NP (SL): A Source of Inspiration & a Reservoir of Effective Business Initiatives

July 5, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

NP (SL) Ltd stands out as one of the most reliable sources of inspiration for indigenes with big dreams of establishing business entities that could grow exponentially. Unlike some other business entities operating in the country, NP (SL) Ltd provides numerous valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs, offering a roadmap to navigate the business landscape and turn dreams into tangible realities.

Founded decades ago by thirty-five former employees of the British Petroleum Company, NP (SL) Ltd was established after these employees bought shares from the Government of Sierra Leone. Today, it is a privately owned indigenous business entity, free from Government intervention.

One key factor behind the company’s meteoric rise is the selflessness of its shareholders. Dedicated to propelling their “baby” to greater heights, these ambitious Sierra Leoneans have implemented fine business initiatives leading to fruitful dividends. Their approach involves working with a collective sense of purpose, eschewing deceit, greed and embracing a spirit of give-and-take.

Another lesson from NP (SL) Ltd is the emphasis on enhancing customer care to provide optimum satisfaction. By prioritizing customer interests, the shareholders and Management teams have successfully broadened their customer base. This commitment to customer satisfaction is evident in their use of modern calibrated pumping machines, ensuring transparency and trust in fuel transactions.

Innovative initiatives and technology play a crucial role in the company’s operations. The introduction of the NP Smart Card allows customers to purchase fuel conveniently, without the hassle of frequent bank visits. This card, which can be credited with a certain amount of money, debits the amount utilized during transactions, helping customers budget their fuel purchases.

Recently, NP (SL) Ltd launched state-of-the-art mobile fuel tanks designed to streamline refueling operations. These advanced tanks, each with a 10,000-liter capacity, are housed in containers with sophisticated safety and dispensing technology. They feature mobile refueling capability, advanced safety systems, and real-time monitoring, enhancing efficiency and safety.

The company has also introduced the Access and Energy Pass Card to promote a cashless economy. This smart card, offering both online and offline usability, provides high-security features and instant SMS notifications after transactions. Customers can recharge their cards at designated stations, reverse transactions if needed, and receive real-time transaction updates.

NP Gas, another product from the company, has gained popularity in the market. This cooker, available in different cylinder sizes, is environmentally friendly with less gaseous emissions, posing fewer health risks. It can be secured at leading Filling Stations and authorized dealers.

A significant business initiative mastered by NP (SL) Ltd is the promotion of the country’s Local Content Policy. The company prioritizes employing qualified Sierra Leoneans instead of expatriates, fostering a sense of ownership and motivation among employees. This approach is cost-effective, retaining salaries and benefits within the country and giving the company a nationalistic flavor.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is another area where NP (SL) Ltd excels. By giving back to society, the company gains respectability and integrity. Assisting residents in communities where the business operates enhances the company’s reputation and community relations.

In a nutshell, NP (SL) Ltd offers invaluable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs. From selflessness and customer care to innovative technology and local content promotion, the company exemplifies good business practices.

Indeed, NP (SL) Ltd is a source of inspiration and a reservoir of effective business initiatives for those looking to realize their entrepreneurial dreams.

Editorial: Stop the Unfair Accusations Against Chinese Companies

July 5, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In recent times, several newspapers have unfairly accused Chinese companies with inflammatory headlines using words like “slavery,” “mafia,” and “colonialism.” Conscientious and discerning citizens must consider: who has historically engaged in the slave trade and practiced colonialism? Certainly not China! China has never invaded other countries, colonized other nations, or engaged in the slave trade. Additionally, China has no association with the mafia.

Consider the Tonkolili Iron Ore Project. During the operations by African Minerals and Shandong Iron & Steel, the project faced numerous interruptions due to infectious diseases and falling iron ore prices. In 2021, Leone Rock was invited by the government to reactivate the project. Recently, Leone Rock completed the loading of 100 Capesize vessels, each capable of carrying over 100,000 tons of iron ore for export. Sierra Leone is rich in mineral resources, and to benefit the government, society, and the people, these projects must continue. Do we want to drive away these legally operating investors and bring projects to a halt? Will this benefit the people?

