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Mines Minister Gives Updates on Mining Sector Development

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a comprehensive interview on the “Good Morning Salone” program on 98.1, Mines and Minerals Resources Minister, Julius Mattai, outlined the current and future initiatives within Sierra Leone’s mining sector. Emphasizing the complexity and financial demands of mining, the Minister discussed the crucial stages from exploration to production and the importance of modern techniques in accurately assessing mineral deposits.

He began by highlighting the significance of exploration licenses, following the completion of a substantial geophysical survey funded by the World Bank. “Mining is a very risky business,” he stated, noting the considerable investments required before any profitable returns can be realized. The Minister detailed the essential phases of mining, from exploration to exploitation, and ultimately, mine development and production.

According to him, in 2019, the Government conducted an extensive geophysical survey to collect data on the types, quantities and locations of minerals across the country. He said despite that survey further exploration is necessary to obtain detailed and actionable information. Julius Mattai explained that while the geophysical survey provides a preliminary understanding of mineral anomalies, it does not replace the need for more specific studies, such as geochemical and geological explorations.

“The geophysical survey just tells you roughly where anomalies are,” he explained. “If you really want to get the mineral and understand its grade, you have to drill.” He highlighted the high costs associated with drilling, which can run up to $200 per meter, making it an expensive but crucial part of the exploration process.

The geophysical survey, funded by a $7 million grant from the World Bank under the Extractive Industries Technical Assistance Project (EITAP) Phase 2, utilized advanced technologies including magnetic and radiometric sensors. He stated that these sensors were deployed via aerial surveys to map out potential mineral-rich areas across the country. The survey’s execution involved international expertise from companies in South Africa, Spain and the UK, ensuring a comprehensive and accurate collection of data.

However, he noted that this was only the beginning adding that the next steps involve more detailed surveys, including electromagnetic and gravimetric studies, which were not covered under the initial World Bank-funded project and to continue that work the National Minerals Agency (NMA) and the Ministry are actively seeking support from other international development partners.

He also mentioned ongoing efforts to engage private companies with the necessary expertise and financial resources also stating that these companies are encouraged to obtain exploration licenses to conduct further studies, which will ultimately benefit Sierra Leone by attracting more investors and boosting the mining sector.

“Increasing the knowledge and data about our mineral resources are vital for attracting investment and ensuring the sustainable development of our mining sector,” he emphasized. He revealed that recent engagements with potential partners in the UAE and Russia have been promising, with the aim of securing further support for the country’s ambitious exploration plans.

As the interview concluded, the Minister reiterated the crucial role of continued exploration in unlocking Sierra Leone’s mineral potential ensuring that the sector can contribute significantly to the nation’s economic growth.

 

 

Beijing Issues Guidelines on Punishing “Taiwan Independence” Activists: A Firm Stand on Sovereignty

By Alpha Mohamed Jalloh, Director, China Africa Institute, University of Makeni; PhD Candidate, University of Chinese Academy of Social Sciences

In a significant development highlighting China’s stance on Taiwan, Beijing has issued new judicial guidelines targeting “diehard” advocates of Taiwan independence. Released jointly by the Supreme People’s Court, the Supreme People’s Procuratorate, and several ministries, the guidelines came into effect immediately upon publication. They are grounded in existing laws such as the Anti-Secession Law, the Criminal Law, and the Criminal Procedure Law, reflecting China’s rigorous approach towards maintaining territorial integrity.

The guidelines outline specific circumstances under which individuals advocating for Taiwan independence may face criminal prosecution. Key offenses include organizing separatist activities, seeking foreign support for independence, and colluding with overseas entities to undermine Chinese sovereignty. Notably, Article 6 of the guidelines allows for severe penalties, including the death penalty, for those causing grave harm or displaying particularly serious intent to split the state.

Moreover, the guidelines introduce provisions for trials in absentia, demonstrating China’s resolve to prosecute individuals involved in separatist activities regardless of their location. While emphasizing stringent punishments, the guidelines also offer avenues for leniency. Individuals who renounce their separatist stance and cease activities may avoid prosecution, underscoring a balance between severity and clemency in China’s judicial approach.

Chen Binhua, spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, clarified that these measures are aimed at a minority of individuals involved in secessionist activities, not the broader Taiwanese population. Chen highlighted “Taiwan independence” as a significant threat to regional stability and reiterated the necessity of these measures to safeguard China’s national interests.

