By Foday Moriba Conteh

The Government of Sierra Leone, through the Ministries of Finance and Health, has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with consultants and contractors aimed at ensuring the completion of three major tertiary hospital projects in the Western Area, alongside an Oxygen Production Facility in Kerry Town.

The agreement, signed on Thursday, 14 May 2026, involves the Government of Sierra Leone, represented by the Ministries of Finance and Health, consultancy firm IDEAS Limited, and four construction companies tasked with completing the stalled projects. The facilities include the Lumley Government Hospital, Macauley Street Government Hospital, Waterloo Government Hospital and an Oxygen Production Facility in Kerry Town.

The signing marks a major breakthrough for projects that had for years been described as abandoned or failed following the closure of the financing window from the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development. The withdrawal of funding had resulted in a prolonged halt in construction activities, leaving the projects incomplete and raising concerns over healthcare infrastructure development in the country.

Speaking during the signing ceremony, Financial Secretary, Matthew Dingie, underscored the significance of the projects in addressing Sierra Leone’s growing healthcare needs. He explained that the Government considers the completion of the hospitals critical to strengthening healthcare delivery and reducing pressure on existing facilities, particularly in the Western Area.

Matthew Dingie disclosed that in response to the funding challenges, the Ministry of Finance pursued an alternative and innovative financing mechanism to revive and complete the projects. He noted that extensive negotiations were held with both contractors and consultants to determine the total resources required for the completion of the remaining original works, as well as approved additional works across all four project sites.

Minister of Health, Dr. Austin Demby, emphasized the urgent need for expanded healthcare infrastructure in the Western Area, noting that rapid population growth has heightened the demand for quality health services.

He maintained that the expansion of hospital capacity remains essential to improving access to healthcare and easing congestion in existing health facilities. Dr. Austin Demby further assured that the Ministry of Health has already begun mobilizing personnel, medical equipment and other logistical supplies to ensure the facilities become fully operational immediately upon completion.

Meanwhile, Minister of Finance Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura disclosed that the projects are already between 80 to 90 percent complete, expressing optimism that the remaining works would soon be finalized under the new arrangement.

The Finance Minister urged contractors to strictly adhere to the mutually agreed implementation timeline outlined in the Memorandum of Understanding, stressing the Government’s determination to ensure timely delivery of the facilities for public use.

He also reaffirmed the Ministry of Finance’s commitment to guaranteeing the prompt disbursement of funds in accordance with the procedures and funding arrangements detailed in the MOU.

According to the agreement, a total allocation of Four Million, Three Hundred and Twenty-Three Thousand, Five Hundred and Ninety-Three United States Dollars and Sixty-Three Cents (US$4,232,593.63) has been approved for the completion of the projects.

The contractors, Cubic Construction Company Limited, Fajaha International Construction, Hariss Construction and Nimo Construction and Trading Enterprises, are expected to undertake the remaining original works and approved additional works within the stipulated project timeline, raising renewed hopes for improved healthcare delivery and infrastructure development in Sierra Leone. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/government-contractors-commit-over-us4-2-million-to-finalize-stalled-hospital-projects/

Zenith Bank (SL) Limited on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, successfully held its Eighteenth (18th) Annual General Meeting (AGM) alongside its quarterly Board and Committee meetings at the New Brookfields Hotel on Jomo Kenyatta Road, Brookfields, Freetown, where the Bank announced remarkable financial growth and operational resilience despite prevailing economic challenges.

The high-level meeting attracted several dignitaries and key stakeholders, including representatives from the Bank of Sierra Leone, the institution’s regulators, external auditors Kreston Sierra Leone, members of the media, members of the Board of Directors and a cross-section of staff of Zenith Bank (SL) Limited.

The AGM served as an important platform for the Bank to reflect on its operational and financial performance over the past year while outlining strategic plans for sustained growth and improved service delivery.

