Vice President Observes First Ramadan Jummah in Pujehun, Engages SLPP Grassroots on Decentralization Agenda

February 23, 2026

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, joined Muslim worshippers at the Pujehun Central Mosque for the first Jummah prayer of the Holy Month of Ramadan on Friday, February 20, 2026, marking the beginning of the sacred fasting period with prayers for peace, unity and national progress.

His visit to the district coincided with the symbolic first Friday of Ramadan, a moment regarded by many Muslims as spiritually significant in setting the tone for the month of fasting, reflection and charity. On arrival in Pujehun, the Vice President was received with a Quarter Guard mounted by the 14 Infantry Battalion before proceeding to the mosque, where he was welcomed by religious leaders, elders and local authorities.

Inside the mosque, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh joined hundreds of worshippers ahead of the Khutbah. The Imam’s sermon focused on patience, discipline, compassion and unity, urging the faithful to use Ramadan as a period of self-examination and service to humanity. The congregation observed the prayer in a solemn and reflective atmosphere, underscoring the spiritual importance attached to the first Jummah of the holy month.

Following the prayer, the Vice President briefly addressed the congregation, calling on citizens across Sierra Leone to uphold peace and demonstrate kindness throughout the fasting period. He encouraged Muslims to extend support to the less privileged and to strengthen bonds within their families and communities. He also appealed for continued prayers for the nation and for divine guidance for leaders entrusted with advancing Sierra Leone’s development agenda, stressing that unity and collective responsibility remain essential for sustained stability and progress.

Ramadan, one of the Five Pillars of Islam, is observed by Muslims worldwide through daily fasting from dawn to sunset, increased devotion, charity and acts of goodwill. The first Friday prayer of the month traditionally draws large participation and heightened spiritual reflection.

In another development, Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh addressed grassroots supporters of the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) in Pujehun District following a successful engagement with the Council of Paramount Chiefs, as part of his mandate under Sierra Leone’s Local Government framework and his role as Chairman of the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Decentralization.

Speaking to a large gathering, he thanked residents for their turnout and explained that his visit was aimed at consulting key stakeholders ahead of a broader official engagement with the District Council and the Council of Paramount Chiefs expected before June. He noted that discussions would centre on decentralization efforts and a national development project supported by the World Bank under the leadership of President Julius Maada Bio.

The Vice President expressed appreciation for the district’s continued support for President Bio and the party, particularly during the recent lower-level elections, emphasizing that the contest was now over. He urged supporters to maintain unity and pursue political engagement in a lawful and peaceful manner, reminding them that national development must remain the shared priority.

Highlighting Government achievements, Dr.Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh pointed to the completion of the Bo–Pujehun road network, describing it as a transformative intervention that has improved transportation, enhanced trade and boosted economic activity within the district and beyond.

Orange Money Rewards Final ‘Sober Kaiba’ Winners, Launches Nationwide Ramadan Promotion

February 23, 2026

Orange Money Rewarding one of the ‘Sober Kaiba’ Winners

Orange Money has rewarded the final batch of winners under its nationwide “Sober Kaiba” promotional campaign and simultaneously launched a new Ramadan Promotion aimed at supporting customers while accelerating the adoption of digital financial services across the country.

At a well-attended prize-giving ceremony held on Thursday, 19 February 2026, the mobile financial service provider presented a range of high-value prizes to deserving customers. The awards included solar panels, two generators, five motorbikes and one tricycle. Beneficiaries emerged based on their level of transaction activity throughout the duration of the campaign.

The “Sober Kaiba” promotion, which commenced in October 2025, was designed to encourage customers to make greater use of Orange Money’s digital payment, transfer and merchant services. Participants were automatically entered into periodic prize draws by actively transacting on the platform, reinforcing the company’s drive to promote a cash-lite economy.

Speaking at the ceremony, Orange Money Chief Executive Officer, David Mansaray, commended customers for their loyalty and consistent engagement with the platform. He stated that the campaign forms part of Orange Money’s broader strategy to enhance customer experience, build trust and deepen financial inclusion nationwide.

He emphasized that regular use of mobile money services provides greater convenience, efficiency and security for users, while also contributing to the development of an accessible and inclusive financial ecosystem in Sierra Leone.