When China was founded in 1949, its per capita GDP was $27, the lowest in Asia. Today, China is the world’s second-largest economy, achieved through peaceful development, not colonialism. Sierra Leone became independent in 1961 and gained republican status in 1971. Our economic development remains relatively backward. Shouldn’t we adopt an inclusive attitude and learn from other countries’ successful experiences?

The friendly relationship between China and Sierra Leone has a long history, evidenced by Chinese investments in projects like the Friendship Building, the National Stadium, the Friendship Road, the China-Sierra Leone Friendship Hospital, the 34 Military Hospital, and the Tonkolili Iron Ore Project. Have Chinese companies, medical teams, and military medical groups brought oppression or colonialism? Is there any mafia? We must listen to the evaluations of the people. Are there individuals using media freedom to smear China and Chinese companies? Who are the experts in blackmail? Thoughtful consideration is required.

Sierra Leone is a peace-loving and united country, our last stronghold. Despite development challenges, we must adopt an inclusive attitude and welcome more foreign investors based on mutual respect and understanding, without political conditions, to jointly build our beautiful homeland. The unfair labeling must stop, and we should focus on enhancing bilateral ties with China. While there may be rogue individuals, the good ones far outweigh them.

Stop the unjust accusations and recognize the benefits of our longstanding and productive relationship with China.

Republic of Korea Supports Sierra Leone with 2,400 Tons of Rice for School Feeding

July 5, 2024

By Amin Kef Sesay

The World Food Programme (WFP) on Wednesday July 3, 2024 received a substantial in-kind donation of 2,400 tons of rice from the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (MAFRA) of the Republic of Korea. This rice will be used to provide essential school meals to over 106,000 children across 500 schools in some of the most vulnerable and food-insecure regions of Sierra Leone throughout the next academic year.

The donation comes at a critical time as Sierra Leone faces increasing food insecurity due to the economic fallout from the Ukraine crisis, macroeconomic decline and the lingering impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. This contribution will complement WFP’s existing food basket, which includes beans, vegetable oil, salt and fresh vegetables, as well as 1,000 tons of rice purchased locally from smallholder farmers under the Feed Salone initiative.

At the handover ceremony held at the WFP Kissy Warehouse, Mahesh C. Nandwani, Honorary Consul of the Republic of Korea in Sierra Leone, emphasized the importance of the MAFRA rice donation in supporting the national school feeding program. “It is hoped that Korea’s continuous, predictable and high-quality rice contribution will offer a ray of hope to school children who no longer have to worry about where their next meal will come from,” he stated.

Yvonne Forsen, WFP Country Director in Sierra Leone, expressed profound gratitude for the Republic of Korea’s support. “The rice safeguards the investment in human capital development in Sierra Leone and ensures that children can learn and develop,” Yvonne Forsen said. She highlighted the crucial role of school feeding in keeping children in school and providing them with balanced, cooked meals at a time when many households are struggling.

The 2,400 tons of rice donated will help ensure that children in supported schools can continue their education without the burden of hunger. By providing reliable and nutritious meals, the school feeding program supports both immediate food needs and long-term educational outcomes, such as improved enrollment and attendance.

Sierra Leone Brewery Holds 2023 Financial Year AGM

July 5, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Sierra Leone Brewery Limited (SLBL) concluded its Annual General Meeting (AGM) for the 2023 financial year on Wednesday, July 3, 2024. The event, held at the company’s Conference Hall in the Wellington Industrial Estate, Freetown, brought together key officials including Ludovic Auvray, Board Chairman; Ayokunle Owoniyi, Acting Managing Director; Ivan D. Carrol, Director; Lewis Tuni Pratt, Director; Menisa Sesay Esq., Board Secretary and shareholders.

During the meeting, Board Secretary, Menisa Sesay Esq. presented the notice of the meeting, which included the Directors’ Report, the Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2023, the Profit and Loss Account for the year and the Auditors’ Report. The agenda also covered the appointment of new Directors, the re-election of Directors retiring by rotation, setting Directors’ remuneration, re-appointing Auditors and authorizing the Directors to fix the Auditors’ remuneration.

Addressing the gathering, Ayokunle Owoniyi, Acting Managing Director SLBL acknowledged the significant contributions of his predecessor, Maarten Schuurman, to the company.

