Sierra Leonean Journalists and Other African Journalists Explore India’s Policy Research and Disaster Resilience Frameworks at RIS and CDRI

January 15, 2026

The Sierra Leone delegation, Alhaji Manika Kamara, President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ); Amin Kef (Ranger), Managing Editor of The Calabash Newspaper; and Thomas Dixon, Managing Editor of The New Age Newspaper

By Amin Kef Sesay

Three Sierra Leonean journalists, alongside colleagues from West and Central Africa, on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, visited the Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS) and later held high-level discussions with officials of the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) in New Delhi, India, as part of an engagement aimed at strengthening knowledge exchange and improving media understanding of development policy and resilient infrastructure initiatives.

The Sierra Leone delegation included Alhaji Manika Kamara, President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ); Amin Kef (Ranger), Managing Editor of The Calabash Newspaper; and Thomas Dixon, Managing Editor of The New Age Newspaper.

The day’s programme formed part of an ongoing media familiarisation and professional exposure initiative designed to deepen collaboration between African media professionals and key Indian institutions supporting global development dialogue, research-driven governance, and international cooperation.

At RIS, the visiting journalists were briefed on the institution’s mandate and role as a New Delhi-based autonomous policy research organisation focused on key issues shaping international economic development, including trade, investment, technology, sustainable development, and regional integration.

RIS officials explained that the institution serves as a policy dialogue and capacity-building platform for developing countries, with a strong emphasis on South-South cooperation and supporting emerging economies in global and regional economic negotiations.

During the interaction session, the delegation engaged RIS representatives on topical issues shaping the global development agenda and the rising importance of research-driven policymaking in addressing economic transformation challenges confronting developing nations.

Journalists posed questions and exchanged views on key themes including inclusive growth strategies, how evidence-based research can better support national planning, and the role of policy institutions in strengthening regional integration and competitiveness in the global economy.

Officials further highlighted that RIS is recognised as one of India’s leading policy research institutions, operating as an independent research and advisory body supported by India’s Ministry of External Affairs—an arrangement that strengthens its ability to connect academic research to practical policymaking and international development cooperation.

In their presentations, RIS experts outlined the institution’s objectives, which include supporting decision-making in developing countries through policy research and analysis, advancing regional and international economic integration, and providing evidence-based advisory services across several development themes.

Areas of work discussed included trade and multilateral negotiations, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) implementation, digital transformation and the knowledge economy, as well as emerging conversations around climate change, energy, and global governance reform.

The institution was also described as a regular convenor of high-level policy dialogues, conferences, workshops, and training programmes aimed at strengthening capacity for both researchers and policymakers while producing reports, policy briefs, and strategic studies in collaboration with regional and global partners.

Participants described the RIS engagement as insightful and relevant, noting that Africa’s development trajectory can benefit significantly from research-backed policymaking, institutional partnerships, and stronger cooperation among countries of the Global South.

Following the RIS engagement, the delegation proceeded to the headquarters of the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), where journalists met with authorities and held discussions on global efforts to promote infrastructure resilience amid climate threats and disaster risks.

CDRI officials explained that the organisation is an international initiative established to strengthen infrastructure resilience against natural disasters and the increasing risks posed by climate change.

Headquartered in New Delhi, the coalition brings together member countries, international organisations, and institutional partners to reduce human and economic losses caused by disasters by supporting knowledge exchange, policy reforms, and capacity-building, particularly in high-risk and developing regions.

The officials highlighted CDRI’s international partnership model, which unites national governments, United Nations agencies, multilateral development banks, the private sector, and knowledge institutions in a coordinated effort to strengthen the resilience of both new and existing infrastructure systems.

They further stated that CDRI’s work aligns with broader sustainable development imperatives by promoting the rapid development of disaster-resilient infrastructure capable of supporting universal access to essential services, sustaining economic prosperity, and promoting decent work opportunities.

In the briefing, participants were also informed about the coalition’s work on policy support and technical engagement designed to improve how countries plan, finance, and implement safer infrastructure projects, particularly in areas vulnerable to floods, storms, earthquakes, and other climate-related shocks.

Stakeholders say the coalition’s expanding partnerships and global programmes are contributing to better planning for safer infrastructure systems while helping vulnerable nations build long-term resilience against recurring disasters.

Journalists present at the meeting described the engagement as timely, especially for African countries where infrastructure vulnerabilities remain a major challenge, often worsened by weak systems, limited financing, and frequent climate-related shocks.

Participants noted that engagements of this nature strengthen media understanding and improve reportage on infrastructure planning, disaster preparedness, climate adaptation strategies, and development policy frameworks across developing regions.

They emphasised that journalists require practical institutional exposure and access to credible technical knowledge in order to interpret development policies accurately and communicate their relevance to citizens in a way that strengthens accountability and promotes informed public debate.

