President of Lawyers’ Society, Augustine Sorie Sengbeh Marah
By Foday Moriba Conteh
The Lawyers’ Society has expressed strong reservations over the proposed appointment of Edmond Sylvester Alpha as Chief Electoral Commissioner of the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL), citing ongoing constitutional review discussions and pending electoral reform recommendations.
In a Press Release issued following the circulation of a letter dated 10 February 2026, reportedly from the Office of the President, the Society noted that the correspondence sought the views of all registered political parties regarding the President’s intention to appoint Edmond Sylvester Alpha, who currently serves as an ECSL Commissioner, as Chief Electoral Commissioner.
The consultation process is in line with Section 32(3) of the 1991 Constitution of Sierra Leone (as amended), which requires the President to consult all registered political parties prior to appointing a Chief Electoral Commissioner.
However, the Lawyers’ Society cautioned that proceeding with the appointment at this stage could undermine ongoing constitutional reform efforts and the implementation of key provisions contained in the Agreement for National Unity, commonly referred to as the Tripartite Agreement.
According to the Society, both the Constitutional Review Committee Report and the Tripartite Report recommend amendments to the existing appointment procedure under Section 32(3). Specifically, the report calls for the establishment of a Search and Nomination Committee tasked with providing nominees to the President for appointment to the ECSL and the Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC).
The Society argued that appointing a new Chief Electoral Commissioner before implementing those recommendations may compromise the credibility of the reform process.
“Proceeding with the appointment prior to implementing Recommendation 36 of the Tripartite Recommendations and Recommendation 8.10 of the Constitutional Review Committee may create the perception of insufficient commitment to genuine electoral reforms and governance,” the statement noted.
The Society further referenced Recommendation 6, which calls for an external functional review of the ECSL, suggesting that the appointment of a new Chief Electoral Commissioner before such reforms are enacted could risk repeating past challenges related to transparency and accountability, particularly those raised in the aftermath of the 2023 elections.
It emphasized that reform measures aimed at strengthening electoral governance should be fully implemented before key leadership appointments are made.
In light of those concerns, the Lawyers’ Society urged the Government of Sierra Leone to reconsider the timing of the proposed appointment, conclude the constitutional review process and fully implement the recommendations contained in the Tripartite Agreement especially those relating to the appointment procedures for members of the ECSL and PPRC.
The proposed appointment has sparked debate among legal and political stakeholders, with observers noting that electoral reforms remain central to national dialogue on governance and institutional integrity.
Government authorities have yet to issue an official response to the concerns raised by the Society.
The late Valentina Bisodun Catherine Kamanda (née Nicol)
By Amin Kef (Ranger)
The nation has been thrown into deep mourning following the tragic killing of Valentina Bisodun Catherine Kamanda (née Nicol), a respected matron and lecturer at the Faculty of Nursing, College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences (COMAHS), University of Sierra Leone. The shocking incident, which reportedly occurred on the night of Sunday, February 8, 2026, at her residence in Goderich, Freetown, has sparked widespread outrage and renewed concerns about public safety and violent crime.
According to preliminary reports circulating on social media and from close associates, Valentina Bisodun Catherine Kamanda was allegedly attacked by unknown assailants at her home and brutally killed. Her child, who was also attacked during the incident, reportedly sustained injuries. The assailants carted away her mobile phone, laptop computer and other valuables.
Valentina Bisodun Catherine Kamanda was widely known not only for her professional dedication as a lecturer and matron but also for her strong Christian faith. She was an active member of Zion Praise Tabernacle Church on Hill Station, where she was described as a committed servant of God and a pillar within the church community. News of her death has sent shockwaves through the academic, medical and religious communities, with tributes pouring in from colleagues, students and members of the public.
A comment attributed to a former classmate on social media captured the depth of the grief felt nationwide, describing the late lecturer as a devoted nurse and expressing anguish over what was described as a violent attack in her own home. Many within the nursing profession, including members of the Sierra Leone Nurses Association, have lamented the loss of a professional they say served with compassion, discipline and integrity.
The Sierra Leone Police have launched an investigation into the incident to identify and apprehend those responsible. However, the brutal nature of the killing has intensified public calls for swift and transparent action, as citizens demand justice for the late lecturer and protection for vulnerable families.
