APC Distances Itself from Adebayor Amid Stirring Protest Allegations

June 14, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a recent interview with Africa Young Voices (AYV), Honourable Abdul Kargbo, the All People’s Congress (APC) parliamentary representative, firmly denied any association between the APC and the notorious activist, Adebayor. The denial comes amid circulating rumors of a planned protest next week allegedly linked to Adebayor.

During the interview, Presenter Phebean Swill questioned Honourable Abdul Kargbo about the rumors connecting Adebayor to the APC and the nature of their relationship. In response, the Honourable clarified his stance, stating, “Interestingly, I would have said that the question should not be directed to me, but since it is my question, I will address it. Having served as the Secretary of the All People’s Congress for over nine months and having led the party to the National Delegates Conference where Dr. Samura Kamara was chosen as our flag bearer, I am well-versed with the party’s membership.”

He further elaborated, “I have reviewed the entire party register, and the name Adebayor does not appear anywhere. Moreover, the party has repeatedly issued official statements declaring that Adebayor is not a member. It is concerning that despite these clarifications, people continue to associate him with the APC.”

In a related development, the APC’s Strategic Communication Unit released a statement addressing the protest rumors and emphasizing the party’s commitment to peace. The statement categorically denied any involvement in the rumored protests scheduled for June 19th and urged its members to avoid participating in any violent activities.

“As a party of peace, we firmly believe that negotiation is far more effective than conflict,” the statement read. It called on all APC members and supporters to steer clear of “all forms of protests, demonstrations, violence, and any action that could disturb the peace of the nation.”

The APC leadership also stressed the importance of refraining from “hate speech or messages in any form” that could incite unrest, especially in light of the upcoming release of recommendations from a tripartite committee.

The party’s stance underscores its “unwavering commitment to peace, national security, the rule of law and dialogue, aiming to maintain stability and harmony within Sierra Leone.”

Africell and Ministry of Innovation Sign MoU to Develop Tech City

June 14, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Africell has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Communication, Technology, and Innovation, marking its commitment to develop a Data Centre in Bo, Tikonko Chiefdom. This initiative positions Africell as the first company to support the Tech City Project in Sierra Leone, announced on June 11, 2024.

The MoU signing occurred during the 2024 Sierra Leone Innovates Tech Summit at the Bintumani International Conference Center in Freetown. The event drew over 3,000 delegates, featured more than 50 panelists, and included participants from 10 sectors across the four Mano River Union countries.

Under the agreement, Africell will undertake the construction, development and operation of a Data Centre within the Tech and Innovation City in Tikonko Chiefdom. This project signifies Africell’s dedication to supporting technological advancements in Sierra Leone.

Africell Sierra Leone’s Managing Director, Shadi Gerjawi, emphasized the significance of the Tech Summit, stating, “The whole idea about the Tech Summit is to bring tech people together so that they can share knowledge. We are always working towards finding tech innovators, reaching out and forming synergies with them. It’s good that the Government has brought all of them into one place where we can now discuss the future.”

Minister of Communications, Technology, and Innovation, Salima Monorma Bah, highlighted the summit’s role in addressing the lack of monetization tools for content creators. She noted that expert discussions at the summit would conclude with an Agriculture Innovation Challenge, inviting innovators to present solutions in support of the Government’s Feed Salone program.

“The Government is committed to fostering a culture of innovation,” Minister Bah stated. “Our agenda is to create a dynamic platform for young people to showcase their talents, develop solutions and bring their creative ideas to fruition.” She emphasized the importance of supporting innovation across multiple sectors, including agriculture, mining and transportation.

This collaboration between Africell and the Ministry of Communication, Technology, and Innovation marks a significant step toward advancing Sierra Leone’s technological infrastructure and fostering a vibrant innovation ecosystem.

Embrace the Power of the Sun with S &H Investment’s Comprehensive Solar Solutions

June 14, 2024

By Prince Macauley

The quest for sustainable and cost-effective energy solutions has become a top priority in today’s ever-evolving world. At the forefront of this movement is S&H Investment, a pioneering company that has revolutionized the solar energy industry with its cutting-edge services and products. Through their unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation, S&H Investment is empowering businesses and home owners alike to harness the boundless potential of solar energy.

