By Abu Bakarr Kargbo

The 26th Batch Chinese Medical Team successfully conducted an on-site First Aid Training Programme for staff of UNICEF Sierra Leone at the UNICEF Head Office in Freetown on Monday. This vital two-day training aims to equip participants with essential first aid skills, including Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), trauma first aid and emergency response techniques, thereby enhancing their preparedness for medical emergencies.

The training commenced with a theoretical session where participants learned about the principles of first aid, followed by practical demonstrations designed to reinforce the skills taught. Captain Liu Longfei of the 26th Batch Chinese Medical Team expressed his team’s dedication to imparting life-saving skills. "On behalf of the Chinese Medical Team, we are delighted to provide this on-site first-aid training to UNICEF Sierra Leone," he stated, emphasizing the initiative as part of their shared commitment to protecting lives in Sierra Leone.

Captain Liu Longfei highlighted the significance of equipping UNICEF staff with necessary skills for emergency situations. "This training supports our staff in dealing with emergencies effectively," he noted. Since 2024, the Chinese Medical Team has collaborated with various organizations and individuals, including students, in offering first aid training across sectors such as mining and healthcare. That collaboration underscores a collective commitment to health and safety within the community.

UNICEF Representative to Sierra Leone, Rudolph Schwenk, spoke about the importance of ensuring staff wellbeing and security. "At UNICEF, the wellbeing, safety and security of our staff are central to our duty of care," he remarked. Rudolph Schwenk added that it is crucial to equip colleagues with practical skills to respond effectively in medical emergencies, which helps create a safe and supportive working environment.

He further elaborated, stating, "This training represents an important investment in staff wellbeing and emergency preparedness. The knowledge and skills shared over the course of this session will strengthen our collective capacity to respond promptly and appropriately should an incident occur, whether in the workplace or in the field."

Swapping roles from trainers to participants, both Captain Liu Longfei and Rudolph Schwenk encouraged all attendees to engage fully with the training. Rudolph Schwenk urged participants to ask questions and actively participate in practical sessions to maximize the training's value. "We sincerely appreciate the Chinese Medical Team for their continued partnership and for generously sharing their expertise with UNICEF," he expressed. "Your contribution reflects the strong spirit of collaboration that underpins our work and supports our shared commitment to safeguarding lives and promoting health."

The successful collaboration between the 26th Batch Chinese Medical Team and UNICEF Sierra Leone exemplifies the dedication of both organizations to enhance health safety and emergency preparedness in the nation. As Sierra Leone continues to face various health challenges, such initiatives are critical for building a resilient workforce capable of responding to unforeseen incidents.

This first aid training program is one of many efforts designed to establish a robust health safety framework, not only for UNICEF staff but also for diverse sectors within Sierra Leone. Participants left the training feeling empowered and equipped with the knowledge necessary to respond effectively in times of crisis, ensuring that they can contribute positively to the wellbeing of their communities. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/chinese-medical-team-trains-unicef-sierra-leone-staff-in-life-saving-first-aid-skills/

Royal Fitness has continued to redefine modern fitness culture in Freetown, steadily positioning itself as one of Sierra Leone’s leading health and wellness centres through a blend of premium facilities, professional coaching and a growing community-driven approach to healthy living.

Strategically located along the Peninsular Highway in Juba, the fitness centre has become a preferred destination for professionals, athletes, lifestyle enthusiasts and beginners seeking a structured, world-class workout experience. Its strong public reputation is reflected in a 4.5-star Google rating from dozens of reviews, with members frequently praising the gym’s cleanliness, modern layout, quality equipment and customer service.

Industry observers note that Royal Fitness distinguishes itself through a holistic model that goes beyond traditional gym routines. The facility offers strength and weight training, functional workouts, cardio programmes, group exercise sessions and recovery-focused routines such as stretching and flexibility training. This inclusive approach allows members of different fitness levels to pursue personalized goals within a single, well-organized environment.

The gym has also built strong visibility through its digital platforms, particularly Instagram, where it has attracted more than 17,000 followers. Branded around the theme “Where strength meets rhythm,” Royal Fitness integrates music-driven workouts and high-energy sessions, often featuring international DJs, to create an engaging and motivating atmosphere that resonates with younger, urban audiences.

