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Rapaport Group Embarks on Revolutionary Trade Mission

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a monumental move aimed at fostering deeper connections within the diamond and jewelry trade, the Rapaport Group has unveiled plans for an immersive trade mission set to unfold in Sierra Leone. This unprecedented endeavor seeks to facilitate a meaningful rendezvous between industry members and the artisanal miners who form the bedrock of the sector.

The driving force behind this groundbreaking mission is none other than Martin Rapaport, the distinguished Chairman of the Rapaport Group. Recognizing the urgency of establishing a profound understanding of the artisanal community, Rapaport emphasized, “It’s vital that the diamond and jewelry trade gain a better understanding of the artisanal community.”

Scheduled to take place from October 15 to 20, the mission promises an in-depth exploration of Sierra Leone’s Kono mining district, an area of immense significance in the realm of diamond mining. Participants will embark on an enlightening journey through the Peace Diamond Village, where the remarkable 709-carat Peace Diamond was unearthed, showcasing the true essence of the artisanal diamond sector.

The mission’s itinerary goes beyond surface-level interactions, encompassing visits to artisanal diamond digger sites, initiatives dedicated to land reclamation and agricultural development, and pivotal discussions with influential business leaders.

Aiming to shed light on the challenges faced by the artisanal sector while spotlighting avenues for sustainable economic progress, Martin Rapaport emphasized, “It will highlight and demonstrate opportunities for sustainable economic development that can transform the lives of millions of people.”

This extraordinary opportunity comes with a participation fee of $3,000 per person, a cost that encompasses all essential on-ground arrangements, from accommodations and sustenance to transportation and security. With a cap of 30 participants, the mission ensures an intimate and enriching experience for all involved.

As Martin Rapaport passionately expressed, “We must find ways to support sustainable economic development for those who have made us wealthy. We cannot build luxury on top of poverty.” This sentiment underscores the mission’s overarching mission of  ‘tikkun olam,’ a Hebrew phrase encapsulating the noble goal of repairing the world.

Enthusiastic applicants are encouraged to seize this remarkable chance by exploring further details and securing their spot at Rapaport.com/SL Trade Mission. To gain deeper insight into the emblematic Peace Diamond, a poignant video awaits at Rapaport.com/PeaceDiamondVideo, serving as a poignant prelude to this transformative journey of knowledge and collaboration.

Tabital Pulaaku International Sierra Leone Chapter Clarifies Leadership & Legal Standing

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In an official press release dated August 7th, 2023, Alhaji Saiko Amadu Tejan-Jalloh, the Secretary-General of Tabital Pulaaku International Sierra Leone Chapter (TPI-SL), has addressed recent concerns related to the organization’s leadership and legal status. The press release aims to clear up any confusion and reaffirm the legitimate representation of Tabital Pulaaku International Sierra Leone Chapter.

The press release was prompted by circulating press releases attributed to Lamido Issa Bi Amadou, Secretary-General of Tabital Pulaaku International (TPI), which seemed to suggest that Abdul Razak Bah was leading the Sierra Leone arm of Tabital Pulaaku.

The TPI-SL Directors/Executive have taken this opportunity to set the record straight, especially for the Fullah community in Sierra Leone. The press release highlights several key points to provide accurate information:

Legal Recognition: Tabital Pulaaku International Sierra Leone Chapter, under the leadership of Alhaji Amadu Juldeh Sowe, is a legally registered entity in Sierra Leone and adheres to the guidelines outlined in the Company’s Act of 2009.

Charitable Entity: TPI-SL’s establishment as a charitable organization underscores its mission to operate for the public good rather than profit. It is authorized to acquire assets that align with its charitable objectives, a decision informed by legal advice.

National Representation: TPI-SL holds the distinguished position of being the national association for Sierra Leone within the federation of national associations comprising Tabital Pulaaku International.

Authority Acknowledged: The relevant authorities in Sierra Leone have unequivocally confirmed the charitable status and legal authority of TPI-SL to conduct its operations within the country.

