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China: Committed to Global South and African Collaboration

The15th BRICS Summit has just concluded in South Africa
The15th BRICS Summit has just concluded in South Africa

China will always be member of the family of developing countries and the Global South Strengthening solidarity and cooperation with African countries has always been a priority of China’s diplomacy

By: Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone Wang Qing

The15th BRICS Summit has just concluded in South Africa. Chinese President Xi Jinping attended a series of meetings and also co-chaired the China-Africa Leaders’ Dialogue with South African President Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa.

This is a grand meeting for BRICS cooperation. During the Summit, leaders had reached extensive consensus on BRICS cooperation, issued the Johannesburg II Declaration and announced to invite Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Argentina, Iran and Ethiopia to the BRICS family as official members. The BRICS expansion is historic. It demonstrates the commitment of BRICS countries to cooperate in unity with all developing countries. The expansion is also a new starting point for BRICS cooperation. It will inject new vitality into the BRICS cooperation mechanism and further strengthen the forces for world peace and development.

As a firm supporter and participant of BRICS, China made active contribution for the success of the Summit. China takes a clear cut and firm stand to support BRICS expansion in BRICS spirit of openness, inclusiveness and win-win cooperation. President Xi announced that China will set up a China-BRICS Science and Innovation Incubation Park for the New Era to support the deployment of innovation results. Under the BRICS Remote Sensing Satellite Constellation mechanism, China will explore the establishment of a BRICS Global Remote Sensing Satellite Data and Application Cooperation Platform to provide data support for agriculture, ecological conservation and disaster reduction in various countries. China will also work with all parties to jointly establish a BRICS Framework on Industrial Cooperation for Sustainable Development as a platform of industrial coordination and project cooperation in implementing the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

This is also a grand meeting to deepen China-Africa friendly cooperation. During the Summit, leaders of China and Africa had a dialogue with the theme of “Helping African Integration and Building A High-Level China-Africa Community With A Shared Future”. They jointly planned the priority areas and key directions of future China-Africa cooperation, especially concerning the livelihood and employment of African people, and meeting the needs of Africa’s economic transformation, aiming to promote the further docking of China’s advantages with Africa’s endowment and promote China-Africa cooperation to a higher level. The dialogue issued a joint statement, expounding on strengthening solidarity and cooperation, safeguarding international fairness and justice, strengthening mutual support on issues concerning each other’s core interests and achieving common development and win-win cooperation between China and Africa.

China is always a reliable friend of Africa. President Xi emphasized that in face of the profound changes unseen in a century, a strong China-Africa relationship and productive China-Africa cooperation will provide more fresh impetus to global development and ensure greater stability of the world. China will work with Africa to bring more active, effective and sustainable development to Africa, expand cooperation in agriculture, manufacturing, new energy and digital economy, and facilitate Africa’s economic integration, industrialization and agricultural modernization. During the China-Africa Leaders’ Dialogue, President Xi announced China will launch an initiative in support of Africa’s industrialization and implement a plan to support Africa’s agricultural modernization as well as a plan for China-Africa cooperation on talent development. China will continue to work for substantive progress in African Union’s joining of the G20 this year, and looks forward to a greater role by African countries and the AU in international and regional affairs.

China has shown with concrete actions that China is naturally a member of the Global South and will always be a member of the big family of developing countries. Through unremitting efforts, China has become the world’s second largest economy and the first developing country to realize the Millennium Development Goals of the United Nations. However, China has a large population, low per capita income, and a large development gap between regions. According to the measurement standards of most international organizations, China is still a developing country, and its human development index ranks 79th in the world, which is at the same level as other major developing countries. The identity of the members of the “Global South” also bears the true love and solid friendship between China and other developing countries and embodies China’s long-term pursuit and joint efforts for the democratization of international relations. No matter how China’s economy develops in the future and how its international status improves, China will always adhere to its self-positioning as a developing country and a member of the “Global South”, and will always share the same fate with other “Global South” countries.

