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ECOWAS Endorses Sierra Leone’s Prof. Charles C. Jalloh for International Court of Justice Seat

Professor Dr. Charles C. Jalloh

 

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has officially endorsed Sierra Leone’s candidature for a seat on the International Court of Justice (ICJ), marking a significant diplomatic achievement for the country and strengthening its campaign for one of the world’s most prestigious judicial positions.

The endorsement was contained in Paragraph 73 of the Final Communiqué issued at the conclusion of the 69th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, held in Lungi on 19 July 2026. In the communiqué, ECOWAS reaffirmed its commitment to supporting regional candidates for international positions and unanimously endorsed Sierra Leone’s bid for the ICJ judgeship for the 2027–2036 term.

The communiqué states that “the Authority welcomes the spirit of solidarity demonstrated by Member States in support of regional candidatures and endorses the candidature of the Republic of Sierra Leone for the position of Judge of the International Court of Justice for the period 2027-2036.”

The endorsement represents a unified position by the ECOWAS Heads of State and Government and is expected to significantly strengthen Sierra Leone’s campaign ahead of the election for judges of the principal judicial organ of the United Nations.

Sierra Leone had in October 2024 officially endorsed Professor Dr. Charles C. Jalloh as its national candidate for election to the International Court of Justice. The nomination was announced by the country’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations following his selection by the Sierra Leone National Group.

Professor Dr. Charles C. Jalloh, an internationally respected scholar and practitioner of international law, currently serves as the Founding Executive Director of the Center for International Law and Policy in Africa. He is also a longstanding member of the United Nations International Law Commission (ILC), where he has held several leadership positions, including serving as Special Rapporteur on the determination of rules of international law.

In outlining his vision for serving on the World Court, Professor Dr. Charles C. Jalloh has pledged to uphold the rule of international law, provide judicial guidance on emerging global challenges such as climate change, cyber warfare and human rights, amplify the voices of Africa and the Global South in international jurisprudence and strengthen cooperation among international legal institutions.

The International Court of Justice, headquartered in The Hague, Netherlands, serves as the principal judicial organ of the United Nations. It settles legal disputes between states and provides advisory opinions on legal questions referred by authorized UN organs and specialized agencies.

ECOWAS’ endorsement is expected to provide Sierra Leone with a stronger regional platform as the country seeks wider international support from United Nations Member States ahead of the ICJ elections. The backing also reflects growing confidence in Sierra Leone’s diplomatic engagement and its contribution to international law through Professor Dr. Charles C. Jalloh’s distinguished academic and professional record.

The development adds to Sierra Leone’s recent diplomatic successes, following its hosting of the 69th ECOWAS Summit and its continued efforts to enhance its influence within regional and global institutions. With the unanimous support of the West African bloc now secured, Sierra Leone’s campaign for the International Court of Justice enters a stronger phase as the country seeks to secure one of the world’s most influential judicial positions.

QNET Endorses UNODC-INTERPOL Global Anti-Fraud Framework, Strengthens International Fight Against Organized Crime

 

QNET has officially endorsed the Global Public-Private Partnership Framework Against Fraud, reinforcing its commitment to international efforts aimed at combating organized fraud, recruitment scams, human trafficking and related financial crimes through stronger collaboration between Governments, law enforcement agencies and responsible private-sector organisations.

The endorsement follows the company’s participation in the inaugural UNODC-INTERPOL Global Fraud Summit held in Vienna, Austria, where the Framework was officially launched after first being introduced by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in March 2026.

The Framework establishes a practical roadmap for enhanced cooperation between public and private institutions through intelligence sharing, fraud prevention, investigations, victim support, innovation and public awareness initiatives. QNET is among the organisations officially recognized by the UNODC as endorsing the initiative, joining a coalition of international organisations, financial institutions, technology companies, businesses and civil society groups committed to tackling transnational fraud.

The endorsement comes as QNET’s partnership with Ghana’s Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) continues to receive international recognition as an effective model of public-private cooperation against organized financial crime.

