Freetown, Sierra Leone, May 11, 2026 - QNET, an international wellness and lifestyle company, is aware of the publication by Sierraloaded.sl, which narrated the account of an individual who was allegedly scammed of Le 18,000,000 in 2018. The article falsely and inaccurately attributed the individual’s narration to a fraudulent scheme linked to QNET. QNET dissociates itself from this allegation and advises people to be vigilant when others offer them fake investment, employment or travel opportunities in exchange for money.

Talking about QNET’s commitment to protecting the public and consumers, Biram Fall, Deputy Chairman of QNET for Sub-Saharan Africa, said: "We empathise with those who have unfortunately fallen victim to the activities of criminals who deliberately scam people of their hard-earned money. QNET is taking proactive steps to protect the public and consumers from continuing to fall victim to those who misuse and misrepresent QNET's name and products to deceive innocent people.”

“We will continue to provide authentic information about our business to the public so that it can help people understand how fraudsters misuse the company name and how to avoid them. QNET does not offer investment schemes, jobs abroad or visas in exchange for money. The company does not coerce people into its business by kidnapping or trafficking them.”

According to Mr Fall, the simplest way to identify these scammers is by their making false promises of employment, visas, or investments and asking victims to travel to other countries for these fake opportunities, sometimes using QNET's name.

QNET recently held a media webinar that brought together about 25 experienced journalists from various media organisations in Sierra Leone to deepen their understanding of the company's efforts to combat misinformation and misuse of its name and products.

Across Sub-Saharan Africa, QNET is intensifying its awareness campaigns through its "QNET Against Scams" initiative, broadcast on television, radio, online media, social networks, and billboards, as well as in print media.

The company is also strengthening its collaboration with security institutions and working on replicating its exemplary partnership with Ghana’s Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) in other parts of West Africa to effectively combat these fraudulent practices.

The public is advised to verify any opportunities claiming to be linked to QNET by contacting the company directly via its compliance service on WhatsApp at +233 2566 30005 or by email at network.integrity@qnet.net.

QNET is a prominent lifestyle and wellness company that uses a direct selling business model to offer a wide selection of exclusive products that enable individuals to embrace a healthier, more balanced life.

Since 1998, QNET’s innovative products and e-commerce-driven business model have helped build a global community of satisfied customers and micro-entrepreneurs, who are driven by the mission of RYTHM – Raise Yourself To Help Mankind. Popular product brands offered by QNET include the Bernhard H. Mayer range of luxury watches and jewellery, HomePure range of home care products, the Amezcua wellness range, Physio Radiance personal care range, and QVI branded holiday packages.

QNET proudly holds memberships in the Direct Selling Association in several countries, the Hong Kong Health Food Association, the Health Supplements Industry Association of Singapore, and more. QNET is also active in several global sports sponsorships including in its role as the official direct selling partner of the Manchester City Football Club and the Confederation of African Football (CAF), underscoring its commitment to excellence and global reach.  Discover a world of new possibilities with QNET by visiting www.qnet.net https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/qnet-warns-sierra-leoneans-to-be-wary-of-groups-and-individuals-misrepresenting-the-company/

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Media Advocacy Network-SL on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, concluded a one-day conference organized to commemorate World Press Freedom Day 2026 at the Africell American Corner on Bathurst Street in Freetown. The event was held under the theme: “Shaping a Future at Peace: Promoting Press Freedom for Human Rights, Development, and Security.”

In her welcome remarks, Amb. Mariama S. Tarawally, Deputy Coordinator of Media Advocacy Network-SL, highlighted the important role journalists play in safeguarding democracy, defending human rights, and ensuring accountability in society. She noted that a free and independent press remains essential for promoting transparency and enabling citizens to make informed decisions.

According to her, World Press Freedom Day serves not only as a moment of celebration but also as an opportunity to reflect on the challenges confronting journalists and media practitioners around the world.

