As Chief Gento Calls for Unity… East End Lions Unveil New Jersey Ahead of FA Cup Final with Strong Backing from Africell & Afrimoney

June 17, 2026

East End Lions Football Club has officially unveiled its new jersey ahead of the highly anticipated 2026 FA Cup final against Mighty Blackpool, reaffirming its determination to reclaim silverware while celebrating the unwavering support of key sponsors, Africell Sierra Leone and Afrimoney.

The unveiling ceremony took place on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at Africell Sierra Leone’s headquarters in Freetown. The event brought together club executives, players, sponsors, supporters, and football enthusiasts in a vibrant display of unity and confidence as the club prepares for the decisive showdown in Bo City.

Delivering the welcome address, the Media Manager of Africell Sierra Leone, Abdul Karim Sesay, highlighted the strong relationship between the telecommunications company and East End Lions, noting that both institutions share a commitment to grassroots development and community empowerment.

He stated that Africell and East End Lions are united by common values of inclusiveness, passion, and service to the people, adding that the company remains proud to be associated with one of Sierra Leone’s most historic football clubs. He encouraged the players to make their supporters proud in the upcoming final and assured the club of Africell’s continued support.

Speaking during the ceremony, the Chairman of East End Lions Football Club and Chief Executive Officer of AYV Media Empire, Ambassador Anthony Navo Jr., expressed gratitude to Africell and Afrimoney for their consistent support to the club and their broader contributions to national development.

He praised Africell for standing by the club over the years and described the partnership as instrumental to the club’s growth and success. Navo urged the players to remain focused and determined as they prepare for the FA Cup final, emphasizing that victory would bring immense pride and happiness to thousands of loyal supporters across the country.

The club’s Secretary General, Alpha Jalloh Esq., described the unveiling of the new jersey as a landmark moment in the history of East End Lions.

According to him, the club remains a family institution deeply rooted in the eastern communities of Freetown. He explained that the design of the newly unveiled jersey was inspired by the people and culture of the capital’s eastern part, reflecting the club’s heritage and longstanding connection with its supporters.

He further reaffirmed the club’s ambition to reclaim the FA Cup title while raising standards in football administration and professionalism in Sierra Leone.

“We are setting the bar high. It may be challenging for others, but our objective is to improve the standards of club football in this country,” he stated.

Alpha Jalloh also acknowledged the support of Afrimoney, Gento Group, UBA Sierra Leone, and other partners, noting that their contributions had strengthened the club’s local and international engagements, including recent activities in Tunisia.

The event also featured a moment of reflection as club officials, supporters, and guests observed a minute of silence in honour of deceased East End Lions supporters whose dedication contributed significantly to the club’s success over the years.

Representing the supporters, Sheku Jalloh reminded those present that East End Lions has always been defined by a winning mentality. He called on players and fans to unite behind the team as they seek to secure victory and return home with the prestigious FA Cup trophy.

On behalf of Afrimoney, one of the club’s principal sponsors, Mr. Matison reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting East End Lions and revealed plans aimed at advancing the club’s digital transformation agenda.

He announced that East End Lions had become the first football club in Sierra Leone to introduce online ticket purchasing through the Afrimoney platform. He further disclosed plans to launch an Afrimoney Tap-to-Pay card for supporters, an innovation expected to enhance fan engagement and create a reliable digital footprint for the club.

According to him, the initiative will help identify and reward loyal supporters while enhancing transparency, accountability, and financial management within the club.

The club’s Treasurer, who also serves as Managing Director of UBA Sierra Leone, described the introduction of digital systems as a major milestone in the club’s development. He noted that football has evolved into a global business enterprise and stressed that technology-driven solutions would strengthen governance and accountability within football institutions.

Vice Chairman of East End Lions Football Club, Chief Sheikh Alhaji Mohamed Gento Kamara, also commended Africell for its longstanding support and reiterated the club’s commitment to promoting unity, tolerance, and social cohesion.

He described East End Lions as more than just a football club, emphasising its role as a family institution that has consistently fostered harmony among people from different backgrounds.

