Carter Center Observer Mission Arrives in Sierra Leone to Monitor Elections

May 12, 2023

The Carter Center has on the 10^th May, 2023 launched an international election observation mission to Sierra Leone in advance of the country’s national elections scheduled for June 24.

The Center was invited to observe this year’s elections by the Election Commission of Sierra Leone (ECSL).

A four-person core team of experts arrived in Freetown from the United States, Poland, Kenya, and the United Kingdom. Additional electoral experts and medium-term observers from around the world will join them in advance of the campaign period, followed by short-term observers and high-level leadership around Election Day.

“We look forward to engaging with Sierra Leonean stakeholders across the political spectrum and providing an independent and impartial assessment of the electoral process. We hope that our observation and reporting will provide important information to Sierra Leonean citizens, key recommendations to stakeholders, and help uphold transparency for the remainder of the electoral process,” said Carter Center Field Office Director Nicholas Jahr.

“The Carter Center has had a longstanding commitment to democracy in Sierra Leone, and we are honored to launch this International Election Observation Mission in support of the electoral process,” said Barbara J. Smith, the Carter Center’s Vice President for Peace Programs.

The Carter Center conducts election observation work in accordance with the 2005 Declaration of Principles for International Election Observation and makes assessments based on relevant parts of national legal frameworks as well as regional and international obligations for democratic elections.

The Carter Center has been a force for peace in Sierra Leone since 2002, when it observed the first presidential and parliamentary elections following the end of Sierra Leone’s devastating civil war. Since then, The Carter Center has played a role in the country’s 2007, 2012, and 2018 national elections.

The Carter Center has observed more than 110 elections in 39 countries.

PPRC Launches Strategic Communication Plan to Deepen Dialogue & Engagement

May 12, 2023

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

With financial support from the European Union and technical assistance by the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance ( IDEA), the Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC) has on Tuesday 9^th May 2023 launched its strategic commutations plan designed to deepen dialogue and engagement with political stakeholders and further consolidate PPRC critical role as a fair and trusted political parties’ regulatory agency.

The formal launch took place on Tuesday 9th May 2023 at the recently refurbished conference center of the Commission, in the presence of the political parties, the Media, Civil Society Organizations, and the project donor – the European Union.

The strategy which was developed by the Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC) in consultation with political stakeholders, with the financial support from the European Union and technical assistance by the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance , is designed to support the PPRC to effectively communicate its renewed mandate and functions as enshrined in the Political Parties Act of 2022; inform the public of its activities; and foster trust and confidence among political actors and citizens at large.

Speaking on behalf of International IDEA, the Head of the Sierra Leone Country Programme, Dr Idrissa Mamoud Tarawallie noted that: “The Sierra Leone Democracy Strengthening Programme will be here to support the PPRC and other electoral and democratic governance institutions including the media long after the elections, as part of its overall objective of supporting democratic consolidation in Sierra Leone”.

In his keynote address and Launching the Plan, the Chairman of PPRC Abdulai Masiyambay Bangurah said: “The work of the PRRC among other things includes communicating our policies and process to political parties and other stakeholders. The new PPRC communication strategy supported by International IDEA positions us to effectively communicate and engage with stakeholders, especially considering the provisions of the 2022 PPRC Act”.

Speaking on behalf of the European Union Delegation to Sierra Leone, Serena Britannia (Head of Governance and CSOs) stated that: “The European Union remain committed to supporting Sierra Leone’s democratic consolidation initiatives, and we hope that the development and launch of the new PPRC Communication Plan will further strengthen the Commission’s capacity to engage meaningfully with the political parties and electoral stakeholders and effectively implement its mandate .”

Foreign Affairs Minister References ARISE IIP’s Investment as Testimony of Peace & Security

May 12, 2023

Sierra Leone’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Professor David Francis, has intimated his counterpart in Morocco, the Moroccan Minister of Foreign Affairs and Moroccans Living Abroad, H. E. Nasser Bourita, that the launching of a Special Industrial Zone, recently by President Bio, which is currently under implementation by a reputable investment entity, ARISE Integrated Industrial Platforms, is a clear manifestation of the existence of peace and security in the country.

Professor David Francis made that statement as the Government of Sierra Leone held the 3rd Joint Commission for Cooperation with the Kingdom of Morocco geared towards enhancing a fruitful bilateral relationship.

Under the Joint Commission for Cooperation, thirteen agreements were signed ranging from Agriculture, Trade and Investment, Tourism, Energy, Health, Education, Justice Sector, Land and Urban Planning, Mining sector and Infrastructure.

