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SLBrewery Empowers Farmers to Promote Local Content & Foster Economic Growth

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a calculated strategic step designed to uplift Sierra Leone’s Local Content Policy and make meaningful contributions to the nation’s economic advancement, Sierra Leone Brewery Limited (SLBL) has initiated a partnership with local farmers. This partnership serves as a clear demonstration of the company’s resolute dedication to promoting the utilization of locally-sourced sorghum. This particular ingredient holds significa  nt importance in the production of a diverse range of beverages, notably beer and Maltina. Through this collaboration, SLBL solidifies its commitment to both local sourcing and sustainable economic growth.

Under the leadership of Foday Daboh, the Brewery’s Corporate Affairs Manager, SLBL is emphasizing its resolute dedication to encouraging commercial farmers across the country to cultivate specific sorghum varieties that align seamlessly with the Brewery’s requirements. This bold initiative not only aims to secure a consistent supply of sorghum but also strives to empower farmers, generate employment opportunities, and elevate the overall quality of the brewing process.

The culmination of these efforts is the successful execution of the Pre-Planting Sorghum Cultivation and Awareness Campaign, conducted across multiple districts throughout Sierra Leone. Central to this campaign is the distribution of complimentary sorghum seeds to farmers, encouraging them to seamlessly integrate sorghum cultivation into their existing agricultural practices. By nurturing sorghum production at the grassroots level, SLBL’s ultimate goal is to lessen the dependency on expensive foreign imports, thus fortifying the local economy and bolstering Sierra Leone’s self-sufficiency.

Presently, despite the involvement of approximately 5,000 farmers in sorghum production, the current yield falls short of meeting SLBL’s production demands. In a strategic pivot towards local sourcing, SLBL is urging domestic farmers to intensify their production efforts. To this end, the Brewery is offering attractive incentives and a guaranteed market for the produced sorghum, creating a symbiotic relationship that benefits both parties.

Daboh underlined that SLBL’s support extends beyond the mere distribution of seeds. The Brewery is extending transportation services, deploying expert agronomists, and providing advance payments to contracted farmers. This comprehensive approach is designed to ensure the triumphant cultivation of local sorghum while solidifying the partnership between SLBL and the farming community.

Demonstrating its commitment to sustainable practices, the Brewery is meticulously managing sorghum waste. The byproducts generated during the brewing process are ingeniously repurposed as fertilizer or pig feed, with SLBL actively returning these byproducts to the farmers. Additionally, to further incentivize local producers, SLBL has augmented the purchase price of sorghum from NLe300 to NLe350 per 50kg bag, making it a financially rewarding venture for farmers.

Laurent Bukasa, the Managing Director of SLBL, highlighted some recent projects it is undertaking during a press conference. He disclosed that SLBL, with the support of the Heineken Africa Foundation, has launched substantial community development projects in Wellington and Calaba Town, valued at €70,585 and €89,589.5 respectively. These projects primarily focus on augmenting water supply and sanitation infrastructure. Bukasa underscored the pivotal role of clean water in ensuring health and well-being, encouraging residents to take ownership of these projects to ensure their triumphant implementation.

Furthermore, it’s important to recall that since May 2020, the Heineken Africa Foundation, in collaboration with Sierra Leone Brewery Limited, has been collaborating with World Vision International (SL) to combat the spread of Covid-19. The implementation of this collaboration led to increased access to sustainable clean water and hygiene practices for disadvantaged communities, positively impacting the lives of thousands of people.

As Sierra Leone Brewery Limited continues its efforts to support local agriculture and contribute to the nation’s development, the Brewery remains steadfast in its commitment to corporate responsibility and sustainable growth, striving to uplift even the most remote corners of the community.

Malador Associates Commissions New Filling Station, Commends NP-SL Support

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Malador Associates, on Thursday 17th August, 2023 commissioned a state of the art Filling Station at Rokel, one of the fastest growing communities in the Western Rural District of Sierra Leone, during a very auspicious and memorable event.