During the Global Fraud Summit, the collaboration between QNET and EOCO was showcased as a practical case study illustrating how responsible businesses and law enforcement agencies can work together to combat recruitment fraud, human trafficking and the criminal misuse of legitimate corporate brands.

The partnership gained further prominence this month when EOCO, working alongside INTERPOL, hosted the Regional Case Coordination Workshop on “Model Q” in Accra, Ghana. The workshop brought together investigators and prosecutors from across West Africa to strengthen regional coordination and improve investigations into organized criminal networks involved in recruitment fraud, human trafficking and related financial crimes.

Speaking during the summit, Chief Executive Officer of QNET, Mattias Mildenborn, stressed that organized criminal groups increasingly operate across national borders, making collaboration among Governments, law enforcement agencies and responsible businesses essential.

“The criminal networks behind today’s fraud schemes do not operate in isolation and neither can the response. Our experience working alongside authorities such as Ghana’s EOCO has demonstrated the value of trusted public-private collaboration in disrupting organized criminal networks and protecting vulnerable communities. Endorsing the Framework reflects our commitment to strengthening that cooperation internationally,” he stated.

Executive Director of EOCO, Raymond Archer, also underscored the importance of sustained cooperation between public institutions and the private sector in addressing evolving financial crimes.

“Our Memorandum of Understanding with QNET demonstrates how collaboration between law enforcement and the private sector can deliver meaningful results in tackling fraud and protecting citizens. Such partnerships are essential in addressing the evolving nature of organized financial crime,” Raymond Archer said.

QNET and EOCO formalized their partnership in 2025 through a Memorandum of Understanding focused on intelligence sharing, investigative cooperation, public education and victim support. Since then, the two organisations have jointly worked to dismantle criminal syndicates that exploit the QNET brand through fraudulent job offers, fake overseas employment opportunities and human trafficking schemes.

Beyond Ghana, QNET has expanded similar collaborations with regulators and law enforcement agencies across several countries to identify criminal networks misusing its brand, support enforcement operations and strengthen consumer protection initiatives.

According to the company, the newly endorsed Global Public-Private Partnership Framework Against Fraud provides a comprehensive blueprint for strengthening international cooperation against increasingly sophisticated cross-border fraud.

Mattias Mildenborn noted that public-private partnerships have become indispensable in addressing organized financial crime.

“Public-private partnerships are no longer optional in the fight against organized fraud; they are essential. Our endorsement of the Framework reflects our long-term commitment to sharing practical experience, supporting investigations, protecting consumers and working alongside international partners to ensure legitimate businesses cannot be exploited by organized criminal networks,” he added.

The Global Public-Private Partnership Framework Against Fraud was developed through the UNODC-INTERPOL Global Fraud Summit to promote stronger international cooperation through six guiding principles: shared responsibility, proactive prevention, information sharing, victim support, education and innovation.

Founded in 1998 and headquartered in Hong Kong, QNET is a wellness and lifestyle-focused direct selling company operating in more than 25 countries through its e-commerce platform and independent distributor network. The company says it continues to collaborate with Governments, regulators and law enforcement agencies worldwide to combat recruitment fraud, human trafficking, scams and the criminal misuse of its brand.

Court of Appeal Delivers Seven Judgments During Historic Makeni Sitting

 

The Court of Appeal has recorded another milestone in Sierra Leone’s justice sector by delivering seven judgments during a week-long sitting in Makeni City, underscoring the Judiciary’s commitment to decentralizing appellate justice and making the legal system more accessible to citizens across the country.

The sitting, held on 22 July 2026, marked the first time the Court of Appeal has delivered seven judgments in Makeni, reflecting ongoing efforts by the Judiciary to extend appellate services beyond Freetown and reduce the challenges faced by litigants in the provinces.

