Hon. Keikura Vandy, Member of Parliament for Bo District and Chairman of the Finance Committee in the Parliament of Sierra Leone, on Monday, 25th May 2026, engaged several business houses and private sector stakeholders as part of efforts to strengthen domestic revenue mobilization under the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) Government.

The engagement brought together representatives from institutions including Transworld Insurance, the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA), Dangote Group, Easy Solar and other private sector actors. The meeting underscored the Committee’s focus on promoting accountability, tax compliance and sustainable economic growth.

Addressing participants, Hon. Keikura Vandy emphasized the crucial role of businesses in national development through the timely payment of taxes and other statutory obligations. He noted that effective revenue generation remains key to enabling Government to deliver quality public services, improve infrastructure and drive economic transformation.

He further described tax compliance as essential to national progress, warning that delays and non-payment of obligations, including Pay As You Earn (PAYE) contributions, undermine development efforts and limit Government capacity to meet citizens’ needs.

During discussions, some institutions raised concerns over challenges and delays in remitting PAYE taxes to the National Revenue Authority (NRA). In response, the Chairman urged all business entities to comply fully with Sierra Leone’s tax laws, stressing that taxation remains a vital source of state revenue.

Hon. Keikura Vandy called on corporate institutions to demonstrate patriotism and responsibility by fulfilling their financial obligations promptly adding that voluntary compliance strengthens national development efforts.

Speaking to journalists after the meeting, he stated: “The purpose of this engagement is to support the NRA on its revenue mobilization drive because we want to finance the 2026 Finance Act.”

He reaffirmed the Finance Committee’s commitment to working closely with the NRA and other stakeholders to enhance transparency, efficiency and improved revenue collection across all sectors.

He further concluded by calling for stronger collaboration between Government and the private sector to build a more resilient economy capable of meeting the aspirations of Sierra Leoneans. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/finance-committee-chairman-engages-private-sector-to-boost-revenue-mobilization/

By Foday Moriba Conteh

As part of activities marking Mother’s Day 2026, Yumvita, one of the products marketed by Premium Divine Trading Company Ltd, on Sunday, 24th May 2026, concluded the second edition of its “Yumvita Exciting Moment with Your Child” event at the Sierra Palms Hotel, Aberdeen in Freetown. The event brought together mothers and their children from across the country in celebration of motherhood, as Yumvita joined the rest of the world in honoring mothers for their love, care and sacrifices.

Premium Divine Trading Company Ltd, a food distribution company operating as an agent for Promasidor Holdings, a leading supplier of quality food products in more than 30 African countries, including Sierra Leone organized the event as part of its commitment to promoting family bonding and child nutrition.

The colourful celebration featured entertaining and interactive activities involving mothers and their babies, alongside staff of Premium Divine Trading Company Ltd. Activities during the event included dancing competitions among mothers, fun games and a lucky dip session, during which winners received various prizes and gifts.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Country Manager of Premium Divine Trading Limited, Kenneth Konuah, said the second edition of the “Yumvita Exciting Moment with Your Child” event was organized to celebrate mothers for their sacrifices and contributions to their families and society as part of the 2026 Mother’s Day celebrations.

He explained that the event aimed at bringing mothers together while also promoting proper nutrition for children. According to him, Yumvita is a high-quality infant cereal product suitable for babies from six months and above.

Kenneth Konuah described Yumvita as an infant cereal food with milk enriched with essential vitamins and minerals, including Vitamins A, B6, B9 and C, as well as Iron, Calcium and Zinc, collectively known as Nutri-V. He added that the product is tummy-friendly, easy to digest and simple to prepare by just adding water.

He encouraged mothers to ensure proper handwashing before preparing meals for their children and noted that Yumvita is available in different varieties and sizes, including Wheat, Rice and Maize and Wheat Mix variants.

The Country Manager emphasized that mothers play a vital role in caring for their children and said the company considered Mother’s Day an appropriate occasion to appreciate and reward mothers for their continuous support and patronage of the Yumvita brand.

Speaking on the uniqueness of the product, Kenneth Konuah stressed that Yumvita stands out because of its quality ingredients and nutritional value, adding that parents who value quality nutrition for their children would always choose the product.

He further disclosed that all Yumvita products are produced in Ghana by Promasidor Ghana Limited for export to several West African countries, including Sierra Leone, while Premium Divine Trading Limited serves as the sole distributor and marketer of the products in Sierra Leone.

