Referring to Proposed EGM as Illegal… Bar Association President Pledges Commitment to Rule of Law

July 10, 2024

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

The President of the Sierra Leone Bar Association (SLBA), Tuma Adama Jabbi, has pledged the Association’s unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law. Speaking at the Government Weekly Briefing organized by the Ministry of Communications and Civic Education on July 9, 2024, she emphasized the SLBA’s dedication to maintaining high legal standards and supporting the welfare of legal practitioners.

Tuma Adama Jabbi commended the Ministry for its initiative to keep the public informed on vital issues, expressing her best wishes for its continued success. She thanked her colleagues for electing her and outlined her vision for her tenure, which includes “Raising the Bar” by improving professional standards and enhancing support for legal practitioners through scholarships and internships.

Highlighting the SLBA’s role alongside the General Legal Council in disciplining errant lawyers, Tuma Adama Jabbi revealed plans to empower legal practitioners. According to her, a key initiative under her leadership is the establishment of a permanent SLBA Secretariat. She acknowledged the Acting Chief Justice’s provision of temporary space but stressed the need for a dedicated Secretariat, drawing comparisons to the Ghanaian Bar Association’s standard Secretariat. The Bar Association President announced plans to acquire land for the Secretariat through fundraising efforts, humorously mentioning her intention to start by soliciting funds from her husband, Mohamed Gento Kamara.

She also addressed the lack of a private pension scheme for legal practitioners, stating that the SLBA will work with the National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT) to establish a suitable scheme.

Commenting on the recent Tribunal Report on former Auditor General Lara Taylor-Pearce and Deputy Auditor General Tamba Momoh, she stated that the removal process for the Auditor General mirrors that of a judge, while the Deputy Auditor General’s removal falls to the Board, which she noted should have acted sooner.

Emphasizing the need for swift action, she called on all stakeholders to expedite the report’s submission to Parliament and for a prompt decision by the MPs. She highlighted the importance of closure for Lara Taylor-Pearce, whose case has dragged on for two years.

Tuma Adama Jabbi assured that the SLBA will vigilantly monitor the situation and uphold the law, ready to issue statements and take action if necessary.

Recalling recent developments, she noted that on June 12, 2024, President Dr. Julius Maada Bio received the Tribunal’s report and accepted its recommendations, which included the removal of the Auditor-General and Deputy Auditor-General, aligning with the 1991 Constitution of Sierra Leone.

Regarding reconciliation with aggrieved competitors, Lawyers Augustine Sorie Sengbe Marrah Sengbeh Marrah and Wara Serry Kamal, she disclosed that the Acting Chief Justice, Nicholas Browne Marke, has agreed to mediate. She said the Acting Chief Justice acknowledged that while reconciliation will take time, it is crucial to extend an olive branch further revealing how they are consulting with elders to resolve the misunderstanding.

Tuma Adama Jabbi emphasized the legal status of the SLBA as a company accredited by the Corporate Affairs Commission and urged aggrieved individuals to engage in a reconciliation meeting. She warned against convening an Emergency General Meeting (EGM) without proper authority, stating that any such gathering would be deemed illegal and unrecognized by the Corporate Affairs Commission. She also cautioned the Management of the New Brookfields Hotel against hosting an unauthorized meeting, deeming it as aiding and abetting an illegal action.

Gento Group Banana Island Seaport Project Concession Agreement Tabled in Parliament

July 10, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Deputy Minister of Transport and Aviation, Rex Bhonapha, has on Tuesday July 9th 2024 tabled the Concession Agreement between the Government of Sierra Leone and Gento Group of Companies for the Designing, Financing, Construction and Operationalization of a Seaport within the Dublin and Rickett Communities of Banana Island and Logistics Hub (Harbour Terminal) at Kent in Sierra Leone.

During his presentation, the Deputy Minister highlighted the $1.5 billion project’s approval by the Cabinet on June 3, 2024. He noted the strategic declassification of Banana Island from the list of protected areas to facilitate this venture, while ensuring that activities harmful to the environment will remain strictly prohibited.

He emphasized the seaport’s projected depth of 20-24 meters, making it the deepest in West Africa. Rex Bhonapha said the development is poised to significantly bolster Sierra Leone’s economy and create numerous job opportunities, particularly for the youth. “This transshipment port and logistics hub will position Sierra Leone as a key player in international maritime trade, bringing substantial economic benefits,” the Deputy Minister asserted.

