Angels to Angels Sierra Leone Engages Scholarship Beneficiaries

November 27, 2019

at1 — National Coordinator of Angels 2 Angels Sierra Leone, Saidu Sankoh addressing the beneficiaries

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a bid to enhance their continuous support to disadvantaged girls in Sierra Leone, Angels 2 Angels Sierra Leone, a non-governmental organization has on Saturday 24^th November, 2019 engaged a cross section of Angels to Angels Scholarship beneficiaries at the Model Municipality in Kissy.

Speaking during the ceremony, the National Coordinator of Angels 2 Angels Sierra Leone, Saidu Sankoh, disclosed that the meeting is geared towards bringing both old and new beneficiaries together in order to educate them about the various packages Angels to Angels Sierra Leone have in stock and to make sure that the new beneficiaries emulate the positive attitudes and hard work of old beneficiaries.

He said Angels to Angels Sierra Leone (A2A) is a US based non-profitable organization developed by a group of visionary women with the aim of improving educational opportunities for girls in Sierra Leone in particular and Africa as a whole.

He applauded the Founder of Angels 2 Angels Sierra Leone, Fatu Quinie Sesay and the United State of America Board members namely: Dr. Kathy Forlenza and her daughters Kate and Stefanie, Mrs. Stephanie Pangia and her daughter Sarah and Michaela for their continuous support towards the organization, adding that few months ago the organization donated school items worth millions of Leones to 100 pupils across the country in 46 different schools in Freetown, Bo, Kenema, Tombo and Makeni. The items include text and exercise books, uniforms, bags of rice etc.

He noted that the organization is striving to help break the cycle of poverty through education which provides opportunities for a better future for our girls, and they seek to empower girls by providing them with educational scholarships which they have been doing for the past years.

He admonished beneficiaries to make good use of the opportunity as many children want such an opportunity, underscoring how education is the key to success and they should take their studies serious, adding that with education they will achieve their dreams and become great people in society.

He ended by admonishing parents to be aware of their roles and responsibilities towards the development of their children; underscoring how they have pivotal roles to play towards the development of their children. In that regard he encouraged them to monitor their children.

Ya Alimamy Kanu, Angels to Angels Mentor, in underscoring their responsibilities to the scholarship beneficiaries said they will ensure they regularly monitor the pupils’ academic work in order to know their performances in their various schools, adding that they also check with school authorities and parents in order to enhance their development.

She further encouraged them to be serious in their academic work, maintaining that education is the key to success.

Mabinty Kamara, a beneficiary, thanked Angels to Angels Sierra Leone and the USA membership Board for awarding her the scholarship noting she was not attending school before because her parents could not afford to pay her fees also disclosing that through the support of the organization she is confident that she will achieve their dreams and become great people in society.

She called on other humanitarian organizations to support Angels to Angels Sierra Leone as many other girls in Sierra Leone are really challenged in terms of accessing education but said with support they will continue to benefit from programmes or projects that the organization will be implementing.

Isatu Kargbo, a parent of the beneficiary, expressed her deepest appreciation to the organization for awarding their children the scholarships, adding that such a gesture is really helping them and their children.

cross section of the Scholarship beneficiaries

Sussex Goodwill Children Foundation Receives food items from Never Give Up Foundation

November 26, 2019

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Never Give Up Foundation has donated food items to the Goodwill Children Foundation in their tireless effort to raise the standards of Sierra Leone children since it was established in 2016,.

The donation took place over the weekend at Sussex, in the Freetown Peninsular and it was led by the Foundation President Sajor Jalloh, Secretary General Mohamed Kargbo and Organising Secretary Alhaji Kamara.

Before presenting the food items, Never Give Up Foundation Organising Secretary, Alhaji Kamara spoke about the name of the Foundation and said it was set up by an outstanding Sierra Leonean based in Germany, Lance Mavin Marah to assist orphan kids and children with disabilities.

He said the Founder and CEO went through difficulty and so he wanted to pay back to society as God Has started blessing him by give back to the less privileged. “We are here today to acknowledge his wish and what he has instructed us to do. We don’t have much to satisfy you but we just want to give the little we have and in our subsequent engagement, we will do more.”

He went on to remind his audience that the Foundation is non-political and their only source of fund is the CEO Lance Mavin Marah who tapped from the little resources he has been gathering to give to others.

