The Minister of State at the Office of the Vice President, Manty Tarawalli, has disclosed that Vice President Dr Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh has pledged to ensure the construction of the Kabala–Makeni Road by the end of 2027, a development expected to improve transportation, strengthen trade and promote economic activities in Koinadugu District.

Manty Tarawalli made the disclosure during the Civic Day Series held in Kabala, Koinadugu District, on Tuesday, 3 November 2026. The engagement brought together Government officials, local authorities and district stakeholders to discuss development priorities, promote public accountability and strengthen communication between the Government and citizens.

Addressing participants, Manty Tarawalli explained that improving the Kabala–Makeni Road would ease the movement of people, agricultural produce and other goods between Kabala, Makeni and surrounding communities. She noted that better road connectivity would create opportunities for businesses, farmers and traders while improving access to essential services.

Turning to agriculture and women's empowerment, Manty Tarawalli reaffirmed President Julius Maada Bio's commitment to strengthening agricultural production and improving the economic welfare of women, particularly those engaged in farming.

She disclosed that the Government is providing free seeds to female farmers, accompanied by practical training to help beneficiaries adopt improved farming methods and increase agricultural yields. According to Manty Tarawalli, the initiative forms part of broader efforts to enhance food production, support rural livelihoods and encourage greater participation by women in the agricultural sector.

Manty Tarawalli further explained that farmers are receiving additional support through the provision of agricultural equipment, access to loans and insurance facilities designed to improve productivity and reduce the financial risks associated with farming.

The Chairperson of the Koinadugu District Council, Lawrence Teteh Kargbo, also addressed the gathering, outlining ongoing development initiatives and the council's efforts to improve coordination among organisations operating within the district.

Lawrence Teteh Kargbo disclosed that the council is preparing to launch its District Development Plan, which will serve as a framework for identifying development priorities and guiding interventions by non-governmental organisations and other development partners.

He stressed that organisations implementing projects in Koinadugu District would be expected to align their activities with the plan to ensure that resources are directed towards the most pressing needs of local communities.

"No NGO will work in this district without working with the District Development Plan, which is in line with the National Development Plan," Lawrence Teteh Kargbo stated.

Lawrence Teteh Kargbo also revealed that the council had completed the construction of a new hospital at an estimated cost of NLe400,000, describing the facility as part of efforts to improve healthcare infrastructure and access to medical services.

Despite those developments, Lawrence Teteh Kargbo expressed concern over persistent electricity and water supply challenges affecting communities across the district. He explained that although some infrastructure is already available, residents continue to experience difficulties accessing reliable services.

He therefore appealed to the Government to prioritize improvements in electricity and water supply, noting that both services are essential for healthcare delivery, business operations and the general welfare of residents.

Providing an update on the health sector, the District Medical Officer for Koinadugu, Dr Brima Bobson Sesay, highlighted progress recorded under the 300 Days of Activism initiative, which seeks to eliminate preventable maternal and child deaths while improving immunization coverage.

Dr Brima Bobson Sesay disclosed that, as of 31 October 2026, Sierra Leone had recorded a 31 per cent reduction in maternal deaths and a 12 per cent reduction in child deaths nationwide. He further reported that 10,123 child immunizations had been administered across the country.

Dr Brima Bobson Sesay described the figures as encouraging progress in efforts to improve maternal and child healthcare, while acknowledging that significant challenges remain in ensuring consistent access to quality medical services.

He identified unreliable electricity supply as one of the major difficulties affecting healthcare delivery in Koinadugu District. Although the Kabala Government Hospital has a solar facility, Dr Brima Bobson Sesay explained that electricity remains a serious concern and appealed for additional Government intervention to ensure a more dependable power supply.

On public health preparedness, Dr Brima Bobson Sesay disclosed that the district had commenced engagements with development partners, community sensitization campaigns and disease surveillance activities to strengthen its readiness against a possible Ebola outbreak.

He emphasized the importance of preventive measures, public awareness and effective surveillance in protecting communities against infectious diseases.

The Presidential Adviser on Gender Affairs, Isatu Jabbie Kabba, also used the occasion to highlight the Government's commitment to protecting the rights of women and girls and expanding their participation in national development.

Isatu Jabbie Kabba pointed to the Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment Act, which provides for a 30 per cent quota for women's representation, as an important measure introduced under the leadership of President Julius Maada Bio to promote gender equality and strengthen women's involvement in decision-making.

