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Finance Minister Advocates for Addressing Huge Debts of Low-Income Countries at UNGA

Minister of Finance, Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura on September 21, 2023, addressed the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, urging the international community and development partners to join forces and explore innovative solutions to address the mounting debt challenges faced by low-income countries.

Minister Bangura emphasized that the burden of debt servicing is increasingly squeezing the already limited fiscal space of these nations, hindering their ability to respond effectively to the needs of vulnerable populations and implement essential pro-poor programs such as safety nets.

During his presentation, Minister Bangura highlighted Sierra Leone’s reliance on borrowing to address various crises and emergencies, including the Ebola outbreak, the COVID-19 pandemic, and global economic downturns. He called for urgent discussions on debt service relief, suspension initiatives, and the development of innovative financing mechanisms in collaboration with development partners, aimed at supporting viable projects in low-income countries.

In addition to advocating for external support, Minister Bangura committed to implementing prudent debt management strategies, with a focus on securing more concessional financing and enhancing domestic revenue mobilization efforts within Sierra Leone.

The finance minister is a key member of Sierra Leone’s delegation to the United States, accompanying President Dr. Julius Maada Bio to this year’s UNGA sessions and participating in bilateral meetings with organizations such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), and other crucial development partners.

Minister Bangura’s address at the UNGA underscores the pressing need for collaborative efforts to alleviate the financial burdens faced by low-income countries, allowing them to channel resources towards poverty reduction and sustainable development initiatives. The global community now awaits further actions and initiatives to support these vital goals.

Supreme Court Judge Releases 44 Inmates at Mafanta Correctional Centre

In a remarkable development at the Mafanta Correctional Center in the Tonkolili District, Supreme Court Judge, Honourable Justice Alusine Sesay, on September 22, 2023, ordered the release of 44 convicts who were serving sentences for various offenses. These individuals were part of a larger group of 104 convicted persons whose cases came under scrutiny during the proceedings.

The Prison Court, a specialized judicial body, has a primary objective of reviewing cases previously adjudicated by Magistrates throughout the country to ensure their alignment with existing laws governing the justice system. During this process, Justice Alusine Sesay made reductions in the sentences of some convicts, while others were released due to the completion of their prescribed jail terms.

Additionally, the initiative addresses issues such as prolonged adjournments, bail review procedures and sentencing guidelines to ensure fairness and consistency in the administration of justice.

In his opening statement, Justice Sesay emphasized that the purpose of the Prison Court is to review cases rather than convict individuals, emphasizing the commitment to upholding justice and legal principles.

This initiative is part of an ongoing effort to enhance accessibility and fairness within the criminal justice system, reflecting the Judiciary’s dedication to upholding the rule of law.

Of the 104 cases reviewed, 17 originated from Freetown, 4 from Sefadu, 75 from Makeni, 6 from Kabala, 1 from Waterloo, and 1 from Magburuka. The convicts were represented by legal professionals M. Korie Esq and O.B. Kamara from the Legal Aid Board.

As part of broader reforms, the Judiciary recently concluded a successful Judicial Week during which 802 cases were resolved by 23 judges, significantly reducing case backlogs. Similar to the Judicial Week, the PRISON COURTS initiative has received support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

The Prison Courts have earned commendations for their impact on the justice system, bringing smiles to the faces of the released convicts across the nation. Many of the beneficiaries expressed their gratitude to the Hon. Chief Justice, His Lordship Justice Desmond Babatunde Edwards, and his team for their tireless efforts in bringing about unprecedented reforms and expanding access to justice.

This move by Justice Alusine Sesay and the Prison Courts represents a significant stride towards ensuring a more equitable and just legal system in Sierra Leone.

JIT Capital Group & GPFI Nigeria End 2-Day Business Strategic Retreat

As part of efforts by the Board of Directors and Senior Management of JIT Capital Group to expand on its financial services and investment business, especially with the development of SMEs in provincial areas, a strategic direction has been mapped out during a two day retreat in Freetown.

Engagement training on Facility Management was completed by Global Property and Facilities International Limited (GPFI) Nigeria joined by counterparts in Sierra Leone and The Gambia.

The retreat brought together senior staff and some members of the Board to discuss the vision of the CEO/President, Dr. Ezekiel K. Duramany-Lakkoh.  The company is currently completing arrangements for the introduction of two new businesses in Sierra Leone in partnership with GPFI Nigeria and Climax Petroleum.  Hopefully two big Nigerian companies will visit Sierra Leone later this year to engage with business and political stakeholders on the push towards harnessing the investment platform on gray areas in Sierra Leone.