Auvray provided an overview of the business environment, noting that 2023 was a challenging year for the company.

He mentioned that the country’s real GDP growth rate was about 2.7%, with inflation averaging around 49%. Additionally, the average exchange rate for the year was about 58% higher than the 2022 average.

Ayokunle Owoniyi highlighted that the company faced social and political tensions, including the impact of the general elections and an attempted coup, which significantly affected their year-end sales volume due to the resulting curfew imposed by the Government.

He expressed gratitude to the distinguished shareholders, local customers, consumers and all stakeholders, including the Government and people of Sierra Leone, for their continued support.

The meeting also covered other significant areas such as the appointment of Members of the Board of SLBL, re-election of Directors retiring by rotation and re-appointing Auditors, all of which were done through voting by shareholders. Additionally, discussions included operating results, supply chain investments, sales and export, marketing, human resources, the Corporate Social Responsibility agenda etc.

Managing Director of SLCB Acted Without Criminal Intent -ACC’s Investigation Ascertains

July 5, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Recent media reports criticizing the Anti-Corruption Commission’s (ACC) exoneration of the Managing Director of the Sierra Leone Commercial Bank (SLCB), Yusuf Abdul Silla, overlooks several crucial factors that demonstrate his integrity and commitment to the Bank’s operational efficiency.

It must be underscored that indisputably, the ACC conducted thorough investigation into allegations of financial misappropriation against the Managing Director for the procurement of fifteen operational vehicles for the Bank and an official vehicle for his use.

However, at the conclusion of its investigation, the ACC proved beyond all reasonable doubts that Yusuf Abdul Silla acted without criminal intent although it was categorically stated that some administrative breaches were noted. Also confirmed was that the vehicles procured were brand new with zero mileage.

While the ACC identified some procedural deviations, these should be viewed within the broader context of the Bank’s operational needs and the Managing Director’s role in ensuring the Bank’s smooth functioning.

The additional US$90,000 allocated for the Managing Director’s vehicle was a necessary adjustment to secure a suitable and durable vehicle that meets the operational demands of his role. The initial budget, approved by the Board of Directors, may not have anticipated the full specifications required for a vehicle that ensures both security and efficiency in the Managing Director’s extensive duties. Such adjustments, while ideally approved by the Board, were made in good faith to fulfill the immediate needs of the Bank.

The procurement process’s deviation, particularly the lack of advertisement, was driven by practical considerations rather than wrong doing. Salman Motors’ referral to AL Kuwait Motors in Dubai was based on the unavailability of the required vehicle type locally. This pragmatic decision ensured that the Bank could acquire the necessary vehicles promptly, minimizing disruptions to its operations. The direct payment to Al Kuwait Motors was a measure taken to expedite the procurement process, ensuring timely delivery and cost savings in the long run. That decision was more so justifiable as the Bank previously relied heavily on rentals for its daily operations and such was not financially viable or cost effective.

The ACC’s findings, which highlighted procedural flaws but did not indicate any criminal intent or financial misappropriation, support the notion that the Managing Director’s actions were aimed at enhancing the Bank’s operational efficiency. The recommendation for administrative action, rather than indictment, underscores the absence of malicious or criminal intent. It reflects an understanding that the procedural lapses were administrative in nature and did not amount to corruption or personal gain.

Comparisons with how junior staff might be treated under similar circumstances fail to consider the complexities and pressures faced by Senior Management in maintaining organizational efficiency. The Managing Director’s decisions, while requiring more stringent procedural adherence, were made in the best interest of the bank. Holding Senior Executives to account for every procedural lapse without considering the context of their decisions could deter proactive measures and impede the Bank’s progress.

The Managing Director’s experience with this procurement process highlights the need for more robust procedural frameworks. The ACC’s recommendation for a system review is a constructive step towards ensuring that such lapses do not recur.

Yusuf Abdul Silla’s willingness to comply with these recommendations and implement better oversight mechanisms demonstrates his commitment to transparency and accountability.

His actions in the procurement process for the Sierra Leone Commercial Bank’s vehicles should be seen in light of his dedication to enhancing the Bank’s operations. The procedural deviations, identified by the ACC, were administrative oversights rather than deliberate acts of corruption.

