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Eight Peninsula Communities Sign Declaration to Protect Beaches, Boost Sustainable Tourism

Two men sign documents at a wooden table during a meeting; one in a colorful patterned shirt with sunglasses, the other in a white T‑shirt; others sit in the background.

Leaders from eight coastal communities along Sierra Leone’s Western Area Peninsula have signed a declaration committing themselves to the collective protection and sustainable management of beaches and coastal environments, with emphasis on tourism development, environmental resilience and community livelihoods.

The declaration was signed during a coastal dialogue organized by the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs (MTCA) at Bureh Beach on September 28, 2026, as part of activities commemorating World Tourism Day. The engagement was witnessed by representatives of the National Tourist Board (NTB) and the Monuments and Relics Commission.

Community representatives acknowledged the important role coastal settlements play in protecting the environment and preserving the natural and cultural assets that support Sierra Leone’s tourism industry. They recognized the ocean as a shared resource that connects communities and provides opportunities for livelihoods, health, wellbeing and economic development.

Participants also noted that tourism, cultural heritage preservation and the promotion of Sierra Leone’s coastal attractions could contribute significantly to economic diversification. They, however, expressed concern over mounting pressure on beaches and marine ecosystems across the Western Area Peninsula.

One of the major issues raised during the dialogue was sand mining, particularly the extraction of sand to meet growing demand from Freetown’s construction sector. Participants said the practice has contributed to coastal erosion and shoreline retreat, reportedly reaching about 40 metres in some locations, with an estimated 20 million cubic metres of sand lost along sections of the peninsula coastline.

Community leaders acknowledged that some activities within their settlements have also contributed to the deterioration of marine and coastal environments. They consequently pledged greater cooperation and collective responsibility in addressing practices that threaten the coastline.

Among the threats identified were climate change, illegal sand mining, natural disasters, pollution, poor waste management, environmental degradation, the loss of cultural heritage sites and criminal activities that could undermine community safety and sustainable livelihoods.

Under the declaration, the eight communities committed themselves to coordinating their efforts with the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs and the National Tourist Board. Their commitments include strengthening environmental education and public awareness, improving safety and security at tourism destinations, addressing beach erosion and environmental degradation, promoting hygiene and sanitation and working closely with private-sector stakeholders.

The communities also pledged to comply with national tourism policies, environmental regulations and other laws governing the sustainable use of coastal resources.

As part of efforts to translate the declaration into action, community leaders agreed to establish local conservation committees responsible for monitoring coastal conditions and reporting illegal or destructive activities affecting beaches, heritage sites and marine ecosystems.

Participants stressed that protecting the coastline goes beyond environmental conservation, arguing that healthy beaches and marine ecosystems are essential to tourism, employment and other economic opportunities available to coastal communities.

They further underscored the need to preserve the peninsula’s beaches, cultural heritage and natural attractions so that future generations can continue to benefit from tourism and sustainable coastal livelihoods.

The signing of the declaration represents a move towards greater community ownership of coastal conservation and stronger cooperation among local communities, Government institutions and other stakeholders.

Stakeholders expressed hope that the commitments would help safeguard Sierra Leone’s coastline while positioning the Western Area Peninsula as an example of community-led coastal conservation and sustainable tourism development.

Employers Federation Pledges Cooperation with Government on Labour Reforms

Group of eleven adults posing in a line in a brightly lit room, wearing traditional African attire; a framed photo hangs on the wall behind them.

 

The Sierra Leone Employers Federation (SLEF) has paid a courtesy visit to the Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security, Umaru Napoleon Koroma Esq., as part of efforts to strengthen cooperation and address key issues affecting employers, workers and the wider labour sector.

The meeting, held at the Minister’s office in Freetown on Thursday, 2 October 2026, brought together members of the SLEF executive and senior officials of the Ministry, including the Commissioner of Labour.

The Commissioner of Labour called the meeting to order and provided an opportunity for members of the Federation to introduce its executive and explain its activities and role within Sierra Leone’s tripartite labour system.

Speaking on behalf of the Federation, SLEF Vice Chairman, Tamba Allieu Kokobay, congratulated the Minister on his appointment and thanked him for meeting with the organisation.

Tamba Allieu Kokobay said SLEF has over the years worked to strengthen its visibility and capacity to effectively represent the interests of employers across Sierra Leone.

He explained that the Federation works closely with the Sierra Leone Labour Congress and the Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security under the country’s tripartite framework. He stressed that cooperation among employers, workers and the Government remains important in addressing challenges within the labour and employment sector.

“We are here to introduce ourselves to you, for you to know that we are there and ready to work with you. You can call on us at any time,” Tamba Allieu Kokobay said.

He assured the Minister that the Federation stands ready to support the Ministry in addressing labour and employment matters and promoting constructive engagement between employers and workers.

