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Landmark Report on Maputo Protocol Reveals African Progress in Advancing Women’s Rights on its 20th Anniversary

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

On the occasion of the 20th Anniversary of the Maputo Protocol,  on the 11th July, 2023 in Kenya, Nairobi, a groundbreaking report titled: “20 Years of the Maputo Protocol: Where are we now?” has been released by the Solidarity for African Women’s Rights Coalition (SOAWR), Equality Now, and Make Every Woman Count (MEWC). The report highlights the progress made in Africa regarding the ratification, domestication, and implementation of the Maputo Protocol, showcasing significant achievements and remaining challenges.

The Maputo Protocol holds immense importance as a legal instrument for promoting and safeguarding women’s rights in Africa. It addresses crucial issues affecting women’s lives, establishes a comprehensive legal framework, promotes women’s empowerment and participation, and sets a system of accountability for African countries. By integrating the Protocol’s principles into their legal systems, member states foster a culture of transparency and progress in promoting gender equality.

The Protocol explicitly condemns harmful practices such as female genital mutilation, child marriage, and violence against women, sending a clear message that these violations must be eradicated. Member states that incorporate the Protocol’s provisions into their legal frameworks ignite a culture of gender equality.

Adopted by the African Union (AU) in July 2003, the Maputo Protocol has become one of the most ratified instruments within the AU, with 44 out of 55 member states having ratified or acceded to it, and eight countries having signed but not yet acceded to it as of June 2023.

While 80% of AU member states have ratified or acceded to the Protocol, the report emphasizes that the full implementation of its provisions is still a work in progress, with some states submitting reservations to modify the legal effect of certain provisions. Nevertheless, human rights campaigners argue that allowing reservations is preferable to states not adopting the Maputo Protocol at all. Rainatu Sow, Director of Make Every Woman Count, states, “The ratification of the Protocol is a crucial step towards achieving gender equality. Ratifying the Maputo Protocol sends a powerful message that states are committed to protecting and promoting women’s rights.”

Challenges in reporting progress are also highlighted in the report, noting that only 19 states have submitted initial reports as required under Article 26(1) of the Protocol, and most of the reports have been significantly delayed. To address this, the SOAWR members emphasize the need for increased training of member states on reporting, improved data collection through cross-sector collaboration, and clearer reporting deadlines. They also call for the African Commission (ACHPR) to consider extending the reporting time frame.

The report reveals notable progress in certain areas while acknowledging disparities. Economic and social welfare rights have significantly improved in AU member states, with over 50% of African countries enacting laws mandating equal remuneration for work of equal value and providing paid maternity leave of 98 days or longer. Several countries have also prohibited discrimination based on gender and sexual harassment in the workplace.

Legislation related to marriage rights has been enacted, addressing issues such as the legal age of marriage and imposing stricter punishments for early, child, and forced marriages. Institutional reforms, including the establishment of national committees and awareness campaigns, have contributed to the prohibition of child marriage in some countries.

Regarding health and healthcare, almost all countries have maintained constitutional provisions related to health, with six countries enshrining rights related to reproductive healthcare. Legislative reforms integrated with laws on equality and gender-based violence have supported reproductive health rights. Efforts to combat violence against women, including female genital mutilation (FGM), have led to constitutional reforms, national action plans, and the establishment of support services.

In terms of women’s participation in political and decision-making processes, constitutional provisions establishing quotas on women’s representation in legislatures have been implemented in ten countries. National gender or development strategies have integrated approaches to increase women’s participation in politics, and awareness campaigns and initiatives have been launched to enhance representation.

The report also explores the state of protecting women and girls from violence in armed conflict and the rights of specially protected women’s groups. It highlights the attention given to these issues by AU countries, with constitutional and institutional reforms being implemented.

Despite the progress made over the past two decades, challenges remain. African governments are urged to prioritize the elimination of harmful traditional practices, gender-based violence, and discrimination against women and girls. Faiza Mohamed, Africa Regional Director at Equality Now, emphasizes the importance of harmonizing national laws with the principles outlined in the Maputo Protocol and addressing deeply entrenched societal beliefs to achieve gender equality.

