Sierra Leone's national telecommunications company, Sierratel, has officially launched nationwide commercial mobile services, marking a major milestone in the country's telecommunications sector and signalling the return of the state-owned operator as a competitive player in the digital economy.

The commercial launch, which commenced on Monday, 29 June 2026, enables Sierra Leoneans for the first time in years to purchase a Sierratel SIM card, recharge their accounts, and access voice, SMS and mobile data services nationwide using any GSM-compatible handset.

The relaunch follows the successful implementation of a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) agreement between the Government of Sierra Leone, through the Ministry of Communications, Technology and Innovation, and leading mobile network operator Africell Sierra Leone. The partnership is expected to strengthen national telecommunications services while expanding access to affordable digital connectivity across the country.

Under the new operational model, Sierratel functions as a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO), allowing the company to provide branded mobile services nationwide while leveraging an established telecommunications infrastructure. The arrangement enables Sierratel to concentrate on customer service, market expansion and innovation without the burden of maintaining an independent nationwide mobile network.

Despite the operational partnership, the Government of Sierra Leone retains full ownership of the Sierratel brand, its operating licence and its national identity. Officials say the collaboration provides the technical and operational expertise required to restore the country's historic telecommunications company while safeguarding public ownership.

The relaunch represents a significant chapter in Sierratel's history. Once regarded as Sierra Leone's leading telecommunications provider, the company now seeks to reposition itself as a modern digital lifestyle network targeting a new generation of mobile users while reconnecting with long-standing customers who have remained loyal to the brand over the years.

According to the company, the renewed Sierratel brand has been designed to meet the evolving needs of students, entrepreneurs, content creators, professionals and digitally connected consumers seeking flexible, affordable and customer-focused mobile services.

To welcome new subscribers, every newly activated Sierratel SIM card comes with an introductory package that includes 10 minutes of voice calls, 100 SMS messages and 300 megabytes of mobile data. The company says the package is intended to allow customers to immediately experience its services upon activation.

In addition, subscribers who make their first recharge of NLe10 or more using a smartphone will automatically receive a bonus of one gigabyte of mobile data.

The company has also introduced an attractive recharge promotion aimed at rewarding customers from the outset. Under the promotion, smaller recharge amounts attract a 10 percent bonus, while recharges of NLe10 and above receive a 100 percent bonus, providing additional value to subscribers.

Sierratel confirmed that SIM cards are now available at Point-of-Sale outlets throughout Freetown and across the provinces through an expanding nationwide network of authorised dealers and agents.

To support customers, the company has established dedicated customer service operations through its call centre, ensuring subscribers receive prompt assistance whenever required. Its official mobile application and social media platforms have also been activated to provide customers with product information, service updates and ongoing digital support.

Company officials described the commercial launch as more than the return of a telecommunications operator, calling it the revival of a national institution established to serve Sierra Leoneans.

They noted that the initiative demonstrates how strategic partnerships between government and the private sector can successfully revive state-owned enterprises without privatisation or direct government budgetary expenditure.

According to the company, no national asset was sold as part of the arrangement. Instead, the partnership was structured to preserve public ownership while introducing operational efficiency, technological expertise and improved service delivery.

Beyond expanding competition within Sierra Leone's telecommunications market, the relaunch is expected to contribute to increased digital inclusion, improved access to affordable mobile services and additional public revenue generated through the continued growth of the national operator.

As commercial operations begin nationwide, Sierratel says it remains committed to delivering reliable connectivity, competitive products and customer-focused services while supporting Sierra Leone's broader digital transformation agenda.

The company has encouraged Sierra Leoneans to visit authorised dealers and Point-of-Sale outlets across the country to obtain their SIM cards and experience the new generation of Sierratel mobile services. Customers can also access assistance through the company's customer care line by dialling 111, visit sierratel.sl, or follow @Sierratel across its official social media platforms for the latest products, promotions and service updates. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/sierratel-officially-returns-to-commercial-service-expands-nationwide-gsm-connectivity/

Sierra Leone's Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, emerged as one of the leading voices for developing nations at the Hamburg Sustainability Conference (HSC) 2026, where he joined heads of state, senior government officials, multilateral development bank presidents and United Nations leaders in discussions on strengthening global resilience and sustainable development.

