SIERRA LEONE BREWERY HOLDS PRESS TOUR 2017

Sierra Leone Brewery Holds Press Tour 2017

By Ranger

Sierra Leone Brewery Limited (SLBL) the oldest existing local manufacturing company in the country on Friday 5th May 2017 held a press tour of its modernized facilities for producing its products. This includes the 100% sorghum Star Beer, Mutziq beer, Guinness Stout, Fayrouz and Maltina (non-alcoholic beverage), etc. The event took place at its Wellington Industrial Estate Complex.

The Brewery’s Mrs Aminata Kassim-Carew said the event was to showcase the company’s recent investment in production facilities. These include a new state-of-the-art production equipment, a new brew house, a waste water treatment plant, most recently a clinic for staff and their families, seven giant fermentation storage tanks, Mash Filter equipment that will enable the company to use more Sorghum in the production processes, CO2 equipment and a cooling plant.

Brewery’s Le150 billion modernization and expansion investment plan which started in 2015, she said, cuts across the supply chain, and that the increased production that will result will benefit their sponsored farmers countrywide who number over 25, 000, their distributors, wholesalers, consumers and the government by way of higher taxes.

Human Resource Manager, Mrs Zora Anthony, delivering a speech by the SLBL’s Managing Director, said the company continues to play an important role in the social and economic growth of Sierra Leone through their Corporate Social Responsibility projects, with the support of their parent company, Heineken Foundation.

These include a mini water dam at Up Mountain, Peacock Farm, that benefits 12, 000 residents; post-Ebola water and sanitation projects in Constituencies 97 and 98; Well Woman Clinic; Lion Heart Foundation and Masanga Hospital (both in Northern Sierra Leone); construction of hospitals in Wellington and Calaba Town that are in speedy progress.

She stated that since 2014, SLBL together with Heineken Foundation has invested Le3.5 billion in CSR projects.

Mrs Zora Anthony thanked President Koroma and the Government for enacting the Finance Act of 2016 which encourages the local manufacturing industry and investors that will continue to support Sierra Leone and boost the country’s GDP. This Act she said has considerably stimulated the investments showcased.

SLBL thanked its loyal customers for their continued success, adding that they are committed to expanding their capacity to meet potential sales.

SL Brewery Limited Invests to Double its Production Capacity

SL Brewery Limited Invests to Double its Production Capacity

LAB Mediates Between Traders and Bo Council

LAB mediates between Traders and Bo Council

The Legal Aid Board joined forces with stakeholders at the Provincial Secretary’s Office in Bo on Wednesday, 12 April 2017 to resolve the impasse between the traders and the Bo City Council over market dues. In addition, the Petty Traders Union Bo accused the City Council of unfair treatment in awarding a contract for the registration of petty traders to the Sierra Leone Traders Union South.   

Also on the table is the rivalry between the Sierra Leone Traders Union South and the Petty Traders Union Bo which is threatening to undermine the peace following confrontations between the two. The Sierra Leone Traders Union South is also unhappy with the decision of the Sierra Leone Labor Congress to recognize and grant union status to the Petty Traders Union Bo.  

The situation is compounded by allegations of political interference by the All People’s Congress (APC) and the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) and the attack on the offices of the Traders Union South and the beating of two of its members by alleged political agents. Also, the Paramount Chief of Bo Kakua Chief, Prince Lappia Boima is accused of being sympathetic to the Petty Traders Union.

The Executive Director of the Legal Aid Board, Ms. Fatmata Claire Carlton-Hanciles set the tone for the meeting by underlining the need for the two Unions to recognize each other, work together and promote the welfare of traders in the city.  

Also, she stressed the need for Bo City Council to have a healthy relationship with the two Unions because it is crucial to peace among the traders and by extension the township of Bo. She called on the Bo City Council to avoid over-taxing the traders which she noted is partly responsible for the tension between the traders and the City Council. ‘Taxes of whatever nature should have a human face,’ she stressed.

Ms. Carlton-Hanciles said she and her team from Freetown has decided to complement ongoing efforts at resolving the disputes by stakeholders in Bo because the traders are the largest clientele of the Board closely followed by the drivers and motorcycle (Okada) riders.  

She noted that leaving the matter to degenerate has implications for the Board because those who end up in the police or courts would need legal assistance from the Board. ‘We want to reduce the numbers in the Correctional Centers around the country,’ she said. ‘This will add to our clients and we are stretched to the limit at the moment,’ she said.

The Chair for the ceremony who doubles as Senior District Officer, Prince Soriba said efforts are ongoing by the District and Provincial Security Committees to resolve the matter between Bo City Council and the Unions.  

The Minister of State South, Muctarr Conteh spoke of the efforts he has lent to resolving the dispute between the two Unions and the City Council. He said he had advised the Council against levying dues on items rather than tables and stalls.

The Deputy Mayor of the Bo City Council, Wurie Jalloh assured that the Council will accept the report of the investigative committee put together by the District Security Committee (DISEC) on the matter between the Unions and the Council.

The Paramount Chief of Kakua Chiefdom, Prince Lappia Boima said when the dispute between the two Unions was brought to his attention he called on the police and the City Council to canvass their opinion on the actions being taken to resolve the matter. He noted that he had told the City Council that it is bound to treat the two Unions equally and fairly since they are both registered with the Council.

The Regional Commander for the Sierra Leone Police in the South, AIG Mustapha Kamara underlined the need for respect for diversity. He encouraged the Unions to accommodate each other and see themselves as equals. He said disrespect for rights brings about suspicion and conflicts. He urged the traders to take advantage of this opportunity that is being accorded them.

The Regional Coordinator for Office of National Security (ONS), Mohamed Bangura blamed the dispute between the two Unions on politicians. He condemned the attack on the offices of the Traders Union and the beating of persons. He stressed that those who fall foul of the law will face the full force of the law.

The Chair for Civil Society, Jeremy Ben Simbo accused the stakeholders of playing double standards and blamed them for the problems plaguing the Unions. He warned the traders against running after politicians stressing that they end up being used. He called on those responsible for the beatings at the offices of the Traders Union to come forward and apologize.        

The stakeholders agreed to stand by the report compiled by the committee set up by the District Security Committee to look into the matter. The stakeholders called on the Bo City Council to be evenhanded and non-political in its dealings with the two Unions.  

Also, all parties should cooperate with the police in the going investigations into the attack on the offices of the Traders Union and the beating of Ms. Esther Kpendema and Obai Kamara.

