Chief Abdul Kadiru Kaikai Issues Apology for Controversial 2028 Election Remarks

July 22, 2024

As He Reaffirms Commitment to Peace and Democracy…

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Save the Children Addresses Trespassing Incident, Reassures Adherence to High Standards

July 19, 2024

By Esther Wright

In a press release on Wednesday, June 17, 2024, Save the Children announced it is aware of recent actions by UK national Sam Walker, who trespassed on the organization’s office premises in Aberdeen, Sierra Leone, on July 9. The incident has been reported to the relevant authorities.

During the incident, Mr. Walker accused Save the Children of malpractice, harassed staff, and published their images on his social media platforms. These actions disrupted the organization’s work, exploited vulnerable children and raised concerns about the safety and well-being of both staff and the children served by the organization.

Save the Children emphasized its commitment to operating with the highest standards, prioritizing the safety and well-being of children. The organization is registered in Sierra Leone and adheres to all national regulations and standards, with a robust grievance mechanism in place to address any concerns or complaints.

The organization is registered with the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development (MOPED), which provides oversight for all NGO operations and is subject to the Parliamentary Oversight Committee. Save the Children is also affiliated with the Sierra Leone Association of Non-Governmental Organizations (SLANGO), which coordinates NGO activities and ensures adherence to best practices in the humanitarian sector.

Operating in Sierra Leone since 1999, Save the Children focuses on children’s rights and protection, education, and health. For any inquiries, contact Esther Elliot Nyuma, Advocacy and Campaign Director.

Turn of the Tide: What Can American Multi-Racial Democracy Learn from Africa

July 19, 2024

By Alhaji U. N’jai

I first wrote this piece after the January 6, 2020 insurrection in the US and now in the wake of July 13, 2024 assassination attempt on President Trump, American democracy needs introspection.

America now needs to learn as much from Africa’ s rich experience with multi-ethnic and pluralistic democracy. American democracy has worked politically well in the past in a largely homogenous white dominated environment. It now must deal with an increasingly complex multi-racial, conscious and pluralistic political economy for which it lacks the requisite experience to handle.

Four years of Trump, its handling of Covid-19 pandemic, race relations, post-US 2020 elections violence, Russia-Ukraine conflict, and Biden’s handling of the Israel-Palestine Gaza conflict have all severely damaged US global standing. It is time for America to deconstruct and decolonize its existing democratic model locally and in relation to the rest of the world.

On multi-racial democracy, America must now learn from the rest of the world rather than focus on being conveyors of it. For this, I believe, Africa’s rich pluralistic democratic experience structured on multiple layers of ethnicities, class, religions, western education and traditionalist, urban and rural dichotomies, and colonial experience offers a good starting point. African political economies have displayed remarkable resilience despite years of slavery, colonialism, bad governance, wars, turmoil, disease and environmental strife. African multi-ethnic democracies have been portrayed as weak, fragile, and instable, but have largely been that way because of colonial disruptions and current neocolonial influence, that ensures unfettered access to it resources.

Mediocrity on the part of the African elites or leaderships is yet to allow total liberation and the development of sound ideologies for political, social, and economic organization of its people. Four years of Trump and emergence of multi-racial democracy is pushing America to the brink of chaos. Essentially, America is now where Africa was post-independence, when it comes to it young and fragile multi-racial democracy. The challenge as in Africa is how to build national cohesion along a strong positive sense of national identity in a multi-ethnic environment.

The African culture of ubuntu, collectivism, communal belonging, social justice and tolerance have been the foundational underpinnings of both the African resilience and success with pluralistic democracy. America must grapple with its individualism values and capitalism in an increasingly multi-racial and pluralistic political economy
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About the author: Alhaji Umar N’jai is a Senior Scientist, Professor, Panafrican Scholar, Founder & Chief Strategist of Project 1808, Inc., and Freelance writer ‘Roaming in the Mountains of Kabala Republic’. #Jata #Meejoh #ThePeoplesScientist

Supreme Court Dismisses Challenge Against Chief Electoral Commissioner Mohamed Konneh

July 19, 2024

By Amin Kef Sesay

In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court of Sierra Leone, led by Acting Chief Justice Hon. Justice Nicholas C. Browne-Marke, ruled on Wednesday, July 17, 2024, that the appointment of Mohamed Konneh as Chief Electoral Commissioner of the Electoral Commission of Sierra Leone (ECSL) is constitutional and does not violate any provisions of the 1991 Constitution.

