AfriMoney & Partners Launch ‘Tek Now, Pay Af Af’ Samsung A06 Smartphone Initiative for Farmers

April 10, 2026

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

AfriMoney, in partnership with the United Nations Capital Development Fund and with funding support from the European Union, has launched a pay-as-you-go smartphone initiative targeting farming communities across Sierra Leone.

The programme, branded “Tek Now, Pay Af Af”, introduces the Samsung Galaxy A06 bundled with 2.5 Gb of free data, enabling farmers to access digital tools and information services. The initiative was unveiled on Thursday 9^th April, 2026 at Africell headquarters in Wilberforce, Freetown.

Under the scheme, farmers can acquire the device with an initial deposit of 365 Leones and complete payments over time through flexible daily, weekly, or monthly instalments aligned with their income patterns.

Leon Obeng Nkansah, Device Manager, Business Development at Africell Sierra Leone, who doubles as the project lead said the initiative had been in development since 2024 and was designed to address persistent barriers to digital inclusion. He noted that farmers often lack access to smartphones while working in remote areas, limiting their ability to check market prices and weather updates.

Nkansah said the pay as you go model was introduced to remove affordability constraints and bring underserved groups into the digital ecosystem. He added that the programme reflects broader development priorities supported by international partners to ensure inclusive access to technology.

Chief Executive Officer of AfriMoney, Martison Obeng-Agyei, said agriculture remains central to Sierra Leone’s economy, with an estimated 60 to 75 per cent of the population engaged in the sector. He stated that the initiative targets not only farmers but the wider agricultural value chain, including traders, transporters, and households.

He said the distribution of smartphones is intended to improve access to information rather than entertainment, enabling users to benefit from digital content related to farming practices, market trends, and weather conditions. He added that increased connectivity would allow development partners to deliver timely information directly to rural users.

Obeng-Agyei said the initiative could evolve to include dedicated applications providing agronomic advice and market data. He noted that the flexible repayment structure was informed by transaction trends within the mobile money ecosystem, ensuring alignment with users’ earning cycles.

He said nationwide distribution would be supported by training and user education, with regional campaigns scheduled to begin on April 17 and device availability expected from April 20. He projected that within three to six months, the smartphones would reach farming communities across the country.

Speaking at the launch, Firus Shukorov, Team Lead at the United Nations Capital Development Fund, highlighted the structural gaps in Sierra Leone’s digital landscape despite widespread mobile connectivity. He said that while the country records approximately 8.94 million active cellular connections, internet usage remains low, with only a fraction of the population actively online.

He noted disparities in access between urban and rural areas and between men and women, as well as low levels of digital literacy. He said the initiative addresses both affordability and access barriers by combining device financing with mobile money services.

Shukorov said mobile money has become a key driver of financial inclusion, with significant growth over the past decade, but emphasized that most transactions remain basic and that deeper integration with digital services is still limited.

He said the PAYGO smartphone initiative is expected to improve access to market information, strengthen financial inclusion, and enhance resilience among rural populations through better access to digital tools.

He said that UNCDF support would focus on ensuring affordability, consumer protection, digital literacy, and interoperability with national systems to maximise impact and sustainability.

Representing the European Union, Franco Manso Marrah said the initiative reflects the EU’s commitment to supporting inclusive digital transformation in Sierra Leone.

He said the programme directly addresses inequalities in access to technology by targeting rural farming communities that are often excluded from digital and financial systems. He noted that affordability remains one of the biggest barriers to smartphone adoption and described the pay as you go model as a practical solution tailored to local economic realities.

He said the EU’s support is aimed at ensuring that digital tools translate into tangible economic benefits, particularly through improved access to market information, financial services, and communication channels.

He added that strengthening digital inclusion in agriculture has the potential to improve productivity, enhance food security, and create new economic opportunities across the value chain. He said the EU will continue to work with partners to support scalable solutions that empower communities and drive sustainable development.

The initiative is expected to play a significant role in bridging the digital divide in rural Sierra Leone by expanding access to smartphones, improving digital literacy, and strengthening the integration of farmers into the country’s growing digital and financial ecosystem.

Government Enforces Biometric Card as Only Valid Residence and Work Permit

April 8, 2026

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Government of Sierra Leone has officially announced that the Biometric Residence and Work Permit Card is now the only legally recognized document for all residency and employment purposes involving non-nationals in the country, effective 1 April 2026.

The declaration was made in a Public Notice jointly issued by the Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security and the Sierra Leone Immigration Department, dated 7 April 2026 in Freetown, marking a decisive shift toward a more secure and digitally managed immigration framework.

According to the notice, the transition follows an earlier Press Release issued on 16 January 2026, which granted non-nationals an initial 45-day grace period, later extended by an additional month, to replace their old paper-based residence and work permits with the newly introduced biometric cards.

