By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority, Madam Musayeroh Barrie, has called on aviation leaders, policymakers, Governments and industry stakeholders across Africa to prioritize human capital development, stressing that the long-term success and sustainability of the continent’s aviation sector will depend largely on investing in people.

Madam Musayeroh Barrie made the appeal during the African Air Transport Convention and Expo held in Lomé, Togo, from 15 to 19 June 2026. The high-level convention brought together aviation experts, regulators, policymakers and industry leaders from across the continent to discuss the future of African air transport and explore strategies for strengthening the sector.

Speaking during the Women, Youth and Skills Development Session, Madam Musayeroh Barrie noted that much of the discussion throughout the convention focused on infrastructure development, improved connectivity, regulatory reforms and the implementation of the Single African Air Transport Market. While acknowledging the importance of those priorities, she emphasized that such ambitions would remain difficult to achieve without a skilled, competent and adequately supported workforce.

She stated that the future growth of Africa’s aviation industry depends not only on investments in infrastructure and technology but also on developing the people who will lead and sustain the sector in the years ahead.

“Human capital remains the backbone of every successful aviation system. Building a highly skilled, well-trained and motivated workforce is essential for improving service delivery, enhancing safety standards and ensuring the long-term sustainability of Africa’s aviation industry,” Madam Musayeroh Barrie said.

She observed that the convention’s discussions highlighted three key priorities that should shape the future direction of the sector. The first, she explained, is the urgent need to strengthen aviation education and skills development programmes across Africa to equip young professionals with the competencies required to meet the industry’s evolving demands.

Madam Musayeroh Barrie further noted that access remains one of the most significant challenges facing the aviation sector, preventing many talented young Africans from pursuing careers in the industry. She emphasized that inclusion must go beyond policy statements and become a genuine strategic priority that ensures equal opportunities for all qualified individuals regardless of gender, background or economic circumstances.

To address those challenges, she called on Governments, aviation authorities, training institutions and industry partners to establish stronger links between education and employment, enabling graduates to transition more effectively into professional aviation careers. She also advocated the expansion of mentorship programmes and capacity-building initiatives to guide, inspire and support young professionals entering the sector.

According to Madam Musayeroh Barrie, structured mentorship and leadership development programmes are critical for nurturing the next generation of aviation professionals and equipping them with the technical expertise, practical experience and leadership skills needed to drive innovation and excellence within the industry.

She also highlighted the financial barriers that continue to limit access to aviation education and professional development opportunities across Africa. Many aspiring aviation professionals, she noted, are unable to pursue their ambitions due to the high cost of training and certification programmes.

In response, she urged Governments, development partners and industry stakeholders to increase scholarship opportunities and introduce practical measures aimed at removing financial obstacles that prevent talented individuals from accessing quality aviation training.

Madam Musayeroh Barrie maintained that empowering young professionals and creating clear pathways for career advancement would contribute significantly to strengthening aviation safety, improving operational efficiency and building greater resilience within the sector.

She further reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s commitment to supporting regional initiatives aimed at enhancing aviation standards, promoting collaboration among African states and building a more competitive and sustainable air transport industry across the continent.

Participants at the convention welcomed her call for greater investment in human capital, acknowledging that workforce development remains one of the most important factors in addressing the challenges confronting Africa’s aviation sector and unlocking its full potential.

The African Air Transport Convention and Expo continues to serve as an important platform for advancing dialogue on aviation development, fostering partnerships and identifying innovative solutions that support the growth of air transport across Africa.

Madam Musayeroh Barrie concluded that the success and long-term sustainability of Africa’s aviation industry will ultimately depend on the continent’s ability to develop, support and retain its human capital, describing skilled professionals as the foundation upon which the future growth, competitiveness and resilience of the sector will be built. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/human-capital-development-critical-to-aviation-safety-and-sustainability-slcaa-dg-avers/

By Foday Moriba Conteh

More than 150 yoga enthusiasts gathered at Sierra Palm Resort in Aberdeen, Freetown, to celebrate the 12th International Day of Yoga under the theme: "Yoga for Healthy Ageing," highlighting the growing popularity of yoga and wellness practices in Sierra Leone.

The event, organized by the High Commission of India in Sierra Leone, attracted a distinguished audience, including the Ambassador of France, the Head of UNICEF in Sierra Leone, the Honorary Consuls of Sweden, Norway and Côte d’Ivoire, members of the diplomatic corps, Government officials, friends of India, wellness advocates and yoga practitioners.

