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With $76, 135 Project Launch… Rotary Club & Well Women Clinic Join Forces to Combat Cervical Cancer

By Foday Moriba Conteh

During a snappy ceremony held on Saturday 26th August, 2023 at the Well Women Clinic, on Congo Cross in Freetown, the Rotary Club of Calgary West, Canada and Rotary Club of Freetown  launched a project titled: “Cervical Cancer: Screening, Diagnosis and Treatment for Women in Sierra Leone.”

The project which seeks to screen and treat 4,000 women with Cervical Cancer in Freetown and Bo District, within a period of two years, will be implemented by the Well Woman Clinic MEP Trust with support from the Rotary Club of Calgary West, Canada and Rotary Club of Freetown.

Welcoming the gathering, the Chief Executive Officer at Well Women Clinic, Jennifer Renner-Thomas applauded Rotary Club of Calgary West, Canada and Rotary Club of Freetown for choosing her clinic to implement the project in the country.

She said that the Well Woman Clinic was born out of love, adding that before her sister died from breast cancer her wish was to make known to everybody in the country about the importance of early detection , furthering that since the establishment of the Clinic they have been working tirelessly towards fulfilling her wish.

Jennifer Renner-Thomas noted that the Clinic has already started its Cervical Cancer program but said with the support from Rotary they are going to do much more, adding that the Clinic’s Cervical Cancer initiative include awareness, screening but said with this partnership between the Well Woman Clinic and Rotary, through the project, such will increase Cervical Cancer: screening, diagnosis and treatment for Women in the country.

The President of Rotary Club of Freetown, Sybil Bailor, said that the Rotary International President-elect, R. Gordon R. McInally ,announced Rotary’s theme for this year, “Create Hope in the World,” stating that the goal is to restore hope to help the world heal from destructive conflicts and to help achieve lasting change.

“What better way to bring hope to the women of Sierra Leone than  Cervical Cancer: Screening, Diagnosis and Treatment for Women in Sierra Leone Project that we will be embarking on for the next two years,” she maintained.

Sybil Bailor said Rotary is delighted to partner with the Well Woman Clinic towards the implementation of the project in the country.

During her presentation on the project, a member of  the Rotary Club of Calgary West, Dr. Nketti Johnston-Taylor, said the project, which is worth about 76,135.00 United State Dollars is geared towards developing and implementing a sustainable, effective, accessible, and affordable Cervical Cancer screening and treatment in the country based on WHO guidelines that fits within the local context and will be implemented in Freetown and Rural Areas (Bo).

Commenting on the objectives of the training, she said as part of the Project, medical staff and community health workers will be trained on how to screen, treat and monitor  (early detection training).

Dr. Nketti Johnston-Taylor said that the Project will also enhance raising awareness at community level on Cervical cancer, its causes, different stages, screening, and treatment availability and building screening and diagnostics capabilities at the Well Woman Clinic including the introduction of the HPV rapid testing – Using the GeneExpert (1hr) and visual Inspection of the Cervix Using Acetic Vinegar (VIA) and finally building the treatment capabilities at the Clinic of Cervical Cancer using thermo coagulation using the Liger thermal coagulator.

Underscoring the reach of the program, she said, the project is expected to last for 2 years during which a minimum of 70 medical and health workers (approx., 35 in Freetown and 35 in Bo) will be trained.

The Member of Rotary Club of Calgary also disclosed that through the project 4000 women in Bo and in Freetown will be screen for cervical cancer (approx., 1,500 in Bo and 2,500 in Freetown), provide effective treatment via Coagulation to every woman that test positive to the HPV and VIA screening and that the project will target women experiencing poverty, widows, persons living with HIV/AIDs, child-headed households, and single mothers and other marginalized women.

CEMMATS Group Wraps Up Public Disclosures for ARISE IIP’s Koya Chiefdom Projects

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

CEMMATS Group has successfully finalized two rounds of public disclosures related to the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) report for the ambitious projects undertaken by ARISE Integrated Industrial Platforms(IIP) in Koya Chiefdom  within the Port Loko District in accordance with the country’s legal provisions .

