World Bank’s Pierre Laporte Explores Collaborative Prospects with Finance Minister

August 23, 2023

Pierre Laporte, the World Bank Country Director responsible for Ghana, Sierra Leone and Liberia was engaged in discussions with the Ministry of Finance officials on Monday August 21, 2023, during his official two-day visit to Sierra Leone. The purpose of his visit was to deliberate on ongoing and forthcoming collaborations with the World Bank.

Expressing gratitude for the meeting and interactions, Mr. Laporte conveyed his appreciation to the Minister and his team and emphasized the importance of fostering a strong and cooperative relationship between Sierra Leone and the World Bank.

Lauding the Government’s accomplishments, he acknowledged the significant progress made in enhancing the project portfolio’s disbursement rate over the previous year and also commended the Government for implementing various reforms to enhance the nation’s economic landscape.

During the meeting, Mr. Laporte revealed the World Bank’s intention to support the Government in advancing both macro and microeconomic fundamentals, underscoring their commitment to aiding Sierra Leone’s economic growth.

Minister of Finance, Sheku Fantamadi Bangura, warmly welcomed Mr. Laporte, highlighting the Government’s recent strides in maximizing the utilization of World Bank resources. The Minister spotlighted the improved disbursement rate within the Bank’s portfolio.

Minister Bangura elaborated on the Government’s multifaceted approach to enhance revenue generation, foster fiscal consolidation, reduce budget deficits, manage public debt and simultaneously bolster investments in pivotal social sectors like Education, Health and Food Security.

Furthermore, Minister Bangura provided an overview of the macro-fiscal status during 2022 and the first half of 2023 and elaborated on the Government’s ambitious “Big Five” agenda and their intent to collaborate with partners to align programs supporting this initiative.

During his sojourn in Freetown, Pierre Laporte is scheduled to engage with key stakeholders, including President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, the Chief Minister, various Government Ministers, the Governor of the Bank of Sierra Leone, and other esteemed development partner organizations invested in Sierra Leone’s growth and progress.

Gender Mainstreaming Workshop Wraps Up, Advancing Gender Integration Across Government Sectors

August 23, 2023

The Gender Mainstreaming Workshop for key Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) has concluded, marking a significant step towards strengthening gender integration in various sectors. With collaborative support from the United Nations Partnership and Irish Aid, the Deputy Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs (MoGCA), Hindowa Bindi, inaugurated the event on August 17, 2023.

Held at the picturesque Fabulous Resort in York Village along the Freetown Peninsula, the workshop aimed to equip MDAs’ Gender Focal Persons/Units with the essential knowledge and skills necessary for effective gender mainstreaming. This entails embedding gender considerations across Sectoral Policies, Legislative frameworks, and strategic plans.

In his opening address, Deputy Minister, Hindowa Bindi, emphasized the workshop’s interactive nature and its role in bolstering participants’ capacity to incorporate gender policies into their programs. Stressing its mandatory nature for all MDAs, he underscored the importance of establishing Gender Units within these entities. The workshop delved into global and regional frameworks, charting a path forward for gender integration.

Commending President Julius Maada Bio for enacting the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Act, Bindi called for a comprehensive examination of the Act’s provisions. He revealed that the Act extends beyond women’s appointments to various positions, addressing crucial issues. Notably, he highlighted that 37% of ministerial and deputy positions are now held by women, and 41 female Members of Parliament are contributing to the country’s leadership.

The workshop also emphasized women’s economic empowerment, signaling a commitment to monitor and assess the Act’s implementation progress. Bindi urged MDAs to adhere to the law and establish operational and effective Gender Units. Acknowledging the vital role of development partners, he expressed gratitude to the UN Country Team in Sierra Leone for their unwavering support.

Several speakers highlighted the workshop’s phased approach, designed to integrate gender considerations systematically into all programs, aligning with the nation’s development trajectory.

Charles Vandy, Deputy Chief Professional Head in the Ministry of Social Welfare, welcomed participants and stressed the workshop’s importance in advancing the gender agenda. Vandy underlined the need for MDAs to integrate gender perspectives into their legal frameworks, programs, and strategies. He assured that the workshop would provide hands-on training on essential gender concepts, analysis, mainstreaming, budgeting, and planning.

