President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has inspected the construction site of the US$417 million Nant Power Project in Kissy, Freetown, as Sierra Leone moves closer to a major expansion of its electricity generation capacity, with the 108.4-megawatt facility expected to begin operations in September 2027.

The inspection, conducted on Friday, 16 October 2026, provided the President with an opportunity to assess progress on one of the country's major energy infrastructure investments and receive assurances from project officials regarding its scheduled completion.

The Nant Power Plant, formerly known as the Western Area Power Generation Project, is a multi-fuel Combined-Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) facility designed to utilize liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and liquefied natural gas (LNG). The project is expected to strengthen Sierra Leone's electricity generation capacity, improve energy reliability and support industrial and commercial activities.

During the visit, President Bio received a comprehensive briefing from the Chief Executive Officer of the Nant Power Project, Karim Nasser, and members of his technical team, who outlined the progress achieved, ongoing construction activities, safety arrangements and preparations for the facility's eventual operation.

The approximately US$417 million project is being developed by TCQ Power and Anergi Group Plc, with substantial financial backing from international development partners. Its financing structure includes a US$292 million loan from the United States International Development Finance Corporation (DFC), a US$40 million loan from the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID) and equity contributions from the project developers.

Construction officially commenced in mid-2024, with the first phase of electricity generation scheduled for September 2027. Upon completion, Siemens Energy is expected to operate the facility, while Shapoorji Pallonji is responsible for engineering and construction.

Briefing the President on the project's safety standards, Karim Nasser explained that comprehensive measures were being incorporated into the facility to protect workers, surrounding communities and critical infrastructure.

He disclosed that three tanks would be encapsulated with sand and concrete as part of the project's safety arrangements. The completed plant will also feature an administrative building, a dedicated firefighting department, a warehouse, a security control room and other essential facilities to ensure safe and efficient operations.

The President was further informed that Sierra Leonean workers had been actively involved in construction activities, demonstrating the project's contribution to local employment and skills development.

Although the facility incorporates internationally sourced equipment and advanced treatment technology, the participation of Sierra Leonean workers highlights opportunities for local involvement in major infrastructure development.

President Bio reaffirmed his Government's commitment to ensuring the successful implementation of the project, emphasizing the importance of completing the facility within the agreed timeframe.

He underscored the critical role of reliable electricity in stimulating economic growth, attracting investment, strengthening industrial productivity and improving the living conditions of Sierra Leoneans.

The Nant Power Project forms part of broader efforts to address the country's longstanding electricity challenges, which have continued to affect households, businesses and essential public services.

Once operational, the 108.4MW facility is expected to make a substantial contribution to national electricity generation, particularly in the Western Area, where increasing population growth and commercial activities have placed considerable pressure on existing power infrastructure.

The project is also expected to create opportunities for businesses and industries that depend on stable electricity to maintain production, expand operations and generate employment.

With September 2027 identified as the target for initial electricity generation, the successful delivery of the Nant Power Plant could represent an important milestone in Sierra Leone's efforts to build a more reliable and sustainable energy sector.

President Bio's latest inspection reinforces the Government's focus on accelerating strategic infrastructure investments and ensuring that major development projects translate into tangible economic and social benefits for the people of Sierra Leone. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/65532

Sierra Leone’s Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security, Umaru Napoleon Koroma, has reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to strengthening labour migration governance, protecting Sierra Leonean workers abroad and expanding access to decent international employment opportunities during a courtesy meeting with representatives of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Freetown on Friday, 16 October 2026.

The engagement formed part of ongoing efforts to deepen cooperation between the Ministry and IOM in promoting safe, orderly and regular labour migration, improving recruitment practices, strengthening institutional coordination and addressing the challenges confronting Sierra Leoneans seeking employment overseas.

Speaking during the meeting, IOM Officer-in-Charge, Paulina Macharia, commended the Ministry for its longstanding partnership with the organization, which has maintained a presence in Sierra Leone for 25 years. She acknowledged the progress made through joint initiatives covering migration policy development, institutional capacity building, labour mobility and the sustainable reintegration of returning migrants.

Paulina Macharia disclosed that IOM, working closely with the National Youth Commission, has supported returning Sierra Leoneans through training, skills development and reintegration programmes designed to improve their livelihoods and economic prospects.

According to her, more than 2,600 Sierra Leoneans have returned to the country since 2022, with nearly 1,000 benefiting from reintegration-related training initiatives aimed at equipping them with practical skills and opportunities for sustainable employment.