He intimated how the construction phase alone is expected to generate over 1,000 jobs, with long-term employment opportunities potentially exceeding 10,000. The Deputy Minister also highlighted the broader economic impact, suggesting the project could indirectly generate up to 100,000 jobs through increased investment. Moreover, it is projected to contribute 4.5% to the nation’s GDP.

Parliamentarians praised the Deputy Minister, Rex Bhonapha, for his clear and comprehensive presentation of the Concession Agreement, recognizing it as a major developmental milestone for the country. A debate on the agreement is set to commence soon, paving the way for its anticipated ratification.

As Sierra Leone stands on the brink of this transformative project, the nation’s prospects in maritime trade and economic growth look exceptionally promising.

Dr Samura Kamara Reaffirms APC’s Dedication to Democracy & Rule of Law

July 10, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Dr. Samura Matthew Wilson Kamara, the APC Flagbearer and presidential candidate for the 2018/2023 elections, addressed the nation on Sunday July 7, 2024 regarding the recently released Tripartite Committee Report.

In his address, Dr. Samura Kamara expressed profound gratitude and deep appreciation to the citizens for their unwavering patience and steadfast support during the Committee’s work. He praised their resilience and commitment to national peace, unity and security, emphasizing the importance of upholding the people’s will in the most transparent and credible manner.

He recounted the events leading to the formation of the Tripartite Committee, established to restore faith in Sierra Leone’s electoral processes. The Committee was formed following the contentious multi-tier elections held on June 24, 2023, where the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) declared incumbent President Julius Maada Bio the winner with 56.1% of the vote. This declaration was met with significant resistance and allegations of irregularities from the APC and various local and international election observers.

The APC and observers highlighted concerns about the electoral process, including the mid-term census, the District Block Proportional Representation system, the voter register, and operational challenges such as poor-quality voter identification cards and delayed delivery of ballot boxes. Allegations of bias and partisanship within the ECSL further fueled tensions between the ruling SLPP government and the opposition.

To address the political impasse, a mediated dialogue facilitated by the African Union, ECOWAS, the Commonwealth, and the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC) led to the signing of the “Agreement for National Unity” and the establishment of the Tripartite Committee. The Committee, co-chaired by the Government, APC and development partners, was tasked with reviewing the electoral systems, structures and processes of the 2023 elections and proposing reforms to enhance future election transparency and credibility.

Dr. Samura Kamara commended the APC team, led by Dr. Kaifala Marah, for their dedication and hard work, which resulted in significant progress and the presentation of the Committee’s report on July 1, 2024. Despite differing perspectives within the report, he emphasized the importance of addressing unresolved issues to ensure the transparency and credibility of electoral processes.

He expressed deep concern over the ECSL’s lack of transparency in the 2023 elections, citing the Commission’s failure to produce credible evidence of the vote counts and the SLPP party’s inability to substantiate their claimed victory. Dr. Samura Kamara highlighted the APC’s evidence, including Results Reconciliation Forms (RRFs) from 70.2% of polling stations, showing a commanding lead for him with 57.15% of the votes. He called for a rerun of the elections, facilitated by ECOWAS, to restore faith in the electoral process.

Addressing the APC comrades, he urged unity and a collective fight for electoral justice stressing the importance of continued international community support and the need for accountability and transparency to maintain public trust in the electoral system.

He concluded by emphasizing the ongoing dialogue and commitment to resolving electoral issues, calling for peace, unity, and hope among the citizens. Dr Samura Kamara reaffirmed the APC’s dedication to democracy and the rule of law, pledging to honor the people’s trust and fight for electoral justice.

“Together, we will continue to push for a resolution that reflects the true voice of the people and a shared prosperous future,” Dr. Samura Kamara stated. “We serve a Just God. He, and only He, can fight our battles.”

Gender Ministry & Partners Conclude First Town Hall Meeting on SGBV

July 10, 2024

Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs.jpg

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs, in collaboration with various partners, including the Ministry of Information and Civic Education and the UN in Sierra Leone, hosted a nationwide town hall meeting on Monday, 8th July 2024, at the Freetown City Council Auditorium. The event aimed to address the pressing issue of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) and brought together voices from all sectors to discuss and develop strategies for combating these pervasive and inhumane acts.

In her opening remarks, the Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Dr Isata Mahoi, reaffirmed President Bio’s deep concern related to the high incidence of rape and gender-based violence in the country. “We must come together as a nation to address the scourge of sexual and gender-based violence. This town hall meeting is an opportunity for every district to contribute to finding effective solutions,” she stated.

