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NP SL is Steadfast in  Marketing  High-Grade  Petroleum Products  

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In an unwavering commitment to provide top-notch petroleum products, NP Sierra Leone Limited (NP-SL Ltd) has been steadfast and doggedly dedicated to ensuring that the public has access to high-grade fuels, guaranteeing smooth operations for vehicles, businesses, and various equipment powered by petrol or diesel.

The company, with its diligent Shareholders, Board and Management, continues to make significant strides in the importation and marketing of tested and certified petroleum products, offering them at affordable prices, thereby preventing any shortages and associated disruptions.

In recent interviews, company officials expressed their determination to enhance service delivery across the country and beyond. Despite receiving accolades for their outstanding performance over the years that should have made them rest on their oars, NP-SL Ltd remains focused on improving its operations, aiming to serve the public diligently and provide exceptional value for money.

NP’s commitment to customer care is unwavering. The company has established a dedicated Customer Care outlet, staffed by professionals who are readily available to address customers’ concerns and suggestions. This proactive approach aims to foster a strong and mutually beneficial relationship with its valued customers.

Notably, NP-SL Ltd has revolutionized the marketing of fuel with the introduction of the NP Smart Card. This innovative card allows customers to conveniently purchase petrol or diesel from the company’s Filling Stations across the country, eliminating the need for cash transactions and promoting safety.

The company has also demonstrated a strong commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) by rolling out various development programs. Recognizing that Government alone cannot champion every development program, NP has consistently complemented its efforts to enhance progress in order to improve the living standards of the masses.

NP has also been steadfast in adhering to the country’s Local Content Policy, ensuring that local talents are harnessed and developed. This approach not only provides employment opportunities but also contributes to the growth of a skilled workforce essential for the nation’s development.
The introduction of NP-Gas, a fast-igniting, safe, and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional cooking fuels like wood and charcoal, underscores the company’s commitment to sustainable practices.

Expanding its footprint, NP has successfully ventured into countries such as Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast, and The Gambia, where it has made remarkable strides. The company has created employment opportunities in these nations and has been a significant contributor to local economies through its timely tax payments that support various development projects.

Despite economic challenges, including currency depreciation, NP remains resilient and committed to delivering top-quality petroleum products.

It can only be concluded that NP-SL stands firm in its determination to provide the best petroleum products while contributing to the development and welfare of Sierra Leone and neighboring countries. With a steadfast commitment to excellence, NP-SL Ltd continues to be a reliable partner for customers and a driver of progress in the region.

Orange SL Launches Groundbreaking 5G Trial Service in Freetown

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Orange Sierra Leone marked a historic moment on September 28th, 2023, with the official launch of its pioneering 5G trial technology during a Tech Night event held at the Freetown City Council basement. The telecommunications giant unveiled this cutting-edge technology to both prepaid and postpaid mobile users, ushering in an era of higher speeds, enhanced connectivity and reduced latency for its subscribers.

The event, graced by esteemed personalities, featured notable figures such as the Chief Minister, Dr. David Monina Sengeh, various Ministers of Government, the Chief of Defence Staff, Lieutenant General P. K. Lavahun and the Honorable Member of Parliament for Constituency 028 among others.

Also present were key industry figures, including Amara Brewah (Director General of NaTCA), Sekou Drame (CEO of Sonatel), and Sekou Amadou Bah (CEO of Orange Sierra Leone), as well as members of the Diplomatic and Consular Corps.

Orange Sierra Leone, in its commitment to spearheading digital advancements, chose to pilot its 5G trial service exclusively in the Freetown Central Business District. This initiative aligns with the company’s broader strategy of expanding its technological footprint to empower subscribers to embrace and explore this innovative service.

The 5G trial service aims to deliver optimal speed, capacity and innovation, catering to the diverse needs of users as they embrace this transformative technology.

Sekou Drame, CEO of Sonatel, expressed his delight at the launch, highlighting that the introduction of 5G in Sierra Leone follows the successful implementation of this technology in Botswana and Jordan. He emphasized that this launch is a stepping stone for massive infrastructure investments and will facilitate digital transformation across various sectors, including entertainment, health, manufacturing, education and transportation.

Drame further underlined Orange’s commitment to network excellence, particularly in Europe, Africa and the Middle East, where they have become leaders in fiber deployment. He stressed that these investments would enhance customers’ experiences as well as speed up digitalization in those regions.

