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High Court Judge Slams Injunction to Suspend Access Bank Acquisition of Standard Chartered Bank

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a significant legal development, 51 former employees of Standard Chartered Bank Sierra Leone have taken their case to court, seeking resolution regarding redundancy compensation and other employment benefits. The issue arose after the bank’s acquisition by Access Bank Sierra Leone earlier this year.

For years of dedicated service to Standard Chartered Bank Sierra Leone, these former employees, who held various Senior Management positions, including Relationship Manager, Financial Institutions, Value Centre General Manager and Head of Finance, Crime, Compliance, found themselves impacted by the acquisition deal with Access Bank.

The plaintiffs, in their petition filed at the High Court of Sierra Leone, asserted that the sale of the bank to Access Bank resulted in a breach of contract, specifically with regard to the non-payment of redundancy compensation. They argued that the bank’s actions demonstrated a lack of consideration for their employment status and represented a failure to fulfill their duty of care.

The former employees emphasized the need for the court to intervene and address the breach of contract. They contended that the acquisition should not be finalized without proper consideration for their rights and interests.

Despite regulatory approval for the sale, these employees have sought an ex-parte interim injunction to halt the proceedings, expressing concerns about potential risks and uncertainties associated with the sale that could negatively impact their situation.

The plaintiffs underscored the importance of safeguarding employees’ welfare during significant corporate transitions like mergers and acquisitions. They urged the court to prioritize their rights and interests and prevent any potential harm stemming from the acquisition.

Justice Madam H. Bonnie, on August 4th, 2023, granted an injunction that temporarily suspends the payment of approximately USD 5 million as security for the claims made by the employee-plaintiffs. This legal action effectively puts a hold on the finalization of the sale until the court can thoroughly assess the evidence and arguments presented by both parties.

As the legal process unfolds, it remains to be seen how the court will navigate the complex circumstances surrounding this case. The interim injunction serves as a temporary measure to ensure that the bank fulfills its legal obligations toward its former employees and addresses their concerns before proceeding with the sale to Access Bank Sierra Leone.

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a significant show of appreciation, the Women’s Forum Network Sierra Leone, the pre-eminent alliance of women organizations in the nation, has paid a cordial visit to Dr. Turad Senesie, who has been reappointed as the Minister of Lands, Housing and Country Planning purposely to extend heartfelt congratulations and pledge unwavering support for his continuation in office.

The Forum strongly maintains that President Bio’s decision to retain Dr. Senesie is well-justified, attributed to his remarkable accomplishments in mitigating land disputes and propelling reforms for the empowerment of women in the realm of land affairs.

In the course of their visit, the Women’s Forum Network Sierra Leone commended Dr. Senesie for his exceptional contributions to addressing protracted land conflicts that have long afflicted the nation.

According to them, employing innovative strategies and inclusive policies, the Minister has made remarkable headway in fostering tranquility, security and sustainable progress across Sierra Leone.

The Minister’s unwavering dedication to establishing an enabling milieu for every citizen, particularly women, has garnered extensive acknowledgment and applause.

Additionally, the Women’s Forum Network Sierra Leone seized the occasion to hail President Bio for his praiseworthy choice in appointing Ms. Phylis Kapu, a female Deputy, in the realm of land administration. The Forum contends that Ms. Kapu’s designation not only underscores the administration’s commitment to gender parity but also acknowledges women’s pivotal role in land management.

Armed with profound expertise, Ms. Kapu is well-poised to furnish invaluable support to Minister Senesie and champion women’s concerns within the Ministry.

The Women’s Forum Network Sierra Leone avowed their conviction that the collaborative endeavors of Minister Senesie and Deputy Minister Kapu will usher in further affirmative changes within the land domain. Their leadership will undoubtedly amplify the execution of policies that target gender disparities, advocate for women’s land entitlements, and empower women’s active engagement in land-linked decision-making procedures.

