By Amin Kef Sesay

Austria has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Sierra Leone following the official opening of refurbished premises for the Austrian Honorary Consulate in Freetown and a series of high-level engagements focused on youth empowerment, diplomacy, regional security and international justice.

The new Honorary Consulate of the Republic of Austria - located on 18 Spur Road, Freetown—was formally inaugurated on Monday, February 23, 2026, by Austria’s Deputy Minister of European and International Affairs, His Excellency Dr. Nikolaus Marschik. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was attended by senior officials of the Government of Sierra Leone, members of the diplomatic corps and a visiting Austrian delegation, marking what Austrian officials described as a renewed and more visible diplomatic presence in the country.

Among those present on the Sierra Leonean side were the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hon. Francess Piagie Alghali, and the Minister of Planning and Economic Development, Kenyeh Barlay, alongside ambassadors, high commissioners and other diplomatic guests. The Austrian delegation comprised H.E. Dr. Nikolaus Marschik; H.E. Ursula Fahringer, Austria’s Ambassador to Sierra Leone (resident in Dakar, Senegal); Mr. Gilbert Schenkenbach, Adviser to the Ministry of European and International Affairs of Austria; Ms. Sophie Jenerwein, Secretary of Legation; Mr. Felix K. Bigl, Premier Secrétaire (Affaires Administratives) and Consul; and Mr. Ram Mahboobani Shankerdas, Austria’s Honorary Consul to Sierra Leone.

Speaking during the opening, Dr. Nikolaus Marschik described the occasion as “a fantastic and wonderful evening” in the history of relations between Austria and Sierra Leone, stressing that the visit went beyond ceremonial diplomacy to include intensive political and development engagements. “We really had interesting and intensive relations today. We had a political dialogue. We discussed bilateral issues. We discussed challenges in our respective neighborhoods. And we also discussed how we can together strengthen an international rules-based order, which is so important to Sierra Leone,” he stated.

Dr. Nikolaus Marschik outlined three key areas he said defined the day’s engagements. First, he pointed to the political dialogue held earlier, emphasizing that discussions covered both bilateral cooperation and wider regional dynamics. Second, he highlighted Austria’s longstanding support to youth development initiatives in Sierra Leone, particularly through Don Bosco programmes. Third, he said the opening of the refurbished honorary consulate premises represented a practical strengthening of Austria’s diplomatic footprint in Sierra Leone, anchored by the work of the Honorary Consul.

Commending Mr. Ram Mahboobani Shankerdas, Dr. Nikolaus Marschik said: “I really think that our Consul Ram is doing a fantastic job. I have seen you, we met yesterday evening when I arrived, and I’m really impressed by how professional, using  your expertise and you really give an inspiration to us all.” He added that the upgraded consular presence was intended to enhance service delivery and deepen the day-to-day link between the two countries.

A major feature of the Austrian delegation’s visit was a tour of Don Bosco Fambul Technical and Vocational Institute in Freetown, where they witnessed vocational and technical training programmes designed to equip vulnerable youth, especially former street children, young mothers and those seeking a second chance, with practical skills in trades such as welding, carpentry, tailoring, ICT and other livelihood areas.

Explaining why Don Bosco was a central focus, Dr. Nikolaus Marschik told stakeholders: “We’re here to see what you’re doing and I really want to applaud and commend you, Father, and your team here at Don Bosco and the Don Bosco family for your important work. We were thinking what can we do to make a very small… contribution to your important work. And that’s why our embassy and our ambassador and our consul… were thinking of how can we support your important work and how can we come and look what you’re doing.”

He further referenced a component of Don Bosco programming supporting young women, noting that the institution was empowering “over 30 young women” to develop employable skills. “Don Bosco is helping and assisting and supporting about over 30 young women in getting to know, to learn, being IT experts, being tailors, being hairdressers. And it was really wonderful of seeing these young women so devoted to their work,” he said.

