NP-SL Remains Committed to Effective Service Delivery

August 10, 2022

By Amin Kef-Ranger

NP–Sierra Leone Limited (NP-SL Ltd) is really poised to continue doing business in petroleum products in this country despite all the challenges it is confounded with. Going beyond the normal business spirit, the Shareholders and Management of the company deemed it as a moral obligation to avail the people living within this country accessibility to qualitative petroleum products believing that they are meaningfully contributing towards enhanced standards of living.

This indomitable company has gained massive local as well as international recognition for its meteoric rise and the higher height that it has attained through effective service delivery. Through its pro-active stance, the company is always ensuring that members of the general public have easy and ready access to qualitative petroleum products of high quality.

Those who have interfaced with the company have confessed that it is amongst the most successful privately owned and operated business entities this country can boast of that have withstand varying external shocks, within and without, but admirably is steadfast in its service delivery.

As a 100% indigenously owned and operated company, NP-SL has over the years, successfully extended its operations country-wide and even beyond to the West African Sub-region in Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast and The Gambia where it is doing extremely well with regards service delivery, rolling out its Corporate Social Responsibility, availing job opportunities, offering new products among a host of other things that it is churning out.

Very mindful that without their cherished customers there will be no NP-SL, the shareholders and Management have made customer care a number one priority which is why the company is synonymous with 1^st For Customer Care. With the conviction that every experience matters, the Management is very receptive to new initiatives, ideas, suggestions and concerns as long as they could help in shaping the policies that the company outlines from time to time that will be translated into tangibles on the ground.

In order to give maximum and optimal satisfaction to customers, NP-SL has always ensured that it operates in tandem with international standards and best practices so that after any service delivery customers get the good feeling that they have derived value for money. The company’s filling stations are state of the art structures having modern calibrated pumping machines that are transparent and accurate in terms of measurement.

Their attendants are well mannered, always courteous and ready to assist both old and new customers whenever they are in doubt of what to do. Most have tire repairing sections, shopping marts and relaxation points where they can spend time doing what they think is right to do. All these facilities are made available to make customers feel at home and be comfortable.

“I always carry my NP Smart Card with me just in case my car’s fuel gauge will show red and I may not exactly have the required amount of money to refill or even if I have it such could be for another purpose. With my card I can just breeze into any NP Filling Station and by using my card the attendant will pump the quantity of petrol I need,” Amadu Bangura, an engineer intimated adding how the card’s security features are unique and could not be easily falsified. “When I first heard of ‘Your fuel on Smart Card’ I thought it was a joke but only realized its efficacy when I started making use of it,” he furthered saying he is really finding it very convenient in doing so and as such prevent him from withdrawing big cash from his bank account for purchasing fuel adding how it as well help in also saving him time.

NP Gas is now the talk of the day as numerous individuals are everyday coming to the realization that it is very suitable for cooking purposes without posing any serious health risks. Manufactured in different cylinder sizes NP Gas is marketed at all the company’s filling stations and by authorized dealers going at affordable prices. Advantageously, NP Gas can be refilled with gas that the company imports and markets making them simple for customers to continue their use.

With regards rolling out its Corporate Social Responsibility, NP-SL Ltd is rated high as it has been contributing effectively in improving lives and communities. The company has been making meaningful interventions, meaningfully supporting entities , like it did lately to the National Fire Force by facilitating the construction of a water facility at the Force’s Kissy Branch, in order to capacitate it with water supply to respond to any fire emergency in that part of the country and in other areas within Greater Freetown.

These interventions, worth millions of Leones, are ways by which the company is magnanimously giving back to society. Lives have indeed changed for the better as a result of NP’s interventions.

Utilizing local skills and talents has been topmost in the agenda of discussions relating to national development. The argument for embracing the Local Content Policy borders around enhancing entrepreneurship, comparatively making use of less financial resources to pay for accomplished tasks and creating job opportunities thereby reducing poverty.

NP-SL has made it an established policy to give priority, in terms of employment, to Sierra Leoneans as long as they are in positions or competent to perform. The same is replicated everywhere the company is operating. Such an acclaimed stance is contributing greatly towards poverty reduction and improving lives.

From all indications it is very apparent that the premier oil marketing company, NP-SL-Ltd, is doggedly poised to continue to improve on its business strategies and step up interface with relevant stakeholders with the avowed aim of continuing to diligently and selflessly serve the people of this country and indeed it is walking the talking. doing exemplary well to foster meaningful socio-economic development.

Mines Minister Generates Increased Revenue & Ensures Passage of New Act

August 10, 2022

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In recent years, the Ministry of Mines and Mineral Resources, under the astute leadership of its young but dynamic Minister, Timothy Musa Kabba, who without any iota of flattery or exaggeration, has revamped that Government entity once riddled with all forms of dubious games orchestrated by those in positions of trust who were expected to ensure that the People and the country benefit from what endowed it with naturally.

