Speaker of Parliament Calls on Opposition to Set Aside Politics and Resume Parliamentary Duties

March 27, 2026

The Rt. Hon. Speaker of Parliament, Segepoh Solomon Thomas, on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, convened a crucial meeting with the opposition leadership in a bid to address the ongoing boycott of parliamentary sittings and restore full legislative participation.

The high-level engagement, held at Parliament, focused on encouraging the opposition to resume their roles in legislative proceedings, amid growing concerns over the impact of their absence on governance and national decision-making.

Speaking during the meeting, the Leader of the Opposition, Abdul Kargbo, explained that the opposition’s withdrawal from parliamentary activities was prompted by dissatisfaction surrounding the appointment of Edmond Alpha as the new Chief Electoral Commissioner. He emphasized that the opposition remains firm in its position that the appointee should not be involved in the conduct or supervision of the 2028 general elections.

In response, Speaker Segepoh Solomon Thomas appealed to the opposition leadership to set aside partisan differences and return to Parliament in the interest of national development. He stressed that decisions made by the executive arm of Government should not warrant a boycott of the legislature, noting that Parliament operates as an independent arm of governance with its own constitutional responsibilities.

The Speaker further urged opposition Members of Parliament to explore alternative and constructive means of expressing dissent, rather than disengaging entirely from parliamentary duties. He reminded them of their electoral mandate, emphasizing that they were chosen by the people of Sierra Leone to represent their interests and contribute meaningfully to governance.

Highlighting the urgency of legislative work, Speaker Segepoh Solomon Thomas pointed to several constitutional amendment bills currently pending before Parliament. He described the moment as historic and called on the opposition to actively participate in shaping critical national reforms.

He also expressed appreciation to the opposition leaders for honoring his invitation and engaging in dialogue, assuring them that he would communicate the outcome of the discussions to Julius Maada Bio. According to him, a holistic and inclusive approach is necessary to resolve the current impasse and strengthen democratic governance.

The meeting is widely seen as a significant step toward easing political tensions and reinforcing parliamentary democracy in Sierra Leone. It underscores the Speaker’s commitment to fostering bipartisan cooperation and ensuring that Parliament remains functional and representative.

Observers believe the outcome of the engagement could pave the way for the opposition’s eventual return to parliamentary sittings, promoting a more inclusive legislative process and enabling collective action on pressing national issues.

The engagement was facilitated by the Parliamentary and Public Relations Department of the Parliament of Sierra Leone.

U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Jared Yancey Engages Local Leaders, Youth in Bo to Strengthen Bilateral Ties

March 27, 2026

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The United States of America Embassy in Freetown has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening diplomatic and development cooperation with Sierra Leone following a high-level visit to Bo District by Chargé d’Affaires Jared M. Yancey on Wednesday, March 25, 2026.

The visit formed part of ongoing efforts by the United States to deepen its relationship with Sierra Leone through direct engagement with local authorities and communities. During the visit, the Chargé d’Affaires held strategic discussions with Bo District Council Chairman, Victor Hindowa Korseh and Bo City Mayor Kobba Musa, focusing on issues central to governance, economic growth and local security.

The engagements underscored the importance of working closely with grassroots leadership to ensure that U.S. support and collaboration are effectively tailored to meet the needs of communities. By strengthening local institutions, both countries aim to create enabling conditions for lawful trade, sustainable investment and enhanced regional stability.

As part of his itinerary, Jared M. Yancey also met with Peace Corps Volunteers and American citizens residing and working in Bo District. He commended their continued contributions to fostering people-to-people connections and advancing shared development goals between the United States and Sierra Leone.

In a further demonstration of U.S. commitment to youth empowerment, the Chargé d’Affaires visited the Bo American Corner, where he engaged young people in an interactive dialogue centered on leadership, civic responsibility and opportunities for personal and professional growth. The session provided a platform for open exchange, highlighting the enthusiasm, creativity and potential of Sierra Leonean youth.

The discussions also emphasized the critical role young people play in shaping the country’s future and the need for sustained investment in their development through education, mentorship and access to opportunities.