The SLEF Vice Chairman also highlighted progress made by the Federation, including the establishment of a fully functional secretariat and its increased participation in national and international labour engagements.

Responding, Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security Umaru Napoleon Koroma Esq. welcomed the SLEF delegation and expressed appreciation for the Federation’s visit and contribution to Sierra Leone’s labour sector.

The Minister said his priority is to strengthen cooperation with employers, workers and other stakeholders to ensure that the country’s labour laws are effectively implemented, with particular attention to the Employment Act.

“My intention, and I have made it very clear from day one, is to work together with you to see how we can implement the provisions of this Act,” Minister Umaru Napoleon Koroma stated.

The engagement reaffirmed the importance of the tripartite relationship involving the Government, employers and workers in dealing with labour issues, strengthening workplace relations and supporting the effective implementation of Sierra Leone’s employment laws.

ECSL Validates 2025–2029 Strategic Plan in Makeni, Pledges Transparency and Stakeholder Ownership

Panel of men seated at a long table during a formal meeting, with green and blue drapes in a decorated hall and water bottles on the table.

 

The Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) has engaged stakeholders in the Northern Region in the validation of its proposed 2025–2029 Strategic Plan and four institutional policies, as part of nationwide consultations aimed at strengthening transparency, participation and public confidence in electoral administration.

The engagement, held on Thursday, 1 October 2026, at the Bombali District Council Hall in Makeni, brought together representatives of political parties, traditional authorities, local councils, civil society organisations, security agencies, women and youth groups, transport unions, religious leaders and development partners.

The consultation followed similar engagements in Kenema on 28 September and Bo on 29 September, with Port Loko hosting the North-West regional engagement on Friday, 2 October.

Addressing stakeholders in Makeni, Chief Electoral Commissioner and Chairman of ECSL, Edmond Sylvester Alpha, said the Commission wanted participants to critically examine its plans rather than simply endorse them.

“We are not here to ask for your applause. We are here to ask for your scrutiny. Test us. Challenge us,” he said.

Edmond Sylvester Alpha stressed that the Strategic Plan should reflect realities across Sierra Leone and incorporate the experiences and concerns of communities in Bombali, Tonkolili, Koinadugu and Falaba. He said meaningful stakeholder participation is necessary to ensure that the final document is responsive to the country’s electoral needs.

The proposed Strategic Plan is anchored on four pillars: Institutional and Staff Development; Electoral Education, Communication and Participation; Electoral Operations; and ICT and Data Management Systems.

Under those areas, the Commission intends to strengthen professional and merit-based staffing, expand year-round civic and voter education, improve preparedness throughout the electoral cycle, address electoral misinformation and modernize its digital infrastructure and data-management systems.

ECSL says the proposed plan was developed from institutional assessments, lessons from previous elections and recommendations from local and international election observation missions. The Commission’s 2024 Annual Report confirms that it reviewed the implementation of its previous 2020–2024 Strategic Plan and began preparations for developing the 2025–2029 plan.

Stakeholders in Makeni also reviewed four institutional policies covering Stakeholder Engagement, Regulation Making, Information Management and Ad-Hoc Staff Recruitment and Management.

The Stakeholder Engagement Policy seeks to establish structured and continuous dialogue with actors across the electoral process, while the Regulation Making Policy is intended to promote clarity, fairness and predictability in developing electoral rules. The Information Management Policy focuses on access to electoral information within the limits of the law, while the Ad-Hoc Staff Recruitment and Management Policy addresses transparent and merit-based recruitment and management of temporary election personnel.

ECSL committed itself to documenting feedback from the Makeni consultation and considering the contributions in finalizing the Strategic Plan ahead of its national launch.

“We are not asking for blind trust. We are asking for a working relationship; one built on evidence, follow-through and respect,” Edmond Sylvester Alpha told stakeholders.

The consultation reflects ECSL’s broader engagement with political parties, civil society organisations and other stakeholders as part of its electoral mandate. The Commission identifies accountability, credibility, independence, integrity, impartiality, professionalism and transparency among its guiding principles.

In Port Loko, stakeholders continued the validation process at the Port Loko District Council Hall on Friday, 2 October 2026. Feedback from the regional consultations is expected to contribute to the final Strategic Plan that will guide the Commission’s work through 2029.

Finance Ministry Targets Higher Revenue, Lower Deficit and Stronger Fiscal Oversight by 2027

Man in a dark suit and white shirt seated at a warmly lit indoor event, looking at the camera with a calm expression.

 

The Ministry of Finance has presented its FY2027 budget and strategic priorities at the ongoing Bilateral Budget Hearings, outlining measures to increase domestic revenue, improve debt sustainability, strengthen public financial management and enhance fiscal oversight.

