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Guma Valley Hosts Ghanaian Delegation for Strategic Partnership in Water Supply Advancements

A productive collaborative effort between the Ghana Water Company Limited and VEI (Netherlands) reached its culmination as a six-member delegation from the Low-Income Customer Support Department concluded a 5-day working visit to the Guma Valley Water Company. This initiative falls under the European Union Water Operators Partnership Program (EU-WOP), a program centered on fostering mutual support, knowledge exchange, and capacity enhancement among water and sanitation operators.

The visit, marked by a commitment towards achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 6 of universal access to clean water and sanitation, aimed to bolster the operational efficiency of utilities.

The Chief Manager of Ghana Water’s Low-Income Customer Support Department, Faustina Boachie, highlighted that the main objective of the visit was to aid in the transformation of the Community Services Unit of Guma Valley Water Company into a distinct Department.

She emphasized, “Enhancing visibility of low-income customers within a utility directly correlates with the quality of service they receive.”

Acknowledging the substantial progress made through the EU-WOP partnership, Boachie stressed that the visit aimed to ensure alignment with predefined goals and delivery of agreed-upon outcomes. The extensive training provided to staff members of both Ghana Water and Guma Valley over the past year was lauded by Boachie, who expressed optimism in the positive influence of these training initiatives on the functioning of the Community Services Unit.

Krijn Driessen, the Project Manager of the EU-WOP, underscored the significance of establishing a department to attract external funding, citing a notable example of UNICEF’s interest in replicating the Ghana model in Sierra Leone and emphasized the prerequisite of a department for such endeavors.

Responding to the partnership’s objectives, Ing. Maada S. Kpenge, Managing Director of Guma Valley Water Company, emphasized the company’s core commitment to improving water supply services for urban populations with limited financial resources.

She stressed the need for innovative approaches to meet the water needs of low-income communities, while highlighting Guma’s efforts to integrate the Community Service Unit with Peri-Urban services.

The culmination of the visit witnessed the finalization of Financial Plans for Years 1 and 2 of the partnership, the establishment of a financial transaction recording model, an assessment of Guma’s corporate structure, and a knowledge-sharing session on forming a dedicated Community Services Department. In addition to internal discussions, the delegation engaged with representatives from the European Delegation in Sierra Leone and UNICEF, discussing strategies to fortify the capacity of Guma’s Community Services Unit.

The visit’s practical dimension involved on-site evaluations of service delivery models in communities such as Kroo Bay and Collier Compound (Juba). These evaluations aimed to identify the most effective approaches to cater to the unique needs of each community.

With this successful visit’s conclusion, the collaborative efforts of Ghana Water Company Limited and VEI under the EU-WOP program are poised to make significant strides in enhancing water supply capabilities for marginalized urban communities. The commitment to sustainable development remains steadfast, as these operators continue to work towards equitable water access for all.

 

New Parking Regulations Raise Concerns Among Garage Owners in Sierra Leone

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

In a recent press release issued on August 17, 2023 by the Sierra Leone Police, introduces a set of new parking regulations have ignited concerns among garage owners who rely on public roads to conduct their businesses. The regulations, effective on 1st September, 2023, prohibit the parking of vehicles, motorcycles, and tricycles on public roads. Furthermore, garage owners are now forbidden from utilizing any part of the roads to store their vehicles. The announcement stresses the importance of removing all abandoned or under-repair vehicles from the roads.

The implementation of these regulations has sparked anxiety and uncertainty among garage proprietors who heavily depend on these spaces for their livelihoods. Owners have come forward to voice their apprehensions regarding their future prospects.

Osman Bangura, owner of a longstanding tricycle garage on Black Hall Road, has conveyed his worries about the sudden changes. He highlights that the garage provides gainful employment to young individuals, offering an alternative to engaging in illicit activities.

He expresses shock at the press release and contemplates the feasibility of sustaining his business and supporting his employees’ families if relocation is mandated. In a plea directed towards the government, he appeals for an extended transition period considering the current economic adversities faced by the nation.

Foday Brima Kella, operator of a motorbike garage in Dwarzark, concurs with the need to abide by the law and the directives of the authorities.

He implores the government to take into account the living conditions of garage workers, for whom the garages serve as their primary income source.

