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Over Shortage of Cash… Don’t Blame the Bank Governor

Governor of the Bank of Sierra Leone, Professor Kelfala Kallon

By Amin Kef Sesay

Towards the end of the year, 2020 ,individuals who had monies in their bank accounts at various commercial banks were unable to access monies above the ceiling set by those banks.

For example, those having accounts at the Sierra Leone Commercial Bank (SLCB) could only withdraw up to one million Leones were as those having money at the Rokel Commercial Bank (RCB) could withdraw up to five million Leones only. However, special concessions were given to persons who could prove beyond all reasonable doubts that they have important functions to take place, like marriage, for which they required huge sums of money.

Indeed, since it was the festive season it was a very frustrating experience for certain people.

Some have heaped the blame on the Governor of the Bank of Sierra Leone, Professor Kelfala Kallon, and by extension the SLPP led Government headed by President Julius Maada Bio for the unfortunate situation, saying the Governor in particular should have prevented it from happening.

In as much as the situation was and still continues to be frustrating, inconvenient , however, this medium went out in order to really try to understand what actually led to it instead of  following or joining others to give skewed political interpretations to the problem and  seriously bashing the Governor.

In an interview with the Governor of Sierra Leone, he succinctly explained the events leading to the present state and after analysing them thoroughly it was concluded that his explanation makes complete sense.

He mentioned that we in Africa should count ourselves lucky, having been so far shielded from the devastating effects of the corona pandemic which has led to a slowdown in everything.

The Governor stated that if we think of how many containers are arriving at the sea port these days compared to what it used to be during the pre-Corona days then we will have a better understanding that it is not the ineffectiveness or insensitivity of the Government that created the ugly situation.

He highlighted that they had inter alia made sure to order enough for two years but then the Corona struck and everything slowed down.

Professor Kelfala Kallon furthered that printers could not honour orders on time and the situation became compounded by people hoarding for reasons only they know.

He reiterated how the pandemic has adversely affected all countries, in various areas and maybe that is how it has decided to come down on Mama Salone.

“It is frustrating, inconvenient for all right now, including myself  the Governor,” he lamented adding that countries, even the most developed like the US go through times of stress as we also do in our individual personal lives.

Professor Kelfala Kallon said the silver lining to it all is it will not be forever, it will pass. He underscored how the pandemic has struck in many diverse ways, both countries and individuals. In Sierra Leone the shortage of cash in banks is one way, according to him.

The Governor came across as honest, sincere and dedicated to his job.

Partnering to Serve Humanity Consortium Commissions Submersible Well & 10 VIP Toilets at Grafton

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a bid to support the course of serving humanity in the country, Partnering to Serve Humanity Consortium, comprising Tzu Chi Foundation, Healey International Relief Foundation, Lanyi Foundation and Caritas Freetown has on Tuesday 29th December, 2020 commissioned and handed over a state of the art submersible well with three taps
and 10 VIP toilets to the Polio Challenge Association at Grafton. The handing over ceremony took place within the Grafton community in Western Area Rural District.

Speaking during the ceremony, the Programs Manager of Caritas Freetown, Ishmael Alfred Charles, disclosed that as a consortium they are very pleased to officially commission and hand over the submersible well to the Polio Challenge Association and the entire Grafton community.

He added that the consortium had a previous engagement with members of the Polio Challenge Association during which members of the Association requested for support, to be specific, toilets and water facilities, adding that the consortium took up the request, discussed it and later agreed to reach out to their partner organizations who later provided the funds to the Tzu Chi Foundation furthering that the entire project was led by the Chief Executive Officer of Lanyi Foundation, Philomena Yumkella.

Ishmael Alfred Charles disclosed that the Sustainable Development Goal 6 is about “clean water and sanitation for all” saying there should be availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all but said statistics have shown that less than 3 % of the world population has access to clear water.

He noted that it against such a backdrop that they thought it fit to undertake such a project which will not only benefit the Polio Challenge Association but also residents within the Grafton community.

President/Executive Director of Caritas Freetown, Rev. Fr. Peter Konteh, also underscored that the consortium, which is partnering to Serve Humanity Consortium, doesn’t discriminate between disable or able individuals adding that their focus is entirely on everyone who needs help, especially vulnerable and marginalized groups in society and certainly the Grafton Amputee camp falls under that category.

He assured them that commissioning and handing over the water facility with three taps and 10 VIP toilets to them will be the “beginning of beginnings” and encouraged them to make good use of it.