Delivering the keynote address, Neeraj Kumar Saini, Charge d’Affaires a.i. of the High Commission of India, emphasized the importance of yoga as a pathway to health, harmony and holistic well-being.

Quoting Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, Neeraj Kumar Saini noted that yoga is more than physical exercise, describing it as a means of discovering a sense of oneness with oneself, the world and nature.

He said the annual celebration unites millions of people worldwide in a shared commitment to health, harmony and inner well-being. According to him, this year's theme, "Yoga for Healthy Ageing," reflects the growing need for people not only to live longer but also to live healthier, happier and more fulfilling lives.

Neeraj Kumar Saini explained that regular yoga practice promotes physical fitness, mental clarity, emotional resilience and inner peace, enabling people of all ages to maintain healthy and productive lifestyles.

He further noted that yoga's global acceptance demonstrates its universal appeal. Since the United Nations proclaimed June 21 as the International Day of Yoga in 2014, with the support of an overwhelming majority of member states, yoga has evolved into a global movement promoting wellness and preventive healthcare.

The Indian diplomat also highlighted India's "Yoga 365" initiative, which encourages individuals to make yoga a daily practice rather than limiting participation to annual celebrations. He said the initiative seeks to make wellness accessible, inclusive, and sustainable throughout the year.

Speaking on bilateral relations, Neeraj Kumar Saini expressed satisfaction with the growing popularity of yoga in Sierra Leone. He observed that participation has increased steadily among students, professionals, Government officials, diplomats and wellness enthusiasts, demonstrating a shared appreciation for healthy living.

He reaffirmed India's commitment to strengthening cooperation with Sierra Leone in healthcare, traditional medicine, education, capacity building, digital innovation and human resource development, noting that yoga complements those partnerships by promoting preventive healthcare and improving quality of life.

Participants took part in guided breathing techniques, stretching exercises, relaxation sessions and mindfulness activities designed to demonstrate yoga's benefits for physical, mental and emotional well-being. The activities highlighted the role of yoga in stress management, healthy ageing and overall wellness.

The event also provided an opportunity for participants to gain a broader understanding of wellness beyond physical fitness. Many attendees described yoga as a holistic practice that connects the body, mind and spirit while promoting balance, discipline, self-awareness, resilience and inner peace.

Neeraj Kumar Saini commended the efforts of yoga instructors Ms. Rima,  Edward Kekura, Ms. Bhawna Vajpai, Ms. Nadia, and Ms. Lashika for their dedication to promoting wellness and guiding participants throughout the event.

He also expressed appreciation to several partners and sponsors whose contributions supported the successful organization of the celebration, including Delight Travels, Satguru Travels, SV Electrical, 7 Star Travels, Afro International, M P & Sons, Metro Stationery, JMD Travels, VLN Solutions and Vinod Khatumal Ji.

The Charge d’Affaires thanked all participants for attending the event, describing their presence as a reflection of the growing friendship between India and Sierra Leone and a shared commitment to healthy living.

He also acknowledged the efforts of staff at the High Commission of India in Freetown for their role in organizing the celebration.

Concluding his address, Neeraj Kumar Saini urged participants to embrace yoga as a way of life, emphasizing that it represents a philosophy of balance, mindfulness, compassion and harmony with nature.

"Let us carry the spirit of Yoga beyond this event—into our homes, workplaces, schools and communities. Let us make Yoga a daily habit and a lifelong companion in our pursuit of health, happiness and inner peace," he stated.

The enthusiastic participation and strong support from partners, diplomats and wellness advocates underscored yoga's growing influence in Sierra Leone and reinforced its universal message of health, harmony and holistic well-being. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/india-high-commission-marks-12th-international-day-of-yoga-promotes-healthy-ageing-in-sierra-leone/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Principal Magistrate, Hadiru Daboh, of the Kenema Magistrate Court has committed a 38-year-old teacher, Mohamed Lamin Massaquoi, to the High Court for trial on allegations of rape and engaging in sexual activity with a person living with a mental disability.

The committal ruling was delivered on Tuesday, 23 June 2026, after the court concluded that the prosecution had established a prima facie case sufficient to warrant a trial before the High Court.

According to court records in Criminal Case No. C/R 1935/2026 and C/P 447/2026, the accused, Mohamed Lamin Massaquoi of Dama Town, Kenema, faces two serious charges under Sierra Leone’s Sexual Offences laws.

