The Right to Access Information Commission (RAIC) has engaged the Ministry of Defence and the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) in an effort to deepen awareness and strengthen adherence to the Right to Access Information (RAI) Act of 2013 within the country’s defence sector.

The engagement forms part of the Commission’s ongoing initiatives aimed at ensuring that public institutions fully comply with legal requirements relating to both proactive and reactive disclosure of information.

Speaking during the engagement, the Chairman and Information Commissioner of RAIC, Dr. Ibrahim Seaga Shaw, emphasized that the RAI Act places a clear legal obligation on all public authorities to respond to requests for information from the public, except in cases where the information is specifically exempted under the law.

He explained that even when information requested by the public falls within the category of exempt or classified material, the relevant public authority must still formally respond to the requester and clearly cite the specific section of the law that prevents the disclosure.

“The Right to Access Information Act of 2013 makes it mandatory for public authorities to provide information requested by citizens unless such information is exempted by law. In cases where the information cannot be disclosed, the institution must communicate clearly with the requester and reference the relevant legal provisions that justify the restriction,” Dr. Ibrahim Seaga Shaw stated.

The Information Commissioner further noted that the law requires public institutions to proactively publish certain categories of information without waiting for citizens or organizations to request them.

According to him, there are twenty-two classes of information that public authorities are expected to make readily available to the public as part of efforts to promote transparency, accountability and public trust in governance.

Dr. Ibrahim Seaga Shaw also highlighted the Commission’s mandate under Section 41 of the RAI Act, which requires the preparation of an Annual Compliance Report assessing how public institutions are implementing the law.

He disclosed that in order to effectively monitor and evaluate compliance levels, the Commission has developed two key templates: the Annual Compliance Report (ACR) for reactive disclosure of information and the Proactive Disclosure of Information (PDI) scheme for proactive publication of information.

“These templates are designed to guide public authorities in reporting their compliance status and publishing relevant information. We strongly encourage all institutions to complete the templates and submit them to the Commission as part of the annual reporting process,” he said.

Dr. Ibrahim Seaga Shaw further reminded officials from the defence sector that compliance with the Right to Access Information law has now been incorporated into the performance tracking indicators for public institutions, a process being coordinated by the Office of the President.

He explained that the Commission would only transmit data on institutions that have complied with the law to State House as part of the national performance monitoring framework.

The RAIC Chairman also assured the Ministry of Defence and the RSLAF that the Commission remains committed to supporting public authorities in meeting their obligations under the Act.

He noted that RAIC has a team of dedicated staff ready to assist institutions in completing the required compliance templates correctly and encouraged them to seek guidance whenever necessary.

“We have a professional team at the Commission that is always available to guide institutions in understanding and completing the compliance requirements. Public authorities should feel free to reach out to us whenever they require assistance or clarification,” he added.

Responding on behalf of the defence sector, Deputy Minister of Defence, Colonel (Rtd) Muana Brima Massaquoi, welcomed the RAIC delegation and expressed appreciation for the engagement, describing it as both informative and constructive.

He said the discussion had helped provide the Ministry of Defence and the RSLAF with a clearer understanding of the Commission’s mandate and the key issues surrounding compliance with the Right to Access Information Act.

“This has been a frank and open discussion which we greatly appreciate. It is reassuring to know that certain sensitive national security information may be classified as exempt and therefore not subject to disclosure,” he said.

Colonel Muana Brima Massaquoi emphasized that while the defence sector and the Commission operate under different mandates, both institutions share the same commitment to serving the national interest.

He also assured the RAIC team that the Ministry of Defence and the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces would work toward ensuring full compliance with the provisions of the Right to Access Information law.

The RAIC delegation included Dr. Ibrahim Seaga Shaw, Chairman and Information Commissioner, Hon. Mustapha Braima, Executive Secretary of the Commission, along with other senior officials of the institution.

Officials from the Ministry of Defence and senior members of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces were also present during the engagement. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/raic-engages-defence-ministry-and-rslaf-to-strengthen-compliance-with-right-to-information-act/

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio received Mamadou Tangara, the Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission for Mali and the Sahel and Head of the African Union Mission for Mali and the Sahel (MISAHEL), on Tuesday, 10 March 2026, during a courtesy visit at State House in Freetown.

