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Magistrate Daboh Commits Four to High Court as Sierra Leone Tightens Drug Crackdown

Magistrate Hadiru Daboh

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

A decisive move aimed at accelerating the prosecution of drug-related offences in Sierra Leone saw Principal Magistrate Hadiru Daboh of the Kenema Magistrate Court on 3 December 2025 commit four defendants to the High Court for trial on charges of possession and use of prohibited drugs, contrary to Section 8(a) of the National Drugs Control Act No. 10 of 2008.

The accused persons, Mariama Kebbie, a trader from Dauda Town; Lahai Sannoh a diamond miner from Konia Village; Joseph Koroma, a farmer from Kpetama 2 Village; and Vandy Boima, a farmer from Tawahun Village, were each charged with various offences involving Kush and Cannabis Sativa. All four hail from communities within the Kenema District.

According to the particulars of offence presented in court, on 6 November 2025, Mariama Kebbie was found in possession of forty (40) wraps of Kush at Dauda Town. Similarly, on 24 November 2025, Lahai Sannoh was apprehended with fourteen (14) wraps of Kush at Konia Kpidima Village in the Lower Bambara Chiefdom. On 25 November 2025, Joseph Koroma was discovered to be in possession of both a quantity of Cannabis Sativa and its seeds at Kpetama 2 Village. In another case, on 4 November 2025, Vandy Boima was arrested at Tawahun Village with fifty-nine (59) wraps of Kush.

Following a thorough review of the prosecution’s evidence, Principal Magistrate, Hadiru Daboh, ruled that the State had successfully established a prima facie case against the accused. He stated that the nature of the offences and the clear evidentiary record left him with no alternative but to commit the matters to the High Court for full trial.

Visibly concerned, Principal Magistrate Hadiru Daboh lamented the devastating impact of Kush and other narcotic substances on the country’s youth population. He referenced the recent directive issued by the Chief Justice of Sierra Leone, Hon. Justice Kumba Kamanda, who signed a memorandum mandating stricter and expedited judicial processes for drug-related cases under the National Drugs Control Act. The new Practice Direction officially came into effect on 1 December 2025.

In line with that directive and due to the severity of the allegations, no bail was granted to the four defendants. They were remanded at the Sierra Leone Correctional Centre (SLCC) in Kenema pending their appearance before the High Court.

The cases were prosecuted by Police Sergeant David Idriss, PC 15361 Vonja Thomas, PC 13576 Sillah Fatmata and PC 13563 Zainab Fornah, who presented the State’s evidence during the committal proceedings.

The High Court is expected to commence hearings in the coming weeks as Sierra Leone intensifies its crackdown on the trafficking, distribution and consumption of dangerous drugs across the country.

Sierra Bottling Group Takes Full Control as New Era Begins at Sierra Leone Brewery Limited

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leone Brewery Limited (SLBL) has officially entered a transformative new chapter following the completion of Sierra Bottling Group’s (SBG) acquisition of 98.07% majority shareholding in the company. The announcement, made public in December 2025, signals a major shift in the nation’s manufacturing landscape and sets the stage for renewed growth, innovation and strengthened industrial capacity.

According to SBG, the transaction reached full conclusion at the start of December, immediately followed by the commencement of full operational control effective 1st December 2025. This transition marks what the Group describes as a bold step toward securing long-term sustainability for the brewery, modernizing its operations and significantly enhancing its contribution to Sierra Leone’s industrial output.

Under its new leadership, SLBL has already begun operating with upgraded systems, enhanced governance structures and a streamlined framework designed to maximize efficiency and improve product quality. The Management noted that the modernization drive will place strong emphasis on innovation, employee growth and broader community impact; key priorities that align with SBG’s vision for the future of the company and the country’s manufacturing sector.

SBG reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the trusted standards consumers have come to expect from the brewery while expanding opportunities for local development. “As we enter this new era, our commitment remains the same: delivering quality products, supporting local development and investing in the future of Sierra Leone,” the Group stated.

The takeover is widely regarded as a strategic move that will unlock new possibilities for the brewery, one of Sierra Leone’s oldest and most recognizable industrial establishments. Analysts say the acquisition could lead to increased product diversification, improved production capacity and greater competitiveness both locally and within the broader West African market.

