TEC Workers Protest Against Management Intimidation and Chairman Alghali’s Reinstatement, Call for Independent Investigation

November 26, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The pronouncement made by the newly transferred Head of Administration at the Tertiary Education Commission, Idrissa Sannoh, that all members of staff who are aggrieved over conditions of service must be sacked served as the trigger that led to workers staging a peaceful protest, displaying placards, on 25th November 2025. The statement, which staff described as provocative and dismissive of their long-standing grievances, immediately sparked outrage and deepened concerns over what employees say is a culture of intimidation and poor leadership within the Commission.

The workers, who gathered within the precincts of the Commission in Freetown, chanted slogans and called for urgent reforms, directing much of their frustration at the Chairman of the institution, Professor Aliyageen M. Alghali. They accused the Chairman of abuse of office, lack of transparency, poor leadership practices and persistent neglect of staff welfare. Their protest followed months of mounting tension, which had earlier culminated in a formal petition submitted on 22nd September 2025 to the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education. The petition highlighted what the staff described as a deep crisis of confidence in the Commission under the leadership of Professor Aliyageen M. Alghali.

Initially, the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education responded by asking the aggrieved staff to provide evidence supporting their claims. But before the evidence could be formally presented during a scheduled meeting on 11th November 2025, the Ministry unexpectedly reinstated Professor Aliyageen M. Alghali on 5th November 2025. The Ministry later announced that, after reviewing the available information, it had exonerated the Chairman of wrongdoing and determined that the evidence submitted did not justify any adverse action against him.

Tensions escalated further when the Minister of Technical and Higher Education, Dr. Ramatulai Wurie, addressed staff in the presence of representatives from the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) and the Ministry of Labour. She informed them that the evidence presented lacked substance and went on to state that Professor Aliyageen M. Alghali “is a friend of my father,” a remark that immediately stirred concerns among employees about the neutrality and fairness of the Ministry’s assessment. Workers also expressed dissatisfaction over what they described as an intimidating approach from the Labour Ministry representative during the engagement.

Frustrated and unconvinced by the Ministry’s handling of their petition, members of staff reported the matter to the Parliament of Sierra Leone. They complained bitterly about the deteriorating working environment at TEC, citing a lack of internet connectivity, insufficient laptops, inadequate logistics and an overall absence of essential tools required for effective performance of their duties. The Parliamentary Committee on Technical and Higher Education subsequently summoned all relevant parties and ordered an immediate halt to all meetings or actions relating to the matter until Parliament completes its inquiry.

In a formal communication dated 21st November 2025, issued by the Clerk, Parliament directed the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education, the TEC leadership and all associated bodies to suspend every activity connected to the dispute. Parliament further demanded that the Ministry submit its investigative report on the staff petition, invoking its oversight authority under Section 93 of the 1991 Constitution and Standing Orders 73(3).

It is worth noting that Professor Aliyageen M. Alghali had previously been suspended following allegations that attracted the interest of the Anti-Corruption Commission. Although the Ministry later cleared him of wrongdoing, the persistence and intensity of staff dissatisfaction point to deeper structural issues within the Commission’s governance and operational framework.

The situation, now firmly in the hands of Parliament, raises broader concerns about transparency, accountability, workplace conditions and leadership within the Tertiary Education Commission; an institution central to maintaining the quality and credibility of higher education in Sierra Leone. Many observers and sector stakeholders hope that Parliament’s intervention will pave the way for meaningful reforms and help restore trust and stability within the Commission.

NP (SL) Sets New Standards in Fuel Management, Customer Care and Environmental Safety

November 26, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

NP (SL) Limited, Sierra Leone’s premier indigenous petroleum marketing company, continues to strengthen its position as the industry’s most dependable and forward-looking entity, delivering essential energy solutions while championing national development, job creation and digital transformation in the sector.

For decades, NP (SL) Ltd has built a reputation anchored on reliability, exceptional customer service and an unwavering commitment to local content. As the only fully Sierra Leonean-owned petroleum company operating at scale, NP (SL) has consistently demonstrated that indigenous businesses can thrive, innovate and lead in critical sectors of the economy.

In recent years, the company has rolled out transformative initiatives that continue to redefine fuel retailing and service delivery across the country. Chief among those innovations is the NP Energy Pass Card; a cashless, secure and convenient electronic payment system that allows customers to purchase fuel and other services without handling physical cash. The Energy Pass has proven popular among corporate bodies, transport unions, Government institutions and private motorists, offering transparency, easy tracking of fuel usage and enhanced security against fraud or misuse.

