PARHA & CARL-SL Conclude Regional Women Stakeholder Engagements on Safe Motherhood Bill Across Four Regions

August 5, 2024

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By Foday Moriba Conteh

In an effort to facilitate discussions among women regarding the importance of the “Safe Motherhood and Reproductive Health Care Bill” 2024 and its potential impact on maternal and reproductive health in Sierra Leone, the People’s Alliance for Reproductive Health Advocacy (PARHA), in collaboration with the Centre for Accountability and Rule of Law – Sierra Leone (CARL-SL) with support from Amplify Change, concluded a series of regional stakeholder engagement meetings on Friday, August 2, 2024.

The engagement brought together influential women, female traditional authorities, opinion leaders and health workers to garner support for the bill. The final meeting took place in Makeni City for the Northern Region, following earlier sessions in Port Loko District for the North-West Region on July 31, Kenema District for the Eastern Region on July 29 and Bo District for the Southern Region on July 30 respectively.

Presenting the “Safe Motherhood and Reproductive Health Care Bill” 2024, in these engagement, Jeremy Ben Simbo, Head of Programs at the Centre for Accountability and Rule of Law (CARL-SL), focused on the key elements of the bill, which aims to establish standards for safe motherhood and reproductive health care across Sierra Leone.

He informed the gatherings that the Safe Motherhood and Reproductive Health Care (SM&RH) Act 2024 encompasses various critical provisions, including the definition of safe motherhood, the objectives of the Act and the services to be provided. Notably, the bill includes conditions for the safe termination of pregnancy, ensuring ministerial support for vulnerable women and children and mandates confidentiality for patients’ information.

He added that PARHA is implementing an Amplify Change-funded project to strengthen national advocacy for safe and legal termination of pregnancy and improve access to sexual and reproductive health rights (SRHR) for vulnerable populations, particularly young girls. The project aims to increase access to safe termination of pregnancy, reduce stigma and generate political will for reforming restrictive abortion laws.

Jeremy Ben Simbo pointed out that since 2018, PARHA has collaborated with the Ministry of Health and other development partners to draft the SM&RH Bill, which seeks to decriminalize safe termination of pregnancy and ensure access to high-quality reproductive health services. The bill is currently awaiting cabinet approval for gazetting and presentation to Parliament for enactment.

He stated that the SM&RH Act addresses various aspects of sexual and reproductive health rights, promoting access to safe motherhood services and emergency care while ensuring confidentiality and non-discrimination. It sets forth a framework for protecting and advancing reproductive health rights, ultimately aiming to reduce maternal and child morbidity and mortality.

Jeremy Ben Simbo said that key components of the bill include provisions for comprehensive maternal healthcare, sexual and reproductive health education and the right to informed consent. The bill emphasizes that everyone should have access to safe motherhood services, regardless of their background, while protecting individuals from discrimination.

With the aim of ensuring dignified and respectful treatment, the Act requires healthcare providers to obtain informed consent from responsible adults in specific cases, while still safeguarding the autonomy of individuals seeking reproductive health services and that through this legislative initiative, the bill aims to foster an environment conducive to safe motherhood and improve overall reproductive health outcomes in Sierra Leone.

He concluded by discussing the various categories of women the bill provides for in terms of safe and legal termination of pregnancy. The first category includes pregnant women diagnosed with ectopic pregnancies, where medical practitioners have determined that continuing the pregnancy poses a risk to the woman’s life; with her consent, the pregnancy will be terminated.

The second category encompasses pregnant women whose pregnancies result from incest; for instance, if a father impregnates his daughter, the pregnancy will be terminated with the woman’s consent.

Finally, the bill also allows for the termination of pregnancies that result from any form of rape, again with the woman’s consent.

The women gathered at the regional stakeholder engagement meetings expressed overwhelming support for the “Safe Motherhood and Reproductive Health Care Bill” 2024, emphasizing its critical importance in addressing maternal and reproductive health issues in Sierra Leone. They commended the bill for its comprehensive provisions aimed at safeguarding the rights and well-being of women, particularly in cases of ectopic pregnancies, incest and rape.