The Government has now confirmed that the transition period has ended, and all previously issued paper-based permits are no longer valid for identification, residency or employment purposes anywhere in Sierra Leone.

With the new directive now fully in force, nationwide compliance enforcement has commenced, with verification checks already underway at airports, border entry points, workplaces and through field inspections across the country. Authorized officers have been mandated to request and verify valid biometric permits from all non-nationals whenever necessary.

The notice further warns that failure to comply with the directive may lead to serious consequences, including denial of entry or exit at border points, administrative sanctions, financial penalties and even the revocation of residency or work authorization.

In a further reminder to the business community, the Government stressed that all employers are under a legal obligation to verify the immigration and employment status of non-national staff, noting that the engagement of individuals without valid biometric permits constitutes a violation of national labour and immigration regulations.

To ease the compliance process, the Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security, together with the Immigration Department, disclosed that support offices remain fully operational in Freetown, Bo, Kenema, Makeni, Kono and Port Loko, where trained personnel are available to assist applicants.

The Government also highlighted that applications, renewals and verification services can be completed online through the official Unified Permit portal, a move designed to improve efficiency, transparency and public convenience.

All affected non-nationals and employers have therefore been strongly advised to regularize their status without delay, as authorities have made it clear that no further extensions are anticipated.

The latest enforcement measure underscores Government’s broader commitment to building a modern, transparent, secure and efficient migration management system, while strengthening national border control, labour compliance and identity verification mechanisms across Sierra Leone.

The public notice was endorsed by the Commissioner of Labour and the Chief Immigration Officer, signaling a coordinated inter-agency approach to enforcing the country’s updated migration and employment documentation regime.

Mercury International Launches Nationwide Raffle With $81,000 House Prize

April 8, 2026

Chief Executive Officer Mercury International, Martin Edward Michael

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Mercury International has launched a nationwide promotional campaign offering customers the chance to win a newly built house valued at $81,000, in what the company describes as one of its most ambitious initiatives to date.

The promotion, titled: “Yusef Kin Play En Win A New House,” was unveiled at a ceremony held in Aberdeen, Freetown, bringing together company executives, media representatives and other stakeholders. The campaign runs from 1 April to 20 July 2026.

Chief Executive Officer, Martin Edward Michael, said the campaign represents a significant step beyond the company’s previous promotional activities, which have included prizes such as mobile phones, televisions, motorbikes, cash, generators and solar products. He stated that the company aimed to introduce a reward capable of having a lasting impact on a customer’s life.

According to him, the initiative is designed around the idea that access to a stable home provides a critical foundation for personal development and long-term success. He described the house prize as the most materially transformative reward offered by a gaming company in Sierra Leone.

The Chief Executive Officer announced that the raffle would be conducted through the company’s online platform and confirmed that one winner would receive the grand prize: a newly constructed house located at John Obey in the TAF City.

Brand Ambassador Drizilik said the campaign reflects the company’s long-standing presence in Sierra Leone and its broader impact beyond gaming. He described the promotion as a practical demonstration of the company’s commitment to changing lives, noting that home ownership remains a major aspiration for many citizens.

Drizilik said he had personally visited the house and described it as a significant prize likely to attract widespread public interest. He emphasized that the campaign offers participants a realistic opportunity to achieve home ownership, which he noted is often associated with financial security and reduced personal stress.

He also highlighted the company’s shift towards digital participation, encouraging customers to engage through its online platform. While acknowledging existing concerns about online systems, he pointed to the company’s track record as a basis for trust.

Providing technical details, company representative, Octavus Jackson, explained that participation requires customers to create an account on the company’s online platform. He said raffle tickets can be earned through both gaming and sports betting activities, with stakes accumulating to NLe250 on Vegas games and NLe50 on sports betting to meet the required thresholds before tickets are issued.

Octavus Jackson explained that the system allows flexibility, enabling customers to build up stakes over time rather than placing a single large bet. He added that certain promotional conditions may increase the number of raffle tickets earned, including participation in selected gaming categories or qualifying sports events.

He went on to point out that only funds deposited by customers would count towards raffle qualification, excluding bonus credits and promotional offers. The representative also urged participants to engage responsibly.

According to the company, additional information, including detailed rules and conditions, would be made available to the public through its communication channels.

Luigi Manganiello Admitted to Prestigious Royal Over-Seas League in London

April 8, 2026

In a significant international recognition, Luigi Manganiello, Honorary Consul General of Sierra Leone in Italy and National President of CONFIMPRESAITALIA, has been admitted as a member of the prestigious Royal Over-Seas League (ROSL) in London on April 1, 2026, an esteemed global institution operating under the patronage of King Charles III.