Chairman of the Polio Challenge Association, Ibrahim I. Kamara, expressed appreciation to the consortium for the construction of the sub-massive well and the 10 VIP toilets which he said the gesture is not only important but a timely intervention.

He revealed that it was not easy for them as physically challenged persons to have access to proper toilets and water facility as some of the toilets they used to have are now in dilapidated forms, but said with the commissioning of the submersible well and the 10 VIP toilets such will surely eradicate the suffering they used to face in terms of accessing proper toilet and water facilities. Ibrahim I. Kamara noted that as persons living with disability their voices must be heard, their presence must be felt and their constitutions must be recognized in society.

He assured the consortium that the facility will be taken good care of by members of the community in order to enhance its sustainability and durability.

Headman of the Grafton Community, Julius Mansaray, also joined the Polio Challenge Association to shower praises on the consortium for the gesture, noting that over the years the community has been challenged in terms of having standard toilet and water facilities but said with this gesture from the consortium such will surely be a thing of the past within the Grafton community.

Giving his keynote address, Director of Social Welfare at the Ministry of Social Welfare, Francis Kabia started by stating that he noted that as disable persons their voices must be heard in society and in that regard he applauded the consortium for the provision which he said will complement Government’s effort in giving disable people access to proper sanitation and pure drinking water.

He maintained that he is very happy that both the toilet and water facilities are disable friendly, adding that in most cases the physical environment makes people living with disable feel the pain as most of the facilities are not disable friendly which prevent them
from accessing those facilities of which he said persons who are physically okay have already rule out people living with disable to access those facilities.

He said as a Ministry they are very committed to address issues affecting vulnerable groups in the country especially people living with disability. He encouraged them to make good use of the facilities in order to sustain them in their community.

“Kingho is a Company with a Difference” – Pc Alimamy Koroma Asserts

By Abdul Malik Bangura, Public Relations Officer, Kingho Investment Company Limited

Thursday 23rd December 2020/ Bumbuna Town: Paramount Chief of Dansogoia Chiefdom in Tonkolili District, PC Alimamy Bockarie Yalan Koroma has said that Kingho is a company of difference. The PC made this statement during a Christmas and New Year donation ceremony held at the Court Barray of his chiefdom headquarters in Bumbuna Town. Dansogoia together with Sambaia and Simiria are the three (3) chiefdoms where the Tonkolili Iron Ore Mining project is based. Kingho Mining Company Limited is the company with the concession to mine in that area.

Whilst justifying his statement, the Paramount Chief of Dansogoia Chiefdom commented that since taking-over of the Tonkolili Iron Ore Mining Project, Kingho Mining Company has done tremendously well in honouring its Corporate Social Responsibility despite the fact remains that the company is still yet to start full scale operations. He said that he is very optimistic that should Kingho start operation in the future, the company will not only look at donations of food condiment but will further look into educational empowerment by awarding scholarships to students in the 3 operational chiefdoms.

On the area of employment, PC Koroma said he has held several meetings with the management of Kingho Group about the need for a stationed Human Resource (HR) office in the mining communities which will save applicants in those communities from having to travel to Freetown to apply for jobs in the company or those in poor network communities from stressing themselves to apply via email. He said that Kingho Management assured that problem will be solved immediately operations start soonest.  He said, based on that assurance, he is fully convinced as he said “I see the willingness of Kingho to address that.”

Furthermore, the PC called on the management of Kingho to roll-out a community sensitization campaign in January so as to engage youths in the mining communities on what Kingho is doing towards empowering them.

During the donation ceremony, the District Council Chairperson of Tonkolili, Madam Yabom Sesay said if Kingho has not yet started full operations but is currently dashing out huge food donations is a sign that the company will do more when its start operation. She said that clearly shows that the company is in the right path to do more. In addition, she urged the company to extend similar goodwill to the entire Tonkolili District and not limiting to its operational areas.

Member of Parliament in Constituency 55 covering Simiria and Dasogoia chiefdoms, Honourable Rose Marie Bangura whilst making her statement thanked the government of His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio for the continuing support to the people of his constituency.  She assured of their unwavering support towards the success of Kingho stating that the successes of Kingho Mining Company is too tide with the success of her people who are so much anticipating to enjoy from their God’s given minerals.

Speaking on ensuring security at the mining communities, the LUC Northwestern Region, LUC Fambuleh called on the people of the mining communities to work as one. He advised that youths should always choose dialogue to address their grievances. He said, once that results to strike or insurrections, that is enough to shy away investors. Thus, he assured that he will beef-up security not only at the mine sites but also in the various communities.

