Home Blog Page 493

Africell Awards Brand-New Car to First Monthly Winner in Mega Promo

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a thrilling moment of excitement, Africell, one of Sierra Leone’s leading mobile companies, officially handed over a brand-new Toyota S. Presso Car to Alusine Jalloh, a driver, marking him as the first lucky monthly prize winner in the ongoing Africell Mega Promotion. Additionally, Julian Jonah, a Civil Engineer, was awarded a brand-new TVS Motor Bike as the fifth lucky weekly winner in this exciting promotion.

The formal presentation ceremony took place during a press conference held on Wednesday, September 6th, 2023, at the Africell Headquarters located in Wilberforce in Freetown.

Joe Abass Bangura, Africell’s Chief Corporate Affairs, had the honor of presenting the car key to the first Mega Promo winner. He extended his hearty congratulations to Alusine Jalloh and encouraged all Africell subscribers to seize the opportunity to participate in the promotion by purchasing an Africell SIM card and recharging with just NLe 10. This simple act, he explained, offers a chance to win remarkable prizes, including a cash prize of NLe 250, a brand-new TVS motorbike, and the coveted brand-new car.

He noted that the Mega Promotion, launched on Friday 28th July, 2023, will run for a total of six months, from July to January 2024. Since its inception, the promotion has seen over 316 people win various prizes. Among these fortunate individuals, 300 have secured daily cash prizes, while 10 have claimed the daily cash draw prizes. Furthermore, five lucky winners have been awarded TVS motorbikes out of a total of 24, and one individual has emerged as the monthly winner, driving away a brand-new car.

Alusine Jalloh, the brand-new car recipient, expressed profound gratitude to Africell Mobile Company. He shared his astonishment at becoming a brand-new car owner, especially since this marks the second time of owning a new car. Despite working as a driver and supporting his family, this unexpected win came as a delightful surprise.

He disclosed that he has been a loyal Africell customer since 2006, having replaced his SIM card over ten times.

Alusine Jalloh recounted his history of participating in Africell promotions in the hopes of winning but had never been fortunate until now. He warmly encouraged Africell subscribers, especially fellow drivers, to continue recharging their SIM cards and urged those who had misplaced or lost their SIM cards to swiftly replace them in order to stand a chance of winning the array of prizes offered by Africell.

Providing insight into the first month of the Mega Promotion, John Konteh, the Marketing and Communications Manager, revealed that they had introduced an exciting new aspect to the promotion. Starting from September 5th, 2023, there have been ten daily winners of NLe 250 each. All ten winners automatically qualify for the grand draw, which occurs after every month.

Furthermore, weekly draws are held every Saturday to announce motorbike winners. Currently, there are five motorbike winners spread across the country, hailing from Bo, Kenema, Makeni, and Freetown, with two winners located in the capital city.

Nancy Turay, the Event and Sponsorship Manager, emphasized Africell’s commitment to fulfilling its “Corporate Social Responsibility” to its subscribers. She highlighted that Africell has conducted numerous promotions and offers in the past, but the Mega Promo stands out as a unique promotion.

“To participate, individuals need to be Africell subscribers. Upon activating a new SIM card, they are automatically entered into the promotion. The more they recharge with NLe 10, the greater their chances of winning the fantastic prizes offered in the Mega Promo,” she revealed.

Nancy Turay explained that daily draws are held from Monday to Friday at 8 p.m. on AYV TV and major radio stations across the country. This transparent approach ensures that everyone has an opportunity to witness the draws. She also encouraged those with internet access to follow the draws on Africell’s Facebook page.

Nancy clarified that chances are not carried forward from one day to the next; instead, the daily chances reset daily. She also mentioned that credit transfers do not count towards the promotion; only recharging NLe 10 directly on an Africell SIM card qualifies individuals for the draws.

Africell’s Mega Promotion continues to offer exciting opportunities for subscribers to win valuable prizes, reinforcing the company’s commitment to providing exceptional value to its loyal customer base.