Alhaji Kamara emphasised that the Foundation believe that the children’s future is going to be bright as they see Doctors, Lawyers, Journalists and Bankers among them. He encouraged the kids to endure and to always supress themselves by avoiding the streets, smoking, cinema among other distractive things but for them to read their books.

“We want to help the less privileged. This is a small token and we hope you will appreciate it.” The Goodwill Children Foundation Sierra Leone Director, Foday Korombo Kamara thanked Never Give Up Foundation for their timely support.

He explained that the Foundation has 30 kids of which 19 are girls, 17 are boys and 6 out of the 30 are orphans.

He went on to say their goals and objectives is to remove destitute children, both boys and girls from the streets, fight against child labour, prostitution and early marriage, sensitizing parents about the importance of education in order to send their children to schools, reliving destitute parents from both burden of child responsibilities and to setting up a network to combat the problems of destitute children.

He spoke about their Foundation’s accountability to their donors and the people and called for partnership with Never Give Up Foundation. The items included rice, vegetable oil, onions, biscuits and juice.

After receiving the items the children prayed for Never Give Up Foundation for more prospects. The ceremony was also witnessed by the representative of the Headman and the former Headman in that community.

Ports Board & Management End Strategic Planning Retreat

November 26, 2019

By SLPA Communications Unit

The Sierra Leone Ports Authority has concluded a two-day Board of Directors and Management retreat in Bo. The retreat featured among other things: Management’s State of Art Report on the Authority, Departmental Presentations, Procurement Rules and Procedures, Discussions on: Corporate Governance and Best Practices, Board Structures, Procedures, Duties and Powers and the Relationship between the Board and Management.

The Chairman Board of Directors Hon. Manso Dumbuya, during his opening remarks, said the retreat is to reflect on the past and challenge each other in pursuant with the Board and Management agenda to transform the port.

“We are here to look at and review our existing strategies to improve on efficiency and productivity in the operations of the port.”

Chairman Dumbuya furthered that the Board-Management engagement would au fait the Board with the income and expenditure generating activities of each department of the Authority.

On his part, SLPA General Manager, Dr. Abdulai Fofana, while delivering his State of Art report on the Authority within the period September 2018-November 2019, said his management is set to explore the chain of opportunities to further its ability to thrive distinctively, attract more income for government and effectively manage the resources of the Authority with keen interest on institutional development.

On the management of the Authority’s resources and financial prudence, Dr. Fofana said his management has increased the Authority’s dollar account by 150% (One Hundred & Fifty Percent) while the Leone account has jumped by 40% (forty percent).

He furthered that despite the rebranding of the Authority’s corporate image, overhauling the model of doing business and restoring its credibility and effectiveness in doing business, his management undertook several projects not excluding:

Strengthening of security and intelligence unit, thereby reducing crime within the premises of the Authority through training of personnel and provision of relevant security equipment including the International Port Security facility instrument;
Increasing the economic standings of the Authority by frustrating corrupt practices;
Reduces input wastages;
Introduce 24/7 anchorage to support Saturday Customs of NRA Clearance Procedures;
Phenomenal facelift on Port infrastructures including the Administrative Building;
Job Creation on Social Services;
Strengthen our relationship with partners in the maritime industry;
Introduction a Quality Assurance Unit that has improve service deliveries;
Introduced managerial models that now facilitate inter-departmental interactions, build synergy in programs and enhance cohesion among departments.

Dr. Fofana also emphasized that his management would continue to make the Freetown Port ease of doing business, consolidate improvement in the security sector, increase quality, network with external and professional partners in the marine industry and introduce systems that will harmonize the work of the Authority in a gainful way.

Indonesian President Receives Sierra Leone Ambassador

November 26, 2019

By Samuel Ibrahim Koroma in Beijing

Sierra Leone’s Ambassador Extraordinary and plenipotentiary designate to China and ten other countries, His Excellency, Ernest Mbaimba Ndomahina has presented his credentials to the President of the Republic of Indonesia Joko Widodo at the Presidential Palace of Indonesia.

The occasion commenced with an executive pick up of the Sierra Leone’s Ambassador and his wife Mrs. Ndomahina, and was graced by officials from both the Indonesian government and the Embassy of the Republic of Sierra Leone to in Indonesia resident in Beijing, China.

The national flag of Sierra Leone – green, white and blue – was for the first time placed in front of the executive car with police escort leading the way in the Indonesian Capital, Jakarta.

