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SLDC Launches National Inter-Collegiate Debating Championship 2023

By Foday Moriba Conteh

During a well-attended ceremony held on Saturday 29th July, 2023 at the USL Conference Room on IPAM Campus in Freetown, the Advisory Board Chairman and Chief Sponsor of the Sierra Leone Debating Council, Dr. Ezekiel Kalvin Duramany-Lakkoh, officially launched the 7th National Inter-Collegiate Debating Championship (NICDC 2023).

According to the Advisory Board Chairman, the 7th National Inter-Collegiate Debating Championship, which is scheduled to take place on the 15th & 16th November, 2023 will be held at Fourah Bay College (FBC), University of Sierra Leone.

He commended members for their tireless efforts towards the development of the Council, over the years, adding that they have come a long way and should continue to contribute to nation building.

Dr. Ezekiel Kalvin Duramany-Lakkoh concluded by announcing the various colleges that will participant in this year’s National Inter-Collegiate Debating Championship and they include Fourah Bay College, Institute of Public Administration and Management, College of Medicine, Njala University, Eastern Polytechnic, MMTU, University of Makeni, Central University, Freetown Polytechnic, Liccsal Business College, Limkokwing College etc.

The National Secretary of the Sierra Leone Debating Council, Mohamed Salami, said the National Inter-Collegiate Debating Championship is one of the biggest gatherings of university students that gives students the opportunity to engage, network and ensure that they articulate issues and proffer  solutions to national issues.

He said Council is with the strong conviction that this year’s competition will be more standard as they continue to improve on the standard of their events.

Mohamed Salami said the National Inter-Collegiate Debating Championship was launched in 2012 and since then several colleges have emerged winners of the competition.

He said the first edition in 2012 was won by Liccsal Business College and since then other colleges have won the competition as well  including Fourah Bay College, University of Makeni, Njala University etc.

The National Secretary urged colleges to prepare very well for the National Inter-Collegiate Debating Championship 2023, speculating that the competition is going to be extraordinary.

Members of the Advisory Board of the Sierra Leone Debating Council, including Asmieu Bah and Madam Mariama Jajua also made statements at the launching of the 7th National Inter-Collegiate Debating Championship (NICDC 2023).

Climaxing the ceremony was the official certification and awards of winners/champions of the 5th Inter-Departmental Debate Championship (Dr. Ezekiel Kalvin Duramany-Lakkoh Trophy) of the Sierra Leone Debating Council , IPAM Chapter, featuring Public Speaking and Essay Writings.

The Interconnection Between Poor Sanitation and Drinking Water Quality in Sierra Leone

Poor sanitation conditions continue to devastate the quality of drinking water sources, impacting public health and economic development making the country vulnerable to a looming crisis. CEO of Sustainable Water, Environmental Sanitation, and Hygiene for All (SWESHA), Stonison Tamba Kortu, emphasizes the urgent need for comprehensive solutions to address the interconnection.

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Human Rights Advocate for Sustainable Water, Environmental Sanitation and Hygiene for all (SWESHA), e said the detrimental effects of poor sanitation on drinking water quality in Sierra Leone cannot be overlooked.

According to him, access to clean and safe drinking water is a fundamental human right and addressing the challenges of poor sanitation is crucial to achieving that goal. Through comprehensive approaches, including improved sanitation infrastructure, behaviour change, integrated management systems, and monitoring, Sierra Leone can pave the way towards a healthier and more sustainable future with improved drinking water quality.

The right to clean water and sanitation is a fundamental human right that is often overlooked, despite its critical importance for well-being and dignity of individuals and communities. Maintaining access to clean drinking water is a critical challenge in Sierra Leone, exacerbated by the issue of poor sanitation. The lack of proper sanitation facilities, waste management systems, and hygienic practices significantly affects the quality of drinking water sources in the country.

Sierra Leone faces considerable challenges in ensuring adequate sanitation facilities for its population. A report by the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) stated that only 16% of the population in Sierra Leone had access to improved sanitation facilities in 2020. The absence of proper toilets, sewage systems, and waste management infrastructure has severe implications for the overall hygiene and cleanliness of water sources. Sierra Leone has one of the highest under-5 death rates in the world due to waterborne diseases such as cholera, polio, malaria and diarrhea associated with poor sanitation.

In 2012, Sierra Leone experienced the worst cholera outbreak in its history with over 20,000 cases and 280 deaths caused by unsafe drinking water and in the International Rescue Committee (IRC) advert for consultant the IRC claimed that over 85% of drinking water from improved sources is contaminated with E-coli, demonstrating the adverse effect of our drinking water sources.

