Afrimoney and Ecobank Unveil Prepaid Visa Card to Drive Digital Payments, Financial Access

May 30, 2026

Afrimoney, Ecobank Launch Prepaid Visa Card

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Afrimoney, in partnership with Ecobank Sierra Leone, has officially launched the Afrimoney Prepaid Visa Card, a major digital financial innovation aimed at expanding financial inclusion and accelerating digital transformation in Sierra Leone.

The launch ceremony, held on Monday, 25th May 2026, at the Bintumani Hotel in Aberdeen, Freetown, attracted senior officials from the Bank of Sierra Leone, government representatives, members of the diplomatic corps, financial sector stakeholders, and private sector leaders.

The newly introduced initiative enables users to link their mobile money wallets to a prepaid Visa card, allowing seamless local and international transactions. The card is expected to broaden access to digital financial services, particularly for individuals, small businesses, and underserved communities across the country.

Speaking during the launch, Afrimoney Chief Executive Officer, Martison Obeng-Agyei, highlighted the evolution of financial services globally and within Sierra Leone, emphasizing that financial innovation continues to advance rapidly. He commended the Bank of Sierra Leone for its instrumental role in strengthening financial inclusion through reforms that have supported Visa card usage and mobile money operations nationwide.

Martison Obeng-Agyei noted that Afrimoney has consistently focused on practical innovations designed to meet the realities and everyday needs of Sierra Leoneans. He cited products such as Trust Etsa, which allows customers to borrow electricity credit during emergencies, and Trust Fuel, a service enabling transport operators to access fuel on credit and repay through daily earnings.

According to him, the newly launched Afrimoney-Ecobank Visa Card was specifically designed to bridge the gap between the banked and unbanked population. He explained that the physical card would allow users to conduct online transactions, access ATM services, and make payments through point-of-sale terminals globally.

He further emphasized that mobile money operators and banks should be regarded as strategic partners rather than competitors, underscoring Afrimoney’s pioneering role in introducing wallet-to-bank and bank-to-wallet integration in Sierra Leone. Martison Obeng-Agyei thanked regulators and development partners for their support in advancing financial innovation and encouraged Sierra Leoneans to access the card through Afrimoney’s USSD platform.

Also addressing attendees, the Managing Director of Ecobank Sierra Leone, Sebastian Ashong-Katai, described the partnership as a powerful symbol of innovation, opportunity, and national progress. He stated that customers increasingly demand financial solutions that are simpler, faster, and aligned with evolving lifestyles and modern transaction habits.

Sebastian Ashong-Katai explained that the partnership successfully combines the strengths of mobile money services with traditional banking into a unified financial ecosystem. He observed that while mobile money has transformed daily transactions through convenience and accessibility, traditional banking continues to provide trust, structure, and international financial connectivity.

He highlighted several practical benefits of the prepaid card, noting that small business owners can now transact more efficiently with international suppliers, young professionals can access global digital services, and travelers can make cross-border payments with greater ease. According to him, the initiative goes beyond convenience and directly contributes to strengthening financial inclusion.

The Ecobank Sierra Leone Managing Director also commended Africell Sierra Leone for its collaboration and acknowledged the important role played by regulators in creating an enabling environment through initiatives such as the National Payment Switch. He described the launch as a critical milestone toward building a modern, cash-light digital economy in Sierra Leone.

In his address, the Governor of the Bank of Sierra Leone, Dr. Ibrahim Stevens, described the co-branded prepaid card as a significant milestone in Sierra Leone’s transition toward a digitally enabled and resilient financial system. He said the launch demonstrates the strength of partnership and innovation in expanding access to modern financial services.

Dr. Ibrahim Stevens disclosed that financial inclusion in Sierra Leone has improved considerably over the past decade, rising from less than 20 percent to nearly 40 percent of the population. He further revealed that the National Switch instant payment service recorded more than one million transactions within eighteen months of its launch.

Despite these achievements, the Governor acknowledged that many Sierra Leoneans remain unbanked or underbanked. He maintained that integrating mobile money wallets with traditional banking infrastructure would help close those gaps by improving accessibility, convenience, and participation in the formal digital economy.