The delegation added that the experience broadened their understanding of how research institutions, global coalitions, and development partners collaborate in shaping national and international responses to development challenges.

Observers say initiatives linking journalists to policy research institutions and disaster resilience mechanisms are critical in today’s fast-changing world, where climate threats and economic uncertainties continue to pressure developing countries to adopt stronger frameworks for sustainable development.

The RIS and CDRI engagements were also viewed as part of broader efforts to expose visiting journalists to key Indian institutions that contribute to global policy thinking and international development cooperation.

According to the visiting team, the programme provides opportunities for professional exchange, knowledge-building, and stronger media-to-media relationships between African journalists and Indian strategic institutions.

Such engagements, they said, help deepen mutual understanding while promoting collaboration and long-term partnerships that can contribute to improved reporting, stronger people-to-people ties, and better appreciation of development strategies.

Beyond policy and institutional learning, the visiting journalists later undertook a cultural experience tour in New Delhi, including a scheduled visit to Dilli Haat INA, a popular craft and cultural market known for showcasing traditional products, handicrafts, and food from across India.

Participants said the cultural experience forms an important part of the broader exposure, enabling visitors to engage with India’s cultural diversity while building professional connections in an atmosphere of mutual respect and learning.

For the Sierra Leonean delegation, the visit underscored the importance of strengthening policy literacy within the media profession and ensuring that journalists covering governance and development issues are equipped with deeper insight into global economic realities and climate resilience solutions.

Alhaji Manika Kamara, President of SLAJ, noted the importance of partnerships that support professional development, institutional learning, and the strengthening of journalism standards through exposure to global best practices.

Amin Kef (Ranger), Managing Editor of The Calabash Newspaper, described the engagement as valuable in expanding regional media perspectives, particularly on how research-driven policy institutions such as RIS influence development planning and how coalitions like CDRI drive global action toward climate-resilient infrastructure.

Thomas Dixon, Managing Editor of The New Age Newspaper, also welcomed the engagement, noting that the discussions provide context for better analysis of development interventions and policy decisions that affect emerging economies.

The journalists concluded that visits to institutions such as RIS and CDRI present a practical opportunity for African media professionals to deepen their understanding of development policy systems, strengthen international networks, and improve the quality of reporting on governance, climate resilience, and sustainable economic growth.

As the media exposure programme continues, participants say the engagements have strengthened their commitment to producing informed, balanced, and development-oriented journalism that supports national progress and regional cooperation across Africa and beyond.

VP Juldeh Jalloh Pays Courtesy Visit to Ghana’s Vice President, Discusses Free Trade and Regional Cooperation

January 14, 2026

Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh pays courtesy visit to the Vice President of Ghana, Her Excellency Prof. Naana Jane Opoku Agyemang

Sierra Leone’s Vice President, His Excellency Dr Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, has paid a courtesy visit to the Vice President of Ghana, Her Excellency Prof. Naana Jane Opoku Agyemang, as part of a working visit to Accra aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and promoting Africa-wide economic collaboration.

Speaking after the engagement, Vice President Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh said the visit marked the climax of his official engagements in Ghana, during which he held discussions with senior Government officials, Ghanaian business leaders already operating in Sierra Leone and others who have expressed interest in expanding investments into the country.

He noted that areas attracting interest include gas, digitalization, mining, logistics and general trade, describing them as key sectors capable of supporting sustainable economic growth and expanding regional partnerships.

Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh reaffirmed that Sierra Leone and Ghana have maintained long-standing relations, adding that both countries remain committed to building stronger cooperation that benefits not only their nations but the African continent as a whole.

He also congratulated Prof. Opoku Agyemang on the first anniversary of her swearing-in as Ghana’s Vice President, commending her leadership and collective efforts with the Ghanaian administration to steady the country’s economy over the past year.

Highlighting the relevance of South-South Cooperation (SSC), Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh said it remains vital for Africa as it provides opportunities for emerging countries to exchange resources, technology and knowledge to accelerate development and shared prosperity.

In response, Ghana’s Vice President welcomed Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh and his delegation to Accra, expressing appreciation for the visit and describing it as a clear demonstration of friendship and growing cooperation between both countries.

Prof. Opoku Agyemang emphasized the importance of maintaining strong collaboration and learning from one another with open minds, noting that African countries must continuously work together to strengthen their collective position on the continent and beyond.

She placed special emphasis on free trade, stating that if given adequate attention and commitment, it could significantly improve the lives of Africans, ensuring that the continent’s vast resources are utilized more effectively and responsibly for development.

Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to working closely to advance cooperation in areas of shared interest and pledged continued support toward strengthening Africa’s development agenda.

Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh was accompanied by Sierra Leone’s High Commissioner to Ghana, Mohamed Hassan Kaisamba, along with other diplomatic staff of the Sierra Leone High Commission in Accra.

