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Carrying forward traditional friendship for a shared future——Farewell Message by H.E. Wang Qing，Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone

Ambassador Wang Qing presented his credentials to H.E. President Julius Maada Bio

In January 2023, I arrived in beautiful Sierra Leone to assume my duties as Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone. Time flies and now I am about to bid farewell to my Sierra Leonean friends.

H.E. President Xi Jinping and his wife Dr. Peng Liyuan held a welcoming ceremony for H.E. President Julius Maada Bio and his wife Fatima Maada Bio in the Great Hall of the People during President Bio’s state visit to China.

Over the past three years, I have had the privilege of witnessing Sierra Leone’s steady progress along the path of peace and development, and of seeing that China-Sierra Leone relations maintain excellent performance and become a good example of China-Africa solidarity and cooperation.

Over the past three years, the two countries have close high-level interaction. In 2024, H.E. President Julius Maada Bio paid a state visit to China and attended the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, becoming the first head of state in Sierra Leone’s history to visit China twice in a single year. The two leaders reached broad and important consensus on deepening the China-Sierra Leone Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership, providing strategic guidance for the development of bilateral relations.

H.E. President Xi Jinping and H.E. President Julius Maada Bio jointly inspected the guard of honor of the PLA at the welcoming ceremony.
H.E. President Julius Maada Bio reiterated Sierra Leone’s support for the One-China principle during an interview with China Media Group.

Political mutual trust between the two sides continues to deepen. China firmly supports Sierra Leone in safeguarding its national independence, sovereignty, security, and development interests, and resolutely opposes external interference in Sierra Leone’s internal affairs. Sierra Leone has repeatedly reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the One-China principle and its strong support for all efforts made by the Chinese government to achieve national reunification.

Ambassador Wang Qing and Hon. Foreign Minister Timothy Musa Kabba and Former Foreign Minister Prof. David J. Francis at the launching ceremony of a China-Sierra Leone Friendship book.

The practical cooperation has yielded fruitful results. Just the third day after my arrival in Sierra Leone, I attended the handover ceremony for the China-Aided Sierra Leone Foreign Service Academy. Before my departure, I attended another groundbreaking ceremony for the China-Aided fishing port, where I was delighted to see it named the Julius Maada Bio Industrial Fishing Port. China has been Sierra Leone’s largest trading partner and largest source of foreign investment for many years. These vividly demonstrate the rich substance and efficient progress of our practical cooperation.

Ambassador Wang Qing accompanied H.E. President Julius Maada Bio as they cut the ribbon for the China-Aided Sierra Leone Foreign Service Academy.
Ambassador Wang Qing accompanied Hon. Vice President Juldeh Jalloh as they jointly inspected China-Aided Sierra Leone National Stadium Rehabilitation Project.
Ambassador Wang Qing accompanied H.E. President Julius Maada Bio to meet with the 25th Chinese Medical Team to Sierra Leone.

The two sides coordinated closely on such issues as world peace and development. China firmly supports Sierra Leone in fulfilling its responsibilities within international and regional organizations such as the United Nations Security Council, C-10, and ECOWAS. We support Sierra Leone’s efforts to redress historical injustices against Africa, and stand together with Sierra Leone in upholding genuine multilateralism. We will jointly promote solidarity and cooperation among Global South, safeguard the interests of developing countries, and uphold international fairness and justice.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi attended the high-level dialogue meeting between the African Union’s Committee of Ten (C10) and the Permanent Five (P5) foreign ministers of the UN Security Council hosted by Sierra Leone at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.

People-to-people exchanges between our two countries have become increasingly vibrant. Over the past three years, nearly 20,000 Sierra Leonean citizens have obtained visas to travel to China for tourism, business, and visits—a historic high. The Chinese government has consistently supported Sierra Leone’s human resource development, with over 500 Sierra Leoneans receiving Chinese government scholarships to pursue academic studies in China. More than 2,500 Sierra Leoneans from various sectors have benefited from participating in diverse China-Aided training programs. I have traveled across all five provinces of Sierra Leone and was honored with the title of Honorary Paramount Chief by the Bambara Chiefdom, forging deep friendships with the people of Sierra Leone.

Ambassador Wang Qing and the Sierra Leonean awardees of 2024 Chinese Ambassador Scholarship and Grant.
Ambassador Wang Qing visited Bo School and gave a lecture to the students.