In a symbolic demonstration of Austria’s support for youth empowerment and skills development, Dr. Nikolaus Marschik announced a financial contribution to back Don Bosco’s ongoing work. “So we are bringing you a small financial support that I’m happy to give it to you. Father… here there’s a symbolic sum of 10,000 euros,” he disclosed, adding that investment in people remains central to Austria’s cooperation approach. “What you’re doing is investing into the most important what we have on earth and that’s people. People is the most important, and you are the most important, and if you have the chance to have a wonderful perspective, we are very happy to do it,” he said.

Welcoming the delegation, Rev. Fr. Edwin Ngeoyeh Tangie SDB, Rector and Director of Don Bosco Fambul Technical and Vocational Institute, described Don Bosco as “a beacon of hope” for vulnerable children and young people, stressing that international partnerships have a human impact beyond equipment and infrastructure. “The generous support from the Austrian people… does not simply buy equipment or pay for materials. It does something far more profound: it restores dignity,” he told the visiting team. He explained that beneficiaries gain not only technical competence but also renewed self-worth and independence, urging the delegation to look beyond the workshops and “look into the eyes of the students” to see hope and transformation.

Also speaking, Deputy Director Samuel Thomas Bojohn described Austria as one of Don Bosco Fambul’s longest-serving partners and recalled the consistency of support even during Sierra Leone’s civil war years. “Normally, we have been working with these vulnerable people. And during the difficult moments, especially during the war, it was the Austrian government that we have behind us… they have been the longest serving donors that have been working with us,” he said. While acknowledging that “10,000 euro” may appear modest externally, he emphasized its local impact: “For you, you say 10,000 euro donation is a small thing, but for us, it goes a long way to develop the minds of people of Sierra Leone,” he stated, while also referencing the broader Don Bosco infrastructure beyond Freetown, including facilities in rural communities on the peninsula.

A beneficiary of the programme, Kadija Bangura, credited Don Bosco’s skills training for transforming her life and enabling her to become financially independent. “I want to thank Don Bosco for transforming my life. Through their skill training programs, I have been equipped with skills… that I now use to support myself financially. I kindly call on the donors to continue their support as there are other young women like me in need of empowerment,” she appealed.

In her remarks during the consulate opening, Ambassador Ursula Fahringer thanked her team for making the event possible and expressed optimism that the visit would serve as a turning point in Austria–Sierra Leone relations. In an interview with journalists, she provided historical context, stating that Austria has maintained an honorary consulate in Sierra Leone since 1958, though it was temporarily closed in 2015 and later reopened in 2023 with the appointment of Mr. Ram Shankerdas as Honorary Consul. “We have had an honorary consulate in Sierra Leone since 1958. Then it was temporarily closed in 2015 and in 2023 we reopened it with Mr. Ram Shankerdas as an honorary consul. And now we offer these fantastic premises… in a super location and we are very happy for its generosity and the fantastic work… done here,” she said.

Ambassador Fahringer added that a second goal of the occasion was to facilitate Dr. Marschik’s visit to Sierra Leone. “We managed to convince our Deputy Foreign Minister to visit Sierra Leone on the occasion of the opening of this premises in Freetown today. We visited projects which are supported by Austria,” she noted.

Significantly, she described the delegation’s courtesy visit to Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh as a landmark engagement. “Our visit to the Vice President was the first bilateral visit of… a high-ranking Austrian delegation in this century,” she said, adding that the meeting addressed bilateral and multilateral issues as well as regional security dynamics, particularly the Sahel. “We exchanged on the situation in the region because His Excellency is an expert on the Sahel region… it was a very intensive meeting and it was a very enriching talk,” she stated.

The ambassador also highlighted discussions with Freetown Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr OBE, describing the exchange as a useful first comparison of urban governance challenges. “The mayor explained to us the challenges of a capital city and we also exchanged what the challenges are for Vienna… There are some similarities, we have about 2 million inhabitants, Freetown has about 2 million inhabitants… Bo… has about 300,000 inhabitants… Austria’s second city… about 300,000 inhabitants. But there are also differences… so it was a first exchange on what she is doing here and what are her biggest challenges,” she explained.