She encouraged families and communities to prioritize the education of girls and support opportunities for women to acquire the knowledge and practical skills needed to become economically independent and contribute meaningfully to national progress.

Isatu Jabbie Kabba further called on men to play a more active role in preventing sexual and gender-based violence, stressing that protecting women and girls requires collective responsibility and sustained community involvement.

She proposed the establishment of sexual and gender-based violence task forces by Paramount Chiefs to help address early marriage, rape and other forms of abuse affecting women and girls in local communities.

According to Isatu Jabbie Kabba, traditional authorities, community leaders and men have important responsibilities in promoting respect for women's rights, preventing violence and creating safer environments for vulnerable groups.

The Civic Day Series in Kabala provided an opportunity for residents and local stakeholders to engage directly with Government representatives, raise concerns and seek clarification on policies and development programmes affecting their communities.

Discussions during the engagement highlighted the importance of improved road infrastructure, reliable electricity and water supply, accessible healthcare, agricultural support and stronger protection for women and girls.

The event also reinforced the need for continued cooperation between central Government, local councils, traditional authorities and development partners to address longstanding challenges and ensure that national development initiatives deliver meaningful benefits to communities across Koinadugu District. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/65943

Twenty-one-year-old motorbike rider, Abubakarr Kamara, has been committed to the High Court for trial on one count of Shop Breaking and Larceny, contrary to Section 26(1) of the Larceny Act of 1916.

The decision was handed down by Magistrate Mustapha Briama Jah of Pademba Road Court No. 1 in Freetown following preliminary investigations into the alleged theft of properties valued at Le15, 000.

According to the particulars of offence, on Wednesday, 23 September 2026, at Levuma Beach in the Western Area of Freetown, Abubakarr Kamara allegedly broke into a shop, restaurant and bar belonging to Justice Mongeh Fofanah Deen Tarawally, Esq., with intent to steal.

The stolen items reportedly included two wooden panel doors, valued at Le3,000 each and three solar-powered CCTV cameras, each worth Le3,000.

When the charge was read and explained to the accused, no plea was taken, as the proceedings were conducted to determine whether the matter should proceed to the High Court.

Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Delilah Wellington, Esq., prosecuted the case and presented witness evidence in support of the charge.

Abubakarr Kamara, who was not legally represented, also made a statement during the proceedings.

Delivering his ruling, Magistrate Mustapha Briama Jah said he had considered the prosecution's evidence and the accused's statement and was satisfied that a sufficient case had been established to warrant a High Court trial.

He subsequently ordered Abubakarr Kamara's committal and remanded him at the Male Correctional Facility in Freetown pending trial.

The accused remains presumed innocent until proven guilty by a competent court. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/65941

The 50/50 Group of Sierra Leone is commemorating 25 years of championing women's political participation, leadership development and gender equality, marking a significant milestone in its longstanding campaign to ensure greater representation of women in national decision-making.

According to the organization’s Founder and Global President, Dr. Nemata Majeks-Walker, the silver jubilee celebration, under the theme "Still I Rise," provides an opportunity to reflect on achievements, acknowledge persistent challenges and strengthen efforts towards equal representation of women and men in governance.

The anniversary activities will include the 14th Rajiv Bendre Women in Public Life Lecture, the launch of accredited leadership courses in partnership with the University of Sierra Leone and a grand Awujoh celebration.

Reflecting on the organization’s establishment, Dr. Nemata Majeks-Walker recalled that the movement was officially launched on 30 November 2001 during Sierra Leone's first women's mock parliament, held inside the House of Parliament.

The historic occasion featured a female Head of State and a mock State Opening of Parliament, demonstrating women's determination to challenge their exclusion from political leadership.

At the time, women occupied only eight percent of parliamentary seats despite constituting approximately half of the country's population.

The Group was formally launched by the late President Alhaji Ahmad Tejan Kabbah, with the late Emeritus Professor Eldred Durosimi Jones delivering the keynote address.

Dr. Nemata Majeks-Walker explained that the movement emerged following leadership training conducted in 2000 by British gender and politics expert Lesley Abdela, whose work inspired Sierra Leonean women to organize and advocate for political equality.

"At the end of her training, I dreamed of a future in which Sierra Leonean women had a strong voice in leadership. That dream inspired us to start the 50/50 Group," she recalled.

She highlighted the progress made over the years, particularly the increase in women's parliamentary representation to more than 30 percent.