Since appointed by President Bio to head such a sensitive Ministry, the Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, Timothy Musa Kabba has injected sound initiatives and instituted sound reforms that have progressively increased revenue generated from mineral exports which now stands at Le. 523.2 Billion, according to the latest report.

Making such an enviable achievement did not materialize out of sheer luck or via any supernatural route but rather through hard work, coordination and ensuring that the right things are done.

A quick rundown of some the strides the indefatigable and result-oriented Minister undertook in making positive outcomes will give a bird’s eye view of how the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the young man has been contributing to revenue mobilization and generation.

In 2020/2021, the Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources and the National Mineral Agency (NMA) were able to settle what was becoming a protracted impasse between the Government of Sierra Leone and SL Mining in Marampa, a company mining iron ore in Lunsar.

Through his interventions, negotiating skills and positive recommendations to Government, an out of court settlement was reached that was favourable to the two parties. The legal cases were withdrawn; a new company to be formed that will own 90% interest and Government will own 10% ‘non-dilutable’ interest, the new company to pay a fixed sum of USD20M in two installments by 31^st December 2021. This was a remarkable feat considering the financial costs involved in dealing with a case that was in an international court.

Another major breakthrough which the erudite Minister accomplished relates to how to ensure that mining fees, royalties etc benefit the vast majority of residents in mining communities. This was very important in that prior to his coming to the Ministry, such fees or monies paid by investors only ended in the pockets of rogue politicians and those considered to be the ruling class in those communities.

The Minister has been very consistent in always stating that though mining operations offer employment to indigenes, however, mining companies must ensure that the communities are also provided with basic amenities and infrastructure to improve standards of living. As a result of that steadfastness we have witnessed the construction of schools, clinics, community centres, housing for employees, reconstruction of roads, offering of scholarships and implementation of other development projects.

Mining companies have contributed over Le 20 billion to implement development projects in their host communities from 2018-2019. Such project includes include a Multipurpose building and market centre in lower Banta Chiefdom-Moyamba District, three Schools in Gorama-Mende Chiefdom in Kenema district, also three(3) Schools in Kono district.

From 2018 to 2020 Mining Companies paid Le37.4 billion as Surface rents to landowners across the country.

According to data from Statistics Sierra Leone(SSL), the Mineral Exports for 2019 by Mining Companies were USD 430 million, accounting for about 62% of total exports. In 2020, Mineral export was circa USD 313 million and accounted for 48% of total exports from Sierra Leone. In 2020 mineral export dropped slightly due to the Covid19 pandemic.

The total amount paid to the Government of Sierra Leone, from Mining Companies, was USD56 million in 2018, USD61 million in 2019 and USD 44 million in 2020, the reduction in revenue generation in 2019 and 2020 was mainly due to the Covid19 Pandemic.

In 2021, the Minister of Mines and Mineral resources Timothy Kabba increased revenue generated to Le. 523.3 billion, the highest ever by the Ministry of Mines and Mineral Resources.

In the area of employment by Mining Companies; the Total number of Sierra Leoneans employed by Mining companies in January 2018 was 8,552, and the total number of Sierra Leoneans employed by Mining companies in March 2021 is 13,500.

With the emergence of Kingho Mining Company, Cheng Li Mining Company, Sierra Diamonds Limited, and Supreme Minerals Limited Mining Companies the number of employees has increased significantly in the short term.

In May 2019, the Ministry of Mines and Mineral resources with support from the Government of Sierra Leone introduced three New Policy documents; the Sierra Leone Mineral Policy, the Geo-data Management Policy, and the Artisanal Mining policy.

These Policies aim to attract private investments in exploration and Mining; emphasize the integration of the Mineral economy; establish a transparent fiscal regime that balances benefits with investments competitiveness; supports mineral beneficiation and marketing, and guide investors toward the sustainable exploration of mineral resources in Sierra Leone.

In an effort to spur the contribution of the mining sector to the economy from 0.8% to 10% by the year 2030, the Government , on the advice of the Minister and the National Minerals Agency embarked on a nation-wide geo-mapping survey to establish mineral deposits.

He has been underscoring the need for miners to add value on minerals extracted so as to grow auxiliary industries in order to create jobs and improve livelihoods.

Under the stewardship of the Minister, Parliament has on the 9^th August, 2022 passed into law with some amendments the bill entitled, “The Mines and Minerals Development Act, 2022”.

The Bill seeks to repeal and replace the Mines and Mineral Act, 2009, to provide for the introduction of new and improved provisions for exploration, mines and Minerals development, sale, and export for the socio-economic benefits of the people of Sierra Leone, to provide for the facilitation of transparent and accountable management of the mineral sector by the international best practices, to provide for improved employment and employment practice; in the mineral sector; to provide improved welfare of communities affected by exploration, mining, and related activities to provide for more effective measures to reduce the harmful effects of exploration and mining activities on life, property, and the environment and to provide for other related matters.