The launch ceremony for the report took place on July 11, 2023, in Nairobi, Kenya, during the high-level celebrations of the Maputo Protocol’s 20th Anniversary. Hon. Aisha Jumwa, the Cabinet Secretary for Kenya’s Ministry of Public Affairs, Gender and Affirmative Action, underscored the significance of the Maputo Protocol as a crucial framework for women’s rights. She emphasized the need for countries to reaffirm their commitments, accelerate efforts, and allocate adequate resources to realize the aspirations of women and girls in Africa.

The SOAWR Coalition calls upon the 11 remaining AU member states – Botswana, Burundi, Central African Republic, Chad, Egypt, Eritrea, Madagascar, Morocco, Niger, Somalia, and Sudan – to renew their commitments and promptly ratify the Maputo Protocol. By doing so, they will fulfill their promises to the women and girls in their countries, contributing to a more equitable and prosperous continent.

APC Discloses Initiation of Disciplinary Action against Mohamed Bangura

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a recent press release, dated 13th July, 2023 and signed by the National Secretary-General of the All Peoples Congress (APC) Party, Lansana Dumbuya Esq., it was stated that the Party expressed its disappointment and concern regarding the actions of Honourable Mohamed Bangura, a Member of Parliament representing Karene District. The party accused him of blatantly disregarding and disobeying a party policy decision, leading to the initiation of disciplinary action.

The controversy arose on July 13, 2023, when Honourable Mohamed Bangura attended the opening session of the 6th Parliament of the Republic of Sierra Leone and proceeded to take the Oath of Office, contradicting the National Advisory Committee’s (NAC) policy decision.

It must be recalled that the APC Party had previously stated in a Press Release on June 30, 2023, that it would not participate in any level of governance, including the legislature and local councils, due to concerns over the lack of transparency and inclusiveness in the tabulation of the election results.

The APC Party firmly believes that the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) manipulated the election results to grant an unverifiable presidential victory and an unjust majority to the Sierra Leone Peoples Party (SLPP). The party demanded the ECSL to publish station-by-station election results to verify the accuracy of the announced outcomes. The decision to refrain from participation was made during a meeting of the National Advisory Committee (NAC), which Honourable Mohamed Bangura attended.

During a subsequent gathering on July 5, 2023, where all Members of Parliament, Mayors, and Council Chairpersons were present, the party reaffirmed its decision, which was endorsed by all attendees.

The APC Party cited Article 21 (h) of the APC Constitution 2022, stating that decisions of the NAC are binding on all subordinate organs, bodies, and party members. Additionally, Article 38 establishes the Parliamentary Group, comprising the party’s Members of Parliament, as one of its bodies.

As a member of the party and the Parliamentary Group, Honourable Mohamed Bangura’s conduct has been deemed a flagrant disregard and disobedience of the NAC’s decision, thus violating the party’s constitution.

Consequently, the APC Party has taken strong disciplinary action against Honourable Mohamed Bangura in accordance with Chapter 6 of the APC Constitution 2022.

Supreme Court Dismisses Charles Margai’s Recusal Application on Procedural Grounds

In a recent development, the Supreme Court of Sierra Leone, on the 14th July, 2023, rejected the recusal application filed by Charles Francis Margai, Solicitor and Counsel for Patrick John and the Peoples Movement for Democratic Change (PMDC). The application sought the removal of the Honorable Chief Justice, Justice Desmond Babatunde Edwards, and Justice Ansumana Ivan Sesay from the case on procedural grounds.

The panel, consisting of esteemed Justices including the Chief Justice, Justice Nicholas C. Browne-Marke, Justice M. F. Deen-Tarawally, Justice Alusine S. Sesay, and Justice Ansumana Ivan Sesay, unanimously decided to dismiss the application.

The case was initiated by Patrick John and the PMDC against Mohammed Konneh, the Chief Electoral Commissioner, the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL), and the Attorney General and Minister of Justice.

The Justices noted that Charles Margai, in a manner characterized as “rudeness and charade,” announced his representation on the day of the hearing and subsequently requested the recusal of the Chief Justice and Justice Ivan Sesay from the case.