Delivering a message directly to Sierra Leoneans, Ambassador Fahringer praised the country’s resilience and urged young people to take ownership of national development. “You have had some difficult years behind you, but you are a very resilient population… You have a young generation which is creative. Go ahead and forge the future of your country,” she said.

The Austrian delegation later visited the Peace Museum at the Residual Special Court for Sierra Leone (RSCSL), where they were briefed on Austria’s historical contributions to the court’s work. Principal Defender Ibrahim Yillah acknowledged Austria’s consistent financial and material support since the institution’s establishment and highlighted the contribution of Austrian jurist Dr. Renate Winter, whom he described as instrumental in shaping jurisprudence related to children’s rights and in establishing the recruitment of children in armed conflict as a prosecutable war crime.

During the tour, the delegation visited the archive room, memorial garden and exhibition hall before Dr. Marschik lit the Flame of Justice, a symbolic gesture underscoring Austria’s continued commitment to accountability, human rights and the rule of law.

From diplomatic consultations and governance exchanges to youth empowerment support and justice-sector engagement, the series of activities signaled what officials framed as Austria’s evolving and multi-dimensional partnership with Sierra Leone. By reopening and upgrading its honorary consulate, supporting vocational training for vulnerable youth and reaffirming backing for international justice mechanisms, Austria projected a renewed diplomatic footprint grounded in political dialogue, development cooperation and shared global values—while Sierra Leone, in turn, marked the moment as both a strengthening of bilateral ties and a reminder of the enduring importance of investing in people and institutions for a stable and prosperous future. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/austria-strengthens-diplomatic-footprint-in-sierra-leone-opens-honorary-consulate-supports-don-bosco-with-e10000-visits-peace-museum/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Tensions have emerged along the Sierra Leone–Guinea border following conflicting official accounts from both governments regarding an incident that occurred over the weekend in the Falaba–Faranah axis.

In a press release dated February 24, 2026, the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Guinea stated that on Sunday, February 22, 2026, several dozen armed Sierra Leonean soldiers allegedly entered Guinean territory without authorization in the district of Koudaya, Sub-Prefecture of Sandénia, Prefecture of Faranah. According to the Guinean authorities, the location was approximately 1.4 kilometres inside Guinean territory, at coordinates 9°59’04.9”N, 11°11’17.6”W, where the soldiers reportedly erected a tent and hoisted the Sierra Leone national flag.

The Guinean Armed Forces said they were immediately deployed to the area upon receiving the alert and confirmed the presence of Sierra Leonean military personnel on the ground. The statement added that sixteen Sierra Leonean soldiers were apprehended and their equipment and materials seized. Guinean authorities further disclosed that the detained personnel and confiscated items had been handed over to the judicial police for investigation.

The release, signed in Conakry by Guinea’s Chief of the General Staff, General of Army Corps Ibrahima Sory Bangoura, commended the Guinean units involved for what it described as their responsiveness and professionalism. It also called on Guinea’s Defense and Security Forces to remain vigilant and mobilized to safeguard the country’s territorial integrity.

However, the Government of Sierra Leone has presented a different account of the incident. In a press release issued on February 24, 2026, by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education, authorities in Freetown confirmed that personnel of the Guinean Armed Forces crossed into the border town of Kaliyeréh in Sulima Chiefdom, Falaba District, on Monday, February 23, 2026.

According to the Government of Sierra Leone, members of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) and the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) were deployed in the area at the time, engaged in the production of bricks for the construction of a border post and accommodation facility intended to enhance security operations. The Government stated that the Sierra Leone national flag had been hoisted within territory internationally recognized as belonging to Sierra Leone.

During the encounter, Guinean forces reportedly apprehended several members of the joint security team, including an officer, and transported them across the border into Guinean territory. Their arms and ammunition were also seized.

The Government of Sierra Leone disclosed that it is actively engaging through established diplomatic and security channels to ascertain the exact location and status of the detained personnel and to secure their safe and unconditional release. Authorities further indicated that the matter has been formally communicated to relevant national, regional and sub-regional bodies as part of efforts to ensure a peaceful and amicable resolution.

