India has recorded remarkable progress in healthcare, women's empowerment, digital inclusion, financial protection, and social development, according to findings from the Sixth National Family Health Survey (NFHS-6), which were presented during a media briefing hosted by the High Commission of India in Freetown on Wednesday, 17 June 2026.

Addressing journalists, Mr. Neeraj Kumar Saini, Chargé d’Affaires a.i. of the High Commission of India in Sierra Leone, described the survey as a major milestone in the country's public health journey and a testament to the effectiveness of sustained government investments in healthcare, nutrition, sanitation, women's empowerment, and digital transformation.

The NFHS-6 survey, conducted during 2023–2024 by the International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS), Mumbai, covered nearly 679,000 households, more than 700,000 women, and 715 districts across India. It is regarded as one of the world's largest health and demographic surveys, providing comprehensive data on maternal and child health, nutrition, fertility, family planning, immunization, non-communicable diseases, and social welfare indicators.

Mr. Saini disclosed that India has achieved near-universal access to essential services, with electricity coverage reaching 98.3 percent nationwide and 97.8 percent in rural communities. Access to improved drinking water has risen to 96.5 percent, while health insurance coverage has expanded significantly to 60.2 percent, reflecting growing financial protection for millions of households.

The survey also highlighted substantial gains in women's empowerment. According to the findings, 89 percent of women now participate in household decision-making and an equal percentage own and operate bank accounts. Mobile phone ownership among women has increased considerably, while internet usage among women has surged to 64.3 percent, almost doubling from previous survey levels. These developments, Mr. Saini noted, demonstrate the success of India's efforts to bridge gender and digital divides.

On demographic trends, the survey revealed that child marriage has declined sharply over the past two decades. The proportion of women aged 20 to 24 who were married before the age of 18 dropped from 47.4 percent in 2005–2006 to 20.1 percent in 2023–2024. India's Total Fertility Rate has also stabilized at 2.0, indicating replacement-level fertility and a consolidated demographic transition.

Significant progress was equally recorded in maternal and child healthcare. Institutional deliveries have risen to 90.6 percent, while 91.3 percent of births are now attended by skilled health personnel. Nearly 96 percent of pregnant women received antenatal care, and full immunization coverage among children increased to 87.1 percent.

Mr. Saini emphasized that these achievements are supported by India's extensive public health infrastructure, including more than 187,000 operational Ayushman Aarogya Mandirs and Health and Wellness Centres across the country. These facilities have brought essential healthcare services closer to communities, particularly in rural and underserved areas.

He further noted that India's telemedicine programme, eSanjeevani, has delivered more than 467 million consultations, significantly improving access to healthcare services through digital platforms. The country has also strengthened disease prevention and screening programmes, with hundreds of millions of citizens screened for hypertension, diabetes, and various forms of cancer.

The survey recorded encouraging improvements in child nutrition. Stunting among children declined from 38.4 percent to 29.3 percent over the last decade, while severe wasting reduced from 7.4 percent to 5.2 percent. Early breastfeeding practices have also improved considerably, contributing to better child health outcomes.

While celebrating these achievements, Mr. Saini acknowledged emerging public health challenges, particularly the growing burden of obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and other non-communicable diseases. He noted that the Government of India continues to invest heavily in preventive healthcare, health promotion campaigns, and large-scale screening programmes to address these concerns.

The survey also highlighted progress in reducing gender-based violence, increasing financial inclusion, and expanding access to education and digital services. Nearly 98.2 percent of households now have access to bank or post office accounts, driven largely by India's Jan Dhan-Aadhaar-Mobile (JAM) ecosystem and direct benefit transfer programmes.

According to Mr. Saini, the NFHS-6 findings demonstrate the transformative impact of evidence-based policymaking and sustained investment in human development.

"The findings of NFHS-6 underscore India's remarkable progress in improving health outcomes, empowering women, expanding digital and financial inclusion, and strengthening public health systems. These achievements reflect the Government of India's commitment to inclusive development and the well-being of over 1.4 billion people," he stated.