The ruling, delivered by a unanimous panel of four justices, emphasized the importance of interpreting the Constitution in its entirety rather than selectively. “The Constitution must be read as a whole, and not in bits, cherry-picking provisions which, on their own, may appear to support one view or the other. To do so would result in absurdity,” stated Acting Chief Justice Browne-Marke.

The Justices on the panel included Hon. Chief Justice Nicholas C. Browne-Marke (JSC), Hon. Justice M. F. Deen-Tarawally (JSC), Hon. Justice Alusine S. Sesay (JSC), and Hon. Justice Ansumana Ivan Sesay (JA). They dismissed the case brought by plaintiffs, Charles Francis Margai, representing Patrick John and the People’s Movement for Democratic Change (PMDC), against Mohamed Konneh, the ECSL, and the Attorney General and Minister of Justice.

The plaintiffs argued that Mohamed Konneh’s appointment while serving as the Director of the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) violated Sections 32(3) and (4), 75(c), 76(1)(b), and 171(1) and (4) of the 1991 Constitution. Additionally, they claimed that the ECSL failed to allocate campaign dates for all presidential candidates, including the PMDC candidate, as required by Sections 154 and 155 of Act No. 17 of 2022, thereby infringing on the party’s campaign rights.

In addressing the legitimacy of Mohamed Konneh’s appointment, the court clarified that Section 32(4) of the 1991 Constitution pertains to the qualifications for Electoral Commissioners, Members of Parliament or Ministers. The Acting Chief Justice pointed out that Mohamed Konneh was not a Member of Parliament at the time of his appointment and would have been required to resign 12 months before an election had he intended to contest for a parliamentary seat. However, this requirement does not apply to his role as Director of the FIU.

Another key aspect of the case involved an application by Charles Margai requesting the recusal of Chief Justice Edwards and Justice Ansumana Ivan Sesay (JA) due to their involvement in administering the presidential oath and their positions within the judiciary. The court found no legal basis for these recusal requests, citing specific constitutional provisions that authorize the Chief Justice to administer the presidential oath and confirm the participation of Supreme Court Justices in such matters.

Counsel for the Defense, including B. E. Cummings, Dr. E. S. Abdulai, T. J. Mansaray and A. B. Mansaray, argued for the dismissal of the plaintiffs’ case, describing it as fundamentally flawed and lacking factual particulars as required by the Supreme Court Rules of 1982. The court concurred, affirming the legality of Mohamed Konneh’s appointment and upholding the integrity of the electoral process in Sierra Leone.

Dr. Fatima Maada Bio Asserts Focus on Priorities, Not Presidential Bid

July 19, 2024

By Esther Wright

Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, the First Lady of Sierra Leone, has definitively quashed speculation regarding her potential candidacy in the upcoming 2028 presidential elections. In a resolute statement conveyed through her social media platforms, Dr. Fatima Bio emphasized her unwavering dedication to her current responsibilities. Her foremost commitment remains supporting President Dr. Julius Maada Bio and advancing the objectives outlined in his “Big 5 Game Changer” manifesto.

Throughout her tenure as First Lady, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio has been a vocal advocate for women’s rights, notably through her impactful “Hands Off Our Girls” campaign. This initiative has not only heightened awareness but has also implemented concrete measures to safeguard young girls from issues such as child marriage and gender-based violence. Dr. Fatima Bio’s advocacy culminated in the enactment of the Prohibition of Early Marriage Bill 2024, solidifying her impact on national policy.

Beyond her advocacy for women’s rights, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio has played a pivotal role in enhancing healthcare and education. Initiatives such as the distribution of free sanitary pads to schoolgirls and the development of critical healthcare infrastructure underscore her commitment to improving the lives of Sierra Leoneans.

