By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh on Thursday, 18 June 2026, joined Sierra Leoneans living in the United Kingdom at the London Civic Day Townhall, a major engagement aimed at strengthening dialogue between the Government of Sierra Leone and the diaspora community on governance, development, national cohesion and civic participation. The event formed part of the Civic Day Series, an ongoing national conversation designed to deepen citizen engagement and strengthen communication between Government institutions and Sierra Leoneans at home and abroad.

Held at Westminster Chapel, Buckingham Gate, London, England SW1E 6BS, the programme was hosted by the Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernoh Bah, and brought together members of the Sierra Leonean diaspora, Government officials, development partners, community leaders and other stakeholders to discuss opportunities and challenges shaping the country's future.

The forum featured a distinguished panel comprising Minister of Health Dr. Austin Demby, Minister of Trade and Industry Alpha Ibrahim Sesay, Deputy Minister of Finance, Kadiatu Allie, Minister of Lands, Housing and Country Planning, Dr. Turad Senesie and Executive Secretary of the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion, Hawa Samai.

Addressing participants, Vice President Dr, Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh emphasized the importance of maintaining strong ties with Sierra Leoneans abroad, describing the diaspora as a critical partner in the country's development journey. He noted that meaningful national progress can only be achieved when citizens, regardless of where they reside, actively contribute to national discourse and decision-making.

“I’m pleased to be in London for the Civic Townhall and to engage with the diaspora on the opportunities and challenges shaping our nation’s future,” he said. “These conversations are an important platform to strengthen ties with our diaspora and explore how their skills, expertise and investments can contribute to national development. I look forward to listening, learning and working together to unlock new opportunities for Sierra Leone.”

The Vice President used the occasion to provide an extensive overview of the Government's development agenda, explaining that Sierra Leone’s current challenges must be understood within the broader historical context of state-building across Africa. He observed that during the 1970s and 1980s, many African countries, including Sierra Leone, struggled to provide essential public services due to weak institutional capacity and limited economic resources. He noted that successive efforts to strengthen state institutions have gradually improved service delivery, healthcare, social protection and support for vulnerable populations.

On governance and national security, Dr. Juldeh Jalloh reported that Sierra Leone remains stable and continues to make significant progress in strengthening its security architecture. He highlighted reforms introduced after the 2023 security incidents, including improvements in coordination, professionalism and responsiveness within the security sector. He also pointed to the decentralization of recruitment into the police and armed forces as a measure designed to promote fairness, transparency and national inclusion.

Turning to economic development, the Vice President described energy as a cornerstone of the Government’s transformation agenda. He noted that electricity access has expanded considerably since 2018 and cited ongoing investments in renewable energy, including the recently commissioned 40-megawatt solar power project and other initiatives aimed at increasing generation capacity. According to him, the Government's target is to increase national electricity access to approximately 78 percent by 2030 through strategic investments and international partnerships.

He also highlighted the Government's flagship agricultural programme, Feed Salone, which seeks to achieve food self-sufficiency and reduce dependence on imported food. He explained that investments are being made in rice cultivation, poultry production, livestock development and rural infrastructure to boost agricultural productivity and strengthen food security.

Discussing the mining sector, Dr. Juldeh Jalloh said the Government has introduced reforms to improve transparency and ensure that natural resource wealth benefits both the state and host communities. He noted that mining companies are now required to contribute to community development funds that support local projects, including schools, healthcare facilities and road infrastructure.

The Vice President further addressed the growing concern over drug abuse, particularly the proliferation of the synthetic drug Kush. He assured participants that Government is responding through rehabilitation programmes, public awareness campaigns and enhanced law enforcement measures aimed at dismantling drug trafficking networks and supporting recovery efforts.

He also underscored the importance of decentralization, explaining that local councils and district authorities are increasingly playing a greater role in governance and service delivery. According to him, bringing decision-making closer to communities allows Government to better understand and address local development priorities.

Health and nutrition featured prominently in his address. Dr. Juldeh Jalloh stated that Government has elevated nutrition as a national priority due to its impact on maternal and child health. He revealed that nutrition programmes have been integrated into national health policies through dedicated budget allocations, nutrition clinics and targeted interventions for pregnant women and children. He also disclosed that he has been invited to Germany later this month to speak on nutrition and its role in improving maternal health outcomes and child development.

