President Dr Julius Maada Bio and former President Dr Ernest Bai Koroma have called for stronger national unity, political tolerance and sustained dialogue as Sierra Leone intensifies efforts to consolidate peace, strengthen democratic institutions and address longstanding grievances ahead of the 2028 general elections.

The two leaders made the appeal on Monday, 26 October 2026, during the opening of the National Unity and Social Cohesion Conference at the Bintumani Conference Centre in Aberdeen, Freetown.

Organized by the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC), the two-day conference brought together former Vice Presidents, senior Government officials, political party representatives, traditional and religious leaders, civil society organisations, development partners and members of the diplomatic community.

The gathering, held under the theme: “From Commitment to Action: Rebuilding Trust, Strengthening National Unity and Advancing Social Cohesion,” provided a platform for stakeholders to examine Sierra Leone's peacebuilding journey and identify practical measures to strengthen reconciliation and prevent future conflicts.

Delivering the keynote address, President Bio acknowledged the progress Sierra Leone had made since the end of its eleven-year civil war in January 2002 but cautioned that lasting peace requires more than the absence of violence or the successful conduct of elections.

He maintained that genuine national cohesion must be reflected in the country's institutions, political relationships and the everyday experiences of ordinary citizens.

“Peace must therefore become part of our national culture. It must be visible in our institutions, in the trust people have in one another and in the way we treat one another,” the President stated.

Reflecting on the devastating consequences of the civil war, President Bio acknowledged that many victims and survivors continue to live with physical injuries, emotional trauma and economic hardship.

In a significant moment during his address, he offered a formal apology on behalf of the State to those who suffered during the conflict, including families who lost loved ones and citizens who were denied adequate protection.

“On behalf of the State of Sierra Leone, I apologize for the suffering you endured and for the protection you did not receive. I am sorry,” he declared.

The President explained that reconciliation could not be achieved through speeches alone, stressing the need for concrete interventions to address unresolved grievances and provide meaningful support to those affected by the war.

He consequently directed the National Commission for Social Action (NaCSA) and other relevant institutions to review and strengthen the reparations programme recommended by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC).

He further instructed the responsible institutions to present a public report on the implementation of the TRC recommendations by 18 January 2027, marking 25 years since the official end of Sierra Leone's civil war.

President Bio also called for expanded mental-health and psychosocial support for war survivors, directing the Ministry of Health to collaborate with the Peace Commission and faith-based organisations to assist individuals and communities still experiencing the effects of the conflict.

As part of his broader peacebuilding agenda, the President announced several initiatives designed to strengthen national reconciliation, democratic governance and political cooperation.

Among them is a proposed National Peace and Cohesion Action Framework, expected to be published within 90 days. The framework will outline outstanding commitments under the Agreement for National Unity, identify institutions responsible for implementation and establish deadlines and measurable indicators for assessing progress.

He also announced an initial Le25 million allocation towards a proposed Peace Basket Fund in the 2027 national budget to support peacebuilding, reconciliation and community-based conflict prevention initiatives.

Other proposals included strengthening the Inter-Party Dialogue Committee, developing a Code of Conduct for Peaceful Elections, introducing peace and civic education in schools, establishing a National Peace Week and commencing work on a National Peace Memorial.

Turning his attention to the country's political future, President Bio reaffirmed his commitment to constitutional governance and a peaceful transfer of power when his mandate expires in 2028.

“In 2028, I will complete my constitutional mandate and hand over the Presidency peacefully to whomever Sierra Leoneans choose. Let me state this without qualification; I will not be a candidate in the 2028 Presidential Election,” he declared.

He urged political leaders across party lines to demonstrate restraint, reject inflammatory rhetoric and avoid exploiting ethnic, regional or religious differences for political advantage.

According to him, political competition should be based on ideas, policies and competing visions for national development rather than hostility and division.

Former President Dr Ernest Bai Koroma, addressing the gathering, welcomed the renewed national commitment to peace and pledged his willingness to support efforts aimed at strengthening unity and reconciliation.

He described the conference as an important opportunity for Sierra Leoneans to reflect on the country's political experiences, acknowledge past mistakes and recommit themselves to the principles of peaceful coexistence.

“The responsibility of a President is not only to govern, but also to hold the country together. That is no small responsibility,” Dr Ernest Bai Koroma stated.

Drawing on his experience as a former opposition leader and two-term President, he stressed that national leadership demands tolerance, consultation and respect for political differences.

He recalled aspects of the political transition following the 2007 elections, explaining that he retained Ministers from the outgoing administration until replacements were appointed to ensure continuity in Government operations.

The former President also disclosed that he maintained security protection for former Vice President Solomon Berewa following the change of administration, describing such decisions as important demonstrations of political maturity and national responsibility.