Annual Renewal: TPI-SL diligently renews its registration with the TPI Federation on an annual basis. Prior to its registration, there was no recorded entity named Tabital Pulaaku Sierra Leone.

Correct Name Usage: The Press Release underscores the accurate name of the organization as “Tabital Pulaaku International Sierra Leone Chapter,” cautioning against any deviation from this nomenclature.

Leadership Mandate: TPI does not possess the jurisdiction to appoint an Executive that lacks the requisite two years of membership in a national chapter.

Local Leadership Autonomy: The leadership of Tabital Pulaaku International Sierra Leone Chapter is a prerogative exclusively vested in its membership, which boasts a robust count of over 10,000 individuals.

Commitment to Principles: TPI-SL reiterates its unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law, promoting unity, peace, and forward progress within the Pulaaku community.

Calm and Continuity: In light of recent developments, TPI-SL encourages its members to remain composed, reassuring them that the press release from TPI will not hinder the organization’s ongoing activities. The organization remains dedicated to its core mission of community support and development.

The Directors/Executives of Tabital Pulaaku International Sierra Leone Chapter underscore their intention to foster constructive discourse and harmonious unity. They called upon all members to honor the shared principles that bind them. Notably, the Elders and Senior members of the Fullah Community in Sierra Leone have extended their endorsement of TPI-SL’s leadership, emphasizing its commitment to nurturing peace and unity.

Thwarting Subversion Plot: Military & Police Personnel Implicated

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a groundbreaking press conference held on Tuesday, August 8, 2023, the Ministry of Information and Civic Education revealed a significant security operation that has successfully thwarted a subversion plot against the State. The conference, held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and live-streamed across multiple platforms, featured prominent Government officials, including the Chief Minister, Dr. David Sengeh, Finance Minister Dr. Fantamadi Bangura, Military Chief Lt. Gen. PK Lavahun and Women’s Forum President, Sally Adams.

Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, underscored the Ministry’s commitment to achieving substantial results within its first hundred days. The focus of this event, however, was the unveiling of a meticulous security operation that has led to the arrest of numerous individuals involved in plotting against the nation’s stability.

The Security Sector’s proactive measures have resulted in the arrest of eight mid-level officers and six non-commissioned officers of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), as well as two officers of the Sierra Leone Police. Additionally, a retired Chief Superintendent of Police and two civilians who aided the investigation have been apprehended. While five military officers and three Sierra Leone Police officers remain at large, citizens have been urged to report any suspicious activities promptly.

Addressing the Press, Inspector General of the Sierra Leone Police, William Fayia Sellu, assured the nation of the Police’s resolve to bring the fugitive suspects to justice. He emphasized that the situation is under control and implored citizens to cooperate with law enforcement by promptly reporting any unusual behavior.

The uncovered plot is believed to be linked to an attempt to disrupt the peace, reminiscent of violent clashes during protests in August 2022. The Security Sector, in collaboration with international agencies including Interpol, is actively pursuing the individuals involved in subversive activities both within the country and beyond its borders.

Adding an international dimension to the operation, the Sierra Leone Police confirmed the arrest of retired Chief Superintendent of the Sierra Leone Police, Mohamed Yaetey Yaetey Turay, in Liberia. He is suspected of playing a role in subversive activities and is set to be extradited to Sierra Leone for questioning.

Amid these developments, Lieutenant General P K Lavahun, the head of Sierra Leone’s Army, addressed the nation’s soldiers directly. He called on them to remain steadfast in their loyalty to the Government and to distance themselves from political endeavors. Lt. Gen. Lavahun emphasized that the recent arrests were devoid of tribal influence and reiterated the army’s unwavering commitment to upholding peace and stability.

As investigations continue, Sierra Leone stands united against any threat to its peace. The Security Sector remains resolute in its pursuit of justice, and the nation looks forward to a future free from subversion and disruption.

