to Sierra Leoneans, thereby contributing to poverty reduction.

The NP Gas, known for its speed, efficiency, and eco-friendliness in cooking applications, has gained substantial popularity. NP-SL Ltd’s strategic approach to offering gas alongside petrol, diesel, and lubricants in various cylinder sizes ensures accessibility and convenience for customers.

One of the company’s latest innovations, the NP Smart Card, has taken the market by storm. This ingenious card allows users to load funds and seamlessly utilize calibrated pumping machines to dispense fuel, displaying both the quantity and price, offering a secure and efficient solution that has garnered widespread acclaim.

Mohamed Jusu, a civil servant, extolled the virtues of the NP Smart Card, stating, “NP Smart Card works well, and since I have been using it, I always procure fuel for my car and generator in record time. Using it, there are many benefits one can derive.”

Expanding its reach beyond Sierra Leone’s borders, NP-SL Ltd operates efficiently in Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast, and The Gambia, contributing to job creation and Government revenue through tax payments.

From its humble beginnings, NP-SL Ltd has evolved into a towering presence in Sierra Leone’s petroleum landscape. With an extensive network of Filling Stations across the country, Management of the company remains resolute in its pursuit of continued growth and excellence in the energy sector.