Noteworthy is the fact that gender parity and women’s empowerment are foundational requisites for the attainment of sustainable growth. By engaging women in land administration and guaranteeing their unbiased access to and authority over land resources, Sierra Leone can unleash the formidable potential of its female populace. This comprehensive approach is poised to contribute substantially to the reduction of poverty, preservation of societal equilibrium and holistic national development.

On behalf of all women’s consortiums within the nation, the Women’s Forum Network Sierra Leone pledges unwavering support to Minister Senesie and Deputy Minister Kapu as they continue to revolutionize the land sector. They passionately encouraged all stakeholders, including civil society entities, developmental collaborators, and the general populace, to rally behind the Ministry’s initiatives and actively participate in the pursuit of gender-sensitive land administration in Sierra Leone.

The Women’s Forum Network Sierra Leone remains firmly committed to collaborate with the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Country Planning as well as other stakeholders, with the aim of propelling gender parity, women’s empowerment and sustainable land governance. Together, a brighter future for every citizen, regardless of gender, can be forged, culminating in a thriving and all-encompassing Sierra Leone.

Public Service Systems Workshop for Ministers, Deputies & Permanent Secretaries Ends

By Alpha Good Kamara

In order to significantly enhance the efficiency and coordination of Government’s operations, a two-day orientation workshop on Public Service Systems was conducted on August 14th and 15th, 2023 at the Freetown Conference Centre specifically designed for Ministers, Ministers of State, Deputy Ministers, Permanent Secretaries and Department Heads as part of an administrative orientation initiative introduced during his initial term in office.

President Julius Maada Bio addressed the Ministers, Ministers of State, Deputy Ministers as the Orientation Workshop on Public Service Systems came to a close on the second day.

Addressing the participants, President Bio expressed his strong belief in the potential of young cabinet members to fulfill his ambitious “Big Five Agenda,” a commitment he made to the electorates during the June 24 elections. He emphasized the essential role of unity within his team to effectively execute the Sierra Leone People’s Party manifesto.

President Bio conveyed, “Our shared vision and combined efforts are pivotal in achieving our goals for the betterment of our nation. We must bridge the gap between political leadership and the administrative sector, working collaboratively to transform Sierra Leone into a thriving and prosperous country.”

Chief Minister, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, lauded the President’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity, highlighting the historic nature of the team’s composition. He assured the President of the team’s dedication to deliver on their promises and uphold the aspirations of the nation.

Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, played a vital role in the workshop, delivering valuable insights to Cabinet Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Permanent Secretaries, and Department Heads. His advice centered on fostering effective collaboration and harnessing social intelligence to motivate and manage teams. Dr. Jalloh stressed the importance of aligning with President Bio’s “Big Five Game Changers” outlined in the SLPP People’s Manifesto 2023, emphasizing that the Civil Service must act as a conduit for delivering on these priority agendas.

The orientation workshop served as a testament to President Bio’s commitment to streamline governance and collaborative efforts. As Sierra Leone strives for progress and development, this approach is poised to reshape the country’s trajectory for the better.

It must also be noted that the primary objective of the program was to reshape the relationship dynamics between political leadership and the administrative sector in line with the President’s vision of a more proactive and collaborative approach to public service delivery, where Ministers, Permanent Secretaries and other key stakeholders actively engage in practical and positive efforts to meet the nation’s needs.

Information Minister Expresses Full Support for ECOWAS Action Against Niger

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, in a resolute statement, has underscored Sierra Leone’s unwavering support for the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in its response to the situation in Niger.

Minister Bah emphasized that the Government of Sierra Leone is fully committed to abiding by any decision taken by ECOWAS concerning the Niger crisis. “Our adherence to ECOWAS resolutions is steadfast,” Bah remarked, clarifying that Sierra Leone’s commitment remains resolute even if the nation was not directly represented in the discussions.

Highlighting Sierra Leone’s involvement in ECOWAS affairs, he disclosed how Major General Peter Kakowou Lavahun, Chief of Defense Staff (CDS), participated in a recent meeting of ECOWAS military chiefs held in Abuja.

