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Sierra Leone Moves to Ratify Key ILO and UN Labour Conventions to Protect Workers’ Rights

Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security, Mohamed Rahman Swaray

 

The Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security, in partnership with the International Labour Organization (ILO), has launched a three-day capacity-building workshop aimed at strengthening Sierra Leone’s labour governance through the proposed ratification of six priority ILO conventions and the United Nations Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families.

The workshop, which runs from July 6 to 8 in Freetown, has brought together Government officials, employers’ and workers’ organizations, development partners and labour experts to build consensus on the proposed international labour instruments and enhance the country’s labour reform process.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security, Mohamed Rahman Swaray, described the workshop as a major milestone in Sierra Leone’s ongoing labour reform agenda. He said the initiative demonstrates the Government’s commitment to aligning national labour laws and policies with international labour standards while supporting the implementation of the Medium-Term National Development Plan (2024–2030) and the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 8, which promotes decent work and sustainable economic growth.

The Minister noted that since becoming a member of the ILO in 1961, Sierra Leone has ratified 45 ILO conventions, including all ten fundamental conventions, two governance conventions and 33 technical conventions. He explained that 32 of those conventions remain in force, while four have been denounced and nine have been abrogated.

According to the Minister, the six conventions under consideration address key labour issues, including occupational safety and health, maternity protection, workplace violence and harassment, chemical safety, biological hazards and the protection of migrant workers. He said ratifying those instruments will strengthen the country’s labour legislation, improve workplace conditions, increase productivity and reinforce Sierra Leone’s commitment to promoting decent work.

Mohamed Rahman Swaray stressed, however, that ratification alone would not be sufficient to achieve meaningful reforms. He emphasized the importance of promptly domesticating the conventions into national law, ensuring effective implementation, strengthening monitoring mechanisms and maintaining continuous social dialogue among all stakeholders to guarantee practical impact.

He also announced that the Ministry, in collaboration with the ILO, will convene the Decent Work Country Programme Committee meeting from July 9 to 11, 2026. The meeting will review progress made under the programme, assess existing challenges, strengthen tripartite cooperation and agree on priority actions to further advance decent work across the country.

Representing the ILO Country Director, Chinyere Emeka-Anuna commended the Government of Sierra Leone for demonstrating strong political commitment to promoting international labour standards and social justice.

She explained that the workshop is focusing on six priority ILO conventions: Convention No. 170 on Chemicals, Convention No. 174 on the Prevention of Major Industrial Accidents, Convention No. 184 on Safety and Health in Agriculture, Convention No. 183 on Maternity Protection, Convention No. 190 on Violence and Harassment in the World of Work and Convention No. 192 on Biological Hazards in the Working Environment. Participants are also examining the United Nations Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families.

Emeka-Anuna described Conventions 183 and 190 as particularly significant, noting that their ratification would strengthen gender equality, improve maternity protection, safeguard workers against discrimination and violence and promote safer and more inclusive workplaces.

Speaking on behalf of the Sierra Leone Employers’ Federation (SLEF), Project Officer, Yvette Kargbo, said the proposed conventions have the potential to promote safer working environments, improve productivity and strengthen business resilience. She, however, urged that implementation should take into consideration the realities facing employers, particularly micro, small and medium-sized enterprises, through practical policies, increased awareness and sustained capacity-building programmes.

Also addressing participants, the Secretary-General of the Sierra Leone Labour Congress, Marx Conteh, welcomed the initiative and observed that many of the proposed standards have already been incorporated into Sierra Leone’s labour legislation. He called on the Government to expedite the passage of the remaining labour bills before Parliament in order to complete the country’s ongoing labour law reform programme.

The workshop is expected to strengthen collaboration among Government, employers, workers and development partners while laying the foundation for the successful ratification and implementation of key international labour conventions that will enhance workers’ rights, improve workplace safety and support sustainable economic development in Sierra Leone.

Gender Ministry Condemns Circulation of Explicit Images, Urges Public to Stop Sharing Harmful Content

Woman with braided hair and glasses speaks into a handheld microphone at a panel desk, wearing a pink traditional dress.

The Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs has stepped up efforts to protect a teenage girl at the centre of a widely circulated explicit video, announcing a series of interventions aimed at safeguarding the survivor, supporting ongoing investigations and preventing the further spread of harmful online content.

The Ministry on Monday 6 July 2026 disclosed that it responded immediately after becoming aware of the circulation of explicit images and videos involving the teenager by launching public awareness campaigns, notifying law enforcement authorities, providing psychosocial support to the survivor and issuing a strong public condemnation of the incident.

According to the Ministry, its first intervention was the release of a nationwide public awareness flyer condemning all forms of cyberbullying and warning the public against downloading, sharing, forwarding or circulating explicit images and videos involving the survivor. The awareness campaign emphasizes that the production, possession, distribution and sharing of such materials are criminal offences under Sierra Leonean law and that offenders face prosecution.

The Ministry also confirmed that it promptly notified the Family Support Unit (FSU) of the Sierra Leone Police, which has since launched an official investigation into the matter. Authorities are expected to identify and prosecute individuals responsible for the alleged abuse, as well as those involved in distributing the explicit content online.

Beyond engaging law enforcement, the Ministry said it has made direct contact with the family of the teenage girl. A senior Director from the Ministry, alongside a professional social worker, has been assigned to provide psychosocial support and ensure the survivor receives appropriate care, protection, counselling and referral services.

Officials stressed that the welfare and dignity of the survivor remain their highest priority, noting that victims of sexual exploitation require comprehensive support to aid their recovery while protecting them from further trauma.

The Ministry further announced that it had issued an official public statement strongly condemning the incident, describing the circulation of the explicit material as a serious violation of the rights, dignity and privacy of the child. It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting children from all forms of abuse, exploitation, violence and online harm.

The statement reminded the public that Sierra Leone’s legal framework, including the Sexual Offences Act, the Cyber Crime Act and the Child Rights Act, provides strong protections for children against sexual exploitation and cyber-related offences.

The Ministry warned that sharing explicit content involving minors not only constitutes a criminal offence but also causes lasting emotional, psychological and social harm to survivors while potentially compromising ongoing criminal investigations.

It therefore urged members of the public to refrain from making offensive comments, sharing harmful content or engaging in any online behaviour that could further traumatize the survivor or any other child.

According to the Ministry, every citizen has a responsibility to uphold the dignity, privacy and rights of children by refusing to circulate exploitative material and by reporting suspected cases to the relevant authorities.

The Ministry also appealed to families, community leaders, religious institutions, schools, Civil Society Organisations and the wider public to remain vigilant in protecting children from abuse and exploitation, particularly in digital spaces where harmful content can spread rapidly.

As part of its public protection measures, the Ministry encouraged anyone with information relating to Sexual and Gender-Based Violence, child abuse, exploitation or cyber-related offences to report such cases immediately through the national toll-free Child Protection Hotline 116, available across all mobile networks.

Members of the public may also report cases directly to the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs at No. 6 Big Waterloo Street, Freetown or through any of the Ministry’s district offices nationwide. Family members and community residents are equally encouraged to report any suspected cases of sexual abuse, exploitation or cyberattacks affecting children without delay.

Reaffirming its commitment to child protection, the Ministry pledged to continue working closely with the Sierra Leone Police, Government institutions, development partners, Civil Society Organisations and communities to strengthen child protection systems, enforce existing laws and promote safer online environments across the country.

The Ministry concluded by emphasizing that protecting children is a shared national responsibility and called on every Sierra Leonean to help end abuse by respecting the rights and dignity of every child, supporting survivors and refusing to tolerate any form of exploitation or violence.

Planning Ministry Suspends Seven NGOs Over Non-Compliance

The Ministry of Planning and Economic Development (MoPED) has announced the immediate suspension of the operations of seven Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) found to be operating in violation of the country’s established regulatory requirements.

The announcement was made in a Press Release issued on July 6, 2026, following what the Ministry described as a comprehensive review of the operational landscape of NGOs across Sierra Leone.

According to the Ministry, the review revealed that several organizations were operating without fully complying with the standards outlined in the national NGO policy framework. Among the key requirements highlighted is the obligation for every registered NGO to maintain an identifiable office within Sierra Leone.