Opinion leaders highlighted the bill’s potential to transform maternal healthcare in the country by promoting safe practices and reducing the stigma surrounding reproductive health issues. They stressed that timely access to reproductive health services is vital for the safety and dignity of women, urging Parliamentarians to act swiftly in enacting the bill as soon as it is presented. They expressed a unified call for lawmakers to recognize the bill as a necessity, not a luxury, in modern governance.

Health workers echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the bill’s alignment with public health goals. They expressed optimism that the bill would enhance healthcare delivery by providing clear guidelines and protections for both patients and providers.

Health workers underscored the importance of training and resources to support the implementation of the bill, advocating for an increase in awareness campaigns to educate the public about the rights and services available under the new legislation.

Deputy Chairpersons of Local Councils also lent their voices to the support for the bill, recognizing its significance in fostering community health and well-being. They emphasized the need for local leadership to champion women’s health issues and ensure that the provisions of the bill are effectively communicated and implemented within their constituencies.

They committed to collaborating with health officials to create community programs that promote safe motherhood and reproductive health education, particularly for vulnerable populations.

Deputy Mayors from the regions expressed strong endorsement for the bill, recognizing its pivotal role in improving the quality of life for women and families in their communities. They highlighted that the passage of the bill would not only enhance maternal health services but also contribute to the overall socio-economic development of their municipalities.

The Deputy Mayors stressed the importance of local governance in the implementation of the bill, promising to allocate resources and support initiatives that align with its objectives, calling upon their peers in parliament to prioritize the bill, stating that it reflects the community’s needs and aspirations for better health outcomes.

The attendees including Deputy Mayors, Deputy Chairpersons of Local Councils, collectively urged His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio to sign the bill into law once it is enacted by Parliament, recognizing that this legislative action would mark a significant step forward in advancing women’s health rights in Sierra Leone. They reaffirmed their commitment to advocating for this vital bill, emphasizing that its passage would reflect a progressive move toward a healthier and more equitable society for all women.

EDSA Mandates Prepaid Meter Upgrade for All Electricity Users

August 5, 2024

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By Esther Wright

The Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA) has announced a mandatory upgrade for all consumers using prepaid meters, effective 1st August 2024. Customers are required to purchase electricity tokens to facilitate this upgrade.

Upon purchasing the electricity token, customers will receive a 60-digit code segmented with separators every 20 digits. The code must be entered into the meter in 20-digit increments, waiting 15 seconds between each segment. Successful input will be confirmed by an indicator displaying ’02’ or ‘success’.

Notably, this 60-digit code will be issued only once per customer. The upgrade process will not be compatible with the following meter types:

– APATOR METERS

– MOMAS METERS

Customers using these non-compliant meters are advised to visit EDSA offices for meter replacements.

During the upgrade period, customers are encouraged to use telecom platforms (Q-Cell, Orange, and Africell) and aggregators such as Vendtech, Mercy Holdings, Lynx Solutions, Dycar, as well as EDSA offices, to easily procure tokens.

EDSA urges all customers to allocate 10 minutes to complete the upgrade process by the deadline of 30th October 2024 to avoid any disruption in electricity service. For assistance during the upgrade, customers can contact EDSA at 6721, via WhatsApp at 077672672, or through Facebook at [https://www.facebook.com/EDSASalone](https://www.facebook.com/EDSASalone).

It important to note that the upgrade exercise is entirely free of charge.

As Season Raffle Draw Launched… Mercury International Doles Out Awards to Solar Raffle Winners

August 5, 2024

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Mercury International, one of the country’s leading betting platforms, celebrated the conclusion of the Solar Raffle Draw by awarding prizes to the lucky winners at the New Sella Spot on Jomo Kenyatta Road in Freetown.