The visit formed part of a broader regional engagement by the African Union envoy aimed at developing a roadmap to enhance collaboration between the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

Introducing the visiting delegation, Sierra Leone’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Timothy Musa Kabba, explained that Dr. Mamadou Tangara’s mission was to brief President Bio, who currently serves as Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, on the outcome of his consultations with regional leaders and key stakeholders.

Speaking during the meeting, Dr. Mamadou Tangara conveyed warm greetings from the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf and expressed appreciation for President Bio’s continued leadership in promoting peace, stability and cooperation across the West African sub-region.

The AU Special Representative also updated the President on his recent engagements with leaders of the Alliance of Sahel States, which comprises Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger. According to Dr. Mamadou Tangara, discussions with the AES leadership have focused on exploring avenues for constructive dialogue and building a framework that could strengthen cooperation between the Sahel alliance and ECOWAS.

He noted that since the establishment of the AES in September 2023, there have been indications of growing openness toward broader regional engagement. Dr. Mamadou Tangara pointed out that the participation of non-AES countries in certain alliance activities has signaled a willingness to maintain channels of communication, which he described as an encouraging development for renewed regional dialogue.

Responding to the briefing, President Bio congratulated Dr. Mamadou Tangara on his appointment and welcomed the African Union’s initiative to promote dialogue and cooperation among regional blocs. The President noted that ECOWAS leaders have been anticipating constructive engagement with the AES countries as part of broader efforts to preserve stability and unity in the region.

President Bio emphasized that strengthening regional integration remains a key priority for ECOWAS under his leadership. He reiterated his commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at restoring cooperation between ECOWAS and the Alliance of Sahel States.

The President further stressed that the withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger from ECOWAS in January 2024 does not serve the long-term interests of the region. He maintained that sustained dialogue and diplomatic engagement remain essential to fostering reconciliation and rebuilding trust among West African nations.

Reaffirming his dedication to the cause of regional unity, President Bio assured the AU Special Representative of his full support in advancing ongoing efforts to promote peace, stability and cooperation across West Africa.

The meeting underscored the growing role of diplomacy and regional dialogue in addressing political and security challenges in the Sahel and the wider ECOWAS community. Observers say continued engagement between the African Union, ECOWAS and the Alliance of Sahel States could play a critical role in shaping a pathway toward renewed cooperation and long-term regional stability. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/president-bio-meets-au-envoy-mamadou-tangara-to-advance-dialogue-on-sahel-ecowas-relations/

The Director General of the National Minerals Agency (NMA), Ing. Hadji Dabo, has received a prestigious Certificate of Merit from Green Spot Media Television Network in recognition of his outstanding leadership and contributions toward reforming Sierra Leone’s mining sector.

The award highlights Ing. Hadji Dabo’s commitment to strengthening governance, promoting regulatory discipline and repositioning the country’s mineral industry as a key driver of national development. The recognition also acknowledges the strategic initiatives undertaken under his leadership to ensure that Sierra Leone’s natural resources deliver greater value for its citizens.

Since assuming office, Ing. Hadji Dabo has pursued a “discipline-first” approach aimed at improving operational efficiency within the Agency while strengthening oversight across the mining sector. His leadership has focused on enhancing institutional performance, ensuring transparency in resource management and aligning the mining industry with national development priorities.

According to Green Spot Media Television Network, the recognition reflects the measurable progress made under Ing. Hadji Dabo’s stewardship of the Agency and the positive impact of his reforms on the country’s extractive industry.

One of the key areas highlighted in the award citation is operational excellence. Through improved internal systems and stricter adherence to regulatory procedures, the NMA has strengthened its capacity to monitor mining activities and ensure that the sector contributes more effectively to Sierra Leone’s economic growth.

The award also recognizes regulatory rigor introduced during Ing. Hadji Dabo’s tenure. Under his leadership, the Agency has intensified compliance measures while maintaining constructive engagement with mining companies. That balanced approach has helped companies navigate regulatory frameworks while safeguarding the interests of the Government and the people of Sierra Leone.

Another significant achievement acknowledged in the recognition is Sierra Leone’s growing global presence in the extractive industry. Ing. Hadji Dabo has actively represented the country at major international mining platforms, including the globally renowned Mining Indaba, the 10th African Diamond Producers’ Association (ADPA) meeting and Sierra Leone Mining Week. Those engagements have helped promote Sierra Leone as a destination for responsible and sustainable mining investment.

