Home Blog Page 486

NRA Contracts Lurubasa Investment to Construct Admin & Commercial Complex

In a significant development for the National Revenue Authority (NRA), Commissioner General Ibrahim Brima Swaray has officially sealed a contract on September 20, 2023, with Lurubasa Investment for the construction of a state-of-the-art administrative and commercial complex. The complex, which promises to address longstanding accommodation challenges faced by the NRA, is slated to be located on Wilkinson Road in Freetown.

Under the terms of the contract, the administrative building is set to contain an impressive eight floors, complete with basements, canteens, car parks, a roof garden, relaxation and daycare facilities for NRA staff. These eight floors will cater to essential support departments, including Human Resources, Legal and Corporate Services, Finance and Budgets, Information Technology (IT), Monitoring Research and Planning, Modernization, Internal Controls and Audits, as well as the Commissioner General’s office. Meanwhile, the commercial building will house offices for operational departments, such as Domestic Tax, Non-Tax Revenue, and the Customs Service Department, along with additional recreational amenities for NRA personnel.

The ambitious project is projected to span a duration of twenty-four months, starting from the date of the contract’s signing by both parties.

The NRA has grappled with acute accommodation challenges over the years, forcing the Board and Management to seek accommodation solutions in various locations. Commissioner General Swaray emphasized the substantial investments made in addressing accommodation needs within the institution during this period. With the upcoming construction of this complex, it is anticipated that this long-standing issue will be definitively resolved, providing a permanent solution for the NRA.

The contract signing ceremony marks a pivotal moment for the NRA as it looks forward to enhancing its operational efficiency and providing improved working conditions for its dedicated staff. The new administrative and commercial complex is poised to become a symbol of progress for the institution and contribute to its mission of revenue collection and service delivery to the nation.

On the Right Side of History: President Bio’s Display of Uncommon Bravery

Moris Ibrahim Kanteh

An Op-ed by:
Moris Ibrahim Kanteh
murikehkanteh@hotmail.com

Former First Lady of the United States, Rosalynn Carter once said, “a leader takes people where they want to go; a great leader takes people where they don’t necessarily want to go, but ought to be.” President Bio’s revelation in his public lecture at the American University in Washington, that he strongly declined the United States Government’s attempt to interference into the June 2023 election after they (US Embassy in Freetown) instructed him to stop the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) from announcing final election results at the peak of the recent electoral process; has presented a whole new perspective on this ongoing impasse.

It even gives further credence to the failed regime change conspiracy which many commentators believe the United States Government and the European Union Observer Mission contributed to orchestrating during Sierra Leone’s recent election. President Bio’s accusation against the U.S Government is truly eye-opening. It comes in the wake of unrelenting assaults on Sierra Leone’s democratic institutions, especially the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone, by the United States Government and the European Union since the June 2023 election- with complete disregard for the nation’s sovereignty and the serious consequences of those actions. All manner of bullying tactics – from withdrawal of aid monies to the issuance of visa bans on select Sierra Leonean leaders have also been deployed. Such unnecessary actions, especially at this critical period, continue to undermine the nation’s democracy, fuel dissent and promote instability- with the Government of Sierra Leone recently reporting that it successfully thwarted an attempted coup d’etat.

The inciting actions of these foreign actors, in collaboration with the opposition party, against the Government and people of Sierra Leone, is akin to the actions of Donald Trump – which led to the incitement of an angry mob that attacked the U.S Capitol building on January 6, 2021, following frivolous and unsubstantiated claims of electoral fraud by former President Trump and his supporters.

However, just as the majority of citizens of the United States rose to the defense of their democratic institutions against the unfortunate actions of Trump and his angry supporters; Sierra Leone’s President, H. E Julius Maada Bio has rightly, equally protected Sierra Leone’s electoral process and democratic institutions with uncommon bravery- especially the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone and other democratic institutions, from foreign meddling, influence and control. Any impartial political commentator will agree that President Bio easily won the June 2023 Presidential election. Also, Sierra Leone’s elections, like elections all over the World, have always had minor challenges- a point President Bio reiterated in Washington during his public lecture at the American University; so nothing peculiar really happened in the June 2023 election. This entire situation, however, is really not about electoral integrity, strengthening Sierra Leone’s democracy or good governance; it is purely about power, control and influence. Some opposition politicians in Sierra Leone, emboldened by their enablers, view political power as their birthright – they are willing to do anything to be in control – even at the country’s detriment. While some foreign actors also believe they should always maintain direct or indirect control of our political and economic affairs.