Chief Gento encouraged the players to give their best performance in the FA Cup final while urging supporters to remain united regardless of the outcome. He expressed confidence that the team would rise to the occasion and bring the trophy home.

He further appealed to the players to dedicate any victory to the club’s elderly supporters who have remained loyal to East End Lions for decades despite no longer being able to attend matches regularly.

The Vice Chairman also revealed plans to explore microcredit opportunities for supporters as part of the club’s broader social responsibility programme, which aims to empower loyal fans and strengthen community development initiatives.

The ceremony concluded on a note of optimism and determination, with club officials, sponsors, and supporters expressing confidence that East End Lions possesses the spirit, talent, and determination required to secure FA Cup glory against Mighty Blackpool in Bo City.

Ambassador Anthony Navo Jr. and Africell CEO, Shardi Gajawi

Finance Ministry Reaffirms Commitment to Transparency at 2025 Open Budget Survey Launch

June 17, 2026

Group of people on a stage holding certificates, posing for a photo during a budget presentation event, with a slide showing '2025 OPEN BUDGET' in the background.

By Ibrahim Sesay

The Government of Sierra Leone has renewed its commitment to strengthening budget transparency, accountability, and citizen participation in public financial management following the launch of the 2025 Open Budget Survey (OBS) Report in Freetown.

The event, organized by the Budget Advocacy Network (BAN) and its partners at the Radisson Blu Hotel, brought together government officials, development partners, Members of Parliament, civil society organizations, media representatives, and citizens to review the country’s progress in fiscal transparency and discuss reforms aimed at improving public financial management.

Delivering the keynote address on behalf of the Ministry of Finance, the Acting Director of Budget, Dr. Ilara Mahdi, described the Open Budget Survey as an important independent assessment of how governments account for and disclose the use of public resources.

He emphasized that, for the Ministry of Finance, the survey represents far more than a performance measurement tool.

“The Open Budget Survey is a mirror reflecting our commitment to the people of Sierra Leone. It reveals how effectively we are opening our financial processes to those whose lives are most impacted by our fiscal decisions,” Dr. Mahdi stated.

He highlighted several milestones achieved by the Government in recent years, including the publication of key budget documents, the production of Citizens’ Budgets, the development of budget briefs that simplify complex fiscal information, and strengthened collaboration with civil society organizations and the media.

According to Dr. Mahdi, the Government has also strengthened parliamentary oversight and enhanced the role of Audit Service Sierra Leone in promoting accountability and transparency in the management of public resources.

Despite the progress recorded, he acknowledged that challenges remain, particularly regarding the timeliness and comprehensiveness of budget information and the need to make public participation more meaningful and accessible to ordinary citizens.

“Our goal is to ensure that no citizen feels left in the dark regarding how public resources are utilized,” he said.

Reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to reform, Dr. Mahdi outlined key priorities that will guide future efforts. These include ensuring all budget documents are comprehensive and published on time, creating structured platforms for dialogue between government and citizens, and leveraging digital technology to make budget data more interactive and user-friendly.

He noted that the Government has invested significantly in digitizing processes across ministries, departments, and agencies and intends to use technology to improve public access to financial information.

Dr. Mahdi further stressed the importance of restoring and strengthening public trust in government institutions, describing trust as a critical pillar of sustainable national development.

“Transparency and accountability are not our final destination. Rather, they are the pathways through which we ensure that resources reach the people and that every citizen feels a sense of ownership over national progress,” he said.

Earlier, governance expert and development practitioner Aminata Samuella Ruth Kelly-Lamin described the Open Budget Survey as a call to action for government institutions, Parliament, oversight bodies, civil society organizations, development partners, and citizens to work collectively toward greater accountability.

UNICEF Officer-in-Charge, Liv Elin Indreiten, commended Sierra Leone for improvements in public participation and oversight, noting that the country now performs comparatively well within the West African region. However, she called for more inclusive participation, particularly for women, young people, persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) Representative, Wayne Mithchel, emphasized that transparency must be accompanied by budget credibility. He warned that revenue shortfalls, expenditure overruns, weak controls, and procurement inefficiencies can undermine development outcomes and public confidence in government institutions.