China has proved with practical actions that no matter how the international situation changes, China will always stand with Africa. And strengthening solidarity and cooperation with African countries has always been a priority of China’s diplomacy. In the past ten years, under the guidance of President Xi’s proposal of the Principles of Sincerity, Real Results, Amity and Good Faith and the Principles of Pursuing the Greater Good and Shared Interests, the development of China-Africa relations has pressed the “accelerator key” and entered the “fast lane”. Over the past decade, China has provided a large amount of development assistance to Africa and helped build more than 6,000 kilometers of railway, over 6,000 kilometers of highway, and 80-plus large power facilities on the continent. Going forward, China will launch with UNESCO a “GDI for Africa’s Future” action plan and carry out more cooperation with African countries to support Africa in enhancing its own capacity for development, promote China-Africa cooperation to a higher level and open a new chapter in building a high-level China-Africa community with a shared future in the new era.

Global Mercy Ship Docks in Sierra Leone for 10-Month Humanitarian Mission

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Global Mercy Ship, renowned as the world’s largest charitable vessel, has arrived on the shores of  Sierra Leone, marking the commencement of its 6th field service. The ship’s monumental arrival was met with a warm reception from His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio and his team at the Queen Elizabeth II Quay on Wednesday August 23, 2023 in Freetown.

With a dedicated mission to provide essential medical aid to the region, the Global Mercy Ship will remain stationed off the coast for the next 10 months. A highly skilled team of medical professionals on board is prepared to perform over 2,000 critical surgical procedures, addressing pressing healthcare needs in the area.

Beyond its medical efforts, the ship’s presence is poised to contribute significantly to the local community. By generating around 300 employment opportunities for residents, the vessel aims to boost the economy and foster developmental progress in the region.

President Julius Maada Bio expressed gratitude for the arrival of the Global Mercy Ship and highlighted its potential to bring positive transformations to the lives of many in the nation. As the ship embarks on its mission, expectations are high for the lasting impact it will achieve during its tenure in Freetown.

The President conveyed his enthusiasm, stating, “Today is a momentous day for Sierra Leone as we embark on a journey of human capital development. Our commitment to this endeavor is unwavering. I am delighted, on behalf of the Government and the people of Sierra Leone, to welcome the dedicated medical team of MV Global Mercy on its 6th voyage, carrying the torch of humanitarianism to our shores. You are wholeheartedly embraced.”

President Bio underlined the significance of the Mercy Ship’s return after a 12-year hiatus, showcasing the steadfast partnership between the Government, international organizations, and compassionate individuals. This united effort, he emphasized, mirrors the power of humanity to effect positive change. He expressed profound gratitude towards Mercy Ship’s organization and its donors for their unyielding dedication to fostering sustainable surgical care across sub-Saharan Africa and instilling hope in underserved regions worldwide.

Highlighting the impactful outcomes, the President shared statistics demonstrating the strides made in healthcare since the previous Mercy Ship visit, including an increase in life expectancy from 53 to 61 years, a decline in infant mortality from 76 percent to 70 percent, and a 60 percent reduction in maternal mortality. These advancements stand as testaments to the Government’s resolute commitment to realizing Sustainable Development Goal 3—ensuring citizens’ well-being and quality health.

“We are resolute in our mission to elevate Sierra Leone’s healthcare system to regional excellence. Recently, in collaboration with international partners, a team of doctors successfully performed video-assisted thoracic surgery at Connaught Hospital. We look ahead to more such collaborations that enhance our people’s quality of life,” President Bio affirmed.

Gert van de Weerdhof, CEO of Global Mercy Ship, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve Sierra Leone once more. He hailed the vessel as the culmination of years of prayers and donations, a vessel where miracles have unfolded. He emphasized that their presence heralds the continuation of these miraculous transformations in Freetown. He lauded the Ministry of Health and its strategic healthcare planning, praising the Minister as a “trusted friend of global mercy.”

The CEO emphasized the significance of the 6th field service in Sierra Leone, marking a long-standing partnership since 1992. Over the next 10 months, the initiative aims to train more than 200,000 healthcare professionals, nurturing the surgical ecosystem. Despite challenges, unity remains their guiding principle for overcoming obstacles. He expressed eagerness to witness the ripple effect of this service and bestowed blessings upon the forthcoming collaborative work.

Recalling a prior visit, a delegation representing Mercy Ships engaged with President Bio, led by Dr. Austin Demby, the Minister of Health. The delegation conveyed details of the upcoming 10-month mission, set to commence on August 23, 2023. Notably, around 5,000 Sierra Leoneans have already registered for assistance, with 2,350 identified as needing critical medical attention, a priority for the ship’s medical team.

