By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Dr. Sheku Dennis Massaquoi, a distinguished Sierra Leonean General Surgeon and Lieutenant Colonel in the Defence Medical Services of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces, has received international recognition for his outstanding contributions to surgical care, healthcare innovation and medical education in resource-constrained environments.

The General Surgeon was recently featured by the Global Surgery Foundation through its Impact Stories series and by SURGhub, a leading global surgical education platform that supports healthcare professionals worldwide in improving patient outcomes through continuous learning and professional development.

Based at the 34 Military Hospital in Freetown, Dr. Sheku Dennis Massaquoi manages a demanding surgical workload while simultaneously contributing to national healthcare reforms and system-strengthening initiatives. Since 2013, he has combined clinical practice with leadership responsibilities, including supporting healthcare accreditation processes and helping establish Sierra Leone’s first social health insurance scheme.

His commitment to professional excellence has been further demonstrated through the successful completion of a 22-month College of Surgeons of East, Central and Southern Africa (COSECSA) membership course in General Surgery. He currently serves as a technical lead for anaesthesia and surgical capability assessments, contributing to efforts aimed at improving healthcare standards nationwide.

Reflecting on his journey into medicine, Dr. Sheku Dennis Massaquoi credited his late uncle, Dr. Alhaji Fayama Tarawallie, for inspiring him to pursue a healthcare career. He noted that subsequent experiences, including a medical survival course and a cardiothoracic surgery attachment in Egypt, strengthened his passion for surgery and reinforced his determination to serve humanity through medicine.

Despite significant challenges facing the healthcare sector, Dr. Sheku Dennis Massaquoi remains steadfast in his mission to provide quality surgical care. He highlighted the acute shortage of specialist surgeons in Sierra Leone, revealing that fewer than ten general surgeons currently serve a population exceeding eight million people.

According to him, the satisfaction derived from transforming patients’ lives through successful surgical interventions continues to serve as a powerful source of motivation.

A strong advocate for lifelong learning, Dr. Sheku Dennis Massaquoi disclosed that his daily routine begins with prayer followed by a dedicated study session on SURGhub before commencing clinical duties. He emphasized that continuous education and virtual learning have played a vital role in enhancing his skills and improving patient outcomes.

One notable example involved a 55-year-old woman suffering from advanced metastatic breast cancer who was unsuitable for general anaesthesia. Drawing on knowledge acquired through virtual surgical training, Dr. Sheku Dennis Massaquoi successfully performed a complex palliative procedure using advanced regional anaesthesia techniques. The intervention significantly improved the patient’s quality of life, restored her dignity and strengthened her relationship with family members.

His reputation for surgical excellence extends beyond routine procedures. In 2020, Dr. Sheku Dennis Massaquoi led a medical team at the 34 Military Hospital that successfully performed a life-saving operation on a COVID-19-positive patient, a groundbreaking achievement widely regarded as one of the pioneering surgical interventions undertaken during the pandemic in Sierra Leone and the wider region.

Looking ahead, Dr. Sheku Dennis Massaquoi continues to advocate for innovative healthcare solutions aimed at addressing workforce shortages and improving access to quality medical education. He strongly supports virtual learning platforms and the concept of “colleges without walls,” which would enable healthcare professionals to access world-class surgical training regardless of geographical location.

“My hope is a resilient surgical system driven by innovation, technology and accessible surgical education for all healthcare providers,” he stated.

He also encouraged young medical professionals to master the fundamentals of surgery while remaining compassionate, creative and committed to continuous learning throughout their careers.

The Global Surgery Foundation noted that Dr. Sheku Dennis Massaquoi’s story demonstrates how innovation, digital learning, leadership and professional development can help bridge critical gaps in surgical practice and healthcare delivery, particularly in resource-limited settings.

As his achievements continue to gain international recognition, Dr. Sheku Dennis Massaquoi remains a shining example of resilience, dedication and excellence, bringing pride to Sierra Leone’s medical community while inspiring efforts to strengthen healthcare systems across Africa. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/dr-sheku-dennis-massaquoi-earns-global-recognition-for-advancing-surgical-care-in-sierra-leone/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), Musayeroh Barrie, is set to represent Sierra Leone as a speaker at the upcoming African Air Transport Convention and Expo scheduled to take place in Lomé, Togo, from June 15 to 19.

The continental event, organized under the theme: “Single African Sky and Sustainable Air Transport Development,” will bring together aviation leaders, policymakers, regulators, industry experts and development partners from across Africa to discuss strategies for strengthening air connectivity, improving aviation infrastructure and promoting sustainable growth within the sector.

