Minister for Environment and Climate Change, Jiwoh Abdulai, has conducted an on-site assessment at the Guma Dam in Mile 13 on Wednesday, August 2, 2023 in a bid to address the mounting threats to water security in the Western Area.
Accompanied by the Managing Director of Guma Valley Water Company, Maada S. Kpenge, the Minister observed firsthand the detrimental impact of various human activities within the Western Area Peninsula Forest National Park.
These activities, which include deforestation, stone mining (quarrying), construction of buildings, and illegal marijuana farms, are seriously jeopardizing water sources like the Mile 13 Dam and other vital community water supply schemes such as Kongo Dam, Takuyama weir, Charlotte weir, as well as the proposed sites for the Orugu and Big Water Dams.
Maada S. Kpenge highlighted the urgent need to safeguard the water catchment areas within the Western Area Peninsula Forest National Park, which serves as a critical source of fresh water for over 1.5 million people residing in the Western Area.
Responding to the pressing situation, Minister Abdulai expressed grave concern, labeling it an existential threat to the region. He pledged to escalate the matter to the Office of the Chief Minister and assured the public of engaging with the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, as well as the Minister of Lands, to address the consequential threats posed to the water supply in the Western Area.
During the assessment visit to the Guma Dam area, the Minister was accompanied by key officials from the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the National Protected Area Authority (NPAA). The collaborative effort among these agencies demonstrates the seriousness of the situation and the commitment to finding sustainable solutions to the water security crisis in the Western Area.
As the threat to water security looms large, the nation awaits further actions and measures from the Government to preserve and protect these vital water resources for the well-being of its citizens.
In a surprise move, Chief Ibrahim Brima Swarray, the Commissioner General of the National Revenue Authority (NRA), embarked on an unannounced tour to NRA outstations in Gbalamula and Port Loko Checkpoints on Friday, August 4th, 2023. The aim of the visit was to ensure efficient service delivery and assess the operational effectiveness in these areas.
Accompanied by NRA branch manager, Joseph Rogers ESQ, and other management staff, Chief Swarray’s primary objective was to familiarize himself with the working conditions and challenges faced by staff in the region. During his visit to the Gbalamuya Customs Post in Kambia and the Port Loko Checkpoint, the Commissioner General emphasized the need to create a conducive corporate environment that enables employees to perform their duties with greater efficiency and professionalism.
In a meeting with the Customs management at the Gbalamuya customs post, Chief Swarray expressed his delight at the significant revenue generated by the checkpoint, making it one of the largest revenue collection points within the Customs Service Department. Addressing the concerns raised by staff and those identified during his visit, he promised swift resolutions to improve working conditions and infrastructure.
The inspection team meticulously examined various facilities, including the baggage park, cargo inspection facility, staff quarters, and other NRA offices at the Gbalamuya customs point. They also assessed other properties belonging to the Authority that required urgent rehabilitation. Among the challenges highlighted were the absence of electronic scanners, inadequate infrastructure, and unreliable internet connectivity.
Despite acknowledging the difficulties faced by the staff, Chief Swarray encouraged them to remain resolute in meeting their targets while assuring them of unwavering support. He pledged to address the identified issues promptly to create a conducive work environment for the NRA employees.
The Commissioner General’s visit also included a courtesy call to the Customs Authorities from neighboring Guinea, where Col. Niankoye Gbilemou extended a warm welcome and congratulated Chief Swarray on his appointment. He expressed their commitment to continued collaboration.
The Commissioner General’s visit is expected to play a vital role in enhancing the working environment and management practices, with the ultimate goal of upgrading customer service and operational efficiency. As part of the ongoing efforts to boost revenue collection, the delegation is set to visit other revenue collection points across the country.
On Tuesday, 1st August 2023, a momentous event took place at the Radisson Blu Mammy Yoko Hotel in Aberdeen, Freetown, as representatives from Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and the Security Sector came together to sign a fourteen-point Communique. The signing aimed to address post-election tensions and foster peace and national cohesion in Sierra Leone.