Dr. Ibrahim Stevens reaffirmed the commitment of the Bank of Sierra Leone toward transitioning the country into a cash-light economy, stressing that digital payments are safer, more efficient, transparent, and cost-effective compared to cash transactions. He added that innovations such as the Afrimoney-Ecobank Visa Card would strengthen the resilience of the financial system while supporting entrepreneurship, employment creation, and economic growth.

Delivering the keynote address, Chief Minister Dr. David Moinina Sengeh described the launch as a practical example of how technology and governance can work together to improve the lives of ordinary citizens. He emphasized that the initiative is not limited to corporate institutions or government officials but extends to market women, transport operators, small-scale entrepreneurs, and rural communities.

Dr. David Moinina Sengeh highlighted government investments in digital infrastructure, noting that Sierra Leone now enjoys extensive 3G and 4G network coverage across the country, including remote districts. He stated that the regulatory sandbox framework established through the Bank of Sierra Leone has created opportunities for innovators and entrepreneurs to test financial products in real-world environments.

He identified device accessibility as one of the major remaining barriers to digital inclusion and called for stronger collaboration between government institutions and private sector actors to improve access to affordable digital devices.

The Chief Minister further emphasized the concept of “Techquity,” describing it as the use of technology to promote fairness, inclusion, and equal opportunity for all citizens, especially vulnerable and low-income populations. He argued that fintech innovations such as Afrimoney possess the potential to overcome barriers that traditional banking systems have struggled to address.

Using practical examples, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh explained how small traders could utilize the platform to import goods directly from international markets, while transport operators and small businesses could develop digital transaction histories capable of supporting access to loans and other financial opportunities in the future.

He noted that Afrimoney transaction records could help establish verifiable credit profiles for users, enabling financial institutions to assess creditworthiness more effectively. According to him, this development would open new pathways for wealth creation and economic independence for many Sierra Leoneans who have historically lacked access to formal financial services.

The Chief Minister also disclosed that Afrimoney has already processed transactions worth millions of dollars and has supported the delivery of financial assistance to vulnerable populations through partnerships with development institutions. He said the continued expansion of digital financial services directly contributes to poverty reduction and improved livelihoods.

The launch of the Afrimoney Prepaid Visa Card is widely expected to strengthen Sierra Leone’s digital finance ecosystem while accelerating efforts toward building a more inclusive, technology-driven economy.

Orange Sierra Leone Foundation, Partners Strengthen Maternal Healthcare in York Community

May 29, 2026

The Orange Sierra Leone Foundation, in partnership with the UBA Foundation and the Mama-Pikin Foundation, has reinforced efforts to improve maternal and neonatal healthcare delivery in Sierra Leone following the successful refurbishment of a maternal health facility in York Village, Western Rural District.

The upgraded labour ward and post-natal clinic, officially commissioned on Thursday, 28 May 2026, are expected to significantly improve access to quality healthcare services for pregnant women, nursing mothers and newborn babies in the community.

The intervention forms part of the Orange Sierra Leone Foundation’s continued commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and sustainable community development, with a strong focus on improving healthcare outcomes across underserved communities.

The newly refurbished facility has been equipped with essential modern medical infrastructure aimed at enhancing service delivery and improving patient care. Among the critical equipment provided are modern delivery beds, post-natal beds, an oxygen machine and other vital medical tools intended to strengthen maternal and neonatal healthcare services.

Speaking during the handing-over ceremony, Director of the Orange Sierra Leone Foundation, Annie Wonnie Katta, disclosed that the intervention was informed by findings from a needs assessment conducted by the Foundation in October 2025. According to her, the assessment identified serious infrastructural and equipment challenges affecting maternal healthcare delivery at the facility.

She explained that in response to the urgent healthcare needs identified, the Orange Sierra Leone Foundation moved swiftly to establish strategic partnerships aimed at implementing a lasting solution. Annie Wonnie Katta further revealed that a formal collaboration with the UBA Foundation was established in February 2026 to support the implementation of what she described as a high-impact healthcare intervention for the York community.