By focusing on operational efficiency and immediate needs, the Managing Director acted in the Bank’s best interest. The ACC’s recommendations for administrative actions and system improvements will further strengthen the Bank’s procurement processes, ensuring greater compliance in the future.

NCD Holds Inaugural Meeting of Steering Committee on Sierra Leone’s State of Democracy Survey

July 5, 2024

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By Foday Moriba Conteh

The National Commission for Democracy (NCD), with support from International IDEA and funding from the European Union, concluded the Inaugural Meeting of the Steering Committee on the State of Sierra Leone’s Democracy Survey on Thursday, July 4, 2024. The Survey aims to assess Sierra Leone’s state of democracy, identify democratic challenges and provide actionable recommendations to address these issues. The event took place at the Commission’s Resource Center, 9th Floor, West Wing of Youyi Building in Freetown.

In her address, Marian Samu, Executive Chairman of the NCD, emphasized that part of the statutory mandate of the National Commission for Democracy is to conduct research to “assess for the information of Government the limitations to the achievement of true democracy arising from existing inequalities between different strata of the population and make recommendations for redressing those inequalities.”

She added that to ensure the process is inclusive and transparent, the Commission has established a Steering Committee comprising reputable institutions to guide the research process.

Marian Samu expressed her satisfaction with the high turnout, highlighting the importance of the meeting in addressing the country’s democratic challenges. “I am so happy for the turnout for this, our first meeting. It speaks volumes about how seriously we are taking the issue of democracy in this country,” she remarked.

The Executive Chairman of the NCD highlighted the importance of continuity and consistent participation from the Committee members, acknowledging the challenges faced during the 2023 elections and expressed hope that the survey’s findings would guide future electoral processes and strengthen democracy in Sierra Leone.

Idriss Mamoud Tarawallie, Head of IDEA International Sierra Leone, emphasized the importance of national ownership and stakeholder involvement in the survey process.

He explained that International IDEA conducts an annual Global State of Democracy (GSOD) survey, which serves as a reference point for assessing the health of democracies worldwide. “Every year, we produce the Global State of Democracy report. It happens to be a fundamental function of the NCD as well, not only to promote democratic values but also to conduct research on the health of democracy in Sierra Leone,” he stated.

Idriss Mamoud Tarawallie highlighted the collaborative nature of the survey, noting that the NCD initiative aims to ensure critical stakeholders within the democratic space, provide oversight for the process. “Our team in Stockholm is happy to support NCD in terms of methodology and processes. It’s very good to see representatives from various sectors here today, as their inputs are crucial,” Idriss Mamoud Tarawallie said.

He also stressed the importance of representation, participation, rights, and the rule of law in assessing democracy. “Anywhere I go, I speak about democracy as four big things: representation, participation, rights, and the rule of law. We want to support NCD in examining these areas thoroughly,” he added.

He outlined the process, which includes setting up a methodology, data collection and engaging a consultancy firm to ensure quality and comprehensive research. The initial findings will be presented to the Committee for review and feedback, leading to a final report. “Our job is to stand back and support NCD, allowing them to lead and provide ownership of the process,” he remarked.

He ended by expressing his pride in the turnout and collaboration, stating, “This is a collective process and I am very proud that we’ve all turned up to participate. NCD wants all of us to be part of it, to drive this process forward.”

Idriss Din Gabisi, Research and Monitoring Director of the National Commission for Democracy (NCD), highlighted that the NCD’s involvement in democracy research aligns with its operational mandate to identify limitations to democracy and recommend solutions.

Reflecting on the context of the initial State of Democracy research conducted between 2014 and 2016, he noted the polarized environment in Sierra Leone at the time. “There was a heated debate about whether Sierra Leone had the fastest developing economy in West Africa. Researchers scrutinized the evidence and then Ebola struck, disrupting everything,” he explained.

Idriss Din Gabisi emphasized the NCD’s decision to take responsibility for democracy research in the country. “We realized that as a national institution, we couldn’t just sit back. We needed to start taking responsibility, which led to the NCD’s intervention in democracy research,” he said.