Led by the National Security Coordinator (NSCoord), Abdulai Caulker, and attended by various Civil Society Organization representatives from across the country, the dialogue session centered on the critical role played by the security sector in safeguarding civil liberties and providing remedies for abuses, particularly in the post-election context.
The signed Communique emphasized the necessity of genuine dialogue between political parties, citizens, and Election Management Bodies (EMBs) to establish trust. Additionally, it strongly condemned any threats directed at Election Management Bodies and election observers.
During the deliberations, all parties agreed to a set of recommendations that addressed various issues related to CSO engagements with elections in Sierra Leone. The recommendations encompassed Elections Observation, CSOs’ engagement with the national security architecture and security committees at the Chiefdom, District, and Provincial levels. The Communique also aimed to enhance CSOs’ understanding of the national security architecture through a dedicated platform facilitated by the Office of National Security (ONS).
Moreover, the Security Sector pledged to be proactive in investigating reported cases of violence threats during political events, including elections. They also committed to conducting public information and education campaigns during electoral cycles to inform citizens about the legal framework and the roles of Election Observers in supporting credible elections.
To ensure a safe and conducive environment during electoral cycles, the Security Sector vowed to roll out public awareness initiatives on how citizens can report cases of violence threats in Sierra Leone. They also pledged to prevent Security Sector Actors from openly participating in politics during electoral cycles, promoting impartiality and professionalism.
One crucial aspect agreed upon was the reactivation of the Constitutional Review Process to address gaps in the 1991 Constitution of Sierra Leone. Additionally, the Security Sector contemplated establishing Public Complaint Centres across the country and implementing mechanisms for Witness Protection.
To bolster CSOs’ capabilities in dealing with modern challenges, capacity-building programs on Cyber Legislation, Cyber Threats, and handling misinformation will be facilitated.
The Communique urged political parties to work hand-in-hand with Election Management Bodies and build trust in their processes. Furthermore, it emphasized the importance of upholding the Rule of Law and fostering political tolerance, allowing CSOs to provide feedback and express their views on security and national matters.
With this historic Communique, CSOs and the Security Sector have taken significant strides in ensuring a peaceful and cohesive future for Sierra Leone. The joint commitment to addressing post-election tensions and promoting dialogue will undoubtedly contribute to a more harmonious and democratic nation.
Orange Sierra Leone, one of the leading mobile telecoms in the country, on Friday 4th August 2023 concluded its 5th Edition of the prestigious Orange Social Venture Prize (OSVP) pitch event. The competition which featured eight (8 finalists vying for the impressive prize sum of One Hundred and Fifty Million Leones (Le150M) was held at Limkokwing University, Hill station in Freetown.
The OSVP is basically divided into two categories, one which is the Tech Queen category, where they have three female contenders, and the other which is the Innovation and grand final category, which 5 grand finalists of both gender contend.
In her opening statement, Martha Sumaila who is the Head of Communications at their Marketing Department, said that five years ago they started a very long journey which over the years has empowered a good number of youth in the country not on innovation for their customers but that they create a platform where youth can showcase their talents, and that today they are making another history in helping somebody move in terms of innovation.
Head of PR/CSR at the General Secretary Department, Kamal Abass, in his statement also welcomed everyone at the pitch night of Orange Social venture prizes (OSVP). He said this is the 5th edition of Orange Social Venture Prizes and the 13th edition in the Middle East and Africa, and that they will continue to make history in terms of technology, creating platforms for start-up and young innovators in the country at the same time to push gender equality.
In the presence of esteemed dignititaries including Government Ministers, Diplomatic Corp, and key stakeholders, Orange Sierra Leone CEO Seakou Amadou Bah delivered an inspiring speech at the OSVP Competition. He said the event marked the culmination of a journey that began in 2019 with the goal of empowering Sierra Leonean innovators and aspiring entrepreneurs by offering funding, mentorship, and business expansion opportunities.
