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Over Electoral Information Access Denial… Augustine S. Marrah Esq. Petitions Right to Access Information Commission

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Well-known Legal Practitioner, Augustine Sorie-Sengbe Marrah Esq., has formally petitioned the Right to Access Information Commission on the 22nd August, 2023, seeking a comprehensive review of the Electoral Commission of Sierra Leone’s (ECSL) refusal to provide requested information. The request pertains to certified and verified district-level results of the Presidential, Local and General Elections conducted on June 24, 2023.

In a strongly worded letter, dated July 28, 2023, Marrah invoked Section 2(1) of the Right to Access Information Act 2013 to solicit information from ECSL, particularly concerning the possession of the sixteen districts’ certified summary results by respective District Returning Officers in accordance with Section 92(1) of the Public Elections Act 2022.

Additionally, he sought details regarding the verification process of these results by political parties’ agents, along with access granted to counting agents and observers, as specified by Section 92(2) of the Public Elections Act 2022.

The letter, which was addressed to the Right to Access Information Commission in light of its supervisory role, highlighted ECSL’s statutory obligation to respond within fifteen days, as stipulated by Section 4 of the Right to Access Information Act 2013. However, the deadline expired on August 18, 2023, without any communication or response from ECSL.

Marrah has interpreted ECSL’s silence as a deliberate refusal to fulfill his information request. Subsequently, invoking the provisions of Section 43 of the Right to Access Information Act 2013, Marrah has formally sought the Right to Access Information Commission’s intervention. He requests an impartial review of ECSL’s decision to deny or neglect to confirm the availability of the requested information or to grant access to the same.

The Right to Access Information Commission, empowered by law to monitor and report on public authorities’ adherence to the Right to Access Information legislation, is expected to undertake this review within the stipulated legal timeframe.

Augustine S. Marrah’s fervent request for a review of ECSL’s actions underscores the critical importance of transparency and accountability in electoral processes, a sentiment central to the foundations of democratic governance.

VIP, Police IG Successfully Resolve Backlog in Police Rice Distribution Nationwide

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a commendable display of effective leadership and cooperation, Inspector General of the Sierra Leone Police, William Fayai Sellu, alongside the highly dynamic Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Bella Trading Company, Ahmed Hashim – better known as VIP – a significant achievement has been reached in resolving the successful end to backlog issue concerning the distribution of Police rice nationwide. Through this synergy, the issue of backlog, with regards to the supply of rice to Police Officers will become a thing of the past.

VIP’s remarkable contribution has successfully addressed this issue, with his actions earning him immense respect and admiration from both junior and senior members of the Force for Good. Notably, as the first contractor in the history of the SLP to eliminate the backlog in rice distribution among the diligent security personnel, VIP’s reputation has been held in high regard.

In an exclusive interview with this medium, Ahmed H. Hashim, the CEO of VIP Trading Company, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Government, particularly the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) Led Government, for its unwavering commitment to prioritize the security sector’s welfare.

He pledged to maintain the company’s dedication to achieving exceptional success and setting a benchmark within the industry under his leadership.

VIP affirmed his readiness to continue contributing positively to the lives of Police Officers, demonstrating his unswerving support for their wellbeing.

It is on record that Ahmed Hashim’s unwavering determination to ensure timely and high-quality rice supply has raised the bar in the history of rice distribution to security personnel.

Sierra Leoneans have also heaped praises on the Inspector General of Police (IGP), William Fayai Sellu, characterizing him as a transformational figure within the Sierra Leone Police Force. His leadership has not only instilled discipline among officers but has also propelled efforts to elevate the Police Force’s welfare, marking a progressive direction for the organization.

Under IGP Sellu’s leadership, the Police Force has undergone remarkable transformation, particularly in the domain of rice supply to officers across the country. Police Officers have expressed their satisfaction with the appointment of Ahmed Hashim, widely known as VIP, as the rice supplier. His collaboration with IGP Sellu has effectively curbed the backlog issue, earning him praise for his capabilities and dedication.