Upon Ambassador Ndomahina’s arrival at the Presidential Place of Indonesia, he was greeted with a salute from the military, dressed in ceremonial military regalia. After the salute, the sound of the trumpet rented the air, and the ambassador and Indonesian President shook hands for the first time.

Ambassador Ndomahina was part of eighteen (18) ambassadors that were received and welcomed by President Joko Widodo on that same day.

President Widodo stressed that Indonesia attaches great importance to developing relations with the countries and regions of the ambassadors, and was willing to further enhance political mutual trust, deepen pragmatic cooperation and people-to-people exchanges and strengthen coordination and cooperation in international affairs.
“We hope you will play a role as a bridge to make positive contributions to enhancing Indonesia’s friendship with the people of your countries or regions, and promote mutually beneficial cooperation,” President Widodo said.

Ambassador Ndomahina conveyed greetings from Sierra Leone’s President Bio to the Indonesian President, saying that he was willing to commence something that has never been actualized in the history of the two countries of bilateral relation.

In an exclusive interview after presenting his credentials to President Widodo, which automatically makes him the first, and one of the recognized ambassadors in Indonesia, Ambassador Ndomahina expressed his appreciation to God for another height in his ambassadorial career and to H.E. Dr. Julius Maada Bio for bestowing confidence in him to serve this great nation, Sierra Leone.

Ambassador Ndomahina has already begun making his mark in Indonesia, as he has already commence talks with Indonesian State-owned enterprises that have expressed interest, and are very much keen to cooperate with Sierra Leone the area such as infrastructural projects, and its mining sector, which foreign countries hold Sierra Leone with high esteem.

WFP Provides Support for the Needy

November 26, 2019

By Theresa Vamboi

The World Food Programme (WFP), an integral component of the United Nations has for quite a considerable period of time provided support to this country. In its country brief published on the 31^st October 2019, WFP stated that 292.53 mt of food assistance was distributed with no cash-based transfer made. It furthered that US$ 6 m for six months (October 2019–March 2020) net funding is required adding how 59,573 people were assisted in October 2019.

According to the brief, in October 2019, WFP Sierra Leone assisted 93 percent of its planned beneficiaries through 292 mt of assorted food items distributed to 59,573 beneficiaries receiving food and nutrition assistance for stunting prevention, moderate acute malnutrition (MAM), school feeding and disaster management.

It was revealed that the WFP started complementary feeding for stunting prevention in Pujehun district, assisting 7,416 children aged 6 – 23 months, and 8,129 pregnant and lactating women (PLW). Such an intervention was aimed to address districts with the highest stunting rates, as per findings from the national survey.

It again contains that at the beginning of the 2019/2020 school year, WFP participated in cooking demonstrations that were coupled with nutrition sensitization interventions.

In collaboration with the Ministry of Basic & Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE) WFP conducted an assessment of schools in Kambia and Pujehun districts. A head count exercise was done to verify the current enrolment figures of children in supported schools. This also helped to determine whether basic infrastructures are available at given schools.

In October, WFP provided 24,362 students with warm and nutritious meals together with community sensitization and training of education authorities.

As voting for 2019 AWOL Awards in progress… Send SMS to 2713 via Africell

November 26, 2019

By Amin Kef Sesay

Preparatory work is currently underway to ensure that this year’s AWOL Award Ceremony turns out to be superb, special and very momentous more than how successful it had been over the years since the organization started dishing out awards to deserving individuals and institutions for recognized accomplishments within the year under review.

On the 22^nd November 2019, the launch of the National Achievement Awards was launched at the Radisson Blu Hotel and graced by the Chief Minister and other personalities. The Chief Minister described AWOL as an organization which has as its aim and objective to celebrate ‘change-makers.’ He described ‘change-makers’ as those people who are doing their utmost in their little corners to put Sierra Leone first and set bright examples for others to emulate.

According to Prof. Francis, for eighteen years now AWOL has been at the forefront of transforming the lives of people in Sierra Leone while serving as an inspiration at home and even in the Diaspora devoid of political, regional and other sentiments. He added that AWOL has been a credible partner to successive governments, including the current Government. He used the opportunity to call on every Sierra Leonean not to underestimate their respective roles in giving support to governance and development issues, because it is only when each and every Sierra Leonean gives support to the Government that the much-needed change everyone needs will come about and urged AWOL Executive and members to continue the work they have been doing since their establishment.