She further highlighted an ongoing project focused on strengthening labour migration governance in Sierra Leone, explaining that a steering committee and technical working committee were established earlier this year to provide policy direction, technical guidance and coordination for its implementation.

Among the major priorities identified under the initiative are securing Cabinet approval for an action plan to implement the revised Labour Migration Policy and conducting a gender-sensitive needs assessment to inform the establishment of a proposed pre-departure centre.

The proposed centre is expected to provide prospective Sierra Leonean migrant workers, particularly those travelling to Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, with reliable information on employment conditions, contractual obligations, workers’ rights, recruitment procedures and potential risks associated with overseas employment.

The initiative is intended to ensure that individuals seeking employment abroad are adequately informed and better prepared before leaving Sierra Leone, thereby reducing their vulnerability to exploitation, deceptive recruitment practices and other forms of abuse.

Paulina Macharia also reaffirmed IOM’s readiness to support the Government in negotiating bilateral labour agreements with destination countries, strengthening engagement with private recruitment agencies and promoting transparent and responsible recruitment systems.

She further briefed Minister Umaru Napoleon Koroma on a feasibility study exploring opportunities for skills mobility between Sierra Leone and Ireland, particularly within the construction sector.

The proposed arrangement seeks to identify opportunities through which qualified Sierra Leonean workers could access employment in Ireland while ensuring that their skills correspond with the requirements of the overseas labour market.

Responding, Minister Umaru Napoleon Koroma expressed appreciation to IOM for its continued technical and institutional support, assuring the delegation that the recent change in leadership at the Ministry would not disrupt existing programmes, commitments or partnerships.

He emphasized that labour migration remains an important priority for the Government, particularly because of its potential to create employment opportunities, strengthen household incomes and contribute to national economic development.

However, the Minister cautioned that migration must be properly regulated to prevent Sierra Leonean citizens from becoming victims of exploitation, unfair employment conditions and other vulnerabilities associated with poorly managed recruitment and overseas labour arrangements.

Drawing attention to his recent visit to Guinea alongside President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, Umaru Napoleon Koroma highlighted the challenges associated with uncontrolled labour migration and the difficulties experienced by some Sierra Leoneans living and working abroad.

He particularly expressed concern over the circumstances confronting Sierra Leonean migrant workers in Gulf countries, where some citizens reportedly seek assistance from diplomatic missions after encountering employment-related difficulties.

The Minister stressed that prospective migrant workers must receive accurate and comprehensive information about their intended destinations, including available employment opportunities, working conditions, legal protections, contractual responsibilities and possible risks.

He maintained that effective migration governance requires clearly defined Government policies, stronger institutional oversight and proper regulation of private recruitment agencies involved in facilitating employment opportunities outside Sierra Leone.

The Minister further noted that labour migration governance had featured prominently during discussions at the Second Doha Dialogue in Tanzania, reflecting the growing importance of international cooperation in addressing migration-related challenges.

He also recalled a bilateral engagement between President Dr. Julius Maada Bio and the Director General of the International Organization for Migration on the margins of the United Nations General Assembly, during which both parties reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation on migration governance.

According to the Minister, such engagements demonstrate the Government’s determination to establish stronger international partnerships that will promote responsible labour mobility while safeguarding the dignity, welfare and fundamental rights of Sierra Leonean citizens.

He assured the IOM delegation that the Ministry would expedite outstanding activities under the ongoing labour migration governance project and convene a follow-up technical meeting to assess implementation progress, identify outstanding challenges and agree on practical measures to accelerate delivery.

The proposed follow-up engagement is expected to provide an opportunity for both institutions to review progress on the revised Labour Migration Policy, the proposed pre-departure centre, recruitment oversight mechanisms and emerging opportunities for bilateral labour cooperation.

The Minister emphasized that improving labour migration governance would require sustained collaboration among Government institutions, international development partners, recruitment agencies and other relevant stakeholders.

He concluded by reaffirming the Ministry’s determination to work closely with IOM to establish a more transparent, coordinated and effective labour migration framework that protects Sierra Leonean workers from exploitation while creating opportunities for decent employment abroad.