Beyond regulatory reforms and international representation, Ing. Hadji Dabo has also placed strong emphasis on developing human capital within the mining sector. He has consistently advocated for greater investment in education and skills development to prepare the next generation of Sierra Leonean professionals for careers in the extractive industry.

Speaking on the importance of nurturing young talent, Ing. Hadji Dabo emphasized that the long-term sustainability of the country’s mineral sector depends on building local expertise.

“The future of our minerals depends on the minds we cultivate today,” he noted, adding that the Agency has expanded outreach programmes aimed at encouraging students to pursue studies in science, engineering and mining-related disciplines.

Those initiatives seek to inspire young Sierra Leoneans to see the mining sector not only as a source of national revenue but also as a modern and technologically driven career pathway.

Observers within the mining industry note that the reforms being implemented at the National Minerals Agency are helping to strengthen investor confidence while ensuring that mining activities are conducted responsibly and in line with national regulations.

At a time when Sierra Leone continues to harness its rich mineral resources for sustainable development, the recognition of Ing. Hadji Dabo by Green Spot Media Television Network highlights the critical role of strong leadership, institutional discipline and forward-looking policies in shaping the future of the country’s extractive sector.

For the National Minerals Agency, the award stands as a testament to the progress made under Ing.Hadji Dabo’s leadership and the continued efforts to professionalize and modernize Sierra Leone’s mining industry for the benefit of present and future generations. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/ing-hadji-dabo-receives-prestigious-recognition-for-driving-reforms-at-national-minerals-agency/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Global Partnership for Education (GPE) has announced President Dr. Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone as a Champion for Sustainable Financing for Education, recognizing his leadership in advancing education reform and strengthening investment in human capital development.

The announcement was made in a Press Release issued by the Global Partnership for Education on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, in Washington, D.C. President Bio, who also serves as Chairman of the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government, will join a global network of leaders advocating for increased and sustainable financing to strengthen education systems worldwide.

According to GPE, President Bio’s new role will focus on mobilizing political leadership and international momentum to address the global education financing gap. Working alongside global leaders, youth advocates and development partners, he will help promote stronger national investment in education while encouraging greater global cooperation to ensure that quality learning opportunities are available to every child.

The Global Partnership for Education noted that the world is currently facing multiple challenges, including rapid technological changes, economic uncertainty and climate-related pressures, all of which place increasing demands on education systems. Despite ongoing efforts by Governments and development partners, more than 270 million children and young people remain out of school globally, while millions of others lack the foundational skills necessary to succeed in modern economies.

President Bio’s appointment reflects Sierra Leone’s growing reputation as a strong advocate for education reform and investment across Africa. Since the introduction of the Free Quality School Education (FQSE) initiative in 2018, the country has made significant strides in expanding access to education and improving learning outcomes.

Under the initiative, school enrollment across the country has increased by nearly 50 percent, bringing approximately one million new learners into the national education system. The program has also supported several complementary interventions aimed at improving the quality and accessibility of education.

Among these interventions is the provision of free school meals for about 800,000 pupils nationwide, which has helped improve student attendance and retention. Thousands of schools across the country have also received free teaching and learning materials, helping to reduce the financial burden on families and enhance classroom instruction.

The initiative has also contributed to closing the gender gap in primary school completion. Sierra Leone now records one of the highest girls’ primary school completion rates in West Africa among countries within its income group, reflecting sustained efforts to promote gender equality in education.

Education experts also note that the expansion of access to schooling has contributed to broader social gains. Available data indicates that the education reforms have played a role in reducing teenage pregnancy by more than 30 percent, a development widely attributed to increased school attendance and greater awareness among young people.

Despite fiscal pressures faced by many developing countries, the Government of Sierra Leone has continued to prioritize education spending. Under President Bio’s leadership, more than 20 percent of the national budget has been allocated to the education sector, demonstrating the Government’s commitment to human capital development as a key pillar of national growth and long-term economic transformation.

Sierra Leone’s progress has drawn international recognition for placing education at the heart of its development agenda. In September 2022, President Bio further strengthened his global education leadership when he co-chaired the United Nations Transforming Education Summit alongside United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, where world leaders discussed strategies for addressing the global learning crisis.

As a GPE Champion for Sustainable Financing for Education, President Bio will now help amplify the urgency of investing in education globally. His role will involve encouraging Governments, donors and international partners to collaborate more closely in mobilizing resources needed to strengthen education systems and expand opportunities for children around the world.

