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Fahamu President Calls for Enhanced Media Coverage of Minority Issues

By Foday Moriba Conteh

During a two-day exchange meeting held in Dakar, Senegal, from Monday, September 25th to Tuesday, September 26th, 2023, the President of Fahamu, a Pan-African organization dedicated to social justice, Mahamadou Tidiane Kesie, stressed the significant role of the media in breaking down barriers among minorities. The event, organized by Fahamu Africa in collaboration with Minority Rights Group International (MRG) and with support from the European Union, aimed to strengthen regional cooperation between journalists and civil society stakeholders.

Addressing the gathering, the President emphasized the importance of engaging the media and minority groups to promote a culture of peace. He recounted experiences from Ghana, Sierra Leone, and Senegal, where they sought contact with various minority communities, including ethnic, religious, and linguistic minorities.

Mahamadou Tidiane Kesie highlighted that Minority Rights Group International endeavours to break down barriers between these groups and give them a voice, as their contributions are vital to the balance of harmonious coexistence.

He stressed that the media plays a fundamental role in this process, adding that over the course of two years, Fahamu, in collaboration with MRG, conducted online training sessions for journalists and courses for activists in several countries, including Senegal, Ghana, and Sierra Leone. These initiatives, he said, aimed to enhance understanding and advocacy for minority issues, furthering that Fahamu organized awards to recognize outstanding work by media and activists in promoting peace and understanding among communities.

To address this gap in media coverage, Kasse explained that Fahamu, through its Engaging Media and Minorities to Act for Peacebuilding (EMMAP) project, has partnered with organizations such as the Media Reform Coordinating Group (MRCG) in Sierra Leone and the Media Platform on Environment and Climate Change (MPEC) in Ghana.

Kassé noted that the exchange meeting serves as a platform to establish a network between journalists and activists and also help journalists enhance their reporting and coverage of information related to minority groups, ultimately contributing to peace and sustainable solutions for these communities.

He underlined that to foster unity, countries must actively involve minority groups instead of marginalizing them. Kassé expressed his hope that the exchange meeting would empower journalists from Sierra Leone, Ghana, and Senegal to focus more on issues concerning minority groups, particularly those related to migration and peace building. By doing so, they can address the deficit in media coverage of minority issues, ultimately benefiting their respective countries.

“Through its programs, publications, advocacy, legal support, training, and education, MRG collaborates with nearly 300 partners in 60 countries to amplify the voices of disadvantaged minority and indigenous peoples. MRG defines minorities as ethnic, religious, linguistic, or cultural groups that are numerically smaller than the rest of the population and are keen to preserve and develop their identity,” he revealed.

He concluded by stating that with over 50 years of experience, MRG continues to champion the rights of non-dominant communities globally, advocating for their inclusion and recognition.

In his remarks at the ceremony, the National Coordinator of the Media Reforms Coordinating Group (MRCG) in Sierra Leone, Dr. Francis Sowa, admonished journalists to delve into thematic reporting related to minority communities, stressing the importance of identifying and investigating specific issues instead of merely reporting events.

He emphasized that while reporting on events is essential, it often results in inconclusive narratives and that thematic reporting, on the other hand, offers a more comprehensive and insightful approach as it enables journalists to shed light on issues that may not receive sufficient attention in mainstream media.

Dr. Sowa while commenting on the context of reporting on marginalized communities, recommended to journalists in order to allow the affected individuals to share their own stories rather than speaking on their behalf. He highlighted that when covering minority issues, the public expects to hear directly from those affected, giving them the opportunity to voice their concerns.

The Executive Director of the Media Platform for Environment and Climate Change (MPEC) in Ghana, Ama Kudom-Agyemang, also lamented the insufficient attention given by African media to issues affecting vulnerable populations, such as climate change, conflict, and injustice.

She challenged journalists to redirect their focus towards addressing the concerns of marginalized communities to bring about positive change in Africa.

The Europe Media Officer of Minority Rights Group International (MRG), Anna Alboth, announced that the conference aimed to establish a network of journalists and activists dedicated to championing conflict resolution, migration, and raising awareness of the rights of marginalized individuals in society.