The High Commission of India also emphasized that India's experiences in strengthening primary healthcare, expanding immunization coverage, promoting women's empowerment, and leveraging digital public infrastructure offer valuable lessons for developing countries, including Sierra Leone.

The briefing concluded with a reaffirmation of India's commitment to advancing Universal Health Coverage and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals through inclusive development, stronger public institutions, and continued investments in the health and well-being of its citizens. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/india-high-commission-highlights-major-public-health-progress-through-nfhs-6-survey-findings/

East End Lions Football Club has officially unveiled its new jersey ahead of the highly anticipated 2026 FA Cup final against Mighty Blackpool, reaffirming its determination to reclaim silverware while celebrating the unwavering support of key sponsors, Africell Sierra Leone and Afrimoney.

The unveiling ceremony took place on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at Africell Sierra Leone's headquarters in Freetown. The event brought together club executives, players, sponsors, supporters, and football enthusiasts in a vibrant display of unity and confidence as the club prepares for the decisive showdown in Bo City.

Delivering the welcome address, the Media Manager of Africell Sierra Leone, Abdul Karim Sesay, highlighted the strong relationship between the telecommunications company and East End Lions, noting that both institutions share a commitment to grassroots development and community empowerment.

He stated that Africell and East End Lions are united by common values of inclusiveness, passion, and service to the people, adding that the company remains proud to be associated with one of Sierra Leone’s most historic football clubs. He encouraged the players to make their supporters proud in the upcoming final and assured the club of Africell’s continued support.

Speaking during the ceremony, the Chairman of East End Lions Football Club and Chief Executive Officer of AYV Media Empire, Ambassador Anthony Navo Jr., expressed gratitude to Africell and Afrimoney for their consistent support to the club and their broader contributions to national development.

He praised Africell for standing by the club over the years and described the partnership as instrumental to the club’s growth and success. Navo urged the players to remain focused and determined as they prepare for the FA Cup final, emphasizing that victory would bring immense pride and happiness to thousands of loyal supporters across the country.

The club’s Secretary General, Alpha Jalloh Esq., described the unveiling of the new jersey as a landmark moment in the history of East End Lions.

According to him, the club remains a family institution deeply rooted in the eastern communities of Freetown. He explained that the design of the newly unveiled jersey was inspired by the people and culture of the capital's eastern part, reflecting the club’s heritage and longstanding connection with its supporters.

He further reaffirmed the club’s ambition to reclaim the FA Cup title while raising standards in football administration and professionalism in Sierra Leone.

“We are setting the bar high. It may be challenging for others, but our objective is to improve the standards of club football in this country,” he stated.

Alpha Jalloh also acknowledged the support of Afrimoney, Gento Group, UBA Sierra Leone, and other partners, noting that their contributions had strengthened the club’s local and international engagements, including recent activities in Tunisia.

The event also featured a moment of reflection as club officials, supporters, and guests observed a minute of silence in honour of deceased East End Lions supporters whose dedication contributed significantly to the club’s success over the years.

Representing the supporters, Sheku Jalloh reminded those present that East End Lions has always been defined by a winning mentality. He called on players and fans to unite behind the team as they seek to secure victory and return home with the prestigious FA Cup trophy.

On behalf of Afrimoney, one of the club’s principal sponsors, Mr. Matison reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting East End Lions and revealed plans aimed at advancing the club’s digital transformation agenda.

He announced that East End Lions had become the first football club in Sierra Leone to introduce online ticket purchasing through the Afrimoney platform. He further disclosed plans to launch an Afrimoney Tap-to-Pay card for supporters, an innovation expected to enhance fan engagement and create a reliable digital footprint for the club.

According to him, the initiative will help identify and reward loyal supporters while enhancing transparency, accountability, and financial management within the club.