The first count alleges rape, contrary to Section 6 of the Sexual Offences Act No. 12 of 2012, as amended by the Sexual Offences (Amendment) Act No. 8 of 2019. Prosecutors alleged that on Tuesday, 5 May 2026, in Dama Town Section, Kenema City, Nongowa Chiefdom, Kenema Judicial District, the accused engaged in unlawful sexual intercourse with the complainant.

The second count accuses Mohamed Lamin Massaquoi of engaging in sexual activity with a person with a mental disability, contrary to Section 8(1) of the Sexual Offences Act No. 12 of 2012. Court documents identify the alleged victim as Zainab Fanka, who is said to be living with a mental disability.

During the preliminary investigation proceedings, the accused elected to rely on a statement he had earlier made to the police. In a statement recorded under the Criminal Procedure Act No. 32 of 1965, the accused reportedly admitted having sexual intercourse with the complainant but denied using force.

“I had sex with the victim, but she was not forced,” the statement attributed to the accused reads.

After reviewing the evidence presented by the prosecution and considering the defence’s position, Principal Magistrate Hadiru Daboh ruled that the prosecution had established sufficient evidence to proceed to trial.

“Having gone through the pieces of evidence adduced by the prosecution and having regard that the defendant has relied on his statement from the police station, it is the position of the court that the prosecution have made a prima facie case sufficient enough to warrant the committal of this matter to the High Court for trial,” the Magistrate ruled.

The court subsequently refused bail and ordered that the accused remain in custody pending his appearance before the High Court.

The matter is expected to be heard by a High Court judge at a date yet to be announced. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/principal-magistrate-hadiru-daboh-commits-teacher-to-high-court-for-alleged-rape-of-mentally-challenged-woman/

By Amin Kef-Ranger

An atmosphere of thanksgiving, worship and celebration filled Zion Praise Tabernacle Church at Hill Station, Bottom Mango, Freetown, on Sunday, 21 June 2026, as End Time Harvesters Evangelistic Ministries commemorated its 14th Anniversary and honoured distinguished individuals whose contributions have positively impacted both the church and society.

The landmark celebration brought together hundreds of worshippers, church leaders and invited guests to reflect on fourteen years of ministry, evangelism and community transformation under the leadership of General Overseer, Pastor James Bangura and Pastor Mrs. James Bangura.

A major highlight of the anniversary celebration was the presentation of the Award of Profound Gratitude to the Director General of the National Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NPRA), Dr. Brima Mohamed Baluwa Koroma, in recognition of his outstanding support, unwavering commitment, dedicated service and invaluable contributions to the growth and advancement of Zion Praise Tabernacle.

According to the citation accompanying the award, the church recognized Dr. Brima Mohamed Baluwa Koroma for his generosity, leadership, steadfast dedication and continuous support, which have greatly impacted the ministry and inspired many within the wider community.

The honour further acknowledged his faithful service, commitment and dedication to the work of God, as well as his support for initiatives aimed at promoting spiritual growth and community development.

Dr. Brima Baluwa Koroma is widely regarded as one of Sierra Leone’s leading public sector reformers. He made history as the first Director General of the National Petroleum Regulatory Authority following its transition from the Petroleum Regulatory Agency into a fully autonomous regulatory institution under the Petroleum Regulatory Authority Act.

Appointed by President Dr. Julius Maada Bio and approved by Parliament, Dr. Brima Mohamed Baluwa Koroma previously served for six years as Executive Chairman of the Petroleum Regulatory Agency, where he played a pivotal role in strengthening regulatory oversight, enhancing transparency and promoting efficiency within Sierra Leone’s petroleum sector.

His leadership has been credited with helping to transform the country’s petroleum regulatory framework while ensuring greater accountability and improved service delivery within the industry.

Dr. Brima Mohamed Baluwa Koroma who was unavoidably absent, was however represented by his wife, Mrs. Mamie Judith Koroma, who received the award on his behalf.

Speaking during the presentation, Mrs. Mamie Judith Koroma expressed heartfelt appreciation to Pastor James Bangura and the entire Zion Praise Tabernacle family for recognizing the contributions and service of her husband.

“On behalf of Dr. Brima Baluwa Koroma, I would like to express our sincere gratitude to Pastor Daddy James Bangura and the entire Zion Praise Team for this recognition and wonderful award. We are deeply honoured and grateful for this gesture. Thank you for appreciating his service and commitment,” she stated.

