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President Bio Commends PPRC’s Impartiality and Receives Annual Report on Activities  

The Chairman of the Political Parties’ Regulations Commission (PPRC), Abdulai M. Bangura Esq on Tuesday August 1, 2023 presented to President Dr. Julius Maada Bio the institution’s annual report for 2021-2022 at State House in Freetown. The report covers a wide range of topics, including legal reforms and the Commission’s role in overseeing the elections.

During the presentation, Chairman Bangura congratulated President Bio on his resounding victory in the June 2023 elections, praising the conduct and processes as largely free, fair and violence-free. He also highlighted the significant changes made to the PPRC Act of 2002, following the recommendation made by the 2018 elections observer missions in Sierra Leone.

One key amendment to the Act was the change of the Commission’s name from Political Parties’ Registration Commission to Political Parties’ Regulation Commission. This alteration aimed to encompass all aspects of their work, including registration, oversight of activities, monitoring lower-level elections and supervising the intra-party constitutions.

In his response, President Bio commended the PPRC for their efforts in reviewing the Act, granting them more powers to intervene in intra and inter-party disputes. He emphasized the crucial role of the Commission in maintaining peace, consolidating democratic gains and upholding the culture of democracy in the country. The President acknowledged the challenges they faced during the general elections and urged them to continue maintaining their high standards of impartiality in dealing with political issues.

President Bio also expressed his awareness of the significance of the Commission’s work and assured them of his continuous support in enhancing State institutions. He encouraged the PPRC to continue working diligently, especially in light of the increasing importance of their impartiality in political matters.

The Chairman and other Commissioners of the PPRC pledged to carry out their duties with dedication and reaffirmed their commitment to upholding the principles of fairness and transparency in the country’s political landscape.

With the support of the Government and the President, the PPRC aims to foster a peaceful and inclusive political environment in Sierra Leone.

 

NP-SL Ensures Timely Availability of Petroleum Products and Empowers Local Communities

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a remarkable display of good initiatives, NP-SL Ltd has been successfully engaging oil producing companies in productive business discussions, ensuring a continuous flow of petroleum supply. This foresight and promptness have proven to be crucial in preventing shortages and ensuring that stocks last over extended periods.

NP-SL is an exemplary 100% indigenous company, standing firm even in the face of challenging circumstances. Thanks to consistent managerial efforts, the company has weathered storms that could have otherwise led to its decline or extinction. This resilience has positioned NP-SL as a key player in the petroleum industry, following the right course to success.

The company proudly upholds the Local Content Policy, emphasizing the importance of employing indigenous staff. This dedication to promoting local talent not only opens doors to employment opportunities for fellow Sierra Leoneans but also contributes significantly to poverty reduction.

NP-SL goes the extra mile to invest in the training and skill development of its employees, empowering them to efficiently carry out various tasks. This commitment to nurturing a skilled workforce places NP-SL at the forefront of companies adhering to the Local Content Policy, setting a high standard for others to follow.

With a focus on customer care, NP-SL has earned commendations for its friendly and welcoming approach to clients. Experts in business management emphasize that caring for customers and making them feel valued is essential in attracting and retaining loyal patrons. NP-SL’s dedication to providing exceptional customer experiences has paid off, earning the company the accolade of “1st for Customer Care.”

To enhance customer satisfaction further, NP-SL has invested in modern, calibrated pumping machines that inspire confidence and trust. These upgraded machines ensure transparency and prevent any attempts by unscrupulous individuals to deceive unsuspecting customers. Additionally, the courteous and attentive pump attendants swiftly respond to customer concerns, fostering lasting relationships.

NP-SL’s commitment to customer-centric practices extends to flexible payment plans for reliable customers, including Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies. This consideration is especially significant for institutions receiving intermittent budgetary allocations, as it ensures a consistent supply of petroleum products, enabling them to fulfill their functions without interruption.

