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Finance Minister Reveals Fiscal Plans for 2021

Minister of Finance, Jacob Jusu Saffa

By Amin Kef Sesay

It was a very busy day in Parliament on the 13th November 2020 as the Minister of Finance, Jacob Jusu Saffa, presented the Statement of Economic and Financial Policies in the Chamber of Parliament for the Financial Year 2021 with the  theme: “Economic Recovery for Job Creation and Human Capital Development”.

The Statement of Economic and Financial Policies is inclusive of a Bill entitled: “The Appropriation Act, 2021” and it is seeking to become an Act to authorize expenditure from the consolidated fund for the services of Sierra Leone for the year 2021 and to provide for other related matters.

Presenting the Bill to Parliament, the Minister of Finance, Jacob Jusu Saffa highlighted relevant portions of the Bill hinging on the socio-economic development of the State; citing the interventions of Government amid COVID-19 by making the economy resilient to external shocks and support to importers and small scale enterprises including market women and the implementation of the national safety net programme that provided support for persons with disabilities.

The Minister heaped praises on Parliament for the approval of a “Supplementary Budget” this year aimed at supporting Government’s initiatives to address emerging economic issues and recovery in the country amid COVID-19. He also thanked international partners for the vital roles they are playing in the process of economic recovery in the country; whilst speaking on projections that will enhance economic growth and stability in fiscal year 2021.

Jacob Jusu Saffa said President Bio’s leadership quality has restored public confidence from international partners in working with the Government on its governance agenda; adding that Government has passed with excellence on the Millennium Challenge Cooperation Scorecards. He also said that Government would benefit big from the MCC Compact Fund. Speaking, he stated that Government would make radical changes when necessary on the fiscal management of the country in order to address rapid developmental growth.

Come 2021, the Minister said that the economic growth of the country would increase rapidly due to the resumption of the mining sector and other related activities. He said Government is planning to stop all duty waivers from international companies and that Government would seek for other alternatives to address it. He also informed the House that Government would soon embark on the construction of roads and bridges that are linking towns and districts in the country and that Government would procure vehicles for all Local Councils for the improvement of service delivery.

As part of Government’s commitment to improve the living conditions of our security personnel, the Minister promised salary increments for the Military, Police, ONS, CISU and Fire Force effective April 2021. He also informed the House that staff of Tertiary Education Institutions would also receive salary increments effective April 2021 and added that 1,000 teachers and 1,000 health workers would be recruited in order to support human capital development.

In another development, the Minister of Finance has also presented to Parliament the “Finance Act, 2021” which is seeking to provide for the imposition and alteration of taxes to give effect to the financial proposals of the Government and to provide for other related matters for the financial year 2021.

Pres. Bio Participates in Pan-African Development Conference

By Theresa Kef Sesay

At State House on the 12 November 2020 President Bio, during a virtual meeting, addressed the second annual Pan-African development conference on innovations in agriculture, trade and investment titled: “Creating the Africa We Want, Creating the Sixth Region We Want – through Agribusiness, Research, and Innovation”.

It was convened by the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) ,a specialised agency of the African Union and the Centre for Global Africa at Delaware State University in the United States and was also the first global summit on the promotion of agribusiness between the APRM and its people in the diaspora.

In his opening statement of the 3-day event, President Bio said that: “The focus of this conference is on executing joint Africa-Diaspora initiatives to accelerate the AU’s Agenda 2063, while simultaneously advancing Diaspora interests in ways that are problem-solving, capacity building, revenue-generating, and mutually beneficial, is something that I value immensely as an African Leader. But this conference is also critical because it may help us design, structure, and concretise official channels and linkages for unimpeded two-way transactional activities that will help Africa and the Sixth Region to create ‘The Africa We Want’.”

He told the audience that they were now being given three key but interrelated tasks of how to identify the opportunities, structure linkages and investment interventions and create a conducive win-win ecosystem to support inclusive and sustainable development in Africa.

“Africa is home to more than a billion people, and home away from home, both culturally and historically (however, distant or near), for hundreds of millions more in the Sixth Region. It is a rich and diverse community of resourceful and talented citizens, full of enthusiasm, energy, and great optimism,” he said.

He also noted that Africa had a young and rising consumer population and a large potential market of 1.2 billion people suitable for different potential diaspora investment portfolios and scales. He added that as African leaders their task is to first lower the risk profiles of African countries by improving good governance, fighting corruption, fostering national cohesion and peace, and creating an even, fair, predictable, and simplified investment landscape.

“My Government has focused on addressing all the foregoing perceived challenges. In most of our countries, we are working toward establishing a structured and firm bedrock for inclusive and sustainable development. In Sierra Leone, our Medium-Term National Development Plan lays out our development priorities that are moored on Human Capital Development (access to free quality education, quality healthcare, and food security). We also recognise that we can reduce poverty by creating jobs, lower import-dependency, and enhance food security if we invest heavily in the agribusiness sector,” he said.