The appellate panel was presided over by Honourable Justice Abdulai M. Bangurah, a Justice of the Supreme Court, alongside Honourable Justice Jamesina J. King, JA, Honourable Justice Michael P. Mami, JA and Honourable Justice Aiah Simeon Allieu, JA. The Justices concluded several appeals and heard urgent applications during the week-long judicial session in Bombali District.

The provincial sitting forms part of the vision of Honourable Chief Justice Komba Kamanda, whose judicial reform agenda seeks to bring justice closer to the people by expanding Court of Appeal sittings to regional centres across Sierra Leone.

During the proceedings, the Court delivered seven judgments covering a variety of legal matters, including divorce petitions and land ownership disputes. In addition, the Court heard an urgent application for a stay of execution, which was granted after carefully considering submissions presented by counsel representing the parties.

The decisions brought closure to several long-standing legal disputes while demonstrating the Court’s commitment to ensuring timely and effective administration of justice.

One of the appellants, who requested anonymity, commended the Judiciary for taking appellate justice to the provinces, describing the initiative as a meaningful step toward improving access to justice.

“Indeed, this is practical justice and I wish the Honourable Chief Justice can grant me the opportunity to appreciate and commend his leadership,” the appellant stated.

Legal observers have noted that provincial Court of Appeal sittings significantly reduce the financial and logistical burdens on litigants, lawyers and witnesses who would otherwise be required to travel to Freetown to pursue appeals. The initiative also promotes quicker resolution of cases while enhancing public confidence in the justice system.

The Judiciary has increasingly prioritized decentralization as part of broader judicial reforms aimed at strengthening the rule of law, improving efficiency and ensuring that justice is accessible to all Sierra Leoneans regardless of their geographical location.

The week-long Makeni sitting was fully funded by the Judiciary of Sierra Leone, with support from the Government of Sierra Leone, reaffirming the Judiciary’s commitment to strengthening the administration of justice nationwide.

The successful conclusion of the Makeni session further highlights the Judiciary’s determination to modernize the country’s justice delivery system while ensuring that appellate services are brought closer to communities across Sierra Leone.

SLPHA Showcases Maritime Excellence and Hospitality at 2026 ECOWAS Mid-Year Summit

 

The Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority (SLPHA) has successfully concluded its eight-day ferry operation in support of the 2026 Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Mid-Year Summit, reinforcing Sierra Leone’s reputation as a capable host of major international events while demonstrating the critical role of maritime transport in facilitating regional diplomacy and national development.

Throughout the summit, SLPHA operated six ferry crossings daily between Freetown and Lungi, providing safe, efficient and uninterrupted transportation for Heads of State, senior Government officials, diplomats, journalists and hundreds of delegates attending one of West Africa’s most significant diplomatic gatherings. The operation formed a vital part of the Government of Sierra Leone’s logistical arrangements for the summit and was widely commended for its professionalism, reliability and efficiency.

Among the distinguished passengers transported during the summit were President Dr. Julius Maada Bio and First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, President Adama Barrow of The Gambia, President Bassirou Diomaye Faye of Senegal, President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani of Mauritania and President José Maria Neves of Cabo Verde. Cabinet Ministers, ECOWAS Ministers, ambassadors, members of the diplomatic corps, journalists and numerous official delegates also relied on the ferry service throughout the summit.

To ensure smooth operations, the Authority deployed personnel across its ferry terminals while marine crews worked tirelessly to coordinate passenger movement, manage vehicle loading and unloading, enforce strict safety measures and provide efficient customer service. The seamless coordination enabled delegates to travel conveniently between Freetown and Lungi during the eight-day regional gathering.

The successful operation was led by the Director General of SLPHA, Yankuba Askia Bio, whose visible and hands-on leadership attracted widespread praise from staff, passengers and stakeholders. Rather than limiting his role to administrative supervision, he maintained a constant presence at the ferry terminals and aboard the MV Muzuk, personally overseeing operations, engaging visiting dignitaries and motivating staff throughout the demanding assignment.

His leadership and commitment to service were credited with inspiring the workforce to maintain high operational standards throughout the summit. Many passengers and delegates commended both the Director General and the Authority for their contribution to the successful hosting of the ECOWAS Mid-Year Summit.