On behalf of Kingho Mining Company Limited, Simon Shi, briefly said “Kingho Mining Company is here to stay but will only succeed with your support.” He said despite the intention to invest, the company will not achieve its goals without the cooperation of the communities. He assured that Kingho will definitely meet-up the expectations of the people by keeping to its promise.

 

Representing the government, Resident Minster North, Honorable Abu Abu Koroma said that the government of His Excellency President Maada Bio prides itself on transparency.  Against this backdrop, he urged chiefdom authorities to ensure that the donated food items reach the very needy in their communities. He said Kingho Mining Company has done its own, and that utilising the donations for the people is left with the authorities. He called for oneness and love amongst indigenes of the mining communities and said that they should put aside all their differences if they want to achieve their goals.

Other persons who made contributions during the donation ceremony were representatives from Simiria Chiefdom, Sambaia Chiefdom, District Office, and from Member of Parliament Constituency 056 covering Sambaia Chiefdom.

Meanwhile, the donation of 130 bags of rice, 80 bags of onions and 60 five gallons of cooking oil to the 3 mining chiefdoms was not the only to be held by Kingho Group. In the port town of Pepel, in Kamasondo Chiefdom, Kingho Railway and Port Company Limited did similar donation as a mark of its Christmas and New Year donation. In Pepel, the group donated 30 bags of rice, 15 bags of onions and 15 five gallons of cooking oil.

In the coming days, similar donations would be done in railway line communities.

 

NP-SL Commissions Ultra-Modern Filling Station in Masiaka

Chief Executive Officer of the National Petroleum Sierra Leone Limited, (NP SL-Ltd), Kobi Walker cutting the tape

By Amin Kef Sesay

In order to achieve their commitment in making their products and services accessible to all, the National Petroleum Sierra Leone Limited has on Sunday 27th December, 2020 commissioned an Ultra-Modern Filling Station in Masiaka. The event took place at Bekeh Curve, Port Loko Road, Masiaka in the Koya Chiefdom.

The aforementioned Filling Station is situated at Bekeh Curve, Port Loko Road Masiaka Koya Chiefdom named after the owner Haja Mariama Kamara whose name was given to the new Filling Station (Mariama Petroleum SL LTD).

In her address, the Proprietress/General Manager of Mariama Petroleum SL LTD, Haja Mariama Kamara (Mrs) expressed appreciation to the Chief Executive Officer, Kobi Walker and the entire Management of the National Petroleum Sierra Leone Limited for their tireless support in ensuring that the establishment of the filling station becomes a success.

Haja Mariama Kamara also extended gratitude to the community stakeholders of Masiaka for their support since the start of the project and to its accomplishment stating that she is gratified that they stood by her also adding that she started the journey 10 years ago furthering that they went through a lot of ups and downs but disclosed that she is very pleased that after all those challenges she has finally overcome them continuing that the commissioning of the filling station shows that commitment and determination pay.

She revealed that after working with the United Nations for several years she decided to return back home in order to give back to society maintaining that with the commissioning of the filling station in Masiaka such will help to ease fuel shortage in that part of the country.

The Proprietress added that ,at present, it has created job opportunities for residents of Masiaka and beyond noting that this filling station will also address the problem of fuel crisis in Masiaka, furthering that there had been constraints in securing fuel especially in times of crisis and that with the commissioning of this filling station in Masiaka such will reduce those constraints.

The Proprietress called on residents of Masiaka to take ownership of the filling station pointing out that it will not only benefit her family members but also majority of the residents of Masiaka and beyond.

On his part, the Chief Executive Officer of the National Petroleum Sierra Leone Limited, (NP SL-Ltd), Kobi Walker, assured residents of Masiaka that with this new NP-SL fuel station the issue of fuel shortage will be a thing of the past.

He maintained that NP-SL remains firm in optimizing customer care disclosing how they are doing exceptionally well in the importation and marketing of petroleum products, including petrol, diesel, Gas and lubricants of which the most widely used is Castrol meant for utilization by its numerous and esteemed customers in different parts of the country.

Kobi Walker disclosed that the company has been complementing the efforts of Government through the payment of company’s taxes to the Government of Sierra Leone saying that it shows that with the empowerment that the company is getting from Sierra Leoneans through the purchase of their products they are also giving back to society through job creation, payment of taxes to the Government and also empowering other Sierra Leoneans of which he said the commissioning of the Mariama Petroleum SL LTD is a clear manifestation that NP-SL cares for every Sierra Leonean regardless of status, region, sex etc.