The issuance of these guidelines signifies China’s uncompromising stance against any moves towards Taiwanese independence. By outlining clear legal consequences, including the possibility of severe penalties, China aims to deter separatist activities and uphold its sovereignty over Taiwan. However, this move is expected to escalate tensions in cross-strait relations and may impact China’s relations with countries supporting Taiwan’s autonomy, particularly the United States.

Internationally, reactions to these measures will be crucial in shaping future dynamics across the Taiwan Strait. Supporters of China’s sovereignty are called upon to endorse these guidelines as a step towards maintaining regional stability and upholding the principle of one country, two systems.

In conclusion, Beijing’s issuance of these guidelines represents a significant escalation in its legal and political strategy against Taiwan independence. By combining strict penalties with provisions for cooperation and due process, China seeks to deter separatist activities while presenting its actions as in accordance with legal norms. The global response to these measures will undoubtedly influence the evolving landscape of cross-strait relations in the foreseeable future.

President Xi Jinping’s Speech Marks China’s Vision for Global Peace and Development

President Xi Jinping
President Xi Jinping

In a landmark address commemorating the 70th Anniversary of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered a comprehensive and nuanced speech outlining China’s diplomatic principles and their global implications.

President Xi Jinping warmly welcomed distinguished guests and underscored the historical significance of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, established 70 years ago in response to post-World War II dynamics and the Cold War era tensions. These principles, he emphasized, marked a pivotal moment in international relations, promoting sovereignty, non-aggression, non-interference, equality, and peaceful coexistence.

Xi Jinping outlined the core principles as foundational to global governance, recognized globally since their inception. He highlighted their role in international law, norms, and the promotion of equality among nations, citing their integration into UN frameworks and their adoption by movements like the Non-Aligned Movement.

The President argued that these principles have not only set benchmarks for international law but also guided diverse relationships among nations with differing social systems. They have empowered developing countries, fostering cooperation and unity on global platforms while advocating for a just and equitable international order.

Xi Jinping’s speech articulated China’s stance against imperialism, colonialism, and hegemonism, advocating for a fairer global system based on justice, equity, and mutual respect among nations. This vision includes reforms in economic, political, and environmental spheres to ensure inclusive representation and sustainable development.

Connecting the Five Principles to China’s broader vision of a shared future for humanity, Xi Jinping proposed a new model of international relations emphasizing mutual benefit and cooperation. Initiatives like the Belt and Road cooperation aim to foster global stability and prosperity through multipolar engagement and economic globalization.

President Xi announced concrete initiatives to strengthen cooperation among Global South countries, including educational exchanges and financial contributions. He reaffirmed China’s commitment to peaceful development and multilateralism, calling for unity in addressing global challenges.

Xi Jinping’s speech positioned China as a champion of global peace and development, advocating against unilateralism and promoting collaborative governance. It highlighted China’s diplomatic philosophy of non-interference and mutual respect while addressing both domestic constitutional principles and international cooperative endeavors.

President Xi Jinping’s address at the 70th Anniversary of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence encapsulates China’s commitment to shaping a more equitable and inclusive global order. By emphasizing cooperation and mutual benefit, Xi’s vision aims to foster harmony and prosperity on a global scale, resonating with leaders and stakeholders worldwide.

Vice President Engages with EU Officials on Sierra Leone’s Development in Brussels

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By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Honourable Vice President of Sierra Leone, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, embarked on a two-day working visit to Brussels from July 1-2, 2024.

During his stay, he engaged with former colleagues at the European Union, the International Crisis Group and the United Nations. His visit focused on strengthening the relationship between Sierra Leone and the EU.

The Vice President was warmly welcomed by Emir Kir, Mayor of Saint Josse, and his Deputy, Ms. Doran Ilunga, both prominent Belgian politicians.

Concluding his visit, Vice President Juldeh Jalloh held significant discussions with Stefano Sannino, Secretary-General of the European External Action Service of the European Union, along with other EU officials. They covered a range of topics including recent developments in Sierra Leone and West Africa. The Vice President emphasized President Julius Maada Bio’s commitment to fostering national cohesion, development and regional stability initiatives.

He also expressed gratitude to Secretary-General Sannino for the fruitful discussions and thanked Mayor Emir Kir and Deputy Mayor Dorah Ilunga for their warm welcome to Brussels.