The OSVP, an investment fund backed by the Orange Group, has been a driving force in supporting startups across 17 countries in Africa and the Middle East. As a leading mobile telecoms company, Orange is committed to being the premier digital partner for startups in the region, contributing to digital transformation.
The CEO highlighted the significant strides made towards digital inclusion with the opening of the Orange Digital Center in Sierra Leone last year. This center has democratized digital access, particularly for young women, providing free digital training courses. In its first year, over 1,600 young people benefited from the center, with 52% of them being women. Remarkably, more than 68% of the trained women found employment.
Moreover, in collaboration with NAYCOM, Orange launched the Women’s Digital Centre in 2021, providing essential training in commercial, digital, and financial management to uneducated and unemployed women. The initiative has already graduated 126 women, and plans are underway to establish four digital centers in the provinces, two of which will be dedicated solely to women.
The OSVP competition has been instrumental in accelerating innovation in Sierra Leone, supported by Partner Innovation Sierra Leone. It aims to empower startups and innovators in the country, rewarding projects in education, healthcare, e-commerce, and agriculture that align with sustainable development goals. Notably, efforts have been made to increase female participation, fostering women’s empowerment in the tech sector.
In 2022, the national contest saw Usman Yaah emerge as the winner, and on a larger scale, Joseph Koroma claimed the OSVP International Grand Prize, triumphing over competitors from 17 Orange affiliates. The competition also recognized Adeola Carew as the Tech Queen.
The CEO expressed immense excitement about the success of the competition, affirming Orange’s commitment to lead the digital transformation in Sierra Leone. The company aims to provide young people with the tools to navigate the digital world and create a platform for future innovators and entrepreneurs to lead the way.
Minister of Tertiary and Higher Education, Dr. Haja Wurie said the establishment of the OSVP creates great impact in the area of Education, Health, Agriculture, E-commerce and the improvement of women’s living conditions as well as supports sustainable development in Africa and the Middle East.
She further said that in the dynamic of landscape in progress technology they stand for transformational change, but that they are celebrating the 5th edition of the Orange Social Venture Prizes (OSVP).
She continued that innovation holds the key to improving the living conditions of women and empowering them as agents of sustainable development; as education has a role to play in nurturing minds and to also unlock potentials in the realm of technology.
Dr. Wurie furthered that innovation technology is empowering growth and creating opportunities and promoting innovation through E-learning platforms which help to empower young learners.
Finalists of the tech queens, Jenneh Bokarie-Barnett from Sierra Sister, Hawanatu Sesay from IOT Plant Monitoring Device and Iye Mary Brima-Sellu showcased their pitch presentations, and general grand finalist, James Samba from Electric Quadricycle, Isha Abdulai Turay from Crescent Salone, Sia Chakanda from Kene Care Virtual Hospital, Andrew Dosumu from Liquid Air Box, and Mariama Mbayoh from Cam Rent Ya, also presented their pitch to the audience and judges.
Questions were asked by the judges to all finalists, to explain how they managed to invent their pitches and what their plans are in the coming years.
Deputy Minister of Tourism and Culture Affairs, Kadijatu G.A. Kamara, who was the chief judge, congratulates all finalists for takin a huge step to show the world what they are capable of doing.
She encouraged those who might happen to lose, that they must no stop their dreams and they should bring in others to their ideas and work as a team to push further.
On announcing the winners Kadijatu Kamara applauds orange CEO for not sleeping on the dreams of young sierra Leoneans, and also to help support technology and innovation.
Hawanatu Sesay with the IOT Plant Monitoring Device emerged as winner for the Tech Queens category, with a price of NLe 50, 000, 00. And James Samba with the Electric Quadricycle emerged as winner of the general grand OSVP 2023 5th Edition, with NLe 100,000,00 winner price.