Held on Monday, 29 June 2026 in Hamburg, Germany, the conference brought together some of the world's most influential policymakers and financial leaders to address pressing global challenges, including geopolitical tensions, economic instability, climate resilience and sustainable development financing.

Vice President Juldeh Jalloh participated alongside distinguished global figures, including German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, World Trade Organization Director-General Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Asian Development Bank President Masato Kanda, United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed, Germany's Federal Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development Reem Alabali-Radovan, United Kingdom Minister of State for International Development and Africa Baroness Jennifer Chapman, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Administrator Alexander De Croo, and President of the African Development Bank Group Dr. Sidi Ould Tah.

From the official leaders' gathering at Hamburg's historic City Hall to the conference's high-level policy sessions, the Vice President actively engaged fellow world leaders and development partners, reinforcing Sierra Leone's growing influence in international discussions on sustainable development, economic resilience and global cooperation.

A defining moment of his participation came during the high-level panel discussion titled "Navigating the Hormuz Crisis: Forging a Collective Response," which followed a keynote address by United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed.

Speaking from the perspective of both a former United Nations governance and security expert for West Africa and the Sahel and the leader of an import-dependent African economy, Dr. Juldeh Jalloh highlighted the severe consequences that geopolitical conflicts have on developing nations.

He observed that disruptions to strategic shipping routes, particularly the Strait of Hormuz, extend far beyond fuel markets and create widespread economic hardship for vulnerable countries.

"For the Global South, an oil shock is never just an oil shock. It becomes a food shock, a fiscal shock, and ultimately a human development shock," the Vice President stated.

He explained that increases in global oil prices rapidly translate into higher costs for fuel, food, fertiliser, electricity and transportation, placing enormous strain on national budgets and slowing economic growth in low-income countries.

The Vice President urged the international community to recognize food and energy security as essential pillars of global stability rather than domestic policy concerns, stressing that geopolitical crises in one region often have devastating consequences for millions of people living thousands of miles away.

Beyond outlining the challenges facing developing economies, Dr. Juldeh Jalloh presented practical proposals aimed at strengthening the international financial system and improving global resilience.

He called on multilateral development banks, including the African Development Bank and the World Bank, to establish a Global South Shock Absorption Facility that would provide rapid, flexible financing to countries affected by geopolitical instability and supply chain disruptions before such crises escalate into humanitarian emergencies.

Drawing parallels with international climate financing mechanisms, the Vice President argued that global financial institutions should move beyond financing recovery after disasters and instead invest in preventive resilience that enables vulnerable economies to withstand external shocks.

"We must shift from financing recovery after crises to financing resilience before they occur," he emphasized.

He noted that countries like Sierra Leone require responsive financial instruments capable of cushioning economies against sudden external shocks while protecting critical investments in health, education, agriculture and infrastructure.

His intervention received considerable attention during the conference and reinforced growing calls for reforms that make the international financial architecture more responsive to the realities confronting developing countries.

Observers noted that Sierra Leone's contribution elevated the country's profile from being a participant in global discussions to becoming an active contributor of policy solutions aimed at strengthening economic resilience across the Global South.

Throughout the conference, Vice President Juldeh Jalloh also held engagements with international leaders, development partners and representatives of multilateral institutions, further strengthening Sierra Leone's diplomatic presence on the global stage.

His participation underscored the country's commitment to constructive international engagement and demonstrated Sierra Leone's determination to contribute meaningfully to shaping policies that promote equitable growth, sustainable development and inclusive global prosperity.