Foday Brima Kella notes the loyalty of their clients and the familiarity they have with the garages’ presence in the area. Despite their desire to comply, the new regulations leave them feeling disempowered. Kella, drawing from his own nearly two-decade experience, underscores the significant impact of these abrupt changes and entreats the government for leniency, urging a reconsideration of the regulations’ strict enforcement.

Alhaji Alieu Barrie, proprietor of a garage in Lumley, voices his commitment to adhering to the law and acknowledges the unchallengeable authority of the legal system. He underscores the vital role of garages in sustaining their lives and those of their families. Barrie emphasizes that the vehicles parked outside his garage are usually temporary, not intended for prolonged stays. He beseeches the government to recognize their circumstances and extend the compliance timeframe, asserting that the current window is insufficient to make the necessary adjustments.

As Sierra Leonean garage owners unite in expressing their concerns regarding the newly introduced parking regulations, their fears of financial instability loom large. Their collective appeal to the government hinges on a plea for understanding, support, and a pragmatic consideration of their living conditions and the economic challenges facing the nation. They hope for a possible extension of the implementation period to enable a smoother transition into compliance.

NCRA DG Hails President Bio’s CRVS Commitment

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a heartening tribute to the unwavering dedication of President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, the Director General, National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA), Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi has illuminated the exceptional commitment demonstrated by the President His Excellency Julius Maada Bio towards enhancing Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (CRVS) in the country.

He expressively extolled President Bio’s remarkable determination and tenacity, highlighting his resolute pursuit of achieving UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Target 16.9 by 2030. This pivotal target, which aims to provide legal identity to all, including birth registration, stands as a testament to President Bio’s visionary leadership and his recognition of the paramount importance of ensuring every individual’s right to a recognized identity.

The Director General’s commendation further underscored President Bio’s role as a trailblazer in championing the CRVS cause within the African landscape. By prioritizing the development and modernization of CRVS systems, President Bio has demonstrated a profound understanding of the long-term benefits that accurate and reliable civil registration systems can bring to societies.

Massaquoi expressed deep gratitude to the President for his unwavering support, acknowledging the crucial backing that has paved the way for advancements in the CRVS arena. Additionally, he lauded the collaborative efforts between the Government, the European Union (EU), UNICEF, Irish Aid, UNDP, UNFPA, Plan International, and other esteemed development partners. These collective endeavors have played an instrumental role in steering the transformation of traditional, paper-based registration methods towards efficient and digitized frameworks.

The Director General’s tribute took center stage during the auspicious 6th Commemoration of Africa CRVS Day on August 10, 2023. Under the theme “The potential to increase coverage, improve quality and timeliness of data through digitalization of civil registration systems,” the event served as an apt platform to celebrate and honor President Bio’s contributions as a steadfast advocate for robust CRVS practices.

In essence, Director General Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi’s sentiments resonated deeply, illuminating the profound impact of President Bio’s commitment to advancing CRVS in Africa. The President’s enduring efforts stand as an exemplar of visionary leadership that recognizes the vital role of accurate civil registration in empowering individuals and fostering societal progress.

Navigating New Waters: A Glimpse into my first week as an Intern at CGG

By Aminata Benk-Sankoh

In a remarkable leap from university final exams to the realm of activism, Aminata Benk-Sankoh chronicles her initial days as an intern at the Campaign for Good Governance (CGG), a prominent non-governmental organization championing transparency, accountability, and good governance. Founded in the wake of Sierra Leone’s inaugural multi-party democratic elections in 1996, CGG has been an influential advocate for political and societal reforms.

Brimming with eagerness to learn and contribute, Aminata stepped into her role with CGG, eager to immerse herself in the organization’s impactful endeavors. Having researched CGG’s history, which counted esteemed figures like Madam Zainab Hawa Bangura and Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh as part of its legacy, Aminata felt the weight of the opportunity she had seized.

Her inaugural day commenced with a serendipitous email from her supervisor, Mr. Sahr Kendema, just as she prepared for her ride to the office. An invitation to her first task set the stage for a day full of novelties and surprises. A misjudged meeting timing caused initial flusters, but Aminata’s determination triumphed over the unexpected hiccup. Eager to make her mark, she participated in a UN meeting, symbolizing a longtime aspiration realized.