She noted that the network seeks to drive positive change in Africa by addressing pressing issues that often go unnoticed by the public.

Following the opening were presentation on various topics which includes Peacebuilding journalism, covering migration toolkit, role and responsibilities of journalists in covering migration etc. Following these presentation participants had the opportunity to add their voices on the various topics through an open discussion.

MRCG Wraps Up Post-Election National Dialogue Forum with Stakeholders

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The Media Reform Coordinating Group (MRCG), with support for International Media Support (IMS), has on Friday 29thSeptember, 2023 concluded a one-day Post-Election Police, Political Parties, CSOs, Media National Dialogue Forum. The One-day Forum which brought together police personnel, journalists and CSOs across the country was held at Cabenda Hotel on Signal Hill in Freetown.

In his welcome address, the Program Officer of the Media Reform Coordinating Group (MRCG), Augustine James, said that the essence of the dialogue is to consolidate the remarkable progress achieved thus far and to reaffirm commitment to a free, fair, and safe environment for journalists during and after election coverage.

He said that the gathering looked at gains made and also the challenges encountered and further put together recommendations moving forward.

Augustine James said that the Media Reform Coordinating Group and partners are very pleased with the recommendations from participants towards the exceptional role the media played in the June 24 2023 elections which many said is as a result of the training conducted by MRCG and other institutions for journalists prior to the elections.

He said that after the Post-Election Police, Political Parties, CSOs, Media National Dialogue Forum, recommendations captured will enhance further steps towards strengthening the relationship between the media and various stakeholders in the country.

The President of Women in the Media Sierra Leone, Eastina Taylor, said in Sierra Leone, as in many other parts of the world, the role of media in upholding democracy cannot be overstated, adding that the media act as a watchdog of truth, the facilitators of informed choices, and the champions of transparency.

She noted that the gathering is not just to celebrate past achievements but to reaffirm their commitment to fostering collaboration between the media and all stakeholders recognizing that the synergy between media, politicians, civil society organizations, and community leaders is essential in reporting on post-election-related activities.

“In this endeavor, Women in the Media Sierra Leone is committed to playing its part. We are proud of the incredible work that our female journalists have done, often facing unique challenges, to bring diverse perspectives to the forefront. Our commitment to balance and inclusive reporting remains unwavering,” she disclosed.

Eastina Taylor concluded by extending deepest appreciation to MRCG, IMS, and all participants for their dedication to this cause. She called on all to embark on the journey towards strengthening collaboration, ensuring journalists’ safety, and reporting on election-related activities with integrity and responsibility.

The Head of Media at the Sierra Leone Police, Asp Brima Kamara said that the Sierra Leone Police has the responsibility to protect lives and properties in the country.

He said that the just concluded elections was described as one of the most peaceful elections which he said was a result of the levelled playing ground provided by the Sierra Leone Police during the elections.

He said owing to the fact that the media and the Sierra Leone Police played a critical role in the country they saw the need for trainings to be organized between the media and the Sierra Leone on their roles and responsibilities especially when covering elections, stating that due to those trainings both media practitioners and police personnel were equipped with the necessary knowledge on their roles and responsibilities which, he said, contributed to the smooth working relationship between the media and the security sector with no report of intimidation, assault or arrest against journalists.

Giving his keynote address, the Chairman of the Independent Media Commission, Dr. Victor Massaquoi, said two years ago the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Security sector particularly the Sierra Leone Police, adding two years later but more especially after the elections he is deeply pleased to announced that the level of media compliance to the IMC’s elections coverage regulations was very high before, during and after the elections process.

He said that with over 500 registered media houses in the country only 8 media houses contradicted certain provisions in the IMC 2022 Regulations with no clash with the security sector and other Election Management Bodies.

Dr. Victor Massaquoi said the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) signed and the Sierra Leone Police worked well and is still working, adding that the trainings also organized by organizations contributed to the smooth relationship between the media and the security sector before, during and after the elections.

He concluded by commending the Media Reform Coordinating Group (MRCG) and the International Media Support for the National Dialogue Forum held before, during and after the elections.

Other stakeholders present including the Secretary General of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), Manika Kamara, and a representative from the Political Parties Regulations Commission made salient contributions.