The strengthened partnership is expected to support Sierra Leone’s broader efforts to improve migration management, enhance the protection of migrant workers, facilitate skills development and promote international labour mobility as a contributor to national development. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/65529

 

Chairman of the All Works of Life (AWOL), Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, has called on the Government of Sierra Leone, through the Ministry of Health, to declare mental health a national health emergency, warning that the growing challenges surrounding mental wellbeing require urgent attention, stronger institutional responses and sustained national commitment.

He made the appeal on Thursday, 15 October 2026, while delivering a statement at the National Mental Health Symposium organized by the Ministry of Health at the Miatta Conference Centre, Youyi Building, Freetown, as part of activities commemorating World Mental Health Day 2026.

The symposium, held under the theme, “Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change,” brought attention to the importance of strengthening mental healthcare services, addressing stigma, promoting public awareness and ensuring that individuals experiencing mental-health challenges are actively involved in discussions and decisions affecting their wellbeing.

Addressing participants, Ahmed Sahid Nasralla reflected on Sierra Leone’s longstanding struggles with mental healthcare, recalling the contributions of the late Dr Nahim, who was widely recognized for many years as one of the country’s most prominent mental-health professionals.

He recalled that Dr Nahim was frequently described in media reports as Sierra Leone’s only psychiatrist, highlighting the severe shortage of specialists that characterized mental-health service delivery during that period.

According to him, Dr Nahim regularly appeared on Radio Democracy 98.1 FM during World Mental Health Day commemorations, where he discussed mental-health challenges with renowned broadcaster Asmaa James and drew public attention to the scale of the problem.

Ahmed Sahid Nasralla recounted how Dr Nahim would cite alarming statistics, including claims that as many as 80 per cent of Sierra Leoneans experience one mental-health condition or another.

He also recalled a humorous exchange during one of those radio discussions when Asmaa James jokingly asked the psychiatrist whether treating so many patients single-handedly might eventually affect his own mental health.

The AWOL Chairman used the occasion to pay tribute to the late psychiatrist, acknowledging his dedication and contribution to mental-healthcare delivery under extremely difficult circumstances.

He encouraged participants to recognize Dr Nahim’s service to the nation, describing his work as an important part of Sierra Leone’s mental-health history.

Turning to developments in the sector, Ahmed Sahid Nasralla acknowledged the contributions of Dr Abdul Jalloh, Director of Mental Health and Non-Communicable Diseases at the Ministry of Health, whom he described as another prominent figure in the country’s continuing efforts to improve mental healthcare.

He expressed satisfaction that Sierra Leone now has more than one psychiatrist, describing the increase in specialized personnel as an encouraging development compared with the situation in previous years.

Ahmed Sahid Nasralla also welcomed ongoing legislative efforts to replace the outdated Lunacy Act of 1902 with a modern Mental Health Bill designed to strengthen the protection of patients’ rights, promote dignity and improve access to appropriate care.

He described the proposed legislation as an important step towards establishing a more humane, inclusive and responsive mental-healthcare system.

Despite acknowledging those improvements, the AWOL Chairman maintained that the magnitude of the challenges confronting the country demand more decisive intervention.

“As Chairman of AWOL, I would make bold to urge the Government of Sierra Leone, through the Ministry of Health, to declare mental health a national health emergency. Yes, that is how serious the situation is,” he stated.

Explaining his position, Ahmed Sahid Nasralla expressed concern over the increasing levels of anger, hostility, intolerance and abusive exchanges frequently witnessed on social media and in public discussions.

While acknowledging that such behaviour cannot automatically be attributed to mental-health conditions, he maintained that it raises broader concerns about emotional wellbeing, social relationships and the need to promote healthier interactions within society.

He argued that national development cannot be separated from the mental wellbeing of citizens, particularly those responsible for driving economic productivity, public administration, education and other essential sectors.

According to him, a healthy and productive workforce remains central to national progress, making mental healthcare an important development priority rather than an issue to be addressed only during commemorative events.

“A nation’s development depends, among other things, on a healthy and productive workforce. We cannot talk about national progress without taking seriously the mental wellbeing of the people expected to drive that progress,” he emphasized.

Ahmed Sahid Nasralla further used the occasion to highlight AWOL’s longstanding partnership with the Ministry of Health, tracing the relationship to the early 2000s when the organisation began undertaking initiatives to support healthcare delivery and other national development priorities.

He recalled that during AWOL’s formative years, Connaught Hospital lacked an X-ray machine, a situation that affected the provision of essential diagnostic services.

In response, the organisation donated an X-ray machine to the hospital and subsequently procured a generator to address electricity challenges affecting the department.