Solar Services: A Comprehensive Approach

S&H Investment’s Solar Services division offers a holistic approach to solar energy solutions, guiding clients through every step of the process. Their expertise spans from initial evaluations and custom system designs to in-house engineering, procurement and seamless installations.

“Our mission is to make solar energy accessible and efficient for everyone,” says Sahr Saquee Gbondo, C.E.O. of S&H Investment. “We understand that each client’s needs are unique, which is why we tailor our solutions to meet their specific requirements, ensuring maximum energy savings and environmental sustainability.”

Evaluation and Design: The Foundation of Success

The journey to solar excellence begins with meticulously evaluating the client’s energy needs and site conditions. S&H Investment’s team of experts meticulously analyzes factors such as sun exposure, roof orientation and local weather patterns to design a customized solar energy system that maximizes efficiency and return on investment.

In-house Engineering and Procurement

With their in-house engineering capabilities, S&H Investment ensures that every aspect of the solar project is meticulously planned and executed. Their team procures top-quality solar panels and components from leading manufacturers worldwide, guaranteeing durability, efficiency and long-lasting performance.

Expert Installations and Commissioning

S&H Investment’s certified technicians are highly trained in the latest solar installation techniques, ensuring a seamless and safe integration of the solar energy system. Once installed, the system is commissioned to verify optimal operation and comprehensive training is provided to clients on system monitoring and maintenance.

Energy Storage Solutions and Monitoring

Enhancing the solar investment, S&H Investment offers cutting-edge energy storage solutions, including battery backup systems. These advanced technologies allow clients to store excess solar energy for use during periods of high demand or grid outages, maximizing energy self-reliance. Their monitoring services inform clients about their system’s performance, ensuring optimal efficiency and identifying potential issues before they escalate.

Maintenance and Support

S&H Investment’s commitment to its clients extends far beyond the initial installation. Their comprehensive maintenance programs include regular inspections, cleaning, and necessary repairs, ensuring the solar energy system operates at peak performance for years to come. Their dedicated support team is available to address clients’ questions or concerns, providing unparalleled customer service.

Solar Products: Quality and Diversity

In addition to their exceptional services, S&H Investment offers various solar panels from top industry manufacturers, ensuring their clients access the latest and most efficient solar technology.

“We are not limited to installing only one brand or type of solar panel,” explains Prince Jacob Macauley, Head of Product Development at S&H Investment. “Our relationships with manufacturers from all over the world, including the U.S.A. and Canada, allow us to offer a range of solar panel and solar battery brands while maintaining our high standards for quality and efficiency.”

I.T. Services and Products: Comprehensive Technology Solutions

Beyond their solar expertise, S&H Investment also provides a comprehensive suite of I.T. services and products, catering to the technological needs of businesses and individuals alike. Their skilled I.T. professionals ensure seamless integration and optimal performance across all platforms, from procurement and network infrastructure to cloud services, backup solutions, and cybersecurity.

“Technology is an ever-evolving landscape, and we are committed to staying ahead of the curve,” says Engr. J. Ribeiro Muge, General Project Manager at S&H Investment. “Our I.T. services and products are designed to streamline operations, enhance productivity, and safeguard critical data, enabling our clients to focus on what truly matters – growing their businesses.”

Business Process Services, Application Services, and Infrastructure Services are just a few of the diverse offerings available through S&H Investment’s I.T. division, providing clients with end-to-end solutions tailored to their unique requirements.

A Sustainable Future Starts Here

As the world continues to embrace sustainable practices and renewable energy sources, S&H Investment stands at the forefront, offering comprehensive solutions that empower individuals and businesses to impact the environment while achieving long-term energy savings positively.

“Our commitment to sustainability goes beyond providing solar energy solutions,” concludes Sahr Saquee Gbondo. “We are dedicated to fostering a greener, more responsible future for generations to come, and we are proud to partner with like-minded individuals and organizations who share our vision.”