She expressed concern that press freedom continues to face threats, with journalists often subjected to intimidation, harassment, and attacks while carrying out their professional duties. She further noted that the rise of misinformation, disinformation, and rapidly evolving technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), continue to reshape the media landscape and create new challenges for journalists.

Tarawally emphasized the need for collective efforts to strengthen independent and ethical journalism while fostering a media environment that supports truth, accountability, and public trust. She also commended journalists and media practitioners who continue to stand on the frontlines in pursuit of truth and public interest despite growing challenges.

In his statement, Amb. Mohamed Tejan Barrie, Executive Director of Media Advocacy Network-SL, called on authorities and stakeholders to take concrete actions to promote and protect press freedom in Sierra Leone.

He emphasized the importance of a free, independent, and professional media in safeguarding democracy, accountability, and the public interest. According to him, while Sierra Leone has made significant progress in expanding civic space and media plurality, those gains remain fragile.

Reflecting on this year’s theme, Amb. Barrie highlighted the growing intersection between journalism, technology, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), and human rights, stressing the need to strengthen information ecosystems that are truthful, inclusive, and resilient against manipulation.

“It is deeply concerning that journalists in Sierra Leone continue to face intimidation, harassment, and at times physical assault, particularly while covering political events and public demonstrations,” he stated.

He further condemned reports of rogue police officers allegedly targeting journalists, noting that such actions undermine constitutional guarantees on freedom of expression and media independence.

“Journalists are not adversaries of the state; they are essential actors in informing citizens and holding power to account,” he said, adding that attempts to silence the press through force or coercion pose a serious threat to democratic governance.

Amb. Barrie urged leaders to move beyond rhetoric by enforcing accountability within security agencies, strengthening legal protections for journalists, and promoting respect for media practitioners across the political divide.

He also called for increased investment in media literacy and ethical journalism while encouraging the responsible use of technology to combat misinformation and disinformation.

“A free press is not a privilege granted by those in power; it is a right that must be actively defended,” he concluded, calling for the creation of an environment where journalists can operate without fear and where truth continues to serve as the foundation of democracy.

The statements were followed by presentations from several speakers on issues relating to media, technology, storytelling, and press freedom.

John Koroma, Executive Director of Stop IT Newspaper, delivered a presentation on “The Importance of Newspaper in the Social Media Age,” where he underscored the enduring relevance of newspapers despite the rapid growth of social media platforms. According to him, while social media provides instant access to information, newspapers remain important sources of verified and in-depth reporting capable of combating misinformation and promoting informed public discourse.

Esther Yealie Kamara, Co-Founder of Youth Initiative for Climate Action (YICA), used her presentation to emphasize the importance of storytelling in driving social change and raising awareness on critical environmental issues. She noted that telling authentic and impactful stories helps communities better understand the realities of climate change, environmental degradation, and the challenges affecting vulnerable populations. According to her, storytelling remains a powerful tool for advocacy, education, and inspiring action, particularly among young people. She encouraged journalists, content creators, and activists to use their platforms responsibly to amplify voices, promote environmental awareness, and influence positive change within society.

Cecilia Alice Sesay, a journalist with Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation (SLBC), spoke on “The Importance of Press Freedom on the Internet,” stressing that digital platforms have become critical spaces for freedom of expression, access to information, and citizen engagement. She noted that protecting online press freedom is essential in ensuring transparency, accountability, and democratic participation in the digital age. Ms. Sesay also raised concerns about online harassment, misinformation, censorship, and cyber threats faced by journalists and media practitioners, calling for policies that safeguard digital rights and promote responsible online journalism.

The conference brought together journalists, civil society actors, media practitioners, and other stakeholders to discuss issues relating to press freedom, human rights, development, and national security in Sierra Leone. The event also featured interactive discussions following each presentation, during which attendees had the opportunity to ask questions and contribute to the conversations.

  https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/media-advocacy-network-sl-concludes-2026-world-press-freedom-day-conference-in-freetown/

By Foday Moriba Conteh

An investigation conducted by The Calabash Newspaper has uncovered allegations involving a businessman accused of importing and allegedly selling suspected counterfeit RR electrical cables, raising fresh concerns about consumer safety and the circulation of substandard electrical materials within the country.