He detailed the adoption of the International IDEA methodology and the collaboration with Statistics Sierra Leone. “We agreed to take ownership of our development and not rely solely on external organizations. This approach aimed to avoid criticism and ensure the research was relevant to our context,” he noted.

Idriss Din Gabisi also referenced past challenges such as the scrutiny of research methodologies and sample sizes, which often led to polarized opinions. “We faced significant scrutiny, especially regarding service delivery and corruption. However, we believed that by conducting our research, we could provide a more accurate picture of our democracy,” he stated.

He concluded by outlining the goals of the 2017 survey, which aimed to provide continuous assessment of Sierra Leone’s democracy to ensure stability and detect potential fragility.

His address set the stage for the Steering Committee’s role in guiding and supporting the NCD’s ongoing efforts to strengthen democracy in Sierra Leone.

Rev. Gibrilla Kargbo, PR and Communications Director of the NCD, outlined the responsibilities of institutions represented on the Steering Committee. He said that institutions that are part of the Committee should nominate a senior management person to liaise with the Committee and their parent institution, attend all meetings (either in-person or online) and report back on the proceedings.

He added that the Committee will discuss issues guiding the assessment’s focus and direction, provide input on the research methodology and draft instruments, and review preliminary findings. Additionally, representatives are tasked with suggesting improvements, preparing for public dissemination of the assessments, and supporting this dissemination using institutional platforms and networks.

The meeting wrapped up with a session led by Mawusi Dumenu from IDEA International, discussing the methodology for the survey, followed by the selection of Dr. Hindowa Batilo Momoh from the University of Sierra Leone as the Co-Chair of the Steering Committee, with unanimous agreement from the members present.

Sharing Outcomes of Regional Engagements… CARL-SL Advocates for Stakeholders Unity in Tripartite Committee Implementation

July 5, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Following the conclusion of nation-wide regional stakeholder engagement in Bo, Kenema, Makeni and Port Loko with the aim to discuss the Tripartite Committee’s mandate and its achievements thus far, by the Centre for Accountability and Rule of Law-Sierra Leone (CARL-SL), funded by the Open Society Foundation (OSF), the Non-Governmental Organization on, Thursday 4^th July, 2024, held a Press Briefing to give updates on the outcomes of these regional engagements further urging stakeholders to work collectively in implementing the Tripartite Committee’s recommendations in order to strengthen the integrity of Sierra Leone’s future Elections. The Press Briefing was held at CARL-SL’s Office on Circular Road in Freetown.

Reading a Press Statement, Jeremy Ben Simbo, Head of Programs at CARL-SL said that following the disputed June 24, 2023 elections, where the main opposition All People’s Congress (APC) refused to accept the Presidential election results, the APC made several demands before resuming Governance participation. According to him, such led to a three-day dialogue facilitated by Sierra Leone’s Peace and National Cohesion Commission with support from ECOWAS, the African Union and the Commonwealth. The dialogue concluded with the signing of an eight-resolution communiqué on October 18, 2023, aimed to foster peace and national cohesion.

He added that a key resolution was the establishment of a Tripartite Committee, composed of the Government, APC and international development partners, to address electoral issues. Jeremy Ben Simbo intimated that the Committee, with its six-month mandate, completed its work and presented its report to the President on July 1, 2024.

Ahead of the submission of the report, he said the Centre for Accountability and Rule of Law (CARL), with funding from the Open Society Foundation, led a nation-wide regional stakeholder engagement in Bo, Kenema, Makeni and Port Loko primarily aimed at understanding the fears, hopes and expectations about the work of the Committee. It was also aimed at ascertaining people’s level of awareness and/or knowledge about the Committee’s work and their perspectives about the mandate and composition of the Committee.

He pointed out that the targets for engagement included civil society leaders, traditional authorities, religious leaders, educational institutions, market women, bike riders, students, Office of National Security, the Sierra Leone Police, the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), representatives of the ruling SLPP and the main opposition APC, persons living with disability, among others.

Commenting on the findings from their regional engagements, he revealed general support for the Tripartite Committee’s efforts to restore electoral confidence, though there were significant gaps in public understanding and representation within the Committee, as many participants were unaware of the Committee’s mandate and terms of reference, leading to widespread misinformation.