Speaking during the meeting, the revered Chairman of the Board, Mr. Tapsiru L. Dainkeh and the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Ugochukwu Irechukwu, disclosed that Zenith Bank (SL) Limited recorded significant growth in 2025 despite the year being characterized by considerable economic and commercial challenges.

According to the Bank’s leadership, Zenith Bank Sierra Leone demonstrated resilience and strong performance, with notable improvements recorded across key financial indicators.

The Bank’s Profit Before Tax (PBT) witnessed a significant increase of 97.58 percent, rising from NLe249.88 million in 2024 to NLe493.71 million in 2025. Similarly, Profit After Tax (PAT) experienced substantial growth, increasing from NLe186.58 million in 2024 to NLe368.93 million in 2025.

Gross Earnings also recorded a major boost, rising by 62 percent from NLe441.46 million in 2024 to NLe715.67 million in 2025, underscoring the institution’s growing financial strength and expanding operational footprint.

Officials described the financial performance as an impressive and trail-blazing achievement since the establishment of the Bank in Sierra Leone, emphasizing that the institution continues to strengthen its position within the country’s banking and financial sector.

Management highlighted that Zenith Bank Sierra Leone has expanded significantly across almost every sector while demonstrating exceptional resilience in the face of global economic uncertainty and commercial obstacles that affected many businesses and institutions in 2025.

Board members and Directors present at the AGM commended the Bank’s Management and staff for what they described as their unwavering commitment, professionalism and dedication to delivering excellent banking services to customers.

Special recognition was given to the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Ugochukwu Irechukwu, whose leadership and strategic vision were credited for driving the Bank’s strong performance and sustained growth trajectory.

Directors praised his spectacular leadership style and strategic mindset, noting that his stewardship has positioned Zenith Bank (SL) Limited among the leading financial institutions in Sierra Leone.

Members at the AGM also extended appreciation to the Bank’s loyal customers, acknowledging their continued trust and confidence as a major driving force behind the institution’s success story.

According to stakeholders, customers remain central to the Bank’s operations and their patronage continues to inspire Zenith Bank Sierra Leone to improve service delivery and maintain excellence in the country’s banking sector.

The successful hosting of the 18th Annual General Meeting further reaffirmed Zenith Bank (SL) Limited’s commitment to transparency, accountability and sustainable growth as it continues to expand its influence and strengthen confidence within Sierra Leone’s financial landscape.

With impressive financial indicators and a clear strategic direction, Zenith Bank (SL) Limited appears poised to sustain its growth momentum while maintaining its commitment to serving customers in their best interest. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/zenith-bank-sl-celebrates-profit-surge-and-strategic-success-at-18th-agm/

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Chief Executive Officer of Africell Sierra Leone, Shadi Gerjawi, has emphasized the indispensable role of digital infrastructure in strengthening digital sovereignty and advancing sustainable technological development across West Africa during the 18th Edition of the West Africa Internet Governance Forum (WAIGF 2026) held in Freetown.

The high-profile regional forum, officially opened on Thursday, May 14, 2026, at the Miatta Conference Centre, Youyi Building, brought together policymakers, technology experts, regulators, youth representatives, development partners and private sector actors from across West Africa to deliberate on the future of internet governance, emerging technologies and digital transformation in the region.

Speaking on behalf of Sierra Leone’s Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), Shadi Gerjawi, CEO of Africell, underscored that digital sovereignty cannot exist without strong physical infrastructure, stressing that telecommunications towers, fibre optic networks and last-mile connectivity remain the backbone of digital advancement.

Shadi Gerjawi noted that mobile network operators have made substantial investments in strengthening telecommunications infrastructure across Sierra Leone and the wider region, explaining that countries with strong digital connectivity are better positioned to compete globally while safeguarding their citizens in an increasingly digital world.

According to him, extending reliable connectivity to underserved and remote communities requires sustained investments, supportive Government policies, targeted subsidies and regulatory frameworks that encourage investment. He pointed out that despite continuous network expansion in recent years, service costs have significantly declined, making telecommunications services increasingly accessible to citizens.