Suspension of aid monies:

Preceding Governments in Sierra Leone have always relied on aid to function efficiently. However, it is important to note that we have received aid monies since independence, yet we remain poor and backward. So, those selling the narrative that President Bio and his Government should remain completely diplomatic (even at their own detriment) and completely succumb to foreign demands concerning the recent election as a way of constantly accessing these aid monies; may need to review their positions from a non-partisan and critical perspective. Throughout the history of State interactions, no single State has achieved its development aspirations or created wealth for its people by solely depending on aid monies and completely tolerating foreign domination and control. Aid money is simply a tool of control by the giver. And whenever the giver’s interest is threatened – even for the right reasons- there is instant withdrawal.

Sierra Leone is currently experiencing a similar situation- which is a vestige of colonialism. There is urgent need to redeem ourselves and aspire for true political and economic freedom- without the over-reliance on foreign aid.

However, we need to also understand that there are always temporary discomforts for ultimate freedoms. This requires the brave, patriotic, courageous and focused leadership that President Bio is currently providing. Most importantly, it requires unity of purpose among Sierra Leoneans in confronting the common enemy; and staunchly rejecting the divide and rule tactic that has been used against us for decades.


Let us remain hopeful:

Even in the midst of global economic challenges, President Bio has made progressive reforms and taken calculated actions to disrupt the status quo, and usher in a new era for our common benefit. He has introduced free quality education, which has resulted to millions of Sierra Leonean children getting freely educated at primary and secondary school levels (to equip and prepare them with the necessary skills and tools to actively participate in carving out the future of the nation); protected and empowered women through progressive legislative reforms for increased female participation in governance;  young people are now at the center of critical decision making ( his current cabinet is the youngest in the history of Sierra Leone); revolutionized the mining sector by protecting the mineral resources of our country (unlike the previous administration that signed a 99 year mining concession agreement with western mining corporations, while the country got paid a pittance).

President Bio, upon assuming office in 2018, revoked those licenses and renegotiated those bad mining deals. Few months ago, some mining communities received, for the first time, royalties in monetary forms amounting to billions of Leones for community development.

There is also monumental progress in the fight against corruption. Immediately after his re-election in June 2023, President Bio launched his FEED Salone initiative- an agenda aimed at attaining food sufficiency for the nation in the next five years. The foundation is already laid for the emergence of a thriving nation that is poised to shape its own destiny.

Let us learn from history:

History, however, has taught us that African leaders who often take such a nationalistic, patriotic and progressive path and stand their grounds in protecting the sovereignty and resources of their nations against foreign invasion, end up incurring the displeasure of foreign actors- who prefer to maintain the same system that has kept African nations weak, dependent, and vulnerable to exploitation.

So, a leader like President Bio will definitely be a target. It is no surprise to critical minds, that petty internal considerations are currently being used against him. Also, the claim that United States and the European Union are only trying to protect our democracy or strengthen good governance holds very little credence.

According to Naomi Klein, “democracy is not just the right to vote; it the right to live in dignity”. Sierra Leone has experienced bad governance for decades- with majority of the citizens living in perpetual poverty and stripped of all dignity. The previous administration, for example, left the country in austerity. I wonder why the United States and the European Union have not previously displayed this same energy or instituted similar tougher actions to hold past corrupt leaders accountable- especially when their aid monies had also been lost to those corrupt leaders?

Why have they never placed visa bans on politicians from Sierra Leone who have been investigated and convicted for corruption? Politicians whose bad governance and corrupt practices have prevented majority of Sierra Leoneans from living in dignity ,which is the true hallmark of democracy.

Let us, therefore, reject and resist foreign manipulation. While our political preferences and associations might differ, we still share a common destiny. We need to also reject and resist the petty considerations and worn-out dogma that has always defined our political interaction- preventing us from achieving our development aspirations, while leaving us weak and incapacitated to protect our country from the common enemy. We need to learn from the Libyan experience. Therefore, those of our compatriots persistently calling for direct foreign intervention in settling our domestic disputes should get a second thought.