The discussions also highlighted economic opportunities, political stability and West Africa’s engagement with the Sahel and ECOWAS. Vice President Juldeh Jalloh welcomed the release of the Report of Electoral System Review and commended Sierra Leone’s work at the United Nations Security Council.

Through these engagements, the Vice President reiterated President Bio’s commitment to leveraging Sierra Leone’s position at the UN Security Council to promote stability initiatives in the Sahel region.

Leone Rock Metal Group Donates NLe215,000 to Boost Agriculture

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By Esther Wright

Leone Rock Metal Group (LRMG) has made a substantial contribution to agricultural development by donating a total of NLe215,000 to three agricultural organizations. The beneficiaries, Future Farm SL Limited, Sierra Crop Care and Kamatham Agric Company, operate in Bombali, Tonkolili and Bo districts respectively.

The sponsorships are distributed as follows: Future Farm SL Limited received NLe50,000, Kamatham Agric Company received NLe100,000, and Sierra Crop Care received NLe65,000. This initiative is aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity, promoting sustainable farming practices and improving the livelihoods of farmers in these regions.

Representatives from Future Farm SL Limited and Kamatham Agric Company expressed their gratitude for the support. Emmanuel Bongay, Co-Founder of Future Farm SL Limited, stated, “This support is not just an investment in our organization but in the future of agriculture in our region. We can scale up our efforts and reach more farmers with the resources and knowledge they need to thrive.”

Sierra Crop Care, a registered local NGO, has been at the forefront of agricultural development in Baoma Chiefdom, Bo District. The NLe65,000 donation from LRMG will significantly aid the initial phases of their project, covering critical areas such as site preparation, procurement of essential equipment and initial training for the local workforce.

Alusine Kamathor Sesay, Community Manager at LRMG, emphasized the company’s commitment to supporting rural communities and sustainable development. “At Leone Rock, we understand the vital role agriculture plays in sustaining our communities and economies. By supporting these organizations, we aim to contribute to the growth and resilience of the agricultural sector,” said Alusine Sesay.

LRMG plans to continue its support for sustainable development initiatives and is exploring additional opportunities to collaborate with agricultural and environmental organizations. The company believes that by working together, industries can create a more sustainable and prosperous future for all.

In conclusion, LRMG’s sponsorships to Future Farm SL Limited, Sierra Crop Care, and Kamatham Agric Company highlight the company’s commitment to sustainable development and community support. These contributions will significantly enhance the capabilities of these organizations, fostering agricultural innovation and sustainability while improving the livelihoods of farmers in the respective regions.

 

Tripartite Committee Submits Final Report on Electoral Systems to President Bio

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By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a significant milestone for Sierra Leone’s democratic process, the Tripartite Committee, comprising representatives from the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) Government, the All Peoples Congress (APC), and moral guarantors, has finalized and presented its recommendations on electoral systems and processes. The culmination of six months of intensive collaboration among key stakeholders, the final report was submitted to President Dr. Julius Maada Bio on Monday, July 1, 2024, at State House.

Receiving the conclusive Report on Electoral Systems and Management Bodies Review, President Bio expressed his commitment to deepening Sierra Leone’s democratic credentials through just and inclusive electoral management and process reforms. He commended the Committee members for their exceptional service and acknowledged the support of development partners who have upheld the principles and objectives of the Committee’s work.

President Bio emphasized the significance of this achievement in strengthening Sierra Leone’s democracy. He highlighted that this comprehensive review, the first in the nation’s history, reflects a joint effort by the Government and the leading opposition party to enhance the electoral process.

“The completion of this process is a significant milestone in our journey toward ensuring credible, transparent and inclusive electoral processes in Sierra Leone,” President Bio stated. He underscored the importance of the report’s findings and their potential to positively impact future elections.

The President lauded the unprecedented collaboration, noting, “The Cross-Party Committee’s mandate was to identify challenges, address longstanding gaps in our electoral system and pave the way for free, fair, and transparent elections. This historic cooperation between the Government and the APC showcases our shared commitment to democracy.”

President Bio acknowledged the extensive consultations, research and deliberations that shaped the report. He commended the diverse cross-section of society represented in the reporting body, including political parties, civil society, the media, and ordinary citizens, for their collective commitment to building a resilient and fair electoral system.