SLBL employees and partners have been assured that the transition places strong value on workforce development, operational stability and long-term sustainability. SBG added that the collective efforts of its staff, business partners and loyal consumers will be vital in “brewing new possibilities” for the years ahead.

With this acquisition, Sierra Bottling Group signals its readiness to revitalize the iconic brewery and position it as a modern, forward-looking industrial powerhouse in Sierra Leone. The public and private sectors alike will be watching closely as the company enters this historic new era.

Indian High Commissioner Deepens Diplomatic Engagement with Sierra Leone Parliament

India’s High Commissioner to Sierra Leone, H.E. Baisnab Charan Pradhan (left) shaking hands with Hon. Speaker of Parliament, Segepoh Solomon Thomas Esq

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

India’s High Commissioner to Sierra Leone, H.E. Baisnab Charan Pradhan, has strengthened diplomatic engagement with the country’s legislature following a courtesy visit to the Rt. Hon. Speaker of Parliament, Segepoh Solomon Thomas Esq., on Monday, December 8, 2025. The meeting, described by officials as both cordial and forward-looking, signaled renewed commitment from both nations to broaden cooperation through parliamentary diplomacy.

High Commissioner Baisnab Charan Pradhan conveyed warm felicitations from the Speaker of India’s Parliament and reaffirmed New Delhi’s interest in expanding its footprint in Sierra Leone’s development trajectory. He emphasized that India and Sierra Leone share decades of friendly ties, strengthened by collaboration in education, health, agriculture and infrastructure. According to him, India is eager to build on this foundation by supporting emerging priorities, especially in capacity-building and technological advancement.

During the meeting, Baisnab Charan Pradhan proposed increased engagement through parliamentary exchange programmes, noting that such collaboration would enable lawmakers to share experiences on legislative reforms, oversight practices and democratic consolidation. He also highlighted opportunities for India to offer technical and professional training for parliamentary staff, enhancing institutional effectiveness.

Speaker Segepoh Solomon Thomas welcomed the High Commissioner and acknowledged India’s role as a reliable development partner. He stressed that the Sixth Parliament is committed to pursuing partnerships that promote innovation, strengthen public institutions and enhance economic growth. The Speaker added that India’s success in democratic governance and technological innovation serves as an important model for many developing countries, including Sierra Leone.

“The Sixth Parliament stands ready to collaborate with India in deepening mutual understanding and creating pathways for sustained cooperation,” Speaker Segepoh Solomon Thomas said. He noted that strengthening inter-parliamentary dialogue would not only benefit lawmakers but also contribute to better policymaking and improved service delivery for citizens.

Discussions also covered broader areas of economic cooperation. Officials highlighted potential growth sectors such as digital technology, renewable energy, agriculture, trade and youth empowerment; areas where India has considerable expertise and experience. Baisnab Charan Pradhan indicated that India remains open to supporting Sierra Leone in those sectors through capacity-building programmes, knowledge transfer and investment linkages.

Another key element of the talks was the shared commitment to addressing global challenges. Both sides spoke on the need for collaborative approaches to climate resilience, public health emergencies and sustainable development; issues that continue to shape global discourse and require strong partnerships between nations.

The meeting concluded with an understanding that follow-up engagements will be formalized to translate the discussions into concrete action. The Indian High Commission and Sierra Leone Parliament are expected to develop a roadmap outlining priority areas for cooperation, including training initiatives, parliamentary study visits and mechanisms for sustained dialogue.

Observers say the High Commissioner’s visit represents a significant boost to Sierra Leone–India relations. By focusing on governance, economic cooperation and people-to-people ties, both countries are laying the foundation for a more dynamic partnership that aligns with their national development aspirations. As engagements progress, stakeholders anticipate tangible benefits across multiple sectors in the years ahead.

Central Bank Endorses Dr. Gilpin’s Leadership as RCBank Assumes Management of UTB

Managing Director RCB, Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

A landmark development for Sierra Leone’s financial sector has unfolded as the Bank of Sierra Leone (BSL) announced the placement of Union Trust Bank (UTB) into Resolution and approved Rokel Commercial Bank (RCBank) as the acquiring institution. Made public on 8 December 2025, the decision has been widely viewed as a strong endorsement of the stability, credibility and leadership demonstrated by Rokel Commercial Bank under the stewardship of its Managing Director, Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin.

