Mercurybet Fantasy Premier League Trophy Returns for 2024/25 Season

July 26, 2024

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Mercury International, one of the country’s largest betting platforms, has announced the launch of the Mercurybet Fantasy Premier League Trophy for the 2024/25 season. The event was held at the New Sella Spot on Jomo Kenyatta Road in Freetown.

The Mercury Fantasy Trophy, which had been temporarily halted last year for improvements, returns this season with enhanced features and more exciting prizes. Renamed and revamped, the competition promises greater rewards compared to previous years.

Prizes will be awarded to participants finishing in the top ten positions at the end of the season. The first prize is NLe 100,000, while the tenth prize is NLe 12,000. Additionally, the top two Managers each month will receive NLe 3,000 and NLe 1,500, respectively.

Martin Edward Michael, Managing Director of Mercury International, highlighted the accessibility of the competition during the event. “Participating in the Mercurybet Fantasy Premier League is entirely free. There’s no need to purchase tickets or pay any entry fees. This allows everyone to have a fair chance at winning cash prizes without any financial burden,” he stated.

The Managing Director elaborated on the enhancements made to the competition, saying, “We have listened to feedback from our users and have made significant improvements to ensure a more engaging and rewarding experience. Our goal is to create an exciting platform where football enthusiasts can showcase their managerial skills and win fantastic prizes.”

In his official declaration of the competition’s launch, he emphasized the importance of the event. “The Mercurybet Fantasy Premier League Trophy is a testament to our commitment to providing thrilling opportunities for our users. We are ready and excited to see participants join and compete.”

To participate in the Mercurybet Fantasy Premier League, players must first open an account on the Fantasy Premier League official website or application. They then need to scan the code from the Mercurybet Fantasy Premier League flyer or enter the code provided by Mercury International.

The Mercurybet Fantasy Premier League Trophy for the 2024/25 season is now officially open for registration, inviting football fans across the country to join and compete for a chance to win substantial cash prizes.

EXPRESSION OF INTEREST [EOI] FOR UPDATING WFP SUPPLIER DATABASE FOR SUPPLIERS OF FOOD AND NON-FOOD ITEMS

July 26, 2024

WFP is pleased to invite expressions of interest for the provision of goods and services of various categories.

Purpose:The purpose of this request for EOI is to identify suppliers and service providers with verified technical and financial capacity that will be supplying and providing various goods and services to WFP as listed below. Eligible suppliers and service providers may be invited to participate in the bidding process for a proposed tender based on their specific categories.

Please note that UN WFP requires supporting documentation to register a vendor successfully.
Minimum requirements will be:

Company’s confirmation in writing of interest to participate in the prequalification process.
Valid business license.
Legal registration certificate from Inland Revenue Administration, GST registration certificate.
A minimum 3 years of experience in the sector.
Company profile.
Willing and ready to work with WFP according to its terms and conditions.

Existing registered vendors are also required to re-submit their interest, indicating any new goods or services now available.

This expression of interest will open on 26 July and close on 8 August.

Please reply to the WFP Procurement Unit with the categories of Goods and, or Services applicable. Companies that are unable to satisfy the minimum requirements as above will not be considered for registration.