Over the past three years, I have fully experienced Sierra Leone’s tropical charm and picturesque landscapes, its diverse and inclusive culture, and the warmth and friendliness of its people. I am particularly impressed by the resilience and vitality Sierra Leone has demonstrated on its development journey. A nation once scarred by years of civil war now ranks second in West Africa, fifth in Africa, and 57th globally in peace indices. It has also assumed the role of a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council, playing a vital part in safeguarding global peace. A nation once devastated by the Ebola outbreak has now rebuilt its health security infrastructure. Now it not only can swiftly respond to epidemics like M-pox, but also actively dispatched personnels to assist other countries in combating infectious diseases, demonstrating its leadership in Africa’s health sector. I am confident that through the joint efforts of the Government and people of Sierra Leone, the country will surely embrace an more prosperous and promising tomorrow.

There is an ancient Chinese poem that says, “True friendship knows no distance; even across ten thousand miles, we remain neighbors.” I will forever cherish the white sand beach of Freetown, the coconut palms of Banana Island, the vast rice fields of Bo, the majestic mountains of Tonkolili, and all the friends I made in Sierra Leone alongside its gracious people. I sincerely wish that China-Sierra Leone friendship can last forever and both nations have a brighter future!

 

Residents of Spur View Estate Rise Up to Protect Their Neighbourhood

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Residents of Spur View Estate have united in a determined stand to protect the integrity and tranquility of their community, following attempts to convert a private residential property into a French-backed school situated in the heart of their low-density neighbourhood. The growing concern has prompted a strong, coordinated response from the homeowners, who have formally petitioned the Mayor of Freetown and the Director of Country Planning, expressing deep dissatisfaction over what they describe as a blatant disregard for zoning laws and the peace of their estate.

In what many have described as a commendable show of community solidarity, more than 30 households signed and delivered a detailed objection on 10th November 2025 to Her Worship the Mayor of Freetown, the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Country Planning. The residents expressed shock that a school would be introduced into their midst without prior notification, consultation or consideration for the environmental, structural and social impact on their neighbourhood.

According to the residents, the proposed school, to be run by a would-be Proprietor, Mrs. Janice Bras, was being established with complete disregard for zoning regulations and without any form of planning or community engagement. Many property owners, including elderly residents in their seventies and eighties, argue that the project poses significant health and safety risks due to anticipated noise pollution and heavy traffic congestion. The narrow, steep internal roads of the estate, they say, cannot support the influx of vehicles and activity associated with a school.

They further noted that the property in question is boxed in between three private residences, making it an unsuitable and intrusive location for institutional activity. “This is a peaceful community. We worked all our lives to build our homes here and we deserve to enjoy the serenity of a neighbourhood that was legally designated as low-density residential,” one resident emphasized.

Residents also pointed to a worrying trend across Freetown where places of worship, factories, businesses and schools are increasingly appearing in areas not zoned for such purposes. They fear that if unregulated conversions continue unchecked, established residential enclaves in the city may lose their character, safety and property value.

The group’s concerns were formally documented in two separate letters, one addressed to Her Worship the Mayor of Freetown and another to the Director of Country Planning, Mr. Sahr Mark Kanawa, both dated 10th November 2025. The letters outline, in detail, the basis of their objection to the conversion of the residential property owned by Mr. Lesley Wilson for use by Mrs. Janice Bras as a school facility.

Among the key objections raised are:

  • Violation of zoning and planning regulations, as the estate is strictly designated as a low-density residential zone.
  • Inadequate infrastructure, including narrow and steep internal roads with no parking areas, drop-off points or pedestrian walkways.
  • Noise pollution, with school activities expected to disrupt the calm environment valued by residents.
  • Traffic congestion, particularly during school drop-off and pick-up periods.
  • Environmental and sanitation concerns, with increased waste production likely to strain the existing environment.

The letters also highlighted the lack of any formal community consultation by the property owner or the intended tenant, describing this omission as a clear deviation from responsible urban planning and participatory governance principles.

The residents are now calling on the Freetown City Council and the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Country Planning to immediately halt the conversion and enforce adherence to zoning regulations. They maintain that the disputed property must remain strictly residential as originally approved by planning authorities.