Prior to the meeting with the stakeholders, the Executive Director and Team visited Ms. Esther Kpendema at her residence to sympathize with her on her beating by alleged political opponents. Ms. Carlton-Hanciles condemned her beating noting that there is no justification for such an act. She stressed people of different tribe, religion and political affiliation are living peace that Bo cannot be an exception.        

The Executive Director was accompanied by the consultant to the Board Lawyer Francis Gabbidon, National Outreach Officer Ibrahim Kamara, Monitoring and Evaluation Officer Sallu Jusu and Accountant Moinina Kopoi.

 

RSLAF, SLP Is Force for Good, Ya!

RSLAF, Like SLP Is Force for Good, Ya!

An Op-Ed article by Ranger

An alleged scene involving a number of Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) and Sierra Leone Police (SLP) personnel has awakened passionate reactions and explanations putting SLP in bad light and blaming the RSLAF of highhandedness.

However, eye witnesses of a fracas between soldiers and police at Ross Road Police Station in Freetown, say that, whenever a military personnel is suspected of committing a crime, police personnel have been known to provoke the situation by demonizing the suspect military officer and even allowed members of the public to verbally or physically abuse the suspect military personnel.

A case in point is an incident which took place at Ross Road Police Station between some RSLAF and SLP personnel. Police from this station allegedly intercepted one Major AB Kanu and Private Mohamed Foreka while they were riding a private motorcycle going about their private business within the Central Business District (CBD). The rider Private Mohamed Foreka and pillion Major AB Kanu were stopped, arrested and later detained at the police cell on allegation that they were reeking of alcohol.

While in police custody, Major AB Kanu contacted the Artillery Unit at Benguema to come to their aid and they responded. However, it should be noted that whenever military personnel find themselves in the hands of the Police, they are most times molested, abused, maltreated and badly treated in many other ways which has been a very bad precedent for police-military relations over the years.

Furthermore, it should also be noted that the RSLAF is an autonomous body which can sue and be sued; same like the SLP. So therefore, because it is the right of the SLP to arrest law breakers, they should take into cognizance the fact that the RSLAF is also a trained and disciplined entity which has its own internal unit set up to deal with law breakers within their rank and file. Therefore, the SLP whenver it arrests RSLAF personnel for whatever reason should have the courtesy to hand over military suspects to the RSLAF rather than resort to humiliating RSLAF personnel which is definitely a very bad catalyst to destroy SLP/RSLAF relations.

Such treatment meted to military personnel by their police counterparts is not only diabolical, but also a recipe for chaos, disrespect and full-blown confrontation between RSLAF and SLP personnel at the slightest opportunity.

This issue has become one of very great concern for the average Sierra Leonean because it is feared that, if this hostility and mistreatment of RSLAF personnel by SLP officers continues, it would not bode well for the future maintaintance of peace and security in this country which has had its years of violence, mayhem and confusion.

It is therefore my opinion that in the interest of peace, security and cohesion between our two principal security institutions (SLP and RSLAF), it is necessary for the SLP which is the prime custodian of internal security to see the RSLAF as partners rather than as rivals or competitors. The SLP and RSLAF should be seen as a united and not divided body when it comes to national security issues and even when they, (SLP and RSLAF) personnel are out on the streets jubilating during national holidays.

Any country which allows the relationship between its prime security forces (namely Police and Military) to degenerate into triviliaty or misconception would only have itself to blame when the chasm deepens between the two security entities. Historically, there have been occasions when police and military personnel targetted each other instead of supporting and complementing each other’s efforts for the national good. History is repleat with instances of consequences, reactions and results of what happens when national security forces do not or refuse to see eye to eye.

Against this background, my advise is for the management of the above-mentioned security institutions to forge new pathways of respect, tolerance, acceptance and mutual understanding between the respective personnel.

But because we are optimistic as a nation that when we all put our efforts together we can make Sierra Leone a better place, it is incumbent on the RSLAF and the SLP to support and respect each other.

May common sense prevail.

NATCOM DESERVES PRAISE, NOT CONDEMNATION

NATCOM Deserves Praise, Not Condemnation

By Ranger

It is unfortunate that the National Telecommunications Commission (NATCOM) even though it is is bending backwards to ensure that the average Sierra Leonean enjoys the full benefits of affordable, reliable and sustainable telecommunication and internet services, there are detractors bent on reversing the good works of the NATCOM Chairman Momoh Konteh and his team.

This comes against the backdrop of a recent meeting hosted by Sierra Leone Cable Limited (SALCAB) to update the general public through the media about recent developments at SALCAB, the challenges and the way forward for the company.

It was pointed out by SALCAB Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) Alhaji Salieu Mansaray that with the landing of the submarine fiber optic, telecommunication procedures, processes and systems all across the country are being upgraded; areas which never had telecommunication facilities are currently being connected, while tariff and related matters are being appropriately handled by the national telecom regulator NATCOM.

He noted that SALCAB is an autonomous body which seeks to provide wholesale service in saleable megabytes to companies that are certified and registered by NATCOM.

Apparently, after the disclosure by the SALCAB CCO, Alhaji Salieu Mansaray, some sections of the media are attempting to paint SALCAB in bad light.

It could be recalled that SALCAB was set up by an Act of Parliament to manage and distribute fiber optic service to registered entities with the telecom regulator NATCOM. It appears however that because SALCAB CCO, Alhaji Salieu Mansaray made references to NATCOM being the entity that deals directly with mobile phone operators and controls payment of dues, taxes and levies, a section of the media is deliberately spreading lies about the operations of SALCAB and NATCOM, or is attempting to trivialize the genuine efforts of the hard working NATCOM Chairman Momoh Konteh and his team.

In all fairness to NATCOM, the control and management of mobile phone operators has never been better. It is with Momoh Konteh that we are today enjoying mobile phone benefits that were once beyond our reach or shrouded in secret arrangements.

Thankfully, NATCOM under Momoh Konteh is a credible national enity which seeks first the interest of the ordinary Sierra Leonean before the interest of the mobile phone operators.

 

2 DIASPORA SIERRA LEONEANS SUE NEC TO COURT

For Failing to Respect their Electoral Franchise…

2 Diaspora Sierra Leoneans Sue NEC To Court

By Ranger

Two Sierra Leoneans resident in the United States of America,  Abdul Kabba of 3946 Whispering Meadow Drive, Maryland and Abibatu Bangura of 3743 Mentone Avenue, Los Angeles, California have through their solicitor in Freetown, Francis Ben Keifala Esq., taken out a writ of summons in the Supreme Court of Sierra Leone against the Chief Commissioner and the National Elections Commission.