The Ministry stated that compliance with those regulations is essential to ensuring accountability, transparency and the effective use of resources entrusted to NGOs for development purposes.

“As custodians of public trust and resources, it is imperative that NGOs adhere to the prescribed requirements to fulfil their missions effectively while ensuring that resources are judiciously used,” the statement noted.

Based on the findings, the Ministry directed the following organizations to cease operations with immediate effect:

  1. Paida Foundation
  2. Activate Hope Sierra Leone
  3. Women’s Association for National Development
  4. Stichting Wango Sierra Leone
  5. Fama Women’s Programme
  6. Hakeen and Hakeema Charity Organisation
  7. Assembly of God Development Agency

The Ministry emphasized that the enforcement action is intended to strengthen regulatory compliance within the NGO sector and ensure that organizations operate in accordance with national laws and policy guidelines.

Officials further clarified that the decision should not be interpreted as an attempt to discourage or undermine the important contributions made by NGOs to Sierra Leone’s development.

Instead, the Ministry described the move as a proactive measure aimed at enhancing the integrity of the NGO sector, promoting greater accountability and reinforcing public confidence in organizations operating throughout the country.

The press release was signed by Usman C. Conteh, Acting Development Secretary at the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development.

Yenga Border Reopens as Sierra Leone, Guinea Renew Bilateral Cooperation

A delegation of officials walking outdoors, led by a man in a white suit, with soldiers nearby, at a Yenga border site in Sierra Leone.

The Governments of Sierra Leone and Guinea have officially reopened the Yenga border crossing following months of sustained diplomatic engagements aimed at restoring cross-border movement, trade and cooperation between the two neighbouring countries.

According to a public notice issued by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education on 6 July 2026, the border crossing at Yenga village along the Makona River resumed operations on 24 June 2026 at the Koindu-Nongoa crossing point in Kissi Teng Chiefdom, Kailahun District.

The border had remained closed since 28 April 2025, disrupting the movement of people and goods while causing significant humanitarian and economic challenges for residents of Yenga, Koindu and surrounding communities.

Government said the reopening follows a series of diplomatic engagements between Sierra Leone and Guinea, which ultimately paved the way for the restoration of normal border activities.

During the period of closure, the Government of Sierra Leone provided support to affected residents while continuing discussions with Guinean authorities to find a peaceful and lasting solution to the impasse.

The Ministry stated that the reopening was implemented under the directive of His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio and followed engagements between the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) and the Guinean Armed Forces, with support from political and administrative authorities from both countries.

As part of the agreed arrangements, the National Revenue Authority (NRA) will continue collecting revenue within Sierra Leonean territory, including Yenga, while the Sierra Leone Immigration Department will maintain its presence in the area.

The agreement also provides that the Government of Guinea will give Sierra Leone at least 48 hours’ notice before any future closure of the border, a move aimed at preventing unnecessary disruption to border communities and commercial activities.

Both Governments reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining peaceful coexistence, strengthening bilateral relations and pursuing continuous dialogue to achieve a lasting resolution to the Yenga issue and other boundary-related matters.

The Ministry further disclosed that discussions are continuing regarding the safe return of displaced Yenga residents, underscoring the commitment of both countries to ensuring stability, security and the well-being of affected communities.

Chericoco Emerges as Leading Contender for APC’s 2028 Presidential Flagbearer Race

Man in a blue traditional outfit with glasses walking through a crowded indoor event, with attendees seated in the background.
Hon. Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah

Hon. Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah, widely known as Chericoco, continues to strengthen his position as one of the leading contenders for the All People’s Congress (APC) presidential flagbearer race ahead of the party’s preparations for the 2028 general elections. A veteran lawyer, Parliamentarian and senior APC stalwart, Chericoco’s growing political activities have intensified discussions among party members and supporters about the future direction of the main opposition party.

Chericoco has built a distinguished political career spanning several years, earning recognition for his service in Parliament and his leadership within the APC. A graduate of Fourah Bay College and the Sierra Leone Law School, he began his career as a legal practitioner before transitioning into politics, where he established himself as one of the party’s most influential figures.