A testament to NP-SL’s commitment to innovation, the introduction of NP Gas has been a game-changer. With its various sizes and availability at NP Filling Stations, NP Gas has gained a reputation as one of the best cooking devices on the market. Its safety, user-friendliness and portability have endeared it to many, leading satisfied users to recommend it to others.

Staying ahead of the curve in technology, NP-SL offers the NP Smart Card, a cutting-edge device for purchasing petroleum products. This secure, user-friendly and swift payment method allows customers to access fuel at any time, even when traditional banking services are unavailable.

NP-SL’s contributions to national development are not confined to Sierra Leone; it extends its reach to neighboring West African countries, including Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast, and The Gambia. The company operates in these countries with the same dedication to upholding the Local Content Policy and empowering local communities through employment opportunities.

Additionally, NP-SL has made commendable progress in expanding operations into hard-to-reach areas and communities within Sierra Leone. Through strategic partnerships with entrepreneurs, the company has opened more Filling Stations, alleviating energy poverty and providing accessible petroleum products to commercial drivers, bikers, and Kekeh riders. These initiatives have also had a profound impact on residents in these areas, offering meaningful employment opportunities and improving their livelihoods.

Despite facing occasional unfounded criticism, NP-SL remains steadfast in its mission to positively impact society. Its unwavering dedication to socio-economic development has cemented its place as a source of pride for Sierra Leoneans and neighboring countries alike.

NP-Sierra Leone Limited continues to forge ahead, making significant strides in the petroleum industry and positively transforming communities and lives.

Choithram Hospital to Host Workshop on Laparoscopic Surgery & Offer Free Expert Consultation

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Choithram Memorial Hospital, in a groundbreaking medical development, in collaboration with Max Healthcare from India and in association with the Ministry of Health in Sierra Leone. will tomorrow, the 5th August ,2023 and on Sunday, 6th August,2023 roll out two significant Programmes or events.

The first event relates to the introduction of “Minimally Invasive Laparoscopic Surgery,” a revolutionary surgical technique, during which   a two-day workshop, exclusively designed for surgeons and aspiring medical students from Government medical facilities, teaching hospitals, and private practitioners will commence to continue on the 6th August, 2023.

The workshop will feature live surgeries performed by renowned Laparoscopic General Surgeon, Dr. Atul Wadhwa from Max Healthcare, India, and Dr. Mustapha S. Kabba, Consultant & General Surgeon at Connaught Government Hospital and Choithram Memorial Hospital. The surgeries will be streamed live in the hospital’s Conference Room, offering participants an exceptional opportunity to observe and learn from the experts.

The primary objective of the workshop is to enhance the skills and knowledge of local medical professionals in using laparoscopic equipment for diagnostics and surgical procedures.

It goes without saying that the initiative underscores Choithram Memorial Hospital’s commitment to improving healthcare delivery in Sierra Leone, aiming to bridge the gap in medical services and make healthcare more accessible.

In addition to the workshop, Dr. Atul Wadhwa will provide free expert consultations to pre-screened patients, ensuring that specialized medical attention is available without any financial burden. All surgeries conducted during the event will be entirely free of cost, generously covered by the hospital Management.

The second event will have to do with treatment being offered for

Oncology/Hematology and Orthopedic complications. Individuals with various malignancies, joint problems, and spine disorders will be attended to by leading specialists from MAX Super Specialty Hospital, Dr. Nagender Sharma and Dr. Akshay Kumar Saxena. They will be offering free expert consultation sessions in Oncology/Hematology and Orthopedics, respectively.

Dr. Gowrinath M. George, the Medical Superintendent for Choithram Memorial Hospital, expressed the hospital’s dedication to the Ministry of Health in Sierra Leone, emphasizing the importance of bringing specialized experts to provide pro bono medical treatments for patients who may not have the means to seek treatment abroad.

Harish Agnani, Chief Administrator of Choithram Memorial Hospital, highlighted the hospital’s commitment to adopting the latest and most advanced medical equipment to ensure accurate and effective treatments for patients. He reiterated that patient welfare remains the hospital’s top priority, and every effort is made to provide timely and professional medical attention.

