By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh has urged discipline, unity and mutual respect among Sierra Leone’s intending pilgrims as they prepare for the 2026 Hajj, during a pre-departure orientation held at the Gaddafi Mosque.

The two-day orientation programme, which ended on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, brought together over 800 pilgrims from across the country. The initiative was designed to equip participants with essential knowledge on the spiritual, physical and medical requirements of the pilgrimage, while also providing practical guidance to ensure a smooth and successful journey.

Addressing the gathering, Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh commended the Presidential Hajj Task Force and mosque authorities for what he described as excellent arrangements. He noted that the venue provided a conducive environment for learning and preparation, reflecting the Government’s commitment to improving the Hajj process.

Since 2018, the Vice President stated, the Government has taken deliberate steps to reform Hajj management, expand access and address longstanding challenges faced by pilgrims. Those efforts, he said, are aimed at ensuring that more Sierra Leoneans are given the opportunity to fulfil one of Islam’s most sacred obligations.

“We want more Sierra Leoneans to have the opportunity to perform Hajj,” he emphasized, highlighting ongoing improvements in logistics and coordination.

He urged the pilgrims to uphold discipline throughout the journey, stressing the importance of adhering strictly to guidelines provided by officials. According to him, unity among pilgrims remains critical, particularly in the Holy Land where equality and shared purpose define the experience.

“You must stay united and follow all the directions provided to you,” he advised, reminding them that all pilgrims are equal regardless of status or background.

The Vice President also called on younger pilgrims to support the elderly and vulnerable, encouraging a spirit of cooperation and compassion. He urged participants to approach the pilgrimage with humility and patience, noting that the journey is not only physical but deeply spiritual.

“You are going to seek forgiveness, so treat each other with respect and avoid complaints,” he added.

Also speaking at the event, Saudi Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Saud Al Musaed, praised the longstanding relations between Sierra Leone and Saudi Arabia, describing the Hajj as a symbol of unity and shared faith among Muslims worldwide. He offered prayers for a successful pilgrimage and commended both Governments for their continued cooperation.

“We pray that Allah accepts your Hajj,” he said, while urging pilgrims to remain patient and disciplined and to comply with all regulations to ensure a safe journey.

Deputy Minister of Social Welfare, Mohamed Haji Kella, also lauded the Vice President’s leadership in overseeing the Hajj process. He revealed that more than 7,600 Sierra Leoneans have successfully undertaken the pilgrimage since 2018, attributing that progress to sustained Government commitment and effective coordination.

He described the Vice President as dedicated and results-driven, while acknowledging the support of Saudi authorities and other stakeholders in facilitating the annual pilgrimage.

On behalf of the intending pilgrims, Alpha Wurie delivered a vote of thanks, expressing appreciation to the Government and the Presidential Task Force for organizing what he described as a productive and impactful orientation programme. He noted that participants had gained valuable insights into the rituals and responsibilities associated with the Hajj.

Alpha Wurie further assured authorities that the pilgrims would adhere to all protocols and apply the knowledge acquired throughout their journey.

The orientation programme forms part of final preparations for the departure of Sierra Leonean pilgrims, expected to commence in mid-May. Authorities have confirmed that arrangements for accommodation, transportation and welfare have been put in place to ensure a seamless experience.

The Government continues to prioritize improved access to the pilgrimage while emphasizing the need for discipline, order and proper conduct, as Sierra Leoneans join millions of Muslims from around the world in fulfilling an important religious obligation. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/vp-urges-discipline-and-unity-at-pre-departure-orientation-as-800-pilgrims-prepare-for-hajj/

By Ibrahim Sesay 

Stakeholders in community finance and rural development have called for stronger collaboration, digitization and sustainability of Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs) in Sierra Leone during a one-day conference held at the Atlantic Lumley Hotel in Freetown.

The conference, held on May 6, 2026, was organized by Woord en Daad in partnership with Solidaridad Sierra Leone, World Vision International and Cotton Tree Foundation.