The presentation, held on Thursday, 1 October 2026, brought the Ministry’s own spending plans under stakeholder scrutiny after it had participated in reviewing budget submissions from other Ministries, Departments and Agencies.

Representatives of District Budget Oversight Committees (DBOCs), Non-State Actors (NSAs) and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) facilitated the session, examining the proposed allocations and their alignment with Sierra Leone’s development priorities.

Opening the session, Director of Budget, Tasima Jah, said stakeholders would lead the engagement as part of efforts to promote participation and accountability in the national budget process.

Deputy Minister of Finance I, Kadiatu Allie, noted that Ministry officials had spent previous sessions scrutinizing submissions from other institutions and were now prepared to have their own proposals subjected to similar examination. She encouraged participants to engage fully and raise questions requiring clarification.

Financial Secretary, Matthew Dingie, described the budget hearing process as an important mechanism through which citizens and stakeholders can understand how public resources are allocated, utilized and monitored.

He said Sierra Leone’s economy has been growing at about 3 to 4 percent annually, while Government continues to pursue measures aimed at supporting industrial activity, managing inflation and maintaining exchange-rate stability to strengthen investor confidence.

Matthew Dingie also pointed to external pressures, including developments in the Middle East, petroleum price movements and changes in international interest rates. He said Government continues to respond through interventions covering fuel, social protection and the energy sector while pursuing stronger domestic revenue mobilisation.

Presenting the Ministry’s budget and strategic framework, Acting Director of Research and Delivery, Alhaji Abu Komeh, outlined its mandate, achievements, expenditure performance, FY2027 deliverables, 2027–2029 Strategic Plan, contract payment analysis and procurement programme.

The Ministry’s priorities include increasing domestic revenue, strengthening public debt management, improving budget planning and execution, enhancing accounting and reporting of public funds and strengthening internal controls. Other areas include fiscal risk management, corporate governance, macroeconomic and fiscal policy coordination, fiscal decentralization, donor-funded project management and access to climate finance.

According to the presentation, the Ministry received an approved budget of NLe164.1 million in 2025, against actual expenditure of NLe164.2 million, representing a variance of NLe0.1 million.

For 2026, its approved budget stands at NLe269.3 million. By the end of September, expenditure had reached NLe188.5 million, leaving a balance of NLe80.8 million.

Major expenditure areas include administrative costs, support to the National Revenue Authority for the procurement of Electronic Cash Register Machines, optimization of Ministry data connectivity and licences and international subscriptions.

The Ministry also reported continued implementation of domestic capital and donor-funded projects, including the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework, Project Fiduciary Management Unit, Sierra Leone Urban Resilient Project and Accountable Governance for Basic Service Delivery.

For FY2027, the Ministry is targeting an increase in domestic revenue from 10.7 percent of Gross Domestic Product, equivalent to NLe18 billion in 2025, to at least 12.3 percent, or NLe25.99 billion, by 2027.

It also intends to reduce the debt-to-GDP ratio from 49.3 percent in 2025 to 43.5 percent by 2027 and bring the overall budget deficit, including grants, down from 4.4 percent of GDP to below 3 percent over the same period.

Other targets include operationalizing the National Electronic Single Window, including replacing the ASYCUDA system, and increasing project portfolio disbursement from 26 percent to at least 30 percent.

The Ministry further plans to strengthen fiscal risk management and fiduciary oversight of State-Owned Enterprises, MDAs and public sector projects, advance fiscal decentralization, enact the revised Public Financial Management Act and produce regular macroeconomic projections and evidence-based research.

Periodic reports on the implementation of audit recommendations are also expected to form part of the Ministry’s accountability measures.

The proposed FY2027 budget totals NLe232.6886 million, virtually matching the approved ceiling of NLe232.6887 million. Allocations cover the Corporate Services Directorate, Office of the Financial Secretary, Economic Policy Management Directorate, Fiscal Operations Directorate, and Project Fiduciary Management and Coordination Directorate.

During the interactive session, panelists and other participants raised questions and concerns relating to the Ministry’s priorities, expenditure and proposed programmes. Matthew Dingie and Directors of the Ministry responded to the issues raised, providing further clarification on the FY2027 budget and planned activities.

Agriculture Minister Inspects Magburaka Ahead of World Food Day, Feed Salone Anniversary

Five men walk together through a dry grassy field with trees in the background, wearing blue and patterned shirts.

Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Henry Musa Kpaka, accompanied by Deputy Minister II, Ing. Bryan Smart-Kanu, senior Ministry officials and representatives of the National Federation of Farmers Associations of Sierra Leone (NaFFSL), on Friday, 2 October 2026, inspected key venues and agricultural facilities as preparations intensify for this year’s World Food Day celebration and the third anniversary of the Feed Salone initiative.