The President also reminded the meeting of their responsibility as Governments to establish the right context that would facilitate Diaspora investments in innovation and technology, adding that in Sierra Leone he had established a Directorate of Science, Technology, and Innovation to explore, develop, and deploy technology and innovation to support governance, business, healthcare, and research.

“This institution is a local partner that has worked with Governments, multilateral agencies, and the private sector to develop innovative technology-mediated solutions for Sierra Leone including in managing the COVID-19 epidemic. But I also see potential for Sixth Region investments in knowledge transfer, innovation, and technology entrepreneurship that will develop bespoke solutions that address Africa’s development challenges”.

The organisers said they believe that the conference would trigger the development of a trade policy framework that could assist many African countries that did not have guided trade and investment policies.

“Historically Black Colleges and Universities, along with panel of experts, will support countries in efforts to draft and craft new trade and investment policies and partnerships, based on the framework that will emerge from the conference, for desiring Governments and private sector stakeholders,” they stated in their concept note.

“Funds for Airport Terminal Project Not a Debt…”   -Pres. Julius Maada Bio Underscores

By Amin Kef Sesay

During a well-attended ceremony held at Freetown International Airport, Lungi on the 12 November 2020, the President, Julius Maada Bio launched the commencement of a $270 million work on the new airport terminal project that will accommodate one million passengers per year and provide 2000 direct jobs for Sierra Leoneans as the construction phase goes on.

It is said to be the first time since 1967 when the Lungi International Airport runway was expanded that a completely new international airport terminal will be constructed as a Build, Operate and Transfer project under the supervision of the Office of the Presidential Infrastructure Initiative (OPII).

Welcoming the Government delegation at the proposed site in Lungi, in the North-Western district town of Port Loko, Paramount Chief Bai Shebora Sheba Gbereh III of Kaffu Bullom said his people were overwhelmed with the joy of a major project that would create jobs and improve the lives of his people.

“Your Excellency, three years ago the people of Lungi were devastated by the news of a new airport being planned for Mamamah. We are happy that you have restored that hope and dignity in us. We welcome this gesture and the people of this part of the country are fully in support of your drive to develop Sierra Leone under your New Direction Government,” he assured.

Fatih Bora, Vice President of SUMMA Group, the contractors, said  they were honoured and excited to be a part of the transformation of the Freetown International Airport, adding that such development in a country would improve its economy.

He disclosed that the work would be completed in two years, noting that they were a Russian independent group of companies with holdings in port logistics, engineering, construction, telecommunications and oil and gas sectors and had worked in many parts of the world.

Chairman of the programme, and Chairman for OPII, Ing. Dr John Tambi, expressed gratitude to the lead contractor, SUMMA Group, for showing interest in the country and for particularly undertaking the project. He said that the country is witnessing a vivid display of leadership that strives for the good of its people.

While emphasising the point that the project would be of no cost to the Government of Sierra Leone and that they would be working closely with the private sector, Dr Tambi also clarified that the existing terminal and its associated facilities would remain intact and operational.

“This project is the radical transformation of the gateway of Sierra Leone. It will be implemented off mainstream Government’s balance sheet, without taking loans or incurring debt,” he explained.

In his keynote address, before launching the project, President Bio disclosed that in the sub-region, Sierra Leone would be the only country where partners had demonstrated such confidence to invest such money in a major infrastructure project even during COVID-19.

“This also means that Sierra Leone under the New Direction is an attractive investment destination even with the current Corona Virus Pandemic. We are building this brand new airport without leaving the people of Sierra Leone in debt. SUMMA group will bring its own money – US$270 Million.

“They will Design, Build, Operate, and Transfer. The SUMMA Group is already operating other international airports in the ECOWAS region. Therefore, it will not cost the Government anything and it is not a loan. As I have pronounced before, this is how we will build new major infrastructure projects,” he said.

He said that they were building a brand new airport expansion with new passenger, Presidential and VIP terminals with ultramodern equipment and would accommodate at least 8 large aircrafts adding that after its completion Sierra Leone would have had a brand new airport – modern, safe, and a state of the art international airport reflective of the New Direction Government.

“This airport is designed…to enable us to take advantage of our strategic location to make Sierra Leone a major transit hub in the sub-region, particularly for air passenger traffic to South America (recognizing that Sierra Leone has the shortest distance to South America from Africa – about 6hours flying time).

“We have potential to be a major transit point to and from South America to Africa and the rest of Europe. It will also attract major airlines and regional carriers. Sierra Leone will then boast of an airport that meets the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) requirement for airport certification for an international airport like Lungi. Our airport will be considered less risky and less costly to operate for international airlines. Reduced cost of airline operations will trigger more competition, more carriers, and better service delivery,” he concluded.

