By Ibrahim Sesay
As the Holy Month of Ramadan ended on Friday, 20 March 2023, by inspiring compassion, reflection and unity, Orange Sierra Leone deepened its community engagement, during the period, through a nationwide Jamah Sunakati (Iftar) initiative, bringing people together across Freetown and key provincial cities.
Ramadan, a sacred period observed by Muslims worldwide, was marked by fasting, prayer, charity and spiritual renewal. It was also a time that emphasized generosity, empathy and togetherness; values that resonate strongly within Sierra Leone’s diverse and closely knit society.
In observance of those values, Orange Sierra Leone organized a series of Iftar gatherings at the Goderich Central Mosque and Comfortee School in Calaba Town, Freetown. The initiative was further extended to regional communities, including Bo, Lunsar, Kabala and Kono, ensuring that the message of unity and shared humanity reached across the country.
The events brought together community members, religious leaders, youth groups and representatives of Orange Sierra Leone in an atmosphere defined by warmth, gratitude and mutual respect. As the call to prayer signaled the breaking of the fast, Muslims and Christians alike sat side by side to share meals; an enduring reflection of Sierra Leone’s longstanding tradition of interfaith harmony.
Beyond the symbolic act of breaking the fast, the initiative embodied the deeper meaning of Ramadan; serving others and strengthening communal bonds. A notable highlight was the active involvement of Orange Sierra Leone’s leadership, including the Chief Executive Officer, Chief Marketing Officer and staff members, who worked alongside local volunteers to prepare and serve meals. Their hands-on participation underscored a commitment that extends beyond corporate responsibility to genuine community partnership.
For many beneficiaries, the gesture carried significant meaning.
“This gesture from Orange Sierra Leone means more than just a meal; it shows true partnership with the community. During Ramadan, such acts remind us that we are not alone; we are supported and valued,” said Alhaji Mohamed Jalloh, an elder at the Goderich Central Mosque.
A resident of Calaba Town, Aminata Conteh, echoed similar sentiments, noting that the initiative reinforced the spirit of togetherness central to Ramadan.
“Ramadan is a time of reflection, sacrifice and unity. Seeing a company like Orange Sierra Leone join us, serve alongside us and share in this sacred moment strengthens our belief in the power of togetherness. We are deeply grateful,” she said.
The Jamah Sunakati initiative highlights Orange Sierra Leone’s broader commitment to social cohesion and community development. By aligning its outreach with the spiritual and cultural significance of Ramadan, the company continues to position itself not only as a telecommunications provider but also as a partner in national unity and progress.
Commenting on the initiative, the Head of Strategic Marketing and Communication at Orange Sierra Leone, Philip Emeh, emphasized the importance of meaningful engagement during the Holy Month.
“Ramadan teaches us the values of compassion, generosity and solidarity. At Orange Sierra Leone, we believe in standing with our communities not only through our products and services, but through actions that bring people together and uplift lives. It is an honour for us to share in these moments of reflection and unity,” he stated.
As Ramadan has now ended, the initiative served as a powerful reminder of the importance of collective goodwill and the need to nurture connections across communities.
Orange Sierra Leone also extended its heartfelt wishes for a peaceful and progressive nation. It ended by stating that “Orange Is Here! Here for Good!”