Throughout the engagement, participants raised questions, sought clarification on national issues and offered recommendations on governance, accountability and development priorities. Many highlighted the substantial contributions made by Sierra Leoneans abroad through remittances, professional expertise, business investments and international networks. They also called for stronger collaboration and greater opportunities for diaspora participation in national development initiatives.

The Vice President reiterated that Sierra Leone's development strategy is built on governance reform, economic transformation, human capital development and international partnerships. He stressed that engagement with the diaspora remains essential and encouraged continued collaboration between Sierra Leoneans at home and abroad in building a more prosperous and inclusive nation.

The London Civic Day Townhall forms part of the Ministry of Information and Civic Education's broader efforts to strengthen engagement with Sierra Leoneans overseas, promote transparency and foster trust between Government institutions and citizens.

Following the townhall, Dr. Juldeh Jalloh is expected to serve as keynote speaker at the Fourth Sierra Leone Diaspora Investment Conference in London, where discussions will focus on encouraging diaspora investment in key sectors including agriculture, technology, infrastructure, tourism and entrepreneurship. The engagement is widely seen as another important step in reinforcing the partnership between Sierra Leone and its diaspora community while advancing a shared vision for sustainable national development. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/during-london-civic-day-event-vice-president-highlights-government-reforms-investment-opportunities-and-national-development/

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

The Government of Sierra Leone, through the Ministry of Youth Affairs, on Thursday 18 June, 2026, officially opened the first day of the Mano River Union (MRU) Youth Connekt 2026 at the Freetown International Conference Centre in Aberdeen under the theme: "One Region. One Generation. One Future."

The three day regional forum, which runs from June 18 to 20,  brought together young leaders, entrepreneurs, innovators, policymakers and development partners from Sierra Leone, Liberia, Guinea and Côte d'Ivoire to strengthen regional integration, youth empowerment and cross border collaboration.

The event is funded and supported by the United Nations Development Programme, the Mano River Union Secretariat and YouthConnekt Africa. Over the three days, delegates will participate in masterclasses, innovation and entrepreneurship sessions, leadership discussions, cultural exchanges and networking opportunities aimed at building stronger partnerships among young people across the four member states.

Opening the forum, Minister of Youth Affairs, Ibrahim Sannoh, described MRU Youth Connekt 2026 as a strategic platform designed to empower young people through entrepreneurship, innovation, skills development and regional collaboration. He said the initiative reflects the shared commitment of MRU member states to place young people at the centre of sustainable development and regional transformation.

According to the Minister, the programme seeks to strengthen cooperation among Sierra Leone, Liberia, Guinea and Côte d'Ivoire while creating opportunities for young entrepreneurs to develop innovative solutions to common regional challenges. He stressed that young people remain the driving force behind economic growth and should be provided with the knowledge, resources and support needed to realize their full potential.

The Minister urged young people to see themselves as one generation united by a common purpose rather than divided by national boundaries. He envisioned a future where young entrepreneurs would collaborate freely across the region, build businesses together and contribute to the socio-economic development of the Mano River Union.

He called on participants to embrace entrepreneurship, innovation and emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, in order to remain competitive in an increasingly digital global economy. He said resilience, creativity and continuous learning would enable young Africans to transform challenges into opportunities and become leaders in shaping the continent's future.

The Minister also encouraged participants to promote peace, social justice, unity and inclusive development while strengthening regional networks capable of addressing unemployment, poverty and underdevelopment. He reaffirmed the Government of Sierra Leone's commitment to investing in youth through skills training, mentorship, entrepreneurship support and improved access to finance, noting that such investments are essential for long term economic growth and regional prosperity.

Speaking at the opening, Secretary General of the Mano River Union, Ambassador Simeon B. Moribah, said the forum demonstrates the region's determination to harness the potential of its youthful population for sustainable development. He noted that rapid technological advancement, innovation and artificial intelligence are transforming economies worldwide and emphasized the need for the region to equip its young people with the skills required to compete in the global economy.

While acknowledging the abundance of natural resources and human capital across the Mano River Union, Ambassador Simeon B. Moribah observed that those assets must be effectively harnessed to address unemployment, poverty and limited economic opportunities facing young people.

He described MRU Youth Connekt as a platform that enables young people to exchange ideas, strengthen leadership, build partnerships and transform innovative concepts into practical solutions capable of creating jobs and improving livelihoods across the region.

The Secretary General stressed that the future of the Mano River Union depends on stronger collaboration among Governments, development partners, the private sector and young people themselves. He urged participants to use the forum as the beginning of a long term movement to develop the next generation of entrepreneurs, innovators, peacebuilders and transformational leaders committed to regional integration and sustainable development.