According to the Central Bank, the action follows a thorough supervisory review, executed in accordance with Section 69 of the 2019 Banking Act and Section 5(1)(c) of the BSL Act 2019. The move forms part of a structured, well-managed process designed to safeguard depositors, ensure continuity of banking services and maintain financial system stability.

In a strongly worded public notice, the Bank of Sierra Leone stated that the Resolution process is aimed at protecting the interests of customers while preventing systemic risks. It emphasized that RCBank, being strong, stable and well-capitalized, provides long-term security for UTB depositors. A BSL-appointed caretaker management team has been deployed to guide UTB through the transition until the full handover is completed.

Among the firm assurances given by BSL were that:

  • All customer deposits at UTB are safe and fully protected.
  • Banking services will continue without disruption.
  • UTB staff will be fully absorbed into Rokel Commercial Bank.
  • The transition will be smooth, transparent and customer-focused.

The development has triggered widespread reaction across the country, with many Sierra Leoneans describing the move as timely, necessary and a significant show of confidence in Rokel Commercial Bank. Analysts and commentators note that the Central Bank’s decision underlines Rokel Commercial Bank’s remarkable transformation over the past years; rising from a loss-making institution to becoming one of Sierra Leone’s most profitable and respected banks.

Under Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin’s leadership, Rokel Commercial Bank has not only modernized its operations but has expanded its corporate footprint across the sub-region. Only recently, the bank’s leadership visited neighbouring Liberia to explore possibilities for establishing a presence there, signaling its ambition for sub-regional dominance.

Although Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin was not immediately available for comment, a close aide disclosed that the seasoned banker is “in very high spirits” and ready to take on the latest challenge of steering another national institution toward stability and growth. Financial observers say this takeover could mark a new chapter in the country’s banking landscape, strengthening public confidence and reinforcing regulatory oversight mechanisms.

The Bank of Sierra Leone concluded its notice by encouraging the public to continue normal banking activities, adding that further inquiries may be directed to the Banking Supervision Department via bsup@bsl.gov.sl.

The transition unfolds amid widespread recognition that the development represents not only a Resolution measure but also a powerful testament to Dr. Walton Gilpin’s exemplary leadership and Rokel Commercial Bank’s rising stature within Sierra Leone’s financial architecture.

Sierra Leone Troops Prepare for ECOWAS Peace Support Operation in Benin

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leone will play a key role in a new regional security mission after the Chair of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government ordered the immediate deployment of elements of the ECOWAS Standby Force to the Republic of Benin. The directive, issued on December 7, 2025, follows high-level consultations among regional leaders in response to emerging concerns over stability and constitutional order in Benin.

According to the ECOWAS Commission’s official statement, the decision is grounded in Article 25(e) of the 1999 Protocol Relating to the Mechanism for Conflict Prevention, Management, Resolution, Peacekeeping and Security, empowering the regional bloc to intervene in support of peace and democratic order. The statement confirms that Sierra Leone will join Nigeria, Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana in contributing troops to the multinational force.

For Sierra Leone, the deployment reinforces its growing reputation as a dependable contributor to regional peacekeeping operations. It also highlights the country’s continued commitment to collective security under President Julius Maada Bio’s leadership, aligning with Sierra Leone’s longstanding support for stability and democratic governance across West Africa.

The ECOWAS Standby Force will assist the Government and Republican Army of Benin in preserving constitutional order and securing the nation’s territorial integrity.

As the sub-region continues to confront governance tensions, attempted unconstitutional changes of Government and security threats, Sierra Leone’s participation signals a strong stance in favour of rule of law and regional stability.

Further details about Sierra Leone’s troop deployment, operational timelines and mission structure are expected from national defence authorities and ECOWAS in the coming days.

Orange Foundation Expands Digital Access in Tonkolili, Donates Digital School Kits to St. Paul’s Primary School

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Orange Foundation has continued its nationwide drive to promote digital inclusion with the donation of Digital School Kits to St. Paul’s Primary School in Mathokara Village, Tonkolili District. The presentation, which took place on Friday, 5 December 2025, forms part of the Foundation’s broader commitment to bridging the digital divide for children across Sierra Leone.

During the visit, pupils and teachers welcomed the initiative with enthusiasm as the Foundation handed over devices and educational tools designed to enhance teaching and learning. The Digital School Kits will support classroom instruction, strengthen digital literacy and help young learners explore new opportunities for growth in an increasingly digital world.