The Christian Community, alongside civil society voices and concerned citizens, has urged the Government of President Julius Maada Bio and the Inspector General of Police, William Fayia Sellu, to ensure that those responsible for the heinous crime are brought to book without delay. They have also called for strengthened security measures, particularly in residential communities, to prevent further loss of innocent lives.
Investigations continue as the nation watches closely, hopeful that justice will prevail. The tragic death of Valentina Kamanda remains a painful reminder of the urgent need to confront violent crime decisively, restore public confidence in security institutions and honour the memory of a woman whose life was devoted to service, education and faith.
Chinese Medical Team Trains UNICEF Sierra Leone Staff in Life-Saving First Aid Skills
By Abu Bakarr Kargbo
The 26th Batch Chinese Medical Team successfully conducted an on-site First Aid Training Programme for staff of UNICEF Sierra Leone at the UNICEF Head Office in Freetown on Monday. This vital two-day training aims to equip participants with essential first aid skills, including Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), trauma first aid and emergency response techniques, thereby enhancing their preparedness for medical emergencies.
The training commenced with a theoretical session where participants learned about the principles of first aid, followed by practical demonstrations designed to reinforce the skills taught. Captain Liu Longfei of the 26th Batch Chinese Medical Team expressed his team’s dedication to imparting life-saving skills. “On behalf of the Chinese Medical Team, we are delighted to provide this on-site first-aid training to UNICEF Sierra Leone,” he stated, emphasizing the initiative as part of their shared commitment to protecting lives in Sierra Leone.
Captain Liu Longfei highlighted the significance of equipping UNICEF staff with necessary skills for emergency situations. “This training supports our staff in dealing with emergencies effectively,” he noted. Since 2024, the Chinese Medical Team has collaborated with various organizations and individuals, including students, in offering first aid training across sectors such as mining and healthcare. That collaboration underscores a collective commitment to health and safety within the community.
UNICEF Representative to Sierra Leone, Rudolph Schwenk, spoke about the importance of ensuring staff wellbeing and security. “At UNICEF, the wellbeing, safety and security of our staff are central to our duty of care,” he remarked. Rudolph Schwenk added that it is crucial to equip colleagues with practical skills to respond effectively in medical emergencies, which helps create a safe and supportive working environment.
He further elaborated, stating, “This training represents an important investment in staff wellbeing and emergency preparedness. The knowledge and skills shared over the course of this session will strengthen our collective capacity to respond promptly and appropriately should an incident occur, whether in the workplace or in the field.”
Swapping roles from trainers to participants, both Captain Liu Longfei and Rudolph Schwenk encouraged all attendees to engage fully with the training. Rudolph Schwenk urged participants to ask questions and actively participate in practical sessions to maximize the training’s value. “We sincerely appreciate the Chinese Medical Team for their continued partnership and for generously sharing their expertise with UNICEF,” he expressed. “Your contribution reflects the strong spirit of collaboration that underpins our work and supports our shared commitment to safeguarding lives and promoting health.”
The successful collaboration between the 26th Batch Chinese Medical Team and UNICEF Sierra Leone exemplifies the dedication of both organizations to enhance health safety and emergency preparedness in the nation. As Sierra Leone continues to face various health challenges, such initiatives are critical for building a resilient workforce capable of responding to unforeseen incidents.
This first aid training program is one of many efforts designed to establish a robust health safety framework, not only for UNICEF staff but also for diverse sectors within Sierra Leone. Participants left the training feeling empowered and equipped with the knowledge necessary to respond effectively in times of crisis, ensuring that they can contribute positively to the wellbeing of their communities.
The Community Court of Justice of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the Government of Sierra Leone on Tuesday 10th February 2026 opened a bilateral meeting on the status of enforcement of judgments of the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice at the Mamba Point Hotel, Lagoonda, Aberdeen, in Freetown, as part of activities marking the 50th anniversary of ECOWAS.
The meeting is aimed at strengthening the enforcement of judgments of the ECOWAS Court and reinforcing the rule of law within the regional legal framework. Its objectives include enhancing Member State compliance with binding Court judgments, harmonizing enforcement procedures across national jurisdictions, building the technical and institutional capacity of national authorities responsible for implementation, identifying and addressing legal, administrative, political and institutional challenges that hinder effective enforcement.
