Op-ed: Why Sierra Leone Needs A National Railway System

October 29, 2025

Written by: Ing. Dr. Albert Forde

Director-General, Sierra Leone Railways Development and Regulatory Authority (SLRDRA)

In my previous article, I provided a background on the development and subsequent closure of the colonial era railway network. This article presents the strategic relevance and urgency, and the benefits of reintroducing a national railway system to transport both passengers and goods (freight/cargo). It is no secret that Sierra Leone has abundant natural resources, a diverse geography and an economy that is expanding. However, these advantages are undermined by an inadequate transport infrastructure that hampers economic development as well as national integration. The existing transportation system largely depends on road networks, which are usually insufficient and not well maintained. The current reliance on road network results in high transportation costs, inefficiencies and limited connectivity particularly for the movement of bulk commodities like minerals and agricultural products. This situation worsens regional disparities, limits market access and stifles the country’s overall development potential. Furthermore, the lack of alternative transportation modes contributes to increased road congestion, environmental degradation and safety risks. A national railway system would not only move people, it would enhance tourism experience, open access to new destinations, support sustainability and help local economies grow. Fundamentally, a national railway system is required to improve the efficiency and productive capacities of companies be it mining, manufacturing or agriculture.

Building a national railroad network could transform our economic landscape through providing reliable and cost-effective means of moving goods and people across the country and the ECOWAS sub-region. This would improve both domestic and international trade by enhancing accessibility to ports and neighboring countries. It would also develop an overall infrastructure by attracting local and foreign investors into business environment. Railways are an important mode of transportation. They are the cheapest and most effective and efficient over medium distances for mass transit. A standard railway can transport more people or cargo in one movement than 15 buses or 150 trucks, respectively. They are the cheapest for bulk carriage over land and the most environmentally friendly transport mode for heavy cargo. An efficient national railway system would boost the nation`s economic growth by facilitating trade, reducing transportation costs and connecting markets. A national railway transportation also would be a strategic element in connecting mining and agricultural sector development in Sierra Leone, both in terms of benefits to the country and investors and would-be investors in the two industries.

In launching his flagship “Feed Salone” program in October 2023, His Excellency the President remarked that “Feed Salone is more than just a development Programme. It is a Generational Movement to propel Sierra Leone into an era of agricultural self-reliance, where every man, woman and child is a witness to and a participant in a flourishing economy marked by food security, job creation and overall economic prosperity”. A key objective of the Feed Salone strategy is to boost agricultural production of staple crops such as rice, poultry, onions and cassava flour to reduce reliance on food imports and to ensure food availability. A national railway system would support the implementation of the “Feed Salone” strategy, through the efficient and reliable transport of agricultural products from farm to domestic and international markets. It would make it easy to move perishable goods quickly from farms to markets, leading to less spoilage and wastage. It also would provide an opportunity for farmers in remote or rural areas to reach urban markets, which would not force them to sell locally at lower prices or leaving them unable to sell at all. A national railway system would reduce the cost of moving agricultural goods, and in turn, increase farmers` profit margins and reduce food prices for consumers. Furthermore, a railway system would facilitate the movement of agricultural inputs such as, fertilizers, seeds and machinery. It would ensure that farmers get these inputs on time, which would increase productivity.

In addition to supporting the agriculture sector, a national railway system would support the mining industry. Currently, there is only one functional rail track with limited capacity and port infrastructure. To accommodate increased production in the mining sector and subsequently to ensure cheaper transportation of minerals to seaports for exportation, the railway industry needs to be up-scaled and regulated. For instance, the existing railway line between the Port of Pepel and the Iron Ore Site at Ferengbeya would need to be upgraded to a double-track to accommodate the projected increase iron ore extraction by Kingho Mining. Furthermore, a railway line may be required to connect the proposed iron ore mining site at Kasafoni to the existing railway line at Ferengbeya or a separate line could be constructed from the proposed mining site to a new port. In addition, the existing port at Nitti has a relatively small capacity because it does not have adequate draft to accommodate bigger vessels. This limits the volume of minerals that is exported by mining companies. Given that the mineral extraction in the South is projected to increase exponentially, a railway line could be constructed to connect mining sites in the South to a proposed deep sea port in the South. This is important because a railway line would reduce export lead time.