VIP’s exceptional commitment is highlighted by the fact that he has become the first contractor to provide each Police Officer with six bags of rice at once, effectively putting an end to the backlog issue in Police rice distribution nationwide.

His credibility is firmly established among both junior and senior officers, as he has consistently ensured a steady supply of rice, boosting the morale of the Police Force.

In hushed conversations, Police Officers have endorsed VIP as the ideal candidate for the Police rice contract, commending his impeccable track record. They implore the Executive Management Board (EMB) of the Sierra Leone Police, under the guidance of IGP Sellu, to continue collaborating with VIP due to his demonstrated ability to exceed expectations, surpassing any contractor in the Sierra Leone Police’s history.

VIP remains resolute in his commitment to ensure that Police Officers consistently receive their mandated monthly rations, in line with the law, fostering effective and efficient service delivery within the Sierra Leone Police Force which is known as the “Force 4 Good.”

This successful resolution of the Police rice backlog issue stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and effective leadership in promoting the welfare of the security sector.

Foreign Affairs Minister Engages Diplomatic Missions to Strengthen International Ties

Sierra Leone’s newly appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Timothy M Kabba, convened a productive meeting on Monday, August 21, 2023, with the heads of various diplomatic missions, including Ambassadors and High Commissioners, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. This significant interaction highlighted the Government’s dedication to enhancing diplomatic relations and fostering collaboration on critical global issues.

Minister Kabba and his Deputy, Madam Francess Algali, engaged in an open and fruitful dialogue with the diplomatic community. The meeting marked the Minister’s inaugural interaction with foreign envoys since assuming his role, offering a platform for sharing perspectives and aligning strategies for mutual advancement.

Addressing the assembled diplomats, Minister Kabba expressed sincere gratitude to both the Sierra Leonean Government and its people for the strong and mutually beneficial relationships that have been cultivated with diplomatic partners, particularly during challenging times such as the COVID-19 pandemic. He underscored the achievements of President Dr. Julius Maada Bio’s first-term administration, notably the substantial investments in human capital development, healthcare improvement, poverty reduction, youth and women’s empowerment, environmental protection and disaster risk mitigation.

“We have significantly augmented our investments in educating the next generation of our nation, bolstering healthcare systems, addressing poverty and unemployment, empowering marginalized groups, and safeguarding our environment,” Minister Kabba emphasized.

Furthermore, Minister Kabba outlined noteworthy progress in combating corruption, strengthening democratic governance, and implementing reforms that enhance Government’s efficacy, regulatory standards, and the rule of law. He highlighted international benchmarks, such as the MCC scorecard and requirements from the extractive industry’s transparency initiative, as indicators of Sierra Leone’s commitment to positive change.

The Minister emphasized the Government’s dedication to gender equality and the inclusive education of the girl-child. He celebrated the recent achievement of increased women’s representation in Parliament following the multi-tier elections, a historic milestone for the nation.

Sharing President Bio’s second-term priorities, Minister Kabba introduced the “Big Five” agenda, which encompasses initiatives like “Feed Salone,” human capital development, youth employment schemes, revamping the public sector, and technological and infrastructural advancements. He called for collaboration and support from the diplomatic community in realizing these goals.

A highlight of the meeting was Sierra Leone’s election to a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council on June 6. Minister Kabba expressed gratitude to the diplomatic community for their contributions to this accomplishment and pledged to leverage the experiences of previous Council members for effective engagement.

In his address, President Bio’s commitment to democracy and peace was underscored. He announced the formation of a National Electoral System Review Committee, comprising independent bodies, to assess the recently concluded elections and recommend improvements for future cycles. This move reflected the Government’s unwavering dedication to democratic values and national stability.

The Dean of the Diplomatic Community, Nigerian High Commissioner to Sierra Leone, His Excellency Henry John Omaku, commended the Minister’s proactive approach to engagement. He acknowledged the Minister’s demonstrated willingness to collaborate and extend partnership opportunities to the diplomatic community, ensuring mutual understanding and shared objectives.