Beyond ambience and branding, Management places emphasis on professionalism and consistency. Certified instructors and fitness coaches work closely with members to design structured programmes aimed at improving strength, endurance, flexibility and overall wellbeing. Many clients credit the centre with helping them adopt disciplined lifestyles and sustainable fitness habits.

Operating daily with extended hours until 11:00 p.m., Royal Fitness caters to busy urban schedules, making it particularly attractive to working professionals. Visitor trends show that most members spend between one and three hours per session, reflecting a commitment to comprehensive training rather than quick workouts.

In line with rising health consciousness nationwide, the gym has announced an ambitious 2026 wellness drive focused on tackling lifestyle-related diseases through structured physical training, professional supervision and nutrition-focused guidance. Management says the initiative is designed to position the facility as a complete wellness hub, promoting long-term health outcomes rather than short-term aesthetic goals.

A spokesperson described the programme as rooted in sustainability, noting that effective wellness is achieved when physical training, mental discipline and proper nutrition work together. As part of this approach, Royal Fitness has expanded into nutrition and diet counselling to complement exercise routines and improve results.

The centre is equipped with internationally recognized fitness brands, including Technogym and Panatta of Italy and Arsenal Strength from the United States, underscoring its commitment to global standards in performance and safety.

As Sierra Leone’s urban centres increasingly embrace preventive health and active living, Royal Fitness is emerging as a symbol of the country’s evolving wellness culture—demonstrating that premium, professionally guided fitness experiences can be delivered locally.

For membership and registration enquiries, Royal Fitness can be contacted on (+232) 90 001000. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/royal-fitness-emerges-as-leading-force-in-sierra-leones-evolving-fitness-culture/

The Mano River Women Peace Network (MARWOPNET), in partnership with UN Women and with support from the Embassy of Ireland, has joined communities in Kailahun, Kambia and Karene districts to commemorate the 25th anniversary of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security (UNSCR 1325).

Adopted in October 2000, UNSCR 1325 recognizes the disproportionate impact of armed conflict on women and children, while affirming the critical role women play in conflict prevention, peacebuilding and post-conflict recovery. The 25-year milestone, marked in October 2025, provided an opportunity for reflection on progress made, persistent gaps and emerging priorities shaping the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) agenda globally and in Sierra Leone.

Through structured community dialogues, MARWOPNET and its partners facilitated discussions on lessons learned and innovations across the four pillars of UNSCR 1325—Prevention, Participation, Protection and Relief and Recovery. Participants examined trends in women’s roles in peace and governance, levels of institutional awareness and the effectiveness of national policies and action plans developed over the past two decades.

The engagements also served as a platform for strategic reflection on Sierra Leone’s implementation of the resolution, highlighting notable gains in policy and legal reforms aimed at protecting women and girls, while acknowledging challenges in financing, coordination, sustainability and monitoring. Participants identified priority actions for the next decade, focusing on strengthening implementation and deepening community ownership of the WPS agenda.

Among the key recommendations emerging from the discussions were calls for sustained community engagement, including outreach in schools and intensified public sensitization on UNSCR 1325 and related laws through mass communication and community dialogue forums. Participants urged duty bearers to fully enforce existing laws protecting women and girls, ensuring that policies extend beyond urban centres to reach rural and hard-to-access communities.

Concerns were also raised about the need for improved safety and protection for survivors of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV), with strong emphasis on reporting all forms of violence to appropriate authorities without interference. Stakeholders called for the development and funding of women-friendly policies aligned with the four pillars of UNSCR 1325, including adequate resourcing and popularization of the third National Action Plan on the resolution.

Additional recommendations focused on the inclusion of persons with disabilities in WPS initiatives, strengthened collaboration among Civil Society Organisations and the engagement of traditional leaders in promoting women’s empowerment and participation in governance. Participants also underscored the importance of involving women at all levels of decision-making and enhancing collaboration between MARWOPNET Sierra Leone and local councils to improve implementation at the grassroots.

Cross-border and protection concerns were highlighted, including calls for urgent attention to the presence of Guinean military personnel in Yenga and surrounding areas, the situation of displaced women in Koindu and the need for all parties to conflicts to combat impunity for sexual violence while ensuring effective protection of civilians.

The Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs reiterated the need for collective action in the fight against SGBV, stressing that effective implementation of UNSCR 1325 requires coordinated efforts by Government, security institutions, Civil Society and communities.