The grand prize, a brand new Kekeh valued at NLe 75,000, was awarded to Abu Bakarr from Kono. Other prizes included five Techno 128 GB phones, five 20,000 mAh solar power banks, five 10,000 mAh power banks and nine 16-inch solar rechargeable stand fans with LED lights were won by 19 others.

During the event, Mercury International also launched the Start of Season Raffle Draw. Despite being absent, Managing Director, Martin Edward Michael, announced via a video message that the raffle’s grand prize is a brand new Suzuki Ertiga car, with various other prizes available. The raffle runs from 1st August 2024 to 1st January 2025.

To qualify for the raffle, participants must bet on any sport with a minimum stake of NLe 25 per bet and play at least 10 bets per week. This automatically earns one raffle ticket for the grand draw on 1st January 2025. Bets using Mercury bonuses or free bets, bets with any cancelled or voided games and bets where players cash out early will not be considered valid for the raffle.

Abu Bakarr, the winner of the Kekeh said he is incredibly grateful to Mercury International for the amazing prize. He said winning the Kekeh is a life-changing moment for him and his family. Abu Bakarr stated that he never imagined he would be this fortunate and he encouraged everyone to participate in the upcoming Start of Season Raffle.

Tourism Minister & NTB GM Showcase Tourism Opportunities at 67th UNWTO Africa Summit

August 5, 2024

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By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

At a recent Press Conference held at the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs on Kingharman Road, the Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Madam Nabeela Farida Tunis, highlighted the outcomes of their recent participation in the 67th UNWTO Regional Commission for Africa (CAF) meeting. The event brought together approximately 30 tourism Ministers and Deputy Ministers from across the continent to discuss critical issues and collaborative strategies for advancing Africa’s tourism sector.

Madam Nabeela reported that key discussions at the meeting focused on reinforcing commitment to Africa’s tourism agenda, improving connectivity across the continent and reforming visa policies to facilitate easier travel within Africa. She emphasized Sierra Leone’s efforts in these areas, noting the successful implementation of a streamlined visa system and ongoing connectivity improvements.

The Minister also detailed bilateral meetings with counterparts from Zambia and other African nations. These discussions centered on collaborative initiatives to leverage each country’s unique tourism offerings, enhance mutual tourism flow and develop exchange programs. Specific opportunities explored included joint meetings and cultural events with Zambia and Zimbabwe.

She highlighted an upcoming high-profile visit from a UN tourism official and the potential for hosting significant events, such as the third Regional Gastronomy Forum. Although an initial proposal to host an event in September was postponed, Sierra Leone remains eager to demonstrate its capacity for organizing international conferences. She stated that Sierra Leone proposed and received approval to host the third UN Tourism Gastronomy Forum in 2026, expected to significantly boost tourism arrivals.

The Minister also discussed the Women in Tourism Leadership African Committee (WiTLAQ), a Committee formed by African female Ministers focused on advancing women in the tourism sector. Sierra Leone currently chairs this Committee and will host the WiTLAQ conference in October, aiming to shape and address objectives for women in tourism across Africa.

During the conference, the Minister stated that she engaged in side meetings to discuss potential partnerships and support for Sierra Leone’s gastronomy culture. Promising discussions with the First Ladies of Zimbabwe and Angola led to invitations for further cooperation in the tourism sector.

She said they also shared the Sierra Leone “Tourism for All” campaign model, aiming to raise awareness and potentially be adapted by other countries facing similar challenges. The Minister emphasized promoting positive stories about Sierra Leone to enhance its international image and attract more tourists. She acknowledged the efforts of journalists and bloggers in this endeavor and urged their continued support.

Fatmata Carew, General Manager of the National Tourism Board (NTB), provided a comprehensive summary of the recent conference. She stated that the conference positioned Sierra Leone in a positive light, showcasing its focus on choice and gastronomy over the past five years. One primary focus was the $20 trillion global tourism market and Africa’s position within it, emphasizing the continent as complementary rather than competitive, recognizing the unique tourism offerings of each country.