According to company officials, the Energy Pass Card forms part of NP’s broader digital agenda aimed at ensuring efficiency, reducing waiting time at stations and aligning Sierra Leone with global trends in energy management systems. The platform also supports financial inclusion and promotes accountability in fuel consumption across the transport and commercial sectors.

In addition to digital transformation, NP (SL) continues to expand its nationwide footprint. The company operates an extensive network of service stations designed to meet the needs of urban and rural communities. These modern stations provide high-quality petroleum products, lubricants and ancillary services delivered under strict health, safety and environmental standards.

NP’s environmental consciousness is further demonstrated through its emphasis on cleaner energy options. The company has continued to promote the use of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) for domestic cooking through its NP Gas brand. Thousands of households now rely on NP Gas as a cleaner, safer and more affordable alternative to charcoal and firewood; a shift that contributes significantly to environmental protection and the reduction of deforestation.

Beyond commercial operations, NP (SL) remains a major contributor to national development through employment, tax payments and corporate social responsibility interventions. The company provides direct and indirect jobs to hundreds of Sierra Leoneans and invests heavily in training and human capital development to ensure that staff remain up to date with modern industry standards.

Community investment remains a cornerstone of NP’s corporate philosophy. Over the years, the company has supported education, health and social welfare initiatives, reinforcing its role as a responsible corporate citizen dedicated to uplifting communities.

As Sierra Leone continues to pursue energy security and economic resilience, NP (SL) Ltd stands out as a pillar of stability and innovation. With its blend of modern technology, customer-centered services, strong local ownership and national commitment, the company remains well-positioned to drive the petroleum sector into a future defined by reliability, transparency and sustainable growth.

Human Cost of Terrorism

November 26, 2025

By the Baisnab Charan Pradhan, High Commissioner of India to Sierra Leone

Terrorism remains one of the gravest threats of our time; an affliction that transcends borders, nationalities and cultures. It is not merely a security challenge; it is a direct assault on humanity, on our shared values and on the universal aspiration for peace and development. Its impact is felt in the lives lost, futures destroyed and nations pushed away from their development trajectories. As the world reflects on the decades past, it is crucial for all of us, Governments, policy thinkers, civil society and citizens, to renew our collective resolve to combat this menace.

Terrorism inflicts immense suffering on innocent populations. Beyond the tragic loss of lives, terror disrupts livelihoods, displaces communities and pushes nations into cycles of poverty and insecurity. Infrastructure meant for progress, schools, hospitals, power grids, markets, often becomes collateral damage. Investment and tourism decline, widening inequality and halting economic growth. For developing nations, the consequences are especially devastating, as scarce resources are diverted from essential services toward security and emergency responses. In essence, terrorism is an enemy of development, an enemy of peace and an enemy of the future.

Over the last four decades, the world has witnessed several catastrophic terrorist attacks that reshaped global security thinking:

The bombing of Air India Flight 182 in 1985 claimed 329 innocent lives.
The 1998 bombings of the U.S. Embassies in Kenya and Tanzania killed over 200 people and injured thousands.
The 2001 attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon in the United States resulted in nearly 3,000 deaths, altering the global security landscape.
The 2004 Madrid train bombings and the 2005 London bombings shook Europe with mass casualties.
The 2015 Paris attacks and the recurrent waves of terror across the Middle East, North Africa and Asia continue to serve as grim reminders that terrorism respects no boundaries.

Each of those events underscores the heavy human cost of ideological extremism.

India has been a persistent victim of cross-border terrorism for decades. From the attack on Mumbai in 1993 to the horrific 26/11 attacks in 2008 and Pahalgam attacks in 2025, terrorism has targeted civilians, security personnel, democratic institutions and places of worship. Hundreds of lives have been lost in terror incidents in Jammu & Kashmir, in insurgency-affected regions and in metropolitan centres.

Yet India’s response has been equally resolute. Our nation has strengthened its legal systems, enhanced intelligence coordination, fortified borders and deepened international cooperation. Most importantly, India’s response has been rooted in democratic values, pluralism and the principle that terrorism can never be justified.

The African continent has not been immune to the scourge of terrorism. Groups such as Boko Haram, Al-Shabaab, ISIS affiliates and other extremist networks have caused immense suffering. West Africa and the Sahel in particular have experienced displacement of millions, destruction of villages, abductions and economic disruption. The destabilization caused by terrorism hampers state capacity, undermines democracy and threatens regional integration.

Sierra Leone, while largely peaceful, exists within a region facing significant security challenges, making the strengthening of regional and international cooperation essential.

The United Nations has undertaken important initiatives; including the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy, Security Council resolutions on terrorist financing and the establishment of the UN Counter-Terrorism Centre. Regional bodies such as the African Union, ECOWAS, the European Union and the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) have also advanced frameworks for counter-terror coordination.