Officials in Freetown emphasized that the Government remains fully responsive to the situation and has constituted a fact-finding mission to establish the sequence of events and provide clarity on the circumstances surrounding the incident. The public has been assured that updates will be provided as verified information becomes available, underscoring the Government’s commitment to transparency and the maintenance of regional peace and stability. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/guinean-army-confirms-16-sierra-leonean-security-personnel-in-custody-over-border-incursion-diplomatic-efforts-underway/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

As internal political conversations intensify within the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) ahead of its next flagbearer contest, attention has increasingly turned to Vice President Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh and the constitutional implications of a potential bid for the party’s leadership. While political debates are expected in any vibrant democracy, a careful reading of Sierra Leone’s 1991 Constitution suggests that some of the arguments being advanced against his ambition rest more on political interpretation than constitutional mandate.

At the centre of the debate lies a straightforward but crucial question: if Vice President Juldeh Jalloh complies with internal party rules and resigns as Deputy Leader of the SLPP to contest for the flagbearer position, must he also resign as Vice President of the Republic of Sierra Leone?

A constitutional perspective indicates that the answer is no.

Sierra Leone’s constitutional order clearly separates party governance from state governance. While political parties serve as the vehicles through which candidates enter national elections, constitutional offices derive their authority from the electorate through the supreme law of the land. The Vice Presidency is not created by a party constitution; it is established under Sections 54 and 55 of the 1991 Constitution.

Section 42 provides that a presidential candidate shall be nominated by a political party. Section 41 further outlines that such a candidate must be a member of a political party. Those provisions define the entry requirements for participation in presidential elections. However, once elected, both the President and Vice President hold office by constitutional mandate, not by virtue of continued occupancy of party leadership positions.

The distinction between party nomination and constitutional tenure is fundamental.

Critics who argue that resignation from the SLPP Deputy Leader position would automatically dissolve Vice President Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh’s constitutional office appear to conflate internal party office with party membership. Yet the Constitution does not equate the two. The constitutional requirement is that a presidential or vice-presidential candidate be nominated by and belong to a political party. It does not stipulate that the officeholder must continuously hold a specific rank within that party.

That distinction was underscored in the legal and political controversy surrounding former Vice President Samuel Sam-Sumana. In that matter, the issue revolved around ceasing to belong to the political party that nominated him. The vacancy question arose from expulsion and the alleged loss of party membership. The emphasis was on belonging — not hierarchy.

Membership is the constitutional pivot.

Party office is internal structure.

If Vice President Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh were to resign as Deputy Leader to comply with Clause 16C of the SLPP Constitution, he would remain a member of the SLPP. He would not become independent. He would not sever ties with the party that nominated him on a joint ticket. Therefore, the constitutional link established under Section 42 would remain intact.

Section 55 of the Constitution clearly outlines the circumstances under which a Vice President shall cease to hold office. These include resignation from the office itself, removal through constitutional procedures or other clearly defined grounds. Resignation from party leadership is not listed among them.

In constitutional democracies, removal from state office cannot be inferred. It must be explicitly grounded in constitutional text.

To interpret internal party restructuring as a trigger for constitutional vacancy would risk undermining institutional stability. Political parties frequently undergo leadership changes, internal contests and structural adjustments. If each such development had the power to automatically destabilize constitutional offices, governance would become vulnerable to partisan manoeuvring.

The framers of the 1991 Constitution deliberately insulated constitutional offices from that kind of volatility.

Moreover, political ambition while in office is neither unusual nor constitutionally prohibited. Across democratic systems, incumbents routinely seek nomination or re-election while holding office. The Constitution regulates conduct, eligibility and removal not aspiration. Ethical or political debates about fairness are distinct from legal requirements.

Vice President Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh’s potential interest in the SLPP flagbearer position can therefore be viewed as part of the normal evolution of democratic leadership. Internal party rules may require him to resign as Deputy Leader in order to ensure a level playing field within the party contest. That is a matter of party governance. But it does not translate into an automatic constitutional obligation to relinquish the Vice Presidency.