Contact details: freetown.procurement@wfp.org

Table of Goods and services

GOODS	SERVICES
Stationery supplies	Printing (warehouse ledger Books, waybills, stack cards) Printing services (Posters banner signpost) and designing of items etc.
IT items: Computers and accessories, printers and printing consumables, Cisco access Point Cat 7 patch cords OWL conference cameras, Mobile Phones, Mobile portable projector screen, projector Mobile PA system, PDAs etc.	Engineering Consultancy firms, design, soil test, etc
Light Vehicle Spare Parts	Consultancy Services, evaluation, value chain, etc
Heavy Duty Vehicles (Trucks) Spare Parts	Consultants for workshops, trainings…
Furniture supplies.	Car Rental Services
Plastic products (Plates, Jogs, Cups, Basin, Jerri Cans, Tarpaulins, Prepack Plastics	Outsourcing companies (Security, Janitorial & Cleaning, ICT maintenance services, etc)
Electrical supplies -extensions AVR UPS	Consulting firms for maintenance/servicing of copiers
Visibility items (T-shirt, Caps with Logo printing),	Consulting firms for network, tower, etc installations
Cooking Utensils	Maintenance/Servicing of Fire extinguishers
Guesthouse items (bed, mattresses, etc)	Maintenance/Servicing of Air Conditions
Warehouse Equipment: weighing scale, stitching machine, stitching needles stitching threads, Stitching Machine oil, Empty Polypropylene bags with WFP Logos, Plastic Bags, Padlocks, empty Jerry can, warehouse thermometers, food packaging material	Civil Constructions Contractors (Building, Road, Bridge, etc)
Generator, pump, suppliers	Insurance Services
Fuel Storage tank supplies	Garages specialised in Toyota vehicles
Fuel supply	Courier services
Toiletries	News Advertising
Electronics materials	Generator maintenance/servicing
Water and Fuel Pumps	Re-bagging food
Fire Extinguishers	Professional Education Services
Generators and generator parts & consumables	Catering Services
Building construction materials	Event Planning and Organizing Services
Agricultural equipment and tools (Power Tillers, Rice milling Machine, Rice Threshers, moisture meter	Videography and Photography
Pharmaceutical Drugs	Installation and maintenance of solar panels
Plastic Hermetic Grain Silos	Car Repair Services (Body Works and mechanical)
Solar driers	Aluminium Works
Solar Pannels	Animation
Motorbikes and spare parts	Provision of outsourced staffing services for auxiliary staff, drivers, mechanics, logistics
Solar water pumps and irrigation systems
Sanitary and cleaning items
Office Equipment (copiers, fax machines, etc)
Agricultural Input (vegetable seed, Nutritious grass seeds, Fruit and forest tree seedlings, fertilizer)
Local Complementary Food processing equipment& installation	Maintenance of food processing equipment
Food graded packaging materials for finish productand Secondary Packaging – Cartons	Jingles production
Food packaging machine	Potential organisation or institutions able to provide: Provide qualified enumerator for conducting survey, assesment Providing conducive training environment for the enumerator Field management during the survey, for quality control
Food Procurement – Food Suppliers
Milled rice 25% and 100% broken	We buy both locally produced & Imported Rice
Pulses – cow peas and pigeon peas	Mainly Pigeon Peas and black-eyed peas
Vegetable Oil	WFP may buy both locally produced oil and Imported oil
Salt	Iodized salt
Micronutrient Premix-FBF-V13, Potassium Chloride, DCP.

SLeCAD, ACBF Launch Program to Support and Empower Port Loko Farmers

July 24, 2024

By Yusufu S. Bangura

In a move to bolster agricultural development in Sierra Leone, the Sierra Leone Chamber for Agribusiness Development (SLeCAD) has partnered with the African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF) to launch a transformative capacity-building project. This initiative, unveiled to local farmers and stakeholders on Thursday, July 11, will officially commence on Friday, July 20, 2024.

Ahmed Nanoh, Executive Secretary of SLeCAD, underscored the project’s goal of empowering women and youth as pivotal drivers of Sierra Leone’s economic growth. “Women and youth are crucial to our nation’s development, yet many rural farmers, predominantly women, lack essential farming knowledge. This project is designed to bridge that gap and transform them into productive entrepreneurs,” Ahmed Nanoh explained.

The initiative will focus on providing training in entrepreneurship, business development, and processing techniques specifically for onions and cassava. This approach aims to shift participants from being job seekers to job creators, enhancing their economic stability and self-sufficiency.

Ahmed Nanoh highlighted the ‘Feed Salone’ initiative, a strategic effort to reduce rice importation by 50%, which is expected to stabilize the country’s economy and improve living conditions. “The cost of rice importation is significant. Cutting this expenditure in half will contribute greatly to national economic stability,” he said.

SLeCAD plans to address critical issues raised by farmers, such as access to fertilizers, seeds, and equipment. Ahmed Nanoh encouraged farmers to leverage the support provided, noting that Port Loko has the potential to become one of Sierra Leone’s wealthiest districts.

