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NP-SL is a Reservoir of Inspiration for Actualizing any Viable Business Initiative

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By Amin Kef Sesay

It cannot be contested in shape or form to correctly state that, unlike some business entities operating in the country, the National Petroleum-Sierra Leone Limited (NP-SL Ltd) is currently a very reliable source of drawing inspiration by indigenes that have big dreams of coming together to establish a business entity that they may want to see grow exponentially into becoming a towering business entity.

Without any gainsaying, there are many useful lessons that could be learnt from NP-SL Ltd that could inspire aspiring entrepreneurs which would definitely serve as a roadmap to navigate through the business landscape in order to crystallize their dreams into reality.

The company was founded decades ago by thirty-five Sierra Leoneans who were erstwhile employees of the British Petroleum Company which decided to fold up and sell its shares to the Government of Sierra Leone. Based on technical advice, the Government also decided to sell its shares and the 35 former workers bought those shares to set up what became known as the National Petroleum-SL Ltd. It must be highlighted at this juncture that the company is a private-owned business entity and the Government has no hands in it, does not decide how it is operated and grappling with challenges.

One of the underlying factors that have been noted for the meteoric rise of the company could be attributed to the selflessness of its shareholders. These ambitious Sierra Leoneans were so dedicated to the cause of catapulting their “baby” to higher height to such an extent that they put all their best initiatives into play that culminated into the company becoming a formidable force to reckon with.

These fine business initiatives were well implemented to the letter which led to the realization of fruitful dividends. Selflessness, in this context, could mean putting aside ego, working with a collective sense of purpose, brushing aside deceit, greed and ready to give as well as take. This could be the first Lesson.

The next lesson borders around enhancing customer care with the avowed objective of giving optimum satisfaction. The Shareholders and various Management teams harnessed this so well to an extent that they have succeeded in broadening their customer base. As far as they are concerned it is the interests of customers which are paramount and therefore everything must be done to ensure that those interests are given due consideration whenever decisions are taken to push the company forward.

It is in this regard that the shareholders decided to go in for modern calibrated pumping machines which are capable of churning out the right quantity of fuel that a buyer puts in for as well as displaying the price. These machines make fuel transactions become very transparent, thereby giving customers satisfaction and confidence that they are deriving their monies worth.

Within that realm, the Shareholders also thought it prudent to introduce NP Smart Card which is now in vogue. This Smart Card can be used to purchase fuel, petrol and diesel, with ease avoiding the hassle of having to be rushing to the banks to re intermittently withdrawing monies for the purpose of purchasing fuel. The card could be credited with a certain amount of money and whenever transaction transpires the amount utilized is debited. Its greatest advantage is that it avails the holder of the Smart Card the opportunity to programme or budget him or herself to purchase fuel on a periodic basis.

NP Gas is now going like hot cakes on the market. It is a cooker which has been proven to be very effective in terms of performance. Manufactured in different cylinder sizes it has been attested to be environmentally friendly in terms of less gaseous emissions that could pose health risks. NP Gas can be secured at all the leading Filing Stations of the company and its authorized dealers.

With all these attractive offers, there is a lesson that enhancing customer care is very key to the growth of any business enterprise. Aspiring entrepreneurs could learn from this.

What also has been identified as a good business initiative which the company has mastered so effectively has to do with promoting the country’s Local Content Policy. The intent of this policy is geared towards ensuring that we make proper use of our local resources, human as well as material, in the production chain.  It is against such a backdrop that the company limits employment opportunities to qualified Sierra Leoneans instead of bringing over expatriates to perform tasks that could be better done by indigenes. Knowing that they are employed by an indigenous company such gives the employees the sense of ownership and the extra motivation to give their best to the company.

Another Lesson: Make use of local resources which could be cost effective instead of spending much to use expatriates just for the sake of showing off. Besides, monies, in the forms of salaries and end of service benefits are retained and not taken out of the country. It gives any company operating with such a policy a nationalistic flavour.

To give back to society, in the form of Corporate Social Responsibility, brings with it respectability and integrity. It is very important to be in a position to always assist residents in communities where a business entity operates or to the country as a whole.

From all what have been said so far, it could be seen that NP-SL Ltd has valuable lessons which aspiring entrepreneurs could imbibe and infuse in their activities if fruitful dividends must be realized. Indeed, NP-SL Ltd is really a source of inspiration and a reservoir of good business initiatives.