Throughout his political journey, he has served as Member of Parliament for Constituency 126 in the Western Urban District and occupied several high-profile leadership positions, including Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Majority Leader and Leader of the Opposition. His prominence within the APC was further reinforced when he was selected as the party’s vice-presidential running mate to Dr. Samura Kamara during both the 2018 and 2023 presidential elections.

In October 2024, Chericoco officially handed over his responsibilities as APC Deputy Leader, a move widely viewed by political observers as part of his strategic preparations to pursue the party’s presidential flagbearer position ahead of the 2028 elections.

Supporters say his declaration of interest has generated renewed enthusiasm within sections of the APC, with many describing him as a leader capable of uniting the party and strengthening its electoral prospects. They argue that his extensive experience in governance, parliamentary leadership, and legal affairs has equipped him with the skills necessary to lead the party into the next electoral cycle.

Many of his supporters believe Chericoco represents a new chapter for the APC, pointing to his emphasis on dialogue, constitutional governance, youth empowerment, accountability and national unity. They describe him as a disciplined and approachable leader who has consistently advocated peaceful political engagement while remaining committed to democratic principles.

According to supporters, Chericoco’s political reputation extends beyond the capital, with recognition across districts and among Sierra Leoneans in the diaspora. They maintain that his years of public service have earned him widespread respect and positioned him as one of the APC’s most experienced leaders.

His supporters further express confidence that he is the candidate best positioned to secure the APC’s presidential flagbearer nomination. They believe that, if chosen by party delegates, he would lead a united campaign capable of returning the APC to State House in the 2028 general elections. That expectation reflects the aspirations of his supporters and will ultimately depend on the outcome of both the APC’s internal democratic process and the national elections.

Beyond partisan politics, Chericoco has also received recognition for his contributions to democratic governance, peacebuilding and human rights advocacy. Those achievements, supporters say, reinforce his credentials as a statesman committed to national development and inclusive leadership.

As the APC gradually shifts its focus toward selecting its next presidential candidate, political attention is expected to remain firmly on Chericoco and other prospective contenders. Party delegates will ultimately decide who carries the APC banner into the 2028 elections, a decision widely regarded as one of the most consequential in the party’s recent history.

For many APC supporters, however, Chericoco has already emerged as a leading figure in the conversation about the party’s future. They believe his experience, leadership record and vision for national development make him a strong contender for the flagbearer position and express optimism that he can guide the APC into a competitive 2028 presidential campaign.

Bright Light Projects Graduates New Cohort Under Digital Futures Sierra Leone Program

Group of people posing with certificates at a community awards event for World Menstrual Hygiene Day, banners visible in the background.

Bright Light Projects Sierra Leone (BLPSL), in partnership with Youth Action for Sustainable Development Sierra Leone (YAD-SL), has on June 23, 2026 graduated 15 participants from its April–May 2026 Free Basic Computer Skills Training Program under the Digital Futures Sierra Leone (DFSL) initiative.

The certificate presentation ceremony, held at the Bright Light Projects office in Makeni, celebrated participants who completed one month of practical digital skills training aimed at strengthening computer literacy among students, teachers, job seekers and underserved communities.

The April–May cohort enrolled 20 participants, with 17 successfully completing the training and 15 fulfilling all graduation requirements to receive certificates. The graduating class consisted of 11 men and four women.

The training equipped participants with practical knowledge in Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft PowerPoint, Microsoft Publisher, internet browsing, email applications and other essential digital literacy competencies. Organizers said the program is designed to improve participants’ academic performance, employment prospects, entrepreneurial capacity and lifelong learning opportunities.

The latest graduation builds on the success of Bright Light Projects’ inaugural Free Basic Computer Skills Training Program conducted in Kamabai, Bombali District, in 2025, where 88 participants received introductory digital skills training. Together, the initiatives demonstrate the organization’s continued investment in expanding access to digital education across Sierra Leone.

Speaking during the ceremony, Samuel Alpha Thoronka, Country Coordinator of Bright Light Projects Sierra Leone, emphasized the importance of making digital education accessible to all.