The anniversary service also featured a powerful sermon delivered by renowned preacher and Jurisdictional Bishop, Dr. Julius Laggah, who encouraged believers to remain steadfast in their faith regardless of life’s challenges.

Drawing inspiration from Zechariah 4:7 and 1 Samuel 17:36-37, Bishop Julius Laggah reminded worshippers that every obstacle can be overcome through faith in God.

Reflecting on the church’s fourteen-year journey, General Overseer Pastor James Bangura thanked God, church members and supporters for their unwavering dedication and sacrifices that have contributed to the growth of the ministry.

He described the anniversary as a moment of gratitude and reflection, while reaffirming the church’s commitment to spreading the Gospel and transforming lives through faith-based initiatives.

The celebration concluded with special prayers, thanksgiving sessions, the ceremonial cutting of the anniversary cake and a vote of thanks.

For many attendees, the recognition of Dr. Brima Baluwa Koroma stood out as a fitting tribute to a leader whose contributions extend beyond public service into faith, community development and national transformation. The award served as a testament to the impact of his leadership, generosity and commitment to serving both God and country. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/during-zion-praise-tabernacles-14th-anniversary-npra-dg-dr-brima-baluwa-koroma-receives-prestigious-profound-gratitude-award/

Orange Sierra Leone, through its Orange for Good Connections campaign, brought together pupils aged between 11 and 16 from eight public and private schools across the Western Area for a football tournament and drama competition aimed at raising awareness about cyberbullying and excessive screen time.

Held on Saturday, 13 June 2026, at the Amputees Training Field on Lumley Beach in Freetown, the event was organized under the theme, “Together Against Online Hate.” The initiative provided a vibrant platform for young people to engage in meaningful discussions about responsible digital behaviour while participating in sports and creative performances.

Participating schools included Prince of Wales School, Saint Edward’s Secondary School, St. Joseph’s Secondary School, Methodist Girls High School, Annie Walsh Memorial School, Limount College, Providence International School and Bilingual High School.

The event went beyond competition, creating a safe and engaging environment where students could connect, collaborate and reflect on their online habits. By combining sport and storytelling, Orange Sierra Leone encouraged participants to step away from screens and embrace real-life interactions that promote healthy relationships and personal development.

Through drama performances, students highlighted the emotional and psychological effects of cyberbullying while advocating for kindness, empathy and responsible use of digital platforms. The football tournament, on the other hand, promoted teamwork, discipline, sportsmanship and mutual respect among participants.

Speaking at the event, Orange Sierra Leone’s Director of Strategic Transformation and Marketing, Abdramane Kone, encouraged young people to harness the opportunities offered by digital technology to create positive change in society.

Also addressing participants, the company’s Head of Communication, Branding and Sponsorship, Philip Emeh, reaffirmed Orange Sierra Leone’s commitment to youth empowerment and responsible digital citizenship.

“This initiative is about encouraging young people to step away from harmful online spaces and engage in more meaningful, real-life interactions. Through teamwork and sportsmanship, we are sending a clear message against cyberbullying and promoting responsible digital behaviour,” he said.

The event also demonstrated the dedication of participating students, many of whom travelled long distances and incurred personal transportation costs to attend. Their commitment reflected the growing awareness among young people of the need to address online challenges and foster positive social interactions.

Participants praised the initiative for tackling issues that directly affect their daily lives. Mohamed Chernor Fofana, captain of Providence International School, said excessive use of social media platforms such as WhatsApp, TikTok and Instagram can negatively impact academic performance and expose young people to cyberbullying.

“Many young people spend a lot of time on platforms like WhatsApp, TikTok and Instagram. This can affect our studies, and cyberbullying is a real issue. This program helps us reflect on our actions and encourages us to treat each other with respect,” he noted.

The football tournament produced exciting moments, with both finals decided through penalty shootouts after highly competitive matches. Providence International School emerged champions in the boys’ category, defeating Saint Edward’s Secondary School 4-2 on penalties following a goalless draw.

In the girls’ category, Methodist Girls High School secured a 3-1 penalty shootout victory over Bilingual High School after a closely contested encounter, demonstrating resilience, determination and skill.

Methodist Girls High School also emerged victorious in the drama competition, delivering a powerful performance that effectively highlighted the dangers of cyberbullying and the importance of responsible digital behaviour.