The Global Partnership for Education’s flagship financing campaign, “Multiply Possibility,” aims to mobilize $5 billion in donor contributions while unlocking an additional $10 billion in co-financing. The initiative is expected to support more than 90 partner countries in strengthening their education systems and improving learning opportunities for nearly 750 million children and young people.

Speaking on the recognition, President Bio expressed appreciation for the opportunity to contribute to the global effort to transform education systems.

“I am honored to join the Global Partnership for Education as a Champion for sustainable education financing. Education is the foundation of opportunity and national development. Investing in our children today empowers the next generation to build stronger societies, drive innovation and secure a more prosperous future for Africa and the world,” the President said.

The Global Partnership for Education is an international alliance dedicated to ending the global learning crisis. Through partnerships with Governments, donors, Civil Society Organizations and development agencies, GPE mobilizes funding and technical support to help more than 90 developing countries strengthen their education systems and ensure that every child has access to quality education.

Read the full Press Release via the link below: https://www.globalpartnership.org/news/global-partnership-education-announces-sierra-leones-president-julius-maada-bio-champion https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/president-julius-maada-bio-named-global-champion-for-sustainable-education-financing/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The 2024 Audit Report on the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) has provided important clarifications regarding issues surrounding the management of Foreign Travel Tax (FTT) revenues and the sharing of statutory funds within the country’s aviation sector. Furthermore, the report does not indict the SLCAA for fraudulent activities or wrongdoing but rather highlights administrative gaps involving other Government institutions responsible for the collection and reconciliation of the revenues in question.

The report, prepared by the Office of the Auditor General as part of the routine annual audit of public institutions, examined financial transactions relating to the Foreign Travel Tax, a levy imposed on international air passengers departing Sierra Leone. The tax is collected through systems administered by the National Revenue Authority (NRA) and is expected to be shared with the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority in accordance with existing statutory arrangements.

One of the key observations raised in the audit relates to the non-submission of assessment records for the Foreign Travel Tax amounting to NLe100,728,181.59, as reflected in the Integrated Tax Administration System (ITAS). The audit team noted that despite several requests, the assessment documentation for the tax collections was not submitted for verification.

However, the report clearly indicates that the responsibility for maintaining and producing these records lies with the National Revenue Authority, which is the institution mandated to assess and collect the Foreign Travel Tax. The absence of those records therefore raised concerns about documentation and reconciliation processes within the revenue collection system rather than any misconduct by the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority.

In addressing the matter, the audit report specifically recommended that the Acting Commissioner of the Domestic Tax Department within the NRA provide the outstanding assessment records for audit inspection. That recommendation was aimed at ensuring proper verification of the figures recorded in the national tax administration system and strengthening transparency in the management of Government revenues.

Another issue highlighted in the audit concerns the non-transfer of statutory revenue shares due to the SLCAA. According to the report, an amount of NLe20,611,604.65 was deducted from the Authority’s revenue account. Based on the revenue-sharing framework governing the Foreign Travel Tax, the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority is entitled to an 80 percent share of certain proceeds to support the regulation, safety oversight and development of the aviation sector.

The audit noted that the Authority’s share of NLe16,489,283.72 had not been transferred to its operational account, thereby affecting the institution’s cash flow and potentially hindering its ability to perform its statutory functions effectively.

Importantly, the report did not attribute that failure to the Management of the SLCAA. Instead, the audit team recommended that the Accountant General’s Department and the Financial Secretary ensure that the outstanding amount owed to the Authority is transferred without delay. The report further advised that evidence of the payment be submitted to the Office of the Auditor General for verification in order to close the audit query.

Those recommendations underscore that the issues raised in the audit relate primarily to the reconciliation, documentation and transfer of funds managed by the institutions responsible for collecting and distributing the Foreign Travel Tax.

The audit also emphasized the need for stronger financial coordination between the National Revenue Authority, the Accountant General’s Department and the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority. Establishing clear reconciliation mechanisms and ensuring timely transfer of statutory revenues would improve financial accountability and allow the Authority to continue carrying out its mandate of regulating and overseeing Sierra Leone’s aviation sector.

Industry observers note that the SLCAA plays a critical role in maintaining aviation safety standards, regulating airlines and airports and ensuring compliance with international civil aviation requirements. The availability of statutory revenue allocations is therefore essential for sustaining the Authority’s operational capacity and supporting the continued growth of Sierra Leone’s aviation industry.