Participants at the launch agreed that while Sierra Leone has made notable gains in budget transparency and oversight, additional reforms are needed to strengthen citizen engagement, improve budget credibility, enforce audit recommendations, and protect spending in critical social sectors.

The 2025 Open Budget Survey was ultimately described as both an assessment of Sierra Leone’s current performance and a roadmap for future reforms aimed at building public trust, strengthening institutions, and improving service delivery across the country.

SLCAA DG Joins Rwandan & Togolese Presidents, Obasanjo at African Air Transport Summit in Lomé

June 17, 2026

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leone has reinforced its growing presence within Africa’s aviation sector as the Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), Musayeroh Barrie, participates in the African Air Transport Convention and Expo currently taking place in Lomé, Togo, from 15th to 19th June 2026.

The continental gathering has attracted some of Africa’s most influential political leaders, policymakers, aviation regulators, industry experts and development partners, including Paul Kagame, Jean-Lucien Savi de Tové and Olusegun Obasanjo. The event is being held under the theme, “Single African Sky and Sustainable Air Transport Development,” focusing on advancing a more accessible, connected, affordable and environmentally sustainable aviation sector across the continent.

Organized with the support of the African Union, the African Continental Free Trade Area, AUDA-NEPAD and other key aviation stakeholders, the convention serves as one of Africa’s most significant platforms for discussing the future of air transport and regional integration.

Ms. Musayeroh Barrie is participating as a speaker and has also played a leading role in shaping discussions at the event. Her presence reflects Sierra Leone’s increasing commitment to aviation development and its active engagement in regional efforts aimed at strengthening connectivity, trade, tourism and economic growth through improved air transport systems.

A major highlight of her participation came during Panel Session 8, where she moderated discussions on “Women, Youth and Skills Development in Aviation.” The session brought together aviation professionals, regulators, airline executives and policymakers from across Africa to examine ways of building a skilled and inclusive workforce capable of supporting the continent’s rapidly expanding aviation industry.

As moderator, Ms. Musayeroh Barrie steered conversations on increasing opportunities for women and young people within the aviation sector, addressing existing skills shortages, promoting leadership development and strengthening workforce sustainability. Participants emphasized the importance of creating pathways that encourage greater participation of underrepresented groups while preparing the next generation of aviation professionals for future industry demands.

The panel featured several distinguished experts from leading aviation institutions across Africa and beyond. Among them were representatives from the International Civil Aviation Organization, the Zambia Civil Aviation Authority, ANACIM, Ascend AI, Tradewinds Aviation, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, Ninety-Nines, African Women in Aviation, Afrijet and the African Airlines Association.

The session opened with remarks from Adefunke Adeyemi, Secretary General of the African Civil Aviation Commission, who stressed the importance of empowering women and youth as key drivers of innovation, inclusivity and long-term growth within Africa’s aviation ecosystem.

Discussions further highlighted the need for stronger mentorship programmes, greater investment in aviation education and training, gender-responsive policies and enhanced collaboration among Governments, regulators, airlines and industry stakeholders. Participants agreed that developing human capital remains critical to achieving a competitive and sustainable aviation industry capable of supporting Africa’s broader development ambitions.

The convention also continues to advance the objectives of the Single African Air Transport Market, an initiative designed to create a more integrated and efficient aviation network across the continent. By reducing barriers to air travel and improving connectivity, SAATM aims to facilitate trade, investment, tourism and economic cooperation among African countries.

For Sierra Leone, Ms. Musayeroh Barrie’s prominent participation at the convention underscores the country’s growing influence within continental aviation discussions and demonstrates its commitment to supporting reforms that promote regional integration, diversity, innovation and sustainable growth in Africa’s air transport sector.

ECOWAS Chair, Mauritanian President Reaffirm Commitment to Regional Peace, Security and Cooperation

June 17, 2026

Two men in formal attire sit in ornate chairs across from each other in a wood-paneled room, with flags and microphones on a table between them and a presidential emblem on the floor nearby.

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, Chairman of the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government and President of Sierra Leone, has held high-level bilateral talks with President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania, focusing on regional security, economic cooperation and sustainable development across West Africa and the Sahel.

