The Bible Society of Sierra Leone (BSSL) has commenced the distribution of scholarly edition biblical texts to theological colleges across the country, in a move aimed at strengthening theological education and deepening scriptural scholarship.

BSSL, a non-denominational Christian organization dedicated to the translation of the Bible into various Sierra Leonean languages, is a member of the United Bible Societies (UBS), a global network operating in over 200 countries. UBS works to ensure the widest possible and meaningful distribution of the Holy Scriptures while encouraging engagement with the Word of God.

As part of its ongoing collaboration with churches, universities and faith-based institutions, BSSL recently donated a range of advanced theological texts to institutions in Freetown, Bo, Makeni and Kono, reinforcing its commitment to academic excellence in ministry training.

At the Evangelical College of Theology, Principal Rev. Dr. Warren Fornah welcomed the delegation and commended the Bible Society for its continued contribution to Christian education. He later led the team to a chapel session attended by students.

Delivering a message during the session, the General Secretary of BSSL, Edwin Fraser, spoke on the theme: “Truths That Will Carry You in Ministry,” drawn from Proverbs 29:18. He urged students to remain steadfast in their academic pursuits and uphold integrity, particularly during examinations, noting that honesty is foundational to effective ministry.

The donated materials included key scholarly resources such as NT Graece NA28 Greek-English Dictionary, A New Approach to Textual Criticism, Synopsis of the Four Gospels, Textual Commentary on the Greek New Testament, and the Bible English Atlas. These were formally presented to Rev. Dr. Fornah for use within the institution’s academic library.

In his vote of thanks, the college registrar, Rev. Sawo Koroma, described the donation as timely, highlighting the urgent need for updated and relevant academic texts. He expressed appreciation to the Bible Society and assured that the materials would be carefully preserved given their high value.

The BSSL team also extended its outreach to the College of Theology, Management and Church Training Centre on Wesley Street in Freetown. The delegation was warmly received by Principal Rev. Dr. Ken Luseni, who emphasized the central role of theology in shaping the institution and noted that many pastors and bishops have been trained through its programmes.

Speaking during the visit, Edwin Fraser outlined the purpose of the donation, stressing the importance of equipping theological institutions with high-quality academic resources. The same set of scholarly texts was presented to the college.

In her remarks, Registrar Rev. Selina Pratt described the books as invaluable to advancing theological education in Sierra Leone. She noted that such materials are rarely available in local bookstores and commended the Bible Society for its significant investment in the growth of theology in the country. She further assured that the resources would be used responsibly to benefit both students and faculty.

Similar donations have been made to theological institutions in Makeni, Bo and Kono as part of a broader nationwide initiative.

The Bible Society has indicated that additional distributions will continue to other colleges offering theology programmes, as it seeks to expand access to critical scholarly resources and support the development of future religious leaders across Sierra Leone. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/bssl-distributes-advanced-biblical-texts-to-colleges-across-freetown-bo-makeni-and-kono/

The Government of Sierra Leone has received strong commendation from the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Authority in Washington, D.C., following high-level engagements that underscored the country’s continued progress toward meeting key Compact requirements.

During a strategic meeting with senior Government officials, Acting Managing Director of the Department of Compact Operations, Madam Carrie Monahan, expressed satisfaction with Sierra Leone’s advancement under the MCC framework. She highlighted notable milestones, including the establishment of the Millennium Challenge Authority–Sierra Leone and ongoing discussions surrounding a critical minerals agreement, both of which signal the country’s readiness to deepen its partnership with the MCC.

Madam Carrie Monahan, however, emphasized the importance of the Government fulfilling its financial obligations to enable the formal signing of the Entry into Force agreement, a crucial step toward unlocking the full benefits of the Compact.

Reaffirming the Government’s position, Minister of Finance, Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura, conveyed appreciation for the MCC’s sustained engagement and reiterated President Julius Maada Bio’s unwavering commitment to the Compact programme. He assured stakeholders that Sierra Leone remains focused on meeting all requirements necessary for successful implementation.