The workshop saw the participation of 14 MDAs, with Charles Vandi providing detailed insights into the GEWE Act and fundamental gender concepts. He cautioned that the rigorous two-and-a-half-day workshop aimed to qualify participants as gender experts.

In her solidarity message, Ms. Mariama Gbao of UN Women lauded Sierra Leone’s progress in promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment, evident in the enactment of the GEWE Bill 2022. The Director of Planning, Ibrahim Kamara, highlighted the workshop’s objectives, with planned sessions covering a wide range of gender-related topics.

Chaired by Goodie M. Sowonie, Director of Gender in the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs, the opening session set the tone for robust discussions on gender mainstreaming. Phase I of the training focused on Ministries of Basic and Senior Secondary Education; Lands and Country Planning; Youth Affairs; Labour and Employment; Mines and Mineral Resources; Agriculture; Environment; Fisheries and Marine Resources; Transport; Trade and Industry; Social Welfare; Defence; Internal Affairs; and Works and Public Assets.

Phase II is set to unfold in the coming weeks, targeting additional Ministries as the nation strives for enhanced gender integration and equality across sectors.

US Ambassador’s Insights Propel APC Towards Renewed Political Path – Deveaux Advocates Change

August 21, 2023

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a recent interview with US Ambassador David Reimer on Radio Democracy 98.1, discussions regarding the future course of the APC (All People’s Congress) party in Sierra Leone have gained significance. Cornelius Oguntola Melvin Deveaux, a prominent figure within the party, underscores the importance of considering Ambassador Reimer’s insights as the party navigates its way out of its current challenges.

Ambassador Reimer’s stance differs notably from a previous diplomatic incident involving Ambassador Michael Schulenberg in 2012. Unlike Schulenberg, who faced diplomatic repercussions for allegedly interfering in Sierra Leone’s political landscape, Reimer’s interview reflects a balanced and informed approach to the country’s affairs. Deveaux asserts that likening Reimer’s situation to Schulenberg’s would be unjust and counterproductive.

From the interview, four key points emerge that hold crucial implications for the APC’s members and its political strategy going forward:

Recognition of President Bio: Ambassador Reimer unequivocally acknowledges President Julius Maada Bio as the legitimate leader of Sierra Leone. This stands in contrast to assertions by some APC members who questioned the legitimacy of Bio’s presidency. The US Ambassador’s position aligns with constitutional provisions defining the presidency, emphasizing the need for the party to acknowledge this reality.

Timeline for Elections: Reimer confirms that the next elections in Sierra Leone are scheduled for 2028. This clarity should guide the APC’s strategic planning and actions leading up to the upcoming polls.

Boycott Not the Best Option: The APC’s previous decision to boycott governance is challenged by Ambassador Reimer, who suggests that this stance may not serve the party’s best interests. This insight calls for a reconsideration of the party’s approach to engagement and participation in governance.

Electoral System Review: Reimer underscores the importance of addressing integrity deficiencies in the electoral system to enhance the conduct of future elections. This reform-oriented perspective encourages the APC to contribute constructively to electoral improvements.

Deveaux urges APC members to recognize these points and the broader political realities they represent. He emphasizes that acknowledging President Bio’s legitimacy is not contingent on congratulatory messages from foreign powers or the opposition’s participation in governance. Instead, it is anchored in constitutional provisions.

In light of this, Deveaux urges the party to move beyond internal disagreements and focus on its future trajectory. He critiques the current APC de-facto leadership for clinging to positions without democratic mandates, which impedes progress and hampers the party’s effectiveness. He highlights the need for internal reconciliation, unity, and adherence to constitutional processes to facilitate growth.

Deveaux also emphasizes the importance of tackling legal challenges, promoting inclusivity, and preparing for the 2028 elections. He suggests the formation of an unbiased committee in collaboration with relevant institutions to manage the party’s affairs and ensure transparent elections of new executives.

In summary, according to Deveaux, Ambassador Reimer’s interview serves as a guidepost for the APC’s rejuvenation. The party is encouraged to embrace President Bio’s legitimacy, reposition itself as a credible opposition, engage in progressive electoral reforms and contribute to Sierra Leone’s stability on the international stage.

He concluded that with these insights in mind, the APC has an opportunity to chart a more effective and successful path forward.