As one of the featured speakers, Musayeroh Barrie is expected to contribute to high-level discussions focused on advancing accessible, connected, affordable and sustainable air transport across the African continent. Her participation highlights Sierra Leone’s growing role in regional aviation development and its commitment to supporting the objectives of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM).

The convention is expected to provide a platform for stakeholders to explore opportunities for greater collaboration, investment, innovation and policy harmonization aimed at accelerating Africa’s air transport transformation and enhancing intra-African connectivity.

Musayeroh Barrie’s invitation to speak at the prestigious gathering reflects international recognition of Sierra Leone’s efforts in strengthening its aviation sector and improving regulatory standards. Under her leadership, the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority has continued to pursue reforms and initiatives aimed at enhancing safety, service delivery and operational efficiency within the country’s aviation industry.

The African Air Transport Convention and Expo is anticipated to attract participants from Governments, aviation authorities, airlines, airport operators and regional institutions committed to advancing the vision of a unified and sustainable African aviation market. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/slcaa-dg-to-speak-at-african-air-transport-convention-and-expo-in-togo/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) has announced the implementation of enhanced Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) prevention and health screening measures at the Freetown International Airport (FIA) following reports of the disease's emergence within the West African sub-region.

In a public notice issued on May 29, 2026, the Director General of the SLCAA, Musayeroh Barrie, assured the public that the Authority has taken proactive steps to safeguard public health, protect passengers and aviation personnel and prevent any possible cross-border transmission of the virus through air travel.

According to the notice, the enhanced measures form part of the Government of Sierra Leone’s broader efforts to maintain vigilance against Ebola and strengthen national preparedness in line with international aviation health standards and public health directives.

As part of the intervention, health personnel stationed at the airport are undergoing continuous sensitization and briefing sessions on Ebola Virus Disease, including updates on symptoms, transmission methods, case detection and approved preventive protocols. The initiative is intended to ensure that frontline workers remain fully prepared to identify and respond to any potential health-related concerns.

The Authority has also deployed Ebola awareness and preventive information materials throughout the airport terminal to educate passengers, visitors and staff on safety measures and health guidelines. The awareness campaign is expected to improve public understanding of the disease and encourage compliance with preventive measures.

In addition, mandatory hand sanitization has been introduced at designated points across the airport premises. All passengers, staff members and visitors are required to sanitize their hands before accessing key airport facilities.

To further strengthen surveillance, routine temperature screening is being conducted for all passengers and airport users. Airport officials say the screening process is designed to identify individuals who may require further medical assessment while ensuring minimal disruption to passenger movement.

The airport clinic has also been placed on full operational readiness to promptly handle any suspected health incidents. Medical personnel and equipment have been prepared to ensure swift response and effective management of any situation that may arise.

Where necessary, social distancing measures have been introduced within passenger processing and waiting areas to reduce potential health risks and maintain a safe environment for travelers and airport workers.

Additionally, an ambulance has been positioned on standby at the airport to facilitate rapid medical evacuation and emergency response in the event of any suspected Ebola case or other health emergency.

Director General Musayeroh Barrie emphasized that the health and safety of travelers and airport personnel remain a top priority for the Authority. She reassured the public that the measures currently in place are precautionary and designed to ensure the continued safety and security of Sierra Leone’s aviation sector.

“The SLCAA remains committed to protecting the integrity of the national aviation system while prioritizing the health and wellbeing of all users,” the statement noted.

The Authority has urged members of the public to remain calm, adhere to all health and safety instructions while at the airport and cooperate fully with health officials and airport personnel.

With international travel continuing to play a vital role in regional connectivity and economic development, the SLCAA says it will continue to monitor the situation closely and work with relevant health authorities to ensure that all necessary precautions remain in place. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/slcaa-intensifies-ebola-screening-and-prevention-measures-at-freetown-international-airport/

By Ibrahim Sesay

The Orange Foundation, in partnership with the Ministry of Communication, Technology and Innovation, has officially launched a major community development initiative with the sod-turning ceremony for the Orange Foundation Village at Felei Tech City in Jorborhun Village, Tikonko Chiefdom, Bo District.

The ceremony, held on Friday, May 29, 2026, marked the commencement of a transformative project that will deliver a Digital and Innovative Educational Learning Facility and a modern Medical Centre aimed at improving access to technology-driven education and quality healthcare services for rural communities in Sierra Leone.