Closing the engagement was a facilitation on the evaluation of the forum and its outcome and a panel discussion of the role of the media, media safety and media Police relation during the elections followed by a group discussion by participants flagging the key challenges, lessons learnt and key recommendations for the future.

Orange Sierra Leone Launches 1st 5G Trial Technology in Freetown

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Orange Sierra Leone, on the 28th of September 2023, held a Tech Night at the Freetown City Council basement during which the first 5G trial was officially launched to prepaid and postpaid mobile users with the aim of giving subscribers access to higher speed, enhanced connectivity and low latency.

The event was graced by eminent personalities including the Chief Minister-Dr. David Monina Sengeh, some Ministers of Government, the Chief of Defence Staff-Lieutenant General P. K. Lavahun, the Honorable Member of Parliament for Constituency 028, Director General of NaTCA- Amara Brewah, CEO of Sonatel-Sekou Drame, CEO of Orange SL- Sekou Amadou Bah, Members of the Diplomatic and Consular Corp and other distinguished guests.

During the introduction of the programme, the audience was intimated that in terms of leading the new digital development, Orange Sierra Leone will pilot its 5G trial service only in the Freetown Central Business District in a move which is part of an extension of the company’s technological expansion drive to enable subscribers to explore the new service.

It was further affirmed that the 5G trial service is designed to ensure best value in speed, capacity and innovation to cater to all users and their diverse needs in the process of experiencing the new technology and its potential.

In his statement, CEO of Sonatel, Sekou Drame, maintained that he is very pleased to be present at the launch of Orange Sierra Leone’s 5G Pilot cutting edge technology. He furthered that the 5G pilot launch aims to follow the footprints of other affiliates such as Botswana and Jordan in Africa and the Middle East, respectively, to be followed by the launch of the 5G technology in the near future in order to enable a massive investment in infrastructure and accordingly accelerate digital transformation that will in future foster use in diverse industries such as entertainment, health, manufacturing, education and transportation.

He continued by stating that Orange, a major digital player in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, is today the leader in fiber deployment in Europe with 46 million FTTH connections deployed by the Group at the end of 2022, representing almost a third of connections on the continent. Sekou Drame also pointed out that the excellence of their networks, following significant investments in infrastructure, will enable Orange to strengthen its leadership in terms of customer experience and digitalization.

The CEO of SONATEL also assured that in Africa, Orange will continue to deploy fixed and mobile networks to enable solid growth in its results and to support the continent’s economic and social development.

He added that the launch is indeed a major milestone for Sierra Leone saying he is delighted that Orange Sierra Leone is providing leadership in setting the technology standard baseline for 5G by rolling out the cutting-edge pilot stage on their network in line with a corporate vision of becoming the first in class mobile internet service provider in Sierra Leone.

Sekou Drame said as the Government commits to implement the five big game changers, the new technological milestone for Orange Sierra Leone is in alignment with the Government’s vision to drive investment in technology, infrastructure and digitalization.

“I want to express a firm commitment of the Orange Sonatel Group that we will continue to modernize its fixed and mobile networks moving to very high speed broadband, with the aim to continue investing in infrastructure through technology to capitalize on high performing networks,” he committed also using the opportunity to thank the Government of Sierra Leone, especially the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Technology and the National Communications Authority for establishing the  regulatory environment for mobile network operators to invest in digitalization and emerging technology for the benefit of their consumers.

On his part, the CEO of Orange Sierra Leone, Sekou Amadou Bah, reiterated that the launch is a major milestone for Orange Sierra Leone in leading a new digital development.

He continued that introducing 5G trial holds immense importance as it can build the pathway to catalyze rapid technological advancement and economic development that will enable the Internet to reach its full potential.

Sekou Amadou Bah said undoubtedly, 5G technology has the potential to enhance communication and enable transformative digital services that will positively impact various sectors like education, health, manufacturing and commercial agriculture.

He maintained that their 5G trial services will provide faster and more reliable connectivity adding that they have been at the forefront of connecting 7 million plus people in Sierra Leone to 3G, 4G, 4G+ and now they are accelerating their technological evolution through the launch of 5G trial technology and Fiber to Home Internet Offer to improve productivity and connectivity through fast and efficient internet.