Winning teams in both categories received cash prizes of NLe10,000, while runners-up were awarded NLe5,000 in recognition of their achievements, sportsmanship and commitment throughout the competition.

Beyond the excitement of the day’s activities, the initiative underscored a broader objective of promoting respectful online communities and encouraging young people to build stronger offline relationships. Through programmes such as Orange for Good Connections, Orange Sierra Leone continues to play a leading role in fostering responsible digital citizenship and empowering the next generation to use technology safely, responsibly and with empathy. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/orange-sierra-leone-uses-sport-and-drama-to-combat-cyberbullying-among-pupils/

AI is becoming part of the sports betting conversation. It can process data quickly, compare team form, explain statistics and help users look at matches with better context. Used correctly, it can support analysis.

Still, AI is not a magic tool. It cannot guarantee the result of a football match, predict a red card, know when a player will make a mistake or remove risk from betting. This is why 1xBet reminds users to treat AI as an assistant for analysis, not as a source of “certain” outcomes.


AI can help, but it cannot guarantee a result


AI tools can be useful when a user wants to understand a match better. They can help review team form, injuries, head-to-head history, playing style, fixture pressure and recent performance trends.

This kind of information can make betting decisions more informed. The problem starts when AI is presented as a machine that “knows” the future. Sport remains unpredictable. Even the strongest analysis can be broken by one injury, penalty, referee decision or tactical change.

The 1xBet approach: use AI to ask better questions, not to avoid thinking.


Why fraudulent bots are dangerous


Fraudulent betting bots often sell confidence that does not exist in sport. They may use phrases like “guaranteed win”, “100% prediction”, “VIP signal”, “sure bet” or “fixed match” to make users feel that risk has disappeared.

In reality, these services often pressure users into paying for access, joining private groups or placing rushed bets. Some may also try to collect personal data or account details.

The danger is financial and behavioural. A user may lose money on a fake subscription, place emotional bets, chase losses or start trusting unknown sources instead of staying in control.


Common red flags


Users should be careful if a bot or service promises:

- guaranteed profit;


- “100% accurate predictions”;


- fixed matches;


- secret insider information;


- VIP access with urgent payment;


- screenshots of winnings without proof;


- pressure to act quickly;


- requests for login details, SMS codes or payment data.

The 1xBet advice: a serious analytical tool explains information and risk. A suspicious bot usually sells certainty and urgency.


What users should never share


No betting tip, AI service or prediction bot should ever ask for direct access to a user’s betting account.

Users should never share:

- login or password;


- SMS or verification code;


- bank card details;


- payment wallet access;


- screenshots containing sensitive account data;


- full access to a betting profile;


- personal documents through unofficial channels.

If a service asks for this information, it is a reason to stop immediately. Account safety should always come first.


How to use AI responsibly


AI can be useful when it helps users understand context. For example, it can compare two teams, explain odds, summarise recent form or highlight possible risks before a match.

A responsible user should still check the information, compare sources and make the final decision independently. Blindly copying AI predictions or bot signals can lead to rushed and risky behaviour.

Before following any AI-based advice, it is worth asking:

- Do I understand why this prediction was made?


- Is the information based on real sports context?


- Am I acting calmly or under pressure?


- Can I afford this stake?


- Would I still make this decision without the bot?

The 1xBet approach: if the answer is unclear, pausing is the better choice.


1xBalance by 1xBet: safer betting habits


1xBalance is an initiative by 1xBet created to promote responsible betting habits. Its purpose is to help users think about betting with more control, especially when technology, emotions or outside advice influence decisions.

The 1xBalance self-check test helps users reflect on their betting style: how they react to risk, pressure, wins and losses. The 1xBalance calculator helps users look at spending, affordability and personal limits before making decisions.

These tools are especially relevant in the age of AI and prediction bots. They remind users that safe betting starts with self-control, budget awareness and the ability to pause when something feels too urgent or too certain.


Final advice


If a service promises a guaranteed win, that is already a warning sign.

AI can support sports analysis, but it cannot remove uncertainty from sport. Fraudulent bots often use the language of technology to create false confidence and push users into risky decisions.

1xBet encourages users to treat betting as entertainment, protect their accounts, avoid pressure-based decisions and stay within personal limits. The best tool is not the bot that promises certainty. It is the habit of thinking clearly before every bet.

  https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/responsible-betting-avoiding-fraudulent-bots-and-ai-traps/

Sierra Leone’s Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, has emphasized that increasing household incomes remains at the heart of the Government’s economic recovery agenda, acknowledging that many families continue to face financial hardships despite recent improvements in macroeconomic stability.