Margai argued that the Chief Justice’s swift swearing-in of the President-elect suggested foreknowledge of the election result or a premonition thereof. He further contended that it would be improper for the Chief Justice to participate in the panel considering the issues related to the propriety of the electoral process.

The Court informed Margai that a recusal application should be submitted through a motion, but he disregarded that requirement and continued with the oral application.

In response, the Chief Justice cited Section 122(2) of the Sierra Leone Constitution, which grants the Supreme Court the authority to treat its previous decisions as binding and depart from them when necessary. He emphasized that an application for recusal must be supported by an affidavit and filed as a formal motion, which Margai failed to do. Therefore, the oral application was dismissed.

The Chief Justice, in agreement with the other Justices, concluded that Charles Margai could submit a motion for recusal within ten days from the date of the ruling. Failure to do so would result in the proceedings moving forward for the substantive action to be heard.

 

Abass Bundu & Segepoh Thomas Re-Elected Speaker & Deputy Speaker

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a significant turn of political events, the Sixth Parliament of the Second Republic of Sierra Leone has been constituted, following the swearing-in of 96 Members of Parliament (MPs) on July 13, 2023. The swearing-in ceremony, conducted by the Clerk of Parliament, Hon. Paran Umar Tarawally, took place according to the provisions of the Third Schedule of the Constitution of Sierra Leone (Act No. 6 of 1991).

The Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) holds the majority, with 81 of the 96 MPs who have taken oaths. Other members include 14 from the Paramount Chief Members of Parliament (PCMPs) and one from the All People’s Congress (APC) representing Karene District in the North Western Region.

The election of Speaker and Deputy Speaker witnessed the return of Hon. Dr. Abass Chernor Bundu and Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas, respectively. After three unsuccessful rounds of voting, a simple majority resolution re-elected Bundu as Speaker, marking his second successive term.

The leadership of the Sixth Parliament has been announced, with Hon. Sahr Mathew Nyuma serving as the Majority Leader and Leader of Government Business. Other key figures include Deputy Leaders Hon. Bashiru Silikie and Hon. Saa Emerson Lamina, Chief Whip Hon. Dickson Rogers, and Deputy Whips Hon. Veronica Kadie Sesay and Hon. Ibrahim Tawa Conteh.

Despite these developments, the Parliament is still awaiting the swearing-in of 53 elected APC Members, which will complete the constitution of the Sixth Parliament.

Former President Ernest Koroma to Chair Africa Drive for Democracy Elders’ Retreat in Tanzania

Former President Ernest Bai Koroma departed for Arusha, Republic of Tanzania on Friday July 14, 2023 where he is expected to join his esteemed colleagues at the Africa Drive for Democracy Elders’ Retreat and conference, scheduled to take place from July 17 to July 21, 2023.

Organized by the Center for Strategic Litigation, MS Training Center for Development Cooperation and the Institute for Security Studies, the retreat aims to foster deeper reflection on the escalating threats to democracy.

To be attended by representatives from over 45 African nations, including former Heads of State, scholars and political movement leaders, the event will draw upon their wealth of experiences in democratic governance and together will explore practical strategies to ensure that democracy fulfills its promises while safeguarding the continent from authoritarian regression.

It could be recalled that Former President Koroma served as the keynote speaker at last year’s inaugural Conference of the Africa Drive for Democracy initiative. In recognition of his unwavering dedication to advancing democracy in Africa, the organizers unanimously appointed him as the Chair of the initiative for the 2023-2025 term. In their invitation letter, they highlighted President Koroma’s commitment and expressed their confidence in his leadership to propel the crucial discussions at the Africa Drive for Democracy Elders Retreat.

“Democracy has assumed various disconcerting forms across the globe. In Africa, we witness forms of governance where citizens’ voices are marginalized, state institutions such as the police and military are misused to suppress dissent and violate human rights, opposition forces are stifled, and elections are conducted merely as a façade of public participation. However, these challenges should strengthen our resolve to defend democracy rather than weaken it. Defenders of democracy must unite and take concerted action to halt its decline,” stated President Koroma during the 2022 conference in Arusha.

