Prof. Ezekiel K. Duramany-Lakkoh Unveils 2026 Public Engagement Agenda Focused on Mindset Change

January 7, 2026

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Professor Ezekiel K. Duramany-Lakkoh has unveiled an ambitious 2026 Public Engagement Agenda aimed at reshaping national development through education, mindset transformation and active citizen participation.

In a message of hope and national renewal at the start of the New Year, Prof. Ezekiel K. Duramany-Lakkoh emphasized that development should not be narrowly defined by physical infrastructure or Government expenditure alone. Instead, he argued that sustainable progress begins with how citizens think, what they value and how they participate in shaping their country’s future.

“Development is not only about roads, buildings or budgets,” he stated. “True development begins with the human mind and the values that guide collective action.”

According to the Professor, national development conversations must go beyond political platforms and elite discussions. He stressed that citizens themselves bear responsibility for understanding development and contributing meaningfully to it at every level of society.

To drive that shift, Prof. Ezekiel K. Duramany-Lakkoh outlined ten core engagement programmes he plans to champion throughout 2026, each designed to address what he described as critical “mindset gaps” holding back national progress.

The first programme focuses on redefining education. He explained that many citizens misunderstand what education truly entails, confusing academic certification with transformative, skills-based learning. The engagement will explore the differences between academic and professional education, knowledge-based and skills-based systems and why Sierra Leone must urgently move toward a more innovative, knowledge-driven education model.

The second pillar centers on financial literacy, particularly for young people. That discussion will examine what wealth truly means, who can be considered wealthy and how responsible money management forms the backbone of economic growth and personal stability.

Third is a private sector and entrepreneurship awareness programme aimed at shifting mindsets from dependency to productivity. Prof. Ezekiel K. Duramany-Lakkoh said the initiative will encourage innovation, enterprise creation and job generation as engines of national development.

The fourth engagement targets youth skills and work ethics. It seeks to restore respect for skills, discipline and the dignity of labour, while preparing young people to compete effectively in a modern, globalized economy.

Saving and investment awareness forms the fifth programme. Here, citizens will be educated on the importance of savings and long-term investment, and how personal wealth creation can support critical needs such as education, healthcare and housing.

Environmental protection and climate awareness constitute the sixth focus area. Prof. Ezekiel K. Duramany-Lakkoh noted that sustainable development cannot be achieved without protecting land, water and forests, adding that environmental neglect threatens future generations.

The seventh programme addresses social inclusion and cultural diversity. He stressed that development cannot be realized without equal opportunities for all, regardless of gender, religion, class or ethnic background.

Community development and local leadership education make up the eighth engagement. This initiative will encourage citizens to take ownership of development at the community level, rather than waiting solely on central Government interventions.

Digital literacy and innovation awareness follow as the ninth priority. Prof. Duramany-Lakkoh described technology as a powerful tool for education, business growth and national competitiveness when properly understood and responsibly used.

The tenth and final programme focuses on national values and integrity. It aims to reinforce honesty, hard work, patriotism and accountability as the moral foundation upon which lasting development must stand.

“These programmes are not about politics,” Prof. Duramany-Lakkoh clarified. “They are about mindset change. When minds change, nations change.”

He concluded by calling for collective responsibility, stressing that development must be understood, owned and protected by the people themselves. Through education, participation and shared values, he said, Sierra Leone can build a future where development is not only planned by leaders but practiced daily by citizens.

Spotlight On Braima Koroma: A Decade of Research Leadership Shaping Sierra Leone’s Urban Future

January 7, 2026

Director of Research and Training at the Sierra Leone Urban Research Centre (SLURC), Braima Koroma

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

For the past ten years, Braima Koroma has stood at the centre of Sierra Leone’s evolving urban research landscape, quietly but decisively shaping how cities are studied, understood and transformed. As Director of Research and Training at the Sierra Leone Urban Research Centre (SLURC), Braima Koroma has emerged as one of the institution’s founding pillars; an anchor of its research vision, a steward of its partnerships and a driving force behind its reputation as a leading hub for evidence-based urban policy and practice.

