TRAILBLAZER JFK CONTINUES TO WOW AND SHINE!

*Trailblazer JFK Continues to Wow and Shine*‼

By Ranger

An additional accolade has been added to Sierra Leone’s most renowned personality tipped to take up after President Ernest Bai Koroma, Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara otherwise known and called JFK.

It could be recalled that just recently, JFK was nominated and awarded Best Minister of the Year 2016 by none other than the famous Diaspora Focus group at an auspicious and well-attended ceremony in Freetown.

*Saturday 24th December, 2016, Big Brothers and Big Sisters (BBBS) Sierra Leone and FOMAK held a joggatainment which featured JFK and many other prominent personalities. Then on Sunday 25th December, 2016 (Christmas Day) a programme ‘Feed and Clothe the Needy’ would be staged by Big Brothers and Big Sisters (BBBS) Sierra Leone and FOMAK in collaboration with JFK. Then on Monday 26th   December, 2016, all fans, friends, supporters join the Big Brothers and Big Sisters (BBBS) Sierra Leone and FOMAK to carnival alongside JFK. All of these activities are in Makeni, one of Sierra Leone’s favorite cities.*

An astute reformer, JFK the former ACC boss who had the highest number of successful prosecutions against high flying personalities officials has in a relatively short period served as head of the Judicial system and instituted much-needed reforms in court management including the appointment and deployment of new magistrates and judges across the country and making the Judicial service attractive.
He is also credited with setting up of the Legal Aid Board which has brought justice and freedom to hundreds of accused persons who had been languishing in prisons across the country without bail, fair trial and wrongly imprisoned in most cases.

JFK is committed to ensuring that justice delivery at all levels is credible and acceptable. Together with his hard working Chief Justice, the Justice Ministry is better positioned to improve on its human resource capacity at the local courts, where 90% and more of litigations among ordinary people take place.

This advancement has seen all the country’s recognized local courts furnished with trained and qualified legal officials. In the process, 1, 400 new jobs in line with the Agenda for Prosperity goal of reducing unemployment is being created.

Alongside the above progressive legal reform developments, the Justice Ministry continues work on criminal procedure reform, rights-based bail and sentencing management and transformation of the Law Officers Department into a modern well resourced entity with sufficient qualified staff to expedite prosecution and drafting of timely opinions on government matters.   

JFK is one of the youngest individuals to hold this enviable position in recent time. Prior to his appointment, Mr. Kamara headed the Anti Corruption Commission (ACC) where he succeeded in establishing a robust anti-corruption regime.

Before he left the ACC as Commissioner, JFK succeeded in lifting Sierra Leone’s anti-corruption profile from the bottom position of 134 in 2010 to 119 in 2015 in the Transparency International Corruption Perception Index.

A member of the African Union Board on Anti-Corruption, he has over 25 years experience at the Bar; after graduating from Fourah Bay College (FBC), University of Sierra Leone (USL) in 1989 with an LLB (Hons).

He worked for the Government of Sierra Leone as State Prosecutor following his call to the Bar in 1990.

The Honorable Attorney General and Minister of Justice did his post-graduate studies in Law at the Southern Methodist University, Texas. JFK has a wealth of international experience as a promoter and defender of human rights.

Following the end of the civil war in Sierra Leone, JFK was appointed Deputy Prosecutor of the Special Court Sierra Leone, which tried perpetrators for war crimes. During this period, he successfully prosecuted leaders of various factions of the civil conflict including the former President of Liberia Charles Ghankay Taylor. His contribution to international jurisprudence with regards crimes against humanity has been well documented.

An avid educationist, JFK has lectured various subjects including International Criminal Law and Corporate Business Law in Sierra Leone. JFK is passionate about expanding the boundaries of human rights’ protection and improving access to justice particularly for vulnerable groups like women and children in this country.

Following his appointment as Attorney General and Minister of Justice, he has worked closely with the Legal Aid Board - Sierra Leone to provide legal assistance to many Sierra Leoneans. Over 1,500 cases have been dealt with leading to the release of hundreds of inmates. He is presently seeking support from donor partners and civil society stakeholders to repeal and modernize certain outdated laws which undermine fundamental freedoms including freedom of expression and human rights.

*Foremost among his list of achievements are:*

· Former President of the Sierra Leone Bar Association;

· Winner of the World Bank Integrity Award 2010;

· Joint winner of the International Association of Prosecutors Award in recognition for promoting International Criminal Justice;

· Avon International Award Winner in recognition of support for Women’s Rights and; former First Vice President of the West African Bar Association.

*JFK in a public function wished President Ernest Bai Koroma, Vice President Victor Bockarie Foh, Colleagues, Government Officials, supporters, fans and admirers a Merry Christmas and Prosperous New Year. May God continue to guide and excel him in all his endeavors.*                                                                                   ~*Feel free to share after reading*~

LAB SECURE DISCHARGE OF 12 YEAR OLD

*LAB secures discharge of 12 year old*

By Ranger

The legal aid board secured the discharge of a fourteen year boy from Tombo  because he is under the age for criminal prosecution. The boy who is a primary school from Tombo was charged with wounding with intent as a result of a fist fight with another boy from the same village.

He was arrested on 3 November 2016 and taken to the Family Support Unit of the Tombo Police Staion where he was detained for five days before the matter was charged to court. 

The matter was heard thrice at the Magistrate Court in Waterloo before it was remitted to the Juvenile Court, Court No. 8.

The Social Worker with Defence for Children International (DCI), Joseph Turay who had been monitoring the case from the outset brought it to the attention of the Legal Aid Board. According to Joseph the offence was never attentional. He said the parents of the victim were never interested in proceeding with the matter hence their failure to appear in court to testify in the matter.

On 15 December 2016, the Juvenile Lawyer for the legal Aid Board, Joel Deen-Tarawally made an application for discharge of the case based on the fact that the offender is twelve years old and therefore under the age of criminal prosecution. The application was granted by Magistrate Otto During.

Reacting to the case, the Executive Director of the Legal Aid Board said the child should not have been charged to court in the first place. ‘This is why we will be training the police across the country to stop this from happening in the first place,’ she said. ‘Some of these issues could be handled by structures within the community.

The Citizens Advisory Bureau in Tombo will be up and running soon. It will be handling some of these matters.’

SLMA BEGINS PLACEMENT OF S/LEONEAN SEAFARERS ONBOARD VESSELS

SLMA Begins Placement of S/Leonean Seafarers Onboard Vessels‼

By Ranger

The Executive Director Sierra Leone Maritime Administration (SLMA), Alhaji Wurror Jalloh, has confirmed that the SLMA has started what he described as Ship Registry and Placement of Sierra Leonean seafarers onboard local and foreign vessels.

According to him, the reason for this latest innovation is to ensure that registered ships plying Sierra Leone waters comply with the country’s Maritime regulations among other things.

Alhaji Wurroh Jalloh maintained among other things that the intervention is to create jobs for qualified Sierra Leoneans while at the same time the SLMA would offer support and provide training for those qualified and registered to serve as would-be cadets onboard local and foreign sea vessels.