Impact on Drinking Water Quality:

Waterborne Diseases: Poor sanitation contributes to the contamination of water sources with bacteria, viruses, and parasites that cause waterborne diseases. Cholera, typhoid fever, dysentery, and hepatitis A are common waterborne illnesses prevalent in Sierra Leone due to the consumption of unsafe drinking water.

Threats to Human Health: Consuming water contaminated with faecal matter, pathogens, and harmful chemicals poses severe health risks and affects the overall well-being of the population, especially children. Waterborne diseases contribute to high mortality rates, stunted growth, and increased vulnerability to other infectious diseases.

Economic Implications: The burden of waterborne diseases places heavy strain on the healthcare system and negatively impacts productivity. Families often bear the financial burden of medical expenses, which further exacerbates poverty and limits socio-economic development.

Addressing the Challenges:

Improved Sanitation Infrastructure:  

Investing in adequate sanitation facilities, such as proper toilets and sewage systems, is crucial in reducing contamination of water sources. The Government, in collaboration with international organizations and non-profit groups, needs to prioritize the development of sanitation infrastructure to ensure safe disposal of human waste.

Behavioural Changes and Hygiene Practices: Promoting behavioural change and hygienic practices, including hand washing with clean water and soap, is essential to prevent contamination of water at the household level. Creating public awareness campaigns and training programs can empower individuals to adopt better hygiene practices.

Integrated Water and Sanitation Management: Integrating water and sanitation management systems, such as establishing effective sewage treatment plants and wastewater recycling, can reduce the discharge of untreated waste into water bodies, safeguarding drinking water sources.

Monitoring and Regulation: Strengthening water quality monitoring systems and enforcing regulations are indispensable for ensuring compliance with sanitation standards. Regular monitoring of water sources and enforcement of penalties for improper waste disposal can significantly improve drinking water quality.

Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement:

Addressing the impact of poor sanitation on drinking water quality requires a collaborative effort among Government agencies, NGOs, community-based organizations, and individuals. Active participation and engagement from all stakeholders are crucial to prioritize sanitation infrastructure and foster community-led initiatives for sustainable change.

USAID’s Emergency Cash Support Brings Hope and Relief to Food Insecure Families

In the midst of economic hardships and food insecurity, a glimmer of hope has illuminated the lives of Fatmata Manjiagbe, Jebbeh Bordoh, Jibba Kamara, and thousands of other struggling families in Pujehun, Port Loko and Tonkolili districts. Thanks to the generous support of USAID, over 42,000 food insecure individuals have received much-needed cash assistance through the World Food Programme (WFP) in partnership with the Ministry of Social Welfare, helping them weather the challenges of the lean season.

One of the beneficiaries, 36-year-old Fatmata Manjiagbe, a resilient widow and mother of five in Golahun Perri village, supports her household by selling farm produce. However, with money becoming increasingly scarce, she had to make tough decisions to ensure her family’s survival.

“In times like this when money is hard to get, I had to reduce the number of cups of rice that I cook for the family,” she says, her determination evident in her voice.

But Fatmata’s worries eased when she received a total cash assistance from USAID’s emergency cash support program. “Without this money I would have had to borrow at high cost to meet the food needs of my family,” said Fatmata, her eyes brimming with gratitude. “The support came at the right time when most families face food crisis amidst heightened inflation.”

Another beneficiary, Jebbeh Bordoh, a widow with two grown-up children who seldom show concern, has been struggling to make ends meet with her income from farming. Recently, she found herself surviving on earnings from breaking palm kernel nuts.

Upon receiving the cash support, Jebbeh’s face lit up with joy as she delicately flicked the money notes between her fingers. “This help could not have come at a better time,” she expressed, a sense of relief washing over her.

Meanwhile, Jibba Kamara, who shoulders the responsibility of caring for his ailing wife, has been facing immense financial strain. The scarcity of work during the rainy season has exacerbated his struggles to provide for his family.

“Determining how to afford medicine and food for my family has been a constant worry,” says Jibba, his eyes reflecting the weight he carries.

Thanks to the cash assistance received, Jibba can now ease some of his burdens and concentrate on the well-being of his loved ones. The funds he received will go towards purchasing medicine and ensuring his family’s food needs are met during this challenging time.

The USAID funded emergency cash support program aims to cushion the impact of the lean season on food insecure families, providing them with the means to secure food and essential supplies without falling into crippling debt.