As First Lady & YAWC Seal MoU… Sierra Leone to Host Young African Women Congress’ 2023

August 21, 2023

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a bid to host the Young African Women Congress’ (YAWC’) 2023 Annual Continental Convocation in the country, the Office of the First Lady of the Republic of Sierra Leone has on Friday 18th August, 2023 signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Congress. The symbolic signing ceremony, which was attended by the First Lady of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Dr Fatima Maada Bio, Executive Chairman for YAWC, Daniel Osei Tuffuor, Cabinet Ministers was held at State House in Freetown.

In her welcome address, the President of the Young African Women Congress Sierra Leone Chapter, Michaela Kargbo, expressed appreciation to the First Lady of the Republic of Sierra Leone for the signing of the MoU between her office and the Young African Women Congress.

She said that the Young African Women Congress is apolitical, a non-racial fraternity of young women living in Africa and in the diaspora with its headquarters in Ghana.

Michaela Kargbo noted that their vision is to empower women in a collaborative approach furthering how they have been embarking on a continental campaign against rape, reaching a minimum of 50 million people, adding that over 2,000 women have been empowered through their organization.

In his statement, the Executive Chairman of the Young African Women Congress, Daniel Osei Tuffuor, also commended the First Lady of the Republic of Sierra Leone for her tireless efforts towards the empowerment of women and girls in the country.

He said his organization is focused on women’s empowerment and development, adding that they would always be happy to make their voices heard on matters that would promote women’s activities.

Daniel Osei Tuffuor also recalled that when he last visited Sierra Leone some months ago and found billboards bearing the portrait of the First Lady with the inscription: ‘Hands Off Our Girls’, he was thrilled by the ambition of a political figure championing the affairs of women.

He disclosed that he felt realness in the First Lady’s campaign against rape and other domestic violence against women maintaining how it is enough of paying lip service to campaigns such as this but rather there is need for genuine campaigners in Africa like the First Lady of Sierra Leone.

On her part, the First Lady of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Dr Fatima Maada Bio called on members of the Young African Women Congress (YAWC) Sierra Leone Chapter to partner with her office disclosing that in Sierra Leone there is no political barrier to the empowerment of women.

She said the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Office of the First Lady and YAWC would lead to the hosting of the Young African Women Congress’ 2023 Annual Continental Convocation in Freetown from the 20th to 24th November, 2023 which further describing such as very important towards the development and empowerment of women and girls in Africa.

He stated that the event will enhance an economic boom for the country’s hotel and tourism sector as Sierra Leone will have the opportunity to host over 1,000 people as participants in the forthcoming Congress.

She expressed gratitude to His Excellency, President Dr Julius Maada Bio, for empowering the women of Sierra Leone adding that the enactment of the GEWE Bill in the country has opened the space for women of which she noted that the recent appointment of women to Cabinet positions and the increase in the number of female members of Parliament in the 6^th Parliament of the Second Republic of Sierra Leone speaks volumes of President Bio’s commitment towards the empowerment of women in the country.

She also informed the gathering that Sierra Leone is ready for business, and that hosting of the Young African Women Congress’ 2023 Annual Continental Convocation in the country would open up the space for new investment opportunities.

Climaxing the ceremony was the official signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between the Office of the First Lady and the Young African Women Congress by the First Lady of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Dr Fatima Maada Bio and the Executive Chairman of the Young African Women Congress, Daniel Osei Tuffuor.

President Bio’s Long Promised Diagnostic Centre… Minister of Health Breaks Silence

August 21, 2023

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a solemn keynote address commemorating World Cancer Day 2019, His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio pledged to the people of Sierra Leone the establishment of a Radiotherapy Cancer Treatment Centre and a National Diagnostic Centre. In December 2020, the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) of Sierra Leone made a significant stride towards recovering pilfered public funds which it presented, in the form of a written cheque of Le 7,578,449.077 to His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio.

On receiving the cheque, the President made known his intention to allocate the recovered funds to the construction of a Radiotherapy Cancer Treatment Centre and a modern medical diagnostic centre, as part of his commitment to advancing the nation’s healthcare system.

Over three years have gone by since the commitment was made. However, despite that commitment and the anticipation of progress, there has been no visible action taken towards the construction of the promised National Diagnostic and the Centre of a Radiotherapy Cancer Treatment Centre.