Another strategic relevance and urgency of a national railway system is to address urban mobility issues in Freetown. These issues are a result of our inability to keep pace with the growing demand, mismanagement of road space and decades of neglect. It will take many years to solve the underlying problems in a sustained manner. The way forward will focus on testing and scaling up pilot solutions and build capacity to ensure sustainable results. The city’s road network has for long been experiencing a very rapid growth in vehicular traffic well beyond its capacity, leading to severe traffic congestion on most of the road links and junctions, especially during peak hours. The current rate of increase in traffic volume and the fast rate of urbanisation require an adequate, efficient and sustainable transportation system, including Light Rail Transit (LRT). For instance, a Light Rail Transit line could be implemented along the Peninsular to connect Waterloo to River No. 2, where a bus transit terminal is to be constructed under the World Bank Funded Connectivity and Agricultural Market Infrastructure Project (CAMIP). The connection of these two transport infrastructure would form a reliable and efficient intermodal transport system. Furthermore, a national railway system would provide intercity railway transport to connect Freetown to provincial cities. This would serve as a key part of our nation’s transportation infrastructure, providing an efficient, reliable and often environmentally friendly alternative to traveling by road.

In addition to railway, the maritime sector is vital for global trade. Ports are increasingly becoming multimodal hubs through which the railway sector can increase its market share. Ports and rail systems are critical components of global supply chains. They facilitate the movement of goods by connecting shipping routes to inland transportation networks. In the not-too-distant future, the competitiveness of ports will increasingly be judged by their railway connectivity. Therefore, most ports are investing to increase their rail capacity and rail modal share through the development of railway infrastructure. Improving the modal share of rail depends on a multitude of factors, but one key element is the link between ports and rail. Studies have shown that the main goods transported by rail are metal products, which represent 43% of the goods transported, followed by raw materials (29%), chemicals (14%), agricultural products and forestry (8%) and food and drinks (6%). It is one of the reasons why most ports have plans to improve their rail modal share. In this regard, an efficient national railway system that is interconnected with our ports would enhance our ports` competitiveness and would support economic growth.

In conclusion, despite our rich natural resources and strategic geographic location, our economic and social progress is impeded by the aforementioned transportation inefficiencies. The existing infrastructure is unable to support the country’s growth ambitions, leading to missed opportunities for trade, investment and regional integration. Therefore, there is pressing need for a modern, efficient and sustainable national railway transportation solution to address those challenges and unlock the country’s full potential. The benefits of a national and regional railway network system will include, but are not limited to Creation of numerous jobs in construction, maintenance and operation of the railway sector. Developing a national railroad network could transform the economic landscape through providing reliable and cost-effective means of moving goods and people across the country and the sub-region (West Africa). This would improve both domestic and international trade by enhancing accessibility to ports and neighboring countries. There would be increased investor confidence in the industry. A national railway system would reduce the cost of moving agricultural goods and reduce food prices for consumers. It would reduce the average cost transporting minerals to seaports for exportation. Another strategic relevance and urgency of a national railway system is to address urban mobility issues in Freetown. In view of the foregoing, there is certainly a need to develop a national railway system. In my next article, I will highlight the ECOWAS Railway masterplan and its goal of connecting capital cities in the ECOWAS sub-region by rail. Also, I will explain how our proposed national railway masterplan will align with the ECOWAS railway masterplan.

US, German & Indian Investors Eye Sierra Leone for Major Investments Under GO-FOR-GOLD Initiative

October 29, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Rt. Hon. Speaker of Parliament, Segepoh Solomon Thomas, on October 27, 2025, hosted a delegation of foreign investors led by Stephen Barnes, architect of the GO-FOR-GOLD Program, at his office in Freetown. The investors, representing the United States, Germany and India, expressed strong interest in exploring business opportunities in Sierra Leone, praising the nation’s open-door policy and welcoming citizens.

During the engagement, Stephen Barnes stated that the visit aimed to promote direct foreign investment and deepen collaboration with the Government of Sierra Leone. He appealed to Speaker Segepoh Solomon Thomas to facilitate the ratification of key investment agreements through Parliament, assuring that the group’s vision aligns with President Julius Maada Bio’s agenda of attracting sustainable foreign investment for national development.