“My Government is committed to implementing the full recommendations of the Tripartite Committee. We will ensure that the process is as inclusive and participatory as possible,” he assured, expressing gratitude to the Committee members and development partners for their support.

Chief Minister, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, also expressed satisfaction with the Committee’s outcomes, underscoring the joint effort’s importance for the nation’s democracy. The formal submission was marked by a joint statement signed by Dr. Sengeh, Chief Negotiator for the Government of Sierra Leone and Dr. Samura M.W. Kamara, Chief Negotiator for the All Peoples Congress Party, on July 1, 2024.

This report follows the ‘Agreement for National Unity,’ signed in October 2023, which aimed to foster peace, unity and national cohesion, focusing on electoral justice, accountability and transparency, especially after the contentious 2023 General Elections. The agreement resolved to establish a Cross-Party Committee to review electoral management systems and bodies, leading to the Committee’s inauguration in a public ceremony attended by political leaders, public institutions, civil society organizations and development partners.

The review, covering elections from 2007 to 2023, presented a mixed bag of issues, reflecting both consensus and contention between the Government and the APC. Despite disagreements, the report captures the spirit of cooperation for the country’s good. The next phase involves implementing the recommendations, a task that will test the commitment and sincerity of the involved parties.

The U.S. Embassy has praised the recent presentation of the Tripartite Committee’s final report to President Bio, recognizing the dedication and hard work of all Committee members. This report marks a significant milestone in Sierra Leone’s democratic journey, serving as a model for constructive political dialogue and dispute resolution.

Despite some disagreements, the Committee achieved 80 joint recommendations, which hold the promise of transforming Sierra Leone’s electoral system. By collectively working towards the implementation of these recommendations, there is an opportunity to strengthen democratic processes and foster unity in the nation.

The United States reaffirms its commitment to partnering with Sierra Leone on this vital journey, underscoring the shared goal of bolstering democratic institutions and practices.

Sierra Leoneans and international partners are eagerly anticipating the implementation phase, hopeful for timely and impactful reforms that will modernize and enhance the nation’s electoral system to meet global standards. The journey has been challenging, but the continued commitment of all parties and partners remains a source of hope and motivation for the country’s democratic future.

 

President Bio Launches #WeAreEqual Campaign and Enacts Prohibition of Child Marriage Bill 2024

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio officially launched the
President Dr. Julius Maada Bio officially launched the "#WeAreEqual Campaign" and signed the Prohibition of Child Marriage Bill 2024 into law
By Foday Moriba Conteh
In a landmark move to bridge the gender gap in Sierra Leone, President Dr. Julius Maada Bio officially launched the “#WeAreEqual Campaign” and signed the Prohibition of Child Marriage Bill 2024 into law on Tuesday, July 2, 2024, at the Freetown International Conference Center. This initiative seeks to combat entrenched cultural stereotypes that limit women’s access to healthcare, education, and opportunities. The event attracted notable attendance from first ladies, dignitaries, government ministers, public and private organizations, and development partners.President Dr. Julius Maada Bio officially launched the "#WeAreEqual Campaign" and signed the Prohibition of Child Marriage Bill 2024 into law
Her Excellency Dr. Fatima Maada Bio expressed her joy and gratitude for the campaign’s launch, emphasizing its mission to ensure equality and justice for all. She underscored the importance of respect and dignity for women, urging society to treat women with the consideration they deserve. Highlighting that Sierra Leone has joined 16 other countries in this initiative, she proudly noted the success of the “Hands Off Our Girls Campaign,” which has significantly improved school retention rates for girls. The First Lady also mentioned the medical scholarships her office provides and support for victims of sexual violence and rape.
In his keynote address, President Bio reflected on his 2018 campaign, during which he frequently moved with his baby daughter, signaling his commitment to the protection and empowerment of girls. He expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support, particularly from his wife. He declared that the era when women were seen as mere accessories is over, praising the African First Ladies’ commitment to advancing gender equality and narrowing the gender gap.
“This Campaign, spearheaded by Your Excellencies, holds significant importance for us in Sierra Leone. I, therefore, congratulate you all, particularly my dear wife, the First Lady of Sierra Leone, who has chosen education and girls’ empowerment as a primary tool to champion this campaign nationwide,” President Bio stated.
President Bio urged citizens to be vocal in ensuring the enforcement of laws prohibiting child marriage and stressed the importance of taking women’s issues seriously for national development. He highlighted Sierra Leone’s leadership in empowering girls through free quality education and scholarships for girls studying STEM courses, the declaration of a state of emergency on rape, the creation of a sexual offenses court, and the passing of the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Act.
In his closing remarks, President Bio officially launched the “WeAreEqual Campaign” and signed the Prohibition of Child Marriage Bill 2024 into law, marking a significant step toward gender equality and the protection of girls in Sierra Leone. This campaign aims to create a more inclusive society, ensuring that women and girls receive the respect, opportunities, and protection they rightfully deserve.
Goodwill messages were delivered by invited First Ladies and dignitaries, including the First Lady of the Republic of Cape Verde, the immediate past President of OAFLAD and the 3rd First Lady of Namibia, the Executive Secretary of OAFLAD, a representative of Liberia’s First Lady, and the Minister of Gender Affairs of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, who represented the First Lady of Nigeria.
President Dr. Julius Maada Bio officially launched the "#WeAreEqual Campaign" and signed the Prohibition of Child Marriage Bill 2024 into law
President Dr. Julius Maada Bio officially launched the “#WeAreEqual Campaign” and signed the Prohibition of Child Marriage Bill 2024 into law