Following the conclusion of the operation, SLPHA expressed appreciation to its employees, the Ministry of Transport and Aviation, security agencies and other partners whose collective efforts ensured the success of the maritime transport arrangements.

Director General Yankuba Askia Bio also commended members of staff for their resilience, professionalism and dedication, noting that their commitment enabled the Authority to deliver services that reflected positively on Sierra Leone.

Beyond transporting passengers, the Authority’s performance projected a positive image of the country before regional leaders and the international community. The punctual ferry services, strong safety record and warm hospitality demonstrated Sierra Leone’s growing institutional capacity to support high-level international engagements.

With the successful completion of the ECOWAS Mid-Year Summit operations, SLPHA has once again reaffirmed its position as a key pillar of Sierra Leone’s transport sector. Its efficient ferry services not only connected Freetown and Lungi throughout the summit but also showcased the country’s readiness to deliver world-class maritime services in support of regional cooperation, diplomacy and sustainable national development.

CGG Boss Calls for Sustained Civic Education and Good Governance After ECOWAS Summit

Executive Director of the Campaign for Good Governance, Marcella Samba Sesay

 

The Campaign for Good Governance (CGG) has urged Sierra Leone to capitalize on the momentum generated by the successful hosting of the recent ECOWAS Summit by strengthening civic education, deepening regional integration and promoting accountability in governance.

Speaking at the Ministry of Information and Civic Education’s weekly Press Conference on Tuesday, 21 July 2026, the Executive Director of the Campaign for Good Governance, Marcella Samba Sesay, emphasized that the country’s successful organization of the ECOWAS Summit should mark the beginning of sustained national engagement rather than the end of a single international event.

“Successfully hosting ECOWAS was only the beginning. We now have a post-Summit responsibility,” she stated, urging both Government and citizens to maintain the momentum created by the regional gathering.

Marcella Samba Sesay noted that one of the Summit’s most significant achievements was increasing public awareness of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), particularly among young Sierra Leoneans. She observed that the event had sparked important discussions about regional cooperation and integration that should be sustained long after the Summit.

“For many young people this was the first time they had an opportunity to engage in conversations about ECOWAS. That discussion must continue because regional integration cannot remain an abstract concept,” she said.

She explained that in today’s interconnected world, regional cooperation is vital for addressing shared challenges, including security, trade, economic growth and sustainable development. According to her, stronger public understanding of ECOWAS will help citizens appreciate the benefits of regional integration and actively contribute to its objectives.

The CGG Executive Director further highlighted the significance of the ECOWAS Compact for the Future and the implementation of Vision 2050, describing them as major steps toward creating an “ECOWAS of the People,” where citizens become central to shaping the region’s future alongside governments.

Marcella Samba Sesay also referenced President Dr. Julius Maada Bio’s message during the Summit that nations achieve greater progress by pursuing clear priorities with responsibility, describing the statement as one of the event’s most important governance lessons. She said the principle should guide Sierra Leone’s approach to national development beyond the ECOWAS Summit.

Speaking from the perspective of civil society, she stressed that organizations such as the Campaign for Good Governance have a critical responsibility to sustain public dialogue on governance and ensure that commitments made by Government are translated into tangible actions.

“Our role is to ensure that these conversations continue. We keep important national issues on the public agenda and remind Government of the commitments it has made,” she stated.

She further called on the Government of Sierra Leone to replicate the same level of coordination, leadership and commitment demonstrated during the successful hosting of the ECOWAS Summit in addressing key national development priorities, including governance reforms, economic transformation and public service delivery.

Marcella Samba Sesay concluded that if Sierra Leone applies the same determination and collaborative spirit displayed during the Summit to implementing critical reforms, the country would be well positioned to accelerate national development, strengthen democratic governance and improve the lives of its citizens.