Located in the institutional heart of the British capital, just a short distance from Buckingham Palace, the Royal Over-Seas League has long been regarded as one of the most respected international hubs for distinguished figures in diplomacy, governance, business and culture. Historically supported by the British Royal Family, the organisation continues to serve as a meeting point for influential leaders from across the world.

Established in 1910 with a strong international vision, the ROSL has over the decades consolidated its reputation as a premier networking platform connecting high-level personalities from the diplomatic, economic, institutional and cultural spheres. Its enduring relationship with the British Monarchy remains one of its most defining characteristics. King George V became its first Royal Patron in 1916, a tradition that has since been maintained by each successive monarch. In May 2024, King Charles III officially assumed the role of Royal Patron. Earlier, in 1960, the League was granted a Royal Charter by Queen Elizabeth II, further cementing its historic and institutional importance.

Luigi Manganiello’s admission into the Royal Over-Seas League carries particular significance given his role as Honorary Consul General of Sierra Leone, a Commonwealth nation with deep historical ties to the United Kingdom. The honour is expected to further strengthen dialogue and cooperation between the British establishment, West Africa and Europe, particularly in areas of diplomacy, trade and institutional engagement.

The recognition also reflects the growing international profile of CONFIMPRESAITALIA under his leadership. As the head of one of Italy’s nationally significant employers’ organisations, Manganiello has played a central role in promoting Italian enterprises and supporting business internationalisation initiatives.

His membership in the Royal Over-Seas League is seen as part of a broader trajectory of expanding international influence, aimed at deepening institutional, economic and academic relations among Italy, the United Kingdom and Sierra Leone.

The latest milestone not only underscores Manganiello’s diplomatic and economic relevance but also reinforces the strategic bridges being built across Europe and Africa through high-level institutional networks.

UN Youth Affairs Chief Applauds Sierra Leone’s Commitment to Youth Empowerment After Obasanjo Centre Visit

April 8, 2026

The United Nations Assistant Secretary-General for Youth Affairs, Dr. Felipe Paullier, has commended Sierra Leone’s growing commitment to youth empowerment and reintegration following his visit to the Obasanjo Skills Acquisition and Youth Transformation Centre in Newton on Tuesday, 1 April 2026.

The visit highlighted Sierra Leone’s continued efforts to provide sustainable opportunities for young people, particularly returnee migrants, through practical skills development and social reintegration initiatives.

The Obasanjo Centre, supported through the European Union-funded Migrant Protection and Reintegration Programme and implemented by the International Organization for Migration in collaboration with the National Youth Commission, has become a vital institution for vocational training and youth transformation. The facility offers a wide range of market-driven programmes, including cosmetology, baking, catering, tailoring, solar and electrical engineering, civil construction, ICT, photography, driving and automobile engineering.

During the guided tour, Dr. Felipe Paullier interacted with trainees across different departments and praised their determination, resilience and commitment to rebuilding their lives through skills acquisition.

“This centre reflects the remarkable progress unfolding in Sierra Leone,” he stated. “At the United Nations, we believe young people must be at the heart of our institutions, especially those who have been marginalized.”

His remarks underscored the global body’s recognition of Sierra Leone’s youth-focused policies and the country’s practical interventions aimed at turning vulnerable young people into productive contributors to national development. He further commended the trainees for their dedication and pledged continued global advocacy for youth-centred programmes that create real pathways to self-reliance and economic empowerment.

Also speaking during the visit, Dr. Pauline Macharia, Officer-in-Charge of the International Organization for Migration, described the engagement as an important opportunity to strengthen collaboration with the United Nations on youth development initiatives.

“It is a privilege to engage the Assistant Secretary-General on how we can further support Sierra Leonean youth to drive national development,” she said, while reaffirming IOM’s longstanding partnership with the Ministry of Youth Affairs and other national stakeholders in promoting youth inclusion and resilience.

The impact of the centre was further reflected in the testimonies of beneficiaries, many of whom expressed gratitude for the life-changing opportunities provided through the programme. One female trainee enrolled in the driving course described the initiative as a turning point in her life, noting that it had equipped her with “skills for life” and a clear pathway to independence and self-sufficiency.

National Youth Commissioner Joseph Maada Lahai emphasized that the Obasanjo Centre represents far more than a physical structure, describing it as “a hub for transformation, resilience, and innovation.”

He noted that the institution continues to serve as a symbol of hope for young Sierra Leoneans, especially those returning from difficult migration experiences, by equipping them with employable skills and renewed confidence to contribute meaningfully to society.

The visit by the UN Assistant Secretary-General further reinforces Sierra Leone’s rising profile as a leader in youth-centred development and reintegration across the region. With the Obasanjo Skills Acquisition and Youth Transformation Centre continuing to empower hundreds of young people, it stands as a beacon of opportunity for those determined to transform adversity into sustainable futures.

