Orange Foundation Sierra Leone, in partnership with the National Youth Commission (NaYCom), has certified 70 young women as digital professionals under the Women’s Digital Centre programme, marking another milestone in efforts to bridge the gender digital divide and strengthen Sierra Leone’s growing digital economy.

The graduation ceremony, held on Friday, 13 February 2026, at the Orange Digital Centre in Freetown, attracted senior Government officials, corporate executives, development partners and proud family members who gathered to celebrate the fifth cohort of the six-month training initiative.

Speaking at the event, Director of the Orange Foundation, Annie Wonnie Katta, disclosed that since the programme’s launch in 2021, more than 700 women have been trained across Freetown, Bo and Kenema. She noted that over 600 graduates are already transitioning into the workforce, equipped with practical digital and entrepreneurial skills.

According to her, participants underwent intensive training in computer applications, internet fundamentals, digital marketing, entrepreneurship, business management and online brand development. She further explained that recent advanced cohorts have expanded into specialized areas such as web development, 3D design, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.

Chief Executive Officer of Orange Sierra Leone, Aïcha Touré, emphasized the urgency of expanding digital inclusion, pointing out that only 5.7 percent of women in Sierra Leone are online compared to 11.4 percent of men. She described the graduating class as clear evidence that deliberate investment in women’s digital capacity can drive inclusive economic growth and reposition women as creators and innovators in the technology space.

Minister of Youth,  Ibrahim Sannoh, reaffirmed Government’s commitment to youth empowerment and digital transformation. He announced plans to pursue formal accreditation of the programme through the National Council for Technical, Vocational and Academic Awards, a move aimed at strengthening the credibility and national recognition of the certification. The Minister also encouraged the graduates to establish digital enterprises, promising ministerial recognition for outstanding early-stage innovators.

Commissioner of the National Youth Commission, Joseph Maada Lahai, stated that the initiative aligns with the objectives of the country’s Mid-Term National Development Plan, which prioritizes technology, innovation and human capital development. He pledged continued institutional support through mentorship programmes, internship opportunities, market access and financing pathways for beneficiaries.

Education sector representatives also highlighted ongoing reforms, including the establishment of technical universities offering Bachelor of Science degrees in technical disciplines, the development of a national cybersecurity curriculum and the introduction of Sierra Leone’s first micro-credential framework to formally recognize short-course certifications.

Graduates and alumni shared testimonials of personal transformation, citing improved employability, increased income opportunities and enhanced community impact as key outcomes of the programme.

Delivering remarks on behalf of the cohort, student representative, Judith Ansu, described the Digital Centre as “a gateway for ambition, confidence and leadership,” underscoring its role in advancing gender equality and national development.

With collaboration between Orange Foundation and Government partners continuing to deepen, stakeholders say the Women’s Digital Centre initiative is emerging as a scalable model for closing the gender digital gap and building a more inclusive, innovation-driven future for Sierra Leone.

  https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/orange-foundation-naycom-certify-70-young-women-to-boost-sierra-leones-digital-economy/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Vice President of Sierra Leone, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, on Tuesday, 17 February 2026, met with the Regional Director of UN Women for West and Central Africa, Dr. Maxime Houinato, during the latter’s first official visit to the country in his current capacity.

The meeting provided an opportunity for both leaders to reconnect and reflect on their longstanding professional relationship, which dates back to their time serving together with the United Nations in Mali. Their engagement also focused on assessing regional progress and examining the socio-political challenges shaping West and Central Africa today.

Speaking after the meeting, Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh described the engagement as a meaningful exchange of ideas and experiences. He noted that it was particularly encouraging to hear Dr. Maxime Houinato recognize Sierra Leone as a model in advancing women’s empowerment and gender equality within the region.

Central to their discussions was the implementation and impact of Sierra Leone’s Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Act. The landmark legislation mandates a minimum 30 percent quota for women in elective and appointive positions, a significant step toward addressing gender disparities in leadership and decision-making.

The Vice President highlighted the importance of ensuring that the provisions of the GEWE Act translate into tangible improvements in the lives of women and girls across the country. He referenced the upcoming national women’s dialogue series being organized by his Office in collaboration with the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs.

The dialogue is expected to assess the implementation of the GEWE Act and collaboratively identify concrete actions to strengthen its impact. According to the Vice President, the initiative will produce a practical roadmap aimed at ensuring that the lived experiences of women align with the aspirations and objectives of the legislation.

Dr. Maxime Houinato arrived in Sierra Leone on 16 February for a five-day official mission scheduled to run until 21 February 2026. The visit was aimed at strengthening high-level partnerships between UN Women, the Government of Sierra Leone and development partners to accelerate progress on gender equality and women’s empowerment.