Alfred Peter Conteh Vs APC… Justice Fisher Fines APC Le50M for Not Carrying Out Court Order

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By Amin Kef Sesay

Justice Adrian Fisher on Wednesday 1st December ruled that the Secretary General of the All People’s Congress party, Ambassador Foday Yansaneh, did not commit contempt of court in the process leading to the holding of the party’s Emergency National Delegates’ Conference in Makeni City that adopted the new party constitution.

However, he ordered that the Party should pay a fine of Le50 million for contempt of the court’s order to deal with the issue of membership.

It can be recalled that immediately after that Emergency National Delegates’ Conference convened by the APC party this year, a Senior Executive member of the party, Alfred Peter Conteh, through his legal counsel filed a petition to the Freetown High Court against the APC National Chairman and Leader, erstwhile President Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma and the National Secretary General, Ambassador Alhaji Dr. Osman Foday Yansaneh for contempt of court.

In his Notice of Motion, Alfred Peter Conteh notified the court that the party did not follow due processes intended for the adoption of its new constitution because some people who were disenfranchised did not participate in the electioneering process which, according to him, was in breach with the August 11, 2021 court orders.

The complainant also protested that some members that should have served as mere observers in the deliberations leading to the adoption of the new constitution ended officiating the entire process and, according to him, the party has therefore flouted most of the directives of the court orders from the onset.

In the same judgment, Justice Fisher ruled in the matter of Sylvia Blyden that her petition was in place and that the court will entertain it, even though Counsel for Alfred Peter Conteh had told the court that both matters should not be heard co-jointly.

He ordered APC to within 14 days of his ruling to resolve the party’s membership issue, noting that membership is the lifeblood of the party.

He also observed that the party made no attempt to rerun elections in seven constituencies which he said must be done before the party’s National Delegates’ Conference.

It must be noted that in his ruling, Justice Adrian Fisher mentioned the application made by Dr Sylvia Blyden to be added as a party in the matter was not appropriate. He said: “Having conducted a thorough analysis of both cases, there seems to be little difference in substance between the case presented by the plaintiff and that presented by Dr Blyden. They both raise issues of illegality and undemocratic practices within the APC party, of which both of them are members.

He said whilst the plaintiff (Peter Conteh), simply challenges the legal status of some Executive members of the party, Dr Blyden challenges the same legal status of Executive members but provides an in-depth analysis of the said undemocratic practices within the party

Justice Adrian Fisher stated:

“In the circumstances, I am satisfied that on the available evidence before me and having regard to the issues raised by Dr Blyden in her application, her presence is not necessary in this litigation for the purpose of determining the issues in this case.

Her presence would merely lengthen the proceedings and would have the effect of re-litigating issues which have already been recognized by the defendants.

Steps have been taken to regularize the position by the adoption of a new democratic constitution.

As Dr Blyden herself recognized, she has a desire to have these matters resolved as quickly as possible, in the interest of democracy. All parties are equally of the same view that these matters need to be resolved very quickly.”

He concluded that Dr Blyden as a party to these proceedings would be inimical to the speedy progress required and expressed by all parties in submissions.

Dr. Blyden had also wanted the defendants to produce what she refers to as a legitimate constitution of 5th October 1991. However, Justice Fisher raised the issue with Dr Blyden during the course of arguments and pointed out to her that the issue of a 1991 Constitution of the APC party had never been litigated in any of the courts in Sierra Leone, from the Supreme Court downwards and all the relevant authorities show that the only constitution that has been involved in litigation over the years has been the 1995 constitution.

He said the difficulty she has with that approach, is the fact that she has adduced no evidence to show that the 5th October 1991 Constitution she refers to was never formally adopted in accordance with any party constitution or relevant law, in force at the material time.

Justice Adrian Fisher stated that in the light of those facts, the court cannot grant an order requiring the defendants to produce a 1991 constitution, which has never been litigated in any court, particularly so as his court has ordered the defendants to adopt a new constitution at a court ordered emergency national delegates conference.

He said had Dr Blyden applied to this court prior to the orders of the court on the 19th April 2021, for the order she was seeking then the court would have been inclined to grant such an order but said it is now too late in the day to seek such an order.

