UNDP, Japan Launch $486,600 Peace and Trade Initiatives to Boost Stability in Kailahun and Empower SMEs

March 2, 2026

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

United Nations Development Programme, in partnership with the Government of Japan and the Government of Sierra Leone, has officially launched two strategic initiatives valued at a combined total of USD 486,600 aimed at strengthening peace, human security and economic development in Kailahun District.

The launch, held on 26 February 2026 in Freetown, marks another significant milestone in the longstanding collaboration between UNDP and Japan in supporting Sierra Leone’s national development priorities, particularly in vulnerable border communities and within the Small and Medium-Sized Enterprise (SME) sector.

The first initiative, titled: “Strengthening Peace, Human Security and Resilience in Border Communities Affected by the Situation in Yenga in Kailahun District, Sierra Leone,” is valued at USD 220,000 and will run for 12 months.

The project targets communities in Kissi Teng Chiefdom, an area that has faced multidimensional socio-economic and security challenges linked to the situation in Yenga. Those pressures have impacted livelihoods, social cohesion and access to essential services.

Under the initiative, a solar-powered community-based border post will be rehabilitated, while joint patrol teams will be equipped with motorcycles and two-way radios to enhance coordination and security. The project will also strengthen community-based peace and security structures and deliver market-driven vocational and technical skills training for youth and women, complemented by financial literacy support.

Speaking at the launch, Japan’s Ambassador to Sierra Leone, H.E. Hiroshi Yoshimoto, described the projects as a concrete expression of Japan’s commitment to peace, stability and economic transformation in Sierra Leone.

“Today’s launch reflects our shared vision translated into action, strengthening peace in border communities while deepening business collaboration and economic ties between Japan and Sierra Leone. Japan remains committed to supporting sustainable peace, resilience and inclusive growth,” he stated.

UNDP Resident Representative Fredrick Ampiah emphasized the strategic alignment of the initiatives with Sierra Leone’s national development priorities, noting that peacebuilding and economic opportunity must advance together.

“These initiatives demonstrate how empowering SMEs, expanding trade and strengthening stability in vulnerable communities are mutually reinforcing goals,” he said.

The second initiative, “Building Trade Bridges: Strengthening SMEs–Japan Business Partnerships for Sustainable Growth in Sierra Leone,” is valued at USD 266,666. It aims to directly benefit 500 youth and women and indirectly support an additional 2,500 individuals through strengthened SME operations.

The project will improve local and global competitiveness through technical assistance, export-readiness training and the establishment of a branding and packaging facility at the Timbuktoo Unipod Innovation Space. The facility is expected to enhance product quality, ensure compliance with international standards and improve marketability for Sierra Leonean products targeting Japanese markets.

Executive Secretary of the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion, Hawa Samai, underscored the link between security and economic empowerment.

“When communities experience tangible benefits of peace, jobs, livelihoods and dignity, they become less susceptible to division and conflict. These interventions are both timely and transformative,” she noted.

Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs, David Fortune , highlighted the importance of strengthening local security structures, saying the initiative empowers residents to actively contribute to maintaining peace and stability in border communities.

Meanwhile, Acting Director for Export Promotion and Regional Integration at the Ministry of Trade and Industry, Mark Tamba Nyuma, reaffirmed that SMEs remain the backbone of Sierra Leone’s economy and that the trade initiative will support economic transformation while consolidating peace gains.

Representing the Kailahun District Council, Chairman Sahr Ahmed Kaikonjor Lamin pledged the Council’s full commitment to ensuring community participation and effective delivery of the projects.

Together, the two initiatives reaffirm the strong and enduring partnership between UNDP and the Government of Japan in advancing stability, resilience and inclusive development across Sierra Leone.

Since 1965, UNDP has partnered with the Government and people of Sierra Leone to reduce poverty, strengthen democratic governance, build climate resilience and promote inclusive economic growth. Guided by its current Country Programme Document, the agency continues to support national priorities aimed at advancing sustainable development and ensuring that no one is left behind.

$124M Lungi Hotel and Presidential Villa Project Secures Parliamentary Approval

March 2, 2026

The Parliament of Sierra Leone on Monday, February 25, 2026, unanimously debated and ratified a series of key agreements between the Government of Sierra Leone and several international financial institutions and development partners aimed at strengthening infrastructure, water security, agriculture, regional integration and economic growth.