In concluding the commemoration, participants described UNSCR 1325 as a form of affirmative action that legitimizes and strengthens women’s contributions to peace and security. They emphasized the need for broader sensitization on the resolution, stronger involvement of local authorities in its popularization and sustained commitment by the state to translate policy gains into tangible change on the ground.

The event brought together women, youth, traditional leaders, security sector institutions including the Office of National Security, Sierra Leone Police and Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces, religious leaders, Ministries, Departments and Agencies, as well as media practitioners. While acknowledging progress in policy and law-making, stakeholders agreed that gaps remain in implementation, knowledge-building and accountability, underscoring the need for renewed momentum in advancing the Women, Peace and Security agenda in Sierra Leone. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/marwopnet-un-women-mark-25-years-of-unscr-1325-with-grassroots-dialogues-across-sierra-leone/

By Ibrahim Sesay

Hon. Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah, popularly known as Chericoco, is increasingly emerging as the most compelling choice to lead the All People’s Congress (APC) into a new era of credibility, unity and national renewal. A seasoned lawyer, accomplished Parliamentarian and former Leader of the Opposition in Sierra Leone’s Parliament, Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah’s political journey reflects consistency, resilience and a people-centred approach that resonates across party lines.

Widely described by supporters as a “trailblazer” and “man of the people,” Hon. Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah has built a reputation grounded not in spectacle but in substance. His leadership credentials were forged through years of principled opposition, legislative engagement and advocacy for democratic accountability. Political analysts and grassroots supporters alike point to his battle-tested experience as evidence of readiness to guide the APC at a time when the party is seeking renewal and national appeal.

Observers note that what distinguishes Chericoco is a subtle but powerful leadership presence; calm, focused and anchored in values. He is known for “walking the walk and talking the talk,” embodying the craft of governance with discipline and empathy. To many within the APC, he represents a credible bridge between the party’s proud traditions and the demands of modern democratic leadership.

In his engagements with party members and the wider public, Hon. Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah has consistently framed leadership as service. “I’m your captain. I’m your general. I’m ready to be your commander-in-chief,” he has said, emphasizing unity, vision and faith in collective progress. His message, One Nation, One Destiny, has become a rallying call that underscores cohesion over division and purpose over personality.

Unlike politicians who surface only during election seasons, Hon. Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah’s political life has been marked by continuity. His involvement with communities predates campaign calendars and extends beyond them. From youth empowerment and education advocacy to constitutionalism and good governance, his record reflects steady engagement driven by conviction rather than convenience.

Colleagues and supporters describe his leadership as consistent and grounded. They argue that real leadership happens away from cameras, when trust is earned through presence and integrity. Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah’s approach reflects a deep respect for democracy, where credibility is built daily through action and accountability not negotiated during campaigns

At a recent APC gathering at Attouga Mini Stadium, attendees recounted interactions with a leader who spoke not for himself but for Sierra Leone; speaking development, unity and national cohesion. Though born in Freetown, his political footprint spans the East, South, North, North-West and Western Area, reinforcing his image as a national figure with cross-regional appeal.

One quality frequently cited is his humility. He has publicly prayed for fellow flagbearer aspirants, an  uncommon gesture that many interpret as maturity and commitment to party unity. He is widely respected for loyalty to the APC, having remained steadfast through challenging periods when others disengaged. His adherence to party and national constitutionalism has further strengthened confidence in his leadership.

Sierra Leoneans also recall his near ascent to the nation’s second-highest office and the controversy surrounding the Electoral Commission’s announcement. Despite widespread disappointment, Hon.Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah maintained calm and commitment to democratic processes, an episode supporters cite as evidence of statesmanship under pressure.

Advocates argue that if APC delegates entrust him with the flagbearer position, the party can regain national confidence and broaden its appeal. They frame his candidacy as an opportunity to transcend ethnic and regional politics in favor of a unifying national vision.

Supporters describe Hon. Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah as a leader who does not buy popularity but earns respect through character, service and consistency. His leadership philosophy, vision over noise, unity over division, service over self, aligns with public calls for sincerity in politics.

With lower-level elections unfolding, voices within the APC are urging delegates to weigh the long-term interests of both the party and the nation. For many, Hon. Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah embodies leadership for all seasons; lived, not performed. At a time defined by the demand for credibility and cohesion, his candidacy stands as a serious proposition for the future of the APC and Sierra Leone. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/chernor-ramadan-maju-bah-emerges-as-apcs-unifying-trailblazer-ahead-of-flagbearer-race/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The world’s largest amateur rally, the Budapest–Bamako–Freetown Rally, on Monday, February 9, 2026, reached its triumphant finish line in Freetown, marking another historic moment for Sierra Leone as a destination for major international events.