The motion which originated in the Office of the Master and Registrar dated April 18th 2017 pleads with the Supreme Court to slam an interim injunction on the Chief Electoral Commissioner and the National Electoral Commission (NEC) from concluding the ongoing national voter registration exercise until their plea to be registered to vote as non-resident citizens, like every other citizen, is heard.

The argument of the two appellants is that they are entitled to be registered to vote in the 2018 elections pursuant to section 31 and 33, Act No. 6 of the 1991 Constitution.

Accordingly, they beg the court to implore the respondents to comply with their statutory duty, pursuant to section 18 of the Public Elections Act 2012 by making provision for registration of Diaspora Sierra Leoneans and for NEC to enable them to vote outside of Sierra Leone.

The appellants’ solicitor in his affidavit to the court further pleads for a speedy hearing of the matter.

He also asks for the cost of the action to be borne by the respondents.

MARIE STOPES DEBUNKS FAKE REPORT

Marie Stopes Debunks Fake Report

By Ranger

Marie Stopes Sierra Leone (MSSL) Country Director Ufuoma Festus Omo-Obi has in a press release issued on 19th April, 2017 debunked a report circulated on social media carrying a list of names of people that are HIV positive.

He informed his audience at the briefing that was held at the MSSL office at off Sir Samuel Lewis Road in Freetown that an unsigned document carrying the old and discarded MSSL logo was in circulation purportedly distributed by MSSL.

According to MSSL Country Director Ufuoma Festus Omo-Obi, “This is a forgery and we condemn its creation and circulation in the strongest terms. We view this as a ploy to cause emotional distress to the people named on the list and to damage the reputation of MSSL. We would never circulate, publish, share or disclose the data of our clients in any form. For the last thirty (30) years our service delivery has been marked by the highest clinical standards, including client safety and confidentiality.”

He apologized to the general public for the criminal circulation of a forged document and promised that the MSSL will do all in its power to bring the culprit (s) to book, adding that the matter is currently under police investigation.

NEW PRODUCTION EQUIPMENTS ARRIVE

*As Brewery Expands…*

*New Production Equipments Arrive*

*By Ranger*

The press, together with the Corporate Affairs Assistant of the Sierra Leone Brewery Limited (SLBL), Unisa Conteh, on Wednesday 15th February,2017 paid an inspection visit to the Queen Elizabeth II Quay to inspect the huge fermenting tanks  imported by the company. The storage tanks are part of the brewery’s investment in its ongoing expansion program. The eight tank consignment includes:

✔6 x FSTs (Fermentation Storage Tanks) of 1, 000 HL
✔ 1 X FST 205 HL and a
✔ Hoisting beam.

The consignment which arrived at the Queen Elizabeth II Quay on Monday 13th February is in the process of being cleared. Other expansion program materials are on the high seas and are expected to arrive at the Freetown Port very soon.

With over One Hundred and Fifty Billion Leones (LE150Bn) invested in the country since 2014 to modernize and expand its production capacity, the Sierra Leone Brewery Limited (SLBL) is now set to more than double its annual production capacity. Through this extensive capital investment, SLBL will also be able to respond quickly to any increase demand for its products in the future. This is further capacitated by the brewery’s importation of new stainless steel fabricated fermenting tanks.

According to the new SLBL Managing Director, Daaf Van Tilburg, this massive investment showcases the brewery’s confidence in the economy. This investment he furthered comes at the right time as the brewery prepares to fully implement the Finance Act of 2016 which gives it impetus to meet the growing demand for its products in the country using locally grown sorghum.

He disclosed that when the new fermenting tanks are installed, the production capacity of the brewery will more than double the brewery's annual production capacity. The tanks will also create the opportunity to brew, package and distribute all of SLBL’s award winning products which include Star Beer, Mutzig Beer, Guinness Stout and Maltina to satisfy current and future consumer demand in the country.

To meet the varied taste of customers, SLBL also markets imported Heineken Beer, Strong Bow Cider, Fayrouz Malt non-alcoholic drink, Royal Club range of soft drinks and Climax Energy Drink.

SLBL established itself in Sierra Leone as a manufacturer of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages just after the country’s independence, 54 years ago.

As a major employer, SLBL has been contributing tremendously to the growth of Gross Domestic Products in Sierra Leone. It has also been diligently performing its Corporate Social Responsibility in the community in which it operates as well as far and wide across the country.

As a dynamic corporate investor, SLBL continues to expand its operations through new investments and innovative equipments and production techniques in order to meet customer satisfaction at all levels.

As it seeks to substitute imported ingredients for the manufacturing of its products with locally grown ingredients, it has established strong working relationship with the Sierra Leone Sorghum Farmers Association to supply the brewery with locally grown sorghum. This has created employment and boosted the incomes of over 12, 000 contract farmers across the country. This relationship has greatly boosted the government’s agenda for prosperity drive.

According to SLBL, they have more than doubled the requirement for sorghum from farmers for 2017. This and other investment initiatives launched by SLBL will greatly contribute to the brewery’s volume growth ambition, create wealth for farmers, grow government revenue from their operations and generally have a multiplier effect on the economy.

The foundation for this development, the SLBL MD said, was set by the actions put in place by his predecessor, Willy Ngana, who has been transferred to the Africa Middle East Regional Office in Holland.

*_By Ranger_*
*_FEB|2017_*

AT LAST GBERE BRIDGE TO BE REPLACED

*AT LAST GBERE BRIDGE TO BE REPLACED…*

*Pres. Koroma’s Development Strides Continue*

*By Ranger*

Being the development-oriented leader that he is, President Koroma continues to expatiate in his infrastructural drives all across the country.

The latest of his developmental drives is at the Gbere Bridge. Travelers, visitors and commuters to this area can witness firsthand the construction of a new bridge going up alongside the old bridge.

According to the engineers, the new bridge would not only be safer, but it would be wider and modern than its predecessor.

Indeed, all across Sierra Leone from Freetown to Kailahun and up to Kono, President Koroma has ensured that he initiates all manner of development projects including new hospitals, roads, schools, universities, agricultural schools and a host of other development projects all aimed at putting Sierra Leone on equal or better footing as its neighbors in order to make the country more competitive and attractive to potential investors.

Another area President Koroma has demonstrated his vision and tenacity is in the energy sector. Being the business man that he is he recognizes the important role uninterrupted energy supply plays in the growth of any country’s economy. It is no secret that since his coming to power in 2007, the energy supply situation has significantly improved and there is less and less blackout these days – thanks to a visionary, President Ernest Bai Koroma.