Through the Bo visit, the United States reiterated its dedication to strengthening community ties, promoting inclusive development, and building a resilient partnership with Sierra Leone. The engagements reflect a broader diplomatic approach aimed at fostering mutual prosperity, supporting democratic governance and enhancing cooperation at both national and local levels.

SLCAA DG Graces Opening of Sierra Leone Civil War Museum, Calls for Unity and Healing

March 27, 2026

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), Madam Musayeroh Barrie, on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, joined national stakeholders and citizens to witness the grand opening of the Sierra Leone Civil War Museum, a historic and symbolic space dedicated to remembrance, reconciliation and learning from the country’s past.

The opening ceremony marked a significant moment in Sierra Leone’s post-war journey, as the museum stands as a powerful tribute to the lives affected by the civil conflict and a platform for educating future generations on the importance of peace and national unity.

Speaking at the event, Madam Musayeroh Barrie expressed deep honour in being part of the occasion, describing the museum as a vital national institution that reinforces the country’s commitment to healing and collective memory. Reflecting on the legacy of the Sierra Leone Civil War, she emphasized the need for continued efforts toward unity and peaceful coexistence. “As we reflect on the Sierra Leone Civil War, may we continue to promote peace, unity and national healing,” she stated.

Her presence at the event underscores the broader role of national institutions in supporting initiatives that strengthen social cohesion and reinforce shared national values. The museum is expected to serve not only as a memorial site but also as an educational resource that will inspire dialogue, understanding and reconciliation across communities.

Meanwhile, the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority continues to demonstrate strong leadership in another critical area of national development; aviation safety and security. The Authority recently completed a comprehensive three-day Aviation Security (AVSEC) Risk Matrix Review held from March 16 to 18, 2026, at the Freetown International Airport.

The high-level exercise brought together key stakeholders, including the Office of National Security (ONS), the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), the Sierra Leone Police (SLP), Immigration authorities, airport operators and Aviation Security service providers. The review focused on reassessing emerging threats, identifying operational vulnerabilities and strengthening preparedness within the aviation sector.

At the end of the exercise, participants successfully developed and validated an updated and harmonized 2026 Aviation Security Risk Matrix tailored specifically for the Freetown International Airport. The revised framework is designed to enhance proactive threat detection, improve coordinated responses and support intelligence-led decision-making processes across the aviation system.

Officials of the Authority noted that the updated matrix introduces a more dynamic and threat-sensitive approach, enabling stakeholders to anticipate, prevent and mitigate risks before they escalate. It also allows for the efficient deployment of resources to priority areas, thereby improving overall effectiveness in aviation security operations.

A key outcome of the review was the strengthening of inter-agency collaboration among institutions operating within the airport environment. Enhanced coordination is expected to improve communication, intelligence sharing and joint response mechanisms, contributing to a more unified and resilient aviation security structure.

The Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority emphasized that the updated AVSEC Risk Matrix reflects its continued commitment to safeguarding the country’s airspace through proactive and intelligence-driven strategies, in line with international standards and global best practices.

The Authority further highlighted ongoing advancements within the sector, including the installation of modern SIMFOX security systems and the implementation of Best Practices for Security Equipment inspection training, both of which have strengthened the capacity of aviation security personnel.

With sustained investments in safety systems, training and international collaboration, coupled with national engagements such as participation in the Civil War Museum opening, the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority continues to play a pivotal role not only in securing the nation’s skies but also in supporting broader national values of unity, remembrance and progress.

Modern Fitness, Real Results—Royal Fitness Leads the Way

March 27, 2026

A new wave of health consciousness is sweeping across Sierra Leone and at the forefront of this movement is Royal Fitness, a dynamic gym facility that is rapidly transforming the fitness landscape in Freetown. Strategically situated along the busy Peninsular Highway in Juba, the centre has emerged as a leading destination for individuals seeking structured, high-quality and results-driven fitness training.

Royal Fitness has distinguished itself by offering more than just a traditional gym environment. It presents a complete wellness experience tailored to meet the needs of a diverse clientele, including professionals, students, athletes and first-time fitness enthusiasts. The facility continues to attract a growing membership base, driven by its reputation for professionalism, innovation and consistent results.