He disclosed that AWOL members also volunteered their time to clean, scrub and repaint the X-ray department, helping improve its physical environment and working conditions.

The AWOL Chairman explained that the organisation continued its humanitarian interventions during major national health emergencies, including the Ebola outbreak in 2014.

During that crisis, he said, AWOL donated Le150 million to the Government of Sierra Leone to support the national response against the deadly disease.

Beyond the financial contribution, the organisation provided food, water and assorted drinks to people affected by the emergency and the restrictions imposed during the outbreak across the country’s districts.

Similarly, during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, AWOL contributed support valued at Le150 million towards the Government’s efforts to contain the disease and protect vulnerable communities.

Ahmed Sahid Nasralla maintained that those interventions demonstrate AWOL’s consistent commitment to supporting national healthcare priorities, particularly during periods when communities face serious health and humanitarian challenges.

He said the organization’s participation in the Mental Health Awareness Walk held on Saturday, 10 October 2026, was therefore a continuation of its longstanding partnership with the Ministry of Health and its development partners.

According to him, the awareness walk provided an opportunity to educate the public, challenge misconceptions surrounding mental illness and demonstrate solidarity with individuals and families experiencing mental-health difficulties.

He commended the Ministry of Health and its partners for successfully organizing the activity, noting that growing public participation reflects increasing recognition of mental health as an important national concern.

Ahmed Sahid Nasralla stressed that people experiencing mental-health challenges should never be made to feel abandoned, isolated or ashamed of their conditions.

He said AWOL remains committed to supporting initiatives that encourage understanding, compassion and inclusion while helping to dismantle the stigma that continues to discourage many people from seeking professional assistance.

Reflecting on the symposium’s theme, “Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change,” the AWOL Chairman emphasized the importance of placing individuals with personal experiences of mental-health challenges at the centre of policy discussions and service improvements.

He argued that meaningful progress cannot be achieved through discussions involving only medical professionals, Government officials, policymakers and institutions without adequately considering the experiences of those directly affected.

According to him, individuals living with mental-health conditions, their relatives and caregivers possess valuable knowledge that can help identify weaknesses in existing services and guide the development of more effective responses.

He explained that personal experiences can reveal difficulties in accessing treatment, gaps in community support, challenges facing families and areas where healthcare institutions must improve their approaches.

Ahmed Sahid Nasralla further stressed that public awareness campaigns must produce measurable improvements in the lives of affected individuals rather than remain limited to speeches, commemorations and symbolic activities.

“As AWOL Chairman, I believe awareness is important, but it must lead to action; better access to care, stronger community support, greater public understanding and an end to the stigma that prevents people from seeking help,” he stated.

He also drew attention to the difficulties confronting caregivers, particularly family members who provide continuous assistance to relatives experiencing mental-health conditions, often without adequate financial, emotional or professional support.

The AWOL Chairman observed that many caregivers carry enormous responsibilities quietly, making significant personal sacrifices while receiving limited recognition or assistance.

He therefore called for greater consideration of their needs in national mental-health programmes, including access to guidance, counselling, community assistance and other forms of practical support.

Ahmed Sahid Nasralla encouraged participants at the symposium to move beyond identifying problems and instead develop realistic recommendations capable of influencing policies, strengthening services and improving the wellbeing of affected communities.

He urged stakeholders to ensure that commitments emerging from the discussions are translated into sustained interventions that continue long after the commemorative activities have ended.

The AWOL Chairman reaffirmed his organization’s willingness to collaborate with the Ministry of Health, development partners, healthcare professionals and community stakeholders in promoting mental wellbeing and supporting people affected by mental-health challenges.

He maintained that improving mental healthcare requires collective responsibility, sustained investment, stronger public education and a compassionate national approach that recognizes the dignity and rights of every individual.

Concluding his statement, Ahmed Sahid Nasralla called on Government institutions, civil society organisations, healthcare providers and the wider public to listen more attentively to people sharing their experiences of mental-health difficulties and to use those experiences to inform meaningful reforms.

“Let us ensure that when people speak about their experiences, we listen, learn and act!” he concluded. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/65526

Caritas Freetown and the Ambassador of Spain to Guinea and Sierra Leone, H.E. Ángel Carrascal Gutiérrez, have celebrated the second Spanish Gastronomy and Food Security Meeting at the Casa Leone Hospitality Training Centre in Bureh Town, highlighting efforts to equip young Sierra Leoneans with practical hospitality skills and promote cultural exchange.