The validation of the ESIA report marks a significant milestone in paving the way for the realization of extensive industrial complexes by Arise IIP in that region. These forthcoming factories are poised to generate substantial employment opportunities, particularly for the burgeoning youth demographic of Sierra Leone.

The public disclosure events were held consecutively, with the first event taking place in Songo on August 23, 2023, followed by the second event in Port Loko on August 24, 2023. Notable attendees at the Songo Workshop included representatives such as the Chiefdom Speaker of Koya Chiefdom, acting on behalf of the Paramount Chief who is currently in London.

Additionally, the Member of Parliament (MP), Honorable Kanu, local Section Chiefs from the Babai and Modorma Sections within the project area, Town Chiefs from the five communities encompassing the project area, and leaders of youth and women’s groups from these communities were all present.

During the discourse, Honorable Kanu articulated his view that the project’s benefits extend beyond the confines of Koya Chiefdom, positively impacting the broader Port Loko District and contributing to Sierra Leone’s overall economic landscape. Kanu underscored that the venture’s potential to foster employment opportunities for the youth is complemented by its capacity to position Koya Chiefdom as a pivotal player within the national economy.

The commitment demonstrated by ARISE IIP to conduct a comprehensive Environmental and Social Impact Assessment was highlighted by Honorable Kanu as indicative of the company’s earnest intentions. He emphasized that ARISE IIP is not solely focused on reaping benefits from the region but is genuinely dedicated to enhancing the well-being of Sierra Leone’s populace.

Throughout the proceedings, the business entity elucidated their operational framework while CEMMATS provided detailed insights into the ESIA report.

Participants actively engaged in discussions, with inquiries predominantly centered on land acquisition, compensation for agricultural losses, employment prospects, and the envisaged community development initiatives that ARISE IIP is poised to implement within those localities.

The successful culmination of these public disclosure events marks a pivotal juncture in the journey of ARISE IIP’s transformative projects in Sierra Leone. As the nation eagerly anticipates the constructive developments that these initiatives will usher in, the commitment to sustainable growth and community well-being remains at the forefront of this collaborative endeavor.

Tamba S. Dauda’s Dual Role Sparks Debate over Applicability of Legal Norms

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a striking legal dilemma that has ignited discussions within administrative circles, concerns have arisen over whether an individual can effectively hold the position of both Professional Head and Director of Surveys & Lands. The scenario involves Tamba S. Dauda, who, despite a recent promotion to the esteemed role of Professional Head, continues to retain his Directorship of the Surveys & Lands Division within the Ministry of Lands, Housing, and Country Planning.

The Surveys & Lands Division, a pivotal arm of the Ministry, holds critical responsibilities encompassing land surveying, mapping, and management of state lands. This division plays a central role in overseeing licensed surveyors, as well as approving survey plans for both state and private lands. Given its crucial role in land allocation, the division’s leadership is expected to maintain the highest standards of integrity.

Tamba S. Dauda, holding Pin Code No. 108114, has been at the helm of the Surveys & Lands Division since his appointment in 2021. However, his career trajectory recently propelled him to Grade 12, a promotion bestowed upon him by the Human Resource Management Office (HRMO), thus designating him as a Professional Head within the Civil Service.

The crux of the matter stems from the intricate legal provisions governing such appointments. As per the Surveys Ordinance, Cap 128, the roles of Director, Deputy Director, and Assistant Directors are reserved for Grade 11 Civil Servants. With his elevation to Grade 12, Dauda’s eligibility to maintain his Directorship of Surveys & Lands becomes a subject of contention.

Notably, within the civil service framework, Grade 12 status automatically bestows the title of Professional Head upon an individual. Nevertheless, the Ministry of Lands, Housing, and Country Planning lacks a provision for a Professional Head in the Surveys & Lands Department. Such titles are typically found in Ministries like Works and Social Welfare.

A paramount fact remains: the Department of Surveys & Lands exclusively recognizes positions such as Director of Surveys & Lands, Deputy Director, Assistant Directors, and Senior Officers. The designation of Professional Head has never existed within this department.