Choithram Memorial Hospital’s collaborative efforts with Max Healthcare and the Ministry of Health reflect a commendable initiative to elevate healthcare standards and provide specialized medical care to those in need within Sierra Leone.

The two events taking place on the 5th and 6th August, 2023 respectively mark a crucial milestone in the country’s medical landscape, promising a brighter future for healthcare in the region.

Orange SL Supports Bike Riders to Launch New Office

By Abubakarr Harding

Orange Sierra Leone and the Bike Riders Union have joined hands to launch the Union’s newly constructed office on 41c Jenner Wright Road, Race Course Community at Up Gun in Freetown. The inauguration took place on Thursday, 3rd August 2023, with an enthusiastic Regional Chair for the Bike Riders Union in attendance.

The President of the Bike Riders Association, Umaru Talie Bah, expressed his heartfelt appreciation to Orange SL for their timely intervention during the construction of their office building. He revealed that materials used in the construction were funded from meagre contributions from the riders’ earnings.

Bah highlighted that when Orange SL approached them for a partnership, the first thing that came to his mind was completing the office building, which has now been successfully accomplished. He emphasized the willingness of the Bike Riders Association to collaborate with Orange SL for future ventures.

The President also thanked the riders for their unwavering support saying prior to Orange Sierra Leone’s involvement, the construction relied on the riders’ meager earnings. He urged the riders not to miss out on the benefits of the partnership, as they stand to reap the rewards if it continues.

Sales and Commercial Expert for Orange SL, Bolor T Sesay, expressed immense pride in working with Orange Sierra Leone, praising the company for its commitment to development initiatives. He pointed out that the partnership with the bike riders has enabled Orange’s services and products to reach remote villages in Sierra Leone effectively.

Sesay highlighted the significance of the bike riders as they are dispersed all over the nation, making them crucial partners for Orange’s mission. He revealed that one of the core mandates of Orange SL’s CEO is youth development, making the partnership with the bike riders a natural fit, given that they largely consist of young individuals.

While the completion of the office marks an important milestone in the partnership, Sesay disclosed that Orange SL has greater plans. They intend to utilize the bike riders as points of sales to further enhance their services and reach in the country.

In her keynote speech, Head of Strategy, Partnership and Marketing at Orange SL, Abibatu Baxter, shared the company’s vision for Orange Money and stressed their commitment to eliminating the need for physical cash and ensuring a seamless and secure digital payment experience for the people.

Baxter also highlighted some common challenges faced by the bike riders, such as money being soaked under the rain during the rainy season and disputes over change between bikers, traders, and customers. According to her, the partnership with Orange aims to address those issues and empower the riders with convenient financial solutions.

She concluded that the collaboration between Orange Sierra Leone and the Bike Riders Union promises a brighter and more convenient future for both parties as well as the communities they serve.

With Orange’s commitment to youth development and financial inclusivity, and the bike riders’ widespread presence, this partnership is set to make a significant impact in Sierra Leone’s progress.

The inauguration ceremony concluded with a raffle draw where lucky winners had the chance to take home either a bike helmet or umbrella.

Attempted Attack Foiled, Public Urged to Remain Vigilant

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a Press Release issued by the Sierra Leone Police on the 31st July, 2023, it was revealed that there was a thwarted conspiracy orchestrated by senior military officers aimed at disrupting peace and harmony in the nation and that several arrests have been made with the suspects currently assisting the Police in its investigations.

Further stated was how the Security Sector’s vigilant intelligence efforts uncovered a disturbing plan that involved exploiting seemingly peaceful protests, scheduled from August 7 to 10, 2023, as a smokescreen for launching violent attacks against state institutions and innocent citizens.

The Security Sector expressed dismay over the actions of certain individuals both within the country and abroad, intent on derailing the nation’s tranquility amidst commendable efforts to fortify national peace and democratic achievements,.