Alhaji Jalloh maintained that currently the SLMA is sponsoring a number of students studying at the Regional Maritime University in Accra, Ghana. He added that the SLMA is also in the process of engaging recruiting agencies abroad for the same purpose, while ensuring that all those who would eventually assist the SLMA in this direction would be of high integrity and compliant with international seafarer standards.

According to Alhaji Jalloh, two qualified and trained Sierra Leoneans have already gained placements onboard sea vessels and are expected to leave the shores of the country soon, adding that he is working assiduously to ensure that the glorious days of seamen and seafaring are returned to the country. He maintained that he would need the assistance of all and sundry and especially the Sierra Leone Seaman’s Union to do this.

He added that because the Sierra Leone Seaman’s Union is of much importance, the SLMA facilitated its formation in order for it to serve as the union which will serve as the institution through which all potential seamen and seafarers would register for onward training and deployment of trained and qualified seafarers, adding that the SLMA is prepared to work with this Union to ensure the total success of this program.

VICE PRESIDENT VICTOR FOH LAUNCHES NEW SALONE BEER 60cl

VP Foh Launches New Salone Beer 60cl

By Ranger

Vice President Victor Foh deputizing His Excellency President Koroma on Tuesday 20th December 2016 officially launched the new Salone 60 cl Beer.

Speaking at the ceremony at the Sierra Leone Brewery Company complex in Wellington, VP Foh apologized for the President’s unavoidable absence and read on his behalf a prepared speech in which President Koroma wished the company and the industry all the good things that they wish for themselves and the country.

President Koroma commended SLBL for utilizing the Local Content Policy; adding that production here of a 100% sorghum beer is impressive. He assured sorghum farmers of government’s support to meet Brewery’s demand. He noted that expanded sorghum production among other things will help to alleviate poverty in the rural areas.

He spoke of brewery’s contribution to value-added activities in the country which has helped the country to record renewed growth through private sector participation.

The Deputy Minister of Trade, Mohamed ‘Washinga’ Mansaray, spoke of the need for an MoU with the ministry to enhance sorghum production in the country. He mentioned marketing, high yielding seeds and land preparation and post-harvest loss; services the ministry can help the sorghum farmers with as he highlighted government’s role in promoting agriculture.

The Deputy Minister 11, Hon. Lovell Thomas spoke of the President’s mandate for the private sector to produce here.
Chairman of the Sorghum Farmers Association, Denis Jusu, gave the history of the association’s formation in Kambia in 2006 and its expansion to cover the entire country with a membership of 9, 000 to 10, 000 out-growers.

He thanked President Koroma and his government for providing the enabling climate and his commitment to the agricultural sector; especially to sorghum and cassava farmers and enactment of the 2016 Finance Act which gives protection and incentive to local producers.

Managing Director of SLBL, Willy Alphonse Ngana, called the launching a remarkable day; a day that they fulfil a promise made to His Excellency President Koroma in Amsterdam, Holland in 2014. The launching he said was SLBL’s commitment to the growth and development of the nation.

The event also witnessed a combination of various achievements which include showcasing and commissioning of the new state-of-the-art Mash filter, a new Waste Water Treatment Plant and launching of the 100% sorghum Salone Beer.

He thanked President Koroma and his government for creating the enabling environment for local industries to thrive; noting that this demonstrates that the private sector can work in synergy with the government for the growth of the nation.

The speeches were preceded by a tour of the Brewery, commissioning of the Brew House/Mash Filter, Commissioning of the Waste Water Treatment Plant and the Clinic.

Other speakers at the ceremony included the Deputy Speaker of the House of Parliament, Hon. Chernoh Bah; Minister of Political Affairs, Madam Nanette Thomas; Minister of State, Vice President’s Office, Hon. Alie Bah; Chief of Staff, State House, Saidu Conton Sesay. The program was chaired by Special Adviser to the President, Hon. Alpha Khan.

After the unveiling of the new Salone Beer, sampling of the product was done with former NPRC junta leader, Chairman Valentine Strasser.

The vote of thanks was given by the Head of Human Resources, Zorah Anthony.

JAMMEH DEFIES ECOWAS LEADERS

Pres. Koroma Among High-Powered Delegation To Banjul…

Jammeh Defies ECOWAS Leaders

By Edward McAllister | BANJUL  
BANJUL Gambian President Yahya Jammeh's ruling party challenged his defeat in a Dec. 1 election at the Supreme Court on Tuesday as West African leaders failed to reach a deal that would see him accept the result and end a deepening political crisis.

Soldiers also seized the headquarters of the national elections commission and sealed it off just hours before the mediation delegation representing regional bloc ECOWAS touched down in the tiny riverside nation.

Jammeh, who has ruled Gambia since taking power in a 1994 coup and is accused of widespread rights abuses, initially conceded defeat to his main challenger, Adama Barrow. But in a dramatic about-face that drew international condemnation he then rejected the poll results last Friday.

The legal petition filed by the Alliance for Patriotic Reorientation and Construction now raises the prospect that Barrow's narrow victory, which was poised to end years of Jammeh's autocratic rule, may be overturned.

"The petition prays that it be determined that the said Adama Barrow was not duly elected or returned as president and that the said election was void," read the text of the document submitted to the court and seen by Reuters.

Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, a Nobel peace laureate, led the ECOWAS delegation that also included Nigeria's Muhammadu Buhari, Sierra Leone's Ernest Bai Koroma and Ghana's John Mahama, who lost an election last week and conceded defeat.

"It is not time for a deal. It is not something that can happen in one day. It is something that we have to work on," Johnson Sirleaf said as the presidents prepared to leave Gambia.  

Regional leaders will discuss the crisis at an ECOWAS summit in Nigeria on Saturday, she said, adding Jammeh had given her assurances that peace and stability would be preserved.
But in an apparent sign that Jammeh was further entrenching his position, security forces seized control of the Independent Electoral Commission headquarters, which holds the original poll records.
"The military came to my office and said I am not to touch anything and told me to leave," said commission chairman Alieu Momarr Njai. "I am worried for my safety."  

"STANDOFF"

Barrow, who received the unified backing of Gambia's opposition in the election, has vowed to reverse Jammeh's most capricious decisions, including a recently announced withdrawal from the International Criminal Court.  

"I think everyone knows the issue here. There is a standoff between the government and our side," Barrow said after meeting the regional heads of state.

If negotiations fail, diplomats say, Gambia's neighbors might consider removing him by force. Marcel de Souza, head of the ECOWAS commission, told Radio France International on Monday that sending troops was "a conceivable solution".

Gambia's president officially has 60 days to hand over power, but his move to challenge the result at the Supreme Court - the legal channel for resolving poll disputes - could put the international community in a difficult position.  

Rights groups say Jammeh exerts strong influence over the court, which has not held a session for a year and a half. Legal experts believe that at least four new judges would need to be hired to hear his petition.  