It also seeks to establish a collaborative framework between the Court, competent national authorities and relevant stakeholders, promote the sharing of best practices, develop policy recommendations and propose practical mechanisms to improve enforcement outcomes and consistency across Member States.
In the welcome address, the Chief Registrar of the ECOWAS Court of Justice, Dr. Yaouza Ouro-Sama, said the meeting reflects a shared recognition that justice does not end with the delivery of a judgment but is only realized when judgments are effectively enforced and their outcomes made tangible for beneficiaries and the Community. He described the ECOWAS Court as a central pillar of the Community’s legal and institutional architecture and a key instrument for protecting human rights and strengthening the rule of law across the region.
Dr. Yaouza Ouro-Sama said the authority and credibility of any court depend not only on the quality of its decisions but on the degree of compliance with those decisions. He stressed that enforcement of judgments is a legal obligation arising from the ECOWAS Revised Treaty and a political and moral commitment undertaken by Member States. He noted that non enforcement and delayed enforcement remain significant challenges that undermine citizens’ confidence in Community justice, weaken the coherence of the ECOWAS legal order and affect the effectiveness of regional integration.
He highlighted Article 24 of the Supplementary Act relating to the Community Court of Justice, which establishes the binding and final nature of the Court’s judgments and obliges Member States to enforce them in accordance with their national procedures without additional validation. He said compliance with this provision affirms the supremacy and effectiveness of Community law and failure to enforce judgments undermines the rule of law at the regional level. Dr. Yaouza Ouro-Sama added that the meeting aims to diagnose challenges and identify concrete and legally sound solutions, including clearer procedures, improved reporting mechanisms and stronger institutional synergies, while fostering cooperation and mutual respect among Member States.
In his address, the President of the Community Court of Justice, Honourable Justice Ricardo C. M. Gonçalves, said the bilateral engagement provides a platform for dialogue between the Court and national authorities, including the Attorney General, the Ministry of Justice, the Judiciary and other institutions, to assess the status of enforcement of Court judgments and strengthen collaboration. He said the meeting also aims to identify challenges hindering effective implementation and propose practical solutions to enhance compliance.
Justice Ricardo C. M. Gonçalves disclosed that since the establishment of the Court, 18 judgments have been delivered in cases involving Sierra Leone, with only one enforced, six dismissed, and 11 remaining unenforced. He said the existence of a significant number of unenforced judgments underscores the urgent need for sustained engagement and cooperation to fulfil the Court’s legal mandates. Justice Ricardo C. M. Gonçalves described enforcement as the cornerstone of justice, the rule of law and regional integration, noting that compliance demonstrates political will and institutional capacity and reinforces the credibility of the Court as a guardian of justice and human rights.
The President of the Community Court of Justice explained that the enforcement process involves communication of judgments to national authorities, coordination with national courts and administrative agencies, and the allocation of resources for implementation, particularly in cases involving compensation or restitution. He identified limited institutional coordination, absence of clear implementation timelines, administrative bottlenecks and political sensitivities as factors contributing to delays in enforcement. According to him the meeting seeks to develop a framework for regular communication between the Court and national authorities, clarify responsibilities, establish timelines for enforcement and consider the role of Civil Society Organisations in monitoring compliance and promoting public awareness of Court decisions.
Delivering the keynote address, the Attorney General and Minister of Justice of Sierra Leone, Alpha Sesay, described the meeting as a critical act of commitment to regional integration, justice and the rule of law. He said the ECOWAS Court has become a vital forum for the peaceful resolution of disputes and for ensuring that Community law is effective, particularly following the expansion of its jurisdiction to include human rights protection.
The Attorney General said judgments of the ECOWAS Court are final and binding on Member States and their enforcement is a legal obligation flowing from the ECOWAS Treaty and Supplementary Protocols. He noted that Court decisions involving Sierra Leone have contributed to redress for individual applicants and the development of regional human rights standards guiding national institutions across West Africa. Alpha Sesay acknowledged that enforcement remains uneven across the region due to domestic legal and procedural constraints, budgetary limitations, insufficient coordination among national institutions and limited awareness of Community law obligations.