“Digital literacy has become an essential life skill. Many students and teachers still lack access to practical ICT training, limiting their educational and employment opportunities. Through Digital Futures Sierra Leone, Bright Light Projects is committed to closing this gap by providing free, community-based digital skills training that empowers young people to participate confidently in today’s digital economy,” he said.

Graduate Kaba Mansaray, a student at Ernest Bai Koroma University, described the training as a life-changing experience.

“This training has been a game changer for me. The skills I have gained will greatly support my academic work, especially as I complete my university thesis. I now feel much more confident using computers for research, writing and presentations,” Kaba Mansaray said.

Representing the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE) in Bombali District, Deputy Assistant Director Alex Koroma commended the initiative and stressed the growing significance of digital education.

“Digital skills are no longer optional; they are the gateway to the future. Whether in education, employment, or innovation, technology is transforming every sector. Initiatives such as Digital Futures Sierra Leone are helping prepare our young people with the competencies needed to succeed in the modern world,” he said.

Bright Light Projects said the Digital Futures Sierra Leone initiative supports national efforts to improve digital literacy and contributes to the implementation of Sierra Leone’s National Digital Learning Strategy (2025–2030). The organization plans to expand future training cohorts and strengthen partnerships to reach more underserved communities across the country.

Founded in 2012, Bright Light Projects is a nonprofit organization operating in Sierra Leone and Cameroon. The organization focuses on education, skills development, women’s and youth empowerment, digital inclusion, environmental sustainability and community resilience through community-led development programs.

Digital Futures Sierra Leone serves as the organization’s flagship digital inclusion initiative, providing free computer training and creating pathways to education, employment, innovation and entrepreneurship for students, teachers and young people across Sierra Leone.

APC Sets July 8 Deadline for Objections as Constituency Election Preparations Intensify

Lansana Dumbuya, Esq., National Secretary-General of the APC

The National Secretariat of the All People’s Congress (APC) has officially published the list of candidates and republished the Register of Eligible Voters ahead of the party’s Constituency Elections scheduled for Saturday, 11 July 2026.

In a public notice issued on 6 July 2026, the party said the move is part of its commitment to transparency, due process and compliance with its constitutional provisions. The Secretariat announced that both the official list of candidates and the updated Register of Eligible Voters have been published on the party’s official website for public access and scrutiny.

According to the notice, the published candidature list contains only the names of aspirants who submitted their nomination applications electronically through the APC’s online platform.

The Secretariat clarified that aspirants who submitted manual nomination forms, which have since been processed and signed by the National Secretary-General in accordance with directives issued by the Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC), are required to present their duly signed application forms to the Presiding Officers at their respective polling centres on election day before voting begins. The verification process, the party noted, is intended to validate their eligibility to participate in the elections.

The APC also announced the republication of the Register of Eligible Voters for the forthcoming constituency elections, urging all party members to carefully examine the register and promptly report any genuine concerns, omissions or anomalies to the National Secretariat.

The notice sets 12:00 noon on Wednesday, 8 July 2026, as the deadline for submitting complaints or observations regarding the voters’ register. It emphasized that no complaints, objections or requests for amendments relating to the register will be entertained after the stipulated deadline.

The National Secretariat called on party members to cooperate in ensuring that the constituency elections are conducted peacefully, transparently and credibly.

The public notice, signed by Lansana Dumbuya, Esq., National Secretary-General of the APC, also informed the Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC) of the party’s arrangements for the forthcoming internal elections.

SLCAA Strengthens Aviation Safety as Three Inspectors Return from Specialist Training

Group of five adults posing with certificates; one woman wears an orange safety vest in a professional setting, logo visible bottom-left.

The Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), Madam Musayeroh Barrie, has reaffirmed her commitment to building a highly skilled and self-reliant aviation regulatory workforce following the successful completion of specialized aircraft inspection training by three young Sierra Leonean aviation inspectors.

The inspectors paid a courtesy visit to the Director General at the Authority’s headquarters on Monday, 6 July 2026, after completing an intensive 30-day on-the-job training programme in Nigeria. The practical attachment followed aircraft type-specific theoretical training and focused on the Embraer 145 aircraft, equipping the inspectors with advanced technical knowledge and hands-on experience in aircraft safety oversight.