A pivotal query emerges: Why is Tamba S. Dauda persisting in his Directorship role even after his promotion to Professional Head? By legal standards, Dauda’s elevation to the latter role automatically disqualifies him from continuing as the Director of Surveys & Lands. Technically, this should render the Directorship position vacant, yet Dauda’s occupancy remains unchanged.

This paradox has not gone unnoticed, sparking concerns over its alignment with the legal fabric governing land and survey roles. Furthermore, the legitimacy of simultaneously holding these two distinct positions has been brought into question. According to provisions in the Public Service Act, a Professional Head is expected to supervise Directors in specific Ministries. This raises the perplexing inquiry of how Tamba Dauda can fulfill the dual responsibilities of both a Professional Head and a Director, potentially overseeing his own role.

Efforts to obtain clarifications from Tamba Dauda on this unusual arrangement proved unsuccessful, as he remained unresponsive to calls and messages seeking his insights.

This complex situation is set to be monitored closely by this medium, with updates to be provided in subsequent editions as the story develops.

Chief Justice Appoints 23 Judges to Expedite 802 Cases

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The legal landscape is gearing up for the third iteration of the “Access to Justice Through Judicial Week,” an initiative aimed at enhancing legal access and alleviating congestion in Correctional Centers. Scheduled from August 28th to September 8th, 2023, this event is set to make a substantial impact.

To achieve this ambitious goal, the highly esteemed Chief Justice, His Lordship Justice Desmond Babatunde Edwards, has taken a strategic step by designating twenty-three (23) Judges to preside over a total caseload of 802. The distribution includes 441 cases earmarked for hearings in Freetown and an additional 361 cases across various provinces.

Offenses being addressed encompass a broad spectrum, ranging from severe charges such as murder, aggravated robbery, and sexual offenses, to comparatively minor transgressions including theft, burglary, and vandalism. The extensive list also incorporates charges of assault, embezzlement, fraudulent conversion, and other legal matters.

Within this caseload, a significant subset comprises 189 cases in which both the accused individuals and victims have eluded identification. Among these cases, sexual offenses account for a substantial 85 instances. Dubbed “no-trace” cases, they relate to situations where accused parties were granted bail but have since vanished along with their guarantors, or instances where complainants have opted to retract or reach a compromise.

Demonstrating an unwavering commitment to promoting equitable access to justice, the assigned Judges will facilitate a platform for the accused parties to present their cases. This proactive approach aims to expedite proceedings, potentially curbing prolonged pre-trial detentions.

Chief Justice, His Lordship Justice, Desmond Babatunde Edwards, emphasized, “Our mission centres on delivering timely justice and expeditiously resolving all cases within our courts. Despite administrative hurdles, the Judiciary remains steadfast in its dedication to serve justice to those who transgress the law.” He further expounded, “The Access to Justice Through Judicial Week serves as an alternative channel to address cases that have stagnated due to various reasons. This initiative not only addresses correctional facility congestion but also tackles the backlog of cases stemming from absent accused individuals or witnesses. Coupled with the strain caused by a substantial judge-to-population ratio, albeit improved, we extend our gratitude to the UNDP for their collaboration in supporting this pivotal process.”

Chief Minister Romances with Original Ataya Base Members

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Chief Minister, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, on the 26th August, 2023, paid a surprised and an unprecedented visit to the Ataya Base located at the crossroads of Regent Street and Sackville Street within the Central Business District during which he actively engaged the youths.

Dr. Sengeh immersed himself in discussions at what he referred to as the “Original Ataya Base” which comprises university lecturers, school teachers, entrepreneurs, and young individuals, serving as a melting pot of diverse perspectives.

Discussions held spanned from security and drug-related issues to employment opportunities and gender concerns. The Chief Minister revealed appreciation for the Base’s motto, “Na We All Get Salone,” which in his view underscores collective ownership and pride in Sierra Leone.

Dr. Sengeh dilated on President Bio’s pivotal five-point agenda, often referred to as the Big Five particularly highlighting forthcoming advancements in youth empowerment and food security over the next few years.