Dr. Demby highlighted the establishment of a “Hope Centre” at the Macauley Street Hospital, acting as a preparatory hub for individuals needing surgical care. Mercy Ships’ collaboration with the College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences (COMAHS) was also announced, comprising medical student training and plans for a Dentistry School within Sierra Leone.

President Bio expressed his anticipation for Mercy Ship’s positive impact, extending warm wishes for their stay. The forthcoming 10-month mission stands poised to make profound changes in Sierra Leone’s healthcare landscape, signifying a notable advancement for the nation.

IMC Boosts Radio Kolenten FM 90.7 in Kambia with Essential Equipment

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Independent Media Commission (IMC), in a significant gesture of support, on Tuesday August 22, 2023, generously provided a desk-top computer and two transistor solar-powered radio sets to Radio Kolenten FM 90.7, located in the Kambia District of the North-West Region. The formal presentation of these valuable resources took place at the IMC’s headquarters on 54 Siaka Steven Street in Freetown.

During the ceremony, Khalil Kallon, the Executive Secretary of the Commission, highlighted the pioneering nature of the donation, introduced by IMC’s Chairman, Dr. Victor Massaquoi. Kallon explained that this initiative stemmed from the insights gained during the Commission’s comprehensive nationwide inspections conducted in 2022. These inspections shed light on the specific needs of community radio stations. Kallon emphasized that the donation exemplifies the IMC’s commitment to addressing the pressing challenges confronted by community radio stations across the country. The selection process for the recipients was based solely on adherence to regulations and demonstrated merit.

Dr. Victor Massaquoi, the Chairman of the IMC, formally handed over the items to Ibrahim Janneh, the Station Manager of Radio Kolenten FM 90.7. Dr. Massaquoi shared that the inspiration behind this donation came from the multitude of challenges identified during the media inspection in 2022. The Commission’s response included formulating concept notes and approaching various institutions and organizations interested in supporting community development initiatives. The generous contribution, comprising two desktop computers and 20 solar-powered transistor radio sets, was made possible with the support of the Chinese Embassy in Sierra Leone. These radio sets are slated to be distributed to 10 community radio stations throughout the nation, while the two desktop computers have been allocated to Moyamba District Children’s Awareness Radio (MODCAR) in Moyamba District and Kolenten Radio in Kambia District.

Citing Section 11 (b) of the IMC Act 2020, Dr. Massaquoi underscored that the Commission’s key role is to enhance the efficiency of media institutions in delivering media services. He revealed the Commission’s forthcoming plan to establish a transmitter pool specifically catering to community radio stations. This strategic move aims to swiftly address transmitter malfunctions, ensuring uninterrupted broadcasting. Dr. Massaquoi accentuated the pivotal role community radio stations play in facilitating democratic discourse by giving a voice to the marginalized. However, he lamented that many of these stations are grappling with non-functional transmitters due to technical inadequacies in their installation.

Expressing gratitude on behalf of Radio Kolenten 90.7 FM, Ibrahim Janneh, the Station Manager, conveyed the station’s elation at this unexpected and much-needed support. He assured that this benevolent gesture would be communicated not only to the station’s Board and staff but also to the wider Kambia District and North-West Region. Janneh affirmed Radio Kolenten’s steadfast commitment to upholding both the IMC Act 2020 and its corresponding regulations.

Eight Public Entities Fail to Submit Financial Statements for Audit  –ASSL

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Audit Service Sierra Leone (ASSL), in a recent development, has issued a public notice dated August 22nd, 2023, highlighting a pressing matter regarding financial transparency and accountability. According to Section 119(2) of the 1991 Constitution, it is mandated that the Auditor-General conducts audits on the Public Accounts of Sierra Leone as well as all public offices, including Governmental bodies, courts, universities, and similar institutions. This also extends to statutory corporations, companies, and organizations established through parliamentary acts or other means involving public funds.

Citing Section 86(1) of the Public Financial Management Act of 2016, the ASSL emphasized that entities falling under subsection (3) of Section 86 are required to submit their annual financial statements to the Auditor-General within three months of the closure of a financial year.

The Act further clarifies that the annual financial statements of public enterprises should be subject to audit by the Auditor-General or another appointed auditor, as specified by Section 118(1)(b) of the same Act.