Information Minister Unveils Workshop on Review of Draft National & Information Policy

The Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, has on the 7th September, 2023  officially inaugurated a one-day workshop at the Dohas Hotel in Bo , Southern Sierra Leone, which is focused on reviewing the Draft National Media and Information Policy.

The initiative is part of Sierra Leone’s commitment to transforming leadership, embracing shared governance principles, and positioning the nation as a model State in the global community.

The workshop, organized by the Media Reform Coordinating Group (MRCG) in collaboration with the Ministry of Information and Civic Education (MoICE), brought together media experts from across the country to collectively draft a comprehensive National Media and Information Policy.

In his keynote address, Minister Bah stressed the urgency of addressing the media ecosystem’s challenges and commended the organizers for convening the workshop. He highlighted the evolving nature of the media landscape and encouraged media practitioners to embrace digital transformation.

Minister Bah also called upon all institutions to establish functional websites to enhance credibility in the digital age.

With a feminist background, the Minister also urged stakeholders within the media ecosystem to actively promote women’s participation in all processes related to the media industry further emphasizing the importance of gender diversity in advancing the country’s development goals, stating, “We cannot move this country forward with only men at the forefront.”

Addressing Government’s communication challenges, the Minister announced plans to review the entire Government Information Architecture. This comprehensive review aims to create a framework that enables effective communication between the Government and its citizens.

Minister Bah concluded his address by expressing his hope that the workshop’s outcomes would result in a National Media and Information Policy aligned with 21st-century media needs.

Other speakers representing organizations such as the Independent Media Commission, Right to Access Information Commission, Women in the Media Sierra Leone, and the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists actively contributed to the workshop’s discussions. Together, they advocated for a National Information Policy that would empower the media to become more proactive, progressive, and participatory in shaping Sierra Leone’s future.

Meet With Bryan David Hunt: The New US Ambassador to Sierra Leone

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Bryan David Hunt was officially sworn in as the United States Ambassador to the Republic of Sierra Leone, on August 23, 2023, marking the beginning of his diplomatic mission in this West African nation.

Ambassador Hunt brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his new role. Prior to this appointment, he served as the Senior Foreign Policy Advisor to the U.S. Transportation Command from July 2022 to July 2023. His dedication to Foreign Service is evident in his extensive career, which includes several key positions within the U.S. Department of State.

From August 2019 to July 2022, Ambassador Hunt served as the Office Director for South Sudan and Sudan in the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of African Affairs. During this period, he also assumed the role of Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for East Africa and the Sudans from January 2021 to October 2021.

Ambassador Hunt’s international experience is equally impressive. He served as Deputy Chief of Mission at the American Embassy in Maputo, Mozambique, from August 2016 to July 2019, and held a similar position at the American Embassy in Georgetown, Guyana, from August 2013 to July 2016. In Guyana, he was accredited to the Caribbean Community, broadening his regional diplomatic engagement.

His diplomatic journey also took him to Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, where he served as Deputy Chief of Mission from July 2011 to July 2013. In this role, he managed bilateral relations with Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu. Ambassador Hunt’s previous assignments included a tenure as Principal Officer at the American Consulate in Lahore, Pakistan, from July 2006 to July 2009.

Ambassador Hunt, a career member of the Senior Foreign Service with the title of Minister Counselor, has held a range of roles contributing to U.S. foreign policy. His earlier overseas assignments encompassed positions such as Counselor for Political Affairs at the American Embassy in Islamabad, Pakistan (July 2009 – October 2010); Political Officer at the American Embassy in Islamabad, Pakistan (August 2004 – July 2006); Political Officer at the American Embassy in Maputo, Mozambique (August 2000 – August 2002); Consular and Commercial Officer at the American Embassy in Gaborone, Botswana (September 1998 – August 2000); and Political, Economic, and Consular Officer at the American Embassy in Bissau, Guinea-Bissau (September 1996 – June 1998).

Within the United States, Ambassador Hunt has undertaken pivotal domestic roles, including Deputy Director for Regional and Security Affairs in the Department of State’s Africa Bureau (October 2010 to July 2011) and Desk Officer for Angola in the Department of State’s Africa Bureau (September 2002 – August 2004).