The lives of Fatmata, Jebbeh, Jibba, and thousands more have been touched by this lifeline, enabling them to find hope and strength during these difficult times. With every dollar, they receive a step towards resilience, proving the power of compassion and assistance in the face of adversity.

As the program continues to make a positive impact, it highlights the significance of humanitarian efforts and encourages a collective responsibility to support those most in need. It is through these acts of kindness that communities can emerge stronger and more united, creating a better future for all.

NP-SL Revolutionizes the Petroleum Sector with Cutting-Edge Digital Transformation

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a groundbreaking move that sets a new standard for innovation in the petroleum industry, NP-SL Ltd has emerged as a trailblazer in Sierra Leone’s petroleum sector, spearheading a revolutionary digital transformation. With a relentless commitment to customer satisfaction and a focus on cutting-edge technologies, the company has surged to the forefront of the industry.

Founded by 35 visionary Sierra Leoneans, former employees of the British Petroleum Company, NP-SL quickly solidified itself as a privately-owned entity with ambitious goals and a clear vision for progress.

At the heart of NP-SL’s meteoric rise is its unwavering commitment to customer-centricity. Leveraging advanced technologies, such as smart cards and GPS-enabled fuel pumps, the company has revolutionized the way customers experience fuel purchases. The introduction of the user-friendly NP Smart Card not only offers convenience in buying fuel but also empowers customers to budget and plan their fuel consumption effectively.

Furthermore, NP-SL’s dedication to Sierra Leone’s Local Content Policy is a testament to its mission of empowering the nation’s workforce. By prioritizing qualified citizens for employment opportunities, the company fosters a sense of national pride and ownership among its employees.

As a responsible corporate citizen, NP-SL also actively engages in various initiatives that give back to the communities it serves, earning the respect and trust of its stakeholders.

Despite NP-SL’s outstanding efforts, the global fuel landscape faces unprecedented uncertainty. The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine has led to increased demand for oil as countries cut ties with Russia, leading to soaring fuel prices worldwide. This situation has significantly impacted the availability and cost of petroleum products, making it a challenging period for both governments and oil marketing companies.

In the face of these global challenges, NP-SL remains determined to mitigate the impact on the Sierra Leonean public. The company has been actively working to import more petroleum products into the country, making every effort to ensure steady supplies.

While the government has provided foreign exchange to support oil marketing companies like NP-SL in their import endeavors, it is crucial to recognize that the international market forces largely dictate fuel prices. The Petroleum Regulatory Agency (PRA) has the final say in announcing price changes, considering various variables affecting the market.

It is important to note that NP-SL Ltd operates with a compassionate approach, aiming for profitability while also striving to ease the burden on the common man. The company’s track record as a responsible taxpayer and its commitment to environmental-friendly products further solidify its standing as a trusted entity within the industry.

NP-SL Ltd’s innovative offerings, including NP Gas cookers and the NP Smart Card, continue to enhance consumer experiences while exemplifying the company’s commitment to progress.

As the world grapples with fuel price uncertainty, NP-SL’s digital transformation stands as a beacon of hope, inspiring aspiring entrepreneurs to embrace innovation and customer-centric strategies. Despite the challenges ahead, Sierra Leone can draw valuable lessons from NP-SL’s journey, paving the way for a resilient and prosperous petroleum sector in the nation’s future.

In these times of uncertainty, let us remain hopeful and optimistic for a better tomorrow.

Choithram Hospital Hosts Laparoscopic Surgery Workshop & Offer Free Expert Consultation

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Choithram Memorial Hospital, in collaboration with Max Healthcare from India and in association with the Ministry of Health in Sierra Leone, is poised to host two important  events at its Hill Station premises on the 5th and 6th of August, 2023.

The first event will mark a milestone in the country’s medical landscape with the introduction of “Minimally Invasive Laparoscopic Surgery.” This innovative surgical technique will be the focus of a two-day workshop tailored for surgeons and aspiring medical students from Government medical facilities, teaching hospitals, and private practitioners.

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, will conduct live surgeries during the workshop and will be streamed live in the Conference Room of Choithram Memorial Hospital, allowing participants to observe and learn firsthand from the experts.

The workshop aims to enhance the skills and knowledge of local medical professionals, empowering them to effectively use laparoscopic equipment for diagnostics and surgical procedures. Choithram Memorial Hospital’s commitment to improving healthcare delivery in Sierra Leone is evident through this initiative, which seeks to bridge the gap in medical services and provide accessible healthcare options.

