In recent years, Freetown has witnessed a growing interest in healthy living and among the establishments shaping this new culture is Royal Fitness, a modern gym facility that is quickly gaining recognition as one of the capital’s most dynamic health and wellness centres.

Situated along the busy Peninsular Highway in Juba, Royal Fitness has become a popular meeting point for individuals seeking structured fitness training in a professional environment. From corporate professionals and athletes to young lifestyle enthusiasts and beginners, the facility continues to attract a diverse membership base eager to adopt healthier and more active lifestyles.

The gym’s steady rise in reputation is reflected in its strong online presence and public reviews. With a 4.5-star rating on Google, many users praise the facility for its cleanliness, modern design, advanced equipment and customer-friendly service. Visitors often highlight the welcoming environment and the professional attitude of staff as key reasons they continue to train there.

Unlike many traditional gyms that focus primarily on basic workouts, Royal Fitness operates on a more comprehensive wellness model. Members have access to a wide range of programmes including strength training, weightlifting, cardiovascular exercises, functional training and group fitness sessions. The centre also places emphasis on recovery and flexibility through stretching routines designed to prevent injuries and support long-term physical development.

This diversified structure allows individuals with different fitness goals to benefit from a well-balanced training experience. Beginners looking to improve general health can train alongside experienced athletes working on advanced strength programmes, all within the same organized environment.

Another factor contributing to Royal Fitness’s growing popularity is its vibrant digital presence. On Instagram, the gym has built a community of more than 17,000 followers who engage regularly with its content, workout highlights and motivational messages. Operating under the slogan: “Where strength meets rhythm,” the gym blends physical training with energetic music-driven sessions that create a lively and engaging workout atmosphere.

Occasionally, the facility introduces themed training sessions featuring visiting DJs, transforming routine workouts into energetic fitness experiences that appeal particularly to younger urban audiences. This creative blend of entertainment and physical activity has helped position the brand as both a lifestyle hub and a wellness centre.

Management at Royal Fitness emphasizes professionalism and structured coaching as the foundation of its success. Certified fitness instructors work closely with members to design personalized programmes that focus on building strength, endurance, flexibility and overall wellbeing.

Many members credit the gym’s disciplined training culture and supportive coaching for helping them achieve meaningful personal transformations. Clients often report improvements not only in physical fitness but also in self-confidence, daily energy levels and mental resilience.

The facility’s operational hours also make it convenient for individuals with demanding schedules. Royal Fitness remains open daily until 11:00 p.m., allowing members to train early in the morning, after work or late in the evening. According to observations from regular users, most members dedicate between one and three hours per visit, demonstrating a strong commitment to structured and consistent fitness routines.

In response to rising awareness about lifestyle-related illnesses, Royal Fitness has announced plans for a comprehensive wellness campaign scheduled for 2026. The initiative is designed to encourage preventive healthcare through physical training, nutritional guidance and lifestyle discipline.

According to Management, the goal is to expand the centre’s role beyond a conventional gym and position it as a holistic wellness hub that supports long-term health and sustainable living.

As part of this approach, the facility now offers nutritional and diet consultation services to help members align their eating habits with their training goals. Trainers believe that combining exercise, proper nutrition and mental discipline creates the most effective path toward lasting wellbeing.

Royal Fitness has also invested heavily in internationally recognized training equipment to ensure safety and performance standards. The gym features machines from leading global brands including Technogym, Panatta of Italy and Arsenal Strength of the United States, providing members with tools comparable to those found in major fitness centres around the world.

With a growing number of Sierra Leoneans embracing healthier lifestyles, facilities such as Royal Fitness are playing an increasingly important role in promoting preventive health and active living. Through the combination of modern equipment, professional coaching and an engaging fitness culture, the centre continues to set a new benchmark for wellness services in Freetown.

For individuals interested in joining the facility, Royal Fitness can be contacted for membership and registration enquiries via telephone on (+232) 90 001000. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/royal-fitness-is-setting-the-pace-for-modern-fitness-in-sierra-leone/

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Annapurna Nageshrao Nagam, Managing Director of VLN Solutions Private Limited and Salone Bly, has received the Women in Excellence Award 2026 in recognition of her outstanding professionalism, managerial excellence and entrepreneurial leadership.