Director General Musayeroh Barrie Enhances Sierra Leone’s Aviation Collaboration with South Africa

Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA).jpg

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a significant step towards enhancing aviation safety and operational standards, the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) and the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The agreement, finalized on June 26, 2024, aims to foster collaboration in crucial areas such as aviation safety oversight, air navigation, training and technical assistance.

The MoU was signed by Ms. Musayeroh Barrie, Director General of SLCAA, and Ms. Poppy Khoza, Director General of SACAA. This partnership is expected to strengthen aviation ties between the two countries, focusing on:

– Aviation safety oversight
– Air navigation services
– Training and technical assistance

During her visit to South Africa, Ms. Barrie engaged in a successful meeting and benchmarking exercise with Ms. Khoza, discussing various areas for mutual collaboration, especially in personnel licensing and air navigation services. The SLCAA is looking forward to hosting a team from SACAA later this year to further those initiatives.

The visit concluded on June 29, 2024, with the development of an action plan to guide future engagements. Ms. Barrie’s two-day technical working visit included detailed discussions with Ms. Khoza, resulting in a fruitful exchange of ideas and strategies. Both leaders agreed on the importance of collaboration in aviation security oversight, training, and technical assistance.

Ms. Barrie highlighted several significant advancements in the aviation sector during her tenure, including:

– Revision of charges in the SUMA agreement, leading to a reduction in costs for the Government.
– Establishment of the Consumer Protection Unit to address passenger concerns.
– Signing of a Bilateral Air Service Agreement with Ethiopian Airlines, which commenced commercial flights on May 31, 2024.
– Implementation of the Billing and Settlement Plan with IATA.
– Engagement with airlines to introduce larger carriers like the B787-800 Dreamliner and A330-200 to the fleets of Royal Air Maroc and Turkish Airlines.
– Bilateral engagements with ICAO, WACAF, and AFCAC to develop specific training packages for Sierra Leone’s aviation sector.

Additionally, Ms. Barrie reported ongoing discussions with Ethiopian Airlines to establish an aircraft maintenance facility in Freetown, which would be the first in West Africa. She also mentioned the signing of a Bilateral Air Service Agreement with Italy and technical assistance MoU, which will provide training and secondment opportunities with the Italian CAA.

Engagements with the EU Safety Commission have led to a roadmap aimed at removing Sierra Leone from the EU aviation safety list. The SLCAA has aligned all Bilateral Air Services Agreements with the Yamoussoukro Decision and is making significant progress towards implementing the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM).

Ms. Barrie expressed optimism about these advancements, emphasizing Sierra Leone’s commitment to enhancing its aviation sector and aligning with international standards.

Legal Aid Board Boss Highlights Innovations at Global Forum, ODI Applauds Initiatives

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By Amin Kef Sesay

Ms. Fatmata Claire Carlton-Hanciles, Esq., the Executive Director of the Legal Aid Board, addressed the ‘Justice and Rule of Law Global Forum: Fostering Inclusive and Sustainable Development,’ hosted by the World Bank in Washington D.C. On Wednesday June 26, 2024 with  her speech focusing on the innovative mechanisms introduced by the Legal Aid Board to enhance access to justice.