Bio Commissions Health Vehicles, Opens SLPP Bonthe Office, Celebrates Bo School at 120

April 8, 2026

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has intensified his administration’s national transformation agenda with a series of high-impact engagements across Sierra Leone’s Southern Region, including the commissioning of a major fleet of vehicles for healthcare workers, the opening of the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) District Office in Bonthe and participation in the 120th anniversary celebration of Bo Government Secondary School.

The most significant of the engagements took place on Saturday, 4 April 2026, at Bo Government Hospital, where President Bio officially commissioned a fleet of buses, utility vehicles, motorbikes and a fully equipped mobile maintenance workshop vehicle aimed at strengthening healthcare delivery nationwide.

The fleet, which comprises 10 buses, 10 utility vehicles, one mobile maintenance workshop vehicle and 450 motorbikes, is expected to significantly enhance the mobility of healthcare workers, especially those serving in remote and underserved communities where transportation challenges have long hindered effective service delivery.

Describing the initiative as a historic milestone, President Bio said the investment, fully funded by the Government of Sierra Leone with support from friends of the President, marks the first comprehensive mobility intervention of its scale in the country’s health sector.

He stressed that bridging transportation gaps remains essential to improving emergency response times, expanding outreach services and ensuring that quality healthcare reaches citizens in every part of the country.

“This intervention is not just about vehicles; it is about saving lives, improving access and delivering quality healthcare where it is most needed,” President Bio stated.

He further explained that the initiative forms part of the Government’s flagship “300 Days of Activism” programme, which is focused on achieving zero preventable maternal deaths, zero preventable infant deaths and zero zero-dose children.

According to the President, improved logistics and mobility are critical pillars in meeting those ambitious public health targets.

President Bio also used the occasion to reaffirm that the commissioning fulfils a key promise made before his election and aligns directly with his administration’s broader human capital development agenda, which prioritizes sustained investments in health, education and social services as drivers of national progress.

In a further boost to healthcare worker welfare, the President commended the Ministry of Health for plans to construct housing for mid-level nurses and midwives in Bo, describing the move as a strategic intervention to improve working conditions, strengthen morale and retain skilled personnel within the health sector.

He emphasized Sierra Leone’s growing capacity to lead its own development process, noting that the country now possesses the expertise and human resources required to strengthen national institutions without overdependence on external support.

From Bo, President Bio proceeded to Mattru Jong in Bonthe District, where he officially opened the new SLPP District Office, calling on party members to maintain peace, strengthen internal cohesion and prepare for a decisive victory in the 2028 general elections.

The President, who also serves as Leader of the SLPP, described the office as a vital center for engagement, dialogue and grassroots coordination, stressing that it belongs to every party member in the district.

“I urge all of you to put aside your differences and work together for a landslide victory in 2028,” he told party supporters, adding that the office would also be equipped with internet connectivity to improve communication and political outreach.

During the ceremony, President Bio highlighted ongoing development priorities for Bonthe District, including plans for a 100-bed hospital as well as continued efforts to improve electricity and water supply in the area.

He also referenced the just-commissioned healthcare mobility fleet as part of his Government’s broader strategy to improve service delivery nationwide.

First Lady Fatima Maada Bio, who accompanied the President, commended the construction of the district office and echoed calls for unity, particularly in the aftermath of recent internal SLPP elections.

She also pointed to progress on the Bo–Mattru Jong road project as evidence of Government’s continued commitment to regional connectivity and development.

In another landmark engagement earlier on Friday, 3 April 2026, President Bio joined alumni, students, Paramount Chiefs and other dignitaries at the Bo Government Secondary School campus to commemorate the institution’s 120th Speech Day and Prize-Giving Ceremony.

Held under the theme: “Bo School at 120 – Celebrating a Rich Legacy and Inspiring Generations,” the event marked more than a century of excellence in education, discipline and character development.

As a proud alumnus, President Bio described the occasion as deeply personal and historically significant, noting that Bo School has played a defining role in shaping generations of leaders in Sierra Leone.

“Bo School does not simply produce educated men; it produces men who shape nations,” he declared.

He urged current students to uphold the institution’s long-standing traditions of discipline, leadership and excellence, while calling on alumni to invest more meaningfully through structured mentorship and sustained institutional support.

President Bio reiterated that Sierra Leone’s future depends on building strong institutions and nurturing disciplined citizens capable of leading national transformation.

The three engagements collectively underscored President Bio’s continued focus on strengthening healthcare systems, consolidating political unity and investing in educational excellence as central pillars of Sierra Leone’s long-term development agenda.