The meeting also saw inputs from other prominent diplomats, including the Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Wang Qing, who reaffirmed China’s commitment to collaboration under the South-South cooperation framework. The UK High Commissioner, Lisa Chesney, praised the strong and enduring relationship between the UK and Sierra Leone and expressed support for addressing the nation’s challenges through dialogue and diversity of perspectives.

The outgoing US Ambassador, David Dale Reimer, acknowledged the robust partnership between the two countries and expressed confidence in continued cooperation under Minister Kabba’s leadership. The Ghanaian High Commissioner, Her Excellency Mrs. Worwornyo Agyema, extended Ghana’s support and proposed information sharing on issues of mutual concern.

The EU Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Manuel Muller, appreciated the Minister’s openness and pledged continued collaboration with Sierra Leone on various fronts. He highlighted the upcoming EU Electoral Observer Mission’s report on the June elections and commended Sierra Leone’s commitment to strengthening the electoral process and promoting peace in the region.

In her concluding remarks, Dr. Victoria Sulimani, Director-General and Ambassador at Large in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, expressed gratitude for the diplomatic community’s engagement and highlighted their essential role in maintaining strong bilateral relations. She encouraged ongoing dialogue and communication between the diplomatic missions and the Ministry.

As Sierra Leone forges ahead in its pursuit of global cooperation and development, the Minister’s inaugural meeting with the diplomatic community signifies a promising era of strengthened international ties and collaborative endeavors.

 

Ministry of Finance Updates on Medium Term Debt Strategy

By Millicent Senava Mannah

The Public Debt Management Division in the Ministry of Finance has commenced a Five-day workshop to update the Medium-Term (2023-2028) Debt Strategy, on the 21st August , 2023, a move that is geared towards reducing the cost and risk of the existing debt portfolio consistent with the national debt strategy in the country. This event was held at the Leisure Lodge, Aberdeen in Freetown.

Participants from various institutions like the National Revenue Authority, Bank of Sierra Leone, Statistic Sierra Leone, National Minerals Agency (NMA), University of Sierra Leone, and Civil Society Organizations were in attendance to deliberate and analyze the existing debt, financing need, intent and exchange rate, and potential financing strategies.

Giving the opening statement, the Senior Deputy Financial Secretary (SDFS) in the Ministry of Finance, Samuel E.B Momoh, stated that public debt is amongst the most topical issues of global economic discussions today, noting that debt has been associated with three main challenges such as volatile economic growth, high inflation and persistence of global shocks, especially the Russian-Ukraine war.

He maintained that, the stock of disbursed outstanding public debt, including verified domestic arrears, has reached NLe 51.70 billion, estimated at 2.75 billion USD at the end of December 2022, of which external and domestic debt accounted for NLe35.65 billion, 1.9 billion USD and 16.06 billion respectively.

“According to a recent estimate public debt stood at 98.9 per cent of the GDP as at end-December 2022 and is projected to average 82.38 per cent of GDP in 2024-2027 under the baseline public debt and macro-economic assumptions,” he stated.

Samuel E.B Momoh noted that, the existing Medium Term Debt Strategy (MTDS) of 2021-2025 estimated total public debt was projected to decline gradually with hopes that the economy would expand, export increase, domestic revenue increase and budget deficit narrow in the medium term.

The Senior Deputy Financial Secretary continued to state that most of these expectations turned the opposite as the economy contracted, domestic revenue decreased, and the budget deficit expanded with the new Government agenda.

He mentioned that the foundation upon which the last MTDS 2021-2025 was built has changed and that hence the need to update the MTDS to reflect the recent development and design alternative strategies to address the rising debt levels to finance Government priorities at low cost and reduce risk.

He mentioned that updating the MTDS 2023-2028 will  help improve the Government’s Country Policies and Institutional Assessment (CPIA) rating, translating into additional IDA allocation to Sierra Leone.