“Our customers remain at the heart of everything we do. Through initiatives like Sober Kaiba, we are not only rewarding loyalty but also encouraging the use of safe and reliable digital financial solutions that empower individuals and businesses,” David Mansaray said.

Most of the winners attended the event in person to receive their prizes. Among them was Elizabeth Marrah, who won the tricycle. She travelled from Makeni to Freetown after initially expressing skepticism about the authenticity of the congratulatory message she received.

“With this tricycle, I can improve my livelihood and support my family,” Elizabeth Marrah said, describing the prize as life-changing. She added that the experience has strengthened her confidence in Orange Money’s services.

Building on the success of the Sober Kaiba campaign, Orange Money used the occasion to unveil its Ramadan Promotion, strategically aligned with the Muslim Holy Month. The new initiative is structured to provide both economic relief and business incentives during the fasting period.

Under the Ramadan Promotion, five motorbike or tricycle riders will receive 30 litres of fuel weekly, offering practical support to transport operators whose earnings sustain many households. In addition, business owners will have the opportunity to win Le50,000 in cash.

To qualify, merchants must receive payments through their Kotoku accounts or via their registered merchant codes, thereby promoting digital payment adoption among small and medium-sized enterprises. Beyond fuel and cash rewards, selected participants will also receive food items during Ramadan as part of the company’s community support outreach.

Company representatives noted that the Ramadan Promotion underscores Orange Money’s commitment to social responsibility while advancing the use of secure and efficient digital payment solutions.

Orange Money reaffirmed that mobile financial services continue to play a critical role in Sierra Leone’s economy, particularly for small-scale traders, transport operators and individuals who rely on fast, safe and convenient digital transactions.

Through sustained customer reward initiatives and seasonal campaigns, the company says it remains focused on strengthening trust in digital finance and expanding access to financial services across both urban and rural communities nationwide.

Royal Fitness Emerges as Freetown’s Premier Hub for Modern, Professional Fitness

February 23, 2026

Royal Fitness is steadily redefining modern fitness culture in the capital, positioning itself as one of the country’s leading health and wellness centres through a blend of premium facilities, professional coaching and a strong community-driven approach to healthy living.

Strategically located along the Peninsular Highway in Juba, the facility has become a preferred destination for professionals, athletes, lifestyle enthusiasts and beginners seeking a structured and internationally aligned workout experience. Its growing public reputation is reflected in a 4.5-star rating on Google from dozens of reviews, with members frequently commending the gym’s cleanliness, modern layout, high-quality equipment and attentive customer service.

Industry observers note that Royal Fitness distinguishes itself through a holistic operational model that extends beyond conventional gym routines. The centre offers strength and weight training, functional workouts, cardiovascular programmes, group exercise sessions and recovery-focused routines such as stretching and flexibility training. This inclusive structure allows members across varying fitness levels to pursue personalized goals within a single, well-coordinated environment.

The gym has also established a strong digital presence, particularly on Instagram, where it has amassed more than 17,000 followers. Branded under the theme: “Where strength meets rhythm,” Royal Fitness integrates music-driven workouts and high-energy sessions, often featuring international DJs, to create an engaging atmosphere that resonates strongly with younger urban audiences. That fusion of fitness and entertainment has contributed significantly to its growing brand appeal.

Management places a premium on professionalism and consistency. Certified instructors and fitness coaches work closely with members to develop structured programmes aimed at improving strength, endurance, flexibility and overall wellbeing. Many clients attribute their lifestyle transformation and improved discipline to the gym’s supportive environment and systematic coaching methods.

Operating daily with extended hours until 11:00 p.m., Royal Fitness accommodates busy urban schedules, making it particularly attractive to working professionals. Visitor patterns indicate that members typically spend between one and three hours per session, reflecting a commitment to comprehensive training rather than brief workouts.

In response to rising health consciousness across Sierra Leone, the gym has announced an ambitious 2026 wellness drive focused on addressing lifestyle-related diseases through structured physical training, professional supervision and nutrition-based guidance. Management says the initiative is designed to reposition the facility as a comprehensive wellness hub that promotes long-term health outcomes rather than short-term aesthetic gains.