Presenting the agreements before the House, Minister of Finance, Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura, described the approvals as a significant step toward expanding Sierra Leone’s development trajectory and enhancing its economic resilience.

Among the most prominent agreements ratified was a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Agreement for the design and construction of the Lungi Hotel, Congress Centre and Presidential Villa Complex, including the operational management of the hotel facility. The agreement, signed on February 16, 2026, is between the Government of Sierra Leone and FB Group ULUSLARARASI YATIRIM VE DIS Ticaret Anonim Sirketi.

According to the Finance Minister, the project represents a $124 million investment aimed at constructing an ultra-modern facility capable of hosting major international conferences and global events. He explained that the financing arrangement is structured as a loan through a bank and will include the development of a hotel, a presidential villa and a conference complex in Lungi.

The Minister emphasized that the project is expected to enhance Sierra Leone’s global visibility, promote tourism and attract international engagements.

Parliament also ratified several financing and loan agreements with institutions including the International Development Association (IDA), the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF), the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA), the OPEC Fund for International Development and the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD).

Key among them is a $40 million Financing Agreement for the Sierra Leone Water Security and WASH Access Improvement Project, Phase One of a Multi-Phase Programmatic Approach. The project aims to strengthen water supply systems and improve access to safe water and sanitation services nationwide.

Lawmakers further approved additional financing for the Harmonizing and Improving Statistics in West Africa Project, as well as grant support under the Global Environment Facility to strengthen implementation of the Stockholm and Minamata Conventions in African Least Developed Countries.

In the agriculture sector, Parliament ratified agreements relating to the West African Food System Resilience Programme (FSRP) Phase Two, the Livestock and Livelihoods Development Programme (LLDP) and a facility agreement with BADEA to finance the importation of rice and food products.

A loan agreement for the construction of the Bauya–Bendu Road Project and a programme agreement under the Mano River Union Road Development and Transport Facilitation Programme Phase IV were also endorsed, further advancing regional connectivity and infrastructure expansion.

Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Finance, Hon. Keikura C. Vandy of Bo District, underscored the importance of resource mobilization for effective governance. He urged implementing agencies to ensure that approved agreements are utilized judiciously and transparently.

Hon. Keikura C. Vandy welcomed the water and livestock-related agreements, encouraging citizens to engage in agriculture to strengthen the national economy. He also commended the Finance Minister for his efforts in advancing economic reforms.

Whip of the Opposition, Hon. Abdul Karim Kamara of Kambia District, called for intensified Government efforts to improve water supply nationwide and reduce dependence on imported goods through greater investment in livestock and local production. While acknowledging the significance of development initiatives, he questioned the immediate impact of the Lungi construction project on the lives of ordinary Sierra Leoneans, stressing that basic social services must remain a priority.

Deputy Opposition Leader 2, Hon. Aaron Koroma, raised concerns about delays in making documents available to Members of Parliament prior to ratification. He also noted the absence of clarity on the operational period of the Lungi agreement and called for improved revenue-sharing terms, suggesting that a 10 percent share appeared minimal. He urged Statistics Sierra Leone to remain professional and apolitical and encouraged the Ministry of Finance to prioritize concessional loan negotiations.

Concluding debate on behalf of the Government, Majority Leader and Leader of Government Business, Hon. Sahr Mathew Nyuma, described the agreements as progressive and development-oriented. He highlighted the strategic importance of the Lungi Complex, noting that Lungi serves as Sierra Leone’s gateway and that the project would significantly boost the local economy.

He also referenced a separate project exceeding $50 million aimed at driving infrastructural and economic development in Bonthe District, affirming Government’s commitment to service delivery and national progress.

Responding to issues raised by Members, the Finance Minister assured Parliament that Government would address concerns and continue to pursue concessional financing arrangements where feasible.

With the ratification of the agreements, Sierra Leone positions itself to accelerate infrastructure expansion, strengthen water security, enhance agricultural productivity and deepen regional cooperation as part of its broader national development agenda.

Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr Hosts Austrian Delegation to Discuss Urban Growth and Job Creation

March 2, 2026

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr on Monday, February 23, 2026, hosted a high-level Austrian delegation in Freetown, engaging in strategic discussions focused on urban growth, infrastructure management and job creation in the Sierra Leonean capital.

The Mayor, joined by her Deputy and the Deputy Chief Administrator, received Austria’s Deputy Minister of European and International Affairs, Nikolaus Marschik, during a courtesy call that underscored deepening bilateral engagement between Freetown and Austria.