The Africell CEO further emphasized that digital infrastructure alone is insufficient to drive meaningful transformation, highlighting the important role mobile operators play in digital literacy and capacity building.

He explained that telecommunications operators engage millions of people daily and therefore possess the capacity to collaborate with Governments, schools and educational institutions to equip young people with practical digital skills necessary to thrive in the digital economy.

Shadi Gerjawi also stressed the responsibility of Mobile Network Operators in ensuring secure and trustworthy digital networks, maintaining that user data protection and online safety remain essential priorities, especially for vulnerable groups.

Looking toward the future, he identified mobile money services as one of the region’s most successful financial inclusion models, urging stakeholders to deepen financial integration through expanded access to credit, savings and insurance products. He called for stronger regulatory cooperation and continuous innovation to maximize the transformative potential of digital financial services.

While commending Sierra Leone for hosting the regional forum, Shadi Gerjawi praised the country’s leadership role in advancing discussions on digital governance and internet development in West Africa.

The five-day forum commenced after the successful hosting of the West Africa School on Internet Governance, held from May 11 to 12, where experts, facilitators and fellows explored issues surrounding internet governance, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, digital cooperation, data governance and emerging technologies.

The opening ceremony also featured strategic discussions on regional digital transformation, cybersecurity, digital inclusion and innovation, with Government officials reaffirming commitments to stronger collaboration aimed at building a secure, resilient and digitally sovereign West Africa.

WAIGF 2026 is expected to generate actionable recommendations that will shape internet governance policies, digital inclusion efforts and innovation strategies across the West African region. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/africell-ceo-highlights-mnos-critical-role-in-securing-west-africas-digital-future/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh has described President Dr. Julius Maada Bio as a bold and visionary leader whose unwavering commitment to inclusive governance, democratic accountability and human capital development continues to position Sierra Leone as a model of progressive leadership on the African continent.

Speaking on Wednesday, 13 May 2026, at the Freetown International Conference Center during the landmark Julius Maada Bio Leadership Colloquium, Vice President Juldeh Jalloh said President Bio’s leadership continues to inspire democratic reforms and inclusive national development at a time when many African nations are grappling with political and economic uncertainty.

The high-level colloquium, organized by the African Young Leadership Convergence (AYLC) as part of activities marking President Bio’s birthday, brought together African leaders, policymakers, diplomats, traditional authorities, youth representatives, women leaders and governance experts to discuss the future of leadership across the continent. Held under the theme, “Reimagining African Leadership: Courage, Accountability, Innovation and Leadership in an Era of Global Uncertainty,” the event focused on strengthening democratic governance, innovation and accountable leadership in Africa.

In his welcome remarks, Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh underscored President Bio’s determination to foster democratic accountability and inclusive governance, noting that Sierra Leone’s growing reputation on the continent reflects deliberate efforts to strengthen institutions and empower citizens through education and development initiatives.

He maintained that President Bio’s emphasis on human capital development, particularly in education and youth empowerment, demonstrates leadership committed to long-term national transformation and sustainable development.

Delivering a keynote address, President Julius Maada Bio described the colloquium as more than a ceremonial gathering, stressing that it represented a critical moment of reflection and responsibility for African leaders.

“We are here to confront a defining and unavoidable question: What kind of leadership will shape Africa’s future in this century?” President Bio stated, emphasizing the urgent need for courageous, accountable and innovative leadership capable of responding to contemporary challenges facing the continent.

President Bio asserted that Africa must take ownership of its future through decisive leadership and structural transformation, cautioning against symbolic reforms that fail to address real societal needs. According to him, leadership should not be measured by the ability to retain power, but by the transformation of institutions and improvement in people’s lives.

Reflecting on his own political journey, President Bio recounted his historic decision in 1996 to hand over power to a democratically elected civilian Government, describing the move as a demonstration of democratic conviction and responsible stewardship.