Despite her influential role and substantial contributions, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio reaffirms her steadfast focus on supporting her husband’s administration. Her dedication to advancing President Bio’s transformative policies reflects her genuine desire to see Sierra Leone progress under his leadership.

Dr. Fatima Maada Bio’s continued engagement with national development projects and her unwavering advocacy for the rights and education of women and children exemplify her commitment to collective advancement and her support for President Bio’s vision for a prosperous Sierra Leone.

Kalox Media Unveils Digital Marketplace and E-Commerce Platform

July 19, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

During a snappy ceremony held on Thursday 18^th July, 2024 at SLAJ Hall, Campbell Street, Freetown, Kalox Media Company unveiled the Kalox Online Marketplace and Kalox Digital Online Freelancing Marketplace Websites. These two initiatives aim to empower freelancers and businesses, driving economic growth and digital transformation in Sierra Leone.

Abu Bakarr Kargbo, Content Manager at Kalox Media Company, provided an in-depth presentation on the innovative platforms Kalox Digital and Kalox Store, highlighting their impact on freelancers and businesses globally.

He said that Kalox Digital is a comprehensive online marketplace connecting freelancers and businesses for a wide range of digital services, including graphic design, writing, translation, music and audio, AI services, programming, tech, film production, video editing, animation, business, lifestyle, photo and videography.

Abu Bakarr Kargbo added that the platform enables freelancers and businesses to monetize their skills and services by taking a commission from both parties involved in the transaction. This ensures a seamless and convenient business experience for all users.

He noted that Freelancers can quickly join and start selling their services by following these steps: Read Kalox Digital’s Terms and conditions and community standards, create a free account, complete the registration form, create and publish gigs/jobs and connect with clients globally.

The Content Manager maintained that Kalox Digital also offers website banner and popup ads, allowing businesses and individuals to advertise on specific pages, thus reaching a broader audience.

Commenting on the Kalox Store he continued that it is an e-commerce platform designed to streamline online shopping for both businesses and consumers and that the platform supports Content Management Systems (CMS) and commerce engine websites to manage product catalogs, process purchases and enhance user relationships with online retailers.

He said Kalox Store allows businesses to sell their products and services online by taking a commission from sellers and buyers. This setup provides a hassle-free and convenient business experience for both parties.

“Customers can enjoy a seamless online shopping experience, ordering products from their mobile phones, computers or tablets. The platform eliminates the need for physical store visits, saving on transportation costs. Kalox Store ensures that products are packaged and delivered to homes, offices and marketplaces across Sierra Leone,” he maintained.

Abu Bakarr Kargbo stated that the platform features user-friendly navigation, detailed product information, customer reviews and secure payment options, enhancing the overall shopping experience.

Delivering a press statement on behalf of Obai Davis Kalokoh, CEO of Kalox Media Company, Usman Idriss Fornah, Content Writer at Kalox Media Company, said the event marked a significant milestone in Kalox Media’s mission to foster a digital revolution in Sierra Leone.

He informed the gathering that Obai Davis Kalokoh, a seasoned journalist whose career began at Star Television and with his diverse experience in media, coupled with advanced digital media skills acquired in Dubai, has prepared him to lead Kalox Media towards realizing its vision of digitalizing Sierra Leone.

Usman Idriss Fornah highlighted the company’s commitment to creating employment opportunities and contributing to the country’s economic growth, emphasizing the importance of digital media in enhancing global competitiveness and shared his ambition to bring high-quality, secure digital services to Sierra Leone.

He said that the key initiatives announced include the launch of various job portals, e-learning platforms, movie streaming services, and Government payable services websites all aiming at connecting Sierra Leoneans globally and providing convenient online shopping experiences.

He called on the Government to support Kalox Media’s efforts to make digital media a reality in Sierra Leone. Usman Idriss Fornah also urged banking institutions, telecommunications companies and other business entities to partner with Kalox Media, leveraging its platforms to reach millions of daily visitors.