Gracing the event were esteemed personalities including the Chief Imam of the Fullah Central Mosque in Freetown, Alhaji Amadu Barrie, who presided over the ceremony, the Fullah Tribal Chief, Alhaji Med Saj Jalloh, the Chief Executive Officer of Malador Associates, Alieu Malador, representatives of other petroleum marketing entities, family members, community residents and well wishers.

In his statement, the Chief Executive Officer of Malador Associates, Alieu Malador, profusely gratitude to the ruling Government, under the leadership of His Excellency, President Julius Maada Bio for its ongoing support to Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) operating in the country. He highlighted and commended the incisive role that the Government is playing in fostering a favorable environment not only for the congenial operations of petroleum marketing entities but for creating the space and latitude for the petroleum industry and sector to expand nationwide.

“We remain hopeful that further steps will be taken to enhance private sector involvement thereby fueling economic growth,” the Chief Executive Officer optimistically stated an expressed sentiment that echoes the broader aspiration among private sector entities in Sierra Leone . He further emphasized the potential and importance of collaborative efforts in driving national prosperity.

The ambitious and result-oriented Chief Executive Officer further expressed sincere and profound thanks and appreciation to the Group Chairman of NP (SL) Ltd, Ing Alhaji Mohamed Babatunde Cole, for his unwavering support throughout the years maintaining how his support has been playing pivotal roles in advancing the objectives and aspirations of Malador Associates.

He also recognized the vital contributions made to Malador Associates by  NP-SL Ltd  and CONEX in supporting the marketing entity ‘s endeavors as well as for contributing to their overall growth and stability.

The Chief Imam of Fullah Central Mosque, Alhaji Amadu Barrie, on his part, shared incidents of the enduring relationship he had with Alhaji Issa Malador, the late father of Alieu Malador. He highly commended Alieu Malador for continuing his father’s legacy of undertaking and executing positive initiatives that are contributing to societal well-being.

Alhaji Med Saj Jalloh, the Fullah Tribal Chief, expressed his appreciation for Malador’s dedication to national development and lauded him for his efforts in generating employment opportunities and fostering progress within Sierra Leone.

Climaxing the ceremony were recitations from the Quran and prayers offered for the prosperity and success of Malador Associates’ new venture.

The support and dedication of  the Management and Staff of Malador Associates’ were also acknowledged as well as recognizing the significant roles played by pump attendants, tanker drivers, cleaners and security guards in the company’s operations.

Noteworthy is that Malador Associates’ newly inaugurated Filling Station stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of private enterprises, Governmental support, and community involvement. With the evolution of Sierra Leone’s petroleum industry, the new Filling Station symbolizes a step forward in achieving sustainable economic growth and national development.

CHRDI & ECPMG Ends Post Election Dialogue to Consolidate Unity & Peaceful Coexistence

By Alpha Good Kamara

In a significant stride towards strengthening national unity and peaceful coexistence in Sierra Leone, the Campaign for Human Rights and Development International (CHRDI), in partnership with the Election Conflict Prevention and Mediation Working Group (ECPMG), has successfully wrapped up a post-election dialogue.

This joint effort, led by the Inter-Religious Council of Sierra Leone (IRC-SL), the Eminent Women Peace Mediators Sierra Leone (EWPM-SL), CHRDI, and the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (EC-SL), marks a pivotal initiative in fostering stable electoral processes and democratic institutions throughout the nation.

Emphasizing the principles of inclusivity, transparency, accountability, and public trust within democratic electoral procedures, ECPMG champions these values as paramount to the nation’s growth and stability. The engagement, supported by Open Society Initiative for Africa, convened community leaders, traditional authorities, religious figures and representatives from the security sector. This diverse cohort engaged in candid, productive discussions under the theme “Promoting Social Cohesion and Community Dialogue in Post-Election Scenarios.”

The focal objective of the engagement was to empower young men and women, community stakeholders, religious and traditional leaders, and security personnel with the knowledge and tools necessary to lead conversations on national unity and social harmony.