The Acting Auditor-General of Sierra Leone has revealed that a number of key institutions have failed to meet their obligations by neglecting to submit their financial statements for auditing purposes. These institutions and their corresponding years of non-compliance are as follows:

1. Sierra Leone Housing Corporation – 2022
2. Electoral Commission Sierra Leone – 2022
3. Sierra Block Concrete Products Limited – 2022
4. Sierra Leone State Lottery Company Limited – 2022
5. Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation – 2022
6. Sierra Leone Telecommunication Company – 2020 to 2022
7. National Investment Board – Since its Formation
8. National Asset Commission – Since its Formation

This significant failure to fulfill their auditing requirements raises concerns about the transparency and accountability of these institutions. Given their receipt of substantial funds from budgetary allocations and Government subsidies, the aggregate amount of finances involved is considerable.

The citizens of Sierra Leone are now looking to these institutions to rectify this issue promptly and adhere to their financial reporting obligations. The expectation is for a thorough and diligent accounting of the funds entrusted to them, as this is crucial for upholding the principles of fiscal responsibility and effective governance.

CSO Delivers Powerful Presentation on Alcohol Reports in Ghana

By Abubakarr Harding

In a significant move to underscore the critical role of alcohol consumption in Sub-Saharan Africa, a coalition of prominent Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) unveiled the findings of their 2023 Alcohol Report in a conference held in Ghana, West Africa.

The Citizen Rights Network Sierra Leone, a leading force among CSOs in Sierra Leone, took center stage during the presentation, highlighting an astounding 99.9% statistical emphasis.

At the conference, Ibrahim Bai Koroma, the Executive Director of Citizen Rights Network Sierra Leone, addressed the attendees with a comprehensive report detailing the organization’s pivotal role in compiling the survey data. He expounded on Sierra Leone’s distinctive approach to alcohol regulation, emphasizing that  majority of alcohol-producing companies undergo rigorous monitoring, positioning them as exemplars in the Sub-Saharan African context. This rigorous oversight ensures adherence to best practices and guarantees the safety of the products for consumers.

Koroma shed light on the vigilant agencies within Sierra Leone responsible for conducting unannounced spot checks and regular inspections. Their proactive measures not only guarantee the safety of alcoholic beverages prior to entering the market but also foster a sanitized market environment that discourages underage drinking and binge consumption.

The Executive Director further illuminated Sierra Leone’s longstanding reputation for exporting exceptional, award-winning alcoholic beverages across Sub-Saharan Africa. The nation boasts record-breaking export volumes to countries within the region and beyond.

Addressing fellow CSOs, Koroma underscored the conference’s principal objective: to explore solutions for raising consumer awareness about alcohol abuse and dependency risks. He advocated for an approach centered on education and sensitization rather than outright condemnation.

Based on their surveys, Koroma highlighted a critical issue affecting consumers—the misconception that all alcoholic beverages are interchangeable. A staggering 80% of consumers are unaware of the varying contents among different beverages. He advised conference attendees to consider this insight seriously. Mixing distinct alcoholic beverages, he cautioned, can compromise the immune system. On the other hand, exclusively consuming a single brand minimizes potential harm. Koroma urged a robust media outreach and community sensitization campaign to drive effective results.

Elatedly, Koroma declared Sierra Leone’s adherence to internationally prescribed alcohol policy methods, positioning the nation among the 45 countries leading in this domain. This commitment, he asserted, has contributed to a notable reduction in death rates.

While lauding their achievements, Koroma encouraged fellow attendees to disseminate this vital message within their respective nations, emphasizing the importance of the right to life.

He extended an invitation to other Civil Society Organizations to engage in further research on alcohol-related issues, advocating for a proactive stance against dependency and abuse.

In closing, Bai Koroma expressed gratitude to the assembled representatives for providing the platform to present this year’s Alcoholic Beverages Report. He pledged to engage Sierra Leone’s alcoholic beverage companies upon his return, ensuring they remain updated on both successes and challenges encountered.

Health Minister Urges Immediate Action on Youth Kush Use through Public Health Initiatives

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

In an official Government press conference on Tuesday 22nd August, 2023, Health and Sanitation Minister, Dr. Austin Demby, voiced his growing apprehension regarding the escalating prevalence of Kush consumption among the youth. The event, hosted at the Foreign Affairs Ministry’s Conference Room on Tower Hill, shed light on the pressing need for immediate public health action.