However, the effectiveness of those mechanisms depends on collective political will. Terrorism cannot be fought in silos; it demands unity, information-sharing, capacity-building and strong messaging against extremism.

India has consistently taken a leadership role in shaping the global counter-terror agenda. India has championed the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT) at the UN to bring clarity and consensus to the global definition of terrorism. India is one of the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping missions, many of which operate in terror-affected regions.

India’s intelligence-sharing partnerships, capacity-building programmes, defence cooperation initiatives and counter-radicalization efforts are recognized worldwide. India strongly believes that terrorism in one part of the world is a threat to peace everywhere.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has repeatedly emphasized the moral and strategic imperative of united global action against terrorism. His remarks have resonated globally:

“Terrorism has no borders, no values and no humanity.”

“The world must de-link religion from terrorism. Any act of terror is against humanity itself.”

“There cannot be good terrorism or bad terrorism; there is only terrorism.”

These words remind us that selective approaches weaken the global response; only collective and universal opposition can prevail.

The tragic terrorist attack in Pahalgam, located in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, India, on 22 April 2025 claimed the lives of 26 innocent tourists, marking one of the deadliest attacks in the region since 2000. In response, the Government of India has launched a diplomatic initiative titled “Operation Sindoor“, aimed at reinforcing its commitment to combating terrorism and promoting regional stability through proactive engagement with the international community.

Under Operation Sindoor, India has strengthened its internal security architecture, enhanced technological capabilities and supported global frameworks against terrorism. The initiative emphasizes coordination between defence forces, intelligence agencies and law enforcement systems to pre-empt and neutralize threats. India remains committed to sharing best practices and supporting partners in enhancing their counter-terror capacities.

During the visit of the All Party Parliamentary Delegation of India to Sierra Leone in May 2025, the Parliament of Sierra Leone made a deeply meaningful gesture by condemning terrorism in all its forms and expressing solidarity with India’s longstanding fight against this global menace. This thoughtful act symbolized the strong bonds of friendship and shared commitment of our two nations to peace, stability and democratic values.

I take this opportunity to express my profound gratitude to the Government of Sierra Leone for their strong support and show of solidarity during the visit of the All Party Parliamentary Delegation of India. I also extend heartfelt appreciation to the vibrant media fraternity of Sierra Leone for consistently amplifying the voices of peace, stability and development.

Sierra Leone has strengthened its contribution to global counter-terrorism through significant legal and institutional reforms and active regional and international engagement. The National Counter-Terrorism Act (2024) and the establishment of the National Counter-Terrorism Coordination Committee provide a solid domestic framework, while the Financial Intelligence Agency enhances capabilities to detect and prevent terrorist financing. Sierra Leone also supports the ECOWAS Counter-Terrorism Plan of Action and cooperates with initiatives such as the Multinational Joint Task Force and the Accra Initiative. Globally, it is party to key UN counter-terrorism conventions and advocates for the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism to promote a unified global response.

The fight against terrorism is not the responsibility of Governments alone. It requires the involvement of policy makers, academic institutions, security agencies, religious and traditional leaders, civil societies and the youth. Together, we must promote peace narratives, counter radicalization, build trust, reject hatred and strengthen institutions.

Terrorism thrives in division; it is defeated by unity. Let us join hands, India and Sierra Leone, Africa and Asia, the entire global community,to protect humanity from the scourge of terror and to ensure a safer, more prosperous world for generations to come.

Carrying forward traditional friendship for a shared future——Farewell Message by H.E. Wang Qing，Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone

November 25, 2025

Ambassador Wang Qing presented his credentials to H.E. President Julius Maada Bio

In January 2023, I arrived in beautiful Sierra Leone to assume my duties as Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone. Time flies and now I am about to bid farewell to my Sierra Leonean friends.

H.E. President Xi Jinping and his wife Dr. Peng Liyuan held a welcoming ceremony for H.E. President Julius Maada Bio and his wife Fatima Maada Bio in the Great Hall of the People during President Bio’s state visit to China.

Over the past three years, I have had the privilege of witnessing Sierra Leone’s steady progress along the path of peace and development, and of seeing that China-Sierra Leone relations maintain excellent performance and become a good example of China-Africa solidarity and cooperation.

Over the past three years, the two countries have close high-level interaction. In 2024, H.E. President Julius Maada Bio paid a state visit to China and attended the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, becoming the first head of state in Sierra Leone’s history to visit China twice in a single year. The two leaders reached broad and important consensus on deepening the China-Sierra Leone Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership, providing strategic guidance for the development of bilateral relations.