Embrace the sun’s power and experience the future of energy today with S&H Investment’s unparalleled solar services and cutting-edge I.T. solutions. Contact them to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a sustainable, energy-efficient future at 31 Old Railway Line Brookfields Via Ministerial Avenue, Freetown or +23276873535 /+2327272222 /+44 7776 739554 / +4420 3731 5898. Email: info@shtradinginv.com

President Bio Commends Bar Association’s Commitment to Legal Progress

June 14, 2024

By Esther Wright

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio on Tuesday June 11, 2024 received the new Directors of the Sierra Leone Bar Association at State House, led by President Tuma Adama Gento-Kamara. The delegation visited to present their strategic plans and express their intention to collaborate with the Government on national matters.

Tuma Adama Gento-Kamara, as the new President of the Bar Association, introduced the Directors and expressed gratitude to President Bio for his progressive legal reforms. She commended his administration for abolishing the death penalty and enacting the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Act.

Tuma Gento-Kamara outlined the Bar Association’s aspirations, aligned with her campaign promises to elevate professional standards, enhance welfare and empower lawyers. She requested Government support for postgraduate scholarships for lawyers and suitable land to construct a Bar Association Secretariat. Additionally, she highlighted her commitment to establishing a private pension scheme for Association members.

President Bio congratulated the new directors and emphasized the importance of professional bodies maintaining independence from national politics. He advised that leadership should focus on providing direction and assured the Directors of the Government’s support to achieve their goals. He urged them to work in the best interest of their members and expressed hope for constructive engagement on national issues.

PAC Vindicates Rokel Bank on User ID Concerns, Commends Dr. Gilpin’s Leadership

June 14, 2024

By Amin Kef Sesay

During a public hearing held at Parliament’s administrative building on June 12, 2024, the Parliamentary Public Accounts Committee (PAC) unanimously cleared Rokel Commercial Bank of any wrongdoing regarding duplicate user IDs in its X-100 operating system, as cited in the 2022 Auditor General’s report.

The report had flagged the existence of duplicate user IDs on the X-100 banking application which contravenes banking regulations. In response, Rokel Commercial Bank’s Management clarified that rather than deleting users from the system, they moved them to a permanent deactivation category. They also explained that user IDs are updated when staff transition from contract to permanent status.

Following a thorough examination, the PAC resolved the issue, with Committee members praising the bank’s Management, led by renowned economist, Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin. They described Rokel Commercial Bank’s system as one of the most effective in Sierra Leone and the wider sub-region.

In recognition of its exemplary record-keeping and operational efficiency, members of the Committee suggested that Rokel Commercial Bank could be in line for a Presidential Award this year.

Jhpiego Donates Over $70,000 Worth of Equipment to National Emergency Call Centers

June 14, 2024

By Millicent Senava Mannah

In a significant boost to Sierra Leone’s emergency health infrastructure, Jhpiego, with funding support from USAID, through their RISE Project, has handed over IT equipment worth over $70,000 to the National Public Health Agency (NPHA). The equipment, which includes solar power systems, aims to enhance the operations of the national emergency call centers across all districts in the country. The official handover ceremony took place on Wednesday June 12, 2024 at the NPHA headquarters on Wilkinson Road in Freetown.

The donated items comprise 20 laptops, 18 Samsung Galaxy phones, 40 wireless headphones, 10 sets of solar panels and accessories, mobile phones, and eight solar electric rechargeable power banks with 20,000 Amp capacity. This donation is intended to improve the response to public health emergencies by ensuring swift and efficient communication.

Madam Baindu Kosia, Country Director of Jhpiego, highlighted the critical role of the 117 call center in early detection and surveillance of health emergencies. She stated that the RISE project, funded by USAID, has supported various technical areas within the Ministry of Health and NPHA, including waste management, community health, medical oxygen and the operationalization of the 117 call center.

She noted that a recent assessment identified significant operational challenges at the district level, such as lack of equipment and human resources. The RISE project’s procurement of essential IT equipment aims to address those challenges and ensure the call centers are fully functional.