The Concerned Residents of Spur View Estate say they remain confident that the relevant authorities, under strong leadership, will uphold the law, protect their rights and preserve the safety and serenity of the neighbourhood they have long called home.

Both letters were signed by The Concerned Residents of Spur View Estate, with copies forwarded to the Honourable Minister and the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Country Planning.

G20 Summit 2025: President Bio Calls for Transformative G20–Africa Compact on Mineral Wealth

President Julius Maada Bio speaking at the G20 Summit 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leone’s President and Chair of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, His Excellency Dr. Julius Maada Bio, has placed Africa firmly at the centre of global economic discourse with a bold call for a G20–Africa Compact on Critical Minerals. Speaking during a high-level session at the G20 Summit 2025 in Johannesburg on Saturday, 22 November 2025, President Bio underscored the need for fairness, justice and value retention as the world accelerates toward a clean-energy future.

Delivering his address under the Summit’s theme: “Solidarity, Equality & Sustainability,” the Sierra Leonean leader stressed that Africa holds nearly one-third of the world’s critical minerals; resources essential for renewable energy technologies, advanced manufacturing and artificial intelligence. Sierra Leone contributes significantly to this global mineral basket through iron ore, rutile, bauxite and diamonds. Yet, President Bio cautioned that without new international mechanisms, the continent risks repeating a painful history where Africa’s resources fuel global prosperity while African economies benefit least.

“For too long, our resources have powered global industries while our nations captured the least value. This generation must break that cycle, starting with a G20–Africa Compact anchored in justice,” President Bio said.

He argued that Africa’s role must shift from being a mere supplier of raw minerals to becoming a competitive hub for processing and refining, thereby capturing higher value and generating jobs. His proposed compact seeks to encourage transparent mining contracts, increased investment in local beneficiation and fair revenue models that prioritize African development.

“It is not enough for Africa to supply the minerals. We must process them, refine them and benefit from them. That is how we create jobs, industries and transformation,” he emphasized.

Although the Summit’s broader theme, “Building Our Economy: The Role of Trade, Finance for Development and the Debt Burden”, covered a wide range of global economic challenges, President Bio used the platform to spotlight the geopolitical significance of Africa’s mineral wealth. He reminded global leaders that the clean-energy transition cannot occur without Africa and therefore Africa must not be excluded from the economic gains of that transition.

President Bio also addressed the mounting economic pressures facing low-income countries, including rising debt servicing and tightening financial conditions. He reiterated Sierra Leone’s support for expanded Special Drawing Rights through regional development banks, accelerated debt restructuring and long-term financing for infrastructure, digital systems and trade.

On climate, he delivered a stark message: Africa remains disproportionately affected by climate change despite contributing less than four percent of global emissions. He recounted Sierra Leone’s experiences with flooding, landslides and unpredictable weather patterns that disrupt agriculture. President Bio repeated his call for a West Africa Climate Adaptation Acceleration Facility to support food security, clean energy and coastal protection.

Turning to technology, the President stressed the need for ethical, inclusive and equitable governance of artificial intelligence, warning that global AI frameworks must not deepen digital inequalities. He noted that AI presents immense opportunities for Africa, but only if access and governance are fair.

Concluding his address, President Bio urged G20 leaders to endorse a transformative development compact rooted in justice, transparency and shared prosperity. He reaffirmed that a G20–Africa Compact on Critical Minerals represents not only an economic necessity but also a historic opportunity to correct longstanding global imbalances.

President Bio arrived in Johannesburg on 21 November 2025 for the Twentieth Meeting of the Group of Twenty, where he was warmly welcomed at Lanseria International Airport by senior South African Government officials. This year’s summit is especially significant, marking the first time the African continent is hosting the G20 under South Africa’s presidency. Expectations are high that the event will accelerate Africa’s transformation across trade, industry, technology and the creative economy.

Throughout the summit, President Bio is scheduled to engage global leaders in strategic discussions aimed at strengthening diplomatic ties, advancing Sierra Leone’s development agenda and amplifying Africa’s unified voice on the world stage.