What sets Royal Fitness apart is its commitment to delivering a world-class training environment. The gym is equipped with state-of-the-art machines sourced from globally recognized manufacturers such as Technogym, Panatta of Italy and Arsenal Strength of the United States. This investment ensures that members benefit from safe, modern and highly effective workout equipment comparable to international standards.

Equally impressive is the calibre of its coaching team. Certified trainers work closely with members to develop personalized fitness programmes that align with individual goals, whether focused on weight management, muscle building, endurance or overall health improvement. This tailored approach has become a defining feature of the gym’s success, fostering measurable progress and long-term commitment among its members.

Royal Fitness has also earned strong public approval, reflected in its notable 4.5-star rating on Google. Many clients commend the facility’s cleanliness, well-organized layout and welcoming atmosphere. The professionalism of staff and the supportive community culture have further reinforced its position as one of the most trusted fitness centres in the capital.

Beyond physical training, the gym embraces a holistic approach to wellness. Members have access to a wide range of programmes, including strength training, cardiovascular workouts, functional fitness and group exercise sessions. In addition, emphasis is placed on flexibility and injury prevention through guided stretching routines, ensuring balanced physical development.

The facility’s vibrant atmosphere is enhanced by its unique blend of fitness and entertainment. Operating under the slogan “Where strength meets rhythm,” Royal Fitness incorporates music-driven workouts and periodically hosts themed sessions featuring guest DJs. These energetic events have proven especially popular among young people, turning fitness into an engaging and socially rewarding experience.

Royal Fitness has also built a strong digital presence, with a growing Instagram community of over 17,000 followers. Through engaging content, workout tips and success stories, the platform serves as both a motivational hub and a reflection of the gym’s expanding influence.

Convenience remains a key advantage, with the facility operating daily and extending hours up to 11:00 p.m., allowing members to train at times that suit their schedules.

Looking ahead, Management is set to roll out a comprehensive wellness initiative in 2026 focused on preventive healthcare. This programme will integrate fitness training with nutrition guidance and lifestyle education, further reinforcing the gym’s commitment to improving the overall wellbeing of Sierra Leoneans.

As interest in healthy living continues to grow nationwide, Royal Fitness stands as a powerful symbol of modern fitness excellence, setting new standards and inspiring a healthier generation.

For membership and enquiries, Royal Fitness can be reached on (+232) 90 001000.

Afrimoney Launches “Tap 2 Pay” Card, Rolls Out Tross Fuel Credit for Keke & Okada Riders

March 27, 2026

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Over 200 media professionals on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, converged at a high-profile “Chop and Chat” Media Engagement hosted by Afrimoney, marking the official launch of its innovative “Tap 2 Pay” card, a new digital payment solution designed to transform transactions across the country, while also setting the stage for broader financial innovations aimed at strengthening both the media sector and key areas of the national economy, including transportation.

The event, described as one of the largest gatherings of media practitioners in Sierra Leone this year, brought together journalists, editors, broadcasters and communication experts to engage directly with Afrimoney on its expanding mobile money services and its role in driving economic growth and financial inclusion, with strong emphasis placed on the intersection between media sustainability and economic empowerment.

At the center of the engagement was the unveiling of the “Tap 2 Pay” card, a contactless payment solution that enables users to pay for goods and services by simply tapping their card on a Point of Sale (POS) terminal, an innovation expected to significantly enhance transaction speed, convenience and security, while supporting the country’s gradual shift toward a cashless economy.

Speaking at the event, Afrimoney’s Marketing Director, John Konteh, emphasized the company’s commitment to customer-centered innovation, noting that the introduction of the Tap 2 Pay card reflects Afrimoney’s vision of delivering solutions that prioritize ease, safety and reliability for its users, stressing that the company is not only focused on profitability but also on creating meaningful impact in people’s daily lives.