The meeting took place on Monday, 15 June 2026, at the Presidential Palace in Nouakchott, where the two leaders exchanged views on a range of pressing regional and continental issues affecting peace, stability and development.

During the discussions, President Bio conveyed warm greetings from the Government and people of Sierra Leone and commended President Ghazouani for his leadership and Mauritania’s continued contribution to promoting peace, security and stability in the region.

A major focus of the talks was the evolving security situation across the Sahel and West Africa. Both leaders expressed concern over the growing threats posed by terrorism, violent extremism, organized crime, climate-related challenges, food insecurity and population displacement.

President Bio emphasized that these interconnected challenges require coordinated regional action, stronger partnerships and sustained dialogue among African nations. He stressed the importance of collective efforts aimed at preserving peace, constitutional order and social cohesion across the region.

Speaking in his capacity as Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority, President Bio reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening regional solidarity and advancing practical solutions that support peace, stability and sustainable development. He described Mauritania as a strategic link between the Maghreb, the Sahel and West Africa, noting that the country’s experience in counter-terrorism and border security makes it a valuable partner in regional peacebuilding efforts.

The Sierra Leonean leader also underscored the need for deeper cooperation between Mauritania and ECOWAS, arguing that stronger institutional engagement would help address common challenges while promoting trade, investment, regional integration and the free movement of people and goods.

Beyond security matters, President Bio highlighted several areas for enhanced bilateral cooperation, including fisheries, maritime security, agriculture, trade, mining, renewable energy, education and capacity building. He further stressed the need to protect marine resources, combat illegal fishing and unlock opportunities within the blue economy while maximizing the benefits of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

President Bio also praised Mauritania’s active role within the African Union and called for stronger African unity in addressing key priorities such as climate resilience, food security, youth empowerment, sustainable development and reforms to global governance structures.

In response, President Ghazouani thanked President Bio for honouring his invitation and commended his leadership of the ECOWAS Authority. He reaffirmed Mauritania’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Sierra Leone and expanding cooperation with ECOWAS.

The Mauritanian President also expressed concern over the deteriorating security situation in the Sahel and pledged continued collaboration with ECOWAS. He further proposed the convening of a special regional summit dedicated to addressing emerging security threats facing West Africa and the Sahel.

The meeting concluded with both leaders reaffirming their shared commitment to deepening cooperation between Mauritania and ECOWAS, strengthening bilateral relations, and working collectively to advance peace, security, stability, regional integration and sustainable development throughout West Africa and the Sahel.

SALWACO Unveils Ambitious 2026–2030 Strategic Development Plan to Strengthen Water and Sanitation Services

June 17, 2026

Woman in a pink shirt sits at a desk with a laptop, gesturing as she speaks in an office setting.

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Sierra Leone Water Company (SALWACO) has unveiled its Strategic Development Plan (SDP) for the period 2026–2030, outlining an ambitious roadmap aimed at transforming water supply and sanitation services across the country’s provincial areas.

The five-year plan is designed to strengthen SALWACO’s capacity to deliver safe, reliable and sustainable water services while improving institutional efficiency and ensuring the company’s long-term financial viability. The strategy also seeks to support the Government of Sierra Leone’s Medium-Term National Development Plan (MTNDP) and the attainment of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6, which calls for universal access to clean water and sanitation by 2030.

According to the Strategic Development Plan, SALWACO currently faces several challenges, including limited infrastructure coverage, weak governance systems, inadequate commercialization of services and insufficient financial resources to meet the growing demand for water supply and sanitation services.

The document highlights that SALWACO serves the provincial regions of Sierra Leone, covering an estimated 83.3 percent of the national population. Despite significant investments over the years, only a fraction of the population currently has access to potable water through the company’s systems, underscoring the need for expanded infrastructure and improved service delivery.

To address those challenges, the SDP outlines five strategic goals. Those include strengthening institutional capacity, developing innovative water and sanitation infrastructure, enhancing the commercialization of water services, protecting and managing water infrastructure, and investing in human resource development.

The plan also emphasizes the adoption of modern technology, improved revenue collection systems and stronger partnerships with Government institutions, development partners, local councils and communities to ensure sustainable service delivery.