H.E. President Xi Jinping and H.E. President Julius Maada Bio jointly inspected the guard of honor of the PLA at the welcoming ceremony.

H.E. President Julius Maada Bio reiterated Sierra Leone’s support for the One-China principle during an interview with China Media Group.

Political mutual trust between the two sides continues to deepen. China firmly supports Sierra Leone in safeguarding its national independence, sovereignty, security, and development interests, and resolutely opposes external interference in Sierra Leone’s internal affairs. Sierra Leone has repeatedly reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the One-China principle and its strong support for all efforts made by the Chinese government to achieve national reunification.

Ambassador Wang Qing and Hon. Foreign Minister Timothy Musa Kabba and Former Foreign Minister Prof. David J. Francis at the launching ceremony of a China-Sierra Leone Friendship book.

The practical cooperation has yielded fruitful results. Just the third day after my arrival in Sierra Leone, I attended the handover ceremony for the China-Aided Sierra Leone Foreign Service Academy. Before my departure, I attended another groundbreaking ceremony for the China-Aided fishing port, where I was delighted to see it named the Julius Maada Bio Industrial Fishing Port. China has been Sierra Leone’s largest trading partner and largest source of foreign investment for many years. These vividly demonstrate the rich substance and efficient progress of our practical cooperation.

Ambassador Wang Qing accompanied H.E. President Julius Maada Bio as they cut the ribbon for the China-Aided Sierra Leone Foreign Service Academy.

Ambassador Wang Qing accompanied Hon. Vice President Juldeh Jalloh as they jointly inspected China-Aided Sierra Leone National Stadium Rehabilitation Project.

Ambassador Wang Qing accompanied H.E. President Julius Maada Bio to meet with the 25th Chinese Medical Team to Sierra Leone.

The two sides coordinated closely on such issues as world peace and development. China firmly supports Sierra Leone in fulfilling its responsibilities within international and regional organizations such as the United Nations Security Council, C-10, and ECOWAS. We support Sierra Leone’s efforts to redress historical injustices against Africa, and stand together with Sierra Leone in upholding genuine multilateralism. We will jointly promote solidarity and cooperation among Global South, safeguard the interests of developing countries, and uphold international fairness and justice.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi attended the high-level dialogue meeting between the African Union’s Committee of Ten (C10) and the Permanent Five (P5) foreign ministers of the UN Security Council hosted by Sierra Leone at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.

People-to-people exchanges between our two countries have become increasingly vibrant. Over the past three years, nearly 20,000 Sierra Leonean citizens have obtained visas to travel to China for tourism, business, and visits—a historic high. The Chinese government has consistently supported Sierra Leone’s human resource development, with over 500 Sierra Leoneans receiving Chinese government scholarships to pursue academic studies in China. More than 2,500 Sierra Leoneans from various sectors have benefited from participating in diverse China-Aided training programs. I have traveled across all five provinces of Sierra Leone and was honored with the title of Honorary Paramount Chief by the Bambara Chiefdom, forging deep friendships with the people of Sierra Leone.

Ambassador Wang Qing and the Sierra Leonean awardees of 2024 Chinese Ambassador Scholarship and Grant.

Ambassador Wang Qing visited Bo School and gave a lecture to the students.

Over the past three years, I have fully experienced Sierra Leone’s tropical charm and picturesque landscapes, its diverse and inclusive culture, and the warmth and friendliness of its people. I am particularly impressed by the resilience and vitality Sierra Leone has demonstrated on its development journey. A nation once scarred by years of civil war now ranks second in West Africa, fifth in Africa, and 57th globally in peace indices. It has also assumed the role of a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council, playing a vital part in safeguarding global peace. A nation once devastated by the Ebola outbreak has now rebuilt its health security infrastructure. Now it not only can swiftly respond to epidemics like M-pox, but also actively dispatched personnels to assist other countries in combating infectious diseases, demonstrating its leadership in Africa’s health sector. I am confident that through the joint efforts of the Government and people of Sierra Leone, the country will surely embrace an more prosperous and promising tomorrow.

There is an ancient Chinese poem that says, “True friendship knows no distance; even across ten thousand miles, we remain neighbors.” I will forever cherish the white sand beach of Freetown, the coconut palms of Banana Island, the vast rice fields of Bo, the majestic mountains of Tonkolili, and all the friends I made in Sierra Leone alongside its gracious people. I sincerely wish that China-Sierra Leone friendship can last forever and both nations have a brighter future!