Against this background, it is also worth mentioning the fact that with President Ernest Bai Koroma the country has also seen major development in the creation of public facilities and he has strengthened public institutions which have a bearing on good governance. The ACC and other public institutions are independent and there has been little or no political interference in the work of public entities such as this.

President Koroma has worked for this country so well that international organizations are commending him for a job well done and some have even presented several awards to him. President Koroma has also put Sierra Leone on the international diplomacy map by his leadership roles at the AU, UN and other international bodies.

President Koroma is therefore encouraged by all right-thinking Sierra Leoneans to keep the fire burning Sir!
                                                                                                     *The Times SL Newspaper*

KONO RESIDENTS APPLAUD PLUTO MINING CO.

*Pluto Mining Intensifies Development Projects In Kono*

*By Ranger*

Pluto Mining Company operating in Kono, east of Sierra Leone has benefitted from a series of developmental projects since Maxim Brandwain commonly called Max, who is also the proprietor of Mercury International established his Pluto Mining Company in that part of the country.

One major development is the Congo Bridge. It could be recalled that it was this bridge that was causing serious disturbances; some even violent amongst various parties in that part of the country.

The Congo Bridge has been successfully renovated through the efforts of Pluto Mining. Government spread asphalt on the bridge and it is now safer and very modern, thus adding to the beauty of this area.

Another major development initiative by Pluto Mining is the construction of three additional classrooms for three different schools to boost education in that part of the country. The three schools that benefitted from this are namely Model Secondary School, Ahkolm Secondary School and Experimental Secondary School. Administrators of these schools commended Pluto Mining for this initiative, saying it has greatly alleviated accommodation and seating problems in the schools. Also in the area of education, he has been awarding scholarships to deserving pupils in various schools across Kono.   

Another major achievement for the people of Kono that was initiated by Pluto Mining is the construction of six modern water wells in different areas of Kono. Residents in these areas before now were suffering from lack of pure water and had to trek long distances in order to fetch water. But with this gigantic step taken by Pluto Mining, they are full of praise for the company which alleviated their plight.

The Small Sefadu Bridge due to its former dangerous state was demolished and singlehandedly rebuilt by Pluto Mining Company sometime ago. Through Mercury International, he donated the sum of one hundred million Leones (Le100M) to victims of the Angola Town fire disaster at Fort Street. He has also made immense contributions (financial and material) to hospitals, football teams and community based development organizations, as part of his companies’ corporate social responsibilities.

In a similar development, representing the Paramount Chief of Kamara Chiefdom, Tombodu, Kono District, the Town Chief Saffia Ndomina, in charge of Maima (2) has commended the developmental efforts of Maxim Brandwain who is an international investor operating the Pluto Mining in Kono District.

Speaking on the damaged bridge leading from Maima to Sandor, Town Chief Saffia Ndomina maintained that they are exceedingly happy that at last this bridge would be rebuilt and transformed into a two-way road with footpath for pedestrians.

He recalled that the damaged bridge is forty years old but that because the Kamara Chiefdom does not have money to rebuild the bridge and because this bridge is not of priority to the government like the one along the Ro-Cheko Old Road. He added that the bridge in question was built by the former NDMC to transport their gravel but that when they shut down operations they dismantled the bridge. However, due to the importance of the bridge in this area, the people of Kono repaired it by placing metal rods on the bridge until “we had it rebuilt as a legacy to our grandmother,” the Town Chief highlighted.

According to him, the bridge located at Maima had suffered from mining which was taking place very close to its foundations which is very dangerous. He added that this time round they are not going to allow anyone to mine along the foundations of the bridge.

He added that for those of them living in Kamara Chiefdom, Tombodu in Kono, are aware of the issues and are happy but that there are some elements among them who misinterpret and misunderstand the good works that are taking place in Maima in particular. He mentioned that Maxim Brandwain is responsible for the reconstruction of this bridge at Maima, adding that Mr. Max also promised that after the bridge, he would assist in the construction of a school with a science lab, taking into consideration there is no school with a well equipped lab in Kono and that this would go a long way to rebrand education in Kono. He also stated that Mr. Max also promised the construction of an orphanage.

Town Chief Saffia Ndomina used the opportunity to warn all those going around speaking evil of people helping Kono to grow infrastructurally to stop forthwith. He urged the general public and right-thinking people not to listen to such detractors because they have a selfish hidden desire to destroy the development efforts of Kono District..

*The Times SL Newspaper*

 

SLBL PRESS RELEASE

*PRESS RELEASE:*

(FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE)

*SIERRA LEONE BREWERY LIMITED EXPANDS TO MEET DEMAND*

_To meet ever-increasing demand for its quality products, Sierra Leone Brewery Limited is more than doubling its annual production capacity with the investment in new fermentation tanks soon to arrive at the Freetown port._

Wellington, Freetown; 20th January 2017 - Sierra Leone Brewery Limited today announced another major step in the capacity and expansion plans for their brewery in Wellington with the investment in new brewing fermentation tanks which are currently being shipped to Sierra Leone. The tanks are modular cylindrical-conical fermenters, to be housed at their brewery in Wellington, Freetown. When installed, the total production capacity will be more than doubled and will create an opportunity to brew, package and distribute all of their award-winning quality products to satisfy current and future consumer demand in the country. The investment comes in at the right time post implementation of the pro-local production Finance Act 2016 and will cater for all expected and potential consumer demand for our products.

The vessel carrying the consignment of several huge tanks is expected to arrive soon at the Freetown harbour. All tanks are made of stainless steel fabricated according to international brewing standards. We confirm that civil works is already in progress with the contract awarded to a Sierra Leone registered construction company running into billions of Leones.

Commenting on the developments, SLBL’s new Managing Director, Daaf Van Tilburg said: "Over the last couple of years we have consulted extensively with our customers to identify their needs and have ensured that our strategy reflects the required plans to satisfy those needs. “He added “that this foundation has been set by the actions put in place by my predecessor Willy Ngana who has recently been transferred to the Africa Middle East Regional Office in Holland.”

We wish to assure the government and the consumer public that we are working extremely hard to deliver in full the potential demand for our products. Therefore, a large scale investment program has started since 2014 to expand capacity, maintain our high quality and ensure environmental safety. The total investment in 2014-2016 has been over 150 SLL billion.

“The current investment in tanks is another large commitment of Sierra Leone Brewery Limited in Sierra Leone. The timing of this expansion once installed, should allow us to fulfil any potential increase in sales as a result of the implementation of the Finance Act 2016, which would also create more jobs for Sierra Leone and our business partners including sorghum farmers” van Tilburg said.

