By Ibrahim Sesay

The Government of Sierra Leone has renewed its commitment to strengthening budget transparency, accountability, and citizen participation in public financial management following the launch of the 2025 Open Budget Survey (OBS) Report in Freetown.

The event, organized by the Budget Advocacy Network (BAN) and its partners at the Radisson Blu Hotel, brought together government officials, development partners, Members of Parliament, civil society organizations, media representatives, and citizens to review the country's progress in fiscal transparency and discuss reforms aimed at improving public financial management.

Delivering the keynote address on behalf of the Ministry of Finance, the Acting Director of Budget, Dr. Ilara Mahdi, described the Open Budget Survey as an important independent assessment of how governments account for and disclose the use of public resources.

He emphasized that, for the Ministry of Finance, the survey represents far more than a performance measurement tool.

“The Open Budget Survey is a mirror reflecting our commitment to the people of Sierra Leone. It reveals how effectively we are opening our financial processes to those whose lives are most impacted by our fiscal decisions,” Dr. Mahdi stated.

He highlighted several milestones achieved by the Government in recent years, including the publication of key budget documents, the production of Citizens’ Budgets, the development of budget briefs that simplify complex fiscal information, and strengthened collaboration with civil society organizations and the media.

According to Dr. Mahdi, the Government has also strengthened parliamentary oversight and enhanced the role of Audit Service Sierra Leone in promoting accountability and transparency in the management of public resources.

Despite the progress recorded, he acknowledged that challenges remain, particularly regarding the timeliness and comprehensiveness of budget information and the need to make public participation more meaningful and accessible to ordinary citizens.

“Our goal is to ensure that no citizen feels left in the dark regarding how public resources are utilized,” he said.

Reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to reform, Dr. Mahdi outlined key priorities that will guide future efforts. These include ensuring all budget documents are comprehensive and published on time, creating structured platforms for dialogue between government and citizens, and leveraging digital technology to make budget data more interactive and user-friendly.

He noted that the Government has invested significantly in digitizing processes across ministries, departments, and agencies and intends to use technology to improve public access to financial information.

Dr. Mahdi further stressed the importance of restoring and strengthening public trust in government institutions, describing trust as a critical pillar of sustainable national development.

“Transparency and accountability are not our final destination. Rather, they are the pathways through which we ensure that resources reach the people and that every citizen feels a sense of ownership over national progress,” he said.

Earlier, governance expert and development practitioner Aminata Samuella Ruth Kelly-Lamin described the Open Budget Survey as a call to action for government institutions, Parliament, oversight bodies, civil society organizations, development partners, and citizens to work collectively toward greater accountability.

UNICEF Officer-in-Charge, Liv Elin Indreiten, commended Sierra Leone for improvements in public participation and oversight, noting that the country now performs comparatively well within the West African region. However, she called for more inclusive participation, particularly for women, young people, persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) Representative, Wayne Mithchel, emphasized that transparency must be accompanied by budget credibility. He warned that revenue shortfalls, expenditure overruns, weak controls, and procurement inefficiencies can undermine development outcomes and public confidence in government institutions.

Participants at the launch agreed that while Sierra Leone has made notable gains in budget transparency and oversight, additional reforms are needed to strengthen citizen engagement, improve budget credibility, enforce audit recommendations, and protect spending in critical social sectors.

The 2025 Open Budget Survey was ultimately described as both an assessment of Sierra Leone’s current performance and a roadmap for future reforms aimed at building public trust, strengthening institutions, and improving service delivery across the country. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/finance-ministry-reaffirms-commitment-to-transparency-at-2025-open-budget-survey-launch/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leone has reinforced its growing presence within Africa’s aviation sector as the Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), Musayeroh Barrie, participates in the African Air Transport Convention and Expo currently taking place in Lomé, Togo, from 15th to 19th June 2026.