Dr. Demby’s deep concern was palpable as he underscored the grave health risks associated with the surging trend of Kush use among the youth. He explicitly defined the act of smoking Kush as a burgeoning public health crisis, with profound physical and mental health repercussions for the younger population. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Dr. Demby urged the deployment of civic education initiatives and called for a united response from society, healthcare practitioners, and mental health experts to effectively combat this mounting challenge.

In a resolute statement, Dr. Demby emphasized the imperative of a collective approach in tandem with medical and mental health specialists to construct a comprehensive strategy. He particularly stressed the necessity to treat the young generation with empathy, steering clear of stigmatization.

The press conference further highlighted key advancements in the healthcare sector. Dr. Demby celebrated the transformative potential of primary healthcare while acknowledging the Government’s substantial investments in this realm. Yet, he advocated for a harmonious approach by enhancing support for hospitals, ensuring citizens’ access to a holistic range of healthcare services.

Addressing health security, Dr. Demby disclosed the Government’s proactive efforts to fortify response capabilities and readiness for potential outbreaks. He expressed confidence in the pursuit of Universal Health Coverage, anticipating positive impacts on accessibility to primary healthcare services across all geographical locations.

To amplify the reach of quality healthcare, the Government has announced plans for the construction of additional secondary and tertiary facilities. This endeavor aims to provide comprehensive healthcare services to communities nationwide.

In his concluding remarks, Dr. Demby fervently appealed to society to extend compassion to the youth and shun stigmatization, accentuating the shared responsibility of nurturing a supportive environment for their overall well-being.

Prominent Sierra Leonean Journalist, Umaru Fofana, during the Ministry of Information and Civic Education Press Conference called upon the administration led by President Bio to declare a public health emergency. The goal is to address the rampant addiction to Kush in the nation and safeguard the well-being of the country’s youthful populace.

In a corroborating statement, Medical Expert, Dr. Abdul Jalloh, confirmed during the weekly Ministry of Information and Civic Education conference that Kush consumption in Sierra Leone had surged from 2% to an alarming 40% over the course of the past two years.

NP-SL’s Notable Dominance in the Petroleum Industry Hinges on Resolute Dedication

NP-SL: Held in Esteem for Being Foremost as a Resilient Company

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Undeniably, NP-Sierra Leone Limited (NP-SL Ltd), the nation’s premier petroleum marketing company, continues to assert its supremacy in the petroleum landscape through its unwavering commitment to superior customer service. This assertion gains unassailable ground upon careful examination of the company’s resolute dedication to optimizing customer satisfaction across its multifaceted operations.

The company’s workforce unequivocally recognizes the primacy of the customer, exemplified by their meticulous attention to creating transactions within a harmonious environment that fosters mutual benefit. This strategic approach has propelled NP-SL Ltd to substantial progress, positioning it as a towering figure among its regional business counterparts.

At the core of this success lies “Team NP,” a proficient and results-driven workforce that regards each member’s contribution as invaluable, regardless of their role. This cohesive effort amplifies positive outcomes, and NP-SL Ltd has adeptly harnessed the power of synergy.

A commendable attribute of NP-SL Ltd is its tireless and efficient navigation of international connections with oil-producing nations. This astute approach ensures the timely acquisition and delivery of petroleum products, effectively averting shortages.

It’s indisputable that fuel, a commodity rife with political implications, can sway public opinion. Price fluctuations can make or break a Government’s popularity. NP-SL Ltd’s judicious importation of petroleum products has garnered widespread praise for mitigating unrest and the adverse effects of price fluctuations. This proactive stance directly contributes to poverty reduction through various channels.

The ownership of NP-SL Ltd being wholly Sierra Leonean might surprise some, given its prominence and remarkable accomplishments. Originating from 35 Sierra Leonean former employees of British Petroleum (BP), who pooled their end-of-service benefits to acquire shares, NP-SL Ltd stands as a triumphant embodiment of indigenous enterprise. Its footprint spans the nation and extends to four other West African countries – Liberia, Guinea, Ivory Coast, and The Gambia. Through its comprehensive operations, the company significantly contributes to revenue generation and extensive job opportunities.

Capitalizing on its diverse offerings, including marketable products like NP Gas, the company has expanded its horizons. NP-SL Ltd’s introduction of gas cookers, branded as NP Gas, available at its Filling Stations, aligns with market demands. Investigation confirms NP Gas’s user-friendliness, safety and durability, all packaged at an affordable price, making it a popular choice.