“Today, we are leaving our footprints in the sands of time. At Afrimoney, we do not only innovate and sell products for profit; we place our subscribers at the center of everything we do. This Tap 2 Pay card has been specifically designed to provide comfort, safety, durability and reliability,” he stated.

In a detailed presentation, Afrimoney’s Chief Executive Officer, Martison Obeng-Agyei, introduced the functionality and benefits of the new card, highlighting its potential to improve customer experience and strengthen the foundation for digital and cashless transactions in Sierra Leone, while also underscoring the importance of collaboration with the media in promoting such innovations.

He disclosed that journalists present at the event were among the first to receive the cards, allowing them to test the system firsthand and provide feedback, noting that the media remains a critical partner in driving public awareness and adoption of digital financial services.

“Today, we are giving you these cards to experience how they work. Your feedback is important to us and we believe you will also help share this innovation with the wider public across Sierra Leone and beyond,” he said.

Also addressing the gathering, the Media Relations Manager of Africell Sierra Leone, Abdul Karim Sesay, placed strong emphasis on the broader role of the media in society and the economy, stating that the engagement provided an opportunity to reflect on media and society and more broadly the relationship between media and the economy. He noted that when designing products, the company considers media independence, sustainability and how journalists can practice their profession in a dignified manner.

He explained that Africell and Afrimoney have developed a product known as “Afri Credit,” which provides salary advance opportunities for reporters, adding that through arrangements approved by Managing Editors and Station Managers, journalists can access a portion of their salaries after fifteen working days, thereby easing financial pressures within the profession.

According to him, such innovations are intended to help transform the mindset of the media industry, as Africell believes that empowering journalists is essential to national development, emphasizing that the media plays an integral role in national safety and security and that access to information and financial support helps shape a more reliable and informed society.

He further stated that the introduction of the Tap 2 Pay card also ensures convenience for journalists in the execution of their duties, affirming that Africell remains a reliable partner to the media.

On behalf of the President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), Alhaji Manika Kamara, who was unavoidably absent, the Secretary General, Edward Marah, in his remarks, acknowledged the longstanding relationship between Africell and the media, noting that the partnership has yielded significant benefits for journalism in Sierra Leone and expressing optimism for even stronger collaboration in the future, while commending the company for its sustained investment in media development.

The engagement also featured contributions from the Head of Strategic Communications Unit at the Ministry of Information and Civic Education, Abubakarr Joe Sesay, highlighted the importance of responsible journalism in amplifying innovations that contribute to national development.

In another new development, Afrimoney on Thursday, March 26, 2026, launched a new digital credit service, “Tross Fuel,” at the Africell Headquarters in Wilberforce, Freetown, targeting Keke and Okada riders who form a vital part of the country’s transport system.

Speaking at the launch, Afrimoney Chief Executive Officer, Martison Obeng-Agyei, explained that the Tross Fuel service is designed to support riders with access to fuel equivalent to three litres at the start of their workday, allowing them to operate even in the absence of immediate cash, with repayment expected later the same day, thereby addressing a key operational challenge within the transport sector.

He noted that Sierra Leone’s economy is heavily dependent on fuel and that fluctuations in global fuel prices have increased pressure on transport operators, adding that limited access to fuel can disrupt mobility, trade and access to essential services, making the Tross Fuel initiative a timely intervention to sustain daily economic activity.

According to him, the service is powered by AfriCredit, a credit institution licensed by the Bank of Sierra Leone and requires users to have an Africell SIM card, maintain an Afrimoney wallet and belong to a recognized transport park, while also obtaining a Tap to Pay card through their park leadership.

He clarified that once a rider requests the service, the monetary value of three litres of fuel is loaded onto the Tap to Pay card for use at partner fuel stations, with no cash involved, ensuring transparency and accountability through SMS confirmations linked to the user’s wallet.

Martison Obeng-Agyei further disclosed that the service carries a four percent charge based on prevailing fuel prices and guarantees access to fuel regardless of price fluctuations, noting that the initiative has already been rolled out in Makeni and would be available in Freetown from March 27, 2026.