Kenneth Konuah concluded by encouraging women across Sierra Leone to continue patronizing Yumvita, which he described as one of the best infant cereal foods available in the country.

Commenting on the health benefits of Yumvita, Nurse Ramatu Salma Conteh, a Staff Nurse at The Woman’s Place Medical Centre, described the product as a healthy and beneficial infant cereal, particularly for babies aged six months and above.

She explained that health practitioners strongly encourage exclusive breastfeeding for babies from birth to six months before introducing complementary foods such as Yumvita.

According to her, Yumvita contains important vitamins and nutrients that support the growth and development of children, including body development, muscle strength, blood formation and the strengthening of the immune system.

“As health practitioners, we always encourage mothers to exclusively breastfeed their babies from zero to six months. After six months, products like Yumvita can then be introduced because it contains essential vitamins and nutrients needed for the healthy growth and development of children,” she stated.

Nurse Ramatu Salma Conteh further noted that the product is easy for babies to digest and does not usually cause stomach upset when properly prepared and administered.

She added that the ingredients contained in Yumvita contribute positively to children’s nutritional needs and overall wellbeing.

In her keynote address, Pastor Stephanie Jarrett, Pastor-in-Charge of Joy Ebenezer Ministry, expressed appreciation for the gathering and emphasized the importance of mothers in shaping the future of children and society. She encouraged women to remain strong, confident and committed to nurturing their children with care and dedication.

She described mothers as key pillars in the development of families and communities, stressing that their role cannot be underestimated. According to her, children represent the future of society and therefore require proper guidance, love and moral upbringing.

Pastor Stephanie Jarrett further urged women to take pride in their roles as mothers and to continue supporting one another. She called on them to remain focused, resilient and positive despite challenges, noting that motherhood is a divine responsibility that should be embraced with pride.

She concluded by praying for mothers and families, asking for blessings upon their efforts and encouraging them to continue playing a positive role in the upbringing of their children.

Zainab Jalloh, a mother who benefited from the event, expressed joy and appreciation for the initiative, describing it as both educational and supportive. She said the “Yumvita Exciting Moment with Your Child” programme helped her better understand the nutritional value of Yumvita and its role in supporting the healthy growth and development of infants from six months and above.

She disclosed that she has been feeding her child with Yumvita since the age of six months, adding that she has observed positive growth and good health in her child. She therefore recommended Yumvita to other mothers, describing it as one of the best infant cereal products available in the country.

Zainab Jalloh further noted that the event created a warm and interactive environment where mothers shared experiences, engaged with health professionals and bonded with their children. She also thanked Premium Divine Trading Company Limited for the gift packages and the opportunity to participate, saying such initiatives help support families and promote proper child nutrition and healthy living practices.

During the ceremony, the company conducted an extensive education and product sampling exercise, giving both actual and potential consumers of Yumvita the opportunity to experience its nutritional benefits. That was achieved through the distribution of dry samples of Yumvita products, as well as wet samples of Cowbell coffee and strawberry drinks, for participants to enjoy.

The event formed part of activities organized by Premium Divine Trading Company Limited to celebrate mothers during this year’s Mother’s Day celebrations, while also promoting child nutrition and healthy family bonding. It climaxed with the presentation of gift packs, including assorted Yumvita products, cooking pots and other branded items from Premium Divine Trading Limited, to all mothers in attendance. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/yumvita-celebrates-mothers-with-second-edition-of-exciting-moment-with-your-child/

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Dr. Ibrahim Bangura, a Sierra Leonean academic, public policy expert and leader of the DIB Movement, on Wednesday, 27th May 2026, joined thousands of Muslim faithful in Makeni to observe the Eid-ul-Adha congregational prayers.

The gathering, held at a major prayer ground in Makeni, attracted worshippers from diverse backgrounds, including Government officials, traditional leaders, religious clerics, youths, elders and political supporters, as Muslims across Sierra Leone joined the global Islamic community in commemorating Eid-ul-Adha, one of the most significant festivals in the Islamic calendar.

Dr. Ibrahim Bangura is widely known for his work in governance, security sector reform, peacebuilding and youth empowerment. He has engaged in academic and policy spaces within and outside Sierra Leone, and is also recognized for his advocacy on inclusive governance and national cohesion through his DIB Movement, which promotes the vision “Heal, Unite and Build.”