Joining President Koroma at the prestigious event are other notable delegates, including former President Jakaya Kikwete of Tanzania, former President Joaquim Chissano of Mozambique, and former Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn of Ethiopia.

Ambassador Salaah Hamad, Head of the African Governance Architecture, and Advocate Batlokoa Makong, Chief of Staff of the African Peer Review Mechanism, will also contribute to the discussions, offering their insights on the state of democracy on the continent.

Former President Ernest Bai Koroma is expected to return to Sierra Leone on July 22, following the conclusion of the Elders’ Retreat.

Karpowership Boosts World Hope Intl & Eleven Communities in Freetown

As a private business entity that always prioritizes timely and impactful rolling out of its Corporate Social Responsibility, Karpowership recently, during the eve of Eid-Ul-Ada celebration, donated food items to World Hope International, a Non-Governmental Organization and eleven communities (11) in Western Urban and Western Rural Districts.

The Kingtom Community, Murry Town Community, Aberdeen Community, Kanikay Community, Brookfields, Juba Potor Community, Kaningo Community, Kamayama Malama, Swissey Community, Belgium Community and Waterloo Community were among the eleven communities in Freetown that benefitted from the donated items of rice, oil, cuss-cuss, sugar and mayonnaise.

Karpowership’s gesture was part of the electricity generation and supplying entity’s ongoing efforts in supporting the Government and the People of Sierra Leone, especially those that are residing within their operational areas.

It must be reiterated that since the Management of Karpowership commenced operations in Sierra Leone it has been honoring their Corporate Social Responsibility by giving back to the people of Sierra Leone.

Speaking on behalf of the management of Karpowership,  Yankay Sawanneh conveyed the unwavering commitment of Karpowership in supplying electricity to the people of Sierra Leone further highlighting  that the donation exercise is part of their support to the people of Sierra Leone.

He continued by stating that they are proud to always identify themselves with the people of Sierra Leone especially in responding to emerging issues in the country. He recalled that during the fight against the Corona Virus they responded by not only providing food items to people in quarantine homes but also supporting the Ministry of Health and Sanitation with medical equipment that are very essential in saving lives.

Yankay furthered that reaching out to vulnerable groups like the Deaf and Blind Schools in providing learning materials and food items has always been part of their CSR activities. He further applauded the Ministry of Energy for maintaining a convivial working relationship with them.

Representatives of the eleven communities thanked the Management of Karpowership for always coming to the aid of the people of Sierra Leone. They further applauded the operations of Karpowership by describing it as very essential.

NP (SL) Widely Acclaimed for Timely Importation & Marketing of Petroleum Products

National Petroleum Sierra Leone Limited (NP-SL-Ltd)

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

NP-Sierra Leone Limited has been rated as a business entity that is first in terms of customer care. Dealing in various petroleum products, the company has been widely acclaimed for the cordial, smart, and efficient manner in which it is treating its numerous customers in different parts of the country.

The company has become very endearing simply because their dedicated staff are trained to respond to the needs of customers. Giving satisfaction to customers forms a cardinal objective of NP and from what was learned it has been maximizing that very well.

Investigations mounted revealed that one of the secrets behind the success of NP-SL is the fact that the entity has been blessed with dedicated shareholders and successive capable Management teams that have been injecting fine initiatives that are yielding fruitful dividends.

The selflessness and commitment of the shareholders have made it possible for the company to empower many Sierra Leoneans and at the same time put it at a vantage position to continue to open more filling stations across the country.
NP has cordially maintained a good business relationship with its numerous customers’ right across the sub-region where it exists and most have confessed that they are realizing optimum satisfaction in dealing with NP.

The company deals with individuals and various sectors of society, always ensuring that its various petroleum products are available and are sold at affordable prices. This keen symbiotic relationship with its customers has been paying huge dividends, always resulting in a win-win situation, making NP very endearing to all and sundry.

NP-Sierra Leone is also known for offering Sierra Leoneans affordable NP Gas cookers of various sizes, which are safe and very user friendly . NP Gas cookers could be purchased at all their filling stations across the country and the very gas is also sold to replenish those that have been used.
When we talk of the steady and effective implementation of the Local Content Policy, NP stands out tall as it is truly has 100% indigenes, particularly in Sierra Leone, as workers. This is one of the factors that have made the company to become a success story.