According to the Foundation, each school reached through the programme becomes a catalyst for change; empowering teachers with modern tools, inspiring pupils to embrace innovation and easing communities into the digital age. The intervention in Mathokara Village adds to a growing list of beneficiary schools nationwide.

Community members expressed appreciation for the initiative, noting that access to digital resources remains a significant challenge for rural areas. The Foundation stated that the joy and excitement witnessed among pupils at St. Paul’s reaffirm its commitment to ensuring that children, regardless of location, are not left behind in the global digital transformation.

The Orange Foundation reiterated that it will continue working with educational institutions, communities and development partners to expand digital empowerment initiatives across Sierra Leone, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to learn, explore  and thrive.

International Civil Aviation Day: Sierra Leone Marks Steady Progress Toward Global Air Connectivity

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

As the world commemorated International Civil Aviation Day on 7 December 2025, Sierra Leone joined the global aviation community in reflecting on the critical role air transport plays in connecting nations, driving economic growth and fostering international cooperation. For the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), the observance provided a moment to highlight the country’s steady advancement in aviation development and its commitment to enhancing safety, efficiency and global integration.

A strong aviation sector remains indispensable to the socio-economic transformation of any modern state. For Sierra Leone, air transport continues to stimulate growth across vital industries, including tourism, commerce, logistics and services. It enhances mobility, expands access to education and healthcare, creates employment, enables humanitarian response and strengthens the nation’s visibility within the global landscape. Aviation, in this respect, is far more than a transport mechanism; it is a strategic driver of national development.

Key improvements in Sierra Leone’s aviation landscape are evident in the upgraded Freetown International Airport, which now boasts expanded passenger capacity, improved safety systems and increased operational efficiency. These enhancements are positioning the country to attract more airlines and manage higher passenger volumes.

Efforts to improve domestic connectivity through the expansion of regional airports and airstrips are also underway. These initiatives support internal travel, boost tourism and ensure that the benefits of aviation extend across all regions of the country.

The SLCAA continues to align its regulatory framework with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Standards and Recommended Practices. This has improved oversight, compliance and sector governance. Investment in navigation technology, environmental sustainability and capacity development further underscores Sierra Leone’s commitment to a modern and resilient aviation industry.

A critical component of this regulatory strengthening is the issuance and monitoring of Air Operator Certificates (AOCs). A robust AOC framework ensures operators meet international safety and operational standards, enhances consumer confidence and creates an enabling environment for new airlines, cargo companies, charter services and humanitarian operations.

Improved air connectivity remains central to Sierra Leone’s economic agenda. Increased flights, new routes and stronger airline partnerships are unlocking opportunities in tourism, trade, investment and diaspora engagement. Better access to global destinations enhances the country’s competitiveness and opens pathways to strategic regional integration.

Since her appointment in 2023, SLCAA Director-General Madam Musayeroh Barrie has spearheaded significant reforms that have ushered Sierra Leone into a new era of aviation progress. Her leadership has been marked by expanded flight connectivity, strengthened international partnerships and improved regulatory systems.

Notable achievements include strategic collaborations with Overland Airways, Ethiopian Airlines and the revival process of Air Sierra Leone. A historic milestone was reached with the launch of the Freetown–London Gatwick direct flight, connecting Sierra Leone to the United Kingdom for the first time in the nation’s aviation history; a breakthrough widely celebrated as a victory for citizens, businesses and the diaspora.

Despite global uncertainties in air travel, Freetown International Airport recorded an increase of more than 5,000 passengers in 2024, reflecting improved public confidence and airport performance. These gains have been bolstered by a pioneering Management Services Agreement between the SLCAA and ICAO, which brought world-class technical cooperation, structured capacity development and upgraded operational standards.

Through this collaboration, Sierra Leone has strengthened its alignment with global aviation excellence and enhanced its capacity to operate as a future aviation hub.

Under Madam Musayeroh Barrie’s stewardship, Sierra Leone has successfully hosted a number of high-profile international aviation meetings and missions, including the ICAO WACAF CODEVMET Mission, BAGASOO Technical Committee Safety Meeting and the SAATM Pilot Implementation Project. These engagements highlight the country’s rising influence within Africa’s aviation community.

The newly established Consumer Protection Division within SLCAA marks a major step toward safeguarding fairness, transparency and accountability for all travelers. This reform ensures that passenger rights remain central to service delivery.

