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On Local Waste Communication Plan… WHH Boosts Kenema City Council

Team Members of the Kenema City Council poised to develop Local Communication Plan
Team Members of the Kenema City Council poised to develop Local Communication Plan

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

With support from Welthungerhilfe Sierra Leone, the Kenema City Council (KCC) has commenced the process of developing a Local Communication Plan for the Council on Wednesday 13th September 2023.

Mohamed Ngevao, who is the Environment and Social Officer of the KCC in his statement said that developing a Local Communication Plan is a very key and great idea with support from WHH.

“Anything that has to do with communication which is an integral part of waste management and development is paramount to the Council,” Ngevao stated; adding that they as a Council are determined to continue impacting the waste sector and continue to be the reference for other Councils across the country.

“I want to thank WHH for this invaluable support and urge you all to pay keen attention to this process so that we all put together a solid document to be useful to our current waste management communication needs,” Ngevao stressed.

Tamba Borbor, Public Relations Officer of WHH Waste Management Project lauded the efforts of the KCC in maintaining a high level in managing its municipal waste, which he noted, is an envy to other Councils supported by WHH.

“This support to develop a Local Communication Plan is to ensure the Council has a well-planned, coordinated and comprehensive direction which I can use to outreach the public on waste management issues including raising awareness about proposed bylaws,” Borbor noted.

The Chief Administrator of the Kenema City Council (KCC), Joseph G.T. Gando expressed delight for receiving another “great support from WHH.”

He maintained that the history of the Council will not be complete without mentioning the tremendous support and intervention of Welthungerhilfe Sierra Leone which was instrumental in establishing the Waste Management Department, youth groups etc.

“WHH provided needed infrastructure and structures to address the issue of waste management using an integrated approach during their past projects and this current one. This is a very pivotal support as it borders around education of the public. Developing a Communication Strategy for Kenema city is one that we have to give the highest attention to in order to be in a position to help other Councils. We have to ensure we have a very solid document,” Gando stated.

The Information, Education and Communication (IEC) Officer of KCC, Martin Kaindaneh expressed appreciation to WHH for such a support geared towards enhancing the Council’s Communication activities. He assured that they will ensure it is sustainable and reflective of current trends.

He highlighted that the composition of the Team shows how serious the KCC takes the issue of waste management and communication with the people.

At the end of the ten-day exercise, the Team is expected to present the final Plan to the Chief Administrator for onward submission to the WHH Sierra Leone Waste Management Project.

Caritas Freetown Engages Men & Boys on Gender Based Violence Prevention

By Abubakarr Harding

On September 28, 2023, Caritas Freetown embarked on an important mission: to engage men and boys from twenty communities, through a training programme, in the fight against Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) prevention. The initiative took place at the heart of Makorbeh Community-Songo, under the banner of the “Strengthening Behavioral Change on SGBV Prevention” Project which has as its primary objective to educate and raise awareness among men and boys about SGBV and its detrimental effects on women and girls.

The training session marked a crucial milestone in encouraging behavioral change among men and boys while promoting gender equality. Participants were given insights into the various forms of SGBV, existing laws and policies designed to protect women and girls, and a comprehensive understanding of Gender-Based Violence (GBV).

One of the central elements of the training was educating the participants about the referral pathway and the pivotal role of men and boys in mitigating GBV. Women and girls, who have experienced SGBV, often face numerous challenges, including stigma, shame, and limited access to justice. Caritas Freetown aims to address these challenges by collaborating with communities to enhance access to justice and hygiene for vulnerable women and girls.

Kumba Emmanuelle Gando, the Project Lead from Caritas Freetown, emphasized the importance of educating men and boys about their roles within the community and their responsibilities concerning the laws related to SGBV. She pointed out that most cases of SGBV are committed by men and boys and that any sexual act without the consent of the other party constitutes rape, which is a violation of the law.

Kumba also highlighted an unfortunate reality: while both men and women can be victims of rape, men are less likely to report such cases due to factors like ego, while women are more inclined to report them. Therefore, educating men and boys about the gravity of SGBV and its adverse societal impacts is of utmost importance.

Moreover, Kumba revealed that Caritas Freetown had previously implemented similar projects in various communities. Still, this time they sought to extend their reach to communities that had not yet benefited from these initiatives.