“I always carry my NP Smart Card with me just in case my car’s fuel gauge will show red and I may not exactly have the required amount of money to refill or even if I have it such could have been put aside for another purpose. With my card, I can just breeze into any NP Filling Station and by using my card the attendant will pump the quantity of petrol I need,” Felix Sesay, an engineer intimated adding how the card’s security features are unique and could not be easily falsified.

“When I first heard of ‘Your fuel on Smart Card’ I thought it was a joke but only realized its efficacy when I started making use of it,” he furthered saying he is really finding it very convenient in doing so and as such prevent him from withdrawing big cash from his bank account for purchasing fuel adding how it as well helps in also saving him time.

Holders of NP Smart Cards only need to be regularly crediting their cards in other words topping it up with the money. As long as they contain credits the holders are at liberty to use them at Filling Stations to get the amount of fuel required without exchanging cash with the pump attendants.

NP-Ltd is doing exceptionally well in Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast and The Gambia where it is functioning and indeed there are prospects for further expansion.

The company gives preferential treatment to indigenes in terms of employment in Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast, and The Gambia not to talk of here Sierra Leone where NP has a presence and operates vibrantly.

Besides, the company is one of the largest taxpayers to the Government and meaningfully rolled out its Corporate Social Responsibility.

It can therefore be justifiably asserted that NP-SL Limited is the country’s reliable fuel provider as it always ensures that its stockpile is always at an appreciable level.

 

 

AYV & ECSL Dish Out Winning Prizes & Certificates to Participants

By Alpha Good Kamara

Presentation of winning prizes and Certificates of Participation to participants of the ECSL – AYV Elections Cypher Uncensored & Hit the Street 2023 took place on Friday, July 14th, 2023 at the ECSL Headquarters Conference Room on Tower Hill in Freetown.

It could be recalled that the Africa Young Voices (AYV) Media Empire, in collaboration with the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL), on Thursday 22nd June, 2023 hosted the Grand Finale of the Cypher Uncensored Rap Music Contest Special Edition and AYV Hit the Street Dance Contest as part of their Non-Violence Campaign in which young rappers nationwide participated to promote peace and foster talent development. The grand finale was held at the Sports Zone on Lumley Beach Road in Freetown and was witnessed by many Sierra Leoneans, who from their facial expressions, were thrilled by the masterpiece rap and dance contest during which contestants expressed extraordinary talents.

It was an unprecedented contest that marked a significant milestone in promoting civic engagement and transparency in the electoral process.

In the “Cypher”, 8 rappers contested in the grand finale which includes Tello, Hugo Boss, Nazawise, RTM, OG Too Sweet, CG Mayboy, Breenard and Idea.

After the rap battle between these contestants, Lamin Conteh with stage name Tello bagged the first position and was awarded 30,000 New Leones, Joshua K. Bockarie, with stage name OG 2 Sweet bagged the second position and was awarded 15,000 New Leones and Ishmail B. Kamara with stage name CG MayBoy bagged the third position and was awarded 5,000 New Leones.

For the “Hit the Street” competition 30,000 New Leones was divided between the winners of which Lumley Best Dancers took the first position, RDC Dancers took the second position and B2K dancers took the third position.

The programme was aimed at promoting inclusivity in the electoral processes by promoting citizens’ engagement, enhancing information sharing and information integrity by working with a range of stakeholders, including young people through rap music.

During the presentation ceremony, the Chief Electoral Commissioner of  ECSL, Mohamed Konneh, warmly welcomed and congratulated the winners of the Cypher Uncensored & Hit the Street 2023 competition. He emphasized the importance of conducting periodic elections further maintaining that making the processes all inclusive had been a goal that the ECSL has tirelessly pursued. He acknowledged that although there were concerns along the way, the institution worked diligently to ensure free, fair and credible elections.

The Electoral Boss recognized that the success of the electoral process would not have been possible without the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders, including Civil Society Organizations and the media. He highlighted the pivotal role played by the Africa Young Voices (AYV) Media Empire, saying it had been a partner of ECSL for the past year.