Orange Sierra Leone Chief Executive Officer, Aicha Touré, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to improving lives through impactful and sustainable community investments, particularly within the health sector. She emphasized that Orange Sierra Leone remains dedicated to supporting initiatives capable of creating meaningful social impact and improving the quality of life for vulnerable communities.

Similarly, Chief Executive Officer of UBA Sierra Leone, Mohamed Alhajie Samoura, described the project as a meaningful and transformative investment in the lives of women and families in York Village. He noted that UBA remains committed to giving back to communities through strategic social interventions.

Mohamed Alhajie Samoura disclosed that UBA dedicates one percent of its annual profits to community development programmes, adding that healthcare continues to remain one of the institution’s major priority areas because of its direct impact on lives and national development.

Delivering the keynote address, the District Medical Officer, Dr. Prince Masuba, commended the collaborative effort between the Orange Sierra Leone Foundation, UBA Foundation and the Mama-Pikin Foundation. He described the intervention as timely and highly significant, stressing that it would substantially strengthen maternal and child healthcare services within the district.

Dr. Prince Masuba further emphasized the importance of partnerships in addressing healthcare challenges, noting that government efforts alone may not be sufficient to meet all healthcare demands, particularly in remote and underserved communities.

The Mama-Pikin Foundation, which has been actively involved in maternal and child healthcare services since 2008, continues to play a pivotal role in supporting healthcare delivery and improving outcomes for women and children in the York community and beyond.

Residents and local stakeholders have warmly welcomed the intervention, describing it as a major boost to maternal and neonatal healthcare in the area. Community health authorities also reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining the facility and ensuring the effective use of the newly installed medical infrastructure for the benefit of mothers and children.

The refurbishment project further underscores Orange Sierra Leone’s dedication to implementing impactful Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives that create lasting social benefits. Together with its partners, the telecommunications company remains committed to promoting inclusive development and improving the health and well-being of communities across Sierra Leone.

Orange Sierra Leone Foundation, UBA Foundation and Mama-Pikin Foundation

Hope Beyond Addiction: Caritas Freetown Empowers Kush-Affected Youth Through REAR Rehabilitation Project

May 29, 2026

Group of people outdoors on a dirt yard holding a banner that welcomes Archbishop Edwards Tamba Charles, near a building and vehicle in the background, sunset-like daylight.

The growing abuse of the deadly synthetic drug commonly known as “kush” continues to devastate the lives of young people across Sierra Leone, particularly in Freetown and surrounding communities, with many young girls becoming homeless and vulnerable to exploitation, violence, family rejection and the loss of educational and economic opportunities.

The dangerous substance, reportedly made from a combination of tramadol, cannabis and synthetic cannabinoids, has emerged as a major public health concern, prompting urgent calls for intervention and rehabilitation efforts to address the worsening crisis among vulnerable youths.

In response to the growing epidemic, Caritas Freetown established the Rehabilitation and Empowerment of Youth Affected by Drugs (REAR) Project to provide long-term rehabilitation, counselling, healing and empowerment opportunities for young people battling substance addiction.

As part of ongoing efforts to strengthen support for the initiative, the Board Chairman of Caritas Freetown, Archbishop Edward Tamba Charles, accompanied by Board members and Management staff, paid an official visit to the REAR rehabilitation centre at Makomba Village, off Newton, on Tuesday, May 26, 2026.

The visit was aimed at assessing the progress of the project, engaging with staff and beneficiaries and reaffirming Caritas Freetown’s commitment to supporting young people in their recovery journey and successful reintegration into society.

The rehabilitation centre currently provides psychological care, counselling, rehabilitation services and vocational skills training for young people affected by Kush addiction, helping them regain stability and rebuild their lives.

During the visit, Board members interacted directly with beneficiaries to gain deeper insight into the impact of the programme and the challenges confronting recovering youth. Among those present were Rev. Fr. Peter Konteh, Thomas Sheku Kenah, Peter Menjor and other representatives and staff of Caritas Freetown.

According to project officials, between January and May 2026, sixteen young girls were enrolled in the residential rehabilitation programme at Makomba Village. Out of the sixteen beneficiaries, twelve are currently on track for successful reintegration into society through counselling, rehabilitation and vocational skills training.