We will showcase this massive investment and confidence in the economy in the coming weeks when the first consignment comprising the said brand tanks will arrive at the Freetown port.
*____________________________________*

*ABOUT THE COMPANY*

Sierra Leone Brewery Limited planted its roots in the field of manufacturing alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to consumers over 54 years ago. Our establishment has continuously expanded its product range through innovation to meet customer satisfaction at all levels. Our endeavour is to establish not just a contractual relationship with our stakeholders but to build relationships which are lasting and rewarding to the country and to contribute to the growth of the Gross Domestic Product GDP.

All our products are certified and following all the regulations as per approved local and international standards. We manufacture Star Beer, Mutzig Premium Beer, King Leone Beer, Guinness Foreign Extra Stout, Salone beer and Maltina. We also market Heineken Beer, Strong Bow Cider, Fayrouz malt none alcoholic drink, Royal Club range of soft drinks and Climax Energy Drink.
____________________________________
For In-depth information kindly contact:

*Corporate Affairs Department*
*Sierra Leone Brewery Limited*
*Wellington Industrial Estate*
*+23276 603 185*

                       * * *

GOVERNMENT REAFFIRMS SUPPORT FOR AFCON 2019, MOHAMMED KALLON TO COACH LEONE STARS

*Government Reaffirms Support for AfCON 2019, Mohamed Kallon to Coach Leone Stars*

*By Ranger*

Following Sierra Leone’s good showing resulting to the country being drawn alongside Ghana Black Stars, Kenya and Ethiopia for the AfCON qualifiers, the Deputy Minister of Sports, Ishmael Al-Sankoh Conteh has promised that the government of Sierra Leone is poised to give its fullest support to Leone Stars to participate in the qualifiers which start in June this year and ends in November 2018.

The Deputy Sports Minister recalled that Sierra Leone last participated in the continental big stage (AfCON) 21 years ago in South Africa in 1996, adding that it was here that Mohamed Kallon who is currently coaching a team in the USA, became the youngest player in the tournament and scored the winning goal for Sierra Leone in a 2-1 win over Burkina Faso.

“The government is willing to give all the necessary support to ensure we have early plan and mobilize the most qualified and best of our players without any bias. As a government, we are very confident that Sierra Leone will qualify for AfCON 2019 in Cameroon, we may take the first position in our group or qualify as best losers,” said Deputy Sports Minister, Al-Sankoh Conteh.

“I reiterate that we are optimistic that we have what it takes; Leone Stars winning all our home matches and taking points from away matches in Kenya, Ethiopia or Ghana,” the Deputy Minister said with passion.

Mohamed Kallon is considered a national and international football icon and idol by thousands of Sierra Leone youths having started playing football at a very tender age and emerging as a very professional, experienced and international star, thus making Sierra Leonean youths being delighted to follow in his footsteps.

His professional football player experience spanned 1994 – 2016. Below are highlights:

*Mohamed Kallon played for various quality European sides at the highest level in Italian soccer (Bologna, Genoa, Cagliari, Reggina and Vicenzo) most notable Serie A Giants, Internationalize Milan.

*Played French giants AS Monaco FC in League 1.

*He played for various clubs all over Europe and the world including Al-Ittihad, AEK Athens, Al-Shaab, FC Kallon, Shaanxi Chanba and Chirag United.  

His professional experiences as a player in team accomplishment include:

*Winning the Asian Champions League with Al-Ittihad of Saudia Arabia in 2005;

*2002: UEFA Champions League semi-finalist versus AC Milan.

*2001 UEFA Cup semi-finalist versus Feyenoord Rotterdam.

His professional experience as a player: Individual honors are:

*2002 African Player of the Year; Runner-up; finishing third.

*2005 Top Scorer Asian Champions League tournament.

*Voted Best Player 2005 Asian Champions League Tournament.

Mohamed Kallon: Soccer Education:

License:

*Mohamed Kallon currently holds a UEFA “B” License.

*He was voted Serie A Tactical Player of the Year.

Coaching experience: He coached Houston Dynamo Academy from 2015 to present.

*Houston Dynamo Academy U14s.

*Current Dynamo trainer coaching U14 players developing in the pre-Dynamo Academy.

*Currently trains Houston Dynamo U14s.

*FC Kallon-Islanders Houston Football Association (HFA) 2014 to present.

*He is current head coach of Men’s League team, FC Kallon-Islanders that currently competes in the highest amateur level soccer league in Dynamo U15 and is U23 coach.

*Part of his duties includes conducting all training sessions, and adjusting tactics week by week for each game.

*He develops technical sessions to improve skills and awareness of players to transition their abilities into tactics to best contribute to the team.

*Mohamed Kallon coached FC Kallon’s premier division in Sierra Leone, Africa 2013-2014.

Asked about how confident he is to coach Leone Stars if appointed, Mohamed Kallon said he is confident he would do well because “as Soccer Coach Trainer & Developer and a former professional player and current coach he is currently seeking opportunity to obtain a USSD Coaching License to further educate myself in hopes to successfully educate, develop and improve players I work with,” adding that this would greatly assist him in developing the individual and team aspirations of the players who would eventually be selected for AfCON.”

Many youths across Sierra Leone are calling on the relevant authorities to appoint Mohamed Kallon as Coach of Leone Stars because they believe that he has what it takes to bring accolades to the country as most of the players have respect and trust in him.

“The government would be very wise in listening to the youths this time round,” said a prominent football promoter.

 ‼‼

  

 

 

TIMDALE PARAMOUNT CHIEFTAINCY SAGA... WHO IS BEHIND THE SMOKE SCREEN?

*Timdale paramount chieftaincy saga...*‼‼

*Who is behind the smoke screen.?.*‼

*By Ranger*

Reports reaching this press strongly indicate that all is not well in that little coastal community in the Moyamba District.

There is mounting animosity surrounding the legitimacy of the paramount chief elect who happens to have  been hood winked to that position through manipulations, hence his election was challenged and petitioned since December 2015. The case of similar petitions have received the attention of the authorities and action has been taken. But why not in the case of Timdale?

Records relating to the chieftaincy rights in Timdale clearly show that only two ruling houses existed. The Kaindoh and Yimbo ruling houses since the colonial era. There has never been any serious challenge to this for over one hundred years, despite attempts by one Aruna Conteh to claim rights under the guise of the alien name called Solunui. This fictitious name was used on several occasions to lay claim to chieftaincy rights when ever the vacancy for paramount chief arose but were never given recognition.