Welcoming the Sierra Leone delegation, the Moroccan Minister of Foreign Affairs and Moroccans Living Abroad, H. E. Nasser Bourita, underscored how Sierra Leone and Morocco have maintained longstanding bilateral relations ranging from 1996 to date.

He briefly dilated on the significance of the Dakhla agreements and congratulated both the legal teams from Sierra Leone’s and Morocco’s Foreign Ministries for drafting the various agreements very well which he maintained are in the best interest of both countries.

E Bourita highlighted the significant benefit to Dakhla city where the Moroccan Government is constructing a mega port to ease trade and investment in the country, noting that the signing of the agreement in Dakhla is a manifestation of their commitment towards a sustainable investment partnership with Sierra Leone.

“Sierra Leone under the enlightened leadership of His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio is becoming a strategic partner with a special development model. With these Dakhla agreements, we will be able to take advantage and explore opportunities in the mining sector, agriculture, energy, and more areas,” he assured.

Leading the Sierra Leone delegation, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Professor David Francis, described Morocco as a trustworthy and reliable partner.

“What we are doing here today is in line with the goals and aspirations of our two leaders; His Excellency Dr. Julius Maada Bio and His Majesty the King of Morocco Mohammed the 6th. We are not just friends, or partners, we are allies. Your interest is our interest.

We are also here to learn from the development models of Morocco as agreements signed today cover the critical aspect of a country that aspires to a middle-income status. President Bio has established a credible institution known as the National Investment Board that ensures the protection of Foreign Direct Investment in the country,” Professor Francis assured while emphasizing the mutual benefits of the agreements.

Professor Francis also highlighted developments in the area of fighting corruption, abolition of the death penalty, gender empowerment, the repeal of the Criminal Libel Laws, the successful implementation of Free Quality Education, and other reforms under the leadership of President Bio.

He commended the leadership of Morocco for promoting Global peace and security amidst rising tensions in the region while calling for the support of Morocco in Sierra Leone’s bid for a non-permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council (2024-25).

On the part of the Minister of Trade & Industry, Dr. Hinga Sandy, he commended the agreements maintaining that they form an integral part of the principles of the Africa Continental Free Trade Agreement which both countries have signed to.

Sierra Leone Ranked Amongst 9 Incredible World Wildlife Tourism Spots

May 12, 2023

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leone has made it once again amongst the 9 incredible places to visit for Wildlife Tourism.

These nine places are Guernsey, UK, Monterey County, California, USA, Antigua and Barbuda, Toronto, Canada, A Coruña, Spain, Yorkshire, UK, Freetown, Sierra Leone, Washington D.C, USA, and AlUla, Saudi Arabia.

22 years after the end of the civil war and after surviving a major Ebola epidemic, Sierra Leone is working hard to up its tourist game. Sierra Leone today is a very peaceful nation, with incredibly welcoming locals (bonus point as they all speak English, which makes it very easy to communicate) and lots to see and do.

While the tourist infrastructure is still being improved outside of Freetown, if tourists come to the country prepared, and are ready to rough it up a bit, they will be rewarded with views of paradisiacal long, white sandy beaches fringed by palm trees; a thick-as-it-comes jungle with lots of wildlife to spot; and a number of colonial style buildings that are a photographer’s dream and much more.

It may not be the first African country that springs to mind for spring trips, but Sierra Leone’s tourist industry is set to change, thanks to a brand new airport terminal which opened in Freetown in March which is five times larger than its prior terminal. It is the first green terminal in West Africa – completely powered by solar energy.

Of course, this development isn’t the sole reason to visit Sierra Leone’s capital. But just outside of Freetown is a chance to get close to the country’s beloved chimpanzees. In the Western Area Peninsula National Park, the Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary was first launched to rescue and rehabilitate chimpanzees, but now it has become a diverse conservation organization, and home to more than 100 of these beloved animals. Tourists are invited to complete their eco-adventure with a stay in one of the six eco lodges in this area.

The country has famous heritage sites such as Bunce Island, the Old Fourah Bay College and the Sierra Leone National Museum awaiting to be explored. Tourists can visit the Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary and witness Sierra Leone’s national animal, the Chimpanzee in the wild. Tourists can also take a trip to the Gola Rainforest National Park a catalyst for sustainability and environmental protection in Sierra Leone. Tourists can also relax on one of Sierra Leone’s plentiful beaches such as River No.2, Tokeh, Lakka, Lumley and Bureh Beach among others.

Sierra Leone has something for everyone, and provides a unique blend of cultures, dance, food, people and acceptance. The country is a safe and friendly location with many activities to do within the city of Freetown and in the provincial areas.