One of the beneficiaries, Esther Mustapha, emotionally recounted her painful experience of addiction and her path toward recovery during the Board’s visit.

Esther Mustapha revealed that after successfully passing both the National Primary School Examination (NPSE) and the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), she was unable to further her education due to her father’s inability to pay school fees.

She explained that during that difficult period, a friend introduced her to Kush. She later relocated from Bo to Freetown without family support, where her addiction worsened. In an effort to survive and sustain her drug dependency, Esther Mustapha said she engaged in survival sex work and often slept in gutters and shop verandas while enduring severe hardship and exploitation.

“The project has given me the courage to reintegrate into society and pursue a productive future. It has helped me become a person in society again,” Esther Mustapha said.

Her journey to recovery began after she was identified by a Caritas project staff member in Funkia and referred to the rehabilitation programme. Through counselling, psychological support and vocational training, she successfully stopped using Kush and is now undergoing tailoring training at the centre as she rebuilds her life with renewed hope and confidence.

Her testimony underscored the importance of early intervention, community referrals, professional rehabilitation services and vocational empowerment in helping young people overcome addiction and regain control of their lives.

Speaking to staff and beneficiaries during the visit, Archbishop Edward Tamba Charles expressed appreciation to the project team for their dedication and commitment to restoring hope among vulnerable young people. He also commended the beneficiaries for embracing the path of recovery and transformation despite the many difficulties they had endured.

The Archbishop described the initiative as a vital intervention in restoring dignity, healing and hope to young people affected by drug addiction. He emphasized that the project reflects Caritas Freetown’s broader mission of supporting vulnerable individuals to rebuild their lives and become productive members of society.

Delivering the vote of thanks on behalf of staff and beneficiaries, Murray Massaquoi, Project Manager of the REAR Project, thanked Board members and guests for their continued support noting that the visit had boosted the confidence and motivation of both staff and recovering youth at the rehabilitation centre.

The visit further highlighted Caritas Freetown’s continued leadership in addressing substance abuse and strengthening rehabilitation programmes for vulnerable young people across Sierra Leone. Through compassion, professional care, counselling and empowerment opportunities, the REAR Project continues to restore hope, dignity and a second chance to young people affected by drug addiction.

Magistrate Hadiru Daboh Remands 28-Year-Old Man Over Alleged Rape of Mentally Unstable Woman

May 29, 2026

Judge seated in a courtroom, wearing a black robe with white neck bands and a serious expression.

A 28-year-old man has been remanded at the Male Correctional Centre in Kenema following allegations of rape and sexual activity involving a woman reported to be mentally unstable.

The accused made his first appearance before the Kenema Magistrate Court No. 1 on Wednesday, 21 May 2026, where he was arraigned before the Principal Magistrate of the Eastern Province, Magistrate Hadiru Daboh, on allegations relating to sexual offences involving a vulnerable woman.

According to court proceedings, the accused is facing two charges. The first count relates to rape, contrary to Section 6 of the Sexual Offences Act No. 12 of 2012, as repealed and replaced by Section 2(1) of the Sexual Offences Amendment Act No. 8 of 2019. The second count concerns sexual activity with a person with mental disabilities, contrary to Section 8(1) of the Sexual Offences Act No. 12 of 2012.

Court records indicate that the alleged incident occurred on Tuesday, 5 May 2026, at Dauda Town in Kenema, where the accused allegedly engaged in unlawful and forceful sexual intercourse with the woman without her consent.

The matter is prosecuted by Sergeant 4654 Wata Bakarr of the Legal and Justice Department.

Following the hearing, Magistrate Hadiru Daboh ordered that the accused be remanded at the Male Correctional Centre in Kenema pending further proceedings. The matter has been adjourned to 10 June 2026 for further hearing.

The allegations remain before the court and the accused is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction.

Tuma Adama Jabbi Seeks Re-Election as SLBA President, Pledges to “Secure the Gains”

May 29, 2026

Campaign poster for Tuma Adama Jabbi running for SLBA president, featuring a judge in gown and a bold 'Re-elect' backdrop.