The Libyan people, fuelled by propaganda, revolted against the regime of Colonel Muammar Muhammad Abu Minyar al-Gaddafi and invited NATO into the crisis- with the hope of entrenching democracy and good governance. Libya, a once thriving nation that was rapidly gaining global prominence and influence under former President Gaddafi, has been relegated to a failed state- after NATO’s invasion and subsequent murder of the former President. NATO has abandoned the Libyan people. They have only come to the realization now that NATO’s interest in intervening was not really about strengthening democracy or good governance.

Conclusion:

Sierra Leone is a nation still suffering from the ruin and convulsion of imperialism- with extreme over reliance on foreign aid. It is unsurprising that some compatriots believe the country should completely avoid every form of diplomatic disagreement with the United States or the European Union because we simply depend on them for our survival. Some even make it appear as if any disagreement with the United States and the European Union will lead to starvation and death for all of us. The reality is this: we can never be truly free if we remain entirely dependent on aid. And every aspiration for freedom and independence comes at a price. President Bio has displayed an uncommon bravery that only few African leaders have the vision and courage to do- by guarding our sovereignty against foreign control. While diplomatic engagements between both the United States Government and the Government of Sierra Leone continue, I humbly urge President  Bio to remain resolute and unwavering.

Man Allegedly Caught in Same-Sex Act Declared Wanted in Rufutane Village

Bobsin Koroma
Bobsin Koroma
By David Coker
Authorities and youth groups in Rufutane Village, Marampa Chiefdom, Port Loko District, have reportedly declared Bobsin Koroma wanted following allegations that he was involved in a same-sex relationship with a man identified as Desmond.
According to local reports, the alleged incident occurred on 17 September 2023 in an unfinished building near the main highway leading into the village. Community members claimed that Koroma and Desmond were caught engaging in sexual activity, an incident that quickly spread throughout the village and attracted the attention of elders and traditional authorities.
Rufutane Village is described as a predominantly Muslim and conservative community where same-sex relationships are widely condemned on religious and cultural grounds. Several residents reportedly described the alleged act as being contrary to the values and traditions of the community.
Sources stated that while Desmond reportedly escaped during the incident, Koroma was apprehended and temporarily held in his late father’s room pending deliberations by village elders. However, reports later indicated that Koroma escaped before any final decision was reached, prompting local youth groups and community members to begin searching for both men.
Investigations further alleged that Koroma, said to be 16 years old, had been involved in same-sex relationships for several years. Some residents also accused him of influencing other young men in the community, although no independent evidence was provided to support those claims.
Speaking to this reporter during a telephone interview, Samuel Jones, identified as the Youth Leader of Rufutane Village, condemned the alleged incident and stated that the community would continue searching for Koroma and Desmond. He also warned residents against offering them shelter or assistance.
Abdulai Koroma, uncle of Bobsin Koroma, also alleged that another individual, Edward Kargbo, introduced the teenager to same-sex practices at a young age. However, these allegations remain unverified.
Family members further stated that their late father, Mohamed Koroma, who was reportedly the head of the Poro secret society, strongly opposed same-sex relationships and believed such acts were not only against their traditions but also contrary to Islamic teachings.
Religious leaders in the community also reacted to the incident. Imam Mohamed Sidikie Conteh urged residents to uphold what he described as the moral and spiritual values of the village, warning against practices he believes conflict with Islamic teachings.
As of press time, repeated efforts to contact Bobsin Koroma for comment were unsuccessful, and the allegations against him had not been independently verified.

Sierra Leone’s President Bio Meets ICC Prosecutor at UNGA’s 78th Session

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio met with the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), Karim Khan KC, on Tuesday, September 19, 2023, at the opening of the 78th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York. The meeting focused on Sierra Leone’s leadership role at the ICC and its tenure as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council.

Prosecutor Khan emphasized the need to strengthen the already excellent partnership between Sierra Leone and the ICC. He urged Sierra Leone to take the lead among the African members of the UN Security Council (A3) on accountability and ICC matters.

Khan praised Sierra Leone for its commitment to the rule of law, stating that the nation has many accomplishments to be proud of. He also reiterated Sierra Leone’s dedication to promoting accountability and human rights protection during its tenure at the Security Council.

President Bio assured the ICC of his government’s readiness to continue its leadership role in supporting the effectiveness of the ICC. He expressed his eagerness to work with the ICC during Sierra Leone’s tenure at the Security Council to advance priorities aimed at building a just, safe, and secure world.