With the passage of time, citizens have begun to raise concerns over the apparent delay in fulfilling that critical healthcare promise.

As citizens are eagerly awaiting an update on the promised medical facilities, the Minister of Health, Dr. Austin Demby has on Thursday 17th August, 2023, in an exclusive interview with this medium at his Youyi Building Office in Freetown, intimated that His Excellency, President Maada Bio is very committed to fulfill his promise towards the establishment of a National Diagnostic Centre and the Radiotherapy Cancer Treatment Centre in the country.

He said that the cheque of Le 7,578,449.077 Leones that was presented to His Excellency Julius Maada Bio by the Anti-Corruption Commission from recovering public funds which he said will be allocated to the construction of a modern medical diagnostic centre still remains intact.

The Minister revealed that the delay towards the construction of the Diagnostic Centre and the Radiotherapy Cancer Treatment Centre in the country relates to the type of equipment that should be used in the new centre, adding that traditionally a radioactive Mineral (Cobalt-60) is used as the standard of care.

He noted that for Sierra Leone to construct a Diagnostic and Treatment Centre there is need to consult with the International Energy Agency (IEA), an institution that works with countries around the world to shape energy policies for a secured and sustainable future. The Minister emphasized that the IEA should give Sierra Leone guidance as to what equipment must be procured and how to build one in the country.

Dr. Austin Demby further revealed how the Government of Sierra Leone consulted the International Energy Agency which suggested that Sierra Leone should utilize the Cobalt-60 product adding that the Cobalt-60 is an old bulky medicine and that there are new technologies available now including the Linear Accelerator Machine, furthering the due to the initial recommendation of the Cobalt-60 product by the IEA Government has been going back and forth with them as to what could be best for the country.

He pointed out that the Government consulted with others and discovered that the Linear Accelerator Machine is been used adding that the Government again made such known to the IEA until it was finally agreed that Sierra Leone could have both the Cupboard 60 and the Linear Accelerator Machine in country.

The Minister of Health also informed that in December of 2022 the Government met with Varian Medical Systems leading to the signing of a 10 years Memorandum of Understanding which will cover screening, diagnosis, advanced treatment and training of local staff.

“Where we are now is to activate this engagement with Varian Medical Systems and work with them to help us with the right specifications. I want to profusely apologize because we have not fulfilled the promise of His Excellency, President Maada Bio. But I want to assure the nation that the funds are secured but we don’t want to bring an equipment that doesn’t met our requirement as the Centre is expected to last for years,” the Health Minister stated.

Dr. Austin Demby ended by reaffirming Government’s commitment to the construction of the Diagnostic Centre and the Radiotherapy Cancer Treatment Centre in the country.

As the nation enthusiastically awaits fulfillment of the promise made by His Excellency towards the construction of the Diagnostic Centre and the Radiotherapy Cancer Treatment Centre, citizens continue to call on the Government to prioritize its establishment.

According to them the need for accessible and modern healthcare facilities is paramount for the well-being of the population, and it is their hope that the Government will take swift action to honor its commitment and pledge.

This medium will continue to follow the issue keenly.

SLWAFC & Sowei Council Urge President Bio to Protect Soweis Against Anti-FGM Campaigners

August 21, 2023

By Foday Moriba Conteh

“Bondo Business, nor to you talk oh” these were the exact words from hundreds of Soweis in Sierra Leone during a Press Conference held on Friday 18^th August, 2023 at the Obasai Hall on Regent Road in the Central Part of Freetown.

The Press conference was held by the Sierra Leone Women Are Free to Choose (SLWAFC) and National Sowei Council in order to call on President Julius Maada Bio to safeguard Soweis from Anti-FGM campaigners.

“We want the Bio Administration to protect our Soweis and ordinary Bondo and Sande women in this country and our rights to self-determination and to bodily autonomy,” said Dr. Sia Fuambai Ahmadu.

She disclosed how, sometime back, they filed a lawsuit ,through their Attorneys , at the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice in which there are three Plaintiffs: a Non Governmental Organization, Purposeful, which was then headed by the newly appointed Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah (popularly known as C. Bah); the Forum Against Harmful Traditional Practices headed by Nenneh Rugiatu Turay and one alleged victim, Kadija Balaima Allieu.