The Founder also acknowledged the passage of the Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment Act of 2022, which established a minimum 30 percent quota, describing it as an important achievement secured through collective advocacy.

However, she stressed that legislation alone cannot guarantee meaningful equality.

"But a law on paper is not enough. We must keep pressing until it is fully implemented, while continuing to aim for 50 per cent representation," she emphasized.

Over the past 25 years, the organisation has trained more than 3,000 women, established branches across Sierra Leone's 16 districts and supported female candidates through leadership training, civic education and electoral preparation.

Its advocacy has contributed to the establishment of the Council of Women Councillors and the first all-female parliamentary caucus, strengthening cooperation among women across political divisions.

The Group has also promoted women's economic empowerment, land rights, peacebuilding and access to justice, while translating important gender-related legislation into local languages to improve public understanding.

In 2007, the organisation received the Madeleine K. Albright Grant from the National Democratic Institute in recognition of its contribution to women's political advancement.

Another notable milestone came in 2018, when then President Ernest Bai Koroma officially opened the organization’s permanent headquarters at Tower Hill, Freetown.

The Group's current President, Professor Fredline M'Cormack-Hale, described the anniversary as an opportunity to strengthen the movement for future generations.

"Twenty-five years is a milestone, not a finish line. We honour those who built this movement and we pass the torch to the next generation of young women and girls," she stated.

She further emphasized the need to hold political parties and public institutions accountable for commitments made towards women's representation.

A major highlight of the anniversary will be the 14th Rajiv Bendre Women in Public Life Lecture, scheduled for Friday, 20 November 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at the Freetown City Council Auditorium.

Professor Miriam Conteh-Morgan, the first Vice Chancellor of Limkokwing University of Creative Technology in Sierra Leone, will deliver the keynote lecture entitled "In Praise of the Accidental."

Her distinguished academic career, spanning more than four decades, includes teaching at The Ohio State University and Harvard University, alongside leadership positions within Sierra Leone's higher education sector.

The event will also witness the formal launch of accredited courses at the Group's Gender Equality and Women's Leadership Training Institute.

Professor Aisha Fofana Ibrahim, who facilitated the agreement with the University of Sierra Leone, said the initiative would equip women with recognised qualifications, practical knowledge and confidence to pursue leadership opportunities.

The anniversary celebrations, coordinated by Dr. Fatou Taqi, will begin with a media launch on 16 November and conclude on 30 November with community outreach activities and a traditional Awujoh at the organization’s headquarters, 50 OAU Drive, Tower Hill.

As the 50/50 Group celebrates its silver jubilee, Dr. Nemata Majeks-Walker has reaffirmed its ultimate ambition of achieving equal political representation and witnessing the election of Sierra Leone's first female President.

The organization’s enduring message remains: "More Women, Better Politics. Still I Rise." https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/65938

The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) has renewed its demand for justice, accountability and stronger legal protection for media practitioners, warning that persistent attacks, intimidation and harassment against journalists pose a serious threat to press freedom, democratic governance and the public's right to information.

In a strongly worded statement issued on Monday, 2 November 2026, to commemorate the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, SLAJ called on the Government of Sierra Leone, security institutions, the Judiciary and other relevant stakeholders to take decisive action against individuals responsible for crimes targeting journalists.

The Association stressed that attacks against media practitioners must not be allowed to go unpunished, regardless of the status, position or influence of those implicated.

This year's international commemoration, held under the theme "Threats Evolve. Impunity Endures," highlights the changing nature of threats confronting journalists worldwide and the continuing failure of authorities to ensure accountability.

According to SLAJ, violence against journalists extends beyond physical assaults to include arbitrary detention, intimidation, online harassment, digital threats and legal pressures intended to discourage independent reporting.

The Association warned that every unresolved attack against a journalist undermines public confidence in democratic institutions, encourages self-censorship and emboldens individuals seeking to suppress critical journalism.

Citing figures from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), SLAJ disclosed that 189 journalists were killed in violent attacks worldwide during 2024 and 2025, while 86 percent of journalist killing cases recorded since 2006 remain unresolved or abandoned.

The Association described the figures as evidence of a serious global accountability crisis requiring urgent intervention by Governments and international institutions.

SLAJ also endorsed a joint statement issued by the African Union Commission and the Federation of African Journalists, which urged African Governments to strengthen national mechanisms for protecting journalists, investigate attacks and prosecute perpetrators.