Addressing worshippers shortly before the commencement of prayers, Dr. Ibrahim Bangura emphasized the importance of Eid-ul-Adha as a period of reflection on sacrifice, obedience, compassion and solidarity, noting that those values are critical not only in religious practice but also in shaping national unity and peaceful coexistence.

He urged Sierra Leoneans to draw inspiration from the lessons of the festival to strengthen reconciliation efforts and rebuild trust across communities, stressing that peace remains a prerequisite for sustainable development and national progress.

Dr. Ibrahim Bangura further called on citizens to rise above political, ethnic and regional differences and instead embrace dialogue and cooperation in addressing the country’s social and economic challenges. He noted that divisiveness continues to undermine development efforts and appealed for a renewed commitment to nation-building.

Reaffirming the vision of the DIB Movement, he stated that the “Heal, Unite and Build” agenda is designed to foster reconciliation, promote inclusivity and empower citizens particularly young people to actively participate in shaping a stable and prosperous Sierra Leone.

He also encouraged religious leaders and community stakeholders to continue promoting messages of peace, tolerance and mutual respect, describing them as essential pillars for national stability.

The presence of Dr. Ibrahim Bangura at the Makeni Eid prayers was warmly received by residents and supporters, many of whom commended his continued engagement with communities across the country and his consistent advocacy for peacebuilding, inclusive leadership and national unity.

They described his participation in the religious celebration as a demonstration of solidarity with ordinary citizens and a reflection of his broader commitment to engaging with people at community level.

Dr. Ibrahim Bangura concluded by extending Eid greetings to Muslims across Sierra Leone, calling for continued prayers for the country and reaffirming his commitment to working with all stakeholders to promote peace, stability and national development. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/dr-ibrahim-bangura-joins-eid-ul-adha-prayers-in-makeni-advocates-peace-national-reconciliation/

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

The Sierra Leone Chamber for Agribusiness Development (SLeCAD) has intensified calls for stronger collaboration among Government, financiers, investors and agribusiness stakeholders to accelerate agricultural production and support Sierra Leone’s food security agenda under the Government’s flagship “Feed Salone” programme.

The call was made during a high-level engagement held on Tuesday, 26th May 2026, at the SLeCAD office on Beach Road in Freetown, bringing together officials from the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Food Security, farmers, investors, insurers, agribusiness operators and development partners to discuss practical measures aimed at improving agricultural productivity, expanding investment opportunities and strengthening food security across the country.

Speaking during the engagement, Executive Chairman of the Sierra Leone Chamber for Agribusiness Development, Ahmed Nanoh, stressed the urgent need for Sierra Leone to move beyond subsistence farming and position itself as a competitive agribusiness destination capable of attracting large-scale local and international investment.

Ahmed Nanoh emphasized that while Government policies remain important, they alone cannot transform the agricultural sector without stronger financing mechanisms, increased private sector participation and effective implementation strategies.

“Our primary motive is how we can support the transformation of Sierra Leone through agriculture, industrialization and economic empowerment,” Ahmed Nanoh stated.

He explained that the Sierra Leone Chamber for Agribusiness Development, established in 2008, has consistently worked with farmers, Government institutions and development partners to strengthen agricultural value chains despite operating under limited resources.

Ahmed Nanoh disclosed that initiatives such as community banks, Apex Bank and several financial support programmes for the agricultural sector were developed through partnerships involving the Sierra Leone Chamber for Agribusiness Development and the Ministry of Agriculture. However, he maintained that significantly more investment remains necessary to improve access to finance for farmers and agribusiness entrepreneurs across the country.

He further revealed plans by the Chamber to revive its regular end-of-month engagement forums designed to connect farmers, buyers, donors and international investors with local agribusinesses in order to create stronger market linkages and business opportunities.

Drawing comparisons with successful agricultural models in countries including Nigeria, Ghana and Kenya, Ahmed Nanoh noted that major agribusiness companies in those countries often support farmers through financing arrangements, contractual agreements and guaranteed markets for produce.

“Finance is not only at the bank, it is also in the market,” Ahmed Nanoh remarked, explaining that large companies can support agricultural production once farmers demonstrate commitment and the ability to meet supply demands.

He also disclosed that the Sierra Leone Chamber for Agribusiness Development had previously engaged financiers from the Middle East and other international partners on potential investment packages for Sierra Leonean agribusinesses, with some proposals reportedly exceeding US$5 million before negotiations later stalled.