According to him, Fiber to the home internet offer will provide individuals and businesses with high-Speed broad band experience at affordable prices for improved browsing and online experience; better performance of Multimedia apps; Enhanced Voice and HD Video Calls.

He disclosed that their ambition is to ultimately add value to their vision of digital inclusion in Sierra Leone by democratizing mobile broadband and make it affordable to all.

Sekou Amadou Bah said Orange has positioned itself in the last seven years as a reliable, capable and willing investor with a strong ambition to increase mobile and internet penetration across the country.

He extended profound gratitude to the Government for providing the conducive environment for businesses to thrive, also commending the recognizable effort of the Ministry of Communication for driving the digital transformation agenda of the private sector and to the focal regulator, the National Communication Authority for pioneering the 5G trial launch and for pledging support to mobile network operators.

The Orange SL CEO ended up assuring that 5G brings the dawn of a new era to the country with a new world of possibilities urging all to build it together.

Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, the Chief Minister, challenged all to use technology to drive equity adding that together or in line with Innovation equity must be worked towards instead of widening inequality stressing how that is the promise of the Government.

It must be noted that the announcement of the official pilot launch came after Orange Sierra Leone completed the necessary infrastructure to provide 5G trail service through its network at the approved locations specified in the trial license granted by the Regulatory Authority.

During the first stage, Orange Sierra Leone will test few use case scenarios for 5G expansion to increase speed on fixed wireless access and mobile broadband.

RAIC & UNESCO Commemorate International Day for Universal Access to Information

To celebrate the International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI) the Western Region Commissioner of the Right to Access Information Commission (RAIC), Pastor Mohamed Sesay, and his team came together on Thursday, September 28th, 2023, to join the National Secretariat of the Right to Access Information Commission and UNESCO.

The global event, observed worldwide, was marked under the theme, “The Importance of the Online Space for Access to Information,” and was held at the Family Kingdom in Aberdeen, presided over by the Executive Secretary of RAIC, Hon Mustapha Braima.

Simultaneously, celebrations were conducted in the other three regions of Sierra Leone, namely Makeni, Kenema, and Bo which included engaging radio stations and hosting press conferences led by the Commissioners.

In the absence of Chairman and Information Commission, Dr. Ibrahim Seaga Shaw, who was observing the day in the UK at Oxford as organized by UNESCO, Pastor Mohamed Sesay delivered his message to an audience comprising professionals from various fields related to Freedom of Information.

The establishment of the RAIC dates back to 2013, the year when the Right to Access Information (RAI) Law was signed into law by former President Koroma and in 2014 the Commission was officially brought into existence. Its primary objective is to encourage public authorities to disclose requested information to any member of the public.

Since 2018, the Commission has received over 14,000 requests, with most being successfully resolved. The Commission has also levied fines of NLe70, 000 each on both the Central Bank and the Ministry of Health for failing to disclose requested information.

During the celebration, Deputy Minister of Information and Civic Education, Yusuf Keketoma Sandi Esq., called upon citizens to view the online space as a blessing rather than a curse.

In his keynote address, delivered at the Family Kingdom Resort in Aberdeen, he emphasized the Government’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding every citizen’s right to seek, receive and share information, particularly in today’s digital age.

Deputy Minister Sandi highlighted Sierra Leone’s remarkable progress in Freedom of Information, setting it apart from many other nations. He pointed out that unlike in some countries where internet shutdowns, social media restrictions, media censorship, and press conference bans are prevalent Sierra Leone embraces open access to information.

The Deputy Minister lauded the country’s increased internet access, absence of social media restrictions, absence of media censorship, inclusion of sign language interpreters at press conferences, and communication in Krio at Government briefings. He attributed these achievements to President Julius Maada Bio’s leadership, proclaiming Sierra Leone as a beacon of access to information.

Deputy Minister Sandi concluded by urging citizens to use the online space responsibly and not to spread disinformation or incite divisiveness, hate or violence. He called upon citizens to exercise their right to access information sincerely and with the goal of making the Government more accountable further reassuring the public that the Government, in turn, would fulfil its obligations with honesty, transparency and a dedication to public service.