Delivering the opening statement on behalf of Woord en Daad, Thomas Momoh Bokarie said the conference was aimed at bringing together stakeholders, practitioners and community members to reflect on the progress of VSLA initiatives and explore ways of strengthening financial inclusion and economic resilience across communities.

“This gathering provides an important platform for stakeholders, practitioners and community members to reflect on the progress of VSLA initiatives, share experiences and explore practical ways to strengthen financial inclusion and economic resilience across our communities,” he said.

A major highlight of the conference was the presentation of findings from a baseline study on VSLAs in Sierra Leone by Pascal Ooms, Senior Grant Advisor and Business Developer/Strategic Advisor for West Africa at Woord en Daad.

According to the report, the study mapped 979 VSLA groups with a total membership of 33,826 people across Sierra Leone, including 23,311 women and 10,515 men. The report also revealed that 14,538 members, representing 43 percent, were youths below the age of 35.

The study described VSLAs as community-based microfinance groups that enable members to collectively save money, access small loans and receive emergency support without relying on formal banking institutions.

Speaking to journalists, Pascal Ooms said the study was conducted to better understand the needs, challenges and future opportunities for VSLA groups in the country.

Pascal Ooms noted that one of the major findings of the study was the strong participation of women and youths in the VSLA movement.

“About 70 percent of these VSLAs consist of women and you also see women in leadership positions. We also found strong youth participation, as well as the inclusion of persons with disabilities, widow, and orphans,” he explained.

The report further indicated that many VSLA groups viewed themselves as effective and beneficial to members, particularly in supporting income-generating activities, farming and payment of school fees.

However, several challenges affecting the sustainability of the groups were identified which include low savings contributions, poor record keeping, loan defaults, leadership disputes, low meeting attendance, lack of training and dependence on external support.

The study also highlighted growing interest in digitalization among VSLA groups. Findings showed that 852 groups believed digital record keeping would be better than manual systems, while 912 groups expressed willingness to transition to digital bookkeeping.

“One of the surprising findings was that people are highly motivated to digitalize. Even though there is still some distrust in banks, many groups are willing to open bank accounts and even use mobile money services,” Pascal Ooms said.

The conference additionally explored the possibility of federating VSLA groups to strengthen cooperation and improve access to larger financial opportunities. Although awareness of VSLA federations remains low, many groups reportedly expressed willingness to collaborate with others if the benefits were clearly explained.

The report concluded that while many VSLA groups demonstrated strong self-management and sustainability, greater efforts were needed to reduce donor dependency, improve training and strengthen collaboration among organizations supporting community savings schemes.

Participants also discussed the need to develop a defined action plan and the next steps which would improve financial stability and enhance long-term sustainability of the groups in Sierra Leone. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/woord-en-daad-solidaridad-world-vision-cotton-tree-foundation-push-for-stronger-and-sustainable-vslas-in-sierra-leone/

By Foday Moriba Conteh

A 45-page booklet containing alleged email exchanges between businessman Abdul Kpaka and the deceased, Sia Fatu Kamara, has been admitted into evidence in the ongoing murder trial before Appeal Court Judge Justice Alfred Ganda. Abdul Kpaka, who is currently standing trial for allegedly killing his girlfriend in August 2024 and perverting the course of justice, has continued to deny any involvement in her death.

During proceedings on March 11, 2026, the defendant, who is serving as the first witness for the defense, informed the court that he and the deceased communicated regularly through WhatsApp, email, Messenger, iMessage and direct phone calls.

Following his testimony, Abdul Kpaka’s legal team sought to tender a 45-page booklet reportedly containing email conversations between the defendant and the deceased. According to the defense, the contents of the communications contradict earlier claims made by the prosecution.

However, the prosecution objected to the tendering of the booklet, citing concerns relating to procedure, authenticity and the absence of a primary source for the electronic evidence.

Lead Defense Counsel, E.T. Koroma, insisted that the document be admitted, describing the prosecution’s objections as vague and baseless.

After hearing arguments from both sides, Justice Ganda ruled that submission of the documents be temporarily suspended until the defendant’s mobile phone, which had earlier been confiscated by the police, was produced in court. The judge stated that the phone would enable all forms of communication referenced by the defendant to be presented comprehensively.