A native of Newport News, Virginia, Mr. Hunt holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in International Studies from the American University School of International Service. His educational journey also saw him engaged in graduate work in international development at the Elliot School of Foreign Affairs at George Washington University, a testament to his commitment to enhancing international relations.

Ambassador Hunt is multilingual, proficient in Portuguese, with limited knowledge of German and Urdu. Throughout his career, he has been recognized for his exceptional contributions, receiving accolades such as the State Department’s Distinguished Honor Award, Superior Honor Award, Meritorious Honor Award, and Franklin Award. He has also been honored with the U.S. Coast Guard’s Meritorious Public Service Award and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff’s Distinguished Civilian Service Award.

Ambassador Hunt’s distinguished background and dedication to diplomacy position him as a valuable representative of the United States in Sierra Leone as he undertakes his new role.

Health Alert Trains 50 RMNCAH-CSO & Youth Coalition Members

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a move to strengthen social accountability in the health sector and build the advocacy capacity of health-focused organizations in the country, Health Alert Sierra Leone, a local Civil Society Organization specialized in health development advocacy and accountability programming in the country, with funds from Population Action International (PAI) USA, has on Thursday 31st August, 2023 concluded a two days training for fifty (50) RMNCAH CSO and Youth-Led Coalition Members on SMART Advocacy, Social Accountability & Budget Tracking of GFF funds for effective health service delivery. The two days training was held at the Civil Service Training College on Tower Hill in Freetown.

The participants were carefully selected from five districts in the country based on their understanding of health-related issues and their commitment to advocating for improved health services.

Speaking during the ceremony, the Executive Director of Health Alert Sierra Leone, Dr. Victor Lansana Koroma, said the training is part of the efforts by the Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and Youth Coalition to track the World Bank’s Investment for Global Financing Facility (GFF) contributions to the country’s health sector.

He stated that the objectives of the training include enhancing the understanding of CSOs on the concept of social accountability and its relevance in the health sector, equipping CSOs with practical knowledge and tools for effective health sector advocacy and accountability initiatives.

Dr. Victor Lansana Koroma said that the training is also geared towards strengthening network and collaboration among CSOs, enabling them to collectively address health sector challenges and to develop action plans for CSOs to implement social accountability projects in their respective communities.

According to him, upon completing the training workshop, participating CSOs are better prepared to implement social accountability initiatives, including data collection at selected district levels, adding that they have also gained a deeper understanding of social accountability concepts, effective advocacy strategies, and practical tools for data collection and engagement.

The Executive Director pointed out that they have been empowered to collaborate and network with other stakeholders, thereby enhancing their collective impact in advocating for improved health services and accountability.

“This training represents a significant step towards ensuring that Sierra Leone’s health sector is transparent, responsive, and accountable to the needs and concerns of its citizens. It also demonstrates the commitment of civil society to actively participate in shaping the future of healthcare delivery in the country,” he concluded.

In his presentation on Understanding Social Accountability, the Facilitator, Musa Ansumana Soko described social accountability as the mechanisms, processes, and initiatives through which citizens and civil society organizations (right-holders), hold public institutions (duty-bearers) accountable for their actions, decisions, and the delivery of public services.

He said that its aims to promote transparency, responsiveness, and good governance by enabling citizens to actively participate in monitoring, evaluating, and influencing the actions of public entities in the country.

Musa Ansumana Soko informed participants that social accountability empowers citizens to demand transparency, demand equitable distribution of resources, and advocate for improved service delivery, further establishing a framework for citizens to voice their concerns, provide feedback, and engage in decision-making processes, ultimately contributing to more effective and inclusive governance.

The Program Manager at Health Alert Sierra Leone, Darlington John, also presented on building advocacy skills through SMART Advocacy. These presentations were followed by other presentations on Tools for Social Accountability, Collaboration and Networking etc.

Speaking on behalf of the participants, Buya Nabie Bangura applauded Health Alert Sierra Leone and partner for the training on SMART Advocacy and Social Accountability. He described the training as not only important but very timely considering the current challenges faced by the country’s health sector.