In 2015 one Bobor Steven whose father Joseph Steven attempted to contest for the chieftaincy but could not qualify came up and was permitted to contest under fictitious manipulations. His candidature was challenged but was overturned. The outcome of that election has been challenged and petitioned.

What baffles many of the citizens is the continued interference of the chief in chiefdom matters with impunity. He goes around removing and electing chiefs.
The questions on the lips of many people this medium spoke to is;

1. Does an elected chief under petition have the right to officiate in any chiefdom matter?

2. Does he/ she have the authority to remove chiefs and cause the conduct to elect other chiefs?
When a petition is filed against a chief should

3. The District officer continue to recognize him/ her as paramount chief?
The answer to all of these questions need the immediate response of the authorities concerned in order to bring this matter to a speedy conclusion.

Valunia Chiefdom in Bo district had a similar problem. This has long since been addressed. Why not Timdale whose issue was the first to be put before the authorities.

*Who is behind the smoke screen.?* ‼

BELGIUM MILITARY SPORTS COUNCIL SECRETARY GENERAL PAYS COURTESY CALL TO THE LEBANESE CHAIRMAN

The international military Sports Council Secretary General from Belgium pays a courtesy call to the Lebanese chairman on the 4th of January 2017 in a bid to develop sports in the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces.

(C)Ranger

SIERRA LEONE LEBANESE COMMUNITY PRESIDENT BRIEFS THE PRESS

*Sierra Leone Lebanese Community President Briefs The Press*‼

*By Ranger*

The President of the Sierra Leone Lebanese Community, Samir Hassaniyeh, on Monday 16th January 2017 in a press conference held at West Coast Airline, Wilberforce Street in Freetown updated the press about developments in the Community.

He stated that a new committee comprising of twenty seven members has been constituted to oversee the affairs of the Lebanese committee in Sierra Leone. He added that the committee is for all Lebanese in Sierra Leone and that they the committee leaders are servants. The committee he said is tasked with the responsibility of safeguarding and protecting Lebanese in the country, as well as ensuring that they are law abiding.

The new leadership he said is drawn from various parts of the Lebanese community in Sierra Leone. He added that they love and respect each other. Samir Hassaniyeh disclosed that there was what he called “small misunderstanding” in the community but that this has been cleared finally. “We are all one unit,” he declared, adding that they will work closely for the benefit of all, including Sierra Leoneans.

Stating that the Lebanese Ambassador who is one of them but is out of the country and will be back soon, Samir Hassaniyeh said he wanted to say something very important. “There are people putting things in the press that are not coming from us,” he said.

“People are trying to disrupt the harmony, we are not going to tolerate that,” the Lebanese President said. He furthered that all decisions will be taken by entire community. He added that anything he says as the Lebanese President comes from the entire community, and that any message coming from any other person should not be listened to. He called for cooperation among and between Lebanese and Sierra Leoneans.

He ended by thanking the press for attending the briefing. 

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AUSPICIOUS FAREWELL FOR OUTGOING SLBL MD ALPHONSE WILLY MABIALA NGANA

*Auspicious Farewell for Outgoing SLBL MD Alphonse Willy Mabiala Ngana* ‼

*By Ranger*

The outgoing Managing Director Sierra Leone Brewery Limited (SLBL), Mr. Alphonse Willy Mabiala Ngana has received a rousing farewell from staff and other partners at the end of his successful tenure in the country’s only brewery.

Speaking at the ceremony which was held at the Golden Tulip – Kimbima Hotel at Aberdeen in Freetown on 13th January, 2017, the Chief of Staff, Saidu Conton Sesay explained to his audience that Mr. Alphonse Willy Mabiala Ngana is an enigma and that he knows the latter to be a major player in the brewery business.

Mr. Conton Sesay added that at one point, Mr. Ngana met him at State House to discuss Local Content Policy, adding that it was as a result of this meeting that actually brought to reality the LCP Act.

He went on to commend SLBL workers and thanked them for the support given to Mr. Alphonse Willy Mabiala Ngana. He also asked the SLBL staff to welcome with open arms their next MD. He promised sorghum farmers in the country that he would do everything within his power to elevate their respective businesses.

Minister of Trade and Industry, Capt. (Rtd.) Alieu Momodu Pat Sowe in his brief address, told his audience that he is happy over the success of the SLBL. He thanked the outgoing SLBL MD, adding that initially, he was very impressed with Mr. Ngana when he assumed the top most position at the SLBL, adding that he is still impressed with Mr. Ngana’s achievements at the SLBL.

The Trade Minister added that over the years, the position of the government has been to encourage and support Local Content Policy (LCP) and that, the intervention and contribution of Mr. Alphonse Willy Mabiala Ngana went a long way to make better sorghum farming and trade in the country.

According to the Trade Minister, he is very grateful to Mr. Alphonse Willy Mabiala Ngana for coming to State House to discuss and do everything within his power to actualize the reality of sorghum farming and maximum production of beer, stout and other drinks at national level.

The Chairman, Sorghum Farmers Association, Mr. Denis Jusu, told his large audience that he honors and has a lot of respect for the outgoing SLBL MD. He stated that he is happy that at last, there is now a semblance of understanding and respect between the SLBL and sorghum farmers in Sierra Leone. He went further to state that the outgoing SLBL MD has made it possible for many more farmers in Sierra Leone to embark on planting sorghum as a way of life and as a business.

On behalf of all sorghum farmers across the country, he extended thanks and appreciation to Mr. Alphonse Willy Mabiala Ngana for his pro-activity, love and business acumen which has resulted to making hundreds of sorghum farmers wealthy. He added that as sorghum farmers, appreciate the efforts of the outgoing MD and wished him luck and joy in his future endeavors.

“We shall always remember you for your good and unselfish deeds which have made the lives of sorghum farmers in this country far better than it ever was and your footprints would never be forgotten,” Mr. Jusu maintained. He thanked the Chief of Staff, Saidu Conton for his efforts towards sorghum farmers and added that he and his colleague sorghum farmers are more than happy that as part of the Ebola Recovery Programme, HE President Ernest Bai Koroma promised 6000 jobs in the agriculture sector for rural youths in 2017.

In his brief but well received message, the outgoing SLBL MD Alphonse Willy Mabiala Ngana said it is always good but difficult to say goodbye. He however thanked all the speakers at the occasion, adding that he alone could not have succeeded at the SLBL without the contribution and participation of all SLBL workers. He also thanked the Government of Sierra Leone and the respective authorities which made his tenure at the SLBL though tedious, but successful. He thanked the SLBL Board of Directors for their professional and timely advices, adding that he also has great respect for all the guests present at the occasion as well as for the numerous SLBL workers and customers.