During the occasion the President of AWOL, Ambassador Anthony Navo Jr informed the audience that AWOL was formed 20 years ago to serve the country in a distinct fashion. He added that coming from an 11 year war, as young people, they decided to form a group with a distinct mission to recognize distinguished Sierra Leoneans, as well as to complement and serve as an auxiliary to government and this they have been doing successfully since the founding of AWOL.

Indisputably, AWOL’s National Achievement Awards have now become an important feature in the calendar of annual events in Sierra Leone. Come as it does towards the close of the year, most Sierra Leoneans see it as part of their Christmas and End of Year entertainment recipe. During the course of the year, AWOL keenly watched Sierra Leoneans in their various works of life as well as institutions with the avowed objective of recognizing them for their good works.

As a family, AWOL considers that approach as a trend as “it adds worth and meaning to our efforts, and brings fulfilment to our dreams; for over and above recognizing and awarding merit, effort, achievement, ability, devotion, commitment and scholarship, to deserving Sierra Leoneans.’

AWOL is also working in underprivileged communities through its various social, educational and humanitarian interventions.

Contrary to what some may want to believe, it should however be noted that AWOL is a non-political and non-profitable organization, which focuses on national development. AWOL’s philosophy is to be selfless, to serve, to give back to society and expect nothing in return as reward or profit.

AWOL is hinged on determination to complement government’s effort in nation building; regardless of which democratic government is in power.

AWOL, for the last eighteen (18) years, has contributed its own quota to the development agenda of Mama Salone and continues to pledge its love and loyalty to Mama Salone and to serve her interest above all else.

It is on record that AWOL has stayed together as a group, worked together as a family, and pursued its goals and aspirations as patriotic Sierra Leoneans who care and love their country. As may be the case in other organizations, AWOL may have its own internal problems, for no group or organization exists without conflict; but AWOL has been able to resolve its differences amicably without any threat to the developmental aspirations of the organization as a whole.
One thing that makes AWOL very outstanding and as part of its constitution, no individual member is bigger than AWOL. AWOL is bigger than each one and their leaders are charged with the responsibility to always bring members together as a family, maintain and promote the traditions that have held AWOL together since the founding and current members became one family 18 years ago.

President of AWOL, Ambassador Anthony Navo Jr., maintains that over these eighteen years AWOL’s contributions to national development have been immense.

He says AWOL supports Sierra Leone’s development and transformative drives to build a new Sierra Leone which is the dream of every Sierra Leonean. AWOL shares in that dream of every Sierra Leonean to see our small but naturally blessed country develop into a paradise on earth:

AWOL has since its inception been involved in imbibing into the nation a whole new attitude of progress, patriotism, unity, freedom and justice. The organization seeks to see non-violence, peaceful co-existence and tolerance among politicians, religions and young people. It further wants to see quality and relevant education for children and young people and it wants to see an improved, accessible and affordable health care delivery system across the country.

AWOL further seeks to see a nation with improved social amenities for the enjoyment of young people and also to see a nation able to grow its own food and able not only to feed itself but its neighbours as well. The organization also wants to see a nation that is less dependent on donor funds for its survival and become a nation that idolises her past, present and future leaders and heroes; and also to see functioning, responsible, pro-active and delivering state institutions.

All Sierra Leoneans who have diligently, honestly, dedicatedly and selflessly played and are playing, their part in nation building stand to gain from AWOL and young people who are especially encouraged, inspired, motivated; will aspire to emulate the good examples.

Below is the list of nominees whom could be voted for by sending a text message on Africell line to 2713:

AWOL NAAs 2019 CATEGORIES & NOMINEES
—————————–

EDUCATION

1. TERTIARY INSTITUTION OF THE YEAR 2019
– IPAM
– Njala
– UNIMAK

2. SECONDARY SCHOOL OF THE YEAR 2019
– Dele-Peddle International School
– Sierra Leone Grammar School
– Providence International High School

3. PRIMARY SCHOOL OF THE YEAR 2019
– Gateway Preparatory Primary School
– International Primary School
– Modern Elementary School

4. YOUNG ACHIEVER OF THE YEAR 2018- NPSE
– Menjor, Esther Sia (Leone Preparatory Prim. School)

5. YOUNG ACHIEVER OF THE YEAR 2018 –BECE
– Hooke Johan Harmonette D. (Providence Int. Snr High, F/Town)
– Taqi Hafeez Othman (Sierra Leone Grammar Sch., F/Town)
– Jalloh Khadijatu (Annie Walsh Memorial Sch., F/Town)