A spokesperson for the centre explained that sustainable wellness is achieved when physical training, mental discipline and proper nutrition work in harmony. As part of that vision, Royal Fitness has expanded its services to include nutrition and diet counselling, ensuring that members receive integrated support to enhance performance and overall health.

The facility is equipped with internationally recognized fitness brands, including Technogym and Panatta of Italy, as well as Arsenal Strength from the United States; reinforcing its commitment to global standards in performance, safety and durability.

With more Sierra Leoneans prioritizing preventive healthcare and active lifestyles, Royal Fitness stands out as a leading force in the country’s evolving wellness movement. The centre proves that high-quality, professionally guided fitness services can be delivered locally while aligning with international standards of excellence.

For membership and registration enquiries, Royal Fitness can be contacted on (+232) 90 001000.

Pee Cee & Sons Ltd Issues Public Scam Alert, Disowns Fraudulent Online Promotion

February 23, 2026

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Pee Cee & Sons Ltd has on January 19, 2026 issued an official public notice distancing itself from a fraudulent online message circulating on social media platforms, particularly WhatsApp, falsely claiming that individuals can receive money using the company’s name.

In a statement released by its Management on Tuesday, the company categorically denied any involvement in the promotion, describing the circulating message as “false and fraudulent.”

The notice clarified that Pee Cee & Sons Ltd does not conduct promotions, giveaways or financial reward schemes through WhatsApp links or unfamiliar websites. Management warned members of the public to exercise caution and avoid clicking on suspicious links or sharing personal information with unknown sources.

“We do not run promotions or giveaways through WhatsApp links or unknown websites,” the statement emphasized. “Please do not click on any links or share personal information. We urge the public to report the message on WhatsApp and delete it immediately.”

The company further stated that it will not be held liable for any losses incurred as a result of the scam.

The Management’s alert comes amid a rise in online impersonation schemes targeting reputable businesses in Sierra Leone. Cybercriminals often exploit the names and brands of established companies to deceive unsuspecting members of the public into disclosing sensitive personal or financial information.

Pee Cee & Sons Ltd, a longstanding importer, distributor and wholesaler established in 1965, reiterated its commitment to transparency and responsible corporate conduct. The company is encouraging customers and partners to verify any promotional information through its official communication channels.

Authorities have consistently advised the public to remain vigilant against online scams and to report suspicious activities to relevant platforms and law enforcement agencies.

Members of the public are urged to treat unsolicited financial offers with caution and to confirm the authenticity of any promotion directly with the company involved before taking action.

UNICEF, British High Commission Delegation Engages NCRA DG on Identity Verification and Data Access

February 23, 2026

In a strong demonstration of international confidence in Sierra Leone’s civil registration and identity management systems, the Director General of the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA), Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi, on Thursday 19th February 2026, hosted two high-level delegations from UNICEF and the British High Commission’s Home Office International Operations.

The back-to-back engagements underscored growing global support for Sierra Leone’s ongoing reforms in Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (CRVS), as well as renewed commitment to ensuring legal identity for all citizens.

The first meeting saw the newly appointed UNICEF Chief Child Protection Officer, Patrick Halton, pay a courtesy visit to the NCRA Director General. Marking his first official assignment in West Africa, Patrick Halton expressed strong enthusiasm for deepening collaboration with the Authority, particularly in accelerating birth registration and strengthening child protection systems through secure legal identity frameworks.

He commended Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi for his leadership role in advancing CRVS systems across the continent, describing him as a “chief champion” of civil registration reforms in Africa. Patrick Halton reaffirmed UNICEF’s commitment to supporting initiatives that safeguard children’s rights through comprehensive and accessible birth certification processes.

In response, the NCRA Director General acknowledged UNICEF’s longstanding partnership and pivotal contributions to strengthening Sierra Leone’s civil registration systems. He highlighted UNICEF’s support for the recent nationwide birth certificate campaign launched in November and ongoing legislative review efforts aimed at addressing historical overlaps and institutional conflicts among agencies performing related functions.

Discussions between the two sides focused on key priority areas for enhanced cooperation, including sustained resource mobilization, continuation of mass birth registration drives, targeted public awareness campaigns and capacity building within relevant institutions. Both parties agreed that expanding access to birth registration remains essential to protecting children’s rights and ensuring their access to education, healthcare and social protection services.