SiLBA Appeals for Urgent Support as Two Community Radio Stations Burn Down in North-West Region

January 14, 2026

The Sierra Leone Broadcasters’ Association (SiLBA) has expressed deep sadness over the destruction of two partner community radio stations, Radio Bankhi-Solofaray and Voice of Youth Radio, both located in the North-West Region, following separate fire incidents on January 9, 2026.

In a statement issued in Freetown, SiLBA described the twin incidents as devastating to the broadcasting landscape, particularly as the country begins a new year with renewed hopes for stronger media development and public service broadcasting.

According to Abubakarr Conteh, Station Manager of Radio Bankhi-Solofaray FM 93.7, the fire that engulfed the station’s premises in Kukuna Town, Bramaia Chiefdom, Kambia District, completely consumed the building. He said the cause of the incident is still unknown and has not yet been confirmed by authorities.

Meanwhile, information available to SiLBA indicates that the fire at Voice of Youth Radio FM 107.1, located in Songo, was likely triggered by a fault in the station’s solar power supply system. SiLBA said it has dispatched a fact-finding mission to the affected station to assess the damage and establish further details surrounding the incident.

Preliminary assessments suggest that both stations suffered major losses, including the destruction of institutional records, office assets and key broadcasting equipment. Items reported destroyed include computers, surge protectors, transmitters and other essential tools required for station operations, with losses estimated to be worth millions of Leones.

Reacting to the incidents, SiLBA President, Stanley Bangura Jr., extended sympathy to the boards, Management, staff and communities served by the two media institutions. He described the situation as painful and called for swift intervention to help the stations recover.

“These unfortunate incidents that occurred on the same day as we begin a New Year of renewed hope on the broadcasting media landscape in Sierra Leone are devastating. We empathize with the Boards, Managements and staff of both media houses and the communities which they have been serving,” the SiLBA President said, stressing that immediate assistance is needed.

SiLBA has therefore appealed to corporate institutions, development partners, media stakeholders and the general public to provide urgent financial support, as well as technical and logistical assistance, towards rebuilding the two radio stations and restoring their broadcast services.

SiLBA is a national umbrella media-interest association and a membership-based organisation incorporated in 2022. The association promotes cooperation and best practices among broadcasters while safeguarding the rights, collective interests and welfare of radio and television institutions across Sierra Leone.

Musa Tarawallie Raises Alarm Over Alleged First Lady-Linked Smear Campaign, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio Fires Back

January 14, 2026

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Musa Tarawallie, one of the personalities seeking to become flagbearer of the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) ahead of the 2028 presidential election, has issued a strong public statement over what he described as dangerous social media allegations capable of undermining peace, provoking political tension and damaging relations between himself, President Dr. Julius Maada Bio and Her Excellency the First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio.

In a video broadcast, Musa Tarawallie said he had been closely monitoring online discussions and had been receiving several calls from concerned individuals drawing his attention to posts and discussions he attributed to a blogger he identified as Samura. According to Musa Tarawallie, the blogger had circulated claims suggesting that Her Excellency the First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio bought a house for him(the blogger) and was supporting him in a way that encouraged political attacks against Musa Tarawallie.

Musa Tarawallie warned that the allegations, if allowed to fester without clarification, could fuel division and create unnecessary tension in the political space, not only within the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) but across the wider society. He argued that Sierra Leone’s hard-won peace must not be threatened by what he called political indiscipline, abuse of influence and the rise of unregulated online activism which, he claimed, can easily be weaponized for propaganda, blackmail and character assassination.

He further alleged that when similar actions were carried out against others in the past, the same blogger was arrested, but that Dr. Fatima Maada Bio allegedly ordered the blogger’s release from police custody, a development Musa Tarawallie claimed prevented justice from taking its course. He described the matter as troubling and insisted that the rule of law must apply equally, regardless of one’s status or proximity to power.

Addressing President Dr. Julius Maada Bio directly, Musa Tarawallie appealed for leadership intervention, arguing that the nation has struggled over the years to attain its current level of stability and cannot afford to slide backwards. In an emotional message, Musa Tarawallie urged President Dr. Julius Maada Bio to ensure proper conduct within the political environment, warning that issues of perceived intimidation and political interference could create serious problems among political actors if left unaddressed.

“Your Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, I want you to know that we have struggled, worked hard to achieve the peace we are enjoying as a nation which you are leading. Your wife is crossing barriers and if as Samura, the blogger, is claiming that the First Lady is behind him I want you to know that if you cannot control your wife we will control her in the political space in the interest of the nation and the stability of the nation,” Musa Tarawallie said.

Musa Tarawallie further accused Dr. Fatima Maada Bio of moving with what he described as an “ambience of power,” including the police and the military, which he claimed was being used to intimidate people. He also alleged that vulnerable youths were being used to insult others online and disclosed that he had been informed the blogger insulted his mother; an allegation he described as unacceptable, offensive and deeply hurtful.