The Government’s Health Expenditure amounts to 16% of Sierra Leone’s total GDP, which is among the highest in West Africa and the world at large. The average annual temperature is 27°C.

10 Incredible Things Tourists Can Do In Sierra Leone

As a tourist landing at the Freetown International Airport in Lungi, it makes sense to start your trip around Sierra Leone right in the capital. Perched on the hills and overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Freetown is a very lively and actually very multicultural city. The city is rich in history and offers an excellent range of attractions that will help tourists get better understanding of the country’s culture and past. Places you should visit in Freetown include:

The National Railway Museum – First opened in 2005, located in Cline Town, East of Freetown. This is quite a unique attraction in a country where the last train ran in 1975. The exhibit is made of a series of documents and photos that recollect the history of the Sierra Leone Government Railway, as well as a number of locos, a Hunslet tank, a few diesel locos and even some coaches, including the one that was prepared for the visit of Queen Elizabeth II in 1961. It opens Monday to Friday, 9:30 am to 4:30 pm.

St. George’s Cathedral – Built between 1817 and 1828, located at George Street; this is one of the most beautiful churches in Freetown.

The Cotton Tree – The oldest and most famous Cotton Tree in Freetown is located close to the Supreme Court building and the National Museum. This is the tree under which returnees from Nova Scotia prayed once they returned to Sierra Leone.

Sierra Leone National Museum – Close to the famous Cotton Tree, and opened in 1957. This is a small but interesting museum with an exhibit that will walk you through the most fascinating traditions and the most prominent figures from Sierra Leone’s past.

Peace Museum and Memorial – Opened in 2013, this museum is located on the grounds of the Special Court of Sierra Leone (SCSL), Jomo Kenyatta Road. Its exhibits are dedicated to the people who contributed to the creation of modern Sierra Leone and to the victims of the civil war.

Fourah Bay College – A gorgeous abandoned building, in Cline Town, east of Freetown, built before WW II. It was used as the headquarters of Sierra Leone Government Railway, and later as a Magistrate Court. The building caught fire during the war. Beginning 1999, the Old FBC building has been claimed by lush vegetation. This beautiful colonial architecture provides visitors with excellent photo opportunities.

The View from Leicester Peak – The highest mountain in Freetown rises 500 meters above sea level and it’s a favorite hangout spot for locals. Tourists can visit this spot to take-in the breath-taking view of Freetown, and enjoy the cool breeze.

A Day in the Banana Islands

Once used for the trade of slaves to the United States by the English, and then a place for returnees once slavery was abolished, the three islands – Dublin and Ricketts, inhabited and linked by a causeway, and the smaller uninhabited Mes-Meheux – can be reached by boat from Kent Village, about one hour drive from Freetown.

Once there, tourists can explore the village where a small community of around 800 people live. There are two beautiful churches to see. The Big Sand Beach is there to chill under palm trees, where tourists can also snorkel or dive. Local fishermen are very friendly. Should you get hungry, there is a small but good restaurant at the beach that serves delicious dishes of freshly caught seafood.

Wildlife in Tiwai Wildlife Sanctuary

The Moa River and the thick tropical rain-forest that surrounds Tiwai Wildlife Sanctuary is the ultimate place in the country to admire wildlife. A boat ride along the river will give you the chance to spot various species of birds and monkeys hanging from the trees; crocodile and – should you be lucky – you may even spot the elusive Pygmy Hippo (easier to spot during the dry season, and at night).

Explore Bonthe

Getting to Bonthe, in Sherbro Island on the Sherbro River estuary, requires a bit of a trip, but it’s worth the effort. Locals know it as Christmas Island – mainly because it’s a favorite destination for holidays.

In the 19th century, Bonthe was a British control post against the slave trade. Freed slaves settled there and the town grew to become a shipping port.

Relax at Turtle Islands

Turtle Islands are made of 8 small islands in the Atlantic Ocean, inhabited by fishing communities. Quite removed from the rest of the country, they have amendable and basic essentials to offer. There is a basic guesthouse right by the beach, but you are probably better off bringing your own tent (complete with rain cover) and even your own food supplies, and anything you need to prepare a meal. Go there to completely disconnect from the stress of daily life – enjoy a walk along the beach; go for a swim in the warm waters; take photos of the sand bar and enjoy the tranquility of this remote place.

The Slave Trade in Bunce Island

Located in Tagrin Bay and easy to reach by ferry from Freetown, Bunce was home to the largest British slave castle on the Rice Coast of West Africa. Bunce was founded in 1670; from there, tens of thousands of African slaves departed to North America and the West Indies, until the slave trade was finally abolished in 1808.