Corporate Sales Manager Alfred Lavalie also highlighted the role of AfriCredit in expanding financial inclusion, explaining that users can access services by dialing *161# and selecting financial options, while referencing additional offerings such as salary advance facilities for salaried workers coordinated through employers.

He emphasized that both AfriCredit and Afrimoney are focused on delivering simple, accessible and impactful financial solutions, adding that the Tross Fuel service introduces efficiency at fuel stations through tap-to-pay functionality and structured end-of-day settlements.

The combined rollout of the Tap 2 Pay card and Trust Fuel service reflects Afrimoney’s strategic approach to innovation, not only enhancing digital payment systems but also addressing real-life economic challenges, reinforcing its position at the forefront of Sierra Leone’s evolving financial ecosystem, where technology, media empowerment and economic resilience are increasingly interconnected.

Generals Entity FBC & Capitol Foods Provide Refreshments to Over 1,000 FBC Matriculants

March 27, 2026

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a bid to support student welfare and enhance the matriculation experience for first-year students, the Generals Entity at Fourah Bay College (FBC), in collaboration with Capitol Foods, on Thursday, March 26, 2026, provided refreshments to over 1,000 newly admitted students during the matriculation ceremony held at the Fourah Bay College Amphitheatre.

The support package included Sierra Juice, Sierra Water and other refreshments, which were distributed to matriculating students after signing the University Register, marking their official admission into the college.

In his address, Moreh Tarawallie, Coordinator of the General Entity at Fourah Bay College, noted that the initiative was aimed at welcoming newly admitted students and helping them develop a sense of belonging as they begin their academic journey at the college, while also complementing the efforts of the college administration.

He emphasized the importance of supporting students during major academic milestones, particularly matriculation, which marks the formal entry of students into university life. He added that, as an entity, they believe every student matters regardless of background or circumstance.

Moreh Tarawallie further expressed gratitude to Capitol Foods for partnering with the entity to provide refreshments to students, noting that the support has gone a long way in enhancing the matriculation experience.

Delivering a message to newly admitted students, he welcomed them to Fourah Bay College and encouraged them to remain focused on their academic goals. He urged them to avoid distractions, maintain discipline and make effective use of available academic support systems to ensure the successful completion of their studies.

Cecilia I.P. Koroma, Marketing Officer at Capitol Foods, expressed delight in partnering with the Generals Entity to contribute to the success of the matriculation ceremony at Fourah Bay College. According to her, the donation forms part of the company’s commitment to supporting education and youth development across Sierra Leone through community engagement and Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives.

She noted that Capitol Foods remains one of the country’s leading producers of 100 percent natural fruit juice and bottled water, with products including Sierra Juice and Sierra Water. Cecilia I.P. Koroma encouraged students to patronize Capitol Foods products, describing them as refreshing and emphasizing that every purchase contributes to the company’s efforts to give back to society.

Liberator George T. M’bayoh, Liberator of the Liberals Brotherhood at Fourah Bay College, underscored the importance of student-led support initiatives in promoting a conducive learning environment for newly admitted students.

He explained that the Generals Entity has, over the years, embarked on various initiatives aimed at supporting students and complementing the efforts of the college administration. He emphasized that the responsibility for improving the student experience does not lie solely with the administration but also with students, who must play an active role in supporting institutional development.

According to him, the Generals Entity has contributed significantly to student welfare and campus development through multiple interventions. He noted that the entity has been involved in infrastructure improvements on campus, including the construction of the Airport and other student-support facilities, as well as initiatives aimed at strengthening discipline and promoting positive behavior among students.

Liberator M’bayoh further highlighted the Generals Entity’s role in enforcing rules that promote responsible conduct on campus. He noted that the entity has been actively engaged in sensitization campaigns against drug abuse, examination malpractice and other forms of misconduct, while also providing guidance to students facing academic and social challenges.

According to him, the entity has been providing tutorial support across various academic departments, helping students access learning materials and academic guidance necessary for success. He encouraged students experiencing difficulties to seek assistance through established support channels, assuring them that solutions are available through collaborative efforts.