However, authorities assured the public that the situation is under control, emphasizing that Sierra Leone remains peaceful and c itizens are urged to continue with their daily routines while maintaining a vigilant eye for suspicious activities.

As the investigation continues, the country stands united in its commitment to safeguarding its hard-fought peace against any threats.

Parliament Unanimously Approves FY2023 Supplementary Budget

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Parliament, on the 31st July 2023, unanimously approved the FY2023 Supplementary Budget, officially titled the Supplementary Appropriation Act 2023 which authorizes the allocation of funds from the Consolidated Revenue Fund for the services of Sierra Leone.

During the presentation of the budget in Parliament, Finance Minister Sheku Fantamadi Bangura highlighted the factors behind the revision of the original FY2023 budget ranging from changes in macroeconomic assumptions in the initial revenue and expenditure projections to some activities implemented by Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) not sufficiently budgeted for due mainly to the limited fiscal space, new expenditure pressures driven by policy pronouncements as well as the continued global rise in prices of goods and services, and the depreciation of the Leone.

Of utmost importance, the Supplementary Budget is strategically aligned with the Government’s Big Five Manifesto Commitments, which prioritizes critical areas such as enhancing food security (FEED SALONE), consolidating human capital development, supporting youth employment initiatives, improving infrastructure, and revamping the public service. The overarching objective is to enhance resilience and foster sustainable economic growth in the nation.

In a bid to strengthen the economy, the Finance Minister expressed the budget’s aim which is to reduce deficit from 9.6% of GDP in 2022 to 5.4% in 2023. The reduction is expected to lessen the Government’s reliance on borrowing, especially from the banking system, thus complementing the efforts of the Bank of Sierra Leone to combat inflation, mitigate the depreciation of the Leone and reduce the pace of debt accumulation.

The parliamentary debate saw Members of Parliament applauding the Finance Minister and his team for their commitment to maintaining the country’s economy amidst challenging circumstances.

Several parliamentarians provided valuable suggestions to enhance revenue generation and ensure prudent expenditure for the betterment of Sierra Leone’s citizens.

The Supplementary Budget introduces a series of revenue generation measures to boost domestic revenue. Implementation of the Finance Act, 2023, and the Medium-term Revenue Strategy (MTRS) are anticipated to yield additional tax revenues estimated at 1.8% of GDP in both 2023 and 2024.

Regarding fuel subsidies, the Government has foregone NLe783 million (approximately US$35 million) in direct and indirect subsidies during the first half of the year. Despite fiscal constraints, the Government remains committed to mitigating the impact of multiple crises on the population by providing support for energy subsidies, agricultural inputs for farmers, expanded social safety nets, and the continuation of free healthcare and quality education.

During the debate, Members of Parliament from various districts voiced their concerns about the specific needs of their constituencies, advocating for budget allocations in critical areas such as education, agriculture, electricity supply, and environmental protection.

In closing, the Majority Leader and Leader of Government Business, Hon. Mathew Sahr Nyuma, praised the Finance Minister’s transparency in presenting the supplementary budget. He emphasized the importance of fiscal discipline and efficient economic management to achieve Sierra Leone’s developmental goals.

The approved FY2023 Supplementary Budget is a testament to Sierra Leone’s commitment to aligning its financial priorities with its developmental objectives as outlined in the Big Five Manifesto. By navigating economic challenges with prudent financial planning, the Government aims to foster growth and progress for the benefit of all Sierra Leoneans.

Chief Minister Outlines Vision for Sierra Leone’s Economic Rebirth

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a bid to combat the prevailing economic hardships, Sierra Leone’s Chief Minister, David Moinina Sengeh, has laid out an ambitious roadmap for the country’s resurgence. Addressing the nation on his Facebook page on Saturday, July 29, 2023, the Chief Minister acknowledged the tough global conditions but remained resolute in the Government’s determination to navigate through these turbulent times.