The commemoration of IDUAI in Sierra Leone served as a testament to the country’s commitment to fostering transparency, access to information and unity in the digital age.

NP-SL’s Notable Contributions to Nation Building Recognized & Celebrated

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In its unwavering commitment to job creation and poverty alleviation, NP Sierra Leone Limited (NP-SL) has emerged as a formidable force, standing as a beacon of success in the business landscape. Over the years, this indigenous company has weathered numerous challenges and triumphed, making invaluable contributions to the development of Sierra Leone and neighbouring countries.

NP-SL Ltd is a testament to the strength and resilience of Sierra Leonean entrepreneurship. It has demonstrated remarkable staying power and growth, a testament to its capable shareholders and dedicated management team that continuously generate innovative ideas driving the company’s ascent to new heights.

One of the key secrets behind NP’s success lies in its unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. The company prides itself on providing attentive and efficient services to its valued customers across the nation. NP’s Management places customer care at the forefront of its operations, actively seeking feedback and addressing concerns to ensure the utmost satisfaction of its customers.

Recognizing the need for expansion and greater regional impact, NP-SL extended its reach by establishing branches in Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast and The Gambia. These branches have not only thrived but have also contributed significantly to the satisfaction of local Governments and an ever-growing customer base.

Governments rely on revenue generation to finance essential development projects. NP has played a crucial role in this regard by consistently being one of the largest contributors to the Government’s coffers. Remarkably, NP’s Management consistently fulfils its tax obligations without external pressure, displaying its commitment to responsible corporate citizenship.

NP’s contribution to society extends beyond fiscal responsibility. The company’s introduction of NP Gas cookers has garnered praise for offering safe, affordable and clean cooking solutions. With health concerns related to traditional cooking methods such as firewood and charcoal, NP Gas cookers have emerged as a hygienic and convenient alternative.

In terms of the effective implementation of Sierra Leone’s Local Content Policy, NP-SL stands head and shoulders above the rest. It proudly employs 100% Sierra Leoneans, showcasing a genuine commitment to nurturing local talent through comprehensive training programs. This approach aligns seamlessly with the country’s Local Content Policy, empowering indigenous citizens with valuable skills and knowledge.

The petroleum marketing entity’s business strategy also includes offering flexibility to individuals and entities by allowing them to secure fuel with chits for deferred payment. This mutually beneficial arrangement has strengthened the bond between NP and its customers, making the company a cherished partner to all.

Furthermore, NP’s unwavering dedication to excellence has been recognized by the Petroleum Regulatory Authority (PRA), the regulatory body overseeing petroleum companies in Sierra Leone. NP has received accolades for its efficient service delivery, further cementing its reputation as an industry leader.

NP Sierra Leone Limited continues to thrive both within Sierra Leone and in the broader regional context as it grows stronger. It remains a symbol of success and a vital contributor to the socio-economic development of the nation.

Thugs Attacked Gateway Evangelical Church  

Apostle Amos Lelleh:- Founder & General Oversever
Apostle Amos Lelleh:- Founder & General Oversever

The tranquillity of the Quarry Kissy Community in Freetown was shattered on Sunday, September 24th, 2023, when a harrowing incident of alleged arson unfolded at the Gateway Evangelical Church (Kingdom of Glory). The Criminal Investigations Department in Freetown has since launched an investigation into the shocking attack, orchestrated by one Alpha Bangura and a gang of hooligans.

The Founder and General Overseer of the Church, Apostle Amos Lelleh, recounted the terrifying sequence of events that unfolded on that ill-fated day. According to him, he was inundated with frantic calls from congregants reporting that Alpha Bangura, who claims ownership of the land adjacent to the church, had masterminded the attack. Armed with petrol and lighters, the assailants launched a vicious assault on the church building, raining it with stones. In the process, they caused extensive damage to the church, including broken windows, vandalized CCTV cameras, shattered solar lights, damaged video cameras, a ruined organ, two laptops worth millions of Leones, and other valuable possessions.

Apostle Amos Lelleh disclosed that during the attack, one of the church pastors was gravely injured while attempting to document the horrifying incident on video. Shockingly, the assailants also attempted to assault a 13-year-old girl, a member of the church, who had sought refuge in a restroom to evade harm.