The project is set to run for one year, and its primary focus will continue to be raising awareness among men and boys about SGBV, promoting access to justice and hygiene for vulnerable women and girls, and fostering behavioral change.

Kumba commended Caritas Freetown’s work in combating SGBV by targeting the root causes of the problem. By working with men and boys,they are contributing to the creation of a more equal and just society. It is imperative that other organizations and communities also prioritize the fight against SGBV and work tirelessly to promote gender equality and justice for all.

In a testament to the impact of the training session, Alex M Sesay, a teacher from the Makorbeh Community, expressed his gratitude for being part of the program. He shared that while they had heard about SGBV before the training provided them with a different perspective on the issue. Alex acknowledged the importance of understanding SGBV and the laws surrounding it to prevent it from happening in their community.

Alex further pledged his commitment to implementing the new perspectives and strategies learned during the training session to prevent SGBV in his community. He also vowed to educate others about the significance of preventing SGBV and the laws that support those efforts.

Alex’s dedication to spreading awareness and implementing his newfound knowledge is a shining example of how training sessions like these can inspire individuals to take action and drive positive change in their communities. The impact of this training session goes beyond its duration, leaving a lasting imprint on the community and reinforcing the importance of gender equality and justice for all.

It must be noted that in many communities around the world, the saying holds true that men and boys are often the perpetrators of Sexual Gender-Based Violence (SGBV). However, the winds of change are blowing, and organizations like Caritas Freetown, in partnership with Manos Unidas, are taking significant steps to combat SGBV and promote access to justice and hygiene for vulnerable women and girls.

Africell Presents Eighth TVS Motorbike to Grand Promo Winner

Africell, Sierra Leone’s leading telecommunications company, continues to delight its subscribers with exciting prizes in its mega promotion, aimed at giving back to the community. On Tuesday, September 26, 2023, Africell presented a brand new TVS motorbike to a lucky subscriber at their headquarters in Wilberforce, Freetown.

The ongoing promotion, which commenced on July 31, 2023, and is set to conclude in January 2024, has captured the imagination of subscribers across the nation. Abdul Aziz Kamara, Africell’s Media spokesperson, revealed that this spectacular promotion offers participants the chance to win a wide array of prizes, including six brand new cars, 24 TVS motorbikes, and thousands of other cash rewards totaling over five billion old Leones.

He emphasized that Africell’s commitment to its subscribers’ well-being is evident through initiatives like this promotion and excitedly announced that another lucky subscriber will be driving away in a Suzuki car this Sunday.

Tamba Bee, another Africell representative, shared his enthusiasm for the promotion’s life-changing potential. He explained that Africell is not only focused on delivering top-notch mobile services but also on creating innovative promotions that allow subscribers to become car owners and win other attractive prizes. Bee encouraged all subscribers to continue recharging, assuring them that more opportunities await.

Nancy L. Toure, Events and Sponsorship Manager for Africell, highlighted the company’s dedication to delivering the best mobile services and fulfilling its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). She personally handed over the key and documents for the TVS motorbike to the fortunate winner.

The recipient of the TVS motorbike, Bisodu Pratt, an auto-electrician, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Africell. He shared his plans to use the prize as a stepping stone for his child’s higher education, a dream he had been diligently working towards. Pratt also mentioned discussing the bike’s use with his wife, as he stood in awe of his unexpected win. He urged other subscribers to keep participating in the promotion, emphasizing its transparency and the potential for more victories.

Africell’s commitment to fostering a stronger bond with its subscribers and enhancing their lives through such promotions is undoubtedly evident in this grand giveaway. As the promotion continues, many more subscribers stand a chance to realize their dreams, thanks to Africell’s generous rewards program. Stay tuned for more exciting updates from Africell as they continue to impact the lives of Sierra Leoneans.

Orange SONATEL CEO Affirms Commitment to Social Responsibility & Economic Growth

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, on September 28, 2023, welcomed Sékou Drame, the Chief Executive Officer of Orange SONATEL Group, in a recent meeting at the State House during which they discussed the company’s operations and its commitment to Sierra Leone’s development.