The club’s Treasurer, who also serves as Managing Director of UBA Sierra Leone, described the introduction of digital systems as a major milestone in the club’s development. He noted that football has evolved into a global business enterprise and stressed that technology-driven solutions would strengthen governance and accountability within football institutions.

Vice Chairman of East End Lions Football Club, Chief Sheikh Alhaji Mohamed Gento Kamara, also commended Africell for its longstanding support and reiterated the club’s commitment to promoting unity, tolerance, and social cohesion.

He described East End Lions as more than just a football club, emphasising its role as a family institution that has consistently fostered harmony among people from different backgrounds.

Chief Gento encouraged the players to give their best performance in the FA Cup final while urging supporters to remain united regardless of the outcome. He expressed confidence that the team would rise to the occasion and bring the trophy home.

He further appealed to the players to dedicate any victory to the club’s elderly supporters who have remained loyal to East End Lions for decades despite no longer being able to attend matches regularly.

The Vice Chairman also revealed plans to explore microcredit opportunities for supporters as part of the club’s broader social responsibility programme, which aims to empower loyal fans and strengthen community development initiatives.

The ceremony concluded on a note of optimism and determination, with club officials, sponsors, and supporters expressing confidence that East End Lions possesses the spirit, talent, and determination required to secure FA Cup glory against Mighty Blackpool in Bo City. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/as-chief-gento-calls-for-unity-east-end-lions-unveil-new-jersey-ahead-of-fa-cup-final-with-strong-backing-from-africell-afrimoney/

By Ibrahim Sesay

The Government of Sierra Leone has renewed its commitment to strengthening budget transparency, accountability, and citizen participation in public financial management following the launch of the 2025 Open Budget Survey (OBS) Report in Freetown.

The event, organized by the Budget Advocacy Network (BAN) and its partners at the Radisson Blu Hotel, brought together government officials, development partners, Members of Parliament, civil society organizations, media representatives, and citizens to review the country's progress in fiscal transparency and discuss reforms aimed at improving public financial management.

Delivering the keynote address on behalf of the Ministry of Finance, the Acting Director of Budget, Dr. Ilara Mahdi, described the Open Budget Survey as an important independent assessment of how governments account for and disclose the use of public resources.

He emphasized that, for the Ministry of Finance, the survey represents far more than a performance measurement tool.

“The Open Budget Survey is a mirror reflecting our commitment to the people of Sierra Leone. It reveals how effectively we are opening our financial processes to those whose lives are most impacted by our fiscal decisions,” Dr. Mahdi stated.

He highlighted several milestones achieved by the Government in recent years, including the publication of key budget documents, the production of Citizens’ Budgets, the development of budget briefs that simplify complex fiscal information, and strengthened collaboration with civil society organizations and the media.

According to Dr. Mahdi, the Government has also strengthened parliamentary oversight and enhanced the role of Audit Service Sierra Leone in promoting accountability and transparency in the management of public resources.

Despite the progress recorded, he acknowledged that challenges remain, particularly regarding the timeliness and comprehensiveness of budget information and the need to make public participation more meaningful and accessible to ordinary citizens.

“Our goal is to ensure that no citizen feels left in the dark regarding how public resources are utilized,” he said.

Reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to reform, Dr. Mahdi outlined key priorities that will guide future efforts. These include ensuring all budget documents are comprehensive and published on time, creating structured platforms for dialogue between government and citizens, and leveraging digital technology to make budget data more interactive and user-friendly.

He noted that the Government has invested significantly in digitizing processes across ministries, departments, and agencies and intends to use technology to improve public access to financial information.

Dr. Mahdi further stressed the importance of restoring and strengthening public trust in government institutions, describing trust as a critical pillar of sustainable national development.

“Transparency and accountability are not our final destination. Rather, they are the pathways through which we ensure that resources reach the people and that every citizen feels a sense of ownership over national progress,” he said.

Earlier, governance expert and development practitioner Aminata Samuella Ruth Kelly-Lamin described the Open Budget Survey as a call to action for government institutions, Parliament, oversight bodies, civil society organizations, development partners, and citizens to work collectively toward greater accountability.