Musa Tarawallie maintained that President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has a responsibility to maintain discipline within the broader political environment, warning that intimidation and political interference could trigger serious consequences if left unchecked. He also alleged that he had witnessed similar actions directed at the Chairman of the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), insisting that he would not tolerate what he called impunity and indiscipline within the party and stressing that such behaviour should not continue under his leadership should he become leader of the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP).

Beyond his personal grievances, Musa Tarawallie raised concerns over the growing influence of bloggers, calling for stricter control and monitoring of online platforms. Musa Tarawallie argued that Sierra Leone has credible print and electronic media institutions that work to disseminate verified information, warning that unregulated blogging can inflame political tensions, promote misinformation and be used as a weapon against opponents.

In response to the allegation made by Musa Tarawallie, Her Excellency the First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio strongly denied any wrongdoing and described the allegations as dishonest, adding that the said Samura is an operative of Musa Tarawallie and that Samura is Musa Tarawallie’s “main boy” who has been with him for years. Dr. Fatima Maada Bio maintained that everything Samura has done in the country has been done under Musa Tarawallie’s instructions.

Dr. Fatima Maada Bio said she came to know Samura through Musa Tarawallie and questioned why Musa Tarawallie would publicly associate her with Samura while attempting to exonerate himself from any connection to the blogger. “For you to accuse me when you are fully aware that I know Samura like any other Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) member in the country as one of the people under your watch is unfair. If you and Samura have fall out for any reason why using my name,” Dr. Fatima Maada Bio was quoted as saying, adding that she considered it as unjust for Musa Tarawallie to repeatedly “come after a woman” and assume she would remain silent.

Her Excellency the First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio said she had respected Musa Tarawallie from the day she met him, not because she owed him anything but because he is her elder and because she came to know him through her husband, President Dr. Julius Maada Bio. She also added that Musa Tarawallie accused her without calling her or ask questions regarding Samura’s attitude, despite Musa Tarawallie being the person who, in her view, brought Samura up politically.

According to the First Lady, Musa Tarawallie was now using the fact that Samura visited her in her office as the basis for the accusations against her, stressing that such a claim was unjustified.

Dr. Fatima Maada Bio also alleged that she is aware of instances in which Musa Tarawallie had been calling people not to welcome her in certain towns, claiming that the same people would later inform her that it was Musa Tarawallie who asked them not to do so.

She further alleged that on many occasions she sent T-shirts bearing the image of President Dr. Julius Maada Bio for supporters to wear, but Musa Tarawallie would allegedly instruct them not to wear the T-shirts, suggesting that the tenure of President Dr. Julius Maada Bio had come to an end. “For you to come out today to pretend that you Musa Tarawallie don’t know Samura is the most dishonest thing anybody can do,” Dr. Fatima Maada Bio maintained, adding that it is shameful for Musa Tarawallie to attack her and spread lies.

She urged Musa Tarawallie to use her name in a positive way and not negatively, especially when he knows the claims are lies. Dr. Fatima Maada Bio said that in the political space, political actors should speak about what they have done for the country so that people would applaud them, rather than resorting to accusations and distractions.

The First Lady encouraged Musa Tarawallie to “keep his eyes on the ball,” stressing that she is not the ball and challenged him to tell the nation that Samura is one of the boys Musa Tarawallie raised. “If you are proud of Samura today, it is what you trained him to be. If you are not proud of the Samura today, it is what you trained him to be,” Dr. Fatima Maada Bio stated figuratively.

Concluding her response, Her Excellency the First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio distanced herself from abusive language and political insults, stressing that she is a dignified woman who does not abuse people and would not send anyone to attack Musa Tarawallie. According to her she is sorry if Samura abused Musa Tarawallie, describing such behaviour as unfair and unacceptable but insisted that she should not be blamed for it.

Concerned Fathers Trek Across Eight Districts to Mobilize Men on Antenatal Care and Child Vaccination

January 14, 2026

By Kemo Cham

In Sierra Leone, a group of men have adopted a novel approach on awareness raising on two of the country’s most pressing and persistent public health challenges – maternal and child mortality.

Members of the ‘Fathers for Life Club’ regularly walk long distances and sensitize men on the need for proper parenthood.

“The Fathers for Life Club educates and mobilizes fathers across the country to be knowledgeable about child care and also to be present and involved in daily child care and child upbringing with regards to health,” Darlton John, Founder and Team Lead or the organization, explains.

A father of four, Darlton John, who just turned 50, has spent 10 of his 20-year professional career in healthcare advocacy. He has spent half of this time working for Health Alert, one of Sierra Leone’s leading healthcare advocacy organizations. As Programmes Manager for the Civil Society Organization since 2022, he oversees projects that advocates for quality and affordable healthcare services, with a focus on reproductive, maternal and child health.