The Finance Minister outlined ongoing reforms within the energy sector, describing them as central to improving efficiency and sustainability. Among those measures are the establishment of a Collection Account and strategic efforts to enhance private sector participation in electricity distribution; initiatives aimed at strengthening financial discipline and boosting operational performance across the sector.

In a further demonstration of Sierra Leone’s commitment to creating an enabling investment climate, Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura disclosed that Cabinet has approved the country’s proposed membership in the Africa Trade and Investment Development Insurance (ATIDI). He noted that the move is expected to stimulate investor confidence by providing insurance coverage against trade and investment risks, thereby encouraging greater capital inflows.

Also speaking at the meeting, Director of the Department of Policy and Evaluation, Madam Naureen Haque, commended Sierra Leone’s performance on the MCC scorecard. She urged the Government to sustain reform momentum, particularly in areas such as economic freedom, electoral processes and the promotion of national unity.

Responding to those recommendations, the Minister reaffirmed the Government’s inclusive approach, stressing its commitment to engaging all relevant stakeholders in the ongoing electoral reform process as well as in implementing the national unity agreement.

In her concluding remarks, Madam Naureen Haque described Sierra Leone as a “real success story” within the MCC framework, praising the depth of engagement between the Corporation and the Government.

The Finance Minister was accompanied by a high-powered delegation, including Minister of Energy, Cyril Grant; Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to the United States, Amara Sowa; Financial Secretary, Matthew Dingie; Governor of the Bank of Sierra Leone, Dr. Ibrahim Stevens; Chief Economist at the Ministry of Finance, Alimamy Bangura; and Technical Adviser to the Minister of Finance, Dr. Franklin Sisabu Bendu.

The meeting signals renewed momentum in Sierra Leone’s pursuit of the MCC Compact, reinforcing international confidence in the country’s reform trajectory and governance framework. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/mcc-commends-sierra-leones-reform-progress-as-finance-minister-reaffirms-commitment-to-compact/

The Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) has reaffirmed its strong commitment to electoral integrity, constitutional governance and inclusive political dialogue, following the outcomes of the recent Joint Assessment Mission conducted by International Moral Guarantors in Sierra Leone.

In a detailed Press Statement issued on April 21, 2026 and signed by its National Secretary General, Paran Umar Tarawally, the ruling party expressed appreciation to key international partners, including ECOWAS, UNOWAS and the Commonwealth, for their continued support towards peace, stability and democratic consolidation in the country.

The party paid special tribute to former Gambian Vice President, Fatoumata Jallow-Tambajang, for her leadership role in guiding the process from its inception, noting that her efforts have been instrumental in sustaining dialogue and fostering cooperation among stakeholders.

Reaffirming its position as the governing party, the SLPP underscored President Julius Maada Bio’s commitment to implementing both the Agreement for National Unity and the recommendations outlined in the Tripartite Committee Report. The party noted that such commitment was further demonstrated during the recent engagement between the President and the International Moral Guarantors.

Central to the SLPP’s position is a strong defense of the independence of the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL). Referencing Section 32(11) of the Constitution, the party stressed that the Commission must operate free from external direction or control, warning against any attempt by Parliament to exercise oversight over constitutionally independent institutions.

“The Electoral Commission shall not be subject to the direction or control of any person or authority,” the statement emphasized, adding that such independence is critical to maintaining public confidence in the electoral process.

The SLPP further argued that just as Parliament does not oversee institutions such as the Judiciary, the Anti-Corruption Commission and the Audit Service Sierra Leone, it should equally refrain from exercising administrative oversight over the ECSL.

On electoral reforms, the party welcomed the expansion of the Tripartite Steering Committee to include other political parties and Civil Society Organizations, describing the move as a step towards ensuring broader representation and inclusivity in the reform process.