The meeting provided a platform for the Freetown City Council to share its priorities and perspectives as Austria formulates its new Africa Strategy. According to Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, the discussions were frank and forward-looking, addressing both immediate challenges and long-term development goals.

“The meeting provided an opportunity for Freetown to share our priorities and perspectives as Austria shapes its new Africa Strategy,” the Mayor stated.

Central to the dialogue were the structural challenges confronting Freetown as it continues to experience rapid population growth. Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr outlined concerns relating to land-use planning, the effectiveness of building permit systems and the broader need for robust urban management frameworks capable of supporting a fast-expanding city.

She emphasized that without modernized systems and coordinated urban planning, cities like Freetown risk facing mounting pressure on infrastructure, public services and environmental sustainability.

The Austrian delegation was briefed on ongoing efforts by the City Council to strengthen governance mechanisms and improve administrative efficiency. Discussions also explored how international partnerships could support technical capacity-building, policy reform and sustainable urban development initiatives.

Beyond infrastructure and regulatory reforms, Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr highlighted Freetown’s development roadmap, which she described as being anchored on one clear objective: job creation.

She explained that urban transformation must go hand in hand with economic empowerment, particularly for young people. By aligning urban management reforms with economic opportunity, the city aims to foster entrepreneurship, stimulate local industries and create a more resilient economic environment.

The Mayor noted that tackling unemployment remains central to addressing broader social challenges, including poverty and migration pressures. As such, strategic partnerships with international actors are seen as vital in mobilizing expertise and investment that can accelerate inclusive growth.

The visit by Deputy Minister, Nikolaus Marschik and his delegation comes at a time when Austria is redefining its engagement with African nations. Freetown’s leadership used the opportunity to position the city as a key partner in areas such as sustainable urban planning, governance reform and youth-focused economic initiatives.

Observers say the meeting reflects Freetown’s proactive diplomatic approach, as city authorities increasingly engage international stakeholders to address pressing urban challenges. Rather than waiting for national-level interventions alone, the City Council continues to pursue city-to-country partnerships aimed at unlocking technical assistance and investment.

While no formal agreements were announced during the courtesy call, the engagement was widely viewed as a constructive step toward enhanced cooperation. Both sides expressed interest in exploring areas of mutual benefit, particularly in urban development and employment generation.

Amid the challenges of rapid urban expansion, the Mayor’s engagement with international partners demonstrates a firm commitment to advancing innovative solutions and strengthening global collaboration. The meeting with the Austrian delegation further highlights the administration’s resolve to reinforce governance systems, unlock sustainable growth opportunities and significantly enhance the quality of life for residents.

IGR Report Highlights Waste, Political Influence in Prison Rice Procurement from 2016 to 2023

March 2, 2026

Executive Director of IGR, Andrew Lavali

By Ibrahim Sesay

The Institute for Governance Reform (IGR) has launched a report highlighting alleged inefficiencies and political influence in the procurement and distribution of rice for prisoners in Sierra Leone. The Press Conference was held on Thursday February 26, 2026 at the organization’s headquarters on Spur Road in Freetown.

The report, titled: Di Hade’ Pa Di Case – Part II: Prison Rice and the Case for a New Politics, analyzed 552 prison contracts from 2016 to 2023, 202 under the previous administration and 350 under the current Government, alongside data on firms’ political connections.

Executive Director of IGR, Andrew Lavali, said the study examined rice procurement as a window into broader Government food procurement, including for the military, police and other institutions. He explained that rice and other condiments account for 62 percent of prison procurement and when put together with regular and special diets, these food items make up 77 percent of the prison budget.

“This research asked an important question: how does the rice procured for prisoners compare to what is actually consumed?”Andrew Lavali said. “It also examines whether there are material deductions in supply and whether patterns change across administrations.”

The report found that, on paper, prisoners were allocated an average of 10.2 cups of rice per day, with significant fluctuations across the years. In 2017, the rice-to-prisoner ratio peaked at 15 cups per day, before falling sharply between 2020 and 2022 and rising again to 11 cups per day in 2023. Andrew Lavali said these differences align with patterns of “seasonality of corruption,” which studies show can increase in election years.

The report estimates that at least 80 percent of the NLe 211 million (approximately USD 17.8 million) spent on prison rice from 2016 to 2023 may have been wasteful. It also revealed that roughly 60 percent of prison contractors were replaced following the 2018 change of Government. This suggests a strong link between procurement and political affiliation.