The Minister, Timothy Kabba, piloted the passage of the Bill as Members of Parliament earlier extensively debated the bill and sent it to the Legislative Committee for further scrutiny and amendments.

Legislators Debate an Amendment to the Constitution of Sierra Leone

August 10, 2022

By Abubakarr Harding

Parliament has on Tuesday 9th August 2022 debated the bill entitled “The Constitution of Sierra Leone (Amendment) Act, 2022”, for the democratic governance of Sierra Leone.

The Bill seeks to amend the Constitution of Sierra Leone, 1991(Act No.6 of 1991), to rename the “Political Parties Registration Commission”, to replace the Administrator and Register General with the Executive Secretary as Secretary to the Commission, and to provide for other related matters.

Presenting the bill, the Attorney General and Minister of Justice Mohamed Lamin Tarawally said the document intended to amend the constitution in several ways. According to him Subsection (1) of Section 34 of the Constitution of Sierra Leone, 1991, (Act NO. 6 of 1991) is to be amended by repealing and replacing as follows.

There shall be a Political Parties Registration Commission which shall consist of 5 members appointed by the President, and he stated the various positions.

Also, the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, said the bill intended to amend Subsection (3) 34 of the Constitution of Sierra Leone, 1991 (Act No. 6 of 1991), by repealing and replacing that subsection as follow: That the Executive Secretary shall be the Secretary to the Commission.

The Minister further informed that Section 35 of the Constitution of Sierra Leone, 1991(Act No. 6 of 1991) was proposed for amendment in several ways.

The Attorney General and Minister of Justice informed Parliament that, the Commission would operate with independent powers and all documents relating to the administration would be properly audited.

Contributing to the debate, Hon. Daniel Koroma referred to the memorandum and object in light of the change of name adding that, let the name reflects its function and informed that, the document is not contentious. Secondly, he spoke about administrative convenience and that it was not contentious. He also raised questions on page numbering on the bill. He expressed that, there was no reason to delay the bill.

Chairman Legislative Committee, Hon. Abdul S. Marray Conteh said the Bill is proposing structural changes and informed the House that it was timely to give the institution regulatory and administrative functions. He appealed to colleague MPs to speedily pass the bill into law.

Hon. Abdul Kargbo said they would support a bill that may come to empower the institution. The MP expressed that, the institution should do more and the Executive Secretary should be given the prerequisites to operate. He also said that the bill is not contentious. “I want this House to expeditiously pass this bill into law,” he stated.

Leader of NGC, Hon. Dr. Kandeh Yumkella thanked PPRC for the positive consultation on the bill and recalled some of the activities. He heaped praises on PPRC and team. He expressed that, the bill, when passed into law would touch the political life of every Member of Parliament.

Leader of C4C, Hon.Saa Emerson Lamina said the bill is not contentious and is an eye-opener. He informed Parliament that, with the document, the Commission would do well

Leader of Opposition, Hon. Chernor R.M. Bah supported the position of previous speakers, in light of commendations for the Political Parties Registration Commission and further scrutiny of the document. The MP said issues in the document are not contentious, but expressed hope that, when they get to the Committee Stage, they would do the needful.

Acting Leader of Government Business, Hon. Bashiru Silikie thanked all Members of Parliament for their contributions and informed the House that the bill is a way forward for the democracy of the country. He noted that the bill is empowering the PPRC and the democratic process.

Tourism Minister Meets with Union of European Experts Chamber

August 10, 2022

By ABubakarr Harding

The Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Dr. Memunatu Pratt met with the Union of European Experts Chambers (UCEE) at her Kingharman Road Office in Freetown to notify the Ministry of a funding opportunity in the area of cultural heritage.

The Union of European Experts Chambers (UCEE) is a diplomatic organization and a body of the European Union (EU) that lobbies for fund for developing countries to execute their programmes. Their aim is to ensure that the Government’s agenda is accomplished taking into consideration development, good governance and the promotion of cultural heritage.

The Project Director of UCEE, Carlos Richard Sankoh, explained that their existence in Sierra Leone is symbolic and signifies the values other countries have for Sierra Leone. He said their key focus is development and good governance of which cultural heritage is key. He said they will be having the African Continental Trade Area Conference in Brussels which he expects the Tourism and Cultural sector to participate in and compete with other countries in the promotion of trade fairs and cultural heritage. He disclosed that there is funding opportunity for the development of cultural heritage in Sierra Leone and called for partnership between the Ministry and UCEE in harnessing the opportunity.

On her part, Dr. Memunatu Pratt welcomed the experts to the ‘home of hospitality’ saying that she was impressed by the organization’s call for partnership with the Ministry. She recognized the support of the European Union to the country’s development and highlighted that the tourism discourse cannot be sustained without talking about investment, cultural heritage promotion, job creation, climate change and the global crisis which she said have impact on tourism and culture.

She welcomed the invitation to participate in the African Continental Trade Conference and assured that the partnership with UCEE will be fruitful, adding that the funding opportunity for the Ministry is good. The Minister concluded that there are lot of tourism and cultural projects including a national memorial museum and art gallery that are awaiting funding.