Jeremy Ben Simbo said concerns were raised about the Committee’s limited representation and communication, with calls for broader inclusion and more comprehensive consultations.

He pointed out that participants expressed hope that the Committee’s recommendations would be implemented cooperatively and inclusively, emphasizing the need for a transparent and accountable process, involving both state and non-state actors, including civic groups.

There were calls for the Government to demonstrate the political will and provide necessary resources and for political party leaders to disseminate the report’s recommendations effectively ,he informed saying additionally, participants stressed the importance of a comprehensive constitutional review process to address electoral system vulnerabilities.

He revealed that the 80 recommendations made by the Tripartite Committee aim to create an enabling environment for free, fair, transparent and accountable elections.

Jeremy Ben Simbo concluded by pointing out that CARL-SL is urging all stakeholders, including the Government, APC, development partners, and citizens, to work cooperatively in the implementation of the recommendations so as to strengthen the integrity of Sierra Leone’s elections.

National Coordinator Celebrates MCC Compact as Historic Milestone Achievement

July 5, 2024

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By Esther Wright
National Coordinator, Compact Development Unit, Ndeye Fatu Koroma, has hailed the approval of the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Compact as a monumental achievement for Sierra Leone. “To be here today is a good accomplishment,” she stated, underscoring the significance of this milestone. She emphasized that this success is a testament to the resilience and determination of the Sierra Leonean people. “We did it as Sierra Leoneans. Nobody did it for us.”

Speaking at the Ministry of information and Civic Education Weekly Press Conference, Madam Ndeye Fatu Koroma said that the MCC Compact represents a shift in mindset for Sierra Leone, moving from discussing impossibilities to celebrating achievements and potential. She highlighted the country’s outstanding performance on the MCC education indicator, a feat unmatched by any other nation. “These are things we should be proud about,” she said, urging Sierra Leoneans to focus on their strengths and accomplishments.

She reiterated that the approval of the MCC Compact follows a comprehensive constraint analysis that pinpointed access to energy as a critical barrier to development, saying that although the initial goal was to secure $1 billion, the Compact provides a substantial foundation for progress in Sierra Leone’s energy sector.

Ndeye Fatu Koroma revealed that over the next three years, the MCC Compact will drive several transformative projects aimed at overhauling the country’s energy infrastructure including Transmission Lines, where new lines will be constructed from Freetown to Pujehun, enhancing connectivity and reliability, Power Reliability, where infrastructure upgrades will aim to eliminate power fluctuations, providing stable electricity to more regions, Access and Distribution, where efforts will focus on connecting more people to a robust energy system, improving access across the country and Reform of EDSA, where structural reforms will target loss reduction and improve the efficiency of the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA).

Additionally, the Sierra Leone Electricity Generation and Transmission Company (EGTC) will receive attention, particularly in managing transmission lines, underscoring the need for private sector investment to support these initiatives.

The National Coordinator revealed that the MCC Compact approved for Sierra Leone is one of the largest ever sanctioned by the MCC, reflecting the confidence and trust placed in the country’s potential for growth and development. Ndeye Fatu Koroma highlighted that this Compact not only signifies a major investment in Sierra Leone’s future but also stands as a testament to the collective effort and determination of its people.

She ended up stating that the approval of the MCC Compact marks a pivotal moment for Sierra Leone, saying that it is a clear indication that, with strategic investment and unwavering commitment, the nation can overcome its challenges and achieve remarkable progress. “As Sierra Leone embarks on this transformative journey, the focus will be on leveraging this support to build a brighter, more sustainable future for all its citizens,” she said.

Peace Commission’s Executive Secretary Addresses Aswan Forum in Cairo

July 5, 2024

By Amin Kef Sesay

Hawa Sally Samai, the Executive Secretary of the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC), on July 3rd, 2024, delivered a key address at the 4th Edition of the Aswan Forum for Sustainable Peace and Development. The forum, themed: “Africa in a Changing World: Re-envisioning Global Governance for Peace and Development,” was held in Cairo, Egypt.