Her remarks reinforce the growing consensus among Civil Society Organizations that the successful hosting of the ECOWAS Summit should serve not only as a diplomatic achievement but also as a catalyst for sustained civic engagement, stronger institutions and inclusive national development.

Sierra Leone Records Over 2,367 Air Passengers & 31 Flight Movements During ECOWAS Summit

 

The Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) has expressed profound appreciation to the country’s aviation community for its outstanding contribution to the successful management of air transport operations during the recent ECOWAS Mid-Year Summit, describing the achievement as a demonstration of professionalism, resilience and operational excellence.

In a statement issued following the high-level regional event, the Authority commended aviation stakeholders for ensuring safe, secure and efficient airport operations between 17 and 19 July 2026, despite the significant increase in air traffic generated by the summit.

According to the SLCAA, Sierra Leone’s aviation sector successfully handled more than 2,367 commercial passengers, 17 commercial flight movements and 14 private jet movements within the three-day operational period.

The Authority noted that the smooth coordination of commercial and private aircraft operations reflected the growing capacity of Sierra Leone’s aviation industry to manage complex and high-profile international events while maintaining international safety and security standards.

SLCAA stated that the successful operations were made possible through the unwavering commitment, professionalism and dedication of aviation personnel and stakeholders who worked around the clock to ensure uninterrupted services at the country’s airports.

The Authority acknowledged the collective efforts of aviation professionals, including air traffic controllers, airport operations staff, security personnel, airline operators, ground handling teams, emergency responders and other partner institutions whose coordinated response contributed significantly to the success of the summit.

According to the Authority, the achievement underscores the strength and resilience of Sierra Leone’s aviation sector and demonstrates the country’s increasing readiness to host major regional and international gatherings requiring efficient air transport management.

SLCAA further emphasized that the successful handling of commercial and private flights during the summit reinforces confidence in Sierra Leone’s aviation infrastructure and operational capabilities, while enhancing the country’s reputation as a reliable destination for international conferences and diplomatic engagements.

The Authority thanked every aviation stakeholder for their exceptional service, commitment and dedication to excellence, noting that their collective efforts played a vital role in ensuring the smooth movement of delegates, Government officials, diplomats and other passengers throughout the summit period.

SLCAA reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with all aviation partners to sustain high operational standards, strengthen safety and security systems and continue improving the quality of air transport services across the country.

The Authority concluded by expressing confidence that the collaboration demonstrated during the ECOWAS Summit will continue to strengthen Sierra Leone’s aviation sector and support the nation’s broader vision of maintaining safe, secure and connected skies while promoting economic growth and regional integration.

Orange Brings Football Fans Together for an Unforgettable B2C World Football Tournament Final Viewing

Chief Executive Officer of Orange Sierra Leone, Aïcha Touré

 

Orange Sierra Leone reaffirmed its commitment to customer engagement and community connection by hosting a spectacular B2C World Football Tournament Final Viewing at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Freetown on Sunday, July 19, 2026. The event attracted hundreds of football enthusiasts who gathered to watch one of the most anticipated matches in world football in an atmosphere defined by excitement, entertainment and camaraderie.

The venue was transformed into a vibrant football arena featuring a giant high-definition screen, premium sound system, live musical performances, interactive games, exciting giveaways and a range of engaging activities that kept supporters entertained throughout the evening.

From the moment fans arrived wearing the jerseys of their favourite national teams and football clubs, it became evident that Orange Sierra Leone had created far more than a football viewing event. The gathering provided a platform for customers, football lovers, families and friends to celebrate the beautiful game while fostering unity, friendship and a strong sense of community.

Speaking during the event, Chief Executive Officer of Orange Sierra Leone, Aïcha Touré, underscored the company’s dedication to creating meaningful experiences that extend beyond its core telecommunications services.

“At Orange Sierra Leone, we believe in creating meaningful connections, not only through our network but also through experiences that bring people together. Football has a unique way of uniting people from different backgrounds and this viewing event is our way of appreciating our loyal customers while giving them an exciting platform to celebrate the sport they love,” she said.