Dr Ernest Bai Koroma emphasized that the responsibility for preserving Sierra Leone's peace extends beyond the Government to opposition parties, traditional authorities, religious institutions, civil society and ordinary citizens.

He urged Sierra Leoneans to avoid allowing political affiliations to undermine their shared national identity and encouraged leaders to prioritize the country's collective interests.

Reaffirming his readiness to contribute to national reconciliation, Dr Ernest Bai Koroma assured President Bio that his experience remains available whenever needed.

“I want to assure President Bio that, moving forward, I will be just a telephone call away,” he declared.

His remarks underscored the importance of continued engagement between political leaders, particularly as Sierra Leone prepares for another electoral transition in 2028.

Meanwhile, the Board Chairman of the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion, Rev. Dr Shodankeh Johnson, highlighted the Commission's achievements during its five years of existence.

He explained that the institution had supported community mediation, conflict prevention, early-warning mechanisms and peacebuilding activities across Sierra Leone's 16 districts.

Rev. Dr Shodankeh Johnson noted that sustainable peace depends on justice, inclusion, accountable leadership and effective mechanisms for resolving grievances before they escalate into violence.

He called for reliable financial support to strengthen the Commission's operations and welcomed the proposed Peace Basket Fund as a mechanism for mobilizing resources from Government, development partners, the private sector, philanthropists and Sierra Leoneans in the diaspora.

According to him, the proposed fund could support community mediators, peace monitors, research, early-warning systems and other initiatives aimed at preventing conflict.

The United Nations Secretary-General's Special Representative for West Africa and the Sahel, Leonardo Santos Simão, also commended Sierra Leone's continued efforts to strengthen democratic governance and national reconciliation.

He described the country's transition from civil war to democratic governance as an important example of recovery and resilience, while acknowledging that sustaining peace requires continuous investment in public trust and political dialogue.

Leonardo Santos Simão particularly welcomed the engagement between President Bio and former President Koroma, noting that constructive dialogue remains essential to resolving political disagreements.

He also highlighted the significance of the Agreement for National Unity signed following the 2023 elections, describing it as an important demonstration of the value of negotiation and cooperation in addressing political tensions.

Similarly, Deputy British High Commissioner, Mehdi Hussain, urged Sierra Leone's political leaders to protect the country's democratic achievements and exercise responsibility in their public statements and actions.

He warned that inflammatory political rhetoric could undermine public confidence and weaken the foundations of national stability.

Mehdi Hussain stressed the importance of protecting civic space, safeguarding media freedom and strengthening democratic institutions, while encouraging policies that respond to the economic and social needs of ordinary citizens.

He further emphasized that peace and political stability are essential for attracting investment, promoting development and improving public services.

Awards were also presented to prominent Sierra Leoneans as well as foreign nationals in recognition of their contribution towards peace building in Sierra Leone.

The conference continued on Tuesday, 27 October 2026, with thematic discussions addressing implementation of the Agreement for National Unity, conflict prevention and early-warning systems, human rights, accountability, public trust and sustainable financing for peacebuilding.

Participants also examined recommendations aimed at strengthening political cooperation, improving institutional accountability and expanding community participation in national reconciliation.

The proceedings included the presentation of priority actions from thematic discussions and the adoption of the Freetown Declaration on National Unity and Social Cohesion 2026.

As Sierra Leone approaches the 25th anniversary of the end of its civil war, the renewed engagement between President Bio and former President Koroma has placed national reconciliation, political dialogue and institutional accountability at the centre of the country's peacebuilding agenda.

Their respective commitments have reinforced calls for political leaders and citizens to work collectively towards safeguarding democratic stability and ensuring that differences in political opinion do not threaten the peace achieved after years of conflict.

However, the effectiveness of the initiatives announced during the conference will ultimately depend on their implementation, sustained political commitment and the extent to which they address the concerns of citizens, particularly war survivors and communities affected by longstanding grievances.

For Sierra Leone, the challenge now extends beyond reaffirming the importance of peace to translating national commitments into measurable actions that strengthen public confidence, promote justice and create opportunities for a more united and prosperous society. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/65778

 

A 58-year-old chef, Moses Sarrah Sesay, has been remanded at the Male Correctional Facility in Freetown after appearing before Magistrate John Manso Fornah of Pademba Road Magistrate Court No. 2 on a charge of murder.

Moses Sarrah Sesay is accused of killing Zainab Jalloh between Saturday, 27 June and Sunday, 28 June 2026, at Tombo Village in the Western Rural Area.

According to the particulars of the offence, the accused allegedly murdered Zainab Jalloh contrary to Section 1 of the Offences Against the Person Act of 1861, as repealed and replaced by Section 1(a) of the Schedule to the Abolition of the Death Penalty Act, 2021 (Act No. 6 of 2022).

