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NP-SL Emerges as Premier Petroleum Marketer in Sierra Leone

NP-Sierra Leone Limited (NP-SL Ltd)

By Amin Kef-Ranger

In a resounding testament to its prowess in the petroleum industry, NP-Sierra Leone Limited (NP-SL Ltd) has solidified its position as the foremost petroleum marketing company in Sierra Leone. The company’s exceptional performance in importing and distributing a range of petroleum products, including petrol, diesel, gas, and lubricants – notably Castrol oil – has earned it widespread acclaim.

The company’s resolute commitment to delivering high-quality petroleum products is unequivocal. NP-SL Ltd, a wholly indigenous enterprise, has carved an indelible mark on the landscape of Sierra Leone’s petroleum sector. It has consistently ensured the timely importation of top-notch petroleum products, which are then widely distributed to filling stations across the nation. This concerted effort guarantees easy accessibility for its valued clientele.

While occasional unforeseen contingencies may temporarily disrupt the supply chain, NP-SL Ltd is quick to respond with effective measures to swiftly address any such challenges. This resiliency highlights the company’s dedication to maintaining a seamless flow of products to the market.

The driving force behind NP-SL Ltd’s unwavering success is its astute business management strategies. The collective vision of 35 Sierra Leonean founders has steered the company’s policies, propelling it from a modest business venture to a towering industry player. This legacy of innovative policies, effectively implemented, has been instrumental in NP-SL Ltd’s ongoing evolution.

A cornerstone of the company’s strategy is its emphasis on exceptional customer care. By prioritizing customer satisfaction, NP-SL Ltd aims to not only retain its existing clientele but also attract new patrons. To this end, NP Filling Stations have been transformed into inviting hubs. Adorned with vibrant yellow and green hues, these state-of-the-art structures offer spacious accommodations for a fleet of vehicles, often accompanied by shopping marts for added convenience and relaxation.

Transparency and trustworthiness are paramount for NP-SL Ltd. The company has made substantial investments in calibrated pumping machines, ensuring precise dispensing of fuel and engendering confidence among buyers. Satisfied customers attest to the professionalism and orderliness exhibited at NP Filling Stations, affirming the company’s commitment to excellence.

NP-SL Ltd’s dedication to Sierra Leone’s Local Content Policy sets a commendable example. By championing indigenous resources – both material and human – the company contributes significantly to the nation’s economy. Employment opportunities for Sierra Leoneans are part of NP-SL Ltd’s internal policies, effectively aiding in poverty reduction.

NP Gas, a standout product in the company’s portfolio, has garnered attention for its efficiency and eco-friendliness in cooking applications. Conveniently marketed alongside other petroleum products, NP Gas comes in various cylinder sizes, catering to diverse needs. Users praise its safety and ease of use, with one resident referring to it as their trusted “kitchen partner.”

The innovative NP Smart Card is also making waves. This intelligent card simplifies fuel purchases by seamlessly integrating with calibrated pumping machines, accurately dispensing fuel while displaying the corresponding price. Users laud its convenience and benefits, making fuel procurement a swift and hassle-free experience.

As a responsible corporate citizen, NP-SL Ltd embraces its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) with fervor. Aligning with government development initiatives, the company channels its efforts into projects that uplift communities and enhance living standards. This commitment has earned NP-SL Ltd praise for its contributions to societal well-being from the Petroleum Regulatory Agency.

The company’s influence extends beyond Sierra Leone’s borders, with vibrant branches operating in Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast, and The Gambia.

NP-SL Ltd’s impact transcends markets, providing jobs and contributing to Government revenue. As it continues to broaden its horizons, NP-SL Ltd remains a formidable force poised to shape the petroleum industry’s future.

 

Michaela Edwina Swallow Becomes Chair of West African Bar Association Transition Committee

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The result oriented and charismatic President of the Sierra Leone Bar Association (SLBA), Michaela Eddinia Swallow, has ascended a significant milestone in her legal career when she was recently appointed as the Chairperson for the Transition Committee within the West African Bar Association (WABA).

Her appointment materialized during a two-day WABA conference on the theme: “Promoting Democratic Consolidation through the Respect of the Rule of Law and Human Rights: Harnessing the Influence of Bar Associations.”