He said Sierra Leone recognizes the importance of complying with international and regional obligations and is strengthening internal coordination among the Office of the Attorney General, the Ministry of Finance, sector Ministries and other stakeholders to ensure judgments are processed, budgeted for and implemented in a timely and transparent manner. The Minister emphasized that enforcement is not solely a legal act but an administrative, financial and political process requiring deliberate institutional alignment. He proposed the establishment of national enforcement frameworks and focal points, enhanced engagement between the Court and Member States, fiscal planning for monetary awards, sustained political commitment and stronger monitoring and technical support by ECOWAS institutions.
The opening day concluded with the formal commencement of technical deliberations, setting the tone for in depth engagements among the ECOWAS Court delegation, Sierra Leonean authorities and other stakeholders on practical steps to improve enforcement of regional court judgments.
The bilateral meeting continues over the coming days with structured sessions, stakeholder consultations and the development of an action framework and timelines aimed at strengthening compliance, institutional coordination and accountability in the implementation of judgments of the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice within Sierra Leone and across the ECOWAS region.
the Attorney General and Minister of Justice of Sierra Leone, Alpha Sesay
A growing internal debate within the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) has focused attention on the party’s 2022 Constitution, with critics arguing that key provisions restrict participation in leadership contests and concentrate power within a narrow elite.
At the centre of the controversy is Article 6(2)(b) of the SLPP Constitution, which states that the party’s Leader and Presidential Candidate must be a “Distinguished Grand Chief Patron Member” and must be elected by a National Delegates’ Conference. The clause effectively limits eligibility for the party’s highest office to a small category of senior members who hold that status.
Political analysts and party insiders say the provision creates a two-tier membership structure, reserving the possibility of becoming party leader and presidential flagbearer for a select group, while excluding a wider pool of experienced and ambitious members. As currently framed, the constitution renders many long-serving party figures ineligible to contest the leadership, regardless of their grassroots support or political record.
The origins of the clause are widely traced to internal tensions that followed the party’s 2018 flagbearer contest, which was intensely competitive and divisive. That process ultimately produced Julius Maada Bio as flagbearer and later President, but left visible fractures within the party. In response, the 2022 Constitution merged the positions of Party Leader and Presidential Candidate, a move that ensured continuity of leadership and avoided another open contest ahead of the 2023 elections.
Supporters of the arrangement argue that it promoted unity and stability at a critical political moment. However, critics contend that the same mechanism now poses challenges for succession planning beyond the tenure of the current leader, as it leaves future leadership choices in the hands of a limited group.
Following the 2023 elections, expectations grew that the party would revisit the restrictive provisions. President Bio, in his capacity as party leader, appointed a Constitutional Review Committee chaired by David Moinina Sengeh. The committee was reportedly tasked with reviewing aspects of the constitution, including eligibility criteria for party leadership.
That process, however, has yet to produce a publicly available outcome. Conflicting accounts have emerged within party circles, with some suggesting that the committee’s work was rejected by the National Executive Council (NEC), while others maintain that no final report was formally submitted before the committee’s tenure expired. The absence of clarity has left many members uncertain about whether and how reforms will be pursued.
Attention has therefore turned to Article 8(4) of the constitution, which empowers the NEC to propose amendments for endorsement by the National Delegates’ Conference. While this provision provides a procedural route for change, critics argue that it places significant discretion in the hands of the party’s top leadership, raising concerns about transparency and inclusiveness.
The debate has broader implications for party mobilisation and cohesion. Some observers warn that prolonged uncertainty could discourage emerging leaders and dampen enthusiasm among grassroots supporters who feel excluded from meaningful participation in leadership selection. Others caution that failure to address the issue could fuel internal tensions ahead of future electoral cycles.
Within the SLPP, opinions remain divided. Senior figures emphasise the need for orderly transitions and protection against destabilising internal contests, while reform-minded members argue that genuine internal democracy strengthens, rather than weakens, party unity and public credibility.