Drame, representing Orange SONATEL Group, expressed his delight in conducting business within Sierra Leone, highlighting the positive transformations in the country’s business environment. He specifically commended the Government for its efforts in enhancing the ease of doing business and investing in the nation’s people.

He emphasized the company’s commitment to giving back to society, a responsibility they take seriously as a responsible corporate entity.

Taking a moment to acknowledge President Maada Bio’s recent re-election victory, he also conveyed his best wishes on behalf of Orange SONATEL’s Board for a successful second term and lauded the President’s achievements in governance further assuring him of the company’s dedication to supporting government projects and agendas.

Drame also shared Orange SONATEL’s contributions to Sierra Leone since 2016, highlighting their efforts to improve communication technology services in the country.

He announced plans to roll out a high-speed 5G campaign in Sierra Leone, showcasing the company’s commitment to staying at the forefront of technological advancements. Additionally, he pledged Orange SONATEL’s support for Government programs in education and healthcare, reaffirming their aim to provide social and financial assistance to Sierra Leoneans.

In response, President Julius Maada Bio expressed his enthusiasm for the visit and described Orange SONATEL Group as a significant player in the private sector, necessitating ongoing engagement with the Government. The President was particularly pleased with the confirmation of the Data Center in Bo City, foreseeing its positive impact on the nation.

President Bio reiterated his Government’s commitment to supporting Orange SONATEL, especially in terms of financial inclusion and creating a welcoming environment for investments. He expressed his gratitude to the company for constructing preschools in various parts of Sierra Leone, underscoring the importance of education as a valuable investment for the nation’s future.

The meeting between President Maada Bio and CEO Sékou Drame not only showcased the positive developments in Sierra Leone’s business landscape but also emphasized the partnership between the government and private sector entities like Orange SONATEL Group. As Sierra Leone continues to advance, such collaborations are expected to play a pivotal role in its growth and development.

Neeks Fashion CEO, Ishmael Brima Koroma Sponsors Mrs Earth Malaysia 2023 Grand Finale

By Sallu Kamuskay

The CEO and Founder of Neeks Fashion, Ishmael Brima Koroma, received a certificate of appreciation on behalf of his brand for their sponsorship and participation during the Mrs. Earth Malaysia 2023 Grand Finale event. Neeks Fashion, known for its range of men’s, women’s and unisex clothing items sponsored this year’s event.

The certificate was presented by Ammetta Malhotra Bergin, the Founder of Mrs Super Model Universe. The event was attended by representatives from the fashion industry, Mrs Earth organizers and renowned fashion industry representatives in Malaysia.

In a Zoom interview, Ishmael expressed his excitement and honor in receiving the award as he was particularly thrilled that his brand was featured in an international magazine for the first time, seeing it as a win for Sierra Leone and Africa.

When comparing the fashion industries of Sierra Leone and Malaysia, Ishmael acknowledged that Malaysia has a more developed industry. Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia, is known for its vibrant fashion scene and hosts various fashion events and shows. The country boasts of established designers, emerging talents and a growing number of fashion brands. Malaysian fashion incorporates diverse influences, including traditional elements, Western trends and Islamic fashion.

On the other hand, Sierra Leone’s fashion industry is still emerging and faces challenges in terms of infrastructure, resources and exposure. However, there are efforts to promote and showcase traditional African fashion and Sierra Leonean designers are gradually gaining recognition both locally and internationally. Events like Sierra Leone Fashion Week provide platforms for showcasing their talent.

Ishmael emphasized that the fashion industry is dynamic and constantly evolving. His insights may not reflect the current state of the industries in both countries, so it’s important to consult more recent sources or experts for accurate information.

During the interview, Ishmael revealed that the brand name “NEEKS” is an abbreviation of his children’s names. He described his kids as bold, loving and cheerful, with attributes that align with his fashion statements. He hopes that the brand will inspire other young people to find their identity and fulfill their dreams. Ishmael expressed confidence in NEEKS becoming a global fashion brand.

Neeks Fashion offers a range of clothing items for men, women and unisex customers, including sweatshirts, hoodies, basic t-shirts and joggers. The brand aims to have a positive impact on people’s lives and can be found and purchased through their online store. Neeks Fashion launched its latest collection in 2023, featuring affordable and quality clothing for customers worldwide. The company is committed to providing the best value products and services and has diversified into multiple ventures within the clothing industry.