Years On… Hunt for Osman Kanu Continues

November 24, 2025

By Alusine Bangura

Osman Kanu who narrowly escaped death after Poro members abducted him to stand in for his sick father, Pa Osman Kanu, continues in the village of Yoni. It is five years since Osman escaped the village and from the hands of his abductees, yet the search for the young man continues.

It could be recalled Osman was abducted and taken to the shrine at night for Poro initiation. The young man, according to the report , broke free through an unfinished house, misdirected machete-wielding pursuers, and escaped with some serious injuries.

Under Poro rules, a chief elder’s heir must be initiated; refusal, the family learned, carries some serious penalty. After Osman ran, members returned to threaten his household and warn neighbors against sheltering him.
Villagers say new recruits are forced to drink human blood during initiation and that those judged unfit “disappear.” Police rarely intervene, they add, because many officers belong to the societies themselves.
Rights activists including John Koroma have urged the Human Rights Commission to step in, noting that young and productive Sierra Leoneans are fleeing the country to avoid forced initiation.

It is now five years since that faithful day, Osman, his wife, and their children remain missing. In Yoni, society members still speak of the case as if it were yesterday—convinced Osman is alive somewhere, and vowing to “deal with him” if he is found.

In 2020, Osman Kanu fled a Poro initiation in the village of Yoni in Northern Sierra Leone after he was forced to undergo the rituals for his sick father.

As of today members of the secret society continue to hunt for this young man.

Residents of Spur View Estate Rise Up to Protect Their Neighbourhood

November 24, 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Residents of Spur View Estate have united in a determined stand to protect the integrity and tranquility of their community, following attempts to convert a private residential property into a French-backed school situated in the heart of their low-density neighbourhood. The growing concern has prompted a strong, coordinated response from the homeowners, who have formally petitioned the Mayor of Freetown and the Director of Country Planning, expressing deep dissatisfaction over what they describe as a blatant disregard for zoning laws and the peace of their estate.

In what many have described as a commendable show of community solidarity, more than 30 households signed and delivered a detailed objection on 10th November 2025 to Her Worship the Mayor of Freetown, the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Country Planning. The residents expressed shock that a school would be introduced into their midst without prior notification, consultation or consideration for the environmental, structural and social impact on their neighbourhood.

According to the residents, the proposed school, to be run by a would-be Proprietor, Mrs. Janice Bras, was being established with complete disregard for zoning regulations and without any form of planning or community engagement. Many property owners, including elderly residents in their seventies and eighties, argue that the project poses significant health and safety risks due to anticipated noise pollution and heavy traffic congestion. The narrow, steep internal roads of the estate, they say, cannot support the influx of vehicles and activity associated with a school.

They further noted that the property in question is boxed in between three private residences, making it an unsuitable and intrusive location for institutional activity. “This is a peaceful community. We worked all our lives to build our homes here and we deserve to enjoy the serenity of a neighbourhood that was legally designated as low-density residential,” one resident emphasized.

Residents also pointed to a worrying trend across Freetown where places of worship, factories, businesses and schools are increasingly appearing in areas not zoned for such purposes. They fear that if unregulated conversions continue unchecked, established residential enclaves in the city may lose their character, safety and property value.

The group’s concerns were formally documented in two separate letters, one addressed to Her Worship the Mayor of Freetown and another to the Director of Country Planning, Mr. Sahr Mark Kanawa, both dated 10th November 2025. The letters outline, in detail, the basis of their objection to the conversion of the residential property owned by Mr. Lesley Wilson for use by Mrs. Janice Bras as a school facility.

Among the key objections raised are:

Violation of zoning and planning regulations, as the estate is strictly designated as a low-density residential zone.
Inadequate infrastructure, including narrow and steep internal roads with no parking areas, drop-off points or pedestrian walkways.
Noise pollution, with school activities expected to disrupt the calm environment valued by residents.
Traffic congestion, particularly during school drop-off and pick-up periods.
Environmental and sanitation concerns, with increased waste production likely to strain the existing environment.

The letters also highlighted the lack of any formal community consultation by the property owner or the intended tenant, describing this omission as a clear deviation from responsible urban planning and participatory governance principles.

The residents are now calling on the Freetown City Council and the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Country Planning to immediately halt the conversion and enforce adherence to zoning regulations. They maintain that the disputed property must remain strictly residential as originally approved by planning authorities.

The Concerned Residents of Spur View Estate say they remain confident that the relevant authorities, under strong leadership, will uphold the law, protect their rights and preserve the safety and serenity of the neighbourhood they have long called home.

Both letters were signed by The Concerned Residents of Spur View Estate, with copies forwarded to the Honourable Minister and the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Country Planning.