SALWACO’s vision under the new strategy is to become a leading water and sanitation utility in West Africa by providing quality services in a commercially viable, environmentally sustainable and customer-focused manner.

The company estimates that approximately US$55.84 million will be required to successfully implement the Strategic Development Plan over the next five years. The investment is expected to support critical water supply and sanitation projects, institutional reforms and innovative business models aimed at improving operational performance.

The SDP further recognizes the importance of protecting Sierra Leone’s abundant water resources while addressing emerging challenges such as climate change, rapid urbanization, environmental degradation and increasing demand for potable water.

SALWACO believes that the successful implementation of the Strategic Development Plan will significantly improve access to safe drinking water, strengthen sanitation services, enhance customer satisfaction and contribute to the country’s broader socio-economic development agenda.

The company has called for strong collaboration among stakeholders, including the Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, development partners, regulatory agencies, local authorities and the public to ensure the successful realization of the plan’s objectives.

Tony Elumelu Backs ECOWAS Investment Summit as President Bio Pushes Regional Integration

June 17, 2026

Two men shake hands in a wood-paneled room, one wearing white traditional attire and the other in a black suit and hat, with a government seal in the corner. — President Julius Maada Bio meets renowned African investor and philanthropist, Tony Elumelu in Abuja, Nigeria ahead of the West Africa Integration and Investment Summit (WAIIS)

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The West Africa Integration and Investment Summit (WAIIS), a flagship initiative championed by the Chairman of ECOWAS and President of Sierra Leone, Dr. Julius Maada Bio, has received a significant boost following a high-level meeting with renowned African investor and philanthropist, Tony Elumelu.

The engagement, which took place on Sunday, 14 June 2026, in Abuja, Nigeria, saw Tony Elumelu pledge his full support for the regional economic initiative, reinforcing confidence in the Summit’s vision of accelerating economic integration and investment across West Africa.

Scheduled to take place from 16 to 18 November 2026, WAIIS is being convened under President Bio’s leadership as a transformative platform aimed at bringing together Governments, development partners, investors, financial institutions and private sector leaders to promote sustainable economic growth and regional prosperity.

The Summit comes at a historic period as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) commemorates its 50th anniversary since its establishment in 1975. President Bio has consistently advocated for renewed regional cooperation, emphasizing that stronger economic integration is essential for expanding trade, attracting investment and fostering industrial development across West Africa.

Held under the theme, “Powering Regional Integration through Energy Trade, Strategic Minerals, Agribusiness and Digital Transformation,” the Summit seeks to unlock new investment opportunities by focusing on four key strategic sectors. These include energy trade and industrial growth, strategic minerals and natural resource development, agribusiness and food systems transformation, and digital innovation and connectivity.

Organizers believe those priority areas will strengthen regional competitiveness, accelerate industrialization, improve food security, expand access to reliable energy and position West Africa as an increasingly attractive destination for local and international investment.

Special Envoy for the Summit and one of its principal architects, Dr. Kandeh K. Yumkella, said WAIIS is designed to move beyond policy discussions by delivering practical outcomes through investment frameworks, analytical reports and a pipeline of bankable regional projects capable of attracting substantial public and private sector financing.

According to Dr. Kandeh Yumkella, the Summit will create opportunities for strategic partnerships, enhance public-private sector collaboration and identify priority investments that can support industrial growth, strengthen food systems, improve energy access and expand digital connectivity throughout the ECOWAS region.

The endorsement by Tony Elumelu is widely viewed as a major milestone for the initiative. As one of Africa’s leading entrepreneurs and advocates for private sector-driven development, his support is expected to encourage greater investor participation and strengthen confidence in the Summit’s objectives.

During the meeting, Tony Elumelu commended President Bio’s leadership and the Summit’s focus on delivering practical economic transformation through regional cooperation and investment. He also expressed his readiness to provide financial support and to mobilize influential African business leaders and private sector stakeholders to actively participate in the Summit and its follow-up activities.

His commitment is expected to increase the Summit’s visibility among investors, development finance institutions and business leaders across the continent and beyond, while underscoring the important role of the private sector in driving regional integration and sustainable economic development.