ECOWAS Parliament To Investigate Allegations of Malpractice Against Nigerian Candidates

August 8, 2022

PRESS RELEASE

APPOINTMENT OF INDEPENDENT AD HOC COMMITTEE TO INVESTIGATE ALLEGATIONS OF MALPRACTICE AGAINST NIGERIAN CANDIDATES IN THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS AT THE ECOWAS PARLIAMENT

The Right Honorable Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, Dr. Sidie Mohamed Tunis, having received written complaints from the 1st Deputy Speaker, Honorable Ahmed Idris Wase, and the Permanent Representative of Nigeria to the ECOWAS Commission, Ambassador Musa Sani Nuhu, concerning the ongoing recruitment exercise at the ECOWAS Parliament, has hereby appointed an Independent Ad Hoc Committee to investigate allegations of marginalization and malpractice against Nigerian Candidates in the ongoing recruitment process.
The action of the Honorable Speaker is in conformity to Rule Thirty-three (33) and Thirty-four (34) of the Rules of Procedures of the Parliament which provides that a Special Committee may be set up to address specific matters. The Speaker, in response to pressing emergencies, can set up an Ad Hoc Committee, in consultation with the Bureau, and inform Parliament at its next Session.
The Adhoc Committee would be headed by Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, Chairman of the Committee on Administration, Finance, and Budget. Other Members of the Committee include:
Lynda Chuba Ikpeazu – Nigeria
Fatoumatta Njai – The Gambia
Amadou Djibo Ali – Niger
Kounon Nahou Agbandao -Togo
Caramo Camara -Guinea Bissau
Moussokora Chantal Fanny – Cote d’ Ivoire
Arboncana Oumarou Dicko – Clerk to the Committee
The Terms of Reference of the Ad Hoc Committee shall be as follows:

Investigate allegations of inappropriate conduct in the ongoing recruitment process at the ECOWAS Parliament;
Investigate allegations of marginalization of Nigerian Candidates in the current recruitment process;
Investigate and determine if indeed the plenary adopted any Resolution concerning the subject matter (Recruitment of Staff), using normal parliamentary procedure;

In the execution of its mandate, the Committee shall be granted access to all documents relating to the recruitment exercise and work with the Advisory Committee on Recruitment and Promotions at the ECOWAS Parliament, to under-study and review the exercise. The Adhoc Committee would be guided by the provisions of the Supplementary Act and the ECOWAS Staff Regulations.
The work of the Ad Hoc Committee is expected to commence on 22^nd August 2022 and its findings are expected to be reported to the Honorable Speaker in one week, following which a Bureau meeting will be convened to consider the report for onward submission to the Plenary.
In the meantime, the Right Honourable Speaker has directed the suspension of the ongoing recruitment exercises, pending the outcome of the investigation by the Independent Adhoc Committee.
Finally, the ECOWAS Parliament, under the leadership of Right Honourable Dr. Sidie Mohamed Tunis, affirms its stern commitment to fair labor practices and is devoted to upholding and protecting the rights of all Citizens of the Community to aspire for positions in any Community Institution, in line with the provisions of the ECOWAS Staff Regulations and all related Protocols.

ECOWAS Parliament.jpg

MEMORANDUM

SPEAKER’S OFFICE

FROM: RT. HONORABLE SPEAKER
TO: SECRETARY GENERAL
DATE: 4^TH AUGUST 2022
REF: ECW/PARL/SPK/5/08-0822
Subject: APPOINTMENT OF INDEPENDENT AD HOC COMMITTEE TO INVESTIGATE ALLEGATIONS MALPRACTICE AGAINST NIGERIANS IN THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS AT THE ECOWAS PARLIAMENT

As you may be aware, I received written complaints from the 1^st Deputy Speaker, Honorable Ahmed Idris Wase, and the Permanent Representative of Nigeria to the ECOWAS Commission, Ambassador Musa Sani Nuhu, concerning the ongoing recruitment exercise at the ECOWAS Parliament. In response, I have decided to appoint an Independent Ad Hoc Committee to investigate allegations, in line with the provisions of Rule 33 and 34 of the Rules of Procedure.
The Terms of Reference of the Ad Hoc Committee shall be as follows:

Investigate allegations of inappropriate conduct in the ongoing recruitment process at the ECOWAS Parliament;
Investigate allegations of marginalization of Nigerian Candidates in the current recruitment process;
Investigate and determine if indeed the plenary adopted any Resolution concerning the subject matter (Recruitment of Staff), using normal parliamentary procedure;

In the execution of its mandate, the Committee shall be granted access to all documents relating to the recruitment exercise and work with the Advisory Committee on Recruitment and Promotions at the ECOWAS Parliament, to under-study and review the exercise. The Adhoc Committee would be guided by the provisions of the Supplementary Act and the ECOWAS Staff Regulations.
Members of the Committee are as follows:

Honorable Mohammed Ali Ndume -Nigeria – Chairman
Lynda Chuba Ikpeazu – Nigeria – Member
Fatoumatta Njai – The Gambia – Member
Amadou Djibo Ali – Niger – Member
Kounon Nahou Agbandao -Togo – Member
Caramo Camara -Guinea Bissau – Member
Moussokora Chantal Fanny – Cote d’ Ivoire – Member
Arboncana Oumarou Dicko – Clerk to the Committee

The work of the Ad Hoc Committee is expected to commence on 22^ndAugust 2022 and its findings are expected to be reported to the Speaker in one week, following which a Bureau meeting will be convened to consider the report for onward submission to the Plenary. Consequently, the proposed Bureau meeting, scheduled to hold on 15^th August, 2022, in Banjul, The Gambia, is hereby cancelled.
In the meantime, the ongoing recruitment exercises are hereby suspended, pending the outcome of the investigation by the Independent Adhoc Committee.
Kindly ensure that all modalities are concluded to facilitate the work of the Committee.

Dr. Sidie Mohamed Tunis

Right Honorable Speaker, ECOWAS Parliament

Suleiman Banqura in Hiding: LGBTQ+ Lives Under Siege in Sierra Leone

August 8, 2022

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The streets of Black Hall Road in eastern Freetown are tense with whispers and unrest following the controversial outing of a young man, Suleiman Banqura, whose alleged involvement in a same-sex relationship has triggered widespread outrage, calls for his arrest, and even threats to his life.

Suleiman, reportedly in hiding, amid a growing climate of fear and persecution targeting LGBTQ+ individuals in Sierra Leone. His case has reignited a national debate around the state’s treatment of sexual minorities and exposed the deep-rooted religious and cultural intolerance faced by those who defy heteronormative expectations.

According to credible sources, Suleiman was caught with his male partner, in an unfinished building along Black Hall Road. The incident quickly went viral in the community, prompting members of Suleiman’s family and neighborhood to respond with fury. His alleged partner was arrested by the Sierra Leone Police, and a manhunt has reportedly been launched by local youth groups acting in coordination with religious stakeholders for Sulieman Banqura.

Suleiman, who was raised in a devout Muslim household, now faces condemnation not just from the state but from his own family. “He has disgraced us,” said a relative who requested anonymity. “We are a religious family, and what he has done is haram (forbidden).”

In an interview with the fiancée of Suleiman Banqura, the mother of his child said she was not surprised that he was caught engaging in homosexual acts in an unfinished building.

She disclosed that she had personally caught Suleiman in similar acts on several occasions at his residence, which may have prompted him to start using secluded, unfinished buildings for such activities.

She further revealed that their relationship was arranged by Suleiman’s elder sister, who believed that being in a heterosexual relationship would distract him from homosexuality something the family considered deeply shameful.

However, she noted that Suleiman was never interested in the relationship and showed little emotional or physical engagement.

“Throughout our relationship, I was the one pushing for us to be together,” she said. “Suleiman never showed interest. Even having sex was a challenge. The first time we were intimate was after I caught him with his male partner in his room. I told him I would keep the incident secret from his family only if he agreed to sleep with me and he did.”

Her Fiancée stated that she later discovered she was pregnant. Yet, even during the pregnancy, Suleiman continued to avoid intimacy. She recalled that the only other time they had intercourse was again after she caught him with another male partner. In total, they were only sexually active twice throughout their relationship.

She concluded by saying she was not shocked when news broke that Suleiman had been caught again with a male partner this time in an unfinished building.

She added that the previous incidents she witnessed had already been reported to his family, community members, stakeholders, and even the Sierra Leone Police. Suleiman, however, managed to escape and has since gone into hiding. His whereabouts remain unknown to date.

Suleiman’s case is not isolated.

Reports from Thunder Hill, another eastern suburb of Freetown, confirm a similar crackdown on LGBTQ+ individuals. A group of Imams staged a public protest against what they called the “normalization” of homosexuality in the area. Video footage circulating on social media shows the clerics marching through the streets with placards reading, “No to Homosexuality in Sierra Leone,” chanting religious slogans and vowing to rid their communities of anyone practicing same-sex relations.

The Imams accused Suleiman and others of attempting to “legalize homosexuality” a claim that has no legal basis but has fueled public rage. They called for community unity to fight what they described as an “abominable act,” echoing the sentiment that homosexuality is both constitutionally and religiously forbidden.

Since then, sources close to the situation have revealed that unknown assailants have allegedly been hired to eliminate Suleiman and his peers. The police have issued arrest warrants, and local vigilantes are reportedly scouring neighborhoods in search of them.

Under the Offences Against the Person Act 1861, homosexuality remains illegal in Sierra Leone, carrying a sentence of life imprisonment. There are no anti-discrimination protections for LGBTQ+ individuals, and law enforcement agencies have been accused of complicity in harassing and abusing suspects accused of same-sex relations.