Madame Samai’s presentation, titled: “Rebuilding Hope: Advancing Post-Conflict Reconstruction and Development in Africa,” highlighted the crucial lessons from the Peace Commission’s work. She emphasized how these insights could guide the implementation of the Africa Union’s Post-Conflict Reconstruction and Development (PCRD) policy and aid other African nations in their post-conflict journeys toward lasting peace and stability.

The session, moderated by Libakiso Matlho, Executive Secretary for the African Union Centre for Post-Conflict Reconstruction and Development, featured a distinguished panel including Dagmawit Moges Bekele of the Peace Fund Secretariat of the African Union, Jean Van Wetter, CEO of Enable, the Belgian Development Agency, Yero Baldeh of the African Development Bank, Habib Ur Rehman Mayar, Deputy Secretary-General of G7+, Yuko Dohi of JICA, and Solomon A. Dersso, Founding Director of Amani Africa.

Sierra Leone’s successful post-conflict transition, which exceeded international expectations, was a central theme of Hawa Sally Samai’s talk. She credited this success to the strong political will and commitment to the peace process, as well as the establishment of the ICPNC, which plays a vital role in preventing, managing, and resolving conflicts to maintain sustainable peace. The Commission’s significant work, particularly in facilitating dialogue between the Government and the main opposition leading to the signing of the Agreement for National Unity, has garnered widespread acclaim.

In addition to her main address, Hawa Samai participated in a breakfast round-table organized by the Aswan Forum, the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) and the African Union. The session reviewed efforts by the African Union and Regional Economic Communities (RECs) in implementing the Country Structural Vulnerability Assessment (CSVRAs) and Country Structural Vulnerability Mitigation Strategies (CSVMS) in African countries.

It underscored the roles of various stakeholders, including youth and women, in conflict prevention and strengthening national resilience. Hawa Samai’s presentation emphasized effective conflict prevention strategies and the importance of involving women and local actors in these efforts. She also discussed how organizations like the Peace Commission can better utilize early warning systems to sustain peace and cohesion.

Prominent figures at the breakfast roundtable included HE Marie-Antoinette Rose Quatre, CEO of the African Peer Review Mechanism Continental Secretariat, HE Elizabeth Spehar, UN Assistant Secretary-General for Peacebuilding Support, Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs (DAAP), Ambassador William Azumah Awinador-Kanyirige, Senior Governance and Peacebuilding Advisor of the Commission for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, African Union and Dr. Paul-Simon Handy, Regional Director for East Africa and Representative to the AU Institute for Security Studies.

Hawa Samai also contributed to the panel discussion: “Through Her Eyes – Women’s Experiences Across the Conflict Cycle,” organized in collaboration with UN Women. Her presentation outlined the mechanisms and processes implemented by ICPNC to harness the positive role of women in promoting and maintaining sustainable peace. She shared valuable lessons from Sierra Leone’s experience that could benefit other nations dealing with ongoing conflicts or emerging from them.

She was joined on the panel by Therese Kayiwamba, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Effie Owuor, Chair of FEMWISE Africa and Chair of the Africa Panel of the Wise, Miez Doraid, Regional Director of the Arab States ad interim, UN Women, and Fauziya Abdi, Founder and President of Women In International Security, Horn of Africa.

Sierra Leone Broadcasters’ Association Launched

July 5, 2024

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By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

In a significant event held on Thursday, July 4, 2024, the Sierra Leone Broadcasters’ Association (SiLBA) was officially launched at the New Brookfield Hotel in Freetown. This new association aims to foster unity, professionalism, cooperation and best practices among broadcasters across the country.

Stanley Bangura Junior, Chairman of SiLBA, opened the event with a heartfelt welcome to all attendees, including distinguished guests such as Umaru Fofana, BBC Correspondent and the Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernoh Bah.

In his welcome statement, he highlighted the historical significance of the event and SiLBA’s mission to create an inclusive, competitive and sustainable media environment in Sierra Leone.

The Chairman explained that SiLBA is a non-profit organization incorporated in Sierra Leone two years ago at the Corporate Affairs Commission adding that the Association was created to fill the gap for a vibrant national umbrella organization for broadcasters, safeguarding their rights, collective interests, welfare and improving their professional well-being and outputs. At its inception, SiLBA is comprised of over 50 radio and TV stations.