He revealed how he was introduced to the Cypher Uncensored & Hit the Street program by the ECSL’s Commissioner in charge of Voter Education and Media. According to him, the program, hosted by AYV, resonated with him as a reggae music lover, leading him to endorse it and integrate it into the electoral activities.

Mohamed Konneh added that the ECSL-AYV Elections Cypher Uncensored & Hit the Street 2023 presentation demonstrated the significance of collaborative initiatives between electoral institutions and media organizations in promoting active citizens’ participation, transparency, and accountability in Sierra Leone’s democratic processes.

“The partnership between ECSL and AYV serves as a positive example for future endeavors aiming to strengthen democratic values and ensure the collective involvement of all Sierra Leoneans in the nation’s electoral affairs,” he averred underscoring that the electoral process is not confined to politicians alone.

He stressed on the involvement of Sierra Leoneans from different sectors who fostered a peaceful nation saying while acknowledging concerns raised by other sectors, he is assuring the public that efforts were made to address issues in order to ensure a transparent electoral process.

AYV;s Chief Operational Officer, Messeh Leone, intimated that as a media house they were not protagonists or antagonists as their role was and continues to be the provision of credible information to the people of Sierra Leone.

He maintained that the Africa Young Voices (AYV) Media Empire Elections Cypher Uncensored & Hit the Street 2023 was one of the ways through which they played a great role during the June 24th General Elections as it was used as a platform that provided credible information to the people of Sierra Leone adding that they also created offline and online platform opportunities for all Political Parties as well as working with the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL).

Messeh Leone mentioned how the European Union (EU) and the Independent Media Commission (IMC) commended the Africa Young Voices (AYV) Media Empire for the professional coverage of the elections stressing that they gave equal playground to all Political parties.

He congratulated Commissioner Zainab Umu for leading the campaign and advocating for the AYV Elections Cypher Uncensored & Hit the Street 2023 program.

Based on what he said, the Africa Young Voices (AYV) Media Empire  Elections Cypher Uncensored & Hit the Street 2023 Dance contest was part of their Non-Violence Campaign in the past June 24th General Elections during which young Dancers and Rappers nationwide participated to promote peace through talent development.

Samuel Wise (AYV) congratulated the winners of the Cypher Uncensored & Hit the Street 2023 competition and issued out the Prizes and Certificates of Participation to the winners.

The highpoint of the presentation programme was the expression of gratitude to AYV and ECSL  by the winners for giving them an opportunity to display their talents accompanied by a brief performance of rapping and dancing that evoked laughter and fun among the audience.

NRA Honoured at the 13th African Achievers Awards& International Summit

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Tuma Adama Gento-Kamara, the Chairperson of the Board of Directors, National Revenue Authority (NRA), was one of the key personalities that graced the 13th African Achievers Awards & International Summit which was held at the House of Lords, UK Parliament in the United Kingdom on the 14th July 2023 with the theme, “Unlocking Trade and Investment Opportunities For Sustainable Development in Africa”.

Prior to the event, the National Revenue Authority (NRA) was short-listed as a nominee and Honouree under the “Organization of the Year Award” Category, for innovation and excellent Service delivery. In addition, the pragmatic and result-oriented Board Chairperson was also invited to serve as a keynote speaker for the occasion as well as to be honoured during the programme; the 2023 African Achievers Awards.

The Right Honourable, Member of the House of Lords of the UK Parliament, who was the Chair of the Government of the United Kingdom Race Disparity Unit Advisory Group until July 2020, served as the host and in attendance were very influential personalities including Dr. Yvonne Thompson CBE, President and Founder of Wintrade Global Women in Business Network; Prof. Victor Mbarika, President of the ICT University; and Juliana Olayinka, a renowned journalist from Channels TV London. The lecture’s moderator panel featured Kristin Sharpe, Director of the European School of Economics, and Sidi Saccoh, an expert in entrepreneurship ecosystems.

Tuma Adama Gento-Kamara, the Chairperson of the National Revenue Authority (NRA) delivered an insightful address on fiscal affairs and economic development whilst Dr. Justina Mutale, Founder of JMF, captivated the audience with her empowering message on women in business were as Titi Horsfall, Head of Diplomatic Corps at Nigeria LNG Limited, shed light on the vital role of diplomatic relations in Africa.