CHRDI and ECPMG firmly assert that marginalized groups possess limited influence over policies and attitudes driving social cohesion. Abdul M. Fatoma, Chief Executive of CHRDI, highlighted the importance of civil society’s active role in policy formulation and monitoring, ensuring governance systems are transparent, informed and participatory.

Fatoma extended his perspective, indicating that addressing poverty alone falls short, advocating for policy development that encompasses broader social cohesion objectives. These objectives, he asserted, can alleviate income inequalities, enhance access to essential services and create pathways for gainful employment and upward social mobility.

With a longstanding commitment to fostering social cohesion, ECPMG endeavors to create a sense of belonging, foster civic values and encourage trust and social engagement among community leaders. This positive approach, championed by CHRDI’s Fatoma, cultivates a culture of peace that enables civil society and media to fulfill their vital roles.

Both CHRDI and ECPMG underscored the significance of community dialogues as essential conduits for peace promotion. Such platforms enable collaboration among various community stakeholders, bolstering partnerships and safeguarding the nation’s cultural heritage.

Through this joint initiative, CHRDI and ECPMG are resolute in their vision of a harmonious Sierra Leone, characterized by unity, cooperation and the preservation of cultural diversity.

Chief Minister Engages Heads of Unions & to Garner Support for Govt’s Big 5 Agenda

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a bid to bolster collaboration and support for President Bio’s far-reaching development initiatives, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, the Chief Minister of Sierra Leone, engaged influential Heads of Unions at State House in Freetown on Friday, August 18, 2023.

The strategic meeting saw the participation of key union groups, including the Drivers’ Union, Market Women Association, Bike Riders’ Union, Petty Traders, Kekeh Riders, and Traders Union. The session was orchestrated to align these essential players with the realization of the President’s comprehensive “Big Five Agenda” for the nation.

During the meeting, Alpha Bah, Chairman of the Commercial Drivers and General Motor Owners’ Union, conveyed gratitude to President Bio, channeled through the Chief Minister, for their proactive approach in prioritizing Government initiatives. He acknowledged Sierra Leone’s resilience in the face of a global economic crisis and praised the nation’s relatively stable food supply.

Lansana Vandy, Chairman of the Traders’ Union, spoke on behalf of his constituents and expressed deep appreciation for President Bio’s pioneering move in appointing more than 30 percent women to his cabinet. Vandy, representing one of the nation’s largest unions, pledged unwavering support to the Government’s endeavors, particularly in achieving the goals of the Big Five Agenda.

Vandy stated, “Chief Minister, I assure you of our steadfast commitment to President Bio’s administration. Moreover, we intend to initiate large-scale farming endeavors to contribute to the realization of the ‘Feed Salone’ vision. By reverting to traditional practices like cocoa cultivation for tea, we can invigorate local farmers and invigorate our economy.”

Chief Minister Dr. Sengeh reciprocated the unions’ sentiment, acknowledging their remarkable dedication and pledging ongoing collaboration with the President. He emphasized the importance of their role in driving transformation across Sierra Leone and commended the grassroots support pouring in from various sectors nationwide.

Dr. Sengeh conveyed his gratitude to the Union leaders for their tireless efforts in shaping a prosperous future for the nation’s youth and its overall prosperity. He reiterated the Government’s commitment to an inclusive approach, transcending tribal, regional, and political divides—an approach exemplified by the recent appointment of young, dynamic Ministers from all corners of the country.

In closing, he encouraged the Unions to persist in their contributions to national development, highlighting that every effort, regardless of scale, contributes to Sierra Leone’s best interests. This collaborative spirit, he emphasized, would steer the nation toward a brighter and more prosperous future.