The General Manager highlighted discussions around rebranding Africa to showcase its rich cultural diversity and unique tourism products, moving away from the narrative of security issues and diseases. She said the conference addressed challenges such as the lack of a skilled workforce, limited awareness of African tourism experiences and complex visa regulations. Solutions discussed included improving tourism data, enhancing security and promoting intra-African travel.

She stressed the importance of Government investment in tourism infrastructure and skills development to boost the sector. The General Manager also noted the consensus on creating a positive image of African destinations, similar to how Europe projects itself positively despite its own challenges.

She said the Ministers showed strong commitment to implementing the discussed strategies in Sierra Leone, focusing on policy changes, infrastructure development and projecting a positive image of Sierra Leone and Africa.

Call for Urgent Investigation into ZoodLabs’ Internet Disruptions in Sierra Leone

August 4, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Concerns are escalating over the frequent internet connectivity issues plaguing Sierra Leone since technology and smart utility infrastructure company, ZoodLabs, assumed control of the International Gateway. The recent disruptions have prompted calls for an urgent investigation into the company’s management and service reliability.

On Sunday, August 4, 2024, ZoodLabs experienced a significant outage that lasted nearly four hours, severely impacting data services, international voice calls, roaming, and other operational services. According to a network incident notice, the issue originated from ZoodLabs’ end and was eventually resolved, but not before causing widespread inconvenience.

Incident Summary:

– Date: August 4, 2024
– Duration: Approximately 4 hours
– Impact: Data services, international voice calls, international roaming, and operational services
– Status: Resolved
– Start Time: 06:52 AM
– End Time: 10:10 AM

In a press announcement from the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA) on August 4, 2024, it was stated, “At about 7:45 a.m. today, the nation experienced internet fluctuations caused by an Africa Coast to Europe (ACE) Cable shunt fault. These fluctuations have now been restored nationwide.” Henry Benson, CEO of the Cable Consortium of Liberia (CCL), added that ACE and CCL technicians are still conducting tests to stabilize and fully restore connectivity, emphasizing that the temporary fluctuation was through no fault of service providers and apologizing for any inconvenience caused.

Although the problem this Sunday morning affected not only Sierra Leone but also Liberia, ZoodLabs failed to communicate this to the public, unlike their Liberian counterparts.

ZoodLabs, known for its high-speed internet services through a wireless broadband network in Freetown, had previously committed to providing efficient internet connectivity in Sierra Leone. This commitment was highlighted during the launch of the Agenda for the Earth System Modifying Framework (ESMF), an open-source software initiative for climate numerical weather prediction.

The company has been integral to Sierra Leone’s technological development since Parliament ratified an agreement on April 28, 2022, between the Ministry of Information and Communications and ZoodLabs (SL) Ltd. This agreement entrusted ZoodLabs with the management of the Cable Landing Station, a critical infrastructure component for the nation’s connectivity.

However, the repeated internet disruptions since ZoodLabs’ takeover have raised serious concerns about their capacity to manage such essential services. Stakeholders and citizens alike are now demanding a thorough investigation to determine the root causes of these disruptions and to ensure that future connectivity is stable and reliable.

Sources close to Zoodlabs have revealed concerning details about the company’s actions since taking over from SALCAB in December 2020. Zoodlabs had pledged to invest $20 million to replace outdated equipment at the landing station. However, these promises remain unfulfilled.

Contrary to their commitments to the Government through the Ministry of Information and Communication (MIC), Zoodlabs has not invested the promised amount. Instead, it has come to light that the company relied solely on bank loans and payments from Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to sustain their operations. Despite inheriting Le6 billion from SALCAB as seed money, Zoodlabs exhausted these funds within a month.

Reports indicate that the Founder and CEO, of Zoodlabs, Davar Fazaeli, along with his associate David Tamba Kpakima, leveraged their government connections to take over the business from SALCAB. Allegedly, both individuals have since acquired luxury vehicles, including a $150,000 customized G-Wagon Mercedes-Benz, financed with government money.