Closing courtesy of the occasion The Minister of Communication Technology and innovation, Haja Salimatu Bah, congratulated the winners of the OSVP and said that this is a huge boost for them, that they should take advantage of it.
She also encouraged losers telling them that this is not the end of their journey, and they should be determined and to work harder to make sure they achieve their dreams.
The Minister concluded by thanking Orange SL and especially the CEO for promoting Innovation and Technology, and that she is glad to witness this year’s 5th OSVP edition.
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 2023, His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio called for the need for dialogue and negotiation and to find a common ground within the political divides 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, generate abundant employment prospects and foster resilience in adversity.
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 noted the need to improve the Electoral Commission of Sierra Leone’s continued planning and conduct of transparent and fair elections, adding that to improve ECSL’s continued planning and conduct of transparent and fair elections, a National Electoral Systems Review Committee will be established to assess the planning and management of the 2023 electoral cycle.
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.
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.
One of Sierra Leone’s vociferous, professionally savvy female electronic media personalities, Asmaa James, has disclosed that at the end of September 2023 she will be quitting Radio Democracy 98.1 FM after twenty-two years of dedicated service as a broadcaster during which she served in various capacities up to the position of Station Manager.
In an exclusive but snappy engagement with this medium, Asmaa James intimated that it has been a twenty-two years journey of learning and growth furthering that she is now on the verge of facing a season of new adventures, challenges and wins adding that she will commence the exploration of a road not taken that will undoubtedly lead to somewhere underscoring that there is a time and a season for everything under the sun.
She pointed out that in life one does not have to be scared of what lies ahead of him or her and the first step is the willingness to try.
It must be noted that in her twenty-two years of unwavering and committed service at Radio Democracy, Asmaa James, carved out a niche for herself in the electronic media as an independent and objective journalist who raised her voice against injustice and provided solace to the needy, marginalized and oppressed, inspiring them as well as giving them hope especially when, sometimes, there was seemingly no hope.
Instrumental in widely popularizing the radio station’s flagship programme, “Gud Morning Salone”, which many most times are glued to on weekdays, she had on many occasions raised awareness among the vast majority of both the citizenry and non-citizens on various political and socio-economic issues in ways similar to leading the blind in a dark alleyway.
Her ingenuity and impressive professional acumen were most times evidently seen in her usual way of asking her hosts in the 98.1 FM Radio Studios penetrating questions during radio interviews or engagements, supported in doing so by other able colleagues, some whom she personally trained to bring them up to speed making the programmes endearing, informative and educative.
Through that initiative she succeeded, on many occasions, in making public officials, who attempt to be economical with the truth to transparently and accountably give stewardship of how certain activities or situations were either carried out or handled. Sometimes arguments over certain issues became so tense creating situations as if fist cuffs will ensue but however, at the end of the day it is the truth boldly stands out and the public interest is given prominence over parochial interests and self-aggrandizement.
In probing public officials, Asmaa James, like any objective journalist became the victim of a mistaken personality. Whenever she critique certain policies undertaken by members of a ruling Government she was tagged as being an opposition mouthpiece and when she praises Governmental actions she was considered to be a praise singer.
Through that platform, the seemingly “voiceless” majority found a convenient space to add their voices to national conversations through the phone-in segment of the programme.
However, impressively in the midst of scathing criticisms and branding, Asmaa James, always held her head high and stayed her course with a focused mind.
It is also worthy to note that through her journey within the electronic media landscape, she developed strong advocacy skills which she translated into passionately championing the rights of women and the Girl Child. She founded the Asmaa James Foundation (AJF), an advocacy movement geared towards promoting teenage sexual reproductive health and rights, with the objective of raising awareness, mobilizing women and girls to advocate and influence policies of sexual health in Sierra Leone.
Asmaa, over the years, added Girls + as an extension of AJF, an initiative geared towards targeting young boys in promoting teenage sexual reproductive health and rights, with the strong notion that both sexes should be targeted for fruitful outcomes in combating socio-economic issues associated with young people.