The Director of the Public Debt Management Division (PDMD), Mathew Sandy, said that Sierra Leone has now met the International Standards of the MTDS training presentation by the World Bank and the IMF.

He explained that the whole exercise involves eight steps which include the objectives and scope of strategy, cost and risk of existing debt, potential sources of finance, medium-term macro–policy and market environment, broad structural factors and risks, analysis of alternate debt management strategies, review with fiscal monetary and market authorities and propose and approve the design.

Director Sandy stated that, total public debt is expected to decline when the country starts to export, continuing that, Fiscal consolidation with efficient spending and innovative ways are significant to reducing debt in the country.

He revealed that the updated MTDAS 2023-2028 would inform the financing options for the 2024 Budget and Fiscal Strategy Statement 2024-2028, which would proffer policies for the entire year of delivery on the Big Five (Feed Salone, Human Capital Development, Youth Employment Scheme, Revamping Public Service and Technology and Infrastructure).

According to him, the reasons for updating the MTDS are because the last assumptions of the 2021-2025 no longer hold given the changes in the recent Macroeconomic Fundamentals.

“Policy environment has changed from Human Capital Development to Big-Five Agenda of Government,” Mathew Sandy stated.

Representatives from other institutions also made salient presentations and the opening event of the workshop was climaxed with a question and answer session.

NCRA DG Transforms CRVS & ID Management Landscape to an Envy in Africa

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA), a once moribund institution, which previously was an entity considered to be a dumping ground for certain Civil Servants, is today in the limelight , both nationally and internationally, as one of the  most important Government institutions in the country. Since the appointment of Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi, as the Director General of the NCRA, the institution has undergone tremendous transformation, went through a re-birth and has now become an envy in Africa for the great strides it has taken and continues to take in order to modernize Civil Registration and the recording of Vital Statistics.

Under his leadership, Sierra Leone has emerged as a vanguard in propelling the digital transformation of Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (CRVS) systems across the African continent. Noteworthy progress in harnessing digital technologies to streamline data management within the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) has been spotlighted, marking significant strides towards efficient governance and elevated public services.

In a broadcast statement on August 10, 2023, the Director General of Sierra Leone’s National Civil Registration Authority, Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi, highlighted the significance of the 6th commemoration of Africa Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (CRVS) Day. This annual event, endorsed by the African Union, serves as a pivotal platform to emphasize the pivotal role of CRVS in contemporary society.

Under the theme “Enhancing Coverage, Quality, and Timeliness of Data via Digitalization of Civil Registration Systems,” the 6th Africa CRVS Day marked the 14th year since the inception of the Africa Programme for Accelerated Improvement for Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (APAI-CRVS). The decision to observe CRVS Day was ratified during the 32nd ordinary Session of the AU Executive Council in 2018, aimed at amplifying advocacy for robust CRVS systems within Africa’s developmental trajectory.

Furthermore, the occasion serves as a call to fortify commitments for refining CRVS systems and bolstering collaboration among stakeholders.

In a broadcast communication by NCRA’s Director General, Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi, the profound advancements achieved by Sierra Leone in enhancing the Digitalization of Civil Registration Systems were unveiled.

He underscored Sierra Leone’s substantial progress, orchestrated through the NCRA in collaboration with governmental support and partnerships, most notably with the European Union, Irish Aid, UNICEF, UNDP, UNFPA and Plan International Sierra Leone. These collective efforts have expedited the digitalization of historical and contemporary CRVS records.

Massaquoi revealed the launch of the digitalization initiative to convert historical birth and death records from the 1800s into electronic formats, enabling convenient archiving, retrieval, and curbing identity manipulation for fraudulent purposes.

He expounded on further collaborative endeavors, particularly with the European Union through UNOPS, which led to the modernization of the CRVS system, enabling efficient storage and processing of identity data while interconnecting with various E-Government systems and partner institutions.