The continental gathering has attracted some of Africa’s most influential political leaders, policymakers, aviation regulators, industry experts and development partners, including Paul Kagame, Jean-Lucien Savi de Tové and Olusegun Obasanjo. The event is being held under the theme, “Single African Sky and Sustainable Air Transport Development,” focusing on advancing a more accessible, connected, affordable and environmentally sustainable aviation sector across the continent.

Organized with the support of the African Union, the African Continental Free Trade Area, AUDA-NEPAD and other key aviation stakeholders, the convention serves as one of Africa’s most significant platforms for discussing the future of air transport and regional integration.

Ms. Musayeroh Barrie is participating as a speaker and has also played a leading role in shaping discussions at the event. Her presence reflects Sierra Leone’s increasing commitment to aviation development and its active engagement in regional efforts aimed at strengthening connectivity, trade, tourism and economic growth through improved air transport systems.

A major highlight of her participation came during Panel Session 8, where she moderated discussions on “Women, Youth and Skills Development in Aviation.” The session brought together aviation professionals, regulators, airline executives and policymakers from across Africa to examine ways of building a skilled and inclusive workforce capable of supporting the continent’s rapidly expanding aviation industry.

As moderator, Ms. Musayeroh Barrie steered conversations on increasing opportunities for women and young people within the aviation sector, addressing existing skills shortages, promoting leadership development and strengthening workforce sustainability. Participants emphasized the importance of creating pathways that encourage greater participation of underrepresented groups while preparing the next generation of aviation professionals for future industry demands.

The panel featured several distinguished experts from leading aviation institutions across Africa and beyond. Among them were representatives from the International Civil Aviation Organization, the Zambia Civil Aviation Authority, ANACIM, Ascend AI, Tradewinds Aviation, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, Ninety-Nines, African Women in Aviation, Afrijet and the African Airlines Association.

The session opened with remarks from Adefunke Adeyemi, Secretary General of the African Civil Aviation Commission, who stressed the importance of empowering women and youth as key drivers of innovation, inclusivity and long-term growth within Africa’s aviation ecosystem.

Discussions further highlighted the need for stronger mentorship programmes, greater investment in aviation education and training, gender-responsive policies and enhanced collaboration among Governments, regulators, airlines and industry stakeholders. Participants agreed that developing human capital remains critical to achieving a competitive and sustainable aviation industry capable of supporting Africa’s broader development ambitions.

The convention also continues to advance the objectives of the Single African Air Transport Market, an initiative designed to create a more integrated and efficient aviation network across the continent. By reducing barriers to air travel and improving connectivity, SAATM aims to facilitate trade, investment, tourism and economic cooperation among African countries.

For Sierra Leone, Ms. Musayeroh Barrie’s prominent participation at the convention underscores the country’s growing influence within continental aviation discussions and demonstrates its commitment to supporting reforms that promote regional integration, diversity, innovation and sustainable growth in Africa’s air transport sector. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/slcaa-dg-joins-rwandan-togolese-presidents-obasanjo-at-african-air-transport-summit-in-lome/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, Chairman of the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government and President of Sierra Leone, has held high-level bilateral talks with President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania, focusing on regional security, economic cooperation and sustainable development across West Africa and the Sahel.

The meeting took place on Monday, 15 June 2026, at the Presidential Palace in Nouakchott, where the two leaders exchanged views on a range of pressing regional and continental issues affecting peace, stability and development.

During the discussions, President Bio conveyed warm greetings from the Government and people of Sierra Leone and commended President Ghazouani for his leadership and Mauritania’s continued contribution to promoting peace, security and stability in the region.

A major focus of the talks was the evolving security situation across the Sahel and West Africa. Both leaders expressed concern over the growing threats posed by terrorism, violent extremism, organized crime, climate-related challenges, food insecurity and population displacement.

President Bio emphasized that these interconnected challenges require coordinated regional action, stronger partnerships and sustained dialogue among African nations. He stressed the importance of collective efforts aimed at preserving peace, constitutional order and social cohesion across the region.