The event attracted a wide range of stakeholders, including Orange Sierra Leone Chief Executive Officer, Aicha Toure, Government officials, traditional authorities, development partners, community leaders and residents, underscoring the strong partnership and collective commitment to advancing inclusive development and digital transformation in the country.

Speaking during the ceremony, Director of the Orange Foundation, Annie Wonnie Katta, described the project as a significant investment in people and communities, particularly young people. She noted that the initiative reflects the Orange Foundation’s continued commitment to promoting education, innovation and sustainable development across Sierra Leone.

According to Annie Wonnie Katta, the project is expected to be completed within 12 to 18 months and will provide opportunities for learning, skills development and improved healthcare delivery for residents of the area and surrounding communities.

Orange Sierra Leone Chief Executive Officer, Aicha Toure, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to empowering communities through strategic social investments. She emphasized that the Orange Foundation remains focused on supporting initiatives that improve livelihoods, create opportunities for young people and contribute meaningfully to national development.

Minister of Communication, Technology and Innovation, Salima Monorma Bah, commended the Orange Foundation for its continued collaboration with the Government of Sierra Leone. She stated that the project aligns with the Government’s vision of expanding access to technology, innovation, education and healthcare services, particularly in underserved communities.

The Minister noted that strengthening digital inclusion and providing opportunities for young people remain key priorities for the Government and described the initiative as an important contribution toward achieving those objectives.

The project also received strong support from local authorities. Paramount Chief of Tikonko Chiefdom, Joe Kangbai Macavoray and Chairman of the Bo District Council, Victor Kosseh Hindowa, both hailed the initiative as a transformative development that will significantly improve access to essential services for residents, especially women, young people and vulnerable groups.

Chief Executive Officer of Tech City, David Felei, expressed appreciation to the Ministry of Communication, Technology and Innovation and the Orange Foundation for partnering with Tech City to bring meaningful development to Jorborhun Village. He stated that the facility will become a centre for innovation, learning, creativity and empowerment, helping to nurture future generations of innovators and leaders.

In addition to launching the project, the Orange Foundation demonstrated its commitment to supporting education by donating learning materials to more than 100 pupils and students. The donated items included school bags, exercise books and mathematical sets, a gesture that was warmly welcomed by beneficiaries, parents and community members.

Upon completion, the Orange Foundation Village is expected to serve as a hub for innovation, education and healthcare delivery, providing critical services to residents while strengthening digital inclusion and community development efforts. The project is also expected to contribute significantly to improving educational opportunities, healthcare access and socio-economic growth in the region, further reinforcing the Orange Foundation’s role as a key partner in Sierra Leone’s development journey. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/orange-foundation-communications-ministry-turn-sod-for-transformative-village-project-in-bo/

By Foday Moriba Conteh

FirstBank Sierra Leone on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, officially commissioned and handed over newly renovated, well-equipped solar-powered Science and Computer Laboratories to Albert Academy Secondary School in Freetown as part of its Leadership Acceleration Programme (LAP 3.0) Corporate Social Responsibility initiative.

The commissioning ceremony brought together senior executives from FirstBank Group, including the Group Chief Executive Officer, FirstBank Nigeria representatives, FirstBank Sierra Leone Management, education authorities, alumni, students and other key stakeholders in the education and development sectors.

Managing Director of FirstBank Sierra Leone, Udeme Udoh, described the initiative as a significant milestone in the bank’s efforts to support education and human capital development in Sierra Leone.

He said the Leadership Acceleration Programme (LAP 3.0) is a flagship initiative designed to identify, train and develop high-potential leaders across FirstBank’s subsidiaries, preparing them for future leadership roles within the institution.

According to him, the third cohort of the programme included participants from several countries across Africa and beyond, who underwent intensive leadership training and were required to execute a CSR project as part of their development.

Udeme Udoh explained that after assessments and consultations, Albert Academy was selected for the intervention due to critical needs identified in both its ICT and science laboratories, which were subsequently upgraded under the project.

He commended FirstBank Sierra Leone Management, the LAP 3.0 cohort and school authorities for their collaboration, noting that the project was completed within a short timeframe through effective teamwork.

Udeme Udoh emphasized that education remains the foundation of national development adding that no society can achieve meaningful progress without strong investment in learning institutions.

He urged students to take full advantage of the upgraded facilities and maintain strong academic discipline, noting that Albert Academy has a long history of producing leaders in governance, banking, science and other fields.