Additional findings point to potential instances of double-dipping, as prison farms that were funded to produce food did not supply any of the items, with the Government procuring all food directly.

The report recommended that the Government review procurement and distribution of rice and other food items across all institutions, copying from international best practices to reduce costs, maintain nutritional quality and lower administrative burdens. The organisation also called for digitalization of public procurement processes to enhance transparency and accountability.

Andrew Lavali emphasized the need of a new kind of politics. “Our politics is unproductive and divisive, and one of the drivers of that division is the benefits that politics brings. Rice procurement is just one example.”

IGR is a think-tank civil society organisation that promotes transparency, accountability and good governance through research, monitoring, and advocacy.

Chief Justice Komba Kamanda, Justice Fatmatta Bintu Alhadi Sworn In as Judges of Residual Special Court in The Hague

March 2, 2026

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leone’s Chief Justice, His Lordship Honourable Justice Komba Kamanda, has earned widespread commendation following his appointment and swearing-in as a Judge of the Residual Special Court for Sierra Leone (RSCSL) in The Hague, Netherlands on 28 February 2026 a development widely viewed as a defining moment for the country’s judiciary.

The Chief Justice was formally sworn in on 26 February 2026 during a solemn ceremony presided over by the President of the Court, Honourable Justice Richard Brunt Lussick. He took the oath of office alongside Supreme Court Judge, Honourable Justice Fatmatta Bintu Alhadi, who was also appointed to serve on the Court.

The latest appointments have significantly elevated Sierra Leone’s judicial profile on the international stage, reinforcing the growing credibility, competence and integrity of the nation’s justice sector.

In a related development, Honourable Justice Tonia Barnett was appointed as Staff Appeal Judge by the Judges of the RSCSL, further consolidating Sierra Leone’s presence within the global judicial architecture.

Observers say the appointments are not isolated achievements but rather the result of deliberate judicial diplomacy and reform initiatives spearheaded by Chief Justice Komba Kamanda since he assumed office in December 2024.

Under his leadership, the Judiciary has intensified engagement with regional and global judicial institutions, particularly within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Through structured partnerships, participation in international forums and cross-border collaborations, Sierra Leonean judges have gained increased exposure to international best practices in adjudication, judicial ethics and court administration.

Judges, Magistrates and court personnel have also benefited from international trainings, exchange programmes and workshops designed to strengthen case management systems, enhance ethical standards and improve overall institutional efficiency.

“Our judiciary must not only administer justice within our borders but also stand confidently among the community of nations,” Chief Justice Komba Kamanda stated. “By investing in capacity building and creating opportunities for international exposure, we are strengthening the integrity of our institution and demonstrating that Sierra Leonean judges can contribute meaningfully to global jurisprudence.”

Chief Justice Komba Kamanda’s elevation to the RSCSL marks another milestone in a distinguished legal career defined by leadership and reform. Beyond his new international role, he continues to serve as Chairman of the ECOWAS Judicial Council, working alongside Chief Justices across the sub-region to promote harmonization of legal standards and strengthen the rule of law.

At the national level, he also chairs the Council of Legal Education in Sierra Leone, overseeing the training and professional development of legal practitioners; a role widely acknowledged as central to consolidating long-term judicial reform.

Legal experts describe the swearing-in ceremony in The Hague as a source of national pride and a reaffirmation of Sierra Leone’s commitment to accountability and international justice.

The Residual Special Court for Sierra Leone succeeded the Special Court for Sierra Leone and continues to carry out essential residual functions following the conclusion of war crimes trials related to the country’s decade-long civil conflict, which ended in 2002. Its mandate includes the protection of witnesses, supervision of sentences, management of archives and other ongoing legal responsibilities.

The appointments of Chief Justice Komba Kamanda, Justice Fatmatta Bintu Alhadi and Justice Tonia Barnett signal not only personal professional accomplishment but also a broader affirmation of Sierra Leone’s growing stature within the international judicial community.

Analysts note that the development reflects sustained institutional progress and positions Sierra Leone’s Judiciary as an active contributor to global justice and post-conflict accountability mechanisms.

With Sierra Leonean judges now occupying key roles at one of the world’s notable international tribunals, the country’s justice sector appears poised to further consolidate its reputation as a credible and respected pillar of governance both at home and abroad.