Later that same day, a delegation from the British High Commission’s Home Office International Operations engaged the NCRA Director General in discussions aimed at strengthening collaboration on identity verification processes.

The talks centred on the secure and responsible verification of birth, marriage and national identity records; processes that are critical for migration management, consular services and broader governance objectives. Both sides explored mechanisms for granting controlled access to NCRA data for authorized applicants, while placing utmost emphasis on safeguarding citizens’ data privacy and protection.

The engagement reflected a shared commitment to building robust and trustworthy identity systems that balance operational efficiency with the highest standards of data security and personal privacy.

Observers note that those high-level visits signal increasing international confidence in Sierra Leone’s civil registration reforms and the NCRA’s central role in delivering reliable legal identity services. The strengthened bilateral and multilateral partnerships are expected to support the country’s drive toward universal birth registration, enhanced child protection and inclusive identity management systems that align with both national development priorities and international best practices.

Welcoming both delegations, Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi reiterated that reliable civil registration remains foundational to good governance, social protection, economic inclusion and the full realization of citizens’ fundamental rights.

He emphasized that the NCRA remains committed to transparency, institutional collaboration and continuous reform to ensure that every Sierra Leonean is legally recognized and protected under the law.

Award-Winning Journalist Amin Kef Honoured at SLURC’s 10th Anniversary Celebration

February 23, 2026

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Award-winning investigative journalist and Managing Editor of The Calabash Newspaper, Amin Kef Sesay, popularly known as “Ranger,” has been honoured for his outstanding contribution to public-interest journalism at the 10th anniversary celebration of the Sierra Leone Urban Research Centre (SLURC).

The event, held on Monday, February 16, 2026, at the New Brookfields Hotel in Freetown, brought together Government officials, academic institutions, Civil Society actors, development partners and members of the media under the theme: “A Decade of Urban Knowledge and Transformation.” The ceremony celebrated SLURC’s decade-long commitment to evidence-based research and inclusive urban development across Sierra Leone.

During the recognition segment for Media Partners, Amin Kef Sesay was invited to the stage to receive a plaque in acknowledgement of his role in amplifying research findings and community voices in national discourse. The citation described him as a journalist whose work consistently brings “evidence and community perspectives into the national conversation on inclusive urban development.”

The plaque was presented by SLURC’s Director of Research and Training, Braima Koroma, who underscored the importance of responsible journalism in translating research into public understanding and policy engagement.

As Proprietor and Managing Editor of The Calabash Newspaper, Amin Kef Sesay has built a reputation for balanced, investigative and development-oriented reporting. His editorial focus spans governance, legal reforms, public policy and Sierra Leone’s engagement in international affairs. Through his platform, he has continuously championed issues affecting marginalized communities, ensuring that urban development discussions reflect grassroots realities.

Amin Kef Sesay’s recognition at SLURC’s anniversary adds to his growing list of professional achievements. In July 2025, he was awarded the Outstanding Dedicated Service Award by the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) for his selfless service to the Association between 2019 and 2025. The honour recognized his commitment to strengthening the media landscape in Sierra Leone.

In addition to his journalistic accomplishments, Amin Kef Sesay has demonstrated exceptional leadership in corporate communications. He was named “Manager of the Year 2025” at Africell Sierra Leone, reflecting his professionalism and strategic media management skills. Earlier in 2026, he participated in an international media exchange programme in India in partnership with SLAJ, where he engaged in discussions on development policy and media practice.

Speaking briefly after receiving the award, Amin Kef Sesay expressed appreciation to SLURC for the recognition and reaffirmed his commitment to journalism that serves the public interest. He emphasized the importance of evidence-based reporting in promoting inclusive urban growth and strengthening democratic accountability.

The SLURC anniversary also honoured community organizations, academic collaborators, Government partners, advisors, staff members and founders who have contributed to the Centre’s growth since its establishment in 2015.

While Sierra Leone navigates rapid urbanization and escalating climate-related challenges, the recognition of Amin Kef Sesay underscores the indispensable role of the media in connecting research, public policy and the lived realities of citizens. His award serves as a powerful testament to the enduring impact of responsible journalism in driving national development and shaping informed public discourse.