“There is no safe space for people like Suleiman in Sierra Leone,” said a local human rights advocate who spoke under condition of anonymity. “He faces threats from the police, the community, and even his own family. As it stands, returning would be a death sentence.”

As the hunt for him intensifies, Suleiman has gone into hiding. His supporters are now advocating for international attention and asylum opportunities, warning that the country’s increasing intolerance could lead to more violent outcomes if the international community does not intervene.
“He cannot go back. He must not go back,” the advocate added.

“Suleiman is not just fleeing prosecution he is fleeing execution.”
Despite Sierra Leone’s commitments to human rights through various international treaties, LGBTQ+ rights remain a deeply taboo subject, with successive governments avoiding the issue for fear of religious backlash and political fallout.

As of now, Suleiman’s exact whereabouts remain unknown. But his case continues to shed light on the fragile lives of many LGBTQ+ Sierra Leoneans who live in constant fear unseen, unheard, and unprotected.

Religious Leaders (Imams) Protesting Against Homosexuality in Sierra Leone

ACC Exonerates Braima Ronnie Kargbo & Robert Kondema Kargbo

August 8, 2022

By Amin Kef-Ranger

In a Media Release dated 5^th August 2022 released by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) the anti-graft entity stated that furtherance to its support to the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC), the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education (MTHE), and other partner stakeholders in the verification of the credentials of public officers in Sierra Leone, it has concluded investigations on the degrees, certificates and other academic credentials of Braima Ronnie Kargbo, the Director of Administration and Human Resources of the National Telecommunications Commission (NATCOM) and other staff, following allegations that they submitted fake academic credentials to attain their respective positions.

According to the ACC, firstly, with regards to Braima Ronnie Kargbo, it focused on Njala University College, as it was called then, where the said staff is said to have attained the minimum qualification for his role while verification continues on other credentials attained overseas.

It continued that its investigators interviewed the Registrar of both the University of Sierra Leone and the Registrar of Njala University and many other interested persons – including the retired Professor who supervised his Dissertation, his former classmates, etc.

The investigation, the ACC said, confirms the following: That there are progressive grades record from first year (1992) to final Year (1999) which contained grades for a student named ‘Braima Kargbo’ for the Degree of Bachelor of Science in Agriculture General in the Second Division, with Distinction in Project and was awarded in 1999; and that the degree submitted by “Braima Ronnie Kargbo” bears the name ‘Briama Kargbo’ (Note the Name differentials).

That a cumulative transcript issued in 2002 contains a student name ‘Braima Ronnie Kargbo’ with grades and student Identification Number (ID) 5334 of a student who studied for the Degree of Bachelor of Science in Agriculture General from 1992 to 1999 (Undergraduate Record Card from Njala University College, University of Sierra Leone).

The ACC said but there is no continuous record for the name ‘Braima Ronnie Kargbo’ at the University student archives. Moreover, there is neither any document nor any explanation proving a change of name from “Braima Kargbo” to ‘Braima Ronnie Kargbo’.

That the student ID Number 5334 which is claimed by ‘Braima Ronnie Kargbo’ is the same to the Student ID Number 5334 of ‘Braima Kargbo’ in the Njala University, College Summary of Final Year Grades 1998/1999.

That NATCOM received a BSc Degree in the name of ‘Briama Kargbo’ and an MBA in the name of ‘Braima Ronnie Kargbo’ in respect of an application for the position of Director, Administration and Human Resources at NATCOM by ‘Braima Ronnie Kargbo’, and that an Offer of Appointment Letter was given for the position to Braima Ronnie Kargbo.

The ACC underscored that despite questions surrounding the name, which we have thoroughly investigated, and neither the Njala University nor the Braima Ronnie Kargbo could adequately clarify, there is evidence to show that a Braima Kargbo attended and/or completed his studies for a BSc Degree in Agriculture General, at Njala University College (though there was eventually a clear spelling error on the certificate and the same has not been corrected to date).

Based on its investigation, the ACC discovered that there has also been several records and evidence, as listed below, which support the claim that Braima Ronnie Kargbo did attend Njala University College adding that with anomalies on the spelling of his name the ACC said he and the university have failed to explain stating that they lost their records due to displacement of the University during the war.

The ACC stated that his (Braima Ronnie Kargbo) graduation photographs as evidence of graduation from Njala University College clearly show him shaking hands with President Kabba at the Fourah Bay College together with other students.

Interviews which the ACC said it conducted with other classmates positively confirmed his attendance with them and a copy of his Dissertation was obtained from him and the University.

His supervisor, Professor Abdulai Jalloh, a former Lecturer at Njala University College, confirmed the supervision and conclusion of his Degree.

The ACC claimed that there is evidence that the name ‘Braima Kargbo’ did attend Njala University College from 1992 and graduated in 1999 but the investigation could not disprove that the Braima Kargbo that attended Njala University College was not Brima Ronnie Kargbo, the Director of Administration of NATCOM, despite all efforts and attempts, the University cannot trace and provide the Matriculation Booklet/Register of 1992 signed by students upon their enrollment into the college because of their displacement and return due to war and they lost many records in the process.