The statement further highlighted the growing dangers faced by women journalists, particularly online harassment, sexualized threats and technology-facilitated gender-based violence.

While acknowledging Sierra Leone's progress in strengthening press freedom, SLAJ maintained that significant legal and institutional reforms remain necessary to protect journalists from intimidation and unlawful interference.

The Association recalled the historic repeal of the criminal and seditious libel provisions of the 1965 Public Order Act in 2020, describing the development as an important milestone in the country's democratic advancement.

However, SLAJ cautioned that the repeal must be complemented by stronger constitutional safeguards, effective law enforcement and judicial accountability to prevent other legal provisions from being used to restrict legitimate journalism.

Particular concern was expressed over certain provisions of the Cyber Security and Crime Act, 2021, which the Association believes require amendments to prevent their potential misuse against journalists investigating matters of public interest.

SLAJ acknowledged the importance of legislation addressing genuine cybercrime but insisted that such laws must not become instruments for suppressing criticism, investigative reporting or legitimate public commentary.

The Association is consequently urging Parliament and relevant authorities to engage media organisations and civil society stakeholders in reviewing provisions that could undermine freedom of expression.

Another major priority identified by SLAJ is the inclusion of a dedicated Chapter 12 on Mass Media Freedom and Freedom of Expression in Sierra Leone's proposed new Constitution.

The Association disclosed that the proposed chapter has recently undergone stakeholder validation, marking an important development in its campaign for stronger constitutional guarantees.

According to SLAJ, the proposed provisions would strengthen legal protection for journalists, reinforce media independence and safeguard citizens' rights to freedom of expression and access to information.

The Association believes that constitutional recognition of those freedoms would help consolidate the gains achieved through the 2020 repeal of criminal and seditious libel laws.

SLAJ further emphasized that journalists must be able to investigate wrongdoing, question public officials and report on sensitive national issues without fear of retaliation.

The Association also announced ongoing discussions with relevant security authorities to review the Memorandum of Understanding signed between SLAJ and Sierra Leone's security sector on 2 November 2020.

The agreement, facilitated under the auspices of the Office of National Security, was designed to improve cooperation between journalists and security personnel, particularly during public order operations and other sensitive assignments.

Six years after its signing, SLAJ believes the agreement requires renewed attention to assess implementation, strengthen existing commitments and address emerging security challenges.

The Association maintained that constructive engagement between media practitioners and security institutions remains essential to preventing unnecessary confrontations and ensuring that journalists can perform their duties safely.

It specifically called on security agencies to respect the professional responsibilities of journalists covering elections, demonstrations, protests and other politically sensitive events.

SLAJ insisted that journalists should not be treated as participants in the activities they cover or subjected to intimidation because of their reporting assignments.

As part of its renewed campaign, SLAJ outlined eight priority areas requiring urgent action from the Government, Parliament, law enforcement institutions, media owners and other stakeholders.

These include prompt and impartial investigations into attacks against journalists, prosecution of perpetrators, stronger constitutional guarantees for press freedom and amendments to restrictive provisions of the Cyber Security and Crime Act.

The Association also demanded improved protection for journalists covering high-risk events, coordinated measures against digital harassment and gender-based online violence, and stronger national mechanisms for monitoring threats and supporting victims.

Additionally, SLAJ urged media owners and editors to prioritize newsroom safety, professional development, digital security training and decent working conditions.

It stressed that protecting journalists requires not only Government intervention but also responsible leadership within media institutions.

In a statement accompanying the commemoration, SLAJ President Alhaji Manika Kamara challenged national leaders and institutions responsible for justice and security to move beyond public expressions of concern and demonstrate measurable action against impunity.

He warned that allowing attacks against journalists to go unpunished creates an environment in which intimidation becomes normalized and independent reporting increasingly dangerous.

"Journalists must not have to choose between telling the truth and protecting their safety. When a journalist is attacked for doing their job and those responsible are allowed to walk free, it sends a dangerous message that anyone seeking to silence the truth can act without consequences," he stated.

Alhaji Manika Kamara emphasized that impunity affects not only journalists but also the wider population, whose access to credible information depends on a free and independent media.

He argued that democratic institutions cannot claim to uphold accountability while failing to protect those responsible for investigating and reporting matters of public interest.

"Impunity is not a victimless failure. It encourages further attacks, intimidates other journalists into silence and denies citizens the information they need to hold power accountable," he declared.