Since SLURC’s establishment, Braima Koroma has been integral to defining its ethos: research rooted in community realities, co-produced with residents and translated into practical action. Over a decade, he has led and supported a remarkable portfolio of major research programmes, many funded by the UK Government and global development partners. These include high-profile initiatives such as Knowledge in Action for Urban Equality (KNOW), Urban Africa: Risk and Capacity (Urban ARK), OVERDUE, which tackles sanitation taboos across urban Africa, and Beyond the Networked City, a programme exploring innovative systems for water, sanitation and energy.

Beyond Freetown, his expertise has extended SLURC’s reach across Sierra Leone and the region. Through consultancies with the World Bank and the African Development Bank (AfDB), Braima Koroma has contributed to Climate Action Plans for three cities, Flood Risk Assessment and Management Plans for eight secondary cities, Spatial Development Plans for six cities, a Spatial Development Framework for Lungi and critical studies on sand mining in the Western Area Peninsula and the Mahera area. Those interventions have strengthened local planning, informed safeguards and improved the resilience of rapidly growing urban centres.

Colleagues describe Braima Koroma as a leader who brings calm authority to complex, multi-partner projects. His ability to align diverse stakeholders, communities, councils, ministries, academics and international partners has been instrumental in delivering results under demanding conditions. He is widely credited with transforming intricate research challenges into celebrated successes, while maintaining a positive, collaborative working culture.

As Director of Research and Training, Braima Koroma also oversees quality assurance across SLURC’s work, monitoring field activities, editing publications and ensuring methodological rigour. He frequently leads visiting delegations on site tours, offering firsthand insight into informal settlements, flood-prone communities and upgrading initiatives. Internally, he is known for mentoring emerging researchers and encouraging staff to step forward into leadership, fostering a culture of empowerment and shared ownership.

Braima Koroma’s professional journey is underpinned by a strong academic foundation. He studied at Njala University College, University of Sierra Leone, graduating with a First-Class BSc (Hons) in Environment and Development, followed by an MSc in Environmental Sciences (Development Studies), earning distinctions for his work on woodfuel flows in Greater Freetown and soil conservation strategies in Moyamba District. As a Chevening Scholar, he later completed an MSc by Research at Manchester Metropolitan University in the United Kingdom, producing a distinction-level thesis on sustainability frameworks in North West England. These formative studies foreshadowed his lifelong focus on the nexus between environment, development and policy.

Alongside his research leadership, Braima Koroma has sustained a substantive academic career spanning nearly two decades. He has taught at both Njala University and the University of Sierra Leone, supervising more than forty postgraduate theses and contributing to curriculum development in Development Studies, Rural Development and Environmental Management. His teaching portfolio, covering development theory, research methods, governance, environmental management and sustainable development economics, reflects the multi-dimensional nature of urban change in the Global South.

Braima Koroma’s research leadership is further reflected in his roles as City Lead or Co-Investigator in international consortia such as the African Cities Research Consortium (ACRC), KNOW, Urban ARK, Transitions to Sustainable Urban Mobility in Sub-Saharan Africa (T-SUM), AT2030, OVERDUE and Beyond the Networked City. Across those programmes, he has helped institutionalize city–community learning platforms that support inclusive settlement upgrading, strengthen local governance and advance mobility equity in Freetown. His work on digital tools, including the ReMapRisk Freetown platform, has made urban risk and vulnerability more visible and actionable for both decision-makers and residents.

A prolific author, Braima Koroma has published widely in peer-reviewed journals such as Environment and Urbanization, Journal of Transport Geography, International Journal of Sustainable Transportation, Urban Planning and Current Research in Environmental Sustainability. His writing explores urban risk accumulation, informality, resilience practices, accessibility, walkability and public transport, bridging scholarly insight with practitioner relevance. He also serves on the editorial boards of the African Journal of Housing and Sustainable Development and the Health and Cities Journal, contributing to the shaping of continental urban research agendas.