Addressing misconceptions about student clubs, Liberator M’bayoh stressed that the Generals Entity is governed by strict rules and values discipline and academic excellence. He noted that members are encouraged to maintain good behavior and avoid activities that could undermine their academic progress or tarnish the reputation of the entity.

The Liberator concluded by encouraging new matriculants to remain steadfast throughout their academic journey, noting that their time at the university, typically lasting four to five years, should be used productively to build a strong academic foundation and contribute positively to campus life.

On his part, Brima Bah, Deputy Registrar at Fourah Bay College, commended the Generals Entity and Capitol Foods for supporting newly admitted students, describing the initiative as a significant gesture toward improving student welfare and complementing the efforts of the college administration.

According to him, the college is at a stage where it requires the collective support of individuals, organizations and businesses interested in the growth and development of education in Sierra Leone. Brima Bah further noted that the growing student population places additional pressure on available resources and facilities, making partnerships with the private sector increasingly important.

He also commended student-led initiatives, particularly the Generals Entity, for mobilizing resources and collaborating with corporate partners to support fellow students. He described such initiatives as a demonstration of leadership, innovation and commitment to the welfare of the student body.

In conclusion, the Deputy Registrar encouraged students, alumni and corporate organizations to continue working closely with the college administration to support development efforts. He emphasized that collective contributions from all stakeholders would help strengthen institutional capacity and improve the overall learning environment at Fourah Bay College.

Many of the matriculating students who benefited expressed appreciation to the Generals Entity and Capitol Foods for the support, describing the refreshments as timely and encouraging, especially during the long matriculation proceedings. Some students noted that such gestures contribute positively to creating a welcoming and supportive campus environment.

The matriculation ceremony at Fourah Bay College, one of Sierra Leone’s oldest tertiary institutions, attracted a large gathering of students, faculty members, parents and invited guests. The collaboration between the Generals Entity and Capitol Foods was widely viewed as a meaningful contribution to the success of the event and a demonstration of continued support for student-centered initiatives at the college.

Government Concludes Boundary Harmonization Pilot in Bombali and Port Loko, Sets Stage for Land Title Registration

March 25, 2026

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Government of Sierra Leone, through the National Land Commission and with support from the Sierra Leone Land Administration Project (SLLAP), has successfully completed the pilot phase of boundary harmonization and fieldwork in Mapaki, Bombali District and Rogbere, Port Loko District, marking a significant milestone in the country’s land reform agenda.

The exercise culminated in landmark signing ceremonies held on Saturday, March 21, 2026, in both communities, signaling a major step toward the implementation of a nationwide land title registration system.

The ceremonies attracted a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including Paramount Chiefs, Section Chiefs, landowners, land users, Civil Society representatives and Local Government officials. The events were widely described as historic, as they represent the first instance where community-level land boundaries have been formally agreed upon and documented through a participatory process ahead of formal title issuance.

Officials from the National Land Commission emphasized that boundary harmonization is a critical prerequisite for land title registration, particularly in a country where customary land tenure dominates rural areas. Historically, overlapping claims and unclear boundaries have fueled disputes, hindered development and discouraged investment.

The harmonization process involved extensive field data collection, inclusive community consultations and the application of modern geospatial technologies to accurately map and define the boundaries of family, section and chiefdom lands.

According to authorities, the initiative is designed to address several longstanding challenges. By clearly defining land boundaries with the consent of all stakeholders, it is expected to significantly reduce land-related disputes and prevent protracted conflicts that often arise from ambiguity. Local land committees have already begun playing a proactive role in resolving disputes as the process gains momentum.

Additionally, the exercise lays the foundation for establishing a reliable national cadastre, which will enable the issuance of secure land titles. These titles are expected to unlock economic opportunities by allowing landowners to use their property as collateral for credit, thereby stimulating economic growth and investment.

The initiative also places strong emphasis on inclusivity, ensuring that the land rights of women and vulnerable groups are formally recognized and protected during the documentation process. This marks a crucial step toward equitable land ownership and social justice within customary land systems.

Furthermore, clear and verifiable land ownership records are expected to facilitate infrastructure development, agricultural expansion and private sector participation by reducing uncertainties associated with land acquisition.