She emphasized that customer satisfaction remains central to the company’s operations.

“Our customers are at the heart of everything we do. Their continued trust and loyalty inspire us to organize events like these, where they can enjoy world-class entertainment in a safe and exciting environment,” she added.

Throughout the evening, supporters remained captivated by every moment of the thrilling final, erupting into cheers as the action unfolded on the giant screen. The atmosphere was further energized by live entertainment, interactive competitions and prize giveaways, making the occasion a memorable celebration that extended well beyond the football match itself.

Orange customer, Mohamed Kamara, one of the beneficiaries of the event, expressed appreciation for what he described as one of the finest public football viewing experiences he had attended.

“I have attended football viewing events before, but this one was truly exceptional. Everything was well organized; from the giant screen and sound system to the entertainment and hospitality. Orange has shown that it truly values its customers. We felt like one family tonight and I hope they continue organizing programmes like this,” he remarked.

Another participant, Aminata Sesay, commended Orange Sierra Leone for providing football lovers with the opportunity to enjoy the tournament final together without the financial burden of subscribing to premium television services.

“This was a wonderful experience. Watching the final with hundreds of passionate football fans created an incredible atmosphere. Orange deserves commendation for bringing people together through sports and entertainment,” she said.

Although her favourite team, Argentina, did not emerge victorious, she noted that the lively atmosphere and strong sense of togetherness created by Orange Sierra Leone made the occasion enjoyable regardless of the result.

Many attendees described the gathering as one of the most exciting public football viewing events held in Freetown this year, praising Orange Sierra Leone for successfully combining sports, entertainment, customer appreciation, music and hospitality into one unforgettable experience.

Beyond the entertainment, the event reflected Orange Sierra Leone’s broader commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility. The company continues to invest in initiatives that promote youth empowerment, sports development, education, digital inclusion, environmental sustainability and community engagement, reinforcing its role as a responsible corporate citizen contributing to Sierra Leone’s social and economic development.

As the celebrations came to an end, guests departed the Radisson Blu Hotel with smiles, cherished memories and a renewed appreciation for a company that continues to connect people not only through innovative telecommunications services but also through meaningful shared experiences.

The success of the Orange Sierra Leone B2C World Football Tournament Final Viewing further strengthened the company’s reputation as a customer-focused brand dedicated to innovation, community engagement and delivering memorable experiences that enrich the lives of Sierra Leoneans while celebrating the unifying power of football.

Vice President Leads Cabinet in Recognizing President Bio’s Outstanding ECOWAS Stewardship

 

Vice President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, on Wednesday, 22 July 2026, led members of Cabinet in honouring President Dr. Julius Maada Bio for his successful tenure as Chairman of the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government, describing his leadership as instrumental in raising Sierra Leone’s regional and international profile.

The surprise recognition took place during a Cabinet meeting at State House, Freetown, where what had been scheduled as a routine session turned into a celebration of President Bio’s achievements during his one-year stewardship of the regional bloc from June 2025 to July 2026.

On behalf of Cabinet, Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh and Cabinet Ministers presented President Bio with a signed appreciation citation, a commemorative plaque and a ceremonial cake in recognition of his leadership and the successful hosting of the 2026 ECOWAS Mid-Year Summit in Lungi.

The commemorative plaque reflected those earlier presented by President Bio to fellow West African Heads of State following the conclusion of the summit, symbolizing Sierra Leone’s growing reputation as a trusted destination for regional diplomacy, cooperation and international engagement.

Speaking during the presentation, the Chief Minister described President Bio’s ECOWAS Chairmanship as a defining chapter in Sierra Leone’s diplomatic history, commending his visionary leadership, commitment to regional peace and security, and dedication to advancing the ECOWAS integration agenda.

He noted that under President Bio’s leadership, Sierra Leone successfully hosted one of the largest diplomatic gatherings in the country’s history, welcoming 11 Heads of State, distinguished guests, more than 2,000 visitors and over 500 delegates. He described the summit as peaceful, professionally coordinated and widely recognized as one of the most successful regional meetings hosted by the country.