In his response, the Speaker warmly welcomed the investors and commended their interest in Sierra Leone. He reaffirmed Parliament’s commitment to creating a conducive legal environment for both local and international investors, emphasizing that the Sixth Parliament of the Second Republic is dedicated to enacting progressive laws that ensure mutual protection and economic prosperity.

He further assured the delegation that Parliament stands ready to support and ratify agreements that contribute to job creation, economic diversification and national growth.

The meeting highlighted the growing global confidence in Sierra Leone’s economic potential, underscoring the country’s strategic location, youthful labor force and attractive incentives for investors. With continued partnerships of this kind, Sierra Leone is poised to strengthen its position as a destination for credible and impactful foreign investments.

CDS Concludes Maiden Provincial Tour, Prioritizes Soldiers’ Welfare and Development

October 29, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), Lieutenant General Amara Idara Bangura, has completed his maiden tour of military formations across the country; a move aimed at strengthening morale, improving welfare and deepening engagement with troops. The tour, which concluded on 27^th October, 2025, covered Lungi, Kabala, Kono, Makeni, Bo, Pujehun, Jendema, Zimmi, Kenema and Daru.

During his engagements, Lieutenant General Amara Idara Bangura briefed soldiers on key welfare reforms undertaken with the support of His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, the Commander-in-Chief. He highlighted initiatives such as the implementation of the Tri-service Plan, ongoing road construction projects using RSLAF’s engineering equipment and increases in the Funeral Purse, Marriage Assistance, Ration Cash Allowance (RCA) and Monthly Running Cost (MRC). The CDS also announced the allocation of 10% of fuel quotas to senior non-commissioned officers, borehole construction in several barracks and the introduction of town service buses for Western Area troops.

On peacekeeping readiness, Lieutenant General Amara Idara Bangura disclosed that a UN Assessment and Advisory Team had recently evaluated the RSLAF’s preparedness for international missions, noting that 75% of the required peacekeeping equipment had already been secured through the President’s international engagements. He reaffirmed the Armed Forces’ commitment to supporting global peace operations.

The CDS also discussed ongoing agricultural ventures, revealing that RSLAF is cultivating cashew, rice and fish farms to enhance food security. A 550-acre cashew plantation in Port Loko District and a 250-acre fish farm in Bo District are already operational, while rice production is expected to yield over 10,000 bags by 2026 to feed personnel nationwide.

In the health sector, Lieutenant General Amara Idara Bangura said the 34 Military Hospital is being upgraded into a sub-regional medical facility, commending First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio for her leading role in its transformation. He also announced a partnership with a Nigerian garment company to establish a local military uniform factory and plans to construct affordable housing units for troops.

Throughout the tour, the CDS made numerous donations to address the immediate needs of the troops, including cement, solar lights, generators, television sets, sewing machines and other materials to improve living and working conditions in various barracks. He also renamed the 15 Infantry Battalion in Lungi to 3 Infantry Battalion and pledged continued infrastructural support.

Soldiers expressed deep appreciation for the visit, describing it as historic. “We want the CDS to visit us every month. He truly understands our welfare and is committed to addressing our challenges,” they chanted enthusiastically. The tour was widely regarded as a strong demonstration of leadership and commitment to troop welfare and institutional growth.

Pressure Mounts on Parliament to Release Findings on Controversial Angola Town Demolition

October 29, 2025

The demolition of houses in Angola Town in March 2024 continues to draw public outrage as affected landowners demand justice and accountability from the Sierra Leone Parliament. Nearly twenty months after the incident, the victims say they remain in the dark, with no explanation or compensation forthcoming despite Parliament’s promise to investigate the matter.

According to the aggrieved landowners, the Ministry of Lands did not issue any formal notice prior to the demolition nor was there a court order authorizing the operation. Residents allege that they were neither consulted nor given the opportunity to present documents proving their ownership before their houses were torn down. This lack of due process, they argue, raises serious questions about the legality and transparency of the Ministry’s actions.

After the incident, several victims reportedly presented their land documents to the Ministry as evidence of legitimate ownership but they claim no clear justification was ever provided to explain why their properties were destroyed. Dissatisfied with the Ministry’s silence, the landowners took their case to the Parliamentary Committee on Lands, Country Planning and the Environment, chaired by Hon. Quinton Salia Konneh. The Committee promised to investigate the demolitions and make its findings public.