As the Hamburg Sustainability Conference concluded its deliberations, Sierra Leone's Vice President left a strong impression as a persuasive advocate for developing nations, calling for greater international solidarity, stronger multilateral cooperation and financial reforms capable of protecting vulnerable economies from increasingly complex global challenges.

His message resonated clearly throughout the conference: sustainable development cannot be achieved without ensuring that developing countries have the financial resilience and international support needed to withstand the economic consequences of geopolitical crises beyond their control. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/vice-president-dr-mohamed-juldeh-jalloh-emerges-as-a-strong-voice-for-the-global-south-at-hamburg-sustainability-conference/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security has announced that enforcement of the Work Permit Act, 2023 will be expanded to Sierra Leone's international airports, seaports and land border crossings beginning Monday, 29 June 2026, as part of the Government's nationwide drive to strengthen compliance with labour and immigration laws.

The announcement follows a three-day compliance and enforcement mission to Bo and Kenema led by the Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security, Mohamed Rahman Swaray, who reaffirmed the Government's commitment to ensuring that all foreign nationals working in Sierra Leone possess valid work permits and resident permits in accordance with the law.

The latest move comes after five foreign nationals travelling on an Air Peace flight from Kenema on Friday, 26 June 2026, were denied boarding during immigration clearance after failing to present authentic resident documentation. Although the action was taken under existing immigration procedures, the Ministry described the incident as a clear demonstration of the Government's determination to strengthen compliance at all official entry and exit points.

Speaking at the conclusion of the enforcement mission, the Minister said the airport action sends a strong signal that Sierra Leone's labour and immigration laws will be strictly enforced.

"Today's airport action sends a clear message that compliance with Sierra Leone's laws will be rigorously enforced. Beginning Monday, our enforcement will be expanded to include work permit compliance at airports, seaports and land border crossings. Every non-national who is required by law to hold a Work Permit must be able to produce one, together with a valid Resident Permit. Employers also have a legal responsibility to ensure their foreign employees are fully compliant," he stated.

Mohamed Rahman Swaray emphasized that Sierra Leone remains open to genuine investment and skilled foreign professionals but stressed that all investors and foreign workers must respect the country's legal framework governing employment and immigration.

The nationwide enforcement exercise formed part of a broader compliance mission during which the Minister engaged employers, conducted workplace inspections and met with the Southern and Eastern Regional Police Commands to strengthen collaboration between the Ministry, the Sierra Leone Police, the Sierra Leone Immigration Department, the Office of National Security and other enforcement institutions responsible for implementing the Employment Act, 2023 and the Work Permit Act, 2023.

Commissioner of Labour and Employment, Sinneh Bockarie, said stronger coordination among state institutions would significantly improve regulatory compliance while protecting Sierra Leone's labour market.

"Labour compliance is a shared national responsibility. By working together, Labour, Immigration, the Police, the Office of National Security and our implementation partners are strengthening regulatory compliance, protecting the integrity of Sierra Leone's labour market and enhancing national security," he said.

During the inspections, officials visited several workplaces in Bo and Kenema, including Splash Purified Water Company, First Tricon Limited, Dorwaila Hotel and Hill Top Hotel, where employers were directed to address various violations relating to employment contracts, workplace safety, payment of the national minimum wage, NASSIT registration and work permit requirements for foreign employees.

At Splash Purified Water Company, inspectors discovered that the recently approved national minimum wage of Le1,200 had not been implemented for eligible workers. The company was issued an Improvement Notice and given seven days to correct salary discrepancies and occupational health and safety concerns.

First Tricon Limited was also instructed to regularize the work permit status of all foreign employees, submit workers' contracts for verification, register with the Occupational Safety and Health Department and ensure full compliance with labour and social security laws.

Addressing Managements of businesses visited during the exercise, Commissioner Sinneh Bockarie said the Ministry has abandoned its previous complaint-driven approach in favour of proactive nationwide inspections.