With preparations gaining momentum, the West Africa Integration and Investment Summit is emerging as one of the region’s most ambitious economic platforms, with the potential to align political leadership, private capital and development priorities around a shared vision of a more integrated, competitive and prosperous West Africa.

Parliament Calls for Stronger Measures to Combat Rising Cybercrime

June 17, 2026

Three men sit at a table covered with papers; a ‘Cybersecurity Awareness Month’ banner is visible in the background.

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Parliamentary Oversight Committee on Communication, Technology and Innovation has intensified efforts to strengthen Sierra Leone’s fight against cybercrime, summoning officials of the National Cyber Security Coordination Centre to address growing concerns over online fraud, fake social media accounts, digital extortion, cyberbullying and online defamation.

The engagement was chaired by Hon. Boston Munda, Member of Parliament for Constituency 021 in Kenema District, representing the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), who emphasized the urgent need for effective enforcement of the country’s cyber security laws.

Addressing officials during the session, Hon. Boston Munda recalled that Parliament dedicated more than two years to developing and enacting cyber security legislation aimed at protecting citizens from the increasing dangers associated with the digital space. He noted that the laws were designed to safeguard women, children, public officials and the general public from online abuse, misinformation, identity theft and other forms of cyber-related crimes.

He stressed that while the legal framework has been established, effective implementation and public awareness are essential to ensure that the objectives of the legislation are fully realized.

Responding to the committee, officials from the National Cyber Security Coordination Centre highlighted several significant achievements made in strengthening the country’s cyber resilience. They disclosed that Sierra Leone has established a National Computer Incident Response Team to monitor and respond to cyber threats, as well as a Digital Forensics Laboratory to support investigations into cyber-related offences.

The officials also informed lawmakers that the Centre has been conducting nationwide public awareness campaigns to educate citizens on safe online practices and the dangers of cybercrime. They further noted that the Government continues to work closely with ECOWAS, regional partners, international organizations and global technology platforms to improve the detection, investigation and prevention of cyber threats.

Members of the committee, however, expressed concerns about the country’s level of preparedness to tackle increasingly sophisticated cybercriminal activities. Discussions focused on the security of banking and mobile money platforms, the growing misuse of social media and the challenges associated with tracking and prosecuting individuals operating fake online accounts.

Lawmakers also sought assurances that the relevant institutions possess the technical capacity and resources needed to effectively enforce cyber security laws and protect critical national digital infrastructure.

In his closing remarks, Hon. Boston Munda called for stronger collaboration among Government institutions, law enforcement agencies, financial institutions, telecommunications companies and technology stakeholders to address the growing threat of cybercrime.

He emphasized that the fight against online fraud, extortion, digital defamation and the misuse of technology requires a coordinated national approach and sustained public education.

Hon. Boston Munda concluded by reaffirming Parliament’s commitment to ensuring that the country’s cyber security framework remains effective and responsive, stressing that protecting citizens and preserving trust in the digital environment is a collective responsibility shared by Government, institutions and the public.

SLAJ AGM: Guild of Editors Calls for Responsible Journalism to Drive Sierra Leone’s Economic Growth

June 17, 2026

Man wearing glasses in a light-blue checkered shirt sits with his hand on his chin at what appears to be a social or conference event. — Chairman of Guild of Editors Sierra Leone, Thomas Dixon

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Guild of Editors Sierra Leone has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting ethical and responsible journalism, describing the media as a vital partner in strengthening the country’s economy, democratic governance and national development.

Delivering a statement at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) in Makeni, held under the theme, “Strengthening Sierra Leone’s Economy Through Responsible Journalism,” the Guild said the media has a constitutional and societal responsibility to contribute positively to the nation’s progress.

The Guild noted that the theme provides an opportunity for journalists and media practitioners to reflect on their role beyond news reporting and to recognize the importance of responsible journalism in fostering economic growth, public accountability and democratic stability.

According to the statement, a thriving economy depends on transparency, accountability, predictability and public confidence in institutions. It stressed that investors, development partners, businesses and citizens rely heavily on accurate and credible information when making important decisions.