6. YOUNG ACHIEVER OF THE YEAR 2018 –WASSCE
– Saffia Kai (Hermann Gmeiner Int. Sch., F/Town)
– Turay Abdulai S. (Dele-Peddle Int. High, F/Town)

7. YOUNG ACHIEVER OF THE YEAR 2019 –NPSE
– Russell Affuah (The International School Ltd., Prim)

8. YOUNG ACHIEVER OF THE YEAR 2019 –BECE
– Manyeh Kaiwanday Nova (Sierra Leone Grammar Sch., F/Town)
– Koroma Umu B. (Modern High, F/Town)

9. YOUNG ACHIEVER OF THE YEAR 2019 –WASSCE
– Gbakima Aiah (Sierra Leone Grammar Sch., F/Town)

SPORTS

10. SPORTS PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR 2019
– Mohamed Buya Turay
– John Keister
– National Swimming Team

GOVERNANCE

11. MINISTRY OF THE YEAR 2019
– Ministry of Health and Sanitation
– Ministry of Tourism and Culture
– Ministry of Information and Communications

12. PARASTATAL OF THE YEAR 2019
– Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC)
– National Revenue Authority (NRA)
– Audit Service Sierra Leone (ASSL)

13. PARLIAMENTARIAN OF THE YEAR 2019
– Hon. Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella
– Hon. Abdul Kargbo
– Hon. Ibrahim ‘Tawa’ Conteh

MEDIA

14. PRINT MEDIA HOUSE OF THE YEAR 2019
– Awoko
– Sierra Eye Magazine
– Standard Times

15. RADIO MEDIA HOUSE OF THE YEAR 2019
– Radio Democracy 98.1 FM
– SLBC Radio
– Kiss 104 FM

16. TELEVISION MEDIA HOUSE OF THE YEAR 2018 2019
– AYV TV
– SLBC TV
– Star TV

17. MEDIA PRACTITIONER OF THE YEAR 2019 (FEMALE)
– Stella Bangura (AYV TV)
– Zainab Joaque (Awoko Newspaper)
– Khadija Bangura (98.1)

18. MEDIA PRACTITIONER OF THE YEAR 2019 (MALE)
– Amadu Lamrana Bah (AYV TV)
– Mohamed Asmieu Bah (SLBC TV)
– Kemo Cham (Politico Newspaper)

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

19. PERFORMING ARTIST OF THE YEAR 2019 (MUSIC)
– Rozay Sokota
– Arkman
-Drizllik

20. PERFORMING ARTIST OF THE YEAR 2019 (MOVIE)
– Desmond Finnie
– Henrietta Mbawah
– Phebean Swill

21. PERFORMING ARTIST OF THE YEAR 2019 (COMEDY)
– Desmond Beinya
– Kindo Armani
– Richie Obama

22. ARTIST OF THE YEAR 2019 (FINE ART)
– King Dus Art
– Alusine Conteh
– Cyril Oronto-Cole

FINANCE & BUSINESS

23. BANKING INSTITUTION OF THE YEAR 2019
– Sierra Leone Commercial Bank (SLCB)
– Ecobank SL
– Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB)

24. INDIGENOUS BUSINESS OF THE YEAR 2019
– Union Trust Bank (UTB)
– Gento Group
– NP-SL

MEDICINE

25. MEDICAL PRACTITIONER OF THE YEAR 2019
– Dr. Jalikatu Mustapha
– Dr. Francis Lansana
– Dr. Aiah Lebbie

HUMANITARIAN

26. HUMANITARIAN OF THE YEAR 2019
– Sick Pikin Project
– Pikin Bizness
– Melqosh Mission

LAW

27. LEGAL PRACTITIONER OF THE YEAR 2019
– Musa Mewa Esq
– Ibrahim Fayia Sawaneh Esq
– Joan Bull Esq.

THE FORCES

28. MILITARY OFFICER OF THE YEAR 2019
– Brig Gen Victor Samba
– Lt Col Roland Robin Gbondo
–

29. POLICE OFFICER OF THE YEAR 2019
– Mr Francis Musa Hazeley (Chief Supt of Police)
– Mrs Juliette Kumba Kondoh (Supt of Police)
– Mr Edward Tamba Keimbay (Asst Supt of Police)