The unfulfilled investment promises and alleged misuse of funds have raised significant concerns. Zoodlabs had agreed to replace all obsolete equipment inherited from SALCAB when the landing station assets were leased to them for fifteen years. Although they pay $450,000 annually to the government as lease, this amount is reportedly much less than their monthly revenue.

The decision to unbundle SALCAB has faced criticism, with the Ministry of Finance expressing opposition in a letter from then Financial Secretary Sahr Jusu. As scrutiny intensifies, there is growing demand for Zoodlabs to honor its original promise and invest the $20 million to upgrade the landing station’s outdated equipment. Fulfilling this commitment is the least they can do for Sierra Leone.

As the situation develops, the need for transparency and accountability from ZoodLabs is paramount. The investigation will aim to provide insights and solutions to prevent further disruptions, safeguarding Sierra Leone’s digital infrastructure and its users’ trust.

Parliament Probes Hotel and Guest House Compliance

August 2, 2024

By Esther Wright

The Parliamentary Committee on Tourism and Cultural Affairs, chaired by Hon. Mohamed Sheriff Rahman-Coker, on 31 July 2024 conducted a comprehensive investigation into the compliance of hotels and guest houses. The session took place in the Conference Room of the New Building at Parliament on Tower Hill, Freetown.

Committee members scrutinized various aspects of the establishments, including their registration with the National Tourist Board, adherence to minimum wage laws, recent audit reports, waste management practices, corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts, community relations, staff contributions to the National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT), possession of Environmental Impact Assessment licenses, staff welfare, Pay As You Earn (PAYE) compliance and working permits.

Compliance Findings:

– The View Hotel at Freetown City Council was compliant with all requirements except for the Environmental Impact Assessment license.

– Mozak Resorts was praised for its CSR activities in the York community, employing many local residents. However, they cited heavy government taxation as a significant challenge.

– Sellieu Babatel Hotel is currently non-operational due to ongoing renovations but is expected to resume operations next month.

– Medrie International Hotel at Lumely Beach was found lacking in several compliance documents and CSR initiatives.

– Malador Real Estate has not yet commenced operations but has completed its registration as it plans to enter the real estate market.

– Sweet Mother Guest House failed to present NASSIT contributions, PAYE records or a staff list for 2024.

– Franco Diving Center in Sussex has been operational since 1994 and is noted for its waste management and community support, despite facing challenges with electricity, water supply,and road conditions.

– The Place Guest lacked proper documentation and registration, with the Committee noting its illegal operations.

– Dupsal Resorts did not provide essential documents and was scheduled for further scrutiny.

Sky Inn Motel was unable to produce some required documents, prompting the Committee to summon the Manager or Proprietor to appear personally on Monday, instead of sending junior staff.

The Committee expressed concern over the trend of Proprietors or Senior Management sending junior staff to represent them during such important proceedings. Witnesses highlighted key challenges impacting their businesses, including issues with electricity, waste management, heavy taxation, inadequate water suppl, and poor road networks.

The Committee continues its efforts to ensure compliance and address the challenges faced by the hospitality industry in Freetown.

Foreign Minister Elaborates on Sierra Leone’s Upcoming UN Security Council Presidency

August 2, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Ministry of Information and Civic Education convened a special Press Conference at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation on Tower Hill in Freetown on August 1, 2024 chaired by Minister Chernor Bah.

In attendance were Radio Station Managers and Newspaper Editors and featured key speakers, including Minister of Foreign Affairs, Alhaji Timothy Musa Kabba, Deputy Minister Francess Alghali, and Deputy Director General of Policy, Allan Logan. The primary focus was Sierra Leone’s recent assumption of the Presidency of the United Nations Security Council.

In his introductory remarks, the Foreign Affairs Minister, Timothy Kabba, highlighted the significance of this milestone in Sierra Leone’s history. He noted that after a 35-year hiatus, Sierra Leone returned to the Security Council on January 1, 2024 and will remain a member until the end of 2025. He pointed out that as of August 1, 2024, the country assumed the presidency of the Security Council, the premier international body responsible for maintaining global peace and security.

