By Foday Moriba Conteh

Orange Foundation has continued its nationwide drive to promote digital inclusion with the donation of Digital School Kits to St. Paul’s Primary School in Mathokara Village, Tonkolili District. The presentation, which took place on Friday, 5 December 2025, forms part of the Foundation’s broader commitment to bridging the digital divide for children across Sierra Leone.

During the visit, pupils and teachers welcomed the initiative with enthusiasm as the Foundation handed over devices and educational tools designed to enhance teaching and learning. The Digital School Kits will support classroom instruction, strengthen digital literacy and help young learners explore new opportunities for growth in an increasingly digital world.

According to the Foundation, each school reached through the programme becomes a catalyst for change; empowering teachers with modern tools, inspiring pupils to embrace innovation and easing communities into the digital age. The intervention in Mathokara Village adds to a growing list of beneficiary schools nationwide.

Community members expressed appreciation for the initiative, noting that access to digital resources remains a significant challenge for rural areas. The Foundation stated that the joy and excitement witnessed among pupils at St. Paul’s reaffirm its commitment to ensuring that children, regardless of location, are not left behind in the global digital transformation.

The Orange Foundation reiterated that it will continue working with educational institutions, communities and development partners to expand digital empowerment initiatives across Sierra Leone, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to learn, explore  and thrive. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/orange-foundation-expands-digital-access-in-tonkolili-donates-digital-school-kits-to-st-pauls-primary-school/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

As the world commemorated International Civil Aviation Day on 7 December 2025, Sierra Leone joined the global aviation community in reflecting on the critical role air transport plays in connecting nations, driving economic growth and fostering international cooperation. For the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), the observance provided a moment to highlight the country’s steady advancement in aviation development and its commitment to enhancing safety, efficiency and global integration.

A strong aviation sector remains indispensable to the socio-economic transformation of any modern state. For Sierra Leone, air transport continues to stimulate growth across vital industries, including tourism, commerce, logistics and services. It enhances mobility, expands access to education and healthcare, creates employment, enables humanitarian response and strengthens the nation’s visibility within the global landscape. Aviation, in this respect, is far more than a transport mechanism; it is a strategic driver of national development.

Key improvements in Sierra Leone’s aviation landscape are evident in the upgraded Freetown International Airport, which now boasts expanded passenger capacity, improved safety systems and increased operational efficiency. These enhancements are positioning the country to attract more airlines and manage higher passenger volumes.

Efforts to improve domestic connectivity through the expansion of regional airports and airstrips are also underway. These initiatives support internal travel, boost tourism and ensure that the benefits of aviation extend across all regions of the country.

The SLCAA continues to align its regulatory framework with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Standards and Recommended Practices. This has improved oversight, compliance and sector governance. Investment in navigation technology, environmental sustainability and capacity development further underscores Sierra Leone’s commitment to a modern and resilient aviation industry.

A critical component of this regulatory strengthening is the issuance and monitoring of Air Operator Certificates (AOCs). A robust AOC framework ensures operators meet international safety and operational standards, enhances consumer confidence and creates an enabling environment for new airlines, cargo companies, charter services and humanitarian operations.

Improved air connectivity remains central to Sierra Leone’s economic agenda. Increased flights, new routes and stronger airline partnerships are unlocking opportunities in tourism, trade, investment and diaspora engagement. Better access to global destinations enhances the country’s competitiveness and opens pathways to strategic regional integration.

Since her appointment in 2023, SLCAA Director-General Madam Musayeroh Barrie has spearheaded significant reforms that have ushered Sierra Leone into a new era of aviation progress. Her leadership has been marked by expanded flight connectivity, strengthened international partnerships and improved regulatory systems.

Notable achievements include strategic collaborations with Overland Airways, Ethiopian Airlines and the revival process of Air Sierra Leone. A historic milestone was reached with the launch of the Freetown–London Gatwick direct flight, connecting Sierra Leone to the United Kingdom for the first time in the nation’s aviation history; a breakthrough widely celebrated as a victory for citizens, businesses and the diaspora.