Reading a Press Statement to members of the Press, the Spokeswoman of the National Sowei Council, Dr. Fuambai Sia Nyoko Ahmadu ,who doubles as the founder of Sierra Leone Woman Are Free to Choose (SLWAFC) said the Bondo and Sande Societies do not practice Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).

She noted that: “The dictionary definition of “mutilation” is not just to cut – it means to disfigure and to cause dysfunction. According to her, for most affected women, the typical Bondo procedure is an aesthetic and sexual enhancement that beautifies the vulva (the vulva is the actual word for the external female genitalia).

She continued that most of them affected women prefer and enjoy the smoother, cleaner and more symmetrical appearance of their vulva after the Bondo procedure.

The Spokeswoman said their practice has been deliberately tagged to be barbaric by western nations in an attempt to downplay the culture and tradition of Sierra Leone further stating that Female Genital Mutilation is wrong and that what they practice is female circumcision synonymous to that of the male.

“Bondo and Sande societies do not practice FGM,” Ahmadu affirmed.

She argued that the term FGM is just another way of tagging African and Muslim women as “sexually disfigured and dysfunctional victims of patriarchy”.

Dr. Fuambai Sia Nyoko Ahmadu pointed out that there is an increase in the number of Western women going for circumcision and that it is now becoming lucrative for surgeons.

The Sowei Spokeswoman underscored how the West has created “legal loopholes” in order to make the practice safe for predominantly white male doctors who make “millions of dollars” from it.

The Soweis also added that most the campaigns over the years have been undertaken by local NGOs like Purposeful Now and Amazonian Initiative maintaining that most of those local NGOs campaign because they get in return millions of US dollars from foreign organizations like Equality Now.

According to the Soweis, the Government should reconsider the appointment of the new Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah. These Soweis pointed out that he is the head of ‘Purposeful Now’ one of the plaintiffs in a matter filed against the state of Sierra Leone in an alleged FGM matter at the ECOWAS Court.

“The appointment of C. Bah who, as head of Purposeful, less than three months ago filed a lawsuit at ECOWAS against this very Bio Government appears disingenuous,” the spokeswoman said.

Madam Ahmadu concluded by calling on His Excellency, President Julius Maada Bio and his administration to make a public statement on the position of the Government and status of the ECOWAS case, from the time it was filed, on the 20th April 2, 2023 to present, including any official response filed by the GoSL saying such is of national interest to the people of Sierra Leone.

Minister of Works Urged to Tackle Pothole Crisis in Freetown

August 21, 2023

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The state of major streets in Sierra Leone’s capital city, Freetown, has raised concerns among residents and motorists alike as potholes have become a pervasive problem, impacting daily commuters and causing vehicular damage.

Streets like Circular Road and Fourah Bay Road, which are critical arteries of the city’s transportation network, currently resemble obstacle courses rather than smooth thoroughfares.

With the rainy season exacerbating the situation, the plight of Freetown’s roads has reached a breaking point, compelling citizens to call upon the Minister of Works and Public Assets, Dr Denis Sandy, to take immediate and decisive action. The deteriorating condition of these streets not only hampers traffic flow but also poses safety risks to pedestrians and drivers, leaving them vulnerable to accidents and injuries.

Circular Road, a vital route connecting various parts of the city, has turned into a perilous journey for motorists, navigating a maze of deep and treacherous potholes. Fourah Bay Road, a historical and bustling avenue, has also fallen victim to neglect, transforming into a bumpy obstacle course that strains vehicles and tests drivers’ patience.

Residents have expressed their frustration and concern, highlighting the detrimental effects of the road deterioration on their daily lives. Business owners along these routes have reported losses as customers and suppliers struggle to navigate the pitted streets, impacting economic activities and livelihoods.

The Minister of Works and Public Assets is urged to prioritize the restoration and maintenance of Freetown’s major streets. Prompt intervention is imperative to ensure the safety and convenience of citizens and visitors alike. The Ministry’s swift action to address the pothole crisis will not only enhance the city’s infrastructure but also alleviate the burden placed upon residents.

As the citizens of Freetown eagerly await a solution, they anticipate that the Minister of Works will recognize the urgency of the matter and allocate the necessary resources to expedite repairs and restore the city’s roadways to their former glory. The transformation of Circular Road, Fourah Bay Road, and other major streets is not only a matter of convenience but also a reflection of the Government’s commitment to the well-being and progress of the nation’s capital.