Pioneer Power Engineering Chairman Issues Public Disclaimer Over Company’s Operational Control

March 2, 2026

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Chairman and Majority Shareholder of Pioneer Power Engineering Company (SL) Limited, Zhang Jiakai, has issued a formal public clarification concerning the company’s current management and operational control, citing ongoing judicial proceedings and internal corporate governance decisions.

In a public notice dated 24th February 2026 and addressed to business partners, stakeholders and the general public, Zhang Jiakai stated that the clarification became necessary following recent developments affecting the company’s leadership structure and decision-making authority.

According to the statement, the matter dates back to May 2024 when the Board of Directors of Pioneer Power Engineering Company (SL) Limited convened in accordance with its internal governance procedures and relevant legal provisions. During that meeting, the Board unanimously resolved to remove Zhou Wenjie, a minority shareholder holding 10 percent equity, from his managerial position within the company.

The situation, however, reportedly took a new turn in July 2025 following the commencement of judicial proceedings. As a result of the ongoing legal processes, Zhou Wenjie has since temporarily assumed operational control of the company.

Zhang Jiakai explained that under the prevailing circumstances, the majority shareholder and the original Board of Directors no longer have effective control over the company’s daily operations. He noted that this lack of control extends to key areas including financial management, contractual commitments and administrative decisions.

He further clarified that the majority shareholder and the original Board are not participating in, authorizing or approving any of the operational activities currently being carried out under the acting management.

The notice also contains a formal disclaimer aimed at limiting liability during this period. It specifies that any production activities, sales transactions, contractual agreements, financial arrangements, guarantees, asset disposals, land-related matters or other commercial engagements undertaken at this time are being executed without the authorization or approval of the majority shareholder or the original Board of Directors.

The statement emphasizes that such activities do not reflect the corporate will as previously constituted under the company’s original governance structure. Rather, they are described as actions undertaken independently by the current acting management pending the outcome of judicial proceedings.

Consequently, Zhang Jiakai asserted that the majority shareholder and the original Board shall not bear responsibility or liability for any obligations, risks or disputes arising from transactions conducted during this period. He cautioned that third parties choosing to engage in business dealings with the company under the present arrangement do so at their own independent risk.

Despite the ongoing governance dispute, the Chairman affirmed that the majority shareholder and the original Board have initiated legal action and will continue to pursue appropriate remedies through the judicial system. The notice expressly reserves all legal rights, claims and remedies available to them under the law.

Zhang Jiakai concluded by stating that the public clarification was issued strictly for transparency and risk disclosure purposes, emphasizing that all matters remain subject to final judicial determination.

The unfolding situation places Pioneer Power Engineering Company (SL) Limited at the center of a significant legal and corporate governance dispute, one that business stakeholders and industry observers are expected to monitor closely as court proceedings continue.

Second Batch of Budapest–Bamako–Freetown Rally Heads for Grand Coastal Finish at Lumley Beach

March 2, 2026

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs has intensified preparations ahead of the arrival of the second batch of participants in the globally renowned Budapest–Bamako–Freetown Rally, with an inter-ministerial and private sector coordination meeting held to ensure seamless logistics and hosting.

The high-level Inter–Ministry, Department and Agency (MDA) and Private Sector Committee Meeting was convened at the Ministry’s Conference Hall and chaired by the Deputy Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Sahr Philip Morsay. In his remarks, Sahr Philip Morsay commended MDAs and private sector stakeholders for their effective collaboration during the successful hosting of the first batch of rally participants on February 25, 2026.

He emphasized that the collective effort demonstrated Sierra Leone’s growing capacity to host large-scale international events and urged partners to sustain the momentum as the country prepares to welcome the second group.

According to updates shared during the meeting, the second batch of the rally is expected to arrive in Sierra Leone on March 5, 2026. The group will comprise approximately 492 participants travelling in 203 vehicles, marking another significant influx of international visitors into the country.

Upon arrival, participants will overnight at Bureh Beach, one of the country’s most popular coastal destinations, before proceeding to Freetown for the official finish line ceremony at Lumley Beach.

Deliberations at the meeting focused on ensuring sustained coordination among all relevant stakeholders, including security agencies, tourism authorities, transport operators, health services and hospitality providers. Participants discussed detailed logistical arrangements, safety protocols, traffic management, accommodation, media coverage and visitor experience strategies aimed at delivering a smooth and memorable event.

Officials underscored the importance of maintaining high standards of safety and hospitality, noting that the rally presents a unique opportunity to further project Sierra Leone as a safe, attractive and adventure-friendly tourism destination.