Despite global uncertainties in air travel, Freetown International Airport recorded an increase of more than 5,000 passengers in 2024, reflecting improved public confidence and airport performance. These gains have been bolstered by a pioneering Management Services Agreement between the SLCAA and ICAO, which brought world-class technical cooperation, structured capacity development and upgraded operational standards.

Through this collaboration, Sierra Leone has strengthened its alignment with global aviation excellence and enhanced its capacity to operate as a future aviation hub.

Under Madam Musayeroh Barrie’s stewardship, Sierra Leone has successfully hosted a number of high-profile international aviation meetings and missions, including the ICAO WACAF CODEVMET Mission, BAGASOO Technical Committee Safety Meeting and the SAATM Pilot Implementation Project. These engagements highlight the country’s rising influence within Africa’s aviation community.

The newly established Consumer Protection Division within SLCAA marks a major step toward safeguarding fairness, transparency and accountability for all travelers. This reform ensures that passenger rights remain central to service delivery.

Beyond aviation regulation, Madam Musayeroh Barrie has championed youth and women’s empowerment. Through the Next Generation of Aviation Professionals (NGAP) initiative and targeted STEM programs, she has inspired young talents to pursue careers in fields previously considered inaccessible. Her impact earned her a place among the 50 Most Influential Sierra Leonean Women in 2025.

SLCAA personnel continue to benefit from advanced training through institutions such as Ethiopian Aviation University, ENAC in Italy and ECOWINGS in Kenya. This capacity-building drive is nurturing a new cadre of aviation professionals ,  including maintenance technicians, security instructors, drone operators and inspectors, poised to shape the future of the sector.

With the signing of the SLCAA Master Plan in partnership with ICAO, Sierra Leone is embarking on a long-term transformation programme aimed at establishing the nation as a vibrant regional aviation hub. This vision seeks to connect Africa to global destinations while positioning the country as a rising force in air transport development.

As Sierra Leone marks International Civil Aviation Day, the progress achieved over the past two years stands as a testament to determined leadership, strategic partnerships and national ambition. The aviation sector continues to evolve; strengthening connectivity, empowering citizens and unlocking unprecedented opportunities.

A new aviation future is emerging; one shaped purposefully, one built sustainably and one advancing Sierra Leone’s journey toward global integration to the nation’s gain. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/international-civil-aviation-day-sierra-leone-marks-steady-progress-toward-global-air-connectivity/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Press Secretary to the President, Yusuf Keketoma Sandi Esq., has lauded the decisive and coordinated leadership of President Julius Maada Bio, Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority, for his central role in thwarting an attempted military takeover in the Republic of Benin. He emphasized that the incident serves as yet another reminder of the fragile state of democratic governance in parts of West Africa and the continued need for firm, principled regional leadership.

Yusuf Keketoma Sandi noted that at a time when democratic institutions across the region face increasing threats from unconstitutional power grabs, ECOWAS demonstrated remarkable resolve under President Bio’s stewardship. He stressed that the attempted coup in Benin exposed the susceptibility of even relatively stable democracies to sudden military disruptions. However, swift intervention at the highest levels of ECOWAS prevented what could have been a major political crisis.

According to the Press Secretary, President Bio acted with clarity, urgency and conviction, reinforcing ECOWAS’ long-standing commitment to safeguarding democracy, peace and constitutional order. His prompt communication with fellow Heads of State and the coordination of unified regional action sent a powerful signal that coups and other unconstitutional changes of Government would not be tolerated under his chairmanship. This, Yusuf Keketoma Sandi said, helped create the pressure and diplomatic environment necessary to forestall the attempted takeover and preserve President Patrice Talon’s legitimate administration in Benin.