Worthy of note is that the two day WABA Conference was convened in order to strengthen WABA’s operations, make attendees feel at home in the Secretariat of WABA and facilitate the election of  a fresh executive leadership.

Commendably, the gathering achieved the dual purpose of serving as WABA’s Annual General Meeting and as an apt platform to address the impediments that are deeply eating into the fabric of the  Rule of Law and Human Rights within the region. However,  a pivotal decision emerged from the conference, mandating the deferment of executive elections and the establishment of a Transition Committee.

The Transition Committee, which includes distinguished delegates from Bar Associations spanning the three West African regions – Anglophone, Francophone, and Luxophone has the responsibility of meticulously scrutinizing the WABA constitution and overseeing the impending appointment of new executive members, slated for the initial quarter of 2024.

Through a unanimous consensus, Madam Michaela Eddinia Swallow, President of the Sierra Leone Bar Association, was made the Chairperson of the West African Bar Association Transition Committee.

Michaela’s appointment was not surprising as her impeccable track record as a venerable leader in the realm of legal affairs both at home and on the global stage speaks volumes. As the President of the SLBA, her contributions to the consolidation of peace and democracy, particularly in the context of the recently concluded multi-tier elections, have been nothing short of invaluable. These efforts, spearheaded in collaboration with the Commonwealth-sponsored National Peace Pledge Committee, have been pivotal in ensuring the conduct of peaceful, equitable and transparent elections.

Out of Sierra Leone, Madam Swallow’s influence on the international arena is solid. Her uncontested election as a distinguished member of the esteemed Governing Council of the Commonwealth Lawyers Association speaks volume of her reputation and her standing as a highly regarded figure amongst the judges of the ECOWAS Court of Justice cements her prominence.

Madam Michaela Eddinia Swallow’s elevation to the Chairpersonship of the West African Bar Association Transition Committee serves as a testament to the revival of hope, renewed vigor and progress within the West African legal fraternity.

Africell Mega Promo: Petty Trader Takes Home Brand-New TVS Motorbike

By Alpha Good Kamara

Africell Sierra Leone, one of the nation’s leading GSM operators, has revealed the fortunate winner of in the company’s recently launched Mega Promo. In a heartwarming event held on August 7th, 2023 at the company’s headquarters on Wilberforce in Freetown, the telecom giant proudly presented Madam Saudatu Koroma, a former housekeeper turned enterprising petty trader, with a gleaming brand-new TVS Motorbike.

The Mega Promo, an ambitious six-month campaign launched on the 31st July 2023, promises a wave of excitement and substantial rewards for subscribers. With a chance to seize remarkable prizes including six coveted cars, twenty-four cutting-edge TVS Motorbikes, and a staggering sum of over 5 Billion Leones in cash, the promotion has captured the attention of the nation.

Madam Saudatu Koroma’s tale of triumph echoes the aspirations of many. On Friday, August 4th, she received the life-altering call notifying her of her remarkable victory. An air of disbelief initially surrounded the news among her neighbors, who cautioned her against potential scams. However, the dedicated team at Africell left no room for doubt, reaffirming her achievement and inviting her to their headquarters on Monday, August 7th, 2023.

In an exclusive interview, Madam Koroma shared her rollercoaster of emotions upon receiving the news. “I was initially hesitant due to stories of scams, but the persistent reassurance from Africell convinced me,” she confessed. Her journey from a humble housekeeper to a proud owner of a TVS Motorbike signifies a turning point in her life’s trajectory.

The unveiling event was graced by the presence of Africell’s Media Officer, Abdul Aziz Kamara, the Master of Ceremony, who revealed the abundance of prizes awaiting subscribers. Kamara urged participants to seize the opportunity by consistently recharging with just 10 Leones daily, significantly amplifying their chances of securing the various prizes. He highlighted the weekly distribution of TVS Motorbikes and monthly giveaway of cars, culminating in an exhilarating stage of the Mega Promo in January 2024.

John Konteh, Africell Media Manager, emphasized the importance of verifying the authenticity of notifications, reassuring subscribers that the only designated winner contact number is 077 777-777. Konteh unequivocally asserted that Africell would never request recharge cards or any form of payment from winners, upholding the integrity of the promotion.