During his stay, the UN Women Regional Director met with His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio, selected Cabinet Ministers, members of the Diplomatic Corps and key stakeholders in the women’s rights movement. He also engaged with Civil Society Organizations, women leaders and youth activists to gain firsthand insight into their experiences, challenges and aspirations.

The visit culminated in a series of discussions with policymakers and development partners in Freetown and across the districts, bringing together actors from multiple sectors to explore practical solutions for gender-responsive development.

“This mission reaffirms UN Women’s commitment to ensuring that all women and girls in Sierra Leone can live free from violence, lead in public life and thrive economically,” Dr. Maxime Houinato stated during his visit.

Dr. Maxime Houinato previously visited Sierra Leone about a decade ago in a different capacity before his appointment as Regional Director. His mission signaled renewed efforts to fast-track partnerships, consolidate gains made under the GEWE Act and further advance gender equality initiatives in Sierra Leone. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/vice-president-reconnects-with-un-women-regional-director-reaffirms-commitment-to-gender-equality/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, joined Muslim worshippers at the Pujehun Central Mosque for the first Jummah prayer of the Holy Month of Ramadan on Friday, February 20, 2026, marking the beginning of the sacred fasting period with prayers for peace, unity and national progress.

His visit to the district coincided with the symbolic first Friday of Ramadan, a moment regarded by many Muslims as spiritually significant in setting the tone for the month of fasting, reflection and charity. On arrival in Pujehun, the Vice President was received with a Quarter Guard mounted by the 14 Infantry Battalion before proceeding to the mosque, where he was welcomed by religious leaders, elders and local authorities.

Inside the mosque,  Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh joined hundreds of worshippers ahead of the Khutbah. The Imam’s sermon focused on patience, discipline, compassion and unity, urging the faithful to use Ramadan as a period of self-examination and service to humanity. The congregation observed the prayer in a solemn and reflective atmosphere, underscoring the spiritual importance attached to the first Jummah of the holy month.

Following the prayer, the Vice President briefly addressed the congregation, calling on citizens across Sierra Leone to uphold peace and demonstrate kindness throughout the fasting period. He encouraged Muslims to extend support to the less privileged and to strengthen bonds within their families and communities. He also appealed for continued prayers for the nation and for divine guidance for leaders entrusted with advancing Sierra Leone’s development agenda, stressing that unity and collective responsibility remain essential for sustained stability and progress.

Ramadan, one of the Five Pillars of Islam, is observed by Muslims worldwide through daily fasting from dawn to sunset, increased devotion, charity and acts of goodwill. The first Friday prayer of the month traditionally draws large participation and heightened spiritual reflection.

In another development, Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh addressed grassroots supporters of the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) in Pujehun District following a successful engagement with the Council of Paramount Chiefs, as part of his mandate under Sierra Leone’s Local Government framework and his role as Chairman of the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Decentralization.

Speaking to a large gathering, he thanked residents for their turnout and explained that his visit was aimed at consulting key stakeholders ahead of a broader official engagement with the District Council and the Council of Paramount Chiefs expected before June. He noted that discussions would centre on decentralization efforts and a national development project supported by the World Bank under the leadership of President Julius Maada Bio.

The Vice President expressed appreciation for the district’s continued support for President Bio and the party, particularly during the recent lower-level elections, emphasizing that the contest was now over. He urged supporters to maintain unity and pursue political engagement in a lawful and peaceful manner, reminding them that national development must remain the shared priority.

Highlighting Government achievements, Dr.Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh pointed to the completion of the Bo–Pujehun road network, describing it as a transformative intervention that has improved transportation, enhanced trade and boosted economic activity within the district and beyond. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/vice-president-observes-first-ramadan-jummah-in-pujehun-engages-slpp-grassroots-on-decentralization-agenda/

Orange Money has rewarded the final batch of winners under its nationwide “Sober Kaiba” promotional campaign and simultaneously launched a new Ramadan Promotion aimed at supporting customers while accelerating the adoption of digital financial services across the country.

At a well-attended prize-giving ceremony held on Thursday, 19 February 2026, the mobile financial service provider presented a range of high-value prizes to deserving customers. The awards included solar panels, two generators, five motorbikes and one tricycle. Beneficiaries emerged based on their level of transaction activity throughout the duration of the campaign.

The “Sober Kaiba” promotion, which commenced in October 2025, was designed to encourage customers to make greater use of Orange Money’s digital payment, transfer and merchant services. Participants were automatically entered into periodic prize draws by actively transacting on the platform, reinforcing the company’s drive to promote a cash-lite economy.

Speaking at the ceremony, Orange Money Chief Executive Officer, David Mansaray, commended customers for their loyalty and consistent engagement with the platform. He stated that the campaign forms part of Orange Money’s broader strategy to enhance customer experience, build trust and deepen financial inclusion nationwide.