Against that backdrop, the 2024 Audit Report should be viewed as a technical assessment intended to strengthen financial accountability across institutions rather than as evidence of misconduct by the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority.

It is therefore important that public commentary on the report accurately reflects its contents. Sensational and misleading headlines suggesting fraudulent activity by the Authority distort the findings of the audit and undermine responsible journalism. Headlines must reflect the factual substance of a story, not exaggerations designed to create public alarm.

Media practitioners and commentators have been urged to carefully review the details of the report before drawing conclusions. Misrepresenting audit observations as evidence of corruption when the report itself clearly assigns responsibility elsewhere amounts to nothing short of gutter journalism.

Ultimately, the 2024 Audit Report presents an opportunity for institutions such as the National Revenue Authority and the Accountant General’s Department to strengthen documentation procedures, ensure accurate reconciliation of Foreign Travel Tax collections and promptly transfer statutory funds due to the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority. By addressing those administrative gaps, the Government can reinforce transparency, restore public confidence and ensure that the aviation regulator continues to function effectively in safeguarding Sierra Leone’s air transport sector. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/audit-report-clarifies-slcaa-position-urges-nra-to-produce-foreign-travel-tax-accounts/

By Foday Moriba Conteh

A coalition of civil society leaders and reform advocates has launched Running Out of Time Salone (ROOTS), a non-partisan citizen movement aimed at promoting governance reforms and strengthening accountability in Sierra Leone’s political and economic systems.

The movement was officially launched on March 11 in Freetown, drawing prominent figures from civil society, the media and traditional leadership.

Among those present were current and former Presidents of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), the Chairman of the Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC), Emmanuel Koivaya Amara, and the Chairman of the National Council of Paramount Chiefs, Paramount Chief Sheku A. B. Tejan Fasuluku-Sonsiama III.

The event was chaired by veteran journalist Julius Spencer and co-chaired by Professor Fredline McCormack-Hale.

Speaking at the launch, Dr. Julius Spencer said the initiative seeks to inspire a social movement that empowers citizens to demand improved governance and accountability from political leaders.

“This event should become a benchmark for Sierra Leone. To transform society, we need social movements not just political parties,” he said.

He explained that the ROOTS movement aims to mobilize citizens nationwide to work collectively in advocating for meaningful reforms ahead of the 2028 General Elections.

“If we all join hands in this effort, we will be able to see the change that we all want,” he added.

Professor McCormack-Hale explained that the initiative, an acronym for Running Out of Time Salone, was formed out of concern that Sierra Leone has not translated its vast natural resources, including diamonds and gold, into tangible benefits for its citizens.

She noted that many Sierra Leoneans remain dissatisfied with the current state of governance and economic management, adding that the country must rethink its political strategies to avoid repeating cycles of leadership without systemic change.

The Movement also highlighted the need to address political polarization and encourage citizens to organize around shared economic and governance interests.

Speaking on the vision of the initiative, Andrew Lavallie said ROOTS seeks to transform widespread citizen dissatisfaction into constructive pressure for reforms.

“We are all not happy with where we are as a country, but dissatisfaction alone will not bring change. We must organize ourselves and work together to change the course of our history,” he said.

Andrew Lavallie clarified that the Movement is not intended to replace political parties but rather to promote a political culture where parties compete based on service delivery, economic management and national development.

Also speaking at the event, PPRC Chairman Emmanuel Koivaya Amara welcomed the formation of the Movement, noting that citizen-driven initiatives can contribute positively to strengthening democratic governance and accountability in the country.

He said such movements create opportunities for citizens to participate more actively in shaping national discourse and promoting transparency in governance.

Emmanuel Koivaya Amara further emphasized that democratic progress requires the active participation of citizens alongside institutions, encouraging organizers to continue promoting peace, unity and constructive political engagement.

Paramount Chief Sheku A. B. Tejan Fasuluku-Sonsiama III also acknowledged the importance of citizen participation in governance reforms, noting that traditional leaders remain important partners in mobilizing communities and promoting national unity.

Organisers said the Movement will initially focus on economic governance, particularly transparency in state contracts and resource management, which they believe are critical to national development.

Through town hall meetings, media engagement, public education campaigns and partnerships with Civil Society groups, ROOTS plans to mobilize citizens across the country and develop a Citizens’ Manifesto outlining key policy priorities for political parties ahead of future elections.

Veteran journalist, Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, also addressed the gathering, saying he was inspired to support the initiative because of the credibility of the individuals involved.