The Government of Sierra Leone, through the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs and its partners, continues to position Freetown as the official finish destination of the Budapest–Bamako–Freetown Rally, widely regarded as the world’s largest amateur vehicular adventure event. The rally has increasingly drawn global attention, offering participating teams a challenging cross-continental journey that concludes on the shores of the Atlantic.

Stakeholders at the meeting reaffirmed their commitment to intensified collaboration in the lead-up to the second batch’s arrival. They emphasized that a well-coordinated and successful finish line ceremony would not only enhance the country’s international image but also stimulate economic activity across the hospitality, transport and creative sectors.

With preparations entering their final phase, authorities remain confident that the upcoming arrival will further consolidate Sierra Leone’s reputation as a capable host of major international events while showcasing its rich tourism and cultural potential to a global audience.

A New Dawn for UBC Sierra Leone: Rev. Elizabeth E. W. Sowa Consecrated as First Female Bishop

March 2, 2026

The United Brethren in Christ Sierra Leone Conference has entered a historic chapter with the consecration of Reverend Elizabeth Eleanor Wuyah Sowa as its first-ever female bishop, marking a transformative moment in the life and leadership of the church.

Reverend Elizabeth Eleanor Wuyah Sowa was formally consecrated on February 15, 2026, in a spiritually uplifting and well-attended ceremony following her landmark election on October 10, 2025, at the Henrietta School Compound in Kenema City. Her victory was declared after what observers and stakeholders described as a free, fair and credible electoral process, underscoring the transparency and integrity of the Conference.

The consecration service attracted ministers, delegates, ecumenical partners and dignitaries from across Sierra Leone. Representatives from the Council of Churches in Sierra Leone, the Evangelical Fellowship of Sierra Leone, the Inter-Religious Council of Sierra Leone, sister denominations and members of the wider Christian community gathered in unity to witness what many described as a divine appointment and a new dawn for the church.

Her election shattered a longstanding glass ceiling within the Conference and has been widely celebrated as a monumental milestone for gender inclusion in church leadership. For many within the denomination, the moment signaled not only progress but a reaffirmation of the church’s commitment to recognizing God’s calling irrespective of gender.

Prior to her elevation to the episcopacy, Bishop Elizabeth Eleanor Wuyah Sowa served faithfully as pastor of Faith UBC Church in Freetown, where she distinguished herself through dedicated pastoral care, dynamic preaching and servant leadership. She brings to the office of bishop a wealth of ministerial experience, marked by humility, compassion and an unwavering commitment to advancing the Gospel.

In her remarks during the consecration ceremony, Bishop Elizabeth Eleanor Wuyah Sowa expressed profound gratitude to God and appreciation to the Conference for the trust reposed in her. “I give all thanks and praise to God Almighty for this historic moment,” she declared.

She paid tribute to the outgoing bishop, Reverend John Momoh Pessima, acknowledging his leadership and service to the church. She also extended appreciation to her colleagues and delegates for their cooperation and support throughout the transition process.

Emphasizing unity and collective responsibility, Bishop Elizabeth Eleanor Wuyah Sowa called on members of the United Brethren family to work together in harmony. “We can only achieve our shared goals through unity and teamwork,” she stated, urging the church to remain focused on its spiritual mandate and mission.

In a spirit of reconciliation and sisterhood, she reaffirmed her respect for her electoral opponent, describing her as a beloved sister in Christ. She encouraged the entire church body to move forward together in faith, purpose, and service, putting aside divisions and embracing a shared vision for the future.

The consecration of Bishop Elizabeth Eleanor Wuyah Sowa represents not only a personal milestone in her ministerial journey but also a defining breakthrough for the United Brethren in Christ Sierra Leone Conference. It signals the beginning of a new era characterized by inclusive leadership, renewed vision and strengthened commitment to spiritual growth and national impact.

With the Conference entering a new chapter under her leadership, many within the Christian community remain hopeful that her tenure will inspire transformation, strengthen unity, and advance the Church’s mission across Sierra Leone and beyond.

MBSSE Partners with NGOs to Distribute 27,369 Bags of Rice for School Feeding

March 2, 2026

inister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Conrad Sackey

By Isatu Sankoh

The Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE) has reinforced its commitment to improving learner welfare by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with three key implementing partners under the National School Feeding Programme for the distribution of 27,369 bags of rice across the country.