Speaking in his capacity as Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority, President Bio reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening regional solidarity and advancing practical solutions that support peace, stability and sustainable development. He described Mauritania as a strategic link between the Maghreb, the Sahel and West Africa, noting that the country's experience in counter-terrorism and border security makes it a valuable partner in regional peacebuilding efforts.

The Sierra Leonean leader also underscored the need for deeper cooperation between Mauritania and ECOWAS, arguing that stronger institutional engagement would help address common challenges while promoting trade, investment, regional integration and the free movement of people and goods.

Beyond security matters, President Bio highlighted several areas for enhanced bilateral cooperation, including fisheries, maritime security, agriculture, trade, mining, renewable energy, education and capacity building. He further stressed the need to protect marine resources, combat illegal fishing and unlock opportunities within the blue economy while maximizing the benefits of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

President Bio also praised Mauritania’s active role within the African Union and called for stronger African unity in addressing key priorities such as climate resilience, food security, youth empowerment, sustainable development and reforms to global governance structures.

In response, President Ghazouani thanked President Bio for honouring his invitation and commended his leadership of the ECOWAS Authority. He reaffirmed Mauritania’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Sierra Leone and expanding cooperation with ECOWAS.

The Mauritanian President also expressed concern over the deteriorating security situation in the Sahel and pledged continued collaboration with ECOWAS. He further proposed the convening of a special regional summit dedicated to addressing emerging security threats facing West Africa and the Sahel.

The meeting concluded with both leaders reaffirming their shared commitment to deepening cooperation between Mauritania and ECOWAS, strengthening bilateral relations, and working collectively to advance peace, security, stability, regional integration and sustainable development throughout West Africa and the Sahel. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/ecowas-chair-mauritanian-president-reaffirm-commitment-to-regional-peace-security-and-cooperation/

Football fans across Sierra Leone are eagerly counting down to what promises to be one of the biggest sporting events of the year as East End Lions and Mighty Blackpool prepare to battle for the coveted 2026 Orange FA Cup trophy.

The much-anticipated final, sponsored by Orange Sierra Leone in partnership with the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA), is scheduled to take place on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at the Southern Arena in Bo City, with kick-off set for 6:30 PM.

Organizers have announced that tickets for the grand finale are now available, with Open Stand tickets selling for Le 20, Covered Stand tickets priced at Le 40, and VIP access available for Le 100. Thousands of supporters are expected to travel from across the country to witness the clash between two of Sierra Leone's most successful and historic football clubs.

The final carries enormous significance beyond domestic silverware, with the winner securing a place in the prestigious CAF Confederation Cup and earning the opportunity to represent Sierra Leone on the continental stage.

Ahead of the showdown, Orange Sierra Leone and the SLFA officially unveiled the 2026 Orange FA Cup trophy, signaling the final phase of preparations for the country's premier knockout football competition. The unveiling has further heightened excitement among football enthusiasts eager to see which club will lift the coveted silverware.

East End Lions, popularly known as "The Killers," secured their place in the final following a determined 1-0 victory over FC Kallon in the semifinal stage. Their disciplined performance demonstrated the team's determination to add another major trophy to its rich history.

Mighty Blackpool, meanwhile, booked their place in the final after overcoming Abacha City in a dramatic semifinal encounter. The former champions prevailed 4-2 in a penalty shootout after a fiercely contested match, setting up a mouthwatering final against their long-time rivals.

The upcoming encounter revives one of the most celebrated rivalries in Sierra Leonean football. Both clubs boast decades of success and passionate fan bases, making the final one of the most eagerly awaited fixtures in recent years.

Football analysts believe the match could be a closely fought contest, with both sides possessing the experience, talent, and determination required to claim the title. Supporters from both camps are expected to create an electric atmosphere at the Southern Arena as they rally behind their teams.