The inspection formed part of efforts by the Ministry to assess Magburaka’s readiness to host the celebrations and engage stakeholders involved in the country’s drive towards increased food production and food security.

During the visit, the delegation held discussions with district stakeholders and officials of the Ernest Bai Koroma University of Science and Technology (EBKUST), one of the institutions involved in preparations for the event.

Beyond preparations for the celebrations, Dr. Henry Musa Kpaka and his delegation also toured poultry farms in Magburaka and Makeni to assess production, identify challenges facing farmers and explore opportunities to strengthen the poultry industry.

The Minister visited Big Things Poultry Farm, Edimat Poultry Farm, Leecon Hatchery and Grace Organic Poultry Farm, where he interacted directly with farmers and operators on issues affecting their businesses.

Discussions centred on access to finance, the rising cost of inputs, production capacity, market opportunities and financing schemes available to poultry farmers. Particular attention was given to loan and grant programmes being promoted by the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security in partnership with the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF).

Dr. Henry Kpaka told the farmers that President Julius Maada Bio remains committed to supporting the growth of Sierra Leone’s poultry industry because of its importance to nutrition, employment and the country’s efforts to reduce dependence on imported poultry products.

“This sector is close to President Bio’s heart because of its critical role in nutrition security, creating jobs and reducing dependence on imports,” the Minister told the farmers.

He encouraged poultry farmers and other agricultural entrepreneurs to take advantage of available financing opportunities and support mechanisms to increase production, expand their businesses and contribute to the country’s broader food security objectives.

The engagement with poultry farmers also provided the Ministry with an opportunity to hear directly from producers about constraints affecting the sector and areas where further Government and development partner support could help improve productivity.

The inspection comes as preparations gather pace for the World Food Day celebration and the third anniversary of Feed Salone, the Government’s flagship agricultural initiative aimed at increasing domestic food production, creating employment and strengthening Sierra Leone’s food systems.

The Ministry’s inspection exercise continued on Saturday, 3 October 2026, with visits to additional poultry farms in Kambia District as part of its wider engagement with farmers and agricultural businesses.

EU Commissioner Counters Dutch Minister’s Claim, Cites Technical Reasons for Sierra Leone Funding Hold

Man in a dark suit and pink tie giving a speech, gesturing with his hands.
European Union Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration, Magnus Brunner

European Union Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration, Magnus Brunner, has attributed the current hold on European Union budget support to Sierra Leone to “technical reasons,” while separately acknowledging concerns within the European Union over drug trafficking, transnational organized crime and countries accused of harbouring wanted drug traffickers.

Magnus Brunner made the remarks following a meeting of European Union Justice and Home Affairs Ministers in Luxembourg on Thursday, 1 October 2026, amid conflicting accounts over why €18 million in European Union budget support expected by Sierra Leone this year has not been disbursed.

Speaking about the broader fight against organized crime, Magnus Brunner told reporters: “I think what we need is action against third countries that harbour drug traffickers.” He also expressed concern about drug trafficking, transnational crime and organized crime trends in Sierra Leone.

However, when addressing the specific question of the European Union budget-support payment, Magnus Brunner offered a different explanation, stating: “When it comes to the suspension of the support, that’s due to technical reasons.”

Magnus Brunner did not publicly establish a direct connection between the €18 million budget-support decision and the controversy surrounding convicted Dutch drug trafficker Jos Leijdekkers. His comments therefore presented two distinct issues: the technical circumstances surrounding the budget-support payment and the European Union’s wider concerns about organized crime and drug trafficking.

His explanation differs from the account initially given by Dutch Minister of Justice and Security David Van Weel. David Van Weel told Dutch media that the €18 million payment had been withheld as part of efforts to pressure Sierra Leone over Jos Leijdekkers, who is wanted by authorities in the Netherlands.

David Van Weel, on 1 October 2026, said the European Commission had suspended the payment because of Sierra Leone’s alleged failure to arrest and hand over Jos Leijdekkers. David Van Weel also suggested that a further €22.5 million expected in 2027 could be affected if the dispute remained unresolved.

However, subsequent reporting on 2 October added another dimension to the disagreement. David Van Weel acknowledged that the European Commission’s explanation that the funding decision was based on administrative or technical grounds was formally correct, but maintained that discussions over Jos Leijdekkers and efforts to combat drug-related organized crime had taken place alongside the funding issue.

European Commission sources, however, reportedly disputed the way David Van Weel had characterized the decision, maintaining that the formal basis for the funding hold was administrative rather than a sanction imposed over Jos Leijdekkers.

The Government of Sierra Leone has similarly maintained that the postponement resulted from procedural issues surrounding the financing arrangement rather than the Jos Leijdekkers controversy.