Beyond academia, Braima Koroma has provided advisory services to national and international institutions, contributing to policy frameworks such as Sierra Leone’s National Disaster Risk Management Policy, environmental and social management frameworks, and resettlement policy instruments linked to infrastructure and land administration reforms. His public service includes membership of the Steering Committee of the Integrated and Resilient Urban Mobility Project under the Ministry of Transport and Aviation, as well as roles within university governance and national thematic working groups aligned with the UNFCCC and UNCCD.

Internationally, Braima Koroma’s work has taken him across Africa, Europe, Latin America, the Middle East and South Asia, equipping him with comparative perspectives that enrich his work at home. Yet, his focus remains firmly grounded in Sierra Leone; particularly in translating research into tangible improvements in neighbourhoods across Freetown and secondary cities such as Bo, Kenema, Makeni, Port Loko and Koidu.

As SLURC marks a decade of Braima Koroma’s service, his legacy is already evident: the institutionalization of co-learning platforms, the elevation of community knowledge in urban planning and stronger evidence-to-action linkages for inclusive, resilient city-making. Through scholarship, mentorship and quiet leadership, Braima Koroma has not only supported SLURC’s mission; he has propelled it forward.

Happy 10th Anniversary, Braima Koroma;a decade of excellence and a legacy still unfolding.

ACC Strengthens Protection for Whistleblowers and Witnesses as New Regulations Take Effect

January 7, 2026

By Ibrahim Sesay

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has on January 5, 2026 announced the full operationalization of the Whistleblower and Witness Protection Regulations, 2025, marking a major step in strengthening safeguards for individuals who disclose corruption or provide evidence in matters of public interest.

In a press statement issued on Monday, the Commission said the Regulations introduce clear, enforceable and time-bound mechanisms to protect whistleblowers and witnesses who face threats, intimidation or retaliation as a result of their cooperation with anti-corruption investigations. Under the framework, eligible persons may formally apply to the ACC for protection, with the Commission required to take decisions within defined timelines. Where life or property is at immediate risk, the ACC is empowered to grant urgent interim protection.

Once protection is approved, beneficiaries enter into binding protection agreements with the Commission. These agreements provide access to a range of safeguards, including physical security, relocation, concealment or change of identity. The Regulations also make special provision for the protection of children, subject to High Court oversight and guided strictly by the best interests of the child.

A key innovation under the new framework is the introduction of a reward and compensation regime. Whistleblowers whose information leads to the successful exposure of corruption may receive monetary or non-monetary rewards. In addition, whistleblowers and witnesses who suffer retaliation, such as unlawful dismissal, demotion or discrimination, are entitled to compensation. Individuals found culpable of retaliatory actions face stiff sanctions, including mandatory removal from office upon conviction.

To reinforce integrity and public trust, the Regulations criminalize attempts to obstruct protection measures, intimidate protected persons or suppress protected disclosures. All information relating to whistleblowers and witnesses is subject to strict confidentiality safeguards, with disclosure permitted only under narrowly defined legal circumstances.

The ACC said the Regulations align Sierra Leone’s anti-corruption framework with international best practices, including obligations under the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) and the African Union Convention on Preventing and Combating Corruption (AUCPCC). These instruments call on state parties to provide effective protection for reporting persons and witnesses and to criminalize acts that obstruct justice.

According to the Commission, the coming into force of the Regulations sends a strong national message: Sierra Leone will protect those who speak up, reward integrity and punish retaliation. The ACC said this approach will further strengthen the country’s anti-corruption architecture and reinforce public confidence in accountability institutions across Sierra Leone.

The Commission expressed appreciation to the Government of Julius Maada Bio, Parliament and the Office of the Attorney General and Minister of Justice for their support in ensuring the Regulations were finalized and brought into effect.

Reaffirming its mandate, the ACC assured the public of its unwavering commitment to intensifying the fight against corruption and encouraging citizens to report wrongdoing without fear, confident that the law now provides robust protection for those who choose integrity over silence.