It is worthy to note that throughout the engaging discussions, a wide range of topics were covered, including real estate investment opportunities in Africa and strategies to expedite the continent’s growth. The event also showcased a special presentation on the Great Green Wall initiative, which seeks to combat desertification and promote environmental sustainability.

The African Achievers Annual Lecture culminated with a riveting tech/AI session, exploring the future of banking and fintech in Africa. Visionaries and industry leaders, such as Viv Ahmun, Co-founder of Open Africa and President of Aspire Education Group (AEG), shared insights on the transformative potential of technology in reshaping Africa’s financial landscape and driving inclusive economic growth.

The African Achievers Annual Lecture, alongside the 2023 African Achievers Awards, also paid tribute to outstanding individuals who have made remarkable contributions to Africa’s development and progress.

Highpoint of the occasion was when the indomitable and charismatic NRA Board of Directors Chairperson, Tuma Adama Gento-Kamara, delivered the keynote address starting by emphasizing the importance of finding common ground and seizing opportunities for progress in Africa. She urged the continent to challenge negative narratives and showcase its vast potential, highlighting Africa’s abundant resources, growing population  and emerging markets.

The charismatic go-getter and influential public figure spotlighted Sierra Leone’s efforts to rebrand itself and attract foreign direct investment further making reference to and emphasizing the country’s recent achievements, such as the re-election of President Julius Maada Bio for his final term, Sierra Leone’s election to the UN Security Council, and its reputation as one of the most peaceful countries in Africa. She underscored the need for Africa to take charge of its own narrative, develop business models on its terms and create a favorable environment for investment.

In her view of unlocking trade and investment opportunities for sustainable development in Africa, she highlighted the continent’s immense potential, including a rapidly growing workforce, improving business environments and a wealth of natural resources. According to her, increased intra-African trade, regional integration, and policy coordination will all contribute largely to maximize Africa’s economic growth.

The Chairperson emphasized the significance of two major trade agreements, namely the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) succinctly pointing out how these agreements provide opportunities for African countries to expand trade with each other and with international partners, removing barriers and fostering industrialization as well as economic development.

She concluded by urging African business leaders and entrepreneurs to embrace regional integration, remain intentional, professional, and visionary in their pursuits further emphasizing that progress could only be achieved through collaboration and seizing opportunities.

It must be noted that the NRA’s recognition at the 13th African Achievers Awards highlights the revenue mobilization institution’s commitment to innovation and exceptional service delivery in Sierra Leone.

Moreover, the African Achievers Awards served as a platform for celebrating achievements, fostering connections and inspiring further advancements across the continent.
In a nutshell, the prestigious event served as a reminder of Africa’s immense potential and the importance of unlocking trade and investment opportunities for sustainable development in the region.

By fostering meaningful conversations and facilitating collaborations, the prestigious event sets the stage for inspiring change and propelling Africa towards a brighter future.