G20 Summit 2025: President Bio Calls for Transformative G20–Africa Compact on Mineral Wealth

November 24, 2025

President Julius Maada Bio speaking at the G20 Summit 2025

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leone’s President and Chair of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, His Excellency Dr. Julius Maada Bio, has placed Africa firmly at the centre of global economic discourse with a bold call for a G20–Africa Compact on Critical Minerals. Speaking during a high-level session at the G20 Summit 2025 in Johannesburg on Saturday, 22 November 2025, President Bio underscored the need for fairness, justice and value retention as the world accelerates toward a clean-energy future.

Delivering his address under the Summit’s theme: “Solidarity, Equality & Sustainability,” the Sierra Leonean leader stressed that Africa holds nearly one-third of the world’s critical minerals; resources essential for renewable energy technologies, advanced manufacturing and artificial intelligence. Sierra Leone contributes significantly to this global mineral basket through iron ore, rutile, bauxite and diamonds. Yet, President Bio cautioned that without new international mechanisms, the continent risks repeating a painful history where Africa’s resources fuel global prosperity while African economies benefit least.

“For too long, our resources have powered global industries while our nations captured the least value. This generation must break that cycle, starting with a G20–Africa Compact anchored in justice,” President Bio said.

He argued that Africa’s role must shift from being a mere supplier of raw minerals to becoming a competitive hub for processing and refining, thereby capturing higher value and generating jobs. His proposed compact seeks to encourage transparent mining contracts, increased investment in local beneficiation and fair revenue models that prioritize African development.

“It is not enough for Africa to supply the minerals. We must process them, refine them and benefit from them. That is how we create jobs, industries and transformation,” he emphasized.

Although the Summit’s broader theme, “Building Our Economy: The Role of Trade, Finance for Development and the Debt Burden”, covered a wide range of global economic challenges, President Bio used the platform to spotlight the geopolitical significance of Africa’s mineral wealth. He reminded global leaders that the clean-energy transition cannot occur without Africa and therefore Africa must not be excluded from the economic gains of that transition.

President Bio also addressed the mounting economic pressures facing low-income countries, including rising debt servicing and tightening financial conditions. He reiterated Sierra Leone’s support for expanded Special Drawing Rights through regional development banks, accelerated debt restructuring and long-term financing for infrastructure, digital systems and trade.

On climate, he delivered a stark message: Africa remains disproportionately affected by climate change despite contributing less than four percent of global emissions. He recounted Sierra Leone’s experiences with flooding, landslides and unpredictable weather patterns that disrupt agriculture. President Bio repeated his call for a West Africa Climate Adaptation Acceleration Facility to support food security, clean energy and coastal protection.

Turning to technology, the President stressed the need for ethical, inclusive and equitable governance of artificial intelligence, warning that global AI frameworks must not deepen digital inequalities. He noted that AI presents immense opportunities for Africa, but only if access and governance are fair.

Concluding his address, President Bio urged G20 leaders to endorse a transformative development compact rooted in justice, transparency and shared prosperity. He reaffirmed that a G20–Africa Compact on Critical Minerals represents not only an economic necessity but also a historic opportunity to correct longstanding global imbalances.

President Bio arrived in Johannesburg on 21 November 2025 for the Twentieth Meeting of the Group of Twenty, where he was warmly welcomed at Lanseria International Airport by senior South African Government officials. This year’s summit is especially significant, marking the first time the African continent is hosting the G20 under South Africa’s presidency. Expectations are high that the event will accelerate Africa’s transformation across trade, industry, technology and the creative economy.

Throughout the summit, President Bio is scheduled to engage global leaders in strategic discussions aimed at strengthening diplomatic ties, advancing Sierra Leone’s development agenda and amplifying Africa’s unified voice on the world stage.

Information Minister Applauds RAIC as One of Sierra Leone’s Top-Performing Commissions

November 24, 2025

Chairman of RAIC, Dr. Ibrahim Seaga Shaw presenting the Commission’s 2024 Annual Report the Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor A. Bah

The Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor A. Bah, has commended the Right to Access Information Commission (RAIC) as one of the most outstanding and best-performing institutions in Sierra Leone. He made the statement during the official handover of the Commission’s 2024 Annual Report on 17 November 2025 at the Ministry’s Headquarters on the 8th Floor of Youyi Building in Freetown.

Receiving the report, Chernor A. Bah praised the RAIC for its steadfast commitment to promoting transparency, accountability and improved governance. He noted that the Commission’s performance over the years has been exemplary, reflecting its strategic leadership and expanding role in strengthening information access across the country.