However, despite the passage of several months, the Committee’s report has not been released. The delay, according to many affected residents, has deepened frustration and created a perception of neglect and abandonment by the very institutions meant to protect citizens’ rights.

While the victims have praised Hon. Quinton Salia Konneh for his consistent engagement and empathy, they remain puzzled by the long delay in publishing the investigative report. Unconfirmed sources within Parliament allege that a senior member of the Executive may be influencing the process to protect a foreign company reportedly linked to the disputed land; an allegation that, if true, casts serious doubt on the integrity of the process.

The affected landowners have since issued a public appeal to the leadership of Parliament to ensure that the report is released without further delay. They believe that transparency and swift action are vital to restoring public confidence in governance and ensuring that justice is served.

President Julius Maada Bio has consistently emphasized his Government’s commitment to protecting the land rights of Sierra Leoneans, particularly in the Western Area. His administration has introduced legal and institutional reforms aimed at ensuring fair land ownership, community participation and equitable compensation for affected citizens.

However, the unresolved Angola Town case remains a pressing test of that commitment. The victims are now appealing directly to President Bio to intervene and ensure that justice is not only done but seen to be done.

The outcome of this matter will determine whether Parliament and the Government can uphold the principles of fairness, transparency and accountability that form the foundation of Sierra Leone’s democracy. The call from Angola Town residents is clear: justice delayed is justice denied.

President Bio Unveils State-of-the-Art Maternal Center of Excellence in Kono

October 29, 2025

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has officially commissioned the Kono Maternal Center of Excellence in Koidu City, describing the project as a historic milestone in Sierra Leone’s journey toward improved healthcare delivery. The inauguration, held on Saturday, October 25, 2025, marks a major partnership between the Government of Sierra Leone and Partners In Health (PIH) to enhance maternal and child health services across the country.

The new state-of-the-art facility transforms the former Koidu Government Hospital, expanding its capacity from 48 to 120 beds, increasing operating theatres from one to three and introducing the country’s first rural-based Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). The Center is expected to serve as both a treatment and training hub for healthcare professionals, offering advanced care to mothers and newborns in one of Sierra Leone’s most underserved districts.

In his keynote address, President Bio hailed the new facility as a “foundation for life itself,” underscoring its significance in his Government’s Human Capital Development Agenda; one of the Big Five Game Changers. “Every generation is remembered for the foundation it lays. Today, here in Kono, we lay a foundation for life itself,” he said. “This Centre is a symbol of our belief that every mother deserves safety, every child deserves a chance and every Sierra Leonean deserves to live in health and dignity.”

He noted that while Kono is widely known for its diamonds, the district is now becoming known for something even more precious; “the sparkle of life, health and hope.” The President highlighted that maternal deaths have dropped by more than 70 percent over the past two decades, adding that Sierra Leone’s immunization coverage now ranks among the highest in West Africa.

“Quality healthcare should not depend on geography but on vision and commitment,” he emphasized, reaffirming his Government’s resolve to make healthcare accessible to all. He further explained that the new Centre will double Koidu Hospital’s service capacity and train hundreds of health workers to meet growing national demand.

President Bio expressed deep appreciation to Partners In Health for their enduring collaboration and paid tribute to the late Dr. Paul Farmer, PIH co-founder, whose belief that “health care is a human right” continues to inspire global action. “Opening this Centre on his birthday makes this moment particularly meaningful; a living tribute to his compassion, courage and humanity,” he said.

He also commended Build Health International and the Vlogbrothers community, led by John and Hank Green, for their investment in Sierra Leone’s health system. “Your investment has built more than a hospital; you have built hope and possibility,” he remarked.

Highlighting national progress, President Bio disclosed that maternal mortality has declined from 717 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2019 to 354 today, with a target to reduce it below 70 by 2030. “This progress proves that even nations once defined by fragility can become beacons of resilience and reform,” he concluded.

The ceremony was attended by the Minister of Health, representatives from Partners In Health, Build Health International, traditional leaders and local authorities; all reaffirming their shared commitment to advancing maternal and child health in Sierra Leone.