With Gambian judges no longer willing to serve on the Supreme Court, foreign judges have increasingly been brought in to hear cases. The current chief justice is from Nigeria.
The role of Gambia's army will now be critical and the United States said on Monday some military officers had sided with Jammeh.

Army chief General Ousman Badjie had previously called Barrow to pledge his allegiance, the latter's spokeswoman said. But Badjie's support for the president-elect appeared far less certain on Tuesday.
"I support the commander in chief, whoever it may be. I support the commander in chief Jammeh," Badjie told Reuters.
Barrow, who has no official state security detail, said in an interview on Monday he was concerned for his own safety.

(Additional reporting by Nellie Peyton in Dakar; writing by Emma Farge and Joe Bavier; editing by Gareth Jones)

©2016

BREWERY HOLDS TOP SORGHUM WORKSHOP WITH VISITORS & TOP SORGHUM FARMERS IN KAMBIA DISTRICT

Brewery Holds Top Sorghum Workshop with Visitors & Top Sorghum Farmers in Kambia District

By Ranger

The Sierra Leone Brewery Ltd. (SLBL) on Thursday, 8th December, 2016 successfully hosted and concluded a massive event in Kambia District, northern Sierra Leone.

The event took the form of a well-attended workshop with top sorghum farmers in Sierra Leone at the Rokupr Community Center in Kambia Town, Kambia District northern Sierra Leone.

After formal introductions were made, the team which comprised of visitors Paul Stanger, Director of Local Sourcing AMEE (African Middle east and Eastern Europe) Heineken International, Niels Hanssens, Deputy Executive Director EUCORD (European Cooperative for Rural Development), Wendela Huisman, Policy Officer, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, The Netherlands together with Dr. Dennis Taylor, SLARI (Sierra Leone Agricultural Research Institute), Mr. Denis Jusu, President Sorghum Farmers Association Sierra Leone, Mr. Albert Ojo Collier, Corporate Relations Manager, Sierra Leone Brewery Limited (SLBL), Maria Singco, Sorghum Purchasing Manager (SLBL), Mr Unisa Conteh, Corporate Relations Assistant, SLBL and Councilor Bai Sama Bangura of Ward 119, Rokupr, Kambia District were taken on a conducted tour at a SLARI demonstration farm where the visitors spoke with the farmers and took interviews with the local media.

Speaking to Mr. Paul Stanger and Dr. Dennis Taylor, they maintained that sorghum is a dry land crop which matures early. They added however that at times the crop germinates wrongly due to humidity and that for some varieties of sorghum, it takes longer for them to mature. Dr. Dennis Taylor added that SLARI is experimenting with sorghum varieties which are well adapted to the rains and to see how acceptable farmers can cultivate sorghum off season as they do with maize and other crops.

Mr. Paul Stanger said that an exotic variety of sorghum which is harvested in Nigeria and Burundi could be good for Sierra Leone, while Dr. Dennis Taylor mentioned that the "local varieties are mostly used in Sierra Leone but an exotic variety originally from Nigeria is being evaluated."

Mr. Paul Stanger went on to say that he is part of the team to Sierra Leone because Sierra Leone is important to them. He added that he is happy to see that the Brewery is doing well and that it is using more locally produced sorghum which in turn is boosting the economy of the country as making sorghum farmers wealthy. He commended the Sierra Leone Government for changing the legislation to be in favor of local production, adding that he is also happy that government policy and recent tax reduction strategy for locally produced is very encouraging both for the Brewery and for farmers to find better varieties of sorghum to increase yields.
He further said that the project initiated by The Netherlands government in conjunction with SLBL and EUCORD for the growth of sorghum ends in 2019. He added that he is optimistic that by then sorghum farmers would have greatly increased their yield and would have been able to be independent. He maintained however that the current volume of sorghum being produced in the country is very encouraging, adding that the farmers should be looking at ways they can better access the market as well as organize themselves better for their overall development.                                              
                                                                                 Niels Hanssens, Deputy Executive Director EUCORD, added that "EUCORD are ready to collaborate and support until 2019".                                                                                               
                                                                                 In her contribution, Wendela Huisman, representative of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands said that the Netherlands government is happy to cooperate with Heineken and EUCORD in improving the livelihoods and food security of the sorghum farmers and their families and communities. She added that the Dutch government has decided earlier this year to extend the project to the end of 2019 and to make extra budget available in order to support the communities in their recovery from the tragic Ebola period. She maintained that at the end of the project the aim is for farmers to be able to work independently with commercial buyers such as the brewery in a way that is sustainable for them and their communities.

Dr. Dennis Taylor from SLARI added that “we have not actually completed analysis, but what we have seen with the locals in the present variety is tends to have superior yields and they would see how it does across Sierra Leone before we could make any recommendation." He added that when they do evaluation they would know what to recommend.

After the team returned to the hall, it was the turn of Councilor Bai Sama Bangura of Ward 119, Rokupr, Kambia District. He thanked the visitors for their support and prayed for their safe return. He encouraged them to continue to assist the SLBL and also encouraged sorghum farmers across the country not to relent but to do more.

In his message of thanks and appreciation, Mr. Albert Ojo Collier, Corporate Relations Manager, Sierra Leone Brewery Limited (SLBL) commended the visiting team for their support to Brewery over the years. He stated that when it comes to Brewery, it is about the entire country, adding that it is very beneficial for both the farmers and the country as a whole to invest massively in growing the best sorghum and coming forward with the best yields. He reminded his audience that the government has put in place laws with encourages local content and therefore encouraged the farmers to continue growing large quantities of sorghum, adding that the more sorghum they grow the better. He also commended SLARI for its scientific intervention at improving sorghum variety which has led to greater yields.

The session climaxed with a question and answer session from the farmers to the visiting team and refreshments followed.

 

 

BREWERY HOLDS TOP SORGHUM WORKSHOP WITH VISITORS & TOP SORGHUM FARMERS IN KAMBIA DISTRICT

Brewery Holds Top Sorghum Workshop with Visitors & Top Sorghum Farmers in Kambia District

By Ranger

The Sierra Leone Brewery Ltd. (SLBL) on Thursday, 8th December, 2016 successfully hosted and concluded a massive event in Kambia District, northern Sierra Leone.

The event took the form of a well-attended workshop with top sorghum farmers in Sierra Leone at the Rokupr Community Center in Kambia Town, Kambia District northern Sierra Leone.

After formal introductions were made, the team which comprised of visitors Paul Stanger, Director of Local Sourcing AMEE (African Middle east and Eastern Europe) Heineken International, Niels Hanssens, Deputy Executive Director EUCORD (European Cooperation for Rural Development), Wendela Huisman, Policy Officer, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, The Netherlands together with Dr. Dennis Taylor, SLARI (Sierra Leone Agricultural Research Institute), Mr. Denis Jusu, President Sorghum Farmers Association Sierra Leone, Mr. Albert Ojo Collier, Corporate Relations Manager, Sierra Leone Brewery Limited (SLBL), Maria Singco, Sorghum Purchasing Manager (SLBL), Mr Unisa Conteh, Corporate Relations Assistant, SLBL and Councilor Bai Sama Bangura of Ward 119, Rokupr, Kambia District were taken on a conducted tour at a SLARI demonstration farm where the visitors spoke with the farmers and took interviews with the local media.