For decades, Sierra Leone confronted some of the world’s worst healthcare indicators, largely due to lack of resources and required infrastructure. The situation was made worse by the effects of the country’s eleven years (1991-2002) civil war. A 2014 World Health Organization (WHO) report, over a decade after the war, ranked Sierra Leone as the worst place on earth for a woman to give birth.

The last decade has witnessed significant progress in healthcare delivery in Sierra Leone, particularly in maternal healthcare. The most recent data released by the Government in April 2025 indicates that Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) had reduced by 79% – from 1,682 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2000 to 354 in 2023. While this still remains a major concern for the Government and its partners, an even bigger concern is lack of progress in the area of child mortality, which stands at around 94 deaths per 1,000 live births for under-fives in 2023.

Health Alerts’ work focuses on immunization, nutrition and WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene), which are among the leading factors for these twin problems. Darlton John says his involvement in national advocacy exposes him to the reality of a lack of awareness among parents, especially the men folks, on important life-saving recommended health seeking behaviours.

“I have been privileged to witness maternal and child deaths audit review meetings, which are hosted by the Health Ministry and its partners, which study reports from the healthcare sector. It is depressing,” he says.

That experience, Darlton John says, inspired the Club to conduct a survey, which revealed that many fathers and male partners were not aware of basic life-saving health practices, like the number of times pregnant women should visit the clinic for antenatal care. A follow-up survey on post-natal care revealed similar knowledge gap on things like childhood vaccination.

“The responses were very appalling,” says Darlton John. “Some of the fathers, some with three kids, some two kids, said they had no idea about these issues.”

These are the very issues the Fathers’ For Life Club members discuss with fellow men during their community engagement. As pioneer of the initiative, Darlton John embarked on his first trek in 2021, from Lumley to Juba in the west end of Freetown – a four kilometre distance. He has done several such walks since then, including twice from Masiaka in northern Port Loko District to the capital, Freetown – an over 70-mile distance.

In mid-December, Darlton John, accompanied by four other members of the team, embarked on their longest and most daring trek yet; from Kailahun in the far east of the country to Freetown – a distance of 425 miles. They covered eight districts in eight days, from December 15 to 22^nd.

The journey, dubbed the ‘National Walk for Child Survival, started at around 5am in Kailahun Town. And after a few miles, the team had its first engagement in Songieyama Village. David Joseph Allieu presided over the meeting with a section of the residents of the community.

“They were surprised and amazed by the initiative and they were happy to see and hear about such advocacy,” says David Joseph Allieu, a father of three, who also works for Health Alert. He says the audience was visibly marveled by men advocating for the involvement of fellow men in the care of children.

The patriarchal setup of the Sierra Leonean society means that often stereotypical gender roles are strictly adhered to, leaving women with little room to express themselves. The message of the Fathers for Life Club trekking party was crafted to break barriers imposed by such a reality, says Darlton John.

The team had night stops in eight locations, starting in Daru in Kailahun; Kenema City; Bo City and Tiama in Bo District; Mile 91 and Makiteh in Port Loko District; and Waterloo in the Western Area Rural District.

Over 500 people were engaged directly in those cities and towns, and the many villages between them; from men eagerly waiting for breakfast ahead of the hectic day’s hustle, to busy Okada (commercial motor bike) ridders looking for passengers and businesspeople. They also visited health facilities. As Team Lead, Darlton John also found time to take interviews from reporters along the way. The message in all of these was simple and straight forwards, he says. “Fathers need to be present. Fathers to be active in daily child care.”

The interactions provided a platform for the audience to ask pertinent questions inspired by real life experiences; like the Okada rider in the Kailahun Town of Pendembu, who was concerned about striking a balance between spending time on a queue at the health center and making best of his time hustling “to feed the many mouths” under his care.

Another Okada rider resonated with the message, recalling how he discovered that his wife was asking for more money than she required to pay for services in their local health center.

“This is one important reason for us as men to pay closer attention,” he said during a session at the Gblama motor park.

But not everyone resonated with the message. Some men walked away as soon as they heard the first part of it. Most of the time, the women showed more interest in the message, even though they were not the target. Back in Songieyama Village, for instance, after the engagement with the men, one of the women invited the team for a session exclusively for the women.

To the Fathers for Life members, this points to the core issue that inspire what the Club stands for – the behavioural problem in society towards these issues. Abdul Karim Sankoh, a member of the trekking party, says the reaction of many of the women during their engagement showed that they agreed with the idea but were afraid to speak out.

“It felt like we were helping to remove a burden on them,” he says.

Abdul Karim Sankoh, who is Media and Documentation Specialist at Health Alert, stressed that the posture of men who appeared disinclined to the message and the hesitation displayed by some women speaks to underlying obstacles imposed by cultural realities. The father of three says this realization invokes a feeling of justification for his participation in the walk.