NP-SL Ltd: Pioneering Excellence in Petroleum Products and Customer Care

NP-Sierra Leone Limited (NP-SL Ltd)

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

NP-SL Ltd stands at the forefront of the petroleum industry, specializing in delivering top-tier petroleum products within the nation. Renowned for its unwavering dedication to quality, efficiency, and customer contentment, the marketing company has solidified its position as a reputable and dependable provider of petroleum commodities.

As a dependable business entity, NP-SL’s unwavering commitment to delivering superlative petroleum products of the highest quality remains a cornerstone of its operations. The company recognizes the significance of upholding rigorous quality standards and ensures compliance through comprehensive assessments by esteemed bodies such as the Sierra Leone Standards Bureau and the Petroleum Regulatory Agency. This meticulous approach guarantees that NP’s patrons exclusively receive premium petroleum products meticulously tailored to their vehicle specifications.

Elevating its commitment, NP channels substantial efforts into optimizing efficiency. Strategic investments in cutting-edge technology and infrastructure innovations have fostered streamlined operations, amplifying productivity across the board. The recent enhancement of the Kissy Terminal exemplifies NP’s dedication to punctual and cost-effective product deliveries.

Central to NP’s ethos is its relentless pursuit of customer satisfaction. The company cultivates enduring relationships with its clientele, consistently surpassing their expectations. A dedicated customer service and sales team operates around the clock, poised to address inquiries and concerns promptly. Valuing feedback as a catalyst for progress, NP actively incorporates customer insights to refine and enhance its product offerings and service provisions.

Beyond its commercial endeavors, NP-SL is unwavering in its devotion to environmental welfare. The company staunchly adheres to stringent environmental regulations and invests ardently in eco-conscious practices. With a resolute commitment to reducing its carbon footprint, NP actively implements sustainable solutions, charting a course towards a more environmentally harmonious future.

As NP-SL Ltd perpetuates its legacy as a paramount provider of petroleum products, marked by unparalleled quality, efficiency and customer care, its steadfast commitment to excellence remains resolute. Holding firm as the premier supplier in the petroleum industry, NP’s operational principles underscore its unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction and paramount environmental safety.

 

Pee Cee and Sons: Upholding Quality and Commitment Amidst Controversy

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In business since 1965, Pee Cee and Sons has remained a steadfast importer of diverse food products, including frozen chicken, flour, sugar, rice and mayonnaise from esteemed international brands. With an unblemished reputation, the company has nurtured a successful track record that spans decades.

In a recent development, Pee Cee and Sons has taken to the public forum to quash rumors and reaffirm their dedication to excellence. Dismissing allegations circulating on social media, the Management of Pee Cee and Sons has categorically stated that no expired goods have ever graced their shelves for local sale.

At the heart of the controversy lies a claim concerning Padi Mayonnaise, which has sparked a firestorm on social media. The company refutes assertions that their mayonnaise is approaching expiration within a month, asserting that such claims are unfounded and that their products are thoroughly vetted before reaching consumers.

“We assure the public that all products in our inventory are safeguarded and well within their designated shelf lives,” the Management stated unequivocally. Addressing the specific concern, it was clarified that the implicated mayonnaise batches were long sold to customers who have now chosen to distribute them at discounted prices as their expiration date nears.

Pee Cee and Sons is resolute in asserting that the implicated mayonnaise has not yet expired, rendering the claims of a social media blogger unfounded and exaggerated. The company holds firm in its commitment to provide quality products to its extensive customer base and sustains a thriving rapport with its clientele.

“The company’s unwavering dedication to adhere to Sierra Leone’s business regulations is an integral aspect of our operations,” Pee Cee and Sons affirmed.

Beyond the realm of commerce, Pee Cee and Sons has substantiated its commitment to societal welfare. With branches strewn across Sierra Leone, the company has generated numerous employment opportunities, contributing significantly to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). A spokesperson from the National Revenue Authority applauded the company’s pivotal role in bolstering the nation’s revenue through its steady distribution of essential food and commodities.

Testimonies from local traders echo the sentiment that Pee Cee and Sons’ products are both high in quality and affordably priced, enabling business growth and customer satisfaction. As a steadfast partner, the company has demonstrated its dedication through charitable contributions during times of crisis, extending aid to those affected by Ebola, the Regent mudslide, and the ongoing pandemic.