Moreover, in tandem with the European Union’s support, Sierra Leone established a pioneering Tier III Primary Data Centre, a first in the sub-region, aimed at safeguarding CRVS data in instances of natural or other emergencies.

Massaquoi also revealed collaborative efforts with UNICEF that introduced counterfeit-proof Securitized Registration Credentials and Instruments to combat fraudulent certificates. Support from Irish Aid and UNDP enabled the implementation of a secure enterprise Data Extraction, Transformation, and Loading layer (ETL) for seamless data transfer between the NCRA and ECSL, crucial for updating the Voter Register upon citizens reaching voting age.

The Director General also lauded the provision of Fibre connectivity, a result of joint efforts from Irish Aid and UNDP, facilitating seamless data synchronization between NCRA and ECSL for Voter Register updates.

Massaquoi further disclosed the launch of an ID Verification Platform, ratified by Cabinet and Parliament with the endorsement of Sierra Leone’s President, Dr. Julius Maada Bio, effectively linking various services to the unique identifier generated by the CRVS and Identity Management System.

He underscored Sierra Leone’s pioneering status in African CRVS and ID Management System digitalization. However, he emphasized the necessity to sustain momentum in advancing digital processes across the nation.

Key areas of focus include expanding Births and Deaths Registration beyond districts to communities, necessitating skilled personnel, connectivity, electricity, IT equipment, and public education.

Massaquoi extended gratitude to the Sierra Leonean Government, particularly President Bio, as a CRVS champion, and acknowledged the support of EU, UNICEF, Irish Aid, UNDP, UNFPA, Plan International, and other partners for modernizing CRVS systems in alignment with the AU’s vision for continent-wide digitization.

He also shed light on the 6th Africa CRVS Day, highlighting its strategic role in reflecting, strategizing, and promoting awareness of CRVS’s contemporary relevance. The day has marked the 14th year since the inception of APAI-CRVS and aligns with AU objectives to fortify CRVS systems and coordination.

Massaquoi noted that this year’s commemoration further commits African nations to modernize CRVS systems through digitization, with a focus on identity services for governance, health, education, and public administration.

Highlighting the importance of digitization, he stressed data protection, system interoperability and data-sharing practices as pivotal in advancing African countries toward SDG16.9.

Massaquoi encouraged African nations to integrate digital CRVS processes as part of essential public infrastructure, enabling the linkage of Civil Registration and Vital Statistics data with identification data across Government agencies.

Digitalization transforms Civil Registration from passive to proactive systems, strengthening data accuracy and notification processes, and improving collaboration between Civil Registration authorities and the health sector.

In sum, Sierra Leone’s pioneering advancements in CRVS digitalization have positioned it as a model for the African continent, furthering efficient governance and public service delivery.

 

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

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In the realm of quality petroleum products and exceptional customer care, NP-SL Ltd stands as an exemplar. This proactive institution has consistently demonstrated its commitment to ensuring widespread access to top-notch petroleum offerings, including petrol, diesel, gas, and lubricants, including the highly sought-after Castrol lubricant oil known for efficient engine lubrication.

NP-SL Ltd continues its unwavering dedication to providing customers with premium products. The company has a dedicated workforce and a network of distributors who effectively market its petroleum products. This strategic approach aligns with the Government’s developmental goals, amplifying the nation’s progress.

Gone are the days of customer complaints about inaccurate fuel dispensing by pump attendants. NP-SL Ltd’s astute Shareholders and Management have implemented modern calibrated pumping systems across their selling points. These machines dispense precise quantities of fuel at accurate prices, earning the company the coveted distinction of “1st For Customer Care.”

A recent countrywide survey aimed at gauging public sentiment towards NP-SL Ltd yielded overwhelmingly positive results. Respondents praised the company for its customer-centric approach, lauding both the Shareholders and Management for their exceptional service delivery and customer satisfaction efforts.

Prominent Social Commentator, Abdul Aziz Koroma, emphasized that NP-SL Ltd sets the standard for customer care, notably through the transparent sales facilitated by modern calibrated pumping systems. Koroma dismissed any concerns of customer exploitation, attributing such notions to mere imagination.