He further revealed that the CDS discussed strategies for potential military intervention and clarified that the deployment of Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) personnel to Niger would be contingent on President Dr. Julius Maada Bio’s political decision.

The Chief of Defense further clarified that Sierra Leone had previously allocated a company of RSLAF to the ECOWAS Standby Force, which positions the country to participate in such interventions when necessary. However, he emphasized that any involvement would require the highest level of authorization.

ECOWAS leaders have collectively mandated swift action in Niger following a military coup that disrupted constitutional order. The body’s standby force has been instructed to restore stability to the nation.

During the summit, which included Presidents from multiple ECOWAS member States, President of ECOWAS, Omar Alieu Touray announced, “We direct the Committee of Defence Staff to activate the ECOWAS standby force with all its elements immediately,” in an effort to reinstate constitutional order in Niger.

ECOWAS Chairman, President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria, highlighted the potential regional ramifications of the crisis, stating that Niger’s political turmoil poses a threat to West Africa’s stability.

While concerns about the impact of an intervention persist, major Western nations such as the United States and France have voiced support for ECOWAS’ actions in resolving the situation.

Amid these developments, Niger’s military junta announced the formation of a new Government, headed by Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine, along with 21 other Ministers.

Information Ministry’s Shift from English to Krio Aims to Foster Improved Public Engagement

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a move signaling a profound commitment to bolstering effective public communication, Chernor Bah, the Minister of Information and Civic Education, announced a pivotal transition from the English language to the Local Krio language during the Ministry’s customary weekly press briefing on Tuesday, August 15, 2023. This strategic decision has elicited widespread commendation from citizens nationwide, who regard it as a progressive leap towards heightened involvement and comprehension.

The choice to convey messages in the Local Krio language underscores a resolute dedication to reaching a broader spectrum of the populace and narrowing the divide between the governing body and its citizens. By embracing the native tongue, the Ministry aspires to ensure that information becomes accessible to an expanded demographic, thus advancing inclusivity and transparency as core principles.

The public’s reception of this transformative shift has been overwhelmingly positive, with citizens extending praise to the Minister for acknowledging the pivotal role of linguistic inclusivity. The prevailing sentiment is that this move will cultivate a more robust rapport between the Government and the citizenry, thereby facilitating lucid communication and a more profound grasp of policies and undertakings.

The adoption of the Local Krio language as the communication conduit underscores the Ministry’s unwavering commitment to addressing the multifaceted needs of the diverse population under its purview.

As citizens applaud this forward-looking approach, the Government anticipates fortifying its bond with the public through efficacious communication that resonates with their cultural sensibilities.

Preserving Culture, Ending FGM: AIM & PfefferminzGreen Lead the Shift

In a groundbreaking effort to foster sustainable development in Sub-Saharan Africa, the German non-profit organization PfefferminzGreen is advocating for a radical shift towards empowering local grassroots organizations.

Dr. Stella Rothenberger, the visionary founder and Director of PfefferminzGreen, highlights the urgency of supporting initiatives like the Amazonian Initiative Movement (AIM) to address pressing issues within their communities.

The prevalent narrative of Western aid since the 1970s has failed to deliver substantial improvements to poverty-stricken regions across Sub-Saharan Africa. Despite various approaches by international aid organizations, the region continues to grapple with poverty. Dr. Rothenberger emphasizes that meaningful change requires a departure from conventional methods and a focused embrace of local NGOs’ expertise and cultural insight.

Dr. Rothenberger’s encounter with Rugiatu from AIM sparked a transformative partnership. A decade ago, Rugiatu’s persuasive case for prioritizing education in rural communities resonated deeply with Stella. The collaboration led to the replacement of Bondo bushes – once integral to certain traditions – with essential infrastructure like schools, skills training centers, and medical facilities. Simultaneously, harmful practices like female genital mutilation (FGM) are being eradicated from the Bondo Society through alternative rites of passage, preserving cultural heritage while rejecting harmful traditions.