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Presidential Candidate of the Sierra Leone Bar Association (SLBA), Tuma Adama Jabbi, has officially declared her intention to seek re-election as President of the Association, calling on members to support her bid for another term under the campaign theme: “Raising the Bar. Securing the Gains.”

Addressing members of the Sierra Leone Bar Association, Tuma Adama Jabbi said she is seeking a renewed mandate with a profound sense of responsibility, service and commitment to the legal profession. She noted that her decision to contest for re-election was driven by the desire to consolidate the progress made during her tenure and continue advancing the interests of legal practitioners across the country.

“With a profound sense of responsibility, service and commitment to our noble profession, I, Tuma Adama Jabbi, once again humbly seek your support for re-election as President of the Sierra Leone Bar Association,” she stated.

Reflecting on her administration’s achievements over the past two years, Tuma Adama Jabbi said her leadership had focused on “Raising the Bar” through standards, empowerment and welfare for members of the Association. According to her, significant strides have been made in strengthening the welfare and professional growth of lawyers while enhancing the institutional standing of the Bar.

She highlighted key accomplishments of her administration, including the launch of a Private Pension Scheme through the National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT), the securing of international scholarships and professional development opportunities for members and efforts aimed at improving the financial stability of the Association.

Tuma Adama Jabbi further disclosed that her leadership secured a suitable land for the construction of a permanent Secretariat for the Sierra Leone Bar Association, while also strengthening collaboration with key national institutions in promoting the rule of law.

She emphasized that the Association had gained increased recognition both regionally and internationally, noting that efforts were also made to foster unity and engagement among members through fellowship, social activities and stronger institutional relationships, particularly with the Judiciary and other partners.

“We moved from promises to launching the Private Pension Scheme through NASSIT; securing international scholarships and professional development opportunities for members; strengthening the financial stability of the Association; securing suitable land for the construction of our permanent Secretariat; deepening collaboration with key national institutions in advancing the rule of law and elevating the standing and visibility of the SLBA both regionally and internationally,” she stated.

Despite the progress made, Tuma Adama Jabbi maintained that the work of transforming the Association was far from complete. She stressed that the next phase of leadership should focus on consolidation, continuity and transformation to secure existing gains while expanding opportunities for members.

“The next phase must be one of consolidation, continuity and transformation, securing the gains we have made, expanding opportunities for members, strengthening welfare and professionalism, and building a Bar Association that is stronger, more respected and better positioned for the future,” she said.

Tuma Adama Jabbi further urged members of the Sierra Leone Bar Association to remain united and committed to building on the progress already achieved, emphasizing that now is not the time to slow down but rather a moment to move forward collectively.

“This is not the time to slow down. This is the time to build on progress, to move higher and to move together,” she emphasized.

Reaffirming her campaign message, Tuma Adama Jabbi called on members of the Association to continue partnering with her in advancing the future of the legal profession and the Sierra Leone Bar Association.

“I respectfully seek your vote, your trust and your continued partnership,” she concluded.

Ambassador Jusu Alongside Deputy Envoy Asmaa James Presents Credentials to Pope Leo XIV in Vatican City

May 29, 2026

Eleven people in formal attire pose with a cardinal in red and white robes inside an ornately decorated church with marble floors and a crucifix backdrop.

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to the Kingdom of Belgium and concurrently accredited to the Holy See, Philip Bob Jusu, has formally presented his Letters of Credence to His Holiness, Pope Leo XIV, during an official ceremony held at the Apostolic Palace in Vatican City on Thursday, May 21, 2026.

The credential presentation officially marks Ambassador Philip Bob Jusu’s accreditation to the Holy See, further strengthening diplomatic relations between Sierra Leone and the Vatican. The ceremony formed part of a broader engagement involving ambassadors from eight countries who gathered to formally assume their diplomatic responsibilities.

Addressing the newly accredited diplomats, Pope Leo XIV delivered a message centred on peace, dialogue and global cooperation ahead of Pentecost. The Holy Father called on the guidance of the Holy Spirit in the diplomats’ respective assignments, urging them to pursue diplomacy anchored on sincerity, mutual respect and peaceful engagement among nations.