According to credible sources, the businessman, identified as Abdul, owner of Poor Nor Good Building Materials located at Sussex along the Peninsula, is currently under police investigation over allegations that suspected counterfeit RR electrical cables were being sold at his shop.

Sources disclosed that the Sierra Leone Police acted on intelligence reports and subsequently carried out an operation at the businessman’s premises in Sussex. During the exercise, police reportedly discovered and seized several rolls of electrical cables suspected to be counterfeit RR products.

Following the operation, Abdul was reportedly invited to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Headquarters for questioning. Sources further stated that he was later taken into custody and subsequently released pending ongoing investigations.

The seized cables, according to sources familiar with the matter, remain under police examination as authorities continue efforts to determine their authenticity and establish whether any laws relating to importation, trademark infringement, or public safety may have been violated.

The development comes amid increasing public concern over the growing number of fire outbreaks recorded across Sierra Leone in recent years. Authorities at the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA) have previously linked several fire incidents to poor electrical installations and the use of substandard electrical materials, particularly inferior electrical cables.

Industry experts say the alleged circulation of counterfeit electrical products poses significant risks to households, businesses, and public institutions, warning that poor-quality cables can contribute to electrical faults, power surges, and fire outbreaks.

Further findings by The Calabash Newspaper indicate that RR cables are a registered trademark product of SV Electrical, a company situated on Siaka Stevens Street in Freetown. Since 2019, the company has reportedly remained the sole authorized importer and distributor of genuine RR cables in Sierra Leone.

Sources disclosed that SV Electrical recently became aware of suspected counterfeit versions of its products allegedly being sold in parts of the country. The imitation products reportedly bear similarities in branding and packaging to genuine RR cables, raising concerns over consumer deception and broader public safety implications.

In a public advisory, SV Electrical reportedly reaffirmed its status as the exclusive distributor of genuine RR cables in Sierra Leone and urged customers to exercise caution when purchasing electrical products. The company advised consumers to verify product authenticity and encouraged purchases directly from its head office on Siaka Stevens Street or its branch at Hastings Junction.

Authorities have repeatedly warned importers, distributors, and traders against the importation and sale of counterfeit or substandard electrical products, emphasizing the dangers such products pose to public safety and national infrastructure.

Law enforcement officials have maintained that individuals found culpable of violating import regulations or endangering lives through the sale of fake or unsafe electrical materials could face legal action in accordance with the laws of Sierra Leone.

Police sources confirmed that investigations into the matter remain ongoing, with many observers believing the outcome of the case could send a strong signal to individuals allegedly involved in the importation and distribution of counterfeit products.

Meanwhile, some concerned citizens have called on authorities to ensure that any counterfeit electrical materials seized during investigations are safely destroyed to prevent them from re-entering the market and posing further risks to the public.

When contacted by The Calabash Newspaper for comment, Abdul reportedly responded aggressively, insisting that “there is no matter” and claiming that the issue had already been resolved.

The Calabash Newspaper remains committed to balanced and objective journalism and stands ready to publish Abdul’s full response or side of the story should he choose to formally engage with this medium. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/exposed-poor-nor-good-building-materials-accused-of-selling-fake-rr-cables-at-sussex/

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

The Committee of the 50 Most Influential Women in Sierra Leone on Saturday 9th May, 2026 hosted a celebration in honour of Hon. Rosemarie Bangura following her election as Vice President for the West African Caucus of the Pan-African Parliament during a ceremony held at the CCSL Hall on Kingharman Road in Freetown.