The award was presented on Sunday, March 8, 2026, during a ceremony held at the Bintumani Hotel in Freetown, as part of activities marking International Women’s Day. The event recognized women who have made significant contributions to national development.

Annapurna Nageshrao Nagam was honoured by the West African Women's Network for her exemplary leadership and achievements in business and technology. The award was presented by Sierra Leonean politician, Sylvia Olayinka Blyden.

According to the organizers, the award recognizes Annapurna Nageshrao Nagam’s “laudable display of professionalism, managerial excellence and exceptional entrepreneurial skills” demonstrated through her leadership in building and managing innovative enterprises.

Through her companies, VLN Solutions Private Limited and Salone Bly, Annapurna Nageshrao Nagam has been providing technology-driven business solutions across multiple sectors in Sierra Leone and India.

The firms, with operations in Freetown and Hyderabad, offer specialized services to banks, microfinance institutions, transportation and fuel companies, mobile network operators, schools, hospitals and other organizations. Their services include human resource management systems, inventory solutions, e-commerce platforms, fintech technologies and support for national digital payment and switch systems.

Under her leadership, the companies continue to promote innovation, digital transformation and sustainable business growth while supporting institutional efficiency through technology.

Annapurna Nageshrao Nagam’s achievements, according to the organizers, reflect determination, resilience and visionary leadership in the technology and business sectors. Her recognition is also seen as an inspiration to young women and girls pursuing careers in entrepreneurship, leadership and professional development.

Speaking after receiving the award, Annapurna Nageshrao Nagam said she was deeply honoured and grateful for the recognition, describing it as a humbling moment in her professional journey.

“I am deeply honored and sincerely grateful to receive the Women in Excellence Award 2026 from the West African Women's Network. This recognition is truly humbling and I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the organizers for acknowledging my work in professionalism, managerial leadership and entrepreneurship,” she said.

Annapurna Nageshrao Nagam noted that receiving the award during the celebration of International Women’s Day made the recognition even more meaningful, as it highlights the strength, resilience and achievements of women contributing to the growth and development of society.

She dedicated the award to the teams of VLN Solutions Private Limited and Salone Bly, acknowledging their dedication, hard work and shared vision in building the companies and delivering innovative technology and business solutions across multiple sectors.

According to her, the recognition is not only a personal milestone but also a reflection of the collective commitment and passion of the teams that continue to support the mission of the organizations.

Annapurna Nageshrao Nagam further reaffirmed her commitment to promoting innovation, digital transformation and sustainable business growth in Sierra Leone and beyond.

She expressed hope that the recognition would inspire more women and young girls to believe in their abilities, pursue leadership opportunities and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

Annapurna Nageshrao Nagam concluded by thanking the West African Women's Network and all those who have supported and encouraged her throughout her professional journey.

The Women in Excellence Awards celebrate women whose contributions are shaping business, governance and social development across West Africa. Annapurna Nageshrao Nagam’s recognition highlights her growing impact within the regional technology and business landscape. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/annapurna-nageshrao-nagam-receives-women-in-excellence-award-2026/

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Bishop Benjamin Boinor Bangura, Head of Mission of the National Pentecostal Mission and Diaspora, has called on Christians to live Spirit-filled lives grounded in faith, unity and commitment to the gospel. He made the call during a sermon delivered on Sunday, March 8, 2026, at the 73rd Foundation Day Combined Service of the mission held at the Mission Camp Site in Makongoyama, Songo in Port Loko District. The combined service was held under the theme: “Living in the Power and Presence of the Holy Spirit,” drawn from Acts of the Apostles 1:8.

Preaching to hundreds of worshippers gathered from different branches of the mission, Bishop Benjamin Boinor Bangura emphasized that believers must depend on the Holy Spirit to overcome life’s challenges and fulfill their spiritual calling. “The power we need today to overcome the struggles of life and to advance the gospel comes from the Holy Spirit. Without the Spirit of God, there will be confusion and chaos,” he said.

Reflecting on the progress of the mission over the past year, Bishop Benjamin Boinor Bangura expressed appreciation to members for their continued support and dedication toward the development of the mission.

He noted that several improvements made at the mission’s camp site were funded through contributions raised by members during last year’s gathering.