There is also a broader institutional consideration at play. If resignation from party leadership were treated as constitutionally fatal to state office, political actors could weaponize party rules to indirectly influence national governance. Party executives would, in effect, gain leverage over constitutional tenure. That outcome would erode the separation between party authority and state authority; a separation that is vital for democratic resilience.

Sierra Leone’s constitutional supremacy clause makes clear that the Constitution prevails over any inconsistent law or rule. Party constitutions cannot expand the grounds for removal from constitutional office beyond what the national Constitution provides. Internal party compliance may be mandatory within the party structure, but it cannot override constitutional tenure.

In assessing this debate, it is also important to return to the will of the electorate. Vice President Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh was elected as part of a joint ticket nominated by the SLPP. His mandate flows from that electoral choice. So long as he remains a member of the party that nominated him, the constitutional foundation remains secure.

Political competition within the SLPP is a sign of internal democratic vitality. It reflects a party preparing for transition and renewal. Such processes should not be misconstrued as constitutional crises.

The rule of law requires precision. It requires reading what is written, not inserting what is politically convenient. Sections 41 and 42 address party membership and nomination. Sections 54 and 55 govern the Vice Presidency. None of these provisions require continuous occupation of party leadership as a condition for remaining in constitutional office.

From a constitutional perspective, therefore, Vice President Juldeh Jalloh’s potential pursuit of the SLPP flagbearer position does not automatically trigger resignation from the Vice Presidency. Compliance with party rules concerns internal office. Continuation in constitutional office is governed exclusively by constitutional provisions.

Sierra Leone’s democratic stability depends on maintaining that clarity.

In the final analysis, this debate should reinforce rather than weaken constitutional discipline. Ambition may be political. Party leadership may be contested. But constitutional office remains governed by constitutional text.

As the SLPP prepares for its internal processes, the broader national interest lies in ensuring that legal interpretation remains grounded in law, not factional contest. A mature democracy distinguishes between party rivalry and constitutional requirement.

On that measure, the constitutional framework appears clear: resignation from party leadership does not equate to resignation from the Vice Presidency. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/constitutional-clarity-and-political-continuity-why-vice-president-juldeh-jallohs-flagbearer-ambition-does-not-trigger-resignation/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Vice President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, on Sunday, 21 February 2026, made a brief but impactful stop at the Mile 91 Ahmadiyya Muslim Mosque, where he joined worshippers for the Ashr prayer, in a gesture that underscored his continued commitment to faith, unity and grassroots engagement.

The unexpected visit formed part of his broader community interactions during his journey to Mattru Jong. Worshippers at the mosque were pleasantly surprised to see the Vice President step into the congregation and participate fully in the afternoon prayer. Dressed in a neatly tailored cream-coloured traditional kaftan and matching light brown Muslim cap, he stood shoulder to shoulder with fellow worshippers, reflecting the spirit of equality and unity that defines Islamic devotion.

For many present, the Vice President’s presence went beyond symbolism. Community members described the moment as one of shared reflection and humility, noting that his decision to pray alongside them reinforced a sense of accessibility in national leadership. They observed that such gestures strengthen public trust and bridge the gap between governance and ordinary citizens.

Following the prayer, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh exchanged warm greetings with congregants and held brief conversations with elders and youths alike. Among those who welcomed him was Paramount Chief (PC) Bai Shebora III, who expressed appreciation on behalf of the community for the Vice President’s visit and described it as a sign of respect for local institutions and traditions.

Residents of Mile 91 expressed gratitude for what they termed a meaningful engagement, emphasizing that his willingness to participate in everyday religious life sent a powerful message of solidarity, shared values and national cohesion. As he departed the mosque, the atmosphere remained filled with admiration and inspiration, with many noting that the visit would be remembered as a moment of closeness between leadership and the people.

Earlier, on Saturday, 21 February 2026, the Vice President also transformed routine travel into moments of genuine community connection during stopovers en route to Mattru Jong. Rather than simply passing through towns along the way, he stepped out to interact directly with residents, reinforcing his reputation for grassroots outreach.