Pee Cee and Sons’ comprehensive approach, encompassing procurement, import logistics, warehousing, distribution, and retail, ensures an integrated and streamlined supply chain. Their products’ widespread availability underscores the company’s commitment to prioritizing the public’s interests, aligning with their belief that the consumer is paramount.

Amidst the clamor, Pee Cee and Sons stands undeterred, a stalwart guardian of quality and dedication, and an emblem of resilience in Sierra Leone’s business landscape.

 

Minister of State Unveils Comprehensive Insight into Ministry’s Roles and Responsibilities

By Foday Moriba Conteh

An exclusive interview conducted by this medium on Thursday 10th August, in the Office of the Minister of State, Vice President’s Office on Tower Hill in Freetown, the newly appointed Minister of State, Hon. Manty Tarawalli, who is a development expert and politician, has shed light on her role and responsibilities.

It could be recalled that Hon. Manty Tarawalli was appointed to this new position after four years of serving as the Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs where she led the development and enactment of the ground-breaking Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Act 2022 which has increased women’s political participation and leadership opportunities through Affirmative Action as well as providing improved social protection for women in the country.

Speaking during the interview, the Minister stated that as the Principal Assistant to the Vice President, her current portfolio comprises the supervision of national multi-sectoral programmes delivered under the Office of the Vice President, which include the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), Scaling up Nutrition (SUN), Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (SLEITI) etc.

She added that her role includes global representation and engagements with multilaterals on national development issues and the designing and management of large-scale multi-donor development projects.

Hon. Manty Tarawalli stated that her supervisory role on the national multi-sectoral programmes delivered under the Office of the Vice President which include the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), Scaling up Nutrition (SUN), Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (SLEITI) etc. are very important towards the development of the country, adding that all the three initiatives work towards the fulfillment of international benchmarks and standards.

She pointed out that as the Minister of State she has the responsibility of ensuring that Sierra Leoneans understand the benefits of those initiatives to the country, adding that in most cases people know about the initiatives but are not aware how those initiatives are benefitting or will benefit them as Sierra Leoneans and the country as a whole.

The Minister further pointed out hoe those initiatives will contribute to the attainment of  the Big Fives as envisioned by His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio, stating that during her tenure as Minister of State collaboration with relevant stakeholders is very key owing to the fact that her role is connected with Ministries, Agencies and Departments, adding that the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), Scaling up Nutrition (SUN), Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (SLEITI) etc. have  lots of benefit for the country which she said many are ignorant of but said her role now is to unpack those projects in order for Sierra Leoneans to understand the benefits associated with them for the development of the country.

She said that most of the projects under the Office of the Vice President are inter-ministerial and multi-sectoral projects of which she reiterated that as Minister of State she will ensure there is collaboration with different Ministries and sectors in order to achieve the aspirations of the New Direction Manifesto especially on His Excellency Big Five.

Hon. Manty Tarawalli stated that among her current plan is to ensure that there is a collaboration with the Ministry of Information and Civic Education and the media in order to popularize the contributions of the Office of the Vice President towards fulfillment of the agenda of His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio of which she said there had been a gap over the years, furthering that the other plan relates to strengthening the projects that are currently under the supervision of the Office of the Vice President. She said they will look at new priorities, how they should ensure collaboration, integration and better involvement and participation from other Ministries that are also involved in the delivery of those projects.

“The President His Excellency has outlined the Big Five so our focus is the Big Five, what is the contribution of the Office of the Vice President to the Big Five. We already have these projects but we need to unpack them to see what their contributions are, strengthen where there is need to do so and communicate the successes to Sierra Leoneans,” she noted.

In another development, the Minister of State also used the opportunity to inform all that due to her outstanding performance at her former office, the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs, especially on the enactment of the Gender Equality and Women Empowerment (GEWE) Act, a delegation from Harvard University will coming to Sierra Leone this month to do a case study on the enactment of the Gender Equality and Women Empowerment (GEWE) Bill by the Government of Sierra Leone.