The Guild emphasized that journalism serves as a public good by facilitating informed decision-making and strengthening the rule of law, adding that the Constitution of Sierra Leone guarantees freedom of expression and freedom of the press while placing corresponding ethical responsibilities on media practitioners.

It further stated that responsible journalism demands accuracy, fairness, thorough fact-checking and respect for the principles of natural justice. The Guild maintained that the right to publish information should always be exercised in the public interest and with due regard for truth and the reputational rights of individuals and institutions.

Highlighting the link between journalism and economic development, the Guild observed that investigative reporting plays a significant role in exposing corruption, maladministration, illicit financial practices and the abuse of public office. Such reporting, it said, contributes to protecting public resources and strengthening public institutions while promoting a culture of accountability necessary for sustainable economic growth.

The statement, however, cautioned against irresponsible reporting, warning that inaccurate information concerning financial institutions, businesses, investment projects or Government policies could undermine public confidence, discourage investment and create uncertainty in the marketplace.

The Guild therefore urged journalists to ensure that economic and financial reporting is based on verifiable facts, informed analysis and sound professional judgment.

Recognizing the growing complexity of economic issues, the Guild also underscored the need for specialized journalism in areas such as public finance, taxation, trade, natural resource governance, technology and investment law. It described continuous professional training and capacity building as essential to enabling journalists to report accurately and responsibly.

The Guild further called on public institutions, private sector actors and development partners to improve transparency and guarantee access to information. It argued that responsible journalism flourishes where public records are accessible and institutions engage openly and constructively with the media.

According to the statement, openness and accountability are not obstacles to governance but fundamental pillars of good governance and economic progress.

Reaffirming its commitment to editorial independence, professional excellence and ethical journalism, the Guild stressed that a free, responsible and competent press remains indispensable to Sierra Leone’s development aspirations.

It also noted that editors have a unique responsibility to safeguard editorial standards and ensure that the public receives information that is accurate, balanced and capable of promoting informed public discourse.

During discussions on the AGM theme, the Guild urged all stakeholders to recognize responsible journalism as a national development imperative. It emphasized that an independent, ethical and accountable media sector plays a vital role in strengthening economic resilience, boosting investor confidence, promoting good governance and reinforcing democratic institutions.

The Guild of Editors Sierra Leone concluded by reaffirming its support for initiatives that promote professionalism within the media and encourage journalism that serves the public interest and advances national development. It also wished the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists a successful Annual General Meeting and productive deliberations.

Orange FA Cup Final Set for Historic Clash Between East End Lions & Mighty Blackpool in Bo

June 17, 2026

Bright orange poster for the Orange FA Cup Final 2026: East End Lions vs Mighty Blackpool at Southern Arena, June 20, 2026; ticket prices Open Le20, Covered Le40, VIP Le100.

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Football fans across Sierra Leone are eagerly counting down to what promises to be one of the biggest sporting events of the year as East End Lions and Mighty Blackpool prepare to battle for the coveted 2026 Orange FA Cup trophy.

The much-anticipated final, sponsored by Orange Sierra Leone in partnership with the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA), is scheduled to take place on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at the Southern Arena in Bo City, with kick-off set for 6:30 PM.

Organizers have announced that tickets for the grand finale are now available, with Open Stand tickets selling for Le 20, Covered Stand tickets priced at Le 40 and VIP access available for Le 100. Thousands of supporters are expected to travel from across the country to witness the clash between two of Sierra Leone’s most successful and historic football clubs.

The final carries enormous significance beyond domestic silverware, with the winner securing a place in the prestigious CAF Confederation Cup and earning the opportunity to represent Sierra Leone on the continental stage.

Ahead of the showdown, Orange Sierra Leone and the SLFA officially unveiled the 2026 Orange FA Cup trophy, signaling the final phase of preparations for the country’s premier knockout football competition. The unveiling has further heightened excitement among football enthusiasts eager to see which club will lift the coveted silverware.

East End Lions, popularly known as “The Killers,” secured their place in the final following a determined 1-0 victory over FC Kallon in the semifinal stage. Their disciplined performance demonstrated the team’s determination to add another major trophy to its rich history.