Information Minister Applauds RAIC as One of Sierra Leone’s Top-Performing Commissions

Chairman of RAIC, Dr. Ibrahim Seaga Shaw presenting the Commission’s 2024 Annual Report the Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor A. Bah

The Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor A. Bah, has commended the Right to Access Information Commission (RAIC) as one of the most outstanding and best-performing institutions in Sierra Leone. He made the statement during the official handover of the Commission’s 2024 Annual Report on 17 November 2025 at the Ministry’s Headquarters on the 8th Floor of Youyi Building in Freetown.

Receiving the report, Chernor A. Bah praised the RAIC for its steadfast commitment to promoting transparency, accountability and improved governance. He noted that the Commission’s performance over the years has been exemplary, reflecting its strategic leadership and expanding role in strengthening information access across the country.

Presenting the 2024 report, the Chairman of RAIC, Dr. Ibrahim Seaga Shaw, highlighted the Commission’s transformative progress since the inception of his leadership. He recalled that when the current administration assumed office, the Commission had no annual report and had recorded only 112 information requests nationwide.

“Fast forward to 2023, the Commission received 19,496 information requests, showing the astronomical progress we have made,” Dr. Ibrahim Seaga Shaw stated. He acknowledged that although the 2024 figures show a marginal decline, he remains optimistic that next year’s performance will improve, citing the inclusion of Access to Information (ATI) and Proactive Disclosure of Information (PDI) as key performance indicators under the State House Delivery Unit.

Dr. Ibrahim Seaga Shaw underscored that the submission of the Annual Report aligns fully with Section 41 of the RAI Act, which mandates the Commission to provide details of its achievements, activities and audited financial statements every year. He expressed confidence that the 2024 report “will make for good reading.”

Minister Chernor Bah reaffirmed the Government’s strong commitment to supporting the RAIC, stating that its consistent excellence is no surprise, given its proven value to citizens, institutions and the overall governance ecosystem. He further revealed that the Ministry is currently working with the RAIC to expand its mandate to include Data Protection, transforming the Commission into a comprehensive authority capable of addressing modern information governance challenges.

The Minister also stressed the importance of collaboration with the Ministry of Communication and Technology to ensure that all Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) maintain functional websites that meet PDI standards. He confirmed that his Ministry will prepare a Cabinet Paper requiring MDAs to develop and regularly update official websites to enhance transparent communication.

Deputy Minister of Information and Civic Education, Abdel Aziz Bawoh and the Director of Information, Emmanuel Turay, also commended the RAIC for its remarkable progress. They encouraged sustained collaboration, particularly ahead of the upcoming National Civic Festival, where the RAIC is expected to showcase its achievements and engage directly with the public.

The RAIC delegation included Executive Secretary Hon. Mustapha Braima and other senior officials who joined the Chairman in reaffirming the Commission’s commitment to advancing the right to information nationwide.

Transport Ministry Charts New Vision; SLCAA Honoured for Performance at 2025 Annual Retreat

Stakeholders n the transport industry at the 2025 Annual Transport Sector Retreat

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Ministry of Transport and Aviation has successfully concluded its 2025 Annual Transport Sector Retreat after three days of intensive engagement, strategic dialogue and sector-wide evaluation held on Friday November 21, 2025 at the Njala Venue in Bo City. The event, themed: “Enhancing Quality Service Delivery in the Transport Sector,” brought together all agencies under the Ministry to review performance, strengthen collaboration and chart the strategic direction for the sector.

The retreat ended on a high note with a colourful award ceremony during which the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) received special recognition for Outstanding Performance in the Performance Tracking Table; a strong endorsement of the Authority’s dedication to safety, regulatory efficiency and exemplary service delivery.

Senior Permanent Secretary, Edward Kwame Yankson, opened the retreat by emphasizing the importance of unified sector reflection and transformation. Drawing from Chinua Achebe’s The Arrow of God, he reminded participants that, “If you know where the rain began to beat you, you will know where to dry your body,” underscoring the need to understand past challenges to shape effective solutions.

He also announced the addition of two new institutions, the Sierra Leone Railway Regulatory Agency and the Sierra Leone National Shipping Agency, highlighting the need for clear direction as they integrate into the national transport ecosystem.

Resident Minister South, Chief John Abu, commended the Ministry for its leadership in convening the retreat, stressing that the transport sector remains central to economic development, education, tourism, trade and national mobility. He reiterated that the performance of the sector directly feeds into President Bio’s broader agenda for a resilient and competitive economy.