When the charge was read and explained to Moses Sarrah Sesay, no plea was taken, as the matter is undergoing preliminary committal proceedings to determine whether sufficient evidence exists for the case to proceed to trial before the High Court.

During the proceedings, Police Prosecutor Inspector Florence Wilson informed the court that the accused had been served with copies of the relevant case documents and inquiry files.

Inspector Florence Wilson further requested the issuance of subpoenas to compel prosecution witnesses who were absent from court to attend subsequent hearings and give evidence in the matter.

Moses Sarrah Sesay, who appeared without legal representation, confirmed to the court that he had received the documents served on him.

After considering the circumstances surrounding the charge, Magistrate John Manso Fornah declined to grant bail, citing the seriousness of the alleged offence.

The Magistrate subsequently ordered that Moses Sarrah Sesay be remanded at the Male Correctional Facility in Freetown pending further proceedings.

The matter was adjourned to Friday, 30 October 2026, for continuation of the committal proceedings. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/65774

 

The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (MAFS), in collaboration with the Bank of Sierra Leone (BSL) and the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF), has engaged senior banking executives and development partners in high-level discussions aimed at expanding access to agricultural financing and encouraging greater private-sector investment in Sierra Leone’s agricultural sector.Bank of Sierra Leone (BSL)

The engagement, held at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Freetown, brought together representatives of commercial banks, microfinance institutions and international development partners, including the European Union, to examine practical financing solutions that could support agricultural production, strengthen agribusinesses and accelerate the implementation of the Government’s flagship Feed Salone initiative.

Discussions centred on the commercial opportunities available within Sierra Leone’s agricultural sector, particularly in the rice, poultry and onion value chains. Participants explored financing needs across various stages of agricultural production, including access to farming inputs, cultivation, processing, storage, transportation and marketing.

The roundtable also provided an opportunity for financial institutions to examine existing challenges affecting agricultural lending and identify measures that could make the sector more attractive to commercial investors.

A major highlight of the engagement was the €6 million Matching Grant Facility established under the European Union-funded Salone Access to Finance programme. The facility is designed to improve financing opportunities for eligible businesses by combining commercial loans with grants, thereby reducing borrowing costs and addressing some of the financial barriers that have traditionally limited investment in agriculture.

The initiative is expected to create opportunities for farmers, agricultural entrepreneurs and established agribusinesses seeking financial support to expand their operations, improve productivity and strengthen their participation in domestic agricultural value chains.

During the discussions, representatives of participating financial institutions, including Vista Bank and Safe Capital Microfinance, shared their experiences in implementing the Matching Grant Facility.

They highlighted the importance of maintaining proper financial records, developing credible business plans and establishing reliable business operations as essential requirements for accessing commercial financing.

Their contributions underscored the need for agricultural enterprises to strengthen their financial management practices and demonstrate commercial viability to attract greater investment from banks and other lending institutions.

Addressing the gathering, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Henry Musa Kpaka, encouraged banking executives to identify practical incentives, financing arrangements and policy interventions that could stimulate increased lending to the agricultural sector.

Dr. Henry Musa Kpaka emphasized the importance of closer cooperation between financial institutions and agricultural stakeholders in creating sustainable financing opportunities capable of supporting the Government’s drive towards increased domestic food production.

The Minister’s engagement with banking executives formed part of broader efforts to encourage the financial sector to recognize agriculture as an important area for commercial investment and national economic development.

Similarly, the Governor of the Bank of Sierra Leone, Dr. Ibrahim Stevens, reaffirmed the Central Bank’s commitment to supporting a financial environment that encourages responsible lending, private-sector participation and increased investment in agriculture.

Dr. Ibrahim Stevens stressed the importance of strengthening the relationship between the banking industry and agricultural businesses to ensure that financing opportunities contribute meaningfully to economic growth and food security.

The discussions further highlighted the importance of sustained collaboration among Government institutions, commercial banks, microfinance providers and development partners in addressing the financing constraints confronting farmers and agribusiness operators.

Through the Feed Salone initiative, the Government continues to prioritize increased agricultural production, improved food security, job creation and reduced dependence on imported food products.

However, achieving those objectives requires substantial investment in agricultural infrastructure, modern farming technologies, processing facilities and reliable market systems, making access to affordable financing an important component of the country's agricultural transformation agenda.

The Banking Executives’ Roundtable therefore provided a platform for strengthening cooperation between policymakers and financial institutions while identifying opportunities to channel additional private capital into productive agricultural activities.

The engagement also reinforced the importance of innovative financing arrangements, including blended finance mechanisms that combine development assistance with commercial lending to support viable agricultural enterprises.