Ishmael Brima Koroma, the Founder of Neeks, has a vision beyond just creating a successful fashion brand. He wants to create a family brand, where every customer and employee feels like they are part of an exclusive community. This shows his commitment to building strong relationships and fostering a sense of belonging within the Neeks organization.

Having decades of experience and expertise in the fashion industry, Ishmael Brima Koroma is well-equipped to lead Neeks to success. His entrepreneurial spirit and philanthropic nature are evident in his plans for the future. He is not only focused on building a fashion brand but also on embarking on other business ventures.

One of Ishmael’s future goals is to establish an international school in his home country, Sierra Leone. This shows his dedication to giving back to his community and providing educational opportunities for the youth. Additionally, he has a larger vision of building a business empire, indicating his ambition and drive for success.

Overall, Ishmael Brima Koroma’s commitment to building a fashion brand that goes beyond just clothing is evident in his plans for Neeks. He aims to create a family brand where everyone feels included and valued, while also pursuing other business ventures and philanthropic endeavors.

United States Grants $450,000 to Safeguard Historic Old Fourah Bay College

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The United States Embassy in Freetown on September 28, 2023 announced a substantial $450,000 grant through the U.S. Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) to support the ongoing preservation efforts of Old Fourah Bay College in a move to preserve an iconic piece of Sierra Leone’s history.

The grant has been awarded to the World Monuments Fund (WMF), a dedicated implementing partner with a global track record in safeguarding cultural heritage.

This significant funding injection is intended to further the stabilization of Old Fourah Bay College, a historic edifice located in Freetown. Specifically, the grant will be utilized to complete emergency stabilization work on the venerable structure, install a new roof, and conduct critical masonry conservation.

Old Fourah Bay College holds immense historical significance, having been established in 1827 as the first western-style university in sub-Saharan Africa. Over the years, this historic institution has played a pivotal role in Sierra Leone’s history and its commitment to education. For a century, the college served as a bastion of learning, imparting knowledge in the fields of governance, religion, and public service. Many of its graduates went on to become prominent West African leaders, contributing significantly to the end of colonialism in the region.

This latest grant marks the second phase of support extended to WMF for the preservation of Old Fourah Bay College. The initial grant awarded in 2021 facilitated the commencement of emergency stabilization efforts and initiated a comprehensive planning and design process in collaboration with the local community, with the aim of eventually restoring the structure to its former glory.

Ambassador Bryan Hunt, who recently paid a visit to the historic site, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “We are pleased to play a role in the preservation of this incredible historic site in Sierra Leone so it can continue to inspire and educate the public for generations. The story of Old Fourah Bay College is important to preserve for the people of Sierra Leone and for Americans with family ties to this region who can learn from its history as well.”

The AFCP, a program administered by the U.S. Department of State, is committed to supporting cultural heritage preservation projects worldwide, underscoring American respect for diverse cultures and historical legacies.

WMF, a non-profit organization with a global footprint, collaborates closely with local communities to safeguard irreplaceable cultural heritage. This second phase of the project has incorporated substantial input from community members and various local stakeholders, who have actively participated in interviews and workshops with WMF, sharing their aspirations for the future of Old Fourah Bay College.

The preservation of Old Fourah Bay College is not just a restoration of bricks and mortar; it is the safeguarding of a rich history and an enduring commitment to education that continues to resonate with people both locally and globally. With this generous grant from the United States, the journey to preserve this iconic landmark takes a significant step forward, ensuring that the legacy of Old Fourah Bay College lives on for generations to come.

 

NP-SL Remains a Leading Player in Sierra Leone’s Petroleum Industry

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

NP-Sierra Leone Limited (NP-SL Ltd) has emerged as a key player in the country’s petroleum industry, positioning itself as a proactive and customer-centric institution dedicated to providing high-quality petroleum products and services.

With a transparent approach to business and a commitment to customer satisfaction, NP-SL Ltd has become a reliable source for a wide range of petroleum products, including petrol, diesel, gas and lubricants, notably the highly sought-after Castrol lubricant oil, known for its efficient engine lubrication properties.

The company’s dedication to customer service has been a cornerstone of its success. NP-SL Ltd employs a dedicated workforce and a network of distributors to ensure the availability and accessibility of its petroleum products throughout the nation. This commitment aligns with the Government’s efforts to drive development and economic growth.