Speaking at the Mapaki ceremony, Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist of SLLAP, Saiku Bah, commended the collaborative approach adopted during the pilot phase.

“The success we witnessed in Mapaki and Rogbere demonstrates that when communities are placed at the center of the process, land reform can progress smoothly and effectively,” he stated. “We are now equipped with the lessons learned to scale this exercise nationwide.”

With the successful completion of the pilot phase, the Government of Sierra Leone is now poised to roll out the land title registration programme across other parts of the country, using the frameworks and insights developed from the experiences in Bombali and Port Loko districts.

The initiative represents a bold step toward modernizing land governance in Sierra Leone, strengthening tenure security and unlocking the full economic potential of land resources nationwide.

Education Ministry Warns Private School Heads Over WASSCE Candidate Uploads

March 25, 2026

The Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE) has issued a strong public notice to Proprietors and Heads of private senior secondary schools, as well as parents and guardians, over the uploading of candidates’ data to the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) Batch Registration System (BRS) for the WASSCE.

According to the Ministry, some private schools have still not complied with repeated instructions to upload legitimate candidates’ information to the online registration portal. The Ministry said that failure threatens pupils’ academic future and undermines national efforts to guarantee fair access to public examinations.

The notice calls on parents and guardians to urgently contact their children’s schools to confirm that their data has been uploaded. It also urges them to treat the matter seriously in order to avoid last-minute complications that could prevent candidates from sitting the WASSCE.

For school Heads, the Ministry warned that failure to upload candidates’ data will attract personal liability. It added that defaulting Heads could face sanctions under the Education Act 2023, including administrative and regulatory penalties.

The Ministry further stated that no appeals or excuses will be accepted after the registration portal closes, stressing that all concerned schools must act without delay.

MBSSE said it remains committed to protecting pupils’ interests and ensuring accountability in the education system, while directing affected schools to seek support through their District Education Offices.

An attached list of affected schools was also referenced in the notice.

Africell Boosts Eid Celebrations with Nationwide Community Outreach

March 25, 2026

Africell Sierra Leone has once again demonstrated its strong commitment to community welfare by providing support to thousands of Muslims across the country during the Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations on March 20, 2026.

The telecommunications company rolled out a nationwide initiative at major prayer grounds, where worshippers gathered to mark the end of the Holy Month of Ramadan. As part of the support, Africell distributed large quantities of bottled water and date palm fruits to fasting Muslims, while also installing sound systems to facilitate smooth and inclusive prayer sessions.

The intervention formed part of Africell’s wider Ramadan engagement programme, which focused on promoting compassion, unity and social connection throughout the fasting period. The company’s activities during Ramadan included food support and media programming designed to uplift and connect communities.

Highlighting the significance of the initiative, Africell Sierra Leone’s Senior Event and Sponsorship Manager, Nancy Toure, stated that the company remains committed to standing with communities during important religious occasions.

She explained that Africell had consistently supported Muslims throughout Ramadan and saw the Eid celebration as an important moment to extend that support.

“Our engagement did not start today. Throughout Ramadan, we provided rice support and aired a dedicated television programme. Ending the Holy Month with this gesture at Eid is part of our continued effort to share in the joy and spiritual significance of the season,” she said.

Nancy Toure further emphasized that Africell’s approach goes beyond providing telecommunications services, noting that the company prioritizes human connection and social responsibility.

“We are deeply connected to the communities we serve. Supporting people during moments that matter to them is something we value and we will continue to invest in initiatives that make a difference,” she added.

Across various locations, beneficiaries welcomed the gesture, describing it as timely and impactful, especially given the large turnout of worshippers for Eid prayers. Many expressed appreciation for Africell’s continued presence and contribution during key national and religious events.

Some community members also encouraged other corporate organizations to adopt similar initiatives, stressing the importance of private sector participation in social development and national cohesion.

Africell Sierra Leone has, over the years, maintained a strong reputation for implementing meaningful Corporate Social Responsibility programmes. Its latest Eid outreach further reinforces its role as a people-focused brand, committed to supporting communities and strengthening bonds across the country.