Beyond aviation regulation, Madam Musayeroh Barrie has championed youth and women’s empowerment. Through the Next Generation of Aviation Professionals (NGAP) initiative and targeted STEM programs, she has inspired young talents to pursue careers in fields previously considered inaccessible. Her impact earned her a place among the 50 Most Influential Sierra Leonean Women in 2025.

SLCAA personnel continue to benefit from advanced training through institutions such as Ethiopian Aviation University, ENAC in Italy and ECOWINGS in Kenya. This capacity-building drive is nurturing a new cadre of aviation professionals ,  including maintenance technicians, security instructors, drone operators and inspectors, poised to shape the future of the sector.

With the signing of the SLCAA Master Plan in partnership with ICAO, Sierra Leone is embarking on a long-term transformation programme aimed at establishing the nation as a vibrant regional aviation hub. This vision seeks to connect Africa to global destinations while positioning the country as a rising force in air transport development.

As Sierra Leone marks International Civil Aviation Day, the progress achieved over the past two years stands as a testament to determined leadership, strategic partnerships and national ambition. The aviation sector continues to evolve; strengthening connectivity, empowering citizens and unlocking unprecedented opportunities.

A new aviation future is emerging; one shaped purposefully, one built sustainably and one advancing Sierra Leone’s journey toward global integration to the nation’s gain.

President Bio’s Leadership Credited for ECOWAS’ Swift Action in Foiling Attempted Military Takeover in Benin

President Julius Maada Bio

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Press Secretary to the President, Yusuf Keketoma Sandi Esq., has lauded the decisive and coordinated leadership of President Julius Maada Bio, Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority, for his central role in thwarting an attempted military takeover in the Republic of Benin. He emphasized that the incident serves as yet another reminder of the fragile state of democratic governance in parts of West Africa and the continued need for firm, principled regional leadership.

Yusuf Keketoma Sandi noted that at a time when democratic institutions across the region face increasing threats from unconstitutional power grabs, ECOWAS demonstrated remarkable resolve under President Bio’s stewardship. He stressed that the attempted coup in Benin exposed the susceptibility of even relatively stable democracies to sudden military disruptions. However, swift intervention at the highest levels of ECOWAS prevented what could have been a major political crisis.

According to the Press Secretary, President Bio acted with clarity, urgency and conviction, reinforcing ECOWAS’ long-standing commitment to safeguarding democracy, peace and constitutional order. His prompt communication with fellow Heads of State and the coordination of unified regional action sent a powerful signal that coups and other unconstitutional changes of Government would not be tolerated under his chairmanship. This, Yusuf Keketoma Sandi said, helped create the pressure and diplomatic environment necessary to forestall the attempted takeover and preserve President Patrice Talon’s legitimate administration in Benin.

Yusuf Keketoma Sandi further commended the collective stance taken by ECOWAS leaders during the crisis. He described the bloc’s solidarity as both commendable and essential in demonstrating regional intolerance for military adventurism. “The unity displayed by ECOWAS Heads of State reinforced the legitimacy of Benin’s democratic institutions and contributed significantly to the swift de-escalation of tensions,” he stated.

According to him, this episode reaffirms ECOWAS’ commitment to the fundamental principles enshrined in its protocols, including the protection of elected Governments and the promotion of regional stability.

In reflecting on President Bio’s broader leadership within ECOWAS, Yusuf Keketoma Sandi recalled his similarly decisive response to the recent situation in Guinea-Bissau. Shortly after an attempted coup there, President Bio undertook a bold visit to Bissau, delivering a firm message to the military authorities and calling for the immediate restoration of constitutional order. That, he said, was yet another example of Bio’s resolve to ensure that West Africa stays on a democratic trajectory.

Yusuf Keketoma Sandi concluded that the successful prevention of the attempted military coup in Benin highlights the effectiveness of President Bio’s leadership and the unwavering commitment of ECOWAS member states to preserve democratic governance. As West Africa continues to grapple with political instability, violent extremism and governance challenges, he emphasized that such unity, vigilance and principled leadership are essential for safeguarding peace and stability across the region.

He added that the crisis in Benin, swiftly contained through regional collaboration, should serve as an encouraging reminder that democracy can and will prevail when leaders act with courage, conviction and solidarity.