NP-SL’s Reliability in Timely Service Delivery Incontestable

By Amin Kef Sesay

It has clearly emerged that among petroleum dealers in Sierra Leone, only the National Petroleum Company continues to be highly commended and respected for its reliability in terms of prompt service delivery.

It is indeed a remarkable feat that NP continues to maintain in order to ensure that there is sufficient high grade petrol, diesel, kerosene and other petroleum products available in the country to avoid shortage.

It is a fact that the National Petroleum (NP) Sierra Leone Limited is held in very high esteem for its progressive and steady provision of petroleum products to its numerous consumers across the country and even in the sub-region.

Indeed, this contention has been proven perfectly correct by this medium after conducting a thorough survey gauging the views of Sierra Leoneans from different walks of life. What came out clearly throughout the period of the survey was that NP is rated as one of the most successful 100% owned indigenous company that has stood the test of time.

“It is of course rare for one to see in this country a purely and result-oriented indigenously-owned company like NP with all its members of staff being Sierra Leoneans which is truly a testimony of commitment and resilience,” posited a seasoned economist who further said that when we talk of optimizing the Local Content Policy, which is a sine qua non to overall national development, then the company should be given a pat on the back.

The selflessness and commitment of the shareholders have made it possible for the company to empower many Sierra Leoneans and at the same time put it at a vantage position to continue to open more filling stations across the country.

The company deals with individuals and various sectors of society, always ensuring that its various petroleum products are available and are sold at affordable prices. This keen symbiotic relationship with its customers has been paying huge dividends, always resulting in a win-win situation, making NP very endearing to all and sundry.

The regulatory institution of the different petroleum companies in the country, Petroleum Directorate, has lauded NP for its efficient service delivery wherever it is operating.

It is a fact that fuel is regarded as a political commodity and based on its availability and non-availability it has the potential of making a government popular or unpopular.

For too long this country has been contending with unemployment; one of the issues which the government should be addressing by creating avenues for young people to be gainfully employed. However, it is not only the prerogative of government to do this as the private sector too could play a vital role in that direction.

NP – Sierra Leone, operating in different parts of the country, has been very instrumental in availing Sierra Leoneans with jobs in various categories and from what was gathered, conditions of service are very satisfactory. Justifiably one can state that NP-SL has been greatly contributing to poverty reduction, putting food on tables which beneficiaries hitherto found tough to achieve.

NP-SL is not only thinking within the confines of maximizing profit but also is also thinking out of the box when performing its demand and supply chain, taking into consideration the harmful health consequences to humans and depletion of the environment by using coal and wood for cooking purposes. This is why NP Sierra Leone thought it fit to provide Sierra Leoneans with a safer and cleaner means of cooking devoid of inhaling carbon-dioxide which is the NP Gas Cooker. These are affordable and readily available in all NP outlets and from their agents.

To keep abreast with latest technological trends the company has availed its customers the opportunity to use Smart Cards for purchasing purpose meaning that buyers could top-up their cards to the tune of any amount which they can use intermittently to procure petroleum products. This has made it convenient for easy transactions to transpire and many are comfortable with that.

When we talk of an indigenous company that has put smiles on the faces of Sierra Leoneans and is making the people of this country very proud, the National Petroleum Company stands taller than the rest! For a company to move beyond the shores of this country and establish branches in Liberia, Guinea, Ivory Coast and The Gambia which are vibrantly operating is no mean feat. Indeed, NP has added another feather to its cap and is being copiously praised for such an accomplishment.

The company’s result-oriented managerial team will definitely and sustainably continue to put NP at the top.

NP-SL Ltd is doing exceptionally well in all the countries it is functioning and indeed there are prospects for further expansion.

It can therefore be justifiably asserted that the National Petroleum Limited is the country’s reliable fuel provider as it always ensures that its stockpile is always at an appreciable level.

It against this background is the reason why NP is believed to be one of the strongest backbones of Sierra Leone’s economy.

For any Government to match up with what is encapsulated in its manifesto in the direction of deepening national development through funding various projects then it must have sources of generating domestic revenue. NP is one conduit through which government past and present had and is deriving revenue as it falls within the category of being one of the largest taxpayers to the National Revenue Authority.

It goes without saying that the National Petroleum Limited-Sierra Leone continues to give confidence to its numerous customers and it is doing so excellently.

Housemates Salone Growing Momentum is Awesome

By Amin Kef Sesay 

Housemates Salone Season 2 has now become trending as manifested by the fact that in most parts of the country it is much talked about mainly in a positive light. The currency that the Reality TV Show has gained is indeed awesome speaking volumes of how proper planning can make mountains out of molehills. Africell and AYV Media have truly proven that they are passionate in transforming the entertainment sector in this country and create avenues through which young people in this country can gain empowerment.