By bringing together key players from the agricultural and financial sectors, the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Bank of Sierra Leone and UNCDF are seeking to establish stronger partnerships that will improve access to investment capital and support the growth of commercially sustainable agribusinesses.

The roundtable represents another step towards translating the objectives of Feed Salone into practical investment opportunities, with the broader goal of increasing domestic food production, strengthening agricultural value chains and positioning agriculture as a major contributor to Sierra Leone’s economic development. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/65771

 

A major initiative aimed at reducing avoidable blindness in Sierra Leone has recorded significant progress, with 1,522 cataract surgeries performed during the second year of a nationwide eye care programme implemented by Choithram International Foundation in partnership with Noor Dubai Foundation, the Ministry of Health and Choithram Memorial Hospital.

The programme, which has continued to expand access to free eye care services, has also received international academic recognition following the publication of a peer-reviewed study in BMJ Open, a journal of the British Medical Journal (BMJ) Group, highlighting improvements in patients’ vision-related quality of life and identifying important lessons for strengthening cataract treatment in countries with limited healthcare resources.

According to information released on 21 October 2026, the second phase of the initiative, conducted between March and August 2026, represented a major advancement in the campaign against preventable blindness, particularly among vulnerable communities with limited access to specialist medical services.

During the period, more than 5,768 adults were screened or received consultations, 2,460 patients benefited from medical treatment, while 1,522 cataract surgeries were successfully performed. Additional surgical procedures and referrals were also undertaken to address other eye conditions requiring specialist attention.

The figures place the second-year campaign among Sierra Leone’s largest eye care outreach interventions, attracting patients from different parts of the country as well as neighbouring Guinea and Liberia.

Established in 2024, the multi-year initiative seeks to address the growing burden of cataract-related blindness through free surgical treatment, community screening, professional training and improvements in the country's long-term eye care capacity.

The programme is being implemented by Choithram International Foundation in association with Noor Dubai Foundation, led by its Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Manal Taryam, under the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, alongside Sierra Leone's Ministry of Health and Choithram Memorial Hospital.

Its importance is reflected in findings from the 2021 Rapid Assessment of Avoidable Blindness (RAAB), which established that approximately 5.4 percent of Sierra Leoneans aged 50 years and above were blind, with cataracts accounting for nearly 60 percent of blindness cases.

The findings underscore the need for sustained interventions to improve access to affordable eye care, particularly in rural communities where specialist services remain limited.

A major achievement during the second year was the expansion of local medical expertise. Seventeen ophthalmic professionals received training in different clinical and surgical disciplines, including cataract surgery, ophthalmic nursing, operating theatre nursing and specialist medical practice.

The training forms part of a broader strategy to strengthen Sierra Leone's healthcare workforce and gradually reduce dependence on visiting international specialists.

At Choithram Memorial Hospital in Freetown, two operating theatres functioned simultaneously to accommodate the increasing number of patients requiring surgery. The procedures were supported by Sierra Leonean medical personnel who benefited from monthly professional exchanges and technical mentorship provided by Choithram Netralaya, an established eye hospital in India.

Under the arrangement, beneficiaries received cataract surgery, medication, transportation, accommodation and postoperative care without paying any fees.

The initiative has therefore removed several financial and logistical barriers that previously prevented vulnerable patients from seeking treatment.

Beyond restoring vision, the programme has also helped beneficiaries regain their independence and improve their participation in everyday activities.

One beneficiary, Isatu Kamara, expressed satisfaction following her successful operation, saying: "My right eye is now very bright. I am happy with the result and I look forward to coming back next year for the left eye."

Her experience reflects the wider impact of cataract treatment on individuals who had previously struggled with limited vision, including farmers, caregivers and elderly people whose daily activities had been affected by deteriorating eyesight.

The programme's achievements have also attracted academic attention through an independent evaluation undertaken by researchers from Queen's University Belfast in the United Kingdom and Noor Dubai Foundation.

The research, led by Dr. Gabriel Osei-Anokye and Dr. Ving Fai Chan of Queen's University Belfast, together with Dr. M. Mansur Rabiu of Noor Dubai Foundation, examines the effectiveness of the intervention, patient satisfaction, clinical outcomes and improvements in quality of life following surgery.

A peer-reviewed study published in BMJ Open on 9 October 2026 assessed the programme's first implementation cycle, conducted between February and August 2025.

The study reported that 9,117 individuals were screened and 1,433 cataract surgeries performed during that period.

Among 271 patients who completed follow-up assessments, researchers recorded an average improvement of 17 points in vision-related quality-of-life scores, with notable progress in mental health, near-vision activities and distance-vision activities.