He emphasized that regular use of mobile money services provides greater convenience, efficiency and security for users, while also contributing to the development of an accessible and inclusive financial ecosystem in Sierra Leone.

“Our customers remain at the heart of everything we do. Through initiatives like Sober Kaiba, we are not only rewarding loyalty but also encouraging the use of safe and reliable digital financial solutions that empower individuals and businesses,” David Mansaray said.

Most of the winners attended the event in person to receive their prizes. Among them was Elizabeth Marrah, who won the tricycle. She travelled from Makeni to Freetown after initially expressing skepticism about the authenticity of the congratulatory message she received.

“With this tricycle, I can improve my livelihood and support my family,” Elizabeth Marrah said, describing the prize as life-changing. She added that the experience has strengthened her confidence in Orange Money’s services.

Building on the success of the Sober Kaiba campaign, Orange Money used the occasion to unveil its Ramadan Promotion, strategically aligned with the Muslim Holy Month. The new initiative is structured to provide both economic relief and business incentives during the fasting period.

Under the Ramadan Promotion, five motorbike or tricycle riders will receive 30 litres of fuel weekly, offering practical support to transport operators whose earnings sustain many households. In addition, business owners will have the opportunity to win Le50,000 in cash.

To qualify, merchants must receive payments through their Kotoku accounts or via their registered merchant codes, thereby promoting digital payment adoption among small and medium-sized enterprises. Beyond fuel and cash rewards, selected participants will also receive food items during Ramadan as part of the company’s community support outreach.

Company representatives noted that the Ramadan Promotion underscores Orange Money’s commitment to social responsibility while advancing the use of secure and efficient digital payment solutions.

Orange Money reaffirmed that mobile financial services continue to play a critical role in Sierra Leone’s economy, particularly for small-scale traders, transport operators and individuals who rely on fast, safe and convenient digital transactions.

Through sustained customer reward initiatives and seasonal campaigns, the company says it remains focused on strengthening trust in digital finance and expanding access to financial services across both urban and rural communities nationwide. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/orange-money-rewards-final-sober-kaiba-winners-launches-nationwide-ramadan-promotion/

Royal Fitness is steadily redefining modern fitness culture in the capital, positioning itself as one of the country’s leading health and wellness centres through a blend of premium facilities, professional coaching and a strong community-driven approach to healthy living.

Strategically located along the Peninsular Highway in Juba, the facility has become a preferred destination for professionals, athletes, lifestyle enthusiasts and beginners seeking a structured and internationally aligned workout experience. Its growing public reputation is reflected in a 4.5-star rating on Google from dozens of reviews, with members frequently commending the gym’s cleanliness, modern layout, high-quality equipment and attentive customer service.

Industry observers note that Royal Fitness distinguishes itself through a holistic operational model that extends beyond conventional gym routines. The centre offers strength and weight training, functional workouts, cardiovascular programmes, group exercise sessions and recovery-focused routines such as stretching and flexibility training. This inclusive structure allows members across varying fitness levels to pursue personalized goals within a single, well-coordinated environment.

The gym has also established a strong digital presence, particularly on Instagram, where it has amassed more than 17,000 followers. Branded under the theme: “Where strength meets rhythm,” Royal Fitness integrates music-driven workouts and high-energy sessions, often featuring international DJs, to create an engaging atmosphere that resonates strongly with younger urban audiences. That fusion of fitness and entertainment has contributed significantly to its growing brand appeal.

Management places a premium on professionalism and consistency. Certified instructors and fitness coaches work closely with members to develop structured programmes aimed at improving strength, endurance, flexibility and overall wellbeing. Many clients attribute their lifestyle transformation and improved discipline to the gym’s supportive environment and systematic coaching methods.

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

In response to rising health consciousness across Sierra Leone, the gym has announced an ambitious 2026 wellness drive focused on addressing lifestyle-related diseases through structured physical training, professional supervision and nutrition-based guidance. Management says the initiative is designed to reposition the facility as a comprehensive wellness hub that promotes long-term health outcomes rather than short-term aesthetic gains.

A spokesperson for the centre explained that sustainable wellness is achieved when physical training, mental discipline and proper nutrition work in harmony. As part of that vision, Royal Fitness has expanded its services to include nutrition and diet counselling, ensuring that members receive integrated support to enhance performance and overall health.

The facility is equipped with internationally recognized fitness brands, including Technogym and Panatta of Italy, as well as Arsenal Strength from the United States; reinforcing its commitment to global standards in performance, safety and durability.

With more Sierra Leoneans prioritizing preventive healthcare and active lifestyles, Royal Fitness stands out as a leading force in the country’s evolving wellness movement. The centre proves that high-quality, professionally guided fitness services can be delivered locally while aligning with international standards of excellence.