According to him, the funds enabled the church to procure hundreds of chairs and undertake other improvements aimed at creating a better environment for worship. “What you see today was not done by any foreign organization or NGO. It was achieved through the collective contributions and sacrifices of members of the mission,” he told the congregation.

He encouraged members to remain committed to supporting the mission’s growth and to consider how they could contribute further toward next year’s celebration.

During the service, Bishop Benjamin Boinor Bangura also officially introduced Elder Brima Kamara as the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the mission.

The Bishop explained that the appointment followed communication challenges faced by the mission during a crisis last year when the institution lacked a designated spokesperson to communicate its position to the public.

“This ministry is a growing institution with properties and activities across the country. It is important that we have someone responsible for communicating our position and representing the mission to the public,” he said.

Elder Brima Kamara, described as a long-serving member who has risen through various ranks within the mission, was prayed for and formally dedicated to the role during the service.

The combined service also coincided with the global observance of International Women’s Day, prompting Bishop Benjamin Boinor Bangura to urge men to appreciate the vital role women play in families, churches and society.

He encouraged the congregation to honour mothers, wives and sisters, noting that their contributions are essential to both family life and spiritual growth.

In his sermon, Bishop Benjamin Boinor Bangura stressed that genuine Christian growth does not come solely from material blessings but from spiritual empowerment through the Holy Spirit.

Referencing the early church in the Acts of the Apostles, he explained that the transformation of the apostles after receiving the Holy Spirit demonstrates the power of divine empowerment.

He cited the example of Apostle Peter, who initially denied Jesus Christ but later became bold and fearless in preaching the gospel after receiving the Holy Spirit. “The power of the Holy Spirit transforms lives and gives believers the boldness to stand for the truth,” he said.

Bishop Benjamin Boinor Bangura warned that the modern church risks focusing excessively on prosperity messages rather than spiritual transformation.

“The church must return to the power of the Holy Spirit. The Spirit of God is the source of true change in the lives of believers,” he emphasized.

He further stressed that the presence of the Holy Spirit is essential for the existence and growth of the church, warning that without it the church could become merely a social gathering.

Quoting 1 Corinthians 3:16, he reminded believers that their bodies are the temple of God and urged Christians to live holy lives that reflect God’s presence.

The Bishop also expressed concern about declining participation in church activities in some congregations, urging believers to renew their commitment to spiritual growth and active involvement in church life.

According to him, churches that once attracted large congregations are now experiencing lower attendance because believers have neglected their spiritual responsibilities.

He encouraged members to reflect on their relationship with God and work toward reviving spiritual discipline within the church.

Concluding his message, Bishop Benjamin Boinor Bangura encouraged believers to open their hearts to the Holy Spirit and seek God’s guidance in every aspect of their lives.

He said the Holy Spirit provides comfort, direction and empowerment for believers to overcome challenges and fulfill their divine calling.

The Bishop concluded by praying for the congregation, declaring that their challenges would be overcome and that God would grant them healing, breakthroughs and spiritual growth.

On his part, Elder Brima Kamara, the newly appointed Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the National Pentecostal Mission, commended the leadership of the mission for entrusting him with what he described as a very important role, especially as the church continues to grow.

He noted that the mission is an indigenous church established in early1950s and has, over the years, faced numerous challenges. However, he said that through God’s grace the church has overcome those difficulties, established a strong presence in Sierra Leone, and continued to expand.

Elder Brima Kamara further stated that the mission now has several branches across the Western Area Urban and Western Area Rural, as well as in other districts across the country.

He added that for the past three years the mission has organized a combined service to commemorate its foundation day, bringing together members from various branches to celebrate the church’s growth and spiritual journey.

The 73rd Foundation Day celebration brought together church leaders, elders and members from across Sierra Leone and the diaspora, marking more than seven decades of the mission’s spiritual work and expansion.

  https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/bishop-benjamin-bangura-calls-on-christians-to-live-spirit-filled-lives-at-73rd-foundation-day-service/

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

The Chinese Embassy in Sierra Leone on Thursday, March 6, 2026, hosted a joint farewell and welcome ceremony for the 26th and 27th batches of the Chinese Medical Team at its premises on Spur Loop, Wilberforce in Freetown. The ceremony marked the transition of China’s long-standing medical assistance mission in Sierra Leone, a programme that continues to deliver clinical services, specialist care, medical training and health system support through the Sierra Leone–China Friendship Hospital in Jui.