Timothy Kabba emphasized that, despite the country’s modest economic and geographical size, Sierra Leone is now poised to lead the Security Council’s efforts for the next 30 days. “This week, we will focus on our plans for the Security Council and our accomplishments over the past seven months,” he stated. He outlined the global crises Sierra Leone has navigated since January, including the Israel-Palestine conflict, the ongoing violence in Gaza, the Russia-Ukraine war, the humanitarian disaster in Sudan and the political upheavals in West Africa.

Asserting Sierra Leone’s commitment to principled decision-making, Timothy Kabba underscored the nation’s reputation as a peacemaker dedicated to fairness and justice. He introduced his Deputy Minister, who elaborated on the agenda item concerning women in conflict and the Deputy Director General, who addressed multilateral issues.

Deputy Minister, Francess Alghali, revealed that the Security Council’s focus will include Women, Peace and Security, structured around four pillars: women’s participation in conflict resolution, protection of women, prevention of violence and recovery and relief for women in conflict zones. She announced a session scheduled for August 7, 2024, to discuss these themes and emphasized the vital role of Civil Society Organizations in advancing women’s leadership. Special attention will be given to West Africa and other regions with reduced peacekeeping operations, aiming to garner support and secure protections for women in conflict.

Deputy Director General of Policy, Alan Logan, highlighted the push for Africa’s representation in the Security Council. He described it as historical justice for Africa, which has long been excluded from permanent membership. He detailed the demand for two permanent seats and three additional non-permanent seats for Africa, with a crucial deliberation set for August 12, 2024. Logan expressed hopes for unanimous support from the C-10, a coalition of African leaders advocating for Security Council reform saying Sierra Leone has invited C-10 members to participate in the advocacy.

The Press Conference culminated in a dynamic question-and-answer session, where senior journalists posed critical questions, and the Ministry officials provided comprehensive responses.

One significant question addressed the issue of Yenga, a longstanding territorial dispute. The Foreign Affairs Minister, Timothy Kabba revealed that President Bio and other stakeholders are engaged in ongoing diplomatic discussions with Guinea to find a lasting solution. He emphasized that President Bio is committed to resolving the Yenga issue, asserting that Yenga is indisputably Sierra Leonean territory and demobilization must occur.

Another question focused on the Security Council’s role in maintaining world peace and security. The Minister highlighted Sierra Leone’s historical contributions, including its pivotal role in China’s admission to the Security Council in 1972, which has fostered strong bilateral relations benefiting Sierra Leone through various infrastructure projects.

Regarding terrorism, he noted the increased threats in the Sahel region following the withdrawal of American bases, highlighting the perilous times faced by countries like Burkina Faso. He also mentioned that Sierra Leone will not open an embassy in Jerusalem but will continue to support efforts for de-escalation between Israel and Palestine, with the embassy to be located in Tel Aviv.

The Minister concluded by noting that Sierra Leone’s foreign policy stances have earned it global respect, with many countries seeking to establish embassies in Freetown.

President Bio to Lead Crucial Debate on UN Security Council Reform

August 2, 2024

By Amin Kef Sesay

President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone is poised to spearhead a significant debate on reforming the United Nations Security Council. This discussion is a cornerstone of Sierra Leone’s agenda during its leadership of the Council, marking a notable moment in the country’s diplomatic history.

The debate, chaired by President Bio, is scheduled for August 12, 2024, in New York. Sierra Leone’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Timothy Musa Kabba, highlighted the importance of this event: “For the first time in 53 years, we are back in the Security Council. Today, we are assuming the Presidency of the Council. We will guide the work of the Security Council for the next 30 days, marking a very important milestone.”

Information Minister Chernor Bah expressed pride in this achievement, commending President Bio for his visionary leadership. “Today, we should all be proud as Sierra Leoneans for what we have achieved. We should also take time to thank President Bio for leading us to the global stage,” the Minister stated during a special Press Conference on August 1, 2024, to commemorate the event.