With an unwavering commitment to bolster the nation’s economy, Chief Minister Sengeh outlined a multifaceted approach. The Government will focus on increasing revenue generation, streamlining grant acquisition and management, fostering trade and private investments, and optimizing expenditure to achieve greater efficiency.

Amidst soaring commodity prices and hardships faced by ordinary citizens, Chief Minister Sengeh’s plan aims to instill hope and rejuvenate the country’s economic prospects. Sierra Leone’s President, Julius Maada Bio, attributed these challenges to the lingering effects of the war in Ukraine. Additionally, the devaluation of Sierra Leone’s currency, the Leone, ranked it among the top five in Johns Hopkins’ Hancke Currency Watchlist for 2022.

Nevertheless, Chief Minister Sengeh remains optimistic as the Leone shows signs of recovery, although progress may be gradual to counter the impact of inflation. He assured the public that Sierra Leone is on the right path, and the positive results will be evident in the coming years.

During a significant event, the ECAM Council Conference in Rome on July 24, 2023, Chief Minister Sengeh underscored key issues related to Sierra Leone’s progress. The theme, ‘Driving Change Today for a Prosperous Planet Tomorrow,’ with a focus on ‘Food Security and Sustainable Healthcare,’ highlighted the nation’s commitment to transforming its agricultural sector through technology, innovation, and sustainability.

Addressing the challenges in the healthcare system, the Government’s priority is to strengthen primary healthcare, prevent diseases, and enhance health education. The integration of technology, such as telemedicine and mobile health applications, will bridge the healthcare gap, ensuring quality services reach even the most remote areas.

Chief Minister Sengeh emphasized that transformative change requires collaborative efforts beyond geographic, political, and cultural borders. Sierra Leone’s diverse ecosystems and abundant natural resources demand sustainable practices, including reforestation efforts and the expansion of renewable energy initiatives, to combat the threats posed by climate change.

Inviting international partners to support Sierra Leone’s endeavors, Chief Minister Sengeh called for joint efforts to achieve the nation’s Big 5 Game Changers: ‘FEED SALONE,’ ‘HUMAN CAPITAL DEVELOPMENT,’ ‘YOUTH EMPLOYMENT,’ ‘PUBLIC SECTOR REFORM,’ and ‘INFRASTRUCTURE AND DIGITIZATION.’

President Julius Maada Bio’s commitment to inclusivity is evident in his cabinet, where a significant number of young men and women, along with women’s representation, hold prominent positions. President Bio believes that reducing inequalities is crucial for a sustainable world and is actively leading by example.

Chief Minister Sengeh’s vision is to foster a shared future of hope, resilience, and prosperity for generations to come. As Sierra Leone strives for lasting change, he invited the global community to join hands in creating a better and sustainable tomorrow.

With a comprehensive economic revival plan and a strong focus on sustainable development, Chief Minister Sengeh’s vision aims to propel Sierra Leone toward a brighter future, where challenges are met with determination and collaboration, fostering prosperity and well-being for all.

As Sierra Leone strives for lasting change, Chief Minister Sengeh called upon the global community to join hands and build a shared future of hope, resilience, and prosperity for generations to come.

IOM Commemorates World Day Against Trafficking in Persons

By Millicent Senava Mannah

Every year, the 30th July is commemorated as World Day Against Trafficking in Persons and in that light the International Organization for Migration (IOM) commemorated the day on the 31st of July 2023,  geared towards raising  awareness on the disturbing developments and trends identified, and called on Governments, law enforcement entities and others to assess and enhance their efforts to strengthen prevention, identify and support victims, and end impunity. The auspicious event was held at the Sierra Palms Resort on Beach Road in Lumley.

The Head of Office and Chair of the UN Network on Migration, Christos Christodoulides, intimated that human trafficking is a crime that exploits women, children and men for numerous purposes including forced labor and sex. He maintained that since 2003 the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has collected information on about 225,000 victims of trafficking detected worldwide.