Elated by the unexpected visit, members of the Ataya Base expressed gratitude to the  Chief Minister Sengeh for reaching out to their community with some of them exhibiting total astonishment especially for the simple fact that  no senior political figure had engaged with them outside the context of election campaigns.

They pledged to be law abiding and peaceful, expressing hope for more harmonious interactions with the Government in the future.

Dr. Sengeh applauded their resilience and peaceful conduct during the June 24th elections. He underscored the shift from political activities to the pursuit of collective progress. Urging the youth to join hands with the President in national development, Dr. Sengeh extended gratitude for their warm reception during his impromptu visit.

Concluding his visit, Dr. Sengeh cautioned against substance abuse, notably emphasizing the dangers of Kush, a prevalent issue among the nation’s youth. He reiterated that a drug-free younger generation would pave the way for prosperity.

This unannounced visit by Chief Minister Sengeh underscores a new era of direct engagement between the Government and  the youth, with potential implications for the nation’s development trajectory.

Labour Minister Engages Stakeholders to Address Workers’ Concerns at Stadium Rehabilitation Site

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security, Mohamed Rahman Swaray, has conducted an inspection at the National Stadium Rehabilitation site in Freetown on the 25th August, 2023. The Minister’s visit was prompted by concerns raised by Sierra Leonean workers, represented by the Indigenous Workers’ Union.

He engaged with stakeholders to discuss safety, wages and working conditions further assuring that swift action will be instituted to address the concerns raised as well as emphasizing the dual significance of productivity and workers’ welfare.

The Minister held comprehensive discussions with officials of the Ministry of Sports that are directly responsible for providing oversight over the rehabilitation project. He also conferred with the leadership of the GANSU Construction Company, the Chinese enterprise responsible for the execution of the project, as well as with the Sierra Leonean workforce directly involved in the project.

Central to these conversations were the concerns raised by the Indigenous Workers’ Union, primarily focusing on safety of workers and the general working conditions. Gaps highlighted encompassed issues ranging from non-compliance with the national minimum wage to inadequate provision of medical facilities, shortages of personal protective equipment, and apprehensions regarding payment modalities.

In a direct address to the workforce, Minister Swaray underscored his responsibility to ensure both their safety and equitable compensation. He reaffirmed President Dr. Julius Maada Bio’s commitment to facilitating dignified employment opportunities for all citizens. Minister Swaray assured the workers that the Government hold their well-being in high regard, recognizing the populace as the nation’s most valuable asset.

The Minister pledged prompt resolution of the raised concerns through collaborative consultations with all pertinent stakeholders. He personally guaranteed his dedication to the welfare of the workforce, stating, “The President wants me to address your concerns as soon as possible. I want to assure you that we will care for your welfare.”

However, Minister Swaray also urged the workers to carry out their responsibilities conscientiously and highlighted the significance of punctuality. He emphasized that productivity and workers’ welfare were jointly vital for the project’s success.

He committed to frequent site visits to oversee progress of the project demonstrating his unwavering dedication to effectively addressing the issues highlighted by the Indigenous Workers’ Union.

The Minister’s visit and subsequent dialogues with stakeholders underscore the Government’s commitment to upholding labour rights and ensuring projects are executed within safe and equitable environments.

As the National Stadium Rehabilitation project advances, expectations are high that the concerns raised by the workforce will be swiftly and effectively resolved, nurturing a positive work atmosphere that prioritizes workers’ welfare and sustains elevated safety standards.

Harvard Ministerial Program Concludes Case Study on Sierra Leone’s GEWE Act

By Foday Moriba Conteh

President, Julius Maada Bio, signed into law the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Act (GEWE), in January 2023 which is a ground-breaking piece of legislation that reserves a significant 30 percent quota for women in governance positions. This move has garnered attention both domestically and internationally, positioning Sierra Leone as a trailblazer in advancing gender equality.

