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WANEP Capacitates Journalists on Transitional Justice

By Edward Vamboi

The West Africa Network for Peacebuilding (WANEP) on Thursday 4th February 2021 organized a day’s training workshop for 10 media practitioners  in Freetown.

The project titled, ‘Join Han’ to supporting victims and community initiatives to access reparation and institutional reform and in the market place for justice and accountability as well as enhance cohesion in Sierra Leone seeks to strengthen the use and application of alternative dispute resolution methods to enhance peace and local accountability at community level.

In her welcome and overview of the project, the Program Manager of WANEP, Mrs. Mariama Jusu Korya enlightened that the overall objective of the project is to enhance the capacity of victims of the civil war to engage the State in the implementation of a transparent and inclusive reparation program in the country and to ensure that the processes and procedures of the traditional dispute resolution are in line with basic human rights standards.

She furthered that the project seeks to particularly contribute to establishing and expanding spaces for women, especially market women, to access gender-responsive needs in addition to ensuring that the processes and procedures of traditional dispute mechanism are in tune with basic human right standards using traditional dispute resolution systems through increased understanding and raising awareness by building the capacity of traditional leaders who are often caught up between being the perpetrator and the ones executing the laws as well as build on the capacity of war-affected and wounded victims to interact with the State and enable them participate in reparations programs.

Also, the project is being implemented in the Western Area Rural and Koidu City, Kono District and by the end of 2021, it aims to strengthen the capacity of women leaders (including market women) to effectively dispense justice through alternative dispute resolution in their communities, enhance the capacity of victims of the war to engage the State in the implementation of reparations and develop the capacity of traditional leaders to effectively work with their communities in addressing grievances and promoting social cohesion.

Eighteen years after the official end of the civil war in Sierra Leone, its reparation program is in trouble. While the international community provided much of the support in the beginning, the program is now largely left to itself. The scale of suffering of the war victims has continued to escalate daily. Sierra Leone’s reparation program challenges those who pay attention to think about sustainability.

Among others, the project will also look at pensions, free healthcare, educational benefits and much more for survivors.

 

Government reluctantly agreed to implement the recommendations but failed to take any action for four years. It required pressure from the country’s biggest survivor organization, the Amputee and War –Wounded Association to among others provide pensions, free housing and healthcare, educational benefits and much more.

According to the lead facilitator of the training workshop, Dr. Isaac Sowa of the Mass Communications Department at Fourah Bay College, University of Sierra Leone, Sierra Leone’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission (CRC) and the Special Court for Sierra Leone as the preferred transitional justice choices adopted to address the legacy of past human rights violations committed during the eleven years civil war.

Dr. Sowa continued that the two traditional justice tools emerged out of exhaustive nature of fighting between the Government of Sierra Leone and the Revolutionary United Front (RUF). This subjected the belligerents to grab the most comprehensive available alternative option that set the stage for Transitional Justice mechanisms after serious cost-benefit analysis. The country adhered to proponents’ claims that accountability measures are needed for societies to move on from violent past to begin rebuilding sustainable peace and development.

The TRC identified the lack of public access to justice as both a cause of its decade-long civil war and a factor that helped sustain it. This explains that Sierra Leone’s complex and chequered political history is reflected in its present ineffective justice system and lack of respect for the rule of law. Likewise, eighteen years after the end of the civil war and the closure of the accountability mechanisms, wounds are still fresh in the minds of victims, facilities underprovided; capacities are low, while the country is still confronted with several justice sector challenges.

There is also an overwhelming perception and expectation of the local populace regarding the political evolution that has taken place after the implementation of some of the imperative recommendations of the TRC.

There are several indications to also affirm that claim that Sierra Leone is still not fully recovered from the legacy of the civil war. This also implies that the country is also marked by a largely unaddressed legacy of violations of human rights and international humanitarian law. Sierra Leone remains profoundly affected by its past, as well as deeply divided along and across community lines with mutually exclusive understandings and interpretations of the past. It is thus in need of a comprehensive, inclusive, gender-sensitive, victim-centered and consultative process of transitional justice.

The WANEP National Coordinator, Dr. Isata Mahoi asserted that the issues of transitional justice and Alternative Redress Mechanism are not only for WANEP but a national campaign reiterating that transitional justice is important but that much attention is not paid to it and urged all to learn from the past and make amends for the future.

She went on to state that the National Commission for Social Action (NaCSA) has closed the reparations program that they are advocating for its reopening for amputees to live a decent life reiterating that we have to change the narrative by ensuring that government lives up to its responsibilities.