Speaking during the ceremony, the Captain of the outgoing 26th Chinese Medical Team, Dr. Liu Longfei, reflected on the team’s mission, describing it as a period defined by strong collaboration with Sierra Leonean medical professionals and dedicated service to communities across the country.

According to Dr. Liu Longfei, the team provided medical services to approximately 35,000 patients during their deployment, including about 15,000 consultations in traditional Chinese medicine. He further disclosed that the team successfully carried out 1,015 surgical procedures and responded to more than 100 emergency and critical care cases.

Dr. Liu Longfei also highlighted the team’s community outreach initiatives, noting that medical personnel visited schools, workplaces and various communities to promote public health awareness. Through those engagements, the team organized 36 public health activities that reached more than 10,000 people across different parts of the country.

In addition to providing clinical services, Dr. Liu Longfei explained that strengthening local medical capacity remained a central priority for the 26th Chinese Medical Team. He said the team conducted 36 public health education sessions and organized 50 professional training programmes that equipped more than 1,000 local health workers with practical skills in first aid and traditional Chinese medicine techniques.

Working closely with local partners, Dr. Liu Longfei added that the team also introduced several new clinical practices at the Sierra Leone–China Friendship Hospital. These included implant procedures, structured multidisciplinary case discussions and improvements to ultrasound services.

He further revealed that the team established four specialized centers within the hospital: the Traditional Chinese Medicine Center, the First Aid Training Center, the Emergency and Trauma Medicine Center and the Rehabilitation Medicine Center. Several medical teaching platforms were also created, which he said have contributed significantly to knowledge sharing and professional development.

According to Dr. Liu Longfei, the most rewarding aspect of the team’s work was witnessing the growing confidence and trust that patients have developed in Chinese medical services.

Captain of the incoming 27th Chinese Medical Team, Dr. Li Zheng, said his team had recently arrived in Sierra Leone and had already completed a comprehensive handover process with the outgoing team in order to ensure continuity of services. Dr. Li Zheng commended the 26th Chinese Medical Team for what he described as their outstanding dedication and commitment to healthcare delivery in Sierra Leone.

He noted that the outgoing team’s contributions to hospital infrastructure, staff training and free clinical services have created a solid foundation upon which the new team will continue to build. Dr. Li Zheng further disclosed that members of the 27th Chinese Medical Team received extensive briefings from their predecessors on local medical conditions, patient communication and working routines within the country’s healthcare environment.

Dr. Li Zheng announced that the new team has officially commenced an 18-month medical assistance mission in Sierra Leone, describing the assignment as both a responsibility and an honour. Acknowledging the country’s ongoing health challenges, including malaria, tuberculosis and other tropical diseases, he assured that the team would continue to support national efforts aimed at improving healthcare delivery.

According to Dr. Li Zheng, the team will focus on providing hospital-based treatment while also undertaking rural outreach programmes to ensure that healthcare services reach underserved communities. He stated that the team will offer free consultations and health education sessions designed to promote disease prevention and healthy living practices.

Dr. Li Zheng emphasized that the mission of the Chinese Medical Team goes beyond treating illnesses, noting that the programme also seeks to strengthen professional exchange between Chinese and Sierra Leonean medical professionals while deepening the longstanding friendship between the two countries.

Dean of the Sierra Leone–China Friendship Hospital, Dr. Augustine Tarawally, commended the outgoing 26th Chinese Medical Team for their professionalism, dedication and commitment to patient care. He said members of the team consistently responded to emergency situations and worked in close partnership with local medical staff, describing their collaboration as a unified and effective medical effort.

Dr. Augustine Tarawally disclosed that during the period of the team’s service, the hospital recorded zero maternal deaths and only two neonatal deaths, an achievement he described as a significant milestone in maternal and child healthcare delivery.

He also revealed that the hospital’s telemedicine center has become fully operational, adding that the institution successfully launched its first on-site training programme designed specifically for first responders.

Dr. Augustine Tarawally further announced that the incoming 27th Chinese Medical Team includes a neurosurgeon, a development he said will significantly expand the availability of specialized healthcare services in Sierra Leone. He explained that the country currently has only one neurosurgeon and confirmed that the Sierra Leone–China Friendship Hospital will soon begin offering neurosurgical services following the arrival of the specialist.