With the trophy now unveiled, tickets on sale, and preparations nearing completion, all eyes will be on Bo City on June 20 as East End Lions and Mighty Blackpool write another chapter in their historic rivalry in the quest for Orange FA Cup glory. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/orange-fa-cup-final-set-for-historic-clash-between-east-end-lions-and-mighty-blackpool-in-bo-southern-arena/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Executive Director of the National Investment Board (NIB), Dr. Edward Hinga Sandy, has called for stronger investment support for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), describing them as a critical driver of economic growth, job creation, and private sector development in Sierra Leone.

Dr. Sandy made the call on Wednesday, 11 June 2026, while delivering the opening remarks at the Sierra Leone Economic Diversification Project (SLEDP) Investor Roundtable held at the Bintumani Conference Centre in Freetown. The event was held under the theme, "Converting Investor Interest into Closed Transactions."

The roundtable, organised under SLEDP with support from the World Bank and the Ministry of Finance, brought together investors, development partners, government institutions, business leaders, and twenty-one investment-ready Sierra Leonean SMEs seeking to attract capital and strategic partnerships. The initiative was implemented by IBF Expertise SA in partnership with The Betts Firm Consult.

In his address, Dr. Sandy said Sierra Leone is steadily repositioning itself as an emerging investment destination in West Africa through ongoing reforms designed to improve the business environment and strengthen investor confidence.

He highlighted several key initiatives undertaken by the National Investment Board to facilitate investment, including the establishment of the One Stop Shop Business Solutions Centre, the proposed Companies and Business Registration Bill, and the forthcoming Online Business Registration System.

According to Dr. Sandy, the SMEs participating in the roundtable represent some of Sierra Leone's most promising enterprises across sectors such as tourism, hospitality, agribusiness, technology, innovation, and the creative economy. He urged investors to move beyond expressions of interest and pursue concrete business transactions that will enable local enterprises to expand, generate employment opportunities, and contribute meaningfully to national development.

As part of the event, Dr. Sandy also participated in a high-level panel discussion on the SME Ecosystem and Policy Opportunities Forum alongside representatives from the Ministry of Trade and Industry, the Sierra Leone Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture, and The Betts Firm Consult.

The panel discussions focused on strengthening collaboration within the private sector, expanding trade and investment opportunities, and creating an enabling environment for sustainable business growth and entrepreneurship.

The Investor Roundtable further reaffirmed the Government of Sierra Leone's commitment to fostering a competitive investment climate and supporting SMEs as key drivers of economic transformation, innovation, and inclusive growth. Stakeholders expressed optimism that stronger partnerships between government, investors, and local businesses will help unlock the country's economic potential and accelerate sustainable development. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/nib-boss-pushes-for-greater-sme-investment-at-sledp-investor-roundtable/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) has concluded a two-day stakeholders' engagement aimed at integrating Electoral Administration and Political Education into the country's university system, marking what officials described as a significant step towards strengthening democratic governance.

The forum, held in Freetown from 11 to 12 June 2026, was organised in collaboration with the Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC) and the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education. The initiative is anchored in Recommendation 13 of the Cross-Party Committee Report on Electoral Systems and Management Bodies' Review, which advocates the inclusion of governance and electoral studies in school and university curricula.

Addressing university vice chancellors, principals, curriculum development experts, media representatives, and other stakeholders, the Chief Electoral Commissioner and Chairman of ECSL, Edmond Sylvester Alpha, described the engagement as a "deliberate and historic step" towards reshaping Sierra Leone's electoral culture.

He noted that the gathering represented a direct response to the Cross-Party Committee's recommendation that the Electoral Commission work with educational authorities to incorporate governance and electoral topics into the nation's educational system while strengthening civic and voter education initiatives.

According to Alpha, the report emerged from an inclusive national dialogue and called for the development of academic programmes on electoral administration and governance in collaboration with universities and other tertiary institutions.