According to him, the theme for this year is “Reach Every Victim of Trafficking, Leave No One Behind” which is the central, transformative promise of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

“Globally countries are detecting and reporting more victims and are convicting more traffickers. This can be the result of increased capacity to identify victims and/or an increased number of trafficked victims,” he stated.

“Every country in the world is affected by human trafficking, whether as a country of origin, transit or destination for victims. Traffickers around the world continue to target women and girls,” he asserted.

Christos continued that the vast majority of detected victims of trafficking for sexual exploitation and 35 per cent of those trafficked for forced labor are female.

He assured the audience that they will continue the fight against Human Trafficking, and called on all to raise awareness of the dangers of illegal migration.

The UN Country Director, Babatunde Ahonsi, commended IOM for the tremendous work they have been doing and for transforming the lives of victims, as well as working hard to prevent trafficking.

He said that, in 2010, the General Assembly adopted the Global Plan of Action to Combat Trafficking in Persons, urging Governments worldwide to take coordinated and consistent measures to defeat the scourge.

“The Plan calls for integrating the fight against human trafficking into the UN’s broader programmes in order to boost development and strengthen security worldwide. One of the crucial provisions in the Plan is the establishment of a UN Voluntary Trust Fund for victims of trafficking, especially women and children.”

In the context of trafficking in persons, leaving people behind means, failing to end the exploitation of trafficking victims, failing to support victim-survivors once they are free from their traffickers, and leaving identifiable groups vulnerable to traffickers.

The Minister of Social Welfare, Melrose Karminity, affirmed the Government’s commitment towards ending trafficking in persons in the country. According to her, that was the reason why they repealed the Act last year to show their strong commitment. She commended IOM for the work they have been doing in the country, helping victims to get back to the country.

She stated that to end human trafficking, we should not allow the crime to be met with increasing indifference and impunity but must strengthen resilience against exploitation and the underlying socio-economic and cultural issues that are conducive to trafficking.

“We must sensitize everyone to the topic of human trafficking and thus push attention towards those who can make a difference in terms of changing policy and national resource management to strengthen prevention measures, improve identification of victims, increase support of survivors and end impunity,” the Minister stated.

To climax the event, one of the victims explained how she travelled through an agent to Lebanon, and when she arrived there, she discovered she has been sold by the Agent. According to her, she was working like a slave in the house she was taken to, and how she was going to bed at 1:00 a.m and waking up at 4:00 a.m.

She maintained that her ordeal made her to escape from the house and was able to come across IOM in Lebanon and how they aided her to get back to the country. She advised people to use the right means to travel and not to go through illegal means tin order o avoid the dangers she went through.

OFP Concludes Stakeholders Roundtable Engagement on Inclusive Education

By Foday Moriba Conteh

As part of their efforts towards advocating for the implementation and adaptation of the National Policy on Radical Inclusion in Schools in the country, OneFamilyPeople in collaboration with partner organizations and with support from Liliane Fonds has on 27th July, 2023 concluded a one-day Stakeholders Roundtable Engagement on Advocating for the Implementation and Adaptation of the National Policy on Radical Inclusion in Schools. The a one-day Stakeholders Roundtable Engagement was held at the Sierra Leone Peace Museum on New England Ville in Freetown.

Speaking during the ceremony, the Program Manager for One Family People, Samuel P.O.V Macauley, said the National Policy on Radical Inclusion in Schools was developed to ensure that every student, regardless of his or her background or abilities, has access to quality education with the aim of promoting an inclusive education system that recognizes and accommodates the diverse needs of all learners.

He said that the one-day stakeholder’s roundtable is geared towards advocating for the implementation and adaptation of the National Policy on Radical Inclusion in Schools in the country, adding that the roundtable brought together stakeholders from the education sector, including policymakers, school administrators, teachers, parents, and students, to discuss the benefits of inclusive education and strategies for implementing and adapting the policy in schools.