Yusuf Keketoma Sandi further commended the collective stance taken by ECOWAS leaders during the crisis. He described the bloc’s solidarity as both commendable and essential in demonstrating regional intolerance for military adventurism. “The unity displayed by ECOWAS Heads of State reinforced the legitimacy of Benin’s democratic institutions and contributed significantly to the swift de-escalation of tensions,” he stated.

According to him, this episode reaffirms ECOWAS’ commitment to the fundamental principles enshrined in its protocols, including the protection of elected Governments and the promotion of regional stability.

In reflecting on President Bio’s broader leadership within ECOWAS, Yusuf Keketoma Sandi recalled his similarly decisive response to the recent situation in Guinea-Bissau. Shortly after an attempted coup there, President Bio undertook a bold visit to Bissau, delivering a firm message to the military authorities and calling for the immediate restoration of constitutional order. That, he said, was yet another example of Bio’s resolve to ensure that West Africa stays on a democratic trajectory.

Yusuf Keketoma Sandi concluded that the successful prevention of the attempted military coup in Benin highlights the effectiveness of President Bio’s leadership and the unwavering commitment of ECOWAS member states to preserve democratic governance. As West Africa continues to grapple with political instability, violent extremism and governance challenges, he emphasized that such unity, vigilance and principled leadership are essential for safeguarding peace and stability across the region.

He added that the crisis in Benin, swiftly contained through regional collaboration, should serve as an encouraging reminder that democracy can and will prevail when leaders act with courage, conviction and solidarity. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/president-bios-leadership-credited-for-ecowas-swift-action-in-foiling-attempted-military-takeover-in-benin/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Madam Musayeroh Barrie, the dynamic Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), has been named among the 100 Outstanding Global Innovative Leaders 2026 by the Global Center for Innovative Leaders (GCIL). Her inclusion on this prestigious list highlights her remarkable rise as one of Africa’s youngest aviation leaders and a transformative force within the continent’s air transport sector.

The Director General’s leadership journey is historic. Appointed in 2023 as Sierra Leone’s first female Director General of Civil Aviation, she assumed office at a time when the country’s aviation system required bold reforms, modern regulatory structures and a renewed international image. Her appointment signaled a shift not only in gender representation but in Sierra Leone’s ambition to build a stronger, globally competitive aviation sector.

Under her stewardship, the SLCAA has delivered reforms that many aviation observers describe as unprecedented in recent decades. The reintroduction of Air Sierra Leone stands as one of her hallmark achievements, restoring national pride and expanding opportunities for travel, tourism and commercial activity. This milestone was followed by the issuance of Sierra Leone’s first Air Operator Certificate (AOC) in 16 years, a major regulatory breakthrough demonstrating the Authority’s strengthened oversight and compliance capacity.

Equally significant has been the return of direct commercial flights along the Freetown–London route. This move has improved Sierra Leone’s global connectivity, reduced travel burdens for citizens and investors and created new opportunities for trade and tourism. Aviation experts also credit her leadership for revitalizing the sector’s institutional frameworks, improving safety management and motivating a new generation of young professionals entering aviation.

Madam Musayeroh Barrie’s decade-long experience in aviation security operations before her appointment provided the foundation for the sweeping reforms she now champions. Her deep understanding of compliance, safety systems and operational oversight continues to shape her leadership approach at SLCAA, resulting in improved performance standards and enhanced credibility with international aviation bodies.

Beyond technical reforms, Madam Musayeroh Barrie has become widely recognized for her commitment to youth empowerment and gender inclusion. Today, over 50% of the workforce at SLCAA is under the age of 40, with more than 40% under 35 making it one of the youngest public-sector workforces in Sierra Leone. This deliberate investment in young professionals reflects her belief that a modern aviation sector must be driven by innovation, energy and a vision for the future.