In the African context, Sekou Drame assured continued efforts to deploy both fixed and mobile networks, fostering economic and social development across the continent. He praised Orange Sierra Leone for setting a technological standard by initiating the 5G pilot, aligning it with the Government’s vision to drive technology, infrastructure and digitalization investments.

Sekou Amadou Bah, CEO of Orange Sierra Leone, reiterated the significance of this milestone in driving digital development within the country. He emphasized that the 5G trial has the potential to catalyze rapid technological advancement and economic growth, enabling the full realization of the internet’s potential. Bah highlighted the transformative impact of the 5G technology on sectors like education, health, manufacturing and commercial agriculture.

He assured users that the 5G trial services would deliver faster and more reliable connectivity, building on Orange’s track record of connecting over 7 million people in Sierra Leone to 3G, 4G and 4G+ networks. The launch also includes a Fiber to Home Internet Offer, designed to improve productivity and connectivity through fast and efficient internet, offering high-speed broadband experiences at affordable prices.

Orange Sierra Leone’s ambition is to promote digital inclusion by democratizing mobile broadband and making it accessible to all. Over the past seven years, Orange has positioned itself as a reliable and ambitious investor, committed to increasing mobile and internet penetration across the country.

Bah expressed profound gratitude to the Government for creating a conducive business environment and commended the Ministry of Communication for driving the digital transformation agenda in the private sector. He also praised the National Communication Authority for pioneering the 5G trial launch and offering support to mobile network operators.

In his closing remarks, Bah underscored that 5G heralds a new era of possibilities for the country, urging all stakeholders to work together to harness its potential.

Chief Minister, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, challenged everyone to leverage technology to promote equity, emphasizing that innovation must be harnessed to reduce inequality, aligning with the Government’s promise.

The official pilot launch of Orange Sierra Leone’s 5G trial technology follows the completion of necessary infrastructure, enabling the company to provide this groundbreaking service in approved locations specified in the trial license granted by the Regulatory Authority.

During the initial stage, Orange Sierra Leone will explore various use cases to enhance speed for fixed wireless access and mobile broadband.

Ten Thousand US Dollars Lease Agreement Signed for Orphanage in Kono District

In a landmark event held at the Thomas Saquee Resource Centre in Koakoyima town, Koidu City, Kono District, on Saturday 9th September, 2023, a lease agreement worth ten thousand United States Dollars was officially signed by the Raining Season The Roots Project and the Tankoro Chiefdom Authorities for the establishment of an orphanage in Kono District. In attendance were key stakeholders, dignitaries and community members.

Deputy Mayor of Koidu New Sembehun City Council, Sheku Kamara, who chaired the event, expressed his delight in presiding over such an important occasion, which he pointed out, aims at addressing issues related to child development. He emphasized the crucial role that children play as the future leaders of the nation and urged all attendees to actively participate in programs that have the potential to develop Kono District.

Abubakarr Kanu, the Senior Protection Officer from the Ministry of Gender and Children Affairs in Kono District, shared his optimism regarding the positive impact the orphanage will have on child protection in the district. He praised the Raining Season The Roots Project for their commitment to establishing the orphanage and stressed the importance of such facilities in combating child trafficking and providing a home for children without biological parents.

Augustine Sahr Sheku, Chairman of Kono District Council, expressed his happiness at being part of this historic event as a development advocate. He welcomed the Raining Season The Roots Project’s intervention, highlighting its significance in building the capacity of both current and future generations of children.

P.C. Emmanuel Tamba T. Foyoh, Chairman of the Council of Paramount Chiefs in Kono District, acknowledged the central role of chiefs in development and expressed his support for the establishment of the orphanage, believing it would address child-related social issues in the district.

Honorable Paramount Chief, Paul Gaba Saquee V, a Member of Parliament in Kono District and the host Paramount Chief of the future orphanage, expressed his gratitude to the Raining Season The Roots Project and Meya Mining for their commendable program in his Chiefdom and Kono District as a whole. He underscored the importance of assisting the less privileged in line with biblical principles.

Abioseh Kamara, Co-Founder of the Raining Season The Roots Project, elucidated the project’s mission to create a nurturing home for orphaned children. He highlighted the organization’s history of renting properties to accommodate beneficiaries and expressed gratitude to Meya Mining for facilitating their connection with the Tankoro Chiefdom authorities. The project’s plans include constructing a home for beneficiaries, a church, school, hospital, and recreational facilities.