Sierra Leone’s presidency of the Security Council throughout August provides a platform to advocate for key issues, including the campaign for two permanent seats for Africa on the Council. Alan Logan, Deputy Director of Policy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasized that reforming the Council has been a major pillar of Sierra Leone’s campaign. “Sierra Leone is leading the Security Council reform on behalf of Africa. We are asking for two permanent seats and three non-permanent seats on the Council, making it five in total for Africa,” Allan Logan said. He added, “We are undertaking this advocacy considering the historical injustice that the continent has faced.”

As a prominent leader in the C-10, a coalition of African leaders advocating for Security Council reform, Sierra Leone plans to bring this crucial debate to the forefront and invite C-10 members to participate. Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Francess Alghali, revealed that Sierra Leone would also lead major advocacy efforts on issues related to peace, women and security. “We have a unique experience due to the rebel war. We know the role women played in achieving our peace, so we will focus on this, with special attention to young people,” Francess Alghali said, adding, “We will ask countries to bring forward recommendations on how they can support the women, peace and security agenda.”

A special session on women, peace and security is set for August 7, preceding the critical debate on Security Council reform. This month-long presidency represents a significant opportunity for Sierra Leone to champion pivotal global issues and advocate for the continent’s representation on the international stage.

AdvocAid Facilitates “Microcredit Dialogue”

August 2, 2024

By Ibrahim Mansaray

On Thursday July 18 2024, AdvocAid Sierra Leone facilitated what they referred to as a “ microcredit dialogue”. The roundtable engagement is part of the organisation’s Petty Offences Project which is jointly implemented with the Centre for Accountability and Rule of Law (CARL). The project, which is coming to its end, pushes for the decriminalisation and declassification of petty offences in Sierra Leone, which include loitering, traffic offences and fraudulent conversion. According to AdvocAid, they learnt through research that petty offences have been one of the major causes of incarceration and overcrowding of correctional facilities around the world and in Sierra Leone.

Women in particular have been caught in the web of fraudulent conversion in Sierra Leone when they default in the repayment of loans from microfinance institutions. As a result, AdvocAid created a platform for an all-inclusive conversation which was graced by women who have been locked away for petty offences, the Sierra Leone Police, Ministries of Gender and Trade, and microfinance institutions.

For many female petty traders in Sierra Leone looking to expand, obtaining loans is a way to go. However, the women say there are a lot of challenges associated with securing loans. “When we opt for loans, we don’t only have to deal with the high interest rates, staff of the institutions providing these loans request bribes and small favours before and after the loan is secured,” says Mariama B. Jalloh, a market woman. The 40-year-old adds that these are some of the causes of the difficulty in repaying the loans. As meagre as the sum may be, people still demand a deduction from it for doing the job they are paid to do, according to the market women.

The problem doesn’t end there. “When time is due for the repayment, we face multiple issues again including abuses and other unethical displays by the debt collectors,” adds another market woman. The women say when there is a delay in the loan settlement the institutions hastily resort to Police involvement. And in the absence of sureties and guarantors, the case is charged to court and they are sent behind bars.

The incarceration can only come to an end when there is a payment plan in place. Thanks to the intervention of organisations like AdvocAid, Don Bosco Fambul Dem and others who intervene on behalf of these women to secure their release and chart a way forward for their creditors to be settled.

The microfinance institutions refute the bribery allegations. Most of them say they have a zero-tolerance policy for bribery or asking for small favours from loan seekers. They argue that the problem of being unable to repay the loan on time as agreed, entirely rests on the women and how they manage the money given to them. “Most of the women misuse the loans, either spending on purposes different from that which the loan was granted for or entrusting the money with people who end up misusing it,”says Badamasie Cole from Oya Micro-Credit Company, an institution providing “working capital” loans.

“Most of these women also don’t know how to manage loans, so it’s important they are capacitated,” says Baimba Tejan Fofanah from A Call To Business (ACTB), a savings and loans company.