Speaking during Sierra Leone Diaspora Week in London, United Kingdom, Dr. Jalloh said the Government is committed to ensuring that the benefits of economic reforms are felt by ordinary citizens through job creation, expanded social protection programmes and policies aimed at improving livelihoods.

Reflecting on the week-long engagement with Sierra Leoneans living abroad, the Vice President described the event as a valuable platform for strengthening ties with the diaspora and promoting national development.

“It was a pleasure to participate in Sierra Leone Diaspora Week and engage with members of our diaspora community,” he said. “From the Civic Townhall and the Sierra Leone Diaspora Investment Conference to the many meetings in between, the week provided a valuable opportunity to discuss strengthening diaspora engagement, promoting investment and advancing Sierra Leone’s development.”

He also expressed appreciation to the sponsors and partners who contributed to the success of the programme.

“My sincere thanks to our numerous sponsors for their generous support in making this important week a success,” he stated.

Addressing Sierra Leoneans from the United Kingdom and across Europe, Dr. Jalloh said the Government has adopted a realistic and data-driven approach to addressing the country’s economic challenges. He noted that while inflation has declined and the availability of essential commodities has improved in recent months, many households remain unable to fully benefit because incomes have not increased at the same pace as living costs.

According to the Vice President, the Government recognizes the gap between macroeconomic improvements and the everyday realities faced by many Sierra Leonean families.

“We recognize that household incomes remain low. Even where commodities are relatively cheaper and more available in our markets, many families still cannot afford them. That is why our priority is to create more jobs, strengthen livelihoods and expand targeted social safety nets, including direct cash transfers for the most vulnerable, so that economic stability translates into real improvements in people’s lives,” Dr. Jalloh said.

The Vice President explained that Sierra Leone’s economic strategy is now transitioning from a phase focused largely on stabilization to one centered on inclusive growth and shared prosperity. He stressed that the Government’s objective is not only to maintain economic stability but also to ensure that citizens experience tangible improvements in their standard of living.

He said investments in agriculture, energy, infrastructure and human capital development are expected to stimulate private sector growth, create employment opportunities and boost productivity across the country.

Dr. Jalloh further noted that ongoing efforts to strengthen social protection programmes are intended to support vulnerable households during the recovery period while ensuring that economic gains are distributed more equitably.

“Economic reforms must ultimately improve the welfare of our people. Our objective is not only to stabilize the economy, but to raise household incomes and give families the purchasing power to afford the goods that are available in our markets,” he added.

The Vice President’s remarks came shortly after the International Monetary Fund (IMF) approved the successful completion of the third review of Sierra Leone’s Extended Credit Facility programme. The approval unlocked an immediate disbursement of approximately US$31.7 million and was accompanied by a new US$211.5 million arrangement under the Resilience and Sustainability Facility.

The IMF noted that Sierra Leone has made notable progress in restoring macroeconomic stability through fiscal consolidation, tighter monetary policies and structural reforms. However, the institution also emphasized the importance of protecting vulnerable groups through targeted social spending and continued investment in social protection measures.

Government officials believe the IMF’s continued support provides additional confidence in the country’s reform agenda while creating opportunities for long-term economic resilience and climate adaptation.

The Vice President also linked the Government’s strategy to the priorities outlined in the 2026 national budget, which places strong emphasis on poverty reduction, employment creation and investment in productive sectors of the economy. Programmes such as cash transfers for vulnerable households remain a key component of the Government’s efforts to reduce poverty and improve living standards.

Meanwhile, the Bank of Sierra Leone continues to pursue policies aimed at maintaining price stability and reducing inflation, measures which authorities say are essential for protecting household purchasing power and sustaining economic recovery.

Recent household survey data from Statistics Sierra Leone continue to show that poverty remains concentrated among low-income families, reinforcing the Government’s position that raising household earnings must remain a central pillar of the country’s economic transformation agenda.

As Sierra Leone advances its reform programme, Government leaders say the ultimate measure of success will be the extent to which economic growth improves the lives of ordinary citizens and creates opportunities for families to achieve greater financial security and prosperity.                                                        https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/vice-president-says-raising-household-incomes-is-central-to-sierra-leones-economic-recovery-strategy/