The event, held on October 15, 2026, brought together representatives of the Spanish, German and French Embassies, Caritas Freetown, the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, project partners and trainees to celebrate the partnership behind the Casa Leone Hospitality Training Project, funded by Spain-based Fundación Maga.

Delivering the keynote address, Ambassador Ángel Carrascal Gutiérrez congratulated the trainees on their commitment and praised those who had completed the programme, describing Casa Leone as a piece of Spain in Freetown.

He said the project reflected Spain’s commitment to supporting Sierra Leone in areas including language, culture, food security and gastronomy, adding that the partnership had developed through engagements with Government officials and local partners since his first visit to Sierra Leone in 2024.

“Casa Leone is our baby and the fruit of our project,” he said, expressing appreciation to Caritas Freetown, Fundación Maga and other partners for contributing to the initiative.

The Ambassador, who described the event as part of a growing relationship between Spain and Sierra Leone, said he hopes the partnership would continue even in the absence of a resident Spanish Embassy in the country.

Speaking on the project’s achievements, Casa Leone Project Manager, Isatu Sidibay, said the initiative was established to equip young people aged 18 to 22 from communities across Sierra Leone with practical hospitality skills to improve their future employment opportunities.

She said the project provides six months of free hospitality training for young people who have the potential to succeed but face financial challenges.

According to Isatu Sidibay, the first batch of trainees graduated on May 15 and subsequently received opportunities to practice their skills in different hospitality settings.

She said the project is not only helping young people develop vocational skills but also creating opportunities for cultural exchange through the fusion of Spanish gastronomy and Sierra Leonean culinary traditions.

Isatu Sidibay disclosed that Casa Leone would soon open its hospitality training programme to members of the public, while its restaurant would also open to customers seeking to experience Spanish tapas prepared with locally available Sierra Leonean ingredients.

She also highlighted the contributions of the project’s international partners, congratulating Fundación Maga and its associated wine partner on their reported recognition in the wine tourism sector.

Representing Caritas Freetown Executive Director, Rev. Fr. Peter Konteh, Dr. Robert Moikowa said the project demonstrated how partnerships between the Catholic Church, development organisations and donors could complement Government efforts in human capital development.

He said the initiative aligned with the Government’s development priorities by providing young people with practical skills while supporting the tourism and hospitality sectors.

Robert Moikowa said the project’s importance extended beyond the activities taking place at the training centre, pointing to its contribution to communities and the broader national development agenda.

He thanked the partners for their continued support, noting that the collaboration had helped bring together organisations with a shared commitment to improving people’s lives.

Meanwhile, Abdul Malik Kamara, Senior Tourism Officer at the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, welcomed the initiative, describing it as a positive contribution to the development of gastronomy tourism in Sierra Leone.

He said the Ministry is working to create an enabling environment for tourism through capacity building, infrastructure development, policy formulation and collaboration with public and private sector partners.

Abdul Malik Kamara recalled that Ministry representatives had attended Casa Leone in May to present certificates to graduating trainees, adding that the Ministry is willing to continue working with the project and other private sector initiatives to promote tourism.

He also highlighted the Ministry’s planned African regional tourism gastronomy event in December and the One Nation Reggae Festival scheduled for November as part of efforts to strengthen the country’s tourism sector.

Caritas Freetown Programmes Manager, Eliza Sillah, also outlined the organization’s broader work in supporting vulnerable communities, describing its mission as “love in action.”

She said Caritas Freetown’s interventions included healthcare, mental health rehabilitation, disaster response, protection against sexual and gender-based violence, access to justice and peacebuilding.

Eliza Sillah explained that the organization’s rehabilitation programme supports young people affected by substance use through a six-week rehabilitation process, followed by skills training and efforts to reunite them with their families.

She said such initiatives reflected Caritas Freetown’s wider commitment to restoring dignity and creating opportunities for vulnerable people.

The Casa Leone Hospitality Training Project forms part of ongoing efforts to develop local skills, promote cultural exchange and strengthen the link between vocational training and Sierra Leone’s tourism industry. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/65516

 

By Amin Kef-Ranger

The Ministry of Transport and Aviation has signed contracts with two major construction firms for the development of four climate-resilient bridges across Sierra Leone, marking another significant step in the Government's efforts to improve rural connectivity, facilitate agricultural trade and strengthen critical transport infrastructure against the growing threats of climate change.