This year’s retreat saw the participation of two Sierra Leoneans who are also interested in doing business in the country, Dauda Conteh and Adams Kpewa who came from the United States.  Both have demonstrated commitment and patriotism to a call to business as well as affirming to work with the Group in both Sierra Leone and the United States.

The JIT Capital SME Development Scheme works with clients in order to build investment strategies carefully considering their business models geared towards understanding how much exposure is appropriate to finance various investments projects.

JIT Capital particularly operates in deprived communities as a business entity that provides access and efficiency.

UN Resident Coordinator Urges Peaceful Dialogue on International Day of Peace

In a major call for unity and harmony, Babatunde Ahonsi, the UN Resident Coordinator in Sierra Leone, delivered a compelling message during an event held by the Independent Commission on Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC) on September 21, 2023 at the Bintumani Conference Centre in Freetown to commemorate the International Day of Peace.

Making reference to the current political tensions in the country, he implored the ruling and opposition parties to peacefully resolve their differences, emphasizing the need to defuse tensions that have arisen within communities nationwide.

The Resident Coordinator stressed the importance of countering divisive ethno-regional discourse and hate speech, which has persisted not only during the recent electoral period but also beyond. He applauded President Julius Maada Bio for his commitment to reducing political tension and fostering national cohesion, as well as commending opposition leaders for their dedication to maintaining peace in the nation.

“While political tensions are natural during election times, it is imperative that they are promptly and appropriately addressed in the post-election period” Babatunde Ahonsi averred, cautioning that unresolved tensions could hinder national development and cohesion, potentially leading to an atmosphere of instability.

Notably, Mr. Ahonsi welcomed the initiative of the Commonwealth Secretary-General, supported by ECOWAS, AU, and the ICPNC, to facilitate a dialogue process between the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) and the All People’s Congress (APC). He expressed hope for a sincere and honest dialogue and commended the involved parties for their political will in the face of challenges.

Highlighting the ongoing political deadlock between the SLPP and the APC following the June 24th elections, Mr. Ahonsi emphasized that such political deadlocks and conflicts, if left unresolved and descending into violence, could obstruct peace and stability, ultimately undermining national development and social cohesion.

The UN Resident Coordinator affirmed the United Nations’ commitment to any effort that contributes to reducing violence and peacefully resolving disputes, with a focus on social inclusion and justice. He underscored the importance of addressing the root causes of inequality and marginalization as part of Sierra Leone’s upcoming Medium-Term National Development Plan, which spans the next five years. Mr. Ahonsi believes that this approach will significantly contribute to sustaining peace and national cohesion, facilitating the country’s progress.

As Sierra Leone prepares to embark on this crucial journey of development, the UN Resident Coordinator’s call for peace, unity, and dialogue resonates as a beacon of hope in a nation at a crossroads.

Dr. Gilpin Awarded Honorary Doctorate in Finance, Innovation & Human Capital Development

In a remarkable and momentous occasion, Dr. Walton E. Gilpin, the highly esteemed Managing Director of Rokel Commercial Bank, has been bestowed with an honorary Doctorate in Finance Innovation and Human Capital Development from the prestigious Heim Weldios University of Management and Technology. This prestigious recognition stands as a testament to Dr. Gilpin’s exceptional leadership within the banking sector and his remarkable contributions to finance innovation and human capital development.

Dr. Gilpin has an illustrious career in the banking industry spanning over three decades, during which he has consistently displayed exemplary leadership and an in-depth understanding of finance and human capital dynamics. In his role as the Managing Director of Rokel Commercial Bank, one of the nation’s leading financial institutions, he has played a pivotal role in the transformation of the bank into a hub of innovation, driving sustainable growth.

One of his crowning achievements was the introduction of the groundbreaking digital banking mobile application – Rokel Sim Korpor, which revolutionized mobile banking and championed financial inclusion in Sierra Leone. This move positioned Rokel Bank as a modern and digital institution, shedding its old-fashioned image and embracing innovation while moving away from paper-centric practices.

Beyond the confines of the bank, Dr. Gilpin has demonstrated a profound commitment to humanitarian causes through his Non-Governmental Organization, the Gilo Education and Economic Foundation (GEED). This foundation has positively impacted thousands of women and children and supported the intellectual growth of numerous young professionals.