Rally participants arrived in the country on Sunday, February 8, crossing the Gbalamuya border in Kambia District before proceeding to an overnight stop at the picturesque Bureh Beach. Their arrival was met with vibrant cultural performances, warm hospitality and coordinated support from Government Ministries, border authorities and security agencies, setting the tone for the grand finale in the capital.

The official finish line ceremony took place at Gigibonta Car Park along Lumley Beach Road, drawing senior Government officials, members of the diplomatic and consular corps, rally participants and members of the public. Speaking at the ceremony, Jihad N. Eter, Honorary Consul of Hungary to Sierra Leone, described the occasion as a celebration of endurance, friendship and shared humanity.

“It is with profound honour and sincere gratitude that I stand before you today at the triumphant finish of the Budapest–Bamako–Freetown Rally 2026,” Jihad Eter said, addressing His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, Vice President Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, cabinet ministers, diplomats and distinguished guests. He noted that the rally’s return to Freetown once again reflected the growing confidence the international community places in Sierra Leone’s stability and peace.

Jihad Eter highlighted the symbolic importance of the rally concluding in Sierra Leone during 2026, officially designated as the “Year of Culture and Creativity.” He said the theme underscores the country’s recognition of culture as a driver of unity, innovation and inclusive development. According to him, the rally itself represents a bridge between continents and cultures, making Sierra Leone a fitting destination for its conclusion.

Commending the leadership of President Bio, the Honorary Consul praised achievements made under the current administration, particularly in tourism development, foreign exchange growth and the implementation of the Free and Quality Education programme. He said those initiatives have empowered thousands of Sierra Leonean children and strengthened the nation’s human capital.

Jihad Eter also highlighted the deepening bilateral relations between Sierra Leone and Hungary, citing the Hungarian Stipendium scholarship programme as a key example. He disclosed that in 2025, thirty-three Sierra Leonean students benefited from the scholarship, while up to fifty students are expected to be awarded scholarships in 2026 across various fields of study. He described the programme as a strategic investment in Sierra Leone’s future leadership and sustainable development.

The Honorary Consul expressed appreciation to the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs and its leadership for their role in positioning Sierra Leone as an attractive destination for global events. He further commended the Inspector General of Police, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Office of National Security, the Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority and personnel of the Sierra Leone Police and Road Safety Corps for ensuring a peaceful, secure and well-coordinated rally.

Participants from Hungary, the United Kingdom, the United States, Eastern Europe, Northern Europe and Sierra Leone were also acknowledged for their presence, reflecting the rally’s truly global character. Jihad Eter congratulated the rally crews for their resilience and discipline in completing the demanding transcontinental journey, noting that this was the first group of participants to arrive for the 2026 edition. He announced that a second wave of participants is expected to arrive in March 2026.

Ahead of the final drive into Freetown, rally vehicles and motorbikes were escorted in a coordinated motorcade by the Sierra Leone Police and security teams from Bureh Beach to the finish line. The convoy’s movement generated excitement across communities, with residents lining routes to witness the arrival of the international adventurers.

At Bureh Beach, participants relaxed and celebrated after weeks on the road, enjoying the ocean breeze, cultural interactions, and the renowned warmth of Sierra Leonean hospitality. The beach stop further showcased the country’s tourism potential, combining natural beauty with cultural vibrancy.

In closing, Jihad Eter encouraged rally participants to explore Sierra Leone’s beaches, islands, landscapes and culture, and to share their positive experiences with the world. He reaffirmed his office’s commitment to strengthening relations between Sierra Leone and Hungary, while supporting initiatives that promote tourism, people-to-people connections and international cooperation.

The successful conclusion of the Budapest–Bamako–Freetown Rally once again places Sierra Leone firmly on the global tourism and cultural map, reinforcing its image as a peaceful, welcoming, and internationally connected nation. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/budapest-bamako-freetown-rally-ends-in-triumphant-finish-showcasing-sierra-leone-to-the-world/

Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh has described true leadership as the ability to know when to serve and when to make space for others, as he paid tribute to the late Chairman Rev. Smart Kelson Senessie during funeral rites marking his laying out.