Most of the buildings used by the slave traders are now abandoned – but they are still fascinating to see.

Local Food Specialties

Food in Sierra Leone is simple but full of flavor. In most places, you can expect to find freshly caught fish (especially barracuda) which you can have grilled and served with rice.

Sierra Leone’s tourism industry has significant potential for growth as the country showcases its tourist sites and natural resources. Building human capacity in the tourism and hospitality industry provides prospects for investment in this sector.

Companies can invest in building resorts, hotels, and restaurants along the stretch of white sand beaches and providing tourism services, including touring, sport fishing, bird watching, and hiking.

It’s time to explore the verdant landscape and the pristine beaches of Mama Salone.

Orange SL Observes Weeklong Activity to Commemorate 2023 EHS Week

May 10, 2023

By Abubakarr Harding

As part of its annual Environment Health and Safety Week Celebrations, Orange SL on Monday 2nd May 2023, commenced a weeklong activity to mark this year’s EHS Week on the Theme: “Taking Sustainable Steps to Reduce our Carbon Footprint”.

The EHS week kicked off with a Morning Coffee session for employees to elaborate the goal of the EHS week and their collective responsibility on environmental protection and the need to reduce our carbon emissions.

In a video message to all staff, during the EHS Morning Coffee session, CEO Sekou Amadu Bah said Orange SL is committed towards maintaining a culture that values and prioritize environmental health and safety issues. He furthered that climate change is a critical issue that affects everyone, which is why Orange SL, being a responsible corporate citizen, recognizes the need to take sustainable action by reducing their carbon footprint, hence the need to increase the company’s renewable energy ratio target by optimizing its operations and investing in renewable energy consumption.

CEO Sekou Amadu Bah said Orange’s commitment towards reducing the telecommunications company’s carbon emissions is in alignment with the Group’s strategy to lead the future which prioritizes environmental responsibility with the aim of protecting and preserving the environment for future generation.

He further noted that “as individuals and as a company, we have a responsibility to protect the environment. We believe that everyone has a role to play in reducing the impact of our daily activities on the planet. It’s important to recognize the crucial role that the environment plays as it affects our businesses, customers, employees, and communities.” The CEO concluded by saying: “Nature will be better without Human, Humans need nature. Nature does not need us. The whole world would be green if we did not exist. Nature exists to make our lives better.”

Highlighting the importance of Environmental Health and Safety in our daily lives, the Human Resource Director who also doubles as the EHS Chairperson, Agnes Songa, stated that EHS involves the process of identifying, assessing, and controlling the risks associated with human activities, products and services that could impact lives.

She mentioned that Orange has taken significant steps towards reducing its environmental footprint by being the first telecoms company to acquire an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) license and complying to its terms and conditions. She said as part of the company’s efforts in creating awareness amongst its employees, Orange SL has instituted several training programs in Freetown and the provincial areas on both Environmental Health and Safety and Occupational Health and Safety to help minimize risks associated with their daily actions.

She encouraged all to work together towards creating a safer, healthier and sustainable world not only for us now but for future generations.

The Chief Climate Officer, Danetta Younge, in her welcome address at the OSL EHS day emphasized the importance of environmental responsibility and that the theme is a call to action for all of to make conscious efforts towards protecting the environment and preserving it for future generations. She also highlighted the importance of considering environmental conservation in all of the company’s operations which has resulted in the solarization of 70% of OSL Network sites in order to reduce the carbon emissions derived from its operations.

Other activities outlined to commemorate this year’s EHS celebration included site inspections by the Executive Chairman of Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Dr Gbondi Gavao and EHS Day Symposium with the Honourable Minister of Environment, Professor Foday Jaward serving as our Keynote Speaker.

The weeklong activities culminated with OSL employees planting of 3,000 trees at the mud slide site at Mortomeh, led by the CEO Sekou Amadou Bah, in partnership with Youth Alliance and Commonwealth.

EHS TREE PLANTING ACTIVICITY SPEARHEADED BY THE CEO, EHS CHAIR & CHIEF CLIMATE OFFICER

4 FBC Students Depart for Morocco on 6 Weeks Scholarship Course

May 10, 2023

By Foday Moriba Conteh

During a snap sendoff ceremony held at the Architecture Department Building at the Tree Planting Community in Freetown, the Acting Head of the Department of Architecture, Fourah Bay College, Architect Ken Ndomahina has on Saturday 6^th May, 2023 intimated pressmen that Four (4) Final students of the Department of Architecture, Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, Fourah Bay College will depart Sierra Leone to Fez in Morocco on a 6 Weeks Scholarship Study program.