In a statement issued through the Ministry of Information and Civic Education on 1 October 2026, the Government said the European Commission had formally communicated its decision concerning the 2026 disbursement in July.

According to the Government, the reasons communicated by the European Commission concerned the timing of Sierra Leone’s request for an amendment to the Financing Agreement and the difficulty of completing the required procedures within the 2026 reporting cycle.

The Government said the European Commission consequently proposed rescheduling the 2026 and 2027 disbursements to 2027 and 2028 respectively, with targets for the 2027 disbursement already agreed.

While acknowledging that postponement of the 2026 payment represents a setback, the Government stressed that the development does not amount to a suspension of the broader relationship between Sierra Leone and the European Union.

The Government further maintained that European Union representatives had indicated during subsequent engagements that the decision concerning the 2026 disbursement was not taken because of discussions involving any particular individual. It therefore rejected reports portraying the July decision as a new punitive measure connected directly to the Jos Leijdekkers case.

Jos Leijdekkers is a convicted Dutch cocaine trafficker wanted by European authorities. The Netherlands has been seeking his arrest and extradition, while allegations concerning his presence in Sierra Leone have generated considerable international attention.

The latest statements therefore reveal differing explanations surrounding the €18 million payment. Magnus Brunner and the Government of Sierra Leone point to technical or procedural reasons as the formal basis for the delayed disbursement, while David Van Weel maintains that pressure over Jos Leijdekkers formed part of the broader political discussions surrounding Sierra Leone.

Importantly, Magnus Brunner’s remarks do not necessarily contradict each other. His call for action against third countries that harbour drug traffickers relates to the European Union’s wider response to organized crime, while his statement that the budget-support hold resulted from technical reasons addresses the specific €18 million disbursement.

Magnus Brunner’s position is therefore consistent with the Government of Sierra Leone’s account that the formal basis for postponing the 2026 budget-support disbursement was technical or procedural. At the same time, his wider remarks demonstrate that concerns about drug trafficking, transnational organized crime and cooperation with third countries remain separate matters under discussion within the European Union.

The distinction is significant because it avoids treating the technical explanation for the budget-support decision as proof that the wider Jos Leijdekkers controversy has no bearing on relations between Sierra Leone, the Netherlands and the European Union. What remains disputed is whether those broader political concerns influenced the funding decision beyond the formal technical grounds publicly stated by Magnus Brunner and communicated to the Government of Sierra Leone.

Vice President Joins President Doumbouya as Guinea Marks 68th Independence Anniversary

Two men in white traditional attire shake hands at a formal event, with onlookers and a government seal visible in the foreground.

 

Sierra Leone’s Vice President, Dr Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, has joined President Mamadi Doumbouya, senior Government officials, foreign delegations and other dignitaries in Conakry as Guinea marked the 68th anniversary of its independence on Friday, 2 October 2026.

Vice President Dr Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh was received as a special guest of President Mamadi Doumbouya, with senior Guinean Government officials welcoming him to the celebrations. His participation underscored the longstanding diplomatic, economic, cultural and people-to-people relations between Sierra Leone and Guinea.

Guinea attained independence from France on 2 October 1958. The 2026 celebrations marked 68 years since the country’s historic attainment of sovereignty, with official activities in Conakry bringing together senior Government officials, members of the diplomatic community, foreign delegations and other invited guests.

This year’s anniversary placed particular emphasis on the country’s history, sovereignty and the role of young people in shaping its future. President Mamadi Doumbouya, in his Independence Day message, highlighted national sovereignty, unity, economic transformation and youth development as important priorities for Guinea’s future.

Vice President Dr Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh’s presence alongside President Mamadi Doumbouya and other national and international guests added a regional dimension to the celebrations, reflecting the shared history, geographical proximity and close bonds between Sierra Leone and Guinea.

His participation in the Independence Day celebrations also came just weeks after a working visit to Conakry, during which he held high-level discussions with Guinea’s Prime Minister and Head of Government, Amadou Oury Bah, aimed at strengthening cooperation between the two neighbouring countries.

During the September engagement, discussions focused on issues of mutual interest, including migration, border security, cross-border trade and the welfare of Sierra Leonean nationals living and working in Guinea. The talks formed part of continuing efforts by Freetown and Conakry to deepen bilateral cooperation and improve the movement of people and goods across their common border.

Vice President Dr Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh also attended the official launch of Guinea’s new Foreign Policy Document on 9 September 2026 as a special guest of the Guinean Government.

The high-level ceremony, held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Conakry, formed part of his two-day working visit and brought together senior Government officials, diplomats and other stakeholders around a policy framework designed to guide Guinea’s international engagement, regional partnerships and economic diplomacy.

Launching the policy document, Prime Minister Amadou Oury Bah outlined sovereignty, strategic neutrality, economic transformation, peace and African integration among the central pillars of Guinea’s foreign policy.