Madam Saudatu Koroma, a symbol of resilience and hope, expressed her gratitude to Africell for the timely Mega Promo. With the newfound asset of her TVS Motorbike, she envisions empowering her family’s future. “I plan to put this motorbike to good use by employing a reliable rider, enabling us to channel the earnings towards my children’s education. Two of them are preparing for the West African Senior School Certificate Examinations,” she beamed.

As the Mega Promo continues to unfold, subscribers across Sierra Leone anticipate their turn for a shot at the dazzling array of prizes that Africell Sierra Leone has in store. The journey towards transforming lives and realizing dreams has commenced, all thanks to the unwavering commitment of Africell to brightening the lives of their valued customers.

Commissioner Robert Kondema Kargbo Draws Popular Support from the Grassroots  

By Abubakarr Harding

One striking feature of President Bio’s recent appointment of individuals into key positions, especially as Ministers and Deputy Ministers, is the youthfulness of nearly all his appointees. Though there are pessimists who have expressed the view that the youth are most times swayed away by the desire to amass quick wealth and material things which will prevent them from delivering, however, there is a contrary view that there are situations in which young people have delivered well.

One outstanding young man, who has done extremely well in serving as a vociferous voice as a Civil Society Activist and as well as an entrepreneur in the private sector, is Commissioner Robert Kondima Kargbo. Being a fervent believer in positive change, this young man saw reason to throw his weight behind another young aspiring personality in the person of the now President, Julius Maada Bio. Believing in his vision for the prosperity of this nation , Commissioner Robert Kondima Kargbo, supported not only the aspiring Julius Maada Bio, in his first bidding but the SLPP in diverse ways until victory was won.

A cross section of supporters of the SLPP have intimated this medium that whilst  the President has made some sound appointments , they still feel  he should do more for the  youth by bringing in the indefatigable Robert Kondema Kargbo. They maintained that if  President Bio is looking for result oriented young people who  have demonstrated impeccable and astute leadership qualities to play important roles in governance  then definitely this young man is among the first five.

According to that school of thought, Robert , who has been a loyalist to President Bio will fit into certain positions that will carry the same status as a cabinet position.

One of them is quoted as stating : “Commissioner Kargbo has been a dependable  friend and supporter of President Bio and since the  New Direction Regime is full of young and innovative politicians, the President should definitely raise the Commissioner’s profile to that of  a Cabinet level . This will go a long way in motivating  young and dynamic politicians to deliver more for not only  the betterment of our party but the  country as a whole.”

Some of those calling for his elevation said they have not even met with him but have been following his outstanding performances for the party especially in shoving up support for the President and party during the electioneering period.

It is on record that the amiable Commissioner is well known and loved across the political divide and with such a quality some are of the view that he could be the most suitable person who could serve as an effective  go-between to tide the stalemate in the political governance due to the withdrawal of the main opposition APC party from participating in State governance.

According to his friends in the APC, “Robert will be instrumental to the aspirations of the President’s peace agenda with the opposition as he is a Man of the people and a Patriot”.

Being the Managing Editor of the  Heritage Newspaper ,Commissioner Robert Kondima Kargbo, is more than committed to serve his Boss, President Bio and the people of this country.

For his astute leadership qualities, he was recently invited by Dala Africa to participate in the Africa Smart and Sustainable Cities Investment Summit (ASCIS), from the 6th to 8th September 2023 at the Kigali Convention Centre in Rwanda.

For his rich background, qualifications and contributions, the Grassroots supporters of the SLPP and other well-meaning folks have been appealing to President Bio for consideration of his appointment to a suitable position is at par with a Cabinet position.

He is said to be an inspiration to many young people who were on the verge of going astray as well as a philanthropist who helps the poor and needy especially in terms of motivating party members.

WIMSAL Commends Government’s Enhancement of Gender Equality & Calls for More Progress

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Women in the Media Sierra Leone (WIMSAL), in an open letter dated 4th August, 2023, bearing the signature of its President, Eastina Taylor, and  addressed to His Excellency Brig. Rtd. Dr. Julius Maada Bio, commended the Government for its steadfast commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment.