The Four final year students who will be studying in Morocco from the 7th May to 16th June 2023, according to Architect Ken Ndomahina, comprise Malinda Rosamond Deveneaux, Toluwani Mercy Jegede, Simeon Koroma and Olufemi Julian Alphonso Pratt who will undertake a research in Fez, Morocco to understand certain specific needs, challenges and opportunities.

Architect Ken Ndomahina disclosed how the course will be led by Prof. Aziza Chaouni from the Daniels School of Architecture, University of Toronto in collaboration with the School of Architecture and Industrial Design at the University of Euro Mediterranean in Fez, Morocco and Municipality of Fez.

He added that this is a first of its kind opportunity offering a summer studio set on the African continent with direct collaboration with Canadian, Moroccan and Sierra Leonean architecture students and a wide array of local stakeholders including craftsmen and craftswomen.

Architect Ken Ndomahina stated that although the Department of Architecture, FBC is only four (4) years old, it has been able to establish and foster good relationships with a number of institutions and organizations in four continents with visits to the Department on a regular basis by Professors, Architects and Engineers working with and mentoring some 150 students in the undergraduate school.

He informed all that various institutions provided financial support to the students which includes the University of Toronto wavering of the tuition fees for the 6 weeks course, the Europe Mediterranean University in Fez in Morocco providing lodging, meals and transportation, the American Institute of Architects providing the return air tickets stating that the cost for the 6 weeks study program, including return air fare tickets, is Four Thousand USA Dollars ($4,000) per student.

The Acting Head of the Department of Architecture concluded by urging the students to be Ambassadors of the Department of Architecture, the University of Sierra Leone and the country as a whole.

On his part, the Vice Chancellor of Fourah Bay College in Sierra Leone, Prof. Kelleh Mansaray, expressed gratitude and appreciation to the institutions that provided financial support to the students in order for them to travel to Morocco for the 6 weeks course which he described as very important to the development of not only the pupils but the country as a whole.

He said as the Vice Chancellor of Fourah Bay College he is very pleased that 4 students are departing Sierra Leone to Fez in Morocco on a 6 Weeks Scholarship Study program.

Prof. Kelleh Mansaray said that during his tenure as the Dean of Engineering in 2017 he facilitated the establishment of the Department of Architecture at Fourah Bay College with the support of his predecessor who has already put the concept together for its establishment.

He said that during the meetings for the establishment of the department there were a lot of concerns but said he presented justifications for the establishment of the department and one of those justifications was the fact that the Government of Sierra Leone was spending 60,000 dollars yearly to train one Sierra Leonean aboard in Architecture and that training in Architecture lasts for 7 years which he said was a huge amount of money that the Government was spending.

He said since the establishment of the department they have been able to establish and foster good relationships with a number of institutions which has contributed towards its development.

One of the beneficiaries, Olufemi Julian Alphonso Pratt expressed appreciation to the Department of Architecture at Fourah Bay College for the opportunity given to them to travel to Fez in Morocco on a 6 Weeks Scholarship Study program.

He described the opportunity as very important towards equipping themselves with the requisite knowledge in Architecture, adding that as they will be studying alongside other students from different counties they will establish networks in order to learn new ideas which in return they will replicate to Sierra Leone on their return.

Caritas Freetown Strengthens Behavioral Change to Combat SGBV

May 10, 2023

By Abubakarr Harding

Caritas Freetown, on the 9^th May, 2023 continued its Quarterly Engagement with Men and Boys from 20 different communities in the Western Area at Twin Hall in Hastings Community. The training session was aimed at strengthening behavioral change for the prevention of Sexual Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) and promoting access to justice and hygiene education for vulnerable women and girls in the Western Area.

The training was part of Caritas Freetown’s ongoing efforts to end SGBV in the country. SGBV continues to be a major concern in Sierra Leone, with women and girls being disproportionately affected. The situation is further compounded by a lack of access to justice and limited awareness of hygiene practices.

To address these challenges, Caritas Freetown engaged with Men and Boys to enlighten them on the importance of behavioral change in preventing SGBV.

The training covered topics such as the rights of women and girls, the role of men and boys’ in responding to cases of SGBV, and ways to create a more enabling environment for women and girls to access justice and hygiene education, which was facilitated by Enoch Manasary and co-facilitated by Lucky Bah and Patrick Deen Kamara.

The training was well received by the participants who were given the opportunity to express their opinions and views relating to SGBV. They also promised to commit themselves to avoiding doing the act themselves and to help spread the knowledge in their different communities for them to create a more enabling environment for women and girls to actualize their fullest potentials and meaningful impact society.