She said that she was fortunate during her tenure as Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs to attend the Harvard Ministerial Leadership Program which supports Government Ministers with pivotal economic and human development-related responsibilities to exercise purposeful leadership and achieve transformative policy goals of which they became aware about the enactment of the GEWE Act by the Government of Sierra Leone.

Hon. Manty Tarawalli said that the delegation will have engagement with key stakeholders including President Julius Maada Bio, the Speaker of Parliament and herself as former Minister of the Ministry.

She commended the enactment of the GEWE Bill as a very important milestone in the development of women in the country, adding that due to the enactment of the Bill the country now has 41 Female Members of Parliament.

The Minister said that other countries have over the years failed to enact the bill but said Sierra Leone stands tall over them all adding that such was made possible because of the presidential will and the collaboration and dedication of the lead person to follow through the entire process.

“In all of these I want to assure all that I did not let them down as Minister of Gender and I will not let them down as Minister of State. There is a lot to do here and thankfully I have a supportive Boss in person of the Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh and there is a lot to learn from him out of which I am sure there will materialize results,” she concluded.

 

ECSL Concludes Post-Election Evaluation Retreat in Bo

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In order to help the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) have a thorough reflection on the conduct of the 2023 multi-tier elections as well as looking at areas to they did well or went wrong in the conduct of the elections in the country,  ECSL has on Tuesday 8th August, 2023 concluded a two days post-election evaluation retreat. The two-day retreat which started on Monday 7th to 8th August, 2023 brought together Commissioners and staff of the Commission across the country was held at the Galliness Paradise Hotel in Bo City, Southern Sierra Leone.

Speaking during the retreat, the Chief Electoral Commissioner of the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone, Mohamed Konneh, said in August 2020, he promised the nation that he would like to oversee the conduct of elections in a peaceful atmosphere where his children will be attending school and everyone going about their normal businesses of which he thanked God Almighty that the promise he made has been fulfilled.

He expressed appreciation to the Commissioners and staff of the Commission for their dedication, hard work and unwavering commitment in the recently concluded election, adding that they played a crucial role in ensuring the smooth conduct of the democratic process, upholding the values that bind the nation together despite the inter and intra suspicions.

Mohamed Konneh informed the gathering that throughout the election period, they faced numerous challenges, both expected and unexpected; but against all odds, they stood firm and carried out their responsibilities with integrity and fairness.

“It is our duty to critically assess our performance, identify areas for improvement and implement necessary changes to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of our electoral processes continually. We are all aware that every election has its own unique experience and this election is not an exception. Moreover, this is the first time we have conducted a PR system using the remainder method, this is the first time we have done electronic nomination and at the same time taking cognizance of 3 to 1 female representation,” he maintained.

He stated that the overall objective of the retreat is to help the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone conduct a thorough reflection on the conduct of the 2023 multi-tier elections and look at areas where they did well or went wrong. Giving instances, he said they need to look at their deployment strategy to see how they can make it better, identify the necessary legal reforms to leverage the emerging technologies to secure the country’s electoral procedures and aid in making voter registration more accessible, improve the accuracy of vote counting, and enhance communication channels with the public.

The Chief Commissioner said the Commission also looked at how they should redouble their efforts in promoting voter education and stakeholders’ engagement, enhance management of resources and logistics accountably, build on the solid foundation of inclusivity in all aspects of their work by increasing accessibility to electoral processes, leaving no room for disenfranchisement and to maintain open channels of communication with political parties, civil society, and the public.

“I further entreat you all to reflect on our Strategic Plan 2020-2024 and the processes leading to the June 2023 elections in order to pick out some pointers to successes, challenges and opportunities. I am confident that by the end of the day we will accomplish this task in a “SAFUL” way and together we will carry forward the lessons we have learned, embrace innovation, and continuously strive for excellence,” he concluded.