As the party looks toward the 2028 political horizon, the unresolved questions surrounding constitutional reform and leadership eligibility continue to loom large. Whether the NEC and the National Delegates’ Conference will move to broaden participation or maintain the existing framework is likely to shape not only the party’s internal dynamics, but also perceptions of its commitment to democratic principles it promotes nationally.
M.R. Distilleries has reaffirmed its commitment to community development by donating building materials and providing financial support to the Old Wharf Community in support of an ongoing road construction project aimed at improving accessibility and safety in the area.
The donation forms part of the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme, which focuses on supporting host communities and contributing to sustainable development initiatives across the country.
Presenting the donation on behalf of M.R. Distilleries, the company’s Public Relations Officer, Mohamed Kamara, said the intervention was motivated by the need to give back to the community in which the company operates. He described the gesture as a reflection of the company’s philosophy that business growth should go hand in hand with social responsibility.
Mohamed Kamara noted that M.R. Distilleries has a history of supporting community-driven projects, stressing that the Old Wharf intervention is part of a broader commitment to improving the living conditions of communities within and beyond its operational environment.
“This support is not a one-off gesture,” he said. “M.R. Distilleries has consistently stood by communities through meaningful development initiatives and Management remains committed to supporting projects that have a direct impact on the lives of ordinary people.”
He urged residents of the Old Wharf Community to ensure that the donated materials and funds are used judiciously to guarantee the successful and timely completion of the road project. He further called on community members to fully cooperate with those implementing the project, noting that collective effort and ownership are key to sustainable development.
The Honourable Member of Parliament for Constituency 114, Dr. Unpha Sorie G. Koroma, commended M.R. Distilleries for what he described as a timely and impactful intervention. He said the company’s support demonstrates the important role corporate institutions can play in complementing Government efforts at the grassroots level.
Dr. Unpha Sorie G. Koroma called on other companies and institutions operating within and outside the Old Wharf Community to emulate the example set by M.R. Distilleries, stressing that development is a shared responsibility.
According to the lawmaker, the road project, once completed, will significantly enhance community development by improving access, mobility and safety for residents.
“This road will play a pivotal role in enhancing development and ensuring safety, especially during emergencies such as fire outbreaks and medical situations,” Dr. Unpha Sorie G. Koroma stated.
He further encouraged residents of Constituency 114 to embrace and protect development projects, noting that Government resources alone are often insufficient to meet the needs of all communities simultaneously. He emphasized that partnerships with responsible corporate entities like M.R. Distilleries are essential for accelerating development at the community level.
Speaking on behalf of residents, the Chief of the Old Wharf Community expressed deep appreciation to M.R. Distilleries for its continued support. He also thanked the Member of Parliament for consistently standing with the people and acknowledged other stakeholders who have contributed to the welfare of the community.
The Chief described the road project as timely and critical, noting that its completion would boost economic activities, ease the movement of people and goods, and open up the community for further development.
The donation ceremony attracted community leaders and stakeholders, who collectively praised the Management of M.R. Distilleries for its strong commitment to corporate social responsibility and community development.
Sierra Leone’s Chief Justice and Chairman of the ECOWAS Judicial Council, Komba Kamanda
By Amin Kef (Ranger)
Sierra Leone’s Chief Justice and Chairman of the ECOWAS Judicial Council, Komba Kamanda, has further strengthened the country’s international judicial standing after a high-profile appearance at the Ninth Cairo High-Level Meeting of the Presidents of African Constitutional Courts, Supreme Courts and Constitutional Councils.
The meeting, held on February 8, 2026, at the St. Regis Hotel, brought together heads of apex courts from across Africa for the ongoing International Conference on Constitutional Justice. The conference is convened under the patronage of Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El‑Sisi and serves as a key continental platform for dialogue on constitutional governance and judicial cooperation.
At the conference, Chief Justice Komba Kamanda emerged as the only Chief Justice selected to speak on behalf of his counterparts from the ECOWAS sub-region, representing fifteen member states, including Ghana and Nigeria. His selection was widely seen as a recognition of Sierra Leone’s growing influence within Africa’s judicial community and the reform momentum within its justice sector.
In a widely applauded address on the theme: “Challenges Facing Constitutional Justice in Africa,”Chief Justice Komba Kamanda underscored the central role of supreme and constitutional courts as guardians of the rule of law and protectors of fundamental human rights. He emphasized that constitutional courts must remain firm in upholding the supremacy of the constitution, stressing that no individual or institution stands above it.