United Nations Resident Coordinator in Sierra Leone, Seraphine Wakana, described the inaugural MRU Youth Connekt Forum as a significant milestone in advancing youth development and regional cooperation across the Mano River Union.

She said the four member states share one of Africa's greatest assets, a predominantly youthful population, which presents enormous opportunities for economic growth and sustainable development if properly empowered. While acknowledging efforts already made by Governments, she noted that unemployment, limited economic diversification, climate change and political polarization continue to undermine young people's ability to contribute meaningfully to national and regional development.

The United Nations Resident Coordinator said the MRU Youth Connekt Forum represents a collective effort to place young people at the centre of development by recognizing them not merely as beneficiaries of programmes but as equal partners, innovators and leaders capable of driving peace, economic transformation and regional integration.

Referring to the United Nations Security Council Resolution 2250 on Youth, Peace and Security, she underscored the critical role of young people in sustaining peace and preventing conflict. Seraphine Wakana encouraged participants to transform the ideas and relationships built during the forum into practical initiatives that would improve communities across the Mano River Union.

She further urged participants to strengthen their leadership skills, actively participate in decision making, embrace entrepreneurship and digital innovation, and build lasting partnerships across borders. According to her, despite coming from different countries, the youth of Sierra Leone, Liberia, Guinea and Côte d'Ivoire share one region, one generation and one future.

The opening of MRU Youth Connekt 2026 marks a renewed commitment by the Governments of the four Mano River Union member states and their development partners to strengthen regional integration by investing in young people as drivers of innovation, entrepreneurship, peacebuilding and sustainable development.

Over the next three days, participants will focus on developing practical recommendations, strengthening regional partnerships and identifying innovative solutions aimed at advancing peace, prosperity and deeper integration across the Mano River Union. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/mru-youth-connekt-2026-begins-in-freetown-with-focus-on-innovation-and-regional-cooperation/

To celebrate the International Day of the African Child, the 27th China (Hunan) Medical Team to Sierra Leone, in collaboration with the local Red Cross, conducted a comprehensive health and charity outreach event at an orphanage in the Waterloo community of Freetown.

The medical team deployed a multi-disciplinary task force, including experts in ophthalmology, otolaryngology, pediatrics, internal medicine and general surgery, to provide systematic health assessments for over 50 children. During the ophthalmology screenings, the team conducted not only visual acuity tests but also professional assessments for color blindness and strabismus to identify and intervene in potential vision development issues early. Throughout the examinations, specialists identified common health concerns such as refractive errors, peptic ulcers and umbilical hernias. The team provided on-site clinical guidance and outlined specific follow-up care pathways, ensuring every child received necessary medical attention.

Parallel to the clinical screenings, the team hosted an interactive "Fun Fair" within the orphanage, which attracted over 200 students from nearby schools. Team members led engaging activities such as jump rope, arrow toss, basketball and interactive Chinese language classes, creating an atmosphere of joy and cross-cultural friendship. During the event, the team donated school bags, stationery, toys and food supplies to the orphanage, bringing holiday cheer to the children.

Rev. Fr. Alexander H. M. Kamara, Assistant Parish priest and chaplain of the Waterloo Orthodox Christian School (Morabie Waterloo), expressed his gratitude, stating that the medical team’s arrival provided essential healthcare support and the care from China has warmed the hearts of every child present.

Through the initiative, the 27th China (Hunan) Medical Team not only established detailed health records for the children but also extended their reach to the broader community. The event underscores the team’s commitment to building a lasting bridge of friendship and health cooperation between China and Sierra Leone. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/chinas-medical-team-hosts-health-and-charity-event-in-freetown-for-international-day-of-the-african-child/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Freetown City Council (FCC), the Sierra Leone Police, the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs have announced a series of measures aimed at addressing the persistent sanitation challenges facing the capital city, including the full enforcement of the Freetown City Council Solid and Liquid Waste Collection By-Laws 2024.

The updates were provided during the Government Weekly Press Conference held on Tuesday, 16 June 2026, at the Miatta Civic Centre in Freetown, where officials outlined ongoing efforts to improve waste management, strengthen environmental protection and promote responsible civic behavior across the municipality.