The party also reiterated its support for proportional representation, aligning with its longstanding policy stance, while commending international partners for upholding parliamentary procedures in relation to the Constitution of Sierra Leone (Amendment) Bill 2025.

Addressing national cohesion issues, the SLPP reaffirmed its commitment to working collaboratively with all political actors, including the opposition All People’s Congress (APC), particularly in areas such as the ongoing Population and Housing Census and broader governance processes.

While welcoming the APC’s decision to end its boycott, the ruling party urged the opposition to adopt more constructive and mature approaches to national issues. It cautioned that persistent boycotts and threats could undermine constitutional provisions, particularly Section 35(1), which outlines the responsibilities of political parties in shaping the political will of the people.

The SLPP also took a firm stance against hate speech and incitement, reiterating its zero-tolerance policy on inflammatory rhetoric, which it said poses a threat to national unity and democratic stability.

Commending both Government and opposition delegations, as well as development partners and the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion, the party acknowledged their collective efforts in resolving operational challenges within the Tripartite process.

However, the SLPP expressed dissatisfaction with aspects of a recent Press Statement issued by the APC National Secretariat, describing portions of it as unhelpful and unnecessary. The party warned that such rhetoric could erode trust and weaken the spirit of cooperation among political actors.

Despite those concerns, the SLPP maintained that it remains fully committed to engaging all stakeholders in advancing electoral reforms, strengthening democratic institutions and promoting sustainable peace in Sierra Leone.

The statement comes at a critical time in the country’s political landscape, as efforts continue to consolidate democratic gains and build consensus around key governance reforms. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/slpp-endorses-electoral-reforms-while-insisting-on-ecsl-independence/

Sierra Leone’s Parliament has ratified an amendment to Article 10(4) of the Constitution of the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC), in a move aimed at reinforcing the country’s aviation and transport sector.

The decision was taken during a parliamentary sitting held on April 21, 2026 in Freetown on Tuesday, signaling the Government’s continued commitment to aligning with continental frameworks designed to enhance air transport governance and efficiency across Africa.

The amendment, which was originally adopted during the 28th Ordinary Session of the African Union Assembly in Addis Ababa on January 31, 2017, seeks to improve coordination, institutional effectiveness and operational efficiency within Africa’s civil aviation landscape.

Presenting the agreement before lawmakers, Minister of Transport and Aviation, Alhaji Fanday Turay, described the ratification as a critical step toward advancing Sierra Leone’s transport infrastructure. He emphasized that the amendment would facilitate the establishment of stronger mechanisms to boost efficiency, while also promoting the sustainable growth of the aviation sector at both national and international levels.

“This ratification reflects our determination to modernize and strengthen the aviation sector in line with global standards,” the Minister noted, adding that enhanced cooperation under AFCAC would open new opportunities for investment, connectivity and regulatory improvement.

Concluding the debate, Majority Leader and Leader of Government Business, Mathew Sahr Nyuma, underscored the importance of the amendment in positioning Sierra Leone within the broader framework of international aviation best practices. He further highlighted the significance of quorum in parliamentary proceedings, noting that due process was observed before the resolution was formally adopted.

The ratification is expected to contribute to ongoing efforts to strengthen aviation safety, regulatory oversight and sector competitiveness, as Sierra Leone continues to pursue strategic reforms within its transport ecosystem.

In his closing remarks, Alhaji Fanday Turay expressed gratitude to Parliament for its support and disclosed that additional agreements and legislative instruments would be presented in due course to further consolidate gains within the sector. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/transport-minister-champions-afcac-amendment-as-catalyst-for-aviation-growth/

By Amin Kef-Ranger

Authorities in Sierra Leone have launched a nationwide enforcement drive requiring all foreign nationals living and working in the country to regularize their legal status or face possible sanctions.

The directive, announced by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education, mandates strict compliance with key immigration and identification requirements, including the possession of valid Non-National Identity Cards, Residence Permits and Work Permits.