“The Supreme Constitutional Courts must continue to maintain the inescapable fact that no man or institution is greater than the constitution,” he said, adding that constitutional fidelity must guide judicial reasoning and decision-making at all times.
He further highlighted judicial independence as a cornerstone of democracy and good governance, noting that an independent judiciary is indispensable for sustaining public confidence, protecting rights and ensuring accountability within the state. According to him, constitutions should be treated as living instruments, continually interpreted in ways that preserve their relevance and vitality in changing social and political contexts.
Chief Justice Komba Kamanda’s international recognition comes against the backdrop of significant judicial reforms undertaken in Sierra Leone within a year of his tenure. Those reforms have contributed to the country’s improved performance in global rule-of-law assessments, including the World Justice Rule of Law Index, where Sierra Leone has been cited for progress in judicial independence, transparency and effectiveness.
While in Egypt, the Chief Justice was also honoured with one of the country’s prestigious legal awards in recognition of his commitment to promoting the rule of law and advancing the administration of justice. The Bar Association Award was received on his behalf by Supreme Court Judge, Honourable Justice Fatmatta Bintu Alhadi. Chief Justice Komba Kamanda was accompanied on the trip by Supreme Court Judge, Honourable Justice Alusine Sesay.
Speaking at the opening session, the President of Egypt’s Supreme Constitutional Court, Counselor Boulis Fahmy, commended African constitutional courts for their pivotal role in promoting social peace, democratic governance and stability across the continent. He also praised President El-Sisi’s continued patronage of the Cairo conference, describing it as a source of momentum and institutional weight.
The Speaker of the Egyptian Parliament, Honourable Justice Hisham Badawy, described the Cairo conference as a fundamental pillar of justice in Africa and a constructive forum for sharing judicial expertise. Egypt’s Minister of Justice, Honourable Adnan Fangari, noted that the meeting holds special priority for strengthening African judicial partnerships at a time of growing global challenges.
The opening ceremony was attended by several leading figures in constitutional justice, including the Presidents of the Constitutional Courts of Cape Verde, Spain, Türkiye and Palestine, alongside other senior judicial leaders from across the world.
Chief Justice Komba Kamanda’s participation and recognition in Cairo further reinforce Sierra Leone’s re-emergence as a respected voice in continental and global judicial discourse.
SLAJ President Manika Kamara Hails Orange Sierra Leone as a Trusted Partner at Orange Sierra Leone Annual Media Engagement
By Amin Kef (Ranger)
The President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), Alhaji Manika Kamara, has described Orange Sierra Leone as one of the most consistent and reliable corporate partners of the media, praising its long-standing support for journalism, professionalism and democratic development in the country.
He made these remarks at the Orange Sierra Leone Annual Media Engagement, held on Friday Feb. 6, 2026 at the Orange Digital Center, Hill Station, Freetown, under the theme: “Connecting with the Media, Sharing Our Story.”The event brought together over 100 journalists, editors, regulators and stakeholders to review the company’s 2025 performance and outline its priorities for the year ahead.
Addressing participants, Alhaji Manika Kamara said the relationship between SLAJ and Orange Sierra Leone has never been one of convenience but rather a partnership grounded in trust, shared values and a mutual understanding of the media’s central role in democracy and national development.
“This engagement is timely and significant,” Alhaji Manika Kamara said. “In an era shaped by information, connectivity and public trust, partnerships that inform, inspire and connect are essential to building a healthy society.”
The SLAJ President highlighted Orange’s sustained contributions to the growth and welfare of journalists, noting that the company has remained a dependable supporter of SLAJ’s Annual General Meetings, an intervention he said has strengthened internal governance, transparency and accountability within the Association.
He further commended Orange for being among the few corporate institutions that provided seed funding for the SLAJ Journalism Welfare Fund, describing the initiative as a clear recognition that journalists are not just bylines but human beings deserving dignity and care.