In a solemn but compelling address, the Pope stressed the importance of dialogue grounded in honesty and clarity of language, emphasizing that words faithful to reality remain essential in dispelling misunderstanding and promoting trust. He encouraged the ambassadors to make their diplomatic missions instruments of mutual understanding, peace and constructive engagement while working closely with the Holy See to strengthen cooperation among nations.

Ambassador Philip Bob Jusu was accompanied to the ceremony by members of his delegation and family, including Deputy Ambassador, Asmaa James, Head of Chancery, Jonathan Las-Lamin and Information Attaché, Betty Milton.

The presentation of credentials marks another milestone in Sierra Leone’s diplomatic engagement with the Holy See, reinforcing the country’s commitment to international dialogue, cooperation and peaceful relations with global partners.

Chief Imam Commends President Bio’s Hajj Reforms as Presidential Lodge Hosts Eid Ul-Adha Prayers

May 29, 2026

Group of men in white traditional attire at a ceremonial event, a young boy in blue sits in front praying; official seal of the President's office nearby. — President Julius Maada Bio joins worshippers to perform Eid al Adha prayers

President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Julius Maada Bio and First Lady, Fatima Maada Bio, on Wednesday 27 May, 2026 joined Muslims across Sierra Leone and around the world to observe Eid Ul-Adha prayers at the Presidential Lodge in Freetown.

The Eid prayers brought together Muslim faithful, religious leaders and Government officials in a solemn atmosphere of worship, thanksgiving and reflection on faith, sacrifice and national unity.

Delivering the sermon, Chief Imam, Alhaji Chernoh Bangura, emphasized the importance of obedience and unwavering commitment to the will of Allah. Drawing reference from the story of Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah’s command, the Imam noted that the act of faith forms the foundation of Eid Ul-Adha celebrations observed by Muslims worldwide.

He explained that Eid Ul-Adha remains a sacred occasion for Muslims who are financially capable to offer sacrifices of livestock, including sheep and cattle, as an act of devotion and obedience to God.

The Chief Imam also commended the Government of Sierra Leone for what he described as the transparent management of Hajj-related arrangements. He observed that under the leadership of President Bio, challenges that previously characterized Hajj administration have significantly reduced, praising the President for his commitment to the Muslim community and continued support toward the promotion of Islam in Sierra Leone.

Alhaji Chernoh Bangura further reflected on President Bio’s early sacrifices for the country, noting that he risked his life in defence of Sierra Leone at a young age. He prayed for Allah’s continued guidance, protection and wisdom upon the President as he continues to lead the nation.

In his remarks, President Julius Maada Bio expressed gratitude to members of the Muslim community for joining the Eid Ul-Adha prayers at the Presidential Lodge and offered prayers for peace, national unity and the safety of pilgrims performing Hajj.

“May Almighty Allah accept our prayers. Today, God has granted us the grace of life, and we are here to praise Him and give thanks. I also pray for our brothers and sisters who are on pilgrimage for Hajj, the fifth pillar of Islam. May Allah protect them and bring them safely back home,” President Bio stated.

Responding to the Imam’s sermon, the President described the Khutbah as a message centered on commitment, dedication and trust in Allah, while reaffirming his commitment to serving the people of Sierra Leone.

He emphasized the importance of preserving the country’s longstanding religious tolerance, describing it as one of Sierra Leone’s greatest strengths.

“As a country, we are blessed with religious tolerance, which remains one of our greatest strengths. We must continue to cherish it. We should love God, believe in Him, remain united and be law-abiding citizens. The future of this country lies in the hands of our children,” he stressed.

President Bio concluded by praying for lasting peace and prosperity in Sierra Leone, expressing hope that the prayers offered during the occasion would contribute to the country’s continued stability and development.

“May the prayers offered here today bring reward and everlasting peace to this country. Thank you all for coming. I am grateful. Assalamu Alaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh,” he concluded.

In her vote of thanks, First Lady Fatima Maada Bio expressed appreciation to the Imams and Muslim worshippers for joining the Presidential family annually to observe Eid Ul-Adha prayers.

She also thanked President Bio for his sustained support to the Muslim community and the Islamic faith in Sierra Leone.