SLCAA DG Listed Among 100 Outstanding Global Innovative Leaders 2026

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Madam Musayeroh Barrie, the dynamic Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), has been named among the 100 Outstanding Global Innovative Leaders 2026 by the Global Center for Innovative Leaders (GCIL). Her inclusion on this prestigious list highlights her remarkable rise as one of Africa’s youngest aviation leaders and a transformative force within the continent’s air transport sector.

The Director General’s leadership journey is historic. Appointed in 2023 as Sierra Leone’s first female Director General of Civil Aviation, she assumed office at a time when the country’s aviation system required bold reforms, modern regulatory structures and a renewed international image. Her appointment signaled a shift not only in gender representation but in Sierra Leone’s ambition to build a stronger, globally competitive aviation sector.

Under her stewardship, the SLCAA has delivered reforms that many aviation observers describe as unprecedented in recent decades. The reintroduction of Air Sierra Leone stands as one of her hallmark achievements, restoring national pride and expanding opportunities for travel, tourism and commercial activity. This milestone was followed by the issuance of Sierra Leone’s first Air Operator Certificate (AOC) in 16 years, a major regulatory breakthrough demonstrating the Authority’s strengthened oversight and compliance capacity.

Equally significant has been the return of direct commercial flights along the Freetown–London route. This move has improved Sierra Leone’s global connectivity, reduced travel burdens for citizens and investors and created new opportunities for trade and tourism. Aviation experts also credit her leadership for revitalizing the sector’s institutional frameworks, improving safety management and motivating a new generation of young professionals entering aviation.

Madam Musayeroh Barrie’s decade-long experience in aviation security operations before her appointment provided the foundation for the sweeping reforms she now champions. Her deep understanding of compliance, safety systems and operational oversight continues to shape her leadership approach at SLCAA, resulting in improved performance standards and enhanced credibility with international aviation bodies.

Beyond technical reforms, Madam Musayeroh Barrie has become widely recognized for her commitment to youth empowerment and gender inclusion. Today, over 50% of the workforce at SLCAA is under the age of 40, with more than 40% under 35 making it one of the youngest public-sector workforces in Sierra Leone. This deliberate investment in young professionals reflects her belief that a modern aviation sector must be driven by innovation, energy and a vision for the future.

Her influence extends beyond national borders. Through strengthened partnerships with the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, South Africa and other global aviation entities, she has expanded Sierra Leone’s international cooperation framework. The landmark ICAO Management Service Agreement signed in 2024 remains a highlight, positioning Sierra Leone for long-term capacity building and international compliance.

In 2025, she was named among the 50 Most Influential Women in Sierra Leone, further cementing her status as a national role model and a regional leader in aviation governance.

Madam Musayeroh Barrie will receive her Special Certificate of Honour during the Global Leaders Innovative Summits & Gala Nights 2026, where she will stand among other influential global figures celebrated for reshaping industries through innovation and excellence.

Marampa Mines Hands Over Newly Constructed Kulafai Rashideen Primary School in Maforki Village

Marampa Mines Handing Over Newly Constructed school in Maforki Village

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Marampa Mines Limited (MML) officially commissioned and handed over the newly constructed Kulafai Rashideen Islamic Primary School in Maforki Village, Marampa Chiefdom, in a ceremony attended by community leaders, education stakeholders, Government officials, parents and pupils. The modern facility features six classrooms, a six-room toilet block, two hand-pump water wells, an administrative office, an assembly area, a football field and a fully fenced compound, designed to serve over 200 pupils from Maforki and neighbouring communities including Magbil, Magberie, Manonkoh and Magbainkthay. The school was furnished with essential learning materials, desks, chairs, books and other supplies, with donations from partners. The total construction cost amounted to US$175,000.

Paramount Chief, Marampa Chiefdom, PC Bai Koblo Queen II described the project as a “major milestone” in the development of Marampa Chiefdom, highlighting the positive impact of mining on education, infrastructure and livelihoods. He reflected on the historical challenges following the closure of earlier mining operations and praised efforts to restore mining activities in the area.

The Paramount Chief emphasized the role of the 1% community development fund, noting that it has supported scholarships, teacher welfare and improved educational infrastructure. “This school is a symbol of progress for Maforki and the entire chiefdom. Education remains a key driver for development and we will continue to partner with MML to enable our children to become future leaders of Sierra Leone,” he said, urging parents to prioritize their children’s education.