Speaking at the briefing, Deputy Mayor of the Freetown City Council, Kweku Melvin Lisk Esq., disclosed that the Council has developed a comprehensive legal framework to effectively manage solid and liquid waste within the city. He announced that the by-laws would now be fully enforced throughout Freetown to ensure compliance and improve sanitation standards.

Under the regulations, every household is required to register with an approved waste collection service provider. Failure to comply, he warned, constitutes an offence punishable by a fine of up to NLe5, 000.

Kweku Melvin Lisk Esq stressed that while Government and development partners continue to invest heavily in sanitation infrastructure and waste management services, meaningful progress will only be achieved when residents take greater responsibility for their surroundings.

He noted that poor sanitation in Freetown is largely driven by irresponsible waste disposal habits and a widespread perception that waste management is solely the responsibility of Government authorities.

“It is largely an issue of attitude because many people have become complacent about how they dispose of waste, particularly liquid waste,” he stated.

According to the Deputy Mayor, improper disposal of waste contributes significantly to environmental degradation, flooding, disease outbreaks and deteriorating living conditions across the city. He emphasized that sanitation should no longer be treated casually, warning that indiscriminate dumping of waste is now a punishable offence under the new regulations.

A major component of the by-laws focuses on liquid waste management.  Kweku Melvin Lisk Esq explained that many communities, particularly in hillside areas, lack adequate sewage and septic disposal systems, leading to wastewater being discharged into drains and waterways. He said that practice contributes directly to flooding and environmental pollution, especially during the rainy season.

To improve waste collection and monitoring, the FCC has divided the city into operational zones and assigned designated service providers to each area. He also highlighted the importance of proper waste segregation, particularly for hazardous and medical waste, noting the serious health risks faced by individuals who search through dumpsites for recyclable materials.

Environment and Sanitation Officer at the FCC, Marian Tucker, informed the public that the Council has intensified public sensitization efforts through community engagements, town hall meetings and information campaigns. She revealed that Freetown has been divided into eight operational blocks stretching from Orugu to Levuma, with each block assigned to a specific waste collection service provider.

Madam Marian Tucker further disclosed that waste collection fees have been structured to remain affordable, ranging from NLe15 for a 50-kilogram container to NLe25 for a 100-kilogram container, in a bid to encourage compliance and improve sanitation services.

The Deputy Inspector General of Police, Sahr Yomba Senesie, reaffirmed the Sierra Leone Police’s commitment to supporting the enforcement of the waste management by-laws. Representing the Inspector General of Police, he stated that community engagement and public education campaigns would precede full enforcement to ensure residents understand the provisions of the law.

He warned, however, that once enforcement begins, offenders could face arrests, prosecutions or fines for non-compliance.

Sahr Yomba Senesie highlighted ongoing collaboration between the Police, FCC, Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority (SLRSA) and other institutions through a multi-agency task force established by the Ministry of Internal Affairs. He explained that the task force has been addressing illegal occupation of road reserves, pedestrian walkways and public spaces, which often create safety hazards and contribute to disorder within the city.

The Deputy Inspector General also revealed that authorities have begun demolishing makeshift structures erected along road reserves and rights of way as part of efforts to restore order and improve public safety.

Addressing broader law enforcement concerns, he reiterated the Police Force’s zero-tolerance policy on corruption and misconduct while also emphasizing the importance of regulating commercial motorbike operations, enforcing road safety regulations and addressing growing concerns about noise pollution across the capital.

Minister of Internal Affairs, AIG (Rtd.) Morie Lengor Esq., disclosed that Government has established a multi-agency task force to tackle illegal street trading, unauthorized commercial transport activities, noise pollution and other forms of indiscipline affecting Freetown.

According to the Minister, restoring law and order remains essential to positioning Freetown as an attractive destination for tourism, investment and economic growth. He noted that the task force is working closely with local authorities to relocate traders from unauthorized locations and ensure activities are conducted in designated areas.

The Deputy Minister of Local Government and Community Affairs, Alfred Jamiru, attributed many of the city’s waste management challenges to low public participation in waste collection services and the increasing use of plastic materials.

He urged residents to subscribe to registered waste collection providers and avoid dumping refuse into gutters, drains and public spaces. Alfred Jamiru also revealed that the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs, the Sierra Leone Police and the FCC have signed a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at strengthening collaboration and improving waste management across the city.