However, the research also identified challenges affecting the delivery of cataract services, including shortages of trained personnel, transportation difficulties, incomplete clinical documentation and limited attendance at postoperative appointments.

Only 19 percent of patients returned for their one-month follow-up assessment, highlighting the need for stronger patient monitoring, referral arrangements and continuity of care.

The findings have provided valuable lessons for improving subsequent phases of the initiative, particularly in strengthening operational efficiency and ensuring that patients receive appropriate care after surgery.

Chairman of Choithrams Group, Mr. L.T. Pagarani, welcomed the progress achieved during the second year, describing the initiative as a demonstration of the positive results that can emerge through sustained humanitarian partnerships.

"Goodness inspires more goodness and this second year of our cataract outreach shows exactly that. After restoring sight for hundreds of people in our first cycle, we returned with even greater resolve to deepen our collaborative action," Mr. L.T. Pagarani stated.

He expressed appreciation to the Government of Sierra Leone, particularly the Ministry of Health, for its cooperation, while acknowledging the leadership of Noor Dubai Foundation and the dedication of medical professionals involved in the programme.

Mr. L.T. Pagarani further emphasized that the achievements belonged not only to the implementing organisations but also to the beneficiaries whose lives had been positively transformed through restored vision.

Commenting on the research findings, Dr. Gabriel Osei-Anokye and Dr. Ving Fai Chan of Queen's University Belfast stressed that the programme demonstrated the importance of combining medical interventions with continuous evaluation and improvements in service delivery.

According to the researchers, restoring eyesight produces benefits extending beyond clinical improvements, enabling individuals to regain mobility, confidence, independence and greater participation in family and community life.

They maintained that Sierra Leone's experience illustrates how effective leadership, evidence-based planning and collaboration between healthcare institutions can produce meaningful results even in resource-constrained environments.

Attention is now turning towards the third phase of the programme, scheduled to take place between January and April 2027.

The next cycle is expected to be the most ambitious since the initiative began, with partners targeting between 2,500 and 3,000 cataract surgeries over approximately 80 working days.

Preparatory activities have already commenced, with preliminary screenings beginning on 1 September 2026, particularly in rural provinces where access to specialist eye care remains a challenge.

The implementing partners intend to strengthen cooperation with district health authorities to improve patient identification, referrals and access to surgical services.

The third phase will also benefit from the growing number of Sierra Leonean ophthalmic professionals trained during the previous two cycles, supported by continued technical guidance from Choithram Netralaya in India.

With an operational target averaging approximately 40 surgeries daily, the programme aims to expand treatment capacity while maintaining high standards of patient safety and clinical care.

The initiative also supports the World Health Organization's global eye care objectives for 2030, which emphasize improved access to cataract surgery, stronger healthcare systems and greater investment in services capable of preventing avoidable vision impairment.

Noor Dubai Foundation, established following an initiative launched in 2008 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai, has continued to support international programmes focused on preventing blindness and improving access to eye care.

Its collaboration with Choithram International Foundation builds on the medical infrastructure and expertise of Choithram Memorial Hospital, which has served Sierra Leone's healthcare sector since 1993.

Through its partnership with Choithram Netralaya and Queen's University Belfast, the initiative combines humanitarian assistance, specialist medical training and academic research to support sustainable improvements in eye care delivery.

As preparations intensify for the 2027 surgical campaign, the achievements recorded during the first two years have strengthened expectations that the programme will continue to transform lives while helping Sierra Leone build a more accessible and sustainable national eye care system.

For thousands of beneficiaries, the initiative represents more than the restoration of eyesight. It offers renewed independence, improved livelihoods and the opportunity to participate fully in family and community life. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/65766

 

Sierra Leone’s Vice President, Dr Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, has called for greater political inclusiveness, increased women’s representation and public support for Proportional Representation (PR), describing those as important measures for strengthening national unity, addressing social injustice and building lasting trust among Sierra Leoneans.

The Vice President made the appeal on Tuesday, 27 October 2026, during the closing session of the two-day National Unity and Social Cohesion Conference held at the Bintumani Conference Centre in Freetown.

Organized by the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC), the conference brought together senior Government officials, political leaders, representatives of international organisations, Civil Society Organisations and other stakeholders to examine practical approaches to strengthening reconciliation, democratic governance and peaceful coexistence.

Addressing the gathering, Dr Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh identified exclusion and social injustice as significant challenges that must be addressed to consolidate Sierra Leone’s peace and strengthen public confidence in national institutions.

“One critical pathway to building trust and cohesion is to progressively address the fears of exclusion and social injustice,” the Vice President stated.

His remarks highlighted the importance of creating a political and governance environment in which citizens, regardless of their backgrounds, feel adequately represented and have meaningful opportunities to participate in national decision-making.