President Bio, First Lady Join Lebanese Community to Honour Late Talal Saleh Fawaz

January 7, 2026

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

President Julius Maada Bio and the First Lady, Fatima Maada Bio, on Monday January 5, 2026 joined members of the Lebanese community, family, friends and political supporters at funeral prayers for the late Talal Saleh Fawaz, popularly known as Junior Bio, who passed away at the age of 61.

The Janazah prayers were held at the Lebanese Islamic Cultural Association headquarters on Kingharman Road in Freetown and attracted a distinguished gathering of senior Government officials, party stakeholders and prominent members of the Lebanese community. Among those present were Nour Hashim, Ahmed Hashim, widely known as VIP, Rodney Michael and other Lebanese community leaders, underscoring the respect and affection the late Talal Saleh Fawaz commanded across social and political divides.

During the solemn ceremony, President Bio paid tribute to the late Talal Saleh Fawaz for his steadfast loyalty and visible contributions during the 2023 presidential campaign. The President recalled Talal Saleh Fawaz as a committed supporter of the Paopa movement who actively participated in campaign activities across several districts and chiefdoms, offering both moral and practical support throughout the period.

“Wherever I went during the campaign, he was there,” President Bio said while consoling the bereaved family. “To many, he may have appeared to be an ordinary man, but to me, he was a true and loyal supporter who believed deeply in my leadership.” The President described the late Talal Saleh Fawaz as a humble individual whose dedication was driven by conviction rather than recognition.

President Bio further offered prayers for Allah’s mercy, asking that the late Talal Saleh Fawaz’s shortcomings be forgiven and that his soul be granted eternal rest in Al-Jannah. The First Lady also extended heartfelt condolences to the family, encouraging them to draw strength from faith and the collective support shown by mourners from all walks of life.

Speaking on behalf of the bereaved family and the Lebanese community in Sierra Leone, Ahmed Hashim (VIP) expressed profound appreciation to the President, the First Lady, Government officials and party representatives for honouring the late Talal Saleh Fawaz with their presence. He said the gesture reaffirmed the sense of inclusion and national belonging enjoyed by the Lebanese community.

“Your Excellences, Mr. President and First Lady, we are deeply honoured by your attendance,” Ahmed Hashim said. “Your presence brings comfort to the family at this difficult time and reflects the strong bond between our community and the people of Sierra Leone.” He added that the show of solidarity had provided reassurance and strength to the family as they mourned their loss.

Ahmed Hashim noted that while the family grieves, they are encouraged by the unity displayed during the ceremony. He prayed for eternal peace for the departed and invited the Chief Imam of the Lebanese community to lead recitations from the Holy Qur’an.

The funeral programme featured Qur’anic recitations by the Chief Imam, followed by the Janazah prayer for the late Talal Saleh Fawaz. The gathering concluded in a calm and reflective atmosphere, with mourners offering prayers and condolences.

The ceremony not only marked a dignified farewell to Talal Saleh Fawaz but also highlighted the spirit of inter-community harmony, shared faith and national unity that continues to define Sierra Leone’s diverse social fabric.

Orange Sierra Leone Welcomes Aicha Toure as New Chief Executive Officer

January 7, 2026

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Orange Sierra Leone on Monday, 5 January 2026, officially welcomed its new Chief Executive Officer, Aicha Toure, during a well-attended ceremony at the company’s headquarters on Hill Station in Freetown.

Madam Aicha Toure arrived in the company of the outgoing Chief Executive Officer, Sekou Amadou Bah, and was warmly received by members of senior management and staff. The event marked a significant leadership transition for the telecommunications provider as it consolidates its market position and accelerates the expansion of digital and financial services nationwide.

Following the welcome ceremony, the outgoing CEO, together with the Human Resources Manager, Agnes Songa, led Madam Aicha Toure on a comprehensive familiarization tour of key Orange Sierra Leone facilities. The tour covered departments at the Hill Station Head Office, the Orange Digital Centre; which also houses the Orange Foundation Sierra Leone, the Orange Money Office, and the Orange Data Centre on Spur Road in Freetown.