The contracts, signed on Friday, 16 October 2026, form part of the Sierra Leone Connectivity and Agricultural Market Infrastructure Project (SL-CAMIP), a US$74 million initiative financed through a grant from the International Development Association (IDA), the concessional financing arm of the World Bank.

The project will support the construction of four strategic bridges in Tonkolili, Moyamba, Bo and Karene districts, where inadequate transport infrastructure, seasonal flooding and difficult road conditions have continued to affect the movement of people, agricultural produce and essential goods.

Under the contractual arrangements, Matiere and Secon Joint Venture (JV) has been awarded Lot 1, covering the construction of bridges at Kombabai in Tonkolili District and Kabba in Karene District.

China Railway Seventh Group (CRSG) has secured Lot 2, which involves the construction of bridges at Sumbuya in Bo District and Moselolo in Moyamba District.

The four bridges are expected to provide safer and more reliable transport connections, particularly for rural communities that experience serious accessibility challenges during the rainy season.

Speaking during the contract-signing ceremony, the Minister of Transport and Aviation, Alhaji Fanday Turay Esq., emphasized that the signing of the agreements represented an important milestone but cautioned that the ultimate success of the initiative would depend on the quality and timely completion of the construction works.

“Today's signing is only the beginning. The real success will be the timely completion of safe, durable and climate-resilient bridges,” the Minister stated.

He assured stakeholders that the Ministry would maintain strict oversight throughout the implementation process to ensure that the contractors deliver infrastructure that meets the required engineering, environmental and safety standards.

“The Ministry will ensure close monitoring, regular reporting, and strong coordination among all partners,” he added.

Minister Alhaji Fanday Turay Esq. further underscored the importance of accountability, effective project management and adherence to contractual obligations, stressing that the bridges must provide lasting benefits to the communities they are intended to serve.

The Ministry also urged the contractors to prioritize quality workmanship, comply with environmental and occupational safety requirements and complete the projects within the agreed contractual timelines.

Particular attention was drawn to the importance of creating employment opportunities for Sierra Leoneans, especially residents of the beneficiary communities, wherever appropriate skills and opportunities are available.

The Sierra Leone Connectivity and Agricultural Market Infrastructure Project is designed to address longstanding transport challenges that have limited agricultural productivity, increased transportation costs and restricted access to markets in several rural communities.

For many farmers, particularly those involved in the production of rice, vegetables and other agricultural commodities, poor road networks and unreliable river crossings have made it difficult to transport produce to commercial centres, especially during periods of heavy rainfall.

The construction of the bridges is therefore expected to improve all-season accessibility, reduce travel time, lower vehicle operating costs and facilitate the movement of agricultural products from farming communities to major markets.

Beyond agricultural transportation, the improved infrastructure is also anticipated to enhance access to healthcare facilities, educational institutions and other essential social services.

The climate-resilient design of the bridges represents another important component of the initiative, as Sierra Leone continues to face increasing infrastructure vulnerabilities associated with flooding, intense rainfall and other climate-related hazards.

By incorporating appropriate engineering standards and climate-adaptation measures, the project seeks to improve the durability of the bridges and reduce the likelihood of transport disruptions caused by extreme weather conditions.

The Ministry of Transport and Aviation, working in collaboration with the Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA), will oversee project supervision, implementation, monitoring and compliance with relevant technical, environmental and safety requirements.

The involvement of the Sierra Leone Roads Authority is expected to strengthen technical oversight and help ensure that the completed bridges meet national infrastructure standards and provide sustainable transport solutions.

The US$74 million World Bank-funded SL-CAMIP initiative also reflects the broader development objective of connecting agricultural production areas to markets, thereby supporting economic activities, improving rural livelihoods and strengthening the country's transport network.

Improved rural connectivity is considered particularly important to Sierra Leone's agricultural development ambitions, as reliable infrastructure can help reduce post-harvest losses, improve market participation and encourage greater private-sector investment in agricultural value chains.

For communities in Tonkolili, Moyamba, Bo and Karene districts, the construction of the four bridges is expected to address longstanding mobility challenges and create opportunities for increased commercial activities.

The award of the contracts to Matiere and Secon JV and China Railway Seventh Group now places responsibility on the contractors to translate the Government's infrastructure commitments into tangible improvements for the beneficiary communities.