Earlier in the day, President Bio joined other global leaders at the welcome reception and opening of the UNGA’s 78th Session. The theme for this year’s assembly is ‘Rebuilding Trust and Reigniting Global Solidarity: Accelerating Action on the 2030 Agenda and Its Sustainable Development Goals Towards Peace, Prosperity, Progress and Sustainability For All.’

President Bio highlighted the significance of the annual gathering, stating that it was a crucial moment in history to address global issues. He emphasized that the decisions made would be decisive in shaping the future of the current generation and those to come.

“I look forward to a robust engagement and presenting Sierra Leone’s National Statement during the second day of the high-level General Debate,” President Bio tweeted.

The UNGA, the main forum for all 193 Members of the UN to discuss international issues, holds regular sessions from September to December each year. The sessions resume in January and continue until all issues on the agenda are addressed, often just before the next session starts in September the following year.

The 78th session of the Assembly, which officially opened on Tuesday, September 5, 2023, will continue until 2024. As part of the Assembly’s annual session, a General Debate is held each September, attended by Heads of State and Government. This year’s General Debate runs from Tuesday, September 19, 2023, until Tuesday, September 26, 2023.

3 Sierra Leonean Journalists Embark on a Journey of Learning and Exchange in Dakar

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Fahamu Africa, a Pan-African Organization dedicated to supporting the movement for social justice, extended an invitation to three journalists in Sierra Leone, namely Foday Moriba Conteh, Reporter at The Calabash Newspaper, Alusine Rehme Wilson, and Patricia Sia Ngevao Reporters at the Awoko Newspaper to partake in a face-to-face field trip and exchange meeting with journalists and activists from different countries.

Through the “Engaging Media and Minorities to Act for Peacebuilding (EMMAP) Project”, Fahamu Africa, in collaboration with the Media Reform Coordinating Group (Sierra Leone) and Media Platform for Environment and Climate(Ghana), is working to raise public awareness about the intricate connections between minority issues, community tensions, and conflict. Their ultimate goal is to contribute to the establishment of sustainable peace in Ghana, Senegal and Sierra Leone.

To achieve that aim, Fahamu Africa, in partnership with Minority Rights Group International (MRI) and with support from the European Union, organized a five-day face-to-face training and field trip for  media practitioners.

This transformative experience commenced in Ziguinchor, Senegal on Tuesday, September 19th and will end on Sunday, September 23rd, 2023. During this period, participants will delve into the impact of conflict on local communities, examining how it could lead to isolation, migration, refugee situations and hinder development. Furthermore, they will work collectively to identify potential solutions to these pressing issues.

In addition to this enriching training program, the journalists have also been invited to participate in an exchange meeting between their peers and activists. This meeting, scheduled for September 25th and 26th, 2023, in Dakar, aims to establish a network that enhances media coverage while fostering peace. The overarching goal is to strengthen regional engagement between journalists and civil society actors regarding migration coverage. Participants will engage in discussions about the role of the media as a catalyst for peacebuilding rather than conflict generation.

The participants arrived in Dakar, Senegal on September 18th, 2023, for a 10-day journey to be filled with knowledge-sharing and networking. In adherence to COVID-19 standard operating procedures outlined by the Government of Senegal and the World Health Organization (WHO), both meetings will be held in-person.

This initiative reflects a collaborative effort to empower journalists and activists, enabling them to contribute significantly to peacebuilding efforts across regions.

SLURC Holds Stakeholders Meeting on Sustainability of Sand Extraction

By Millicent Senava Mannah

The Sierra Leone Urban Research Centre (SLURC), in collaboration with the University of Gothenburg and the University College London has organized a Stakeholders Workshop on the sustainability of Sand extraction held on the 19th September, 2023 at the Freetown City Council Building on 17 Wallace Johnson Street in Freetown as part of a larger network and knowledge building project on Sand extraction in East and West Africa, funded by the Swedish Research Council.

Giving the overview of the event, the Dr. Joseph M. McCarthy, Executive Director of SLURC intimated that the workshop intends to build insight into the dynamics, challenges and responses to sand extraction in Freetown, drawing from the wealth of knowledge held by stakeholders across the city and surrounding regions.