During her interactions with staff across the various units, employees expressed optimism and enthusiasm about the new leadership, pledging their full support and collaboration in advancing the company’s strategic priorities. Management officials said the engagement reflected a strong internal commitment to continuity, innovation and customer-focused service delivery.

Madam Aicha Toure brings to Orange Sierra Leone more than 12 years of international experience spanning telecommunications, technology and financial services. She joined the Orange Group in 2017 as Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer at Orange Mali, where she spearheaded major initiatives including the rollout of 4G services, expansion of fibre connectivity and improved access to energy solutions.

In 2019, she was appointed Chief Executive Officer of Orange Money Mali, a role in which she transformed the platform into the country’s leading mobile financial services provider. Under her leadership, Orange Money Mali emerged as the largest mobile money operation within the Orange Group, significantly advancing financial inclusion and digital payments.

Academically, Madam Toure holds a Master’s degree in Engineering from CentraleSupélec and an Executive MBA from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where she was a Sloan Fellow. She is widely regarded for her strong advocacy for digital transformation and inclusive growth across Africa.

Her appointment is expected to further strengthen Orange Sierra Leone’s vision of delivering innovative, inclusive and customer-centric digital solutions, while contributing meaningfully to Sierra Leone’s broader socio-economic development agenda through connectivity, financial inclusion and digital skills development.

TVS Motorcycles Dominate Sierra Leone’s Roads as Shalimar Trading Expands Access to Affordable Transport

January 7, 2026

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Shalimar Trading Company Limited, one of Sierra Leone’s most trusted automobile distributors, is reinforcing its leadership in the country’s transportation sector through its exclusive dealership with TVS Motor Company, India’s third-largest motorcycle manufacturer renowned globally for innovation, engineering excellence and performance.

As the sole authorized distributor of TVS motorcycles, scooters, mopeds and three-wheelers in Sierra Leone, Shalimar Trading Company has expanded access to reliable, affordable and versatile mobility solutions for both personal and commercial users. The partnership continues to play a critical role in addressing the country’s growing demand for durable transport across urban centres and rural communities.

Among the most popular offerings is the TVS Star HLX series, available in 100ES, 100KS, 125cc and 150cc models. Widely recognized for strength, fuel efficiency and low maintenance costs, the Star HLX dominates Sierra Leone’s commercial riding sector and is particularly valued by transport operators navigating challenging road conditions nationwide.

The versatile TVS XL 100 moped has also earned strong patronage from families, traders and small businesses. Its sturdy build, spacious footrest and excellent fuel economy make it a practical option for everyday transport and light commercial activities. For professionals and daily commuters, the TVS Victor remains a favourite, combining elegant design with dependable performance.

Urban commuters in Freetown and other major towns continue to gravitate towards the TVS Jupiter scooter, praised for its comfort, smooth handling and ergonomic design; features that ease movement through congested city streets. Younger riders are equally drawn to the stylish TVS NEO XR and TVS ZT 125, which offer modern aesthetics, versatility and reliability.

For speed and control enthusiasts, the TVS Apache RTR 200 and other Apache variants provide high performance, precision handling and advanced engineering, appealing to riders who prioritize power and responsiveness. In the multi-passenger segment, the TVS King Deluxe three-wheeler has become a dependable option for families and commercial operators, comfortably transporting up to four passengers.

Beyond product availability, Shalimar Trading’s extensive after-sales support remains a major pillar of the brand’s success. Customers benefit from access to genuine spare parts and professional servicing at multiple locations in Freetown, including Lumley, Bai Bureh Road and Siaka Stevens Street. This robust support system continues to build confidence and long-term loyalty among TVS users nationwide.