Presenting the 2024 report, the Chairman of RAIC, Dr. Ibrahim Seaga Shaw, highlighted the Commission’s transformative progress since the inception of his leadership. He recalled that when the current administration assumed office, the Commission had no annual report and had recorded only 112 information requests nationwide.

“Fast forward to 2023, the Commission received 19,496 information requests, showing the astronomical progress we have made,” Dr. Ibrahim Seaga Shaw stated. He acknowledged that although the 2024 figures show a marginal decline, he remains optimistic that next year’s performance will improve, citing the inclusion of Access to Information (ATI) and Proactive Disclosure of Information (PDI) as key performance indicators under the State House Delivery Unit.

Dr. Ibrahim Seaga Shaw underscored that the submission of the Annual Report aligns fully with Section 41 of the RAI Act, which mandates the Commission to provide details of its achievements, activities and audited financial statements every year. He expressed confidence that the 2024 report “will make for good reading.”

Minister Chernor Bah reaffirmed the Government’s strong commitment to supporting the RAIC, stating that its consistent excellence is no surprise, given its proven value to citizens, institutions and the overall governance ecosystem. He further revealed that the Ministry is currently working with the RAIC to expand its mandate to include Data Protection, transforming the Commission into a comprehensive authority capable of addressing modern information governance challenges.

The Minister also stressed the importance of collaboration with the Ministry of Communication and Technology to ensure that all Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) maintain functional websites that meet PDI standards. He confirmed that his Ministry will prepare a Cabinet Paper requiring MDAs to develop and regularly update official websites to enhance transparent communication.

Deputy Minister of Information and Civic Education, Abdel Aziz Bawoh and the Director of Information, Emmanuel Turay, also commended the RAIC for its remarkable progress. They encouraged sustained collaboration, particularly ahead of the upcoming National Civic Festival, where the RAIC is expected to showcase its achievements and engage directly with the public.

The RAIC delegation included Executive Secretary Hon. Mustapha Braima and other senior officials who joined the Chairman in reaffirming the Commission’s commitment to advancing the right to information nationwide.

Transport Ministry Charts New Vision; SLCAA Honoured for Performance at 2025 Annual Retreat

November 24, 2025

Stakeholders n the transport industry at the 2025 Annual Transport Sector Retreat

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Ministry of Transport and Aviation has successfully concluded its 2025 Annual Transport Sector Retreat after three days of intensive engagement, strategic dialogue and sector-wide evaluation held on Friday November 21, 2025 at the Njala Venue in Bo City. The event, themed: “Enhancing Quality Service Delivery in the Transport Sector,” brought together all agencies under the Ministry to review performance, strengthen collaboration and chart the strategic direction for the sector.

The retreat ended on a high note with a colourful award ceremony during which the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) received special recognition for Outstanding Performance in the Performance Tracking Table; a strong endorsement of the Authority’s dedication to safety, regulatory efficiency and exemplary service delivery.

Senior Permanent Secretary, Edward Kwame Yankson, opened the retreat by emphasizing the importance of unified sector reflection and transformation. Drawing from Chinua Achebe’s The Arrow of God, he reminded participants that, “If you know where the rain began to beat you, you will know where to dry your body,” underscoring the need to understand past challenges to shape effective solutions.

He also announced the addition of two new institutions, the Sierra Leone Railway Regulatory Agency and the Sierra Leone National Shipping Agency, highlighting the need for clear direction as they integrate into the national transport ecosystem.

Resident Minister South, Chief John Abu, commended the Ministry for its leadership in convening the retreat, stressing that the transport sector remains central to economic development, education, tourism, trade and national mobility. He reiterated that the performance of the sector directly feeds into President Bio’s broader agenda for a resilient and competitive economy.

The Director of Public Sector Reform Unit (PSRU), Sulaiman Phoray-Musa, praised the Ministry for its outstanding leadership in performance management. He noted that transport agencies consistently lead in meeting performance contract obligations and applauded ongoing Government reforms in remuneration, digitalization and institutional development.

In his keynote address, the Minister of Transport and Aviation, Ambassador (Rtd.) Col. Alhaji Fanday Turay, reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to building efficient, safe and sustainable transport systems. He highlighted significant achievements over the past two years and noted the importance of evaluating where the sector started, where it stands and where it is heading.

He stressed that the transport sector must operate as “one interconnected ecosystem,” rather than fragmented agencies, citing the roles of SLRSA, SLPTA, SLMA, SLPHA, SLAA, SLCAA, and AAIIB in ensuring safety, compliance and quality service across the board. Developing a two-year strategic plan, he said, will remain a top priority to guide progress and ensure alignment with national development goals.