Speaking to Mr. Paul Stanger and Dr. Dennis Taylor, they maintained that sorghum is a dry land crop which matures early. They added however that at times the crop germinates wrongly due to humidity and that for some varieties of sorghum, it takes longer for them to mature. Dr. Dennis Taylor added that SLARI is experimenting with sorghum varieties which are well adapted to the rains and to see how acceptable farmers can cultivate sorghum off season as they do with maize and other crops.

Mr. Paul Stanger said that an exotic variety of sorghum which is harvested in Nigeria and Burundi could be good for Sierra Leone, while Dr. Dennis Taylor mentioned that the sorghum variety used in Sierra Leone came originally from Nigeria.

Mr. Paul Stanger went on to say that he is part of the team to Sierra Leone because Sierra Leone is important to them. He added that he is happy to see that the Brewery is doing well and that it is using more locally produced sorghum which in turn is boosting the economy of the country as making sorghum farmers wealthy. He commended the Sierra Leone Government for changing the legislation to be in favor of local production, adding that he is also happy that government policies and reduction tax is very encouraging both for the Brewery and for farmers to find better varieties of sorghum to increase yields.

He further said that the project initiated by The Netherlands government in conjunction with SLBL and EUCORD for the growth of sorghum ends in 2019. He added that he is optimistic that by then sorghum farmers would have greatly increased their yield and would have been able to be independent. He maintained however that the current volume of sorghum being produced in the country is very encouraging, adding that the farmers should be looking at ways they can better access the market as well as organize themselves better for their overall development.                                              
Niels Hanssens, Deputy Executive Director EUCORD, added that "EUCORD are ready to collaborate and support until 2019".                                                        
In her contribution, Wendela Huisman, representative of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands said that the Netherlands is happy to cooperate with Heineken and EUCORD in improving the livelihoods and food security of the sorghum farmers and their families and communities. She added that the Dutch government has decided earlier this year to extend the project to the end of 2019 and to make extra budget available in order to support the communities in their recovery from the tragic Ebola period. She maintained that at the end of the project the aim is for farmers to be able to work independently with commercial buyers such as the brewery in a way that is sustainable for them and their communities.

Dr. Dennis Taylor from SLARI added that “we have not actually completed analysis, but what we have seen with the locals in the present variety is tends to have superior yields and they would see how it does across Sierra Leone before we could make any recommendation." He added that when they do evaluation they would know what to recommend.

After the team returned to the hall, it was the turn of Councilor Bai Sama Bangura of Ward 119, Rokupr, Kambia District. He thanked the visitors for their support and prayed for their safe return. He encouraged them to continue to assist the SLBL and also encouraged sorghum farmers across the country not to relent but to do more.

In his message of thanks and appreciation, Mr. Albert Ojo Collier, Corporate Relations Manager, Sierra Leone Brewery Limited (SLBL) commended the visiting team for their support to Brewery over the years. He stated that when it comes to Brewery, it is about the entire country, adding that it is very beneficial for both the farmers and the country as a whole to invest massively in growing the best sorghum and coming forward with the best yields. He reminded his audience that the government has put in place laws with encourages local content and therefore encouraged the farmers to continue growing large quantities of sorghum, adding that the more sorghum they grow the better. He also commended SLARI for its scientific intervention at improving sorghum variety which has led to greater yields.

The session climaxed with a question and answer session from the farmers to the visiting team and refreshments followed.

 

 

STAR 60cl BIG BOSS LAUNCHED

Star 60cl Big Boss Launched

By Ranger

Minister of Trade and Industry, Capt. Momodu Alieu Pat Sowe on Friday 2nd December, 2016 launched the new Star Big Boss 60cl bottle.

The auspicious occasion took place at Bintumani Conference Hall, Aberdeen in Freetown. Hundreds of guests drawn from all walks of life were present.

Speaking at the occasion, Capt. Momodu Alieu Pat Sowe described the launchers Sierra Leone Brewery Company Ltd. as very innovative and progressive while contributing to national development. He maintained that when the Local Content Policy was launched by President Koroma he did not delay in supporting the Brewery, adding that the company is important because it is supporting local sorghum farmers. He said he is satisfied that the government has satisfied the general public by way on supporting companies like the SLBL that are boosting local produce and farmers.

He recalled that when all companies were running away the Brewery stood firm and did not leave but persevered through thick and thin. He used the opportunity to call on Sierra Leoneans to come together for the overall development of Sierra Leone and support the Brewery. He said he is honored to have been chosen to do the launching.

Informing his audience about the Brewery’s initiative, the SLBL Managing Director, Willy M.A. Ngana said “Sierra Leone Brewery’s Innovation Agenda is developed to embrace the government’s local content policy. As a result, locally sourced sorghum grains are being used in the production processes of our brands, which are brewed to international standards, including this new innovation that we are launching – the Star 60cl.

According to him, the use of sorghum is not only beneficial to the Brewery but it has helped sorghum farmers in all regions across the country to compete against imported grains, thus stimulating local enterprises, creating thousands of jobs for the local population and increasing smallholder farmers’ incomes significantly, as well as contributing to poverty alleviation.

The SLBL Marketing Manager, Desmond George in his brief statement, told his audience that the Star lager 60cl is a sparkling beverage which is delightful to the drinker and went ahead to give a historical background of Star in Sierra Leone, adding that Star is celebrated across Sierra Leone and that there is hardly any occasion at which Star beer is not served. He reiterated that the Brewery is committed to excellence and that its products are of international standard made from the finest quality of hops and sorghum, naturally brewed with 100% grains, he said, which means it has no added sugar, adding that the new Star 60cl will make Brewery and Sierra Leone as a whole to shine on. He reassured Brewery customers of total satisfaction and that similar launch of Star 60cl would be done across the regions in due course.

“The price for Star 60cl crate of 12 bottles is Le75,000 (seventy five thousand Leones) and Le8,000 (eight thousand Leones) per bottle and that it is available in shops, supermarkets, restaurants, bars and clubs across the country,” he said.

The unveiling and sampling of the new Star beer 60cl then took place, followed by a photo session, musical performance by Ackman and Dallas Bantan. Refreshments formed the high point of the event.

 

 

 

 

BREWERY PRE-LAUNCHES NEW STAR 60CL

Brewery Pre-Launches New Big Bottle Star Beer

By Ranger

Sierra Leone Brewery Limited on Wednesday November 30, 2016 launched its new big 60 centiliter bottle naturally brewed 100% grain Star beer.

The ceremony took place at the company’s Wellington Industrial Estate headquarters. In a brief speech, the SLBL Marketing Manager, Desmond George, said that for 54 years brewery had been using the old Star beer bottle.

“Today we are launching the ‘Big Boss’ star beer bottle as we are sharing the brighter life to shine on,” he said. He disclosed that the new bottle star beer was here two years ago but the Ebola outbreak delayed its unveiling. Thus, he said, “Today is a remarkable day for the Sierra Leone Brewery and a big applause.”