Sierra Leone Commercial Bank Presents to Government over Le20B as Dividend

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By Amin Kef Sesay

The Sierra Leone Commercial Bank (SLCB), the leading financial services provider in the country on the 2nd December 2021 presented over twenty billion Leones as dividend to  the Government at State House in Freetown, after what is somehow considered as another successful business year, despite the huge financial constraint caused to the economy by COVID-19.

Speaking at the presentation of the cheque to His Excellency, President Bio, SLCB Acting Managing Director, Bockarie Kalokoh, stated that the bank has performed tremendously well over the years. He disclosed that they own assets worth Le2.6 Trillion, with a market share of 20 per cent, despite a stiff competitive climate.

SLCB Board Chairman, Dr J. D. Rogers, gave a rundown of the key indicators why SLCB remains at the top with the largest customer base and highest deposits.

In response, President Bio said that he was very delighted to receive such pleasant news from SLCB. “This is news all Sierra Leoneans should be proud of,” he said.

President Bio reflected that some years ago, SLCB was on the verge of sinking but through the stringent corrective measures taken by his Government, the Bank has not only survived but thrived.

President Bio impressed the Management that they can only succeed when they come together. He urged Board and Management to step up.

He thanked the Board and l Management for the dividend, noting that, “This shows that we Sierra Leoneans are performers.” He heaped praises on the NASSIT Director-General and all stakeholders for competently managing the affairs of SLCB.

The Team was led by the Minister of Finance, Dennis K. Vandi and Financial Secretary, Sahr Jusu. SLCB, a bank that is a hundred per cent own by the Government and the people of Sierra Leone, has started paying dividends to the Government in the past two years now.

Such is considered as a clear manifestation that the bank is still in good shape under the distinguished leadership of the Acting Managing Director, Bockarie Kalokoh, and his team consisting of the Board of Directors, Management and staff. A team that is very determined to do all their best to maintain the top spot in the banking industry.

SLCB has the largest customer base and its operations are spread out across the country, leveraging on its assets for profitability.

The Bank remains an undisputed leader in the industry with innovation, customer-centric products as well as a bank with the highest branches across the country.

They brought banking services to the doorstep of its customers with the introduction of ‘Mi Yone Teller’ and ‘Mi Yone Kiosk’ products.

With Support from Chinese Embassy…                        Ministry of Western Region to Give York & John Obey Communities 100 Street Lights

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By Foday Moriba Conteh

In response to a request made by the Ministry of Western Region to the People’s Republic of China, through the Chinese Embassy in Sierra Leone towards promoting the security and development of York and John Obey communities, the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Sierra Leone has on Tuesday 30th November, 2021 signed an agreement with the Ministry of Western Region for the provision of 100 sets of solar street lights (180w) worth 420 Million Leones to the Ministry of Western Region to light up York and John Obey communities respectively. The signing ceremony, for the implementation of the project by the Ministry, took place at the Chinese Embassy on Spur Road in Freetown.

According to the agreement, the Embassy will provide, through a local supplier called G.Q Trade Limited, the 100 set of solar street lights (180w) to the Ministry of Western Region. The supplier will then transport the lights to the communities and install them, of which the

Ministry shall coordinate residents in those communities to carry out the necessary preparatory work for the installation of the lights, including the specific locations for installation, the relevant roles of environmental protection and safety institutions.

The said project is expected to be completed within one (1) month from the date of signing of the implementation agreement.

Addressing the gathering on behalf of the Ministry, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Western Region, Sidi Sesay, commended the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Sierra Leone for the donation of the 100 set of solar street lights (180w) to his Ministry.

He said the request made by the Ministry of Western Region to the People’s Republic of China through their Embassy in Sierra Leone was geared towards promoting the security and development of York and John Obey communities.

He noted that after completion, the Ministry shall coordinate the two communities to take ownership.

On his part, the Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Ambassador Hu Zhangliang, commended the initiative of the Ministry of Western Region in terms of improving the security and developmental activities within the York and John Obey communities.

He assured the Ministry of more future collaboration towards the development of Sierra Leone.

Representatives from the communities present also commended both the Ministry of Western Region and the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Sierra Leone for the provision of the 100 set of solar street lights (180w).

Prior to the signing of the implementation agreement, the Ministry of Western Region embarked on visitation to the York Rural Community during which time the Minister Nabeela  Tunis, the Permanent Secretary and a team of volunteers conducted inspection tours.

The main purpose of the visitation was to inter-relate with the inhabitants of the York Community and to share the Ministry’s mandate and also identify opportunities and map out the way forward to support the community.