To delve into the intricacies and implications of this transformative Act, the Harvard Ministerial Leadership Program at Harvard University, has on Friday 25th August, 2023 concluded a six-day intensive case study shedding light on the intricacies of the enactment process of the GEWE Act by the Government of Sierra Leone.

Throughout the in-depth study, the Senior Program and Research Coordinator at the Harvard Ministerial Leadership Program, Harvard University, Benita Kayembe conducted interviews with key stakeholders which include the President of the Republic of Sierra Leone His Excellency Julius Maada Bio, the Speaker, Parliament of Sierra Leone, Dr. Chernor Abass Bundu, the Head of Office- UN Women , Madam Setcheme Mongbo, Deputy Leader of Government Business II, Hon. Emerson Lamina who was the Opposition Leader for the Coalition for Change Party(C4C) in Parliament of Sierra Leone, the President of the Parliamentary Female Caucus, Hon. Nenneh Lebbie, Activist and Lawyer Nicky Spencer Coker and the pioneer of the Act, the former Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs now Minister of State, Office of the Vice President, Madam Manty Tarawalli who championed the development and enactment of the Act etc.

Speaking to this medium, the former Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs now Minister of State, Office of the Vice President, Manty Tarawalli, who during her tenure as Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs championed the enactment of the Act, shared her insights
during the study.

According to her, she was fortunate during her tenure as Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs to attend the Harvard Ministerial Leadership Program which supports Government Ministers, with pivotal economic and human development related responsibilities, to exercise purposeful leadership and achieve transformative policy goals.

She maintained that due to her outstanding performance at her former office, the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs, especially on the enactment of the Gender Equality and Women Empowerment (GEWE) Act that the Harvard Ministerial Leadership Program at Harvard University wrote to her and requested the opportunity to conduct a case study on the process that she employed in leading the enactment of a Gender Equality and Women Empowerment (GEWE) Act.

The Minister pointed out that other countries have over the years failed to enact such legislation but said Sierra Leone now stands tall in that regard adding that such was made possible because of the presidential will, her dedication to the process and the collaboration she was able to develop and sustain throughout the entire process.

She commended the enactment of the GEWE Act by Parliament as a very important milestone in the empowerment of women in the country, adding that due the law, the country now has 41 Female Ordinary Members of Parliament, 10 Ministers and 11 Deputy Ministers under the second term of His Excellency, President Julius Maada Bio.

Manty Tarawalli concluded by describing the Act as a pivotal step forward in promoting gender equality and women’s active participation in decision-making processes with a ground-breaking provision that reserves 30 percent of governance positions for women, furthering that the Act addresses historical gender imbalances that have persistently hindered women’s representation in various spheres of influence in the
country.

On her part, the Senior Program and Research Coordinator at the Harvard Ministerial Leadership Program, Benita Kayembe who conducted the case study revealed that the Harvard Ministerial Leadership Program at Harvard University gives a number of serving Ministers of Finance, Economic Planning, Education, Health, and other Ministers with human development related responsibilities from Africa, Southeast Asia, and Latin America a unique opportunity to step back from their daily duties, reflect on and re-evaluate their priorities in an environment of constructive challenge and peer interaction, and map out their legacies in contributing to advancing human development and economic progress in their countries.

She maintained that the Forums practically focused and discussion-based are informed by case studies and the experiences of former and long-serving Ministers from around the world, adding that it in that spirit that she came to Sierra Leone to conduct a case study
on the enactment of the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Act (GEWE) by the Government of Sierra Leone. She revealed that Madam Manty Tarawalli is an alumnus of this program and during her time at the Program she identified the enactment of the GEWE Act as her legacy goal and now that she has met her goal, the program wants to study how she did it.

Benita Kayembe added that the Harvard Program case study seeks to explore and analyse how the then Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Manty Tarawalli and her stakeholders were able to negotiate a bill that challenges human perfection in society commencing from a policy, to a bill and then enactment into law. She said part of the study involved interviewing various stakeholders including the proponents and the opponents in the country.

The Senior Program and Research Coordinator said that from her finding’s the former Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Manty Tarawalli, played a pivotal role in the process of enactment of the Act, adding that Sierra Leone becomes one of the few countries to have a law that gives women 30 percent quota in governance of which she applauded the Government of Sierra Leone.