He also encouraged students to develop a savings culture and build early relationships with financial institutions such as FirstBank, describing the bank as a long-term partner in their growth and development.

Executive Director of FirstBank Sierra Leone, Boblinda Bami-Caulker, said the project goes beyond infrastructure development and represents a symbol of leadership, collaboration, innovation and sustainable development.

She explained that LAP 3.0 is a leadership development programme that brings together high-performing staff from FirstBank subsidiaries across Africa and other regions, including Nigeria, Ghana, Gambia, Senegal, Guinea, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Sierra Leone and the United Kingdom.

Boblinda Bami-Caulker disclosed that 139 participants were involved in the third cohort, which began in June 2025 and ran for seven months of intensive classroom and virtual training focused on leadership development.

She said a core requirement of the programme is the implementation of CSR projects aligned with FirstBank’s SPARK initiative, which is designed to create measurable social impact in communities.

She noted that Sierra Leone was selected after a competitive process, with Albert Academy chosen following a needs-based assessment of several schools.

According to her, the renovated laboratories were designed to improve science and ICT education while promoting environmental sustainability through solar energy systems.

She said the project is anchored on three pillars: improving education and inclusion, promoting environmental sustainability and supporting community development.

She further encouraged students to make effective use of the facilities, describing them as a platform for nurturing future innovators, scientists and leaders.

Principal of Albert Academy, Junisa Vandy, described the intervention as a transformative milestone for the school, particularly in science and ICT education.

He said the project began with a simple assessment but has grown into a long-term investment that will significantly improve teaching and learning outcomes.

Junisa Vandy noted that the upgraded laboratories now contain modern equipment, scientific tools and computer systems designed to support practical and experiential learning.

He emphasized that science education should be practical, not only theoretical, adding that the new facilities will enable pupils to conduct experiments, test ideas and innovate.

The Principal thanked FirstBank for selecting Albert Academy after a competitive process and commended staff, engineers and contractors for their work.

The Principal urged pupils to take responsibility for maintaining the facilities, stressing that proper care would ensure long-term benefit for future generations.

President of the Albert Academy Alumni Association, Zainab Attire Bangura, expressed appreciation to FirstBank for what she described as a major boost to academic excellence and institutional development.

She said the intervention reflects the school’s historic legacy of producing national leaders and professionals across multiple sectors.

Zainab Bangura noted that the upgraded laboratories would help prepare pupils for leadership roles in science, technology and other fields, both nationally and internationally.

She called on students to protect and maintain the facilities, adding that sustainability is key to ensuring long-term impact.

The President of the Albert Academy Alumni Association also acknowledged support from global alumni chapters and reaffirmed the Association’s commitment to strengthening partnerships for educational development.

Chairman of the FirstBank Board of Directors, Kobi Walker, encouraged pupils to fully utilize the laboratories, describing them as tools for shaping future scientists, engineers and national leaders.

He highlighted Albert Academy’s long-standing history of producing prominent figures in politics, medicine, banking, sports and the arts.

Kobi Walker said the project reflects FirstBank’s Corporate Social Responsibility commitment to giving back to society and investing in future generations.

He urged pupils to take care of the facilities and maintain a strong culture of responsibility noting that future students must benefit from the same resources.

Governor of the Bank of Sierra Leone, Dr. Ibrahim L. Stevens, who is also an alumnus of Albert Academy, described the event as deeply personal, recalling his student days more than 40 years ago.

He said the school played a key role in shaping his academic and professional journey.

Dr. Ibrahim Stevens commended FirstBank for investing in education and innovation, while emphasizing the importance of digital skills and financial technology.

He encouraged pupils to use the ICT facilities to develop innovative ideas and referenced the Bank of Sierra Leone’s regulatory sandbox initiative for fintech development.

The Governor also stressed the importance of maintenance culture and urged pupils to preserve the facilities for future generations.

FirstBank Group Managing Director and CEO, Oluasegun Alebiosu, said the bank, established in 1894, has a long tradition of producing leaders across Africa.

He noted that CSR is central to FirstBank’s identity and is driven by the belief that “the best of humanity is when humanity gives.”

Oluasegun Alebiosu said the bank’s initiatives in education, healthcare and community development demonstrate its commitment to improving lives across the continent.

He emphasized that the new laboratories are intended to support the development of future scientists, engineers and entrepreneurs.

Oluasegun Alebiosu urged pupils to maximize the opportunity and remain focused on academic excellence, expressing optimism that Albert Academy will continue to produce future leaders.