The CEO said with this new filling station in Masiaka such will not only make fuel available for them at all times but has also provided jobs for some residents as well. He thanked Haja Mariama K. Kamara (Mrs) for believing in the mission and vision of NP-SL which, he said, prompted them to partner with her.

Kobi Walker also informed the gathering that Mariama Petroleum SL LTD will not only sell fuel but all NP-SL products like NP-SL Gas, NP Smart, NP-SL Castrol Oil etc. and also encouraged all to see NP-SL as their own as NP-SL is owned by Sierra Leoneans.

ASP F. F Tengbeh of the Sierra Leone Police Force expressed appreciation to the National Petroleum Sierra Leone Limited, (NP-SL Ltd) for the construction of the newly filling station in Masiaka adding that this has changed the face of Masiaka noting that such an investment is not only important but timely for the people of Masiaka.

He stated that since the construction of the filling station they have been giving proper security in order to ensure that everything is intact and working according to procedures and processes. He also encouraged members of the public to see the investment as their own and stated that in that regard they are watchdogs for NP-SL.

ASP F. F Tengbeh assured all of their security presence in order to protect life and properties as it is their mandate as a Force for Good.

He said that there have been undesirable issues relating to the accessibility of fuel in Masiaka especially in times of crisis but said he is with the strong belief that with this new fuel station those will be things of the past. He further thanked the Proprietress, Haja Mariama K. Kamara (Mrs) and her family for rolling out the brilliant initiative in bringing development to the town.

Osman Conteh, a bike Rider of Masiaka expressed appreciation to Haja Mariama K. Kamara (Mrs) and NP-SL for the commissioning of the filling station in Masiaka, noting that as` bike riders they have been faced with a lot of constraints in securing fuel furthering that they had to go to nearby villages to secure fuel but said with this new NP-SL filling station in the Masiaka community it will surely address those fuel constraints in Masiaka.

The event was climaxed by the recitation of the Holy Quran followed by the cutting of tape by the Proprietress/General Manager, Mariama Petroleum SL LTD, Mariama K. Kamara (Mrs), Chief Executive Officer of the National Petroleum Sierra Leone Limited, (NP SL-Ltd), Kobi Walker, and a representative from the community.

Hafeez Othman Taqi and Jesse Nicky Kamara of Sierra Leone Grammar School and Christina M’Ewem of the Annie Walsh Memorial School whisk home Scholarships worth $10,000 from the 2020 UBA Foundation National Essay Competition

On Saturday 19th December 2020, three pupils two (2) from the Sierra Leone Grammar School and one (1) from the Annie Walsh Memorial School won the maiden edition of UBA Foundation National Essay Competition (UBAF-NEC) for Senior Secondary Schools pupils in the country. This competition was organised in collaboration with the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE).

A live TV Studio Session Event was held at the African Young Voices (AYV) Television on Saturday 19th December where the following emerged as the winners of the 2020 UBA Foundation National Essay Competition.

  • Hafeez Othman Taqi, age 16, from The Sierra Leone Grammar School came 1st and won the Scholarship Grant of Le 50, 000,000 ($5000).
  • Jesse Nicky Kamara, age 16 from The Sierra Leone Grammar School came 2nd and won the scholarship grant of Le 30,000,000 ($3000)
  • Christiana M’Ewen, age 16 from The Annie Walsh Memorial Secondary School came 3rd and won the scholarship grant of Le 20,000,000 ($2,000).

The top 12 finalists who made it to the finals received one brand new HP Laptop each. Further to this, each of the 12-finalist received Certificate of Recognition while the top three winners received trophies that will be a legacy for them to cherish.

“The National Essay Competition (NEC) is a UBA Foundation Initiative that was initiated in 2011 as part of the Foundation’s drive to improve access to education for the under-privileged across Africa. This year has marked the launch of the maiden edition of the UBA Foundation National Essay Competition in Sierra Leone and was done in conjunction with the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE),” said Usman Isiaka MD/CEO UBA Sierra Leone.

The MD/CEO continued to reveal that the UBA Foundation National Essay Competition offers an opportunity for pupils in examination classes to strengthen their critical thinking, civics, and other skillsets relevant for their growth.

NEC was launched on the 13th November 2020 by the Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education Dr. David Moinina Sengeh and the MD/CEO UBA Sierra Leone Usman Isiaka. Call for Essay Entry was made opened after the official launched onto the 11th December 2020 essay submission deadline.

The Bank in consultation with the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education identified 5 panel of judges, which included communications professionals and professors of English, Literature and mass communications from reputable universities in Sierra Leone.