Outgoing US Ambassador Urges APC to Engage in Dialogue with Government

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

David Dale Reimer, the departing Ambassador of the United States to Sierra Leone, has encouraged opposition parties, particularly the All People’s Congress (APC), to engage in discussions with President Julius Maada Bio’s Government. During an interview on Radio Democracy 98.1 regarding the US stance on the recent Sierra Leone elections, Reimer emphasized the importance of dialogue among all parties for the nation’s progress towards the next election in 2028.

“We’ve also called for dialogue between all parties to pave the way for Sierra Leoneans to move forward and prepare for the upcoming 2028 election,” Reimer stated. He further appealed to the APC not to boycott participation in the Government, stressing the significance of a functioning democracy involving the participation of multiple parties.

Addressing the public’s reactions to his social media engagement, Reimer admitted that his recent tweet advocating for APC’s participation in the Government had sparked both positive and negative responses. However, he defended the stance by underscoring the necessity of a balanced democratic environment and the need to represent the voices of those who supported the APC.

Although the US Government had yet to formally congratulate the new Sierra Leonean administration, Ambassador Reimer clarified that President Bio was indeed the President of Sierra Leone. He pointed out that the US had refrained from issuing congratulations, not from disputing his presidency.

When questioned about the US-Sierra Leone relationship, Ambassador Reimer revealed plans to review various programs, particularly Government-to-Government initiatives. He assured that the commitment to supporting the people of Sierra Leone remains unchanged, with an emphasis on enhancing health programs and overall quality of life for the nation’s citizens.

Recently, the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC-SL) engaged with the opposition APC in discussions aimed at fostering collaboration with the Government after the elections. The Executive Secretary of the Commission, Madam Hawa Samai, described the talks as productive, citing an audience with the party’s leadership and plans to inform the public about the outcomes of the meeting.

In response to the ICPNC-SL’s meeting with the APC, Chief Minister Dr. David Moinina Sengeh expressed optimism in a tweet dated August 15, 2023. He expressed his satisfaction with the productive dialogue between the APC and the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion. Additionally, he appreciated the APC’s willingness to engage in discussions through national institutions, signaling a unified approach to advancing the interests of Sierra Leone.

VP Juldeh Jalloh Assures Councillors of Good Conditions of Service

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh has pledged an upturn in the conditions of service for the recently elected Councillors of both the Freetown City Council and Waterloo District Council. Speaking on behalf of the Government of Sierra Leone, Dr. Jalloh extended the promise of heightened resource allocation to these Council representatives, recognizing the integral role they play in bolstering revenue collection.

During the inauguration ceremony for the freshly elected Mayor, Chairman, and Councillors of the Western Area Councils, Vice President Jalloh emphasized the pivotal status of these Councillors as paramount figures within their local communities. He underlined their significance as the principal politicians at the grassroots level.

Dr. Jalloh urged the elected officials to uphold accountability and transparency in their official responsibilities, underscoring how these values are pivotal to realizing the goals laid out in President Bio’s second term five-point manifesto.

Stressing the importance of exemplary transparency, the Vice President expressed his aspiration for these Councils to adhere to transparency mandates throughout their five-year tenure. Moreover, he championed the imperative of diligent revenue mobilization strategies within the councils.

Dr. Jalloh encouraged the newly elected representatives to work cohesively, transcending political affiliations to fulfill common objectives, including communal road maintenance. He also advised them to establish robust relationships with market women and extend respect and support to administrative staff in order to achieve the Councils’ objectives.

Moreover, Vice President Jalloh called for collaborative efforts between the Councillors and relevant line Ministries such as Planning and Economic Development, Health, Lands and Energy.

During his speech, Dr. Jalloh highlighted the accomplishments of President Bio’s first term New Direction Government, spanning education, health, agriculture, electricity, road infrastructure, and other areas.

Notably, this inauguration ceremony marked a historic moment, as it saw a notable representation of female Councillors – a significant milestone since the reintroduction of local councils in Sierra Leone. Vice President Jalloh commended President Bio’s commitment to women’s empowerment and conveyed his congratulations on behalf of President Julius Maada Bio.