The highly interactive training was climaxed with the question and answer session, group and individual work.

Parliament Nabs Impersonator

Hon. Speaker of Parliament, Dr. Abass Chernor Bundu

By Esther wright

Following a citizen’s arrest of an alleged scammer, Parliament in an emergency press conference on the 4th February 2021 presented a suspect named: Vandy Von Kallon, a Research Manager at Sierra Leone Maritime Administration to Members of Parliament and the Press.

It came in the wake of several allegations pointing to Members of Parliament of demanding monies from presidential nominees before approval.

Parliament stated delight for the nabbing of a member of a criminal cartel soliciting funds from the unsuspecting and gullible members of the public by using the names of the Speaker, Deputy Speaker, Leader of Government Business and the Clerk of Parliament.

It could be recalled that a lot of public notices had emanated from Parliament asking the public not to yield to the demands of either scammers or swindlers extorting monies from them by using the names of Members of Parliament on false pretence.

The Hon. Speaker of Parliament, Dr. Abass Chernor Bundu, told newsmen that the unwarranted conduct of the scammers have perpetually put the image of the House into disrepute. Following the arrest of the alleged swindler, the Hon. Speaker said in spite of the powers of Parliament, it would forebear and allow the investigation by the Police to reach its logical conclusion.

Speaking on natural justice, he noted that Parliament would do a thorough follow-up on the matter bordering on its image and reputation. He also congratulated Dr. Austin Demby, proposed Minister of Health and Sanitation for playing a huge role that led to the arrest of the suspect.

Explaining the scenario under which the suspect was arrested, Dr. Austin Demby said he received an anonymous call in the United States from someone in Sierra Leone. According to him, the caller introduced himself as the Leader of Government Business demanding $500 from him as humanitarian assistance to finance his mother’s funeral. He complied and wired via Western Union.

On arrival in Sierra Leone, the swindler persistently requested under the same pretence as Leader of Government Business for Five Million Leones to attend his uncle’s funeral in Bo, but that time he said he could only assist with Three Million Leones.

Since he could not do orange money transfer, he asked the alleged fraudster to collect the money himself at Radisson Blu Hotel. The suspect in question appeared for the money and was arrested and handed over to the Police for investigation. He also said that Vandy Von Kallon is one among a criminal network that should be brought to book for damaging the reputation of Parliament.

The Leader of Government Business, Hon. Mathew Sahr Nyuma said on receiving calls from Dr. Demby, he rushed and met the suspect at Radisson Blu; where he argued that he was sent by the Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas. The Deputy Speaker was informed via calls, he denied having knowledge of the matter and suspect was handed over to Police for investigation.

The Deputy Speaker said he is very passionate about the matter and vehemently promised to personally prosecute the suspect, once it is charged to court. Cognizant of the powers of Parliament, he warned the Police not to compromise the matter as he would ensure it reaches its logical conclusion.

Permanent Water Supply Solution for Residents of Mongo, Njala-Mokonde & Two Others

By Theresa Kef Sesay

The Ministry of Finance has on Friday 5th February carried out the exchange agreement for an Indian loan of US$ 15 million for expansion and rehabilitation of existing potable water facilities in Mongo (Northern Sierra Leone), Njala-Mokonde (Southern Sierra Leone), Mattru Jong (Southern Region), and Daru (Eastern Region).

The signing of the agreement took place at the Ministry of Finance Conference Room in Freetown.

“During the 11-year civil war, all the water facilities in these four communities were badly damaged. Despite the recent government interventions in the past ten years, these communities still lack access to adequate and sustainable potable water supply,” according to the Minister of Finance Jacob Jusu Saffa.

He said the construction/rehabilitation of existing water treatment facilities in these communities will reduce the burden of fetching water from unprotected streams by mainly women and children and increase the National Coverage by approximately 0.6%.

He said currently there is a significant imbalance between the demand and supply of water in these communities, adding that this balance will continue to rise except some more investment is made to optimize these facilities, hence the importance of this project.

“This project is in line with the Sierra Leone National Development Plan 2023 to expand the percentage of the population with access to safely managed water from 2 percent to 25 percent by 2023; increase the percent of the population with access to an improved water source within a total collection time of 30 minutes from 69 percent to 85 percent by 2023, and reduce the percent of the population with access to unreliable or limited water service from 10 percent to 5 percent by 2023,” he said.