RSLAF’s Brig. K.F. Kanu Rises Through the Ranks with Record of Service, Reform and Integrity

February 23, 2026

Brigadier General K.F. Kanu, the current Assistant Chief of Defence Staff for Training, Doctrine and Education of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), has built a career distinguished by professional excellence, steady leadership and resilience in the face of challenges.

From his commissioning as a Second Lieutenant to his elevation to the rank of Brigadier General, K.F. Kanu has served in a range of critical command and staff appointments across the armed forces. One of his early landmark roles was as Commanding Officer of the Military Police Regiment while holding the rank of Captain. His performance in that position earned him successive promotions to Major and later Lieutenant Colonel, culminating in his appointment as Provost Marshal.

He was subsequently deployed to mainstream infantry duties as Commanding Officer of the 2 Infantry Battalion in the Eastern Region, then regarded as a politically sensitive area. During his tenure, he was widely commended for his professionalism and impartial conduct, earning respect from military colleagues and civilian stakeholders alike.

An alumnus of Njala University, Brigadier General K.F. Kanu also contributed to academia during his posting in Kenema. While serving as Commanding Officer, he offered voluntary part-time lectures at the university’s Faculty of International Relations, reflecting a commitment to mentorship and intellectual development within the broader national community.

Following the completion of his battalion command, he undertook an international peacekeeping assignment, where he served with distinction as Senior Military Police Adviser to a United Nations Force Commander and as Sierra Leone’s Senior National Representative in a major mission. His performance abroad further strengthened his professional profile and contributed to his promotion to Colonel.

Upon his return to Sierra Leone, he played a pivotal role in the development of a newly established brigade, serving as Chief of Staff during the 2023 general elections. In that capacity, he was involved in overseeing operational coordination during a critical period for national security.

Brigadier General K.F.Kanu later served as Director of Logistics at the Ministry of Defence and subsequently as Acting Assistant Chief of Defence Staff for Equipment Support. During the initial phase of the Armed Forces’ tri-service transition reforms, he was appointed Training, Education and Doctrine Commander (TRADOC). Under his leadership, the formation secured victory in the RSLAF inter-service drill competition just weeks after his appointment.

At one stage in his career, Brigadier General K.F. Kanu faced serious allegations. The matter was investigated by the military authorities, the Sierra Leone Police and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). According to official findings, he was cleared of the allegations following the investigations.

Today, as Assistant Chief of Defence Staff for Training, Doctrine and Education, Brigadier General K.F. Kanu continues to focus on strengthening professional standards, operational readiness and institutional development within the Armed Forces.

Observers note that his career trajectory reflects a blend of operational command, strategic leadership and commitment to national service, underscoring the evolving professionalism within Sierra Leone’s military establishment.

Police Debunk Social Media Claims of Fatal Shooting at Songo Toll Gate

February 23, 2026

The Masiaka Division of the Sierra Leone Police has dismissed reports circulating on social media alleging that personnel of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) shot two civilians at the Songo Toll Gate in Makoloh, killing one and leaving another hospitalized.

In a detailed security update, the Local Unit Commander (LUC) of Masiaka Division confirmed that a fact-finding operation was launched following the viral claims. According to police findings, there was no evidence of any gunshot incident resulting in injury or death within the Makoloh community.

Community stakeholders, including the Headman of Makoloh, told investigators that no such incident had been reported in the area. Police further confirmed that no victim or relative had filed any complaint regarding gunshot wounds at the Masiaka Police Station.

Investigations revealed that the misinformation stemmed from an earlier incident involving two youths from Makoloh, identified as Daniel Sesay and Abass Sesay. The pair were invited for questioning on Wednesday, February 11, 2026 and provided statements clarifying the circumstances.

According to their account, in the early hours of Monday, February 9, 2026, between 3:00 a.m. and 4:00 a.m., they were onboard a Howo truck attempting to bypass the Songo Toll Gate by using the old Makoloh road. They stated that the vehicle was confronted by an RSLAF personnel. Upon the vehicle stopping, the two youths panicked, jumped out of the truck and fled.

Police say the youths admitted that contrary to claims circulating online, they were not shot. One of them, Daniel Sesay, sustained a minor injury to his left arm while escaping from the moving vehicle.