NP-SL Ltd’s alignment with the Local Content Policy, a legally mandated approach, underscores its commitment to utilizing local talents across its operations. By predominantly employing Sierra Leoneans, NP-SL Ltd not only thrives but also nurtures local growth through this policy.

Unquestionably, NP-SL Ltd’s stature continues to rise unabated, solidifying its role as an industry leader with each passing day.

Legal Dilemma: Can a Professional Head be the Director of Surveys & Lands at the Same Time?

By Amin Kef (Ranger)
There seems to be a legal dilemma related to a situation in which the current Director of Surveys and Lands in the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Country Planning, Tamba S. Dauda, who was recently promoted to a Professional Head still continues to occupy the Directorship position in that entity, an anomaly which should be addressed if best practice is to be followed.

The Surveys and Lands Division within the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Country Planning is primarily responsible for surveying and mapping out all lands as well as for administrating State lands. This important division is also delegated with the responsibility of supervising all Licensed Surveyors besides approving all survey plans for State and Private Lands.

It therefore goes without saying that the aforementioned division forms an integral or an important component of the Ministry of Lands as it is laden with statutory responsibilities that are mainly related to the allocation of lands to individuals and entities. Against such a backdrop, it is significant that it should be occupied by the requisite personnel of high integrity.

Tamba S. Dauda, with Pin Code No 108114, is the Director of Surveys and Lands in the Ministry of Lands since he was appointed in 2021. However, he was recently elevated to a higher position when he was promoted to Grade 12 by the Human Resource Management Office (HRMO). As of now he has attained the status of Professional Head in the Civil Service.

It must be pointed out that now that he has been promoted to Grade 12 automatically he has been rendered ineligible to continue to serve in the capacity as the Director of Surveys and Lands. This is so because according to the provisions of the Surveys Ordinance, Cap 128, the positions of Director, Deputy Director and Assistant Directors must only be occupied by Civil Servants within the Grade 11 bracket of the Civil Service and not Grade 12.

Of significance to note is that in the Civil Service any personnel who attains a Grade 12 status automatically becomes a Professional Head. However, in the Ministry of Lands, with particular reference to the Surveys and Lands Department, there is no provision for a Professional Head as it is only in Ministries like Works, Social Welfare that there are positions for Professional Heads.

It must be reiterated that within the Department of Surveys and Lands the only positions are those for Director of Surveys and Lands, Deputy Director, Assistant Directors and Senior Officers. There has never been a Professional Head within the Surveys and Lands Department of the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Country Planning.

The big question now been asked is: why is it that he is still occupying the position as Director of Lands and Survey in the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Country Planning when he has been elevated to a Professional Head?

Legally speaking, from the time Tamba Dauda was promoted he ceases to be the Director of Surveys and Lands. It therefore means that the position of Director of Surveys and Lands has now become vacant. However, that does not seem to be the case as Tamba Dauda still continues to be the substantive Director in that department of the Ministry.

For him to continue occupying the position of Director when he has been elevated to a Professional Head is a travesty of the Lands and Surveys legal provision and has been interpreted as a bad precedent.

From what this medium learnt, based on the provision in Public Service Act, a Professional Head is responsible to supervise Directors in some Ministries.

The questions now asked are: how can Tamba Dauda be a Professional Head and Director at the same time? Is it that he supervising himself?

When this medium made attempts to contact Tamba Dauda to throw light on the aforementioned situation it proved futile as he failed to respond to calls and messages that were put through to him. However, this medium will continue to monitor the situation and report accordingly.

More on this in subsequent Editions…

Standard Chartered Bank Rtd. Vice Chairman Jets in to Appease Aggrieved Local Staff

By Alpha Good Kamara

In a surprising turn of events, Lamin Manjang, the former Vice Chairman for Africa at Standard Chartered Bank, has flown into Sierra Leone amidst allegations of orchestrating an inequitable deal that could adversely affect the bank’s Sierra Leonean employees, many of whom he once worked alongside during his tenure as CEO of the bank.

Having served Standard Chartered Group for over two decades, Manjang held significant leadership positions, including CEO roles in Kenya, East Africa, Oman, Uganda, and Sierra Leone. Just last week, a farewell dinner was held by Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria to commemorate Manjang’s retirement from the Group.