In addition to its exclusive TVS partnership, Shalimar Trading distributes other globally recognized automotive brands, including Suzuki, Sonalika International, Isuzu, CFMOTO and Leyland, further strengthening its footprint in the regional automotive industry. With operations now extending into Liberia, the company is contributing to improved mobility, job creation and economic growth across West Africa.

Through quality products, reliable service and a commitment to affordability, Shalimar Trading and TVS Motor Company continue to deliver world-class mobility solutions tailored to Sierra Leone’s evolving transport needs.

President Bio Begins 2026 With Prayers and a Call for National Solidarity at Tihun New Year’s Mass

January 5, 2026

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio marked the first day of 2026 with a powerful call for unity, empathy and national solidarity as he joined Catholic worshippers for New Year’s Day Mass at St Joseph Catholic Church in Tihun, Sogbini Chiefdom, Bonthe District.

The President attended the solemn service on Thursday, 1 January 2026, accompanied by First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio and members of his family, joining residents of his hometown to pray for a peaceful and prosperous year ahead.

The Mass coincided with the global Catholic celebration of the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God; a feast observed on the first day of every year in honour of Mary’s motherhood and her role in salvation history.

This year’s commemoration was celebrated under the theme: “The Motherhood of Mary”, with prayers offered specifically for President Bio, his administration, the First Lady and for national unity and progress.

Parish leaders invited the congregation to reflect on the blessings and challenges of the past year, encouraging worshippers to enter 2026 with faith-filled expectation and a renewed spirit of gratitude. The scriptural readings, from the Book of Numbers, Galatians and the Gospel of Luke, focused on God’s promise of blessing, humanity’s adoption as God’s children and the naming of Jesus eight days after His birth.

Delivering the homily, Acting Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Patrick Vagahun reminded the congregation that God continues to speak to His people; not through prophets, but through His Son, Jesus Christ.

He encouraged worshippers to deepen their spiritual reflection throughout the year, emulating the example of the Virgin Mary, who “pondered God’s Word in her heart.”

Rev. Fr. Vagahun urged Sierra Leoneans to cultivate patience, humility and obedience to God’s message while praying for the nation’s leadership, families, communities and institutions.

Special prayers were offered for the President and his household, his Government and for peace, justice and prosperity in Sierra Leone.

In his message to the congregation, President Bio extended appreciation to God for the gift of life and for guiding Sierra Leone into another year.
He noted that despite global economic turbulence and ongoing recovery efforts, the country continues to stand strong because of the resilience, faith and optimism of its citizens.

The President said the dual significance of the day, as the start of a New Year and a religious feast celebrating Mary; offered Sierra Leoneans a reminder to nurture mutual respect and compassion.

He called on citizens to show empathy toward one another, strengthen the bonds of national unity and consolidate the peace gained over recent years.

“Let us begin 2026 with gratitude and with love for each other,” he said, urging Sierra Leoneans to remain hopeful and committed to building a more prosperous future.

The Mass concluded with blessings on the country, its leaders and its people, symbolizing renewed national purpose and shared aspirations for peace, growth and stability as Sierra Leone steps boldly into 2026.

NPPA Introduces Mandatory e-GP Registration for All Government Suppliers

January 5, 2026

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The National Public Procurement Authority (NPPA) has announced the introduction of an Online Electronic Government Procurement (e-GP) Portal to facilitate the continuation of the national registration of suppliers, contractors and consultants seeking to do business with the Government of Sierra Leone.

The announcement was made through Public Notice Circular 02–2025, issued from the NPPA headquarters at Tower Hill, Freetown, and is addressed to all suppliers, contractors, consultants, procuring entities and the general public.

According to the notice, the e-GP Portal is being introduced in line with Regulation 10(2) of the Public Procurement Regulations, 2020, as part of government’s broader commitment to modernising the public procurement system. The initiative is aimed at strengthening transparency, efficiency, accountability and ease of access to procurement-related services across the country.