The India High Commissioner to Sierra Leone His Excellency Rakesh K. Arora said this project was announced during the visit of India’s Vice President to Freetown in October 2019, noting that the implementation of this agreement will provide access to safe drinking water to these four communities shortly.

“India has been supporting infrastructure development projects in Sierra Leone through direct LOCs and ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development. India’s developmental assistance to Sierra Leone aggregates to about US$ 250 million covering a range of sectors – agriculture, irrigation, water management, energy and power, communication, education, etc,” he said.

He said despite COVID-19, they continue to extend their assistance in capacity building for the youth of Sierra Leone, adding that India is committed to being a reliable partner of Sierra Leone in its development journey and will continue to cooperate in the capacity building of Sierra Leone youth under the India Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Programme.

“India’s development cooperation to Africa does not come with any conditions,” he concluded.

The Minister of Water Resources Ing. Philip K. Lansana commends India Exim Bank for the loan, noting that this project will benefit over 100,000 Sierra Leoneans in the four communities.

AU Elects ACC Boss to its Advisory Board on Corruption

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) on the 5th February said it is pleased to inform the general public that the African Union (AU) Executive Council has on 4th February, 2021, has appointed Francis Ben Kaifala Esq, to the African Union Advisory Board on Corruption, following his nomination by President Maada Bio.

It continued that the ACC Commissioner led all the rounds of voting, including the fourth and final rounds, where he emerged as the sole candidate for the two-thirds statutory majority vote of 47 (full unanimity).

While responding to his election, the ACC mentioned that Commissioner Kaifala expressed thanks and appreciation to the Government and people of Sierra Leone, especially President Bio, for the confidence reposed in him by nominating and supporting his candidacy.

The ACC Commissioner also singled out the Minister, Hon. Nabeela Tunis and Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, H.E Adekunle J.M King, and his Addis Ababa team for the support given to him during the campaign and electioneering process considering the short period of notice Sierra Leone received.

“We know our robust measures in combating corruption in Sierra Leone is making us a model for the fight against corruption in Africa, so I believe this election is a testament to this,” the Commissioner stated.

The mandate of the Advisory Board “is to promote and encourage the adoption of measures and actions by State Parties to prevent, detect, punish and eradicate corruption and related offences in Africa as well as to follow-up on the application of those measures and submit a Report to the Executive Council on a regular basis on the progress made by each State Party in complying with the provisions of the African Union Convention on Preventing and Combating Corruption”.

Hon. Francis Ben Kaifala will continue to serve as Commissioner of the ACC, while serving in the African Union Advisory Board on Corruption with its Headquarters in Tanzania.

The Commission stated that it wishes to reassure the general public of its determination to ensure that the fight against corruption continues to launder the image of the country and to ensure sincere accountability at all times, in a bid to make Sierra Leone an enviable reference point for the campaign in Africa and the World.

As Parliament Puts a Hold on SLFA Electoral Process… FIFA May Ban Sierra Leone Again

By Amin Kef Sesay

In a new development on the 5th February 2021 ,the Parliamentary Oversight Committee on Sports of the Sierra Leone Parliament  instructed the SLFA Electoral Body to “stay action” in their ongoing 2021 electioneering process until the Committee concludes its engagement with the football family. That pronouncement was made by the Chairman of the Committee Honourable Alusine Alu Conteh.

Parliament gave the directive during a meeting between SLFA and its electoral body as it looks into an alleged “impasse” on the nomination process for the February 26th and 27th Elective Congress in Makeni City.

Deliberations were made by various stakeholders including the SLFA, Electoral Committee, Appeals Committee, the Ministry of Sports, NSA, and others. At the end of all deliberations, the Parliament Oversight Committee on Sports gave directives to halt the electoral process “until the Committee concluded its engagement with the Football family”, among other directives pronounced.

It must be noted that FIFA, the world football governing body states in its rules that Government or political interference in the game or administration of football is unacceptable.

  In an earlier Press Release issued by the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) Electoral Committee dated  4th  February, 2021 and signed by Oluniyi Robbin-Coker  as Chairman it was categorically stated that  the Provisional Status of Candidature of Nominees for 2021 Elections pursuant to the Electoral Process that commenced on December 21 2020, the Electoral Committee (EC) of the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) is obliged to provide members of the SLFA, the nominees, the football family and the general public with an update on the current state of the process.