Madam Baindu Kosia, also mentioned ongoing efforts to educate the public on the appropriate use of the 117 emergency line to reduce prank calls.

Aiah Soso Konneh, Development Assistant Specialist for Health at USAID Sierra Leone, explained that the initiative is part of their broader objectives to strengthen the health system and respond to COVID-19. The donation addresses logistical and equipment gaps identified at the 117 emergency response center particularly those highlighted during the Ebola and COVID-19 outbreaks. Soso Konneh emphasized the importance of maintaining the equipment for its intended purpose to avoid donor fatigue and ensure sustainability.

Leslie Senesie, the Manager of the 117 call center, expressed gratitude to USAID and Jhpiego. He noted that the new equipment will significantly enhance their ability to respond to health emergencies effectively. He also acknowledged Jhpiego’s role in setting up the technical equipment.

The donation marks a substantial step forward in strengthening Sierra Leone’s emergency health response capabilities, ensuring that the 117 call center is better equipped to handle public health emergencies across the nation.

OFP Concludes District-Level Workshop on Stakeholders/Service Providers Mapping and Power Matrix

June 14, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a bid to empower their partner organizations on the use of the Interest and Influence/Power Matrix in the country, One Family People with support from Liliane Fonds has concluded a one-day district-level workshop on stakeholders and service providers mapping data validation. The event, held at the Residual Special Court for Sierra Leone Peace Museum Hall on New England Ville in Freetown.

Addressing the gathering, Samuel P.O.V. Macauley, Program Manager at One Family People, said that the workshop objectives included defining the Stakeholders/Service Providers Mapping with Interest and Influence/Power Matrix, explaining its importance, describing its application, discussing its relevance to the community of people with disabilities and providing a step-by-step guide for developing the matrix.

Samuel P.O.V. Macauley explained that the Stakeholders/Service Providers Mapping with Interest and Influence/Power Matrix is a tool that helps organizations identify, analyze and manage their stakeholders or service providers. “It provides an overview of who has a stake in the organization’s activities, their level of interest and their ability to influence or exert power over them,” he said.

He added that the importance of the matrix lies in its ability to enable organizations to understand the complex web of relationships surrounding their work, identify potential allies and opponents, prioritize engagement efforts, develop effective communication strategies, and anticipate and mitigate risks.

Samuel P.O.V. Macauley stated that the matrix can be used in various ways, including planning and implementing projects, managing change initiatives, resolving conflicts, evaluating performance, and developing strategic partnerships.

He emphasized its relevance to the community of people with disabilities, stating that it helps identify key stakeholders and service providers who support their rights and needs. “It helps in understanding the interest and influence of these stakeholders, prioritizing engagement efforts, developing effective communication strategies, and anticipating risks that may hinder the progress of disability-related initiatives,” he noted.

Macauley maintained that the step-by-step guide for developing the matrix involves identifying stakeholders or service providers, assessing their level of interest and influence/power, plotting them on the matrix, analyzing the results, developing engagement strategies, monitoring and updating the matrix, and using the insights gained to inform decision-making.

Commenting on behalf of the partner organizations, Alie Turay, Program Manager of the Sierra Leone Autistic Society, expressed appreciation to One Family People for organizing the workshop on stakeholders and service providers mapping. He described the workshop as crucial for identifying stakeholders with interest and power over their activities.

He emphasized the significance of their projects, noting that identifying stakeholders with interest and power would facilitate collaboration and enhance their success.

The Program Manager praised the data provided by One Family People as commendable and stated that partner organizations would ensure regular input into the data to include any institutions or individuals that might be overlooked.

YoMSuD-SL Launches Empowering Girls Through Technology Project to Benefit 1,000 Girls and 15,000 Indirectly in Bo

June 14, 2024

Youth Movement for Sustainable Development Sierra Leone (YoMSuD-SL).jpg

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The Youth Movement for Sustainable Development Sierra Leone (YoMSuD-SL), with funding from Purposeful and the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), commenced the implementation of the project: “Empowering Girls Through Technology: Bridging the Gender Gap in Digital Literacy in Kakua Chiefdom, Bo District” in May 2024. The project operates under the theme: “Using technology to end sexual and gender-based violence in Bo District.”