She further lauded the former Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Manty Tarawalli for championing the Law and for her tenacity in sustaining the enactment process. She also maintained that the unwavering leadership demonstrated by the President was a big contribution towards the enactment of the law.

She concluded by stating that in September this year the Harvard Ministerial Leadership Program at Harvard University will be holding its usual forum which will be attended by selected serving Ministers from Africa, Southeast Asia, and Latin America, adding that the case study on the enactment of the Sierra Leone’s GEWE Act will be shared with them in order to learn from it.

NP-SL Leads the Way in Professional Marketing of Petroleum Products

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The NP – Sierra Leone Limited (NP-SL Ltd) stands as a prominent institution, renowned for its proactive approach in providing top-tier petroleum solutions to meet the nation’s energy needs. Offering a comprehensive range of quality petroleum products, including petrol, diesel, gas, and lubricants – featuring the highly sought-after Castrol lubricant oil – NP-SL Ltd has positioned itself as a cornerstone in ensuring energy security for the country.

At the core of NP-SL Ltd’s operations is a commitment to transparency and customer satisfaction. The company’s dedication to delivering reliable and high-quality products has earned it a reputation for excellence among its valued customers. With an efficient and customer-centric approach, NP-SL Ltd has managed to build strong relationships with its clientele.

The company’s extensive workforce and network of distributors play a crucial role in bringing its diverse range of petroleum products to the market. This strategic approach not only drives the company’s growth but also aligns with the national development agenda.

Gone are the days when consumers would voice concerns about unfair practices at fuel stations. Thanks to NP-SL Ltd’s forward-thinking initiatives, such as the implementation of modern calibrated pumping machines at its stations, customers now receive accurate quantities of fuel and fair pricing. This commitment to precision and honesty has led NP-SL Ltd to earn the coveted accolade of “1st For Customer Care.”

A recent countrywide survey, conducted to gauge public opinion on NP-SL Ltd’s operations, unveiled a positive sentiment among a large percentage of its customers. The company’s management and shareholders were applauded for their effective service delivery and dedication to customer satisfaction. Prominent social commentator Mohamed Bai Sesay noted that NP-SL Ltd has set an exemplary standard for customer care in the nation’s business landscape.

Experts in development economics emphasize the importance of nurturing local content for sustainable economic growth. Abdulai Braima, a seasoned economist, lauded NP-SL Ltd’s policy of exclusively employing Sierra Leoneans as a commendable step towards empowering the local workforce and enhancing living standards. He noted that this approach aligns with the ethos of utilizing domestic resources for production and self-sufficiency.

NP Gas, a cooking device offered by NP-SL Ltd, has gained popularity for its efficiency and eco-friendliness. Customers expressed satisfaction with the performance of NP Gas devices, which come in various sizes and are available at affordable prices through the company’s Filling Stations. Businesswoman Memunatu Forna attested to the popularity of NP Gas, noting its swift adoption due to its ease of use and ready availability of refills.

The NP Smart Card has become a trendsetter in convenient purchasing of petroleum products. Users highlighted its usefulness in streamlining transactions, eliminating the need for cash payments. This innovation has notably eased the process of buying fuel, with engineer Musa Kalokoh praising its effectiveness.

As NP-SL Ltd expands its presence into neighboring countries such as Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast, and The Gambia, its remarkable growth journey is undeniable. The company’s thriving operations across these branches underscore its resilience and commitment to regional energy needs.

It can be safely affirmed that NP-SL Ltd is not only a successful business entity but also a beacon of socio-economic contribution to the nation. With its unwavering focus on customer satisfaction, transparent operations, and dedication to local empowerment, NP-SL Ltd sets an inspiring example for others to follow in Sierra Leone’s journey toward progress.

JIT Capital Group to Broaden Investment in SME Financing

The importance of upholding a well-defined legal and professional framework was emphasized by the Chairman of JIT Capital Group’s Advisory Board of Directors, Dr. Jessie Porter, in a pivotal gathering on the 24th August, 2023.  Such a framework, it was highlighted, would bolster the company’s operational longevity and sustainability.