“Thank you to the Imams and everyone who came today. President Bio appreciates your support and I also want to specially thank my husband for all he has done for the Muslim community and for always standing in support of Islam,” she stated.

Standards Bureau Accused of Failing the Nation as Substandard Products Flood Markets

May 29, 2026

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Public criticism is intensifying against the Sierra Leone Standards Bureau (SLSB) with many Sierra Leoneans accusing the institution of failing in its responsibility to protect citizens from the increasing influx of substandard and unsafe products entering the country.

Across Sierra Leone, frustration continues to mount over the widespread circulation of poor-quality iron rods, low-grade cement, expired food products, unsafe beverages, counterfeit or ineffective medical drugs and other questionable consumer goods that many citizens believe are exposing lives to serious risks.

Many citizens and consumer advocates argue that despite being legally mandated to regulate quality standards, the Standards Bureau has struggled to effectively prevent dangerous products from flooding local markets, construction sites, pharmacies and commercial centers nationwide.

The latest concerns have become even more pronounced following the recent collapse of a five-storey building at Kissy Road in Freetown, an incident that has reignited national debate over poor regulatory oversight and weak quality control mechanisms in Sierra Leone.

According to the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA), preliminary investigations indicate that the Kissy Road building collapse resulted from a combination of substandard construction materials and serious contractor errors. Authorities confirmed that no deaths were recorded and there was no indication that anyone remained trapped beneath the rubble.

Investigators disclosed that the owner of the collapsed structure is believed to reside in the United States, while attempts to contact relatives in Sierra Leone and the contractor responsible have reportedly proven unsuccessful.

Residents familiar with the location stated that the area had previously been used for charcoal sales before recently being acquired for construction, noting that the site remained under active development when the collapse occurred.

For many observers, the Kissy Road incident is not an isolated tragedy but rather part of a disturbing trend of structural failures that continue to raise concerns across Freetown, particularly within densely populated eastern communities including Shell, Bai Bureh Road and Wellington.

Public memory remains fresh of the September 2024 seven-storey building collapse at Shell/Bai Bureh Road, which claimed 16 lives and renewed scrutiny over construction standards, contractor supervision and institutional accountability.

Over the years, Sierra Leone has also witnessed several devastating disasters that have amplified concerns about public safety and regulatory weaknesses, including the 2007 central Freetown building explosion and collapse, the deadly 2017 Regent mudslide and the 2021 Wellington fuel tanker explosion that killed more than 150 people and destroyed nearby properties.

Established through the Standards Act No. 2 of 1996, the Sierra Leone Standards Bureau was created to coordinate standardization and quality management activities nationwide. The institution, operating under the Ministry of Trade and Industry, is also empowered by the Weights and Measures Act No. 5 of 2010 to regulate and validate measurement systems across the country.

The Bureau’s core mandate includes product testing, inspections, certification, conformity assessment, standardization, metrology and training stakeholders on quality management principles. It also coordinates technical committees covering food and agriculture, water quality, renewable energy, civil engineering, electronics and information security management systems.

The Standards Bureau further maintains affiliations with international quality assurance institutions, including the African Organization for Standardization (ARSO), the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), ASTM International and the International Organization of Legal Metrology (OIML). Since January 1, 2009, the Bureau has held correspondent membership status with the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).

However, despite those mandates and international affiliations, many citizens argue that the institution has failed to effectively safeguard the nation against poor-quality and dangerous products.

Observers point to severe funding constraints as one of the Bureau’s major setbacks. Reports suggest the institution frequently receives only a small fraction of its proposed operational budget, affecting its ability to purchase laboratory chemicals, testing equipment and essential inspection tools.

Concerns have also been raised over porous borders and weak inspection systems, with critics arguing that several unofficial entry points continue to allow questionable products into Sierra Leone without proper examination. Although Standards Bureau officials reportedly maintain inspections at the Queen Elizabeth II Quay and the Gbalamuya border point, stakeholders insist much more needs to be done to tighten enforcement.

Industry experts also cite inadequate staffing, outdated testing facilities, poor working conditions and insufficient logistics as major factors undermining the Bureau’s effectiveness.