"We are no longer waiting in our offices in Freetown for complaints before taking action. We are taking the Ministry to workplaces across the country to ensure employers comply with the Employment Act and the Work Permit Act, 2023. These inspections enable us to engage employers directly, identify areas of non-compliance, provide immediate guidance where necessary and enforce the law effectively," he said.

The Ministry has advised all employers and foreign nationals to ensure that valid resident permits and work permits are obtained before engaging in employment, warning that compliance inspections will continue nationwide as Government intensifies enforcement of the Employment Act, 2023 and the Work Permit Act, 2023 to safeguard workers' rights, promote lawful employment practices and strengthen workplace standards across Sierra Leone. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/labour-ministry-extends-work-permit-enforcement-to-airports-seaports-land-borders-begining-today/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), Musayeroh Barrie, has reaffirmed the Authority's commitment to strengthening public health surveillance and aviation safety by intensifying the implementation of the Sierra Leone Health Travel Portal at the Freetown International Airport (FNA).

As part of efforts to enhance border health security, the SLCAA convened a high-level stakeholder engagement that brought together airline representatives, officials from the Ministry of Health, the National Public Health Agency (NPHA), and other key aviation partners to advance the operationalization of the digital Health Travel Portal.

The engagement focused on addressing practical implementation challenges while strengthening collaboration among stakeholders to ensure the effective deployment of the platform, which is designed to improve passenger health screening, facilitate the collection and management of travel health information, and strengthen disease surveillance before travellers arrive in Sierra Leone.

Addressing participants, Director General Musayeroh Barrie said the meeting was convened to determine the way forward for the full implementation of the portal while resolving operational concerns previously raised by airline operators.

She noted that although several discussions had already taken place regarding the initiative, the latest engagement was specifically designed to focus on implementation realities and develop practical solutions that would enable the system to function efficiently.

Barrie emphasized that the participation of airline representatives was essential to ensuring they fully understood the procedures for accessing passenger health information through the portal. She added that the engagement also provided an opportunity for stakeholders to identify operational bottlenecks and recommend practical measures to improve implementation.

"The SLCAA is working closely with our partners to ensure that every traveller complies with the Health Travel Declaration requirement before arriving at the airport. This is an important measure to protect public health and strengthen our national health security," she stated.

The Director General urged all passengers travelling to Sierra Leone to complete their mandatory Travel Health Declaration before arrival, stressing that compliance would significantly contribute to protecting the country's borders against the importation and spread of infectious diseases.

She described the Health Travel Portal as a critical component of Sierra Leone's broader strategy to strengthen disease surveillance, improve border health security, and promote safe, efficient and seamless travel through the country's main international gateway.

Participants at the engagement first received a comprehensive presentation outlining the portal's functionality, operational processes and expected outcomes before engaging in detailed discussions on implementation challenges, stakeholder responsibilities and recommendations for effective deployment.

According to the SLCAA, the Health Travel Portal is a digital platform developed to improve health screening procedures, facilitate the collection and management of essential passenger health information, and strengthen disease surveillance before travellers enter Sierra Leone.

Officials explained that the platform will play a significant role in preventing the spread of infectious diseases, including Ebola, while enhancing the country's preparedness and response to potential public health emergencies. By enabling authorities to collect accurate health information before passengers arrive, the system will support timely interventions where necessary and improve coordination among relevant government institutions.

Beyond strengthening disease prevention and emergency response mechanisms, the portal is also expected to improve passenger processing, enhance data management and align Sierra Leone's aviation health systems with international best practices.

Barrie underscored that the successful implementation of the initiative would depend on sustained collaboration among government institutions, airline operators, health authorities and other stakeholders within the aviation sector. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/slcaa-dg-intensifies-implementation-of-health-travel-portal-at-freetown-international-airport/

Sierra Leone has recorded another significant milestone in its human capital development drive, with 25 Sierra Leonean students graduating from various universities across the Russian Federation, including 10 who qualified as medical doctors from the People's Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University).