The Show is really competitive as it is geared towards bringing out the best in the Housemates in terms of their performances in carrying out assigned tasks delegated by Chief or Madam Chief. As a matter of fact the Housemates are displaying their creative and innovative skills in different areas which could add value to the relevance of their continued stay in the House vis-à-vis being evicted. Some of them are doing their best in terms of singing, dancing, sewing etc. doing so impressively.

Interacting in a very conducive atmosphere within the House, these Housemates are exhibiting real life situations where one sees courting friendly relationship, cracking of jokes, gossiping, engaging in heated discussions to the point of even going into blows. The episodes bringing out all these are really captivating and fun packed evoking a lot of laughter in viewers.

As far as it is known what is somehow propelling these Housemates to put up their best performances is to see their dream come true. That dream, in all of them, is to emerge as the ultimate winner to take away the covetous Two Hundred and Fifty Million Leones (Le250M) prize and undertake a round trip to Dubai.

For those who could not make it to that point, the organizers of the Reality TV Show has made a provision for everyday spent in to House, each Housemate becomes qualified to benefit from One Hundred Thousand Leones (Le100, 000) which is made available, cumulatively, whenever evicted from the House.

It is very important to note that the determining factor that will ensure that your favourite Housemates continue to stay in the House vis-à-vis eviction is your votes. These votes are calculated into percentages and falling below the threshold within a specified period of time could lead to the eviction a Housemate.

All the Housemates have their unique numbers which members of the public should send via SMS message or used to vote for the Housemates to: 5500 or Dial *5500#. For International voting, call: +23299005500.

Although we do not want to go into the nitty-gritty of how the show should be directed especially against the backdrop of some crying down certain explicit scenes, however, it was categorically mentioned at the onset via a Parental Advisory stating that the show is meant for those who are 18years and above. Definitely, children are exempted from watching.

The main rationale behind putting together Housemates Salone Season 2 is to promote youth empowerment

The Housemates are assigned various tasks to perform that are shaping their characters, they are availed the opportunity to learn new skills, improve on existing ones. These young people are, from time to time, emotionally tested, afforded the space to find panacea to certain human problems and are doing a host of other things.

Furthermore, the Housemates are presently benefitting from widespread exposure as the Show will be watched near and far. Talents are spotted and vistas of opportunities opened as some of the Housemates would be earmarked to become Brand Ambassadors, movie artists, models etc.

The Housemates are also benefitting from motivational lectures and added to that they are afforded the opportunity to socialize, learn how to play different games, how to speak fluently etc. With all these it will definitely transform the Housemates from what their characters were before they entered the House.

But financially empowering these Housemates is one of the most important channels of making them relevant in society. Each day spent in the House will earn a Housemate Le100, 000. The winner will bag Le250, 000,000 and he or she is expected to champion a key project that could positively impact the lives of young people in this country.

As it is  an interesting and widely watched Reality TV Show on AYV TV Channel 34, Housemates Salone is providing a marketing platform for many corporate and business institutions such as Banks, business houses, entertainment entities etc, who are effectively making use of the channel to advertise their products and services.

As advertisement is key to marketing through this means provided by Housemates Salone these business entities are presently reaching out to the wider public.
Housemates Salone Season 2, from all indications, will continue to be a very interesting and tantalizing show as the episodes unfold until the event culminates into the Grand Finale. Don’t miss out. Make a date with Housemates Salone, the Quarantine Drama.

China Focus China Will Uphold the Central Role of Innovation in its Modernization Drive

—- One of the Key Message of the

5th Plenary Session of the 19th

Communist Party of China Central Committee

The 5th Plenary Session of the 19th Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee stresses that China will uphold the central role of innovation in its modernization drive. The Session identifies self-reliance and self-strengthening in science and technology the strategic foundation to China’s national development. It is a strategic arrangement made by the CPC Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core in keeping abreast of the trend of world development, keeping in mind the current situation and adopting a long-term perspective.

Looking back, the CPC Central Committee had came up with the innovation-driven development strategy at the 18th CPC National Congress, and the 19th CPC National Congress further emphasized that innovation was the primary driving force for development. China has devoted great energy to implementing the innovation-driven development strategy. In 2019, China’s expenditure on research and development (R&D) reached 2.21 trillion RMB, accounting for 2.23 percent of the country’s GDP.

The contribution rate of scientific and technological progress to economic growth reached 59.5 percent. There are now 225,000 high-tech enterprises and more than 151,000 small and medium sized technological firms in China. Data from the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) showed that China ranked 14th in the 2019 Global Innovation Index, and China was the only middle-income economy in the top 20.

Through implementing the innovation-driven development strategy, much have been accomplished in China’s science and technology advancement, for instance, the development of manmade satellites, manned spaceflight, super hybrid rice, quantum communications, supercomputers, artificial intelligence, fifth-generation mobile network technology (5G), mobile payment, artemisinin, and high-speed rail etc.