Their debut project, an elementary school in Rolal village, yielded remarkable results. What started as a single school has evolved into a multi-faceted effort comprising preschools, secondary schools, and orphanages across Sub-Saharan Africa. The crowning achievement was AIM’s pioneering of the “Alternative Rite of Passage,” liberating 75 young women from the shackles of FGM in 2019.

This innovative strategy, commended by both domestic and international stakeholders, symbolizes a paradigm shift. By combining cultural preservation with the abolition of harmful practices, the alternative rite of passage has secured its place as a transformative force. Engaging community members, former circumcisers, and religious leaders, AIM has organized three alternative rites of passage so far, each marking a step closer to generational change.

The momentum behind AIM’s mission is building, and they are rallying Government bodies, diplomatic missions, NGOs, and partners to embrace their approach. They advocate for direct funding to local organizations, underlining the significance of shifting power dynamics and supporting those closest to the issues at hand.

In a joint effort, AIM and PfefferminzGreen champion the hashtag #shiftthepower, which encapsulates their vision for a fundamental transition from international NGOs to local entities as the driving forces behind Africa’s societal development.

As AIM’s achievements draw international attention, Sierra Leone’s progressive stance on FGM might serve as an inspiring model for other African nations. PfefferminzGreen’s ongoing support and visionary leadership continue to fuel this journey of change, making sustainable development and cultural evolution a reality for Sub-Saharan Africa.

Njala University’s West African One Health Project Launches 3-Day Workshop in Bo

The Njala University West African One Health Research Project has embarked on its inaugural three-day One Health Convening Workshop, commencing on Wednesday, August 16th, 2023. The event is set to run until August 18th, 2023, and is hosted at the De Wizzard Enterprises Conference Hall situated on 62 Dambala Road in Bo.

Leading the initiative is Professor Rashid Ansumana, Project Lead and Dean of the School of Community Health Sciences, who shared the purpose of the conference. The gathering aims to bring together a diverse assembly of experts and stakeholders from various domains to explore the preliminary findings of the project. Additionally, it delves into the intricate interplay between human, animal, and environmental health.

The comprehensive agenda of the three-day workshop features plenary sessions where distinguished specialists will deliver keynote addresses and presentations on crucial subjects. These encompass topics such as zoonotic disease surveillance, ecosystem health, policy integration, and illustrative case studies of the One Health approach. The event is further enriched by interactive workshops, designed to provide hands-on experience across a range of areas. These workshops cover themes including community action networks, socio-ecology, the role of gender in One Health, the impacts of changing land use, effective leadership and time management, and strategic communication strategies.

The program also comprises engaging panel discussions, dynamic PowerPoint presentations, and an inclusive Policy Roundtable discussion. This multifaceted approach ensures a comprehensive exploration of the One Health framework and its wider implications.

Foreseen outcomes of the three-day conference include heightened awareness of the West African One Health approach among diverse stakeholders, reinforced collaborative networks fostering enduring partnerships and resource sharing, policy recommendations based on evidence-driven research and collective expertise to integrate One Health into regional and national strategies, and the empowerment of professionals through capacity-building to implement effective One Health practices in their respective sectors.

Professor Bashiru Mohamed Koroma, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of Njala University, who assumes the role of Conference Chairman, emphasized the institution’s dedication to research and community outreach. In his opening statement, he welcomed stakeholders and provided valuable insights into the project’s current status. Professor Koroma underscored Njala University’s position at the forefront of this effort and the symbolism behind the event, as it unites diverse disciplines, nations, and ideas under the common goal of harmonizing human, animal, and environmental health.

“We find ourselves amid Sierra Leone’s lush landscapes, a testament to the intricate tapestry of life we are devoted to preserving. This convergence reflects the interconnectedness of our fates. The challenges of our era, from emerging zoonotic ailments to the relentless march of climate change, transcend boundaries and disciplinary barriers. They necessitate collective action and holistic solutions,” Professor Koroma remarked.