The SLAJ President called for serious investigations, timely prosecutions and justice for victims, stressing that individuals implicated in attacks must face the law regardless of their political connections, professional positions or social standing.

He also urged stakeholders involved in Sierra Leone's constitutional review process to support the proposed Chapter 12 and called on Parliament to urgently reconsider problematic provisions of the Cyber Security and Crime Act.

"Journalism is not a crime, asking difficult questions is not an offence, and exposing wrongdoing must never put a journalist's safety at risk," he asserted.

SLAJ reaffirmed its determination to work with national, regional and international partners to strengthen journalists' safety, promote professional standards and eliminate impunity for crimes committed against media practitioners.

The Association stressed that journalists also have professional and legal responsibilities, but maintained that any action taken against them must respect due process, the rule of law and constitutionally protected freedoms.

It further called for sustained cooperation among the Government, Judiciary, security institutions, media organisations and civil society to establish an environment in which journalists can operate independently and responsibly.

The statement, signed by SLAJ Secretary General Edward Farah Marah, concluded with a reminder that protecting journalists is inseparable from protecting democracy and citizens' fundamental rights.

"There can be no genuine press freedom without journalist safety, no journalist safety without accountability, and no accountability where perpetrators are allowed to act with impunity," the Association declared. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/65935

Sierra Leone’s efforts to improve maritime transportation, strengthen connectivity and stimulate economic development have received a significant boost following the successful mobilisation of a US$1 million grant from the Government of Indonesia to support the proposed Freetown–Tagrin Ferry Service.

The funding, secured by Sierra Leone’s Minister of Finance, Karefa Kargbo, on behalf of the Government, will finance feasibility studies and detailed engineering designs for the project, laying the groundwork for the development of a more efficient and sustainable ferry transportation system.

The grant, which will be provided through Indonesian Aid, represents an important step towards improving transportation between Freetown and the Lungi area, while creating opportunities for tourism, trade, investment and broader economic activities.

Under the proposed arrangement, a formal grant agreement will be signed between the Government of Indonesia, represented by Indonesian Aid and the Government of Sierra Leone, through the Ministry of Finance.

The financing is expected to support the technical assessments and engineering preparations necessary to determine the project's feasibility and guide its subsequent implementation.

A significant diplomatic contribution to the initiative came from Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to Senegal, His Excellency Ibrahim Turay, whose engagement and coordination played an instrumental role in advancing discussions between the two countries.

As part of those efforts, Ambassador Ibrahim Turay facilitated a bilateral meeting between Indonesia’s Ambassador to Senegal, His Excellency Ardian Wicaksono and Sierra Leone’s Minister of Finance, Karefa Kargbo.

The high-level engagement took place on Saturday, 31 October 2026, on the sidelines of the Second Edition of the Sport and Development Summit in Dakar, Senegal.

During the discussions, attention centred on finalizing arrangements for the timely signing of the grant agreement and establishing a clear framework for moving the project forward.

Implementation of the grant-supported preparatory activities is expected to commence in early 2027, subject to the completion of the necessary formalities.

The proposed Freetown–Tagrin Ferry Service is considered an important transport initiative because of its potential to strengthen maritime links between the capital and communities around Lungi, an area that plays a strategic role in Sierra Leone’s international connectivity.

Improved ferry transportation could provide passengers, businesses and visitors with more reliable travel options while facilitating the movement of goods and services across the estuary.

The project also carries considerable potential for the tourism industry, particularly by improving access between Freetown and areas connected to the country’s principal international airport.

By supporting the development of a more efficient transport system, the initiative could contribute to reducing logistical difficulties, encouraging commercial activities and improving the overall travel experience for residents and international visitors.

Beyond its transportation benefits, the project reflects the Government’s broader ambition to strengthen infrastructure as a foundation for economic growth, private-sector participation and sustainable national development.

The successful mobilisation of the US$1 million grant also highlights the growing importance of economic diplomacy in securing international development assistance for Sierra Leone.

Through sustained diplomatic engagement, Sierra Leone’s Embassy in Senegal has demonstrated its commitment to identifying strategic partnerships and attracting financial and technical support for national development priorities.

Ambassador Ibrahim Turay’s role in facilitating the engagement with Indonesian authorities further underscores the contribution diplomatic missions can make in advancing practical development initiatives beyond traditional bilateral relations.

For the Ministry of Finance, the anticipated grant provides an opportunity to advance the technical groundwork for a project with potential long-term economic and social benefits.