Her influence extends beyond national borders. Through strengthened partnerships with the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, South Africa and other global aviation entities, she has expanded Sierra Leone’s international cooperation framework. The landmark ICAO Management Service Agreement signed in 2024 remains a highlight, positioning Sierra Leone for long-term capacity building and international compliance.

In 2025, she was named among the 50 Most Influential Women in Sierra Leone, further cementing her status as a national role model and a regional leader in aviation governance.

Madam Musayeroh Barrie will receive her Special Certificate of Honour during the Global Leaders Innovative Summits & Gala Nights 2026, where she will stand among other influential global figures celebrated for reshaping industries through innovation and excellence. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/slcaa-dg-listed-among-100-outstanding-global-innovative-leaders-2026/

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Marampa Mines Limited (MML) officially commissioned and handed over the newly constructed Kulafai Rashideen Islamic Primary School in Maforki Village, Marampa Chiefdom, in a ceremony attended by community leaders, education stakeholders, Government officials, parents and pupils. The modern facility features six classrooms, a six-room toilet block, two hand-pump water wells, an administrative office, an assembly area, a football field and a fully fenced compound, designed to serve over 200 pupils from Maforki and neighbouring communities including Magbil, Magberie, Manonkoh and Magbainkthay. The school was furnished with essential learning materials, desks, chairs, books and other supplies, with donations from partners. The total construction cost amounted to US$175,000.

Paramount Chief, Marampa Chiefdom, PC Bai Koblo Queen II described the project as a “major milestone” in the development of Marampa Chiefdom, highlighting the positive impact of mining on education, infrastructure and livelihoods. He reflected on the historical challenges following the closure of earlier mining operations and praised efforts to restore mining activities in the area.

The Paramount Chief emphasized the role of the 1% community development fund, noting that it has supported scholarships, teacher welfare and improved educational infrastructure. “This school is a symbol of progress for Maforki and the entire chiefdom. Education remains a key driver for development and we will continue to partner with MML to enable our children to become future leaders of Sierra Leone,” he said, urging parents to prioritize their children’s education.

Speaking for MML, Anthony Mansaray, Project Manager, explained that the relocation was motivated by safety concerns, as the former school was located less than 50 meters from the Valley B Tailings Storage Facility. He outlined the extensive consultations, stakeholder engagements and Government approvals that preceded construction and acknowledged the Kamara family for donating three acres of land for the project.

The construction, carried out by local contractor, YA Marie Investment, was supervised by the MML Projects Team to ensure quality. Anthony Mansaray expressed optimism that the new learning environment would positively impact pupils’ performances.

Gibrilla A. Sesay, Deputy Director of Education, Port Loko District, praised MML for complementing Government efforts to expand access to quality education. He assured that the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education would continue monitoring the school to ensure quality teaching and encouraged parents to support their children’s learning. He also urged teachers to pursue professional qualifications and licensing, promising Government support for certified teachers to be placed on payroll.

Safea Ndomaina, Deputy Development Secretary, Ministry of Planning and Economic Development, highlighted the project’s contribution to human capital development and acknowledged the role of Government in approving the school relocation and resettlement of nearby households. He commended MML for transparency, compliance with national resettlement policies and investment in community welfare.

Ibrahim Satti Kamara, Director of Communications and Community Affairs at the National Minerals Agency, described the initiative as evidence of responsible corporate presence, emphasizing the alignment of MML’s investment with national priorities for human capital development. He encouraged other companies in Sierra Leone to emulate MML by investing in meaningful community projects.

John David Cooper, Director of Policy, Ministry of Mines, representing Minister Julius Daniel Mattai, said the project reflects a commitment to placing people at the center of development and demonstrates that mining and community welfare can progress hand in hand. He stressed that education is a key pillar of national development and urged the community to take ownership of the school.

On his part, Resident Minister North-West, Ambassador Alhaji Umar Bond Wurie, praised Marampa Mines Limited (MML) for constructing the newly relocated Kulafai Rashideen Islamic Primary School in Maforki, describing the project as a major step toward improving learning conditions in mining-affected communities.