“The story of child survival is never complete if fathers are not involved,” he says. “We know it can’t be every day for men to get involved in this. But once in a while shouldn’t be hard. We are saying you should just pay some attention.”

For Smart Kwame Hakawa, another member of the team, the mission was “a powerful” personal journey and commitment.

“This walk was more than a physical exercise. It was a way to raise awareness, inspire others and make a statement about resilience and dedication,” says Smart Kwame Hakawa, who is an intern with the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

After massive investment in infrastructure and human capacity, the Sierra Leone Government hopes to meet the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals targets of at least keeping MMR below 140 per 100,000 live births and reduce neonatal mortality to at least 12 per 1,000 live births and under-5 mortality to at least 25 per 1,000 live births by 2030.

For there to be any chance of that happening, complementary initiatives like the Fathers for Life Club are crucial, says Dr. Lynda Farma-Grant, Manager for the National Child Health Program in the Ministry of Health. She was at hand to personally receive the team at the Aberdeen Beach, where the trek officially terminated on December 23^rd. She says attainment of the national efforts requires improvement to access to care for children.

“There is the need to bring more fathers into this fold and to endeavour to sustain the activities on a yearly basis,” she says.

Youth Minister Ibrahim Sannoh Honoured as Life Patron of Special Olympics Sierra Leone

January 14, 2026

The Minister of Youth Affairs, Ibrahim Sannoh, has been honoured by Special Olympics Sierra Leone and formally appointed Life Patron of the organisation, in recognition of his consistent support for persons with intellectual disabilities and his commitment to promoting inclusive youth development across the country.

The award was presented during a ceremony held in Freetown, attended by officials of the organisation and stakeholders in the youth and disability advocacy sector.

According to Special Olympics Sierra Leone, the honour reflects the Minister’s unwavering advocacy for inclusive programmes that provide opportunities for young people of all abilities to participate in sports, social development initiatives and community empowerment activities.

Officials described the appointment as a significant milestone in strengthening national support for persons with intellectual disabilities, noting that Ibrahim Sannoh’s leadership has helped elevate inclusion from an act of goodwill to a national development priority.

In his remarks, the Minister expressed appreciation for the recognition and reaffirmed his Ministry’s commitment to protecting and promoting platforms that uplift vulnerable and disadvantaged young people. He emphasized that meaningful national development must be inclusive and that Government policies should ensure that no young person is left behind.

The Minister further pledged continued collaboration with Special Olympics Sierra Leone, stressing the importance of creating an enabling environment where persons with intellectual disabilities are respected, supported and empowered to reach their full potential.

Special Olympics Sierra Leone commended the Minister for standing with the organisation and supporting its mission to build a society where inclusion, dignity and equal opportunity remain central to youth development in Sierra Leone.

Sierra Leone to Mark First National Remembrance Day to Honour Civil War Victims and Survivors

January 14, 2026

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The Government of Sierra Leone, through the Ministry of Information and Civic Education, has announced that the country will mark its first National Remembrance Day on Sunday, 18 January 2026, as a solemn national moment to honour victims and survivors of the civil war and recommit to peace, unity and democratic coexistence.

According to a Public Notice issued on Monday, National Remembrance Day is not a public holiday, meaning that Government offices, schools, markets and businesses will remain open across the country.

The Government said the day is set aside to reflect on the painful cost of conflict, remember those whose lives were lost and strengthen national determination to protect the peace Sierra Leone has built since the end of the war.

As part of the nationwide observance, His Excellency the President will deliver a national address to officially inaugurate National Remembrance Day. The President’s message is expected to honour victims and survivors of the conflict and renew the call for unity, peace and national cohesion.

The Government also announced that a two-minute traffic stop will be observed as part of the civic moment of remembrance.

A major feature of the day will be a National Moment of Silence at exactly 12:00 noon, during which all activities are expected to pause for two minutes.

The silence will be observed in schools, workplaces, markets (where feasible), places of worship, public gatherings and through radio and television broadcasts nationwide, reinforcing the shared national spirit of remembrance.

From 14 to 21 January 2026, citizens are encouraged to wear a white ribbon or a piece of white cloth as the official symbol of remembrance, peace and national cohesion.

The Ministry said this call applies to students, public servants, private sector workers, religious institutions and communities throughout Sierra Leone.

In addition, the Government is encouraging communities, schools and public spaces to create Memorial or Walls of Remembrance, featuring names of victims, messages of reflection and pledges for peace.

Suggested activities include candle lighting, flower laying, kola nut sacrifices and other acceptable cultural practices that promote healing and remembrance.

Community leaders are also encouraged to organize discussions, particularly involving young people, to help strengthen awareness about the consequences of war and the value of peace.