Dr. Mahoi further informed the gathering that the town hall meeting will be held in every district of Sierra Leone to ensure wide-reaching community participation and input.

The event, chaired by the Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, featured presentations from a panel of speakers. These included the Inspector General of Police, William Fayia Sellu; Presidential Adviser on Gender, Isatu Jabbie Kabba; Minister of Health, Dr. Austin Demby; Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Conrad Sackey; Chief Justice Nicholas Browne-Marke and Daniel Kettor, Director of the Rainbow Center. The presentations focused on key initiatives from different sectors, highlighting the Government’s comprehensive approach to tackling SGBV and proposing solutions.

Daniel Kettor, Director of the Rainbow Center, Rainbow Initiative, a prominent advocacy group, emphasized the importance of strengthening community engagement, justice, accountability and multi-sectoral collaboration. “Addressing SGBV requires a multi-faceted approach that includes every sector of society,” he said.

Dr. Austin Demby, Minister of Health, reported that the Ministry of Health has trained 1,500 health workers to support SGBV victims with respect and confidentiality and has ensured that all sexual violence cases are reported to law enforcement agencies. “Our health workers are dedicated to treating victims with the utmost respect and ensuring their confidentiality,” he said.

Conrad Sackey, Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, discussed the implementation of a sex education plan in schools to help pupils distinguish between harmful and positive interactions. NGOs have set up clubs in schools to support this initiative and a toll-free line (8060) is available to report sexual abuse in schools, according to him.

He pointed out that the Ministry is also rolling out a policy to educate parents on safeguarding their children at home. “Education is key to preventing SGBV from occurring in the first place,” he stated.

William Fayia Sellu, Inspector General of Police, highlighted the crucial role of law enforcement in curbing SGBV. The police, in partnership with the Rainbow Initiative, investigate SGBV cases and seek justice for victims, he informed. He highlighted how they also raise community awareness about SGBV and have increased their Family Support Units from 82 to 92 to enhance the investigation and prosecution of GBV cases.

“We are committed to ensuring justice for victims and educating the community about the dangers and consequences of GBV,” he stated.

Nicholas Browne-Marke, Acting Chief Justice, noted that the judiciary has established a special court for sexual violence in Freetown, with plans for decentralization. He emphasized that the justice system focuses on punishing perpetrators while minimizing harm to families, particularly women and children. “Our goal is to deliver justice while maintaining the welfare of affected families,” he said.

Isatu Jabbie Kabba, Presidential Adviser on Gender, revealed that President Bio has established a Presidential Taskforce on Gender-Based Violence, which collaborates with the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs and other NGOs to combat SGBV. “This task force is a testament to our commitment to eradicating GBV from our society,” she emphasized.

Additionally, she maintained that the Government has set up one-stop centers in major hospitals across the country for SGBV cases, with a toll-free line (1161) available to access those centers.

Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, Mayor of Freetown, announced that the Freetown City Council plans to establish over 60 boreholes in communities to reduce the risk of girls being exposed to sexual violence while searching for water. “Providing basic necessities like water can significantly reduce the risk of SGBV,” she noted.

Following the presentations, an animated discussion with the audience ensued, facilitated by Minister Chernor Bah. Submissions were made by a survivor, child rights activists, representatives of children’s advocacy groups, NGOs and other members of the public, who shared their experiences and suggested solutions. Major challenges identified included customs and traditional beliefs, issues of compromise, ineffective support and the underreporting of sexual abuse.

Minister Chernor Bah concluded the event by emphasizing that this comprehensive, multi-sectoral approach underscores the Government’s commitment to creating a safer environment for all, especially women and children. “Together, we can make Sierra Leone a place where every individual can live free from the fear of violence,” he stated.

QNET Condemns The Misuse Of Its Name By Scammers For Illegal Activities

July 8, 2024

QNET, a 26-year-old lifestyle and wellness-focused global direct selling company has been made aware of a news item in Daybreak Newspaper published on June 25^th, 2024, with the headline “QNETStaff Dragged for Fraud”. The story alleges that an individual named Alie Mohammed Conteh who is being charged for conspiracy to defraud and obtaining of money by false pretence, is an employee of QNET.This claim is completely false and without basis.

QNET does not have any employees in Sierra Leona and is not associated with the individual in question. QNET has been made aware of the misuse of its brand name by unscrupulous individuals for illegal activities and we strongly condemn such actions.