It furthered that Article 11 of the SLFA Electoral Code of 2012 stipulates that all nominees must be examined for the suitability of their candidature adding that according to the Electoral Schedule, that process should have been completed on January 31 2021 and notices sent to the individual nominees thereafter.

The EC, it was also stated, is pleased to report that it has satisfactorily completed its preliminary examination of the candidature of the 17 nominees.

However, it was pointed out, the Committee has been earlier constrained to communicate its findings, due to the fact that fourteen (14) out of the seventeen (17) Nominees were petitioned by and amongst the membership of SLFA, on issues of their “suitability” to run for their respective offices.

The Committee stated that in its consideration and determination of the said petitions it notes with concern that almost all of the petitions forwarded to it fall out of the Committee’s remit/mandate as statutorily provided for under the SLFA Statutes and the Electoral Code.

According to the Release, the Electoral Committee is therefore limited to only make any decisions on those issues around the nomination requirements/criteria as prescribed by its guidelines, which have been accordingly determined.

Consequently, it was highlighted, the Electoral Committee is  pleased to publish a provisional list of candidates that are deemed “qualified” to run for the various offices, subject to the completion of their integrity test investigations and the petitions currently in process by the Judicial Bodies of the SLFA.

The Release further provided the Names, Categories and Status of those mentioned below:

  1. Emmanuel Saffa Abdulai – President – Qualified
  2. Isha Johansen – President – Qualified
  3. Sadick Deen-Nyarkoh – President – Qualified
  4. Rodney Micheal – President – Qualified
  5. Thomas Daddy Brima – President – Qualified
  6. Augustine Kambo – Vice President 1 – Qualified
  7. Anthony Navo (Jnr) – Vice President 1 – Qualified
  8. Brima Kamara – Vice President 1- Qualified
  9. Idrissa Tarawally – Vice President 1- Qualified

10.Alie Badara Tarawallie – Vice President 2 – Qualified

  1. Francis Amara Konuwa – Vice President 2- Qualified
  2. Abdul Kanasieu-Rollings – Ex-Officio – Qualified
  3. Mohamed Sorie Jalloh – Ex-Officio – Qualified
  4. Ramatulai Kamara – Ex-Officio – Qualified
  5. Sheriff Barrie – Ex-Officio – Qualified

The below candidates qualification are pending as stated:

  1. Kweku Lisk – Ex-Officio – Additional information required
  2. John Dissa – Ex-Officio – Additional information required

Financial Secretary Writes Bank Governor

Governor of the Bank of Sierra Leone, Professor Kelfaila Kallon

By Amin Kef Sesay

In a letter written by the Financial Secretary, Sahr Jusu, addressed to the Governor of the Bank of Sierra Leone, Professor Kelfaila Kallon and dated 5th February 2021  he stated that they refer to their  correspondence of 5th January, 2021 on the  subject of “Implementation of The Provision on Exemption of Goods And Services (GST) Tax on Financial Services In The Finance Act 2021” saying they would like to bring to his attention that they Implementation Of The Provision On Exemption Of Goods And Services (GST) Tax On Financial Services In The Finance Act 2021 have received report from the Indian High Commission through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, stating that commercial banks continue to levy GST on financial transactions, contrary to the provision stipulated in the Finance Act 2021.

The Financial Secretary said ,as he as Governor  knows, the Finance Act 2021 amends item 10 of the Second Schedule to the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Act 2009, which relieves financial services operating under financial institutions licensed, regulated and supervised by the Bank of Sierra Leone Act, 2019 or any other similar enactment from the payment of GST.

It continued that in such a respect they would be most obliged, if  he could kindly instruct all commercial banks to comply with the said provision not to levy GST on customers’ financial transactions, and if GST has already been charged and collected on such transactions effective 19 January, 2021, the amount so charged and collected should be refunded to the customers’ account with immediate effect.

 

DEIK Engages Minister Nabeela Tunis, Amb. Mohamed Kai-Samba on Bilateral Programs

Amb. Mohamed Kai-Samba

By Austin Thomas

Foreign Economic Relations Board of Turkey (DEIK), has hosted a  virtual business conference, hosting Madam Nabeela Tunis, Sierra Leone’ Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and Sierra Leone’s envoy to Turkey, Amb. Mohamed Kai-Samba.

The objective of the meeting was to discuss business and Investment opportunities in both Turkey and Sierra Leone.

In his opening remarks, the Chairman of the Turkey-Sierra Leone Business Council, (Turkey side), Mr Aybars Unal, expressed delight and optimism regarding the hosting of such bilateral business events. He registered his determination to use his position as Chairman of the Business Council to promote Business and Investment interests of both friendly countries.