He said that through the training they have been equipped to enable them to push for transparency, fair resource allocation, and better service delivery in the country.

“The training has enhanced our understanding on the concept of SMART Advocacy and social accountability, and its relevance in the health sector. We now have the practical knowledge and tools for effective health sector advocacy and accountability initiatives,” Buya Nabie Bangura maintained.

The training program signifies a significant stride toward empowering healthcare advocates and fostering accountability in Sierra Leone’s healthcare sector.

West African Journalists Visit QI University, Malaysia; CEO Nicholas Goh Shares Vision & Clarifies Misconceptions

Journalists from West Africa and QI CEO & team
Journalists from West Africa and QI CEO & team

By Amin Kef Sesay

Quest International University (QIU), a private research-led institution in Perak, Malaysia, welcomed a delegation of journalists from Ghana, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone on Thursday, September 7, 2023. The university, established under the Higher Educational Institutions Act 555 and owned by the QI Group, currently hosts nearly 2,000 students from 28 countries on its campus.

The visiting journalists engaged in discussions and presentations with the university’s management team, including COO Nicholas Goh, Deputy Chief Operating Officer NG Mei Chan, Director University Relations Pauline Lee, Senior Manager Digital Communications Loghun Kumaran, Register Muhammad MG Omar, and Vice Chancellor Professor Zita Mohd Fahmi.

COO Nicholas Goh led the presentation, outlining the university’s mission to become a globally recognized research institution delivering quality programs and interdisciplinary research of international standing. He highlighted the university’s diverse course offerings, which range from Medicine & Surgery and Business Management to Environmental Technology and Special Needs Education.

Goh emphasized the university’s commitment to providing quality education while maintaining affordability, facilitated by a team of experienced educators from Malaysia and abroad. He also noted the university’s focus on producing well-rounded graduates equipped with the skills and confidence to succeed in a rapidly changing job market.

Research and innovation form the backbone of QIU, with projects focusing on sustainable construction materials, diabetes-related complications, and increasing crop yield. Goh stressed the importance of students gaining first-hand knowledge of groundbreaking research by working alongside dedicated educators.

The COO also highlighted the university’s commitment to social responsibility, with students actively participating in community service and volunteering for good causes. He cited examples of Pharmacy students providing care at homes for the elderly and medical undergraduates conducting free health screenings for the underprivileged.

Goh clarified that QIU, which currently has close to 2,000 students enrolled in 40 programs, does not have any branches in other countries and has never authorized anyone to collect money on its behalf. He warned against scammers exploiting prospective students and advised individuals to verify information through the university’s official website.

The university’s student body comprises 10% international students and 90% local students. The event concluded with a tour of the university’s facilities and a question-and-answer session.

QI CEO Nicholas Goh & Journalist Amin Kef from Sierra Leone
QI CEO Nicholas Goh & Journalist Amin Kef from Sierra Leone

NP-SL Places Optimum Customer Satisfaction at the Centre of Operations

By Amin Kef-Ranger

The ascent of the NP-SL Ltd within the petroleum sector is nothing short of breathtaking. This successful indigenous petroleum marketing company has been steadily climbing the economic ladder, showcasing the embodiment of determination, hard work and entrepreneurial prowess by Sierra Leoneans who founded it along with the capable Management teams steering this entirely homegrown enterprise. NP’s continuous upward trajectory is a testament to the unwavering commitment of all those associated with its success.

An outstanding feature that sets NP-SL Ltd apart is its unwavering dedication to providing top-tier customer care. Customer satisfaction is a paramount priority for the company’s Shareholders and Management. While this may seem simplistic at first glance, NP’s thorough and meticulous implementation of this principle has yielded substantial dividends.

It is evident that delivering high-quality petroleum products, treating customers with respect, and forging win-win deals contribute significantly to customer retention and the attraction of new ones. NP has undeniably mastered this business technique, continually refining it to the satisfaction of many.

Development specialists assert that the effective implementation of the Local Content Policy is crucial for growth. NP is a business entity steadfastly committed to enhancing this policy in Sierra Leone. The company’s Shareholders and Management have made it a policy to employ local talents and when expatriates are involved local staffs are given opportunities for skills development, ensuring a pool of competent individuals that the country needs for its development initiatives.