Intriguingly, Aminata’s second day exhibited a distinct calmness. Nestled within her private office space, she reveled in the solitude and delved into a world of captivating books. A hunger pang led to a lesson in self-sufficiency, as she pored over the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Act. Lunch brought a short but rewarding escape to Chicken Town, and the day unfolded with a tranquility that fueled her reflections on her purpose in joining CGG.

With each day came fresh challenges and revelations. Through conversations with her supervisor, Mr. Kendema, Aminata deepened her understanding of CGG’s history, mission, and values. Purposeful meetings and discussions pushed her to explore her potential and the ways she could contribute to the organization’s goals. The weeks ahead promised growth not only in her technical prowess but also in her interpersonal skills and problem-solving abilities.

Aminata’s journey at CGG went beyond her individual growth; it also encompassed the bonds she formed with her colleagues. The dynamic environment, though initially unfamiliar, transformed into a platform for connection and impact. As she looked ahead, Aminata anticipated a profound immersion into the industry’s nuances and complexities.

As Aminata wrapped up her first week at CGG, she shared her outlook for the future with a blend of enthusiasm and anticipation. The weeks ahead held the allure of honing her skills, unraveling industry intricacies, and fostering invaluable relationships with her peers. Aminata’s journey had merely begun, and she stood ready to embrace the path unfolding before her, both as a committed intern and a burgeoning advocate for good governance.

Partnering to Serve Humanity Concludes 3-Day Flood Mitigation at Kroo Bay

 

 

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The collaborative efforts of Partnering to Serve Humanity Consortium, consisting of Tzu Chi Foundation, Healey International Relief Foundation, Lanyi Foundation, and Caritas Freetown, culminated in a three-day Flood Mitigation Exercise aimed at enhancing flood preparedness and resilience in the Kroo Bay Community. The initiative, which encompassed activities such as cleaning and awareness-raising, concluded on Tuesday, 29th August 2023.

The Flood Mitigation Exercise was meticulously crafted by the Consortium to equip Kroo Bay residents with crucial skills and knowledge essential for effectively responding to and mitigating flood-related risks.

Senesie Koroma, Project Team Lead at the Disaster Management Project at Caritas Freetown, emphasized that this endeavor exemplified the Consortium’s commitment to safeguarding citizens and enhancing community resilience, revealing that the Consortium had been apprised by the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) about the impending heavy rains in Sierra Leone and neighboring countries, classified as a level 4 hazard. Following this alert, the consortium initially aimed to implement flood mitigation projects in seven communities. Due to financial constraints, the focus shifted to the Kroo Bay Community.

He stated that the flood mitigation effort was specifically designed to alleviate the vulnerability of Kroo Bay from flooding, a long-standing issue for the community. Through raising awareness, imparting preparedness measures, and advocating for rapid and effective response strategies, the three-day initiative empowered residents to take proactive measures in safeguarding lives and property.

Senesie Koroma said that raising awareness about flood risks, teaching preparedness measures, and promoting swift and effective response strategies are very important towards ending flooding in communities, noting that the 3 days flood mitigation exercise has empowered residents to take proactive steps in safeguarding their lives and property.

He said the entire exercise was done in collaboration with the community stakeholders, stating that the specific areas for the exercise were identified by the community.

Senesie Koroma concluded by calling on residents to support the flood mitigation exercise by taking heed of the flood mitigation awareness raising in order to mitigate flood within their community.

The Deputy Chairman of the Kroo Bay Community, Mohamed Thonkla Koroma, lauded the Consortium for its dedicated engagement and noted the tangible outcomes that had already emerged.

Mohamed Thonkla Koroma emphasized that the cleaning of main drainages during the exercise had a direct impact on the community’s resilience. Despite heavy rain on Sunday, 27th August 2023, there were no reported incidents of flooding due to the proactive measures taken during the three-day initiative.

He earnestly called on the Consortium to continue their flood mitigation efforts, recognizing the positive influence it had on the community’s vulnerability to flooding.

Many voices within the community commended the collaborative spirit of the Consortium, hailing the success of the flood mitigation initiative as a testament to the power of uniting diverse organizations under a shared mission.

The effective coordination among Caritas, Tzu Chi, Healey Foundation, and Lanyi Foundation underscored the potential for significant positive change when driven by compassion and a common goal. This partnership’s pragmatic solutions and active community engagement provide an inspiring example, particularly in a country like Sierra Leone grappling with escalating environmental challenges.