In conjunction with the workshop, Dr. Atul Wadhwa will offer free expert consultations to pre-screened patients, ensuring they receive specialized medical attention without any financial burden. All surgeries performed during the event will be entirely free of cost, generously covered by the hospital Management.

The second event will cater to individuals facing various malignancies and those dealing with joint problems and spine disorders. Leading specialists from MAX Super Specialty Hospital, Dr. Nagender Sharma and Dr. Akshay Kumar Saxena, will provide free expert consultation sessions in Oncology/Hematology and Orthopaedics, 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.

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

Though registration and booking for the workshop may have closed due to limited space, individuals seeking more information can inquire at +232-76-541-331.

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

Prince Jacob Macauley Gains Traction as Potential Bank Governor

By Abubakarr Harding

Sierra Leone is currently at a crossroad. With the recent re-election of President Julius Maada Bio and the formation of a new Government, expectations are running high that very soon rather than later the implementation of sound policies will immensely contribute in  improving the country’s battered economy and restore fiscal sanity that will impact the lives of majority of the citizenry in positive ways.

At this material time, when the country is at a crossroad, a prudent Economist of the like of Prince Jacob Macauley is said to be highly qualified and eligible to head the country’s Central Bank, the Bank of Sierra Leone as Governor.

Prince Jacob Macauley is held in high esteem, in various quarters, for the incisive and practically sound economic recommendations he had been offering to revamp the country’s ailing economy. As a matter of fact, there is a school of thought that holds the view that if only those recommendations were factored, during the first tenure in office of President Bio, they would have greatly contributed in revamping the nation’s economy and help in improving standards of living generally.

Indeed, it goes without saying that in the last five years, when the SLPP led Government, under President Julius Maada Bio, was in control of State Governance, most of the predictions made by Prince Jacob Macauley during the tenure of the former Bank Governor, Professor Kelfala Kallon, turned out to be true.

One of those predictions relates to the devastating consequences that will materialize if the Bank of Sierra Leone goes ahead with the idea of auctioning the dollar. It will be recalled that at that material time even World Bank officials, who were visiting the country, questioned the wisdom of auctioning the dollar at that stage.

As a matter of fact, during a meeting held within that period  at the Radisson Blue Hotel Conference Hall in Freetown, in which the erstwhile Financial Secretary for the Ministry of Finance, Sahr Jusu and the then Bank Governor, Prof. Kallon were present, the implementation of the auctioning of the dollar, was questioned by the World Bank. Both State officials acknowledged that implementing such a policy was a grave mistake.

Records could attest that long before the said meeting, Prince Macauley had raised the alarm bell, during an interview by Radio Democracy, that the move would be counter-productive and indeed such turned out to be true.

Again when a redenomination of the Leone was made or introduced by the Bank of Sierra Leone, Prince Macauley, warned against that move, saying that there was no backup for the currency to maintain fiscal stability and by introducing the redenomination such will lead to hoarding of the dollar as people will opt for the dollar more than the New Leone.

That situation, Macauley warned, would lead to a rise in the demand for the dollar and subsequently an increase in the exchange rate as against the Leone. His advice was again ignored with catastrophic consequences.

When, however, there was a replacement of the former Finance Minister with Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura, Prince Macauley breathed a sigh of relief, with the strong conviction that the new Finance Minister will exactly know what to do.

Indeed, the confidence reposed in the current Minister of Finance, Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura, by Prince Macauley did not go in vain with particular reference made to the implementation of sound economic policies as seen in the Minister recently tabling a Supplementary Budget, which according to Prince Macauley, is the best action to begin with in addressing the problem coupled with a complete review of both fiscal and monetary policies.

Against the backdrop of Prince Jacob Macauley being a seasoned Economist backed by his years of experience, there is another school of thought holding the view  that it is but fitting that someone of such a high calibre, who has shown keen interest in contributing to revamp the economy, be made or appointed to team up with the Finance Minister as Governor of the Bank of Sierra Leone  in order to create a situation  where both Economic Experts would work together, in order to  deliver a very stable economy.

But who is Prince Jacob Macauley? Briefly, he is an Economist of a very high pedigree that has worked with the World Bank and other top international financial institutions.

He has also been a Consultant for various organizations, including the Adam Smith International, DT Global Crown Agent and Moody Rating Agency etc.