The Director of Public Sector Reform Unit (PSRU), Sulaiman Phoray-Musa, praised the Ministry for its outstanding leadership in performance management. He noted that transport agencies consistently lead in meeting performance contract obligations and applauded ongoing Government reforms in remuneration, digitalization and institutional development.

In his keynote address, the Minister of Transport and Aviation, Ambassador (Rtd.) Col. Alhaji Fanday Turay, reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to building efficient, safe and sustainable transport systems. He highlighted significant achievements over the past two years and noted the importance of evaluating where the sector started, where it stands and where it is heading.

He stressed that the transport sector must operate as “one interconnected ecosystem,” rather than fragmented agencies, citing the roles of SLRSA, SLPTA, SLMA, SLPHA, SLAA, SLCAA, and AAIIB in ensuring safety, compliance and quality service across the board. Developing a two-year strategic plan, he said, will remain a top priority to guide progress and ensure alignment with national development goals.

Director of Transport, Mohammed Hindolo Shiaka, delivered a presentation on the theme: “Planning for Sustainable E-Mobility for All,” calling on all agencies to integrate e-mobility into their strategic frameworks. He emphasized that sustainable e-mobility is not merely a shift from petrol to electric vehicles but a complete reimagining of transport systems to minimize pollution, reduce energy costs and increase accessibility.

Acting Director of Government Information Service, Emmanuel B. Turay, urged agencies to strengthen visibility by recruiting trained communication specialists. He emphasized the need for proactive media engagement and robust communication strategies that ensure stakeholders, development partners and the public are consistently informed.

The final day of the retreat featured a detailed overview of the Transport Sector Performance Contract, highlighting sector-wide progress and priority areas. The SLCAA delivered a comprehensive presentation titled: “What the Ministry of Transport and Aviation Needs to Know About Aviation.”

The session unpacked the structure of the aviation ecosystem, mandates of key aviation institutions, SLCAA, FIA, SLAA, SLAIIB, compliance with ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs), coordination mechanisms, operational challenges and strategic proposals to advance national aviation development.

The retreat concluded with an elegant awards dinner. SLPHA was announced as the Best Performing Agency of the Year, while SLNSA, SLAA, SLPTA, SLCAA, and SLMA also received awards for excellence, partnership, discipline and long service. Several Ministry staff were similarly honoured.

Senior officials expressed gratitude to the Inter-Agency Planning Committee, agency heads and local authorities for their unwavering support throughout the retreat.

The Ministry reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to collaboration, unity and innovation as it works toward building a safe, reliable, modern and people-centered transport system for Sierra Leone.

With SLCAA’s strong showing on the retreat’s final day, the Authority continues to position itself as a leading force in improving aviation safety, regulatory compliance and service excellence within the national transport ecosystem.

Dr. Austin Demby Calls for Bold Vision as Sierra Leone Crafts 2026–2030 Health Plan

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Sierra Leone has concluded a three-day national workshop in Freetown to advance the formulation of the National Health Sector Strategic Plan (NHSSP) 2026–2030; an ambitious roadmap expected to guide the country’s health system transformation over the next five years. The gathering brought together more than 120 participants, including senior officials from the Ministry of Health, other Ministries, Departments and Agencies, development partners and representatives from the wider health sector.

The session marked a major milestone in Sierra Leone’s efforts to accelerate progress toward Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and reinforce national health security. Led by the Ministry of Health with technical support from the World Health Organization (WHO) and other partners, the new NHSSP is expected to build on key lessons from the outgoing 2021–2025 strategy.

The workshop opened with the presentation of findings from the End-Term Review of the NHSSP 2021–2025, jointly conducted by the NHSSP core team and national and international consultants. The review served as an evidence-rich foundation for identifying emerging priorities, persistent challenges and areas that require stronger investment and reform.

Minister of Health, Dr. Austin Demby, described the planning process as transformative and urged stakeholders to contribute toward a unified national vision. “This moment calls for bold action. The next five years of healthcare in Sierra Leone must be defined by our collective vision, not our constraints,” he stated. He emphasized that the new plan must deliver high-quality care for every Sierra Leonean, strengthen communities, and integrate real-time data for proactive health system management. “Partners will align with our national direction, but the drive, the ownership and the responsibility rest with us. This is our opportunity to make history and we must seize it,” he added.