According to the ACC, the availability of such foundational record could have helped to establish whether a different ‘Braima Ronnie Kargbo’ was admitted into Njala University College that year and signed the College Register.

In conclusion the ACC said, without any evidence to the contrary, Braima Ronnie Kargbo would have to benefit from the doubts raised and that the above findings and limitations have blurred the clarity of the evidence trail to such an extent that it is difficult to conclude that the Braima Kargbo that was awarded the BSc Degree in Agriculture General with Distinction in project at Njala University in 1999 is not the same Braima Ronnie Kargbo at NATCOM and it has therefore communicated its conclusion to the Management of NATCOM.

With regard Adeyemi Leroy Coker, the ACC stated how it accepts the recommendation of the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) on the status of Degrees conferred by the African Graduate University (AGU) and directs that NATCOM should administratively do the needful if he was employed or promoted on the presentation of the AGU Degree and/or Certificate as those have been said to be null and void by the TEC.

In respect of Robert Kondema Kargbo’s appointment, there were no set academic qualifications for his position as Commissioner of NATCOM (Representing Civil Society) apart from it being by Presidential appointment and subject to Presidential Prerogative.

The ACC said, he however possesses a Diploma in Peace and Conflict Studies from Milton Margai College of Education and that he denies presenting African Graduate University documents for Parliamentary vetting and Parliament did not provide them evidence to dispute that claim.

The anti-graft entity stated how it will continue to update the public on investigations concluded into individuals and institutions alleged to have ‘fake degrees/certificates and have been conferred an advantage within the meaning of the ACC Act.

Sierra Leone & Turkey Sign Military Framework Agreement & Strengthen Bi-Lateral Ties

August 8, 2022

By Abubakarr Harding

A Military Framework Agreement was signed on the 5^th of August 2022 by Sierra Leone and the Turkish Ministry of National Defense and the existing bilateral relationship between the two countries strengthened, under the leadership of Ambassador Mohamed Hassan Kaisamba.

The Framework was signed by the Sierra Leone Minister of Defense, Brig. Gen (Rtd) Hassan Kellie Conteh and the Turkish Minister of National Defense, Hulusi Akar.

The purpose of the Agreement is to provide a framework for developing and furthering cooperation and relations between the two countries military and defense related matters, with particular reference to the fields specified in the Agreement and in other fields that may be agreed upon by the two countries national legislation, regulations and international obligations. The Agreement also cover the training of Sierra Leone personnel, provision of material, equipment, information and experience.

In a brief statement after the signing ceremony, Brig. Gen. (Rtd) Hassan Kellie Conteh told his Turkish counterparts that Sierra Leone is willing to learn from the expertise of Türkiye, in order to train the next generation of Officers of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces.

Sierra Leone’s first Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Türkiye, His Excellency Mohamed Hassan Kaisamba said the Signing of the Agreement was as a result of the strong and reliable relation he has concretized with Türkiye, saying that his country appreciated the many gains both sides have made for the benefit of their people.

“My country takes this relationship very seriously and would work with the Ministry of National Defense through my Defense Attaché, Colonel MM Hashim, who has worked very hard in the realization of this signing. Thank you very much.” Ambassador Kaisamba noted.

MBSSE Issues Price List of School Items for Newly JSS & SSS1 Admitted Pupils

August 8, 2022

Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education

By Abubakarr Harding

After holding consultations with school authorities and Principals of Government and Government-Assisted schools nationwide the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education has released a price list for the sale of school items for newly admitted pupils in JSS1 and SSS1.

The rationale behind coming up with a price list is to harmonize and regularize the sale of school items including pocket badge, neck tie, uniform, Hijab, Beret and Crest, belt, felt hat and band etc, in order to cater for the ordinary man, who wishes for his children to attend the school of their choice (Radical Inclusion).

Prior to the introduction of the free quality school education programme in 2018, admission to some schools in Sierra Leone was made practically impossible, regardless of candidates meeting the score or aggregate set. In addition to the huge and unpredictable admission fees requested, (thanks for the FQSE initiative, it has been radically removed by Government), the prices for the school colours were irritatingly and discriminatingly expensive for the earning of the ordinary man, hence their children could not attend their first choice schools.

The Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary has put regulatory mechanism in place to ensure that the price list is fully adhered to. School authorities are therefore encouraged to do the following for every admission committee meetings; to display a copy of the price list on their respective school notice boards for parents to read, invite at least one MBSSE official in their district to their admission committee meetings and give some leverage to parents to purchase some of the items outside the school should they request. Above all, the price lists of school items should not be a prerequisite for admission, especially when the candidates are eligible.

Parents and guardians are however encouraged to report any abnormalities during the admission process by a way of calling the 8060 toll-free line.