Present at the auspicious occasion were distinguished guests including Mr. Andrew Keili, Mrs. Zorah Anthony, Mr. Abdul Karim-Kone and Mrs. Emerance Ngana. They also gave short speeches. Master of the ceremony was Dr. Modupeh Taylor-Pearce introduced by SLBL Corporate Affairs Manager, Albert OU Collier.

The incoming Managing Director SLBL, Daaf J. van Tilburg after he was introduced explained to his audience that he is privileged to serve in Sierra Leone. He commended the outgoing SLBL MD and further commended the SLBL workers for ensuring his successful tenure. He added that he has come to take off from where his predecessor left off and that he would follow in the footsteps of his former predecessor, adding that the latter is a very special friend. Mr. van Tilburg is Dutch by nationality. Mr van Tilburg started his career in 2005 as Consultant Warehouse Systems  (Project Implementation Manager), Nederlands. From here he rose to the position of Sales Director HEINEKEN, in Rwanda. Following his success in this country, he has now been appointedto serve as SLBL MD.

The Vote of Thanks was delivered by Mr. Desmond George.

Climax of the event included a comedy and music show done by Faculty Group and Arkman respectively.

 ‼‼

 

 

 

 

VP FOH ENDORSES LEBANESE EXECUTIVE

*VP Foh Endorses Lebanese Executive*‼‼

*By Ranger*

Vice President of Sierra Leone, Hon. Ambassador Victor Bockarie Foh on Friday 13th january, 2017 advised and even warned the whole Lebanese Executive in Sierra Leone to avoid making insinuations and allegations.

He addressed the Lebanese Executive in the presence of the media in Freetown, saying that he discourages gossip and slander; and went on to state that the Lebanese are pivotal to the economic growth of the state. He also spoke on the necessity of the state being the agent of change to ensure that the Lebanese Community in Sierra Leone and its nationals do everything officially possible to ensure that love, development, progress and cooperation exists and is maintained between all parties concerned.

According to him, all parties concerned must ensure that the future of the Lebanese Community in Sierra Leone is assured and capable of manning its own affairs.

He maintained that the Lebanese nationals in Sierra Leone must embrace peace, trust and unity. He added that he is glad that they, (Lebanese) converged at the occasion which is a demonstration of their solidarity and uniqueness with Sierra Leone and Sierra Leoneans.

He went on to state that the Lebanese Community in Sierra Leone is officially recognized by the Government of Sierra Leone; which is ready and willing to work with the Lebanese in Sierra Leone, adding that Sierra Leone and Lebanon are very good friends.

He encouraged them to embrace peace and unity and also gave them words of courage.

He added: “We want peace and unity in the Lebanese Community.” He also mentioned the importance of the participation of the Madingo, Fullah and other nationalities in Sierra Leone that are doing their best to rebrand Sierra Leone in the vision of our President.

He maintained that President Ernest Bai Koroma does not wish for anyone to suffer when it comes to payment of tax.

The VP also cautioned the Lebanese in Sierra Leone to always ensure that they do their public and private businesses transparently and to also ensure that they pay tax. He also encouraged the Lebanese in Sierra Leone to always endeavor to work with the Sierra Leone Government as the latter is always ready and willing to work with local and international partners.

Surprisingly, VP Foh used the opportunity to advise the Lebanese Community in Sierra Leone to encourage their nationals for the overall development of this country; noting that the Lebanese in Sierra Leone have and continue to be part and parcel of the development of Sierra Leone.

He also advised the local press (print and electronic) to be more professional in reporting. The Hon. VP congratulated the newly constituted Executive and admonished them to work in the interest of all Lebanese residing in Sierra Leone.

Also speaking was the Minister of Trade and Industry, Capt. (Rtd) Alieu Pat Sowe. He told his audience that Sierra Leoneans and Lebanese nationals are one of the same kind. He added that Sierra Leoneans and Lebanese nationals attend the same schools and that the latter have been in this country since colonial times, adding that he would like to see more and better development for this country.

He emphasized to the Lebanese Community that anything they see as detrimental or dangerous to the development of Sierra Leone should be brought to the notice of the authorities. He maintained that all foreign and local entrepreneurs must abide by the Local Content Policy passed by the Sierra Leone Parliament which seeks to improve quality; adding that this would also improve quantity.

The Lebanese Community President, Samir Hassiniyeh introduced the Lebanese Community Vice President Hisham Mackie and members of the executive of the Lebanese Community.

Samir Hassaniyeh assured VP Foh and the Government of Sierra Leone that they would work together for the good of Sierra Leone.

Other participants were the Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Maya Kaikai who chaired the meeting. Also present at the auspicious occasion were Minister of State VP Office Hon. Alhaji Mohamed Alie Bah, Deputy Information and Communication Minister, Cornelius Deveaux, Secretary to Vice President, Dr. Julius Sandi and the Director General Foreign Affairs and the International Cooperation, Mrs Kadie Bassir.

Photos and interviews climaxed the occasion.

 ‼‼

SORGHUM FARMERS BREAK NEW GROUND!

 

*Sorghum Farmers Break New Ground*‼

*By Ranger*

The Sierra Leone Sorghum Farmers Association (SLSFA) with a membership that spans the length and breadth of the country can feel very proud of their achievements under their chairman, Denis Jusu since the association was formed in 2006.

With a ready market provided by the Sierra Leone Brewery which has increased its demand for sorghum as an ingredient for producing its beer and beverage in the country, Sorghum Farmers are now guaranteed that they can now expand their production with pre-financing provided by Brewery.

This development is in line with the country’s Local Content Policy, the 2016 Finance Act and the commercialization of agriculture by the Ministry of Agriculture in order to make farmers more productive and richer.

At a press conference on Thursday 12th January 2016 at the Saluma Hall, Congo Water in Wellington, SLSFA Chairman gave a comprehensive rundown of the progress made by the association in partnership with the Sierra Leone Brewery, its parent company Heineken International, C.R.E.A.T.E and the microfinance institution Finance Salone.

Mr. Jusu explained that the essence of the press conference was to get back to the press on what the association has achieved since 2015, its link with Finance Salone and resolving of outstanding matters affecting association members.

Speaking at the conference, the Managing Director of Finance Salone, Amadu John Serry stated that he was confident SLSFA will continue to grow from strength to strength.

He explained that their MFI supports business people with loans, and that in the case of SLSFA, it has since 2006 been supporting the association with finance to secure seeds and cultivation. He disclosed that in the last two years, its financial support to sorghum farmers has ranged between Le250 million to Le300 million.