The training forms part of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority’s broader human capacity development strategy under the leadership of Madam Musayeroh Barrie, whose administration continues to prioritize the development of competent Sierra Leonean professionals capable of strengthening the country’s aviation safety oversight while reducing reliance on foreign expertise.

Welcoming the inspectors, Madam Musayeroh Barrie described their achievement as another significant milestone in the Authority’s ongoing efforts to build a sustainable and internationally respected aviation sector through strategic investment in local talent.

“The future of aviation safety lies in developing local expertise,” she stated, adding that while classroom instruction provides the theoretical foundation for aviation regulation, practical exposure remains essential for building the competence, confidence and sound technical judgement required to perform effective oversight responsibilities.

She explained that the Authority is deliberately investing in young professionals to ensure Sierra Leone develops its own pool of highly qualified aviation inspectors capable of independently carrying out aircraft safety oversight in accordance with international civil aviation standards.

According to the Director General, strengthening local institutional capacity remains a key priority as the Authority works towards ending the long-standing dependence on foreign consultants through continuous professional development and specialized technical training.

Madam Musayeroh Barrie further emphasized that competence is determined by knowledge, technical skills and practical experience rather than age or years of service. She commended the three inspectors for demonstrating professionalism, dedication and readiness to contribute meaningfully to Sierra Leone’s aviation safety system.

She also reiterated her vision of building a modern, efficient and self-sufficient civil aviation regulatory authority led by qualified Sierra Leoneans committed to ensuring the safety, security and sustainability of the country’s aviation industry.

Speaking during the engagement, the inspectors expressed appreciation to the Director General and the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority for investing in their professional development and creating opportunities for young Sierra Leoneans to build successful careers in the aviation sector.

They explained that the programme combined comprehensive aircraft type-specific theoretical instruction with a rigorous 30-day practical attachment in Nigeria, where they specialized in the inspection and maintenance oversight of the Embraer 145 aircraft.

According to the inspectors, the hands-on training exposed them to a comprehensive 96-month scheduled aircraft maintenance inspection, enabling them to participate in detailed examinations of aircraft structures and critical systems, including electrical systems, hydraulic systems, landing gear and structural components.

They further disclosed that the programme provided valuable exposure to avionics systems, broadening their technical expertise beyond their primary maintenance discipline and giving them a more comprehensive understanding of aircraft inspection, maintenance procedures and regulatory oversight responsibilities.

Describing the experience as both demanding and transformative, the inspectors noted that the programme enabled them to better understand aircraft operations from the perspective of operators while strengthening their effectiveness as aviation safety regulators.

They said the practical exposure significantly enhanced their confidence and technical competence, preparing them to discharge their oversight responsibilities with greater professionalism and reaffirming their commitment to supporting the continued growth, safety and development of Sierra Leone’s aviation industry.

The successful completion of the specialist training programme reflects the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority’s continued commitment under the leadership of Director General Madam Musayeroh Barrie to developing a new generation of highly skilled aviation professionals capable of meeting international regulatory standards.

Through sustained investment in human capital, the Authority continues to position Sierra Leone as a country with the technical expertise and institutional capacity required to safeguard aviation safety while promoting a modern, resilient and self-reliant aviation sector driven by competent local professionals.

ECSL Boss Reaffirms Commitment to Electoral Excellence at 10th Annual Continental Forum in Egypt

Group photo of delegates at a conference on African citizen abroad diaspora voting, with banners in the background at the venue.

 

The Chief Electoral Commissioner and Chairman of the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL), Edmond Sylvester Alpha, has arrived in the Arab Republic of Egypt to lead Sierra Leone’s delegation to the 10th Annual Continental Forum of Election Management Bodies (EMBs) and the 13th General Assembly of the Association of African Electoral Authorities (AAEA), taking place from 6 to 8 July 2026 in Sharm El-Sheikh.

The Sierra Leone delegation, which also includes the Director of External Relations, Albert Massaquoi, Esq., was received by officials of the Embassy of the Republic of Sierra Leone in Cairo on Sunday, 5 July 2026, ahead of the opening of the high-level continental gathering.