Other key stakeholders, including Chief Sahr Borbor Gando, the Tankoro Chiefdom Speaker, and Safea Doe, the Town Chief of Koakkoyima, also shared their thoughts and statements during the event.

In her keynote address, Mary Sonsiama Foyoh, the Gender and Child Protection Officer attached to Koidu New Sembehun City Council, expressed her gratitude to the ceremony’s participants, believing it will contribute to the district’s development and the well-being of its future generations. She commended the Raining Season for not only providing shelter and food but also education to orphaned children, aligning with international child rights standards and Sierra Leone’s Child Rights Act of 2007.

She pledged unwavering support from her institution for the successful operation of the Raining Season Root Project in Kono District and encouraged future staff of the proposed orphanage to treat the beneficiaries as their own children.

The ceremony’s highlights included the official signing of the Ten Thousand United States Dollars Lease Agreement, as well as the distribution of treated mosquito bed nets and assorted food items to various communities in Koakoyima town, Koidu City, Kono District.

PFSL Exposes Sacrilegious & Destructive Acts Against a Church to Social Welfare Minister 

In a shocking incident that has sent shockwaves through the religious community in Sierra Leone, the Pentecostal Fellowship of Sierra Leone (PFSL) has penned a heartfelt letter to the Minister of Social Welfare, Melrose Kaminty, exposing a series of sacrilegious acts, property destruction and attempted arson.

Dated September 27, 2023 and bearing the signature of PFSL’s President, Rev. Bishop Akintayo Sam Jolley this distressing incident unfolded at The Gateway Evangelical Church, a member church located in Kissy, Freetown, adjacent to Hotel 5/10, on Sunday, September 24, 2023.

The PFSL’s letter to Minister Kaminty detailed a grave concern for the Church of God and the Body of Christ in Sierra Leone. The PFSL President highlighted the significance of this event, citing recurring skirmishes over the years that pose a substantial threat to the nation’s peace and security.

The incident was allegedly orchestrated by an individual identified as Alpha Bangura, embroiled in a land dispute with the church over a piece of adjacent land. Bangura, who was accompanied by a group of thugs, wreaked havoc on the church property and equipment causing losses worth millions of Leones.

Moreover, they physically assaulted church members, poured gasoline within the premises, ignited tires in an attempt to set the church ablaze, and even targeted an amputee church member.

The terrifying episode forced other churchgoers to scramble over the fence into the neighboring Hotel 5/10’s compound, with some of the assailants reportedly brandishing machetes and dressed in military attire.

Perhaps most distressingly, the PFSL’s letter revealed that the Holy Bible, the church’s most sacred text, suffered partial burning and desecration. The perpetrators tore and scattered pages of the Holy Bible within the church compound and along the path leading to the edifice. In a particularly disturbing turn of events, a young girl using the restroom was attacked, and her beads were cut, suggesting a sinister intent.

Alpha Bangura, the alleged mastermind, went a step further by issuing threats to burn down the pastor’s residence, putting the lives of Apostle Amos Lelleh and his family in jeopardy.

The PFSL’s letter expressed deep concern about the incident’s potential to spark religious unrest, emphasizing the gravity of desecrating the Holy Bible. Alpha Bangura reportedly boasted about wanting to see such unrest unfold.

In response to these horrifying events, the Pentecostal Fellowship of Sierra Leone vowed to stand unwaveringly as an umbrella body for Pentecostals across the nation. They urgently called upon Minister Kaminty’s Ministry, along with other relevant authorities, to ensure that justice prevails and that the perpetrators face the full force of the law. The PFSL emphasized the importance of safeguarding their freedom, respect, and the constitutional right to worship freely in Sierra Leone.

Copies of the letter were sent to several high-ranking officials, including the Secretary to the President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, the Secretary to the Vice President, the Ministers of Internal Affairs and Western Area, the National Security Coordinator, the Chief of Defense Staff, the Inspector-General of Police, and the leadership of the Gateway Evangelical Church, among others.

Sierra Leone awaits a swift and just response to this shocking act of sacrilege and violence, as the nation grapples with the aftermath of this deeply distressing incident.