Under Dr. Gilpin’s visionary leadership, Rokel Commercial Bank has become synonymous with excellence and innovation in the banking sector. His renowned TV program, the Economic Forum (EF), has been instrumental in discussing critical economic issues and fostering a culture of excellence and innovation.

Through his strategic guidance and unwavering commitment to cultivating an environment of innovation, the bank has witnessed substantial advancements in financial products, services and customer experience.

Dr. Gilpin’s expertise and forward-thinking approach have played a pivotal role in revolutionizing the bank’s financial strategies and redefining its approach to human capital development. By recognizing the intrinsic connection between finance and human resources, he has spearheaded initiatives promoting employee growth, well-being and continuous learning, thereby creating a conducive environment for professional development.

Beyond his role at Rokel Commercial Bank, Dr. Gilpin has been actively involved in academia and industry collaborations, sharing his vast knowledge and expertise with professionals and students alike. His contributions to the field of finance innovation and human capital development have garnered widespread recognition, making him a respected figure in both academic and industrial circles.

Dr. Gilpin’s reach extends far beyond national borders, as he has added value and initiated innovative programs in collaboration with international organizations such as the World Bank, Commonwealth Secretariat, International Monetary Fund, African Development Bank, European Union, West African Institute for Finance and Economic Management, and the Macro Economic Institute for Finance and Economic Management, among others.

Throughout his illustrious career, Dr. Gilpin has consistently pushed boundaries and challenged conventional norms, leading to groundbreaking advancements in the banking sector. His research and practical insights have underscored the importance of aligning financial strategies with human capital development, emphasizing the positive impact this alignment has on organizational performance and customer satisfaction.

Dr. Gilpin’s dedication to mentorship and talent development has left an indelible mark on the banking industry. His commitment to nurturing young professionals and guiding them towards success has not only transformed individuals’ lives but has also contributed to a more robust and competent banking workforce.

In addition to his professional achievements, Dr. Gilpin is renowned for his integrity and commitment to ethical banking practices. He has been a vocal advocate for responsible financial decision-making and has actively promoted sustainable finance initiatives. Under his leadership, Rokel Commercial Bank has emerged as a trailblazer in promoting financial inclusion, environmental sustainability, and corporate social responsibility.

The Honorary Doctorate in Finance, Innovation and Human Capital Development conferred upon Dr. Walton E. Gilpin by the Heim Weldios University of Management and Technology serves as a testament to his exceptional leadership within the banking sector. This accolade recognizes his profound contributions to finance, innovation and human capital development, as well as his unwavering commitment to transforming the banking landscape.

As Dr. Gilpin graciously accepts this prestigious honor, he remains unwavering in his mission to drive innovation, foster sustainable finance practices, and empower individuals to reach their full potential. His visionary leadership, commitment to excellence, and dedication to human capital development continue to inspire professionals and students in the banking industry and beyond.

The Managing Director’s  receipt of the honorary Doctorate in Finance Innovation and Human Capital Development from Heim Weldios University of Management and Technology is a testament to his exceptional leadership as the Managing Director of Rokel Commercial Bank. His transformative initiatives, forward-thinking strategies, and commitment to ethical banking have set him apart as a trailblazer in the industry. His unwavering dedication to finance innovation and human capital development will undoubtedly continue to shape the future of the banking sector.

Dr. Gilpin is already a holder of academic and honorary doctorate degrees in International Relations, Economics, Business, Finance, and Public Sector Management. His extensive contributions to financial and economic management, as well as human capital development, span across the globe, making him not only a remarkable global citizen but also a true son of Africa.

A Journey to Remember: Exploring Sierra Leone’s Beauty & Resilience

By Abubakarr Harding

Ritva Brita Annikki Rautio, a distinguished personality hailing from the Republic of Finland embarked on an extraordinary journey to the West African nation of Sierra Leone, and this remarkable visit was made possible by the Head of the Sierra Leone Consulate Planning Office in Finland, Sorie Obai Kamara.

Ritva’s extensive background in national economics, education and political involvement made her a captivating candidate to offer a unique perspective on this enchanting destination.

Motivated by a personal connection to the country, Ritva’s journey to Sierra Leone was primarily inspired by her son, who resides there. Her mission was to explore a land known for its captivating landscapes, vibrant culture and the warmth of its people.

Upon her arrival, Ritva eagerly embraced Sierra Leone’s natural beauty. The lush greenery, pristine beaches, and the warm embrace of the Atlantic Ocean created a welcoming ambiance. The warmth and friendliness of the Sierra Leonean people were delightful surprises, and their resilience in the face of past challenges left a lasting impression on her.