For membership and registration enquiries, Royal Fitness can be contacted on (+232) 90 001000. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/royal-fitness-emerges-as-freetowns-premier-hub-for-modern-professional-fitness/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Pee Cee & Sons Ltd has on January 19, 2026 issued an official public notice distancing itself from a fraudulent online message circulating on social media platforms, particularly WhatsApp, falsely claiming that individuals can receive money using the company’s name.

In a statement released by its Management on Tuesday, the company categorically denied any involvement in the promotion, describing the circulating message as “false and fraudulent.”

The notice clarified that Pee Cee & Sons Ltd does not conduct promotions, giveaways or financial reward schemes through WhatsApp links or unfamiliar websites. Management warned members of the public to exercise caution and avoid clicking on suspicious links or sharing personal information with unknown sources.

“We do not run promotions or giveaways through WhatsApp links or unknown websites,” the statement emphasized. “Please do not click on any links or share personal information. We urge the public to report the message on WhatsApp and delete it immediately.”

The company further stated that it will not be held liable for any losses incurred as a result of the scam.

The Management’s alert comes amid a rise in online impersonation schemes targeting reputable businesses in Sierra Leone. Cybercriminals often exploit the names and brands of established companies to deceive unsuspecting members of the public into disclosing sensitive personal or financial information.

Pee Cee & Sons Ltd, a longstanding importer, distributor and wholesaler established in 1965, reiterated its commitment to transparency and responsible corporate conduct. The company is encouraging customers and partners to verify any promotional information through its official communication channels.

Authorities have consistently advised the public to remain vigilant against online scams and to report suspicious activities to relevant platforms and law enforcement agencies.

Members of the public are urged to treat unsolicited financial offers with caution and to confirm the authenticity of any promotion directly with the company involved before taking action. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/pee-cee-sons-ltd-issues-public-scam-alert-disowns-fraudulent-online-promotion/

In a strong demonstration of international confidence in Sierra Leone’s civil registration and identity management systems, the Director General of the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA), Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi, on Thursday 19th February 2026, hosted two high-level delegations from UNICEF and the British High Commission’s Home Office International Operations.

The back-to-back engagements underscored growing global support for Sierra Leone’s ongoing reforms in Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (CRVS), as well as renewed commitment to ensuring legal identity for all citizens.

The first meeting saw the newly appointed UNICEF Chief Child Protection Officer, Patrick Halton, pay a courtesy visit to the NCRA Director General. Marking his first official assignment in West Africa, Patrick Halton expressed strong enthusiasm for deepening collaboration with the Authority, particularly in accelerating birth registration and strengthening child protection systems through secure legal identity frameworks.

He commended Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi for his leadership role in advancing CRVS systems across the continent, describing him as a “chief champion” of civil registration reforms in Africa. Patrick Halton reaffirmed UNICEF’s commitment to supporting initiatives that safeguard children’s rights through comprehensive and accessible birth certification processes.

In response, the NCRA Director General acknowledged UNICEF’s longstanding partnership and pivotal contributions to strengthening Sierra Leone’s civil registration systems. He highlighted UNICEF’s support for the recent nationwide birth certificate campaign launched in November and ongoing legislative review efforts aimed at addressing historical overlaps and institutional conflicts among agencies performing related functions.

Discussions between the two sides focused on key priority areas for enhanced cooperation, including sustained resource mobilization, continuation of mass birth registration drives, targeted public awareness campaigns and capacity building within relevant institutions. Both parties agreed that expanding access to birth registration remains essential to protecting children’s rights and ensuring their access to education, healthcare and social protection services.

Later that same day, a delegation from the British High Commission’s Home Office International Operations engaged the NCRA Director General in discussions aimed at strengthening collaboration on identity verification processes.

The talks centred on the secure and responsible verification of birth, marriage and national identity records; processes that are critical for migration management, consular services and broader governance objectives. Both sides explored mechanisms for granting controlled access to NCRA data for authorized applicants, while placing utmost emphasis on safeguarding citizens’ data privacy and protection.

The engagement reflected a shared commitment to building robust and trustworthy identity systems that balance operational efficiency with the highest standards of data security and personal privacy.

Observers note that those high-level visits signal increasing international confidence in Sierra Leone’s civil registration reforms and the NCRA’s central role in delivering reliable legal identity services. The strengthened bilateral and multilateral partnerships are expected to support the country’s drive toward universal birth registration, enhanced child protection and inclusive identity management systems that align with both national development priorities and international best practices.

Welcoming both delegations, Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi reiterated that reliable civil registration remains foundational to good governance, social protection, economic inclusion and the full realization of citizens’ fundamental rights.

He emphasized that the NCRA remains committed to transparency, institutional collaboration and continuous reform to ensure that every Sierra Leonean is legally recognized and protected under the law. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/unicef-british-high-commission-delegation-engages-ncra-dg-on-identity-verification-and-data-access/