In concurrence, Minister of Local Government, Amb Tamba Lamina, accentuated the pivotal role of service delivery within the Councils. He explained the inclusion of Tribal and Village Heads in Council matters as per the revised Local Government Act and Decentralization Policy, indicating their input in community problem-solving, though without voting rights.

Amb. Lamina urged the Councillors to unite their efforts to ensure developmental progress within their respective jurisdictions.

Minister of MoPED Inspects & Urges Swift Completion of ECOWAS Depot in Lungi

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The newly appointed Minister of the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development (MoPED), Kenyeh Barlay, joined by ECOWAS Resident Representative Ambassador Haroun Moussa, conducted an official visit to the ECOWAS Military Logistics Depot situated in Lungi on August 16, 2023.

The primary objective of the visit was to evaluate the advancement of the depot’s construction in light of the revised deadline of November 30th, 2023.

The Lungi Logistics Depot, one of two sanctioned ECOWAS Military installations, the other being in Mali, plays a pivotal role in bolstering regional security, peacekeeping, stability, and crisis response capabilities. These depots are designed to facilitate collaborative military operations, stockpile essential resources, and enable the rapid deployment of ECOWAS Standby Forces (ESF) in the event of regional emergencies or conflicts.

During the site visit, an extensive assessment of both designated areas was executed, led by the contracted firms SOGEFEL Construction and BANCA Consultant. This thorough evaluation, supported by Col. Dr. Bala Mohamed, the Resident Commandant, and his Deputy, Lieut. Col. Abu Bakar Konneh, aimed to gauge progress, identify challenges  and determine the necessary measures to meet the imminent deadline.

Subsequent to the assessment, a comprehensive briefing was chaired by Col. Dr. Bala Mohamed. During this session, Minister Barlay was acknowledged for her new role and congratulated on the successful and peaceful elections in Sierra Leone. Minister Barlay reiterated the project’s significance in enhancing regional capabilities.

Col. Dr. Bala Mohamed acknowledged the successful progression of the project through phases 2 and 3, expressing gratitude for the continuous Governmental support. He also acknowledged the elevation of competence and capacity within MoPED following Minister Barlay’s appointment.

He commended the contractors and consulting firm for their exceptional dedication. Acknowledging the challenges and delay faced, particularly in relation to project completion, concerns were raised about the readiness of ESF members awaiting deployment at the depot.

Representatives from SOGEFEL and BANCA Consulting presented the current status of the project, indicating a commendable 93.71% completion despite encountered hurdles.

The Minister was assured that the project would meet the agreed-upon deadline. The outstanding tasks involve the finalization of drainage and roadway construction within the project areas, as well as addressing specific structural elements.

Sumanu O. Z. Alghali, Head of ECOWAS National Office, Sierra Leone, stressed the urgency of utilizing the facility and expressed disappointment over the delay. He urged for an escalated pace while commending the team’s commitment.

Peter N. Sam-Kpakra, Development Secretary at MoPED, praised the contractors while expressing reservations regarding meeting the deadline amidst the ongoing rainy season.

He also addressed the issue of additional land (site 2 seafront) to be handed over to the Commission, underlining the importance of properly resettling existing structures on that land before its full transfer.

He advised considering additional workforce to overcome weather-related challenges and expedite progress.

Ambassador Harouna Moussa, ECOWAS Resident Representative, extended congratulations to Minister Barlay and emphasized the need for weekly monitoring and follow-ups to mitigate delays.

He shared the ECOWAS Commission President’s anticipation of the depot’s completion by the next Heads of State session.

Minister Kenyeh Barlay, representing Sierra Leone’s President and its people, commended ECOWAS for entrusting the country with such a vital regional initiative.

She underscored the project’s alignment with the Government’s priority of the “Big Five Game Changers” and emphasized the incorporation of an agricultural component, akin to the Mali depot. She hailed the utilization of advanced technology, healthcare facilities, and local skilled labor.