The event attracted parliamentarians, women leaders, student representatives, old pupils associations, and other dignitaries who gathered to recognize Hon. Rosemarie Bangura’s latest achievement on the continental stage. The ceremony was chaired by Madam Hawa Samai, Executive Secretary of the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion.

Hon. Rosemarie Bangura, a Member of Parliament representing Tonkolili District, was recently elected Deputy Chairperson of the West African Regional Caucus of the Pan African Parliament during the continental body’s engagements in Midrand, South Africa. The Pan African Parliament, which serves as the legislative arm of the African Union, brings together representatives from member states to deliberate on issues affecting governance, development, peace, and regional integration across Africa.

The election forms part of a broader restructuring of leadership within the Pan African Parliament’s Seventh Legislature, following an Extraordinary Session held between April 28 and 30, 2026, to elect new bureau members and regional caucus leadership in accordance with the African Union’s regional rotation framework.

Speaking during the celebration, Enid Wilson, Vice President of the Freetown Secondary School for Girls Old Students Association, congratulated Hon. Rosemarie Bangura on what she described as a well-deserved achievement reflecting strong leadership, dedication, and commitment to regional cooperation and development in West Africa.

She said Bangura’s rise continues to make the institution proud, noting that she exemplifies the values of excellence, integrity, and service instilled at the school. She further stated that Hon. Rosemarie Bangura’s accomplishment serves as motivation for young women and aspiring leaders across Africa.

Representing the YWCA Old Pupils Association, Agatha S. Vandy described Hon. Rosemarie Bangura’s election as a reflection of years of hard work, integrity, and dedication to public service. She said the position carries major responsibility for advancing regional development and strengthening the voice of women within African governance institutions. She maintained that Bangura’s success demonstrates the values cultivated during her formative years and reaffirmed the association’s support for her new role.

Hon. Memunatu Jalloh, Member of Parliament for Port Loko District, praised Hon. Rosemarie Bangura’s leadership and contribution within Sierra Leone’s Parliament. She highlighted the Honourable role as deputy female caucus leader at 5he Sierra Leone Parliament and commended her ability to work across party lines with both the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party and the opposition All People’s Congress. She stressed the need for women in Parliament to maintain solidarity beyond partisan politics and collectively advance issues affecting women and national development.

The National Union of Sierra Leone Students, represented by Miguel Koroma on behalf of the union’s president, also commended Hon. Rosemarie Bangura’s election. He stated that Bangura’s work in Parliament has inspired many young people, particularly female students, to pursue leadership roles.

He noted that women continue to play critical roles in governance, mentorship, and national development, adding that Hon. Rosemarie Bangura’s achievement demonstrates that women are capable of occupying influential positions at both regional and continental levels.

Miguel Koroma further encouraged young women not to be discouraged from aspiring to leadership positions, stating that future generations would continue to build upon the achievements of women currently breaking barriers in governance and politics. He disclosed that thousands of students attended the celebration in solidarity with Hon. Rosemarie Bangura and to recognise her contribution to inspiring youth leadership.

In her remarks, Hon. Rosemarie Bangura expressed appreciation to the organisers and attendees for the recognition, stating that she was surprised by the scale of the celebration organised in her honour. She described her election as a major responsibility and an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to issues affecting West Africa and the African continent.

She explained that the Pan African Parliament consists of representatives from African Union member states, with regional caucuses playing key roles in coordinating positions and addressing issues affecting their respective regions. She stated that her responsibilities as Vice President for the West African Caucus include strengthening regional coordination, promoting youth and women empowerment, and contributing to policy discussions affecting West Africa.

Hon. Rosemarie Bangura also disclosed that this was not her first leadership role within the continental parliament, revealing that she had previously served as rapporteur for the Western Caucus. Hon. Rosemarie Bangura noted that she was elected unopposed despite interest from other countries in the region, which she attributed to the confidence reposed in her leadership and experience.