With the contracts formally signed, attention will shift to project mobilization, construction schedules, engineering supervision and the effective coordination of all institutions involved in implementation.

The Ministry has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that the projects are executed transparently, efficiently and in accordance with established contractual standards.

The construction of the four climate-resilient bridges is expected to contribute significantly to Sierra Leone's long-term infrastructure development by strengthening rural transport connectivity, improving access to agricultural markets and building greater resilience against climate-related disruptions.

For the Government, the successful delivery of the bridges will represent not only an investment in physical infrastructure but also an opportunity to improve livelihoods, promote economic inclusion and support sustainable development in some of the country's important agricultural communities. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/65517

Sierra Leone’s Chief Justice, His Lordship Honourable Justice Komba Kamanda, on Friday, 16 October 2026, ordered the release of eleven inmates convicted of various minor offences at the Kailahun Correctional Centre, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen access to justice, ensure proportional sentencing and reduce overcrowding in correctional facilities across the country.

The intervention, which followed a review of convictions and sentences handed down by Magistrates’ Courts, marked a significant development in the administration of justice in Kailahun District. The visit was described as historic, with Chief Justice Komba Kamanda becoming the first substantive Chief Justice to travel to the district and preside over such proceedings at the Correctional Centre.

The exercise was conducted pursuant to Chapter 17 of the Laws of Sierra Leone, 1960, which provides for the exercise of supervisory and review powers over decisions, convictions and sentences imposed by Magistrates’ Courts.

During the proceedings, Chief Justice Komba Kamanda examined cases involving inmates serving custodial sentences for relatively minor offences, with particular attention to the circumstances surrounding their convictions and the proportionality of the punishments imposed.

Among those who regained their freedom was 20-year-old Abdul Momoh, a resident of Kumbala in Kailahun Town, who had been convicted of larceny for stealing one kilogramme of cocoa valued at just NLe80, equivalent to less than US$5.

Abdul Momoh had been sentenced to six months’ imprisonment or ordered to compensate the complainant with NLe2,000. He disclosed that he had already spent nearly three months at the Kailahun Correctional Centre before the Chief Justice intervened.

His case drew particular attention because of the relatively small value of the stolen commodity compared with the custodial sentence and compensation imposed. The circumstances highlighted broader concerns about proportionality in sentencing, particularly where minor offences result in imprisonment.

Before ordering the release of the eleven inmates, Chief Justice Komba Kamanda delivered a stern warning, making it clear that the exercise was not simply intended to secure the freedom of convicted persons but to ensure that justice was administered in accordance with the law.

He explained that the review formed part of his responsibility to examine the work of Magistrates’ Courts and identify cases in which convictions or sentences warranted judicial intervention.

The Chief Justice emphasized that the administration of justice must reflect fairness, accountability and proportionality, particularly when dealing with offences that do not necessarily justify lengthy custodial sentences.

He further underscored the importance of protecting the integrity of the justice system while ensuring that correctional facilities are not unnecessarily overcrowded with individuals convicted of minor offences.

Chief Justice Komba Kamanda also cautioned the released inmates against returning to criminal activities, encouraging them to regard their freedom as an opportunity to reform their lives, demonstrate responsible behaviour and contribute positively to their communities.

He stressed that the opportunity granted to them should serve as a turning point, reminding them of their responsibility to respect the law and become productive members of society.

The Member of Parliament for Kailahun District, Honourable Hindolo Moiwo Gevao, welcomed the intervention and commended the Chief Justice for demonstrating leadership and commitment to improving access to justice, particularly for residents of communities outside Freetown.

“I commend the Chief Justice for being so desirous of promoting access to justice and upholding the rule of law,” Honourable Hindolo Moiwo Gevao stated.

He described the visit as a historic occasion for Kailahun District, noting that the Chief Justice had not only undertaken the review of inmates’ cases but had also commissioned two residential quarters intended for the Resident High Court Judge and Magistrate.

According to Honourable Hindolo Moiwo Gevao, the provision of accommodation for judicial officers represents an important step towards strengthening the presence and effectiveness of the Judiciary in the district.

He observed that improving the working and living conditions of judicial personnel could contribute to more effective justice delivery, particularly in provincial communities where access to judicial services remains an important concern.

The Member of Parliament expressed appreciation to Chief Justice Komba Kamanda and his delegation for travelling to Kailahun and taking practical steps to address challenges affecting the administration of justice.