“Like elsewhere sand in Freetown and its surroundings is extracted from beaches and riverine environments to support the construction of infrastructure across the Western region,” he said adding that while sand is integral to the delivery of critical infrastructure and the securing of livelihoods, reports suggest that the mining of sand has also brought social, economic and environmental challenges that must be addressed.

According to him, the workshop will build on existing work to develop an agenda for further research and discuss policy futures for the city and beyond.

He pointed out that insights from the workshop will also form the basis of more research and collaborations among stakeholders and contribute to the growing global repository of knowledge around sand extraction and its sustainability.

Dr. Kate Dawson of the Department of Geography, University College London, said sand extraction is increasingly recognized as a significant sustainability challenge in the 21st century maintaining that over 50 billion tonnes of sand is used per year and how it is the most used solid material on the planet.

“Sand is a key material in the delivery of critical infrastructure like roads, housing, hospitals and schools, as well as underpinning the livelihoods for many and also plays a strategic role in delivering ecosystem services and safeguarding biodiversity,” she also pointed out.

Kate revealed that the recent United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) report, “Sand and Sustainability: 10 Strategic Recommendations to Avert a Crisis,” lays out a series of recommendations, which among them, highlights the need for places-based perspectives on this complex challenge.

SLURC was established out of a collaboration with different Universities, in order to increase the quantity and quality of knowledge about informal settlements and urban issues in the country, and to build capacity amongst city stakeholders to enable a better understanding and application of research to practice, advocacy and policy.

Group discussions on specific topics and presentations by various speakers formed the highpoint of the occasion.

Celebrating 24 Years of Existence as Rokel Commercial

Sunday 17th September, 2023, was the 24th Anniversary of Rokel Commercial Bank. In 1999, the Government of Sierra Leone took over the bank from Barclays Bank which had run the bank since 1917 as a subsidiary of Barclays Bank in London, United Kingdom.

Since the takeover, some would say local ownership of the bank has been like fairy tale. But today,  Management of the Bank is thankful not just because the business entity is one of the biggest and fastest growing financial institutions in Sierra Leone – with the most modern and dependable digital platform, but also because it has remained the bonafide  champion of financial inclusion in the country.

“We remain grateful to all those who have contributed to our success story especially our values customers, the people and government of Sierra Leone,” The Managing Director, Walton Ekundayo Gilpin, stated with pride further expressing gratitude on behalf of the Board, Management and Staff of RCbank, thanking all.

He continued by saying that as opposed to what they have done previously, the  celebrations have been relatively low key yet they did not forget their less privileged compatriots, especially the disabled.

“Our staff were out on the streets, providing food packages to the disabled and destitute,” he disclosed also revealing how in that feeding endeavour, they traversed the length and breadth of Siaka Stevens Street that is hosting their iconic headquarters on to the Eastern Police Clock Tower where another of their major branches is located which he said in essence was part of their Corporate Social Responsibility.

According to the Managing Director, while they believe that it is not the fault of their compatriots to live a life of destitution, they also believe it will be a fault to constantly ignore their misery also stating that the feeding of the poor was preceded by an inter-faith service held within the confines of their main branch.

Walton Ekundayo Gilpin informed this medium that indeed, a life spent worthily is measured by deeds, not years saying that is why they will continue to innovate and share with the public, new exciting opportunities that will make banking a worthwhile experience. He said that is why they will open new branches nationwide to sustain their legacy as the most widely distributed banking network in Sierra Leone and that is why they remain profitable year in, year out.

“As we progress into our digital transformation, we will develop more products and services that will stand the test of time, that will continue to expand and bring banking to your doorsteps and will continue to make Rokel Commercial Bank your BANK OF CHOICE,” the result oriented of the most award winning bank optimistically maintained.

Albert Academy Undergoes Re-Painting Face Lift ahead of 119th Anniversary   

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Albert Academy in Freetown, Sierra Leone, is set to undergo a remarkable transformation just in time for its foundation anniversary on October 4, thanks to the efforts of the class of the 1980-1990 cohort. The initiative, a repainting program, was officially launched on September 18, 2023, at the school’s assembly space and saw the attendance of esteemed attendees including alumni, the United Methodist Church (UMC) Board, and the school’s Principal.

Mohamed Mansaray, the Vice President of the Class of the 1980-1990 cohort, expressed his admiration for the dedication of his fellow alumni, who generously pooled their resources and funds to ensure the revitalization of the Albert Academy. The primary objective of the program is to give the school a fresh and clean look by applying new paint. The painting process began on September 19, 2023, and aims to restore the school’s prestige and serve as a testament to the joint efforts of current and former students.