Ahmed Nanoh encouraged local businesses to take advantage of opportunities presented under the African Continental Free Trade Area, stressing that Sierra Leone has yet to fully benefit from regional and international agricultural markets.

Deputy Minister of Agriculture II, Sahr Hemore, reaffirmed Government’s commitment to working closely with private sector stakeholders to transform agriculture into a modern and commercially driven sector capable of boosting economic growth and reducing food insecurity.

Sahr Hemore emphasized that the objectives of President Julius Maada Bio’s “Feed Salone” initiative cannot be achieved without active private sector participation.

Launched in 2023, the “Feed Salone” programme aims to reduce hunger, improve food production and reduce Sierra Leone’s dependence on imported food commodities.

“We in the Ministry will not be able to achieve this goal alone,” Sahr Hemore stated. “It will only be possible with the support of the private sector.”

He disclosed that the Ministry of Agriculture is currently collaborating with banks and development partners to improve access to agricultural credit and insurance schemes, particularly for farmers affected by flooding and other climate-related challenges.

Sahr Hemore also highlighted ongoing Government investments in roads, bridges, storage facilities and energy infrastructure intended to support agricultural production and agro-processing activities nationwide.

Deputy Chief Agriculture Officer, Aiah J. Thollie, described the Sierra Leone Chamber for Agribusiness Development as a key partner in advancing the “Feed Salone” agenda, stressing that agriculture is no longer solely the responsibility of Government.

“The private sector must drive market aggregation, input supply, processing, packaging and commercial farming,” Aiah J. Thollie stated.

He explained that reforms introduced by the Ministry of Agriculture are aimed at attracting increased private investment while gradually moving Government away from directly distributing fertilizers and seeds.

Aiah J. Thollie added that private companies are increasingly supporting Government-backed agricultural initiatives through the supply of machinery, fertilizers, improved seedlings and other essential farming inputs.

He identified limited access to finance as one of the major obstacles confronting agribusinesses and called for improved loan facilities and investment support for farmers and agricultural entrepreneurs.

According to Aiah J. Thollie, Sierra Leone has made encouraging progress in the local production of onions, rice, eggs, and agro-processed products, contributing to a reduction in dependence on imported goods.

Agribusiness entrepreneur and Chief Executive Officer of Susue Chilli Coconut Oils, Naasu Fofanah, also highlighted challenges faced by women-led businesses, particularly in accessing finance and expanding market opportunities.

Naasu Fofanah criticized some supermarkets for placing locally produced goods on less visible shelves, thereby limiting their market reach, while also cautioning against political interference in the allocation of business financing opportunities.

Participants at the engagement further discussed several broader challenges affecting agricultural growth in Sierra Leone, including inadequate infrastructure, climate-related risks, the high cost of farming inputs, limited mechanization, insufficient storage facilities and weak market access for small and medium-scale farmers.

The engagement underscored the growing importance of stronger partnerships between Government, private sector stakeholders, financial institutions and development partners in driving sustainable agricultural transformation, creating employment opportunities, strengthening exports and achieving long-term food security in Sierra Leone. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/slecad-pushes-for-stronger-private-sector-role-in-advancing-feed-salone-agenda/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The European Union Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Jacek Jankowski, has reaffirmed the European Union’s enduring commitment to Sierra Leone, describing the relationship between both partners as one rooted in mutual respect, resilience, peace, democracy and sustainable development.

Speaking during a reception commemorating Europe Day 2026 and marking the 50th anniversary of the European Union’s partnership with Sierra Leone on Thursday, 28th May 2026, at the Country Lodge Hotel in Freetown, Ambassador Jacek Jankowski reflected on the long-standing relationship between Sierra Leone and Europe while emphasizing the need for deeper cooperation in trade, infrastructure, governance and international diplomacy.

The occasion brought together President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, First Lady Madam Fatima Maada Bio, senior Government officials, Members of Parliament, members of the Diplomatic Corps, civil society representatives, members of the media and distinguished guests.

Addressing attendees, Ambassador Jacek Jankowski traced the historical significance of Europe Day to the Schuman Declaration of 9th May 1950, when France’s Foreign Minister, Robert Schuman, envisioned a Europe founded on peace, partnership and shared prosperity after years of conflict.

“On the 9th of May 1950, Robert Schuman, the Foreign Minister of France, made a bet: that former enemies could become permanent partners, that shared interests are stronger than shared grievances, and that fundamental values held in common can become a foundation compass,” Ambassador Jacek Jankowski stated.