Highlighting the recent accomplishments, the letter celebrated the election of 41 women to Parliament and the appointment of 20 women as Ministers and Deputy Ministers in the Cabinet. These achievements were hailed as vital steps toward achieving greater gender balance in leadership roles.

The enactment of the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Act (GEWE) was recognized as a landmark moment in Sierra Leone’s journey towards inclusivity and equality. The Government’s dedication to effectively implementing the Act by ensuring women’s representation in key Governmental positions was applauded, signaling progress in the right direction.

While recognizing these milestones, WIMSAL also emphasized the importance of extending gender diversity beyond numerical quotas. The letter urged proactive measures to empower women and promote their participation in decision-making roles across various sectors, including the civil service, Government Boards, Committees, Commissions as well as within the Security Sector.

The call for gender diversity was further extended to the realm of entrepreneurship and finance. WIMSAL urged financial institutions, including the Bank of Sierra Leone and the Ministry of Finance, to ensure equal access to financial services and credit facilities for women entrepreneurs and business owners. This move, the organization believes, would contribute to economic growth and create more opportunities for women in the country.

To ensure the continuation of progress, the letter requested active monitoring and auditing of institutions’ compliance with gender equality policies. This, they claimed, would help sustain the gains achieved and pave the way for a more inclusive and prosperous future.

WIMSAL’s open letter underscored its commitment to supporting women in executing their mandates and holding them accountable, when necessary, for the betterment of Sierra Leone.

The Government’s dedication to gender equality and women’s empowerment was commended as an inspiration to the nation. The letter concluded by expressing optimism that through continued collaboration, Sierra Leone can create a society that values diversity, inclusivity, and the full engagement of all citizens.

New Deputy Minister of Communication Technology and Innovation Sparks Optimism for Progress

By Alusine Kargbo (Shine)
The appointment of Ibrahim Sannoh as Deputy Minister of Communication, Technology and Innovation has been welcomed by many as a right move. This strategic move heralds a promising era of advancement in communication technology, propelling the nation toward digital transformation and holistic growth.

Mr. Sannoh, a visionary leader with an unwavering commitment to change, has rekindled renewed hope for a future defined by technological breakthroughs and inclusive prosperity. Central to his mission is the cultivation of efficiency across both public and civil services through widespread connectivity, technological integration and digital education.

Fueled by a resolute determination to uplift living standards and propel socioeconomic development, the Deputy Minister is poised to harness the potential of communication technology and digitalization. This aspiration has ignited a resurgence of optimism among Sierra Leoneans, as they collectively anticipate a brighter and more equitable future.

Aligned with President Bio’s “Tok & Do” philosophy, the Deputy Minister is dedicated to democratizing communication technology access. His conviction that innovation should not be confined to urban enclaves is palpable, as he endeavors to bridge the digital divide between rural and urban sectors. This all-encompassing vision underpins his commitment to equitable growth and ensures that no citizen is left behind.

To translate this vision into reality, the Deputy Minister will spearhead initiatives aimed at extending connectivity to underserved regions. Collaborating with telecommunications giants, internet service providers, and stakeholders, he aims to bolster network coverage, enhance internet infrastructure, and reduce access costs. By promoting inclusivity, these efforts will empower individuals, businesses, and communities to harness communication technologies for their mutual benefit.

With Sierra Leone poised to emerge as a global technology and innovation hub, the Deputy Minister’s strategic acumen is poised to drive comprehensive economic progress for all citizens. His visionary strategy resonates with President Bio’s larger mission to tackle global challenges through local innovation.

Highlighting his exemplary track record, Mr. Sannoh’s previous accomplishments include the modernization of the biometric driver’s license system. His innovative integration of decentralized licensing processes expanded licensing capabilities to regions like Kailahun and Kabala, resulting in a substantial revenue increase from 56.1 billion old Leone to an impressive 92.4 billion new Leones.

In acknowledging this appointment, gratitude is extended to President Bio for his discerning choice in appointing Mr. Ibrahim Sannoh as the Deputy Minister of Communication, Technology & Innovation. As Sierra Leone extends its power to the youth, a future marked by progress and promise is illuminated on the horizon.