The matter was subsequently adjourned to March 25, 2026.

At the resumed hearing on March 25, officers attached to the Cyber Unit of the Criminal Investigation Department presented the defendant’s phone to the defense in open court, following an earlier court order directing that the device be returned to Abdul Kpaka for evidential purposes.

On the same date, the disputed 45-page booklet was officially admitted into evidence and marked as Exhibit LL 1-45. The court also indicated that additional electronic evidence extracted from the phone would be expected at the next hearing.

When the matter resumed again on April 29, 2026, the defense requested the assistance of the court’s ICT department to display videos they claimed were attached to the email evidence already before the court.

According to the defense, the videos, audios and messages would provide insight into the nature of the relationship between Abdul Kpaka and the deceased, details regarding the deceased’s alleged heart condition and how the defendant handled disagreements between them.

The defense further informed the court that the prosecution had already been served with the materials.

However, the prosecution objected to the airing of the videos in open court on three grounds: alleged inadequate service, failure of the earlier notice to specifically mention videos and audios and concerns regarding the primary source of the materials.

Responding to the objections, E.T. Koroma argued that the term “message” includes audio, video, text and picture formats. He explained that the hardcopy booklet already admitted into evidence contained electronic files that could not be viewed physically without digital access.

E.T. Koroma further cited provisions of the new Criminal Procedure Act supporting the admissibility of relevant electronic evidence in criminal proceedings.

After listening to both sides, Justice Ganda ruled that the mobile phone belonging to the deceased, Sia Fatu Kamara, be handed over to the defense to assist in verifying the authenticity of the videos and audio recordings.

The judge stated that if the materials are not found on the deceased’s phone, the court would determine its next course of action.

Since opening their defense, Kpaka’s legal team has made several significant applications aimed at challenging the prosecution’s case. These include requests for CCTV footage from the Emergency Hospital, access to the defendant’s phone, and the submission of lengthy electronic communications between the defendant and the deceased.

However, the requested CCTV footage was never produced. In its response to the court, the hospital stated that its surveillance system does not retain footage beyond 90 days, meaning the requested recordings were no longer available.

Reacting to the development, E.T. Koroma expressed frustration over what he described as the failure of investigators to secure such potentially critical evidence at the early stage of the investigation. He informed the court that the defense would address the issue at the appropriate time.

The matter has been adjourned to May 13, 2026, when further details of the electronic conversations are expected to be examined and subjected to cross-examination. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/defense-tenders-45-page-email-evidence-in-abdul-kpaka-murder-trial/

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

The Sierra Leone Urban Research Centre (SLURC) has concluded a two day Stakeholder Intervention Inception Workshop aimed at strengthening climate and health resilience in informal settlements across Freetown.

The workshop, held on Wednesday 6 and Thursday 7 May 2026 at New Sella’s Spot on Kingharman Road, brought together representatives from Government institutions, disaster management agencies, health authorities, community organizations and local residents to discuss collaborative strategies for addressing the growing impact of extreme weather events in vulnerable urban communities.

The initiative forms part of the Urban SHADE project, an acronym for Strengthening Responsiveness to Extreme Weather Events in Urban Settlements. The project focuses on understanding how climate change intensifies vulnerabilities in informal urban settlements and how institutions and communities can collectively improve preparedness and response mechanisms.

The intervention is being implemented through a partnership involving the Sierra Leone Urban Research Centre, the Institute of Gender and Children’s Health Research and the Centre of Dialogue for Human Settlement and Poverty Alleviation in collaboration with local health and governance actors.

Participants at the workshop included officials from the Ministry of Health, the Freetown City Council, the National Disaster Management Agency, the National Early Warning and Response Mechanism Coordinating Centre, the Sierra Leone Meteorological Agency, the National Fire Force, Community Disaster Management Committees, community health workers and co researchers from Moyiba, Susan’s Bay and Crab Town, Kolleh Town and Greybush (CKG).