Officials say the initiative is part of a broader government strategy to tighten national security and improve oversight of non-citizens through the establishment of a centralized and reliable database. The move is expected to enhance the state’s ability to monitor residency and employment activities involving foreign nationals across the country.

Under the new enforcement measures, all affected individuals are required to obtain the relevant documentation and keep it readily available at all times. Authorities have cautioned that non-compliance will attract enforcement actions, although details of specific penalties were not disclosed.

To ease the process, the government has provided an online platform for applications and renewals of residence and work permits, aimed at improving accessibility and efficiency.

Several key institutions, including the Office of National Security, the Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security, the Sierra Leone Immigration Department and the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA), are collaborating to ensure the smooth implementation of the exercise.

The Government has urged full compliance from foreign nationals and stakeholders, describing the enforcement as a critical step toward strengthening regulatory systems, safeguarding national interests and promoting orderly migration management in Sierra Leone. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/government-orders-undocumented-foreign-nationals-to-regularize-status-or-face-sanctions/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leone has embarked on a nationwide calibration of Navigational Aids (NavAIDs), a critical step aimed at strengthening aviation safety, operational efficiency and compliance with international standards.

The exercise, which is being undertaken at key aviation facilities including Freetown International Airport, is designed to ensure that all ground-based navigation systems function with optimal accuracy and reliability. Those systems are essential for safe aircraft landing, takeoff and en-route navigation, particularly under adverse weather conditions.

Speaking on the significance of the initiative, Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) Director General, Musayeroh Barrie, emphasized that safety remains the Authority’s foremost priority. She noted that the calibration of navigational aids is a fundamental requirement in global aviation, ensuring that pilots operating in and out of Sierra Leone can depend on precise and reliable navigation systems at all times.

The Director General further highlighted that the exercise reflects SLCAA’s ongoing commitment to strengthening aviation infrastructure, enhancing regulatory oversight and positioning Sierra Leone as a safe, secure and reliable destination within the global aviation network.

The calibration process is being executed by the Nigeria Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), under the operational responsibility of the Sierra Leone Airports Authority, which serves as the country’s Air Navigation Service Provider. As the national aviation regulator, SLCAA is providing oversight and coordination, ensuring that the exercise adheres strictly to both national regulations and international aviation safety requirements.

SLCAA also played a key facilitative role in the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between SLAA and NAMA, paving the way for the successful implementation of the calibration programme.

At Freetown International Airport, the Sierra Leone Airports Authority commenced a dedicated $80,000 calibration project running from April 20 to April 26, 2026. The initiative forms part of broader efforts to enhance safety and operational readiness ahead of the forthcoming ECOWAS Summit scheduled for June 2026.

General Manager of SLAA, Jack D.K Massaquoi, underscored that the project represents significant progress in advancing the aviation sector under the leadership of the Minister of Transport and Aviation, Alhaji Fanday Turay. He noted that the calibration exercise serves not only as a technical undertaking but also as a strategic assurance of Sierra Leone’s preparedness to host regional leaders under the highest safety standards.

The mission is being led by Flight Inspector and Head of Team, Selzing Dorkur Miri, who explained that the calibration will enhance the precision and reliability of navigational aids while promoting interoperability across West African airspace. He added that the exercise also strengthens regional collaboration through knowledge sharing and capacity building.

Senior officials from SLAA, NAMA and SLCAA were present at the launch, reaffirming their collective commitment to International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards and collaborative growth within the aviation sector.

The Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority commended all stakeholders for their professionalism and dedication in executing the exercise, describing the initiative as a vital milestone in the country’s pursuit of aviation safety excellence and modernization. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/slcaa-dg-reaffirms-safety-priority-as-sierra-leone-launches-nationwide-navaids-calibration/

Sierra Leone has taken a bold and promising step toward transforming its technical education landscape, as the first set of Sierra Leonean students undergo intensive training at the Sierra Leone Excellence Skills Academy. The milestone highlights a growing commitment to equipping young people with practical, market-ready skills that translate directly into economic opportunity, with sustained backing from China Railway Seventh Group Co. Ltd.