Mamoud Balla Kamara, Founder and Executive Director of YoMSuD-SL, stated that the initiative aims to tackle Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) through three main objectives. The first objective is the provision of computer training programs, including basic computer literacy courses covering Microsoft Office applications, internet usage, responsible social media usage, email communication and advanced training in graphic design, web development and programming languages.

The second objective is community engagement to combat SGBV, involving the empowerment of marginalized girls and young women with digital literacy skills to enhance their access to information, education and communication (IEC) materials, enabling them to seek support and report incidents of SGBV.

He noted that the project is being implemented in underserved communities in Bo Town, where girls face significant barriers to accessing education and technology resources. By targeting these communities, YoMSuD-SL aims to empower girls with valuable skills and knowledge while addressing the root causes of SGBV through digital literacy and awareness-raising efforts.

Mamoud Balla Kamara underscored the strategic actions of the project, stating that it will create significant progress in ending SGBV through the “Empowering Girls Through Technology” project. The project includes community-wide awareness campaigns and advocacy events to educate members about the prevalence and impact of SGBV, the importance of gender equality and the harmful effects of violence against girls and women.

Capacity building involves training sessions and workshops on SGBV prevention, response and support mechanisms for community leaders, educators, marginalized adolescent girls and healthcare professionals. Collaboration with local organizations, Government agencies and stakeholders working on SGBV prevention and response will amplify impact and reach more individuals and communities.

The project will also advocate for the implementation and enforcement of policies and legislation aimed at addressing SGBV and promoting gender equality. Empowerment of girls through comprehensive sexuality education, self-defense training and access to support services will build the resilience and agency of marginalized girls.

It targets marginalized adolescent girls and young women aged 10-30, including SGBV survivors and vulnerable individuals. The digital hub aims to train 1,000 girls in digital literacy over a three-year period, with an additional 15,000 indirect beneficiaries reached through SGBV awareness campaigns. YoMSuD-SL’s project emphasizes community engagement and involvement through conducting thorough assessments to understand specific challenges, barriers, and opportunities, organizing meetings to discuss project goals, objectives, and activities, allowing community members to voice their opinions and actively participate. The project approaches these activities with respect for local customs, traditions, and norms to ensure accessibility, relevance, and inclusivity, regularly seeking feedback to assess the impact of activities and identify areas for improvement.

On strengthening response to SGBV, Mamoud Balla Kamara said they will incorporate SGBV awareness and prevention modules into the training curriculum, empower participants to advocate for SGBV prevention and gender equality, engage community leaders, parents, and other stakeholders in conversations about SGBV prevention, establish partnerships with local SGBV support organizations to ensure appropriate referrals and support for survivors, and regularly monitor and evaluate the project’s impact to refine and improve the approach.

“By actively engaging with the community and implementing these strategic actions, YoMSuD-SL aims to empower girls, bridge the gender gap in digital literacy, and contribute to the broader movement against SGBV in Kakua Chiefdom, Bo District,” he concluded.

ACTB Launches ‘Save N Win’ Promotion with Suzuki Car Grand Prize

June 14, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

A Call to Business (ACTB), a leading microfinance institution, turned banking institution, officially launched its ‘Save N Win’ Promotion on Monday, June 10, 2024. The launch event, signaling a season of giving back to their valued customers, was held at their Lumley branch in Freetown.

As part of the promotion, ACTB customers who save NLe 5,000 every month or NLe 30,000 over six months can stand a chance to win monthly prizes such as DSTV sets, mobile phones, plasma TVs, Bluetooth speakers, freezers and air conditioners. Additionally, participants have a chance to win a brand-new car in the grand draw after six months.

David A. Kamara, Chief Executive Officer of ACTB, highlighted the institution’s dedication to serving their customers and the community. He emphasized ACTB’s vision of bringing prosperity to every home in Sierra Leone and their mission to provide top-notch financial services for all citizens.