Director of Transport, Mohammed Hindolo Shiaka, delivered a presentation on the theme: “Planning for Sustainable E-Mobility for All,” calling on all agencies to integrate e-mobility into their strategic frameworks. He emphasized that sustainable e-mobility is not merely a shift from petrol to electric vehicles but a complete reimagining of transport systems to minimize pollution, reduce energy costs and increase accessibility.

Acting Director of Government Information Service, Emmanuel B. Turay, urged agencies to strengthen visibility by recruiting trained communication specialists. He emphasized the need for proactive media engagement and robust communication strategies that ensure stakeholders, development partners and the public are consistently informed.

The final day of the retreat featured a detailed overview of the Transport Sector Performance Contract, highlighting sector-wide progress and priority areas. The SLCAA delivered a comprehensive presentation titled: “What the Ministry of Transport and Aviation Needs to Know About Aviation.”

The session unpacked the structure of the aviation ecosystem, mandates of key aviation institutions, SLCAA, FIA, SLAA, SLAIIB, compliance with ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs), coordination mechanisms, operational challenges and strategic proposals to advance national aviation development.

The retreat concluded with an elegant awards dinner. SLPHA was announced as the Best Performing Agency of the Year, while SLNSA, SLAA, SLPTA, SLCAA, and SLMA also received awards for excellence, partnership, discipline and long service. Several Ministry staff were similarly honoured.

Senior officials expressed gratitude to the Inter-Agency Planning Committee, agency heads and local authorities for their unwavering support throughout the retreat.

The Ministry reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to collaboration, unity and innovation as it works toward building a safe, reliable, modern and people-centered transport system for Sierra Leone.

With SLCAA’s strong showing on the retreat’s final day, the Authority continues to position itself as a leading force in improving aviation safety, regulatory compliance and service excellence within the national transport ecosystem.

Dr. Austin Demby Calls for Bold Vision as Sierra Leone Crafts 2026–2030 Health Plan

November 24, 2025

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Sierra Leone has concluded a three-day national workshop in Freetown to advance the formulation of the National Health Sector Strategic Plan (NHSSP) 2026–2030; an ambitious roadmap expected to guide the country’s health system transformation over the next five years. The gathering brought together more than 120 participants, including senior officials from the Ministry of Health, other Ministries, Departments and Agencies, development partners and representatives from the wider health sector.

The session marked a major milestone in Sierra Leone’s efforts to accelerate progress toward Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and reinforce national health security. Led by the Ministry of Health with technical support from the World Health Organization (WHO) and other partners, the new NHSSP is expected to build on key lessons from the outgoing 2021–2025 strategy.

The workshop opened with the presentation of findings from the End-Term Review of the NHSSP 2021–2025, jointly conducted by the NHSSP core team and national and international consultants. The review served as an evidence-rich foundation for identifying emerging priorities, persistent challenges and areas that require stronger investment and reform.

Minister of Health, Dr. Austin Demby, described the planning process as transformative and urged stakeholders to contribute toward a unified national vision. “This moment calls for bold action. The next five years of healthcare in Sierra Leone must be defined by our collective vision, not our constraints,” he stated. He emphasized that the new plan must deliver high-quality care for every Sierra Leonean, strengthen communities, and integrate real-time data for proactive health system management. “Partners will align with our national direction, but the drive, the ownership and the responsibility rest with us. This is our opportunity to make history and we must seize it,” he added.

WHO played a central technical role, deploying four international experts to support the strategic development process, while UNICEF contributed through the engagement of a national consultant. WHO Country Representative, Dr. George Ameh, stressed the importance of producing a forward-looking and coherent plan that unifies all sector actors. “The plan must reflect the voices, needs and realities of the national, district and community levels. It must serve as a common reference point for all partners; ensuring alignment, reducing fragmentation and promoting accountability,” he said, reaffirming WHO’s commitment to ongoing support.

Throughout the intensive three-day workshop, participants collaborated to refine the strategic objectives and proposed interventions for the new NHSSP. Discussions incorporated district and community-level insights, reinforcing the Ministry’s Aid Memoire principle of “One Plan, One Budget, One Report.” That unified approach is expected to enhance sector coordination, programme alignment and the basis for effective costing, resource mobilization and accountability.

The workshop concluded with a clear set of recommendations and priority actions aligned across all directorates and programmes. These priorities place strong emphasis on strengthening primary health care, improving service delivery at community level and bolstering essential health system components such as the workforce, infrastructure, financing and supply chain management.

Sierra Leone enters the next phase of developing the NHSSP 2026–2030 with decisive steps aimed at building a more resilient, equitable and people-centred health system; one capable of delivering high-quality care to all citizens by the end of the decade.