Long-standing Development Specialist, Andrew Soluku, underscored the imperative of leveraging local resources for sustainable economic growth. Soluku commended NP-SL Ltd’s policy of exclusively hiring Sierra Leoneans, viewing it as a commendable act of patriotism that enhances citizens’ living standards.

The widespread adoption of NP Gas for cooking purposes gained prominence among interviewees. Users found the gas device efficient and eco-friendly, with various cylinder sizes available at NP-SL Ltd’s Filling Stations. The device’s popularity surged due to its performance and the accessibility of refill options.

The NP Smart Card emerged as a convenient trend, enabling seamless petroleum product purchases. Users praised the card’s usefulness, citing its ability to eliminate the need for cash transactions. Engineers and professionals highlighted the convenience of refueling without visiting a bank for cash withdrawals.

Remarkably, NP-SL Ltd’s growth extends beyond Sierra Leone’s borders. Branches in neighboring Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast, and The Gambia have flourished, solidifying the company’s regional presence.

In essence, the conducted survey reaffirms NP-SL Ltd as a thriving business entity contributing substantially to the nation’s socio-economic progress. The company’s dedication to quality, transparency, and customer satisfaction position it as a model for others to emulate.

Health Alert & RMNCAH Coalition Call on Govt. To Honor Compact Agreement

By Foday Moriba Conteh

During a comprehensive media engagement geared towards addressing the implementation of health service delivery, utilization of COVID-19 finances and the safety of COVID-19 vaccines in the country, held on Tuesday, 22nd August, 2023 at the GGEM Hall on John Street in Freetown, the Civil Society Organization,  Health Alert and the RMNCAH Coalition collectively urged the Government of Sierra Leone, through the Ministry of Finance, to fulfill the commitments outlined in the Compact Agreement signed with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in February 2022.

Speaking at the event, the Executive Director of Health Alert and Chairman of the RMNCAH Coalition, Victor Lansana Koroma, reminded attendees that in February 2022, the Government of Sierra Leone, through the Ministry of Finance, entered into a Compact Agreement with UNFPA. The agreement mandated the Government to allocate 1% of its contribution, amounting to $12,000 USD, for the procurement of Family Planning commodities and essential drugs related to Reproductive and Maternal Health for the Ministry of Health and Sanitation.

He emphasized the significance of these provisions, noting that the commodities in question are intended to facilitate adolescents’ and youths’ access to Family Planning resources. This access is crucial in addressing concerns such as unwanted teenage pregnancies and providing contraceptive treatment for women and girls of reproductive age.

Enumerating the benefits of Family Planning, the Executive Director highlighted that it plays a pivotal role in minimizing pregnancy complications, reducing adolescent pregnancies, lowering infant mortality rates, preventing sexually transmitted infections, promoting education and economic empowerment, and ultimately contribute to socio-economic growth and human capital development.

He further underscored the economic rationale for investing in modern contraception and maternal and newborn care. He shared insights from the World Health Organization (WHO), stating that fully meeting the needs for modern contraception and maternal and newborn care could lead to a net savings of US$6.9 billion compared to solely investing in maternal and newborn health care. The returns on investment compound over time, demonstrating the lasting benefits of prioritizing modern contraception.

Highlighting the Compact Agreement as a mechanism for domestic resource investment, Victor Lansana Koroma stressed that UNFPA’s continued support hinges on the Government’s fulfillment of its obligations under the agreement. He emphasized that failing to meet the stipulated commitments may jeopardize UNFPA’s future contributions to the health sector.

He concluded that in light of these considerations, the Coalition earnestly calls upon the Government, through the Ministry of Finance, to honor its commitment as articulated in the Compact Agreement inked with UNFPA in February 2022. This step is essential to ensure the continuous support from UNFPA for the health sector.