She pledged her commitment to involve her fellow Ministers associated with the project, especially the Minister of Lands, to extend the necessary support. This particularly pertains to the Commission’s supplementary request for seafront land at site 2.

Minister Barlay urged the construction team to expedite their progress and assured full support from her office.

Brewery Champions Local Agriculture with Sorghum Sourcing Initiative

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a bid to bolster Sierra Leone’s Local Content Policy and contribute to economic development, the Sierra Leone Brewery Limited (SLBL) has engaged with the media to highlight its commitment to promoting local sourcing of sorghum, a vital ingredient in the production of various beverages including beer and Maltina.

The Brewery’s Corporate Affairs Manager, Foday Daboh, emphasized the company’s dedication to encouraging commercial farmers across the nation to cultivate sorghum varieties that align with SLBL’s requirements. The initiative aims not only to ensure a reliable supply of sorghum but also to empower farmers, create employment opportunities, and enhance the overall quality of the brewing process.

During a media roundtable event held at the SLBL headquarters in Wellington, it was revealed that the Brewery’s local sourcing campaign is designed to boost farmers’ income and improve agricultural yields. This is achieved through the provision of training and support to farmers, including the distribution of preferred sorghum seeds and practical guidance on implementing effective agronomic practices. These efforts are expected to result in increased production quantities and improved product quality.

SLBL’s engagement with the media also highlighted the company’s commitment to promoting youth and women involvement in sorghum cultivation. The Brewery recognizes sorghum farming as a sustainable source of livelihood and a means to contribute to the nation’s development.

To fulfill their objectives, SLBL successfully executed the Pre-Planting Sorghum Cultivation and Awareness Campaign across multiple districts in Sierra Leone. Through this campaign, the Brewery distributed free sorghum seeds to farmers, encouraging them to integrate sorghum cultivation into their existing agricultural practices. By boosting sorghum production at the grassroots level, SLBL aims to reduce the need for costly imports from abroad, thereby supporting the local economy and enhancing Sierra Leone’s self-reliance.

Despite the involvement of approximately 5,000 farmers in sorghum production, the current output falls short of SLBL’s production demands. To bridge this gap, the Brewery has been importing sorghum from Europe, incurring higher costs. In a bid to shift the balance toward local sourcing, SLBL is urging domestic farmers to increase their production efforts. The Brewery is offering incentives and a guaranteed market for their produce, facilitating a mutually beneficial relationship.

Foday Daboh emphasized that SLBL’s support extends beyond mere seed distribution. The company provides transportation, expert agronomists, and advance payments to contracted farmers. This comprehensive approach aims to ensure the success of local sorghum cultivation while strengthening the partnership between SLBL and the farming community.

The Brewery also demonstrated its commitment to sustainable practices by ensuring responsible management of sorghum waste. The waste generated during the brewing process is repurposed as fertilizer or pig feed, with SLBL returning the waste to the farmers. To further incentivize farmers, the purchase price of sorghum has been increased from NLe300 to NLe350 per 50kg bag, making it a more lucrative endeavor for local producers.

In a related development, SLBL, with the backing of the Heineken Africa Foundation, launched two community development projects in Wellington and Calaba Town. These projects, valued at €70,585 and €89,589.5 respectively, focus on water supply and sanitation infrastructure. The Managing Director of SLBL, Laurent Bukasa, highlighted the importance of clean water for health and well-being and urged residents to take ownership of these projects to ensure their success and responsible implementation.

NP-SL Leads the Way in Petroleum Products and Service Excellence

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

NP-SL Ltd continues to emerge as a dominant force within Sierra Leone’s petroleum sector, propelled by its exceptional service delivery and commitment to excellence. The company’s remarkable efforts have garnered widespread praise, positioning it as a key player in the import and marketing of petroleum products nationwide.

Originally established by a group of thirty-five dedicated Sierra Leoneans, NP-SL’s journey has been one of growth and innovation. The company’s business-driven strategies have not only propelled it to a prominent position within Sierra Leone but have also extended its influence across the Sub-region.