His first stop was at Luawa Community in Bonthe District, where women and children gathered eagerly to welcome him. Smiling and exchanging pleasantries, he encouraged residents to remain steadfast in promoting peace and national stability. Observers noted the excitement among children who waved enthusiastically, while women expressed appreciation for the opportunity to briefly share their concerns and aspirations.

Another stop at Abacha in Mattru Jong saw the Vice President interacting with market women in the bustling trading area. The marketplace slowed momentarily as traders gathered around to greet him, their cheers reflecting admiration and encouragement. Many described the encounter as uplifting, noting that such engagements reaffirm the bond between national leadership and local communities.

Throughout the engagements, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh maintained a calm, approachable and attentive demeanor. By stepping into mosques, communities and marketplaces, he turned official travel into opportunities for meaningful dialogue, leaving behind renewed hope and a reinforced message of unity, peace and inclusive progress. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/vice-president-joins-ashr-prayer-at-mile-91-engages-communities-en-route-to-bonthe-and-mattru-jong/

Freetown’s fast-evolving hospitality sector continues to reflect a growing demand for refined lifestyle experiences and at the forefront of that transformation is Lǒr Restaurant, an upscale dining destination strategically located along the scenic Peninsular Highway within the Juba–Goderich axis. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the restaurant has steadily positioned itself as a defining symbol of contemporary culinary excellence in Sierra Leone’s capital.

Since opening its doors, Lǒr Restaurant has attracted a diverse clientele that includes business executives, diplomats, members of the creative industry, tourists and families seeking a premium yet welcoming atmosphere. Industry observers note that the establishment’s success lies not merely in its menu offerings but in its ability to curate a complete dining experience where cuisine, ambiance and service seamlessly complement one another.

Patrons frequently describe the restaurant as a place where professionalism meets relaxation. The attention to detail, from table settings to presentation and staff coordination, reflects a deliberate commitment to high standards. Management emphasizes that hospitality at Lǒr is intentionally crafted to ensure that every visit feels distinctive and memorable.

A major contributor to the restaurant’s rising profile is its expansive international menu, designed to cater to varied tastes and cultural preferences. Guests can enjoy a wide selection of Italian, Japanese, Lebanese, Indian and authentic Sierra Leonean dishes, each prepared with a focus on quality and presentation. The kitchen has become particularly renowned for its expertly grilled meats and fresh seafood offerings, which have evolved into signature attractions.

Among the most talked-about specialties are the golden tomahawk steak, T-bone steak, volcano shrimp and Ebi tempura shrimp; dishes widely praised for both flavor and visual appeal. For diners seeking lighter options, selections such as salmon salads and assorted seafood platters provide balanced alternatives while maintaining premium culinary standards.

Beyond its cuisine, the restaurant’s architectural design and setting significantly enhance its appeal. The modern interior features elegant décor, refined finishes and carefully balanced lighting that creates a warm yet sophisticated ambiance. Its rooftop dining and bar area, offering sweeping views of the Atlantic coastline, has quickly become one of Freetown’s most desirable spots for sunset dinners, corporate receptions, private celebrations and social gatherings.

Hospitality analysts observe that Lǒr’s popularity reflects a broader cultural shift within Freetown, where residents increasingly embrace high-end dining and leisure experiences comparable to international standards. The restaurant’s extended operating hours, opening daily from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. on weekdays and until 12:15 a.m. on weekends, further demonstrate its responsiveness to diverse customer lifestyles.

To enhance convenience, the establishment provides multiple payment options, including cash, Visa, Mastercard and digital transfers. Free parking, valet services and private event spaces add to its appeal as a comprehensive lifestyle venue rather than simply a dining outlet. Due to growing weekend demand, management encourages advance reservations to ensure a seamless experience.

Positioned within Sierra Leone’s expanding tourism and hospitality ecosystem, Lǒr Restaurant continues to set a benchmark for modern fine dining. By blending refined international cuisine with oceanfront elegance and attentive service, it stands as a testament to Freetown’s emergence as a city where culinary sophistication and coastal charm meet in perfect harmony.