The graduation ceremony, held on Saturday, 27 June 2026, at Korovy Val in Moscow, brought together a high-level diplomatic delegation, university authorities, academic and scientific staff, graduates and their families. The event marked the largest cohort of Sierra Leonean medical graduates from RUDN University to date, highlighting the growing educational cooperation between Sierra Leone and Russia.

Among the graduating doctors, Dr. Alfred Osman Kamara and Dr. Hawanatu B. Marrah distinguished themselves by earning the prestigious Red Diploma, awarded to students who graduate with outstanding academic excellence.

Delivering the valedictory address on behalf of the graduating Class of 2026, Dr. Alfred Osman Kamara, who emerged as the best graduating student in medicine with honours, reflected on the sacrifices, determination and resilience that defined their academic journey.

Speaking before an audience that included Sierra Leone's Ambassador to the Russian Federation, Mohamed Yongawo, members of the diplomatic corps, university leadership, faculty members and proud parents, Dr. Alfred Osman Kamara described the achievement as a testament to perseverance and international cooperation.

A former President of the National Union of Sierra Leone Students in Russia, Dr. Alfred Osman Kamara acknowledged the support of President Julius Maada Bio for prioritizing human capital development through education. He also expressed appreciation to the Ministry of Higher and Technical Education, under the leadership of Dr. Ramatulai Wurie, for its continued commitment to supporting Sierra Leonean students studying abroad.

He equally thanked the Government of the Russian Federation and President Vladimir Putin for extending scholarship opportunities to international students, noting that the initiative had transformed the lives of many young Sierra Leoneans.

"His commitment to global education has opened doors for countless young minds and turned distant dreams into reality," Dr. Kamara said.

He paid special tribute to Ambassador Mohamed Yongawo, revealing that the graduating medical cohort was made possible through a special diplomatic engagement in 2021 that secured a quota for Sierra Leonean students to pursue general medicine at RUDN University.

Dr. Alfred Osman Kamara also commended the leadership of RUDN University, particularly Rector Oleg Alexandrovich and Director Alexey Yuryevich, for creating what he described as "a home of limitless opportunity, academic rigor, innovation and above all, true international friendship."

He further recognized several distinguished lecturers and mentors, including Professors Viktor Evseevich Radzinsky, Irina Alekseevna Zhirova and Martynov Alexey Yuryevich for shaping his medical career, while thanking Elena Valeryevna Kaverina for nurturing his passion for scientific research.

"Studying at a medical school is by no means an easy process, but thanks to you, all apparent difficulties and obstacles have always turned into easily surmountable goals and subsequent achievements," he stated.

Beyond the success recorded at RUDN University, Sierra Leone celebrated a total of 25 graduates from Russian universities this year across a range of academic disciplines, including bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctoral programmes. The achievement reflects the country's growing investment in education, international academic partnerships and the development of skilled professionals capable of contributing to national progress.

In his closing remarks, Dr. Alfred Osman Kamara reminded his fellow graduates that earning the title of medical doctor comes with a profound responsibility to serve humanity with professionalism, compassion and integrity.

"We have come a long, thorny path, of which each of you can rightfully be proud. We are now officially Medical Doctors, and this title carries with it enormous responsibility," he said.

The ceremony concluded with Ambassador Mohamed Yongawo presenting certificates of recognition to the graduating students on behalf of the Sierra Leone Students' Union, celebrating their outstanding achievements and encouraging them to return home equipped with the knowledge and expertise needed to contribute meaningfully to Sierra Leone's healthcare system and national development.

The historic graduation stands as another testament to Sierra Leone's commitment to investing in education, strengthening international partnerships and producing a new generation of highly skilled professionals prepared to advance the nation's development agenda. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/sierra-leone-celebrates-25-graduates-from-russian-universities-10-qualify-as-medical-doctors/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Minister of Transport and Aviation of Sierra Leone, Ambassador Colonel (Rtd.) Alhaji Fanday Turay Esq., has officially handed over as Chancellor of the Regional Maritime University (RMU) and Chairman of the University's Board of Governors after completing a two-year tenure marked by institutional reforms, regional cooperation and significant academic growth.