Ritva’s journey was punctuated by rich cultural experiences. She was captivated by the vibrant street markets and the strong sense of community that permeated Sierra Leonean life. These cultural encounters offered her a deeper understanding of the nation’s soul.

During her stay, Ritva paid a courtesy visit to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and took a tour of the Parliament on Thursday September 21, 2023. Her visit was marked by taking photographs within the Parliament, which deepened her appreciation for the country’s heritage.

Ritva engaged in meaningful conversations about Sierra Leone’s ongoing development initiatives. She shed light on the importance of improving healthcare facilities, education, and infrastructure in the country, revealing a nation determined to overcome its challenges.

Ritva found Sierra Leone to be a safe and welcoming destination. She advises fellow travelers to follow common-sense precautions, stay informed about local customs, and immerse themselves in the rich culture and warmth of the Sierra Leonean people.

Encouraging travelers to explore Sierra Leone with an open heart and mind, Ritva emphasized the significance of embracing its culture, history and natural beauty. One of her most memorable moments was witnessing school children waving at her every school day, a heartwarming gesture that added to her appreciation of the country.

Ritva Brita Annikki Rautio’s journey to Sierra Leone serves as a testament to the transformative power of travel. Her experiences reveal a nation of extraordinary beauty and resilience, waiting to be discovered by those who dare to explore its wonders. Sierra Leone, with its rich history and warm-hearted people, has left an indelible mark on Ritva, reminding us all of the beauty that can be found in unexpected places.

Chinese VP Assures Pres. Bio of Strong & Enduring Bi-Lateral Relations

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a significant display of diplomatic unity, the Chinese Vice President, Han Zheng, has expressed China’s commitment to deepening practical cooperation with Sierra Leone during a meeting with Sierra Leonean President Julius Maada Bio on the sidelines of the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly on September 21, 2023, in New York.

Vice President, Han Zheng, conveyed warm greetings from Chinese President Xi Jinping to President Bio, emphasizing the strong and enduring friendship shared between China and Sierra Leone. Han described the two nations as “good brothers and good friends” with a history of unwavering mutual support on issues vital to each other’s core interests and major concerns.

Highlighting the recent years of close high-level exchanges and fruitful practical cooperation between the two nations, Vice President Han Zheng commended Sierra Leone’s election as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for the period of 2024-2025.

In response, President Julius Maada Bio reaffirmed the long-standing diplomatic and bilateral relations between Sierra Leone and China, rooted in mutual respect, trust, and a commitment to sustainable partnership. The meeting provided an opportunity for both leaders to underscore their dedication to advancing shared interests, which encompass infrastructure development, trade, people-to-people exchanges, food and water security, as well as the exchange of knowledge and skills.

President Bio conveyed his best wishes to President Xi Jinping through Vice President Han Zheng and expressed his gratitude for China’s consistent and selfless assistance to Sierra Leone, underscoring China as a dependable and trustworthy friend to the Sierra Leonean people.

Furthermore, President Bio affirmed Sierra Leone’s adherence to the one-China principle and its readiness to enhance practical cooperation with China across various domains. He emphasized their joint commitment to safeguarding the legitimate interests of developing countries, underlining a vision of peace, stability, and development on a global scale.

As the diplomatic bonds between China and Sierra Leone continue to strengthen, these pledges of cooperation signal a promising future for mutual growth, international collaboration, and shared global prosperity.

NP SL Ltd: A Remarkable Success Story

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In the bustling landscape of Sierra Leone’s business sector, NP-SL Ltd stands as a shining beacon of success and progress. This indigenous petroleum giant has garnered widespread acclaim for its substantial contributions to the nation’s overall development.

NP-SL Ltd has emerged as one of the most prosperous and impactful business entities in the country. Its impressive track record of growth and expansion extends beyond Sierra Leone’s borders, with branches established in Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast and The Gambia.

This 100% indigenously-owned company has played a pivotal role in reducing poverty across the region by providing employment opportunities to residents in the aforementioned countries. Additionally, NP-SL Ltd has emerged as one of the largest contributors to the National Revenue Authority (NRA), bolstering the Government’s financial capabilities to initiate various developmental projects.

One of the key strengths of NP-SL Ltd lies in its highly competent Management team. This team consistently devises innovative initiatives and ensures their efficient implementation, generating substantial value for stakeholders and customers alike.