The Chief Minister further praised the President for strengthening Sierra Leone’s reputation as a capable and reliable host for major international events, expressing confidence that his legacy of service, collaboration and visionary leadership would continue to inspire future generations.

Responding to the tribute, President Bio admitted that the recognition had taken him completely by surprise.

Drawing humour from his military background, he remarked that surprises were usually tactics employed against an adversary rather than something a soldier expected to experience personally.

The President expressed sincere appreciation to Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, the Chief Minister, Cabinet Ministers, his front office staff and the people of Sierra Leone for the honour bestowed upon him.

Foreign Minister Explains Yenga Strategy, ECOWAS Position on Xenophobia and Koroma’s Summit Attendance

Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Alhaji Timothy Musa Kabba

 

Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Alhaji Timothy Musa Kabba, has defended the Government of Sierra Leone’s diplomatic approach to the longstanding Yenga border dispute, saying expectations that the issue would have been resolved during Sierra Leone’s one-year tenure as Chair of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) were unrealistic given that the dispute has remained unresolved for more than two decades.

Speaking in an interview on Truth Media with Amadu Lamrana Bah, the Foreign Affairs Minister said the Government deliberately chose diplomacy over military confrontation despite what he described as serious provocations along the Sierra Leone-Guinea border. He recalled that tensions escalated after Guinean soldiers established a military presence on territory claimed by Sierra Leone, describing the development as an act of military aggression that became a major national concern.

The Minister referred to an incident on 28 April at Kotoma Village in Kailahun District, where Guinean security forces allegedly fired multiple rounds of gunfire. He said the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces had the capacity to defend the country’s territorial integrity and could have responded militarily, but were instead instructed to exercise restraint while diplomatic efforts continued.

According to him, those diplomatic engagements culminated in the Mano River Union Summit held in Conakry, Guinea, on 6 June, where regional leaders discussed border-related concerns affecting member states. He noted that similar territorial challenges involving Guinea have also affected parts of Liberia’s Lofa County, adding that the issue extends beyond Sierra Leone. He expressed confidence that continued engagement through the Mano River Union would eventually lead to a peaceful resolution of the dispute.

Timothy Musa Kabba also disclosed that ECOWAS Heads of State and Government formally considered the issue of xenophobic attacks in South Africa during the recent ECOWAS Summit in Freetown and adopted a regional position to escalate the matter to the African Union. He said the concern was incorporated into the summit’s official communiqué as part of the bloc’s collective response.

Describing the attacks as unacceptable, the Minister said they deserved the strongest international condemnation, particularly because African countries had played a significant role in supporting South Africa’s liberation struggle against apartheid. He noted that many countries across the continent, including Sierra Leone, had contributed financially and materially to the African National Congress and the campaign for black majority rule.

He further observed that several ECOWAS member states had been directly affected by the attacks, with countries such as Nigeria and Ghana repatriating their citizens. He said ECOWAS had resolved to pursue the matter at the African Union in the hope of securing stronger continental action against xenophobic violence while encouraging the South African Government to take decisive action against those responsible.

The Minister also commended Ghana for championing the issue of reparative justice at the United Nations through its advocacy for redress over the historical injustices of slavery and colonialism. He argued that those issues should remain central to contemporary international discussions rather than being treated solely as matters of history. He expressed optimism that Ghana’s assumption of the African Union Chairmanship in 2027 would further strengthen West Africa’s collective voice on major continental issues.

On domestic political matters, Timothy Musa Kabba clarified the circumstances surrounding former President Ernest Bai Koroma’s attendance at the recent ECOWAS Summit in Freetown. He disclosed that the former President attended the summit after requesting permission from President Julius Maada Bio, explaining that Ernest Bai Koroma wished to express appreciation to both the President and the people of Sierra Leone for the successful hosting of the regional gathering.