Mr Unal revealed that a business delegation to be led by himself, would soon travel to Sierra Leone on a business scoping mission, geared towards identifying potential business and investment opportunities and also to engage his counterpart in Sierra Leone for the mutual benefit of both nations.

In his statement, the Chairman of the Turkey-Sierra Leone Business Council, (Sierra Leone Side), Mr. Christopher Forster, who is also the President of the Sierra Leone Chambers of Commerce and Industry, registered his determination to use the opportunities afforded by the Business Council to foster meaningful business and investment engagement between his membership and the Sierra Leone business community at large. He expressed optimism on the strengthening of the Sierra Leone Turkish business relations.

His Excellency, Mr. Deha Erpek, former Turkish Ambassador to Sierra Leone used the occasion to highlight some of the gains he made in Sierra Leone during his tour of duty, stressing optimism in the future of the Sierra Leone – Turkey bilateral relations. He presented Sierra Leone as a friendly nation where Turkish companies can thrive and succeed in business.

In his speech, the President of DEIK, Mr. Nail Opak, expressed delight on the establishment of the Sierra Leone -Turkey Business Council, urging both sides to take full advantage of every opportunity such an establishment offers.

He spoke about Turkish companies already taking advantage of the opportunities Sierra Leone has accorded Turkish business entities, citing SUMA Construction Company that is currently involved in a multimillion construction project in Sierra Leone and many others.

His Excellency Ambassador Mohamed Kai-Samba, Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to Turkey, in his remarks, expressed delight and thanked the organizers of this meeting, stressing that it represented an important milestone in the developing relations between Sierra Leone and Turkey.

Ambassador Kai- Samba highlighted that his participation in the last year’s first ever online Turkey- Africa Economic and Business Forum was a huge opportunity to identify and reach new business partnerships and elevate trade relations between two countries.

He added that ties between the two countries especially in the areas of trade and business will be enhanced with the official opening of  the Sierra Leone Mission, an effort he described as an important milestone in development and enhancement of the expanding economic and diplomatic relations between Sierra Leone and the Republic of Turkey.

He swiftly and precisely articulated the close similarities between the DEIk’s overriding objective and the main path of the New Direction Government of His Excellency Rtd. Brig. Julius Maada Bio, stressing that,  “Like the core objectives of DEİK, which is to increase and enhance welfare and prosperity of the Turkish nation and Turkish people, making Turkey an effective and efficient player in the global arena that will serve to leave a more fair and livable world for the next generations; The National Medium Term Development Plan (2019-2023) has been founded on a strong political commitment to deliver development results that would improve the welfare of Sierra Leone’s citizens.”

Ambassador Kai-Samba further noted that, Turkey–Sierra Leone Business Council has provided a platform for further development and strengthening of bilateral trade and economic relations between Sierra Leone and Turkey.

He stressed that he is committed to using his tour of duty to enhance and further strengthen the ever-developing and strengthening relations between the two friendly nations.

Addressing the meeting, Minister Nabeela Tunis expressed satisfaction in the strength of the Sierra Leone-Turkey bilateral relations, which she said is being demonstrated at various levels.

Minister Tunis emphasized that the Government of Sierra Leone is keen to cooperate with Turkey by pointing out her 2019 and 2020 visits to Turkey as a clear manifestation of the strong relations between Turkey and Sierra Leone.

She reminded the meeting about the practical steps that has been taken by the President Bio led Government in areas of mutual interest, including trade and investment, defense, education, religion and health.

In the area of trade, business and investment, she reminded all that Sierra Leone is currently actively engaging and prioritizing Turkish companies for public contracts, highlighting that Turkish companies have taken major infrastructure projects and they are expecting to receive a lot more through this particular platform which has been established.

“We as a Government have to create an environment for these companies not only to come and create jobs but also realize huge benefits,” she stated.

Regarding the balance of trade volume between Sierra Leone and Turkey, the Minister recognized that there has been significant improvement in trade volumes between the two nations.

Madam Nabeela Tunis underlined Government’s interest in attracting more business and investment from Turkey, explaining that, the Government has introduced favorable tax regimes for key sectors including tourism.

The Foreign Minister also revealed that President Julius Maada Bio has established an investment board which seeks to provide an additional layer of confidence to investors in terms of providing hands-on-support at the highest level of the Presidency.