PERSPECTIVE JJ Saffa, “Bread and Butter” and the Politics of Delivery

March 25, 2026

Former minister of finance, Jacob Jusu Saffa

In the evolving language of Sierra Leone’s politics, few phrases have carried the clarity, immediacy and resonance like “Bread and Butter.” It did not originate in the corridors of Government nor in the pages of policy frameworks. It was coined on the campaign trail by Jacob Jusu Saffa, in his role as Secretary General of the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), during the push that brought Julius Maada Bio to power under the banner of the “New Direction” in 2018.

It was, in many respects, a masterstroke of political communication.

“Bread and Butter” distilled the complexity of economic governance into a language ordinary citizens of Sierra Leone could both understand and own. It spoke not of fiscal deficits or monetary tightening, but of rice, fuel, transport and the fragile arithmetic of household survival. In doing so, it reframed politics itself away from abstraction and toward lived experience.

And it worked. The phrase entered the national consciousness not as mere rhetoric, but as expectation.

Yet, as with all powerful political constructs, its true test began after victory.

JJ Saffa’s transition from campaign strategist to Minister of Finance, and subsequently to Chief Minister placed him at the intersection of promise and policy. He was no longer articulating “Bread and Butter”; he was required to deliver it. And here, the simplicity of language met the complexity of governance.

For the reality is that economies do not yield easily to political intent. Inflation is often externally driven. Exchange rates reflect structural vulnerabilities. Fiscal space is constrained by revenue limitations and competing national priorities. In such an environment, the distance between what is promised and what is possible can be both narrow and unforgiving.

In recent radio engagements at Radio Democracy and Truth Media, the former Chief Minister, JJ Saffa’s voice has taken on a different register. It is less declarative and more reflective. His interventions on economic policy now emphasize discipline, structure and coherence. Now more than ever, it is the language not of the campaign, but of experience. One senses a shift from the urgency of persuasion to the sobriety of hindsight.

And citizens remember.

They remember the phrase. They remember what it signified. But public memory, when mature, does not exist solely to praise or to condemn. It exists to assess the place of contribution within context and intention within outcome.

In that regard, one is drawn deliberately to the enduring framing of Julius Caesar: “I have come to bury Caesar, not to praise him.” Not as an act of dismissal, but as a discipline of analysis; to move beyond sentiment and toward understanding.

Through that lens, J.J Saffa’s imprint on Sierra Leone’s political discourse is unmistakable.

He reoriented the conversation. He insisted, through language, that governance must ultimately be judged at the level of the citizen. That the success of policy is not determined in reports but in markets; not in projections but in lived realities. In doing so, he set a standard that now transcends his own tenure.

That standard endures.

Today, any serious political actor, regardless of party or position, must answer the “Bread and Butter” question. It has become a baseline of accountability, a shorthand for economic justice and a persistent reminder that policy must translate into tangible impact.

This is not unqualified praise. Nor is it dismissal. It is, rather, recognition of influence.

For in politics, as in history, not all legacies are measured solely by outcomes. Some are measured by the frameworks they establish, the language they introduce and the expectations they leave behind.

In that sense, J.J Saffa’s contribution lies not only in what was achieved, but in what was demanded of Government, of policy and of the political class itself.

And that, perhaps, is how he will be remembered.

About the Author

Yeama Sarah Thompson-Oguamah is a seasoned media executive, development communicator and policy advocate with extensive experience at the intersection of journalism, governance and public engagement in Sierra Leone and across the Mano River region. She serves as the Managing Director of the Sierra Leone News Agency (SLENA) and is the Founder and CEO of Initiatives for Media Development (IMdev), where she leads strategic communication initiatives, media reform programmes and multi-stakeholder partnerships supported by national institutions and international development partners.

Her work focuses on strengthening media systems, promoting access to information and advancing accountability through evidence-based storytelling and civic engagement. She has led high-impact national campaigns, including communication strategies for governance reforms, digital public services and gender-focused development programmes, and has collaborated with institutions such as the European Union, UNESCO, UNICEF and Government Ministries.