Life for Relief & Development Donates Manna Pack Rice to Over 6,000 Students

In a heartwarming humanitarian effort, Life for Relief and Development on Tuesday September 19, 2023 extended a lifeline to schools in Sierra Leone, distributing a 40-foot container filled with Manna Pack rice to over 6,000 students in the Western Area Rural, Western Area Urban, and Port Loko Districts.

The distribution, which commenced on Tuesday, September 19, 2023, saw thousands of grateful beneficiaries and community members flocking to receive this crucial food support. Mariama Turay, the Project Coordinator of Life for Relief and Development, expressed the organization’s commitment to answering the calls of the vulnerable, emphasizing their extensive support to Sierra Leone, particularly in the education sector.

Mrs. Turay conveyed the organization’s mission to bring smiles to the faces of young students by providing them with Manna Pack rice, a much-needed food staple. She stressed that their organization is determined to ensure that pupils do not attend school on empty stomachs, as hunger can significantly impact their classroom performance and also encouraged the students to take their studies seriously.

She furthermore explained that the food distribution is an ongoing initiative aimed at complementing the President’s school feeding program.

Numerous senior teachers and students expressed their deep gratitude to Life for Relief and Development for their generous donation, deeming it timely and highlighting the organization’s consistent support to schools and pupils across the country.

It is important to note that Life for Relief and Development’s assistance goes beyond food support, encompassing other critical areas such as educational materials and aid for needy children. Beneficiaries extended their heartfelt thanks to the donors and prayed for continued blessings from Allah.

The following schools were among those that received this valuable assistance:Ahmadiya Muslim School-Newton, Ansarul Islamic Primary School-Deep Eye Water,W.M.A School, Cancerra School,Amadius International Academy,Bolima Primary School-Waterloo, Rokel Primary School, Koya School Wellington,Rukupa Old Wharf School, Medina Islamic School,S.L.M.B Portee,Ahmadiya Primary School Wellington, U.B.C School-Shell, Towered School-Shell, Isha Islamic School-Cabala Town, Community Primary School, Amie Academy-Waterloo,R.E.C Bassatown-Waterloo,S.D.A-Waterloo, National Islamic Primary School –Waterloo, Abubakarr Sidike School,Reedemson-Lumley,Blossom School-Lumley,Haisham Huntingdon School-Foo Foo Water, M.O Academy ,R.E.C Pre School-Kpoubu,Ahmadiya Muslim Pre School-6 Mile, Huntingdon Pre School and Blama, Muhammad Preschool- Crossing and Christ Chapel-Foo Foo Water.

Sierra Leonean schools and students are now better equipped to pursue their education with the much-needed sustenance provided by Life for Relief and Development.

Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education Reveals 2023 WASSCE Results

In a much-anticipated release, the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE) in Sierra Leone unveiled the results of the 2023 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE). This annual examination, conducted by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), marks a pivotal point in the academic journey of Sierra Leonean students and those across West African nations. Here are key highlights from the 2023 WASSCE results:

Record-Breaking Candidate Entry

The 2023 WASSCE saw an unprecedented surge in candidate entries, reaching a staggering 243,202 participants. This figure surpasses both the 2023 National Primary School Examination (NPSE) entry of 163,860 and the 2022 WASSCE entry of 206,874.

Gender Disparity in Entry:

Of the 230,973 candidates included in the results received by the MBSSE, 52.5% were female, demonstrating a continued trend of higher female participation in WASSCE.

Impressive Pass Rate:

The 2023 WASSCE achieved a remarkable pass rate of 83%, marking a substantial improvement compared to the pass rates of 64% and 77% in 2021 and 2022, respectively.

Benchmark Achievements:

The number of students obtaining the benchmark minimum of 5 credits in a single sitting reached an all-time high, with 137,796 candidates meeting this requirement. This is a significant increase from the 113,824 candidates in 2022, despite a considerable number of results still being withheld.

Top Achievers:

Two outstanding candidates, Raymonda E. Mammah and Sahr Edward Fillie, both from Providence International Senior High School, shared the top position in the 2023 WASSCE. They secured 8 A1s (excellent) and 1 B2 (very good), with an average grade/unit of 1.11 (excellent). Notably, 16 candidates in 2023 achieved higher average grades than the previous year’s top performer.