Founded by 35 Sierra Leoneans who purchased shares from the Government years ago, NP-SL Ltd has experienced remarkable growth and resilience in the face of adversity. The unwavering determination of its Shareholders and Management has propelled the company to unparalleled heights within the sub-region.

For those familiar with NP-SL Ltd, its commitment to customer care is a defining trait. Prioritizing customer satisfaction has been integral to the company’s ethos, resulting in positive feedback and enduring customer loyalty.

The dedication and selflessness of NP-SL Ltd’s shareholders have not only empowered countless Sierra Leoneans but also positioned the company to continue expanding its network of Filling Stations across the nation, further fueling its success.

NP-SL Ltd maintains strong and enduring relationships with its diverse customers within the sub-region. Many customers have lauded the company for consistently providing high grade petroleum products at affordable prices fostering a mutually beneficial relationship.

The regulatory body overseeing petroleum companies in Sierra Leone, the Petroleum Regulatory Authority (PRA), has commended NP-SL Ltd for its exceptional service delivery wherever it operates.

When it comes to the implementation of the Local Content Policy, NP-SL Ltd stands out as a shining example, boasting of a workforce that is 100% indigenous, particularly in Sierra Leone. This commitment to local talent is a cornerstone of the company’s success.

NP-SL Ltd’s results-driven Management team is poised to maintain and sustain the company’s position within the petroleum landscape with its exceptional performance extending to all the countries in which it operates, with promising prospects for further expansion on the horizon.

In addition to its core petroleum business, NP-SL Ltd also offers the highly efficient NP Gas cooker, available in various cylinder sizes. These cookers, sold at the company’s Filling Stations and authorized dealers, have gained a reputation for their exceptional performance and are in high demand.

The introduction of the NP Smart Card has revolutionized the purchasing experience for customers, allowing them to buy petroleum products without the need for physical cash. This not only enhances personal security but also promotes transparency, particularly when delegating someone else to make a purchase.

In conclusion, there is no doubt that NP-SL Ltd is a success story and its unwavering commitment to growth, customer satisfaction and local development positions it as a shining example in the business landscape of Sierra Leone and beyond.

Global Fuel Price Surge Attributed to Shipping Industry Greed

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a surprising revelation, President Joe Biden of the United States has pointed the finger at nine major shipping companies that dominate the global ocean shipping industry, accusing them of being responsible for the recent surge in fuel prices and subsequent commodity price hikes.

President Biden’s remarks shed light on the actions of these shipping giants, who, he claims, exploited their dominant position during the COVID-19 pandemic to increase the rates for their services. This sharp rise in shipping costs has had a cascading effect on global commodity prices, as importers have had no choice but to pass these additional expenses on to consumers.

The President highlighted that these shipping companies also play a significant role in transporting fuel internationally. With shipping rates skyrocketing by an astounding 1000%, it was only a matter of time before the price of fuel followed suit. This substantial rate hike translated into an astonishing $190 billion profit for the shipping conglomerates in 2021 alone, a sevenfold increase compared to the previous year.

“Nine major shipping companies, consolidated into three alliances, control the vast majority of ocean shipping in the world. Each of them is foreign-owned, and during the pandemic, these carriers increased their prices as much as 1000%. While families and businesses struggle around the world, these carriers made $190 billion in profit in 2021, seven times higher than the year before, and the cost got passed on, as you might guess, directly to consumers, sticking it to American families and businesses…” President Biden stated.

The ramifications of this situation are not limited to the United States. Less developed countries, like Sierra Leone, which heavily rely on imported goods and food items, have been hit particularly hard by the soaring fuel prices. While many in Sierra Leone initially attributed the fuel price hikes to the Government’s fiscal policies, President Biden’s revelation points to a different underlying cause.

Economic analysts contend that as a result of increased demand for dollars in countries like Sierra Leone, demanded by businesses seeking to import goods, including fuel, the higher shipping prices set by the carriers, has contributed to the rise in fuel prices. This demand for dollars, they argue, has been exacerbated by the shipping companies’ 1000% price hike, even when the international fuel market may not have experienced such a drastic increase.

Petroleum marketing companies need dollars to purchase fuel and cover transportation costs to countries like Sierra Leone. Consequently, they must contend with both the international fuel price and the exorbitant shipping fees imposed by the dominant industry players. To break even, oil marketing companies (OMCs) have no choice but to pass these costs on to consumers, as witnessed in Sierra Leone.