He noted that seventy-five years later, the vision continues to shape Europe’s global partnerships, adding that Sierra Leone, having emerged from a painful civil conflict and embraced peace and dialogue, understands the value of reconciliation and cooperation better than many nations.

The Ambassador described the European Union as one of Sierra Leone’s most dependable development partners, disclosing that over the past five decades, the EU has invested approximately €1.7 billion into Sierra Leone’s economy, including almost half a billion euros in budget support.

According to him, the EU remains the only development partner providing grants directly to Sierra Leone’s national budget, thereby aligning closely with the country’s national priorities and development agenda.

He recalled that the European Union remained committed to Sierra Leone even during some of the nation’s most difficult periods, including the civil war, Ebola outbreak and COVID-19 pandemic.

“Even in the hardest times during the civil war, the EU never discontinued its assistance. To the contrary, we were there massively to support post-war reconstruction and electoral processes,” he stated.

Ambassador Jacek Jankowski further disclosed plans to deepen engagement under the European Union’s Global Gateway initiative, aimed at addressing infrastructure deficits, accelerating green and digital transition and strengthening agricultural value chains in Sierra Leone.

He emphasized that European private sector investment would play a major role in the implementation of the initiative, while revealing the imminent establishment of an EU Chamber of Commerce in Sierra Leone to promote stronger business cooperation and attract investment.

The Ambassador also reflected on the European Union’s “Everything But Arms” trade initiative, launched twenty-five years ago, which provides Sierra Leone and other developing nations duty-free and quota-free access to European markets.

While acknowledging concerns regarding non-tariff barriers and quality standards, he maintained that European requirements should be viewed as opportunities rather than obstacles.

“Our citizens demand quality and safe products, and upholding standards is one of our fundamental values. However, we are also ready to support Sierra Leone in building the capacity required to meet those standards and strengthen competitiveness in global markets,” he emphasized.

On democratic governance, Ambassador Jacek Jankowski commended Sierra Leone for consistently inviting the European Union to observe elections since the end of the civil war in 2002, describing the practice as a reflection of trust and openness to democratic accountability.

He reiterated the European Union’s support for the implementation of political reforms agreed in October 2023 and July 2024 and reaffirmed confidence in the role of international moral guarantors overseeing those commitments.

Turning to international relations, the Ambassador congratulated President Dr. Julius Maada Bio for Sierra Leone’s successful tenure as a Non-Permanent Member of the United Nations Security Council between 2024 and 2025, highlighting shared positions on global peace and security, particularly concerning Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

He, however, raised concerns over reports indicating that Sierra Leone’s flag is currently flying on approximately ninety vessels reportedly linked to Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet,” noting that the matter deserved serious attention.

“I raise this as a partner, not as a critic, and I trust it will receive the serious consideration it deserves,” Ambassador Jacek Jankowski remarked.

The Ambassador further praised President Dr. Julius Maada Bio’s leadership as Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, particularly in advancing dialogue, democratic principles and regional economic integration amid growing instability across West Africa.

He stressed that the European Union remains firmly committed to strengthening ECOWAS institutions and promoting peace and constitutional governance throughout the region.

Ambassador Jacek Jankowski also highlighted the importance of the rule of law, human rights and accountability as core values underpinning the EU-Sierra Leone partnership, cautioning that trust could be weakened by increasing global attention on alleged drug trafficking activities.

He assured Sierra Leone of continued European cooperation and support in addressing such concerns where genuine commitment exists.

“If there is clear commitment to act, Sierra Leone’s authorities can count on the European Union for cooperation and concrete support, as always,” he stated.

In his keynote address, Sierra Leone’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Alhaji Musa Timothy Kabba, praised the European Union for fifty years of partnership and solidarity with Sierra Leone.

He described Europe Day as not only a celebration of friendship but also recognition of a relationship grounded in peace, democracy, mutual respect and sustainable development.

“For five decades, the European Union has remained a steadfast and reliable partner to Sierra Leone,” Alhaji Musa Timothy Kabba stated, noting that the EU has played a significant role in democratic governance, infrastructure, health, education, agriculture, fisheries, climate resilience and human capital development.

He highlighted the Government of Sierra Leone’s commitment to expanding cooperation through the EU’s Global Gateway initiative, emphasizing strategic investment opportunities in renewable energy, transport infrastructure, digital transformation, healthcare, education and private sector growth.