Key Details:


Location: Peninsular Highway, Juba/Goderich, Freetown


Contact: +232 90 002000


Cuisine: International (Sierra Leonean, Italian, Japanese, Lebanese, Indian)


Hours: 9:00 a.m.–11:00 p.m. (Weekdays); until 12:15 a.m. (Weekends) https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/from-rooftop-views-to-gourmet-plates-lor-restaurant-leads-freetowns-culinary-renaissance/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

An independent investigation conducted by this medium has examined recent audit findings concerning the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) and its Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE) tax obligations to the National Revenue Authority (NRA). While the audit highlighted discrepancies in the computation and documentation of PAYE payments, our findings show that the situation is largely connected to legacy liabilities and long-standing financial constraints rather than deliberate wrongdoing.

According to documents reviewed, the SLCAA recorded its PAYE liability for the 2023 financial year at NLe 5,263,731.41. However, auditors recalculated the correct amount to be NLe 5,567,935.03, creating a difference of NLe 304,203.62. The audit also identified an outstanding PAYE-related balance of NLe 2,520,146.55. In addition, auditors stated that at the time of their review, there was no supporting documentation available to confirm that the full recalculated amount had been remitted to the NRA.

PAYE is tax deducted directly from employees’ salaries and must be paid to the NRA as required by law. Any difference in figures or delay in documentation naturally attracts attention. However, this investigation found that the SLCAA has been operating under significant financial pressure due to the structure of the Treasury Single Account (TSA) system.

Under this system, all revenue generated by the SLCAA is collected by the NRA and paid into the Government’s central account. From there, 80 percent of the funds are supposed to be transferred back to the Authority to support its operations. Financial records and sources close to the matter indicate that those transfers have not always been made consistently or on time. It is understood that more than NLe 20 billion in operational funds due to the SLCAA remain un-transferred.

This situation has reportedly created cash flow challenges for the Authority, affecting the timing of some payments, including statutory obligations. Despite those challenges, there is no evidence to suggest that the SLCAA failed to deduct PAYE from employees’ salaries. The issue appears to center on reconciliation, documentation and the timing of remittances.

Our investigation also shows that some of the liabilities mentioned in the audit date back to previous financial periods. Internal handover notes indicate that certain tax exposures were inherited from earlier administrations and have been carried forward over time. This suggests that the discrepancies are part of a broader historical issue rather than a new development.

Sources within the finance department confirmed that a reconciliation exercise has already been completed to address the 2023 variance. The Authority is expected to update its records to reflect the audited figure of NLe 5,567,935.03. Efforts are also underway to compile and submit supporting documentation to the relevant authorities.

The outstanding balance of NLe 2,520,146.55 has been included in a wider reconciliation plan. Financial experts say that possible solutions may involve direct payments or legally approved arrangements to offset tax liabilities against funds owed to the Authority.

It is important to note that the SLCAA plays a critical role in regulating aviation safety and ensuring compliance with international standards. The Authority requires stable funding to conduct inspections, training and oversight activities that protect passengers and maintain Sierra Leone’s aviation credibility. Despite the financial constraints identified, there is no indication that safety standards have been compromised.

This investigation highlights the need for stronger coordination between institutions responsible for revenue collection and those that depend on timely fund transfers. It also underscores the importance of proper documentation and regular reconciliation in public financial management.

Overall, the findings suggest that the challenges facing the SLCAA are rooted in systemic funding issues and historical liabilities rather than intentional non-compliance. With reconciliation efforts ongoing and corrective steps being taken, the Authority appears committed to resolving the discrepancies and strengthening its financial processes moving forward. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/slcaas-paye-challenges-rooted-in-systemic-funding-gaps-rather-than-intentional-non-compliance-independent-investigation-reveals/

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Choithram Memorial Hospital (CMH), in collaboration with INTERPLAST Germany, has concluded its fourth Interplast Camp, a humanitarian medical outreach providing free consultations, treatment and specialized reconstructive surgeries for patients across Sierra Leone.

The two-week program, held from February 10 to 24, 2026, at Choithram Memorial Hospital in Freetown, delivered plastic and reconstructive surgical services for conditions including cleft lip and cleft palate, post-burn contractures, congenital and acquired deformities of the hand, foot and wrist, and tumors affecting the extremities.