“We operate with honesty, transparency and a commitment to doing what is right at all times,” David Kamara stated. “This promotion marks a significant milestone for us, being our second since our establishment over 15 years ago.”

He emphasized that ACTB is now stepping into the deposits arena, aiming to benefit their thousands of customers across the country. David also noted that their theme for the past years has been financial inclusion, aligning with the national financial inclusion strategy from 2022 to 2028, which aims to bring everyone on board.

Discussing inclusive finance, CEO David Kamara encouraged the habit of savings among customers, regardless of their account type. “Savings is a potent tool for a rainy day,” he explained. “Whether for planned expenses for your kids, family or personal goals, saving helps. In this case, it’s a double bonanza; you save for yourself and have a chance to win something big.”

Rockslyn Alwyn Findlay, Marketing Manager at ACTB, described the promotion as a groundbreaking event set to impact the microfinance, banking and financial sectors. He noted that the promotion, which began on the day of the launch, will run until January 31, 2025, for the monthly draws.

Alwyn Findlay highlighted ACTB’s evolution from a microfinance institution to a banking entity in 2018, following their acquisition of a banking license from the Bank of Sierra Leone. “At the start of this year, we decided to fully utilize our banking license,” Findlay stated. “Today’s announcement marks a significant move that will shake our competitors.”

ACTB’s Chief Operating Officer, Idrissa A. Sesay, outlined the criteria for the promotion. He emphasized that there will be a monthly winner and the grand draw will feature a brand-new Suzuki Express vehicle with zero mileage. To qualify, participants must deposit NLe 5,000 every month and maintain the balance in their account until the end of the month. For the grand draw, no withdrawals are allowed within the six-month period.

With the ‘Save N Win’ Promotion, ACTB aims to encourage a culture of savings among its customers while providing them with exciting opportunities to win valuable prizes.

Parliamentary Committee Absolves Gento Group of Alleged Double Payment

June 12, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Parliamentary Public Accounts Committee, led by Deputy Speaker Hon Tawa Conteh, has on Tuesday June 11, 2024 cleared the Gento Group of Companies of any wrongdoing after an inquiry into the 2022 Audit Report.

The inquiry stemmed from allegations that the Gento Group received double payments for a Government road project contract. However, the Committee concluded that there was no evidence to support those claims. This decision follows the imposition of a NLE 5,000 fine on Kemokai Fatorma, Director of Foreign Debts Performance at the Ministry of Finance, for failing to provide necessary documents to auditors.

The controversy began with the 2022 Audit Report from the Audit Service Sierra Leone (ASSL), which questioned the handling of funds in a $42.8 million contract between the Gento Group and the Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA). The report alleged that the Gento Group received an additional payment of $5.4 million from the Road Maintenance Fund Administration (RMFA) in 2018, which appeared to duplicate a payment made in 2016.

The Gento Group, led by CEO Mohamed Gento Kamara, vehemently denied these accusations. He asserted that all payments were legitimate, citing Interim Payment Certificates (IPC No.1A to IPC No.8) totaling $27.2 million for completed work. He clarified that claims for delay payment interest and suspension of works were valid under the contract terms and should not be deducted from the overall contract sum.

Gento Kamara also addressed claims of $13.5 million for loss and damages (IPC 5), explaining that these were legitimate claims due to project delays and suspension. He emphasized that the company faced high inflation and rising material costs but managed to execute the project within the original budget.

Furthermore, Gento Kamara criticized the audit process, noting that the ASSL and SLRA did not contact his company for clarifications before the report was compiled. He expressed disappointment in the procedures and conclusions of the audit, maintaining that no double payment occurred.

In response to the inquiry, Gento reaffirmed the company’s commitment to transparency and cooperation. He also voiced concern about the negative impact of the allegations on the company’s reputation and ongoing projects.

The Parliamentary Public Accounts Committee’s decision to absolve the Gento Group marks a significant resolution to the controversy, clearing the company of any allegations of financial impropriety.

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