The parliamentarian took out time and also thanked the people of Tonkolili District for electing her to Parliament for a third term and pledged continued service to her constituents. She further called on African female parliamentarians to move beyond rhetoric and actively champion women and youth empowerment initiatives across the continent.

She also emphasised the need for progress in areas such as education, mental health, and youth development across Africa. She expressed gratitude to her political party leadership, women’s groups, and supporters for their continued encouragement and support throughout her political journey.

The event concluded with renewed calls for increased female participation in leadership and governance across Sierra Leone and Africa.

  https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/50-most-influential-women-committee-celebrates-hon-rosemarie-banguras-pan-african-parliament-position/

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

The completion ceremony for the first cohort of the Sierra Leone "Excellent Skills Academy", jointly organized by China Railway Seventh Group Co., Ltd., Zhengzhou Railway Technician College, and Freetown Polytechnic, together with the "Talk to China" China–Sierra Leone Youth Exchange Dialogue, was grandly held on Friday 8th May, 2026 at the Freetown Polytechnic, Jui. The event aims to showcase the achievements of the "Excellent Skills Academy," deepen China–Sierra Leone cooperation in vocational education, and promote integration and exchanges between Chinese and Sierra Leonean youth.

The ceremony brought together government officials, representatives of the Chinese Embassy, technical education institutions, students, lecturers, youth representatives, and development partners from both Sierra Leone and China.

The “Talk to China” China Sierra Leone Youth Exchange Dialogue featured discussions among representatives from the Excellence Skills Academy, Sierra Leonean youth employees of CRSG Sierra Leone, Chinese youth employees of CRSG Sierra Leone, a young teacher from Freetown Polytechnic, a student representative from Freetown Polytechnic, a youth diplomat from the Chinese Embassy in Sierra Leone, and a young official from the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education. Discussions focused on technical education, youth empowerment, skills transfer, employment opportunities, innovation, and strengthening people to people exchanges between Sierra Leone and China.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Principal of Freetown Polytechnic, Dr. Samba Moriba, described the graduation ceremony as a historic milestone marking the successful completion of the first cohort of the Sierra Leone Excellence Skills Academy launched under the leadership of President Julius Maada Bio. He explained that the academy was established through collaboration between Freetown Polytechnic and Chinese partners to promote technical skills development, produce qualified technicians, and create employment opportunities for young people in Sierra Leone and the wider region. He highlighted that the academy provides modern, industry focused, and practical training directly linked to national development priorities.

Dr. Moriba commended China Railway Seventh Group Co., Ltd. for its commitment to youth empowerment and technical education, noting that the company's investment was contributing significantly to national development. He praised the graduates for their resilience and dedication, stating that their certificates represented not only academic achievement but also their ability to innovate, build and lead. He encouraged them to continue improving their skills, remain disciplined, and adapt to technological advancements in order to remain valuable contributors to society.

The Principal of Zhengzhou Railway Technician College, Wu Wei, through a virtual message, congratulated the graduates for successfully completing their studies and described their achievement as proof that discipline, hard work, and commitment can create opportunities for a brighter future. He encouraged the graduates to use the technical knowledge and practical skills acquired during the programme to contribute meaningfully to Sierra Leone's national growth and transformation.

Wu Wei thanked the Government of Sierra Leone, the Chinese Embassy, and all partner institutions for supporting the initiative and helping to strengthen vocational education cooperation between Sierra Leone and China. He expressed confidence that the Excellence Skills Academy would continue achieving greater success and producing more skilled professionals capable of supporting national development in the years ahead.

Chief Supervisor, China Railway Seventh Group (SL) Co., Ltd., Feng Tao, described the graduation ceremony as a historic milestone in China Sierra Leone vocational education cooperation and emphasized that the graduates were no longer ordinary certificate holders but skilled technicians prepared to contribute to Sierra Leone's development. He explained that the Excellence Skills Academy was designed to bridge the gap between technical training and employment by aligning its programmes with Sierra Leone's development priorities. According to him, graduates who successfully completed the programme would receive employment opportunities through CRSG and its partner enterprises.