The Masiaka Division also referenced previous concerns raised by CRSG Management, the authority responsible for toll gate operations, regarding the unauthorized use of the old Makoloh road as an alternative route. Reports had indicated that some youths were allegedly collecting money from truck drivers for personal benefit. Police engagement with community stakeholders led to the closure of the route, a move that reportedly faced resistance from some youths.

As part of the inquiry, the LUC questioned Staff Sergeant Sankoh, who commands four RSLAF personnel deployed at the Songo Toll Gate. He confirmed that the team is issued three AK-47 rifles with 30 rounds of ammunition each. According to him, a check conducted by military authorities found that no ammunition was missing.

Police have urged members of the public to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information. Anyone with credible information relating to the matter has been encouraged to contact 078155481 or 030272724.

Investigations into the incident remain ongoing.

Shaping a Human-Centric Future for AI – AI Impact Summit 2026

February 23, 2026

By Narendra Modi Prime Minister of India

At a defining moment in human history, the world gathered at the AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi. For us in India, it was a moment of immense pride and joy to welcome Heads of State, Heads of Government, delegates and innovators from across the world.

India brings scale and energy to everything it does and this Summit was no exception. Representatives from over 100 nations came together. Innovators showcased cutting-edge AI products and services. Thousands of young people could be seen in the exhibition halls, asking questions and imagining possibilities. Their curiosity made this the largest and most democratized AI summit in the world. I see this as an important moment in India’s development journey, because a mass movement for AI innovation and adoption has truly taken off.

Human history has witnessed many technological shifts that changed the course of civilization. Artificial Intelligence belongs in the same league as fire, writing, electricity and the internet. But with AI, changes that once took decades can unfold within weeks and impact the entire planet.

AI is making machines intelligent, but it is even more a force multiplier for human intent. Making AI human-centric instead of machine-centric is vital. At this Summit, we placed human well-being at the heart of the global AI conversation, with the principle of ‘Sarvajana Hitaya, Sarvajana Sukhaya’ (Welfare for All, Happiness of All).

I have always believed that technology must serve people, not the other way around. Whether it is digital payments through UPI or COVID vaccination, we have ensured that Digital Public Infrastructure reaches everyone, leaving none behind. I could see the same spirit in the Summit, in the work of our innovators in domains like agriculture, security, assistance for Divyangjan and tools for multilingual populations.

There are already examples of the empowering potential of AI in India. Recently, ‘Sarlaben’, an AI powered digital assistant launched by Indian dairy cooperative AMUL, is providing real-time guidance to 3.6 million dairy farmers, mostly women, about cattle health and productivity in their own language. Similarly, an AI-based platform called Bharat VISTAAR gives multilingual inputs to farmers, empowering them with information about everything from weather to market prices.

Humans must never become mere data points or raw material for machines. Instead, AI must become a tool for global good, opening new doors of progress for the Global South. To translate this vision into action, India presented the MANAV framework for human-centric AI governance.

M – Moral and Ethical Systems: AI should be based on ethical guidelines.

A – Accountable Governance: Transparent rules and robust oversight.

N – National Sovereignty: Respect for national rights over data.

A – Accessible and Inclusive: AI should not be a monopoly.

V – Valid and Legitimate: AI must adhere to laws and be verifiable.

MANAV, which means ‘human’, offers principles that anchor AI in human values in the 21^stcentury.

Trust is the foundation upon which AI’s future rests. As generative systems flood the world with content, democratic societies face risks from deepfakes and disinformation. Just as food carries nutrition labels, digital content must carry authenticity labels. I urge the global community to come together to create shared standards for watermarking and source verification. India has already taken a step in this direction by legally requiring clear labelling of synthetically generated content.

The welfare of our children is a matter close to our hearts. AI systems must be built with safeguards that encourage responsible, family-guided engagement, reflecting the same care we bring to education systems worldwide.

Technology yields its greatest benefit when shared, rather than guarded as a strategic asset. Open platforms can help millions of youth contribute to making technology safer and more human-centric. This collective intelligence is humanity’s greatest strength. AI must evolve as a global common good.

We are entering an era where humans and intelligent systems will co-create, co-work and co-evolve. Entirely new professions will emerge. When the internet began, no one could imagine the possibilities. It ended up creating a huge number of new opportunities and so will AI.