Drawing on his professional background in political science, security, governance, electoral systems and post-war reconstruction, Dr Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh emphasized that political inclusion remains an essential component of sustainable peace.

He particularly encouraged Sierra Leoneans to support Proportional Representation, drawing attention to its potential to broaden political participation and strengthen women's representation in governance.

The Vice President's position placed electoral representation within the broader national conversation about fairness, political stability and the need to address longstanding concerns over exclusion.

His emphasis on women's participation also reinforced the argument that national development and social cohesion require greater opportunities for women to contribute to political leadership and decision-making.

The appeal came against the backdrop of continuing national efforts to strengthen democratic institutions, promote political tolerance and ensure that citizens from different political, regional and social backgrounds have confidence in the country's governance structures.

For Dr Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, addressing perceptions of marginalization and unequal participation is closely connected to the wider objective of building a society in which political differences do not undermine national solidarity.

The conference opened on Monday, 26 October 2026, with President Dr Julius Maada Bio, Vice President Dr Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh and former President Dr Ernest Bai Koroma participating in a high-level gathering that underscored the importance of sustained engagement among national leaders.

Representatives of the United Nations, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), political parties, Civil Society Organisations and other national stakeholders also participated in discussions on Sierra Leone's peacebuilding journey and the implementation of the Agreement for National Unity.

During his opening address, President Dr Julius Maada Bio called for a renewed national commitment to reconciliation, justice and collective responsibility, stressing that peace must extend beyond political agreements and become an integral part of everyday life.

“Peace must become part of our national culture,” President Bio declared, emphasizing that tolerance, mutual respect and reconciliation should guide the conduct of political leaders, public institutions and ordinary citizens.

In one of the significant moments of the conference, the President apologized on behalf of the State to victims and survivors of Sierra Leone's civil war, acknowledging the suffering endured by amputees, bereaved families and other citizens affected by the conflict.

He further directed relevant national institutions to review and strengthen existing reparations programmes to ensure that victims receive appropriate recognition and support.

President Bio also called for a comprehensive public report on the implementation of the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, directing that it be presented by the end of January 2027.

The announcement placed renewed attention on outstanding post-war commitments and the need to address historical grievances as part of Sierra Leone's continuing reconciliation process.

Former President Dr Ernest Bai Koroma, who also addressed the conference, urged political leaders to protect the country's hard-won peace by placing national interests above partisan considerations.

He emphasized the importance of dialogue, mutual respect and political maturity in resolving disagreements, warning against allowing political differences to threaten national stability.

His participation alongside President Bio and Vice President Juldeh Jalloh reflected the significance of continued engagement between Government and opposition leaders in strengthening national confidence and democratic cooperation.

Representatives of the United Nations and ECOWAS similarly acknowledged Sierra Leone's progress in maintaining peace since the end of the civil war while encouraging stronger democratic institutions, inclusive governance and sustained political dialogue.

Throughout the two-day conference, participants examined the importance of translating commitments under the Agreement for National Unity into practical institutional reforms and measurable improvements in political cooperation.

Discussions also highlighted the responsibilities of Government institutions, political parties, traditional authorities, religious leaders, women, young people and civil society in preventing conflict and promoting peaceful coexistence.

Against this background, Vice President Dr Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh's closing remarks brought renewed attention to the relationship between political representation, social justice and national stability.

His advocacy for Proportional Representation and greater women's participation reinforced the argument that sustainable national cohesion requires governance arrangements that encourage broad participation and respond to concerns about exclusion.

The conference concluded with renewed calls for political goodwill, institutional accountability and concrete measures to strengthen public trust and advance reconciliation.

As Sierra Leone continues efforts to consolidate its democratic progress, the Vice President's message highlighted the importance of ensuring that the pursuit of national unity is accompanied by meaningful political inclusion, fair representation and sustained action against social injustice.

The challenge now facing national stakeholders is to translate the commitments made at Bintumani into practical reforms capable of strengthening democratic participation, rebuilding confidence and securing a more peaceful and inclusive Sierra Leone. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/65761

 

The Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), Musayeroh Barrie, has called for stronger commitment to aviation security, adequate resource allocation and greater recognition of aviation security professionals, describing the sector as a strategic investment in human lives, national security and economic growth.

Musayeroh Barrie made the call during the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Security Week, held from 20 to 22 October 2026 in Astana, Kazakhstan, where she highlighted the critical role of aviation security in protecting passengers, aircraft and airports, while urging Governments and aviation stakeholders to guard against complacency and ensure that security remains a national priority.

In a post on X, following her participation in the event, she stated that “aviation security is a strategic investment in lives, national security and economic growth.” She further stressed that security is everyone's responsibility and that complacency is not an option.