Speaking during the meeting with residents, the Minister of Western Region, Nabeela  Tunis, said that the role of the Ministry is to act as an emissary between the Government and the people, thus bridging the gap between the Government and the populace  for national cohesion.

Leone Rock Metal Group Revamps its Community Activities with New Projects in Kamasondo & Tonkolili

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By Abdul Malik Bangura

Formerly known as Kingho Mining Company but now Leone Rock Metal Group which is  the parent company of Kingho Mining Company Limited, operating the New Tonkolili Iron Ore Mines and Kingho Railway and Port Company Limited operating the 192-kilometre railway and the Pepel Port, has through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Community Development Action Plan (CDAP) revamped its community activities to cater for various projects across its operational areas.

As a way of complementing Government’s efforts with regards to the Free Quality Education Programme, the company whose key thematic area is to bolster education of pupils in the communities that are located in its operational sites decided to support Simiria Chiefdom, Tonkolili District, Northern Province of Sierra Leone, with benches which are enough to cater for over 500 pupils to provide seating accommodation for public examinations.

The gesture was made with the hope of decongesting public exam halls and complementing Government’s effort on fair distribution of free quality education for all and sundry.

Similarly, the company is currently undertaking the rehabilitation of a school in Kamaria Village, Sambaia Chiefdom, Tonkolili District. The school, once completed, is envisioned to provide a safe environment for hundreds of pupils in that community and its nearby localities.

Also, worthy to note is that the company, through its CDAP Project, is also undertaking the construction of a garbage disposal site and to secure a tricycle to collect garbage for disposal as a means of environmental sanitization assistance to Dansogoia Chiefdom and specifically the headquarter town of Bumbuna. This will improve hygiene and reduce the transmission rate of diseases related to decomposed garbage  in the township.

On the other hand, Kingho Railway and Port Company Limited which is the other subsidiary company of Leone Rock Metal Group, is engaged in the construction of a Court Barry for the people of Kamasondo Chiefdom. The company is also currently undertaking the rehabilitation and face-lifting of  the SLMB Primary School in Borope, Kamasondo Chiefdom, North-Western Province of Sierra Leone.

The Committee for the CDAP and CSR of Leone Rock Metal Group is also exploring ways to make projects more influential to benefit more communities countrywide.

All these community development interventions  and many more are ongoing at the time when Leone Rock Metal Group is on the verge of rolling out  Phase 2 of its integrated Iron Ore Project which will optimize the ore grade from 57% Fe Average to more than 62% so that the company’s product will be globally competitive. Moreover, the company has a fully integrated chain ranging from modeling and planning, mining, processing, railway transportation, ship loading port, shipment, and marketing.

Note:

Kingho Mining Company Limited and Kingho Railway and Port Company Limited are both subsidiaries of Leone Rock Metal Group. Kingho Mining Company Limited operates the Tonkolili Iron Ore Mines in Sambaia, Dansogoia and Simiria chiefdoms, Tonkolili District, Northern Province of Sierra Leone. On the other hand, Kingho Railway and Port Company operates the 192 Kilometer railway as well as the Pepel Shipping Port in Kamasondo Chiefdom, Northwestern Province of Sierra Leone. The company has a full integrated chain ranging from mining, processing, transshipment, railway transportation, modeling and planning, ship loading and marketing.

NAS DG Calls for Unity to End Inequality, AIDS & Pandemics

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By Millicent Senava Mannah

The National HIV AIDS Secretariat, in collaboration with UN AIDS and other partners, has on 1st December 2021 commemorated World HIV AIDS Day during a programme that was held at the Miatta Conference Centre at Brookfields in Freetown.

This year’s commemoration is geared towards ending inequality, AIDS and pandemics.

Director General of the National AIDS Secretariat (NAS), Abdul Rahman C. Sesay, in his statement said the theme for this year’s commemoration is: “End Inequality, End AIDS & End Pandemics.”

He continued that to accomplish that all need to come together and be united to respond not only to the challenges posed by HIV and AIDS, but to other issues related to development.

Abdul Rahman C. Sesay maintained that inequalities are seen in many institutions in the country, furthering that there is need to fight hard to put an end to inequalities or to minimize such.

He revealed how there is an ongoing free Cervical Cancer screening and treatment at the King Harman Road Satellite Hospital for both women living with AIDS and those that are not affected.