In a world where cooking is an essential aspect of life, NP-SL Ltd recognizes the environmental challenges associated with traditional cooking methods like using wood and charcoal. To address this, NP-Gas was introduced, a fast-igniting, efficient, safe and highly convenient alternative. NP Gas is available in various cylinder sizes at the company’s Filling Stations and authorized dealers.

The Company also caters to high-profile customers with busy schedules who prefer not to wait in queues or carry large sums of cash. For their convenience, NP-SL introduced the NP Smart Card, allowing customers to purchase petroleum products seamlessly. Users of the NP Smart Card have expressed high satisfaction with the convenience it offers, commending Management for this innovative initiative.

NP’s success is reflected in its expansion efforts both within Sierra Leone and the wider West African sub-region. The company has opened branches in Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast, and The Gambia, a remarkable feat for a fully indigenous company. These branches are reported to be performing exceptionally well, despite the inevitable challenges they face.

One undeniable contribution of NP is its substantial contribution to Government revenue through the timely payment of taxes, funding various development projects.

Despite challenges, including currency exchange rate fluctuations, as NP purchases petroleum products in dollars, the company continues to navigate the complex economic landscape admirably.

In all its dealings, NP-SL Ltd is contributing immensely to socio-economic development in varying ways.

Four Exceptional Police Officers Undergo Special Training in Egypt

By Amin Kef-Ranger

Four exceptional Police Officers, who were recently approved by the Inspector General of Police, William Fayia Sellu, are now participating in an intensive 8-week training program at the prestigious International Security Training Centre in Egypt.

The comprehensive training program encompasses a wide array of disciplines, including Community Policing and Human Rights, Leadership and Counterterrorism strategies. Among the 150 participants hailing from 30 African nations, these selected officers from the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) Force have earned this prestigious opportunity.

The chosen quartet includes Superintendent Monica Johnson (Officer Commanding New England Ville Police Station), Superintendent Samuel Saio Conteh (Deputy Head of the Community Relations Department), Inspector Alieu Mansaray (Media and Community Relations Officer), and Mohamed Teteh Fofanah (representing the Operations Support Division).

Their selection reflects their exceptional skills, unwavering dedication, and potential to make substantial contributions to the advancement of policing practices in Sierra Leone.

As the training program progresses, these officers are  connecting with peers, sharing experiences, and gaining valuable insights from seasoned professionals and practitioners from across the African continent. This immersive experience is anticipated to equip them with knowledge and expertise that will significantly enhance their abilities in serving and safeguarding their communities.

The Sierra Leone Police (SLP) takes great pride in sending its officers to participate in international training programs. This not only underscores the expertise of its personnel but also underscores the commitment of the Sierra Leone Police Force to continuously improve and stay aligned with global best practices in law enforcement.

Fayia Sellu’s decision to invest in the professional development of these four officers is a testament to his commitment to cultivate a Police Force that is well-prepared to address contemporary challenges and uphold the principles of community-oriented policing, human right, and effective leadership.

The Sierra Leone Police Force remains steadfast in its dedication to providing its officers with opportunities for growth, equipping them with the requisite tools and knowledge to ensure the safety, security, and well-being of the people of Sierra Leone.

Amb. Anthony Navo Inspires Awardees at the US AWOL Achievement Awards

By Amin Kef-Ranger

The 2nd September, 2023 was a very momentous day as one of the most progressive organizations existing in living memory, AWOL, held a grand celebration of exceptional individuals who have left an indelible mark, uplifted communities and driven progress during the AWOL Annual Achievement Awards in America.

The event, which was held at the Arundel Live Casino Ballroom in Maryland, saw the presence of esteemed guests, fellow Sierra Leoneans, and the distinguished Global Chairman of AWOL, Amb. Anthony Navo Jnr.

Amb. Anthony Navo Jnr, in his role as the Global Chairman of AWOL, delivered a heartfelt address that resonated with the essence of the event. He extended a warm welcome to all attendees, emphasizing the importance of honoring those who excel and make a positive impact in society.