Drawing on nearly four years as Director General of the SLCAA and more than 11 years previously spent heading the aviation security department at Sierra Leone's only international airport, Musayeroh Barrie said her professional experience had given her a deep understanding of the importance of security to the aviation industry.

She explained that aviation security professionals worked continuously, often without public recognition, to protect people travelling by air. Although their work is essential to the safe operation of flights, she observed that the effectiveness of security arrangements could sometimes cause the public to overlook the effort and expertise behind them.

She argued that aviation security deserves recognition comparable to other essential national services because its contribution extends beyond airports and aircraft to the protection of human lives and the wider security of the state.

She described her participation in the conference as an opportunity to bring aviation security into sharper focus, encourage greater professional engagement and strengthen the collective understanding of the responsibilities involved in safeguarding civil aviation.

The SLCAA Director General also acknowledged the participation of Sierra Leone's Director of Aviation Security and two aviation security inspectors who accompanied her to the conference. She used the occasion to underline how working in aviation security could shape a professional's discipline, thinking and approach to responsibility, explaining that security is not simply a department within the aviation system but a culture that had to inform everyday operations.

According to Musayeroh Barrie, this understanding had helped make aviation security central to her leadership approach at the SLCAA. She said the Authority's commitment is reinforced by the Sierra Leone Government's support for aviation security and the broader development of the country's aviation sector.

She maintained that Government’s commitment is particularly important in ensuring that civil aviation authorities have the resources needed to carry out their responsibilities effectively. While acknowledging that resources are limited, she said Authorities have to identify their most pressing needs, assess the risks they face and direct available resources towards the areas requiring urgent attention.

Musayeroh Barrie emphasized that aviation security could not be treated as an optional responsibility or merely one item competing for attention among other institutional priorities. Instead, she said, it requires deliberate leadership, sustained investment and a clear understanding of the consequences of security failures.

She also highlighted the importance of integrating aviation security with other areas of civil aviation, particularly aviation safety, through regular briefings, coordinated planning and information sharing. Such cooperation, she said, helps Authorities make informed decisions, identify vulnerabilities and protect national interests.

Reflecting on discussions at the conference, Musayeroh Barrie recounted an exchange with the Secretary General of the African Civil Aviation Commission, who had remarked that aviation security personnel were rarely seen. She explained that the limited visibility of security professionals was partly rooted in a traditional culture of confidentiality and discreet operations.

However, she said Sierra Leone had been working to encourage greater integration across the aviation sector, ensuring that relevant institutions understood one another's responsibilities and worked together to address common challenges.

Musayeroh Barrie said effective information sharing did not diminish the importance of confidentiality. Rather, appropriate coordination enabled aviation authorities to respond more effectively to threats while maintaining the safeguards required to protect sensitive security information.

She stressed that aviation security activities even when they appear routine could have lifesaving consequences. Security professionals might work largely behind the scenes, but their contribution is fundamental to the safe and secure operation of flights.

For that reason, she called for greater recognition, professional support and investment in the people responsible for aviation security. She also warned against neglecting succession planning and the development of a new generation of qualified security professionals.

Musayeroh Barrie said countries need to train and prepare younger professionals to take over from those currently serving, noting that a failure to develop the next generation could leave the aviation sector exposed to serious vulnerabilities.

She encouraged more people to consider careers in aviation security, explaining that although the profession requires discipline and strict adherence to procedures, it offers an important opportunity to contribute to national development and the protection of human life.

The Director General further stressed that countries seeking economic growth, increased tourism and stronger trade links have to recognize the importance of aviation security. A secure aviation system, she indicated, is essential to maintaining confidence in air transport and supporting the movement of people and goods.

On compliance with international standards, Musayeroh Barrie said ICAO provides an important framework for states, but each country has a responsibility to understand its own security environment, identify specific risks and implement appropriate measures.

She noted that security threats and vulnerabilities differ from one country to another, meaning that states could not rely solely on international standards without examining their own circumstances. Risk assessments, she said, are necessary to establish priorities and ensure that available resources are used effectively.

Musayeroh Barrie acknowledged the value of international benchmarks while explaining that implementation could vary according to national conditions and risk profiles. What matters, she said, is that each state takes its responsibilities seriously and put effective measures in place to meet the required standards.

She also encouraged greater regional cooperation among civil aviation Authorities, particularly across Africa. Referring to collaborative initiatives involving the African Civil Aviation Commission, Musayeroh Barrie said she had signed memoranda of understanding with several civil aviation Authorities, especially those in neighbouring countries.

She explained that such agreements created opportunities for Authorities to exchange expertise, strengthen professional relationships and support one another when challenges arose. In her view, regional collaboration is an important means of improving compliance and strengthening aviation security capacity.