He stressed the need for Sierra Leoneans to unite beyond political, regional and ethnic divisions in order to build a stronger and more accountable governance system.

“We must hold our leaders accountable. Politicians will come and go but it is the people who must ensure that the system works for everyone,” Ahmed Sahid Nasralla said.

While unveiling the logo of the Movement, the President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists, Alhaji Manika Kamara, emphasized that ROOTS aims to bridge tribal, religious and political divides while encouraging citizens to play an active role in shaping the country’s governance.

Organisers concluded the launch with a call for Sierra Leoneans nationwide to join the Movement and contribute to efforts aimed at strengthening democratic accountability and improving national development outcomes.

“The time for change is now,” one speaker said, adding that Sierra Leone cannot afford to delay reforms any longer. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/running-out-of-time-salone-roots-initiative-launched-to-strengthen-accountability-and-citizen-participation/

Residents of Imperri Chiefdom in Bonthe District have expressed appreciation to Member of Parliament, Fatmata Bintu Bockarie, following a series of empowerment and humanitarian activities carried out during the Holy Month of Ramadan.

The lawmaker visited communities across Imperri Chiefdom where she engaged women leaders, youth groups and members of the Muslim community, combining spiritual solidarity with practical support aimed at strengthening grassroots development.

During a meeting with chairladies from different sections of the chiefdom, Hon. Fatmata Bintu Bockarie donated cash support to chairladies intended to serve as start-up capital for small businesses. The initiative, she said, was aimed at empowering women and recognizing their vital role in community development.

The event was marked by celebrations as community members welcomed the gesture with singing, dancing and expressions of appreciation.

As part of the outreach, the Member of Parliament also donated bags of rice to several mosques in Imperri Chiefdom to support Muslim worshippers observing the fasting period.

In addition, youth groups received mobile phones to assist with administrative and communication activities, while two motorbikes were presented to the longest-serving section chairpersons of the Sierra Leone People's Party (SLPP) in the chiefdom in recognition of their dedication and years of service.

Speaking during the programme, Hon. Fatmata Bintu Bockarie said the initiative was meant to empower communities while promoting unity and compassion during the holy month.

“This is about giving women and young people the means to stand on their own feet. Ramadan is not only a time of devotion but also a time for sharing and supporting one another,” she said.

She also used the occasion of International Women's Day to highlight the importance of supporting women leaders and grassroots groups. According to her, providing financial support to women will help them start small businesses and improve their livelihoods.

Hon. Fatmata Bintu Bockarie also encouraged political party members to demonstrate patience and loyalty in service to their communities. She explained that the donation of motorbikes to the longest-serving section chairpersons was meant to recognize dedication and commitment.

Her gesture also extended to Muslim residents across the chiefdom, with the distribution of both food and non-food items to households to ease the burden of fasting during Ramadan.

Community leaders welcomed the initiative and praised the Member of Parliament for supporting residents during the sacred period.

The Chiefdom Imam of Imperri, Alhaji Abubakarr, expressed gratitude for the support provided to the Muslim community.

“The Honourable gave us food and non-food items. We appreciate her efforts and encourage others to emulate her. Ramadan teaches us to share, care and stand together,” he said.

One of the beneficiaries, Thomas Ganda, a Section Chairperson of the Sierra Leone People’s Party in the chiefdom, expressed appreciation for the support.

“I am very happy for the gesture. I received a bike, rice and cash support. I appreciate the Honourable for remembering us,” he said.

Women leaders in the constituency also welcomed the initiative, noting that the support would help many of them start small businesses and improve their economic independence.

The Constituency Women’s Leader for Constituency 092, Haja Adama Senise, described the support as timely and impactful.

“We are very happy for her gesture as we celebrate International Women’s Day. She provided us with start-up support to begin businesses and we are grateful,” she said.

Residents across Imperri Chiefdom described the outreach as a demonstration of compassion and leadership that blends the values of Ramadan with practical efforts to empower women and youth.

Many community members noted that such initiatives help strengthen unity and social progress while addressing the needs of vulnerable groups.

Hon. Fatmata Bintu Bockarie’s activities in Imperri Chiefdom, they said, reflect a commitment to both community development and humanitarian service, reinforcing the spirit of generosity and solidarity that defines the Holy Month of Ramadan. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/hon-fatmata-bockarie-empowers-women-youth-and-muslim-community-during-ramadan-in-bonthe/