Idriss Gibson Mansaray, Project Manager of Caritas Freetown, stated that the purpose of the engagement was to promote justice and hygiene education for SGBV victims, as well as to engage men and boys in the fight against SGBV.

He stated that the project will focus on engaging women and girls separately from men and boys, in order for each group to understand their own roles in society and the ways in which they may be contributing to stop the violation of women and girls.

He noted that the engagement with women and girls revealed a lot of the issues they face due to the actions of men and boys.

Mansaray emphasized that in order to end SGBV it is crucial for all actors to be engaged and educated about the effects of SGBV on women and girls and the penalties that follow perpetrators.

He concluded by emphasizing that women and girls are facing inequality everywhere they go and it is crucial for men and boys to respect them further encouraging everyone to treat women and girls with respect, as they are mothers, sisters, and aunties who deserve to be treated with dignity and fairness.

Ibrahim Bangura, a student from Abdul Talil Academy Rogbangba, expressed his gratitude to Caritas Freetown for engaging them in SGBV training. He admitted that he had no idea about SGBV and had witnessed his colleagues violating girls. However, the training helped him understand that violating girls is not acceptable and he plans to talk to his friends at school and at home to stop the act.

Sheikh Alusine Turay from Campbell Town, Waterloo, also expressed his appreciation for the training session. As a religious leader, he had witnessed many men from his community violating women and he plans to use what he has learned to preach to his congregation and engage with schools in his community.

Barrister Christiana Carter (Davies-Cole), a Gender activist and model Ambassador of Caritas Freetown, provided important insights into the laws relating to SGBV in the nation. She stated that the Government has set up laws that criminalize sexual offenses and anyone who violates those laws will be punished accordingly.

Barrister Christiana Carter (Davies-Cole) went on to highlight some of the crimes of SGBV, which includes sexual penetration, rape, improper dress code, and other forms of gender-based violence. She emphasized the seriousness of those crimes and the negative impact they could have on the victims and the society as a whole.

As a gender activist and Ambassador for Caritas Freetown, Barrister Christiana Carter (Davies-Cole) is committed to raising awareness about SGBV and promoting gender equality. She urged individuals and communities to take action and speak out against SGBV and to ensure that the laws that criminalize such offenses are enforced.

She said that the laws that have been established by the Government to address SGBV are important in protecting the rights of victims and holding perpetrators accountable.

“It is through the collective efforts of individuals, communities and organizations that we can work towards preventing SGBV and creating a more just and equal society for all,” she averred.

AfreximBank to Invest $1 Billion in Sierra Leone

May 10, 2023

By Millicent Senava Mannah

AfreximBank Regional Chief Operating Officer Anglophone West Africa, Eric MonchuIntong, has disclosed how they will invest 1Billion dollars to support businesses in the country in order to add to the country’s GDP further clarifying that the support ranges from providing loans and other ways of funding.

He made that statement during the second AfreximBank Sierra Leone Trade Road show held on the 9th & 10^th May, 2023 and organized by Oakwood Green Africa in collaboration with the Ministry of Trade and Industry, on the theme ‘’ Sustaining the Intra-Africa Trade Drive: Navigating The Last Mile’’ during an auspicious occasion that was held at the New City Council Hall in Freetown.

According to him, this is not a period of lamentation, but a time to take positive strides expressing the view that it gladdens his heart that after sixty two years of independence, Africa now has brains that are thinking of how to address Africa’s problems.

‘’AfreximBank is a Bank that has the vision of Africa at heart. The job we do at AfreximBank is that of a missionary. We are more of a vocation and not profession,’’ he stated.

He asked rhetorically why Sierra Leone, with all its mineral resources, is still called a poor country further maintaining that begging does not bring development saying we need to start now.

He affirmed that their partnership with Sierra Leone through the Ministry of Trade will not only be in good times but also in bad times also revealing how they finance intra-Africa trade and ACFTA implementation, promote and support export manufacturing.

He continued by stating how they also expand and deepen trade finance offerings and maintaining solid profitability equality, capital adequacy and asset quality and how, the Bank makes a meaningful impact on the Africa Trade

According to him, AfreximBank developed the Export Trading Companies (ETCs) Initiative to facilitate the emergence and expansion of ETCs in Africa as part of efforts to increase intra-African trade under the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AFCFTA) and accelerate the industrialization/export development process in the continent.

He also revealed how the ETC Initiative provides a range of financing instruments as well as trade facilitation interventions to support the emergence of new ETCs or expansion of existing ETCs.

The Keynote Speaker, the Minister of Trade & Industry, Dr. Edward Hinga Sandy, who doubles as the Chairman of the programme intimated that the roadshow is geared towards looking at how they can reinforce the private sector in helping them on how to expand their businesses.