Former Sierra Leone Ambassador to Guinea Cleared in Embassy Vehicle Drug Case

October 29, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, has provided an important update on ongoing drug-related investigations during the Ministry’s weekly Press Conference held on Tuesday, October 21, 2025. The briefing addressed developments surrounding the recent incident involving a Sierra Leone Embassy vehicle in Guinea found with suspected illicit substances.

The Minister confirmed that Guinean authorities have completed their investigation into the matter and have officially charged those arrested in connection with the case to court. He, however, emphasized that the investigation found no evidence implicating the then Sierra Leone Ambassador to Guinea.

“The Guinean authorities have cleared the former Ambassador of any criminal involvement. His recall by President Julius Maada Bio was purely a matter of discretion and not a disciplinary measure,” Chernor Bah explained.

It could be recalled that earlier this year, Guinean authorities impounded a vehicle belonging to Sierra Leone’s Embassy after discovering seven suitcases containing suspected cocaine. Two occupants of the vehicle were immediately detained for questioning.

Following the discovery, Sierra Leone’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Alhaji Musa Timothy Kabba, announced the urgent recall of Ambassador Alimamy Bangura to Freetown to provide a full account of the incident. The Foreign Affairs Minister clarified that the envoy was not in the vehicle at the time of the arrest and was never placed under detention.

He further disclosed that approximately $2,000 (about £1,600) in cash was found with the suitcases, though the exact weight of the suspected drugs had not been determined. Alhaji Musa Timothy Kabba assured that both Sierra Leone and Guinea were fully cooperating in a transparent investigation to ensure justice is served.

“Anyone found guilty of violating Sierra Leonean or international drug trafficking laws will face the full force of justice,” the Minister emphasized.

The case came amid growing regional concerns over the trafficking of cocaine through West Africa, which has become a major transit route between Latin America and Europe.

Meanwhile, Sierra Leone continues to battle the local scourge of Kush—a dangerous psychoactive drug that has caused widespread social and health problems. In response, President Julius Maada Bio earlier declared drug abuse a national emergency, urging stronger law enforcement and community support to curb the menace.

Minister Chernor Bah reiterated the Government’s commitment to transparency, accountability and collaboration with international partners to ensure that Sierra Leone remains steadfast in the global fight against drug trafficking and substance abuse.

Singsong Medical Expands Healthcare Reach with New Public Warehouse on Campbell Street

October 29, 2025

Dr. Joseph A.K. Kamara, Chief Executive Officer of Singsong Hospital and Singsong Imports and Distribution

By Ibrahim Sesay

Singsong Medical, a subsidiary of Singsong Hospital, has officially opened its public warehouse at 86 Campbell Street in Freetown, offering a wide range of affordable medical products designed to improve access to quality healthcare across Sierra Leone. The opening ceremony took place on Tuesday, October 28, 2025 and attracted residents, health practitioners and community leaders who praised the initiative as timely and impactful.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Joseph A.K. Kamara, Chief Executive Officer of Singsong Hospital and Singsong Imports and Distribution, described the opening as a major milestone in the company’s 15-year journey in hospital service and healthcare delivery. He said the establishment of the warehouse represents a continuation of Singsong’s commitment to dependability, affordability and public trust in healthcare services.

“We have been in hospital service for the past 15 years and based on the quality and genuineness of the products we provide, we decided to create our own brand; one that represents dependability, affordability and confidence,” Dr. Joseph A.K. Kamara stated. He emphasized that all Singsong products meet the quality assurance standards set by the Pharmaceutical Society of Sierra Leone, adding that the warehouse is equipped with proper storage facilities, including regulated humidity and cooling systems, to ensure the effectiveness and safety of all products.

Dr. Joseph A.K. Kamara noted that the company has worked to keep its prices moderate while maintaining the highest standards. “We have tried to make our prices competitive without compromising on quality. This is part of our broader effort to make healthcare affordable for everyone, both rich and poor,” he said.

Products displayed at the new warehouse include Smatfil-D (a sex stimulant and endurance enhancer), Alberol (for worm infections), SMATKIT (for ulcers), SMATCIP (for typhoid fever), SMATGYL (for urinary tract infection and amoebic dysentery), Smatmal (for malaria), SMATDOL (for headache, fever and joint pain), SMATSIL (for indigestion and gastric ulcer) and SMATFER (for anemia).