Additionally, Mansaray appealed to the present students of the Albert Academy, emphasizing the importance of displaying good behavior and discipline, specifically regarding the treatment of teaching materials and furniture. He encouraged students to take pride in their school and actively contribute to its development program once they graduate. By fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility, he believes they can contribute to the lasting success of the institution.

Reverend Albert Rogers, Chairman of the United Methodist Church(UMC) Board, lauded the outstanding reputation of the Albert Academy as a prestigious educational institution with a faculty and student body that fosters excellence in learning. He announced during the launch that the UMC had donated 120 chairs and tables to the school, acknowledging the challenging economic circumstances faced by the country. Reverend Rogers promised continued support from the UMC in the future, demonstrating their commitment to ensuring an optimal learning environment for the students.

Reverend Raymond A. Bola Williams, the Chairman of the school’s 100th anniversary and a member of the United Methodist Church, extended his heartfelt appreciation to the Albert Academy’s alumni for their benevolent gesture in joining forces to spearhead the repainting project. He urged the alumni not to falter in their engagement, highlighting the fact that the school’s infrastructure is over 100 years old and requires continuous maintenance and repair to ensure its long-term sustainability.

The Principal of the Albert Academy expressed gratitude towards the alumni and the UMC for their generous gesture. He also took the opportunity to urge the current students to refrain from engaging in any activities that could harm the aesthetic appeal of the school. The Principal emphasized that any student found involved in such acts would not face expulsion or suspension, but instead would be required to leave the school temporarily without a specified duration.

The repainting initiative is aimed at revitalizing the appearance of the Albert Academy and restoring its reputation as a distinguished educational institution. This endeavor has been made possible through the unwavering commitment and sincere efforts of the school’s alumni. Additionally, the UMC’s support has played a crucial role in making this initiative a success. By renewing the school’s appearance, it is anticipated that the Albert Academy will once again be recognized as a center of excellence.

NP SL’s Remarkable Contributions to Nation Building Recognized and Applauded

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a world where Governments grapple with the challenge of providing jobs for all their citizens, NP Sierra Leone Limited (NP-SL) has emerged as a beacon of hope and progress. Over the years, this indigenous company has played a pivotal role in job creation and poverty reduction, making invaluable contributions to the nation-building process.

In terms of the implementation of the Local Content Policy, NP-SL is a shining example. The company exclusively employs Sierra Leoneans, embodying a commitment to the country’s Local Content Policy. This approach not only supports local talent but also provides valuable training opportunities to indigenous workers.

Established several years ago, NP-SL Ltd has not only weathered various challenges but has also thrived, thanks to its capable shareholders and dedicated managerial team. Their unwavering commitment to innovation and excellence has propelled NP to new heights time and again.

One of the secrets behind NP’s enduring success is its steadfast dedication to customer satisfaction. NP has consistently provided its valued customers across the country with efficient and attentive service, earning their trust and loyalty.

The Management at NP places a strong emphasis on customer care, actively seeking feedback and addressing concerns promptly. This customer-centric approach has been instrumental in the company’s growth and success.

Recognizing the need for expansion, NP-SL has extended its reach beyond Sierra Leone, establishing branches in Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast, and The Gambia. These branches have not only contributed to the economic growth of these countries but have also provided exceptional service to Governments and an ever-growing customer base.

In a world where Governments rely on revenue to finance development projects, companies like NP play a crucial role. NP is one of the largest taxpayers to the Government, consistently fulfilling its tax obligations without coercion.

NP has received widespread praise for introducing NP Gas cookers, a safe and hygienic alternative to traditional cooking methods. These cookers, available at reasonable prices in NP Filling Stations and authorized dealers, offer a clean and quick cooking solution, particularly important for health reasons.

NP’s business strategy includes a provision allowing entities and customers to secure fuel on credit, a practice that benefits those who may not always have cash readily available. This symbiotic relationship with its customers has proven fruitful, endearing NP to all.

The Petroleum Regulatory Authority (PRA), the regulatory institution overseeing petroleum companies in Sierra Leone, has recently commended NP for its efficient service delivery in all its operational areas.