QNET wishes to clearly state that it has no involvement whatsoever in these reprehensible actions and strongly condemns the unauthorised use of its brand name by dishonest individuals or group.

QNET is a prominent wellness and lifestyle company that provides a wide range of products in areas of health, wellness, lifestyle, and education utilising the power of e-commerce. Thousands worldwide have experienced the benefits of our offerings, with many opting to become independent Representatives (IRs). This allows them toestablish their own sales business by promoting QNET products.

QNET strictly forbids its IRs from engaging in any form of unethical or illegal activities in the conduct of their direct selling business. Where necessary, QNET collaborates with law enforcement and relevant government agencies to support investigations into instances where individuals have unlawfully exploited the QNET name for criminal purposes.

QNET has also taken significant steps to addressdisinformation about the company, its business model and the direct-selling industry in general in the Sub-Saharan Africa region and has established a Whatsapp compliance hotline +233256630005 where violations can be reported.

ABOUT QNET

QNET, a global lifestyle and wellness company, uses a direct selling business model to promote unique products that enable people to take charge of their health, well-being, and lifestyle.

Since 1998, QNET’s innovative products and e-commerce-driven business model have helped build a global community of satisfied customers and microentrepreneurs, who are driven by the mission of RYTHM – Raise Yourself To Help Mankind. Popular product brands offered by QNET include the Bernhard H. Mayer range of luxury watches and jewellery, HomePure range of home care products, the Amezcua wellness range, Physio Radiance personal care range, and QVI branded holiday packages.

QNET proudly exemplifies high industry standards and is a member of numerous Direct Selling Associations worldwide. Its active engagement in several global sports sponsorships including in its role as the official direct selling partner of the Manchester City Football Club (MCFC) and the Confederation of African Football (CAF), highlights the company’s commitment to excellence. Discover a world of new possibilities with QNET by visiting www.qnet.net

First Set of SLCAA Airworthiness Inspectors Depart to Italy for Training

July 8, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In line with the milestone agreements with the EU Safety Commission, the first group of Airworthiness Inspectors from the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) departed for Italy on Wednesday, July 3, 2024. The inspectors will undergo practical training on the process of issuing Air Operator Certificates (AOCs) at the Italian Civil Aviation Authority (ENAC) facilities.

Musayeroh Barrie, Director General of SLCAA, expressed her satisfaction, stating, “This is a very happy moment as we send off the first set of Airworthiness Inspectors to Italy to undertake their AOC practicals with ENAC. Sierra Leone’s aviation space is ready for business.”

The foundation for this cooperation was laid during the ICAN Summit in Riyadh in December 2023, where initial discussions between the aviation authorities of both nations took place.

It also follows a landmark visit by Italy’s Civil Aviation Authority, led by President Pierluigi Umberto, to Sierra Leone earlier this year

Director General Musayeroh Barrie and her team welcomed the Italian delegation at State House for the official signing ceremony, highlighting the significant progress in bilateral cooperation.

A Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) and a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) were signed at State House in Freetown on March 22, 2024.

The agreement encompasses air transport services between Italy and Sierra Leone, technical assistance from the EU Safety Commission to remove Sierra Leone from the EU Safety List “Blacklist,” and collaboration in the production and distribution of Sustainable Aviation Fuel.

During the meeting, the Chief Minister of Sierra Leone, Dr David Moinina Sengeh expressed strong Government support for advancing the country’s aviation industry, emphasizing the importance of these bilateral relations.

President Pierluigi Umberto of ENAC reaffirmed Italy’s commitment to supporting Sierra Leone’s integration into international airspace and aiding its removal from the EU’s safety blacklist. He emphasized the mutual benefits envisioned by the agreements and Italy’s dedication to their implementation.

Deputy Minister of Transport and Aviation, Rex Bhonapha, expressed gratitude for the Italian delegation’s visit anticipating tangible progress toward the socio-economic benefits outlined in the agreements.

The delegation also met with the Vice President, who praised Director General Barrie and her team for their efforts in advancing President Bio’s vision for aviation growth.

The Italian delegation’s visit also included meetings with aviation stakeholders at the Freetown International Airport (FNA) and a tour of the new airport facilities. The visit promised to unlock numerous opportunities for Sierra Leone, including the potential establishment of an airline connecting Sierra Leone to Europe through Italy.

It was agreed that in the wake of the delegation’s visit, the SLCAA will engage with their Italian counterparts on various aviation-related topics, ranging from air transport to environmental issues.