Robert Kondema Kargbo to Participate in Africa Smart & Sustainable Cities Investment Summit in Kigali

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Robert Kondema Kargbo, the Executive Editor of Heritage Newspaper Sierra Leone, has been invited to participate in the highly anticipated Africa Smart and Sustainable Cities Investment Summit (ASCIS), scheduled to take place from September 6th to 8th, 2023, at the Kigali Convention Centre in Rwanda.

The summit, which is organized by Dala Africa, in collaboration with the Government of Rwanda, UN-HABITAT and Smart Africa, has as its theme: “Leadership for Smart Cities: Investing in Inclusive and Sustainable Cities of the Future.”

Jean Philbert Nsengimana, Chief Curator of Dala Africa, expressed his honor in extending the invitation to Heritage Newspaper, recognizing their exceptional contributions in supporting sustainability, technology and people-centered urbanization. The event promises to be an influential gathering, bringing together leading smart cities and technology experts, policymakers, investors, influencers and innovators from across the continent.

With projections indicating a 50% increase in urban dwelling by 2030, the summit aims to address the pressing challenges of urbanization and advocate for the prioritization of efficient, sustainable and inclusive cities that prioritize the well-being of their citizens. The comprehensive program of the summit includes a Smart Mayors Forum, a Technopoles Leaders roundtable, an Innovation Village, an Exhibition, the launch of the Africa Smart Cities Index, a Deal Room, a Geospatial Track, a Scientific Component with research paper presentation, and a host of other engaging activities.

The Africa Smart and Sustainable Cities Investment Summit is expected to serve as a crucial platform for driving sustainable economic growth and addressing urbanization challenges in the continent.

By gathering key stakeholders and thought leaders, the summit seeks to foster collaboration and innovation towards building smarter, greener, and more inclusive cities.

Robert Kondema Kargbo’s participation, alongside esteemed colleagues and networks, is anticipated to enhance the summit’s reach and impact, leveraging Heritage Newspaper’s leadership in promoting progressive urban development and technological advancements.

For impregnating SLIEPA Director’s Daughter… APC Chairman on the Run

Mohamed Alpha Jawaneh.jpg

By Abdulraham Kamara

The Sierra Leone Police has intensified their search for the Main opposition All People’s Congress-APC Chairman of Constituency 125, Mohamed Alpha Jawaneh who is reported to have impregnated 25-year-old Victoria Koroma, daughter of the current Chief executive officer of Sierra Leone Investment and Export Promotion Agency (SLIEPA), Mr Sheku Lexmond Koroma.
Our source revealed that the Chief was furious because his political rival
or opponent, impreggnated his daughter, a development he ordered the Sierra Leone Police to get Jawaneh arrested and charge him to court.
This medium further gathered that the said Minister Wanted his daughter to marry his SLPP colleague minister of Government with whom he had a cordial relationship with over the years, but his daughter Victoria Koroma insisted that she could not marry the said minister and that further amplified the anger of Mr koroma for the APC Chairman.
We have also learnt that it is to the knowledge of Mr Koroma that Mr Jawaneh is a married with kids and that development exercerbated his anger and plan to punish Mr Jawaneh for what he perceived to be a waste of his daughter’s time and ruining her.
This has seen Mr Mohamed Alpha Jawaneh live under threat, fear and apprehension and can be arrested at any time seen by the Police.
It was also confirmed by family members that Mr Mohamed Alpha Jawaneh left the country when he learnt that the Sierra Leone Police have issued out a warrant of arrest for him and as such, the whereabouts of Mr Mohamed Alpha Jawaneh remain unknown. This ugly development has worried Mr Alpha’s family members including the leadership of his political
Party the All People’s Congress -APC.
it could be recalled that since the SLPP government came to power in 2018, supporters of the main opposition APC, have been intimidated, arrested killed and hundreds if not thousands incarcerated for merely criticizing and bringing out the ills of the current government.
The life of Mr Mohamed Alpha Jawaneh is in imminent danger as he could be arrested at any time seen by the Police.
Many are wondering why impregnating a 25 year old should become an issue or an offence.