UNICEF Officer-in-Charge, Liv Elin Indreiten, commended Sierra Leone for improvements in public participation and oversight, noting that the country now performs comparatively well within the West African region. However, she called for more inclusive participation, particularly for women, young people, persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) Representative, Wayne Mithchel, emphasized that transparency must be accompanied by budget credibility. He warned that revenue shortfalls, expenditure overruns, weak controls, and procurement inefficiencies can undermine development outcomes and public confidence in government institutions.

Participants at the launch agreed that while Sierra Leone has made notable gains in budget transparency and oversight, additional reforms are needed to strengthen citizen engagement, improve budget credibility, enforce audit recommendations, and protect spending in critical social sectors.

The 2025 Open Budget Survey was ultimately described as both an assessment of Sierra Leone’s current performance and a roadmap for future reforms aimed at building public trust, strengthening institutions, and improving service delivery across the country. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/finance-ministry-reaffirms-commitment-to-transparency-at-2025-open-budget-survey-launch/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leone has reinforced its growing presence within Africa’s aviation sector as the Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), Musayeroh Barrie, participates in the African Air Transport Convention and Expo currently taking place in Lomé, Togo, from 15th to 19th June 2026.

The continental gathering has attracted some of Africa’s most influential political leaders, policymakers, aviation regulators, industry experts and development partners, including Paul Kagame, Jean-Lucien Savi de Tové and Olusegun Obasanjo. The event is being held under the theme, “Single African Sky and Sustainable Air Transport Development,” focusing on advancing a more accessible, connected, affordable and environmentally sustainable aviation sector across the continent.

Organized with the support of the African Union, the African Continental Free Trade Area, AUDA-NEPAD and other key aviation stakeholders, the convention serves as one of Africa’s most significant platforms for discussing the future of air transport and regional integration.

Ms. Musayeroh Barrie is participating as a speaker and has also played a leading role in shaping discussions at the event. Her presence reflects Sierra Leone’s increasing commitment to aviation development and its active engagement in regional efforts aimed at strengthening connectivity, trade, tourism and economic growth through improved air transport systems.

A major highlight of her participation came during Panel Session 8, where she moderated discussions on “Women, Youth and Skills Development in Aviation.” The session brought together aviation professionals, regulators, airline executives and policymakers from across Africa to examine ways of building a skilled and inclusive workforce capable of supporting the continent’s rapidly expanding aviation industry.

As moderator, Ms. Musayeroh Barrie steered conversations on increasing opportunities for women and young people within the aviation sector, addressing existing skills shortages, promoting leadership development and strengthening workforce sustainability. Participants emphasized the importance of creating pathways that encourage greater participation of underrepresented groups while preparing the next generation of aviation professionals for future industry demands.

The panel featured several distinguished experts from leading aviation institutions across Africa and beyond. Among them were representatives from the International Civil Aviation Organization, the Zambia Civil Aviation Authority, ANACIM, Ascend AI, Tradewinds Aviation, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, Ninety-Nines, African Women in Aviation, Afrijet and the African Airlines Association.

The session opened with remarks from Adefunke Adeyemi, Secretary General of the African Civil Aviation Commission, who stressed the importance of empowering women and youth as key drivers of innovation, inclusivity and long-term growth within Africa’s aviation ecosystem.

Discussions further highlighted the need for stronger mentorship programmes, greater investment in aviation education and training, gender-responsive policies and enhanced collaboration among Governments, regulators, airlines and industry stakeholders. Participants agreed that developing human capital remains critical to achieving a competitive and sustainable aviation industry capable of supporting Africa’s broader development ambitions.

The convention also continues to advance the objectives of the Single African Air Transport Market, an initiative designed to create a more integrated and efficient aviation network across the continent. By reducing barriers to air travel and improving connectivity, SAATM aims to facilitate trade, investment, tourism and economic cooperation among African countries.