Internal Affairs Minister Pays Familiarization Visit to NCRA

By Abubakarr Harding

The recently appointed Minister of Internal Affairs, Major General (Rtd) David T.O. Taluva, conducted a comprehensive familiarization visit to the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA). The objective of the visit was to foster a deeper understanding of the Authority’s leadership and operations within Sierra Leone’s Civil Registration, Vital Statistics, and Identity Management sectors.

During the meeting, which aimed to provide the new Minister with insights into the Authority’s accomplishments, strategies, challenges, and potential opportunities, Director General Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi delivered a comprehensive presentation. The presentation spotlighted the evolution of NCRA’s role, including its centralization of vital event registrations, which were previously dispersed among various institutions.

Key achievements showcased by Director General Massaquoi included the successful introduction and assignment of National Identification Numbers (NIN) to all citizens and registered nationals. The issuance of Securitized Birth and Death Certificates was highlighted as another milestone, made possible through collaboration with development partners. Massaquoi also highlighted the nationwide presence of NCRA across Sierra Leone’s administrative districts.

The meeting emphasized NCRA’s collaboration with Contrast Systems, an in-country ID production company, enabling the issuance of Multi-Purpose Biometric Identity Cards to citizens, ECOWAS member state citizens, and other nationals. Additionally, the Authority’s provision of identity verification services to various Government agencies, such as the Immigration Department, National Revenue Authority, Sierra Leone Roads Safety Authority, and banks, was underscored.

The governance structure of NCRA was highlighted, consisting of 11 Board Members with a mix of Statutory and discipline-related members. Major General (Rtd) David T.O. Taluva was briefed on a comprehensive country assessment conducted by the United Nations Global office, indicating Sierra Leone’s impressive preparedness and integrated approach to Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (CRVS) and Identity Management.

The Minister inquired about the Data Protection Bill, which NCRA, in collaboration with partners, had developed for legislative consideration. Director General Massaquoi updated the Minister on the Bill’s progress and its importance for national security and containing various illicit activities.

Major General (Rtd) Taluva applauded NCRA’s efforts to streamline Government payroll processes and emphasized the significance of the National Identification Number (NIN) for enhancing financial transactions, containing money laundering, and improving national security.

Minister Taluva concluded with valuable insights on donor funds communication and the importance of teamwork. He stressed the need to present donor funds to the Ministry for Cabinet discussions and urged NCRA staff to collaborate effectively to achieve national goals.

Accompanying the Minister were Chief Technical Director and Senior Adviser of the Ministry of Internal Affairs,  Amadu Mannah, and Head of Media at the Ministry, Ms. Anita Bockarie. The event was attended by the NCRA Directors and Senior Officers of its units, and the vote of thanks was delivered by Grace Harman, Director of the Births and Deaths Directorate.

Milton Margai Alumni USA Hails Prof. Philip John Kanu for Reforms at 4th Annual Meet & Greet Event

By Alpha Good Kamara

The Milton Margai Alumni USA Chapter held its 4th Annual Meet and Greet event, on the 18th August, 2023 in Maryland, USA, which drew alumni from across the United States and beyond during which the Vice-Chancellor of Milton Margai Technical University, Prof. Philip John Kanu, was lauded and honored for his remarkable reforms within the institution.

This year’s Meet and Greet, a customary event for alumni to reconnect and reminisce about their student experiences, deviated from tradition by inviting Prof. Kanu as the keynote speaker. His inclusion aimed to provide insight into the University’s current standing and progress. The alumni extended their appreciation to Prof. Kanu for his exemplary leadership, which encompassed elevating academic standards, fostering infrastructural development, and elevating the institution’s status to that of a Technical University.

Expressing their commitment to further collaborate with the administration, the alumni pledged to support the university’s growth trajectory. They hailed Prof. Kanu’s leadership as an integral part of their institution’s success. Currently in the United States, Prof. Kanu is actively pursuing collaborations with other educational institutions to enhance staff expertise, facilitate scholarships, and offer virtual lectures.