The agreement, signed on Friday, February 27, brings together the Ministry and its partners, Plan International, World Food Programme (WFP) and Women United for Progress, to ensure the effective allocation and distribution of food supplies donated by the Government of China and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

The total consignment comprises 20,369 bags of rice donated by the Chinese Government and an additional 350 metric tons of rice from ECOWAS, equivalent to 7,000 bags. The intervention is aimed at sustaining and expanding the National School Feeding Programme, which plays a critical role in improving school attendance, retention and learner concentration nationwide.

According to the Ministry, the 20,369 bags received from China will be distributed among the implementing partners as follows:

40 percent to Plan International
40 percent to Women United for Progress
20 percent to the World Food Programme

Meanwhile, from the 7,000 bags donated by ECOWAS, 100 bags have been earmarked for boarding homes. The remaining 6,900 bags will be shared equally between Plan International and Women United for Progress, with each organization receiving 3,450 bags.

Speaking during the signing ceremony, Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Conrad Sackey, emphasized that strict monitoring mechanisms have been put in place to guarantee transparency and accountability throughout the distribution process.

He disclosed that, guided by the Ministry’s Internal Auditor, the handover and delivery procedures have been carefully structured to ensure that the rice reaches the intended beneficiary schools without diversion or misuse.

Minister Conrad Sackey further noted that oversight of the process will involve members of the media, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), and representatives from the Anti-Corruption Commission. He described their participation as essential in maintaining public confidence and ensuring that donor contributions are utilized strictly for their intended purpose.

To facilitate smooth delivery, vehicles provided by the European Union and other development partners will support the transportation and monitoring of the rice supplies across districts.

Andrew Ivaguha, Team Lead at Plan International, welcomed the collaboration and praised the Ministry’s leadership in strengthening the school feeding initiative. He described the programme as vital to promoting equitable access to education, especially for vulnerable children.

The Team Lead encouraged stakeholders and the public to observe the distribution process and witness firsthand how the food supplies will benefit identified schools. Andrew Ivaguha also commended the Ministry for maintaining an open and transparent engagement with partners.

The National School Feeding Programme remains one of the Government’s key social protection interventions within the education sector. By ensuring that pupils receive at least one nutritious meal during the school day, the initiative continues to address barriers to education while supporting child nutrition and learning outcomes.

With the latest influx of rice donations, MBSSE and its partners aim to expand coverage and enhance the sustainability of the programme, reaffirming the Government’s broader commitment to improving educational access and student welfare across Sierra Leone.

Vice President Hosts Orange CEO in Strategic Talks on National Digital Transformation

March 2, 2026

Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh and Chief Executive Officer of Orange Sierra Leone, Aïcha Touré

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Chief Executive Officer of Orange Sierra Leone, Aïcha Touré, visited the Vice President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, to reaffirm the company’s unwavering commitment to advancing digital connectivity and inclusive growth nationwide.

The high-level engagement underscored Orange Sierra Leone’s strategic focus on expanding telecommunications infrastructure and strengthening its partnership with Government to accelerate national development. During the meeting, Madam Aïcha Touré assured the Vice President of the company’s continued investment in broadening network coverage, improving service quality and deploying innovative digital solutions aimed at enhancing customer experience and bridging the connectivity gap across urban and rural communities.

She emphasized that telecommunications remains a critical driver of socio-economic transformation, noting that increased access to reliable digital services supports financial inclusion, stimulates entrepreneurship, enhances educational opportunities and empowers young people with tools to compete in a rapidly evolving global economy.

In his response, Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh welcomed the visit and commended Orange Sierra Leone for its sustained contributions to the country’s digital ecosystem. He reiterated Government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment that supports private sector growth, particularly in the technology and telecommunications sectors, which he described as pivotal to Sierra Leone’s long-term development agenda.

The Vice President further encouraged deeper collaboration between Orange and relevant state institutions to ensure that digital expansion efforts align with national priorities, including improved service delivery, innovation and equitable access to technology for underserved communities.

The meeting highlighted the importance of strong public-private partnerships in strengthening digital infrastructure and unlocking new economic opportunities. Both parties expressed optimism about continued cooperation aimed at expanding access to affordable and reliable telecommunications services across the country.

Orange Sierra Leone reaffirmed its dedication to connecting communities, empowering businesses and delivering cutting-edge services that improve lives and contribute meaningfully to Sierra Leone’s inclusive growth and digital transformation journey.