For Sierra Leone, Ms. Musayeroh Barrie’s prominent participation at the convention underscores the country’s growing influence within continental aviation discussions and demonstrates its commitment to supporting reforms that promote regional integration, diversity, innovation and sustainable growth in Africa’s air transport sector. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/slcaa-dg-joins-rwandan-togolese-presidents-obasanjo-at-african-air-transport-summit-in-lome/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, Chairman of the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government and President of Sierra Leone, has held high-level bilateral talks with President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania, focusing on regional security, economic cooperation and sustainable development across West Africa and the Sahel.

The meeting took place on Monday, 15 June 2026, at the Presidential Palace in Nouakchott, where the two leaders exchanged views on a range of pressing regional and continental issues affecting peace, stability and development.

During the discussions, President Bio conveyed warm greetings from the Government and people of Sierra Leone and commended President Ghazouani for his leadership and Mauritania’s continued contribution to promoting peace, security and stability in the region.

A major focus of the talks was the evolving security situation across the Sahel and West Africa. Both leaders expressed concern over the growing threats posed by terrorism, violent extremism, organized crime, climate-related challenges, food insecurity and population displacement.

President Bio emphasized that these interconnected challenges require coordinated regional action, stronger partnerships and sustained dialogue among African nations. He stressed the importance of collective efforts aimed at preserving peace, constitutional order and social cohesion across the region.

Speaking in his capacity as Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority, President Bio reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening regional solidarity and advancing practical solutions that support peace, stability and sustainable development. He described Mauritania as a strategic link between the Maghreb, the Sahel and West Africa, noting that the country's experience in counter-terrorism and border security makes it a valuable partner in regional peacebuilding efforts.

The Sierra Leonean leader also underscored the need for deeper cooperation between Mauritania and ECOWAS, arguing that stronger institutional engagement would help address common challenges while promoting trade, investment, regional integration and the free movement of people and goods.

Beyond security matters, President Bio highlighted several areas for enhanced bilateral cooperation, including fisheries, maritime security, agriculture, trade, mining, renewable energy, education and capacity building. He further stressed the need to protect marine resources, combat illegal fishing and unlock opportunities within the blue economy while maximizing the benefits of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

President Bio also praised Mauritania’s active role within the African Union and called for stronger African unity in addressing key priorities such as climate resilience, food security, youth empowerment, sustainable development and reforms to global governance structures.

In response, President Ghazouani thanked President Bio for honouring his invitation and commended his leadership of the ECOWAS Authority. He reaffirmed Mauritania’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Sierra Leone and expanding cooperation with ECOWAS.

The Mauritanian President also expressed concern over the deteriorating security situation in the Sahel and pledged continued collaboration with ECOWAS. He further proposed the convening of a special regional summit dedicated to addressing emerging security threats facing West Africa and the Sahel.

The meeting concluded with both leaders reaffirming their shared commitment to deepening cooperation between Mauritania and ECOWAS, strengthening bilateral relations, and working collectively to advance peace, security, stability, regional integration and sustainable development throughout West Africa and the Sahel. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/ecowas-chair-mauritanian-president-reaffirm-commitment-to-regional-peace-security-and-cooperation/

Football fans across Sierra Leone are eagerly counting down to what promises to be one of the biggest sporting events of the year as East End Lions and Mighty Blackpool prepare to battle for the coveted 2026 Orange FA Cup trophy.

The much-anticipated final, sponsored by Orange Sierra Leone in partnership with the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA), is scheduled to take place on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at the Southern Arena in Bo City, with kick-off set for 6:30 PM.

Organizers have announced that tickets for the grand finale are now available, with Open Stand tickets selling for Le 20, Covered Stand tickets priced at Le 40, and VIP access available for Le 100. Thousands of supporters are expected to travel from across the country to witness the clash between two of Sierra Leone's most successful and historic football clubs.

The final carries enormous significance beyond domestic silverware, with the winner securing a place in the prestigious CAF Confederation Cup and earning the opportunity to represent Sierra Leone on the continental stage.