Alhaji Manika Kamara also acknowledged Orange’s advertising support to media houses, which he said has helped sustain newsrooms at a time when traditional media business models are under severe pressure. Of particular importance, he noted, Orange’s investment in human capital through scholarships for journalists pursuing postgraduate studies, as well as educational support for journalists’ children.
“These are not short-term gestures,” Alhaji Manika Kamara stressed. “They are strategic interventions that strengthen knowledge, professionalism and ethical standards across the media sector. We hope the new leadership at Orange will continue this vital investment in people.”
He also praised the company’s annual sponsorship of the SLAJ Media Awards, describing the initiative as a national platform that celebrates excellence, courage and ethical reporting, while raising standards across the profession.
Reflecting on institutional values, Alhaji Manika Kamara expressed appreciation for Orange’s gesture during the recent SLAJ leadership transition, when the company presented a large portrait sketch to the immediate past President and Ex-Officio member, Ahmed Sahid Nasralla. He said the act symbolized respect for leadership, continuity and institutional memory.
“As President of SLAJ, I stand on the shoulders of those who served before me,” Alhaji Manika Kamara said. “My commitment is to deepen partnerships that strengthen journalism, protect journalists and serve the public interest.”
Looking ahead, he identified digital safety, media innovation, capacity building and the empowerment of young and female journalists as priority areas for collaboration with Orange Sierra Leone in an increasingly complex information environment.
The engagement also featured contributions from the Executive Secretary of the Independent Media Commission, Khalil Kallon, who commended Orange for fostering dialogue among regulators, service providers, Government and the media, while calling for increased support to community radio stations in rural areas.
In her address, Orange Sierra Leone’s Chief Executive Officer, Madam Aicha Toure, reaffirmed the company’s respect for the media’s role in accountability and democracy, outlining her leadership priorities as network reliability, digital inclusion and trust with responsibility.
The Annual Media Engagement concluded with presentations on Orange’s corporate performance and social impact, followed by interactive discussions, reinforcing the central message articulated by Alhaji Manika Kamara: that strong, value-driven partnerships between the media and responsible corporate institutions remain vital to Sierra Leone’s democratic and development journey.
Royal Fitness has continued to redefine modern fitness culture in Freetown, steadily positioning itself as one of Sierra Leone’s leading health and wellness centres through a blend of premium facilities, professional coaching and a growing community-driven approach to healthy living.
Strategically located along the Peninsular Highway in Juba, the fitness centre has become a preferred destination for professionals, athletes, lifestyle enthusiasts and beginners seeking a structured, world-class workout experience. Its strong public reputation is reflected in a 4.5-star Google rating from dozens of reviews, with members frequently praising the gym’s cleanliness, modern layout, quality equipment and customer service.
Industry observers note that Royal Fitness distinguishes itself through a holistic model that goes beyond traditional gym routines. The facility offers strength and weight training, functional workouts, cardio programmes, group exercise sessions and recovery-focused routines such as stretching and flexibility training. This inclusive approach allows members of different fitness levels to pursue personalized goals within a single, well-organized environment.
The gym has also built strong visibility through its digital platforms, particularly Instagram, where it has attracted more than 17,000 followers. Branded around the theme “Where strength meets rhythm,” Royal Fitness integrates music-driven workouts and high-energy sessions, often featuring international DJs, to create an engaging and motivating atmosphere that resonates with younger, urban audiences.
Beyond ambience and branding, Management places emphasis on professionalism and consistency. Certified instructors and fitness coaches work closely with members to design structured programmes aimed at improving strength, endurance, flexibility and overall wellbeing. Many clients credit the centre with helping them adopt disciplined lifestyles and sustainable fitness habits.
Operating daily with extended hours until 11:00 p.m., Royal Fitness caters to busy urban schedules, making it particularly attractive to working professionals. Visitor trends show that most members spend between one and three hours per session, reflecting a commitment to comprehensive training rather than quick workouts.
In line with rising health consciousness nationwide, the gym has announced an ambitious 2026 wellness drive focused on tackling lifestyle-related diseases through structured physical training, professional supervision and nutrition-focused guidance. Management says the initiative is designed to position the facility as a complete wellness hub, promoting long-term health outcomes rather than short-term aesthetic goals.