Delivering the keynote address, Her Excellency the First Lady, Fatima Jabbie Bio, intimated that people living with HIV and AIDS are people and must have their own space in society and should not to be sidelined.

She continued by congratulating the National HIV and AIDS Secretariat and their partners for their continuous efforts to end AIDS in the country by 2030.

The First Lady furthered that evidence has shown that inequality increases the rapid spread of the disease and deepens the devastating impact of colliding pandemics on the most vulnerable in society.

UN Resident Coordinator in Sierra Leone, Babatunde A. Ahonsi, said that structural inequalities have put women, girls and other marginalized groups at greater risk of HIV infection, maintaining that the epidemic in the country is feminized and concentrated among key populations.

He stated that although HIV prevalence among the general population remains low at 1.7%, prevalence among women aged 15 years and above is double the rate among men at 2.2% and 1.1% respectively.

He maintained that young girls 15 to 24 years are three times more likely to be infected at 1.5% compared to boys of the same age at 0.5%.

“Marginalization, stigma, and discrimination have resulted in a disproportionately high HIV prevalence among key and vulnerable population groups with prevalence ranging from 6.8 among sex workers and 15% among transgender,” he said.

Wilhemina Bah, who is one of the persons living with AIDS, said on behalf of her colleagues they appreciate the National AIDS Secretariat for their relentless effort in providing them with medicines and for their courageous advices. She encouraged her colleagues to continue to take the drugs for them to live longer.

De Code Night Club, Formerly 232 is Now Open to the Public

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By Fatmata Jengbe

De Code Night Club, situated on Lumley Beach, has on the 2nd December, 2021 informed newsmen, during a press engagement, of  the official opening of the night club and the change of the original name of the night club from 232 Night Club to De Code Night Club.

It was further revealed that there is now a change of Management of the club stating how the night club is currently owned by Theresa Massaquoi, Sear Johnson and Marie Carrol under a joint partnership arrangement.

Theresa Massaquoi  explained that she was part of the Management when the club was functioning as 232 as she was the then Trade Marketing Manager.

She also stated that the facility was managed by the Sierra Leone Brewery Limited when it was then 232 adding how the new Management renovated the club bringing it to an appreciable international standard than it was before, maintaining  that  they have built an IPQ outlet for good relaxation if certain customers choose to do so.

Theresa Massaquoi stated that their prices are competitive and affordable maintaining that customers will really derive value for money. She also informed that they will be promoting the country’s local content policy  in order to avail individuals with indigenous products and skills  the platform to market what they have.

Sear Johnson, who is another partner, said their food is the best and they want everyone to get a feel of their delicious varieties mentioning that they have different Managers who will be handling different aspects to ensure the smooth running of the club and give customers ultimate satisfaction.

She continued that no one should under estimate the power of women, stating that when women give their best to anything it comes out great like the work they have done.

Marie Carrol, also a partner, stated that all the members of staff of the club, including the Managers, would be neatly dress in uniforms and went on to  admonish male customers to treat their female workers with respect and not to sexually harass them.

“To book for VVIP the prize is Le5M and it accommodates up to fifty people and the VIP is Le3M which accommodates up thirty to forty people,” she disclosed also revealing that the club will be open on Wednesdays to Sundays and to enter the normal club the price is Le150,000 saying they do have a very good sound system.

She continued that on Wednesday, known as Ladies Nite the entrance is free for ladies.

She assured customers that they are ready to give them the best, maintaining that their foods and drinks will be sold at affordable prices.

Marie Carrol called on all to come and have a good time at the Night Club saying individuals or groups of individuals would not regret doing so.

President Xi Jinping Made New Commitments at FOCAC to Promote China-Africa Cooperation

By Amin Kef Sesay

The Eighteeth Ministerial Conference of The Forum on China-Africa Cooperation kicked off  on the 29th November 2021 and during the Opening Ceremony  the Chinese President, Xi Jinping ,delivered a keynote speech titled: Uphold the Tradition of Always Standing Together And Jointly Build a China-Africa Community With a Shared Future in the New Era via video link.

President Xi stated that the key to a close China-Africa relationship and a deep bond of friendship lies in the everlasting spirit, which features sincere friendship, equality, win-win for mutual benefit, common development, fairness, justice, progress with the times, openness and inclusiveness.