Abdul Karim Kamara, Secretary General of the Kamaranka Farmers Association, expressed appreciation for SLeCAD’s efforts and committed to making the most of the opportunity. He welcomed the initiative’s focus on addressing the challenges faced by farmers.

In conclusion, Ahmed Nanoh urged farmers to engage fully with the project, emphasizing that the selection of 120 dedicated farmers to benefit from this program reflects its importance not just as a business endeavor, but as a significant step towards national progress.

US Seminar Aims to Combat Illegal Fishing for Sierra Leone’s Joint Maritime Committee

July 24, 2024

By Amin Kef Sesay

The U.S. Embassy in Freetown spearheaded a crucial seminar addressing Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing from July 15-19, 2024, at the Sierra Leone Naval Base in Murray Town. The event brought together members of Sierra Leone’s Joint Maritime Committee, including personnel from the Sierra Leone Navy, Sierra Leone Police Marine Division, Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources, Office of National Security, Maritime Administration, and Ports and Harbor Authority.

The seminar, led by a delegation from the U.S. Coast Guard and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Office of Law Enforcement, focused on enhancing accountability measures against IUU fishing, which jeopardizes local livelihoods and inflicts severe environmental damage.

The event was inaugurated by Commodore Philip Jesbert Juana of the Sierra Leone Navy, who highlighted the urgent need for the Joint Maritime Committee to intensify efforts in apprehending illegal fishers, tracking transnational criminal networks and enforcing regulations to safeguard marine resources.

Throughout the week, discussions centered on collaborative strategies to protect Sierra Leone’s marine environment, emphasizing its crucial role in the local economy and ecosystem. The U.S. delegation underscored that Sierra Leone is not alone in this battle and a coalition of international partners is essential in countering criminal activities that exploit enforcement challenges.

It must be noted that the seminar follows last month’s maritime emergency course also led by the U.S. Embassy in partnership with the U.S. Coast Guard. The Embassy anticipates ongoing collaboration to address maritime security challenges.

Tragedy Strikes Regent: Four-Story Building Crumbles

July 24, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In the wake of the intense downpour that swept through Regent on July 21-22, 2024 a devastating building collapse has prompted an urgent response from the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA). At around 11:30 PM on Sunday, NDMA was alerted to the collapse of a four-story building at No. 132 Haja Sonnie Drive, SS Camp IMATT.

NDMA officers swiftly mobilized to the scene, working alongside the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), who arrived with an excavator to bolster rescue operations. They were supported by community volunteers, the Sierra Leone Police, the Sierra Leone Red Cross Society and the Office of National Security (ONS) in their efforts to locate and aid survivors.

Initial investigations revealed that the building, which had been abandoned and changed ownership multiple times in recent years, was in a state of disrepair. The structure had visible cracks and was considered highly hazardous. The current owner of the property, identified as Binta Barrie, had been living there with a caretaker family.

Tragically, 19-year-old Kadiatu Koroma, who was four months pregnant, lost her life in the collapse. Her body has been recovered from the debris. Rescuers have successfully extricated three male adults during the night and two more individuals this morning. All five survivors are receiving medical treatment. However, two children are still believed to be trapped under the rubble.

The NDMA is continuing to deploy additional resources to support ongoing search and rescue efforts. The focus remains on recovering the trapped individuals and providing necessary assistance to those who have been rescued. Updates will be provided as new information emerges.

Residents are urged to avoid the area to allow rescue teams to work unhindered.

Minister Conrad Sackey Advocates for Safe Schools as Cornerstone of Effective Learning

July 24, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a compelling address during a recent Town Hall meeting on Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) in Freetown, Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Conrad Sackey, underscored the essential role of school safety in promoting effective learning. His passionate remarks highlighted that a secure learning environment is crucial for student success and forms the basis of a new, comprehensive school safety policy.

The Ministry has introduced robust sex education programs to equip students with the skills to identify and respond to inappropriate behavior. Complementing these programs, educational posters on SGBV are prominently displayed in schools, serving as constant reminders of the actions students should take if faced with such issues.