Addressing mourners, the Vice President said the occasion marked a significant loss not only to the family of the deceased but also to the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) and the Government. He described the day as “a very sad moment in the contemporary history of our party,” noting that Rev. Smart Kelson Senessie had devoted his life to service, discipline and principled leadership.

Speaking on behalf of the party’s leadership and membership at home and abroad, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh extended condolences to the bereaved family and acknowledged the broader impact of the loss. He said Rev. Smart Kelson Senessie’s contribution transcended personal relationships, adding that his legacy would remain deeply embedded in the party’s history and national life.

The Vice President described the late Chairman as a man of character, purpose and integrity, as well as a devoted family man whose conduct reflected consistency and moral strength. According to him, those qualities defined Smart Rev. Kelson Senessie’s approach to leadership and service.

Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh recalled key moments that illustrated Smart Rev. Kelson Senessie Senessie’s discipline and respect for timing, including his decision, following the party’s electoral victory in 2018, to honour an existing church commitment before assuming national responsibilities. He said the choice demonstrated wisdom, humility and a strong sense of responsibility.

He also highlighted Rev. Smart Kelson Senessie’s voluntary decision to step aside from party leadership to allow others to lead, describing it as a rare and powerful example of selfless leadership. “True leadership,” the Vice President said, “is knowing when to serve and when to make space for others,” a principle he urged party members and public officials to reflect upon.

Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh noted that the large turnout at the funeral was a testament to the respect and admiration the late Chairman commanded across society. He said the gathering reflected a life lived with purpose and urged mourners, particularly party members and young leaders, to draw lessons from Rev. Smart Kelson Senessie’s example.

The Vice President concluded by encouraging continued reflection on values of humility, discipline and service, describing them as essential to leadership within the party and the nation. He said Rev. Smart Kelson Senessie’s life and legacy offered enduring guidance at a time when Sierra Leoneans are seeking credible and principled leadership. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/vp-juldeh-jalloh-pays-glowing-tribute-to-late-rev-smart-kelson-senessie-at-funeral-service/

By Foday Moriba Conteh

One Family People (OFP), with funding from the Liliane Foundation, on Tuesday, 10th February 2026, concluded its 2026 inception workshop for the Programme for Inclusion and Empowerment (PIE) project and signed contracts with eight partner organizations from five districts. The partners received a total of NLe8,874,000 equivalent to over eight billion old Leones to support nationwide implementation of the project. The event, held at the Saphyre Court Hall in Freetown, aligns with OFP’s 2025–2027 Multi-Annual Plan aimed at strengthening disability inclusion across education, healthcare, livelihoods and advocacy.

Samuel POV Macauley, OFP’s Operations and Programmes Director, said the annual inception workshop is an opportunity to review plans, strengthen collaboration and map strategies for effective implementation. He described the PIE project as a “community-based initiative with a strong foundation for development,” noting that it represents a shift from a charity-focused model to a rights-based approach.

“Previously, interventions largely provided direct aid, such as shoes and medical support but lacked system strengthening and community ownership. This new model combines support for the most vulnerable with capacity building for institutions and stronger advocacy,” Samuel POV Macauley explained.

Under the PIE project, OFP collaborates with the National Rehabilitation Programme, the Sierra Leone Autistic Society and five district-level implementing organizations: Polio Persons Development Association, Welfare Society for the Disabled, Disability Awareness Action Group (Western Rural) and Dorothy Springer Trust (Western Urban), among others. Samuel POV Macauley disclosed that in 2025, the network received funding of NLe5.57 million. The 2026 increase to NLe8.874 million reflects OFP’s commitment to expanding the project’s scope and overcoming challenges experienced during the pilot year.

He also emphasized the importance of collaboration with Government institutions, particularly the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD), pledging OFP’s support in developing a national Community-Based Inclusion strategy and a technical committee to drive implementation of the Disability Act. “Stronger partnerships with Government and other stakeholders will enhance advocacy and evidence-based interventions,” he added.

Ishmael Kebbie, Deputy Director and Program Manager at the National Rehabilitation Programme, lauded PIE for promoting sustainable support for persons with disabilities. He stressed the need for continuity in development programs, warning that abrupt withdrawal of services can worsen vulnerabilities.