One of the remarkable achievements of NP-SL Ltd is the elimination of fraudulent practices at their fuel stations. Through the implementation of modern, calibrated pumping machines at their service points, customers are assured of receiving the precise quantity of fuel they pay for, eliminating concerns of under dispensing or overcharging. This commitment to accuracy and fairness has earned the company the coveted title of “1st For Customer Care.”

In a recent nationwide survey, we sought the opinions of a significant portion of NP-SL Ltd’s customer base to gauge their views on the company’s operations. Respondents overwhelmingly praised the company for its dedication to effective service delivery and customer satisfaction.

Renowned Social Commentator, Mohamed Bai Sesay, commended NP-SL Ltd for its exceptional customer care practices, asserting that the company leads the way in this aspect within the business landscape of the country.

He explained, “To ensure transparent sales and provide customers with their money’s worth, the company’s shareholders made the strategic decision to procure and install modern calibrated pumping machines at their Filling Stations. Any notion that pumps attendants are cheating customers is unfounded, as these machines guarantee accuracy and fairness.”

Abdulai Braima, a seasoned Economist, emphasized the importance of deepening local content for sustainable economic growth. He lauded NP-SL Ltd’s policy of offering employment exclusively to Sierra Leoneans, describing it as a commendable step towards empowering citizens and improving their living standards.

“I commend the shareholders for their high sense of patriotism,” he remarked.

Majority of those interviewed mentioned that they use NP Gas for cooking purposes, noting its efficiency and environmental friendliness. NP Gas is a cooking device available in various cylinder sizes at affordable prices at the company’s Filling Stations.

Memunatu Forna, a businesswoman, highlighted its popularity and performance, stating, “It’s fast and convenient and with easy access to gas refills at various Filling Stations, it’s in high demand.”

NP Smart Card, another innovative offering by the company, has gained popularity among consumers. Users praised its convenience for purchasing petroleum products, allowing them to avoid the hassle of withdrawing cash from banks.

Musa Kalokoh, an engineer, shared his positive experience, stating, “I use my Smart Card to purchase fuel and it works perfectly well, especially on busy Fridays when I don’t want to queue at the bank.”

The growth of NP-SL Ltd extends beyond Sierra Leone’s borders, with branches successfully established in neighboring Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast and The Gambia. This expansion showcases the company’s vibrant and thriving operations in the region.

Today, NP-SL Ltd stands as a testament to a successful and thriving business entity, contributing significantly to Sierra Leone’s socio-economic development. Its commitment to transparency, customer satisfaction, and local empowerment serves as a model for emulation in the industry.

NaTCA Assures Creation of Better Telecoms Infrastructure for Mobile Companies & the Populace

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Weekly Press Briefing convened by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education at the Foreign Affairs Ministry’s Conference Room at Tower Hill in Freetown on Tuesday, September 26, 2023 was graced by various notable personalities who made significant contributions during the session.

Those who made salient contributions included Yusuf Keketoma Sandi Esq., Deputy Minister of Information and Civic Education, Ms. Salima Monorma Bah-Minister of Communications, Technology and Innovation, Amara Brewah-Director General of the National Communications Authority (NaTCA), Colonel Issa Bangura from RSLAF Director Public Relations and Information and ACP Brima Kamara, who heads the Police Media. Additionally, Civil Society activist, Hawa Yokie, also shared important updates.

Deputy Minister of Information and Civic Education, Yusuf Keketoma Sandi Esq., opened the Press Briefing by reporting on the successful return of H.E. President Dr. Julius Maada Bio from the United Nations General Assembly, where discussions with development partners took place. Sandi Esq. also highlighted the recent review of the Postal Service Policy by SALPOST emphasizing its importance.

Addressing concerns about fake news, Sandi Esq. urged the public to disregard a false Press Release allegedly from the State House Press Secretary and clarified his current role as Deputy Minister of Information and Civic Education.

The security sector reassured citizens about the country’s safety and encouraged normal daily activities. ACP Brima Kamara, Head of Police Media, discussed the incident involving ‘Big Fish’ and the efforts to disarm him, which ultimately led to necessary actions to prevent potential disaster.