The framework also places emphasis on using diplomacy to attract productive investment, create employment, develop infrastructure and promote skills and technology transfer. Prime Minister Amadou Oury Bah further identified good neighbourliness, shared security, economic corridors, energy cooperation and coordinated border management among Guinea’s regional priorities.

Those priorities remain particularly significant for Sierra Leone and Guinea because of their shared border, extensive movement of people and goods, longstanding commercial relations and membership of regional organisations, including the Mano River Union.

The two countries have continued to deepen bilateral cooperation, building on their shared history, geographical proximity and longstanding people-to-people ties. Cooperation on border management, migration, trade, transportation, energy and regional security has increasingly featured in engagements between officials of the two Governments.

Vice President Dr Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh’s return to Conakry for Guinea’s Independence Day celebrations therefore came amid continuing diplomatic engagement between Freetown and Conakry and provided another opportunity for both countries to reinforce their relationship.

His participation alongside President Mamadi Doumbouya and other invited dignitaries highlighted the importance both countries attach to maintaining strong neighbourly relations and advancing cooperation on issues of common interest.

As Guinea celebrates 68 years of independence, Vice President Dr Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh’s participation in the national celebrations further reflects the longstanding ties between the two neighbouring countries and their shared interest in peace, stability, economic cooperation and regional integration within the Mano River Union and the wider West African sub-region.

Foreign Minister Calls for Stronger Diaspora Partnership, Improved Consular Services in US

Group of people in formal and traditional clothing posing in a wood-paneled room with flags behind them.

Sierra Leone’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mohamed Rahman Swaray, has called on Sierra Leoneans in the United States to deepen their partnership with the Government in addressing national challenges, while outlining plans to improve consular services, strengthen diplomatic representation and mobilize diaspora expertise for national development.

The Minister made the appeal during a Town Hall meeting held on Thursday, 1 October 2026, at the White Oak Community Center in Maryland. The engagement was jointly organized by the Embassy of Sierra Leone in Washington, D.C. and Berny’s Hope Foundation-USA.

The meeting formed part of the Minister’s engagements with Sierra Leoneans in the United States. Recent reporting on his US engagements confirms his emphasis on diaspora expertise, investment, professional networks and more responsive diplomatic representation.

Addressing the gathering, Mohamed Rahman Swaray thanked Sierra Leoneans abroad for their continued support to the country and stressed that many of the challenges facing Sierra Leone transcend political, regional and ethnic differences. He said collaboration between the Government and the diaspora could provide practical solutions to some of those difficulties.

Speaking on US visa restrictions affecting Sierra Leoneans, the Foreign Minister described the issue as a national concern and urged the diaspora to approach it beyond political considerations. He said the restrictions have affected Sierra Leoneans seeking educational opportunities, attending international conferences and travelling to visit relatives.

Mohamed Rahman Swaray assured the gathering that the Embassy of Sierra Leone in Washington, D.C. continues to engage relevant US authorities, while the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation is working with the US Embassy in Freetown to address outstanding immigration and diplomatic matters.

He encouraged Sierra Leoneans in the United States to engage their representatives in the US Congress on issues affecting their country, stressing that constructive diaspora advocacy could complement diplomatic efforts by the Government.

On national cohesion, the Minister said President Julius Maada Bio remains committed to promoting unity and referenced the recent return of former President Ernest Bai Koroma to Sierra Leone. He maintained that building national cohesion requires contributions from Sierra Leoneans at home and abroad.

Mohamed Rahman Swaray also outlined aspects of his 100-day agenda at the Ministry, with particular attention to improving services for Sierra Leoneans overseas. He disclosed plans for a pilot programme aimed at addressing difficulties surrounding visa services, passport renewals and Emergency Travel Certificates.

According to the Minister, digitization will form an important part of the reforms, reducing the need for Sierra Leoneans living far from diplomatic missions to travel long distances for basic consular services. He also encouraged citizens abroad to register with Sierra Leonean embassies and missions to make it easier for them to receive assistance during emergencies.

“Professionalism, accountability and effective service to our citizens must remain at the heart of that work, alongside advancing Sierra Leone’s economic and diplomatic interests,” the Minister said in a separate engagement with staff of the Sierra Leone Embassy in Washington, D.C.

He recognized the Embassy staff for their role in representing Sierra Leone, strengthening bilateral relations and serving Sierra Leoneans in the United States, adding that diplomatic missions are central to building a responsive and results-driven Foreign Service.

Mohamed Rahman Swaray further said Sierra Leone’s diplomatic missions should play a stronger role in attracting credible foreign investment. He proposed that embassies help profile prospective investors and connect viable business proposals with appropriate Ministries and institutions in Sierra Leone.