In his closing remarks, he said Kalokoh expressed gratitude to the Dubai team, the management and staff of Kalox Media Company (SL) Limited, and the attendees for their support. He committed to working together with the media to promote Kalox Media’s vision and initiatives.

Protest Erupts Over SLRSA’s Failure to Issue Licenses

July 19, 2024

Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority (SLRSA).jpg

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

On Thursday, July 18th, 2024, frustration reached a boiling point as agents of the Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority (SLRSA) staged a peaceful protest, demanding immediate action over the prolong delays in the issuance of drivers’ licenses. For months, individuals who have paid for their licenses have been left without the crucial documentation needed to legally operate, severely impacting their livelihoods.

The consequences of this delay are far-reaching. Drivers without valid licenses are routinely stopped and penalized by police, creating a cycle of harassment and financial strain. Agents acting as intermediaries between customers and the SLRSA have borne the brunt of the backlash, facing constant demands from frustrated customers who have entrusted them with their payments.

Foday Bangura, Public Relations Officer for the Agents of the SLRSA, addressed the Press to shed light on the dire situation. According to him, customers have been unable to obtain or renew their licenses for over three months, despite making the necessary payments. He said the lack of clarity and communication from the authorities has only exacerbated the problem, with always vague assurances that the issue would be resolved.

During the protest, a significant police presence was noted. Instead of engaging with the protestors to understand their grievances, officers forcefully removed them from the premises, further fueling discontent. The PRO voiced his dissatisfaction with the authorities’ dismissive attitude and called on the Government to address the mounting crisis.

One of the affected customers, Abdul Rashid Kamara, recounted his ordeal with the licensing process. Abdul Rashid Kamara, who has been waiting for his bike license for over two months, described a pattern of bureaucratic inefficiency and broken promises. Despite fulfilling all requirements and making the necessary payment of NLe 850, he remains without his license, unable to legally operate his bike and earn a living.

Abdul Rashid Kamara experience is emblematic of the widespread frustration felt by many. He detailed how repeated follow-up visits to the authorities yielded no concrete answers, leaving him in a perpetual state of uncertainty. The financial burden is also significant, with him willing to pay even more if it meant finally receiving his license.

Efforts to reach out to SLRSA officials for comments were unsuccessful, leaving many to question the Authority’s commitment to resolving the issue. As the protests highlight, the delay in issuing licenses is not merely an administrative oversight but a crisis that affects the daily lives and economic stability of countless individuals.

The Government and the SLRSA must take immediate and transparent action to address the backlog and restore trust among customers and agents. Without a swift resolution, the discontent is likely to grow, further destabilizing an already strained road transport system in Sierra Leone.

Labour Minister Highlights ‘Quiet Revolution’ in Ministry of Labour

July 19, 2024

Ministry of Employment Labour and Social Security.jpg

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a statement at the weekly Government Press Conference on Tuesday, July 17, 2024, Mohamed Rahman Swaray, the Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security, announced a transformative shift within the Ministry of Labour. Hosted by the Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, the conference revealed ambitious goals aligned with the President’s Big 5 Agenda, aiming to create jobs for over 500,000 Sierra Leoneans.

The Minister highlighted the introduction of a Market Information System, a tracker that monitors employment data from the informal sector, migration trends, enterprise data and occupational safety. Another key initiative is the Labour card, designed to aid Government planning and reform. These efforts address critical areas needing more Government intervention.

“The primary purpose of the platform is to encourage job seekers to access posted jobs and register with the Ministry of Labour,” Minister Swaray stated. “It facilitates job matching and tracks employment history.” He also announced that the Ministry, historically understaffed, now has clearance to employ up to 200 more Sierra Leoneans in decent jobs.

A review of work permits has led to significant reforms, generating over 16 million Leones this year, a notable increase from last year’s less than 9 million Leones. Mohamed Rahman Swaray emphasized that these proceeds go to the Consolidated Fund, expecting even better results by year’s end.

“In the next 90 days we will be fully digital enabling us to trace workers anywhere,” he announced.