According to Dr. Joseph A.K. Kamara, the initiative forms part of a “backward integration” strategy aimed at strengthening public confidence in locally branded pharmaceutical products while reducing the country’s dependency on imports. He said the company’s vision is to make Singsong a household name synonymous with quality and trust in the health sector.

Several residents who attended the event welcomed the opening, noting that the warehouse’s central location and affordable pricing will ease the financial burden on ordinary citizens. Others expressed optimism that the company’s decision to open its warehouse to the public will encourage transparency, build consumer confidence and promote trust in local pharmaceutical brands.

The opening of the Singsong Medical warehouse represents an important step in expanding healthcare access and affordability in Sierra Leone, further solidifying the company’s role as a reliable partner in advancing public health and well-being.

Africell Set to Introduce New Data Plan to Boost Service Quality, Network Speed & Affordability Nationwide

October 29, 2025

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Africell Sierra Leone has announced that it will introduce a new data plan on November 3, 2025, designed to enhance service quality, ensure fairness and maintain affordability for customers nationwide. The telecommunications company stated that the new bundle will provide faster, more reliable internet access while remaining fully compliant with the standards of the National Telecommunications Authority (NaTCA), the regulatory body responsible for overseeing and ensuring fair, transparent and efficient telecommunications operations in Sierra Leone.

According to Africell’s Media Relations Manager, Abdul Karim Sesay, the upcoming introduction reflects Africell’s continued commitment to improving customer experience and ensuring equitable access to data services across the country. He explained that the initiative is part of a broader effort to balance affordability with high service quality and consistent network performance.

Expanding on the rationale behind the new plan, Abdul Karim Sesay noted that the decision was guided by a need to manage network resources effectively while maintaining optimal internet speeds for all users. “The old ‘open’ unlimited model allowed a small number of heavy users to consume excessive bandwidth, which in turn slowed down internet speeds for others,” he explained. “With the new structure, we are introducing fairness and balance, ensuring that everyone enjoys a faster and more stable browsing experience.”

He clarified that the introduction of the new data plan does not mean the removal of unlimited access. “Customers will continue to enjoy unlimited browsing,” he emphasized. “What we are implementing is an internationally accepted best practice that regulates internet speed only after unusually high data consumption within a short period. It’s about fairness and maintaining service quality for all.”

Abdul Karim Sesay stressed that Africell remains committed to affordability. “Africell continues to be Sierra Leone’s most affordable and customer-focused network. This upcoming plan represents an upgrade in service quality, not a price increase,” he affirmed.

He further highlighted that the new structure will greatly improve browsing and streaming quality while reducing congestion across the network. “Customers can expect more stable connections and a smoother online experience throughout the day,” he said.

Reaffirming Africell’s transparency and customer engagement, Abdul Karim Sesay noted that the company has been engaging Civil Society groups, the media and online influencers to explain the objectives of the upcoming changes. He also emphasized that the initiative benefits all users, including those in rural areas, by ensuring that bandwidth is distributed equitably across the country.

Concluding, Abdul Karim Sesay reiterated that the introduction of the new data plan aligns with NaTCA regulations and global telecommunications standards. “This new initiative is about improving service delivery, protecting customer interests and reinforcing Africell’s mission to keep Sierra Leone connected through affordable, high-quality and reliable communication services,” he said.

Over 1,500 Surgeries Performed as Part of Three-Year Programme… Noor Dubai, Choithrams Complete First Cycle of Cataract Surgery Outreach in Sierra Leone

October 29, 2025

As October marks Blindness Awareness Month, Sierra Leone has welcomed a major milestone in its fight against avoidable blindness. Noor Dubai Foundation, in partnership with Choithram International Foundation and the Ministry of Health, has successfully completed the first cycle of a three-year cataract outreach programme aimed at restoring vision and improving quality of life for thousands of Sierra Leoneans.

The initiative, supported by the UAE’s Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, has already provided over 1,500 cataract surgeries in its first year, with a target of 6,000 surgeries and 60,000 screenings over the project’s lifespan. Implemented through Choithram Memorial Hospital in Freetown, with technical support from India’s Choithram Netralaya (Eye Hospital), the programme is designed to strengthen local ophthalmic capacity and ensure sustainable eye care delivery across the country.