Colonel Issa Bangura, RSLAF Director of Public Relations and Information, expressed condolences to ‘Big Fish’s’ family and confirmed the establishment of a Board of Inquiry to investigate the incident.

Minister of Communications, Technology and Innovation, Salima Monorma Bah, outlined her Ministry’s role during the Government press briefing. She emphasized the Ministry’s significance in advancing the President’s vision for innovation and communication.

Minister Bah explained that while the Ministry’s functions were not entirely new, they had been separated from the Information Ministry to enhance efficiency and focus. She highlighted the Ministry’s responsibilities, including policy formulation, oversight of the Directorate of Science and Technology and the National Communication Authority (NATCA).

Minister Bah proudly shared success stories, particularly from the Directorate of Science and Technology, which had streamlined educational processes by developing result checker systems for student examinations.

Furthermore, Minister Bah emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to innovative strategies across Government departments, with a focus on improving service delivery and governance.

Minister Salima Bah aligned her Ministry with the President’s “Big Five” agenda, emphasizing the Government’s commitment to progress, innovation and improving citizens’ lives.

Director General of the National Communications Authority (NaTCA), Amara Brewah, addressed the issue of poor network coverage in Sierra Leone and said that they are collaborating closely with National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) to encourage individuals to register their SIM cards with their NIN numbers. This initiative aims to safeguard innocent individuals from falling victim to fraudulent transactions orchestrated by scammers.

Brewah emphasized that the National Communications Authority operates with the goal of serving the mobile network coverage needs of both the Government and the people. However, he acknowledged the challenges of satisfying all stakeholders simultaneously maintaining that with such a vast responsibility, the Authority constantly strives to ensure that things are functioning smoothly and to keep everyone content.

One key point Brewah made was that the blame for low network coverage does not always lie with the mobile network companies. He indicated that some of the problems stem from the phones that people use further stating that if individuals own new phones that have not been previously used, such issues are less likely to occur. He lamented that many people in Sierra Leone purchase second-hand phones, which can contribute to the persistence of network problems.

Brewah went on to mention that the transmission of mobile coverage depends on poles that are positioned in specific areas adding that these poles require electricity to operate effectively saying if any of these poles encounter issues, whether related to electricity or other factors, the network performance is affected.

Furthermore, Brewah clarified that mobile network companies do not allocate poles everywhere since they do not consider it financially viable to do so. He said under the universal network fund, these companies share a portion of their revenue, enabling poles to be installed in several underserved locations.

The Director General highlighted the significant improvements made within the sector during the past few years. He assured that the National Communications Authority remains committed to further enhancing its support for both the mobile network companies and the people of Sierra Leone. He went on to reveal that through ongoing efforts they aim to create a better telecom infrastructure that benefits the companies, the Government and the general population.

Civil society activist Hawa Yokie discussed her institution’s efforts to promote innovation, especially in teaching robotics and technology to youth.

The Press Conference concluded with a sign language interpreter present, symbolizing the Ministry of Information and Civic Education’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility.

Legal Aid Board’s Commitment to Justice: 144 Inmates Receive Legal Support

The Legal Aid Board (LAB) undertook the legal representation of 37 accused individuals who appeared before Justice Alusine Sesay, JSC, during the recently concluded September Criminal Sessions at the High Court in proceedings that took place on September 19, 2023, at Freetown High Court No. 1, located on Siaka Stevens Street.

Out of a total of 50 individuals whose cases were called before the court, 10 were absent, while two were represented by private counsels. Tragically, one of the accused persons was reported to have passed away.

The charges against the accused persons encompassed a wide range of offenses, including conspiracy to defraud, murder, larceny in a dwelling house, wounding with intent, robbery, robbery with aggravation, assault with intent to rob, shop breaking and larceny, larceny from a person, larceny in a dwelling house and fraudulent conversion.

Among the 37 accused individuals represented by the Legal Aid Board, 15 pleaded guilty to the charges and subsequently received varying prison sentences.

The indigent accused individuals were represented by a team of dedicated Legal Aid Counsels, including Cecilia Tucker, Randy Bangura, Ibrahim Samba, Cyril Taylor-Younge, Morrison Karimu, Harold Momoh, and Abraham Kargbo.