WHO played a central technical role, deploying four international experts to support the strategic development process, while UNICEF contributed through the engagement of a national consultant. WHO Country Representative, Dr. George Ameh, stressed the importance of producing a forward-looking and coherent plan that unifies all sector actors. “The plan must reflect the voices, needs and realities of the national, district and community levels. It must serve as a common reference point for all partners; ensuring alignment, reducing fragmentation and promoting accountability,” he said, reaffirming WHO’s commitment to ongoing support.

Throughout the intensive three-day workshop, participants collaborated to refine the strategic objectives and proposed interventions for the new NHSSP. Discussions incorporated district and community-level insights, reinforcing the Ministry’s Aid Memoire principle of “One Plan, One Budget, One Report.” That unified approach is expected to enhance sector coordination, programme alignment and the basis for effective costing, resource mobilization and accountability.

The workshop concluded with a clear set of recommendations and priority actions aligned across all directorates and programmes. These priorities place strong emphasis on strengthening primary health care, improving service delivery at community level and bolstering essential health system components such as the workforce, infrastructure, financing and supply chain management.

Sierra Leone enters the next phase of developing the NHSSP 2026–2030 with decisive steps aimed at building a more resilient, equitable and people-centred health system; one capable of delivering high-quality care to all citizens by the end of the decade.

SLAJ President Hails SLRU’s Historic AGM, Backs New Constitution for Reporters’ Welfare

President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), Alhaji Manika Kamara

By Ibrahim Sesay

The President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), Alhaji Manika Kamara, has hailed the revival of the Sierra Leone Reporters Union (SLRU) as a “history-making moment” while addressing its Annual General Meeting held on Friday, 21st November 2025, in Makeni, Northern Region. The meeting, themed: “The New Constitution: A Blueprint for the Welfare of Reporters,” brought together reporters from across the country in what was widely described as one of the most significant gatherings of the Union in more than two decades.

In his opening remarks, Alhaji Manika Kamara expressed deep honour in joining the SLRU at a time when the Union is regaining its footing and reclaiming its role within the national media architecture. He congratulated the Executive and membership for successfully convening an AGM after such a long hiatus, calling it “a remarkable milestone that sets the stage for a stronger, more structured reporting body.”

He commended the Union’s choice of theme, stating that it reflects the growing need to protect and empower reporters operating in an increasingly complex and dangerous environment. He stressed that the new constitution must address key concerns such as welfare, professionalism, safety, accountability and institutional clarity; elements he described as “critical to the health of Sierra Leone’s democracy.”

Looking back at efforts to rebuild the Union, the SLAJ President noted the significant progress made since 2024 when the commitment to strengthen SLRU was first announced. He extended special acknowledgement to Mohamed Jaward Nyallay, then Secretary General of SLRU, for supporting the joint press release that mobilized reporters nationwide to participate in leadership renewal.

Under his ACTION Manifesto, Alhaji Manika Kamara stated that strengthening affiliate bodies remains a priority. He expressed optimism that the Sierra Leone Women in Journalism Association (SWASAL), the Court Reporters Union and the Parliamentary Press Gallery (PPG-SL) will follow SLRU’s example as they review their own constitutions and governance structures. He emphasized that SLAJ’s vision is to foster a “structured, united and forward-looking” media ecosystem.

Speaking on long-standing welfare issues, the SLAJ President emphasized that no meaningful conversation on media welfare can exclude issues of safety and security. He revealed that SLAJ has been in continuous engagement with the security sector, including the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, who have assured the Association that no journalist will be taken to the CID for matters arising strictly from their journalistic duties. He noted that SLAJ has also maintained close collaboration with the leadership of the Sierra Leone Police to reinforce that commitment.

Alhaji Manika Kamara underscored the importance of improving working conditions for reporters, whom he described as frontline practitioners carrying the heavy burden of informing the public, exposing wrongdoing, amplifying community voices and defending democratic values. “The conditions under which reporters operate do not always reflect their societal value,” he lamented, noting that a constitution that places their welfare at the centre is “a significant step toward ensuring dignity, safety, fair remuneration and professional development.”