Hon. Abdul Turay & Others Declared Wanted for Tombo Protest, Sierra Leone

Hon. Abdul Turay
Hon. Abdul Turay

By Alpha Sesay

Various human rights activists in the country have raised serious concerns over the rampant unlawful and wrongful arrests of politicians, especially from the main opposition APC Party, and other young people across the country. According to sources from the Sierra Leone Police, it is alleged that these identified individuals are the real perpetrators of the violent protests that erupted in the Tombo Community, claiming the lives of some Police Officers, injuring civilians and burning down the community police post, all carried out by angered youths.

It all happened in the early hours of Wednesday, May 6, 2020, when hundreds of angry fishermen and youths from the fishing town of Tombo, Western Area Rural, went on a rampage, setting the Family Support Unit (FSU) of the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) and the community hospital on fire, while also vandalizing the main police station.

This violent protest stemmed from a policy and restrictions released by the country’s Ministry of Fishery and Marine Resources, allowing only 10 fishing boats to operate per day as a precautionary measure to curb the spread of COVID-19 in a community predominantly reliant on fishing for livelihood, involving over 500 people. This restriction angered the fishermen and youths, seeing it as a deprivation of their livelihoods, leading them to stage a peaceful demonstration to express their frustration and disappointment.

However, upon undertaking a thorough fact-finding investigation, it became clear that these false identifications and arrests were mainly politically motivated, perpetrated by supporters of the ruling SLPP Government against those deemed to oppose the political establishment. The situation has become alarming, with certain vigilante groups, reportedly comprising supporters of the ruling SLPP Government, clandestinely killing those seen as diehard supporters of the opposition APC Party. These extrajudicial killings have instilled fear and panic, especially in nearby communities within the Tombo Community, further exacerbated by unconfirmed reports of similar incidents.

Lumpa Waterloo, an emerging community situated in Waterloo, became a hotspot during the violent protests, with tensions high as crowds attempted to advance towards the city center, met by police officers firing tear gas canisters and, in some cases, live bullets. Young people protested violently, attributing their actions to unbearable economic hardship.

As the situation calmed, a curfew was imposed in Tombo Community, followed by a manhunt initiated by armed individuals targeting Hon. Abdul Turay, a political figure in the community and Member of Parliament for Constituency 105. He was accused by irate youths, believed to belong to the ruling SLPP, of supporting the violent protest and encouraging youths to riot. A reliable anonymous source stated that Hon. Abdul Turay was not present in the community during the Tombo protest, as he was fulfilling his parliamentary duties. He was arrested on May 9, 2020, and released on May 12, 2020.

Additionally, strange voices have been reportedly heard near Hon. Abdul Turay’s residence late at night, but investigations in the morning failed to identify the source. Speculation suggests these voices belong to individuals searching for Hon. Abdul Turay and two others accused of killing a police officer during the Tombo protest.

While some individuals identified, arrested, and charged for their involvement in the Tombo protests have been tried in various Magistrate courts and heavily sentenced, reports indicate that some people have gone missing for days.

Despite this protest, Hon. Abdul Turay has been under scrutiny by the ruling government, viewed as one of the most outspoken Members of Parliament from the main opposition party. He has been targeted on multiple occasions, including during the forceful removal of 10 Members of Parliament from the main opposition party, where he was subjected to police brutality. His house in his hometown in Kerena District, Rokulan village, was burnt down prior to the 2023 general elections.

Moreover, he was among those targeted at the APC Party headquarters in Brookfields, where gunmen from the military and police attacked the party office. He is currently in the United Kingdom, fearing reprisal if he returns to his country after receiving cogent information from family members and members of his political party that he shouldn’t return as the government is still pursuing and apprehending strong members of the main opposition party.

President Bio Decongests Wage Bill to Salvage Economy

The Columnist, Foday Moriba Conteh

Sierra Leone faces an unprecedented economic crisis as an overburdened wage bill forces the government to take drastic measures, including the removal of fuel subsidies. The consequences of this decision have been severe, causing widespread suffering among the citizens. In these challenging times, it is imperative for President Bio to embrace radical action to salvage the economy and steer the nation towards sustainable growth and prosperity.