The Flood Mitigation Exercise conducted in Kroo Bay Community serves as a testament to the tangible impact that coordinated efforts can have on vulnerable populations, ensuring their safety, well-being, and long-term resilience.

Caritas Freetown & CRS Engage Waterloo Youths

By Alpha Good Kamara

In a joint effort, Caritas Freetown Justice and Peace Commission, in partnership with the Christian Relief Service (CRS) and with backing from the UN Peace Building Fund, organized a one-day peace rally for the youth of Waterloo. The event took place on August 26th, 2023, under the theme: “Empowering Youth for a Prosperous, Unified, and Peaceful Sierra Leone.” The rally, aimed at raising awareness about the importance of peace among young people, commenced at Tombo Junction and culminated at the 555 Parking Ground Community Centre in Waterloo, located in the Western Rural District.

Hindolo John Langba, the Monitoring and Evaluation Officer at the National Council for Civil Education and Democracy, highlighted the core mission of the commission. He emphasized that their focus is on promoting the rights and responsibilities of young individuals. Established through a parliamentary declaration by President Bio, the National Council for Civil Education and Democracy is now a formal commission. Langba expressed concern over the lack of civil education among the youth, citing it as a significant factor that contributed to Sierra Leone’s 11-year civil war. Even two decades later, issues of violence persist in areas of peace and security, youth engagement, community advancement, politics, and decision-making.

Langba stressed the commission’s duty to ensure that young people are aware of their rights and responsibilities. He emphasized the importance of youth participation in governance structures and their entitlement to live in a secure society where personal safety and property are safeguarded. Access to education and healthcare, along with the capacity to foster community and personal development, are also integral rights that he outlined. He urged the youth to balance their rights with responsibilities, cautioning against solely focusing on rights and neglecting their duties. This imbalance, he noted, often makes them susceptible to manipulation by unscrupulous politicians or misinformation on social media. Langba encouraged the youth to remain focused, determined, and dedicated to realizing their dreams, thereby transforming their rights into tangible realities.

Langba acknowledged governmental efforts to provide essential infrastructure such as electricity, schools, and hospitals. He emphasized that the youth’s responsibility is to protect and preserve these resources rather than engage in destructive actions during protests. He advocated for universal commitment to maintaining peace, love, and unity, stressing that negative influences from politicians and certain segments of society can lead youth towards violence.

Marie Bangura, Chairperson of the Western Area Rural District Youth Council, warmly welcomed and applauded the youth for successfully conducting peaceful and credible elections. She recognized their pivotal role in reducing tensions and fostering an environment conducive to fair and democratic elections. Bangura attributed the newfound sense of security and safety to the youth’s dedication to peace and nonviolent elections, alongside Caritas’ efforts in promoting peaceful electoral processes. She narrated the positive shift in perception, stating that the district, once classified as a high-risk “red zone” for violence, has now transformed into a participant in the peace rally. Bangura urged unity among the youth, emphasizing their current leadership status and their collective determination to prevent any manipulation by politicians to undermine their communities, public offices, or healthcare facilities. Concluding her address, she invoked a call for unity, pledging loyalty and love to Sierra Leone as the means to ensure a peaceful and harmonious future for all its citizens, regardless of their ethnic backgrounds.

Man went missing after ‘poro society’ elders declare him wanted

By Mohamed Karbgo

20 years old Mohame Fofanah has been reported missing after he was declared wanted by certain members of the Poro Society. According to investigations conducted by this medium, Fofanah was declared wanted because he declined to take his ‘rightful’ position as head of society the secret society.

Poro is one of the major male secret societies in Sierra Leone that has members in all walks of life in the country. The leadership of the Poro Society is, however based on inheritance within specific families in the country. Those families command significant respect and feared in the areas where the society operates, especially in the rural areas.

At old age, each head of the society is expected to present to the general membership the son that will inherit his position after his demise. Mohame Fofanah’s father was the head of the Poro Society at Kayiama Village in Kono District, a mantle the family has held for generations.

Speaking to the media, Kumba Kamara younger sister to Fofanah’s late mother narrated that her nephew was living with his grandmother in Freetown but on a certain date in July 2023, he called and told her that the elders of the poro society had informed him that he has been chosen by his father to inherit his position as leader of the society.