ECOWAS Urges Restoration of Constitutional Order in Niger, Imposes Sanctions on Regime Following Coup Attempt

By Amin Kef (Ranger)
In an Extraordinary Session convened at the ECOWAS headquarters in Abuja on July 30, 2023, regional leaders led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu addressed the recent coup attempt in Niger. The ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government reaffirmed its commitment to defending democracy and ensuring the continuity of democratic governance in the sub-region.
During the summit, President Tinubu condemned the political situation in Niger and garnered support from US Vice President Kamala Harris and United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. The international community backed ECOWAS’s stance on restoring constitutional order in Niger.
The ECOWAS leaders extensively discussed the attempted overthrow of the constitutional order and the illegal detention of President Mohamed Bazoum and his government officials. In the Final Communique, they emphasized zero tolerance for unconstitutional changes of government and reaffirmed President Bazoum’s legitimacy as the elected President of Niger, recognized by ECOWAS, the African Union, and the international community.
The Summit strongly condemned the coup attempt and called for the immediate release and reinstatement of President Bazoum, along with the full restoration of constitutional order in Niger. ECOWAS leaders held the perpetrators responsible for the safety and security of the President and his associates.
If the demands are not met within one week, ECOWAS leaders vowed to take all necessary measures, including the use of force, to restore constitutional order in Niger. The Chiefs of defense staff of ECOWAS were instructed to convene immediately for this purpose.
To further pressure Niger, ECOWAS imposed several sanctions, including the closure of land and air borders between ECOWAS countries and Niger, the establishment of a no-fly zone, and the suspension of all commercial and financial transactions between ECOWAS Member States and Niger. The assets of the Republic of Niger in ECOWAS Central Banks and assets of the Niger State and its Enterprises and Parastatals in Commercial Banks were frozen. Niger was also suspended from all financial assistance and transactions with all financial institutions, particularly, EBID and BOAD.
Military officials involved in the coup attempt, along with their family members and civilian collaborators, faced travel bans and asset freezes. ECOWAS called on WAEMU and other regional bodies to implement these decisions.
Appreciating President Tinubu’s leadership, the Summit appointed a special representative to deliver the demands to Niger immediately.
As the situation in Niger remains tense, the international community closely watches the actions taken by ECOWAS to restore stability and uphold democratic principles in the region.

Africell Launches Over 5 Billion Leones MEGA Promotion

By Foday Moriba Conteh

As part of efforts to continue to put smiles on the faces of its valued and esteemed customers right across the country, one of Sierra Leone’s biggest GSM operators, Africell Sierra Leone, on Friday 28th July, 2023 unveiled its MEGA Promotion at its Headquarters on Wilberforce in Freetown.

The promotion, which is expected to last for 6 months, starting from Monday 31st July, 2023 to January, 2024 will feature, as prizes to be won, 6 brand new cars, 24 TVS Motorbikes and thousands of other cash prizes amounting to more than 5 Billion Leones.

Africell’s Media Officer, Abdul Aziz Kamara, said the launch of the MEGA Promotion is another opportunity for Africell to tell their subscribers that they always have them at heart in terms of offering them opportunities to enhance their standards of living.

He described the promotion as  MEGA, which means “ a huge promotion,” adding that Africell Mobile Company is not only promoting their value-added services in the country but are also offering innovative promotions to their lovely subscribers by giving them the opportunity to become car owners and as well win other attractive prizes during the promotion.

In her welcome address, the Events and Sponsorship Manager for Africell, Nancy L Toure, said as a company they believe in giving out the best when it comes to mobile services and also give out when it comes to rolling out their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in order to share with their subscribes out of the little profits they are making.

The Chief Corporate Affairs Officer at Africell, Joe Abass Bangura, described the promotion as first of its kind and the biggest in the country.

He reflected on some of Africell’s promotions since they started operation in 2005, such as the Le 1 Billion promotion some years ago among others that have impacted the lives of hundreds of Sierra Leoneans.

Joe Abass Bangura disclosed that the promotion will run for 6 months starting from Monday 31st July, 2023 to January, 2024 further disclosing how it will also enrich over 1,800 subscribers. He further cautioned subscribers that the only authorized Africell number that will call them to confirm their winnings is 077 777 777.

On his part, one of the officials of Africell Sierra Leone, said the mode of qualification is for non-subscribers to join the Africell family is by securing an Africell SIM and for those that already have Africell SIM cards they just need to recharge via Afrimoney or voucher a minimum of 10 Leones and that will automatically give them one chance, adding that the more subscribers recharge, the more chances they will get.

He further disclosed that from Monday to Saturday they will have daily draws for 10 cash prize winners, weekly draws for 1 motorbike and monthly draws for 1 brand new car.

He emphasized that the MEGA promotion will not stop the ongoing promotions such as the “Win Kopo.”

“We will continue to be extraordinarily innovative; all other promotions will continue and our draws are always transparent and it will be done live on TV,” John Konteh said.

Closing the ceremony was the official launch of the Africell MEGA Promotion which was followed by an exhibition of the 6 brand new cars and the motorbikes to be won by subscribers during the promotion.