He emphasized that these safety and educational measures are integral to ensuring that every student feels secure and supported. He noted that these initiatives are part of a broader Education Sector Plan aimed at creating an inclusive and supportive educational environment. The momentum for safer schools intensified in 2019 following disturbing reports of sexual and gender-based violence, prompting President Julius Maada Bio to launch a Presidential initiative. This initiative led to legislative amendments and the establishment of a “one-stop shop” for streamlined reporting and response to these incidents.

Despite the progress, some stakeholders believe that efforts to address sexual harassment and abuse in schools remain inadequate. While the comprehensive sex education program and Radical Inclusion Policy represent significant advancements, challenges persist. Minister Conrad Sackey acknowledged the ongoing issues and reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to refining and enhancing these policies to ensure a safe and supportive learning environment for all students.

The Ministry also recognizes the critical role of community involvement in these efforts. Parents, teachers and students are encouraged to engage with and provide feedback on the new policies to help shape future initiatives. Minister Sackey highlighted that a collaborative approach is vital for achieving the goal of safe schools.

Looking ahead, the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education plans to continuously monitor the effectiveness of these policies and make necessary adjustments. The commitment to fostering a safe and secure learning environment remains steadfast as it is seen as fundamental to effective education and student well-being.

The combined efforts of the Ministry supported by legislative reforms and community engagements aim to create not only a safe learning environment but also a culture of respect and safety in schools. This approach ensures that every student can learn and thrive without fear of sexual harassment or abuse.

Court Issues Interim Injunction Against Bar Association Caretaker Body

July 24, 2024

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

The Honourable Justice A. T Ganda on Monday July 22, 2024 delivered a significant ruling in the ongoing legal battle involving the Sierra Leone Bar Association (SLBA). The court granted an interim injunction against Augustine Sorie-Sengbe Marrah, Wara Serry-Kamal and the purported Caretaker Body of the SLBA.

The decision follows an Ex-Parte Notice of Motion and supporting affidavit filed by Alfred Paul Juwah, with exhibits attached. The hearing involved a range of legal representatives, including I. Kanneh Esq. and I. F. Sawaneh Esq. for the plaintiffs, and a host of Counsel for the defendants.

Key Points of the Ruling:

Interim Injunction Imposed: The court has barred the defendants, including any members of the Caretaker Body or co-opted members, from:

– Presenting themselves as Directors or Managers of the SLBA.

– Issuing press releases, holding interviews or convening meetings on behalf of the SLBA.

– Making public statements or taking actions that could harm the reputation of the SLBA.

– Requesting fees or funds in the name of the SLBA or using its logo or imagery.

Service of Process: Plaintiffs’ Counsel is required to serve all defendants with the motion papers by July 23, 2024.
Affidavit of Service: Counsel for the plaintiffs must file an affidavit of service by the next adjourned date.
No Costs Awarded: The court made no order regarding costs.

The ruling underscores the court’s stance on maintaining the integrity and proper management of the SLBA while the matter is under judicial review.

As He Reaffirms Commitment to Peace and Democracy… Chief Kadiru Kaikai Issues Apology for Controversial 2028 Election Remarks

July 24, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a recent press release dated July 21, 2024 and signed by Chief Abdul Kadiru Kaikai, the prominent figure expressed deep regret over his previous comments regarding the 2028 presidential elections. Reflecting on his statement, Chief Kaikai acknowledged the gravity of his words, admitting they were dangerous, irresponsible, and inappropriate in a democratic society.

“Upon reflection on the statement I made regarding the 2028 presidential elections, I have come to terms with the fact that it was dangerous, irresponsible, and had no place in our society,” Chief Kaikai stated. “From the bottom of my heart, I tender my profound apology to the entire nation for that unfortunate incident.”

Emphasizing his commitment to peace and democracy, Chief Kaikai reassured the public of his dedication to these principles. “As a responsible and peaceful citizen, and as a husband and father, I hereby recommit myself to ensuring that, going forward, my words and actions will consistently respect our democratic principles, consolidate our peace, and embrace national unity.”

Chief Kaikai also recognized the significant public reaction to his previous statement, commending citizens for their unity and commitment to peace. “I have also taken note of the significant public reaction to the statement and wish to commend the public for demonstrating that, regardless of our divisions, we continue to stand together for peace. I could not be prouder of my fellow citizens.”