The delegation also paid courtesy visits to key Government officials to further assess Sierra Leone’s readiness to foster aviation growth, paving the way for future collaborations and advancements in the Sierra Leone aviation sector.
The training, facilitated by ENAC, marks a significant step forward in enhancing Sierra Leone’s aviation capabilities.

Ministry of Health Unveils Pregnancy Tracking App to Combat Maternal Mortality

July 5, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The Ministry of Health on Tuesday, July 2, 2024 launched the Pregnancy Registration and Service Tracking Application (PReSTack) to address the country’s high maternal mortality rate. This innovative app is designed to monitor and track the health of pregnant women, aiming to significantly reduce maternal deaths.

PReSTack will document crucial maternal events nationwide and provide early warnings to facilitate life-saving interventions. The UN reports that the maternal mortality ratio dropped to 443 per 100,000 live births in 2023. The Ministry aims to further reduce this ratio to below 300 per 100,000 live births by 2025, and ultimately to less than 70 per 100,000 live births by 2030. Health Minister Austin Demby expressed confidence that PReSTack will be instrumental in achieving these goals.

During the launch event, Chief Minister, Dr David Moinina Sengeh, the keynote speaker, highlighted that PReSTack will reduce delays and ensure timely medical responses. He assured that the app will complement, not replace, the work of nurses, enhancing their effectiveness. Dr. Sengeh also challenged the Ministry to aim for a maternal mortality rate of zero by 2038, officially inaugurating the application.

Developed by the Ministry of Health, the Directorate of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), PReSTack, leverages technology to improve maternal and newborn health outcomes. The app is designed to function both online and offline, ensuring accessibility in various settings.

Afrimoney Introduces Pyypl Visa Card, Pioneering Digital Banking in Sierra Leone

July 5, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In its stride towards modernizing the financial landscape of Sierra Leone, Afrimoney has introduced the Afrimoney Pyypl Visa Card. The launch event, held on July 1, 2024, at the New Brookfields Hotel in Freetown, attracted a diverse array of stakeholders, including Ministers and industry leaders.

The Afrimoney Pyypl Visa Card is set to enhance both convenience and security in mobile money transactions, catering to both local and international users. During the launch, an Afrimoney representative underscored the company’s dedication to innovation and excellence, positioning the new card as a transformative force in Sierra Leone’s fintech sector.

“With the Afrimoney Pyypl Visa Card, users can enjoy seamless transactions, including contactless payments in stores and online, with real-time notifications for every transfer,” the representative announced.

Minister of Communication, Technology and Innovation, Salima Monorma Bah, commended the initiative, highlighting its potential to make financial services more accessible and convenient for all citizens.

Martison Obeng Agyei, Managing Director of Afrimoney, expressed gratitude for the support received and emphasized the card’s ability to bridge financial gaps and empower users globally. He highlighted the successful partnership that merges mobile money and banking services, facilitating banking without the need for traditional bank accounts.

Chief Minister, David Moinina Sengeh, also shared his appreciation and optimism, noting the importance of such initiatives in driving national development and fostering financial inclusivity.

The launch of the Afrimoney Pyypl Visa Card marks a pivotal moment in Sierra Leone’s journey towards digital financial transformation, promising greater accessibility, security and efficiency in financial transactions for all citizens.

Dr. Yumkella Criticizes Bumbuna Phase II Project, Calls for Accountability

July 5, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Government Weekly Press Briefing on Tuesday July 2, 2024, featured key updates from prominent figures in Sierra Leone’s energy, finance and development sectors. Dr. Kandeh Yumkella, Chairman of the Presidential Initiative on Climate Change, Renewable Energy, and Food Security, Ndeye Fatu Koroma, National Coordinator of the Sierra Leone Compact Development Unit, and Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura, Minister of Finance, provided detailed insights into their respective areas of responsibility.

Dr. Kandeh Yumkella detailed the country’s ambitious plans for transforming its energy infrastructure, emphasizing a shift from temporary fixes to sustainable solutions. He discussed significant pledges from OPEC and concrete plans to attract investment through bankable projects. Kandeh Yumkella highlighted key initiatives, including the expansion of the Bumbuna Hydroelectric Project to double its 50 MW capacity by adding turbines and a floating solar component.