In conclusion, NP Sierra Leone stands tall in the national and international business landscape, growing stronger with each passing day. Its unwavering commitment to excellence and its dedication to customer satisfaction continue to set it apart as a true leader in its field. With a promising future ahead, NP-SL is poised for further expansion and success.

SLBL’s CSR Initiatives Positively Empowering Farmers & Fostering Growth

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leone Brewery Limited (SLBL) is making headlines not just for its exceptional brews, but also for its unwavering commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs that are changing lives and promoting sustainable economic growth across Sierra Leone. Under the astute leadership of Foday Daboh, the Brewery’s Corporate Affairs Manager, SLBL is proving to be a true partner in the nation’s development.

Beyond its economic contributions, SLBL has been making a substantial social impact through its CSR initiatives, touching the lives of over 500,000 people in Sierra Leone. These programs encompass a wide range of areas, from health and sanitation to water and sports, and have transformed communities across the nation. Notable projects include the construction of hospitals in Wellington and Calaba Town, support for the Well Woman Clinic at Murray Town, and the establishment of mini-water dams, submersible solar-powered wells, and mega sanitation programs, among others. These initiatives have not only improved the quality of life for countless Sierra Leoneans but have also laid the foundation for sustainable development.

SLBL’s commitment to promoting local content and driving economic growth was exemplified by its strategic partnership with local farmers. This partnership not only highlights SLBL’s dedication to utilizing locally-sourced sorghum but also reinforces its commitment to sustainable economic development.

Under Foday Daboh’s leadership, SLBL is actively encouraging commercial farmers throughout Sierra Leone to cultivate specific sorghum varieties that align with the Brewery’s requirements. This bold initiative aims not only to ensure a consistent supply of sorghum but also to empower farmers, create employment opportunities, and enhance the overall brewing process.

A significant outcome of these efforts is the successful execution of the Pre-Planting Sorghum Cultivation and Awareness Campaign, conducted across multiple districts in Sierra Leone. At its core, this campaign involves the distribution of complimentary sorghum seeds to farmers, encouraging them to incorporate sorghum cultivation into their existing agricultural practices. SLBL’s ultimate goal is to reduce reliance on expensive foreign imports, thereby strengthening the local economy and enhancing Sierra Leone’s self-sufficiency.

While approximately 5,000 farmers are currently involved in sorghum production, their yield falls short of meeting SLBL’s production demands. In a strategic move towards local sourcing, SLBL is urging domestic farmers to intensify their production efforts, offering attractive incentives and a guaranteed market for the produced sorghum. This mutually beneficial relationship promises to benefit both parties significantly.

Foday Daboh emphasized that SLBL’s support goes beyond seed distribution. The Brewery is providing transportation services, deploying expert agronomists, and offering advance payments to contracted farmers. This comprehensive approach ensures the successful cultivation of local sorghum while solidifying the partnership between SLBL and the farming community.

In a clear commitment to sustainability, SLBL manages sorghum waste with great care. Byproducts generated during the brewing process are repurposed as fertilizer or pig feed, with SLBL actively returning these byproducts to the farmers. Additionally, to further incentivize local producers, SLBL has increased the purchase price of sorghum from NLe300 to NLe350 per 50kg bag, making it a lucrative venture for farmers.

Laurent Bukasa, the Managing Director of SLBL, highlighted recent community development projects during a press conference. SLBL, with support from the Heineken Africa Foundation, has launched substantial projects in Wellington and Calaba Town, valued at €70,585 and €89,589.5, respectively. These projects primarily focus on enhancing water supply and sanitation infrastructure. Bukasa emphasized the pivotal role of clean water in ensuring health and well-being, encouraging residents to take ownership of these projects for their successful implementation.

Furthermore, it’s worth noting that since May 2020, the Heineken Africa Foundation, in collaboration with Sierra Leone Brewery Limited, has been working with World Vision International (SL) to combat the spread of Covid-19. This collaboration has led to increased access to sustainable clean water and hygiene practices for disadvantaged communities, positively impacting thousands of lives.

As Sierra Leone Brewery Limited continues its mission to support local agriculture and contribute to the nation’s development, the Brewery remains unwavering in its commitment to corporate responsibility and sustainable growth, aiming to uplift even the most remote corners of the community. SLBL’s CSR initiatives are a testament to the positive impact that businesses can have on society when they prioritize social responsibility alongside their core operations.

1...485486487...1,362Page 486 of 1,362