He expressed sincere appreciation to the many African friends who had supported the restoration of China’s lawful seat in the United Nations, and pledged that China will never forget the profound friendship of African countries. President Xi reiterated that China will remain guided by the principle of sincerity, real results, amity and good faith and the principle of pursuing the greater good and shared interests and work with African friends to promote China-Africa friendship and cooperation.

In the speech, President Xi made four proposals on promoting China-Africa development and nine programs on deepening China-Africa practical cooperation, a reflection of China’s sincerity and firm support to Africa in the fight against COVID-19 and achieving social economic progress. The four proposals are fighting COVID-19 with solidarity, deepening practical cooperation, promoting green development, upholding equity and justice. The nine programs include the medical and health program, the poverty reduction and agricultural development program, the trade promotion program, the investment promotion program, the digital innovation program, the green development program, the capacity building program, the cultural and people-to-people exchange program, the peace and security program.

President Xi announced that China will provide another one billion doses of vaccines to Africa, including 600 million doses as donation and 400 million doses to be provided through such means as joint production by Chinese companies and relevant African countries. In addition, China will undertake 10 medical and health projects for African countries, and send 1,500 medical personnel and public health experts to Africa.

President Xi declared that China will undertake 10 poverty reduction and agricultural projects for Africa, and send 500 agricultural experts to Africa. China will set up a number of China-Africa joint centers for modern agro-technology exchange, demonstration and training in China, encourage Chinese institutions and companies to build in Africa demonstration villages for China-Africa cooperation on agricultural development and poverty reduction, and support the Alliance of Chinese Companies in Africa for Corporate Social Responsibilities in launching the initiative of “100 Companies in 1,000 Villages”.

President Xi promised that China will open “green lanes” for African agricultural exports to China, speed up the inspection and quarantine procedures, and further increase the scope of products enjoying zero-tariff treatment for the least developed countries (LDCs) having diplomatic relations with China, in a bid to reach 300 billion US dollars in total imports from Africa in the next three years.

China will provide 10 billion US dollars of trade finance to support African export, and build in China a pioneering zone for in-depth China-Africa trade and economic cooperation and a China-Africa industrial park for  Belt and Road cooperation. China will undertake 10 connectivity projects for Africa, form an expert group on economic cooperation with the secretariat of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and give continued support to the development of the AfCFTA.

President Xi committed that China will encourage its businesses to invest no less than 10 billion US dollars in Africa in the next three years, and will establish a platform for China-Africa private investment promotion. China will undertake 10 industrialization and employment promotion projects for Africa, provide credit facilities of 10 billion US dollars to African financial institutions, support the development of African SMEs on a priority basis, and establish a China-Africa cross-border RMB center. China will exempt African LDCs from debt incurred in the form of interest-free Chinese government loans due by the end of 2021. China is ready to channel to African countries 10 billion US dollars from its share of the IMF’s new allocation of Special Drawing Rights.

President Xi further announced that China will undertake 10 digital economy projects for Africa, set up centers for China-Africa cooperation on satellite remote-sensing application, and support the development of China-Africa joint laboratories, partner institutes, and scientific and technological innovation cooperation bases.

China will work with African countries to expand Silk Road e-commerce cooperation, hold online shopping festivals featuring quality African products and tourism e-commerce promotion activities, and launch a campaign to market 100 African stores and 1,000 African products on e-commerce platforms.

President Xi said that China will undertake 10 green development, environmental protection and climate action projects for Africa, support the development of the “Great Green Wall”, and build in Africa centers of excellence on low-carbon development and climate change adaptation.

President Xi pledged that China will help build or upgrade 10 schools in Africa, and invite 10,000 high-level African professionals to seminars and workshops. We will implement “Future of Africa —- a project for China-Africa cooperation on vocational education”, and start an employment “through train” scheme for African students in China. China will continue to work with African countries to set up “Luban Workshops”, and encourage Chinese companies in Africa to create at least 800,000 local jobs.

President Xi stated that China will support making all African countries having diplomatic ties with China approved destinations for Chinese tourist groups. We will hold African film festivals in China and Chinese film festivals in Africa, as well as a China-Africa youth services forum, and a China-Africa women’s forum.

President Xi proclaimed that China will undertake 10 peace and security projects for Africa, continue to deliver military assistance to the AU, support African countries’ efforts to independently maintain regional security and fight terrorism, and conduct joint exercises and on-site training between Chinese and African peacekeeping troops and cooperation on small arms and light weapons control.