The NPPA stated that with immediate effect, all registration, renewal and updating of records for suppliers, contractors and consultants wishing to participate in government procurement activities will be conducted exclusively through the NPPA e-GP Portal. The portal will be officially accessible to the public from Monday, 5th January 2026, and can be accessed via the Authority’s website at www.egp.nppa.gov.sl.

The Authority further reminded the public that the Registration Certificate is valid for one year, running from 1st January to 31st December of each year. Consequently, all registered suppliers, contractors and consultants are required to renew their registration annually in order to remain eligible to participate in public procurement processes.

Providing key details on the online registration process, the NPPA disclosed that online registration will officially commence on 5th January 2026. Applicants will be required to upload scanned copies of relevant documents in PDF format, including a valid Corporate Affairs Registration Certificate, NRA Tax Clearance Certificate, NASSIT Clearance Certificate, and a Local Council Licence, where applicable.

The registration fee for national businesses has been set at Le 1,000, while foreign businesses will pay a registration fee of US$200. The NPPA confirmed that all registration certificates issued through the portal will be valid for one year and renewable annually.

In a directive to all government institutions, the Authority emphasized that only suppliers, contractors and consultants who are duly registered and validly listed on the e-GP Portal will be allowed to participate in public procurement processes, in strict compliance with the applicable legal and regulatory framework.

For further inquiries or assistance, businesses have been advised to visit the NPPA Head Office at Tower Hill, Freetown, or any of its regional offices in Bo, Kenema and Makeni, or to contact the Authority via email.

The public notice was signed by Fodie J. Konneh, MCIPS, Chief Executive Officer of the National Public Procurement Authority, marking a significant step towards the digital transformation of Sierra Leone’s public procurement system.

This announcement serves as a call to action for all suppliers, contractors and consultants to take note of the new requirements and ensure timely compliance ahead of the 2026 procurement cycle.

Sheik Apologizes Over Controversial Christmas Statement as Government Declares the matter to close

January 5, 2026

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Sheik Abu Bakarr Kamara has publicly apologized for a sermon in which he stated that Muslims who celebrate Christmas would go to hell, a remark that sparked public concern and threatened Sierra Leone’s long standing tradition of religious tolerance.

The apology was made on Wednesday 31st December, 2025, during a high level reconciliation meeting held by the Ministry of Social Welfare in Freetown. The meeting brought together senior Government officials and leading Christian and Muslim figures following widespread reactions to the sermon, which many feared could inflame interreligious tensions in the country.

Addressing the gathering, Sheik Kamara acknowledged that his statement caused tension and misunderstanding and asked for forgiveness from the public. He admitted that his words were inappropriate and inconsistent with the values of peace and unity that have defined Sierra Leone’s interfaith relations for decades.

Minister of Social Welfare, Melrose Kaminty, who presided over the meeting, urged citizens to accept the apology and move forward in the interest of national cohesion. She emphasized that religious leaders wield significant influence and must be cautious about the content, context and tone of their public statements.

She warned that irresponsible religious messaging could undermine national stability and disclosed that government is working on policies aimed at regulating religious leadership and curbing hate speech. The Minister stressed that the matter must be put to an end, stating that government would not allow the issue to escalate further or disrupt the country’s peace.

Religious leaders from both faiths used the platform to reaffirm Sierra Leone’s shared history of peaceful coexistence. Reverend Henry Samuels recalled the country’s tradition of interfaith harmony, noting that Muslims and Christians have historically lived, worshipped and celebrated together as families and communities.

Representing the Muslim community, Sheik Ibrahim Barrie issued a formal apology for the initial statement, describing it as a misrepresentation of Islamic teachings. He cited Islamic principles and historical accounts that promote mutual respect and protection between Muslims and Christians.

Calls for stronger measures to prevent similar incidents were also raised. Musa Mewa Esq, Amir of the Ahmadiyya Mission, argued that policy guidelines alone may be insufficient and called for enforceable legal frameworks to promote peace and harmony among all citizens. He stressed that matters of faith should never involve coercion.