At the core of NP-SL’s success lies its unyielding dedication to customer satisfaction and the expansion of its customer base. The company’s decision to install calibrated pumping dispensers and fuel storage tanks at Dealer and Reseller outlets nationwide stands as a testament to this commitment. These advanced dispensers not only ensure precise delivery of fuel quantities but also display transparent product prices, fostering trust among customers.

Gone are the days when less advanced pumping machines provided opportunities for dishonest pump attendants to manipulate fuel quantities. The introduction of calibrated dispensers has eradicated such malpractices, ushering in an era of transparency in petroleum transactions, where customers can be confident that they receive exactly what they pay for.

NP-SL takes its responsibility to customers seriously, operating around the clock with an open-door policy that prioritizes addressing customer concerns promptly and effectively. Public feedback plays a crucial role in the company’s decision-making process, ensuring that resolutions are tailored to meet the needs and expectations of the public.

Proudly owned by indigenous Sierra Leoneans, NP-SL adheres to Sierra Leone’s Local Content Policy, employing exclusively Sierra Leonean nationals. This practice not only aids in poverty alleviation by providing local job opportunities but also contributes to raising the standard of living for employees. This commitment extends to other countries within the West African Sub-region where NP-SL operates, reflecting the company’s dedication to fostering economic growth and development.

Despite the challenges faced, NP-SL remains steadfast in its mission to offer high-quality petroleum products to the nation. Beyond its commercial pursuits, the company considers it a moral duty to provide access to top-notch petroleum products, striving to elevate the overall quality of life for the populace.

Recognized both locally and internationally for its remarkable growth fueled by unparalleled service delivery, NP-SL stands as a symbol of reliability and success in the dynamic realm of petroleum services. The company’s ability to navigate challenges while fulfilling its Corporate Social Responsibility, generating job opportunities, and consistently introducing new products underscores its commitment to being a customer-centric entity.

In an ever-evolving landscape, NP-SL Ltd continues to set the standard as a leader in petroleum services, living up to its motto of being “1st for Customer Care.”

Gento Sponsors COFA League With Over Le300M

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Central One Football Association (COFA) Inter-Community league will kick-off on Sunday 20th August 2023 with the defending champions Krootown Rangers FC taking Bambra Tong at the Parade field, in Freetown.

In a meeting with the representatives of various community teams, Mohamed Gento Kamara, owner of Gento Group of Companies, pronounced that his company will sponsor the league for the second time.

He first told them that the elections are over and they are all now one family like it was before the election, adding that the code name for the league is “Non-Violence and No to Drugs.”

The COFA inter-community league, he said, acts as the pre-season for players to prepare for the premier and the division1 leagues.

Before the start of the league, he said each of the 40 community teams will get Le5M (old Leones) as seed money to prepare their players for the league.

In the knock-out stages, each team will get Le3M each. The winner of the league will go home with Le50 M, Runner-up Le30M and the third-place team will get Le20M.

As the league target non-violence, the best behaved team will get a cash prize with the amount to be announced later, warning the players strictly not to register for two teams as he said a defaulter will be banned from playing in the COFA league.

Besides the financial benefits, he said each team will get 20 sets of jerseys with the name Gento Group of Companies written on them.

Before the address of the prime sponsor, the Chairman of COFA Phlipson Cline-Cole elaborated on the rules and regulations of the league which he said they should all strictly go by.

He reiterated that they will penalize any player that will register for two communities at least for 2 years. Because of the above clause, all community teams have been requested to send photos of players they have signed in the league WhatsApp forum for all to see.

The community representatives agreed in the meeting that default players, apart from the penalty that will be instituted, the two communities will ask them to repay the money he took from them as payment to register.

Chairman Cline-Cole emphasized that anyone involved in riotous conduct either on the field or outside will be penalized, noting that all match protests should be done within 48 hours for the committee to look into and give verdict.

He said that the Committee’s verdict in any complaint or appeal will be final and there will be no other appeal after the verdicts.

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