The officials unanimously emphasized that while enforcement measures are necessary, achieving a cleaner, safer and healthier Freetown ultimately depends on behavioural change, civic responsibility and the active participation of residents in maintaining their environment. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/fcc-police-government-launch-multi-agency-drive-against-illegal-dumping-and-street-disorder/

Lifeline Nehemiah Projects (LNP), in collaboration with the Ministry of Health through the Koidu Government Hospital, has successfully conducted a voluntary blood donation campaign to commemorate World Blood Donor Day 2026, aimed at increasing blood supplies and raising awareness about the importance of voluntary blood donation.

The blood donation exercise took place on Sunday, 14 June 2026, in Punduru Village and Sewafe Town in the Kenema and Kono districts respectively. The initiative brought together community members, health workers, youth groups and local leaders in support of a cause that continues to save countless lives across Sierra Leone.

The campaign resulted in the collection of sixty units of blood from voluntary donors in the two communities, providing a significant boost to blood reserves needed for emergency medical care, maternal health services, accident victims and patients requiring transfusions.

Speaking during the event, Lifeline Nehemiah Projects' Project Manager, Mohamed Turay, emphasized the importance of blood donation and highlighted the significance of this year's World Blood Donor Day celebration.

He noted that the global and national theme for World Blood Donor Day 2026 in Sierra Leone is: “One Drop of Humanity: Give Blood, Save Lives,” while Lifeline Nehemiah Projects adopted a localized message, “Gi Blood 4 Save Lives,” to make the campaign more relatable to communities.

“Every two seconds, someone in the world needs blood. In Sierra Leone, blood shortages continue to place mothers, children and accident victims at serious risk. Today, our young people and community members have chosen to become heroes without capes by donating blood to save lives,” Mohamed Turay said.

He further explained that voluntary blood donation remains low in many communities due to misconceptions, myths and limited access to donation centres.

“Lifeline Nehemiah Projects works closely with children, persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups. Many of these individuals face medical emergencies where blood can mean the difference between life and death. This blood drive is a demonstration of solidarity and compassion for those in need,” he stated.

The Blood Bank Manager at Koidu Government Hospital, Mariatu Duraman, commended Lifeline Nehemiah Projects for taking the awareness campaign directly to the communities.

She stressed that voluntary and unpaid blood donors remain the safest and most reliable source of blood for hospitals and healthcare facilities.

“Community outreach initiatives such as this help us bridge the gap in blood supply, particularly during the rainy season when cases of malaria, maternal complications and other health emergencies increase the demand for blood,” Mariatu Duraman said.

The event also witnessed strong participation from local leaders. Town Speaker of Punduru Village, Chief Charles Vawah, donated blood for the first time and encouraged others to follow his example.

“I used to believe that donating blood would make me weak. However, after receiving proper information and education from the Lifeline Nehemiah team, I now understand that donating blood is safe and can help save lives. I will continue to donate whenever I can,” he pledged.

World Blood Donor Day is observed annually on 14 June to recognize and appreciate voluntary blood donors while promoting the need for safe and adequate blood supplies worldwide. The day also serves as a platform to encourage more people, especially young people, to become regular blood donors.

This year's observance reinforced the critical role that voluntary blood donors play in strengthening healthcare systems and ensuring that life-saving blood is available for patients in need. Through initiatives such as the one organized by Lifeline Nehemiah Projects and the Ministry of Health, communities are being empowered to contribute directly to saving lives and improving public health outcomes across Sierra Leone. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/lifeline-nehemiah-ministry-of-health-commemorate-world-blood-donor-day-with-voluntary-blood-donation-drive/

The Editor of the Independent Observer Newspaper, Bai Bai Sesay, has been named the recipient of the Media Excellence Award in recognition of his outstanding contribution to journalism and unwavering commitment to truth, accountability and professional reporting in Sierra Leone.

The award, announced by the Scholar Media Award Team ahead of the official presentation ceremony, celebrates Bai Bai Sesay's years of dedication to ethical journalism and his significant role in advancing public discourse and media development in the country.

Speaking after being informed of the recognition by the award organizers from Nairobi, Kenya, Bai Bai Sesay described the honour as both unexpected and deeply humbling.

He noted that journalism has never been about receiving accolades but rather about serving the public interest, upholding professional standards and maintaining the trust of the people.

“To be honest, I was completely taken by surprise. I was not expecting this recognition. Moments like this remind you that people are paying attention even when you believe they are not. I receive it with gratitude and humility,” he said.

Bai Bai Sesay further expressed gratitude to Allah for the achievement, emphasizing that every success ultimately comes from God.