Opening the workshop, Braima Koroma, Director of Research and Training, SLURC, stated that the gathering was not merely a workshop but a platform for collective action. He urged participants to contribute their experiences, expertise and institutional perspectives toward developing a strong collaborative framework capable of protecting lives and strengthening community resilience against climate related disasters.

He explained that the workshop marked a transition from the project’s formative research phase to the co design and implementation phase of interventions. According to him, discussions during the two day engagement would review findings from the previous years of research and establish priorities for future action.

He emphasized the importance of clarifying institutional responsibilities to improve preparedness and response during extreme weather events. He also highlighted the need for formal partnerships through memoranda of understanding, coordinated implementation strategies and mechanisms to sustain collaboration beyond the lifespan of the project.

Senior Researcher at the Sierra Leone Urban Research Centre, Dr. Abu Conteh, described the Urban SHADE initiative as a multidisciplinary participatory research project operating across three middle and low income countries.

He explained that the project seeks to understand how climate change intersects with existing social and economic vulnerabilities in informal settlements. Dr. Abu Conteh noted that affected communities have remained central to the research process from the beginning, with residents serving as co researchers involved in project design, field research and analysis.

According to him, the project has also engaged key urban stakeholders including disaster management agencies, meteorological authorities and public health institutions in order to develop a broader understanding of climate related risks from different institutional perspectives.

Dr. Abu Conteh described the inception workshop as the first in a series of science engagement activities that would focus on strengthening early warning systems, improving emergency response capacity and enhancing stakeholder collaboration in climate resilience efforts.

He stated that one of the primary objectives of the workshop was to identify areas of collaboration among stakeholders, clarify overlapping mandates, address institutional gaps and define how each institution could contribute effectively to resilience building in vulnerable communities.

Presenting findings from Phase One of the research, Dr. Desta Alie highlighted significant environmental and public health challenges affecting informal settlements in Moyiba, Susan’s Bay and CKG.

She reported that communities demonstrated considerable awareness of climate change and identified deforestation, blocked drainage systems and unregulated construction as major contributors to flooding, mudslides and heat related hazards.

Dr. Desta Alie stated that rapid urbanization and population growth had placed severe pressure on infrastructure development in those communities, worsening environmental degradation and increasing vulnerability to disasters.

The research also documented serious health impacts associated with extreme weather events. Communities identified outbreaks of cholera, diarrhea, typhoid and malaria following flooding incidents, alongside heat related illnesses, respiratory complications and psychosocial stress linked to displacement and disaster trauma.

In CKG, she noted that smoke pollution from nearby dumping and burning activities continues to create respiratory health risks for residents.

Dr. Desta Alie further disclosed that residents face major barriers in accessing healthcare services despite the existence of free healthcare policies. Findings revealed shortages of drugs and medical supplies, inadequate healthcare infrastructure overcrowded facilities and long travel distances for vulnerable populations including the elderly and persons with disabilities.

The research also identified gender related challenges, with many women reportedly avoiding healthcare facilities because of stigma and lack of specialized support services.

Beyond health concerns, Dr. Desta Alie explained that extreme weather events have devastated livelihoods through destruction of property, business losses, debt accumulation and loss of income generating opportunities, particularly for women.

She noted that some communities have developed local coping mechanisms, including savings initiatives operated through organizations such as FedUp, which support women transitioning away from hazardous activities like stone mining into small scale businesses.

The presentation further highlighted critical infrastructure and sanitation challenges, especially in CKG where residents live near one of Freetown’s largest dumpsites without access to proper waste disposal facilities.

Dr. Desta Alie pointed to weak enforcement of environmental and building regulations as a major obstacle to disaster prevention, attributing the problem to political barriers, overlapping institutional mandates and resource limitations.

Despite those challenges, she praised community led disaster management efforts in the affected settlements. According to her, local committees regularly organize drainage cleaning exercises, road maintenance, fire prevention activities and emergency fundraising initiatives to support vulnerable residents during disasters.

However, she warned that disaster response systems remain largely reactive rather than preventive, with communities lacking structured evacuation plans, emergency shelters, dedicated response vehicles and disability inclusive preparedness mechanisms.

The findings also revealed coordination challenges among stakeholders operating in the settlements, with many organizations reportedly implementing separate interventions without effective collaboration.