“When organizations discontinue initiatives abruptly, the burden returns to Government institutions, which already face competing priorities. Sustainability must be central to every project,” Ishmael Kebbie said. He praised PIE for adopting a long-term, rights-based approach aligned with national health priorities. Despite limited resources in 2025, the project enabled many persons with disabilities to access corrective surgeries and rehabilitation services, transforming lives and restoring dignity. Over 70 percent of beneficiaries who underwent reconstructive procedures are now more independent, with some engaging in productive livelihoods, contributing directly to national development and poverty reduction.

Laura Boothby, Therapy and Rehabilitation Program Manager at World Hope International, highlighted the importance of collaboration and sustainability in disability inclusion. As an occupational therapist working with the Enable the Children Programme, she described PIE as the beginning of a long-term movement to improve rehabilitation and inclusion. She encouraged organizations to join the Technical Working Group for Children with Disabilities under the NCPD, a platform promoting coordinated action among community-based groups, NGOs and international partners. Laura Boothby also invited stakeholders to World Hope International’s annual Beach Jogging event on February 14, which will bring together over 2,000 children, including many with disabilities, to promote inclusion and social interaction.

Brima Abdulai Sheriff, Chairman and Chief Commissioner of the NCPD, unveiled a renewed vision for inclusive development in Sierra Leone. He emphasized that the new Commission brings fresh leadership, energy and openness to collaboration. “We are ready to work with everyone to ensure the dignity, inclusion and empowerment of persons with disabilities,” he stated.

The Chairman highlighted the urgent need for accurate data on disability in Sierra Leone, noting that current estimates of 400,000 persons are grossly understated. He pledged that the Commission will work with partners like OFP to ensure reliable data collection and called for disability inclusion to be mainstreamed in national policies.

Empowerment, he said, must be tailored to individual realities, from children in school to adults using wheelchairs. He also underscored the challenges faced by women and girls with disabilities and called for stronger collaboration among Government Ministries, universities and development partners.

Joseph A. Kamara, President of the Sierra Leone Union on Disability Issues (SLUDI), called for increased investment in organizations of persons with disabilities to ensure sustainability. He commended OFP for financial and technical support but emphasized that such assistance should strengthen local organizations rather than replace them. “Organizations of persons with disabilities must exist beyond projects and funding cycles. We were not created because of money; we were created to address the real needs of our people,” he said. Joseph Kamara also encouraged stakeholders to support smaller and emerging disability groups and stressed that collective action is key to lasting impact.

Dr. Kabba F. Bangura, Leader of Cluster II and Executive Director of the Disability Awareness Action Group, pledged partner organizations’ full commitment to PIE objectives. He praised OFP’s financial and technical support and acknowledged the rigorous monitoring mechanisms, noting that although challenging, they enhanced accountability and performance.

The Leader of Cluster II emphasized community ownership, active participation of persons with disabilities and ensuring services reach local communities. “We are committed to working very hard to achieve the objectives of PIE and to ensure persons with disabilities become productive members of society,” he said.

Dr. Abdulai Dumbuya, CEO of Dorothy Springer Trust and Inclusive Education Advisor to PIE, urged implementing partners to fully utilize technical advisory support. He explained that the advisory team provides expertise in inclusive education, health, livelihoods, social inclusion, empowerment, monitoring, evaluation, accountability and learning.

He cautioned that early engagement with advisors prevents mistakes and improves the quality of program delivery, citing an example where consultation prevented duplication of school clubs. He emphasized proper documentation of advisory processes to ensure accountability and encouraged partners to maintain open communication.

John Conteh, Acting Director of Social and Religious Affairs at the Ministry of Social Welfare, reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to promoting the rights and wellbeing of persons with disabilities. He commended OFP for initiating PIE, describing it as a programme aligned with national inclusion, equity and social justice agendas.

The Acting Director of Social and Religious Affairs highlighted that PIE complements legal and international frameworks, including the Persons with Disabilities Act 2011 and the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. He encouraged partners to prioritize community ownership, gender responsiveness and the active involvement of persons with disabilities throughout planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation. He also described the signing of partnership agreements as a milestone demonstrating commitment to transparency, coordination and results-oriented programming.

The inception workshop concluded with the formal signing of contracts with partner organizations, marking the official commencement of the 2026 PIE project implementation phase. Stakeholders, including Government officials, partners and technical advisors, renewed their commitment to advancing disability inclusion and empowerment nationwide. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/ofp-concludes-2026-pie-inception-workshop-signs-nle8874000-contract-agreement-with-eight-partner-organizations/