In light of the recent creation of new ministries and departments, the government of Sierra Leone faces mounting pressure to address the strain on the country’s wage bill. The burgeoning wage bill has led to the unfortunate decision of removing subsidies from fuel, causing significant suffering among the citizens.

On Monday 31st July, 2023 while presenting the Supplementary Government Budget in Parliament the Minster of Finance, Sheku Ahmed Bangura, said total expenditure and net lending is revised upwards by NLe3.5 billion to NLe18.6 billion (24.8 percent of GDP) for FY2023 which he said reflects the increase in recurrent expenditures by NLe2.6 billion toNLe13.5 billion and capital expenditures by NLe861.6 million to NLe5.1 billion.

He disclosed that the increase in recurrent expenditure covers additional budgetary allocation to Wages and Salaries of NLe434.2 million; Goods and Services NLe642.8 million; Subsidies and Transfers NLe844.7 million and Interest payments NLe 678.8million.

He however noted that the additional allocation to wages and salaries will cater for the impact of the depreciation of the exchange rate on foreign-denominated salaries and allowances especially for foreign missions and the wage costs of the newly-established sub-vented agencies and that the increase in Goods and Services covers mostly increased allocations to the security sector and start-up costs for the newly established MDAs including the Presidential Initiative on Climate Change, Renewable Energy and Food Security.

However, it is evident that due to the establishment of new MDAs and agencies by the government of Sierra Leone has resulted to a great increase on government expenditure of which this among others things has resulted to the removal of subsidies on fuel.

In order to address the country’s unprecedented economic crisis due to the overburdened wage bill forces the government should take drastic measures which includes dissolving conflicting Ministries, Department and Agencies in the country which will eventually cut down on the country’s wage bill. For example, government should dissolve the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and empower the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change.

Government should also dissolve the National Council for Civic Education and Democracy and empower the Ministry of Information and Civic Education and the National Commission for Democracy owing to the fact that all these institutions have similar mandate.

Government should dissolve the Directorate of Science, Technology and Innovation and empower the Ministry of Communications and Innovation and Technology.

Government should dissolve the Presidential Initiative for Climate Change, Renewable Energy and Food Security and empower the Ministry of Energy, Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security and the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change.

Government should dissolve the Ministry of Western Region and give more support to Freetown City Council.

The citizens of Sierra Leone have been grappling with the repercussions of this decision, as the removal of fuel subsidies has resulted in increased living costs and hardships on everyday necessities. The rising fuel prices have affected transportation, food prices, and overall economic stability, adding to the burden already faced by many.

With the government taking immediate action to decongest the wage bill, evaluating the recently-created ministries and departments for possible consolidation or streamlining is essential to curbing excessive spending on salaries. By effectively managing the wage bill, the government can redirect funds to essential services and prioritize targeted measures to support those affected by the subsidy removal.

Addressing the issue of the wage bill will not only alleviate the suffering of citizens but also demonstrate the government’s commitment to fiscal responsibility and prudent financial management. Responsible governance and careful allocation of resources can pave the way for sustainable economic growth and improved livelihoods for Sierra Leoneans.

As the government navigates through these challenging times, a collective effort is required to ensure that the burden of fiscal adjustments is shared equitably. The people of Sierra Leone look to their leaders for decisive actions to ease their hardships and build a more stable and prosperous future.

In conclusion, the government of Sierra Leone must heed the advice to decongest the wage bill and prioritize the well-being of its citizens. Addressing the suffering caused by the removal of fuel subsidies requires strategic and prudent measures that prioritize the needs of the people. By making thoughtful adjustments and implementing targeted support, the government can pave the way for a brighter and more prosperous future for all Sierra Leoneans.

Electoral Systems Review Committee to be Established

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a bid to improve the Electoral Commission of Sierra Leone’s continued planning and conduct of transparent and fair elections in the country, His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio in his address during the opening of the Sixth Parliament of the Second Republic of Sierra Leone in the Chamber of Parliament Building on Tower Hill in Freetown on Thursday, 3rdAugust 2023has revealed that a National Electoral Systems Review Committee will be established to assess the planning and management of the 2023 electoral cycle in the country.