The meeting was also virtually attended by H.E. Ms. Sibel Erkan, Newly Designated Turkish Ambassador  to Sierra Leone, Mr. Paul Mina ,Deputy Ambassador, Mr. Mohamed Lamin Khan HOC, Mr. Rashid Conteh, Secretary General of Sierra Leone Importers Union (Observer),  Ms. Hawa Tucker, Press Attaché, Ms. Pınar Okumuş, Secretary to the Ambassador, Mr. Barış Çuvalcı DEİK Deputy Secretary General, Mr. Evren Doğan DEİK Turkey-Africa Business Council Director , Mr. Akın Dıblan DEİK Turkey-Africa Business Council Coordinator, Ms. İlayda Güngör DEİK Turkey-Africa Business Council Assistant Coordinator and moderated by  Mr. Aybars Ünal Sierre Leone – Turkey Business Council Chairman.

NP-SL Castrol Oil Promo is Right Around the Corner

By Amin Kef Sesay

The  timing for  the National Petroleum –Sierra Leone Limited (NP-SL Ltd) Castrol Engine Oil Promo will be announced soon just to respond to the incessant calls we have been receiving as to when it will commence.

The upcoming promo will make it possible for the company’s esteemed customers the chance to bag attractive prizes.

At the commencement of the Castrol Engine Oil Promo every time any customer of NP-SL Ltd purchases a 5L Castrol GTX Engine Oil, he or she, will have the chance to dip and draw from a container filled with hidden prizes in the form of folded slips.

The customers will open the slips and reveal prizes or a ‘sorry buy more GTX’ on the slip.

The categories of the draw will be as such: GTX 25W50 = 1 dip & draw, GTX 20W50 = 2 dips & draw, GTX DIESEL = 2 dips & draw.

After revealing the prizes, the customers will leave their details and they shall be contacted by the Lubricants Sales Supervisor of NP-SL Ltd.

The Lubricants Sales Supervisor will in turn notify the winners and they will pick up their prizes at the office.

Customers who do not win prizes will be compensated with Castrol GTX bumper stickers or keyrings. This is to keep the customers loyal and identify themselves with the premium brand.

The compensation will be as follows: GTX 25W50 = 1 sticker, GTX 20W50 = 1 sticker & 1 keyring, GTX DIESEL = 2 stickers & 1 keyring.

The promotional items shall contain the following: Led Light, Normal cap, Funnels, Lip balm, Keyring, Sticker, Desk Clock, Flask, File and Mug.

Steadfastness in optimal service delivery has made the National Petroleum Sierra Leone Limited (NP-SL-Ltd) one of the most outstanding and vibrant companies that is steadily operating, in thick and thin, in this country. Such largely emanates from the dogged determination on the part of 35 former employees of the then British Petroleum company, which decided to fold up its operations and sold shares, which these workers bought out of their end of service benefits and used as seed capital to commence the running of the now renowned NP-SL –Ltd.

Setting up the company was just one accomplished feat, but taking it from that level to where it is today, speaks volumes of the selflessness on the part of the shareholders, who were all Sierra Leoneans, to see their ‘baby’ grow and succeed up to an appreciable stage that they were yearning for. It is this selflessness on the part of the shareholders which eclipsed personal aggrandizement, misappropriation of funds and insincerity to such an extent that the resultant effect culminated into an overall success story.

At this material point in time the company has bagged a whole lot of recognition for its outstanding performances in the line of marketing qualitative petroleum products. It stands to be contested that NP-SL Ltd is the number one oil marketing company in this country, which is equal to none, as it continues to break new frontiers in its expansionist drive.

When the name NP is called, what immediately comes to mind is First for Customer Care and this is not a mere masquerading in borrowed robes, but rather a true accomplishment of what the company fervently believes in and is striving towards actualizing. To the shareholders and Management of the company, providing utmost satisfaction in its service delivery to its esteemed as well as numerous customers is just as important as importing petroleum products into the country. Keen consideration is given to marketing high grade products that customers utilize for the effective performances of vehicles and other gadgets.

Besides, the company ensured that its pumping machines used in Filling Stations are modern and standardized in order to give customers their monies’ worth. These machines are very transparent, as it displays the number of litre pumped and the corresponding prices. Besides, customers concerns and suggestions are taken into consideration when policies are mapped out and Management decisions are arrived at, which makes it possible for various shades of opinions and inputs to be factored into how the company tailors its operations.