30. FIRE FORCE OFFICER OF THE YEAR 2019
– Sahr I. Aruna (Sub Officer)
– Abu Bakarr Fofanah (Sub Officer)
– Adebayo Williams (Sub officer)

31. CORRECTIONAL OFFICER OF THE YEAR 2019
– Mohamed Santigie Turay (Director of Corrections)
– Rev Mrs. Josephine R.M. Findlay (Chief Supt of Corrections)
– Mr. Joseph Emmanuel Manley (Chief Supt of Corrections)

AGRICULTURE

32. FARMER OF THE YEAR 2019
– Kabia Farm
– Jam Jay Enterprise
– Madam Haja Sundu Marrah

CIVIL SOCIETY

33. CSO/CBO OF THE YEAR 2019
– Campaign for Good Governance
– CARL- SL
– CHIRDI- SL

HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY

34. HOSPITALITY HOUSE OF THE YEAR 2019
– The Place- Tokeh
– Radisson Blu
– Lagoonda

FASHION

35. FASHION DESIGNER 2019
– Madam Wokie
– Hudsons
– J & F Fashion

PETTY TRADING

36. PETTY TRADER OF THE YEAR 2019
– Isatu (Plasas Seller, Aberdeen Market)
– Abdulai Jalloh (Butcher, Krootown Road)
– Sarian Karimu (Shenge Market, Bo)

NATIONAL SERVICE

37. PUBLIC SERVANT OF THE YEAR 2019
– Lara Taylor-Pearce (ASSL)
– Francis Ben Keifala (ACC)
– Micheala Mackay (CAC)

COMMUNICATIONS

38. TELE-COMMUNICATIONS COMPANY OF THE YEAR
– Orange SL
– Africell SL
– SIERRATEL

NP-SL: Taking the Petroleum Landscape to another Level

November 26, 2019

By Amin Kef Sesay

The National Petroleum Sierra Leone Limited (NP-SL Ltd) is seriously moving towards becoming more pro-active in terms of availing members of the public a wide variety of standard petroleum products that continue to match up to greater demands for these products. From an extensive investigation carried out by this medium over a period of time, what came out vividly was that the company has been rated high for efficient and effective service delivery, which most have found very pleasing, as utmost satisfaction is derived whenever these products are consumed by motorists, institutions and private individuals.

Established years back by 35 ambitious Sierra Leoneans, former workers of British Petroleum company, who bought shares when that entity was folding up, NP-SL ,through prudent managerial competence and the selflessness of its shareholders, is today one of the most successful indigenous companies that has left its footprints on the sands of time. The success of this enterprising business institution is indeed a living testimony that a small idea could germinate and grow into a cotton tree with branches that will provide shelter for many.

Indisputably, from a humble beginning, NP-SL has turned into an Iroko tree with branches extended to neighbouring Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast and The Gambia. In these countries one will find NP alive and kicking. Job opportunities have been provided to those who were hitherto unemployed. National Governments in those countries are deriving timely payment of taxes by the company and lives have been positively transformed by benefitting in one way or the other, through the resultant effects of rolling out its Corporate Social Responsibility.

Whenever the name NP-SL is mentioned in public, what immediately springs to mind is First for Customer Care, as the company has etched its name for what some have described as having the magic wand to capture and impress old customers and making new ones. Our investigation however revealed that there is nothing like a ‘mystical connect’ within this context, but rather the nice manner in which employees of the company are responding to the needs and concerns of customers is always exceptionally unique to such an extent that many are left magnetized and attached to it.

It could be said with all amount of certainty that the company operates an open-door-policy, which creates room for business negotiations with private individuals, entities and public institutions in order to enter into a win-win relationship that are less burdensome in more fiscal advantageous ways. Such negotiations may take the form of supply and pay later and discounts.

With the main objective of enhancing transparency at the company’s countrywide and sub-regional branches, NP-SL ensured that the latest calibrated pumping machines are installed and when in operations, the quantity of fuel bought is displayed as well as the prices. This has reposed much confidence in customers that they are doing business with a very sincere company as against past experiences recounted, whereas customers get less than what were paid for, leaving in its trail, widespread dissatisfaction. But with NP, it is completely different.