Indeed the history of gender advocacy will never be complete if mention is not made of how she vociferously and loudly raised her voice against rape, sexual penetration and the brutal killings of women or girls right across the country.
Leading peaceful protests to raise awareness on sensitive gender issues by her declaration of Black Fridays to register or demonstrate indignation as well as call for affirmative action is deemed to have greatly influenced the declaration of rape by President Julius Maada Bio as a national emergency and the emergence of the First Lady’s flagship “Hands Off Our Girls” programme.
Long before the radical inclusion policy was instituted and embedded in the President Bio’s led Government Free Quality Education Programme, she was very passionate about advocating for pregnant girls to be given the opportunity or space to pursue their education instead of considering them as drop outs.
She is the recipient of various awards bestowed on her by different organizations for excellence in radio broadcasting and it was therefore no big surprise when President Julius Maada Bio on the 27th April, 2022 honoured her as an Officer of Order of the Rokel (OOR). Her name will definitely go down the annals of broadcasting history in Sierra Leone as a force to reckon with and a model worthy of emulation.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions and strides in promoting the print media as well as for his unwavering commitment towards enhancing the profile of the media landscape in the country, the Guild of Newspaper Editors of Sierra Leone (GoE-SL), on Wednesday 2nd August, 2023 presented a prestigious Award of Excellence for Supporting the Print Media in Sierra Leone to the Managing Director of the Rokel Commercial Bank, Dr. Ekundayo Walton Gilpin.
In attendance, during the brief event held at the Managing Director’s Office on Siaka Stevens Street in Freetown was a cross section of Managing Editors of various Newspapers in the country.
Before presenting the award on behalf of the Managing Editors , the Chairman of the Guild of Newspaper Editors, Donald Theo-Harding, expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Managing Director of Rokel Commercial Bank, Dr. Ekundayo Walton Gilpin for his exceptional support to the print media in the country.
He added that they have closely observed and admired his unwavering commitment to fostering a strong relationship between the Rokel Commercial Bank and the print media which he said has not only helped in elevating the status of the bank but has also contributed significantly to raise public awareness and education on issues related to how Rokel Commercial Bank conducts its operations.
“Your continuous support to the print media in the form of dishing out advertisements, providing sponsorship and collaborative initiatives has undoubtedly played a pivotal role in facilitating the growth and development of the media. Your visionary leadership, strategic decision-making and sincere dedication have paved the way for positive engagements between the Rokel Commercial Bank and various print media outlets,” he commended.
The Chairman underscored that in recognition of his outstanding contributions they are delighted to present to him a prestigious Award of Excellence for Supporting the Print Media which is a testament of acknowledging his proactive efforts in promoting the print media in Sierra Leone.
He stated that the Managing Director’s contributions have not only strengthened the bond between Rokel Commercial Bank and the print media but have also empowered journalists to deliver unbiased and informative contents for public consumption.
Giving a brief background of the Guild of Newspaper Editors Sierra Leone (GoE-SL) he informed all that the Guild was created in October 2010 to offer an opportunity for a peer review mechanism for mainly newspaper editors so as to principally foster a coalition that would be forthright, honest and patriotic.
He stated that the Guild has overseen three Presidential and General Elections since its inception and is now a strong pillar of democracy and governance in Serra Leone adding how it had played cardinal and crucial roles in consolidating the existing peace that the country is currently enjoying.
Receiving the award, the Managing Director of Rokel Commercial Bank, Dr. Ekundayo Walton Gilpin, expressed appreciation to the Guild of Newspaper Editors Sierra Leone for recognizing his contributions towards promoting the print media.
He said the award presented to him will serve as a motivation for him to continue to do more in empowering the media and encouraged them to keep doing the good work they have been doing as media practitioners in enhancing objectivity and neutrality.