“First and foremost, I thank Allah Subhannah Wa Ta'alaa because every achievement belongs to Him,” he stated.

The veteran journalist dedicated the award to his colleagues at the Independent Observer Newspaper, acknowledging their commitment, sacrifice and steadfast belief in independent journalism. He praised the entire editorial and reporting team for their collective efforts in promoting responsible and impactful journalism.

He also extended appreciation to key media institutions, including the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), the Guild of Editors, the Independent Media Commission (IMC), media partners and organizations that continue to support the growth and development of journalism in Sierra Leone.

In addition, Bai Bai Sesay paid tribute to newspaper vendors across the country, describing them as a vital yet often overlooked component of the media industry. He noted that their dedication ensures newspapers reach readers and communities nationwide.

The award recipient also thanked the people of Sierra Leone for their trust, engagement and continued support, stressing that public confidence remains the greatest motivation for journalists committed to serving society.

“This recognition is not mine alone. It belongs to my colleagues at the Independent Observer Newspaper, to SLAJ, the Guild of Editors, IMC, our partners, news vendors and the people of Sierra Leone whose trust gives meaning to our work. I accept this honour with humility and pray Allah continues to guide us in the service of truth and our nation,” he concluded.

The formal presentation of the Media Excellence Award is scheduled to take place on 7 August 2026 in Nairobi, Kenya, where media practitioners and industry stakeholders from across the region are expected to gather to celebrate excellence, professionalism and outstanding contributions to journalism. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/independent-observer-editor-bai-bai-sesay-wins-media-excellence-award/

The Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) has paid a courtesy call on the Director General of the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA), Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi, at the Authority’s headquarters in Freetown, reaffirming the strong institutional partnership between the two bodies as preparations gradually begin for the 2028 general elections.

The high-level delegation, led by the Chief Electoral Commissioner and Chairman of ECSL, Edmond Alpha, held extensive discussions with the NCRA leadership on electoral management, institutional cooperation and the implementation of recommendations aimed at strengthening the country’s electoral framework through improved civil registration systems.

The visit highlighted the growing recognition of the critical role that national identity management plays in the conduct of credible elections. Both institutions acknowledged that an accurate and reliable voter register is closely linked to a robust civil registration and identity infrastructure, placing the NCRA at the heart of Sierra Leone’s democratic processes.

Speaking during the engagement, Chief Electoral Commissioner Edmond Alpha paid glowing tribute to Director General Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi, describing him as a dependable public servant whose reputation for integrity, professionalism and credibility has remained consistent throughout his career.

According to the Commissioner, his relationship with the NCRA Director General spans more than two decades, a period during which he has observed Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi’s commitment to public service and national development.

He noted that the NCRA boss has earned the trust and respect of many through his dedication, honesty and ability to deliver on national assignments, qualities that continue to strengthen the Authority’s reputation.

On the issue of institutional collaboration, Edmond Alpha reaffirmed ECSL’s commitment to maintaining a strong working relationship with the NCRA in order to ensure that future elections accurately reflect the will of the Sierra Leonean people.

He emphasized that the partnership between the two institutions is essential for building a credible electoral system and implementing reforms that will enhance public confidence in elections.

In a symbolic description of the relationship, the Chief Electoral Commissioner likened the partnership between ECSL and NCRA to a marriage built not for separation but for growth, stressing that both institutions must continue to work together in the national interest.

Director General Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi welcomed the delegation and reiterated the NCRA’s commitment to supporting national development through efficient civil registration and identity management services.

Over the past eight years, Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi has overseen significant reforms within the Authority, helping to transform the NCRA into a central institution responsible for managing Sierra Leone’s national identity ecosystem. Under his leadership, the Authority has expanded services across the country, strengthened its digital infrastructure and promoted the widespread use of the National Identification Number (NIN) across various sectors.

The NIN has increasingly become an important requirement for accessing public services, including healthcare, education, financial services and social welfare programmes, contributing to greater efficiency and accountability in governance.

Observers note that the collaboration between the ECSL and the NCRA is vital for ensuring the integrity of future elections. A reliable civil registration database provides the foundation for an accurate electoral roll, helping to eliminate duplication, enhance voter verification and strengthen public trust in the electoral process.

The courtesy visit therefore signals a shared commitment by both institutions to deepen cooperation and lay the groundwork for transparent, credible and inclusive elections in 2028, reinforcing confidence in Sierra Leone’s democratic governance framework. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/ecsl-ncra-strengthen-partnership-ahead-of-2028-general-elections/