The controversy stems from the bank’s decision to sell its Sierra Leone operations to Access Bank Plc. Employees in Sierra Leone have been advocating for fair terminal benefits in the wake of this transition. Despite assurances from the bank, there has been a lack of substantial action to address these concerns. Interestingly, the Bank of Sierra Leone, the primary regulatory authority overseeing banks in the nation, has granted initial approval for the sale.

A group of 51 concerned bank staff has taken a legal stand, enlisting the services of the law firms OJP Legal and Marrah & Associates. Documents reveal that the High Court of Sierra Leone, under the guidance of Justice Bonnie, has issued an injunction to halt the sale’s completion until the bank provides security amounting to slightly over USD 5,536,550.47, aimed at safeguarding the interests of the affected Sierra Leoneans.

The bank, however, appears reluctant to comply with the court-ordered security payment. Instead, under the direction of Lamin Manjang, it seems to be pushing the staff to accept an evidently unjust arrangement, even as their job security hangs in the balance. A seasoned retired banker familiar with Manjang’s history suggests that this could be a blemish on Manjang’s otherwise respectable career in banking.

Investigations indicate that Manjang’s actions, where he is flown in as a figure of influence, are not unprecedented. In a prior instance, when a similar injunction was issued by the High Court in response to grievances from Sierra Leonean employees Ibrahim Bah and Sulaiman Lumeh, Manjang’s involvement in lobbying Government officials yielded no success. The Government’s refusal to permit corporations to exploit the hardworking Sierra Leoneans has been lauded.

This episode raises questions about the bank’s motivations, revealing a departure driven by self-interest rather than in line with its proclaimed motto of being “Here for Good.” Notably, the Chairman of the Board is also a Sierra Leonean, fueling expectations that he would champion the rights of young, diligent Sierra Leoneans.

With a legacy spanning 129 years of service to Sierra Leone, Standard Chartered Bank’s exit should ideally be marked by an amicable departure, echoing its motto of leaving “Here for Good” while genuinely advocating for equitable treatment.

Unity Broadcasting CEO, Elizabeth Gembeh, Donates School Materials to Six Schools in Bonthe District

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

In a remarkable display of support geared towards complementing one of Flagship programmes of President Bio, the Free Quality Education Initiative, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Unity Broadcasting Facebook Page, Elizabeth Kafue Faabe Nee’ Gembeh, on Wednesday 23rd August 2023 donated essential school materials or items to pupils of DEC, RC Boys, RC Girls, AOG Boys & Girls Mattru Jong and RC Tihun Schools in Bonthe District.

The generous donation included two hundred uniforms, one thousand five hundred books, one thousand five hundred pens, and three thousand pencils. These items were distributed to six of the district’s most-performing schools and offered to the best-performing pupils.

According to Elizabeth Gembeh, recognizing the significant barriers that hinder education in the district, especially the financial constraints faced by many pupils and their families, she decided to undertake the gesture. She  further explained how lack of necessary school items  most often prevent children from attending classes maintaining that with such an humble donation, she is of the conviction that it will help somehow in alleviating the burden on parents and families as well as help in empowering the  beneficiaries to actively engage in their educational pursuit.

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Unity Broadcasting Facebook Page also revealed that a total of 3,000 US Dollars was expended on acquiring the school items. According to a Social Commentator in Bonthe District, such an investment symbolizes Elizabeth Gembeh’s commitment to bridging the educational gap in Bonthe District, ensuring that every child has the means to pursue his or her scholastic ambitions.

Parents and pupils of Bonthe District, who benefitted from her gesture, expressed their heartfelt thanks and appreciation for her generosity. The parents commended her for coming to their aid maintaining that it came at the right time when they were preparing to procure such materials against the reopening of schools after the break.

Their collective gratitude echoes the sentiment that education is the cornerstone of progress and the key to a brighter future. Some expressed the view that with role models like Mrs. Gembeh leading the way, it is hoped that more individuals and organizations will step forward and contribute towards creating a society that prioritizes education and supports the aspirations of its children.

Again , according to the Social Commentator, the impact of the donation is expected to be far-reaching, as it not only provides pupils with the necessary resources but also instills a sense of pride and motivation among the recipients adding that through her benevolent action, she is fostering an environment conducive to learning, encouraging students to embrace education and fulfill their potential.

Mrs. Gembeh’s dedication to education and community development has garnered widespread admiration. Her acts of philanthropy demonstrate a profound belief in the power of education to shape the lives of young individuals and uplift communities

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