China’s innovations in science and technology have brought more convenience to the work and daily life of people and injected new momentum into world economic growth. The total import and export volume of China’s high-tech product trade continued to grow in 2018, reaching 1408.57 billion USD and increased by 12%. Between January and August 2020, foreign investment that was put into actual use in China was 619.78 billion RMB, an increase of 2.6% over the same period of 2019; among which, the investment in high-tech services grew 28.2% on a year-on-year basis.

According to the CPC Central Committee’s development proposals at the just concluded Session, China should further implement the strategies of invigorating the country through science and education, focusing on world-leading technologies, and developing a quality workforce. China will improve the national innovation system and speed up efforts to build the country into a scientific and technological powerhouse.

China’s scientific and technological innovation has never been, and will never be, conducted behind closed doors. Looking forward, China will make greater strides in opening up and cooperating with other parts of the world in science and technology. China is ready to carry out dialogue and exchanges with other countries with regard to science and technology policies, development plans, research ethics as well as fields of common concern in science and technology innovation. China will seek common ground while reserving differences, and strive to form an increased consensus on international science and technology governance. China will focus on tackling the global issues such as climate change, energy and resources and public health. China will set up a scientific research fund to support joint researches with countries across the world.

China will also further improve the legal and policy environment for scientific and technological innovation in China, strengthen the protection of intellectual property rights, and provide equal opportunities and convenient conditions for overseas talents to work and start businesses in China. China will become a favored destination for global innovators and entrepreneurs. China hopes to learn more advanced experience from the rest of the world, share more of China’s scientific and technological achievements with others and contribute more Chinese wisdom to counter global challenges!

 

Joe Blell & 3 Others Sail Smoothly Through Parliament

By Foday Moriba Conteh

On the 10th November 2020 Parliament of Sierra Leone approved with unanimity the Sixth Report of its Committee on Appointments and Public Service, chaired by the Leader of Government Business, Hon. Mathew Sahr Nyuma.

The following presidential nominees were approved by Parliament:

Ambassador Joseph Christopher Blell as Chairman and Commissioner, National Telecommunications Commission (NATCOM), Ambassador Fatmata Edna Kargbo-Deputy Head of Mission, Sierra Leone Embassy Federal Republic of Germany, Mr. Duwai Sellu Lungay-Deputy Ambassador , Sierra Leone Embassy, Federal Democratic Republic Of Ethiopia and Lt. Gen. Rtd Brima Sesay as Director General, National Disaster Management Agency.

Seconding the motion, the Opposition Whip, Hon. Hassan Sesay said the approval of nominees has always been a process that is constitutionally required. He specified that Ambassador Edna Kargbo relative to her résumé for the position she had been nominated by President Bio due to her long standing diplomatic career laced with team work. He also went on to state that Ambassador Lungay has all the good attributes of a diplomat and that he hoped  he will deliver on his new appointment.

The Opposition Whip told Parliament that, the Rtd. General is not only suitable for the job but he is imbued with discipline and is result oriented.

He referred to Ambassador Joseph Blell as a selfless man who is so trustworthy working with people of all walks of life relative to the role he had played in football management. He expressed hope that a man with such ability would do the needful in his new job.

On his part, the Chairman of the Committee on Information and Communications, Hon. Boston Munda referred to the Chairman of NATCOM as “a best performer”, adding that going into such an institution, the latter would promote unity and team work. He also advised him to work with the Parliamentary Committee on Information and Communications. “Mr. Chairman go there and make us proud,” he challenged. He used the opportunity to commend all the presidential nominees and asked them to provide the deliverables as embedded in the manifesto of the New Direction.

The Hon. Paramount Chief from Tonkolili, P.C. Bai Kurr Kanagboro Sanka III said the composition of the nominees is indicative of oneness in Sierra Leone.  He informed the Hon. House about the patriotic work done by Ambassador Blell during the war years. He said Ambassador Blell’s appointment was laudable and expressed hope for good job in his new office. He used the platform to encourage all the nominees to put the national service above all else in light of unity, tranquillity and peace.

Speaking to the motion, Deputy Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Ibrahim Ben Kargbo recalled his previous interactions with Ambassador Joseph Blell and his actions to national calls over the years.  He made reference to the controversial situations that are affecting NATCOM, but hoped that with the help of the Parliamentary Committee and the wealth of experience of Ambassador Joseph Blell, the institution is set to do well. He also zoomed on other nominees for their outstanding and immeasurable fitness relating to their respective appointments.

Leader of C4C, Hon. Saa Emerson Lamina said the nominees have the requirements to perform their duties for which they are nominated by President Bio. He asked the diplomatic nominees to build the image of Sierra Leone in light of trade, commerce and development. He encouraged the nominees on Disaster Management to work hard relative to fundraising and do due diligence in the course of executing their duties.