According to the Minister, President Bio approved the request in the spirit of national reconciliation and unity, allowing the former President to attend as an invited guest. He emphasized, however, that Ernest Bai Koroma did not participate in the closed session reserved exclusively for serving Heads of State and Government but attended solely as an observer and invited guest. He added that the former President appeared to appreciate the significance of witnessing Sierra Leone host one of the region’s most important diplomatic meetings.

Reflecting on Sierra Leone’s political environment, the Minister recalled the events of 26 November 2023, describing them as a period during which the country’s democracy came under serious threat. He said the loss of lives, including both civilians and security personnel, was tragic and unnecessary, extending condolences to the bereaved families while urging the nation to move forward in peace.

He called on Sierra Leoneans to embrace reconciliation and put aside political divisions that continue to undermine national cohesion. He also warned that approaching the 2028 general elections with hostility and bitterness could deepen existing divisions and threaten national stability.

Timothy Musa Kabba reminded citizens that the painful legacy of the civil war remains a shared national experience and appealed for collective responsibility in preserving peace, strengthening unity and promoting development. He maintained that every opportunity capable of fostering national cohesion should be embraced in the broader interest of Sierra Leone’s future.

Africell Sponsors Over 165 Events in Six Months Benefiting over Thirty Thousand People

 

Africell Sierra Leone has reaffirmed its position as one of the country’s leading corporate partners in national development after sponsoring more than 165 events across Sierra Leone between January and June 2026, benefiting over 30,000 people through initiatives focused on education, youth empowerment, entertainment, sports, religion, health and community development.

The extensive sponsorship programme underscores the company’s longstanding commitment to supporting national progress beyond the provision of mobile telecommunications services. Over the past six months, Africell has maintained a visible presence in classrooms, football fields, concert venues, religious gatherings, health campaigns and major national events, reflecting what the company describes as a sustained investment in people and communities.

Speaking on the company’s sponsorship strategy, Senior Manager of Events and Sponsorship, Nancy Lucia Joseph Turay, said education, entertainment and youth empowerment accounted for the largest share of the sponsored programmes during the first half of 2026 because of their critical role in shaping the country’s future.

She explained that Africell intentionally prioritizes those sectors as part of its broader commitment to creating opportunities for young people while supporting Sierra Leone’s long-term development.

“Our focus is not just on connecting people through technology, but also on connecting them with opportunities that transform lives. By investing in education, entertainment and youth empowerment, we are contributing to the development of the next generation of Sierra Leoneans,” she stated.

Nancy Lucia Joseph Turay stressed that the company’s sponsorship initiatives are driven by a desire to give back to the people who have supported Africell since it commenced operations in Sierra Leone nearly two decades ago.

According to her, the company’s approach extends far beyond brand visibility, with sponsorship serving as a strategic investment in social cohesion, talent development and community advancement. She noted that Africell continues to build partnerships with schools, youth organisations, artists, sports institutions, religious bodies and Government initiatives in order to promote inclusive national development.

She further disclosed that community sponsorship has remained a central pillar of Africell’s corporate philosophy since 2006. Over the years, the company has consistently supported major events and initiatives across the country, maintaining a carefully structured sponsorship portfolio that spans education, entertainment, youth empowerment, health, religion, sports and Government programmes.

According to the Senior Manager, this diversified investment strategy enables the company to reach different segments of society while strengthening collaboration with institutions, communities and development partners nationwide.

She maintained that Africell views sponsorship as an investment in people rather than simply a marketing exercise, emphasizing that every partnership is designed to create meaningful social impact, inspire innovation, nurture talent and improve the lives of Sierra Leoneans.

With more than 165 sponsored events recorded within the first six months of 2026 and over 30,000 beneficiaries reached, Africell Sierra Leone continues to demonstrate that its contribution to national development extends well beyond mobile connectivity. Through sustained investments in education, youth empowerment, sports, entertainment, religion, health and community development, the company is creating opportunities, empowering communities and contributing meaningfully to Sierra Leone’s social and economic growth.

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