Addressing African Foreign Ministers and diplomats at the opening ceremony of the 8th Ministerial Conference of the Forum on China-Africa cooperation in Senegal, President of the People’s Republic of China Xi Jinping outlined development and cooperation packages for Africa.

The theme of the conference is ‘Deepen China-Africa Partnership and Promote Sustainable Development to Build a China-Africa Community with a Shared Future in the New Era.

Recalling the important support from some African countries to China, President Xi said “China will never forget the profound friendship with Africa and will work even stronger on this friendship”.

He outlined proposals for the fight against COVID-19 with solidarity support to the AU achieves its 60% vaccination drive. He also disclosed that China will deepen practical cooperation and expand trade, investment and also promote entrepreneurship.

President Xi also spoke about promoting green development and upholding equity, justice as China’s core values of democracy.

On China-Africa 2035 vision, President Xi outlined nine intervention programmes by China to Africa. In the medical and health programs, he spoke on the help to the AU as China will provide 1billion COVID-19 doses to Africa, Six hundred thousand (600,000) doses as donations; four hundred thousand (400,000) by joint production; 10 medical health programs and1, 000 medical personnel to Africa.

President Xi also said on poverty reduction in Africa, China will lay emphasis on agricultural collaboration and investment with 900 agricultural experts and 10 agricultural companies. Taking along trade promotion programs, he revealed the opening of trade routes and provision of zero tariff with countries having diplomatic relations with China.

He announced the provision of 10 billion USD to support Africa export, provide 10 connectivity projects in Africa and invest in Africa investment promotion programs.

With that he stated, China will provide 10billion USD in the next 3 years to Africa with 10 industrialization projects and credit facilities to SMEs.

President Xi took importance of digital economy projects to Africa, green development projects and capacity building projects where China will build or refurbish 10 schools or refurbish in Africa. Also invite 10,000 African professionals to China and create 800,000 jobs.

China will continue with their cultural and people to people programs as well as undertake peace and security programs by providing military assistance to the AU and conduct joint military exercises with Africa peacekeeping forces.

Sierra Leone’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Professor David J. Francis, Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to the People’s Republic of China, H.E Ernest Ndomahina and Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to Dakar, Senegal H.E Alhaji Brima Elvis Koroma are part of the FOCAC conference with their counterparts in Africa and hundreds of other African diplomats.

The meeting would ‘review and assess the follow-up implementation of the outcomes of the 2018 FOCAC Beijing Summit as well as the joint China-Africa response to COVID-19, and chart the course for China-Africa relations for the next three years and more to come.

Basic Education Minister Reveals that Government has Employed 10,268 Teachers Nationwide

By Amin Kef Sesay

It has been a widely expressed view that for the Free Quality School Education (FQSE) initiative to be successful, then more trained and qualified teachers should be recruited to match up with the increased number of children to be absorbed into the system.

As to date it is recorded that after the introduction of the Free Quality School Education (FQSE) in 2018 the New Direction Government has employed 10,268 teachers nationwide to meet the overwhelming influx of pupils yearning to benefit from the scheme.

“Teachers make up 40% of the entire Government payroll and over 4000 teachers have been placed on their right pay grade. Over 300 school heads have been regularized. This year alone we have recruited 1,000 teachers. There are over 36,000 Teachers on the government payroll. We aim to add this number to 37,500 in the next two years. That’s the New Direction,” Minister of Basic Education, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh stated.

He continued that this Government will continue to invest in and promote teachers because that’s one sure way to contribute to national development.

In the building up to the end of April 2020, there were concerns that the Government might not be able to fulfill its commitment due to the emergence of the ongoing Corona virus pandemic that forced many nations to reduce budgetary support on education.

However, the Government kept the promise and paid the 30% increase for up to 34,350 teachers across the country. The increment at the time means that the payroll for teachers increased by Le 13,45 billion, from Le 42.95 billion in March 2020 to Le 56.40 billion in April 2020.

“I am a community teacher and I taught for over five years with no salary, and in 2019 I was fortunate to be among the over 4,000 teachers that were approved by the Government. Six of us were approved in my school and that served as a motivation to us. Also, the learning materials they gave to us as a result of the FQSE make learning very easy for the kids,” according to Alhaji Mohamed Sesay a teacher at Konta Kuma Senior and Junior Secondary School Port Loko District pointed out.