He added that the hospital is undergoing major transformation through ongoing rehabilitation and re-equipping of its facilities with support from Chinese partners. According to him, the Trauma and Imaging Center has already been restored and will soon be formally inaugurated as part of broader improvements at the hospital.

Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Zhao Yong, also commended the outgoing medical team for what he described as their selfless service and remarkable contribution to healthcare delivery in the country. Ambassador Zhao Yong noted that the team treated approximately 35,000 patients, performed numerous surgical procedures and provided free medical services, medicines and training programmes for local communities.

Ambassador Zhao Yong further highlighted the establishment of four specialized medical centers at the Sierra Leone–China Friendship Hospital, stating that those developments have significantly strengthened the hospital’s capacity and positioned it as an emerging medical education and training hub.

The Chinese Ambassador officially welcomed the 27th Chinese Medical Team and disclosed that their deployment follows a new bilateral protocol signed in November which extends the duration of the medical mission to 18 months.

Ambassador Zhao Yong also spoke about the broader scope of health cooperation between Sierra Leone and China. He referenced the launch of the Paired Hospital Cooperation Mechanism linking the Sierra Leone–China Friendship Hospital with Shenzhen Hospital in China, an initiative aimed at promoting medical collaboration, knowledge sharing and capacity building.

He further mentioned the recent commemoration of the 10th anniversary of China and Sierra Leone’s joint response to the Ebola outbreak, noting that both countries have agreed to pursue additional health cooperation projects in the years ahead.

In his remarks, the Minister of Health, Dr. Austin Demby, described the partnership between Sierra Leone and China as a powerful example of international solidarity in strengthening Sierra Leone’s healthcare system.

Dr. Austin Demby recalled that during the Ebola outbreak, when many countries were hesitant to intervene, China stood firmly with Sierra Leone by providing medical assistance and critical support. He also noted that during the COVID-19 pandemic, China supplied Sierra Leone with 200,000 vaccine doses at a time when global access to vaccines was severely limited.

The Minister emphasized that Sierra Leone’s national health strategy focuses on delivering quality healthcare services closer to communities rather than restricting services to hospital settings. Dr. Austin Demby praised Chinese support for mobile healthcare initiatives, particularly the “hospital on wheels” programme, which he described as one of the most impactful services reaching remote and underserved populations.

Dr. Austin Demby expressed appreciation to the outgoing Chinese Medical Team for leaving their homes to serve the people of Sierra Leone and warmly welcomed the incoming team. He encouraged them to work closely with local health professionals to continue strengthening healthcare delivery across the country.

The Chinese Medical Team programme has been operating in Sierra Leone for several decades and remains one of the longest-standing areas of cooperation between the two countries in the health sector. Through clinical services, professional training and hospital development support, the initiative continues to play a vital role in strengthening Sierra Leone’s healthcare system and deepening the enduring partnership between Sierra Leone and China. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/chinese-embassy-bids-farewell-to-26th-medical-team-welcomes-27th-batch/

By Ibrahim Sesay 

Marampa Mines Limited (MML) has donated a wide range of medical equipment and supplies to support health facilities serving communities in Marampa Chiefdom and Maforki Chiefdom in Port Loko District.

The items were officially presented on Friday, March 6, during a brief ceremony held at the company’s operational site in Lunsar, where representatives of the Ministry of Health received the equipment on behalf of the beneficiary health institutions.

Health facilities expected to benefit from the intervention include the Lunsar Community Health Center, Magbil Community Health Center and St. John of God Catholic Hospital. The donation comprises intensive care unit beds, birthing beds, wheelchairs, crutches, gloves, baby cribs, surgical instruments, patient care materials and blood pressure monitoring machines intended to enhance the quality of healthcare delivery within the chiefdoms.

Speaking during the handover ceremony, Managing Director of Marampa Mines Limited, Angula Kalili, said the company places high value on the welfare of the communities in which it operates, noting that responsible mining must extend beyond mineral extraction.

According to Angula Kalili, Marampa Mines Limited remains committed to supporting initiatives that contribute to social development and improved living standards for residents in its host communities.

“Responsible mining goes beyond the extraction of natural resources,” Angula Kalili said. “Investing in the well-being and development of our host communities is a priority that we take seriously as a company.”