This year’s event held a special place in the hearts of attendees, with diverse backgrounds coming together to celebrate excellence. Amb. Navo expressed his deep gratitude to AWOL America, its Executive team and members for their unwavering commitment to preserving the AWOL spirit. He acknowledged their commendable efforts in “Putting Salone Fos,” or advancing Sierra Leone.

The event featured esteemed guests and performers, including the renowned comedian from Sierra Leone, Richie of Obama. Amb. Navo welcomed them warmly into the AWOL family.

AWOL, an acronym for “All Works of Life,” has evolved into a global development organization dedicated to educational initiatives that contribute positively to society. It engages in various projects, including cultural entertainment programs, accessible healthcare, education, sustainable development, and internationally coordinated efforts aimed at poverty alleviation and sustainable progress.

Amb. Navo underscored the uniqueness and inspiration of the AWOL brand. Not only does it unite Sierra Leoneans, but it also provides a profound opportunity to give back to their beloved nation. AWOL plays a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of role models, instilling positive mindsets, and driving positive change.

Founded in 2001 under the leadership of the late President Dr. Ahmed Tejan Kabbah, AWOL has exhibited remarkable resilience and longevity. It has the potential not only to endure indefinitely but also to steer transformative change for Sierra Leone.

One of AWOL’s significant achievements is the establishment of AWOL Chapters in the Diaspora, including the USA, the UK, Europe, Australia, and ongoing efforts in Africa, with The Gambia working towards establishing its own AWOL Chapter.

Amb. Navo emphasized that AWOL belongs to all Sierra Leoneans, not a select few. It is a collective effort, and the organization’s ideals will continue to be carried forward by future generations.

In Sierra Leone, the AWOL parent body encountered challenges since the last organization of the National Achievement Awards in 2019. However, Amb. Navo announced the return of these prestigious awards later in December. The National Achievement Awards are an annual celebration that acknowledges the contributions of individuals and communities, aiming to promote excellence, hard work, and dedication in both public and private service.

To mark AWOL’s return, the organization provided meals to homeless children in Makeni, commemorating the Day of the African Child on June 16th, 2023. AWOL remains steadfast in supporting the Government of Sierra Leone and the nation’s development.

Amb. Navo reminded everyone of Sierra Leone’s status as one of the most peaceful nations on earth, despite its history of conflict. He stressed the importance of unity and a shared purpose to develop the beloved country.

The Annual Achievement Awards ceremony was a night of celebration, honoring nominees and eventual winners. Amb. Navo encouraged attendees to savor the evening, celebrate excellence, and inspire others to rise and shine.

The event concluded with a message of gratitude and a heartfelt blessing for all attendees.

Amb. Anthony Navo Jnr continues to play a pivotal role as the Global Chairman of AWOL, contributing to the organization’s mission of fostering positive change and development in Sierra Leone and beyond.

Netpage SL Adheres to ICAO’s New Passport Design Standards

By Amin Kef-Ranger

In a significant stride towards enhancing international travel and security standards, Sierra Leone’s E-Passport has successfully met the rigorous requirements set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). Since 2015, the dedicated service provider, Netpage SL Ltd, has been diligently adhering to the ICAO’s new book design standards.

One notable milestone in this journey was the transition from machine-readable passports (MRP) to electronic passports (e-passports) in 2022. This shift not only modernized the passport system but also introduced electronic upgrades for expedited processing of biometric data. Currently, e-passports are in use for ordinary, diplomatic, and service books.

In a recent development, Netpage SL Ltd, in collaboration with the Government of Sierra Leone and international partner, HID Global, has further elevated the e-passport system. This upgrade includes the incorporation of new security features and a higher-grade chip, a revelation made public by Henley and Partners.

As a testament to these advancements, Sierra Leone’s passport ranking has surged by 10 places, reaching the 74th position in 2023. Within the sub-region, Cote d’Ivoire secured the 79th spot, while Guinea and Liberia followed closely at 80th and 87th, respectively.

Netpage SL Ltd has consistently fulfilled its contractual obligations and is actively expanding its service centers in key locations such as Bo, Makeni, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America.