Samuel P.O.V Macauley maintained that the engagement provided an opportunity for stakeholders to share their experiences and ideas on how to effectively implement and adapt the policy in schools, noting that One Family People is with the strong conviction that stakeholders present have been empowered to work towards creating a more inclusive education system that benefits all learners including Children and Youngsters with Disabilities.

He said that it is expected that after the engagement participants will have a better understanding of the National Policy on Radical Inclusion in Schools and its benefits, discussed strategies for implementing and adapting the policy in schools and identified challenges and opportunities for implementation and also developed a roadmap for the effective implementation and adaptation of the policy in schools.

The Deputy Director ,Ministry of Basic Secondary School Education, Sahr Sylvanus Kebbie, commended One Family People and partners for holding the Stakeholders Roundtable Engagement on Advocating for the Implementation and Adaptation of the National Policy on Radical Inclusion in Schools, which he described as very important towards enhancing inclusive education in the country.

He said that the National Policy on Radical Inclusion is the heartbeat of the Ministry and it was because of the commitment of the former Minister of Basic Secondary School Education, David Moinina Sengeh towards the implementation of the National Policy on Radical Inclusion in Schools he was award as Best Minister in the World.

Sahr Sylvanus Kebbie said that before this time, the 2004 Education Act did little or nothing to actually see how those with disabilities could be encouraged in schools so they can seize to become liabilities.

He however, said that the new 2023 Education Act unlike the 2004 Education Act makes clear provisions on inclusive education. He informed the gathering that the Radical Inclusion is saying that all schools should be inclusive and disabled friendly and that the Ministry is encouraging schools that are not disable friendly to work towards making their schools disable friendly in order to enhance inclusive education in the country.

The Social Service Officer at the Ministry of Social Welfare, Edson A. Kamara also used the opportunity to commend the One Family People and partners for the engagement on inclusive education.

He said that the issue about the inclusion of persons with disabilities in education is very important and the Ministry has been working in ensuring that persons with disabilities are seen as partners in development.

Edson A. Kamara said that when it comes to inclusive education there are critical areas that need attention and these areas include accessibility, entitlement and collaboration. He called on all to ensure that these areas are addressed in order to enhance inclusive education in the country.

Other stakeholders  including the Accreditahun Officer, NCTVA, Komba Moiua, Senior Economist at the Ministry of Finance, Moses Gbateh, PRO Tertiary Education Commission, Roland B.C Jones, Technical Assistant, MoPED, Pumda Konneh, the Focal Person for Disability Desk at the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education, Ellalyn Yasmine Koroma, Principals and Head of Schools also made statements.

Closing the ceremony was a presentation on the state of Inclusive Education in Sierra Leone and Recommendation on how it could be improved etc. by Mohamed Fofanah which was followed by panel discussions by stakeholders on inclusive education.

 

 

Outgoing Minister of Works Reflects on Achievements

By Foday Moriba Conteh

At the official handing over ceremony and presentation of a comprehensive Handing-Over-Note, outlining the Ministry’s mandate, functions to the newly appointed Minister of Works and Public Assets, Dr. Denis Sandy, the erstwhile Minister of Works and Public Assets, Hon. Peter Bayuku Konteh has highlighted the achievements made with the available resources and manpower during his tenure as Minister of Works and Public Assets.

The former Minister, in his heartfelt speech, expressed gratitude for the opportunity given to him by His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio to serve in his Government over the past five years, first as Minister of Trade & Industry and later as Minister of Works & Public Assets.

He said despite facing numerous challenges, the Ministry made some achievements with the available resources and manpower which he has highlighted in his Handing-Over-Note and to also provide the new Minister and Deputy Minister with a detailed understanding of the Ministry’s structure, agencies under its supervision, and financial standing.

Hon. Konteh categorically stated that during his tenure as Minister he had never sold any Government asset, granted freehold to anyone, approved unauthorized construction on Government land, or rented confiscated houses. The Ministry’s Internal Audit Unit had diligently cross-checked the items in his office, ensuring transparency and accountability.