Feng Tao stated that the academy represented an important achievement in international cooperation and demonstrated CRSG's commitment to skills development, employment creation, and youth empowerment in Sierra Leone. He commended Freetown Polytechnic, Zhengzhou Railway Technician College, the Government of Sierra Leone, and the Chinese Embassy for supporting the programme. He stressed that CRSG intended to remain a long term development partner by prioritizing localization, skills transfer, and inclusive growth while expanding technical education cooperation between Sierra Leone and China.

Delivering the keynote address, Minister of Technical and Higher Education, Haja Ramatulai Wurie, described the graduation of the first cohort as a defining moment in Sierra Leone's efforts to reform technical and vocational education and training. She stated that the programme demonstrated how practical and industry linked education can produce measurable national development outcomes. According to the Minister, the government's strategy focuses on demand driven and industry led technical training that prepares graduates for real workplace environments and addresses labour market needs.

The Minister praised the Excellence Skills Academy for providing competency based and hands on training that enables graduates to transition directly into productive employment opportunities through partnerships with CRSG. She commended CRSG for contributing not only to infrastructure development but also to skills transfer, workforce localization, and capacity building in Sierra Leone. She further described the graduates as pioneers of a new model of technical education and urged them to uphold discipline, professionalism, integrity, and excellence while contributing to national development.

Wang Peng, Counselor in charge of commercial and economic cooperation of the Chinese Embassy congratulated the graduates and praised the partnership between CRSG, Zhengzhou Railway Professional and Technical College, and Sierra Leonean institutions. He described the graduation as a major step in strengthening technical education and infrastructure development capacity in Sierra Leone, noting that the academy had successfully provided intensive practical training in automotive driving technology and others.

Wang Peng stated that the academy created an integrated pathway linking technical training, certification, practical learning, and employment opportunities. He commended CRSG for supporting vocational education and employment creation while strengthening China Africa people to people exchanges. He further announced that preparations for the second cohort were already underway with plans to expand technical courses and practical training opportunities for more young Sierra Leoneans.

The best performing graduate, Yusuf Kamara, described the programme as life changing and praised the organizers and trainers for bringing world class vocational and technical education opportunities to Sierra Leone. He stated that the academy equipped students with practical and marketable skills that directly respond to real world demands and employment opportunities.

He thanked CRSG, the trainers, and partner institutions for empowering young people with confidence, discipline, technical competence, and professional skills. He noted that many graduates entered the programme uncertain about their future but were now leaving prepared to contribute meaningfully to society and national development. He also described the programme as a symbol of the growing friendship between Sierra Leone and China and pledged that graduates would apply their skills responsibly in service to their communities and the nation.

The ceremony concluded with the awarding of completion certificates and letters of employment certificates to qualified graduates, eight of whom were recognized as outstanding graduates.

The graduation ceremony and youth dialogue reinforced growing educational, cultural, and economic ties between Sierra Leone and China while highlighting the increasing role of technical education in supporting Sierra Leone's industrial growth, infrastructure development, and long term economic transformation. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/sierra-leone-excellence-skills-academy-graduates-first-cohort/

By the High Commissioner of India to Sierra Leone, Baisnab Charan Pradhan

One year ago, the world witnessed yet another brutal reminder of the destructive force of terrorism. On 22 April 2025, terrorists affiliated with The Resistance Front (TRF), a proxy of the Pakistan-backed and UN-proscribed terrorist organization Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT), carried out a heinous attack on innocent tourists in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. Twenty-six innocent lives were lost, including twenty-five Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen. It was the deadliest terrorist attack on civilians in India since the horrific Mumbai attacks of 2008.

The pain and outrage felt across India were profound. Yet, India’s response was guided not by vengeance, but by responsibility, restraint, and resolve.