Orange Commissions NLe1.8 Million Ultra-Modern Health Centre in Wai Community, Boosting Rural Healthcare Access

April 8, 2026

By Ibrahim Sesay

Orange Sierra Leone, in partnership with the Ministry of Health, has officially commissioned a NLe1.8 million ultra-modern ten-room health centre in Wai Community, Sorogbema Chiefdom, Pujehun District, marking a major milestone in the drive to improve access to quality healthcare services in rural Sierra Leone.

The facility, which was officially inaugurated on March 28, 2026, is expected to significantly transform healthcare delivery in Wai and surrounding communities, where residents have for years grappled with limited access to essential medical services due to distance, inadequate infrastructure and insufficient resources.

The commissioning ceremony was officiated by the Deputy Minister of Health I, Dr. Charles Senesie, alongside Orange Sierra Leone Chief Executive Officer, Madam Aïcha Touré, in the presence of the Paramount Chief, local authorities, traditional leaders and hundreds of community residents who turned out to witness the historic event.

Delivering the opening remarks, Orange Sierra Leone’s Corporate Social Responsibility Officer, Mohamed Santos Bangura, gave a detailed overview of the project, tracing its journey from the groundbreaking ceremony held on April 17, 2025, to its successful completion.

He described the commissioning as a landmark achievement that reflects Orange Sierra Leone’s unwavering commitment to impactful social investment and sustainable national development.

According to Mohamed Santos Bangura, the new health centre is specifically designed to address critical gaps in rural healthcare delivery, with a strong focus on maternal and child health services.

He emphasized that the expansion of life-saving healthcare services in Wai would play a vital role in reducing preventable illnesses while contributing significantly to the reduction of maternal and child mortality rates in Pujehun District.

The Paramount Chief of Sorogbema Chiefdom, Mustapha Jeangay Massaquoi III, expressed profound appreciation to Orange Sierra Leone for what he described as a timely and transformative intervention.

He assured all stakeholders that the chiefdom would take full ownership of the facility, ensuring proper maintenance, protection and effective monitoring so that it continues to serve both present and future generations.

Speaking during the commissioning, Orange Sierra Leone CEO Madam Aïcha Touré reaffirmed the company’s dedication to community wellbeing and national development, noting that the health centre was deliberately designed to respond to the urgent healthcare needs of Wai and neighbouring communities.

She disclosed that the ten-room facility is equipped with a labour ward and other essential medical infrastructure, enabling it to provide a broad range of healthcare services including maternal and child health care, outpatient consultations, emergency response and basic diagnostic services.

Madam Aïcha Touré further highlighted that the initiative aligns with the Orange Foundation’s maternal mortality reduction programme, under which the Wai facility will continue to benefit from targeted interventions aimed at improving outcomes for pregnant women, nursing mothers and newborns.

In his keynote address, the Deputy Minister of Health I, Dr. Charles Senesie, commended Orange Sierra Leone for complementing Government’s efforts to strengthen healthcare systems across the country.

He noted that the project fits squarely within the Ministry’s broader strategy of expanding access to quality healthcare, particularly in underserved and hard-to-reach rural communities.

Dr. Charles Senesie also announced that the former Wai Maternal and Child Health Post (MCHP) has now been officially upgraded to a fully equipped Community Health Centre (CHC), a development expected to significantly improve service delivery capacity and save more lives in the district.

The ceremony also featured remarks from philanthropist Mr. Salim Feika, one of the key contributors to the project, who expressed appreciation to all partners involved, including the Ministry of Health, the District Health Management Team, Orange Sierra Leone and local authorities.

As part of his contribution, Salim Feika donated two large waste disposal containers, chairs and a motorbike to improve sanitation management and strengthen emergency response capabilities at the health facility.

He further appealed to stakeholders and development partners to support additional priority needs, including the construction of staff quarters, the provision of an ambulance and continued capacity-building for healthcare workers, all aimed at ensuring efficient and sustainable service delivery.

In his closing remarks, Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to Liberia, Eddie Sidikie Mansaray, urged residents of Wai and surrounding communities to take full ownership of the facility by utilizing its services responsibly and supporting healthcare workers in maintaining high standards of care.

The well-attended commissioning ceremony brought together Government officials, traditional leaders, development partners, health professionals and community members, and concluded with the formal handover of the health centre to the Wai community and the people of Sorogbema Chiefdom.

With support from the Orange Foundation, the Wai Community Health Centre is now expected to significantly improve healthcare access, strengthen maternal and child health services and contribute meaningfully to Sierra Leone’s ongoing national efforts to reduce mortality rates and improve public health outcomes in rural communities.

VP Juldeh Jalloh Commissions New Correctional Service Headquarters, Hails Tacugama Tourism Transformation

April 8, 2026

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Vice President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, has reaffirmed Government’s commitment to national transformation through tourism development and security sector reform following two high-profile engagements in Freetown on Tuesday, March 31, 2026.