As Chairman of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), President Bio also highlighted the growing governance and security challenges confronting West Africa. He warned that governance failures, economic inequality and declining trust in democratic institutions continue to threaten regional peace and stability.

The President further called for stronger African integration, increased intra-African trade and a unified continental voice in global affairs, insisting that Africa must no longer remain on the margins of international influence.

Former Commonwealth Secretary-General, Baroness Patricia Scotland, commended President Bio for promoting women’s empowerment and inclusive governance, while former President of Malawi, Joyce Banda, encouraged African Governments to create more opportunities for women and young people.

The event concluded with renewed commitments from participants to promote accountable governance, inclusive leadership and democratic stability across Africa, while former Vice President Victor Bockarie Foh described the colloquium as an inspiring and historic initiative for Sierra Leone. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/vice-president-applauds-president-bios-commitment-to-inclusive-leadership-and-national-development/

In a demonstration of its continued commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Orange Sierra Leone has made a financial donation to the Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation (SLBC) to support the institution following the recent fire incident and to contribute to national broadcasting and media development initiatives.

The donation underscores Orange Sierra Leone’s dedication to supporting national institutions and strengthening strategic partnerships that contribute to information dissemination, public awareness and national development across Sierra Leone.

As a longstanding strategic partner of SLBC, Orange Sierra Leone acknowledged the important role the national broadcaster continues to play in promoting access to information, enhancing public awareness and supporting national development efforts through responsible and effective broadcasting.

The financial support was formally presented during a brief ceremony held on Friday, 15 May 2026. The presentation was led by Orange Sierra Leone’s Chief Marketing Officer, Abdramane Kone, alongside the company’s General Secretary, Danetta Younge.

Receiving the donation on behalf of SLBC were the Director General, Josephine Kamara and Deputy Director General, Mohamed Asmieu Bah, who welcomed the support and recognized the significance of the partnership during a challenging period for the institution.

Also present at the presentation ceremony was the Chief Executive Officer of OWL Newspaper, Alhaji Dauda Bangura, who joined the Orange Sierra Leone delegation during the handing-over event.

Orange Sierra Leone reaffirmed its commitment to supporting impactful partnerships and initiatives that contribute to national development, community empowerment and the strengthening of institutions that serve the public interest. Through such interventions, the company continues to position itself as a responsible corporate institution committed to supporting Sierra Leone’s growth and development agenda. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/orange-sierra-leone-supports-slbc-with-financial-donation-following-fire-incident/

By Ibrahim Sesay 

Orange Sierra Leone has, on Friday, May 15, 2026, continued its “For Good Connections” campaign with a sensitization session for pupils of Prince of Wales School aimed at promoting responsible digital use among young people.

The awareness session focused on educating Junior Secondary School (JSS) pupils on cyberbullying, its forms, effects and prevention, as well as excessive screen time, its impact on students and measures that can be taken to reduce it.

Speaking to journalists, Margaret Sia Mondeh, Firm Executive, Orange Foundation Sierra Leone who serves as ⁠one of the facilitators, said the initiative seeks to promote a healthy relationship between young people and mobile technology.

“As you know, Orange is a mobile and telecommunication company and since we deal with mobile devices and people we decided there should be a proper and good connection between people and their devices,” she said.

Margaret Sia Mondeh explained that the campaign targets JSS pupils because many of them begin to misuse mobile phones as they transition into secondary school, often leading to excessive screen use and online misconduct.

“Sometimes they use those devices excessively and also engage in some forms of cyberbullying. They think they can say anything online because they see themselves as matured. That’s why we’re creating the awareness,” she added. Margaret Sia Mondeh further disclosed that the campaign is currently targeting eight schools within Freetown, with plans to expand nationwide after assessing its impact.

According to her, pupils of Prince of Wales and St. Joseph's Convent Secondary School demonstrated a fair understanding of the subject areas during the interactive session.

“We’ve got very great feedback from the pupils. Some of them already know about the forms of cyberbullying but they still go ahead and do exactly what they are not supposed to do,” she noted.