The Minister also appealed for greater diaspora involvement in addressing challenges facing Sierra Leone’s overseas missions, including the condition of Government-owned properties abroad. He disclosed that the Government is working towards a framework that could enable skilled Sierra Leoneans overseas to volunteer their expertise in support of national development.

Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Alpha Sesay, who also attended the Town Hall meeting, addressed questions relating to dual citizenship, European Union support, land reforms and other legal matters raised by members of the diaspora.

The Town Hall meeting was attended by Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to the United States, H.E. Amara Sowa, who introduced the Foreign Minister, while the Chief Executive Officer of Berny’s Hope Foundation, Dr. Bernadette Sanko, moderated the engagement.

Also present were Director General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Alan Logan; Deputy Director General for Policy, Momodu Wurie; and Director of Consular Services, Mariama Jalloh.

Concluding his engagements, Mohamed Rahman Swaray thanked Embassy staff and members of the diaspora for their service and participation, pledging to work with them to strengthen Sierra Leone’s diplomatic presence, international partnerships and engagement with citizens across the United States.

With US$60 Million Expansion… ROCKCEM Songo Warehouse Set for November Opening to Expand RC BRAND 42.5 R Cement Distribution Nationwide

ROCKCEM (SL) Ltd is expanding its distribution network with the construction of a modern warehouse at Sumbuya in Songo, a development expected to significantly improve access to RC BRAND CEM II 42.5 R Cement for wholesalers, retailers, contractors and other customers outside Freetown.

The Songo warehouse, expected to become operational in November 2026, is positioned to provide a major logistics advantage for customers in the provinces by reducing the need to travel to Freetown to collect cement. Once operational, wholesalers and retailers will be able to collect RC BRAND 42.5 R Cement directly from Songo, shortening travel distances and helping to reduce transportation costs.

The strategic location is also expected to ease road congestion and reduce repeated toll-gate expenses for businesses transporting cement from Freetown to different parts of the country. For many provincial customers, collecting cement from Songo could mean crossing only the Masiaka Toll Gate, depending on their route, while making significant savings on fuel, transportation time and overall logistics costs.

The development forms part of ROCKCEM’s wider effort to strengthen the distribution of cement across Sierra Leone and bring its products closer to customers. The company has also assembled a fleet of approximately 50 vehicles to support direct deliveries and strengthen nationwide distribution.

Cement remains one of the most important materials supporting Sierra Leone’s construction sector, providing the foundation for homes, roads, schools, hospitals, commercial buildings and major infrastructure projects. As construction activity continues to grow, reliable access to quality cement has become increasingly important.

At the centre of ROCKCEM’s expansion is RC BRAND CEM II 42.5 R Cement, which the company is positioning to deliver strength, consistency, reliability and lasting performance for contractors, developers, distributors and individual builders.

Operating from its head office on 13B Bai Bureh Road, Texaco, Old Road, Freetown, ROCKCEM is undertaking broader infrastructure development alongside the construction of the Songo warehouse.

Following changes in the global economic environment, inflation, higher construction and equipment costs and an expansion in the scale of the company’s operations, ROCKCEM’s total planned investment has increased to approximately US$60 million.

The investment supports a state-of-the-art cement grinding mill with the capacity to produce more than 60,000 packaged 50kg bags of cement per day, as well as warehousing, logistics, local repackaging, processing infrastructure and the company’s broader ambition to strengthen domestic industrial capacity.

Greater local processing could also create wider opportunities in transportation, engineering, maintenance, warehousing, distribution and other supporting services.

For contractors and developers, dependable cement supply is essential to keeping projects on schedule and managing costs. ROCKCEM’s expanded distribution infrastructure, particularly the Songo warehouse and its delivery fleet, is therefore aimed at improving access to RC BRAND 42.5 R Cement across Sierra Leone.

Quality also remains central to the company’s strategy. RC BRAND CEM II 42.5 R Cement is being positioned as a dependable choice for construction projects requiring strength, durability and consistent performance.

ROCKCEM’s ambition is to build RC BRAND into one of the strongest and most competitive cement brands in Sierra Leone, backed by quality, reliable supply, efficient distribution and customer service.

With an approximately US$60 million investment, a fleet of about 50 vehicles, expanded operations and the Songo warehouse expected to come on stream in November 2026, ROCKCEM is strengthening its distribution capacity and presence across Sierra Leone’s cement market.

ROCKCEM says it remains committed to supporting Sierra Leone’s development through quality cement, improved accessibility and timely delivery under its message, “RC BRAND 42.5 R Cement — Build Stronger. Build to Last.”

The company’s head office is located at 13B Bai Bureh Road, Texaco, Old Road, Freetown and customers can contact +232-72-111111 for enquiries and deliveries.