Addressing middle manpower level opportunities, the Minister reported resolving payment benefit disputes at organizations such as Standard Chartered Bank, Sierra Rutile, and the Sierra Leone Airports Authority. A significant area under reform is workmen’s compensation. A new bill introduced in parliament aims to overhaul workplace compensation, ensuring non-compliant employers face shutdowns.

“We are aware that the current minimum wage is inadequate, and discussions to review it have commenced,” Swaray acknowledged.

Regarding labour migration, the Minister revealed measures to combat unethical practices. The Ministry has registered 23 private recruitment agencies to provide legal migration pathways. These policies ensure decent job opportunities for Sierra Leoneans seeking work abroad.

The Minister also highlighted a successful meeting with the International Labour Organization (ILO), noting that for the first time since 1976, the Ministry is fully paid up, unlocking numerous capacity-building opportunities.

On social safety nets, Swaray announced a program supported by the World Bank, targeting over 11,000 aged individuals, with details to be disclosed soon.

In conclusion, Minister Swaray introduced a policy on volunteerism, offering young people the chance to acquire skills and experience. “Our efforts are transforming the Ministry of Labour, ensuring that we provide better opportunities and protections for workers across the nation,” he said.

These initiatives contribute to the nation’s socio-economic development, reflecting the Ministry’s commitment to creating a more equitable and efficient labour market in Sierra Leone.

Unlock a World of Benefits with Your Biometric Identity Card

July 19, 2024

National Identification Numbers (NIN).jpg

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In Sierra Leone, the National Identity Card (ID) is more than just a piece of plastic—it is a gateway to numerous benefits for both citizens and non-citizens. Embedded with a chip containing biometric data, the National ID Card streamlines identity verification, boosts financial inclusion, and plays a vital role in the nation’s social and economic progress.

One of the card’s primary advantages is its seamless identity verification capability. Cardholders can easily confirm their identity to access various government social services. Integrated with the financial sector, the card facilitates remote know-your-customer (KYC) checks, streamlining the verification process and reducing associated costs. This electronic KYC feature allows financial service providers to authenticate and verify customers efficiently, promoting broader financial inclusion.

The card’s significance extends to the education sector, where National Identification Numbers (NIN) are now mandatory for pupils in public examination classes, such as NPSE, BECE, and WASSCE. This highlights the growing role of the National ID Card across different sectors.

For residents aged 12 and above, obtaining a National ID Card is straightforward. Applicants can visit the nearest National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) office in their district to receive their Securitized Biometric Identity Card. Non-citizens can apply for the Non-National ID Card for resident and work permits.

The NCRA has introduced these advanced Securitized and Multi-purpose Biometric Identity Cards with an enhanced ID Verification System to transform Sierra Leone’s landscape, focusing on personal security and streamlined local transactions. In 2024, acquiring a National Biometric ID Card is not just a suggestion but a civic responsibility essential for personal security and simplified transactions.

The National ID Card, featuring a unique 11-digit NIN, serves as a critical legal identity document, linking individual records within the National Identity Database. The NCRA’s initiative promotes the adoption of advanced identity cards equipped with cutting-edge verification systems, ensuring improved access to essential services while safeguarding individual rights.

These innovative cards are now mandatory at checkpoints nationwide, enhancing secure transactions and providing convenience to cardholders. The requirement of the NIN for pupils in public examination classes further emphasizes the card’s significance in the educational sector.

To facilitate the application process, the NCRA has established specific offices and designated centers across Sierra Leone, including:

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

The NCRA also offers corporate services tailored for organizations and institutions. For more information on these services, interested parties can contact the NCRA at +232-33-433-333 / +232-30-500-000 / +232-78-221-812 or via email at idverification@ncra.gov.

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

NP (SL) Energy Pass Card Enhances Transparency and Customer Care

July 19, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

NP (SL) Limited, Sierra Leone’s leading petroleum marketing company, is at the forefront of promoting sustainability in its business operations. Demonstrating its reliability as a business partner, NP(SL) Ltd stands out by being the sole provider of fuel across the country, further solidifying its commitment to the public.

The company’s dedication to sustainability and exceptional customer care has fostered trust and confidence among its customers. NP (SL) Ltd’s latest innovation, the NP Energy Pass Card, exemplifies this commitment by offering a seamless and secure fuel purchasing experience.