He assured them that, they have the full support of the Government, stating how, what they cannot find in the country, the AfreximBank will bring it as they are already supporting a number of businesses in the country.

The Minister disclosed that a number of things are required from the businesses as well furthering that the Private Sector businesses now have the means of contacting support through the aforementioned Bank.

He maintained that it is time for them to reflect on what they can do to make business and transaction optimize their full potentials also revealing how the Africa continent has trade agreements which allow them to trade amongst themselves and how the opportunities are huge.

The Minister intimated that they have created legislations to create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive underscoring how the GEWE Bill is also for the private sector to not only bring women onboard Executive tables but also into businesses and how 68% of those engaged in cross border trade are women.

The Chief Executive Officer of Oakwood Green Africa Limited, Gabriel Edgal, intimated that they gathered to remind themselves about the power that is in unity disclosing that they were encouraged by the first roadshow and that is why they organized the second one.

He disclosed that they started working with businesses since last year furthering how they will continue to support Africa trade and investment, as they have a collective history of challenges.

‘’The importance of intra-Africa Trade is more important now than ever before. We must achieve this goal by working together,’’ he confidently said.

According to Gabriel Edgal the country is in strategic position to play a major role in the intra-Africa Trade noting that more effort is needed in the Agriculture sector, and how it is a huge sector to invest.

‘’Why are we called the third world when we are the richest? Why it is that trade across borders are difficult? Why is our trade only on importation and not production? Why transportation across African countries is so frustrating?’’ were questions he asked.

He said those are the questions Oakwood Green Africa and AfreximBank aim to solve and according to him Africa has no business being poor.

NP (SL) Ltd is Still Number One for Custumer Care

May 10, 2023

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

NP (SL) Ltd could be regarded as a very reliable source of drawing inspiration by indigenes that have big dreams of coming together to establish a viable business entity which they may want to see grow exponentially into becoming a towering business entity.

Without any gainsaying, there are many useful lessons that aspiring entrepreneurs could learn from NP-SL which would definitely serve as a roadmap to navigate through the business landscape in order to crystallize their dreams into reality.

The company was founded decades ago by thirty-five Sierra Leoneans who were erstwhile employees of the British Petroleum Company which was about to go into liquidation and decided to sell its shares to the Government of Sierra Leone. Based on technical advice, the Government also decided to sell its shares and the 35 former workers bought those shares to set up what became known as NP (SL) Ltd.

It must be highlighted at this juncture that the company is a privately-owned business entity and the Government has no hands in it, does not decide how it is operated and grappling with challenges.

One of the underlying factors that have been noted for the meteoric rise of the company could be attributed to the selflessness of its shareholders. These ambitious Sierra Leoneans were so dedicated to the cause of catapulting their “baby” to higher height to such an extent that they put all their best initiatives into play that culminated into the company becoming a formidable force to reckon with.

These fine business initiatives were well implemented to the letter which led to the realization of fruitful dividends. Selflessness, in this context, could mean putting aside ego, working with a collective sense of purpose, brushing aside deceit, greed and ready to give as well as take. This could be the first Lesson.

The next lesson borders around enhancing customer care with the avowed objective of giving optimum satisfaction. The Shareholders and various Management teams harnessed this so well to an extent that they have succeeded in broadening their customer base. As far as they are concerned it is the interests of customers which are paramount and therefore everything must be done to ensure that those interests are given due consideration whenever decisions are taken to push the company forward.

It is in this regard that the shareholders decided to go in for modern calibrated pumping machines which are capable of churning out the right quantity of fuel that a buyer puts in for as well as displaying the price. These machines make fuel transactions become very transparent, thereby giving customers satisfaction and confidence that they are deriving their monies worth.

Within that realm, the Shareholders also thought it prudent to introduce NP Smart Card which is now in vogue. This Smart Card can be used to purchase fuel, petrol and diesel, with ease avoiding the hassle of having to be rushing to the banks to re intermittently withdrawing monies for the purpose of purchasing fuel. The card could be credited with a certain amount of money and whenever transaction transpires the amount utilized is debited. Its greatest advantage is that it avails the holder of the Smart Card the opportunity to programme or budget him or herself to purchase fuel on a periodic basis.

NP Gas is now going like hot cakes on the market. It is a cooker which has been proven to be very effective in terms of performance. Manufactured in different cylinder sizes it has been attested to be environmentally friendly in terms of less gaseous emissions that could pose health risks. NP Gas can be secured at all the leading Filing Stations of the company and its authorized dealers.