The handover ceremony took place on Friday, 26 June 2026, during the 35th Meeting of the RMU Board of Governors held at Nungua in Accra, Ghana. In his farewell address, Ambassador Fanday Turay reflected on the progress achieved during Sierra Leone's chairmanship, expressing satisfaction that the University is stronger and better positioned for future growth than when he assumed office in 2024.

Addressing fellow Ministers, board members, university management, academic staff and delegates from the University's six Member States, Ambassador Fanday Turay described his tenure as one driven by collaboration, commitment and a shared vision to strengthen maritime education and training across the West African sub-region.

He highlighted several major accomplishments recorded during his leadership, noting that the admission of Guinea-Bissau as the sixth Member State represented a significant milestone in the University's expansion and regional integration agenda. According to him, the inclusion of Guinea-Bissau further strengthened the institution's role as a leading centre for maritime education in West Africa.

The outgoing Chancellor also pointed to substantial infrastructure development made possible through contributions from Liberia and Sierra Leone, which have enhanced the University's teaching and learning environment. He said those investments demonstrate the commitment of Member States to building a stronger institution capable of meeting the growing demand for skilled maritime professionals.

Ambassador Fanday Turay further disclosed that the University achieved a more than 30 percent increase in student enrolment during his tenure, reflecting growing confidence in the quality of education and professional training offered by the institution. He noted that the increase in enrolment, coupled with sustained financial stability, has placed RMU in a stronger position to expand its academic programmes and research activities.

Among the key achievements highlighted was the successful resolution of longstanding governance and leadership challenges that had affected the institution. He commended the Board of Governors and all stakeholders for working together to improve governance structures and promote institutional stability.

He also announced that the University secured two prestigious research grants from the Lloyd's Register Foundation, describing the achievement as a major boost to RMU's international reputation in maritime research and innovation. The grants, he said, will support research initiatives aimed at addressing critical challenges within the maritime sector while strengthening the University's global academic partnerships.

The outgoing Chancellor praised fellow Ministers, Board Members, the Acting Vice-Chancellor, the University's Management, the Committee of Experts and the Sierra Leone delegation for their unwavering support throughout his tenure. He acknowledged that the progress recorded over the past two years was the result of collective leadership and teamwork among all Member States.

Ambassador Fanday Turay welcomed the Board's agreement on a clear roadmap for appointing a substantive Vice-Chancellor, describing the decision as an important step towards ensuring continuity, effective governance and long-term institutional stability.

He also expressed optimism that ongoing discussions with the Government of Ghana regarding longstanding institutional matters would produce lasting solutions that would further strengthen the University's operations and governance framework.

As part of the official transition ceremony, Ambassador Fanday Turay formally handed over the University's flag and key institutional documents to his successor, symbolizing the peaceful transfer of leadership.

Reaffirming his commitment to the Regional Maritime University, Ambassador Fanday Turay described RMU as a strategic institution for developing Africa's maritime workforce and advancing regional integration through education and professional training.

He disclosed that approximately 400 students are expected to graduate during the University's forthcoming 20th Congregation, describing the milestone as another testament to RMU's continued growth and relevance.

Concluding his address, Ambassador Fanday Turay thanked the Member States, Board of Governors, Management, staff, students and development partners for the confidence and support they accorded him throughout his tenure. He emphasized that while leadership positions are temporary, his dedication to the Regional Maritime University and the advancement of maritime education in Africa will remain a lifelong commitment. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/amb-fanday-turay-hands-over-rmu-leadership-following-two-years-of-institutional-transformation/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Secure Her Empowerment for Peace (SHE4Peace) has intensified calls for greater attention to men's mental health, with experts, policymakers, advocates and youth leaders urging Sierra Leoneans to create safe spaces where men can openly discuss emotional challenges without fear of stigma.