In his keynote address, Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernoh Bah, discussed the significant role of the broadcasting sector in public information and civic education. He emphasized broadcasting’s resilience and enduring power, particularly radio, which remains a primary source of information for over 80% of the population. The Minister stated that despite technological advancements, radio has maintained its potency as a trusted medium for disseminating information, especially during times of chaos, such as the war.

He addressed the challenges faced by the broadcasting sector, particularly the high operating costs required to keep stations running highlighting how many stations operate out of a sense of duty and commitment to providing information despite limited resources.

Chernor Bah mentioned Government’s efforts to support community radio stations with sustainable energy solutions, such as solar power, to ensure their viability and continuous operation. Partnerships with organizations like the World Bank are being explored to implement these sustainable energy projects, the Minister said.

He also emphasized the need for a shift in the media landscape, suggesting that successful media organizations are often run as businesses by businessmen who hire journalists, rather than being owned and operated by journalists themselves.

The Minister pointed out that business expertise is essential for media viability in the 21st century additionally mentioning the Government’s commitment to reducing internet costs and improving internet connectivity, which will have a transformative impact on various sectors, including broadcasting.

Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), welcomed SiLBA to the media industry and discussed the complexities and challenges faced in the media landscape. He emphasized the importance of collective efforts and collaboration within the media community to address those challenges. The SLAJ President highlighted the need for an inclusive space that welcomes everyone, allowing diverse voices to pursue their interests and make a significant impact.

Ahmed Nasralla acknowledged the initial efforts to bring people together, gather observations and hold meetings to understand the issues better. These efforts, he said, have led to a stronger collective impact over time stressing how the media should aim to be large and independent, focusing on public education, training and building context for various activities.

He also touched on the necessity of media organizations being available to support the media landscape and the need to address problems internally within the media sector. Reflecting on persistent issues in the media over the past decades, he underscored the importance of addressing them systematically.

Bailor Kamara, representing the Independent Media Commission, expressed profound honor and joy in witnessing the launch of SiLBA, recognizing it as a significant milestone in the nation’s media landscape. He extended heartfelt congratulations to all who contributed to making this decision a reality, acknowledging their efforts as both recognized and deeply appreciated. He stated that the Independent Media Commission remains committed to ensuring that the media operates free from undue influence and interference.

Estina Taylor, representing the Women in Media Sierra Leone (WiMSAL), emphasized the importance of the broadcast media in Sierra Leone, noting its longstanding role in informing, educating and entertaining citizens across both urban and rural areas. She highlighted the significant contributions of organizations like the BBC Media Action in researching and supporting the media landscape. Estina Taylor acknowledged the challenges faced by the print media, which is in a declining stag, and contrasted that with the broadcast media, which is in a mature stage that requires adaptation to rapid technological changes and financial sustainability.

Theo Harding, Chairman of the Guild of Newspaper Editors, expressed excitement about the launch and mentioned their involvement with the Guild of Newspaper Editors. He recalled their start in journalism within the broadcast sector before transitioning to print media, emphasizing the significant role broadcast media plays in their field. The Guild Chairman expressed enthusiasm about the collaborative efforts and the formation of a broadcast association that will work closely with the guild. He appreciated the opportunity to be part of this association and anticipated positive outcomes from the partnership.

Edward Kargbo, representing BBC Media Action, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to participate in the launch of SiLBA, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to media development and transformation. He highlighted the importance of collaboration and partnerships within the media sector to achieve sustainability and development goals. He congratulated all broadcasters involved under the umbrella of this initiative, noting the value placed on partnership and collaboration by BBC Media Action.

Augustine James, representing the Media Reform Coordinating Group (MRCG), discussed various developments and objectives related to media groups and professionals in the media strategy field. He assured the membership of SiLBA that they are open to partnerships and collaborations also expressing a willingness to work together to tackle the issues faced by the media sector. His closing remarks reflected a commitment to improving conditions within the media industry through joint efforts and cooperation.

The launch of SiLBA marks a significant milestone in the nation’s media landscape, with a collective commitment to improving broadcasting standards, advocating for the rights and welfare of broadcasters and ensuring a free and responsible media environment. The Association’s establishment signifies a new era of collaboration and professionalism in the broadcasting sector of Sierra Leone.

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