She also revealed that the campaign will climax on June 6 with a football and drama competition among the participating schools, with cash prizes to be awarded to winners.

Meanwhile, some of the pupils described the session as impactful.

Alfred Sesay, a JSS 3 pupil, said the engagement helped him understand the importance of balancing screen time with other activities. “This awareness has really helped us understand that spending too much time on phones and social media can affect our studies and even our health. I have learned that it is important to balance screen time with reading, sports and other activities,” he said.

Samuel Kamara, a JSS 2 pupil, said the program changed his perception of cyberbullying and online behavior. “Before today, many of us did not take cyberbullying seriously. Today, we learned that the internet should be used responsibly. I will share these lessons with my friends and encourage them to use social media in a positive way,” he stated.

The awareness session concluded with an electrifying musical performance by Leonus Di Genius, which entertained pupils and added a joyful climax to the event. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/orange-sl-engages-prince-of-wales-pupils-on-cyberbullying-excessive-screen-time/

The Government of Sierra Leone and the Republic of Türkiye have signed a landmark agreement for the construction and furnishing of the Emine Erdoğan Mother and Child Hospital in Bo City, a major development expected to significantly transform maternal and child healthcare delivery in the country.

The protocol agreement, signed on Monday, 11 May 2026, at State House in Freetown between the Office of the President of Sierra Leone and the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA), marks another milestone in the growing diplomatic and development partnership between Sierra Leone and Türkiye.

The initiative, inspired by the shared vision of Sierra Leone’s First Lady, Fatima Maada Bio and Türkiye’s First Lady, Emine Erdoğan, is expected to strengthen maternal and child healthcare services while supporting President Dr. Julius Maada Bio’s Human Capital Development agenda, particularly in the health sector.

The modern healthcare facility, which will cover approximately 2,000 square metres, is expected to provide advanced and specialized maternal and child health services. According to details of the agreement, the hospital will feature emergency medical services, operating theatres, specialized obstetric units, advanced neonatal intensive care units, antenatal and postnatal wards, as well as training facilities for healthcare professionals.

Welcoming dignitaries and guests at the signing ceremony, the Secretary to the President described the project as another major milestone in Government’s sustained commitment to strengthening Sierra Leone’s healthcare system and improving access to quality medical care for women and children.

Speaking during the ceremony, TİKA Coordinator to Sierra Leone, Mirzet Müezzinoğlu, reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment to equitable healthcare access and sustainable development. He emphasized that meaningful development begins with prioritizing the wellbeing of mothers and children, adding that the partnership would also create professional training and capacity-building opportunities for Sierra Leonean doctors and healthcare workers.

Sierra Leone’s Minister of Health described the agreement as “a declaration of hope, dignity and life,” stressing that no mother should lose her life while giving birth and no child should be deprived of access to quality healthcare services.

Türkiye’s Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Yusuf Burak Rende, described the initiative as a historic symbol of friendship, solidarity and shared aspirations for development between Sierra Leone and Türkiye, noting that the partnership continues to deepen cooperation in critical sectors.

Delivering her keynote address, First Lady Fatima Maada Bio described the agreement as “the signing of a dream,” stating that the project would save lives and restore hope to thousands of families across Sierra Leone. She expressed profound appreciation to Türkiye’s First Lady, Emine Erdoğan, for her continued support and commitment to improving maternal and child healthcare.

The First Lady also thanked the Inspector General of Police for providing the land that will host the hospital project, noting that the initiative reflects a collective national effort to improve healthcare outcomes for women and children.

The signing of the agreement further strengthens bilateral cooperation between Sierra Leone and Türkiye in healthcare, infrastructure development and people-centered service delivery, while reinforcing both countries’ commitment to improving the wellbeing of citizens through strategic partnerships. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/first-lady-secures-major-boost-for-maternal-and-child-healthcare-with-turkiye-hospital-agreement/