Although the US$1 million financing is specifically intended for feasibility studies and detailed engineering designs rather than the actual construction or operation of the ferry service, it represents an essential preparatory investment towards determining the project's viability and future financing requirements.

With the formal signing of the agreement anticipated and preparatory implementation targeted for early 2027, the Freetown–Tagrin Ferry Project could mark another step in Sierra Leone’s efforts to modernize transportation infrastructure and expand opportunities for inclusive economic development.

The initiative also reinforces the value of Sierra Leone’s expanding cooperation with Indonesia, demonstrating how international partnerships and proactive diplomatic engagement can help translate national development priorities into practical investment opportunities. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/65933

Choithrams (T. Choithram & Sons), one of Sierra Leone’s longstanding business establishments, has received prominent coverage in the October/November 2026 Sierra Leone edition of Forbes Africa, under its Africa Undiscovered series, highlighting the company’s contributions to commerce, manufacturing, healthcare, education and community development.

The publication features Harish Agnani, Head of Operations of Choithrams, whose leadership responsibilities span a diversified business structure that has grown from a modest retail establishment into an enterprise with operations across 27 countries.

The feature forms part of Forbes Africa’s examination of Sierra Leone’s investment landscape, highlighting businesses and industry leaders contributing to economic diversification, infrastructure development and human capital advancement.

Founded in 1944 by Thakurdas Choithram Pagarani, who established a small retail shop in Freetown, Choithrams has maintained a continuous presence in Sierra Leone for more than eight decades. Its original establishment, known as Shop Number One, remains operational, reflecting the company's enduring commercial roots.

Speaking to Forbes Africa, Harish Agnani explained that the company's expansion began within Sierra Leone before extending into other African markets and beyond.

“We expanded across Sierra Leone before entering other African markets and now we operate in 27 countries,” he disclosed.

Today, Choithrams operates five supermarkets, a wholesale outlet, an electrical retail store and three warehouses in Sierra Leone. Those facilities support the distribution of food, household commodities and imported products to consumers across different regions.

Beyond importing goods, the company has invested in local manufacturing, operating two production facilities responsible for hard-boiled candies, bubble gum and laundry soap. Its international supply network also includes procurement operations in Dubai, a United Kingdom manufacturing facility producing Natco-branded food products and an export office in India.

According to Harish Agnani, the company's business strategy places considerable emphasis on understanding regional consumer preferences, maintaining reliable supply chains and expanding into communities where modern retail facilities remain limited.

However, Choithrams' influence extends considerably beyond commercial activities.

One of its most significant contributions is Choithram Memorial Hospital in Freetown, which provides healthcare services through a cost-recovery arrangement that allows financially disadvantaged patients to receive subsidized or free treatment.

Supported by the Choithram International Foundation, the hospital has undertaken several humanitarian medical interventions, including free surgical programmes and nationwide eye-care campaigns.

Harish Agnani revealed that one specialist programme involving seven German doctors successfully conducted 44 surgeries without charging patients. The procedures ordinarily carried estimated costs ranging between US$5,000 and US$10,000 each, with the company covering associated logistics and medication expenses.

Another major intervention involved cataract treatment, through which more than 10,000 patients were screened and 1,542 surgeries performed free of charge, according to figures presented in the publication.

Patients travelling from provincial communities also received transportation, accommodation and daily support, while plans were outlined to undertake approximately 2,000 additional surgeries.

The company's humanitarian record also includes making its hospital facilities available to United Nations personnel during Sierra Leone's civil conflict without charging rent, while maintaining arrangements for civilian access to medical services.

Education represents another important pillar of Choithrams' investment.

Through Choithram International School, the company provides education based on international curriculum standards while prioritizing the recruitment and professional development of Sierra Leonean teachers.

“We have not imported a single teacher. We believe in building local capacity,” Harish Agnani emphasized.

The institution, which enrolled 153 students at the time of the interview, plans to expand its capacity to between 400 and 450 learners. Harish Agnani also reported that the school secured Cambridge accreditation during its first year.

Furthermore, the company's College of Digital Excellence provides information technology training and diploma programmes, supported by educational partnerships involving Manipal University in India, NIIT and the British Council.

Harish Agnani explained that the company's commercial expansion, healthcare interventions and educational investments are financed through internal resources and foundation support rather than direct Government contributions.

The Forbes Africa feature brings renewed attention to Choithrams' longstanding presence in Sierra Leone and its combination of business development with investments in essential social services.