Musayeroh Barrie further emphasized that a country's responsibility does not end with securing its own airports. Sierra Leone, she said, also has a duty to ensure that aircraft departing its territory remains safe and secure throughout its journey.

She described that responsibility as one of the reasons aviation security remains personally important to her, stressing that the work has to be sustained and continuously improved to protect the integrity of the wider aviation system.

During a question and answer session, Musayeroh Barrie raised concerns about balancing airport commercialization with security requirements. Addressing the Chief Executive Officer of Almaty International Airport, she asked how airport operators could protect commercial interests and profitability while responding to changing security threats.

She explained that an excessive focus on commercial activities, particularly in landside airport operations, could create security vulnerabilities if not properly managed. Commercial spaces can attract people who are not travelling, potentially increasing the number of individuals around airport facilities and creating challenges for the monitoring and control of access.

Musayeroh Barrie therefore urged airport operators to ensure that commercial development does not undermine security procedures. While recognizing the importance of revenue generation and profitability, she maintained that security considerations must remain central to airport management decisions.

Her intervention reinforced her wider argument that aviation security should be treated as a fundamental operational responsibility rather than a cost or administrative requirement that could be subordinated to commercial objectives.

The ICAO Security Week provided Musayeroh Barrie with an opportunity to exchange experience, discuss emerging challenges and strengthen professional cooperation on aviation security. Her contributions highlighted the need for effective leadership, Government commitment, adequate resources, regional partnerships and sustained investment in professional training.

For Sierra Leone, Musayeroh Barrie's participation also offered an opportunity to present the country's approach to aviation security and underline the importance of aligning national priorities with international standards while responding to local risks.

Her central message was that aviation security must remain a shared responsibility, supported by Governments, regulators, airport operators and trained professionals. As the aviation industry continues to support international connectivity, trade and tourism, she maintained that protecting lives and safeguarding the sector must remain a priority. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/65755

 

ROCKCEM (SL) Ltd is making significant strides in Sierra Leone’s cement industry with investments aimed at increasing processing capacity, improving nationwide distribution and making construction materials more accessible to customers, particularly those operating outside Freetown.

The company’s expansion programme includes a modern cement grinding mill with a projected capacity exceeding 60,000 bags daily, a transportation fleet of approximately 50 vehicles and a strategically located warehouse at Sumbuya in Songo, Western Rural District, expected to commence operations in November 2026.

These developments are intended to strengthen the supply of the company’s flagship RC BRAND CEM II 42.5 R Cement while addressing transportation and distribution challenges that continue to affect construction businesses across Sierra Leone.

The new Songo warehouse represents an important development for contractors, wholesalers, retailers and individual builders travelling from provincial communities. Once operational, customers will have an alternative collection point instead of undertaking lengthy journeys to Freetown.

The location is expected to reduce transportation expenses, including fuel consumption, vehicle maintenance costs and certain toll-gate payments, depending on customers’ travelling routes.

For cement dealers who regularly transport large quantities of building materials to provincial markets, the facility could improve business efficiency by shortening delivery distances and facilitating quicker stock replenishment.

ROCKCEM is complementing this investment with an expanded fleet of approximately 50 vehicles to strengthen cement transportation and ensure more reliable deliveries to construction sites, commercial outlets and distribution centres nationwide.

The company’s modern grinding mill is another major component of its industrial expansion. Designed to process and package more than 60,000 bags of cement weighing 50 kilograms each daily, the facility has a projected output exceeding 3,000 metric tonnes per day.

This capacity is expected to enhance the company’s ability to respond to market demand, improve production efficiency and support a more dependable supply of cement for residential, commercial and infrastructure projects.

Despite rising machinery prices, inflation and increasing operational costs, ROCKCEM continues to invest in equipment and infrastructure intended to strengthen its long-term competitiveness.

The expansion could also create employment opportunities for Sierra Leoneans in engineering, machine operation, driving, mechanical maintenance, warehousing and logistics. Businesses providing spare parts, transportation services and equipment maintenance may equally benefit from the company’s growing operations.

ROCKCEM’s flagship RC BRAND CEM II 42.5 R Cement is marketed for its strength, durability and suitability for various construction applications. The company maintains that dependable access to quality cement is essential for reducing construction delays and supporting infrastructure development.

With the anticipated opening of the Songo warehouse, ROCKCEM expects to improve customer convenience, strengthen its distribution network and expand its presence in provincial markets.

The company’s head office is located on 13B Bai Bureh Road, Texaco, Old Road, Freetown. Customers seeking information about cement purchases, wholesale supplies and delivery arrangements can contact +232 72 111111.

ROCKCEM continues to promote RC BRAND CEM II 42.5 R Cement under its slogan: “Build Stronger. Build to Last.” https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/65753