The initiative was facilitated by Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to Germany, Dr. M’Baimba Lamin Baryoh and brought together a team of German specialists under the auspices of INTERPLAST, an international organization recognized for providing reconstructive surgical care in low-resource settings worldwide.

The visiting medical team comprised Dr. Lutz Friedbert Wolfgang Gruhl (Plastic Surgeon), Dr. Bernd Markus Heidemann (Hand and Trauma Surgeon), Dr. Olaf Günther Weigt (Anesthetist), Dr. Andreas Weckesser (Hand and Trauma Surgeon), Dr. Friedrich Johannes Goswin Matthaei (Hand and Plastic Surgeon) and Nikolaus Brunner (Anaesthetic Nurse).

According to the hospital, 44 patients successfully underwent surgical procedures during the 2026 outreach.

Speaking in an interview, the Medical Superintendent of Choithram Memorial Hospital, Dr. Gowrinath M. George, said the German team has visited Sierra Leone annually for the past four years to perform complex reconstructive procedures that are often unavailable or unaffordable for many patients. He said the initiative has significantly improved the quality of life of beneficiaries by restoring function and reducing disability.

Dr. Gowrinath M. George explained that access to the program is open to the public through media announcements and public outreach. Prospective patients register for screening by hospital clinicians, after which eligible cases are scheduled for surgery. The Medical Superintendent reported that approximately 200 patients have benefited since the program’s inception, with patients ranging from infants with congenital anomalies to adults aged up to 60–65 years. He added that the hospital provides surgeries, postoperative treatment and discharge medications free of charge, while follow-up dressings and care are also offered at no cost. Local clinicians continue managing patients after the visiting team departs.

Dr. Bernd Markus Heidemann, a hand and trauma surgeon with INTERPLAST Germany, said the free surgical camp marked its fourth consecutive year in Freetown, following an initiative by Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to Germany, Dr. M’Baimba Lamin Baryoh who helped link the hospital with INTERPLAST about four years ago. He said more than 200 patients have been operated on over the period, with 44 surgeries conducted this year, all provided free of charge and reported as successful.

According to him, plastic surgery involves reshaping and reconstructing tissues using available resources, highlighting its importance in managing complex burn injuries. He stressed the intricate anatomy of the hand and the technical challenges of operating within a limited anatomical space.

He said many of the patients treated were children with burn injuries from open fires, hot water or oil, who develop severe contractures during healing, sometimes resulting in claw-like deformities without early splinting. The team’s work focuses on straightening fingers, restoring alignment, and recovering function, which he described as critical for children’s education, future employment and overall quality of life.

Dr. Bernd Markus Heidemann also underscored the importance of pediatric anesthesia in cleft lip and palate surgeries for very young infants, sometimes weighing as little as 3–4 kilograms, noting that the expertise of Dr. Olaf Günther Weigt makes such procedures safe and feasible. He added that cleft conditions often require multiple operations to restore appearance, feeding and speech, and acknowledged the social and emotional burden those conditions place on families, making reconstructive outcomes particularly significant. He further expressed appreciation to local partners involved in organizing and screening patients and reaffirmed the team’s commitment to delivering high-quality, no-cost reconstructive care.

At the closing conference of the Interplast Camp, Dr. Gowrinath M. George announced additional upcoming medical outreach initiatives targeting underserved populations. A Colon Cancer Screening Camp is scheduled to begin on March 12, 2026, led by specialists from the United Kingdom, with a target of about 15 cases and a focus on training and capacity-building for local endoscopy and colonoscopy teams. A second cycle of a free Cataract Surgery Camp will commence on March 21, 2026, with an emphasis on training doctors and nurses, building on previous programs that trained ophthalmologists and nursing staff with support from the Ministry of Health.

Dr. Gowrinath M. George said the initiatives form part of the hospital’s broader strategy to expand access to specialized healthcare services while strengthening local clinical capacity in Sierra Leone. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/choithram-memorial-hospital-interplast-germany-conclude-fourth-free-reconstructive-surgery-camp/