President Bio also recalled that the June 24 multi-tier elections identified some logistical limitations that were, however, assessed as not negatively impacting the overall outcome of the elections. He disclosed that the Committee would have a broad membership that would eventually produce a report to lay the foundation for critical reforms in the electioneering process with reference to the ECSL and all other election management bodies in the country.

“In this very Parliament, where no party has attained a two-thirds majority, the need for dialogue and negotiation resonates with utmost urgency. We must find common ground within the political divides. Through unity, we can achieve stability, progress and prosperity in our democracy,” the President affirmed.

He said that the recent elections witnessed a commendable 15% rise in women’s representation, with 30.4% of directly elected representatives now being women, adding that women are not merely women, as they have erroneously defined them in the past but that women are also policymakers and leaders, constituting the backbone of our society, the very anchor of various families.

The President maintained how the presence of more women within the current Parliament and the country’s democracy enriches the tapestry of the nation, infusing it with compassion, empathy and resilience.

He pointed out that the Sixth Parliament presents an opportunity to showcase the maturity of the country’s democracy and that any political party’s absence of a two-thirds majority necessitates constant engagement, encouraging all to amplify all voices and engender a more harmonious, stable and prosperous Sierra Leone. “By fostering collaboration, cooperation, and negotiation we can transcend political divides for the ultimate benefit of the people,” the President enjoined.

“Today, I stand before you with immense pride as we embark upon a new five-year mandate that echoes the call for continuity. With great honour, I present the “New Direction: Consolidating the Gains and Accelerating Transformation Agenda”.

He informed that the ambitious vision builds upon the principles outlined in the 2023 People’s Manifesto of the SLPP furthering how the agenda encapsulates the spirit of progress, seizing the new found opportunities the country has forged while confronting emerging challenges and propelling Sierra Leone towards a middle-income status by 2035.

President Bio pointed out that his new administration’s national development agenda will emphasize five key initiatives that will shape the course of the nation of which he said first and foremost, “Feed Salone” which, according to him, will ignite agricultural productivity, safeguard food security and foster inclusive economic growth, laying the foundation for sustained prosperity.

Secondly, he said Human Capital Development,” with a deliberate focus on gender equality, will nurture the skills required for the industries of the 21st Century, empowering the country’s workforce for a transformative future.

Thirdly, he mentioned the Youth Employment Scheme which he said will unleash a focused initiative to create abundant job opportunities, providing young talents with a platform to flourish and contribute to the nation’s progress.

Fourthly, he highlighted “Technology and Infrastructure Initiative” which will serve as an engine for sustained economic growth, harnessing the power of innovation and robust infrastructure to propel Sierra Leone to middle-income status and finally “Revamping the Public Service Architecture” will usher in a new era of delivery, efficiency and professionalism, enhancing the efficacy of the country’s public sector institutions.

The President underscored that these strategic initiatives form the bedrock upon which they shall usher in profound change, serving as catalysts to revolutionize economic growth, alleviate hunger and poverty, elevate public service efficiency, generates abundant employment prospects and foster resilience in adversity.

The President called on other national leaders to put the nation’s interest first, transcending party lines and forging alliances beyond political affiliations, adding that it was the duty of Parliamentarians to embody the spirit of statesmanship and seek dialogue and common goals, even in the face of differing opinions.

The President used the opportunity to express gratitude to the country’s security forces, Judiciary, the Media and Civil Society, describing them as a pillar of strength in advancing the cause of democracy in Sierra Leone.

He pledged to uphold their independence, for there can be no democracy without the rule of law, no democracy without security, and no democracy without a Free Press that informs, educates and holds public officeholders accountable.

Julius Mattai Takes Over Mines Ministry

By Foday Moriba Conteh

During a well-attended handing over ceremony held on Friday 4th August, 2023 at the Ministry of Mines and Mineral Resources Office at Youyi Building on Brookfield’s in Freetown, the out-gone Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources Timothy M. Kabba has officially handed over to the new Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources Julius Mattai.

Present at the ceremony were the out-gone Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources Timothy M. Kabba, the new Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources Julius Mattai, staff of the National Minerals Agency, the staff of Ministry of Mines and Mineral Resources and the media.