In a related development, the Legal Aid Board also provided representation for three juvenile offenders, identified as Rose Mary John, Sheku Bangura, and Josephus Koroma (pseudonyms), who were discharged by Magistrate Wilbril John of Freetown Magistrate Court No. 7. These juveniles had been standing trial on charges of office breaking and larceny, assault, and fraudulent conversion.

Rose was arrested in May 2023, Sheku in April 2023, and Josephus in August 2023. Following their discharge, the three have been reunited with their families and were represented by Legal Aid Counsel, Fatmata J. Kangbai.

Ms. Fatmata Claire Carlton-Hanciles, the Executive Director of the Legal Aid Board, urged the juvenile offenders to return home promptly and resume their education. She emphasized the importance of not missing the academic year, as it could adversely affect their future development.

In a separate development, the Legal Aid Board extended its representation to 104 convicted inmates whose cases were reviewed at the Prison Court in Mafanta, situated in the Tonkolili District, on September 21, 2023. The proceedings were presided over by Justice Alusine Sesay of the Supreme Court of Sierra Leone.

All 104 inmates, whose cases were up for review, had been convicted on various charges at Magistrate Courts across the country, including Freetown. Their sentences were being served at the Mafanta Correctional Center. These convictions included 35 cases of larceny, 9 for fraudulent conversion, 8 for obtaining money by false pretense, 5 for conspiracy, 8 for domestic violence, and 2 for wounding.

Among the 104 convicted inmates represented by Legal Aid Counsels, 44 were released, while 60 had their sentences reduced. The legal representation was led by Mohamed Korie, with support from Osman Kamara and contract lawyer J.E. Turay.

Mohamed Korie, the lead Legal Counsel, commended his colleagues for their tireless efforts in representing all the convicted inmates in a single day. He emphasized the importance of ensuring legal representation for indigent accused persons, who constitute the majority of those brought before the courts.

The Executive Director, Ms. Fatmata Claire Carlton-Hanciles, described the Legal Aid Board’s representation of all the inmates at the Prison Court as a testament to the organization’s growth and efficiency in handling the criminal calendar. She asserted that the Legal Aid Board had no competitors when it came to providing legal support in such cases.

In New York City… Infinitum Energy Presents $189M Project to Address Energy & Waste Management Challenges

In a historic moment of collaboration, Infinitum Energy, a prominent global renewable energy corporation, announced significant progress following a crucial meeting between its CEO, Lindsay Nagle and His Excellency Julius Maada Bio, President of Sierra Leone.

The momentous encounter unfolded during a recent visit to New York City marking a major stride towards realizing the company’s ambitious $189 million Waste-to-Energy project. This transformative endeavor aims to address critical energy and waste management challenges plaguing the city of Freetown.

The leadership team of Infinitum Energy also presented their visionary project to Honorable Dr. Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella, the newly appointed Chairman of the Special Initiative for Climate Change, Renewable Energy, and Food Security in Sierra Leone. The presentation garnered significant attention and support from other distinguished guests who attended the meeting, including: Jiwoh Abdulai – Minister of Environment and Climate Change,  Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura – Minister of Finance and Mathew Dingie – Financial Secretary, Ministry of Finance.

Infinitum Energy’s state-of-the-art facility aligns seamlessly with Sierra Leonean Government’s “Big Game Changers” agenda, addressing four out of five key pillars, namely Human Capital Development, Youth Employment, Revamping Public Services and Tech/Infrastructure. This strategic alignment positions the company as a crucial partner in advancing these pivotal initiatives.

The monumental project presented by Infinitum Energy promises to address two pressing challenges confronting Freetown: energy scarcity and waste management. Leveraging cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices, the company is committed to delivering energy independence to Sierra Leone while concurrently contributing to resolving waste-related issues. This dual mission heralds a cleaner and brighter future for Mama Salone.

Infinitum Energy takes immense pride in its collaboration with the people of Sierra Leone, symbolizing a shared commitment to driving transformative change. The project is set to generate 1,200 well-paying jobs, underscoring the company’s dedication to fostering sustainable socio-economic growth.

As Infinitum Energy continues its close partnership with Sierra Leone, the world can look forward to a future marked by sustainability, cleanliness and prosperity.

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