He explained that the donation forms part of ongoing efforts by the company to strengthen healthcare services and improve access to quality medical care, particularly for vulnerable groups such as women, children and the elderly.

Angula Kalili also revealed that the initiative dates back to 2024 when Marampa Mines Limited established a partnership with the Embassy of the United States in Sierra Leone through Project C.U.R.E., a humanitarian organization based in the United States that distributes medical equipment to healthcare institutions around the world.

Through that collaboration, the company has been able to channel medical support to health facilities serving communities around its operations.

“The donation is intended to help strengthen the capacity of these facilities to provide timely and quality health care to the people,” Angula Kalili stated, while also acknowledging the dedication of healthcare workers who continue to serve communities under difficult circumstances.

Minister of Health, Dr. Austin Demby, who received the items on behalf of the beneficiary facilities, described health as a fundamental pillar of national development and emphasized the importance of partnerships in strengthening the country’s healthcare system.

“Health is wealth. No matter your status in life, having good health is at the centre of what we do,” Dr. Austin Demby said.

Dr. Austin Demby noted that the Government of Sierra Leone continues to invest in the health sector through the recruitment of healthcare workers, the provision of essential medical supplies and the improvement of health infrastructure nationwide. However, he stressed that Government efforts alone are not sufficient and that partnerships with responsible corporate institutions are crucial.

“Government cannot do everything. That is why we value partnerships and we appreciate organizations like Marampa Mines Limited that demonstrate commitment to the communities in which they operate,” Dr. Austin Demby added.

He also highlighted progress made in reducing maternal and infant mortality rates across the country and revealed that Government has launched an ambitious campaign aimed at achieving zero preventable maternal deaths, zero preventable child deaths and zero zero-dose children within the next 300 days.

Dr. Austin Demby encouraged health workers in the beneficiary facilities to make proper use of the donated equipment to improve service delivery and ensure that patients receive quality care in a conducive environment.

Meanwhile, Paramount Chief of Marampa Chiefdom, Koblo Queen II, welcomed the donation and described it as a timely intervention that will help improve healthcare services for residents in the chiefdom.

Koblo Queen II said that access to basic medicines and medical equipment remains a major challenge for many rural communities and that such support will assist healthcare workers in providing more effective treatment and safer maternal care.

Expressing appreciation to the Management of Marampa Mines Limited, Koblo Queen II commended the company for demonstrating what he described as responsible mining and genuine concern for community welfare.

The donation forms part of Marampa Mines Limited’s broader Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives aimed at supporting essential services and strengthening collaboration with Government and local stakeholders in communities surrounding its operations. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/marampa-mines-donates-medical-supplies-to-health-facilities-in-port-loko/

By Ibrahim Sesay 

Caritas Freetown has organized a one-day training on small-scale business development and financial management for ten women from several communities in the Western Area Rural District and provided them with startup funds to begin small businesses.

The training, held at Hastings Twin Hall on March 10, 2026, forms part of a project aimed at strengthening behavioral change on Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) prevention, improving access to justice and enhancing the wellbeing of vulnerable survivors in the district, which is supported by Manos Unidas.

Participants from communities including Makanba, Newton, Maintakeh, Bolima, Makombay, Makimba and others were taught how to start and manage small businesses. The sessions covered basic financial management, including record keeping, budgeting, managing profits and expenditures, and identifying common financial mistakes.

Project Manager, Lucky Bah, said the training is part of a broader intervention under the SGBV program being implemented by Caritas Freetown. According to him, the project focuses on three key areas: raising awareness about SGBV in schools and communities, strengthening the capacity of the police to respond to cases and empowering survivors through training and other forms of support.

Lucky Bah explained that the small-scale business training is being implemented as a pilot initiative aimed at helping parents of survivors pursue justice.

“Before now, we were not providing support to women whose children have been abused,” he said. “But we realized that parents of victims are often financially constrained to follow up on their cases. This sometimes leads to cases being stalled and eventually closed.”

He noted that the organization had been providing transportation refunds to help some parents do follow up on cases but described the approach as unsustainable.

“For this reason, we decided to test a new approach by selecting ten women from different communities and providing them with capital to start small businesses,” Lucky Bah explained. “Part of the profit from these businesses can then be used as transport fare to help them follow up on their SGBV cases.”