The recently rebranded group convened for its second Board meeting at the Bintumani Hotel in Aberdeen engaging in deliberations concerning various promising business prospects.

Dr. Ezekiel Duramany-Lakkoh, the CEO/President of JIT Capital, articulated the group’s vision: to forge a pioneering Financial Institution poised to revolutionize the landscape of SME operations. The core mission involves establishing a financing pathway that supports both existing enterprises and nascent ventures through credit and venture capital initiatives.

Central to JIT Capital’s strategy is the SME Development Program, an initiative designed to collaborate closely with Governmental and private entities. This program aims to facilitate improved access to essential business development services for small and medium enterprises within Sierra Leone. By doing so, the program seeks to bolster productivity, enhance competitiveness among SMEs in the nation, and facilitate expansions into both domestic and global markets.

Integral to the execution of this endeavor is the utilization of the “Journey to Excellence” (J2Ex) model, a widely adopted system that has proven successful in various SME development initiatives globally.

Reliable sources have disclosed that JIT Capital’s Microfinance arm received official clearance from the Financial Intelligence Unit, along with the necessary approval from the Bank of Sierra Leone. These endorsements have paved the way for the initiation of new business activities aligned with the company’s strategic objectives.

SiLNoRF Conducts Two-Day Training on Business, Human Rights & Peace

By Abu Bakarr Munu, Communication Officer at SiLNoRF

A comprehensive two-day training program was commenced by the Sierra Leone Network on the Right to Food (SiLNoRF), in collaboration with SWEDWatch. The training was aimed at equipping community participants with essential knowledge in business, human rights, and peace. The event took place on Wednesday at the Mankind Activity for Development Accreditation Movement (MADAM) Conference Hall in Makeni.

The training session was graced by esteemed members from the upper management of SWEDWatch, a Swedish-based human rights organization. Jessica Johansson, holding the positions of Program Officer and Project Manager, along with Madeleine Goni Stoctenberg, Head of Resources (Finance and Human Resources) at SWEDWatch, were present to witness the initiative. This collaborative project, executed by SiLNoRF in Sierra Leone and Green Advocates in Liberia, is geared towards fostering sustainable peace across the West African sub-region.

The program’s primary objective revolves around bolstering the capacity of community participants, with a special emphasis on women, a vulnerable group in society. The training encompasses vital aspects of business, human rights, peace, and the environment. Attendees from communities across the nation, particularly those impacted by the activities of multinational mining and agro-based companies, actively participated.

The training not only served as a pivotal endeavor by SWEDWatch to engage with Sierra Leone in matters concerning business, human rights, peace, and the environment but also served as a prelude to the formulation of the National Action Plan (NAP) addressing those areas, scheduled for launch in 2024.

Lansana H. Sowa, Head of Programs at SiLNoRF, extended a warm welcome to the participants and provided insights into the training’s rationale. He highlighted the deliberate focus on women due to their heightened vulnerability within these communities.

Sowa delved into an explanation of human rights, elaborating on the significance of the 2007 Gender Laws, which encompass the Customary and Divorce Act, the Devolution of Estate Act, and the Domestic Violence Act. He drew connections and distinctions between human rights and women’s rights, shedding light on these critical nuances.

Jessica Johansson, representing SWEDWatch, emphasized that the training’s essence lies in exploring the intersection between business and human rights. The goal is to shed light on the violations and abuses of these rights within the operations of multinational corporations. Johansson emphasized that raising awareness and advocating on behalf of affected communities is of paramount importance in addressing these issues.

Abass J. Kamara, Deputy National Coordinator (DNC) of SiLNoRF, echoed the training’s significance and elucidated the array of human rights instruments that safeguard these fundamental rights.

As this training initiative gained momentum, it was anticipated that participants will emerge equipped with a deeper understanding of the intricacies surrounding business, human rights, and peace, poised to advocate for positive change in their respective communities.

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