The new 60cl Star beer he said will be sold at Le75, 000 per carton and retailed at Le8, 000 per bottle.

In his speech, SLBL Managing Director Alphonse Willy Ngana, thanked the supply chain management and team for the innovation and the consumers. “We can change the market,” he said, adding, “We define the strategies and we need the support.”

On the brewery’s capacity to keep innovating, he said, “We are here to demonstrate that we are young.”

Naturally brewed with 100% grain he said means it has no added sugar. “The boss is presenting value for money, adding that according to the 2017 budget, this is the year for progress.

He recalled that the government had said that brewery should not create scarcity in the market. “We are here to deliver and support the market,” he assured. He thanked everybody for the good work. 

After the MD’s speech, the unveiling and sampling of the new Star beer took place. This was followed by a photo session and a musical performance by Dallas Bantan and refreshment.

IN CORRECTING MISLEADING INFORMATION IN THE MEDIA

PEC APOLOGIZES TO MINISTER OF ENERGY.

The Minister of Energy, Ambassador Henry Macauley has given audience to the head of PEC Sierra Leone, Mr. Malador Sowe, his executive and Media friends who streamed into the office of the Minister to tender their apology for the current misinformation being published by certain media houses regarding the six months pilot contract between EDSA and PEC Sierra Leone

The Minister, who was very calm but curious to hear from the guests, quickly invited his Deputy Minister, Ing. Alhaji Hassan Barrie, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs Zainab Buya-Kamara and the Counterpart Director General of EDSA, Ing. Alhaji Timbo to be part of the gathering.

The CEO of PEC, Mr. Malador Sowe in a state of remorse said; ‘Mr. Minister we are very sorry for the misleading information and allegations levied against you on the issue’. He went on to   expose the unprofessionalism of some media houses when he said; ‘I did not grant interview that they could not have investigated. They just grasped the opportunity to write things based on what they heard’, he stated. The journalists who were also part of Mr. Malador’s delegation, also tendered their apologies to the Minister for the bad press that he received over the said pilot contract.

Commenting on the issue, the Permanent Secretary (PS), Mrs. Buya- kamara stated that the Ministry of Energy is for everybody and that young Sierra Leoneans like Mr. Malador Sowe and colleagues are highly encouraged under the local content policy but must not misuse the opportunity. In an angry mood, the PS continued that the unguided publications and misinformation from various media houses were just used to smear the Minister’s good image. That kind of practice she said is unprofessional. She reminded the PEC CEO that it was this same Minister who took PEC’s proposal to the Board of Directors of EDSA and made a recommendation for them to help young Sierra Leoneans to invest in the energy sector.

Deputy Minister, Hassan Barrie stated that he was shocked by the behavior of PEC and their media friends who could not even ask for the Ministry’s side of the story. He lamented that young investors must have respect for others especially senior public officials in the country.

In his reaction, the humble Minister said he started building his reputation as far back as the 80s and some people are trying to damage it now. He stated in no uncertain terms that the misinformation given to the media must be corrected by the PEC CEO. He said; “the repairs should be done by the same media houses,” adding that the extent to which the misinformation is corrected, will determine whether the apology was genuine or not.

PEC CEO, Mr. Malador Sowe gave assurance that his media friends will try as hard as possible to clean the image of the Minister. He said; “Mr. Minister, for the fact that you felt disrespected, I will do all I can alongside my media friends who published allegations against you during the past three weeks, to clean up your image. It is a promise that we are going to do retractions by whatever means Mr. Minister’, he ended.

IS PEC A LOCAL COMPANY IN S/L?

ACC SHOULD INVESTIGATE PEC...

AS THEY STILL HAVE QUESTIONS TO ANSWER

By Ranger

It is now crystal clear, that PEC is misleading the public to gather public sympathy to continue it bad and unviable contract with EDSA to wreck the energy sector and the government as a whole.

Let me first and foremost set the record straight on the GST which PEC now claims to have cascading effects on the customers.

Firstly, let me state that GST is a law passed by parliament, so how can PEC meters affect it. This is not only consider as a public incitement but also a ploy to prevent the public to comply to GST law.

Secondly, it is also evident that EDSA has lost huge sum of money with PEC, because the lost customers activity due to it inability to charge, poor customer service etc and besides EDSA could not know what was being consumed apart from what PEC told them.

This is where the real fraud was taking place that needs ACC investigation. In a nutshell, it seems PEC is trying to get EDSA to do something illegal, by operating a contract that has expired which is pure dishonesty.       
                                     
Let me also hasten to inform the general public that, the meters that PEC illegally removed were also installed by an indigenous Sierra Leonean company that has successfully installed over 20,000 meters. This shows that EDSA does encourage Local content, but does not condone dishonesty and compromise national progress for the sake of selfish private interests.    
                                            
Following the failure of PEC to answer to the questions asked by the general public in relation to its contractual agreement with EDSA that has tendency to rip off the country of it much needed revenue, the general public is now calling on the Anti-Corruption Commission to investigate PEC on it numerous queries raised.

Below are the following questions PEC continues to dodge that need the attention of the President as the country is certainly be on a time bomb if PEC Contract is renewed without adequately answering to these questions;

The public still demand answers to these following questions:

1. Is it true that EDSA does not have accessed to PEC’s system for monitoring and supervision purposes, and could this be one of the reasons why EDSA decided to terminate its contract with PEC?.

2. Is it true that PEC Smart meters are not compatible with the ones installed by EDSA?

3. Is it true that in installing their Smart meters, PEC removed EDSA meters that were already installed without noticing EDSA and without EDSA’s permission, thereby constituting an offence to remove government property? PEC could favour us with the written permission for EDSA to this effect.

4. Is it true that the PEC contract was limited to only the six months pilot project?

5. Is it true that PEC was collecting a whopping 10 percent commission from the bills it collected, while others were collecting 3%?

6. Is it true that EDSA had no access to the transactions done by PEC? If so, is it not a violation of the disclosure agreement reached by PEC with EDSA?

7. Is it true that costumers were complaining that, they were paying and not getting service on time?

8. Is it true that PEC on its own selected areas to install their Smart meters?

9.  Is it true that after the contract expired in June 2016, the meters installed by PEC became the property of EDSA?

10. Most importantly, did PEC receive authorization from EDSA to install their meters? If so, can they produce original documents from EDSA?

These and yet more questions are of great interest to the general public and deserve answers.

As a result of that the are now calling on the ACC to frog match PEC officials to the commission to answer to these following questions and also investigate why PEC being a local contractor which has benefited from the Local Content Policy is collecting 10% commission of it total sales, while past foreign contractors were collecting 3% of their total sales.

This exorbitant commission collected by PEC, they said has some elements of corruption and kick backs, and therefore needs immediate investigation as they had betrayed the Local Content Policy and portrays bad image about the government.

It will interest the general public to know that the much trumpeted 2 billion Leones collected by PEC, PEC has benefited a whopping 200 million Leones from the said amount which constitute 10%.