Ms. Carlton-Hanciles highlighted the introduction of Child Maintenance Accounts and the use of WhatsApp technology. She emphasized that mediating child maintenance cases, establishing Child Maintenance Accounts and opening a bank outlet at the Board’s headquarters in Freetown have significantly improved compliance. These measures have positively impacted the lives of impoverished children by ensuring better upkeep, education, medical care and accommodation.

Additionally, she detailed how WhatsApp technology has facilitated improved information sharing and supervision of paralegals. Such has enabled timely responses to the justice needs of indigent persons, including those under police investigations.

Ms. Carlton-Hanciles also informed the audience, which included partner organizations, leaders and practitioners that the Board collaborates with the Sierra Leone Bar Association to provide additional lawyers for indigents. During Judicial Week and Special Criminal Sessions, pro bono lawyers assist Legal Aid Lawyers in handling the high volume of cases.

Furthermore, some indigent clients are referred to the Board’s Pro Bono Lawyers for legal representation at a minimal fee negotiated by the Board.

She also discussed the Board’s efforts in improving the lives of women and children through Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR). Drawing on her experience as Principal Defender at the Special Court for Sierra Leone, Ms. Carlton-Hanciles has effectively applied her expertise to enhance the Legal Aid Board’s operations.

In a separate advancement, a recent study titled “Cost-Effective Front-Line Justice Services in Sierra Leone: A Case Study in Frugal Innovation and Domestic Resourcing” by the International Development Institute (ODI) has highlighted Sierra Leone’s Legal Aid Board (LAB) as the most cost-effective provider of legal services among low-income countries. The study focuses on the innovative measures taken by the LAB to deliver legal aid at a low cost compared to other schemes in similar economic settings.

Also, the report underscores the pivotal role of frugal innovation and strategic domestic resourcing in establishing a nationwide, accessible, and cost-effective service that supports Sierra Leone’s most marginalized and vulnerable populations. The study identifies Sierra Leone as a rare example of a low-income country where the government funds comprehensive front-line legal advice, assistance, and representation for both civil and criminal matters.

Since its launch in 2015, the LAB has established offices across the country and assisted 160,000 people in 2023, with two-thirds of them being women and girls. “The LAB is also by far the most popular justice institution in the country,” the study notes.

Government funding has been crucial in enabling the LAB’s nationwide scale-up. From 2021 to 2023, the Sierra Leone government provided 78% of the Board’s funding. The scale of the Board’s operations has driven down unit costs, creating a virtuous cycle where reduced costs enable further expansion. Between 2018 and 2023, unit costs fell by a factor of three, with each case costing an average of $11 in 2023, well below ODI’s benchmark of $20 per case for low-income countries. Notably, a quarter of these costs are for providing legal representation in criminal cases.

The LAB’s success is attributed to the innovative 2012 Legal Aid Act, which included paralegals in the justice system, and its mixed model of criminal and civil legal aid, utilizing both lawyers and paralegals. This deregulated approach allows the LAB to operate cost-effectively, efficiently deploying its staff and leveraging frugal innovations, such as pioneering child maintenance payment systems.

Despite its achievements, the study acknowledges challenges faced by the LAB. The Board currently has less than half the number of paralegals it needs, limiting its reach to the most vulnerable communities. Additionally, there is limited scope for increased government funding, as Sierra Leone already allocates a significant portion of its budget to justice and legal aid. The withdrawal of bilateral donor funding upon the LAB’s launch has further constrained resources.

The lack of independent, in-depth evaluation of the Board’s performance is another challenge, attributed to the absence of a justice sector research budget in Sierra Leone and limited donor engagement. The study calls for rigorous research to assess the impact of the LAB’s scaled-up model, particularly its benefit-cost ratio, which is estimated at 50:1 for child maintenance cases, comparable to some of the most cost-effective health sector interventions globally.

Government of Sierra Leone is commended by the study for its innovative and enabling approach to deregulating justice services, which has allowed the LAB to provide an affordable, nationwide service for legal advice, assistance, and representation. This achievement, made possible through consistent government funding, a low unit-cost model, and frugal innovations, is further supported by civil society’s role in integrating paralegals into the justice system.

“This is an extraordinary achievement, particularly given the significant role of Government funding and civil society innovation in creating a scalable and affordable justice service,” the study notes.

 

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