In the face of this pressing challenge, the citizens of Freetown unite in their call for action, hoping that their appeal resonates with the Minister of Works and leads to a swift and effective resolution to the ongoing pothole crisis. The revitalization of these roads will not only bring relief but also contribute to the overall enhancement of Freetown’s urban landscape, promoting a safer, smoother, and more vibrant city for all.

Justice Fischer Gives Firm Warning in Tabital Pulaaku Case

August 21, 2023

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a powerful address, Justice Adrian Fischer has sent a clear message to anyone attempting to disrupt the peace process surrounding the ongoing case of the Tabital Pulaaku International Sierra Leone Chapter, a not-for-profit Fulah organization. The Judge, presiding over the matter, firmly cautioned those with intentions to hinder the peace process, stating that he would not hesitate to impose jail sentences on such individuals.

“Respect yourselves and refrain from interfering with the peace process,” Justice Fischer declared, underscoring the importance of maintaining order and harmony. His remarks came as he ordered a month-long negotiation window between the two parties. However, he warned that if no resolution is reached by the next adjourned date, set for October 9, 2023, he will move forward with the case and deliver his verdict.

In a bid to emphasize the significance of the matter, Justice Fischer directly addressed the members of the Fullah Community who were present in court through an interpreter. He revealed that the dispute had escalated to the courtroom due to the parties’ inability to find a resolution amongst themselves. He stressed that seeking legal representation was a result of their failure to reconcile outside of court.

“This is a ‘Fulah palava’ and it requires a ‘Fullah solution’,” Justice Fischer emphasized, encouraging the parties to tap into the wisdom of their elders and arrive at a peaceful agreement. He acknowledged that his eventual verdict might not please both sides, potentially perpetuating conflicts within the Fullah Community. He urged the parties to seize the opportunity for a peaceful settlement.

Addressing the three defendants directly, Justice Fischer compelled them to actively engage in the peace process and avoid actions that could disrupt its course. He reminded them that the case was still under the court’s jurisdiction, and any disturbances would not be tolerated.

During the proceedings, Lead Counsel for the Defendants, E.T. Koroma Esq, pleaded for the withdrawal of a previously filed contempt of court application. He argued for unity within the same tribe and proposed finding a collective resolution. While Lead Counsel for the Plaintiff did not oppose the application’s withdrawal, they urged the court to consider imposing a nominal fine or a strong warning on the Contemnors. The judge refrained from granting either request.

As the case unfolds, the eyes of many remain fixed on the ongoing negotiations and the consequences of Justice Fischer’s unequivocal warning to safeguard the fragile peace process.

Orange Money & Conex Forge Partnership to Propel Sierra Leone Toward Digital Transformation

August 21, 2023

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

In a decisive move towards the digital transformation of Sierra Leone, Orange Money Sierra Leone, has officially unveiled a strategic partnership with Conex on Friday, August 18, 2023. This landmark collaboration, announced at the Conex Fuel Station in Brookfields, Freetown, marks a pivotal step in the country’s journey to embrace a cashless society.

With its foundation built upon accessibility and universality, Orange Money has revolutionized financial transactions for millions who lack access to traditional banking. Utilizing mobile technology, the service empowers users to conduct swift and efficient financial dealings.

Chief Executive Officer of Orange Money, David Mansaray, affirmed the overarching goal of their initiative: to propel Sierra Leone towards a future defined by digital financial systems. “Our aspiration is for citizens to resort to cash usage only in exceptional circumstances,” he expressed optimism. Mansaray recounted a personal incident in which he found himself low on fuel and possessing funds exclusively within his Orange Money Wallet. Lamentably, Orange Money agents were not in proximity, forcing him to pay an additional fee to secure fuel. With this collaboration, such inconveniences will be alleviated.

Mansaray highlighted the confluence of benefits offered by the partnership, particularly the extension of fuel station operating hours. In Sierra Leone, most fuel stations curtail their operations between 8 to 9 pm, largely due to security concerns associated with cash handling. By leveraging the partnership, individuals will be empowered to utilize Orange Money for fuel purchases beyond these hours, effectively bypassing cash-related restrictions.