Law enforcement authorities arrived promptly at the scene and resorted to teargas to quell the violence, leading to several arrests. However, much to the community’s dismay, the ringleader, Alpha Bangura, managed to evade capture by concealing himself in a nearby residence. It was only through the intervention of a community member, who urgently summoned an army officer, that Alpha Bangura was eventually apprehended and handed over to the Police.

Nonetheless public consternation ensued when it was discovered that he was released within a matter of hours. Defiantly, Alpha Bangura threatened to launch another attack on the church and Apostle Amos Lelleh’s residence, vowing that he would face no repercussions for his actions.

Apostle Amos Lelleh also disclosed that during the attack, the thugs doused an amputee church member and his wheelchair with petrol in a chilling attempt to set them ablaze, narrowly averting a horrific tragedy.

The matter was initially reported to the Assistant Inspector General of Police, Dr. John Martin Senesie, at the Ross Road Police headquarters, and the Local Unit Commander of the Kissy Mess Mess Police Station, Sao Vandy, before being transferred to the Criminal Investigations Department in Freetown for an extensive inquiry.

Apostle Amos Lelleh has also brought the matter to the attention of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Sierra Leone, led by Rev. Bishop Akintayo Sam Jolley.

Reports have surfaced that Alpha Bangura has asserted ownership of the land since 2017 and despite reporting the matter to the Ministry of Lands, there has been no substantial resolution concerning the disputed two town-lot on which the church stands.

Sources within the Criminal Investigations Department have confirmed that eight suspects are currently in custody, with the investigation still actively ongoing.

Established sixteen years ago, the Gateway Evangelical Ministries Church has a commendable history of providing relief items and food to the impoverished, extending aid to up to 500 to 700 individuals during critical times, such as the Ebola outbreak.

Their benevolence has included the distribution of hundreds of bags of rice to the less fortunate in the Quarry community and amputees in Grafton. Additionally, they have donated rice, funds  and scholarships to underprivileged individuals and deserving pupils within the Quarry, Kissy community.

As investigations continue, the community and the congregation pray for justice and a return to the peaceful sanctuary of their place of worship.

ACC, Anti-Corruption Coalition from Ghana & IGR Hold Fruitful Discussions

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) of Sierra Leone played host to a delegation of officials from the Ghana Anti-Corruption Coalition (GACC) and the Institute for Governance Reform (IGR) on Tuesday September 26, 2023. The meeting, held at Integrity House on Tower Hill in Freetown centred on the critical topic of implementing audit recommendations from various reports.

In his opening statement, Augustine Foday Ngobie, Deputy Commissioner of the ACC, reiterated the Commission’s dedication to collaborating with GACC and IGR. He emphasized that over the past four years, the ACC has taken substantial actions in response to audit reports, prompted by recurrent issues highlighted in prior reports. Ngobie also clarified the ACC’s role, emphasizing its authority to initiate actions based on suspected corruption allegations received through various channels.

Ngobie further disclosed that the ACC had established a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Audit Service Sierra Leone to enhance cooperation and ensure swift responses to suspected corruption cases, even before audit reports are finalized.

Emmanuel Koivaya Amara, Coordinator of Operations, stressed the importance of debating and acting upon audit reports, particularly by the Public Accounts Committee. He acknowledged the challenges faced by Parliament due to the volume of work and expressed gratitude for the close collaboration between Parliament and the ACC in ensuring necessary actions are taken.

Mohamed Ibrahim Justice Ganawah, Senior Economist at IGR, praised the ACC for its efforts in improving the accountability of public officers. He highlighted that prior to the ACC’s intervention auditors often struggled to obtain requested documents from public officers, contributing to unrecorded cash losses. Ganawah also raised concerns regarding the timeliness and financial implications of the ACC’s actions in cases of misappropriation of public funds.

Beauty Emefa Narteh, Executive Secretary of GACC, commended the ACC and stressed the significance of giving due importance to audit recommendations in West African countries, including Ghana, Sierra Leone, and Benin. She highlighted the widespread issue of trivializing such recommendations and emphasized the need for their effective implementation.