In the same realm of optimizing customer care, NP-SL puts on offer for sale NP Gas, a modern domestic cooking device, that is fast and environmentally friendly without posing any health hazard as could be encountered when using firewood and charcoal. Manufactured in different cylinder sizes, NP Gas could be accessed at the various filling stations and from authorized dealers.

With NP Smart Card, there is the saying that one can get access to fuel at any given time of the day. Loaded with cash, these NP Smart Cards could be used to purchase the right quantity of fuel required by customers without producing physical cash. In a world that is gradually becoming cashless, the use of NP Smart Cards brings with it many advantages, one of the greatest being avoiding queuing, not to talk of the security that it guarantees the user, as it features make it quite difficult for someone else to deceptively use it. Of course it falls among one of the latest technological devices in modern times.

When we talk of implementing the Local Content Policy, then NP-SL is considered to be at the top as the company has always maintained the practice of first considering Sierra Leoneans in terms of offering employment opportunities, unless otherwise.

If Sierra Leoneans must be proud of a thriving business entity, then NP-SL could be a source from which that pride should emanate.

Though currently it is going through trying challenges, however, NP-SL is doggedly determined to take the petroleum landscape to another higher pedestal.

President Bio Returns 2020 Finance Bill Unsigned

November 26, 2019

His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio

By Brima Sannoh

In a Press Release from the Office of the Press Secretary and Presidential Spokesman dated 26^th November 2019, it was categorically stated that His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has returned the Finance Bill 2020 to Parliament unsigned following a Minute Paper dated Friday 22^nd November 2019 from the Clerk of Parliament requesting the President’s gracious assent for the said Bill, pursuant to Part V, Section 106 (1) of the Constitution of Sierra Leone, 1991(Act No.6 of 1991).

The Release further stated that pursuant to Part V, Section 106(7), in the Memorandum, the Secretary to the President gave the reason for the refusal of the signature of the President which is : “His Excellency the President has perused the document and has expressed grave concern over the open-endedness of the ‘non-accountable imprest’, as provided for in the said Act. He is of the view that this is prone to improper use of public funds”.

“Therefore, to address the carte blanche provision of Section 42, His Excellency the President has proposed to Parliament that Section 42(6) be amended so that it makes provision for a ceiling for the non-accountable imprest,” the Release contains.

It pointed out that unlike the past; the fact that Parliament and members of the public are now discussing Presidential imprest, demonstrates the President’s avowed stance on transparency. “If amended by Parliament, imprest of such nature and the proposed ceiling will now be guided by law. Members of the public are reassured that His Excellency the President has an unwavering commitment to democratic accountability, transparent governance and prudent management of public funds,” the Press Release ends.

It will be recalled that in the wake of trying to make legal the open-endedness of the ‘non-accountable imprest’ there was a condemnation on the part of some sections of the public that it will not be transparent and financially prudent for such to come into being.

This latest move on the part of President Bio has been widely commended as a right move in the right direction, as such will somehow lay to rest the heated debate over the issue.

Dr. Memunatu Pratt Bags ‘Minister of the Year’ Award

November 26, 2019

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Shout Climate Change Africa, a non- governmental organization that has high stock of professional mix of expert in various field ranging from climate change to other environmental and development issues, has awarded the Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Dr. Memunatu Pratt, the “Minister of the year” award, which was handed over to her by His Excellency Simon Mustard, British High Commissioner to Sierra Leone during the National 2019 Environmental Care Award 2019, held on the 23th November 2019 at the Miatta Conference Hall in Freetown.

According to ‘Shout Climate Change’, the aim of dishing out the award to her is anchored in the belief in the tremendous efforts made by her ministry under her watch towards the environment and the tremendous roles she has played in society, which are very essential to moving the country forward.

Shout Climate Change Professional Awards are also aimed at raising the profile of dedicated professionals who have contributed towards the environment, and highlights the contributions they are making towards developing a fairer, sustainable, peaceful and prosperous future for all Sierra Leoneans.

Commenting after receiving the Award, Dr. Memunatu Pratt expressed appreciation to Shout Climate Change Africa for recognizing her effort towards nation building, adding that “the award is heartily dedicated to the cause of her promotion of the ideals of the tourism sector and the environment in our beloved nation.

She said that amidst the challenges inherited, the government rates Tourism as one of its top priorities, adding that the President is passionate about tourism and wants to see the industry revamped and serve as a boost to the economy of the country.