With the avowed aim of making their customers feel at home, NP-SL-Ltd has made the procurement of petroleum products very simple by introducing the use of NP Smart Card. NP Smart Card has unique embedded security features which cannot be easily faked by unscrupulous persons and the Card could be topped up to contain a considerable amount of money which a particular customer could use for purchasing purposes, with amounts deducted depending on the quantum of the products so far demanded. Indeed, it is a latest technological device and is becoming very trending.

For effective cooking purposes the company also has on offer for sale NP Gas, a device found in different cylinder shapes, that could be accessed at all the company’s Filling Stations as well as authorized dealers at affordable prices. Environmentally and medically certified as user friendly, NP Gas is presently going like hot cakes and there are energized workers in all the stations that readily offer tips or guidance as to how to optimally make use of this wonderful gadget. As a matter of fact a particular user can easily gain access to gas for refilling purpose.

A marked feature of the company has to do with its one hundred percent ‘Sierra Leoneanship’, having shareholders, Management and general staff who are all indigenes. Such a premium placed on making use of local talents and raw materials are parts of the core bedrock of the much talked about Local Content Policy.

Employing knowledgeable Sierra Leoneans to execute certain tasks has been a cardinal principle that has permeated the company’s existence throughout the periods it has been in active existence and such has been paying meaningful dividends. It also means offering various training opportunities to broaden the knowledge horizons of its members of staff for sound contributions to the company’s viability and buoyance.

Bent on maintaining that stance, the company has been helping in poverty reduction because by offering job opportunities, either directly or otherwise, it is putting monies in the pockets of individuals to take care of responsibilities. Monies are spent internally as opposed to a situation where the company should have concentrated on importing foreign expatriates to do tasks that indigenes could do better.

NP-SL Ltd has, over the years, in its drive to roll out the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility complementing Government’s efforts to enhance improved standards of living. It has offered institutional capacity supports to vibrant entities as was recently done to the National Fire Force by facilitating the construction of a state-of-the-art water facility at the Force’s Kissy Branch, from which water could be sourced to respond to any fire emergency within that part of the country and even beyond to the entire Greater Freetown. This is just a microcosm of the kind gestures that the company has dished out, all with the objective to make lives better.

To have branches in different parts of the country and going further to have presence within the West African sub-region tells of how the company is determined to grow. We now have NP in Liberia, Guinea, Ivory Coast and The Gambia and the vibrant functioning of  all those branches is a true testimony of how successful its shareholders and Management want to see customers enjoying qualitative petroleum products. The company is providing job opportunities in those countries and at the same time paying taxes, which form components of generated revenues that are used by the respective Governments to undertake the implementation of various development programmes and projects.

NP-SL is moving on the right trajectory and deserves all the necessary support it requires to move from one height to another. The company is poised to continue creating meaningful impacts and consciously moving towards the direction of always setting the pace for others to follow.

Share For Mama Salone Ambassadors Undergo Orientation

By Amin Kef Sesay

On the Thursday 4th February 2021, the National COVID 19 Emergency Response Centre (NaCOVERC) launched the Corona Fet Facebook Page and also orientated the recent appointed Share for Mama Salone Ambassadors.

The Ambassadors were orientated on the initiative as an innovative means to roll out, drive and sustain active citizens’ participation in the fight against COVID-19 and help to contain the spread of the second wave of the virus during an event that took place at the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC), at Cockerill North in Freetown.

Alfred Jamiru served as the Chairperson of the programme whereas Harold Thomas, the Risk Communication Lead of NaCOVERC gave an overview and the rationale behind the Share 4 Mama Salone initiative. The keynote Speaker was the Minister of Information and Communications, Mohamed Rado Swarray.

It was stated, during the programme, that the Risk Communication and Social Mobilization pillars of NaCOVERC, in partnership with UNICEF Sierra Leone, are rolling out the Share 4 Mama Salone Ambassador Initiative to drive an integrated outreach across traditional and digital media channels through 50 key influencers to build and mobilize support in the fight against COVID-19.

These multi- stakeholders are considered to be opinion leaders and administrators of WhatsApp, Facebook and twitter groups with each commanding a huge number of followers in social media and their communities.

It was further underscored that in a bid to promote the corona virus awareness in Sierra Leone, working with those Ambassadors will help position NaCOVERC and build trust in COVID-19 response as it expands outreach and broadens engagements with citizens.

It was also highlighted that the identified Ambassadors have wide networks and considerable influencing powers within the Western Area, the provinces and even outside the country.