The West African One Health Project is primarily designed to comprehend, prevent, and mitigate outbreaks. Operating across Sierra Leone, Guinea, Liberia, and Nigeria, the project is orchestrated by an international and multidisciplinary consortium led by Njala University, Sierra Leone, with support from esteemed partners including the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, the Royal Veterinary College at the University of London, and the Australian National University. Funding for the project is provided by the International Development Research Center (IDRC) Canada.

KETEK GmbH Germany Donates Multi-Crop Combine Harvester To Commit and Act Foundation  

Commit and Act Foundation-Sierra Leone (CAF-SL) through Commit and Act Germany has received a brand new Field King Multi-Crop Combine Harvester for its Agricultural Project to prevent Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) through women and girls’ empowerment in Sierra Leone.

The Combine Harvester is donated by KETEK GmbH Germany which is the world’s leading manufacturer of Silicon Drift Detectors, which are used in an almost infinite number of industrial material analysis applications. KETEK’s SDDs can be found in X-ray fluorescence
spectrometers & electron microscopes and contribute to countless material research experiments around the Earth – and some even on Mars.

In 2022, KETEK Germany also donated a Tractor worth $50,000 to Commit and Act Foundation in Sierra Leone. Both the Tractor and the Multi-Crop Combine Harvester are set to cultivate rice, maize and cassava in 905 Acres of farm lands within Tonkolili, Bo, Moyamba and Bombali Districts in Sierra Leone.

Since 2013, Commit and Act Foundation Sierra Leone (CAF-SL), with support from its donors and partners, have been providing shelter, medical, legal, educational, livelihood and social support services for women and girls that have experienced SGBV Violence in Sierra Leone. The implementation of its various projects reveals that most of the abuses faced by women and girls are caused by poor parenting, poverty, unhealthy cultural and traditional beliefs, lack of education and technical skills, unemployment, lack of sustainable source of livelihood, etc…

The Founder and Country Director of Commit and Act Foundation Sierra Leone (CAF-SL), Madam Hannah Bockarie and the Co-Founder and Director of Commit and Act Germany e.V, Beate Ebert on behalf of the beneficiaries and the Staff and Management of Commit and Act Sierra Leone are particularly grateful to the Managing Director, Silvia Wallner and the entire Management and Staff of KETEK Germany for the donation.

The Multi-Crop Combine Harvester and the Filed Tractor will enable the organization to embark on massive agricultural activities to mitigate, prevent and respond to SGBV and to empower the initiators of Female Genital Mutilation (SOWEIS), Parents of SGBV Survivors,
Caregivers, Traditional and Community Members as an alternative livelihood.

District Grand Lodge Donates Le70 Million to Cancer UK-Salone, King George Home

By Foday Moriba Conteh

During a press conference held on Wednesday 16th August, 2023, at the Georgeacland Masonic Temple on Lightfoot Boston Street in Freetown, the District Grand Lodge of Sierra Leone and The Gambia presented a cheque of 70 million (Old Leones) to the Cancer UK-Salone and the Sierra Leone Society for the Welfare of the Aged primarily working through the King George VI Memorial Home.

The District Grand Lodge presented 50 million Old Leones to the Cancer UK-Salone and 20 million Old Leones to the Sierra Leone Society for the Welfare of the Aged respectively.

In his address, the District Grand Master of the District Grand Lodge of Sierra Leone and The Gambia, Crispin Deigh said the donation was part of their efforts towards fulfilling the mission of the District Lodge on relief and charitable endeavours.

He stated that on the special occasion of the visit of the Most Worshipful Grand Master Mason, they deemed it fit to direct their 70 million Leones support to the Cancer UK-SALONE Charity, with focus on prostate diseases and the St George’s Home.

Crispin Deigh pointed out that the district and daughter lodges have at all times exercised the cardinal virtue of fraternity, which is to give relief to those in need, noting that against that backdrop, the district regularly offers relief gestures to institutions, organizations,
brethren, individuals, religious organizations and other deserving causes.