At 3rd Global RSOO/RAIO Forum in Guyana… SLCAA DG Advocates Stronger Regional Coopération to Advance Aviation Safety

Diverse group of professionals in business attire posing for a group photo on a wide stairway in a modern building.

The Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), Madam Musayeroh Barrie, has underscored the importance of stronger regional cooperation in improving aviation safety, strengthening regulatory capacity and supporting the sustainable development of the aviation sector.

Madam Musayeroh Barrie made the remarks during the 3rd Global Regional Safety Oversight Organizations and Regional Accident and Incident Investigation Organizations (RSOO/RAIO) Forum for Aviation Safety, held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre in Georgetown, Guyana, from September 29 to 30, 2026.

The two-day international forum, held under the theme, “Optimizing Resources through Coordination and Cooperation,” was jointly organized by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and hosted by the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority. It marked the first time the global aviation safety forum was held in the Americas and attracted aviation regulators, accident investigators, technical experts, industry representatives and delegates from nearly 60 countries.

Addressing participants during the first session on the benefits of regional cooperation, Madam Musayeroh Barrie noted that Sierra Leone and Guyana share similarities in their geographical landscapes and possess significant opportunities for aviation development. She stressed, however, that efforts to expand the aviation sector must always be accompanied by strong safety and security measures.

She said Sierra Leone’s aviation development must be supported by effective regulatory systems and robust safety oversight, particularly as the country continues to strengthen its aviation infrastructure and improve connectivity with regional and international destinations.

Madam Musayeroh Barrie explained that regional cooperation has played an important role in the ongoing reform and development of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority. She noted that operating as a relatively small civil aviation regulator with limited financial and human resources presents challenges, particularly in providing extensive technical training and capacity building for aviation safety inspectors.

According to her, cooperation through regional safety oversight organisations has enabled Sierra Leone to benefit from technical expertise, specialized training and other forms of institutional support required to strengthen the professional capacity of its aviation inspectors.

She said such collaboration has helped Sierra Leone improve its aviation oversight capabilities while allowing the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority to make more efficient use of its available financial and human resources.

Madam Musayeroh Barrie further emphasized that civil aviation regulators must possess the necessary technical expertise, institutional structures and human capacity to effectively supervise the aviation industry and ensure compliance with established international safety standards.

She warned that inadequate regulatory capacity could undermine the ability of states to maintain effective aviation safety standards, stressing that aviation safety requires sustained investment, continuous professional development, technical expertise and consistent regulatory oversight.

The SLCAA Director General also described aviation safety as a long-term and continuous process that cannot be adequately addressed through temporary measures or quick solutions. She said regulators must be proactive in identifying existing safety gaps and addressing potential weaknesses before they develop into incidents or more serious aviation safety concerns.

Highlighting the international nature of aviation, Madam Musayeroh Barrie called for deeper cooperation among states and their respective aviation regulatory authorities. She pointed out that aviation operations extend beyond national boundaries, meaning that the effectiveness of one country’s safety oversight system can have implications for other states within the region and beyond.

She explained that an aircraft departing from Sierra Leone could subsequently land in Ghana or another country, making cooperation, information sharing and consistency among aviation regulators essential to maintaining high safety standards across jurisdictions.

Madam Musayeroh Barrie maintained that stronger regional collaboration, shared technical expertise and common safety objectives would enable countries to improve their regulatory oversight systems and create a safer and more reliable operating environment for passengers, airlines and other stakeholders within the aviation industry.

During the forum’s opening session, Director General of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority, Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) Egbert Field, highlighted the importance of aviation to Guyana’s economy, particularly in supporting mining, tourism and agriculture, while emphasizing the country’s commitment to maintaining aviation safety as the sector expands.

Director of ICAO’s Air Navigation Bureau, Michele Merkle, also underscored the importance of regional cooperation, stressing that collaboration goes beyond sharing resources by creating communities of expertise through which knowledge, experience and solutions can move more effectively across the global aviation network.

The forum examined a wide range of issues affecting international aviation safety, including regional cooperation, the delegation of safety and investigative functions, aviation workforce development, sustainable financing, industry partnerships and the development of common and harmonized regulatory frameworks and tools.

Discussions also focused on strategies for attracting and retaining qualified aviation professionals, overcoming high training costs and limited institutional capacity, developing sustainable funding models for regional safety oversight organisations and strengthening partnerships between aviation regulators and industry players.

The forum provided aviation authorities and international partners with an opportunity to exchange experiences, examine challenges facing safety oversight and accident investigation systems, and explore practical approaches to strengthening cooperation and regulatory capacity.

Madam Musayeroh Barrie’s participation alongside senior aviation officials and experts from different parts of the world further demonstrated the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority’s commitment to international and regional cooperation, effective regulatory oversight and the continuous improvement of aviation safety as Sierra Leone works to sustainably develop its aviation sector.

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