In his keynote address, Prof. Kanu emphasized the significance of the Meet and Greet, emphasizing that the event served as a unifying platform and an opportunity to revitalize cherished memories. He regarded the occasion as momentous not only for himself but also for the institution he leads. Prof. Kanu expressed gratitude for the recognition bestowed upon him by the alumni and assured them of his unwavering dedication.

During his address, Prof. Kanu recounted the institution’s journey to its current status as a Technical University. He underlined the transformative path the institution undertook and reiterated his resolute commitment to steering the university toward success.

Prof. Kanu also addressed instances of misconduct within the institution, such as unethical academic practices and absenteeism among staff. He issued a stern warning that his administration would rigorously address any deviations from ethical conduct. He shared the university’s five-pronged objectives, including a plan to decentralize education, aligning with the national vision to bolster middle-level manpower and human capital development.

In recognition of Prof. Kanu’s unwavering contributions, the Alumni adorned him and his family with accolades, acknowledging their dedication to the university’s advancement.

The event culminated with a rendition of the university anthem, accompanied by celebratory festivities. The annual gathering not only celebrated alumni connections but also highlighted the transformative leadership that continues to shape the future of Milton Margai Technical University.

Babadie Kamara: Catalyst of Sierra Leone’s Sports Development Triumphs

In a fervently sports-oriented nation, Sierra Leoneans are united as one, to applaud the exceptional accomplishments of a visionary in sports – Babadie Kamara. His extraordinary strides in propelling sports development have stirred a tide of appreciation and recognition that transcends mere athletic domains, resonating profoundly within the country.

The narrative of Babadie Kamara’s achievements as a sports enthusiast and advocate mirrors unflinching commitment, tireless endeavor and an insatiable ardor for uplifting his homeland through sports. His influence spans diverse facets of athletic pursuit, spanning grassroots initiatives to the professional echelons, shaping lives, nurturing talent, and kindling aspirations throughout the trajectory.

Amid jubilant acclaim, Sierra Leoneans extol Babadie Kamara’s enduring devotion to enhancing sports within Sierra Leone, a dedication that continues to yield impressive dividends. Under his forward-thinking stewardship, Kamara has orchestrated transformative advancements that have reshaped the country’s sports landscape.

A standout milestone in Kamara’s portfolio is the establishment of a contemporary stadium, not only catering to athletes with cutting-edge amenities but also emblematic of Sierra Leone’s burgeoning significance in the global sporting arena. The stadium stands as a tangible testament to Kamara’s resolve in uplifting the nation’s sporting infrastructure.

Beyond the stadium’s grandeur, Kamara’s transformative influence reverberates through his guidance of the Bo Rangers Football Club. Under his tutelage, the Bo Rangers have undergone a remarkable metamorphosis, evolving into a formidable contender within the Sierra Leone Premier League. Their impressive trajectory has propelled them into the fiercely competitive CAF Champions League, underscoring Sierra Leone’s escalating eminence on the continental stage.

A recent zenith in the Bo Rangers’ achievements was their spirited participation in the West African Champions Cup. With unwavering determination and skill, the team navigated through the tournament, culminating in a hard-fought appearance in the final. Although they narrowly succumbed to the champions from Benin, the achievement stands as a testament to the monumental strides the team has achieved under Kamara’s guidance.

Kamara’s sphere of influence extends beyond the playing turf; he has evolved into an emblem of inspiration for Sierra Leoneans, epitomizing the potential for effecting positive transformation within the sports realm through passion, vision, and diligent exertion. His unwavering commitment to excellence has not only propelled the Bo Rangers Football Club to new heights but has also garnered the affections and admiration of the entire nation.

As Sierra Leone continues to harness the unifying potency of sports and its role in cultivating national pride, Babadie Kamara’s legacy is indelibly etched into the chronicles of the nation’s sporting heritage. His voyage of impact has heralded transformative change, leaving an indomitable imprint on Sierra Leone’s sporting tableau.

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