On 7 May 2025, India launched Operation Sindoor, a calibrated and precise counter-terror operation aimed at dismantling terrorist infrastructure and preventing future attacks. The operation targeted terror camps and operational nodes in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir that had long served as sanctuaries for groups such as Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT). Key terror hubs, including Bahawalpur, Muridke and Muzaffarabad, were struck with precision.

India’s actions were measured, non-escalatory, and focused solely on terror infrastructure. No Pakistani military establishment was targeted during the initial phase of the operation. India exercised its inherent right of self-defense under international law and sent a clear message: terrorism and those who sponsor it cannot operate with impunity.

Unfortunately, instead of de-escalating, Pakistan responded with attacks targeting military and civilian areas, resulting in further loss of life. India was compelled to respond to these provocations. The Indian Armed Forces subsequently carried out retaliatory strikes against major Pakistan Air Force bases. Satellite imagery and independent assessments later confirmed the extent of the damage inflicted.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while addressing personnel at Air Force Station Adampur, aptly described Operation Sindoor as a “trinity of India’s policy, intent and decisive capability.” The operation demonstrated not only India’s military preparedness, but also the courage, professionalism and restraint of its armed forces.

Beyond the battlefield, Operation Sindoor marked an important turning point in the global fight against terrorism.

India intensified its diplomatic outreach to ensure that the international community remained seized of the gravity of cross-border terrorism. Seven all-party parliamentary delegations, comprising 59 Members of Parliament from across the political spectrum, visited 33 countries to convey India’s unwavering position of zero tolerance towards terrorism.

As part of this outreach, an Indian Parliamentary Delegation led by Dr. Shrikant Eknath Shinde visited Sierra Leone from 28–30 May 2025. The visit reflected the growing strategic partnership and enduring friendship between India and Sierra Leone.

The delegation held substantive discussions with senior Sierra Leonean leaders, including the Vice President, the Acting Foreign Minister, the Speaker and Members of Parliament, the Deputy Minister of Defence, and the National Security Coordinator. India’s position was conveyed clearly: terrorism is a global threat that requires a united global response.

Sierra Leone responded with remarkable solidarity and moral clarity. The Parliament of Sierra Leone condemned the Pahalgam terrorist attack and observed a moment of silence in memory of the victims. The Vice President of Sierra Leone conveyed heartfelt condolences and reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s solidarity with India.

Notably, Deputy Defence Minister Col. (Retd.) Muana Brima Massaquoi emphasized the urgent need for African countries to unite against terrorism, cautioning that complacency today could allow the menace to spread further tomorrow. Such statements underscore the growing international recognition that terrorism anywhere threatens peace everywhere.

The delegation also engaged with diplomats, media representatives, civil society, and the vibrant Indian diaspora in Sierra Leone. During a televised interview on AYV News, Member of Parliament Dr. Sasmit Patra underscored the urgent need for Pakistan to abandon the policy of state-sponsored terrorism. His remarks resonated strongly with local audiences and reinforced India’s principled stand.

India’s efforts at the multilateral level also yielded important outcomes. In July 2025, the 36th Report of the UN Security Council’s 1267 Monitoring Team included a reference to the Pahalgam attack and acknowledged the role of TRF. Significantly, this marked the first reference to Lashkar-e-Toiba in the Monitoring Team’s report since 2019. The report was adopted by consensus, even while Pakistan was serving as a non-permanent member of the Security Council.

Further, the United States designated TRF as both a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) and a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT), reflecting the growing international consensus against terror proxies and their sponsors.

Operation Sindoor has established a new benchmark in India’s counter-terrorism doctrine. It has demonstrated that India will respond firmly and decisively to acts of terror, while acting responsibly and within the framework of international law.

Three principles now define India’s approach.

First, India will respond to terrorism on its own terms and will hold accountable those who shelter, support, finance or sponsor terror.

Second, India will not succumb to nuclear blackmail or intimidation. Terrorist safe havens will not be protected behind threats of escalation.