“Market women also take multiple loans and there are others who, in addition to not having an existing business, do not have a plan to set up one,” says Jimmilia Johnson from Aziza Financial and Commercial Enterprise. Jimmilia adds that they have had instances where women who do not have businesses connive with real business owners to obtain loans. The institutions say these are some of the reasons for the involvement of the Police.

The Sierra Leone Police say that when the elements of an offence are involved, the law is applied. “But we hardly detain people for such issues these days,” says ASP Dahlia Wellington, Deputy Head of the Legal and Justice Department of the Sierra Leone Police.

To reduce the issue of women borrowing from microfinance institutions, the Ministry of Trade says there are funding opportunities for those who own registered businesses. “There are even opportunities to showcase Sierra Leonean businesses in international trade fairs. However, branding is important,” says Jim B. Kosseh from the Ministry of Trade and Industry. Market women, however, say that they are unaware of these opportunities.

Assistant Director of Gender and Children’s Affairs at the Ministry of Gender, Hannah A. Lahai-Robinson calls for the popularisation of opportunities for women and the lowering of the collateral requirements for loans. She adds that women should also be provided with training on entrepreneurship.

AdvocAid was instrumental in the Passing of the Criminal Procedure Act 2024.With the recent success, the organisation says it will continue lobbying for legislative reforms for the freedom and empowerment of women in particular.

Sierra Leone Institute of Architects Inducts Four New Qualified Architects

August 2, 2024

By Esther Wright

Four newly qualified Architects were on Thursday 25^th July 2024 formally inducted into the Sierra Leone Institute of Architects after scaling through the mandatory Professional Practice Examination which was introduced last year as the new route for full membership by young Architects. The newly registered Architects were Arc Michael Adebiyi-Bamigbala, Arc Yusufu Kamara, Arc Aaron Onomake and Arc Oladapo Olayanju. Other existing members whose certificates of membership were recently issued were: Arc Antony Moiba, Arc Aiah E. Pessima, Arc Joe L. Aruna, Arc Cyril Grant, Arc Ben Okagbue and Arc Joseph Conteh respectively.

Acceptance into the full (corporate) membership category became aligned with the registration route used by the Commonwealth Association of Architects of which Sierra Leone became a member in 2023 after decades of non-participation.

The new registration route requires two (2) years of mentored professional work under the supervision of a registered Architect as stipulated in the Constitution and Bye Laws of the SLIA. This will be followed by the approval or otherwise, of a properly filled out Technical Logbook that fully captures the stated 2-years of professional monitoring.

Next is the 6-month of preparation for the Professional Practice Examinations (PPE) covering topics on :-

Sierra Leone Physical Planning Regulations
The Architects Act of 1986
Construction Project Management
The Sierra Leone Institute of Architects Constitution and Byelaws
Contract for Consulting Services, Conditions of Engagement and Scale of Professional Fees for Architects and allied professionals
Code of Professional Conduct and Ethics of the SLIA
The Building Permit Issuance Process
Composition of Contract Document
The JCT Conditions of Contract
Fire Protection and Means of Escape in Buildings
Types of Construction Contracts
Construction Site Management
Architectural Firm Management

Passing this 3 hour written examination will lead to a 30 minutes interview (focusing on the aforementioned topics) by a panel of three (3) registered architects, each of over 15 years of Practice experience. Success in the interview amongst the past tests, culminates in corporate (full) membership.

These new members have come onboard at a time when the built environment of Sierra Leone is in dire need of the heightened attention of the relevant authorities, for a wholesome regulation and a development control process that will result in better planned towns in Sierra Leone.

It is also high time, that the National Building Code that was painstakingly articulated by the SLIA in 2021 was passed into law. Operating a physical planning process with the now antiquated, Freetown Improvement Act of 1960 will continue to support the haphazard development of our cities with little or no proper physical planning and lacking in environmentally conscious, zoning plans if any at all.