Some stakeholders further argue that the institution’s reliance on support from international organizations such as the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and the European Union demonstrates the urgent need for stronger national investment and reforms.

Amid growing public frustration, citizens are now calling on President Julius Maada Bio to urgently overhaul the Standards Bureau and strengthen laws aimed at protecting Sierra Leone against substandard goods and unsafe construction materials.

Many believe stronger legislation should impose harsher penalties on importers, manufacturers, contractors and businesses found guilty of compromising public safety through poor-quality products and unsafe materials.

For many Sierra Leoneans, standards are no longer viewed simply as technical regulations but as essential safeguards for public health, consumer protection, national safety and economic development. Citizens insist that unless urgent reforms are implemented, Sierra Leone may continue to witness avoidable tragedies linked to weak regulatory oversight and the continued influx of dangerous products into the country.

Government Sets June 1 for Nationwide Inspection of Foreign Nationals Over Permit Compliance

May 29, 2026

Promotional graphic announcing Work & Resident Permits Go Digital, featuring sample permit cards, a QR code, and online application/renewal information.

By Ibrahim Sesay

The Government of Sierra Leone has announced the commencement of a nationwide verification exercise targeting foreign nationals living and working across the country, beginning on June 1, 2026, as part of efforts to strengthen national security, improve migration management and ensure lawful employment practices.

According to a Press Release issued on May 25, 2026, the verification process will focus on assessing compliance with key legal documentation requirements, including residence permits, work permits and non-national identity cards for foreign nationals residing and operating within Sierra Leone. Authorities noted that the exercise forms part of ongoing measures aimed at regulating migration systems while ensuring adherence to national labour and immigration laws.

The Government disclosed that the exercise will be carried out by a joint task force comprising the Sierra Leone Immigration Department, the Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security, the Unified Permit Secretariat, the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) and members of the country’s security sector.

Officials stated that the task force will conduct inspections at workplaces, business premises, institutions, project sites, residential communities and other locations where foreign nationals may be employed or residing. The nationwide operation is expected to ensure that foreign workers and residents comply fully with immigration and labour regulations governing their stay and employment in Sierra Leone.

The Government has advised all employers and foreign nationals to ensure that immigration and labour-related documents are valid, updated and readily available for inspection at all times during the exercise. Authorities cautioned that failure to comply with the stipulated requirements could result in penalties or other legal actions in accordance with the laws of Sierra Leone.

Meanwhile, the Government has encouraged affected individuals and institutions to regularize their status where necessary, noting that applications, renewals and regularization for residence and work permits can be completed through the Unified Permit online platform.

VP Engages German Ambassador, GIZ Country Director on Health Partnership, Receives Hamburg Conference Invitation

May 29, 2026

Four professionals pose for a photo in an office-like setting: a woman in a black floral blouse on the left, two men in suits, and a man in traditional dark attire, with an official seal for the Office of the Vice President visible at the bottom-right.

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Vice President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, has reiterated Government’s commitment to strengthening international partnerships aimed at advancing Sierra Leone’s healthcare sector following a high-level meeting with German development partners.

Speaking on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, the Vice President disclosed that he was pleased to meet with the German Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Dr. Pascal Richter and the Country Director of GIZ, Raphael Frerking, to discuss continued collaboration between Sierra Leone and Germany, particularly in strengthening the country’s health sector.

According to Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, the discussions focused on sustaining and deepening bilateral cooperation in key development areas, with emphasis placed on improving healthcare systems and advancing initiatives that would positively impact the lives of Sierra Leoneans.

The Vice President also revealed that he was honoured to receive a formal invitation to the Hamburg Sustainability Conference, described as a “Global Conference for a Shared Future.”

He noted that the international conference will present a significant platform for Sierra Leone to share its development gains, strengthen global partnerships and attract support for the Government’s national transformation agenda.

“I look forward to sharing Sierra Leone’s upward development trajectory and deepening partnerships that support our national transformation agenda,” Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh stated.

The engagement highlights Sierra Leone’s continued efforts to foster stronger international relations and strategic partnerships geared toward sustainable development, healthcare improvement and national progress.