"We are moving from recommendation to action," he said, adding that the initiative seeks to build a generation of Sierra Leoneans who understand democracy, elections, and civic responsibility.

The ECSL Chairman stressed that elections should not be viewed as isolated events that occur every five years but as a permanent pillar of democracy sustained by informed citizens, professional administrators, and a political culture rooted in integrity.

He observed that knowledge of election management, legal frameworks, logistical systems, and ethical standards has largely remained within a small group of practitioners and said the proposed curriculum would broaden access to that expertise.

Alpha identified three major benefits expected from the institutionalisation of electoral education.

Firstly, he said it would create a professional pipeline by nurturing future electoral administrators, researchers, political and civic educators with both academic and practical knowledge of democratic processes.

Secondly, he explained that integrating political education into university programmes would help foster a culture of electoral integrity by promoting tolerance, non-violence, and respect for the rule of law among future leaders in politics, civil society, the media, and public institutions.

Thirdly, he maintained that an educated electorate remains the strongest defence against misinformation, electoral manipulation, and political apathy.

The ECSL Chairman emphasised that the two-day engagement was not merely about introducing another academic subject but about developing a comprehensive and non-partisan curriculum through collaboration.

Participants were invited to deliberate on the content of an electoral studies programme, ways of balancing theory with the practical realities of Sierra Leone's electoral system, and strategies for tailoring courses to undergraduate, postgraduate, and professional certification levels.

He also highlighted the need for teaching approaches that would not only educate students about elections but also cultivate civic values capable of shaping responsible public conduct.

Alpha praised the expertise of university leaders and curriculum specialists, describing them as the driving force behind the initiative.

"The Electoral Commission brings technical knowledge of election management, while the academic community provides the rigour and institutional authority required to teach and certify these programmes," he said.

Reaffirming the Commission's commitment, Alpha disclosed that ECSL would provide institutional knowledge, resource materials, and technical personnel to support the implementation process.

He also announced plans to facilitate internships, election observerships, and joint research programmes for students.

The ECSL Chairman expressed the hope that, in the near future, graduates from Sierra Leonean universities would complete courses in electoral democracy that equip them to contribute meaningfully to credible elections.

He further called on the academic community to take ownership of the initiative, stressing that its long-term success would depend on the commitment of universities.

In a separate address during the workshop, Alpha underscored the importance of developing a curriculum in Electoral Governance for higher education institutions.

He noted that the quality of democratic institutions depends largely on the quality of citizens, leaders, and electoral practitioners produced through education.

According to him, credible elections require strong institutions, sound legal frameworks, ethical leadership, informed citizens, and competent electoral administrators.

He observed that modern electoral processes have become increasingly complex, involving issues such as voter education, electoral technology, election security, campaign financing, dispute resolution, misinformation, gender inclusion, youth participation, and electoral integrity.

Alpha therefore argued that higher education institutions should offer structured programmes capable of preparing a new generation of professionals to effectively manage and support democratic processes.

He also stressed the importance of collaboration among electoral bodies, ministries, universities, civil society organisations, development partners, political parties, and the media to ensure that the curriculum reflects both international best practices and Sierra Leone's national realities.

Concluding the engagement, the ECSL Chairman described democracy as a learned behaviour sustained by knowledge, values, and habits passed from one generation to another.

He said embedding electoral administration and political education in the university system would help professionalise democracy, strengthen electoral integrity, enhance citizen participation, and contribute to peaceful and credible elections for generations to come. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/ecsl-chairman-urges-universities-to-drive-democratic-governance-education/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has undertaken a comprehensive inspection tour of some of Sierra Leone’s most important heritage, tourism, and environmental sites, reaffirming his Government’s commitment to preserving the nation’s history, promoting sustainable tourism, and safeguarding its natural resources for future generations.