For those seeking a Sierra Leone passport, the official price remains at Two Thousand Two Hundred Leones (equivalent to 100 US dollars), aligning with the Bank of Sierra Leone’s exchange rates.

Prior to these achievements, both Parliament and various Civil Society Organizations conducted extensive investigations into Netpage’s operations, particularly scrutinizing the company’s contract agreement with the Government of Sierra Leone. These investigations have affirmed Netpage’s legitimacy to operate within the country.

Min. Kenyeh Barlay Affirms Govt’s Commitment to SDG Alignment with Big 5 Initiatives  

By Amin Kef-Ranger

Madam Kenyeh Barlay, the Minister of Planning and Economic Development, on the 31st August, 2023 delivered the keynote address at the Sierra Leone Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Acceleration Roadmap consultation during an event that was held at the Sierra Bay Hotel in Freetown which was geared towards capturing stakeholders’ insights and expertise for the creation of a robust roadmap towards achieving the SDGs by 2030.

The one-day workshop saw participation from development partners, Government Ministries, private sector representatives, Civil Society Organizations and Local Councils. The goal was to enhance and finalize the draft SDGs Acceleration Roadmap, which aligns with the upcoming Successor National Development Plan 2024-2028.

Peter N. Sam-Kpakra, Development Secretary at the Ministry of Planning & Economic Development (MoPED), expressed gratitude for the United Nations Country Team’s involvement and emphasized the importance of the consultation in advancing Sierra Leone’s progress.

Dr. Babatunde Ahonsi, United Nations Resident Coordinator, welcomed attendees and highlighted the upcoming UN Sustainable Development Goals Summit scheduled for September 18th-19th, 2023. The summit aims to reinvigorate efforts to achieve the SDGs globally and focus on ambitious political declarations, national commitments, and UN-led initiatives.

Dr. Ahonsi addressed the need for collective action due to the gradual progress of SDG implementation worldwide. He urged active participation to ensure Sierra Leone’s presence and contributions at the summit.

Minister Kenyeh Barlay acknowledged the challenges posed by the ongoing pandemic and existing inequalities. She stressed the importance of resilient strategies to overcome such obstacles and maintain progress towards the SDGs further highlighting Sierra Leone’s commitment to aligning the SDGs with the Big 5 Game Changers initiatives of the 2023 Peoples Manifesto promises of H. E. President Julius Maada Bio, designed to promote national development priorities.

In her call to action, Madam Barlay invited representatives from various sectors to contribute their perspectives, enabling the creation of a practical and comprehensive SDGs path.

She emphasized that the workshop marked the beginning of a transformative journey towards a more equitable and prosperous Sierra Leone and the world.

“While we engage in discussions regarding Sierra Leone’s SDG Acceleration Roadmap, it is imperative that we factor in the necessity of robust strategies capable of enduring the aforementioned shocks, thus guaranteeing the uninterrupted advancement. Through the convergence of expertise spanning various sectors, we can confidently assert that the roadmap will effectively tackle pressing challenges and establish the bedrock for consistent, sustainable progress across a wide spectrum of developmental domains, steering us towards the envisioned future,” said Minister Barlay.

Hon. Musa Fofana, a Member of Parliament, commended the Ministry for the laudable move in coordinating State actors in the implementation of the SDGs in Sierra Leone. He highlighted Parliament’s role in the process and stated efforts employed by Parliament in providing oversight and expressed commitment to supporting the process.

Valnora Edwin, Chairperson of the African Women Leaders Network-Sierra Leone Chapter, representing Civil Society Organizations, emphasized the vital role of Non-State actors in the SDGs process and called for increased collaboration.

Dr. Sheka Bangura, Director of Planning, Policy, and Research, provided an overview of the workshop’s objectives and the SDGs Acceleration Roadmap, encouraging attendees to participate actively in working groups.

As Sierra Leone strives to accelerate progress towards the SDGs, the consultation signifies a pivotal moment of collaboration and dedication towards a sustainable future.

1...492493494...1,363Page 493 of 1,363