Consequently, one would want to wonder why PEC is still behaving like a nuisance?

See next edition

PEC IN HOT WATER!

ACC SHOULD INVESTIGATE PEC...

AS THEY STILL HAVE QUESTIONS TO ANSWER

By Ranger

It is now crystal clear, that PEC is misleading the public to gather public sympathy to continue it bad and unviable contract with EDSA to wreck the energy sector and the government as a whole.

Let me first and foremost set the record straight on the GST which PEC now claims to have cascading effects on the customers.

Firstly, let me state that GST is a law passed by parliament, so how can PEC meters affect it. This is not only consider as a public incitement but also a ploy to prevent the public to comply to GST law.

Secondly, it is also evident that EDSA has lost huge sum of money with PEC, because the lost customers activity due to it inability to charge, poor customer service etc and besides EDSA could not know what was being consumed apart from what PEC told them.

This is where the real fraud was taking place that needs ACC investigation. In a nutshell, it seems PEC is trying to get EDSA to do something illegal, by operating a contract that has expired which is pure dishonesty.                                             
Let me also hasten to inform the general public that, the meters that PEC illegally removed were also installed by an indigenous Sierra Leonean company that has successfully installed over 20,000 meters. This shows that EDSA does encourage Local content, but does not condone dishonesty and compromise national progress for the sake of selfish private interests.                                                 
Following the failure of PEC to answer to the questions asked by the general public in relation to its contractual agreement with EDSA that has tendency to rip off the country of it much needed revenue, the general public is now calling on the Anti-Corruption Commission to investigate PEC on it numerous queries raised.

Below are the following questions PEC continues to dodge that need the attention of the President as the country is certainly be on a time bomb if PEC Contract is renewed without adequately answering to these questions;

The public still demand answers to these following questions:

1. Is it true that EDSA does not have accessed to PEC’s system for monitoring and supervision purposes, and could this be one of the reasons why EDSA decided to terminate its contract with PEC?.

2. Is it true that PEC Smart meters are not compatible with the ones installed by EDSA?

3. Is it true that in installing their Smart meters, PEC removed EDSA meters that were already installed without noticing EDSA and without EDSA’s permission, thereby constituting an offence to remove government property? PEC could favour us with the written permission for EDSA to this effect.

4. Is it true that the PEC contract was limited to only the six months pilot project?

5. Is it true that PEC was collecting a whopping 10 percent commission from the bills it collected, while others were collecting 3%?

6. Is it true that EDSA had no access to the transactions done by PEC? If so, is it not a violation of the disclosure agreement reached by PEC with EDSA?

7. Is it true that costumers were complaining that, they were paying and not getting service on time?

8. Is it true that PEC on its own selected areas to install their Smart meters?

9. Is it true that after the contract expired in June 2016, the meters installed by PEC became the property of EDSA?

10. Most importantly, did PEC receive authorization from EDSA to install their meters? If so, can they produce original documents from EDSA?

These and yet more questions are of great interest to the general public and deserve answers.

As a result of that the are now calling on the ACC to frog match PEC officials to the commission to answer to these following questions and also investigate why PEC being a local contractor which has benefited from the Local Content Policy is collecting 10% commission of it total sales, while past foreign contractors were collecting 3% of their total sales.

This exorbitant commission collected by PEC, they said has some elements of corruption and kick backs, and therefore needs immediate investigation as they had betrayed the Local Content Policy and portrays bad image about the government.

It will interest the general public to know that the much trumpeted 2 billion Leones collected by PEC, PEC has benefited a whopping 200 million Leones from the said amount which constitute 10%.

Consequently, one would want to wonder why PEC is still behaving like a nuisance?

See next edition

SIERRA LEONE BREWERY CLEARS THE AIR

Brewery Clears the Air

By Ranger

"We are faced with the situation if Government continues to see as if money is not coming in they wont see the real picture. The real picture is that they (importers of beverage) have imported a huge stock at the old rate and have extended the shelf life of the imported drinks from six months to one year six months to two years and they are selling and making huge profit. They are trying to stifle Government revenue collection to make it seem as if nothing is happening which is wrong."

These were the words of Sierra Leone Brewery Limited (SLBL) officials while reacting to local reports that the newly-introduced Finance Act is causing the NRA to lose revenue.

Speaking at the Wellington Industrial Estate office in Freetown on Friday, 4th November, 2016, Sierra Leone Brewery officials on conditions of anonymity confirmed that the Finance Act was introduced in March this year, alledging that it did not come into effect until six months later in September this year.

The said officials added that during that period, importers of beverages took the opportunity to import very huge stocks into the country and also extended the shelf life of these imported beverages. It was also mentioned that it was done by these importers of beverages in order to make it seem as if they are currently not importing anything when in actual fact, they are now selling their old stocks at the new prices and making profit but presenting a picture as if nothing is happening and they are not importing anything.

On the other hand, it is implicated that the SLBL is losing out because since the Finance Act was introduced they have been fully complying by paying all the relevant taxes and levies to the NRA, the Freetown City Council etc. Again it was learnt that these importers are giving the impression as if Brewery is unable to supply the market and also unable to pay revenue in order to force the Government to overturn the Act simply because they had a field day during the six months before the Act came into force to bring in huge quantum of imported beverages to sell and make profit for at least two years.

This medium is of the understanding  that in the case of Brewery, it ran down its old stocks and brought in new stock of Heineken which is sold at Le292,000 (two hundred and ninety two thousand Leones) while other importers sell much lower their own stocks of different brands. It was also intimated that Brewery after the introduction of the Act, paid the new rate in taxes and duties as high as Le500, 000,000 (five hundred million Leones) for two containers.

The officials continued that Brewery pays Excise duties, and that Brewery can challenge them (importers of beverages) that they are not even paying EPA and other levies to the Government. I can boast of this because we have records to prove this, one of the officials told this reporter.

They are calling on the authorities (NRA) and others to conduct a spot check on warehouses of importers of beverages to see whether what is said is not the truth. SLBL officials challenged the general public to also enquire whether the SLBL has not been actively engaged in providing massive employment for the entire country. They added that the SLBL is responsible for providing thousands of direct and indirect employment for distributors, transporters, bar owners and other people, adding that over (10) ten thousand farming families who are engaged in growing sorghum are benefitting directly because Brewery is purchasing  sorghum from them only during the harvest season. We work with them and give them target during the planting season, another official informed.

“We cannot continue importing all the time,” they said furthering that “anyone who loves Sierra Leone should come and open their own factory, so that importing beverages would stop or be reduced drastically."                                       They went on to say that Brewery is paying import duty for Heineken and Cider, (Strong Bow); raw materials (malt etc), spare parts, packaging materials for example empty bottles, crates, crowns (stoppers), labels etc.

They added that Brewery also pays Excise duties for all locally produced drinks based on the volume produced; that is, the more produced the higher Excise duty paid.
These officials added that the Brewery also pays PAYE (Pay-As-You-Earn) for its entire staff, NASSIT fees, and pays annual EPA fees, plus import duty and levies taxes comprising 4.07 Billion Leones is payment for August September and October, 3% advanced income tax, output GST, excise duty for local production, excise duty  for imported beer, import duty and levy tax.