Speaking for MML, Anthony Mansaray, Project Manager, explained that the relocation was motivated by safety concerns, as the former school was located less than 50 meters from the Valley B Tailings Storage Facility. He outlined the extensive consultations, stakeholder engagements and Government approvals that preceded construction and acknowledged the Kamara family for donating three acres of land for the project.

The construction, carried out by local contractor, YA Marie Investment, was supervised by the MML Projects Team to ensure quality. Anthony Mansaray expressed optimism that the new learning environment would positively impact pupils’ performances.

Gibrilla A. Sesay, Deputy Director of Education, Port Loko District, praised MML for complementing Government efforts to expand access to quality education. He assured that the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education would continue monitoring the school to ensure quality teaching and encouraged parents to support their children’s learning. He also urged teachers to pursue professional qualifications and licensing, promising Government support for certified teachers to be placed on payroll.

Safea Ndomaina, Deputy Development Secretary, Ministry of Planning and Economic Development, highlighted the project’s contribution to human capital development and acknowledged the role of Government in approving the school relocation and resettlement of nearby households. He commended MML for transparency, compliance with national resettlement policies and investment in community welfare.

Ibrahim Satti Kamara, Director of Communications and Community Affairs at the National Minerals Agency, described the initiative as evidence of responsible corporate presence, emphasizing the alignment of MML’s investment with national priorities for human capital development. He encouraged other companies in Sierra Leone to emulate MML by investing in meaningful community projects.

John David Cooper, Director of Policy, Ministry of Mines, representing Minister Julius Daniel Mattai, said the project reflects a commitment to placing people at the center of development and demonstrates that mining and community welfare can progress hand in hand. He stressed that education is a key pillar of national development and urged the community to take ownership of the school.

On his part, Resident Minister North-West, Ambassador Alhaji Umar Bond Wurie, praised Marampa Mines Limited (MML) for constructing the newly relocated Kulafai Rashideen Islamic Primary School in Maforki, describing the project as a major step toward improving learning conditions in mining-affected communities.

He also hailed the implementation of the 1% community development initiative for mining areas, explaining that the policy was initiated when he served as Permanent Secretary in the then Ministry of Mines, but only began to be implemented after the current administration returned to office.

“The completion of this beautiful school shows the commitment of Marampa Mines to the people of Marampa and Maforki,” he said.

Ambassador Alhaji Umar Bond Wurie encouraged community residents to continue working closely with the company and Government institutions to foster peaceful relations and ensure long-term benefits for local people. He urged residents to prioritize dialogue over confrontation in addressing concerns related to mining operations.

He further emphasized that national development must rise above political divisions, saying progress will only be achieved when communities and Government institutions jointly support initiatives aimed at improving living standards.

Ambassador Alhaji Umar Bond Wurie concluded by reiterating Government’s commitment to ensuring that communities benefit fairly from mining activities, while calling for continued cooperation and patience as development projects unfold within the district.

In his keynote address, Managing Director of Marampa Mines Limited, Angula Kalili, said the handover demonstrates the company’s commitment to community development, safety and inclusive progress in its operational chiefdom. He noted that the relocation became necessary due to the close proximity of the former school structure to the company’s Tailings Storage Facility.

The new facility comprises six fully furnished classrooms, an administrative office, a six-room toilet block, two hand pump water wells, a fenced compound for safety and a recreational space. Learning materials were also donated by Marampa Mines.

Angula Kalili expressed gratitude to the Kamara family for donating the land on which the school now stands and applauded local contractor Ya Marie Investment as well as the MML project team for successfully delivering the work.

He emphasized that the intervention aligns with the vision of Marampa Mines’ Board Chairman, Craig Dean, and supports the Government’s education priorities. “This investment is not just about a building; it is about empowering future leaders,” he said, assuring that the company remains committed to community welfare and sustainable development in the chiefdom.

The event which underscored a shared commitment among Marampa Mines, Government authorities and the community to improve educational infrastructure, ensure pupil safety and foster sustainable development in Marampa Chiefdom and beyond was climaxed by official commissioning of the school by the Angula Kalili, Managing Director of MML, Paramount Chief, Marampa Chiefdom, PC Bai Koblo Queen II and the Ambassador Alhaji Umar Bond Wurie, Resident Minister North-West followed by conducted tour of the facility.

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