He also hailed the implementation of the 1% community development initiative for mining areas, explaining that the policy was initiated when he served as Permanent Secretary in the then Ministry of Mines, but only began to be implemented after the current administration returned to office.

“The completion of this beautiful school shows the commitment of Marampa Mines to the people of Marampa and Maforki,” he said.

Ambassador Alhaji Umar Bond Wurie encouraged community residents to continue working closely with the company and Government institutions to foster peaceful relations and ensure long-term benefits for local people. He urged residents to prioritize dialogue over confrontation in addressing concerns related to mining operations.

He further emphasized that national development must rise above political divisions, saying progress will only be achieved when communities and Government institutions jointly support initiatives aimed at improving living standards.

Ambassador Alhaji Umar Bond Wurie concluded by reiterating Government’s commitment to ensuring that communities benefit fairly from mining activities, while calling for continued cooperation and patience as development projects unfold within the district.

In his keynote address, Managing Director of Marampa Mines Limited, Angula Kalili, said the handover demonstrates the company’s commitment to community development, safety and inclusive progress in its operational chiefdom. He noted that the relocation became necessary due to the close proximity of the former school structure to the company’s Tailings Storage Facility.

The new facility comprises six fully furnished classrooms, an administrative office, a six-room toilet block, two hand pump water wells, a fenced compound for safety and a recreational space. Learning materials were also donated by Marampa Mines.

Angula Kalili expressed gratitude to the Kamara family for donating the land on which the school now stands and applauded local contractor Ya Marie Investment as well as the MML project team for successfully delivering the work.

He emphasized that the intervention aligns with the vision of Marampa Mines’ Board Chairman, Craig Dean, and supports the Government’s education priorities. “This investment is not just about a building; it is about empowering future leaders,” he said, assuring that the company remains committed to community welfare and sustainable development in the chiefdom.

The event which underscored a shared commitment among Marampa Mines, Government authorities and the community to improve educational infrastructure, ensure pupil safety and foster sustainable development in Marampa Chiefdom and beyond was climaxed by official commissioning of the school by the Angula Kalili, Managing Director of MML, Paramount Chief, Marampa Chiefdom, PC Bai Koblo Queen II and the Ambassador Alhaji Umar Bond Wurie, Resident Minister North-West followed by conducted tour of the facility. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/marampa-mines-hands-over-newly-constructed-kulafai-rashideen-primary-school-in-maforki-village/

By Ibrahim Sesay 

Caritas Freetown, with support from Manos Unidas, has concluded a two-day training on Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) aimed at improving community understanding and strengthening sensitization efforts.

‎The session, which ran from 8-9 December at the Twin Hall in Hastings, brought together members of community forum groups drawn from Western Area Rural communities, including Makanba, Newton (Tommy Brown), Maintakeh, Bolima, Makombay, Banga Ground, Makimba and others.

‎Presenting an overview of the project, Project Manager, Lucky Bah, explained that the initiative was developed in response to the growing reports of rape, early marriage and teenage pregnancy across several communities. He said one of the main objectives is to influence behavioral change and shift community attitudes surrounding gender-based violence.

‎ Lucky Bah also highlighted that the project’s focus is on improving access to justice for survivors. He noted that financial challenges often prevent victims or their guardians from following up on cases under investigation. To address that, according to him, Caritas will provide financial support to those pursuing justice.

‎“Another goal is to build resilience among survivors,” he added, noting that twenty women will receive vocational skills training as part of the project. He further encouraged participants to carry the message back to their communities. “We expect you to lead sensitization efforts at least once a month. We will be doing follow-ups to assess the impact,” he said.

‎The training covered key topics such as understanding gender-based violence, referral pathways, gender laws, community sensitization techniques and the roles of nature club members in prevention efforts.