Dr. Desta Alie stressed that improved coordination between Government agencies, Non-Governmental Organizations and community groups would significantly increase the effectiveness of resilience building efforts.

The research further found that women, children, elderly people and persons with disabilities face disproportionate risks during disasters. Gender based vulnerabilities and social barriers often prevent women from seeking assistance, leaving many physical and emotional needs unaddressed during emergencies.

Speaking during an interview, Nancy Sesay from Susan’s Bay Community said the initiative has already begun creating meaningful impact through community engagement and disaster awareness activities.

She explained that many residents previously lacked training on hazard identification and disaster risk management but the project has improved her understanding of disaster prevention and community preparedness.

Nancy Sesay stressed the importance of acting before disasters occur, warning that delayed responses often worsen health and humanitarian conditions in vulnerable settlements.

She described flooding in Susan’s Bay as a severe and recurring threat, noting that during heavy rainfall residents elderly people and persons with disabilities, are forced to remain awake throughout the night to monitor rising water levels and alert neighbours to danger.

Participants at the workshop called for stronger partnerships, sustained investment in urban resilience and improved coordination among institutions to address the growing threats posed by climate change in Freetown’s informal settlements.

The workshop concluded with stakeholders reaffirming their commitment to strengthening collaboration, improving disaster preparedness and developing community driven interventions aimed at protecting vulnerable populations from the growing impact of climate change and extreme weather events in Freetown’s informal settlements. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/slurc-concludes-urban-shade-workshop-calls-for-coordinated-action-against-climate-threats-in-informal-settlements/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Office of National Security (ONS) has informed the public that Sierra Leone’s Security Sector has commenced preliminary investigations following recent international media reports concerning a cocaine seizure by Spanish Police involving a vessel that reportedly departed Freetown on 22 April 2026.

According to a Press Release issued by the ONS on Thursday 7th May 2026, the vessel, registered in the Comoros Islands, was intercepted by Spanish authorities while reportedly en route to the Mediterranean.

The release noted that despite the widespread media reports surrounding the incident, both the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority (SLPHA) and the Sierra Leone Police have not yet received any official communication from Spanish authorities regarding the matter.

However, the Security Sector emphasized that it has already initiated preliminary inquiries and inter-agency assessments aimed at establishing the facts surrounding the vessel, including its voyage history and movements through Sierra Leone’s ports.

“The Security Sector has already begun preliminary inquiries and inter-agency assessments to establish the facts surrounding the vessel, its voyage history and port movements,” the statement noted.

Authorities further disclosed that investigations are ongoing and that all necessary verification processes will be undertaken to determine the full circumstances surrounding the alleged drug trafficking case.

The Office of National Security reassured both the public and international partners that the issue is being treated with utmost seriousness and professionalism, stressing Sierra Leone’s continued commitment to combating transnational organized crime and maintaining international security standards.

“The Security Sector assures the public and international partners that this matter is being treated seriously and professionally,” the release stated, adding that Sierra Leone remains committed to upholding international security standards.

The ONS also encouraged members of the public with credible information relating to the matter to cooperate with investigators by contacting the Head of the Criminal Investigation Department on +232 78583069.

The development comes amid growing international concerns over drug trafficking networks operating across international waters and highlights the importance of stronger regional and global security cooperation in tackling organized crime. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/ons-begins-probe-into-reported-cocaine-seizure-linked-to-vessel-from-freetown/

By Mohamed Mattia

The embattled Director General of NASSIT, Mohamed Fuaad Daboh, is refusing to retire at 60, even though his institution is tasked with the sole responsibility of paying pension benefits to retirees of 60 and above.

Even though his age is being disputed, NASSIT records show that he turns 60 in July this year.

His unpremeditated approach to his work has led to NASSIT being on the brink of collapse. No viable investment project has been undertaken since Fuaad Daboh was appointed DG of NASSIT in 2018.

Some employees of NASSIT are praying day and night to see the back of Fuaad Daboh in order to save the scheme from collapsing.