In a demonstration of the Government’s strategic focus on sustainable development, the Vice President first led a high-level delegation on an inspection tour of the Tacugama Resort and the Leicester Peak viewing deck, where he commended the rapid progress being made on key tourism infrastructure projects designed to strengthen Sierra Leone’s growing ecotourism appeal.

The delegation, which included the Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, the Minister of Environment and other senior Government officials, visited the sites as part of efforts to assess ongoing work under the country’s broader tourism expansion and economic diversification agenda.

Speaking during the visit, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh described the transformation at Tacugama as a major milestone for Sierra Leone’s tourism sector, noting that the scale and quality of the infrastructure under development demonstrate the country’s readiness to compete on the international tourism stage.

He particularly praised the Tacugama Innovation Centre, describing it as a world-class facility that will significantly boost Sierra Leone’s reputation as a destination for nature-based tourism, education and recreation. According to him, the centre’s modern design and multifunctional facilities, including a cinema, restaurant, conference spaces, classrooms, library and conservation education units, reflect a bold vision for the future of tourism.

The Vice President also commended the leadership of the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, alongside the support of the Sierra Leone Economic Diversification Project and the World Bank, for helping to deliver one of the country’s few EDGE-certified tourism constructions.

He stressed that beyond the physical structures, the success of such investments will depend heavily on environmental protection and effective land management. He warned against land encroachment and environmental degradation around key tourism zones, emphasizing the need for strong collaboration among security agencies, environmental authorities and local stakeholders to preserve those assets.

Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh said the Tacugama and Leicester Peak developments are expected to create a unique blend of recreation, education and conservation, providing Sierra Leoneans and international visitors alike with a world-class ecotourism experience.

Providing technical details on the project, Engineer Saidu Conteh explained that the Tacugama Innovation Centre is one of three flagship tourism destination projects aimed at reducing the country’s dependence on extractive industries while boosting tourism performance and creating jobs.

He disclosed that construction has reached an advanced stage, with the centre envisioned as a complete ecotourism hub. In addition to the main complex, the project will feature a botanical garden with a butterfly dome, amphitheatre, hiking trails, bird-watching tower, children’s playground, greenhouse, rooftop restaurant and a range of visitor support amenities.

He further noted that the facility is designed to offer a full conservation experience, while also serving as a major learning and recreational centre for families, schools and tourists. However, he cautioned that challenges such as persistent land encroachment could threaten the project’s targeted completion deadline of April 30, 2026.

Later the same day, the Vice President proceeded to New England in Freetown, where he commissioned a newly constructed administrative building for the Sierra Leone Correctional Service (SLCS), describing the occasion as a deeply personal milestone in the country’s ongoing correctional reforms.

As Chairman of the Sierra Leone Correctional Council, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh reflected on the institution’s journey from operating in an outdated facility that had existed since 1961 to now occupying a modern administrative structure designed to improve operational efficiency, officer welfare, and institutional dignity.

He recalled that the modernization initiative began in 2018 as part of a wider reform programme aimed at transforming the correctional service into a more professional and respected institution.

According to the Vice President, the Government’s reform efforts extend beyond infrastructure to include salary improvements, provision of uniforms, expanded training opportunities and clear pathways for career progression.

Addressing officers directly, he underscored the importance of merit, discipline and continuous professional development, stressing that leadership positions within the service must be earned through commitment and competence rather than favoritism.

He challenged officers to see themselves as reformers and nation-builders whose responsibility goes beyond detention to include rehabilitation and transformation of lives within the correctional system.

Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh assured officers that despite prevailing economic pressures, Government remains committed to investing in the correctional service, urging personnel to match that commitment with integrity, professionalism and dedication to duty.

Director General of the Sierra Leone Correctional Service, Joseph John Senessie, described the commissioning as a historic turning point for the institution. He said the new administrative building finally brings an end to decades of operating from a structure that no longer reflected the aspirations of a modern correctional service.

He expressed gratitude to President Julius Maada Bio, Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, the Minister of Internal Affairs and institutional partners for supporting the reform vision.

The Director General also paid tribute to Major General Sahr David Tamba Ngaujah for his support and vision, describing the new building as both a symbol of progress and a strong foundation for the next phase of institutional growth.

The twin engagements by the Vice President highlight the Government’s parallel focus on unlocking Sierra Leone’s tourism potential while deepening reforms within critical state institutions, reinforcing a broader national development agenda anchored on sustainability, professionalism and service delivery.

WAICA Re Commissions New Headquarters, Strengthens Sierra Leone’s Role as West Africa’s Financial Hub

April 8, 2026

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has officially commissioned the permanent headquarters of the West African Insurance Companies Association Reinsurance Corporation (WAICA Re) PLC in Freetown, describing the development as a major boost to Sierra Leone’s growing reputation as a regional center for finance, investment and economic cooperation in W est Africa.