With all these attractive offers, there is a lesson that enhancing customer care is very key to the growth of any business enterprise. Aspiring entrepreneurs could learn from this.

What also has been identified as a good business initiative which the company has mastered so effectively has to do with promoting the country’s Local Content Policy. The intent of this policy is geared towards ensuring that we make proper use of our local resources, human as well as material, in the production chain. It is against such a backdrop that the company limits employment opportunities to qualified Sierra Leoneans instead of bringing over expatriates to perform tasks that could be better done by indigenes. Knowing that they are employed by an indigenous company such gives the employees the sense of ownership and the extra motivation to give their best to the company.

Another Lesson: Make use of local resources which could be cost effective instead of spending much to use expatriates just for the sake of showing off. Besides, monies, in the forms of salaries and end of service benefits are retained and not taken out of the country. It gives any company operating with such a policy a nationalistic flavour.

To give back to society, in the form of Corporate Social Responsibility, brings with it respectability and integrity. It is very important to be in a position to always assist residents in communities where a business entity operates or to the country as a whole as it pays back.

From all what have been said so far, it could be seen that NP-SL Ltd has valuable lessons which aspiring entrepreneurs could imbibe and infuse in their activities if fruitful dividends must be realized. Indeed, NP-SL Ltd is really a source of inspiration and a reservoir of good business initiatives.

Global Study Hosts Prof. Sualp Davut from Final International University Cyprus

May 10, 2023

By Foday Moriba Conteh

As part of their strides towards establishing partnership with international Universities with the view of exploring opportunities for qualified Sierra Leoneans to study abroad, the Global Study Consultants and Logistics has on Monday 8^th May, 2023 hosted Professor Sualp Davut from the Final International University in Cyprus.

The aim of the meeting, according to the Executive Director of Global Study Consultants and Logistics, Bockarie Momoh Foh and Professor Sualp Davut from the Final International University in Cyprus is to explore opportunities for qualified Sierra Leoneans to study at Final International University in Cyprus.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with this medium, Professor Sualp Davut from the Final International University in Cyprus expressed appreciation to Global Study Consultants and Logistics for their kind gesture, adding that he is in the country to represent his University in meeting their partners and also update partners about the Final International University Cyprus.

He said that during his discussion with Global Study Consultants and Logistics they discussed how to explore opportunities to give qualified Sierra Leoneans opportunities to study at Final International University in Cyprus.

Professor Sualp Davut revealed that Cyprus is a visa free country for Sierra Leonean students who want to study in Cyprus which he described as a big opportunity for Sierra Leonean students to study in Cyprus.

He, however, added that the Final International University is an accredited European University that offers programs ranging from undergraduate to PhD level adding that the University also has different International accreditations and they also have collaborations with Universities in the UK and United States of American.

He said that the Final International University in Cyprus has 14 faculties which includes engineering, law, pharmacy etc. and that 70% of students at the University are from different countries in the world of which he encouraged Sierra Leoneans to make good use of the opportunity through Global Study Consultants and Logistics to explore opportunities to study at Final International University in Cyprus.

On his part, the Executive Director of Global Study Consultants and Logistics, Bockarie Momoh Foh described the visit of Professor Sualp Davut from the Final International University in Cyprus as very important towards exploring opportunities for qualified Sierra Leoneans to study at Final International University in Cyprus.

He said that one of the aims of Global Study Consultants and Logistics is to source opportunities and partnerships from far and wide in order for Sierra Leoneans to further develop their own knowledge base back home and that the engagement with Professor Sualp Davut from the Final International University in Cyprus is one this is geared towards actualizing that aim.

Bockarie Momoh Foh said that Global Study Consultants and Logistics is one of the first education consultancies in the country that has partnerships with universities out of Sierra Leone and they facilitates study programs for Sierra Leoneans to study in those universities, adding that they are also working with the University of Sierra Leone, Njala University and UNIMAK in order to facilitate PhD scholarships for faculty members in those Universities.

He said that over the years international universities have not been coming to the country to recruit students but said because of the platform Global Study Consultants and Logistics has created study opportunities out of Sierra Leone are coming into the country, describing the visit of Professor Sualp Davut from the Final International University in Cyprus as very strategic as he has promised few things for Sierra Leone including scholarships ranging from 60%, 70% and 100%.

The Executive Director re-echoed to the Government and People of Sierra Leone that they are the country’s educational partner and all should depend on their global platform to make their educational dreams become successful.

He concluded by calling on the private sector to assist in closing the gap in some of the scholarships that are 60%, 70% and 80% so that ordinary Sierra Leoneans who cannot afford will make use of those available opportunities in their academic pursuits.