I am confident that our empowered youth will be the true drivers of the AI age. We are encouraging skilling, reskilling and lifelong learning by running some of the largest and most diverse skilling programmes in the world.

India is home to one of the world’s largest youth populations and technology talent. With our energy capacity and policy clarity, we are uniquely positioned to harness AI’s full potential. At this Summit, I was proud to see Indian companies launch indigenous AI models and applications, reflecting the technological depth of our young innovation community.

To fuel the growth of our AI ecosystem, we are building a robust infrastructure foundation. Under the India AI Mission, we have deployed thousands of GPUs and are set to deploy more soon. By accessing world-class computing power at highly affordable rates, even the smallest startups can become global players. Further, we have established a national AI Repository, democratizing access to datasets and AI models. From semiconductors and data infrastructure to vibrant startups and applied research, we are focusing on the complete value chain.

India’s diversity, democracy and demographic dynamism provide the right atmosphere for inclusive innovation. Solutions that succeed in India can serve humanity everywhere. That is why our invitation to the world is: Design and develop in India. Deliver to the world. Deliver to humanity.

Police Renew Search for Activist Mabel Akuwa Roberts Amid Renewed Tensions Over August 10 Protests

February 20, 2026

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Fresh concerns have emerged over the safety of political activist and civil society advocate Mabel Akuwa Roberts following reports that the Sierra Leone Police stormed her former residence on Friday 13th February, 2026 in an attempt to arrest her over allegations linked to the August 10, 2022 protests.

According to investigations conducted by The Calabash Newspaper, police officers reportedly raided Roberts’ former premises after receiving intelligence that she had returned to Sierra Leone. However, sources close to the activist disclosed that the information was false and that she had not returned to the country at the time of the operation.

The latest development has heightened fears among relatives, associates, and civil society groups who say Roberts continues to face intimidation because of her political activism and criticism of the government.

Mabel Akuwa Roberts, founder of the civil society group Voice for the Voiceless, rose to national prominence during the period leading up to the August 10, 2022 protests through her outspoken advocacy on governance, economic hardship, and human rights concerns. Through her organization, she mobilized young people, many of whom were perceived to be sympathetic to the opposition All People’s Congress (APC).

Following the deadly protests that erupted across Sierra Leone in August 2022, Roberts became one of several opposition-aligned figures accused without formal legal basis of sponsoring youths allegedly involved in the unrest. The accusations reportedly stemmed from claims that some members of her organization were seen participating in the demonstrations.

The protests, which were largely driven by economic grievances and frustrations over the rising cost of living, resulted in violent confrontations between protesters and security forces, leaving several civilians and police officers dead. Human rights organizations later raised concerns over the use of excessive force and politically motivated targeting in the aftermath of the unrest.

Investigations revealed that Roberts was previously invited by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) headquarters for questioning in relation to the protests and was released after approximately 24 hours without any formal charges being filed against her.

Despite the absence of charges, Roberts allegedly remained under surveillance and became the subject of repeated police interest. Sources disclosed that in October 2022, security personnel carried out several raids on her residence, reportedly acting on intelligence linking her to protest organizers. On multiple occasions, she narrowly escaped arrest after being tipped off by sympathizers and neighbors.

The recent February 2026 raid has reportedly revived fears over her personal safety, with close relatives expressing concern that continued attempts to locate and arrest her may place her life at risk.

Civil society organizations and human rights advocates have also expressed alarm over what they describe as the growing politicization of law enforcement and the intimidation of dissenting voices in Sierra Leone.

According to sources familiar with the matter, police authorities have allegedly indicated that efforts to locate Roberts will continue until she is arrested, a development critics say risks escalating tensions within the civic space.

Roberts was also known to have worked closely with the late Evangelist Samson, chairman of the APC-aligned group TAGMEN, who was shot and killed by security forces in Makeni days after the August 10 protests after being labelled as one of the alleged instigators of the unrest. Their association reportedly intensified public scrutiny and accusations against her by political opponents.

Several civil society groups have since renewed calls for greater protection of human rights defenders and activists, urging authorities to ensure that political dissent is not criminalized.

As Sierra Leone continues to reflect on the aftermath of the August 10 protests, the renewed pursuit of Mabel Akuwa Roberts has once again raised difficult questions about political tolerance, civic freedom, and the protection of fundamental human rights in the country.