Hon. Kusan Sesay described the nominees as the best ever made by the President Bio referencing Rtd. General Brima Sesay as someone for whom “failure has never been an option”. He advised him and other nominees not to close their doors before Members of Parliament.

Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Chernor R.M. Bah expressed happiness to joining others to approve the nominees. He said Ambassador Joseph Blell taking up the job at NATCOM is a blessing especially with his experience in dealing with young people. “Ambassador Joseph Blell is a very good man,” he noted. He also commended President Bio for appointing Ambassador Fatmata Edna Kargbo to fulfil the quota of women representative adding the latter is a woman of substance. He referred to the Rtd. General as a man who has demonstrated diligence in national service alluding that such accolades might have earned him to be the first man to superintend over the National Disaster Management Agency.

Recalling his teaching profession, he described Ambassador Lungay saying “he was my best teacher and I was also his best student at St. Edwards”.

Leader of Government Business, Hon. Mathew Sahr Nyuma said all the nominees are symbols of good representatives of Sierra Leone with wealth of experience in national service including diplomatic missions, humility, business, professionalism, politics, military, and reputable characters among others. He said during vetting, it was discovered that the presidential nominees are all fit for purpose and urged them all to work with the Committees in Parliament. He encouraged them to perform or stand to be fired by President Bio, whilst urging them to deliver on the New Direction Manifesto in respect of national development.

In his felicitations, the Speaker of Parliament, Hon. Dr. Abass Chernor Bundu congratulated the nominees and described them as people with great acumen and experience. He urged them to deliver based on the confidence bestowed on them by President Bio and endorsed by Parliament. He wished them the best in their new offices.

In another development, the Parliament of Sierra Leone has also debated and ratified with unanimity two agreements geared towards development of trade in the country.

The following agreements were approved by Parliament: An Agreements between the Government of the Republic of Sierra Leone (GOSL) Represented by the Minister of Trade and Industry (MTI) The Minister of Finance (MOF) and Sierra Leone Flour Mill (SL) Limited.

The other was an Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Sierra Leone and Societe Nouvelle Commerce (SONOCO S.A)

Prior to the ratification of these agreements, the Minister of Trade and Industry, Dr. Edward Hinga Sandy said these two agreements are geared towards developing two giant flour mills in the country in order to boost and develop the trade industry. He said the two companies put together would employ hundreds of youth and added that it would boost revenue generation for the country.

Contributing to the motion, the Chairperson of the Trade Committee in Parliament, Hon.Veronica Kadie Sesay welcomed the initiative of the Government to welcome the establishment of the two giant Flour Mills aimed at boosting trade in the country.

Hon. Alpha Bah applauded the two agreements and admonished the Ministry of Trade to properly monitor the operational activities of both companies so as to compete fairly in the market.

Both Leaders of Government and the Opposition welcomed the idea of government by supporting these agreements; hoping both companies would translate these agreements into action for the development of the country.

Other MPs who spoke to the motion hailed the Government for the positive intervention aimed at contributing to the development of the trade sector.

Rastafarianism Gains Strong Foothold in Sierra Leone

By Mohamed Farah Kargbo, Monuments and Relics Commission

Sierra Leone is a country that is renowned for its religious tolerance posture as no reference could be made to any form of religious suppression or persecution as a result of a citizen’s faith.

Rastafarianism has been practised or a long time in this country but over the years its membership base has been increasing and their modus operandi has been changing.

Recently, a visit was paid to their structured base or sanctuary , Negus Nagas Complex at Grafton in the outskirt of Freetown and what transpired was very interesting and worth sharing:

Bellowed the High Priest of the Rastafari Movement in Sierra Leone as worshippers converged at Negus Nagas Complex at Grafton where they held their service.

Tamba Fabanda Senessie Fabundeh had just completed the ablution process which was meant to cleanse himself, dressed in his alternating red, green and black gown, tied his head neatly with a white band in readiness for the day’s supplications. He needs no introduction as the figure head of that gathering.

Each worshipper removes his/her foot wear before entering the place of worship. They stood in a round circle with a burning candle in front of the High Priest.

A drummer beats the drum as the congregation chants choruses and dance.

It was a gathering of the Twelve Tribes of Israel, the Nyahbinghi and Bobo Ashanti were probably represented. Except for the few everyone had  dreadlocks.

The Monuments and Relics Commission’s Salon Kontri Pot TV Show had gone there to cover the story to show the level of cultural diversity and religious tolerance that Sierra Leone enjoys.

Their holy Sacrament, the Cannabis Sativa has a very important role at the end of the exercise. It keeps them meditating and reflecting on the wonders of Jah Rastafari.