A total of 289 essays were received from across the regions in Sierra Leone.  43 schools participated, from Freetown, Bo, Portloko, Makeni, Kono, Bombali and Moyamba.

From a total of 289 essay entries, 193 were girls and 96 boys. 79 essays were disqualified for failing to meet the selection criteria in the presence of the Bank designated Independent Control Officer and 210 Scripts were marked by five panel of judges.

The judges marked essays on the topic: During the COVID-19 pandemic school closures, explain the interventions you wished you had implemented to make your life at home or your community more comfortable.  

After the judges had graded all the essays submitted, the first 12 finalists presented well written entry level essays which qualified them for the final stage.

The 12 finalists were again given another topic in the presence of the judges to write an essay within 45 minutes on the topic “If you were the President of Sierra Leone, what would you do to improve your country?“

After the 12 finalists had written the second set of Essays, three final winners emerged, which the MD/CEO announced at the African Young Voices Television Live TV Show on Saturday 19th December 2020.

Congratulations to the 3 winners and the 12 finalists.

About UBA Foundation

As the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of the UBA Group, UBA Foundation is committed to the socio-economic betterment of the communities in which the bank operates, focusing on development in the areas of Education, Environment, Economic Empowerment and Special Projects. For more visit www.ubafoundation.com

Call: +23278200200.

 

Businesses Escape White Paper



21st December 2020.

The Anti-Corruption Commissioner

Gloucester Street,

Freetown.

 

Dear Sir,

RE: REPORT ON BUSINESSES NAMED IN THE WHITE PAPPERS OF THE COMMISSIONS OF INQUIRY

We, write to you, in anonymity and confidentiality, in respect of the subject matter. After the publications of the White Papers based on the findings of the Commissions of Inquiry, the National Public Procurement Authority published in a Public Notice Circular 09-2020 (enclosed) names of business which have been ordered to refund certain sums of money to the government of Sierra Leone. As a whistle-blower, we set out to work, on just the companies who are found wanting for over USD20,000 i.e. Le. 200,000,000.00 to find out whether they are still in existence and who are their owners/shareholders. Below are our findings:

  1. KINGDOM LOGISTICS: our search at the Corporate Affairs Registry revealed no records for this company.
  2. SMRT Co. Ltd:
  • This company was registered in 2011 with NADER SHARARA and HISHAM MACKIE as equal shareholders/owners.
  • This company owns 80% shares in the SMRT PROJECTS AND ENERGY SOLUTIONS (SL) LTD.
  • Our findings reveal that the SMRT PROJECTS AND ENERGY SOLUTIONS (SL) LTD has a pending contract for the supply of solar electricity with the government of Sierra Leone.
  • In April 2011, in pre-emption of the findings of the Commission of Inquiry, NADER SHARARA who is one of the owners of SMRT Co. Ltd, took over the entire (100%) shares of SMRT PROJECTS AND ENERGY SOLUTIONS (SL) LTD.
  • Our findings reveal that both SMRT Co. Ltd and SMRT PROJECTS AND ENERGY SOLUTIONS (SL) LTD are owned by the same person(s) and that they are now seeking to do business with government under SMRT PROJECTS AND ENERGY SOLUTIONS (SL) Ltd because SMRT Co. Ltd has been found wanting by the Commission of Inquiry.
  • Our legal advisor informed us that NADER SHARARA is only seeking to beat the system by hiding under a corporate veil but that in this case (of fraud and public policy consideration) the corporate veil should be lifted to know those who are behind the companies.
  • We have been told that the SMRT PROJECTS AND ENERGY SOLUTIONS (SL) LTD negotiated a 10MW Solar Energy Project with the Public Private Partnership Unit of the Office of Vice President. That certain officials are surreptitiously trying to proceed with the signing of the contract despite the SMRT company being the subject of an adverse findings and have been banned by the NPPA.
  • We are informed that the SMRT Company are putting the Ministry of Energy on pressure to proceed with their contract notwithstanding that SMRT Co. Ltd including its Special Purpose Vehicle—SPV (SMRT PROJECTS AND ENERGY SOLUTIONS (SL) LTD) have been ordered to refund the sum of Three Million United States Dollars to the Government and people of Sierra Leone.
  • We are also informed that certain payments pending to SMRT Co. Ltd at the Ministry of Finance are being processed under the name of SMRT PROJECTS AND ENERGY SOLUTIONS (SL) LTD in order to escape the restriction placed on the SMRT Co. Ltd by the NPPA.
  1. SPLASH MOBILE COMMUNICATIONS: our search at the Corporate Affairs Registry revealed that this company was incorporated on 6th October 2008 with Sheka M. Forna and George B. Farren as equal shareholders. There’s has been no change in its ownership.
  2. AFRICAN SUNSHINE CO. Ltd: our search at the Corporate Affairs Registry revealed no records for this company.
  3. CLUB TOURISM AND ENTERTAINMENT Ltd: our search at the Corporate Affairs Registry revealed that this company was incorporated on 31st October 2010 with Herbert M’Cleod and Franklyn B. Kargbo as equal shareholders. There’s has been no change in its ownership.
  4. WEST AFRICAN TRADING CO. Ltd: our search at the Corporate Affairs Registry revealed that this company was incorporated on 8th September 2017 with Jin Dafu 60%; Edmon Lavalie 20%; Ivan Kadulin 10% and Roman Shvetskiy 10%. There’s has been no change in its ownership.
  5. MASADA WASTE MANAGEMENT CO. Ltd: our search at the Corporate Affairs Registry revealed that this company was incorporated on 12th September 2013 with Aminata B. Dumbuya 15% and Gibril D. Wilson 85%. There’s has been no change in its ownership.
  6. GROUP DELTA LOG Ltd: our search at the Corporate Affairs Registry revealed no records for this company.
  7. TS and Co. Ltd: our search at the Corporate Affairs Registry revealed no records for this company.
  8. SOGEFEL SARL: our search at the Corporate Affairs Registry revealed that this company was incorporated on 5th October 2016 with Elhaj S. Kake as sole owner. There’s has been no change in its ownership.
  9. CAPITAL INFRASTRUCTURE PARTNERS: our search at the Corporate Affairs Registry revealed that this company was incorporated on 30th January 2013 with Sisto Andama 28%; Joel Aita 26%; Dennis Aliga 26%; Abdul Sesay 20%. The name of the company was changed on 16th December 2013.
  10. BARROWS CONSTRUCTION LTD: our search at the Corporate Affairs Registry revealed no records for this company.
  11. POLYTECHNOLOGIES INC. our search at the Corporate Affairs Registry revealed no records for this company.
  12. DAVIS AND DAN: our search at the Corporate Affairs Registry revealed no records for this company.