Mighty Blackpool, meanwhile, booked their place in the final after overcoming Abacha City in a dramatic semifinal encounter. The former champions prevailed 4-2 in a penalty shootout after a fiercely contested match, setting up a mouthwatering final against their long-time rivals.

The upcoming encounter revives one of the most celebrated rivalries in Sierra Leonean football. Both clubs boast decades of success and passionate fan bases, making the final one of the most eagerly awaited fixtures in recent years.

Football analysts believe the match could be a closely fought contest, with both sides possessing the experience, talent and determination required to claim the title. Supporters from both camps are expected to create an electric atmosphere at the Southern Arena as they rally behind their teams.

With the trophy now unveiled, tickets on sale and preparations nearing completion, all eyes will be on Bo City on June 20 as East End Lions and Mighty Blackpool write another chapter in their historic rivalry in the quest for Orange FA Cup glory.

Vice President Juldeh Jalloh Mourns APC Chairman Minkailu Mansaray, Hails His Legacy of Service

June 17, 2026

Deceased APC Chairman, Minkailu Mansaray

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, has joined thousands of Sierra Leoneans in mourning the death of the National Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the All People’s Congress (APC), Hon. Alhaji Minkailu Mansaray, describing him as an outstanding politician whose life was dedicated to serving the people of Sierra Leone.

In a heartfelt tribute issued following the announcement of Hon. Alhaji Minkailu Mansaray’s death on Monday, 15 June 2026, the Vice President noted that the late APC Chairman, affectionately known as “Uncle Minks,” distinguished himself through years of public service, leadership and commitment to national development.

Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh emphasized that beyond politics, Alhaji Minkailu Mansaray was widely respected as a God-fearing man whose humility, faith and respect for others earned him admiration across political divides.

“His passing is a loss not only to his family and the APC, but to Sierra Leone as a whole. He leaves behind a legacy of commitment, leadership and service that will be remembered by many,” the Vice President stated.

He further prayed for Allah’s mercy upon the late politician, asking that his years of service be rewarded and that he be granted eternal rest in Al-Jannah Firdaus.

The Vice President’s tribute adds to a growing list of condolences from political leaders, institutions and citizens across the country following the death of one of Sierra Leone’s most prominent political figures.

President Julius Maada Bio also expressed profound sadness over the passing of the APC National Chairman, describing him as a respected statesman and accomplished politician whose contributions to Sierra Leone’s democratic journey would never be forgotten.

In a condolence message issued on behalf of the Government and people of Sierra Leone and the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), President Bio extended sympathies to the bereaved family, the APC leadership and all those mourning the late politician.

Meanwhile, the Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, Hon. Abdul Kargbo, confirmed that arrangements are underway in Dakar, Senegal, to repatriate the remains of the late APC Chairman to Sierra Leone for a dignified Islamic burial.

According to Hon. Abdul Kargbo, the remains of Alhaji Minkailu Mansaray have been placed in a mortuary while family members and party officials work with relevant authorities to facilitate their return home. He also expressed appreciation to the Government of Sierra Leone for its support during the process.

The APC, in an official statement signed by its National Secretary General, Lansana Dumbuya Esq., described the late Chairman as a loyal party stalwart and accomplished statesman whose contributions to both the party and the nation will be remembered for generations.

The party highlighted Alhaji Minkailu Mansaray’s remarkable political journey, which saw him rise from President of the APC National Youth League to Western Region Chairman, Deputy National Chairman and ultimately National Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the APC.

Beyond party politics, he served Sierra Leone in several senior Government positions under the administration of former President Ernest Bai Koroma, including Minister of Labour and Social Security and Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources.

The APC noted that his wisdom, humility, dedication and patriotism touched countless lives and left an enduring impact on both the party and the country.

Alhaji Minkailu Mansaray passed away in the early hours of Monday, 15 June 2026, in Dakar, Senegal, after a period of illness. His death has sparked an outpouring of tributes from across the political spectrum, with many describing him as a bridge-builder, respected leader and committed advocate for democratic governance.

Funeral arrangements and the timetable for the repatriation of his remains are expected to be announced by the family and APC leadership in the coming days as Sierra Leone continues to mourn the loss of one of its prominent political figures.