Sierra Leone’s ongoing efforts to diversify its economy and strengthen private-sector participation highlight the company’s experience as an example of how established businesses can contribute to local production, enhance professional skills, expand access to healthcare and create opportunities for sustainable national development.

For Choithrams, its 82-year journey reflects not merely commercial expansion but a continuing commitment to serving Sierra Leone through enterprise, education, healthcare and community investment. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/65930

The ongoing nationwide strike by academic staff in public universities and other tertiary institutions across Sierra Leone continues to disrupt academic activities, raising growing concerns about the future of higher education and the welfare of thousands of students. The industrial action, organized by the Union of Academic Staff Associations (UASA), began on 16 September 2026 following prolonged disagreements between lecturers and the Government over salaries, working conditions and the implementation of revised Conditions of Service.

The dispute has persisted despite several engagements involving the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education, university authorities and other Government institutions. At the centre of the disagreement is UASA’s demand for a 100 per cent salary increase for academic staff, alongside the implementation of harmonized Conditions of Service covering the 2026–2028 period. The union initially demanded a 500 per cent salary increase but subsequently reduced its demand to 100 per cent in what appears to be an attempt to facilitate a negotiated settlement.

Before commencing the strike, UASA served a 21-day strike notice to the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education on 13 August 2026. The union maintained that its decision followed approximately three years of engagements with relevant Government institutions, including the Ministries of Technical and Higher Education and Finance, the Tertiary Education Commission, the Wages and Compensation Commission and the Office of the Chief Minister. However, according to the union, those engagements failed to produce satisfactory commitments on lecturers’ remuneration and welfare.

Apart from the proposed salary increase, UASA wants the Government to implement revised Conditions of Service covering salaries and allowances, promotions, medical benefits, annual leave, housing and other employment-related entitlements. The union has also expressed concern over salary disparities among academic staff working in different public tertiary institutions, insisting that such inconsistencies should be addressed.

The Government, however, has defended its record on salary adjustments, arguing that any additional increase must be considered against the country’s financial capacity. According to the Minister of Technical and Higher Education, Dr Haja Ramatulai Wurie, the Government approved a 75 per cent salary increase in 2021, implemented in three instalments, which the Ministry says amounted to approximately 87.5 per cent on a compounded basis. A further 15 per cent increase was implemented in April 2025. The Minister also disclosed that the Government currently contributes approximately 83 per cent of university staff salaries and leave allowances, with the institutions providing the remaining 17 per cent.

In an apparent effort to break the deadlock, UASA proposed that its 100 per cent salary demand be implemented in three phases, beginning with a 40 per cent increase in November 2026, followed by 30 per cent in May 2027 and another 30 per cent in September 2027. The proposal was discussed during engagements with Government representatives on 16 October, but the union maintained that it required a formal written commitment from the relevant authorities, particularly the Ministry of Finance, before suspending the strike.

Another meeting, held on 23 October at the College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences Secretariat Conference Room, resulted in an agreement that the harmonized Conditions of Service should be forwarded to the Tertiary Education Commission for approval. Government representatives also promised to work with university Finance Directors to examine salary disparities. However, UASA expressed disappointment over the absence of the Ministry of Finance and the failure of the Government to present a concrete proposal on the salary increase. The union subsequently reaffirmed that the industrial action remained in force.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education declared the strike unlawful on 9 October, citing provisions of the Industrial Relations and Trade Union Act, 2024. The Ministry questioned whether UASA had fulfilled the statutory requirements for collective bargaining and lawful industrial action. However, the Government’s position has not brought the dispute to an end, as the union has maintained its decision to withdraw academic services.

The consequences are increasingly being felt by students, with lectures suspended, examinations postponed, research activities disrupted and graduation schedules placed in uncertainty. On 27 October, the National Union of Sierra Leone Students appealed to both the Government and UASA to urgently resolve the disagreement, warning that students should not continue to suffer because of a dispute they did not initiate.

With public universities still facing uncertainty, the need for a lasting settlement has become increasingly urgent. The Government must demonstrate its willingness to address the legitimate welfare concerns of academic staff, while UASA must also recognize the wider consequences of prolonged industrial action. Ultimately, thousands of students and their families are bearing the burden of the disagreement. A negotiated written agreement, clearly outlining salary adjustments, implementation timelines and the revised Conditions of Service, remains the most practical way forward. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/65927