“Fixing the energy system takes time,” he stated. “It cannot be political.” He stressed the importance of upgrading the existing infrastructure, such as the sole 161kv transmission line, and prioritizing renewable energy sources. Projects in Kamakwie and Bikongor aim to add 50 MW of solar power each, with additional potential from the Dodo and Shinjimi Dams he intimated adding that President Bio’s “Just Energy Transition Plan” (JET-P) targets generating over 1 gigawatt (GW) within the next decade.

Kandeh Yumkella underscored the need for a professional and technical board at the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA) to ensure timely payments to investors and stimulate further investment. International support, including $800 million in pledges, $480 million from the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), and a $412 million gas power plant project, signifies growing confidence in the Government’s vision, he maintained.

The Chairman of the Presidential Initiative on Climate Change, Renewable Energy and Food Security also criticized the long-delayed Bumbuna Phase II project, labeling it a “sham” due to over a decade of inactivity and an unjustified $90 million demand from the company involved. He vowed to challenge such deals in international arbitration if necessary.

Kandeh Yumkella emphasized Bumbuna’s importance as the most affordable energy source in Sierra Leone, noting its current 50 MW capacity and potential to double with additional turbines and floating solar panels. He reiterated the Government’s commitment to pursuing sustainable energy solutions rather than temporary fixes.

Dr. Yumkella’s candid discussion highlighted the challenges and opportunities in Sierra Leone’s energy sector. His call for transparency and rejection of exploitative deals resonated as a crucial step toward achieving the country’s long-term development goals. The Government’s comprehensive approach, backed by significant international support, aims to lay a strong foundation for sustainable growth and energy independence.

Ndeye Fatu Koroma, National Coordinator of the Sierra Leone Compact Development Unit, elaborated on the recent Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) approval and the next steps. This $480 million support underscores international confidence in Sierra Leone’s developmental trajectory, she stated.

Minister of Finance, Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura, discussed the economic implications of these developments. He outlined the Government’s strategies to manage implementation effectively, emphasizing the importance of these initiatives in bolstering the country’s economic stability and growth.

Minister of Information and Civic Education ,Chernoh Bah, who chaired the event, encouraged citizens to engage in discussions about leveraging these opportunities for a brighter future. He provided additional insights and updates, urging everyone to participate in shaping the nation’s developmental path.
Overall, the briefing highlighted the Government’s commitment to transparency, sustainable development, and economic resilience, with a clear call for public involvement in these transformative efforts.

Hurry to Grab Yours as Nationwide Issuance of Biometric National Identity Cards is Underway

July 5, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In order to enhance personal security, facilitate access to public services and strengthen national identity infrastructure, the issuance of Biometric National Identity Cards to citizens and non-citizens is currently underway across Sierra Leone.

These state-of-the-art cards, equipped with advanced features including a chip embedded with biometric data, have become essential documentation for both citizens and non-citizens. The initiative, led by the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA), enables holders to secure multi-purpose identification forms that provide seamless access to Government facilities, financial services and other essential transactions.

Emphasizing security and accessibility, the Biometric National Identity Cards are revolutionizing identity verification processes and bolstering the country’s overall security framework. A key milestone in this initiative is the NCRA’s mandate for the use of National Identification Numbers (NIN) for pupils in public examination classes, highlighting the growing significance of these identity cards in the education sector.

These cards are set to play a crucial role in verifying identities and facilitating remote Know-Your-Customer (KYC) checks in the financial sector, thus enhancing efforts to combat fraud and promote financial inclusion. Recognizing the importance of this initiative, the NCRA is urging Sierra Leoneans and non-citizens to prioritize obtaining their Biometric ID Cards, citing their role in personal security, national development and access to essential services.

The NCRA emphasizes the statutory obligation and unique NIN as pivotal security elements, urging citizens to fulfill their civil responsibility by acquiring these cards.

To facilitate the application process, the NCRA established specific offices and designated centers across Sierra Leone, strategically located for easy accessibility.

Additionally, the NCRA is offering specialized corporate services tailored for organizations and institutions, enhancing accessibility and efficiency. The designated centers and offices include:

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 Round About)
NCRA Office: Waterloo along the Freetown High Way (Opposite the Police Station)
NCRA Offices: Regional Headquarter Towns of Bo, Kenema, Makeni, and Port Loko

For detailed information on these services, interested parties can contact the NCRA at +232-33-433-333, +232-30-500-000, +232-60-000, +232-78-221-812, or via email at idverification@ncra.gov.

The issuance of Biometric National Identity Cards marks a transformative step in fortifying Sierra Leone’s identity infrastructure and enhancing public service accessibility, reflecting a commitment to national security and development.