Exemplary School Performance:

Providence International Senior High School emerged as the best performing school, with all 185 of its candidates achieving credits or better in at least 5 subjects, including English Language and Mathematics. This accomplishment guarantees their eligibility for direct entry into university undergraduate degree programs.

University Entrance Requirements Met:

A remarkable 137,245 candidates met the university undergraduate degree program entry requirements by obtaining 5 credits, including a credit in either English Language or Mathematics, in a single sitting. This figure surpasses the 2022 count of 108,418, reflecting a substantial increase, even with the withholding of 34,525 results.

English Language Performance:

A cause for concern was the English Language performance, with only 17% of candidates achieving a credit or better.

Subject Performance:

While variations in performance across subjects were observed, overall performance in different subjects improved significantly compared to 2022. Key subjects witnessed notable increases in the number and percentage of candidates achieving grades A1 to C4.

District Performance:

District-wise, 2023 exhibited improved performance compared to the previous year, with an average grade range of 5 to 6 (credit grade range). The best-performing district had 79.4% of candidates achieving credits or better in 5 or more subjects, including English Language and/or Mathematics. A total of 11 out of 16 districts had over 90% of their candidates obtaining a minimum of 3 credits in subjects taken.

Commitment to Examination Integrity:

Recognizing concerns about the integrity of examinations, the MBSSE is actively collaborating with WAEC and other agencies to eliminate malpractices. The public can expect to be informed about actions taken against individuals and entities involved in malpractices in the 2023 WASSCE. WAEC has already withheld 34,525 results pending ongoing investigations.

Detailed and comprehensive performance reports for the 2023 WASSCE will be accessible on the MBSSE website on Tuesday evening. The release of results to schools commenced on October 2nd, providing students and educators with valuable insights into their achievements and areas for improvement.

On International Day for Older People… Residential Elderly Foundation Offers Nutrition & Medical Support to Over 200 Elderly People

In commemoration of the International Day for Older People on September 30th, 2023, the Residential Elderly Care Foundation, in collaboration with their partners facilitated a heartwarming event that left over 200 elderly citizens from four different communities in Freetown with smiles on their faces.

The event, held at the Municipal Secondary School on Ferry Junction saw the distribution of Kremela Milk, a product of Premium Divine Trading, along with free medical support provided by the 34 Military Hospital.

The Deputy Executive Director of the Residential Elderly Care Foundation, Teiwoh Momoh Mansaray, conveyed the Foundation’s long-standing tradition of celebrating with the elderly and expressed their primary aim to bring joy to their lives. He emphasized the importance of recognizing the elderly and ensuring they do not feel forgotten.

In a poignant keynote address, Dr. James Mohammad Mallah, the Deputy Director of Policy and Planning at NCRA, shed light on the vital role played by senior citizens in our society. He underscored this year’s theme, “Resilience of Older Persons in a Changing World,” and emphasized the need for elderly individuals to adapt to the digitalization that has transformed our ways of life.

The primary sponsor of this year’s celebration, Premium Divine Trading’s Fawaz Milton Kanu, highlighted the significance of Kremela Milk in maintaining the health and strength of the elderly.

Captain Kargbo, representing the 34 Military Hospital, reassured beneficiaries of the hospital’s ongoing support.

Expressing gratitude to the sponsors, Karifa Thoronka, the Executive Director of the Residential Elderly Care Foundation, acknowledged Premium Divine Trading Company Limited, 34 Military Hospital, and Aureole Insurance Company as the event’s generous sponsors. He also extended appreciation to the Guest Speaker, Noel Kitami Horton, who made a generous donation of 1000 Leones to the Foundation during the event.

The Executive Director concluded by revealing the four communities selected to benefit from the donation – Kanikay Community, Kuntorlor Community, Dwazark Community, and Moa Wharf Community. These communities were chosen based on an assessment survey conducted by the Foundation in August 2023.

One of the beneficiaries, Aminata Kamara, from Kuntolor Community, expressed her heartfelt appreciation to the Foundation, noting the timely nature of the donation during challenging times. She encouraged other organizations and individuals to follow suit in supporting the elderly in need. With tears in her eyes, she demonstrated the impact of the Foundation’s compassionate gesture on the lives of those touched.