Reverend Baba Tam Bayoh of the Inter Religious Council described national unity as fragile and in constant need of protection, urging religious leaders to consistently promote messages of love and tolerance. Bishop Emeritus Reverend Arnold C Temple emphasized the importance of dialogue, stating that while individuals may hold firm beliefs, such convictions must be expressed in ways that preserve peace.

The meeting ended with a collective agreement to use the incident as a turning point for reinforcing interreligious harmony. Government officials reiterated that the issue has been resolved and that national focus must return to safeguarding peace, tolerance and unity across Sierra Leone.

Minister of Social Welfare, Melrose Kaminty

Cowbell Brings Pupils Together for Learning, Games and Nutrition Awareness at Family Fun Day

January 5, 2026

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Cowbell, one of Sierra Leone’s most popular nutritious beverage brands, delighted children and families during its exciting Family Fun Day held on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, at BENGOD-JF Kennedy School in Cline Town, East End of Freetown. The event, organized by Premium Divine Trading Company Limited, attracted pupils from several schools who participated in fun activities, talent displays and educational games all centred around promoting good nutrition and wellness.

Designed as part of Cowbell’s continuing community outreach efforts, the Family Fun Day created a safe and vibrant platform for pupils to interact, showcase their talents and learn through play. Activities ranged from interactive games and music competitions to a highly engaging quiz contest, where winning pupils walked away with attractive prizes, including Cowbell evaporated milk, books and Drink O Pop refreshments.

Guests also enjoyed a taste of Cowbell’s wet range and other well-loved products distributed by Premium Divine Trading, introducing children to delicious nutritional options in an entertaining setting. The musical chair and quiz competitions became the day’s highlight as excited pupils competed for top positions, with cheering crowds applauding their efforts.

Speaking during the event, Philip Kanu, Marketing Lead at Premium Divine Trading, said the Fun Day was part of the company’s broader mission to support child development and encourage healthy living among Sierra Leonean families.

“We organized this event to help pupils stay active and to educate families about the importance of nutritious food choices,” he explained. “Cowbell and our other brands provide essential nutrients for children and adults and we want communities to make informed decisions when choosing what they consume.”

He further noted that Cowbell remains committed to affordability and accessibility, providing families with nutritious products that support growth, brain development and overall wellbeing.

Philip Kanu highlighted Cowbell’s diverse flavours including Coffee, Strawberry, Coconut and Choco-Malt while emphasizing the popularity of its newest addition, Cowbell evaporated milk, produced in Ghana by Promasidor and widely distributed across West Africa.

He added that Premium Divine Trading supplies other household staples such as Onga seasoning, Twisco, Miksi Chocolate and Coffee, and Yumvita infant cereals products he described as beneficial to children’s physical development and balanced diets.

Appealing directly to families, he encouraged parents to prioritize high-quality food products. “Milk plays a key role in proper growth and Cowbell remains one of the most nutritious and reliable options available,” he stressed.

Yusuf Kamara, a Teacher, commended the organisers, calling the programme an important contribution to pupils’ educational and physical wellbeing.

“This was more than fun it was developmental,” he said. “The mix of recreation and knowledge-sharing helped students learn new things and build confidence. I hope other institutions take inspiration from Cowbell.”

Fatu Sesay, who accompanied her child, said she was amazed at the free activities and giveaways.

“In many places events like this come with fees, but Cowbell made everything free and even rewarded the children,” she said joyfully. “The quiz prizes, the taste samples and the fun atmosphere made this day unforgettable.”

Fatu Sesay urged other corporate bodies to emulate Cowbell’s commitment to community upliftment, adding that the experience had strengthened her trust in the brand.

The half-day celebration closed with a thrilling quiz competition, testing pupils on general knowledge and rewarding creativity, intelligence and teamwork. Laughter, applause and cheers echoed across the school grounds as winners proudly collected their prizes.

Cowbell officials pledged to continue rolling out similar activities across Sierra Leone, reaffirming Cowbell’s reputation not just as a nutritional brand but a partner in learning, family welfare and community empowerment.