According to the Foreign Minister, Sierra Leone remains committed to ensuring that such partnerships deliver practical benefits to citizens, particularly women and young people.

Alhaji Musa Timothy Kabba also reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s commitment to democracy, constitutional governance and human rights, emphasizing the Government’s dedication to dialogue, institutional reforms and national cohesion.

He welcomed continued engagement with international moral guarantors overseeing the Agreement for National Unity and praised the support of the European Union in strengthening democratic institutions, justice sector reforms and electoral systems.

On regional security, the Foreign Minister warned that terrorism remains one of the greatest threats facing West Africa and stressed President Dr. Julius Maada Bio’s commitment as ECOWAS Chairman to revitalizing regional security cooperation and promoting solidarity across the sub-region.

He also reiterated Sierra Leone’s principled stance on the conflict in Ukraine, emphasizing support for sovereignty, territorial integrity and international humanitarian law.

As the celebration concluded, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the enduring relationship between Sierra Leone and the European Union, expressing optimism that the next chapter of cooperation would be built on shared values, prosperity, trust and lasting friendship.

“Together, we are Team Europe,” Ambassador Jacek Jankowski concluded. “And together, we look forward to a future with Sierra Leone built on shared values, shared ambitions and enduring friendship.” https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/foreign-minister-hails-enduring-eu-sierra-leone-partnership-at-europe-day-golden-jubilee-celebration/

Orange Sierra Leone has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening digital connectivity, improving customer experience and expanding investments in the country’s telecommunications sector during the 7th National Telecommunications Commission Authority (NaTCA) Consumer Parliament held in Kenema under the theme: “Connectivity for Accelerated Growth.”

The high-level engagement, hosted on Thursday, 22 May 2026 at the Kenema City Council Hall, brought together consumers, regulators, Members of Parliament, telecommunications service providers, consumer protection agencies and other key stakeholders to discuss pressing issues affecting customers and the telecommunications sector.

Representing Orange Sierra Leone at the forum, Alpha Bundu underscored the company’s enduring contribution to Sierra Leone’s telecommunications landscape, noting that the company has maintained operations in the country for nearly three decades.

According to him, Orange Sierra Leone traces its origins to Celtel, having served the country for 29 years, while the Orange brand itself has spent the last ten years consolidating and expanding its presence nationwide.

“Our presence here is to listen to the concerns of our customers because we believe our customers are our bosses,” Bundu said, drawing applause from participants at the event.

He emphasized that customer satisfaction remains central to Orange Sierra Leone’s operations, adding that the Consumer Parliament offered an important platform for dialogue, collaboration and feedback aimed at improving service delivery and strengthening consumer protection.

Bundu disclosed that Orange Sierra Leone currently supports over 30,000 indirect jobs across the country through its expansive network of franchise operators, agents, kiosks, Orange Money Point-of-Sale operators and other distribution channels. He described the company’s distribution system as one of its strongest pillars in driving access to telecommunications services across Sierra Leone.

Highlighting the company’s infrastructure footprint, Bundu revealed that Orange Sierra Leone has established approximately 650 operational sites nationwide, including installations in hard-to-reach and remote communities with poor road access.

He acknowledged the logistical and operational challenges associated with expanding telecommunications infrastructure in difficult terrains but maintained that Orange remains steadfast in extending connectivity to underserved communities across the country.

According to him, approximately 29 percent of the company’s profits are reinvested into maintaining and expanding network sites and strengthening operational services. He further revealed that more than 50 additional sites have recently been deployed as part of Orange Sierra Leone’s continued nationwide expansion strategy.

Bundu also highlighted the company’s growing investment in Fourth Generation (4G) network technology, assuring consumers that Orange Sierra Leone will continue to invest in innovation and improved service delivery.

“We will continue to invest, innovate and improve connectivity for Sierra Leoneans,” he assured.

The event attracted key government and parliamentary figures, including the Leader of Government Business in Parliament, Hon. Mathew Sahr Nyuma, while the keynote address was delivered by the Minister of Communication, Technology and Innovation, Hon. Salima Monorma Bah.

Also in attendance were the Director General of the National Communications Authority, Amara Brewah, senior executives of Orange Sierra Leone, telecommunications operators, regulators and consumers.

Speaking during the engagement, Amara Brewah reaffirmed NaTCA’s commitment to ensuring telecommunications operators comply with their obligations to consumers while positioning the regulator as a bridge between service providers and the public.