Avrajit Kar, the Managing Director of Conex, echoed Mansaray’s sentiments, emphasizing the partnership’s role in expediting Sierra Leone’s digital evolution. Through the synergy of Orange Money and Conex, customers can conveniently deposit funds onto their phones, streamlining payments for goods and services across any of the 37 Conex Outlets scattered throughout the nation. Kar expressed enthusiasm for his involvement in the transformative project, underscoring its transparency and ease of use.

Bernard Sesay, the Marketing and Sales Manager of Conex, lauded the progressive transition from cash to digital payments. He alluded to the Government’s national switch initiative, designed to promote digital financial interactions. Sesay affirmed that the collaboration between Orange Money-Conex aligns with this national agenda, steering the country towards comprehensive digitalization.

Abibatu Baxter, an Orange Money representative, elucidated the operational mechanics of the integrated service during the launch event. The presentation catered to both smartphone and non-smartphone users, showcasing the accessibility and inclusivity of the technology.

The launch concluded with an announcement from both CEOs: customers who purchase fuel through Orange Money at any Conex fuel station across the nation from that day until the end of August will stand a chance to win a complimentary 100-liter pump of fuel. This incentivizing gesture augments the celebration of this transformative partnership, setting the stage for Sierra Leone’s embrace of a digital tomorrow.

NP-SL’s Commitment to Customer Care Takes Center Stage in its Operations

August 21, 2023

By Amin Kef-Ranger

NP-SL Ltd has solidified its reputation as an exceptional and resilient company, consistently delivering top-tier services even in challenging circumstances. This remarkable achievement is rooted in the resolute dedication of 35 former employees of the erstwhile British Petroleum, who pooled their end-of-service benefits to purchase shares and establish what has now become the esteemed NP-SL Ltd.

While the company’s inception marked a significant milestone, its journey from that point to its present stature is a testament to the altruism of its shareholders. Their collective vision for growth transcended personal gains, financial misconduct and insincerity, culminating in an overarching success story.

NP-SL-Ltd has earned substantial acclaim for its outstanding performance in marketing high-quality petroleum products. Renowned as the leading oil marketing company in Sierra Leone, it continues to push boundaries through strategic expansion initiatives.

The name NP has become synonymous with “1st for Customer Care.” This isn’t mere rhetoric but a genuine embodiment of the company’s ethos, unwaveringly dedicated to maintaining the highest standards. For both the shareholders and Management, ensuring utmost satisfaction in service delivery stands as paramount as the importation of petroleum products into the nation. A strong emphasis is placed on marketing premium-grade products that optimize vehicle and equipment performance.

The company’s commitment to customer care is reflected in its modern and standardized fuel dispensing machines at Filling Stations. These transparent machines display pumped liters and corresponding prices, fostering transparency and trust. Customers’ feedback and suggestions play a pivotal role in shaping policies and managerial decisions, allowing a diverse range of perspectives to shape the company’s operations.

In the pursuit of customer comfort, NP-SL-Ltd introduced the NP Smart Card, a technologically advanced device with embedded security features, rendering it resistant to counterfeit attempts. This card facilitates the easy purchase of petroleum products and can be topped up with funds as needed. NP Gas, another customer-oriented offering for cooking purposes, is available in various cylinder shapes at the company’s Filling Stations and authorized dealers, contributing to environmental and medical standards.

Noteworthy is NP-SL-Ltd’s unwavering focus on employing local talent and utilizing indigenous materials, aligning with the Local Content Policy. This approach underscores the company’s ‘Sierra Leoneaness,’ with shareholders, Management and staff all hailing from the nation. By harnessing local expertise and providing training opportunities, NP-SL-Ltd not only ensures staff development but also plays a role in poverty reduction by creating job opportunities.

Beyond its corporate operations, NP-SL-Ltd actively contributes to Corporate Social Responsibility, supporting various entities and complementing Government initiatives to enhance living standards. Its expansion into neighboring West African countries—Liberia, Guinea, Ivory Coast and The Gambia—illustrates its determination to grow and foster regional progress. The branches in these nations create jobs, generate revenue through taxes and contribute to development programs.

NP-SL Ltd’s trajectory of growth and impact warrants sustained support as it continues to blaze a trail for others in the industry. The company remains committed to setting standards, creating meaningful change and propelling Sierra Leone’s progress.