It is said that over 500 Principals and Vice Principals have been appointed between August 2020 and November 2021. All were previously either Acting positions or vacant. The Government, it is also stated, has invested in school management and leadership.

During the Presidential National Best Teacher Award, held sometime in the year, 48 teachers were honored by the President of Sierra Leone for their service and dedication as teachers. Two of those teachers were nominated to the African Union Best Teacher Prize and several have benefited from advanced training opportunities.

It must be noted that teachers are the most essential ingredients for achieving SDG4: inclusive quality education. They are also an essential part of the Government’s Free Quality School Education programme. This, according to the Minister, is why an unprecedented level of investment has been made towards enhancing the policies, incentives, and welfare of teachers in Sierra Leone.

NP- SL Ltd Remains an Inspirational Source for any Successful Business Venture

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By Amin Kef Sesay

The country’s leading petroleum business entity, the National Petroleum Sierra Leone Limited (NP-SL Ltd) has become a household name as it continues to offer qualitative products to its numerous customers. It cannot be swept under the carpet that the company is a major source of inspiration to some Sierra Leoneans who are ambitious of establishing business entities that will grow to the magnitude of the petroleum marketing entity.

It is on record that the National Petroleum (NP) Sierra Leone Limited apart from it being lauded for being one of Sierra Leone’s biggest tax payers is also being held in high esteem for its invaluable contributions towards building the country’s economy.

The company has worked hard over the years, evident in ambitious individuals partnering with it  to open filling stations in various parts of the country and they are vibrantly functioning in Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast and The Gambia.

This 100% indigenously-owned company has so far offered various jobs to residents in the afore-mentioned countries, thereby reducing poverty to a considerable level.

Without mincing the truth, NP has a capable and competent managerial team at the helm of affairs, which from time to time comes up with good initiatives, always ensuring that those ideas are effusively, effectively implemented to create value for money.

Since it was established by 35 Sierra Leoneans, who bought shares from the Government years back, the company has grown from leaps and bounds; weathering storms that would have run it down. But the resolve of its shareholders and Management to succeed has been the centrepiece that has propelled NP to a higher level, equal to none in the sub-region.

The synergy that runs through its members of staff has also contributed to the company’s growth.

Asking those who really know NP, the feedback you get indicate that in terms of  its commitment to customer care, NP-SL Ltd strongly believes that it must be prioritized to give total satisfaction.

The selflessness and commitment of the shareholders have made it possible for the company to empower many Sierra Leoneans and at the same time put it at a vantage position to continue to open more filling stations across the country.

NP-SL Ltd has cordially maintained a good business relationship with its numerous customers’ right across the sub-region where it exists and most have confessed that they are realizing optimum satisfaction in dealing with NP.

The company deals with individuals and various sectors of society, always ensuring that its various petroleum products are available and are sold at affordable prices. This keen symbiotic relationship with its customers has been paying huge dividends, always resulting in a win-win situation, making NP very endearing to all and sundry.

The regulatory institution of the different petroleum companies in the country, the Petroleum Regulatory Authority, has lauded NP for its efficient service delivery wherever it is operating.

The company is also known for offering Sierra Leoneans affordable NP Gas cookers of various sizes, which are safe and very friendly to use. NP Gas cookers could be purchased at all their filling stations across the country and the very gas is also sold to replenish those that have been used.

Another most important feature of NP-SL is its smart cards which customers can use to make transactions very easily and conveniently.

When we talk of the steady and effective implementation of the Local Content Policy, NP stands out tall as it is truly has 100% indigenes, particularly in Sierra Leone, as workers. This is one of the factors that have made the company to be a success story.

The company’s result-oriented managerial team will definitely and sustainably continue to put NP at the top.

It can therefore be justifiably asserted that the National Petroleum Limited is the country’s reliable fuel provider as it always ensures that its stockpile is always at an appreciable level to last over time.

The public’s recognition of the invaluable contributions of NP both to its numerous customers across the country and to national development has seen it bag meritorious awards from different national and international organizations.

The company always ensures that petroleum products are always available, thereby preventing shortages that could create shocks in many quarters. The level of confidence which overseas business partners have reposed in the company has made it possible for it to enter into payment agreements thereby keeping the demand and supply chain open and running.

From what was understood the company is inspiring many to invest, grow indigenously, become sustainable and succeed.

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