They maintained that unlike others, Brewery is thickly into performing its corporate social responsibilities (CSR). A top official of the company said Brewery is building schools toilets, water wells and the are building two (2) hospitals, one (1) in Calaba Town and one (1) Wellington Communities, which cost the company a little over 1.5 billion Leones in Constituency 98 ward 350 and in Constituency 97.

The officials called on the Government to understand the case of the Brewery and to inspect the records of importers at the Customs to see that they (importers of beverages) actually took undue advantage of the system to make it seem as if Brewery is unable to cope with the Finance Act which is entirely untrue.

They added that, they also want to educate the Government on the fact that the period to analyze the Brewerys performance with regard its compliance with the Finance Act is too short, taking into consideration the above reasons and unfair completion practiced by importers of beverages which the Government needs to investigate and not wait until their huge stockpiles hurriedly brought into the country in March are depleted.

“Let them show evidence of their real stocks imported. Let the government check with Customs and the truth shall be revealed, the SLBL officials challenged.

ABOUT GUINNESS FOREIGN EXTRA STOUT

*ABOUT GUINNESS FOREIGN EXTRA STOUT*

- Guinness Foreign Extra Stout (FES) is perhaps the most popular Irish beer brand in the world

- First brewed by Guinness in 1759, FES was designed for export, and is heavily hopped and typically has a higher alcohol content (7.5% ABV), which gives it a more bitter taste.

- It was first brewed in Sierra Leone, by the Sierra Leone Brewery Limited in October 1967

- In 2011, over 4 million hectolitres of the beer were sold in Africa, where Diageo intend to grow the product into the continent's highest selling beer.

- Guinness is an iconic brand, famous for its extraordinary and inimitable marketing and has evolved over years with different pack sizes to meet the increasing complexity and dynamic consumer preferences especially to suit the trendy millennials.

- Arthur Guinness, founder of Guinness, was influenced by the vision of the Methodist reformer, John Wesley, who often said, “Make all you can, save all you can and Give all you can” and he build his Company around these values. The generosity that has been embedded in the Guinness way of life is still inherent as it continues to demonstrate its spirit of philanthropy across the world. In 2015 at the peak of the Ebola, Guinness DIAGEO, contributed over £200,000 both in cash to fight against Ebola in Sierra Leone and Guinea. Communities within Wellington in Freetown have also benefitted with over 40 taps in 2011.

- Creativity reigned at Guinness for nearly all of its 250 years and this has led to the Guinness Book of World records – a book first published to answer bar bets where pints of Guinness were consumed. This is among the several other innovations embarked upon by the Guinness Company which has rewarded the Company numerous awards and accolades.

- The #madeofblack Campaign is a bold new Pan-African campaign which is part of the global GUINNESS® Made of More™ platform. It shines a light on a movement being created by a new generation of Africans whose boldness cannot be contained and who are fueling a new, progressive spirit of Africa. This campaign is a celebration of an attitude that epitomizes individuals who aren’t afraid to truly express themselves

*THE NEW ARIEL GUINNESS BOTTLE*

- This new bottle, with the nomenclature Ariel bottle, has a Sleek distinguishing golden foiled wrapper head protecting the new black top crown cork

- It has embossed unique harps on the shoulder of the new bottle which enables it to stand out from other “stout”.

- The 33 cl bottle is exceptionally black in colour, sleek, trendy and particularly easier to handle. This supports the platform of its profile as a never to be forgotten drink for all occasions and for the celebration of life.

- The label complements the blackness of the bottle portraying the black attitude with distinctive golden colour with the authentic signature of Arthur Guinness himself.
_____________________________________
*Produced, Marketed and Distributed by Sierra Leone Brewery Limited*

LAUNCH OF NEW ARIEL GUINNESS STOUT BOTTLE AT BINTUMANI HOTEL

Launch of New Ariel Guinness Stout Bottle at Bintumani Hotel

By Ranger

Friday 28th October, 2016, Sierra Leone’s premier beverage company, Sierra Leone Brewery Ltd. (SLBL) officially launched its new Ariel Guinness Bottle.

The auspicious occasion took place at the prestigious Bintumani Hotel, Aberdeen in Freetown. Hundreds of distinguished guests including a representative from the Ministry of Trade and Industry were in attendance. He gave a statement on behalf of the Minister.

In his statement he recalled that Guinness Stout was patented in 1759 by an Irish man called Arthur Guinness with a 7.5% alcohol. He went on to state that in October 1967, the first bottle of Guinness Stout was produced in Sierra Leone. He added that the Ministry of Trade felt honored to be part of the launch. He further recalled the historic popularity of Guinness in Sierra Leone and its excellent characteristics which make it stand out among other beverages.

Another guest was Minister of Internal Affairs Major (Rtd) Palo Conteh who read the keynote address of the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Dr. Samaru W. Kamara who was unavoidably absent and was also supposed to launch the new SLBL product.

Reading verbatim Dr. Samura Kamara’s keynote address, Palo Conteh reiterated the start of Guinness production in 1967 and that since then the company strategically positioned itself as an excellent corporate entity. He also recalled that in 1962, the SLBL became a major contributor to Sierra Leone’s economy. He added that the SLBL is boosting the welfare of thousands of farmers across the country through purchase of locally produced sorghum. He added that the company has been involved in numerous development projects across the country running into billions of Leones. He added that today, the SLBL has put Sierra Leone on the international map of productivity with the launch of the Ariel Guinness Bottle.

He maintained that Guinness is an iconic brand which is dynamically preferred by the young generation. He added that the SLBL has increased employment opportunities directly and indirectly for Sierra Leoneans, but warned all and sundry to drink responsibly. He then proceeded to officially unveil the Ariel Guinness Bottle together with the SLBL Managing Director, Mr. Alphonse Willy Ngana.

Earlier however, the first speaker at the auspicious occasion was the SLBL Managing Director, Mr. Alphonse Willy Ngana. He explained to his audience that Guinness DIAGEO, during the Ebola crisis, donated two hundred thousand Pounds to Sierra Leone and Guinea through CARE International, demonstrating its role as a partner for development. He added that the SLBL is contributing to promoting the local content policy through buying locally grown sorghum from at least ten thousand farmers from across the country. He went on to state that the SLBL is innovative and conscious of the fact that it is contributing positively to the country’s economy through creating jobs for retailers, consumers, distributors and the like who are all Sierra Leoneans.

According to him, he is sure that the people of Sierra Leone are able to develop the economy through hard work and extended his thanks and appreciation to President Koroma and the government of Sierra Leone for creating the level playing field and giving the SLBL the necessary support to grow.

He called on the general public to support the SLBL and noted that Guinness symbolizes power and that with this power Sierra Leoneans can succeed. Finally, he thanked his staff and partners from across Africa and Europe for ensuring the successful production of the new bottle through the installation of  state-of-the-art equipment.