The commissioning ceremony, held on Tuesday 31 March 2026 at 4A Alshek Crescent, Hill Station, brought together senior Government officials, Members of Parliament, representatives of the diplomatic and consular corps, stakeholders in the insurance and financial services sector and regional business leaders. The event marked the formal opening of a landmark institution that has become central to strengthening insurance and reinsurance capacity across the West African sub-region.

Delivering his keynote address, President Julius Maada Bio said the occasion represented much more than the unveiling of a modern office complex, stressing that it symbolizes Sierra Leone’s credibility, the strength of regional cooperation and Africa’s growing ability to build durable financial institutions.

He described the commissioning as a significant milestone in the collective effort to establish resilient institutions capable of supporting economic growth, mitigating risk and promoting deeper regional integration.

According to the President, Sierra Leone remains proud to host WAICA Re since its establishment in 2011, noting that the institution has evolved into a strategic pillar in enhancing the insurance and reinsurance landscape across West Africa.

He said the fulfillment of the commitment to establish the permanent headquarters demonstrates the enduring value of trust, continuity and respect for agreements among African nations and institutions.

President Bio reaffirmed his Government’s commitment to providing a stable legal, regulatory and investment environment that allows credible institutions to grow and thrive.

He emphasized that the Headquarters Agreement signed years ago remains a solemn obligation of the State and assured the corporation’s leadership that Sierra Leone will continue to honor its responsibilities in ways that strengthen investor confidence and deepen the country’s reputation as a dependable destination for business and finance.

The President assured regional partners and the leadership of WAICA Re that Sierra Leone remains open to credible long-term investment, adding that his Government will continue to protect institutional rights, strengthen the rule of law and create the enabling conditions necessary for sustainable business growth.

He noted that the significance of WAICA Re extends far beyond the insurance industry, describing it as a symbol of Africa’s capacity to create strong regional institutions that address local realities, pool shared strengths and reduce dependence on external financial systems.

At a time when global uncertainties continue to shape economic realities, President Bio said resilient African financial institutions such as WAICA Re are increasingly important for ensuring economic stability and effective risk management.

He commended the leadership of the corporation for their strategic foresight, dedication and perseverance in transforming the long-held vision of a permanent headquarters into reality.

The President further stated that the new headquarters reinforces Sierra Leone’s broader development agenda centered on economic diversification, private sector growth and international competitiveness.

According to him, the presence of the institution in Freetown strengthens the country’s profile as a hub for regional finance, commerce and investment, while complementing Government’s efforts to attract more multinational and regional institutions into Sierra Leone.

Speaking in his capacity as Chair of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, President Bio said he was especially pleased that the project reflects the spirit of regional cooperation and shared prosperity that ECOWAS continues to champion.

He stressed that the future prosperity of West Africa depends on institutions that transcend borders, build trust and foster collective resilience among member states.

President Bio called on African nations to continue investing in institutions that embody solidarity, innovation and shared purpose, adding that the WAICA Re headquarters should stand as a lasting symbol of what African countries can achieve when they work together in unity.

On behalf of the corporation, Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Abiola E. Ekundayo, expressed appreciation to the Government and people of Sierra Leone for the sustained support provided since WAICA Re’s establishment in 2011.

He said the new headquarters symbolizes the institution’s growth, operational stability and long-term confidence in Africa’s economic future.

According to him, WAICA Re’s footprint continues to expand across the continent and beyond, reflecting the trust placed in the corporation as a reliable reinsurance partner.

Also speaking, Group Chairman of WAICA, Kofi Duffuor, commended the Government of Sierra Leone, Parliament and the people of the country for hosting the institution and ensuring that the headquarters agreement has been honored.

He praised President Bio’s leadership and commitment to sustaining the agreement, describing it as a demonstration of confidence in building enduring regional institutions that can support Africa’s financial transformation.

The commissioning of the WAICA Re headquarters is widely regarded as a major step in consolidating Sierra Leone’s role as a strategic destination for regional financial services and strengthening economic cooperation among West African states.

The development is also expected to further elevate Freetown’s status as a preferred destination for regional institutions seeking a stable and credible operational base.

With the formal opening of the headquarters, Sierra Leone has once again reaffirmed its readiness to host major regional organizations and deepen its contribution to Africa’s evolving financial architecture.

Opposition Condemns Inflammatory Political Rhetoric, Warn Against Threats to Sierra Leone’s Democracy

April 8, 2026

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Hon. Abdul Kargbo, Leader of the Opposition All People’s Congress (APC) in Parliament, has issued a strong warning over what he described as a “dangerous pattern” emerging in Sierra Leone’s political discourse, following recent controversial remarks allegedly made by senior figures within the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP).