He added that the organization will monitor the beneficiaries after the distribution of funds to ensure the money is used for the intended purpose.

Following the training, participants were given startup funds to begin their small-scale businesses.

Isata Mansaray, one of the participants, said the program has given her the confidence to start a small business and better manage her finances.

“Before the training, I had ideas about doing business but I did not know how to properly plan and budget,” she said. “Now I understand how to keep records of my income and expenses and how to grow a small business step by step.”

Another beneficiary, Fatmata Koroma, described the training as an important opportunity for women in the communities.

“Many women struggle with managing the little money they earn because they have never been taught basic financial management,” she said. “This training has taught us how to save, budget and invest in small businesses. I believe the knowledge we gained will help many of us improve our livelihoods.”

The initiative is expected to strengthen the economic resilience of beneficiaries while enabling parents of survivors to actively pursue justice in Sexual and Gender-Based Violence cases. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/caritas-freetown-trains-women-provides-startup-funds-to-support-sgbv-survivors/

At a press conference held on March 8, 2026, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi spoke extensively about the future of China-Africa relations as the two sides mark the 70th anniversary of diplomatic ties.

Responding to a question from the News Agency of Nigeria, Wang Yi highlighted the significance of the milestone year, noting that 2026 has also been designated as the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges, aimed at deepening cultural and social connections between the two sides.

According to Wang Yi, the relationship between China and Africa has demonstrated resilience and vitality over the past seven decades, withstanding changing international circumstances while continuing to expand in scope and depth.

“For 70 years, China-Africa friendship has stood the test of changing international circumstances and shown strong vitality,” he said.

He further noted that for 36 consecutive years, China’s foreign minister has begun the new year with a visit to Africa, describing the tradition as a clear reflection of China’s diplomatic commitment to the continent.

Wang Yi recalled that during his visit to Ethiopia earlier this year, many people spoke fondly about the historic visit of former Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai to Africa. He also noted that in Tanzania, people continue to cherish memories of Chinese assistance in constructing the TAZARA Railway, a landmark infrastructure project linking Tanzania and Zambia.

He paid tribute to the Chinese engineers and workers who contributed to the railway’s construction, including those who lost their lives during the project.

“It’s no exaggeration to say that China-Africa friendship has been passed down from generation to generation—forged heart to heart, and built with sweat and blood,” Wang Yi stated.

He also emphasized that in the current era, Xi Jinping continues to place great importance on relations with Africa. According to him, the Chinese President consistently promotes a policy of sincerity, real results, amity, and good faith in China’s engagement with African countries.

Wang Yi revealed that within the first two months of 2026 alone, President Xi Jinping had already sent three messages to African partners. These included a congratulatory letter marking the launch of the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges, a message to veterans of Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle, and a congratulatory message to the African Union Summit, continuing a tradition that has now reached its 14th year.

“These messages demonstrate that China’s top leader wants the torch of China-Africa friendship to be passed from generation to generation,” Wang Yi noted, adding that Africa can count on China’s steadfast support for its development and revitalization.

Looking ahead, the Chinese Foreign Minister outlined three key developments expected to shape China-Africa relations in 2026.

First, he announced that China will take fresh steps toward building a China-Africa community with a shared future. This will include hosting multiple African leaders in China to strengthen mutual support and cooperation between both sides as “all-weather partners.”

Second, Wang Yi revealed that China will implement full zero-tariff access for 100 percent of African imports beginning May 1, a move designed to boost trade and expand economic opportunities for African exporters.

“As part of China’s commitment to high-standard opening up, we are removing tariffs completely to boost trade, multiply benefits for the people, and help Africa access the enormous opportunities of the Chinese market,” he explained.

Third, the minister announced that nearly 600 activities and events will be organized throughout the year under the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges. These initiatives are expected to promote deeper cultural interaction, mutual understanding, and stronger ties between citizens of China and African countries.

Wang Yi concluded by emphasizing that China remains ready to work closely with African nations to draw inspiration from their shared civilizational heritage, strengthen people-to-people connections, and continue building a lasting partnership for future generations.

The remarks reaffirm China’s long-standing diplomatic, economic, and cultural engagement with Africa, as both sides mark a historic milestone in their relations.

  https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/china-reaffirms-commitment-to-stronger-africa-relations-as-diplomatic-ties-mark-70-years/