In view of the above findings, we call on your good leadership of the Anti-Corruption Commission to go after the persons behind these companies who have defrauded the people of Sierra Leone by hiding under corporate entities. We have no doubt in your leadership posture against corruption and businesses should not be left out in that fight.

As for the SMRT Co. Ltd who are seeking to change their ownership in order to continue to do business with the government of Sierra Leone, we call on your Commission to immediately institute investigation in this matter in order to prevent another huge loss to the country. If they cannot refund the sum of USD3,000,000 (Three Million US Dollars), why would they be treated as a trusted business. They are abusing the process in order to defraud again the people of Sierra Leone.

We have been informed that most of the other companies are subject matters of the restriction by the NPPA, are in the process of resuming commercial transactions with the Ministry of Finance. We have been told that they are currently processing payments for MASADA WASTE MANAGEMENT CO. Ltd and WEST AFRICAN TRADING LIMITED for certain transactions despite the current ban on these companies. We are worried if not halted, these companies would continue to do business despite the findings and recommendations of the Commissions of Inquiry.

We have contacted credible journalists in the country and they have assured us that they are monitoring this story. We hope we would not be disappointed as you have shown so far your commitment towards minimizing corruption in our nation. May God continue to bless and guide you always.

Yours faithfully,

……………………………………..

Concerned Sierra Leoneans

Cc: The Attorney General, Minister of Justice;

The Minister of Finance;

The Minister of Energy;

The Chief Executive, National Public Procurement Authority;

The Director, Public Private Partnership Unit.

 

NGOs Sign Service Level Agreement With Agriculture Ministry

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF) last week signed Service Level Agreements (SLAs) with local and international NGOs. The symbolic signing ceremony involved 35 agricultural and related projects that are being implemented by 20 NGOs. The SLAs will ensure that the NGOs provide a defined set of services in the agriculture and forestry sector.

In his address, Minister of Planning and Economic Development, Dr. Francis Kai-Kai, recognized the invaluable role NGOs play in meeting the aspirations of the government; noting that NGOs are regarded as critical actors in the actualization of the government’s Medium Term National Development (MTNDP 2019-2023).