She noted that they have found out that the Tourism sector should have been one of the areas that could have responded to things like youth unemployment, skills development, private sector development, trade and investment and developing the basic culture of patriotism and national cohesion, adding that they have been working towards this end.

She assured her audience that she will remain humble and committed in rebranding the tourism sector and will work with Shout Climate Change Africa in protecting the environment, as part of their responsibility is to educate the people about the value of preserving the environment and which they remain committed to do in order to avert disasters.

Fatima Bio takes ‘Hands Off Our Girls Campaign’ to Kailahun District

November 26, 2019

By John Marrah

Taking the ‘Hands Off Our Girls’ Campaign to Makeni, Kono, Moyamba and Pujehun Districts, the First Lady, Madam Fatima Bio, on Saturday 23 November 2019, decided to take the campaign this time round to the Eastern District of Kailahun.

The campaign is aimed at putting a halt or mitigating the numerous untoward sexual approaches girls face within communities in Sierra Leone; a cause which has seen the increase in rape, sexual penetration cases as well as leading to unwanted pregnancies.

Welcoming the First Lady and entourage in Luawa Chiefdom, Kailahun district, the Deputy Chairperson of the Kailahun District Council, Madam Nancy Coomber, expressed her heartfelt gratitude to Madam Fatima Bio on behalf of her people, especially the women of Kailahun district who have long yearned to be part of the First Lady’s watch, through the campaign.

She said the essence of the ‘Hands Off Our Girls’ Campaign cannot be overemphasized and as a Council, they will endeavour, within their powers, to complement the efforts of Madam Fatima Bio and her husband, H.E Julius Maada Bio to better the lives of Sierra Leoneans.

She admonished the women present to join the fight against sexual abuse of children, admonishing them to be vigilant and to report at all times such cases affect them, a family member or a neighbour.

“Parents must at all times ensure that their girl child are protected, especially those at very tender ages. Girls should not be used as shields for money making purposes,” she furthered.

She appealed to the First Lady to provide logistics to the vibrant women groups within the district, who are eager to make the campaign a success in the district.

The President of Kailahun Women in Governance, Madam Lucy Foray Gondor, said the Movement was formed to champion women activities within the district, also disclosing how the group clearly frowns at any society where women are devalued, as their mandate is to create a society in which women are included for the general good.

Madam Gondor assured the First Lady of her organisation’s support towards the fight against the indiscriminate sexual offences against girls.

Honourable Wuyatta Songa of Constituency 008 in Kailahun district, in delivering a statement on behalf of her constituents and other Parliamentarians within the district, assured the First Lady of the people’s desire to see the ‘Hands Off Our Girls’ Campaign become very successful in the district.

She said in complimenting her strides, Parliament sometime this year amended the 2012 Sexual Offences Act, making it very relevant in the fight against sexual violence.

Madam Songa congratulated the First Lady for her relentless fight to see the law passed in Parliament, implemented judiciously for the good of Sierra Leonean girls.

The Resident Minister-East, Andrew Fatorma, in his brief statement, commended the First Lady for her firm stance to support her husband’s determination to make Sierra Leone a better State.

He maintained that as a man, he is disheartened to hear news of men sexually abusing young girls. He admonished the girls who are aspiring to be role models in the future, to reject whatever untoward approach men make, though he said, it takes courage and self-belief.

The Minister of State-East called on men to distance themselves from girls who are supposed to be within the same age brackets with their daughters.

“We assure the First Lady, Madam Fatima Bio, of our determination in the fight against sexual penetration and other related sexual activities against girls,” he affirmed.

Paramount Chief of Luawa Chiefdom, PC Mohamed Sama Kailondo, praised the First Lady for her courage and enthusiasm to protect girls in Sierra Leone. He also assured Madam Fatima Bio and her entourage of his chiefdom’s commitment to eradicate sexual menaces against the girl child.

Launching the ‘Hands Off Our Girls’ Campaign in Kailahun district, the Girl Right Defender, as she is called, Her Excellency Fatima Bio, greeted chiefs and stakeholders of the district, whom she described as her mothers and fathers, whose help she went to Kailahun to seek for the sake of Sierra Leonean girls.

She advised the girls to desist from the evil wiles of men, which, she hammered home, have been detrimental to their course of actualising their dreams.

She asked the Paramount Chiefs from the various chiefdoms in the Kailahun District to be champions of the ‘Hands Off Our Girls’ Campaign in the Kailahun District.

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