She said Fofanah told her the elders had asked him to travel to the village for short initiation ceremony that will allow him to begin to sit by the sides of his old father and learn the process.

“The boy confides in me that he was not interested in being a member of the Poro Society not to talk of taking a position as head. I drew his attention to how dangerous declining the elders request could be and the consequences that could follow. But the boy had already made up his mind,” Kumba explained.

Kumba recalled one morning in early August 15, 2023 when she received a distressful call from her mother whom Fofanah was living with in Freetown that Fofanah has not returned home for more than four days, noting that she reach out to some family members in Freetown but none of them said they have seen him.

“I immediately called his father at the village to confirm that he had travelled to the village, she said. “His father replied that they are expecting him, but they have not seen him.
Many other people including one Alusine, his childhood friend confirmed is not in the village, Kumba added.

Kumba said she decided to contact the media and call for government attention because she is of the view that members of the poro society had kidnapped the boy and forced him to become a member of the society against his will.

“We have had cases wherein many boys have been kidnapped, taken into the initiation bush and be initiated against their will, and many have lost their lives through the process. This is the third week we have not seen him or know his whereabouts,” she said

Unjustly Vilifying Dr.Gilpin

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a manner reminiscent of Aesop’s fable, recent events have cast a spotlight on the allegations surrounding Dr. Ekundayo Walton Gilpin, the esteemed Managing Director of Sierra Leone’s prominent financial institution, Rokel Commercial Bank (RCBank). The narrative surrounding these accusations draws parallels to the fox’s sour grapes rationalization – when unable to attain his desires he rationalizes by deeming them undesirable. In this contemporary context, videos circulating on social media have taken aim at RCBank, accusing it of disbursing inaccurate or insufficient funds to its clientele.

However, it is crucial to discern the veracity of such claims in relation to Dr. Gilpin’s character and the bank’s reputation. It is widely acknowledged that Dr. Gilpin’s standing far exceeds the realm of these trivial allegations. Observers closely tracking RCBank’s trajectory can readily affirm that he would not countenance such improprieties. Should he possess knowledge of these allegations, he is anticipated to promptly investigate their authenticity, potentially leading to decisive consequences for those implicated.

These allegations surface during a pivotal juncture, as Dr. Gilpin and his dedicated team labor assiduously to perpetuate the transformation of RCBank into a paragon of trustworthiness and profitability within Sierra Leone’s financial landscape. This elevation of RCBank’s standing invariably invokes the envy of competing commercial banks throughout the nation. One cannot discount the possibility that these attempts to besmirch RCBank’s reputation and its MD stem from the ranks of its competitors.

In a nation like Sierra Leone, few occurrences truly astonish, and skepticism often shrouds events of this nature. Moreover, additional claims assail RCBank and Dr. Gilpin, alleging a refusal to furnish audit reports. This assertion rings not only ludicrous but also malevolent. Dr. Gilpin, a distinguished financial expert, comprehends the vital importance of meticulous financial record-keeping. The notion that he would deliberately withhold a document detailing the bank’s progress and financial matters seems both audacious and nonsensical.

To those habituated to tarnishing the reputation of diligent members of society, a cautionary note resounds – the scales of justice eventually tip towards retribution. Conversely, Dr. Gilpin remains unfazed by the viral proliferation of these attacks on RCBank’s reputation across social media platforms. Grounded in his devout Christian beliefs, he perceives these attacks as motivational forces, fortifying his determination to uphold RCBank’s lofty status, credibility, and transparency.

Behind these allegations lies an insidious narrative – the orchestrations of certain individuals within and outside RCBank who harbor ulterior motives. Their intent is twofold: to divert the focus of the diligent Managing Director and his committed team, while concurrently eroding the bank’s reputation and integrity. However, a prevailing belief in divine justice persists, ensuring that those responsible for these machinations will eventually be exposed.

In conclusion, as we navigate this narrative , it is imperative to view these allegations against Dr. Gilpin and RCBank through a lens of critical scrutiny. Their responses to these challenges, guided by unwavering determination and a commitment to transparency, will undoubtedly shape the trajectory of RCBank’s future. In the grand scheme of things, the approbation of President Bio, a testament to Dr. Gilpin’s accomplishments, remains the ultimate vindication of his character and efforts.