A 2021 Rapid Assessment of Avoidable Blindness (RAAB) study found that 5.4% of Sierra Leoneans aged 50 and above suffer from blindness, affecting more than 43,000 people, primarily due to untreated cataracts. The outreach programme, therefore, represents a crucial step in addressing one of the country’s most urgent public health challenges.

Dr. Manal Taryam, CEO of Noor Dubai Foundation, emphasized the human impact of the initiative: “Ensuring access to quality eye care is not just about restoring sight; it’s about restoring dignity, independence and opportunity. Through this initiative, we aim to empower communities by eliminating avoidable blindness and strengthening local ophthalmic capacity for long-term impact.”

Each year, a six-month surgical outreach camp will be held between January and June to deliver free surgeries, post-operative care, and follow-up services at district hospitals. To remove barriers to access, patients will receive free transportation, meals, accommodation and medication throughout their treatment period.

Chairman of Choithrams Group, L.T. Pagarani, hailed the partnership as a model for impactful humanitarian collaboration. “Through the Lighthouse Project, we are bringing the spirit of goodwill and global partnership to life; delivering goodness the way we do every day at Choithrams,” he said, acknowledging the UAE leadership, Noor Dubai Foundation and Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Health for their joint commitment.

Beyond direct medical intervention, the programme includes monthly training for Sierra Leonean ophthalmologists and nurses to build local expertise. Researchers from Queen’s University Belfast, led by Dr. Gabriel Osei-Anokye and Dr. Ving Fai Chan, are evaluating the initiative’s medical and socio-economic outcomes to ensure continuous improvement and long-term sustainability.

With the success of its first phase, the cataract outreach programme stands as a beacon of hope for thousands living with preventable blindness; an inspiring testament to how international collaboration and compassion can illuminate lives in need.

NP (SL) Raises the Bar with Strong Corporate Standards and Sustainable Operations

October 29, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

NP (SL) Limited, one of Sierra Leone’s most trusted and indigenous petroleum marketing companies, has reiterated its commitment to excellence, innovation and sustainability in the downstream petroleum industry. The company continues to distinguish itself as a model of quality service, environmental stewardship and customer satisfaction through the implementation of its Integrated Management System (IMS) Corporate Objectives.

Company Executives disclosed that the IMS framework is anchored on six key pillars aimed at driving sustainable growth, ensuring regulatory compliance and enhancing customer-focused operations. These pillars, they noted, serve as guiding principles that reflect NP’s dedication to maintaining superior operational standards, ethical business practices and continuous improvement across all departments.

A hallmark of NP’s reputation is its consistent delivery of petroleum products that meet both local and international standards. Working closely with the Sierra Leone Standards Bureau (SLSB) and the Petroleum Regulatory Agency (PRA), the company applies rigorous quality control and periodic product testing to guarantee fuel efficiency and compatibility with modern engines and machinery. This approach, NP emphasized, strengthens consumer confidence and reinforces its standing as a dependable energy provider.

Efficiency and innovation remain central to NP’s operational success. The company has made significant investments in modern infrastructure and logistics systems, including recent upgrades at the Kissy Terminal. These developments have expanded storage capacity, streamlined supply chain operations and improved nationwide distribution, ensuring timely and cost-effective service delivery.

Customer satisfaction remains a cornerstone of NP’s philosophy. The company has built enduring relationships with its clients through professionalism, reliability and responsiveness. Its customer service teams operate 24/7, ensuring that inquiries are promptly addressed and client feedback is continuously integrated into service enhancements and tailored solutions.

Aligned with its sustainability goals, NP (SL) Limited continues to uphold environmental protection, occupational safety and community well-being. The company enforces strict environmental management protocols to minimize pollution risks while ensuring safe and healthy working conditions for staff, contractors and neighboring communities. This reflects NP’s broader vision of contributing to a cleaner, safer and more sustainable Sierra Leone.

Additionally, NP (SL) Limited maintains full compliance with industry regulations and promotes transparency in all its engagements with stakeholders. The company also prioritizes staff development through regular training and professional advancement programs, ensuring employees remain skilled and motivated to deliver quality service.

Through its unwavering dedication to excellence, innovation and sustainability, NP (SL) Limited continues to lead the petroleum marketing landscape in Sierra Leone. The company’s forward-looking strategies not only power the nation’s growth but also reaffirm its position as the most trusted and customer-driven petroleum enterprise in the country.