The Academy, a collaborative initiative between China Railway Seventh Group Co. Ltd, Freetown Polytechnic and Zhengzhou Railway Technical College, was officially inaugurated on January 27, 2026. The high-profile ceremony brought together national and international stakeholders, including President Julius Maada Bio and the Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone, underscoring the strategic importance of global partnerships in strengthening the country's human capital development.

From the outset, the Academy was designed to bridge the long-standing gap between theoretical instruction and practical application; a challenge that has historically limited employment opportunities for many young Sierra Leoneans. Its first cohort of students is now benefiting from hands-on training programmes across a diverse range of disciplines, including driving, information technology, electrical operations and maintenance, automotive repair and video editing. Those courses are carefully tailored to meet the demands of today's job market while also encouraging entrepreneurship and self-reliance.

For many of the students, the experience has been transformative. Posseh Kamara, one of the pioneering trainees, described her journey as both challenging and rewarding. She recalled her initial hesitation when she first encountered a steering wheel, having never driven before. Through patient instruction and strict adherence to safety standards, she gradually built confidence while learning to operate a HOWO truck.

"What seemed impossible at first became achievable through consistent practice and support," she explained, expressing gratitude to her instructors for their guidance. She particularly praised the dedication of her tutors, noting that their encouragement played a crucial role in her progress and personal growth.

Another student, Yusuf Baimba Kamara, highlighted the Academy's multidisciplinary approach as one of its strongest advantages. Specializing in electrical studies, he found himself gaining additional exposure to fields such as IT, video editing and vehicle maintenance; skills he believes will significantly enhance his employability.

"The environment here made learning easy and engaging. It is not just about theory; we practiced everything we learned," he said. He emphasized that the hands-on experience, particularly in vehicle wiring and diagnostics, has prepared him to tackle real-world challenges with confidence.

Foday S. Kamara echoed similar sentiments, praising the Academy's structured and student-centered approach. According to him, the programme stands out for its emphasis on ensuring that learners fully understand concepts before advancing. That method, he noted, has helped him develop critical problem-solving skills and independence.

"The training has equipped me with the confidence to solve problems on my own," he stated. "Now, I feel ready to face real-life situations and build a better future."

Elizabeth J. Williams, who focused on computer hardware, also described the programme as empowering. She noted that the Academy's curriculum closely mirrors real workplace conditions, making it easier for students to transition into employment or even start their own businesses. Beyond her core area, she gained additional competencies in driving, electrical systems and automotive maintenance.

"Within a short time, I have seen tremendous improvement in my abilities," she said. "This programme does not just teach; it empowers you to apply knowledge independently."

The success of this first cohort underscores the Academy's role as a catalyst for change in Sierra Leone's education and employment sectors. By prioritizing practical skills and aligning training with industry needs, the initiative is helping to tackle youth unemployment while contributing to national development goals.

Stakeholders remain optimistic that the Sierra Leone Excellence Skills Academy will continue to expand its reach and impact. Plans are already being discussed to broaden the range of programmes and accommodate more students, ensuring that a larger segment of the population benefits from this innovative model of technical education.

The partnership between Sierra Leonean institutions and Chinese counterparts is also expected to deepen, paving the way for further investments in skills development and infrastructure. This collaboration demonstrates how international cooperation can yield tangible benefits, particularly in sectors that directly influence economic growth and social stability.

As these pioneering students progress toward graduation and entry into the workforce, their achievements stand as a powerful testament to what can be accomplished through vision, collaboration and determination. The Academy is not just an educational institution; it is a symbol of opportunity, resilience and the promise of a brighter future for Sierra Leone's youth.

In redefining how technical education is delivered, the Sierra Leone Excellence Skills Academy is setting a new standard; one where skills lead directly to livelihoods and learning becomes a gateway to lasting economic empowerment. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/from-classroom-to-career-excellence-skills-academy-transforms-youth-prospects/