The appeal was made during the Elevate Men's Seminar 2.0, held on Saturday, 27 June 2026, at Toma Resort under the theme, "It's Okay to Say: I Am Not Okay," with discussions centered on "Breaking the Silence: Youth Voices for Men's Mental Health, Positive Masculinity and Social Transformation in Sierra Leone."

Hosted by Augustine Kandeh, Programmes Manager of SHE4Peace, and moderated by Ariana Oluwole, the seminar featured a panel discussion, wellness and mindfulness sessions and interactive dialogue involving Government officials, mental health professionals, legal practitioners, journalists, youth advocates and community leaders.

Speaking in an exclusive interview, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of SHE4Peace, Mariama Sahid, said promoting men's mental health is essential to achieving genuine gender equality and sustainable peace.

She explained that although SHE4Peace remains committed to advancing women's participation in leadership, peacebuilding and development, the organization also recognizes that men are indispensable partners in building stronger communities.

"We cannot advocate for peaceful families, inclusive communities and sustainable development while ignoring the mental wellbeing of men. When men struggle in silence, the effects are felt by women, children, workplaces and society as a whole," she said.

Mariama Sahid noted that the Elevate Men's Seminar was designed to provide a safe environment where men could openly discuss their struggles, access reliable information and receive support without fear of judgment. She emphasized that supporting men's wellbeing does not diminish efforts aimed at empowering women but instead strengthens families and communities.

Director of Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Services at the Ministry of Social Welfare, Ansu Konneh, highlighted the importance of changing societal perceptions surrounding masculinity. He observed that many men have been conditioned to suppress their emotions, often resulting in emotional distress, substance abuse and family breakdown.

He disclosed that the Ministry is implementing a Positive Parenting programme, which has revealed increasing levels of family dysfunction caused largely by absent parenting and weakened family values. According to him, stronger mental health support for men will contribute significantly to healthier homes and more peaceful communities.

Legal practitioner and Founder of the Patriotic Advocacy Network Sierra Leone (PAN), Ansumana Keita Esq., shared his personal experience of losing his father at the age of thirteen, recalling how he was discouraged from expressing grief because he was expected to remain emotionally strong as the family's only son.

He called for more platforms that encourage men to express their emotions freely while advocating for continued dialogue on legal and policy reforms affecting men. He also encouraged men to strengthen relationships within their social circles, noting that emotional isolation often contributes to mental distress.

Broadcast journalist and youth advocate Marina Terry stressed that men's mental health should not be viewed solely as a men's issue but as a family and national development concern. She urged women to recognize that men also experience emotional pain and should feel comfortable discussing their vulnerabilities with their partners.

Country Director of the Mental Health Coalition Sierra Leone, Joshua Duncan, encouraged men to reject harmful social expectations that discourage emotional openness. He maintained that true identity is shaped by purpose, contribution to society, and personal values rather than financial success.

Pharmacist and Founder of PN Pencil Sierra Leone, Buya Nabie Bangura, warned that substance abuse continues to threaten the wellbeing of many Sierra Leoneans across all age groups. He called for the establishment of a national mental health council to coordinate policies and institutionalize mental health interventions nationwide.

Youth leader and disability advocate Ishmail G. Kamara also urged society to become more inclusive by recognizing the unique mental health challenges faced by persons living with disabilities. He reminded participants that financial success alone does not define manhood, emphasizing that meaningful impact comes through service, strategic thinking, and positive relationships.

Supported by Freetown Innovation Lab 3, IBTK Foundation, RCBank, and several civil society partners, the seminar concluded with participants reaffirming their commitment to breaking the stigma surrounding men's mental health and promoting positive masculinity.

Participants agreed that creating safe spaces for honest conversations, strengthening family values, and expanding access to mental health services are essential steps toward building healthier families, peaceful communities and a more inclusive Sierra Leone. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/she4peace-champions-mens-mental-health-calls-for-inclusive-approach-to-gender-equality/