Africell & Mercy Ships Rekindle Relationship  

Management of “Global Mercy Ships” on the 25th August, 2023 expressed appreciation  for the continued support of one of the telecommunications service providers in the country, Africell – Sierra Leone.

Manager of Global Mercy Ships, Andreas Zimmergren, was very enthusiastic in meeting with the Management of Africell Sierra Leone expressing hope that they will work earnestly to build a solid healthy relationship.  He further pointed out that it is a pleasure working with Africell, affirming that despite being away from the country, Africell has always been in close contact with them adding that their coming back to Sierra Leone shall be a win-win situation and the people of Sierra Leone shall benefit from their services.

According to one of the personalities onboard the Mercy Ships they will be in the country for another ten months, and during that period it is expected that they continue with the bilateral relationship they have nurtured with Africell Sierra Leone. They consider the company a “faithful friend and partner.”

The Manager of Africell Media, John Konteh tells his story about Mercy Ships way back in 1991. According to him he was suffering from chromium deficiency adding that he could recall that when he took the drugs the doctor offered he felt relieved. John also recalled  when  Mercy Ships docked  back in 2000 after the war  he was part of the welcoming team and  a drummer of the music group that welcomed their arrival.

“My elder brother worked for Mercy Ships before he left for the States, so I am a living testimony of Mercy Ships,” John added.

The Africell Radio Station Manager, Abdul Karim Sesay, disclosed the huge collaboration with local media houses while encouraging their partner Mercy Ships not to hesitate to contact him whenever they need help with media coverage as he will coordinate it for them.

He also assured Mercy Ships of a mutually beneficial relationship further promising to look forward to working with Mercy Ships within these ten months, reiterating that Africell is mobile service provider nearly targeting six million people further maintaining  that they are very impressed with the good work of Mercy Ships.

Lands Ministry Implicated in Alleged Land Grabbing Scheme

By Ibrahim Alusine Kamara

The Minister of Lands, Dr. Turad Senesie, has been implicated by one Alpha Conteh, a Sierra Leonean, residing in the diaspora who alleges that with the knowledge and tacit involvement of the Minister, he was deprived of  a 4-acre parcel of land along Peninsular Road in Tokeh within the Western Rural District .

Alpha Conteh explained of how legally he gained ownership of the said piece of land over a decade ago further revealing that he bought it from one Alhaji Slowe, who was at that time the Tokeh Headman stressing that he is in possession of  all the requisite documents pertaining to the land in question.

He continued by intimating how he decided and agreed to sell one acre of the piece of land with the LS number 3559/12  since it was for the  sole purpose of constructing an educational institution.

Alpha Conteh stated that of late he was shocked to learn that his land was now deemed to be Government property, a claim which he said emphatically said he will contest with documentary evidence. He claimed that upon his return to Freetown he went to make certain clarifications at the Ministry of Lands but to his chagrin he was directed to contact an unknown fellow by the name of Noah Fornah at a hotel.

He said when he contacted Fornah he was told to forgo half of his land so that an amicable settlement will be strike to which he stoutly opposed lamenting how what followed next was the demolition of a fence he has erected. Alpha said it was later realized that the land has been allocated to various individuals he does not know thereby losing the entire piece of land that he formerly possessed.

According to him, he took the matter to court to seek redress adding that
the Minister  not only dismissed his ownership claims but instructed him to write a letter after which he will consider assigning him an alternate piece of land.

In a dejected mood, Alpha accused the Minister of complicity in depriving him of his land as he displayed supporting documents, including conveyances, a Police report, a Ministry chart indicating private ownership, an independent surveyor’s encroachment report, and registration receipts.

Responding to the allegation, , the Communications Specialist at the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Country Planning, Abdul Fonti Kabia, said it is an open secret that Government was making efforts to reclaim  State lands that were illegally acquired in the Western Area Rural communities, including Tokeh. He said there is no sufficient evidence to substantiate Alhaji Slowe’s ownership claim.

He continued that since the matter is before the court he will decline to comment further on the issue.  However, Alpha insisted that the former Tokeh Headman, Alhaji Slowe, from whom he secured the land will attest that he bought the disputed piece of land from him.

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