He reaffirmed SLAJ’s support for SLRU in pursuing a modern and inclusive constitution that strengthens the Union and enhances the broader media environment. He also disclosed ongoing engagements with the Ministry of Labour, as well as plans to meet with the Guild of Newspaper Editors and Station Managers, to work on sustainable frameworks for improved salaries and regular NASSIT contributions for reporters and media workers.

As the AGM continued with deliberations, the SLAJ President encouraged members to envision a media future in which every reporter is respected, empowered and protected, and able to perform their duties without fear or intimidation.

“SLAJ remains your steadfast partner on this journey,” he assured, wishing the gathering a productive and forward-looking session.

Guild of Editors Condemns CID Raid on The Watch Newspaper

Guild of Newspaper Editors chairman, Thomas Dixon (left) and IGP, William F. Sellu

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Guild of Newspaper Editors – Sierra Leone (GoNE-SL) has strongly condemned a police raid on the offices of The Watch Newspaper, carried out on Tuesday, 18th November 2025, by officers of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID). The Guild described the incident as an alarming act of intimidation and a direct threat to press freedom in the country.

According to staff who witnessed the operation, CID officers stormed the premises claiming they were searching for the Managing Editor of The Gleaner Newspaper. Workers immediately clarified that The Gleaner does not operate from that address. Despite that clarification, the officers allegedly insisted that the Secretary of The Watch accompany them to CID headquarters for further questioning.

The Guild denounced the raid as harassment, stressing that police invasions of media institutions have no place in a democratic society. Guild Chairman, Thomas Dixon, said the action amounted to intimidation aimed at punishing journalists for publishing legitimate stories. “Media houses should not be subjected to police raids for publishing a story. If the Police want intelligence, they can use the story as a lead. What they did on that day amounts to harassment and intimidation. There are many people online with pictures and videos of Jos Leijdekkers who could be of immense help to them,” he noted.

GoNE-SL emphasized that journalists are under no obligation to provide intelligence to law enforcement and that newsrooms are not extensions of the Police. The Guild said the incident undermines the ability of reporters to work freely and without fear.

The Guild called on the Sierra Leone Police to explain the circumstances that led to the raid, ensure accountability and desist from any further interference with the operations of media institutions.

Reaffirming its mission, the Guild stated that it remains committed to defending the rights, safety and independence of journalists and editors across Sierra Leone.

The statement was signed by the Secretary-General of GoNE-SL, Ishmail Saidu Kanu, Esq.

NCRA Intensifies Crackdown on Identity Fraud with Canadian-Led Document Security Training

Director General of NCRA, Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA), in partnership with the High Commission of Canada, on Thursday 20 November 2025 held a high-level fraud awareness and document security training for frontline and technical NCRA staff in Freetown; marking a significant step in Sierra Leone’s fight against identity manipulation.

The initiative comes at a time when global threats to identity integrity are escalating and Sierra Leone continues to expand its digital ID ecosystem to enhance national security, service delivery and public trust.

Speaking shortly after the session, the Director General of NCRA, Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi, reaffirmed the Authority’s strong commitment to enhancing document authentication processes, strengthening staff capacity and deepening collaboration with national and international partners.

“With partners like the High Commission of Canada, we are laying a firm foundation for a secure and credible national identity system,” Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi said. “This is about national security, economic stability and protecting every Sierra Leonean.”

Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi has been leading an aggressive nationwide campaign to combat identity fraud, declaring it “a fight that we must win.”

The day’s training was delivered by Jennifer O’Connell, a seasoned expert of the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), who has spent over two decades working in border protection, immigration enforcement and anti-fraud operations. Her mission is to equip NCRA officers with modern tools to detect fraudulent attempts before they penetrate national systems.

Ms. Jennifer O’Connell detailed common methods used in identity manipulation, including counterfeit birth certificates, altered death records and other fraudulent documents frequently exploited for human trafficking, illegal migration and financial or cross-border crime.

Addressing the gathering, Alfred B. Sesay, Director of Human Resources Management at the NCRA, stressed the urgency of the fight.

“Identity fraud is a national security threat and we are confronting it head-on,” he said. He underscored that foundational identity records; births, deaths, marriages, national ID cards and the National Identification Number (NIN) form the backbone of all other services, including passports, banking and social protection.