“When NGOs align their plans with the MTNDP, it will be very easy to promote effective service delivery and discourage duplication of functions. The President Bio-Led administration will ensure that NGOs work within the specifications set by the line Ministries to ensure at least 70 percent of the funds for a particular project is used for direct implementation, as this will also promote President Bio’s call for an accelerated service delivery next year,” he said.

Dr. Kai-Kai implored NGOs to continue the good work they are doing, encouraging them to always attend the District Development Coordination Committee (DDCC) meetings that the Ministry of Planning is currently setting up in the districts, with the pilot phase commencing in Pujehun, Karene, Bonthe and Falaba.

The Acting Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, Dr. Abubakarr Karim, in his keynote address, thanked the MoPED for championing the process of delivering the SLAs; stressing the need for a singular vision in addressing the several challenges within the agriculture and forestry sector. He emphasized the importance of accountability and transparency to the citizens in the delivery of targets and plans.

Dr. Karim noted the importance of collaborating with NGOs in strengthening systems and providing efficient data analysis for effective service delivery; stressing on the Ministry’s commitment to providing an enabling environment for NGOs to operate and contribute to the development of the agriculture sector in a free, responsive, transparent and accountable manner.

KPCIM/City of Light Church Turns Sod For Building Modern Health Facility In Tambaka Chiefdom

By Alim Jalloh

Kings and Priests Court International Ministry (KPCIM), City of Light Church, as part of its continued support to vulnerable communities across the country, on Friday 12th December 2020, turned the sod for the construction of a modern Health Facility, performed Free Medical Screening and distributed used clothing at the Samaya Town, Tambaka Chiefdom, Karene District, Northern Sierra Leone.

Giving a brief background of the KPCI Ministry, Sorie Kanu (Sorious), its Global Youth Director, who resides in USA, said that KPCIM is a non-denomination ministry that reaches out with the gospel of Jesus Christ across nations, and focuses on gathering people of all creed and nationality into the family of Christ and transforming their lives and connecting them to Jesus Christ and his divine power. “Upon the stories I heard, what I have seen and observed so far, Tambaka really needs this project. They even need more than this right now, but I trust my bosses at City of Light, because they have been ordained by God to help humanity, and am sure in the next 2 to 3 years, Tambaka will be transformed for the good reason” he said.

Sarah Kargbo, Director of Medical KPCIM, said the people of Tambaka Chiefdom are benefiting from this good gesture through the connection between Sister Mabel Campbell, Director of Mission KPCIM, Dr Abdul K. Sesay, General Overseer KPCIM, City of Light Church and  Dr Christian  Foday Sesay, who are all residing in the USA.

She stated that the 50 Beds Health Facility will be fully equipped with standard lab equipment and 24hours solar electricity supply and running water for its smooth operations. Nurse Sarah Kargbo furthered that KPCIM has also complemented the effort of government in boosting the Free Quality Education (FQE) by building schools in all the branches of the City of Light Church across the country, supporting school pupils with learning materials and Uniforms, distributing Food and Medical Equipment to Health Workers at the 34 Military Hospital in Wilberforce and other communities.

She disclosed that more than 3500 people have benefited from the Free Medical screening undertaken by KPCIM in 2020 alone, disclosing that the team will also expand to other regions in 2021.

In his statement, Paramount Chief of Tambaka Chiefdom, PC Kandah Sorie Kakanda, welcomed KPCIM to his chiefdom and thanked them for such a wonderful gesture, adding that no NGO or organization has ever undertaken to help his people like this. He said his chiefdom hosts over 38,000 inhabitants without the basic necessities. He disclosed that they have been neglected just because they are the last Chiefdom of the country in the border towards Guinea.

P C Kakanda the 3rd stated that his chiefdom has been suffering from poor road network, no medical facility and other amenities for a very long time now. “Our pregnant women often miscarry as a result of poor road network and no health center nearby. You have to pay over Le 80,000 on a Motor Bike with a lot of risk, for a sick person or pregnant woman to be taken to Kamakwe town, which is the District Head Quarter town. Sometimes, pregnant women give birth on their way, we lose lives, which we are not supposed to lost during this period” He however called on government, INGOs, NGOs and Organizations to come to their aid, as his Chiefdom needs support, and ended by saying that even accessing mobile network is challenging in his chiefdom.

The section Chief, Youth Groups and women all pledged their support to KPCIM for such a wonderful project, which they consider as a blessing in their Chiefdom. The historic event was climaxed with students, traditional dancers and Religious Bodies showing their appreciation to the KPCIM team, who then urged the team and the General Overseer, Pastor K Sesay, to pledge more support for the people of Tambaka Chiefdom.