He also used the opportunity to inform the gathering that the St. George’s Home has been an annual recipient of a purse from the District Grand Lodge for the past several years and that the Cancer UK-Salone had received Le10,000 (approximately US$500) in February
2023, during their launch on World Cancer Day held on the 4th February, 2023. The District Grand Master used the opportunity to, on behalf of the District Grand Lodge of Sierra Leone and The Gambia, heartily welcome the M W Grand Master Mason Brother Ramsay McGhee, O St. J, D.L, and the Right Worshipful Grand Secretary Brother William M. S. Semple to the historical and loyal Province of Freedom, City of Freetown and in particular to the Georgacland Masonic Temple, Home of Scottish Freemasonry, for over a hundred years.

The recipient, on behalf of Cancer UK-Salone, Len Gordon Harris, expressed appreciation to the District Grand Lodge of Sierra Leone and The Gambia for the donation.

He said that Cancer UK-Salone, a registered charity with the UK Charity Commission, operates diligently in both the UK and Sierra Leone and that their partnership with the Ministry of Health, underscores their commitment to capacity building, advocacy,
education, and support in the realm of cancer.

Len Gordon Harris stated that in the realm of Prostate Cancer, their collaboration with Prostate Cancer UK and the support received marks a significant stride towards bridging care gaps and enhancing knowledge dissemination, adding that globally, 1 in 8 men get diagnosed with prostate cancer and amongst these, 1 in 4 black men are at risk of developing prostate cancer.

On her part, the Home Manager of the King George The 6th Memorial Home, Sis Makalay Mansaray, also expressed gratitude to the District Grand Lodge of Sierra Leone and The Gambia for the support extended to them.

She said that the District Grand Lodge had been supporting the Home of which she said they are very grateful and assured that the donation will be used judiciously towards supporting the Aged at the Home.

Ibrahim King Komeh on the Run, Family Faces Police Harassment

Ibrahim King Komeh.jpeg
Ibrahim King Komeh

By Abubakarr Harding

In August 2022, Sierra Leone Police declared Ibrahim King Komeh, often referred to as “the King” and the Founder and Leader of Campaign for Justice (CFJ), along with others, as wanted individuals, accusing them of being key figures behind the violent August 10 protests in the country.

The August 10, 2022 protests that rocked various parts of the country, including the capital city of Freetown, resulted in violence that claimed the lives of six police officers and over 20 protesters and bystanders, including at least two women.

Komeh was accused by a group of irate youths believed to be aligned with the ruling SLPP and the Security Forces in the country of being a leader of the violent protests, where they demanded President Julius Maada Bio’s resignation.

In response to the protests, the government established a Commission of Inquiry on August 24, 2022, to investigate the root causes and identify the perpetrators. The commission’s report named Komeh as one of the ringleaders behind the violent August 10 protests, exacerbating his situation.

Due to his alleged role in mobilizing young people for the protests, Komeh remains a key target for the authorities. Police have been attempting to apprehend him, but he has managed to evade capture.

One year since the incident, the Sierra Leone Police continues their intensified manhunt for him. Some of the alleged perpetrators, including Saidu Sesay, Fatmata Koroma, and Ibrahim King Komeh, are still at large, believed to have sought refuge in other countries.

If caught and convicted, the accused individuals face serious charges, including illegal protest, murder of police officers, and attempted overthrow of a democratically elected government. The potential consequences for those deemed to be at the forefront of the protests could include life imprisonment or worse.

Recent developments surrounding Komeh involve the perplexing unlawful arrest and detention of his family members, as they refuse to disclose his whereabouts. His escape from the country and the continuous arrest and detention of his family members have raised serious concerns about their safety.

It was disclosed that a group of irate youths, believed to be aligned with the ruling SLPP, stormed Ibrahim King Komeh’s residence during the August 10, 2022 violent protest, based on false intelligence that he had returned home.

As of now, Ibrahim King Komeh remains on the run, and the Sierra Leone Police continue their relentless manhunt for him. Family members report constant police harassment and threats related to his whereabouts.

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