Tourism, Energy Ministries & UNESCO Experts Commence Process of Compiling Dossier

August 8, 2022

Tourism, Energy Ministries & UNESCO Experts Commence Process of Compiling Dossier

By Abubakarr Harding

A two-day technical meeting was held on the 2^nd and 3^rd August, 2022 by the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs (MTCA) and the Ministry of Environment (MoE) with UNESCO experts and other State actors on the process of compiling nomination dossier for the Gola-Tiwai Complex. The meeting was held at the MTCA’s Conference Hall on Kingharman Road in Freetown.

The UNESCO World Heritage Centre based in Paris, France, supported by the Government of Japan has prioritized Sierra Leone to receive assistance in 2022 to build the technical capacity of Sierra Leone for Tiwai Island and Gola Rainforest National Park to be on the World Heritage list. Sierra Leone should complete and submit the dossier by the end of January, 2023. Prior to the two-day technical meeting, the UNESCO experts toured and held stakeholder engagements at Tiwai Island and Gola Rain Forest National Park.

Opening the first of the two-day session, the Deputy Director of Culture, Ishmael Kamara noted that the placement of Sierra Leone on the World Heritage List requires process, and that getting thus far, they have enjoyed the political will in the presence of the Tourism Minister, Dr. Memunatu Pratt and Minister of Environment, Professor Foday Jaward. He said the opening session was to highlight the commitment of stakeholders and the subsequent development of the nomination dossier.

The Director of UNESCO World Heritage Centre of Africa Unit Muhammad Muhammad Juma via zoom expressed gratitude to the Government of Sierra Leone for organizing the meeting and the Government of Japan for the financial support. He said nomination is not the end of the process but the beginning of the life-long responsibilities, while hoping that Gola and Tiwai will be sustainably conserved.

Representative of the Permanent Delegation of Japan to UNESCO, Minister Naoka Hirayama in her zoom presentation said 2022 is a special year for them as it marks the 50th anniversary of the adaptation of the World Heritage Convention and also coincides with Tokyo International Conference on African Development. She said Japan has been supporting ten African countries including Sierra Leone to enhance their capacity for the nomination process and appreciated Sierra Leone for starting the preparation of the nomination dossier for Gola-Tiwai Complex.

The Head of Environmental Foundation for Africa, Tommy Gannet said the experience of spending four days in the field with the experts underlines the essence of the whole process, saying that it was critical, timely and very necessary. “I appreciate the support of the Japanese Government and also acknowledge the inspirational support of the two Ministers in getting us this far, and I am confident that what we are doing now will yield positive outcomes,” he said.

The UNESCO Wildlife Conservation Consultant, Matthew Hatchwell noted that at this stage of the process they are aware that in six months time the dossier would have been submitted to UNESCO. He said they are aiming to have the draft nomination by the end of October and called on State actors to provide answers to questions that came up during their tour.

In his remarks, the Minister of Environment, Professor Foday Jaward said his Ministry has been involved in the process and has worked closely with the Tourism Ministry to ensure that the process comes to fruition. He added the his Ministry stands to gain a lot from the exercise considering the protection of climate change crisis, bio-diversity laws and pollution which he said are all geared towards the protection of the ecosystem. “Key among the benefits if the Gola-Tiwai Complex materializes is preserving the endangered species that are in extinction,” he said.

In her statements, the Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Dr. Memunatu Pratt maintained that the exercise was historic as it has never been done before in Sierra Leone which she said speaks volume of President Bio’s leadership. She continued that UNESCO is a key Government partner in promoting Education, Culture and Heritage. She said their journey with UNESCO in the field of tourism and culture started a long time ago but since 2005 Government only ratified the 1972 Convention on World’s Cultural and Natural Heritage among the six UNESCO Conventions. “In May 2012, six heritage sites were formally submitted to UNESCO’s tentative list of cultural and natural sites and under my leadership in 2021, the country completed and submitted the periodic reporting and also participated in engagements on UNESCO’s operations, expectations and vision of the African continent and the Japanese funded project came that focuses on capacity building programme for the nomination of world heritage sites on the African continent,” she explained.

She furthered that it was due to cabinet approval and the ratification of all six UNESCO Conventions by the Sierra Leone Parliament that gave the opportunity to benefit from UNESCO activities for which she said they are a proud member of UNESCO Cultural Development.

Presentation on the nomination process and related guidelines was done virtually by the World Heritage Centre Nomination Unit, while Consultant, Matthew Hatchwell, presented the structure of the nomination dossier and information to be compiled and Kumiko Yoneda explained the nomination experience in other regions and recommendations. Xiangling Chen gave example of roadmap for the preparation of the nomination dossier followed by discussions on the challenges and gaps to be filled.

Day two of the meeting was centered around discussions on outstanding universal values, criteria, integrity and comparative analysis. Discussion on the roadmap of the preparation of the nomination dossier (roles, responsibilities and timeframe) climaxed the occasion.