‎Speaking briefly, Acting Programmes Manager, Eliza Sillah, urged couples to cultivate respect and mutual understanding, noting that those are essential in preventing gender-based violence. “Respect must come from both sides. It becomes visible when a man and woman find common ground,” she said. She encouraged participants to apply the knowledge gained and continue sensitization within their households and communities.

‎For many attendees, the training provided valuable new insights. John Paul Kargbo from the 3-Mile Nyandehun community said the sessions helped him recognize behaviours he previously did not know amounted to GBV. “This training has shaped my perception,” he said. “As a teacher, I will start sensitizing my pupils and their parents. If Caritas provides megaphones, I will also extend the message across my community.”

‎He called on authorities responsible for enforcing GBV laws to avoid compromise and ensure equal punishment for all perpetrators, regardless of their status.

‎Another participant, Isha Salamatu Turay, from Newton, said her understanding of GBV expanded beyond sexual and physical abuse. “I learned that psychological and economic abuse are also forms of GBV,” she noted.

‎Isha Salamatu Turay added that some of the most common cases in her community include inappropriate advances from men, as well as physical and sexual assault. “This training has also taught me that married women can be raped and married men can be victims too,” she said.

‎The training ended with renewed enthusiasm as participants prepare to take the lead in promoting awareness and prevention of SGBV in their respective communities. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/caritas-freetown-ends-two-day-training-on-sgbv-for-communities-in-western-rural/

Leone Rock Metal Group has further strengthened its commitment to workplace safety and long-term environmental sustainability through two major capacity-building initiatives: an intensive fire safety training for staff and the formal recognition of its Environmental Unit for excellence in environmental management.

At the Technical Equipment Department workshop in Pepel, the company’s Emergency Response Team (ERT) conducted practical fire extinguisher training for employees, equipping them with essential skills for responding to emergency situations. The session focused on building awareness of fire risks, understanding the different types of extinguishers; Water, Dry Chemical and CO₂ and demonstrating the correct application of the PASS method: Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep.

Participants engaged in hands-on simulations to test their readiness, demonstrating how to safely and swiftly manage fire incidents. Representatives from the Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) Directorate and the Technical Equipment Department supervised the drills to ensure accuracy and adherence to safety standards. Following the exercises, evaluators recommended periodic refresher sessions to maintain staff alertness and reinforce the message that fire prevention must remain a daily priority. Employees were reminded that reducing fire hazards requires consistent vigilance and a proactive safety culture across all work areas.

In a parallel achievement, the company celebrated a milestone in environmental sustainability. The Training Department under the HSE Directorate awarded Certificates of Merit in Environmental Management and Sustainability to members of the Environmental Unit. The recognition followed their successful completion of a rigorous theoretical and practical training programme aimed at strengthening environmental protection, regulatory compliance and responsible resource management.

The accomplishment underscores the Environmental Unit’s dedication to developing innovative, eco-friendly interventions and enhancing the company’s overall sustainability practices. With the newly acquired expertise, the team is better positioned to drive impactful environmental initiatives that support Leone Rock Metal Group’s long-term operational goals.

During the certificate presentation ceremony, HSE Superintendent at Kingho Rail and Port, Mr. Kabia, commended the team for their professionalism and commitment. “These certificates represent trust, appreciation and a shared pledge for all,” he remarked, noting that the achievement reflects the company’s collective responsibility to protect the environment and promote a culture of sustainable operations.

Special appreciation was extended to the HSE Management for its strategic leadership, as well as to the management of Kingho Rail and Port for fostering an enabling work environment that encourages growth, learning and community-focused responsibility.

Leone Rock Metal Group reaffirmed that it will continue to align its operations with national regulations and global best practices. Through continuous employee training, strong safety systems and effective environmental programmes, the company aims to set a new industry benchmark for workplace safety and sustainable industrial development in Sierra Leone. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/leone-rock-metal-group-sets-new-standard-in-fire-safety-and-environmental-management/