Other Commissioners present, including Albert Samba Kanu for North-West, Zainab Moseray for the West, Marian Moijueh for the East, Abubakar Koroma for the North and Commissioner Sylvester Alpha for the South also made salient statements during the opening of the retreat.

Following the opening session was group work during which participants were divided into eight groups to hold group discussions on various topics such as: Election Process (Voter Registration, Polling Station Setup, Voting Procedure and the Management of Electoral Materials), Legal and Procedural Compliance (Laws, Regulations and Standards), Electoral Education and Voter Turnout, Media & Communication and Public Perception, Stakeholder’s Engagement and Inclusion, Elections Results Management, Admin & Office Assistants, Drivers. During the group sessions, participants looked at the successes, challenges, weaknesses and proferred recommendations.

Day Two of the retreat was climaxed by the reading of a Press Statement to members of the Press. The Electoral Commissioner, Southern Region, Edward Sylvester Alpha, reading a statement on behalf of the Commission, pointed out that the Post-Election Evaluation Retreat brought together the Board of Commissioners, Management and staff from all 16 districts and the National headquarters to deliberate on the entire electoral processes that led to the just concluded June 24 General Elections.

He said that the staff were divided into eight groups, with each group given a specific activity within the electoral process and the Strategic Pillars of the 2020 to 2024 electoral cycle Strategic Plan and that each group was assigned a Team Lead and were required to look into the successes, challenges, weaknesses, opportunities, threats and make recommendations for the future conduct of elections in Sierra Leone.

Edward Sylvester Alpha pointed out that the session is expected to also pave the way for the development of the next Strategic Plan (2025 to 2029).

He disclosed that the sessions were facilitated by UNDA/AFRICA, a South African based organization further stating that the reading of the press statement will be followed by a general staff meeting which will be chaired by the Chief Electoral Commissioner during which statements are to be made by representatives from various cadre of staff members.

CTC Commits to Fix Masiaka – Port Loko Road

CTC Mining Company has expressed interest and responsibility to fix a damaged section on the Masiaka-Port Loko Road after a team of engineers from the Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA) visited and assessed the road.

The Team, led by the Deputy Director General, Ing Alfred Jalil Momodu, visited the damaged section of the Masiaka – Port Loko Road on Friday, August 4, 2023 to, among other things, assess the extent of the damage, verify the cause of the damage and proffer solutions to fix it.

The SLRA team first visited the operational site of CTC Mining Company whose vehicles had been widely accused of causing the damage, to verify the claims.

After interviewing the Company’s representatives and weighing one of the loaded trucks at the site, the team found out that the weight of the vehicles, especially when fully loaded with bauxite and other materials were more than the permissible weight that should ply the route.

Also, during a tour along the Masiaka – Port Loko Road, the team discovered other emerging problems along the road before arriving at the actual damaged section that warranted the investigation.

Amicably, the Management of CTC Mining Company accepted responsibility for the damage and expressed willingness to foot the cost of fixing the road while SLRA will provide a comprehensive assessment report and cost.

It was also agreed the engineers from CTC should team up with the SLRA’s Port Loko District Engineer to do an emergency remedial maintenance on the severely damaged section in order to prevent further deterioration before the actual maintenance work commences.

Ministry of Lands Engages Stakeholders on Draft Regulations of Land Acts

By Millicent Senava Mannah

The Ministry of Lands has organized a Consultative Meeting on 8th August, 2023 with Voluntary Guidelines Technical Working Groups and MDAs on the draft regulations of the National Land Commission Act and the Customary Land Rights Act. The consultative meeting was held at the Ministry’s Conference Room at Youyi Building in Freetown.

In his opening remarks, the Minister of Lands, Dr. Turad Senesie, intimated that the two Acts (National Land Commission and Customary Land Rights Acts) are going to change the narrative of the country. According to him, the two laws were enacted in 2022, further revealing that one of the requirements for passing those proposed laws is that they  should develop rules and regulations.

“Those rules and regulations are to support the smooth implementation of the two Acts. The two Acts have their main objectives, the Customary Land Rights Act has main objectives like, Title registration, dispute resolution and to promote investment that will not only be in the interest of  the investor but of the country as a whole,” the Minister informed.