QNET announces WhatsApp Hotline for Sub-Saharan Africa to Crack Down on Scammers and Improve Transparency

QNET
QNET

QNET, a global lifestyle and wellness company that employs a direct selling business model, stands firm in its commitment to transparency and taking decisive action against individuals misrepresenting its brand. To reinforce this commitment, the company announces the launch of a Compliance Hotline on WhatsApp (+233256630005) specifically tailored for its operations in Sub-Saharan African countries, including Ghana, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Burkina Faso, Liberia, Cameroon, Mali, Guinea, Benin, Togo, and others.

Transparency is of paramount importance in the direct selling industry, especially in emerging economies where QNET continues to gain traction. The company actively encourages strict adherence to its Code of Conduct and Compliance Policies and Procedures, aiming to set and maintain high industry standards.

In a concerted effort to combat policy violations and discourage unethical practices, QNET has taken robust disciplinary actions against those found in breach. Over the past three years, QNET has terminated numerous independent representatives (IRs) across 30 countries for non-compliance, policy violations, and unethical behavior. The legal representatives of QNET have aided authorities from nine African nations in submitting complaints against more than 50 Independent Representatives (IRs).These actions underscore QNET’s unwavering commitment to upholding the integrity of the direct selling industry.

Mr. Biram Fall, QNET’s Regional General Manager for Sub-Saharan Africa, emphasized, “To enhance communication with our stakeholders in Sub-Saharan African markets, including customers, independent representatives, and distributors, QNET has introduced the WhatsApp Compliance Hotline exclusively for this region. The hotline number is now operational, enabling individuals to easily reach out with questions or concerns regarding QNET’s policies and procedures or to report any irregularities. Our dedication to transparency and the fight against scammers remains steadfast, and we continue to collaborate with security and judicial agencies across the region to deter fraudulent activities.”

QNET encourages the public to utilize the QNET WhatsApp Compliance  Hotline for Sub-Saharan African markets (+233256630005) or reach out via email to network.integrity@qnet.net for inquiries related to the company’s Policies and Procedures, Code of Ethics, complaints, or to report any irregularities. This hotline offers both English and French as language options.

About QNET

QNET is one of Asia leading direct-selling companies offering a wide range of health, wellness and lifestyle products that enable people to live better lives. QNET’s grass-roots business model, fuelled by e-commerce, has helped empower millions of entrepreneurs in more than 100 countries worldwide.

Since its inception 25 years ago, the company has operated a unique business model that allows individuals, both men and women, to start their businesses and earn an income by selling the company’s products.

QNET is headquartered in Hong Kong and has a presence in more than 25 countries worldwide through subsidiaries, branch offices, agency partnerships, and franchisees. QNET is a member of the Direct Selling Association in several countries, the Hong Kong Health Food Association, and the Health Supplements Industry Association of Singapore, among others.

QNET is also active in sports sponsorships around the world. Some more prominent partnerships include being the Direct Selling Partner of Manchester City Football Club and the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

For more information, please visit QNET at: https://www.qnet.net/

 

Arise IIP Imports Seven Passenger Railcars from Japan, Expected at Freetown Port on October 26, 2023

By Amin Kef (Ranger)
In a significant development for Sierra Leone’s transportation sector, Arise IIP has announced the imminent arrival of seven passenger railcars, imported from Japan. According to a correspondence dated September 22, 2023, from Samuel Komba Kambo, General Manager of Interface at Arise IIP, to Amb. Alhaji Fanday Turay, the Minister of Transport and Aviation, the railcars are expected to dock at Freetown Port on October 26, 2023.
The correspondence, bearing the reference number ARISESL/0923/02 titled “Arrival of Passenger Trains,” underscores the progress made under the Railway and Port Lease Agreement signed between the Government of Sierra Leone (GoSL) and Arise IIP on January 17, 2023. This agreement grants Arise IIP the responsibility to operate and maintain the rail and port infrastructure, including the operation of a passenger rail service.
In the letter, General Manager Samuel Komba Kambo stated, “Arise IIP has successfully procured and shipped seven passenger railcars and their associated critical spares from Japan, with an anticipated arrival at Freetown Port on October 26, 2023.” He further explained that Arise IIP is diligently preparing for the reception of these railcars, including the mobilization of necessary equipment to safely unload, transport, and park them along the rail infrastructure.
One notable aspect mentioned in the letter is the current control of the rail infrastructure by Kingho, prompting Arise IIP to seek permission from the government to park the railcars along the rail corridor until the commencement of passenger rail services. The letter also includes detailed information, such as a packing list of the railcars with their respective weights and dimensions, as well as a list of critical spares.
General Manager Samuel Komba Kambo concluded the letter by expressing Arise IIP’s intention to submit duty-free entry forms for the shipment in the coming week, in accordance with the provisions of the agreement. The duty-free waiver is a key element in facilitating the successful implementation of the passenger rail service.
The letter has been copied to several high-ranking officials and ministries, including the Honourable Chief Minister, the Honourable Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, the Honourable Minister of Finance and Economic Development, the Honourable Attorney General and Minister of Justice, the Secretary to the President, and the Commissioner General of the National Revenue Authority (NRA).
As Sierra Leone eagerly awaits the arrival of these passenger railcars, this development marks a significant step forward in enhancing the country’s transportation infrastructure and fostering economic growth. The successful implementation of the passenger rail service is poised to benefit both local commuters and the broader national economy. Stay tuned for further updates on this exciting development.