Also speaking was the SLBL Marketing Manager, Desmond George. He spoke on the new Guinness TVC, how to pour Guinness TVC and went ahead to do sampling followed by a mock volcanic explosion which brought forth the Ariel Guinness Stout to the amazement of the audience.

During the ensuing interlude there were musical performances by Dallas B, and a dance performance done by Men of Black.

The vote of thanks was done by Albert O.U. Collier who heaped praise on the SLBL, the audience and SLBL partners and the government. Food and drinks were then served which climaxed the event.

Guinness is "made of more"
               ***
It could be recalled that on Wednesday 26th October, 2016, the SLBL held the pre-launch of the Ariel Guinness Stout at the company’s headquarters at the Wellington Industrial Estate. It was well attended and there were several speeches.

The Managing Director, Willy Alphonse Ngana, said at the auspicious occasion that: “the new Guinness bottle is a game changer for the company.” He went on to thank his staff and partners from across Africa for ensuring the successful production of the new bottle through the installation of state-of-the-art equipment.

He said: “Guinness represents the power and resilience of black.” He added that the new trendy and classy Guinness bottle is expected to bring change in the market and accelerate sales.

“The management team is committed; we are fighting the right battle and we are winning the battle as we deliver high standard and quality beverage,” the SLBL Managing Director confidently said.

He went on to praise the Chairman of the Sierra Leone Sorghum Farmers’ Association, Dennis Jusu and everybody for their resilience. “Think Black, Drink Black Guinness,” he ended.

Desmond George the SLBL Marketing Manager said the pre-launch was mainly for SLBL staff and management.

According to SLBL, the launch is first of its kind and would go a long way to boost production, sales and distribution of Ariel Guinness.

The climax of the event was the distribution of food and drinks; but more particularly, the serving of the new Ariel Guinness to the guests who openly commended the new product for its unique taste. It was indeed a very colorful and breathtaking event which displayed the drive to push local content policy. 

        

LAUNCH OF NEW ARIEL GUINNESS STOUT BOTTLE AT BINTUMANI HOTEL

Launch of New Ariel Guinness Stout Bottle at Bintumani Hotel

By Ranger

Friday 28th October, 2016, Sierra Leone’s premier beverage company, Sierra Leone Brewery Ltd. (SLBL) officially launched its new Ariel Guinness Bottle.

The auspicious occasion took place at the prestigious Bintumani Hotel, Aberdeen in Freetown. Hundreds of distinguished guests including a representative from the Ministry of Trade and Industry were in attendance. He gave a statement on behalf of the Minister.

In his statement he recalled that Guinness Stout was patented in 1759 by an Irish man called Arthur Guinness with a 7.5% alcohol. He went on to state that in October 1967, the first bottle of Guinness Stout was produced in Sierra Leone. He added that the Ministry of Trade felt honored to be part of the launch. He further recalled the historic popularity of Guinness in Sierra Leone and its excellent characteristics which make it stand out among other beverages.

Another guest was Minister of Internal Affairs Major (Rtd) Palo Conteh who read the keynote address of the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Dr. Samaru W. Kamara who was unavoidably absent and was also supposed to launch the new SLBL product.

Reading verbatim Dr. Samura Kamara’s keynote address, Palo Conteh reiterated the start of Guinness production in 1967 and that since then the company strategically positioned itself as an excellent corporate entity. He also recalled that in 1962, the SLBL became a major contributor to Sierra Leone’s economy. He added that the SLBL is boosting the welfare of thousands of farmers across the country through purchase of locally produced sorghum. He added that the company has been involved in numerous development projects across the country running into billions of Leones. He added that today, the SLBL has put Sierra Leone on the international map of productivity with the launch of the Ariel Guinness Bottle.

He maintained that Guinness is an iconic brand which is dynamically preferred by the young generation. He added that the SLBL has increased employment opportunities directly and indirectly for Sierra Leoneans, but warned all and sundry to drink responsibly. He then proceeded to officially unveil the Ariel Guinness Bottle together with the SLBL Managing Director, Mr. Alphonse Willy Ngana.

Earlier however, the first speaker at the auspicious occasion was the SLBL Managing Director, Mr. Alphonse Willy Ngana. He explained to his audience that Guinness DIAGEO, during the Ebola crisis, donated two hundred thousand Pounds to Sierra Leone and Guinea through CARE International, demonstrating its role as a partner for development. He added that the SLBL is contributing to promoting the local content policy through buying locally grown sorghum from at least ten thousand farmers from across the country. He went on to state that the SLBL is innovative and conscious of the fact that it is contributing positively to the country’s economy through creating jobs for retailers, consumers, distributors and the like who are all Sierra Leoneans.

According to him, he is sure that the people of Sierra Leone are able to develop the economy through hard work and extended his thanks and appreciation to President Koroma and the government of Sierra Leone for creating the level playing field and giving the SLBL the necessary support to grow.

He called on the general public to support the SLBL and noted that Guinness symbolizes power and that with this power Sierra Leoneans can succeed. Finally, he thanked his staff and partners from across Africa and Europe for ensuring the successful production of the new bottle through the installation of  state-of-the-art equipment.

Also speaking was the SLBL Marketing Manager, Desmond George. He spoke on the new Guinness TVC, how to pour Guinness TVC and went ahead to do sampling followed by a mock volcanic explosion which brought forth the Ariel Guinness Stout to the amazement of the audience.

During the ensuing interlude there were musical performances by Dallas B, and a dance performance done by Men of Black.

The vote of thanks was done by Albert O.U. Collier who heaped praise on the SLBL, the audience and SLBL partners and the government. Food and drinks were then served which climaxed the event.

Guinness is "made of more"
               ***
It could be recalled that on Wednesday 26th October, 2016, the SLBL held the pre-launch of the Ariel Guinness Stout at the company’s headquarters at the Wellington Industrial Estate. It was well attended and there were several speeches.

The Managing Director, Willy Alphonse Ngana, said at the auspicious occasion that: “the new Guinness bottle is a game changer for the company.” He went on to thank his staff and partners from across Africa for ensuring the successful production of the new bottle through the installation of state-of-the-art equipment.

He said: “Guinness represents the power and resilience of black.” He added that the new trendy and classy Guinness bottle is expected to bring change in the market and accelerate sales.

“The management team is committed; we are fighting the right battle and we are winning the battle as we deliver high standard and quality beverage,” the SLBL Managing Director confidently said.

He went on to praise the Chairman of the Sierra Leone Sorghum Farmers’ Association, Dennis Jusu and everybody for their resilience. “Think Black, Drink Black Guinness,” he ended.

Desmond George the SLBL Marketing Manager said the pre-launch was mainly for SLBL staff and management.

According to SLBL, the launch is first of its kind and would go a long way to boost production, sales and distribution of Ariel Guinness.

The climax of the event was the distribution of food and drinks; but more particularly, the serving of the new Ariel Guinness to the guests who openly commended the new product for its unique taste. It was indeed a very colorful and breathtaking event which displayed the drive to push local content policy.