Chairman of the Parliamentary Oversight Committee on Communication and Technology, Hon. Boston Munda, described network connectivity as a major concern for citizens and emphasized the need for stronger accountability and consumer protection within the sector.

Meanwhile, Minister Salima Monorma Bah disclosed that over US$400 million has been invested in Sierra Leone’s telecommunications sector over the last five years, leading to the expansion of network coverage by the country’s four mobile operators. Despite the progress, she acknowledged that challenges such as theft and vandalism of telecommunications equipment continue to hamper service delivery.

The 7th NaTCA Consumer Parliament also featured presentations from other telecommunications operators, including Africell, QCell and Sierratel, all of whom outlined ongoing investments and strategies aimed at improving connectivity and expanding access to digital services across Sierra Leone.

For Orange Sierra Leone, the event served as another opportunity to reaffirm its commitment to listening to consumers and delivering innovative telecommunications solutions that support connectivity, digital inclusion and accelerated national growth for individuals, businesses and communities nationwide. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/orange-sl-reaffirms-massive-investment-in-connectivity-at-natca-consumer-parliament/

By Mariama Iyatunde Mansare, Public Relations Officer, Sierra Leone Railways Development and Regulatory Authority (SLRDRA)

The newly established office space of the Sierra Leone Railways Development and Regulatory Authority (SLRDRA) was officially commissioned by the Minister of Transport and Aviation, Alhaji Fanday Turay, alongside the Senior Permanent Secretary, Kwame Yankson, and the Board Chairman, Mohammed Tejan-Kella, in Freetown on Thursday, May 21, 2026.

The commissioning ceremony, which was attended by senior Government officials, Board members, Management and Staff of the Authority, commenced with an opening prayer followed by the introduction of distinguished dignitaries present. The event marked a significant milestone in strengthening the operational and institutional capacity of the Sierra Leone Railways Development and Regulatory Authority as it seeks to effectively implement its regulatory and development mandate in the country’s railway sector.

Delivering his keynote remarks, the Minister of Transport and Aviation, Alhaji Fanday Turay, described the opening of the office as a major achievement in the continued transformation and modernization of Sierra Leone’s railway sector. He expressed appreciation to the Director General, Deputy Director General, Directors and staff of the Authority for their dedication and efforts in advancing the institution’s objectives.

The Minister emphasized Government’s commitment to improving transportation infrastructure across the country noting that the provision of an appropriate working environment for the Authority reflects the seriousness attached to the revitalization of the railway sector.

He further encouraged staff members to demonstrate professionalism, accountability and commitment in the discharge of their responsibilities, stressing that effective service delivery remains central to the Authority’s success.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Senior Permanent Secretary, Kwame Yankson, congratulated the Sierra Leone Railways Development and Regulatory Authority on the acquisition and commissioning of the new office space. He noted that the facility would provide a more conducive working environment for staff and improve administrative efficiency to support the institutional growth of the Authority.

“The opening of this office is a positive development that will further strengthen the Authority’s operational capacity and enhance productivity,” he stated.

In his remarks, the Director General of the Sierra Leone Railways Development and Regulatory Authority, Ing. Dr. Albert Forde, expressed gratitude to the Government, Ministry leadership, Board members and stakeholders whose support and contributions made the commissioning possible.

He underscored the importance of the railway sector in Sierra Leone’s national development agenda and reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to regulating and developing the sector in line with its strategic objectives.

Ing. Dr. Albert Forde also encouraged staff members to work collaboratively and productively for the continued advancement of the institution, assuring them that Management remains committed to creating an enabling environment for effective service delivery.

The Board Chairman, Mohammed Tejan-Kella, commended the Management team for their diligence and commitment in ensuring the successful completion and readiness of the new office facility. He described the opening of the office as a symbol of progress, institutional growth and the Authority’s preparedness to effectively execute its mandate.

Also addressing the gathering, the Deputy Director General called for sustained cooperation between Management and staff, emphasizing that teamwork and collaboration would be vital to ensuring the sustainability and success of the Authority’s programmes and activities.

The commissioning of the new office space is expected to further enhance the Sierra Leone Railways Development and Regulatory Authority’s capacity to regulate, oversee and promote railway development in Sierra Leone as Government intensifies efforts to improve transportation infrastructure nationwide. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/slrdra-opens-new-office-space-as-government-pushes-railway-modernization-agenda/