In his heartfelt apology, Chief Kaikai hoped that his experience would serve as a lesson for all. “Once again, my sincere apologies, and I hope that this serves as a lesson for all of us to maintain peace in our words and actions. May Allah bless us all, and may Allah bless Sierra Leone.”

In a separate note, Chief Kaikai addressed the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), highlighting the internal struggles and urging members to refrain from betrayal. “The SLPP has long been recognized for its significant contributions to our nation. However, it has also been marred by instances of betrayal, particularly towards those who have made substantial sacrifices for the party.”

Chief Kaikai’s controversial statement about initiating war if not elected president in 2028 has sparked widespread condemnation, including from members within the SLPP. Despite the inflammatory nature of his remarks, Chief Kaikai has stressed the context in which they were made, highlighting the threats of war and death directed at those who oppose peace.

“Rather than crucifying Chief Kaikai, the state should request that he tender a formal apology and ensure he refrains from making such inflammatory statements in the future. This approach would not only uphold our democratic values but also promote reconciliation and peace.”

Expressing concern over internal political conflicts, Chief Kaikai called for unity within the SLPP. “It is disheartening to witness senior politicians within the SLPP viewing Chief Kaikai as a threat and using this incident to undermine him. The internal political struggles should not result in the prolonged detention of a party member, especially when reconciliation is possible. Today, it is Kadiru Kaikai facing this plight; tomorrow, it could be any one of you.”

In conclusion, Chief Kaikai urged the SLPP and the nation to stand together, emphasizing the importance of unity, mutual respect, and cooperation. “The SLPP has the potential to lead Sierra Leone towards a brighter future. To achieve this, we must uphold our principles, support one another, and work together to maintain the peace and democracy that we have fought so hard to establish.”

Sierra Leone Rolls Out Advanced Biometric ID Cards for Enhanced Security and Efficiency

July 24, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a landmark initiative, Sierra Leone is equipping its citizens and residents with advanced National ID Cards, each featuring a unique National Identification Number (NIN). This NIN is a lifetime constant, linking biometric data and personal information within the National Identity Database.

The National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) has detailed the costs and procedures for obtaining various categories of these secure, multi-purpose biometric identity cards. Citizens aged 12 and above can acquire their cards at NCRA offices and designated centers nationwide. Details for ID cards for children under 12 will be announced soon.

The categories and costs for the Biometric ID Cards are:

National Identity Cards for Sierra Leoneans aged 12 and above: Le 140.00 (NLe)
ECOWAS ID Cards (optional for Sierra Leoneans): Le 240.00 (NLe)
ECOWAS ID Cards for Citizens of ECOWAS Member States: Le 400.00 (NLe)
Non-National ID Cards (mandatory for foreign residents): Le 2,000.00 (NLe)
Application Fees: Le 5.00 (NLe)
ID Verification: varies by field

These cards, alongside the associated ID Verification platform, ensure reliable identification, authentication and consistency of personal information, in alignment with the National Civil Registration Act of 2016.

To obtain a National ID Card, applicants must visit the nearest NCRA office. These cards, embedded with biometric data chips, facilitate identity verification, financial inclusion and access to various services, streamlining processes and contributing to national development.

A key benefit of the National ID Card is its integration with the financial sector. The card supports efficient remote know-your-customer (KYC) checks, reducing verification costs and enhancing financial inclusion by allowing seamless customer authentication.

In education, the NIN is now mandatory for pupils in public examination classes, highlighting the card’s increasing significance across various life areas in Sierra Leone.

For those aged 12 and above, obtaining a National ID Card is straightforward. Non-citizens can apply for the Non-National ID Card to secure resident and work permits.

The NCRA’s rollout of these advanced Biometric Identity Cards aims to bolster personal security and streamline transactions. Acquiring a National Biometric ID Card in 2024 is not only a civic duty but also essential for security and convenience.

The NIN, an 11-digit unique identifier, ensures improved service access and protection of individual rights by linking individual records within the National Identity Database. These cards are now mandatory at checkpoints nationwide, facilitating secure transactions.