The inspection tour, conducted on Thursday, 11 June 2026, took the President to Bunce Island, the Leicester Peak Viewpoint, and the Tacugama Innovation Centre, three landmark destinations that showcase Sierra Leone’s unique blend of history, culture, and ecological wealth.

A major highlight of the visit was President Bio’s historic tour of Bunce Island, marking the first visit by a sitting Sierra Leonean President to the site in four decades. The visit reflects the administration’s determination to preserve national heritage, strengthen tourism, and deepen engagement with descendants of the African diaspora across the world.

Located in the Sierra Leone River, Bunce Island remains one of West Africa’s most significant historical landmarks and an enduring symbol of the transatlantic slave trade. The island served as a major British slave trading post from the late seventeenth century and today stands as a place of remembrance, reflection, and resilience.

During a guided tour of the historic site, the President received detailed briefings on the island’s role in the transatlantic slave trade and its lasting significance in world history. He visited key remnants of the former slave fortress, including holding areas and defensive structures that bear witness to the experiences of thousands of Africans who passed through the island before being transported across the Atlantic.

The President was also briefed on Bunce Island’s historical links with descendants of enslaved Africans in North America, particularly communities in the United States whose ancestral roots trace back to Sierra Leone. These connections continue to create opportunities for cultural exchange, heritage preservation, and diaspora engagement.

President Bio emphasized that preserving such historic sites forms part of the Government’s broader national development agenda, noting that they serve as important tools for education, historical reflection, and economic growth through tourism.

During the visit, the President laid a wreath in honour of the thousands of enslaved Africans who passed through the island, paying tribute to their resilience and sacrifice while reaffirming Sierra Leone’s commitment to preserving this important chapter of world history.

The President later proceeded to the newly developed Leicester Peak Viewpoint, one of the Government’s flagship tourism infrastructure projects.

Accompanied by the Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Nabeela Tunis, he toured the modern facility, which offers panoramic views of Freetown and the Atlantic coastline. The upgraded viewpoint is part of the Government’s broader strategy to transform Sierra Leone into a competitive and attractive tourism destination.

Commending the Ministry of Tourism for the transformation of the site, President Bio praised the quality of the work and stressed the importance of maintaining the facility.

“I want to thank you all for this tremendous job you have done here. This facelift will attract tourists and help reposition Sierra Leone as a tourism destination. However, I urge all of you to keep this place clean and tidy so that it can continue to serve the purpose for which it was built,” the President said.

He further noted that investments in tourism infrastructure are essential for creating jobs, stimulating local economies, and showcasing Sierra Leone’s natural beauty to the international community.

As part of the inspection tour, President Bio also visited the Tacugama Innovation Centre project, where construction is progressing on a state-of-the-art facility designed to promote tourism, education, environmental conservation, and creativity.

The ambitious project will feature a green park, observation tower, greenhouse, visitor centre, hiking trails, amphitheatre, children’s recreational facilities, and a canopy walk. Upon completion, the centre will also include a cinema, library, studio, boardroom, rooftop cafeteria, and exhibition spaces, creating a unique destination that combines learning, recreation, and environmental awareness.

Expressing satisfaction with the pace and quality of work, President Bio described the Innovation Centre as a transformative initiative aligned with Sierra Leone’s sustainable development aspirations.

“The Tacugama Innovation Centre should be utilized as a space for creativity, conservation, and sustainable development,” the President stated.

He also issued a strong warning against encroachment and land grabbing within protected conservation areas, stressing that the Government would take decisive action against individuals who threaten the country’s environmental assets.

“I want to give a clear warning against encroachment here. The law will take its full course against those who engage in land grabbing in conservation areas,” he cautioned.

The inspection tour reflects the Bio administration’s integrated approach to national development by leveraging Sierra Leone’s historical heritage, tourism potential, and environmental resources to drive economic growth, strengthen national identity, and create opportunities for future generations. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/president-bio-tours-bunce-island-leicester-peak-and-tacugama-to-boost-eco-tourism/