The delegation is participating in the forum following an invitation from the African Union Commission (AUC). The event is jointly organized by the AUC’s Department of Political Affairs, Peace and Security (DPAPS) in collaboration with the Association of African Electoral Authorities (AAEA) and is hosted by Egypt’s National Elections Authority.

This year’s forum is being held under the theme, “Diaspora (Residents Abroad) Voting: Progress, Gaps and Prospects,” reflecting growing efforts across Africa to strengthen electoral participation and democratic governance.

The annual continental meeting brings together Chief Electoral Commissioners, election management officials and electoral experts from across Africa to exchange experiences, share best practices and discuss innovative approaches to improving election administration, stakeholder engagement and public communication.

Participants are also expected to examine practical strategies for strengthening electoral governance, enhancing institutional capacity and promoting credible, peaceful and transparent elections across the continent.

Speaking on Sierra Leone’s participation, Director of External Relations, Albert Massaquoi, Esq., said the country’s presence at the forum demonstrates the Electoral Commission’s continued commitment to electoral excellence and democratic development.

“Sierra Leone’s participation underscores the Electoral Commission’s commitment to promoting electoral excellence, strengthening institutional capacity and contributing to continental efforts to advance democratic governance,” he stated.

He added that the ECSL delegation will actively contribute to discussions during both the Continental Forum and the 13th AAEA General Assembly, reinforcing Sierra Leone’s commitment to supporting credible, transparent and inclusive electoral processes throughout Africa.

The Forum and General Assembly are supported by the European Centre for Electoral Support (ECES) and the Government of Italy through the PRO Electoral Integrity Project, which seeks to strengthen electoral integrity and democratic institutions across the African continent.

Sierra Leone’s participation in the annual gathering is expected to provide an opportunity for the ECSL to deepen collaboration with other Election Management Bodies, strengthen institutional partnerships and contribute to shaping policies aimed at advancing electoral integrity and democratic governance across Africa.

ONGA Celebrates Sierra Leone’s Culinary Excellence as Phebean Kamara Wins Salone Jollof Battle, Launches New Powder Spice

Smiling woman in yellow holding an oversized blue winner's cheque at an ONGA event.

Sierra Leone’s leading seasoning brand, ONGA, marketed by Premium Divine Trading Company Limited, has successfully concluded the 3rd edition of the ONGA Awojor Fiesta – Salone Jollof Battle Edition, with Phebean Kamara emerging as the winner of the maiden national cooking competition. The grand finale, held on Sunday, July 5, 2026, at the Melian Event Center in Murray Town, Freetown, brought together five talented home cooks who competed for the title of Salone Jollof Champion and the opportunity to represent Sierra Leone at the regional ONGA Jollof Battle scheduled for August 22, 2026, in Ghana.

After a competitive cooking session and assessment by a panel of professional judges, Phebean Kamara was crowned champion based on criteria including taste, presentation, creativity, hygiene and cooking techniques. She received Le35, 000 cash, an ONGA product hamper, a standing freezer and an all-expense-paid trip to Ghana, where she will represent Sierra Leone at the regional competition coinciding with the annual celebration of World Jollof Day.

The regional competition will bring together contestants from five West African countries Sierra Leone, Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal and Côte d’Ivoire to compete for regional recognition.

The national competition featured five finalists, including Kadie Turay from Kambia District and Mary Kargbo, Salamatu Kamara, Phebean Kamara and Bintu Yie Octobean from Freetown.

Mary Kargbo emerged as first runner-up, receiving Le15, 000 cash, an ONGA hamper and an electric stove, while Kadie Turay secured the second runner-up position with Le10,000 cash, an ONGA hamper and an electric stove. Bintu Yie Octobean and Salamatu Kamara were placed fourth and fifth respectively, receiving Le5,000 cash, assorted ONGA products, and electric stoves.

The event also featured the official launch of the new ONGA Powder Spice, entertainment activities, lucky dips where attendees won prizes including smart televisions, electric heaters and ONGA products, as well as consumer engagement activities. The company also recognized wholesalers and retailers for their continued contribution to the growth and success of the ONGA brand in Sierra Leone.