He added how the National Land Commission Act is there to support gender equality. “We want to see our women owning lands,” he said further stating that the law will support tenure right, promote tenure ownership, gender ownership and commercial ownership.

The Minister also disclosed that from now on lands in the provinces are going to be regulated not for personal interests but in the interest of the nation underscoring how all land owners in the provinces are going to register their lands at the District Land Commission in their respective districts.

The Minister emphasized that there are lots of Land in the provinces that are not been utilized.

According to him, land should be used to contribute to the country’s GDP stressing that  if lands are used to grow agricultural products for exportation the country will stop being tied to the World Bank.

Turad Senesie stated that utilizing the lands for Agricultural purposes will even create employment for many people in the country, especially youths and such will minimize anti social behaviors among the youth.

“We have the responsibility to make Sierra Leone move and we have to look at these Acts carefully before we take them to Parliament for approval,” he sounded a word of caution.

He noted that the road from Sierra Leone to Kailahun is very good and accessible, but according to him, the problem is that people are very lazy.

Sonkita Conteh, National Legal Consultant, in his contribution said that the National Land Commission (Para Surveyors and Paralegals) Operational Regulations 2023, is geared towards regulating Para Surveyors and Paralegals in the country. According to him, the number of Surveyors in the country is very small.

He disclosed how the project intends to train people in the provinces as Para-Surveyors, who will be surveying lands in the districts saying they will only work in the districts where they are assigned also revealing that requirements for them to be trained would be about obtaining three to five credits in WASSCE.

Regional consultative meetings will commence on the 14th August 2023.

Islamic Development Bank Delegation & Finance Minister Hold Discussions on Supporting Agriculture

A delegation from the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) which is currently undertaking an assessment and oversight mission for IsDB projects in Sierra Leone paid a visit of courtesy to the Ministry of Finance on Monday, August 7th, 2023.

During the meeting, Omar Davis, the Country Operations Manager of the Islamic Development Bank, extended congratulations and affirmed the bank’s commitment to supporting Sierra Leone’s development endeavors, with a particular focus on the agriculture sector.

He conveyed the bank’s willingness to engage in further discussions regarding the Cassava Value Chain projects, which were requested by the Government. Davis highlighted that the delegation’s primary objective was to delve into various Government priorities spanning sectors like Health, Water, and Sanitation, which collectively account for 30% of the bank’s portfolio within the country.

The discussions also revolved around an in-depth review of ongoing projects, specifically the $145 million portfolio, with 70% allocated to Agriculture and the remaining 30% distributed across Health and Water and Sanitation. Future project planning for 2024/2025 was also a central topic of conversation.

Minister of Finance, Sheku Fantamadi Bangura, expressed gratitude for the continuous support offered by the Islamic Development Bank to the Government of Sierra Leone. He emphasized the significance of agriculture within the Government’s initiatives and highlighted the integral connection between human capital development, education, health, and the growth of the agricultural sector. Minister Bangura voiced satisfaction at the bank’s expanding involvement in agriculture and affirmed the Government’s dedication to enhancing project implementation within this realm.

Minister Bangura underscored the need for an enhanced architectural framework for agricultural delivery. He outlined the Government’s aspiration to devise a comprehensive blueprint for agriculture that acknowledges the interventions made and aligns with the nation’s desired outcomes. Effective coordination, according to him, is pivotal in achieving food self-sufficiency for the people of Sierra Leone.

The Minister emphasized the role of the Government in mitigating sector risks by investing in crucial infrastructure such as irrigation, warehousing, roads, and electricity. He stressed the importance of strategic partnerships and innovative structures to ensure sustainable investment and engagement with business entities.

The courtesy visit was a precursor to a comprehensive project portfolio review aimed at identifying implementation challenges across technical, procurement, financial, and logistical aspects. The mission’s agenda also includes on-site inspections of IsDB projects in various provinces of Sierra Leone before their departure.

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