The repercussions of increased fuel prices extend to the overall cost of living in Sierra Leone. Fuel serves as a linchpin for economic activities and social life, and any surge in its price negatively impacts the livelihood of the population. With Sierra Leone heavily reliant on imports, including essential items like food, the price hikes imposed by the nine shipping companies have rippled throughout the economy, exacerbating the challenges faced by its citizens.

President Biden’s assertion that these companies increased their prices by an astounding 1000% underscores the global ramifications of their actions. While the United States has felt the effects, countries like Sierra Leone, which depend heavily on imports, have been even more severely affected. The revelation challenges the belief that the economic crises faced by Sierra Leone are solely the result of its Government’s policies, shedding light on a larger global issue.

The US President emphasized that while events like the war in Ukraine and the COVID-19 pandemic have contributed to economic challenges, the primary driver of the current crisis is the monopoly held by these nine shipping companies in the shipping sector. Had it not been for this unprecedented 1000% increase in shipping costs, commodity prices, including fuel, might have remained more manageable, preventing the global economic downturn currently being witnessed.

The revelation by President Biden provides an explanation for the plight faced by Sierra Leone and other nations. It points to a global challenge brought about by the greed of  nine shipping companies, who prioritize profits over global economic stability. The fact that these companies are foreign-owned raises questions about the feasibility of exerting control over their actions.

As countries grapple with these new economic challenges, it is clear that addressing the impact of both COVID-19 and geopolitical conflicts will require careful consideration of the actions of these shipping industry giants. The global community must come together to find a solution to the detrimental impact of exorbitant shipping rates on the world’s economies.

Orange Foundation Director Recounts Journey with Ebola-Affected Kids

After years of philanthropy, Orange Foundation looks back at how far they have come with the 50 Ebola kids who have been in the care of SOS with welfare support from Orange Foundation in partnership with SOS and Ministry of Social Welfare.

Orange Sierra Leone (OSL) Foundation, led by Jestina Betts, is the company’s humanitarian wing that lends a helping hand to the needy, vulnerable and less privileged in society. 

The company has done a lot in caring for children whose parents succumbed to the deadly Ebola Virus which struck Sierra Leone in May, 2014, a virus that left the country ravaged for two years. Sierra Leoneans breathed a sigh of relief in November, 2016 after the virus was declared over by Government but the aftermath of its effect in the country could not go unnoticed as the deadly virus left behind many orphans. Hence Orange SL through its Foundation, in collaboration with SOS, came to the rescue of 50 Ebola kids young as six months old to be placed in the care of SOS Children’s villages across the country.

These children have been sparsely assigned to the various SOS campuses across the country. Makeni campus North of Sierra Leone hosts 18 Ebola kids, Bo campus in the South holds 21 while Sierra Leone’s capital, Freetown have 11 making a total of 50.

Orange Foundation takes care of the children’s education by ensuring that they have access to quality schooling and learning opportunities. 

The Foundation also caters for the children’s basic needs especially food and medical care until they turn 18.

 In addition to basic care, the company also looks after other aspects of the kids’ education, a move that spells a brighter future for the kids since investment in education has no equal anywhere in the world.

 With education, the kids ,after they become well-educated adults can positively contribute to national development when it is time to come on the stage of action.

Having it as a humanitarian obligation, the Foundation authorities often pay visit to the Ebola-affected children to get first-hand information about their well-being.

“…the OSL Foundation frequently pays courtesy visits to the children showing that we genuinely care for their welfare, and are actively involved in ensuring that they are doing well. Additionally, we send donations and hampers every year for the kids,” Jestina Betts informed the press about their valuable donations to the kids.

Such initiatives, Jestina says, showcases the positive impact businesses and organizations have on their communities especially during times of crisis and other life-threatening situations.

OSL’s/OSLF on-going commitment to these children showcases the power of corporate social responsibility and highlights the importance of long- term support in creating lasting positive change,” OSL Foundation Director tells the importance of caring for the vulnerable.

It is heartening to see that OSL Foundation and SOS are not only focused on the kids’ immediate welfare needs but also consider their transition into adulthood and support them during this critical phase of life.

These personal visits have a significant, positive impact on the children as it fosters a sense of belonging and reminds them that they are part of a larger supportive community.

The humanitarian move is a bright and inspiring example of corporate social responsibility and collective effort in making a difference in the lives of those in need.

Orange Foundation deeply appreciates the hard work and commitment of its partner SOS through the Country Director, Madam Sophie Ngong, for providing a safe and friendly home to these orphans.

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