Speaking at the event, Marketing Lead at Premium Divine Trading Company Limited, Philip Kanu, said the ONGA Awojor Fiesta was created to celebrate food, culture and community while promoting Sierra Leone’s culinary heritage.

He explained that the word “Awojor” is rooted in Krio culture and refers to a feast or celebration where people gather to enjoy food, fellowship and entertainment. According to him, the addition of “Fiesta” reflects the wider activities of the event, which included music, games, lucky draws and other recreational activities alongside the cooking competition.

Philip Kanu said the maiden Salone Jollof Battle was designed to identify and promote Sierra Leone’s culinary talents while serving as the country’s qualifying competition for the World Jollof Day celebration.

He assured contestants and guests that the competition was conducted fairly and professionally, adding that ONGA remains committed to creating platforms that celebrate local talents and promote Sierra Leone’s food culture.

Representing the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Robert H. Leigh, Assistant Director of Tourism, described the event as an important platform for promoting Sierra Leone’s culture, creativity and gastronomy.

Robert H. Leigh said the ONGA Awojor Fiesta aligns with the Ministry’s focus on culture and creativity, noting that food remains a major component of Sierra Leone’s cultural identity and tourism potential.

He explained that the event serves as a build-up to the UN Tourism Gastronomy Forum, which Sierra Leone is expected to host in December 2026. According to him, the forum will provide the country with an opportunity to showcase its diverse culinary heritage to a global audience.

“As a Ministry we are supporting our food culture because we believe our cuisine is one of the best in the world,” Robert H. Leigh stated.

During the event, Joseph Ashong, Cluster Head of Marketing at Promasidor, launched the new ONGA Powder Spice, describing it as an all-in-one seasoning designed to improve flavour, aroma and appearance of meals.

Joseph Ashong explained that the product contains carefully selected ingredients, including garlic, onion, ginger, chili pepper, black pepper, iodised salt, natural spices, flavour enhancers, sugar and colouring, which combine to deliver a richer taste experience.

He encouraged consumers to use the seasoning in preparing jollof rice, soups, stews, sauces, vegetables and grilled foods, noting that the product helps cooks achieve better aroma and taste with minimal effort.

The new product, he continued, demonstrates ONGA’s commitment to innovation and meeting the changing needs of consumers across Sierra Leone.

He concluded by officially launching the new ONGA Powder Spice Stick Pack, describing it as an innovation aimed at providing consumers with convenience while maintaining the trusted taste and quality associated with the ONGA brand.

Chief Judge of the competition and National President of the Professional Chefs Association of Sierra Leone, Chef Abdul Edward Kainessie, while announcing the result praised all contestants for demonstrating creativity and professionalism throughout the competition.

Chef Abdul Edward Kainessie disclosed that the judging process was based on the African Chefs Association (ACA) criteria, ensuring fairness, transparency and professionalism.

He said contestants were assessed on presentation, taste, hygiene, cooking techniques, creativity and overall performance.

Although only one contestant emerged as champion, Chef Abdul Edward Kainessie described all finalists as winners, noting that their participation demonstrated their commitment and potential in the culinary industry.

He commended ONGA and Premium Divine Trading Company Limited for organizing what he described as a professionally executed competition that promotes Sierra Leone’s culinary identity.

He encouraged Phebean Kamara to serve as a strong ambassador for Sierra Leone at the regional competition in Ghana and showcase the country’s rich food heritage.

Speaking after her victory, Phebean Kamara expressed appreciation to ONGA for creating a platform that celebrates culinary talents.

She attributed her success to hard work, dedication and preparation, while thanking her family, friends and supporters for their encouragement throughout the competition.

Phebean Kamara said she understands the responsibility of representing Sierra Leone at the regional ONGA Jollof Battle and expressed confidence that she will perform well and bring honour to the country.

The ONGA Awojor Fiesta – Salone Jollof Battle Edition has been described by stakeholders as a significant step towards promoting Sierra Leone’s culinary industry, supporting local talents and positioning food culture as an important part of national identity and tourism development.

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