The SLPP Government of Ahmad Tejan Kabbah established NASSIT in 2021. Since then, the NASSIT Act has not been reviewed.

It is estimated that about 25 percent of pensioners spend between six and ten months to get registered for payment of their pensions.

Many people have called on Mr Fuaad Daboh to retire peacefully in the interests of NASSIT and the SLPP led government. Their prayer is for NASSIT not to collapse under another SLPP leader.

Fuaad Daboh will officially turn 60 in July this year. He has been lucky to be catapulted to the enviable post of DG at NASSIT because of his Bo School connections. After almost eight years at the helm of affairs, he must retire honorably and give way to a new era of development at NASSIT. Lonta! https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/nassit-dg-turns-60its-time-to-go/

By Melvin Tejan Mansaray

Members of the Parliament of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) have commenced their 2026 First Ordinary Session in Abuja, Nigeria, as part of their statutory mandate to advance regional integration and democratic governance across West Africa.

The session, which runs from May 4 to May 16, 2026, was disclosed by the Secretary-General of the ECOWAS Parliament, Dedou P. Hémou. It brings together representatives from member states to deliberate on key regional issues, including peace, stability and institutional reforms within the sub-region.

Established in 2000, the ECOWAS Parliament serves as a legislative assembly and consultative body of the regional bloc. Originally composed of 115 members representing all 15 member states, the Parliament plays a central role in promoting democratic values, human rights and regional cooperation.

However, the cohesion of the bloc has recently been tested. In early 2025, Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger formally withdrew from ECOWAS following a series of military coups, raising concerns about the future of regional unity and cooperation.

According to Protocol A/P2/8/94 relating to the Community Parliament, the legislative body convenes at least twice a year in Ordinary Sessions, each lasting up to three months. These sessions are organized by the Bureau of Parliament and conducted in accordance with established Rules of Procedure.

In addition to Ordinary Sessions, the Parliament may hold Extraordinary Sessions to address urgent or specific matters. Such sessions can be initiated by the Chairman of the Authority or requested in writing by an absolute majority of Members. Proceedings during these sessions are similarly governed by procedural rules and conclude once the agenda has been fully addressed.

Addressing the opening ceremony, the Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, Hadja Memounatou Ibrahima, underscored the importance of stakeholder engagement in shaping the Parliament’s agenda. She noted that recent consultations across member states had provided valuable insights into local realities, which would inform deliberations during the session.

“These engagements enabled us to grasp local realities, listen to stakeholders, and prepare a coordinated parliamentary response. The reports from the meetings will be presented for your consideration and adoption during this Session,” she stated.

In her keynote address, Speaker Ibrahima delivered a strong message on the state of peace and security in West Africa, emphasizing that sustainable peace requires deliberate and collective effort.

“Peace cannot be decreed — it must be patiently built through dialogue, cooperation, and mutual respect,” she said, highlighting the increasing militarization of democracies in the region and the growing number of conflict flashpoints.

She warned that no region is immune to instability, stressing the need for ECOWAS and its institutions to reinforce peacebuilding mechanisms and promote inclusive governance among member states.

Speaker Ibrahima also revealed that ECOWAS is undertaking a comprehensive reflection on its future direction. As part of this effort, a major summit is scheduled for May 21, 2026, in Lomé, Togo.

The summit is expected to accelerate the implementation of ECOWAS Vision 2050, a strategic framework aimed at repositioning the bloc to effectively respond to emerging political, economic, and security challenges.

“This summit will provide an opportunity to redefine how regional integration — at the heart of our ambition — can be achieved, strengthened, and adapted to new realities,” she noted.

The ongoing session in Abuja comes at a pivotal time for West Africa, as the region grapples with political transitions, security concerns, and shifting geopolitical dynamics. Observers say the outcomes of the deliberations will be crucial in determining the future trajectory of regional cooperation and stability.

With pressing issues on the table and growing calls for reform, the ECOWAS Parliament is expected to play a decisive role in shaping policies that foster unity, resilience, and sustainable development across West Africa. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/peace-cannot-be-decreed-ecowas-speaker-warns-as-parliament-convenes-in-abuja/