Evelyn Kuyateh, Director of Intelligence and Investigations at the ACC outlined the Commission’s response mechanisms to published audit reports. She highlighted the specialized “Elite Scorpion Team” tasked with swift actions, including arrests in cases of misappropriation.

Patrick Sandi, Director of the Public Education and External Outreach Department, emphasized the ACC’s commitment to transparency and public awareness. He detailed the department’s efforts in disseminating information through press conferences, media releases, and radio and TV programs.

The event concluded with Deputy Commissioner Augustine Foday Ngobie presenting copies of the Anti-Corruption Act of 2008, as amended in 2019. The meeting represented a crucial step in fostering collaboration between anti-corruption bodies and organizations across borders to combat corruption effectively.

FAO Bolsters Collaborative Efforts with Development Partners & GoSL

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has strengthened ties with key development partners and the Government of Sierra Leone (GoSL) through series of strategic engagements during the week-long visit of Dr. Robert Guei Gouantoueu, FAO’s Sub-Regional Coordinator for West Africa and the Sahel Region.

On Thursday, September 28, 2023, Dr. Robert Guei Gouantoueu held productive discussions with prominent entities, including the European Union Delegation in Sierra Leone, the World Bank Group and the African Development Bank. These meetings marked a significant step towards enhancing collaborative efforts in the pursuit of FAO’s objectives in the region.

Earlier in the week, Dr. Guei conducted courtesy visits to several high-ranking officials, underscoring FAO’s commitment to fostering cooperation with the Government of Sierra Leone and international organizations.

These visits included meetings with the UN Resident Coordinator, Babatunde Ahonsi; the World Food Program Country Director; the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security; the Minister of Lands, Housing, and Country Planning; the Minister of Environment and Climate Change and the Manu River Union Secretariat, among others.

In another notable development, Dr. Guei Gouantoueu engaged with the Irish Ambassador later in the afternoon. This meeting aimed to further solidify their collaborative relationship and explore potential areas of cooperation and support for FAO’s strategic initiatives.

The Sub-Regional Coordinator’s visit to Sierra Leone is being led by FAO Representative, Saeed A. Bancie and Wuyango Harding, Head of Programs. These interactions underline FAO’s commitment to fostering partnerships that will contribute to sustainable development and food security in Sierra Leone and the broader West African region.

WHH & Makeni City Council Prioritize Waste Communication

The Chief Administrator and Team during the meeting at his MCCOffice
The Chief Administrator and Team during the meeting at his MCCOffice

By Tamba Borbor (P.R. Officer WHH Sierra Leone)

Welthungerhilfe (WHH) Sierra Leone has supported the Makeni City Council (MCC) to develop a Local Communication Plan on Waste Management. At a meeting held in the Chief Administrator’s Office in Makeni on Friday 15th September 2023, to select the Team tasked with developing the Plan, Daniel Kpukumu (Chief Administrator of Makeni City Council) acknowledged, “the laudable venture of WHH in supporting the MCC to develop a Local Communication Plan.” He said they have been yearning to have this Plan which he noted will undoubtedly improve on how they reach out to the people with messages of communication geared towards effective waste management.

“Our people have been complaining that they don’t know what the Council is doing but with this Communication Plan we can enhance promotion and disseminate information especially the new bylaws on waste management in addition to formulating a clear and holistic way to connecting with the people,” Kpukumu stated.

He urged the other Team members to give their all in putting together a comprehensive Plan that will reflect the current realities.

The Public Relations Officer of WHH Waste Management Project, Tamba Borbor in his capacity as Technical Support Staff to the Team stated that the Local Communication Plan on Waste Management will serve as a comprehensive roadmap in communicating with the municipal public in Makeni City.

“WHH prioritizes waste management and is therefore bringing an integrated approach to the sector which includes supporting the Council to develop their own Plan on how they want to communicate to their people and through which means and key messages,” Borbor explained.

Usif Kargbo, the Makeni City Waste Management Department Manager noted that with this support from WHH ,it will go a long way in enhancing the operations of the MCC while also ensuring its communicates effectively with its constituents and customers.

The Team selected by the Council comprising key staff in various departments, is expected to complete the task of developing the Local Communication Plan within a period of ten working days.

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