As Alimu Barrie Crowned Honorary Paramount Chief… Pavi Fort to Construct Ultra-Modern School in Kenema

Chief Executive Officer of Pavi Fort SL, Alhaji Alimu Sanu Barrie

By Amin Kef Sesay

Clad in traditional regalia of a Chief and being bestowed a senior citizenship status within the Eastern region by the People of Kenema, the pragmatic and result-oriented Chief Executive Officer of Pavi Fort SL, Alhaji Alimu Sanu Barrie, in appreciation of action of the people of Kenema District in crowning him as Honorary Paramount Chief of the district, on Saturday 19th December, 2020 promised to construct an Ultra-Modern school in Kenema District.

This disclosure was made during a ceremony held as the company entered Kenema city impressively with its high standard machinery in preparedness to embark on the re-construction of township roads in that part of the country.

It was a very spectacular scene that was graced by traditional leaders, Paramount Chiefs from all the chiefdoms within the Kenema district and other stakeholders from various walks of life.

In his address, Alhaji Alimu Sanu Barrie, expressed gratitude to his colleague Paramount chiefs and the people of Kenema for according him, what he described, as a befitting homecoming, adding that such surprise has never happened in his life.

He went further to officially declare that as a result of the warm welcome that was accorded him, Kenema will now be his second home and he will construct an ultra-Modern school for the people of Kenema. He said that according to the ministry of finance, the re-construction of township roads of 25 kilometres will be done by phases, of which 10 kilometres is going to be done per year, but said that with this honoured accorded him, he is going to make sure that the entire 25 kilometres will be completed in 2021.

The CEO assured residents of Kenema that the company is fully poised and in a high gear to commence construction work, highlighting that as a patriotic citizen of this country, he is always ready to complement the efforts of President Julius Maada Bio and his Government to rebrand the country.

 

Zion Praise Tabernacle Unveils 4,000 Seater Auditorium

By Amin Kef Sesay

The End-Time Harvesters Evangelistic Ministries, popularly known as Zion Praise Tabernacle, on Sunday 20th December, 2020, officially Opened & Dedicated its 4,000 Seater Church Auditorium situated at, Bottom Mango, back of Limkokwing College, Hill Station, Freetown.

In an exclusive interview with this medium, the General Overseer of Zion Praise Tabernacle, Pastor James Bangura, expressed appreciation to God Almighty for turning his dream into reality, adding that the expansion of the church is in adherence to the Gospel of Jesus Christ, which calls for expansion and has instilled in believers the conviction that the Great Commission is an expansion of the Creation Commission: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations,” (Matthew 28:18-20).

He said it is in that vain that the End-Time Harvesters Evangelistic Ministries, aka Zion Praise Tabernacle, got its inspiration to embark on an expansionist drive, adding that the entire building project is worth over 1.3 Million Dollars. The building, Pastor Bangura furthered, is comprised of a Canteen, a Multi-Purpose Hall, TV Station, Radio Station, Pastor’s office and a 4000 seater auditorium.

He revealed that Zion Praise Tabernacle has branches within Freetown, namely: Tengbeh Town and Patricia Kabba school branches, with one in Rokel (Rural Freetown). The Church aspires to expand to Makeni and Lungi, where a ground work for establishment is in progress.

Furthering that End-Time Harvesters Evangelistic Ministries, aka Zion Praise Tabernacle, is a Christian denomination established on 17th June 2013, starting small in a small building, but with his commitment and support from the general membership, they were able to put up such a massive building.

Pastor Bangura noted that the church is a living organism. Thus Zion Praise Tabernacle is growing realistically with significant structures. The church is blessed with Ministers and elders, who are spiritual men endowed with wisdom, knowledge and vision, and who are deeply interested in rescuing the souls they are shepherding,

He furthered that the church is proud of having Deacons and Deaconesses and workers of all departments, who believe in servanthood and who rejoice in working in special ways to God’s glory, and one of the cardinal tenets of the church is exalting Jesus Christ and His word that proclaims the “whole counsel of God,” and encouraged and challenged, in a bold but loving way, everyone to draw nearer to God.

Doing the official dedication of the 4,000 Seater Church Auditorium, Rev. (Mrs) Yarie Y. Kabia applauded the General Overseer for the massive auditorium, which she described as an extraordinary and exemplary work done by the leadership and membership of the church.

She said that the Zion Praise Tabernacle as a Ministry had progressively advanced like the growing seed to become the full grain in the ear, adding that this did not happen by accident, but is because of the commitment of the General Overseer and the team work within the general membership.

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