Mosques and churches have been encouraged to hold special prayers and reflections in support of peace and national reconciliation.

The Ministry further called on radio and television stations to air remembrance songs, documentaries and selected films on the civil war, alongside peacebuilding and reflective messages aimed at promoting national healing.

The Government is calling on all Sierra Leoneans to play their part by observing the silence at noon, wearing white cloth or ribbon, avoiding hate speech and political provocation and participating respectfully in community and religious activities.

The Public Notice described National Remembrance Day as a national reminder that peace is not automatic but must be protected through daily choices, responsible conduct and unity of purpose.

Sierra Leoneans at home and abroad have been urged to mark the day with dignity and responsibility under the theme of national commitment: “Never Again.”

NPHA Activates Emergency Protocols as 267 Suspected Cutaneous Ulcer Cases Emerge in Bombali District

January 14, 2026

The National Public Health Agency (NPHA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Health (MOH), has confirmed an active outbreak of cutaneous ulcers caused by Haemophilus ducreyi in Bombali District, Northern Province, with children reported as the most affected group.

In a press release issued on Friday, health authorities said the outbreak was first detected on November 17, 2025, in Kayassic Community, Safroko Limba Chiefdom. Since then, the infection has spread to 27 communities within the chiefdom, raising public health concern, though officials maintained that the situation remains under control due to rapid response interventions.

Laboratory investigations have confirmed Haemophilus ducreyi as the causative agent responsible for the skin ulcer cases. As of December 24, 2025, a total of 267 suspected cases had been recorded, with 96 laboratory-confirmed infections. Health authorities disclosed that 150 individuals have fully recovered and no deaths have been reported so far.

The NPHA and MOH also confirmed that active follow-up is ongoing for 211 identified contacts as part of efforts to trace and contain possible transmission chains in affected communities.

According to officials, the outbreak is disproportionately affecting children between the ages of 5 and 15 years. Data from surveillance reports indicate that males account for about 56 percent of the recorded cases.

Clinical symptoms associated with the outbreak include painful, slow-healing skin ulcers, mostly affecting the arms and legs. Some patients have also presented with regional lymph node swelling, alongside mild constitutional symptoms. However, the health authorities noted that no severe cases requiring hospitalization have been recorded, suggesting that early detection and community-level interventions are helping to reduce complications.

Following confirmation of the outbreak, the NPHA said it has activated comprehensive public health response protocols to contain the infection and limit further spread. Measures currently underway include enhanced disease surveillance, expanded laboratory testing, community-based case identification and the delivery of appropriate clinical care at local health facilities for all affected individuals.

Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) efforts have also been strengthened in the affected areas. The response includes targeted training for healthcare workers and community members on proper hand hygiene, wound care management and safe medical waste handling. Environmental decontamination activities are being carried out in communities reporting cases, while patient isolation is being implemented where necessary within healthcare settings to reduce risk of transmission.

The NPHA and Ministry of Health have urged the public, particularly communities in Bombali, to remain vigilant and cooperate with health officials as response teams continue follow-up activities. Members of the public have been advised to report suspicious skin lesions promptly to the nearest health facility, avoid sharing personal items such as towels and clothing, and maintain high standards of personal and environmental hygiene.

Health authorities also stressed the importance of regular handwashing and proper wound care, while encouraging citizens to comply strictly with medical advice and instructions from healthcare workers and community health volunteers.

Reassuring the public, the NPHA and MOH stated that the outbreak is currently under control, attributing the progress to timely reporting, strengthened surveillance and community cooperation. They further pledged to provide regular updates as the situation evolves.

The statement was signed by Brigadier General Professor Foday Sahr, Executive Director of the National Public Health Agency.

SLPHA DG Engages UKHO to Strengthen Nautical Chart Surveys in Sierra Leone

January 14, 2026

SLPHA DG Engages UKHO in strategic engagement

The Director General of the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority (SLPHA), Yankuba Askia Bio, has on Monday January 13, 2026 held strategic engagements with officials of the United Kingdom Hydrographic Office (UKHO), the designated primary authority conducting nautical chart surveys in Sierra Leone.

The UKHO delegation was accompanied by representatives from the Sierra Leone Maritime Administration (SLMA). The meeting was aimed at strengthening collaboration and formalizing UKHO’s operational mandate in Sierra Leone, with a focus on enhancing maritime navigation and safety through improved hydrographic data.

According to SLPHA, the UKHO’s mandate includes conducting nautical chart surveys along Sierra Leone’s riverine and coastal waterways, while also providing technical training and equipment to support national hydrographic surveying capacity.

Welcoming the delegation, Yankuba Askia Bio said activities at the Freetown Port have increased considerably, driven by improved operational efficiency and productivity. He explained that the rise in port volume has made it necessary for SLPHA to pursue expansion plans, including the construction of additional berths and the establishment of Inland Container Depots (ICDs) across the country.