He maintained that the Chief Justice’s decision to personally review cases at the Correctional Centre demonstrated a commitment to ensuring that justice is accessible to all citizens, irrespective of their geographical location or socioeconomic circumstances.

The release of the eleven inmates also brought renewed attention to the importance of regular judicial reviews, particularly in cases involving minor offences where custodial sentences may raise questions about proportionality.

Such interventions can provide an opportunity to examine whether sentences imposed by lower courts are consistent with applicable legal principles while reinforcing public confidence in the administration of justice.

Beyond the release of the inmates, the commissioning of residential quarters for judicial officers formed part of the broader significance of the Chief Justice’s visit, highlighting efforts to improve judicial infrastructure and strengthen the delivery of justice in Kailahun District.

Chief Justice Komba Kamanda was accompanied by a high-level delegation of judicial officials, including Honourable Justice John Bosco Allieu JA, Honourable Justice Jamesina E.L. King JA, Honourable Justice Santigie Ibrahim Sorie Bangura J and Honourable Justice Isata Susan Sellu Tucker J, together with Magistrates and senior Management staff of the Judiciary of Sierra Leone.

The visit underscored the Judiciary’s stated commitment to strengthening judicial oversight, promoting fair sentencing and ensuring that the justice system remains accessible and responsive to the needs of citizens throughout Sierra Leone. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/65513

ROCKCEM (SL) Ltd is strengthening Sierra Leone’s construction industry through major investments in cement processing, transportation and distribution, with its new warehouse at Sumbuya in Songo, Western Rural District, expected to commence operations in November 2026.

The expansion forms part of the company’s commitment to improving nationwide access to its flagship RC BRAND CEM II 42.5 R Cement, particularly for contractors, wholesalers, retailers, property developers and individual builders operating outside Freetown.

The forthcoming Songo warehouse is expected to become an important distribution centre, allowing customers travelling from provincial communities to purchase and collect cement without necessarily continuing to Freetown.

For years, transportation expenses, fuel costs, vehicle maintenance and toll-gate payments have contributed to higher cement distribution costs, particularly in communities far from the capital.

ROCKCEM believes the strategically located facility will help address these challenges by reducing travelling distances, improving product accessibility and enabling dealers to replenish their stocks more conveniently.

Depending on their destinations and transportation routes, customers using the Masiaka corridor could also avoid certain additional toll-gate payments, potentially reducing operational expenses.

Alongside the warehouse development, ROCKCEM has strengthened its logistics operations with approximately 50 vehicles dedicated to supporting cement transportation and distribution across Sierra Leone.

The expanded fleet is intended to improve delivery coordination, minimise supply disruptions and ensure that cement reaches distributors, construction sites and retail outlets more efficiently.

Another major component of the company's industrial expansion is its modern cement grinding mill, designed with a projected processing and packaging capacity exceeding 60,000 bags daily, each weighing 50 kilograms.

This investment is expected to strengthen local cement processing capacity and support growing demand for construction materials nationwide.

Despite rising international equipment prices, inflation and increasing infrastructure development costs, ROCKCEM continues to invest in modern machinery, transportation equipment, warehousing and operational infrastructure.

The expansion also presents employment opportunities for Sierra Leoneans, including drivers, engineers, mechanics, machine operators, warehouse personnel and other technical workers.

Local businesses providing spare parts, maintenance services and transportation support could similarly benefit from increased commercial activities.

Central to ROCKCEM’s operations is RC BRAND CEM II 42.5 R Cement, which the company promotes for its strength, durability and consistent performance in residential, commercial and infrastructure construction.

The company maintains that reliable cement supplies are essential for reducing construction delays, supporting property development and strengthening confidence within Sierra Leone’s building industry.

With preparations advancing towards the anticipated November opening, ROCKCEM expects the Songo warehouse, modern grinding mill and expanded transportation fleet to improve customer convenience and strengthen its nationwide distribution network.

The company continues to encourage contractors, wholesalers, retailers and individual builders to choose RC BRAND 42.5 R Cement for their construction projects.

Operating from its head office at 13B Bai Bureh Road, Texaco, Old Road, Freetown, ROCKCEM welcomes enquiries concerning cement purchases, product availability, distribution arrangements and deliveries through +232-72-111111.

The company continues to promote its flagship product under the slogan: “RC BRAND 42.5 R Cement — Build Stronger. Build to Last.” https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/65505