He informed the Minister that in the Handing- over- Note, he will find: the Mandate, Mission, Vision, Functions, and Structure of the Ministry, the Agencies that the Ministry is supposed to supervise: SLRA and NGPAC, the key activities and on-going tasks have also been outlined, a report on the financial standing of the Ministry and the Successes and Challenges are also highlighted.

To address any further inquiries, Hon. Konteh directed individuals to the appropriate authorities. Questions related to Government assets were to be directed to the National Assets and Government Property Commission, while road contracts and payments should be addressed to the Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA) Management. Financial and project-related queries were to be directed to the Permanent Secretary and the Professional Head of the Ministry.

Hon. Konteh expressed his gratitude to the dedicated staff of the Ministry, acknowledging their professionalism and hard work. He commended the Permanent Secretary, Secretaries, Office Assistants, Budget Officer, Accountant, Procurement Officer, Personal Secretary, and IT Unit for their contributions to the Ministry’s achievements. Their commitment had been instrumental in driving progress and delivering quality services.

As Hon. Konteh concluded his speech, he quoted the 13th-century Iranian poet Rumi, emphasizing the importance of personal growth and self-reflection. While his time as Minister came to an end, his dedication to being a useful citizen and a committed member of the Sierra Leone Peoples Party remains unwavering.

The ceremony concluded with well-wishes extended to the new Minister and Deputy Minister, along with a call for the entire staff to provide their full support as they embark on their new responsibilities.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Works and Public Assets, J.C Jones, in her welcome address, said Hon. Peter Bayuku Konteh’s tenure as Minister of Works & Public Assets will be remembered for his dedication to serving the country and his commitment to transparent and accountable governance, adding that the Ministry now enters a new chapter under the leadership of the incoming Minister and Deputy Minister, who will undoubtedly build upon the foundations laid by their predecessor.

The Director General of Sierra Leone Roads Authority, Amara Kanneh, commended the Minister of Works and Public Assets, Peter Bayuku Konteh for his good working relationship with the Sierra Leone Roads Authority during his tenure as Minister of Works.

He said the former Minister will be remembered as an innovative Minister, adding that during his tenure as Minister of Trade & Industry he championed the local content policy.

Amara Kanneh assured the new Minister that the Sierra Leone Roads Authority will work with him in order to achieve the mandate of the Ministry further using the opportunity to brief the incoming Minister of ongoing road construction projects in the country.

The Chairman of the National Assets and Government Property Commission, Abu Hindolo Maseray expressed appreciation to the outgoing Minister of Works and Public Assets, Peter Bayuku Konteh for his good work at the Ministry.

He also congratulated the newly appointed Minister of Works and Public Assets, Dr. Denis Sandy assuring the newly appointed Minister of Works that the Commission will work with him wholeheartedly as they have been doing in the past.

In his maiden statement as Minister of Works and Public Assets, Dr. Denis Sandy expressed appreciation to His Excellency, President Julius Maada Bio for appointing him as the 5th Minister of Works and Public Assets.

He however thanked all the past Ministers of the Ministry of Works and Public Assets which includes Alimamy P. Koroma, Alhaji Kemoh Sesay, Raymond E. D. de’Souza George and the new out gone Minister Peter Bayuku Konteh for their contributions towards the development of the Ministry over the years.

“I am not here to change anybody; am just here to recalibrate the way you have been doing things and tailor in direct concert in the aspirations of His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio and in line with the New Direction Manifesto. As Minister of Works and Public Assets I will work with all of you here including all agencies under the Ministry,” he disclosed.

He informed the gathering that he is a field orientated individual who is ready to work in order to realize that which has been handed over to him.

“I have set my agenda; look at the potholes here in the capital Freetown. Series of potholes from Circular Road even the road His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio is plying. The first thing we have to do is to ensure that the President is pleased with the Ministry of Works by him avoiding all those potholes so he can drive comfortably in the Western Area,” he maintained.

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