Third, India sees no distinction between terrorists and those who enable them through state support, training, financing or propaganda.

For India, the fight against terrorism is not merely a security imperative; it is a moral responsibility to protect innocent lives and uphold international peace and stability.

India deeply values the solidarity shown by Sierra Leone and the broader international community over the past year. The fight against terrorism transcends borders, religions and regions. It demands collective resolve, sustained cooperation and unwavering moral clarity.

One year after Operation Sindoor, India remains steadfast in its commitment: terrorism will never prevail over humanity, democracy and peace.

 

******** https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/one-year-of-operation-sindoor-indias-resolute-stand-against-terrorism/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a major move aimed at strengthening Sierra Leone’s entertainment industry while advancing digital transformation, VLN Solutions Private Limited has officially unveiled renowned comedian, influencer and media personality Abubakarr Kindo Sankoh, popularly known as Kindo Armani, as its Official Brand Ambassador.

The announcement underscores the company’s growing commitment to innovation, digital commerce and financial technology, while also supporting local talents within Sierra Leone’s entertainment sector.

According to an official statement released by the company, KindoArmani will serve as Brand Ambassador for the Salone Bly E-Commerce Platform, the soon-to-be-launched VPay Fintech App, and VLN Solutions Private Limited.

The company described the partnership as a strategic milestone in its mission to drive digital transformation and promote greater access to technology-driven services across Sierra Leone.

Speaking on the significance of the partnership, VLN Solutions stated that collaborating with a well-known entertainment figure such as KindoArmani represents an important effort to bridge entertainment, technology and innovation, while taking digital services closer to ordinary Sierra Leoneans.

“This partnership marks a major step in our mission to promote innovation, digital commerce and financial technology across Sierra Leone,” the company stated, emphasizing its vision of building a stronger digital future for the country.

Particular attention has been placed on the upcoming VPay Fintech App, which VLN Solutions disclosed is currently being developed to facilitate all forms of financial transactions. The company noted that the digital financial platform is expected to provide users with seamless and convenient financial services, helping to modernize the way people transact in Sierra Leone.

Industry analysts believe such innovations have the potential to contribute significantly to financial inclusion, particularly as more Sierra Leoneans continue to embrace digital solutions for business, communication and commerce.

KindoArmani, who has earned widespread popularity through comedy, entertainment and social media influence, is expected to play a pivotal role in increasing awareness of the company’s digital platforms and encouraging public engagement with emerging technologies.

Observers have noted that partnerships between technology companies and entertainment personalities are increasingly becoming an effective strategy for expanding digital adoption, especially among young people who are highly engaged with online platforms and influencer culture.

VLN Solutions further emphasized that the collaboration reflects its commitment to bringing creativity, entertainment and technology closer to the people while empowering communities through digital innovation.

“Together with KindoArmani, we are committed to bringing creativity, entertainment and technology closer to the people while building a stronger digital future for Salone,” the statement added.

Located at 6A Main Motor Road, Wilberforce in Freetown, VLN Solutions continues to position itself as a technology-driven company focused on innovation and digital advancement. The company remains optimistic that its partnership with KindoArmani will contribute meaningfully to entrepreneurship, digital commerce and financial technology development in Sierra Leone.

As the company warmly welcomed KindoArmani to what it described as the “VLN Family,” many are hopeful that the partnership will inspire broader collaboration between the technology and entertainment sectors, creating new opportunities for growth, creativity and national development.

Driving digital transformation, VLN Solutions Private Limited continues to position itself as a technology-driven company focused on innovation, digital commerce and financial advancement in Sierra Leone. The company is located at 6A Main Motor Road, Wilberforce, Freetown. For inquiries, members of the public can contact the company via +23278244287 or email info@vlnsolutions.com. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/vln-solutions-unveils-kindo-armani-as-brand-ambassador-to-promote-digital-innovation-and-entertainment-in-sierra-leone/