Giving the vote of thanks, the Managing Editor of The Calabash Newspaper, who happens to be a member of the Guild, Amin Kef Sesay, also used the opportunity to applaud the Managing Director and the Rokel Commercial for their invaluable contributions towards the development of the media.
He concluded by extending appreciation to all, who in diverse ways, who have supported media growth in the country.
“Finally, we appreciate the unwavering support of all those who have been there for us. Together, let’s continue to strive for excellence and make a positive impact in the world,” Amin Kef Sesay expressed gratitude.
In the realm of journalism, there exists an indispensable responsibility to shine a light on national issues including the actions, decisions, and policies of those in power. As citizens of a democratic society, we have a right know about happenings in the country and the right to be informed, to understand the inner workings of our government, and to hold public officials accountable for their deeds. It is within this spirit of transparency and public service that “The Public Eye Column” emerges, dedicated to unveiling the truth on national issues and government actions.
“The Public Eye Column” serves as a compass for readers navigating the complex landscape of national issues and government affairs. Our columnists, researchers, and investigators embark on a journey to uncover the facts, seeking answers to questions that resonate with the public’s interest. With an unwavering commitment to truth, our mission is to cut through the fog of bureaucracy, offering clear insights into the decisions that shape our societies.
In an era where misinformation proliferates and misinformation obscures the reality, “The Public Eye Column” stands as an oasis of unbiased reporting. We pledge to remain independent, presenting our findings without fear or favor. Our analysis delves beyond the surface, peeling back layers to provide a comprehensive understanding on national issues and of government policies and actions.
At the core of our vision is the belief that an informed citizenry is the foundation of a thriving democracy. We empower readers by giving them the information they need to engage actively in civic affairs. “The Public Eye Column” acts as a catalyst for meaningful conversations and public discourse, driving positive change through informed and responsible citizenship.
Our commitment to transparency extends to our methodology and sourcing. We adhere to rigorous journalistic standards, double-checking facts, and verifying information from credible sources. When we do make an error, we correct it promptly and transparently, acknowledging the importance of accountability in our own work.
“The Public Eye Column” casts its gaze on a broad spectrum of national issues, government affairs, including policy analysis, legislative actions, public spending, governance practices, and public officials’ conduct. Our scope transcends borders, examining governmental actions at the local, national, and international levels.
We understand that the power of journalism lies in its ability to connect with readers. We invite you, our valued readers, to be active participants in this journey of exploration. Share your questions, insights, and concerns with us, and together, we will delve into the issues that matter most to our communities.
As we embark on this journalistic venture, we extend our commitment to truth, accuracy, and the pursuit of a more accountable society. “The Public Eye Column” stands as a beacon of clarity, striving to keep the public informed, empowered, and engaged.
Join us as we unveil the truth on national issues and government actions, making democracy stronger, and fostering a future built on knowledge, understanding, and responsible citizenship.
Welcome to “The Public Eye Column”! on The Calabash Newspaper on Mondays.
In the realm of journalism, there exists an indispensable responsibility to shine a light on national issues including the actions, decisions, and policies of those in power. As citizens of a democratic society, we have a right know about happenings in the country and the right to be informed, to understand the inner workings of our government, and to hold public officials accountable for their deeds. It is within this spirit of transparency and public service that “The Public Eye Column” emerges, dedicated to unveiling the truth on national issues and government actions.
“The Public Eye Column” serves as a compass for readers navigating the complex landscape of national issues and government affairs. Our columnists, researchers, and investigators embark on a journey to uncover the facts, seeking answers to questions that resonate with the public’s interest. With an unwavering commitment to truth, our mission is to cut through the fog of bureaucracy, offering clear insights into the decisions that shape our societies.
In an era where misinformation proliferates and misinformation obscures the reality, “The Public Eye Column” stands as an oasis of unbiased reporting. We pledge to remain independent, presenting our findings without fear or favor. Our analysis delves beyond the surface, peeling back layers to provide a comprehensive understanding on national issues and of government policies and actions.