Bio Appoints New Set of Ministers, Deputy Ministers & Other Public Officials

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

For personalities who were, with berated breath, expectantly waiting for the announcement of the next batch of Presidential Appointees, some having sleepless nights, especially those who were fortunate to serve in the erstwhile five years of the SLPP’s hold on State Governance, not too certain whether they will survive or not, the cat was finally let out of the bag on Saturday, 15th July, 2023, when the second set of appointees was disclosed by the Office of the President in a Public Notice which revealed the retention of some Ministers and Deputy Ministers in the same Ministries, with some transferred to other Ministries as well as new appointments made. In certain Government Departments and Agencies new appointments were also seen.
They include as Ministers: Dr. Austin H. Demby-Minister of Health, Amara Kallon- Minister of Public Administration and Political Affairs, Jiwoh Abdulai-Minister of the Environment and Climate Change, Mohamed Orman Bangura-Minister of Youth Affairs, Mohamed R. Swaray-Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security, Major-General (Rtd.) David T.O.Taluva- Minister of Internal Affairs, Dr. Henry M. Kpaka-Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Chernor Bah-Minister of Information and Civic Education, Alhaji Kanja Sesay-Minister of Energy, Amb Alhaji Fanday Turay- Minister of Transport and Aviation, Amb. Tamba Lamina- Minister of Local Government and Community Affairs, Dr. Sao-Kpato Hannah Max-Kyne-Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Princess Dugba-Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources, Nabeela F. Tunis-Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Dr. Turad Senesie-Minister of Lands, Housing and Country Planning,Ms. Kenyeh Ballay-Minister of Planning and Economic Development, Melrose Karminty-Minister of Social Welfare, Dr. Isata Mahoi-Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Dr. Denis Sandy-Minister of Works and Public Assets, Augusta James Teima-Minister of Sports, Ms. Haja Salimatu Bah-Minister of Communication, Technology and Innovation, Adekunle King-Minister of the Western Region, Abu Abu Abdulai Koroma-Resident Minister, North, Mohamed E. K. Alie- Resident Minister, South, Amb Umaru B Wurie-Resident Minister, North West-Gbessay Jusu Ngobeh, Resident Minister, East.
Deputy  Ministers appointed are: Col (Rtd.) Muana Brima Massaquoi- Deputy Minister of Defence, Alpha Sesay-Deputy Minister of Justice, Dr. Charles Senesie -Deputy Minister of Health I, Dr. Jalikatu Mustapha- Deputy Minister of Health 2, Philip Tetema Tondoneh- Deputy Minister of Public Administration and Political Affairs, Patrick M. Gibrilla-Deputy Minister of Youth Affairs, Mohamed Lansana Dumbuya-Deputy Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security, Dr. Theresa T. Dick-Deputy Minister (1) of Agriculture and Food Security, Sahr Hemore -Deputy Minister (2) of Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Eldred Tunde Taylor- Deputy Minister of Energy, Yusuf Keketoma Sandi-Deputy Minister of Information and Civic Education,Rex Bhonapha-Deputy Minister of Transport and Aviation, Alfred Jamiru- Deputy Minister of Local  Government and Community Affairs, Ing Francis A Kallon-Deputy Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation and Haja Isata Abdulai Kamara as Deputy Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources, Kadiatu G.A. Kamara-Deputy Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Ms. Phylis Карu -Deputy Minister of Lands, Housing and Country Planning, Rev. Dr. Jonathan Titus-Williams -Deputy Minister of Planning and Economic Development, Hindowa Buakai Bindi Deputy Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Queen Fofana Deputy Minister of Works and Public Assets, Ibrahim Sannoh Deputy Minister of Communication, Technology and Innovation
Other appointments include: Hon. Alhaji Dr. Alpha Bakarr Sahid Kanu- Presidential Spokesman, Solomon Jamiru- Press Secretary, Kandeh Yumkella, Chairman, Presidential Initiative for Climate Change, Renewable Energy and Food Security, Amb. Michael Imran Kanu, -Ambassador and Permanent Representative for Sierra Leone to the United Nations, Amb. Amara Sowa, Deputy- Permanent Representative for Sierra Leone to the United Nations, Brigadier-General (Rtd.) Kellie Conteh-National Security Adviser, Ernest Ndomahina-Commissioner, National Commission for Social Action, Lamina P. Vamboi-State Chief of Protocol, Abdul Kpakra-Executive Officer 1, Office of the President, Karmoh K. Conteh, Executive officer 2, Office of the President.
In a tweet on Saturday, President Julius Maada Bio extended a warm welcome to all his appointees and urged them to view their roles as a national call to service. Emphasizing the importance of their responsibilities, President Bio highlighted the need for dedication and a collective effort to build a safe, secure, and prosperous future for Sierra Leone under his new administration.
President Bio’s tweet underscored the significance of the task at hand, urging his appointees to approach their positions with a strong sense of duty and responsibility. With a focus on unity and hard work, the President aims to foster a secure and prosperous environment for the nation.
As Sierra Leone moves forward, President Bio’s administration is committed to tackling the challenges ahead and striving for a brighter future. By emphasizing the importance of dedication and collective efforts, President Bio aims to build a nation that is safe, secure, and prosperous for all its citizens.
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