Ahead of the showdown, Orange Sierra Leone and the SLFA officially unveiled the 2026 Orange FA Cup trophy, signaling the final phase of preparations for the country's premier knockout football competition. The unveiling has further heightened excitement among football enthusiasts eager to see which club will lift the coveted silverware.

East End Lions, popularly known as "The Killers," secured their place in the final following a determined 1-0 victory over FC Kallon in the semifinal stage. Their disciplined performance demonstrated the team's determination to add another major trophy to its rich history.

Mighty Blackpool, meanwhile, booked their place in the final after overcoming Abacha City in a dramatic semifinal encounter. The former champions prevailed 4-2 in a penalty shootout after a fiercely contested match, setting up a mouthwatering final against their long-time rivals.

The upcoming encounter revives one of the most celebrated rivalries in Sierra Leonean football. Both clubs boast decades of success and passionate fan bases, making the final one of the most eagerly awaited fixtures in recent years.

Football analysts believe the match could be a closely fought contest, with both sides possessing the experience, talent, and determination required to claim the title. Supporters from both camps are expected to create an electric atmosphere at the Southern Arena as they rally behind their teams.

With the trophy now unveiled, tickets on sale, and preparations nearing completion, all eyes will be on Bo City on June 20 as East End Lions and Mighty Blackpool write another chapter in their historic rivalry in the quest for Orange FA Cup glory. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/orange-fa-cup-final-set-for-historic-clash-between-east-end-lions-and-mighty-blackpool-in-bo-southern-arena/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Executive Director of the National Investment Board (NIB), Dr. Edward Hinga Sandy, has called for stronger investment support for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), describing them as a critical driver of economic growth, job creation, and private sector development in Sierra Leone.

Dr. Sandy made the call on Wednesday, 11 June 2026, while delivering the opening remarks at the Sierra Leone Economic Diversification Project (SLEDP) Investor Roundtable held at the Bintumani Conference Centre in Freetown. The event was held under the theme, "Converting Investor Interest into Closed Transactions."

The roundtable, organised under SLEDP with support from the World Bank and the Ministry of Finance, brought together investors, development partners, government institutions, business leaders, and twenty-one investment-ready Sierra Leonean SMEs seeking to attract capital and strategic partnerships. The initiative was implemented by IBF Expertise SA in partnership with The Betts Firm Consult.

In his address, Dr. Sandy said Sierra Leone is steadily repositioning itself as an emerging investment destination in West Africa through ongoing reforms designed to improve the business environment and strengthen investor confidence.

He highlighted several key initiatives undertaken by the National Investment Board to facilitate investment, including the establishment of the One Stop Shop Business Solutions Centre, the proposed Companies and Business Registration Bill, and the forthcoming Online Business Registration System.

According to Dr. Sandy, the SMEs participating in the roundtable represent some of Sierra Leone's most promising enterprises across sectors such as tourism, hospitality, agribusiness, technology, innovation, and the creative economy. He urged investors to move beyond expressions of interest and pursue concrete business transactions that will enable local enterprises to expand, generate employment opportunities, and contribute meaningfully to national development.

As part of the event, Dr. Sandy also participated in a high-level panel discussion on the SME Ecosystem and Policy Opportunities Forum alongside representatives from the Ministry of Trade and Industry, the Sierra Leone Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture, and The Betts Firm Consult.

The panel discussions focused on strengthening collaboration within the private sector, expanding trade and investment opportunities, and creating an enabling environment for sustainable business growth and entrepreneurship.

The Investor Roundtable further reaffirmed the Government of Sierra Leone's commitment to fostering a competitive investment climate and supporting SMEs as key drivers of economic transformation, innovation, and inclusive growth. Stakeholders expressed optimism that stronger partnerships between government, investors, and local businesses will help unlock the country's economic potential and accelerate sustainable development. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/nib-boss-pushes-for-greater-sme-investment-at-sledp-investor-roundtable/