The incentive to join the initiative, it was stated, is primarily patriotism further maintaining that by joining the initiative the Ambassadors will help Sierra Leoneans access and engage with critical information on COVID-19.

Also stated was that the Ambassadors will be working alongside the social media team of NaCOVERC to support  the Spokesperson, RSCM, Advisers, Leads and RCSM sub groups.

The Share 4 Mama Salone Ambassadors shall among other things create and share simple but compelling corona virus contents on social media platforms especially Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram and Twitter.

They will Like and share alike posts on the NaCOVERC Corona Fet Facebook, proactively create editorial contents (stories, photos advocacy images, contests, campaigns, audio, video, info graphics, etc.)in cooperation with the RCSM Social Media Team and adapt for media pitching and posting to respective channels.

In addition they shall adapt multimedia assets from NaCOVERC RCSM for the consumption by the local audience,                                                                                                                cross share content on the NaCOVERC Corona Fet Facebook page.                        collaborate and support NaCOVERC in public events,                                                           use hashtags #Share4MamaSalone and #CoronaFetNarWeAllFet on all COVID-19 related postings,                                                                                support NaCOVERC in countering false news, rumors and myths which undermine the efforts of the RCSM in behavioral change moves, sign up to one of the RCSM sub groups as a partner (media, messaging, social mobilization, monitoring and evaluation of  sub groups). The Ambassadors shall provide contact details (preferable and active email addresses or numbers on WhatsApp to receive updates from NaCOVERC.

In turn NaCOVERC will provide the Risk Communication and Social     Mobilization pillars,

It will also provide counsel on social content/strategy as well as train the Ambassadors on innovative communications.

Stated was that NaCOVERC is ready to produce and share multimedia content to increase media outreach and enhance effective visibility.

NaCOVERC will also maintain and share with the Ambassadors regular, up-to-date, accurate information from the response. A media calendar of NaCOVERC’s key activities and all upcoming schedules.

With funding from UNICEF, NaCOVERC will support each Ambassador with credit to their nominated phones per week over a period of 8 weeks.

Managing Editor of The Calabash Newspaper, Amin Kef Sesay, aka Ranger is one of the Ambassadors that went through the orientation.

Rokel Bank Gears up for Full Scale Digitalization

By Amin Kef Sesay

The Rokel Commercial Bank will become the first indigenous bank to fully digitalize its operations in Sierra Leone this year.  Sources from the bank say the process to set up a robust and secured digital infrastructure that would not only allow customers to enjoy cashless transactions in Sierra Leone and other parts of the world but will also help to decongest bank premises has started.

While there is no specific time period for the completion of the project, it is expected that by the middle of the year, the bank would have developed or installed the requisite human resource and infrastructure for its digital revolution.

Apparently, the digitalization process itself did not start today. In July 2018, the bank launched the Rokel Simkorpor – a user friendly mobile cash application that has invariably revolutionized banking transactions with unparalleled flexibility and encrypted securitized features and can be accessed with the inputting of a six digit code and your account details.

The Rokel Simkorpor comes with a full package that performs major banking services like loans, money transfer, utility bills payment, bank transfers etc.

The bank had recruited, trained and deployed scores of agents across the country. Our findings reveal that the Rokel Simkorpor has an exponential growth prospect to become the most dependable digital mobile banking transaction in Sierra Leone.

By the third quarter of last year, a functionally effective internet banking portal was developed and this has proven quite useful to customers who were keen to avoid the hassle of leaving the comfort of their homes and offices to carry out banking transactions at the usually congested bank premises.

The Rokel Internet banking portal can be accessed at www.rokelbank.sl. “We are going digital and want the bank to lead and take up the Ebanking space nationwide…..the aim is to make RCbank a digital bank in 2021” explains the Managing Director of Rokel Commercial Bank, Dr. Walton Ekundayoh Gilpin.

Gilpin’s resolve to reposition the bank into a viable financial institution ready to accommodate and leverage upon every available opportunity in the banking industry has resulted in an unprecedented expansion of the bank over the last three years.

Indeed, with the rise of technology adoption and a growing economy, Sierra Leone’s digital banking landscape is set to develop at a record pace in the next few years.

There is no doubt that all banks in Africa recognize the importance of digital banking in their growth strategy. Improved access to digital services can help increase the financial inclusion of many customers’ across the continent while supporting local economies.

The opportunities are massive for banks willing to take the lead and digitally transform their business to truly engage with their customers.

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