The Rastas love nature such that at a higher level they prefer to eat natural food principally fruits and vegetables.

In an interview with Ras Ola, it was learnt, many new words like ‘Wa gwan’…which means hello. “Lickle bit or me a go” which means good bye and Jah bless or Give thanks meaning thank you.

ECOWAS Speaker Confirms Gravity of the Devastation of COVID-19 in the Region

Group photo of Speaker and all delegates present

By Abdul Malik Bangura in Guinea Bissau

Speaker of the regional Parliament of the Economic Community of West Africa States (ECOWAS) His Excellency Sidie Mohamed Tunis has confirmed that the Parliament has realized the reality of a region that has been devastated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

HE Tunis made this disclosure during the opening session of the delocalized meeting of the ECOWAS Parliament joint committee on Agriculture, Environment and natural Resources; Industry and Private Sector; Health; Energy and Mines; Social Affairs, Gender and Women Empowerment which is currently ongoing in Bissau, Republic of Guinea Bissau.

Whilst making his statement on the theme “ECOWAS Food Security and Agriculture Production Program and the Fight Against COVID 19.”

HE Tunis noted that even before the global COVID-19 pandemic, Food Security was a serious concern throughout sub-Saharan Africa. He said, “this chronic food crises was driven by a variety of factors, including economic shocks, climate change and conflicts, which have led to a state of food scarcity.”

The ECOWAS Parliament Speaker added that “border closures, lockdowns and curfews intended to slow the spread of the disease, have disrupted supply chains that, even under normal circumstances, struggled to keep markets well stocked and farmers supplied with necessary agricultural and livestock inputs. These disruptions could have a much larger economic impact on our region, with the United Nations estimating that well over 40 million people across West Africa could face desperate food shortages in the coming months.”

Furthermore, the Speaker acknowledged the efforts made by ECOWAS Member States, the ECOWAS Commission and other regional and multinational organizations to have the looming danger of COVID 19 addressed. He referenced the establishment of Presidential Committees and Task Forces, as well as regional and global responses, which he said “are all worth commending as it is expected that our concerted efforts will save lives, contain the spread of the virus, provide palliatives for vulnerable populations. Furthermore, it will also provide support systems to cushion the national and local economies and development of safety nets amongst others.”

Speaker Tunis also added that ECOWAS, through the West African Health Organization (WAHO), has been very active in ensuring that regional response to the COVID-19 pandemic is adequate and well-coordinated. He said, “the procurement and provision of much needed supplies to member States, including diagnostic kits, viral transport media, and personal protective equipment were efforts aimed at ensuring that we tackle the pandemic head on.”  Hence, he commended the Director General of WAHO, “who has graciously accepted to deliver a paper in the course of this meeting and explain in-depth all the efforts ECOWAS and her Partners have exerted to stop the spread of the disease.”

“ECOWAS Parliament, being an integral player in this fight, supports the ECOWAS Commission in achieving its objectives. It equally recognizes the negative impact of COVID-19 on agricultural production and productivity, as well as food and nutrition security in our population. As such, we have convened this meeting to identify means by which we can be able to support and compliment the work of the ECOWAS Commission in mitigating the negative impact of COVID-19 on agricultural production and food security in the region,” the Speaker noted.

Meanwhile, during the opening session, Soares Shambu, the Vice Prime Minister of Guinea Bissau who represented the President of the Republic whilst making his statement noted that the world is experiencing the 2nd wave of COVID 19 as such he stated that since we have not ended the 1st wave, the 2nd wave will cause more severe economic and social problems.

Mr Shambu urged all to find ways to mitigate the adverse effect of the COVID 19 pandemic, considering how vulnerable the West Africa Region is.

Another speaker who delved into theme of the opening session of the meeting was the Political and Diplomatic Counsellor of the ECOWAS Commission, Ambassador Emmanuel Ohin, who represented the President of the ECOWAS Commission Jean Claude Kassi Brou. Ambassador Ohin said meetings of this nature will enhance visibility of ECOWAS, and further maintain acceptance of ECOWAS not only by the states but also by the people. He said, the decision to come to Bissau is a show of solidarity between the ECOWAS Parliament and the People National Assembly of Guinea Bissau. He assured that ECOWAS is always ready to support development of democracy in Guinea Bissau.

On his part, the Co-Chair of the Joint Committee, Honourable Orlando Pereira Dias said they will work closely with the People National Assembly of Guinea Bissau to ensure that the people of Guinea Bissau greatly benefit from the deliberations that are going to take place during the meeting sessions. He thanked the people of Bissau for the hospitality given to the delegation so far.

Meanwhile, earlier in the opening session, whilst welcoming delegates, Leader of Parliamentarians of Guinea Bissau to the ECOWAS Parliament Honourable Kalifa Sidi stressed that almost half of West Africa population lives below the poverty threshold. So he said, as a result, they rely on agriculture for employment and for survival. He expressed optimism that the coming working days would be productive so as to overcome the challenges fraught with agricultural production in the ECOWAS region during the COVID 19 period.