Alfred Sesay further disclosed ongoing engagements with the Immigration Department to ensure that the NIN becomes a mandatory requirement for all passport applications. This, he said, would eliminate the loopholes that previously enabled individuals to secure passports without verifiable identity information in the national database.

“It is unacceptable for anyone to carry a newly issued passport that our system cannot validate,” he emphasized. “A passport must be anchored on a verified national identity. That era of shortcuts is ending.”

He also encouraged staff to embrace their role as gatekeepers of national identity. “Our frontline staff are custodians of citizens’ information. Clean, accurate data strengthens the entire system. This training equips us to detect fraud and protect the national identity ecosystem.”

Senior staff, including Mohamed S. Konuwa, Abubakarr Javombo and Sahr Foday, echoed the need for stronger collaboration with immigration authorities, medical regulators and security agencies to ensure consistent verification of foundational documents.

Participants reflected on several fraud risks encountered in Sierra Leone, such as attempts to acquire passports without national IDs, manipulation of birth or death certificates for inheritance disputes, falsified medical documents, insider threats within institutions and forged papers used to move children across borders. One NCRA officer remarked, “When someone presents a passport that has no corresponding national identity record, that is not simply a mistake; it is a red flag. Our duty is to say no and protect the system.”

The training followed a recent engagement with Canada’s Consular Office, led by the Honorary Consul for Canada in Sierra Leone, Kofie Macauley, who announced that Sierra Leoneans seeking Canadian services will no longer need to travel to Guinea or Ghana for biometric fingerprinting; thanks to upgraded capabilities now available in Freetown.

Commending the proactive stance of Sierra Leone, Ms. Jennifer O’Connell described the civil registry as “the heartbeat of national identity.”

“Your officers are the first line of defence,” she said, warning that once fraudulent foundational documents enter the system, every other national document becomes compromised. She cited global cases where poorly verified certificates enabled human trafficking, welfare fraud, illegal migration and transnational crime.

The training ended with renewed motivation among participants, who described the session as timely, practical and crucial in strengthening national security and restoring public confidence in Sierra Leone’s identity ecosystem.

Staff of NCRA pose for picture with the delegation from the High Commission of Canada after high-level fraud awareness and document security training

PPRC Replies APC: “Our Decision Is Based on Law and Verified Proof”

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC) has formally responded to the All People’s Congress (APC), firmly defending its decision to impose a fine on the party for breaching Section 39(1) of the Political Parties Act No. 25 of 2022. The reply, dated 20th November 2025, was addressed to the APC National Secretary-General and signed by the Commission’s Executive Secretary, Olusegon A. David.

In its letter, the PPRC reiterated that the fine issued against the APC was lawful, procedurally correct and grounded in explicit provisions of the 2022 Act. It emphasized that the penalty was imposed pursuant to Section 39(2)(a), which mandates the Commission to take regulatory action once there is proof of a violation.

The Commission clarified that all decisions taken, including the recent punitive action,were based strictly on law and facts before it. The response highlighted that on 11th November 2025, the Commission convened a meeting with both the APC and the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) to address rising incidents of inciting and inflammatory public statements by members of the two main political parties. The PPRC said the purpose of the meeting was to de-escalate tensions and preserve public order.

According to the Commission, that engagement ended with the APC and SLPP signing an agreement committing themselves to responsible conduct and restraint. Immediately afterward and in line with Section 39(2)(a) the Commission issued a formal warning letter.

Responding to the APC’s demand for “verified evidence,” the PPRC stressed that Section 39(2) clearly states that proof for punitive action must be “upon proof by the Commission,” not by political parties. The Commission said the responsibility for establishing such proof rests squarely with it and all procedural steps outlined under Section 39(2)(a–d) were fully observed.

The PPRC further noted that the 14-day deadline given to the APC to comply with the sanction expires on 2nd December 2025, after which it will be compelled to invoke additional punitive measures provided under the Act if compliance is not met.

The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the rule of law, political stability and ensuring that all political parties adhere to the standards required for a peaceful and democratic Sierra Leone.

The correspondence was copied to several key national and international stakeholders, including the Chairman and Commissioners of the PPRC, the Chairman of the APC, the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the World Bank, UNDP, the European Union Delegation, the Embassies of the United States, Ireland, China, Germany and representatives of the African Union and ECOWAS.

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