At the core of our vision is the belief that an informed citizenry is the foundation of a thriving democracy. We empower readers by giving them the information they need to engage actively in civic affairs. “The Public Eye Column” acts as a catalyst for meaningful conversations and public discourse, driving positive change through informed and responsible citizenship.
Our commitment to transparency extends to our methodology and sourcing. We adhere to rigorous journalistic standards, double-checking facts, and verifying information from credible sources. When we do make an error, we correct it promptly and transparently, acknowledging the importance of accountability in our own work.
“The Public Eye Column” casts its gaze on a broad spectrum of national issues, government affairs, including policy analysis, legislative actions, public spending, governance practices, and public officials’ conduct. Our scope transcends borders, examining governmental actions at the local, national, and international levels.
We understand that the power of journalism lies in its ability to connect with readers. We invite you, our valued readers, to be active participants in this journey of exploration. Share your questions, insights, and concerns with us, and together, we will delve into the issues that matter most to our communities.
As we embark on this journalistic venture, we extend our commitment to truth, accuracy, and the pursuit of a more accountable society. “The Public Eye Column” stands as a beacon of clarity, striving to keep the public informed, empowered, and engaged.
Join us as we unveil the truth on national issues and government actions, making democracy stronger, and fostering a future built on knowledge, understanding, and responsible citizenship.
Welcome to “The Public Eye Column”! on The Calabash Newspaper on Mondays.
Professor Shu Chuqiang and Deputy Chief Physician: Liu Qiuhong Perform Surgery Together
By Foday Moriba Conteh
On Wednesday 2nd August, 2023, Liu Qiuhong, from the Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital in China, who is currently the Deputy Chief Physician of the 24th Batch of China Medical Team to Sierra Leone attached at the China-Sierra Leone Friendship Hospital, and Professor Shu Chuqiang, an expert of the Sierra Leone Project of China South-South Cooperation Fund, performed hysteromyoma on the same table on a deaf and mute patient with multiple uterine fibroids in Sierra Leone, relieving the pain of patient with heavy periods.
According to the Chinese Experts, the patient, prior to the surgery has been plagued by heavy menstrual flow and dysmenorrhea for several months due to poor communication. She has multiple uterine fibroids, extensive and dense adhesions to the surrounding intestines, unclear anatomical structure and level and great risk of damage to the surrounding organs.
As the China South-South Cooperation Fund Sierra Leone Project expert team came to the hospital for training, the Chinese Medical Team invited Professor Shu Chuqiang to share the table for treatment. Professor Shu Chuqiang, is a professor of Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, and has high attestation in the treatment of gynecological tumors and cervical lesions. This time, as the team leader of the Sierra Leone Project of China South-South Cooperation Fund, he came to Sierra Leone for a two-week training to provide technical support to local health care personnel.
They will be trained in the management of early and late cervical cancer, obstetric complications and emergency and critical care, sharing Chinese programs and Chinese standards, and improving local women’s awareness of safe childbirth and the service capacity of relevant medical institutions.
The two Chinese experts worked together to separate the adhesion between the fibroids and the bowel carefully and gently, and completely stop the bleeding. Professor Shu Chuqiang used baseball suture to suture the fibroids and remove the wound during the operation. This method can reduce the difficulty of suture, fully stop the bleeding, shorten the operation time, and ensure the efficiency and quality of suture. In less than two hours, experts successfully removed up to 19 fibroids of various sizes, so that the patient no longer suffers from heavy menstruation problems.
Liu Qiuhong ,Deputy Chief Physician, stated that the uterine fibroids are common and frequently occurring diseases in gynecology, which can lead to heavy menstruation, anemia, dymenorrhea, infertility, etc. If there are symptoms, it is recommended that female friends seek medical treatment in time to listen to the doctor’s recommendations for follow-up observation or receive corresponding treatment to improve the quality of life and fertility.