In a strongly worded statement, Hon. Abdul Kargbo condemned comments attributed to the SLPP Chairman, Jimmy Batilo Songa, which reportedly suggested that the APC should be “killed” or made to cease existing. He described such rhetoric as deeply troubling and fundamentally incompatible with democratic principles.

“Political parties are not enemies to be destroyed; they are representatives of the people, protected by the very principles of democracy,” Hon. Abdul Kargbo stated, stressing that threats, intimidation and hostile political language must never be allowed to shape the country’s future.

Drawing historical parallels, the opposition leader recalled the political tensions of the 1960s, when Sir Albert Margai allegedly used state power to suppress the APC through intimidation, restrictions on opposition activity and attempts to move Sierra Leone toward a one-party state. According to Hon. Abdul Kargbo, those efforts ultimately failed.

“Despite those efforts, the APC did not die. Instead, it grew stronger, more resilient and ultimately gained the confidence of the people,” he noted. “The lesson is simple: you cannot eliminate an idea whose time has come. You cannot silence a people determined to be heard.”

Hon. Abdul Kargbo urged political actors across the divide to learn from history by strengthening democratic tolerance, respecting political diversity and allowing the will of the people, not threats or coercion, to determine the nation’s direction.

His comments come at a time of heightened political tension, with APC Members of Parliament continuing their boycott of parliamentary proceedings and other governance processes over concerns surrounding the appointment of Edmond Sylvester Alpha as Chief Electoral Commissioner ahead of the 2028 elections.

Efforts to resolve the impasse have so far yielded little progress. On March 25, 2026, Speaker of Parliament Rt. Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas held high-level talks with opposition leaders, urging them to return to Parliament and emphasizing the institution’s constitutional independence. However, the APC has maintained its position.

The party has also recently rejected a Government directive introducing what it described as an “interim political head” to oversee APC-led local councils, arguing that the move lacks legal and statutory backing.

Adding to the chorus of concern, prominent APC figure, Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara (JFK), also condemned reported threats directed at APC members and supporters in Bonthe District.

Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara described as “profoundly disturbing” remarks allegedly made during the commissioning of the SLPP party office in Mattru, Bonthe District and attributed to President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, suggesting death to citizens based on their support for the APC.

“Such a statement, especially from a party leader, risks being interpreted not as mere rhetoric but as a signal; one that could embolden overzealous supporters to act outside the bounds of the law,” Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara warned.

He noted that such remarks threaten to normalize fear, deepen political divisions and place innocent citizens at risk simply for exercising their democratic rights. Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara called on APC supporters in Bonthe and across the country to respond not with retaliation, but with resilience, unity and renewed commitment to democratic values.

“Leadership must inspire confidence, not fear; unity not division,” Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara stated, emphasizing that no citizen should ever feel unsafe because of political affiliation.

Similarly, prominent politician and commentator Dr. Sylvia Olayinka Blyden has sharply criticized President Julius Maada Bio over a series of recent controversial public remarks, accusing him of undermining his constitutional responsibility as Sierra Leone’s Symbol of National Unity.

In a statement issued on Easter Monday, April 6, 2026, Dr. Sylvia Olayinka Blyden pointed to remarks allegedly made by the President during the launch of an SLPP office in Bonthe District, where he reportedly stated in Mende that anyone in the district who supports the APC “shall die early in the morning.”

She argued that such comments, alongside other recent controversial jokes and statements, are deeply divisive and inconsistent with the obligations of the presidency under Section 40(2) of the Constitution.

“Our President is no longer an ordinary citizen who can say anything in public,” Dr. Sylvia Olayinka Blyden said. “Everything the President does in the public space should symbolize national unity.”

The State House Communications Directorate has, however, pushed back against the literal interpretation of the President’s Bonthe remarks. Communications Director, Myk Berewa, stated that the comment was metaphorical in Mende and was lost in translation, suggesting it implied that long-standing APC loyalty in Bonthe was akin to a political curse rather than a literal threat.

Dr. Sylvia Olayinka Blyden dismissed the explanation, insisting that even metaphorical language suggesting citizens are “cursed” over their political beliefs remains dangerous and divisive.

She further argued that the remarks fit into what she described as a troubling pattern of hostility toward the opposition, citing alleged statements from other ruling party officials that similarly called for the eradication of the APC and its supporters.

As public debate intensifies, political observers say the growing exchange of inflammatory rhetoric underscores the urgent need for restraint, responsible leadership and renewed commitment to peaceful democratic engagement in Sierra Leone.

“Sierra Leone belongs to all of us,” Hon. Abdul Kargbo concluded, calling for unity, tolerance and respect for political plurality as the nation moves toward the 2028 elections.