Yankuba Askia Bio noted that the planned developments would help accommodate the growing number of discharged containers while easing congestion at the Freetown Port, thereby strengthening overall port performance and logistics efficiency.

The engagement featured a round-table discussion involving officials from SLPHA, SLMA and UKHO, during which key areas of cooperation were outlined. These include the collection and provision of hydrographic and marine geospatial data, as well as joint efforts to raise standards in hydrography, cartography and maritime navigation.

Other highlighted collaboration areas included enhancing marine safety and promoting environmental protection through improved nautical charting, while also expanding technical and infrastructural support such as training programmes and the provision of specialized equipment.

The United Kingdom Hydrographic Office (UKHO) is the United Kingdom Government’s authority on hydrography, responsible for producing vital marine geospatial information, nautical charts and navigation guidance to support the Royal Navy, merchant shipping and other maritime users worldwide.

UKHO fulfils international safety obligations under the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Convention and plays a crucial role in supporting maritime security and efficient global trade through internationally recognized hydrographic standards.

Based in Taunton, Somerset, the UKHO operates as a Ministry of Defence Trading Fund and maintains an extensive hydrographic archive. It also leads global efforts in setting standards for hydrography and cartography and remains the principal authority undertaking nautical chart surveys in Sierra Leone.

SLPHA said the engagement marks an important step in strengthening maritime cooperation and ensuring Sierra Leone’s waterways are charted to global standards to support safe navigation, port expansion and improved maritime operations.

Outgoing Orange CEO Pays Farewell Visit to President Bio, Introduces New CEO

January 14, 2026

Outgoing Orange CEO, Sekou Amadou Bah, Pays Farewell Visit to President Bio

President Dr Julius Maada Bio on Monday January 12, 2026 received the outgoing Chief Executive Officer of Orange Sierra Leone, Sekou Amadou Bah at State House, where he paid a farewell courtesy call following the completion of his four-year tenure in the country.

The meeting also served as an official introduction of Orange Sierra Leone’s new Chief Executive Officer, Madam Aicha Toure, who is expected to take over leadership of the telecommunications company as it deepens its strategic partnership with the Government of Sierra Leone.

Speaking during the engagement, Sekou Amadou Bah assured President Bio that Orange Sierra Leone’s collaboration with Government would not only continue but would be further strengthened under the leadership of Madam Aicha Toure. He expressed gratitude to the President for what he described as an enabling environment that supports private sector growth and investment, while also commending the people of Sierra Leone for their sustained patronage of the company.

Reflecting on his time in Sierra Leone, the outgoing CEO highlighted what he said were key achievements resulting from strong cooperation between Orange Sierra Leone and the Government. According to him, the partnership yielded measurable outcomes in several priority sectors, including education, digital inclusion, infrastructure development and health interventions.

“As a company, Orange Sierra Leone is committed to impacting lives, from the construction of schools and hospitals to investments in infrastructure and digital learning centres,” Sekou Amadou Bah said. “I am deeply grateful to Your Excellency and the people of Sierra Leone for the support we have received.”

He maintained that Orange Sierra Leone has remained committed to corporate responsibility and national development, noting that the company’s investments were designed to complement Sierra Leone’s broader development ambitions. Sekou Amadou Bah also assured the President that the company would continue aligning its programmes and projects with the Government’s national development agenda, adding that the incoming CEO would consolidate the gains made during his tenure and expand the scope of engagement.

Madam Aicha Toure, in her remarks, thanked President Bio for the warm reception and pledged to build on the progress made by her predecessor. She reaffirmed her commitment to strengthening the telecommunications sector through improved services and innovation, while prioritizing opportunities for young people through digital empowerment programmes.

She further indicated that under her leadership, Orange Sierra Leone would continue to explore partnerships that promote technology-driven solutions, increased digital access and support for entrepreneurship, with a focus on positioning telecommunications as an engine for inclusive national growth.

In his response, President Julius Maada Bio thanked Sekou Amadou Bah for his service and acknowledged the contribution of Orange Sierra Leone to national development over the past four years. The President noted that the company’s investment footprint, particularly in education and digital development, aligns with the Government’s Human Capital Development strategy and digital inclusion priorities.

President Bio commended the outgoing CEO for his stewardship and wished him success in his future assignments, describing his tenure as impactful and collaborative. He also formally welcomed Madam Aicha Toure to Sierra Leone and emphasized the critical role the telecommunications sector plays in accelerating development, expanding access to information and improving service delivery.

The President urged telecom operators to maintain high standards of quality and competitiveness, while assuring the new CEO of Government’s continued support for the industry.

“This is home, and you are welcome to Sierra Leone,” President Bio said, reaffirming the Government’s commitment to sustaining a strong and mutually beneficial partnership with Orange Sierra Leone.