Meanwhile, it is worth to noting that the regional Parliament of the ECOWAS under the distinguished leadership of its Speaker, His Excellency Sidie Mohamed Tunis is conveying a meeting of joint committees on Agriculture, Environment, Water Resources and Sustainable Development/ Industry and Private Sector/ Health/ Energy and Mines/ Social Affairs, Gender and Women Empowerment between Tuesday 10th to Saturday 14th November 2020 to discuss the most vital theme of “ECOWAS food security and agriculture production program and the fight against COVID 19.”

Field Day for Corrupt Officials is Over  – Chief Justice

By Amin Kef Sesay

On the 10th November, 2020 the Chief Justice, His Lordship Ambassador Desmond Babatunde Edwards strongly warned members of staff of the Judiciary against corruption and its related offences which will undermine sustainable reforms and growth of the Judiciary.

Amb. Hon. Justice Edwards was speaking at Court No. 1 of the main Law Courts Building marking the official commencement of the training for Court Registrars, Baliffs, Administrative and other Support staff of the Judiciary. The training which caters for one hundred and twenty-eight (128) staff members is fully funded by the Judiciary with funds from the Government of Sierra Leone.

According to him, the training is the first to have been organised in the annals of the Judiciary. He told the trainees that the Judiciary and Legal Training Institute has identified seasoned facilitators with huge span of knowledge on all the courses ranging from the Roles of Registrars in Civil and Criminal Courts; Roles of the Bailiffs, Court Secretaries in both Civil and Criminal proceedings; treatment of vulnerable and special witnesses, Bail and Bond Regulations, Bail/Bond requirements, Management of records, Judiciary as an Arm of Government: Relationship with the Bar, Law Office, Sierra Leone Police and the Legal Aid Board, facilities and assets, ethics with particular reference to the code of conduct for support staff and many more to develop their capacity.

Speaking on the adverse effect of corruption, Amb Hon. Chief Justice Edwards said some staff members are either just too wicked or not good at their work which is why they mostly renege on their sacred duties to allow files to be missing, allow accused persons to jump bail or sometimes stalled some cases from coming up for hearing.

Amb. Justice Edwards vowed to have a new Judiciary that is transparent and accountable to the people. He inspired the trainees to invest their best as the training will also empower those who are weak by capacitating them to be resourceful and productive.

He added that after the training, staff members who engage in corrupt activities under the guise of inexperience or lack of training will have no place to hide.

“You either do what is expected of you or face disciplinary action,” he warned.

The training is being headed by the Director of Judiciary and Legal Training Institute, Hon. Justice Eku Roberts with support from Justices Hon. Brown Marke (JSC); Hon. Alusine Sesay (JSC); Hon. Reginald Fynn (JA); Hon. Monfred Sesay (JA); Hon. Musu Damba (JA); Hon. Bintu Alhadi (JA) and Hon. Komba Kamanda (JA).

In another development, it was stated that the Judiciary has made inroads in the World Justice Rule of Law 2020 Index Report as well as the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Scorecard ahead of Nigeria, Uganda, Niger, Turkey, Pakistan, Mexico and few other countries within and without Africa Continent.

The World Justice Project (WJP) Rule of Law 2020 Index is the latest report in an annual series measuring the rule of law based on the experiences and perceptions of the general public and in-country legal practitioners and experts worldwide.

The WJP Rule of Law 2020 Index Report presents a portrait of the rule of law in 128 countries and jurisdictions by providing scores and rankings based on eight factors: Constraints on Government Powers, Absence of Corruption, Open Government, Fundamental Rights, Order and Security, Regulatory Enforcement, Civil Justice, and Criminal Justice.

“This is a welcome news for us as a nation in making gains in our justice system and to also perform impressively in the Millennium Challenge Corporation scorecard indicators to pass thirteen (13) out of the twenty (20) MCC indicators for 2020,” said Justice Edwards, noting that, “Sierra Leone scored 28 in the area of political rights, scored 37 in civil rights and 63 percentage in the Rule of Law which falls under our purview.”  These impressive successes have made the country to be ‘Compact Eligible.’

He said the WJP Rule of Law Index measures adherence to the rule of law by looking at policy outcomes, such as whether people have access to courts or whether crime is effectively controlled and whether the platform is enabling for political right and civil liberty.

He thanked the President, His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, the Hon. Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh and the Government for their commitment to have a new Judiciary that will administer justice without fear or favour, ensures sustainable reforms that are critical to advancing the Rule of Law and guaranteeing human rights.

The WJP Rule of Law Index is the world’s leading source for original, independent data on the Rule of Law.

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