The commissioning of the solar-powered Science and ICT laboratories marks a significant milestone under FirstBank’s LAP 3.0 CSR programme, which combines leadership development with community impact across Africa. Stakeholders described the project as a major contribution to strengthening science and ICT education in Sierra Leone at a time when digital innovation is critical to national development. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/firstbank-hands-over-renovated-solar-powered-science-and-computer-labs-to-albert-academy/

By Ibrahim Sesay

An erroneous social media post that was circulating regarding businessman Mohamed Gento Kamara and Tuma Jabbie is being debunked by information from sources close to Mohamed Gento Kamara, who maintain that the two have not been together since November 2024 and have been living separate lives ever since.

According to information available in the public domain, the separation became apparent in November 2024 when Tuma Jabbie reportedly lodged a complaint at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Headquarters, alleging that she had been denied access to Mohamed Gento Kamara’s residence. Reports indicate that police officers subsequently accompanied Tuma Jabbie to the premises. However, Mohamed Gento Kamara reportedly informed them that they were no longer living together and denied entry to his residence.

Following the incident, Mohamed Gento Kamara was invited to the CID Headquarters, where he reportedly honoured the invitation and provided a statement. Sources familiar with the matter stated that he was accompanied by his legal representatives from Yada Williams & Associates.

Since that time, sources close to Mohamed Gento Kamara have maintained that both parties have continued to reside separately at different locations, insisting that the separation has remained unchanged since November 2024. The sources further contend that recent social media narratives suggesting otherwise do not reflect the reality of the situation.

Reports also indicate that while Mohamed Gento Kamara recently undertook a pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia, Tuma Jabbie was in England attending social engagements. When contacted for comment on the status of their relationship, Mohamed Gento Kamara reportedly reaffirmed that they were no longer together.

“I am no longer with Tuma. We have been separated since November 2024,” Mohamed Gento Kamara reportedly stated.

When further questioned about ongoing social media discussions concerning their relationship, Mohamed Gento Kamara reportedly reiterated that the separation had remained in place since November 2024 and that there had been no change in their status.

However, sources close to Mohamed Gento Kamara insist that the facts remain unchanged, maintaining that Mohamed Gento Kamara and Tuma Jabbie have been living separately since their reported separation in November 2024, contrary to claims contained in the recent social media post. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/reports-indicate-mohamed-gento-kamara-and-tuma-jabbie-have-been-living-separately-since-november-2024/

By Ibrahim Sesay

An erroneous social media post that was circulating regarding businessman Mohamed Gento Kamara and Tuma Jabbie is being debunked by information from sources close to Mohamed Gento Kamara, who maintain that the two have not been together since November 2024 and have been living separate lives ever since.

According to information available in the public domain, the separation became apparent in November 2024 when Tuma Jabbie reportedly lodged a complaint at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Headquarters, alleging that she had been denied access to Mohamed Gento Kamara’s residence. Reports indicate that police officers subsequently accompanied Tuma Jabbie to the premises. However, Mohamed Gento Kamara reportedly informed them that they were no longer living together and denied entry to his residence.

Following the incident, Mohamed Gento Kamara was invited to the CID Headquarters, where he reportedly honoured the invitation and provided a statement. Sources familiar with the matter stated that he was accompanied by his legal representatives from Yada Williams & Associates.

Since that time, sources close to Mohamed Gento Kamara have maintained that both parties have continued to reside separately at different locations, insisting that the separation has remained unchanged since November 2024. The sources further contend that recent social media narratives suggesting otherwise do not reflect the reality of the situation.

Reports also indicate that while Mohamed Gento Kamara recently undertook a pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia, Tuma Jabbie was in England attending social engagements. When contacted for comment on the status of their relationship, Mohamed Gento Kamara reportedly reaffirmed that they were no longer together.

“I am no longer with Tuma. We have been separated since November 2024,” Mohamed Gento Kamara reportedly stated.

When further questioned about ongoing social media discussions concerning their relationship, Mohamed Gento Kamara reportedly reiterated that the separation had remained in place since November 2024 and that there had been no change in their status.

However, sources close to Mohamed Gento Kamara insist that the facts remain unchanged, maintaining that Mohamed Gento Kamara and Tuma Jabbie have been living separately since their reported separation in November 2024, contrary to claims contained in the recent social media post. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/reports-indicate-mohamed-gento-kamara-and-tuma-jabbie-have-been-living-separately-since-november-2024/