In his handing over address, the out-gone Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, Timothy M. Kabba said that the President Julius Maada Bio in his 2018 Manifesto among other things promised to transform the country’s mining sector to become a key driver to the country’s economic growth and development, adding that the Ministry of Mines and Mineral Resources and the National Mineral Agency have been spare heading the transforming drive.

He said that since his appointment as Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources in July 2020 he has had the privilege of overseeing the country’s most critical sector, noting that the sector accounts about 90% of the country’s export and 20% of the fiscal revenue of the country.

Timothy M. Kabba stated that throughout his effective management of oversight of the mining sector and despite the disruptions and challenges to the sector brought on by the global economic difficulties as a result of COVID-19 Pandemic and the Ukraine and Russian War the country is now witnessing an expansion in mining activities and its contribution to national development.

He noted that the Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources and the National Mineral Agency has made significant progress in promoting the mineral sector which includes the completion and launch of the Countrywide Airborne Geophysical Survey, granting of numbers of licenses and the enactment of the Mines and Mineral Acts 2022 and the National Mineral Agency Acts 2022.

The Out gone Minister said the handing over note covers from August 3rd2020 to March 31st 2023 which happens to be his effective tenure as Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, adding that his tenure came to be tragic halt after his involvement in a car crass of which his den deputy was appointed to act as Minister. He however, informed the gathering that for the period of April, 12th to July 10th 2023 the acting Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources Ann-Marie Harding, submitted an account of her stewardship which he said is added to his handing over note.

Underscoring some of the key changes in the new Mines and Mineral Act 2022, the out-gone Minister said the institutional changes are geared towards clarifying policy formulation and oversight functions of the Ministry and the regulatory functions performed by the NMA.

He said that transparency assurance, Gender and Social protection provisions were introduced, adding that government of Sierra Leone to acquire 10% interest on new companies registered to operate in the mining sector after the enactment of the act.

He informed the gathering that in 2023 68 billion Old Leones was paid by two mining companies which includes Marampa Mines paid 38 billion Old Leones and Leone Rock Mining Company paid 20 billion Old Leones to the chiefdoms affected by the operations of these two mining companies.

He said that mining companies continue to pay surface rent to land owners across the country, stating that in 2018 it was recorded that about 12 billion Leones was paid to communities, in 2019 about 13.8 billion Leones was paid, in 2020 about 13.9 billion Leones and in 2022 over 15 billion Leones paid to land owners.

These and many other achievements were highlighted by the out-gone minister during his tenure as Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources including challenges and recommendations.

On his part, the New Minister New Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources Julius Mattai, expressed appreciation to the outgone Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources Timothy M. Kabba for his outstanding leadership as Minister of Mines.

He said that having serve as the Director General of the National Mineral Agency it pleased his Excellency to appoint him as Minister of Mines and Mineral resources of which he expressed appreciation to His Excellency Julius Maada Bio for giving him another opportunity to serve in his government.

Julius Mattai said that there is continuity in leadership of which he said the foundation has been laid and he will continue in that regards. He said that he is not new in the mining sector and with the wealth of knowledge he has acquired over the years in the mining sector will contribute towards the development of the sector during his tenure as Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources.

He said that the mineral sector is a very critical sector and to be given the opportunity to provide stewardship over the mining sector that is supposed to benefit the people of Sierra Leone comes with a big challenge that also comes with opportunities, adding that he is with the strong conviction that with him as the Minister of Mines together with stakeholders can work with some amount of dedication, passion, transparency, accountability and non-partisan way there will be more achievement within the sector.

The Minister called on staff of the Ministry and all other stakeholders to throw their fullest support to his leadership at the Ministry in order to achieve their mandate and contribute towards the development of the mining sector.

Giving the vote of thanks, the Assistant secretary of the Ministry of Mines and Mineral Resources, Marvel Bassie (Mrs) applauded the out-gone Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources Timothy M. Kabba for what she described as outstanding leadership and dedication during his tenure as Minister at the Ministry.

She also used the opportunity to welcome the newly appointed Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources Julius Mattai to the ministry and on behalf of the staff of the ministry pledge their support to him.

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