Application centers include:

NCRA Headquarters: 2 Walpole Street, Freetown
NCRA Office: 23B Off Kingharman Road, Freetown
NCRA Office: Kennedy Street, Freetown
NCRA Branch Office: 230 Lumley Road, Freetown (By the Roundabout)
NCRA Office: Waterloo along the Freetown Highway (Opposite the Police Station)
NCRA Regional Headquarters: Bo, Kenema, Makeni, and Port Loko

Corporate services tailored for organizations are also available. For more information, contact the NCRA at +232-33-433-333 / +232-30-500-000 / +232-78-221-812 or via email at idverification@ncra.gov.

Sierra Leoneans are urged to prioritize obtaining their Biometric ID Cards, recognizing their importance in enhancing security and contributing to national development. The NCRA’s initiative aligns with the Government’s commitment to fostering a safer, more efficient, and accessible environment for all.

NP (SL) Pioneers Cashless Fuel Transactions & Advances Local Development

July 24, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

NP-Sierra Leone Limited NP-(SL) Ltd stands as a premier petroleum marketing company, excelling in importing and distributing petrol, diesel, gas and lubricants, notably Castrol oil. As a 100% indigenous company, NP(SL) Ltd has consistently garnered commendations for ensuring the timely delivery of high-quality petroleum products across Sierra Leone.

NP (SL) Ltd. is making headlines for its unwavering commitment to advancing socio-economic development in Sierra Leone. As the leading provider of petroleum products, NP (SL) Ltd. is enhancing the accessibility of quality fuel and fostering growth for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) nationwide.

One of NP (SL) Ltd.’s standout innovations is the NP Energy Pass Card, designed to provide a seamless and secure fuel purchasing experience. This smart card supports online and offline transactions, offers instant SMS notifications, and features robust security measures such as One-Time Passwords (OTPs) for password changes.

The NP Energy Pass Card, part of the “FUBU” (For Us, By Us) initiative, represents a significant leap towards a cashless economy. This user-friendly card enables customers to fuel their vehicles independently, streamlines station operations, and offers real-time transaction updates. It also benefits station owners with direct bank credits for card transactions.

Despite numerous challenges, NP (SL) Ltd. remains steadfast in its mission to deliver superior petroleum products. The company’s Management and stakeholders view this as a moral obligation, aiming to improve the standard of living for Sierra Leoneans through consistent service and innovation.

The company’s success is attributed to prudent business management and the selfless determination of its founders. NP-(SL) Ltd has always placed a premium on customer care, making its Filling Stations attractive and welcoming with state-of-the-art structures, spacious layouts and shopping marts.

To promote transparency and trust, NP-(SL) Ltd invested in calibrated pumping machines that ensure customers get their money’s worth. This commitment to quality and service has earned the company high praise from customers and industry experts alike.

One notable feature of NP-SL Ltd. is its adherence to the country’s Local Content Policy, creating employment opportunities for Sierra Leoneans and contributing to the national economy. The company’s internal policy prioritizes hiring locals, significantly reducing poverty.

NP Gas, a product of NP-(SL) Ltd, has gained popularity for its efficiency and environmental friendliness for cooking purposes. Available in various cylinder sizes, NP Gas is easily accessible and can be refilled conveniently.

The NP Smart Card is another innovation, allowing customers to procure fuel with ease and security. This card offers numerous benefits, including convenience and real-time transaction updates.

NP-SL Ltd. is also committed to corporate social responsibility, supporting Government development initiatives and improving living standards through various projects and programs.

The company’s regional presence extends to Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast, and The Gambia, where it operates efficiently, offering jobs and paying taxes.

As a major taxpayer and regional player, NP-SL Ltd. continues to support Government initiatives, reduce energy poverty and enhance the quality of life for local communities.

Despite occasional criticisms, NP-(SL) Ltd remains unwavering in its mission to contribute positively to Sierra Leone’s socio-economic landscape. The company’s resilience, innovation and dedication to customer care affirm its role as a leading force in the petroleum industry.

1...565758...1,075 Page 57 of 1,075