The NP Energy Pass Card, a user-friendly Smart Card, boasts both online and offline usability with high-security features to protect customer information. Customers receive instant SMS notifications after each transaction, ensuring transparency and accountability. The card can be recharged conveniently at designated stations or the Head Office, and transactions can be reversed if necessary. Additionally, security measures, such as One-Time Passwords (OTP) for password changes, provide an extra layer of protection.

This initiative, aptly named “FUBU” (For Us, By Us), underscores NP’s dedication to a cashless future and addresses challenges identified through stakeholder consultations. The Access and Energy Pass Card introduces a new era of self-service convenience, allowing customers to fuel their vehicles independently without the need for pump attendants. Its comprehensive features and user-friendly interface cater to the diverse needs of customers and Station Managers alike.

The Access and Energy Pass Card integrates seamlessly with customers’ mobile numbers, offering real-time transaction updates and empowering users. It also benefits station owners by streamlining financial operations, with direct credits to their bank accounts for transactions made through the card.

NP Sierra Leone is poised to lead a paradigm shift in the fuel industry with the Access and Energy Pass Card, promising efficiency, transparency, and unparalleled convenience. This smart card is accepted at various Filling Stations, including NP Cotton Tree, NP Campbell Street, NP Brookfields, NP Pademba Road, NP Sander Street, NP Regent, NP Kissy Road, NP Blackhall Road, NP Motor Way, NP Deep-Eye Water, NP Aberdeen, and NP Mambo.

As a 100% indigenous Sierra Leonean company, NP (SL) Ltd is dedicated to ensuring a continual supply of fuel through proactive engagements with oil-producing companies. This approach has enabled NP (SL) to maintain stock levels over extended periods, effectively preventing shortages.

NP (SL) Ltd is renowned for its resilience, weathering numerous challenges through strategic managerial interventions that have kept it on the right course. As a true Sierra Leonean enterprise, the company adheres strictly to the Local Content Policy, maximizing the employment of indigenous staff. This commitment not only empowers local communities by providing employment opportunities but also contributes to poverty reduction.

NP (SL) Ltd’s dedication to staff development is evident through various training programs that equip employees with the necessary skills to perform their tasks efficiently. The company’s adherence to the Local Content Policy places it at the forefront of businesses contributing to national development.

Experts in business management have praised NP (SL) Ltd for its exceptional customer care. The company’s ability to engage with customers sincerely and make them feel valued has significantly boosted customer loyalty. NP (SL) Ltd has also invested in modern, calibrated pumping machines, enhancing transparency and building customer trust. The friendly and responsive pump attendants further enhance the customer experience.

In line with its commitment to customer care, NP (SL) Ltd offers flexible payment plans for reliable customers, including Government Ministries, Departments, and Agencies. These arrangements ensure continuous fuel and lubricant supplies, even when budget allocations are intermittent.

NP (SL) Ltd has also introduced NP Gas, a safe, user-friendly, and portable cooking device available in various cylinder sizes at NP Filling Stations. Additionally, the NP Smart Card, a secure and convenient payment method for petroleum products, has gained popularity for its ease of use and accessibility.

The company’s introduction of the pilot phase of its Access and Energy Pass Card marks a significant step towards modernizing fuel purchasing and promoting a cashless economy. This innovative smart card aims to enhance the efficiency of energy management systems and streamline the distribution of petroleum products across the country.

As one of the largest taxpayers in Sierra Leone, NP (SL) Ltd plays a crucial role in supporting government projects through timely tax payments. The company has expanded its operations across the West African sub-region, with branches in Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast, and The Gambia, where it continues to uphold the Local Content Policy and prioritize national employment.

NP (SL)’s expansion into hard-to-reach areas within Sierra Leone has significantly reduced energy poverty, provided employment opportunities for local residents, and improve their quality of life. Despite facing occasional unfounded criticisms, NP (SL) remains steadfast in its mission to contribute to the socio-economic development of Sierra Leone and positively impact communities and lives.

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