A spokesperson described the programme as rooted in sustainability, noting that effective wellness is achieved when physical training, mental discipline and proper nutrition work together. As part of this approach, Royal Fitness has expanded into nutrition and diet counselling to complement exercise routines and improve results.
The centre is equipped with internationally recognized fitness brands, including Technogym and Panatta of Italy and Arsenal Strength from the United States, underscoring its commitment to global standards in performance and safety.
As Sierra Leone’s urban centres increasingly embrace preventive health and active living, Royal Fitness is emerging as a symbol of the country’s evolving wellness culture—demonstrating that premium, professionally guided fitness experiences can be delivered locally.
For membership and registration enquiries, Royal Fitness can be contacted on (+232) 90 001000.
MARWOPNET, UN Women Mark 25 Years of UNSCR 1325 with Grassroots Dialogues Across Sierra Leone
The Mano River Women Peace Network (MARWOPNET), in partnership with UN Women and with support from the Embassy of Ireland, has joined communities in Kailahun, Kambia and Karene districts to commemorate the 25th anniversary of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security (UNSCR 1325).
Adopted in October 2000, UNSCR 1325 recognizes the disproportionate impact of armed conflict on women and children, while affirming the critical role women play in conflict prevention, peacebuilding and post-conflict recovery. The 25-year milestone, marked in October 2025, provided an opportunity for reflection on progress made, persistent gaps and emerging priorities shaping the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) agenda globally and in Sierra Leone.
Through structured community dialogues, MARWOPNET and its partners facilitated discussions on lessons learned and innovations across the four pillars of UNSCR 1325—Prevention, Participation, Protection and Relief and Recovery. Participants examined trends in women’s roles in peace and governance, levels of institutional awareness and the effectiveness of national policies and action plans developed over the past two decades.
The engagements also served as a platform for strategic reflection on Sierra Leone’s implementation of the resolution, highlighting notable gains in policy and legal reforms aimed at protecting women and girls, while acknowledging challenges in financing, coordination, sustainability and monitoring. Participants identified priority actions for the next decade, focusing on strengthening implementation and deepening community ownership of the WPS agenda.
Among the key recommendations emerging from the discussions were calls for sustained community engagement, including outreach in schools and intensified public sensitization on UNSCR 1325 and related laws through mass communication and community dialogue forums. Participants urged duty bearers to fully enforce existing laws protecting women and girls, ensuring that policies extend beyond urban centres to reach rural and hard-to-access communities.
Concerns were also raised about the need for improved safety and protection for survivors of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV), with strong emphasis on reporting all forms of violence to appropriate authorities without interference. Stakeholders called for the development and funding of women-friendly policies aligned with the four pillars of UNSCR 1325, including adequate resourcing and popularization of the third National Action Plan on the resolution.
Additional recommendations focused on the inclusion of persons with disabilities in WPS initiatives, strengthened collaboration among Civil Society Organisations and the engagement of traditional leaders in promoting women’s empowerment and participation in governance. Participants also underscored the importance of involving women at all levels of decision-making and enhancing collaboration between MARWOPNET Sierra Leone and local councils to improve implementation at the grassroots.
Cross-border and protection concerns were highlighted, including calls for urgent attention to the presence of Guinean military personnel in Yenga and surrounding areas, the situation of displaced women in Koindu and the need for all parties to conflicts to combat impunity for sexual violence while ensuring effective protection of civilians.
The Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs reiterated the need for collective action in the fight against SGBV, stressing that effective implementation of UNSCR 1325 requires coordinated efforts by Government, security institutions, Civil Society and communities.
In concluding the commemoration, participants described UNSCR 1325 as a form of affirmative action that legitimizes and strengthens women’s contributions to peace and security. They emphasized the need for broader sensitization on the resolution, stronger involvement of local authorities in its popularization and sustained commitment by the state to translate policy gains into tangible change on the ground.
The event brought together women, youth, traditional leaders, security sector institutions including the Office of National Security, Sierra Leone Police and Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces, religious leaders, Ministries, Departments and Agencies, as well as media practitioners. While acknowledging progress in policy and law-making, stakeholders agreed that gaps remain in implementation, knowledge-building and accountability, underscoring the need for renewed momentum in advancing the Women, Peace and Security agenda in Sierra Leone.