Lands Ministry Embarks on Reclamation of Encroached State Land

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a bid to combat the rampant issue of illegal land occupation by encroachers across the nation, the Ministry of Lands and Country Planning has recently stepped up its efforts to reclaim state-owned land unlawfully seized by trespassers.

This past Saturday, a contingent of professionals from the Ministry, accompanied by security personnel, journalists, and various stakeholders in the realm of land, embarked on a crucial mission. Their objective was to install Government signposts adorned with the clear message of reclaiming State lands, which have been surreptitiously occupied by individuals using fraudulent documents to lay unwarranted claims on properties belonging to the State.

The delegation’s first destination was the Government Wharf Ferry Terminal, a location that had fallen victim to numerous encroachments. More than twenty houses, makeshift structures, garages, and other unauthorized constructions had sprouted in violation of the law.

Investigations conducted during the visit revealed that all the structures had been erected without the requisite building permits, thus rendering them “illegal structures” in the eyes of the Ministry. It’s important to note that the land at the Government Wharf Ferry Terminal is Government-owned property.

Further scrutiny uncovered that individual had encroached upon State land without any legal documentation and had subsequently constructed dwellings without obtaining building permits from the Ministry. This worrisome trend of land grabbing has persisted, causing substantial losses to the Government.

It must be noted that despite the Government’s persistent efforts to address these land issues, land grabbers have continued to exploit the situation to their advantage, with State land remaining particularly vulnerable. This has prompted the Ministry to take decisive action and recover all State-owned lands, acting under the authority granted by Section 3, Cap 117 of the Sierra Leone Land Act.

After the inspection at Government Wharf, the team proceeded to Newton, located in the Western Rural area, to conduct a similar operation aimed at securing and protecting State-owned lands. For the bold step taken by the Lands Ministry, some community stakeholders lauded the Government for taking such a necessary step.  As a matter of fact in all the places visited clear evidences of encroachment on State lands were visible.

It is worth recalling that previous or successive Governments have undertaken similar exercises in the past, but land grabbers consistently managed to circumvent regulations, often resorting to illicit means. Areas like Grafton, Waterloo, Kent, and Bureh Beach have all witnessed successful efforts by the Government to reclaim State land over the years.

With the current proactive campaign to reclaim State-owned land within the Western urban and rural districts, it is evident that the Government is committed to rectifying this pressing issue.

Dr. Turad Senessie, the Minister of Lands, shared insights about the extent of the land-grabbing crisis, particularly affecting State-owned lands. “We now have a well-documented system in place, and we have opened up the space for Sierra Leoneans to acquire land at significantly reduced rates. However, we continue to face challenges from individuals who engage in land grabbing, resorting to document forgery, including my signature,” Minister Senessie emphasized.

He further explained that the Ministry will play a pivotal role in determining the types of structures that can be erected on state-owned land. “We dictate the nature of structures that land applicants should construct. Gone are the days when people could erect any type of structure without restriction,” he stated. Minister Senessie emphasized that land distribution is now governed by a rigorous application process, and successful applicants will receive official letters of offer from the Ministry. He also noted that the process has been expedited, reducing the time required to acquire state-owned land from up to five years to less than one year.

As the Ministry continues its crusade to reclaim State land, it aims to end the unlawful occupation of Government property and ensure that these valuable resources are used for the nation’s benefit.

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