However, in spite of repayment problems with some farmers, Mr. Serry assured SLSFA that it Finance Salone will continue to support the association in order to increase their production and productivity.  

On the role of the press in agricultural and financial development, *Amin Kef aka Ranger* in his brief presentation said that the press helps disseminate agricultural news at home and abroad and called on SLSFA to continue its partnership with the press.

In his comment, Mr. Jusu greatly commended the press for highlighting their struggle and the benefits it has brought the association in terms of recognition.

He praised President Koroma and the Government for improving the environment for the commercialization of agriculture.

Mr. Serry called on other MFIs to take a new approach towards agricultural financing, noting that agricultural is no longer what it used to be; that it is now seen as a business by its practitioners. He said other MFIs should now feel safe to loan money to farmers to improve the country’s production and productivity.‼‼

Sierra Leone Brewery Company Bags Prestigious Award

*Sierra Leone Brewery Company Bags Prestigious Award*‼

*By Ranger*

One of the leading companies in the country Sierra Leone Brewery Company Limited (SLBCL) was the proud recipient of a prestigious award as Best Company, in the Industry Category 2016,  presented to the company by the Sierra Leone Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture (SLCCIA) during an auspicious ceremony last Friday 6th January 2017 at the Bintumani Hotel in Freetown.

According to the citation before presentation of the award, Sierra Leone Brewery Company is one that has stood tall in the industrial landscape for 55 years and has shown unparalleled commitment to the country. It continued to state that the company has provided jobs for countless number of Sierra Leoneans over those years.  

SLBL has invested in a new Brewing plant, vastly improving the quality and quantity of production with positive effects on market share and profitability, it went on, adding that the company has made considerable strides to increase the local content of its raw materials by developing a substantial and sustainable local supply chain for sorghum in Sierra Leone. In 2015, 44% of the ingredients used in its production processes were sourced locally and the company targets 60% of local sourcing of raw materials by 2020.

It noted that its recent product innovation drive has resulted in offering seven different brands of drinks which includes 100% sorghum beer launched on 20 December2016 stating how the company has recently spent over Le51 Billion on total brewery upgrade including new machines and infrastructure and intends to invest some Le200 Billion in the next five years.

The company’s fortunes ,recently buoyed by increased taxes on imported alcohol may change substantially with the unique opportunity presented to further improve on its production and profitability with positive consequences for employment and the economy, it disclosed.    

The award was given to SLBL in recognition of its  unparalleled corporate leadership, its rock solid belief in continuing to invest in Sierra Leone and its outstanding contribution to the economic and social life of its employees and communities in which it operates and its immense contribution to the country’s economy.

“The Chamber cognizant of the unique part played in the country’s industry sector by SLBL delights to record her grateful regard and to express her best wishes to Africa Minerals Limited. For the future,”an official of SLCCIA maintained.

SLBL official expressed profound thanks and appreciation to SLCCIA for the recognition bestowed on them by awarding them as Best Company in Sierra Leone 2016. He promised that they will continue to raise the bar and make meaningful contributions to the country’s economy.

‼‼

Sierra Leone Brewery Company Bags Prestigious Award

*Sierra Leone Brewery Company Bags Prestigious Award*‼

*By Ranger*

One of the leading companies in the country Sierra Leone Brewery Company Limited (SLBCL) was the proud recipient of a prestigious award as Best Company, in the Industry Category 2016,  presented to the company by the Sierra Leone Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture (SLCCIA) during an auspicious ceremony last Friday 6th January 2017 at the Bintumani Hotel in Freetown.

According to the citation before presentation of the award, Sierra Leone Brewery Company is one that has stood tall in the industrial landscape for 55 years and has shown unparalleled commitment to the country. It continued to state that the company has provided jobs for countless number of Sierra Leoneans over those years.  

SLBL has invested in a new Brewing plant, vastly improving the quality and quantity of production with positive effects on market share and profitability, it went on, adding that the company has made considerable strides to increase the local content of its raw materials by developing a substantial and sustainable local supply chain for sorghum in Sierra Leone. In 2015, 44% of the ingredients used in its production processes were sourced locally and the company targets 60% of local sourcing of raw materials by 2020.

It noted that its recent product innovation drive has resulted in offering seven different brands of drinks which includes 100% sorghum beer launched on 20 December2016 stating how the company has recently spent over Le51 Billion on total brewery upgrade including new machines and infrastructure and intends to invest some Le200 Billion in the next five years.

The company’s fortunes ,recently buoyed by increased taxes on imported alcohol may change substantially with the unique opportunity presented to further improve on its production and profitability with positive consequences for employment and the economy, it disclosed.    

The award was given to SLBL in recognition of its  unparalleled corporate leadership, its rock solid belief in continuing to invest in Sierra Leone and its outstanding contribution to the economic and social life of its employees and communities in which it operates and its immense contribution to the country’s economy.

“The Chamber cognizant of the unique part played in the country’s industry sector by SLBL delights to record her grateful regard and to express her best wishes to Africa Minerals Limited. For the future,”an official of SLCCIA maintained.

SLBL official expressed profound thanks and appreciation to SLCCIA for the recognition bestowed on them by awarding them as Best Company in Sierra Leone 2016. He promised that they will continue to raise the bar and make meaningful contributions to the country’s economy.

‼‼

LAB GIVES PROGRESS REPORT FOR 2017

*LAB gives progress report for 2017*

The Executive Director of the Legal Aid Board, Ms. Fatmata Claire Carlton-Hanciles has told a cross section of civil society groups including the Sierra Leone Motor Drivers Union and the National Farmer Federation that she is very proud of what the scheme achieved in 2016.

‘We established offices in six district headquarters towns upcountry and covered all the seventeen Magistrate and three High Courts in that part of the country,’ she said. ‘It was not easy but it feels good that we were able to touch the lives of those who needed our services the most. I’m talking of those who had spent months or years of uncertain future on remand because they do not have an indictment and therefore cannot have their day in court.’

Ms. Carlton-Hanciles disclosed that the Board defended five thousand one hundred and sixty-four (5,164) adults and two hundred and twenty (220) juvenile accused persons. The adults include 159 women.

‘If you divide this among our thirteen lawyers, it will give you an idea of the workload for each,’ she said. ‘Seven of the lawyers, those for our upcountry offices were recruited in August and deployed in September 2016.’

 Ms. Carlton-Hanciles attributed the successes of the Board in providing legal assistance to such a large number to hard work. ‘Our lawyers take on far more cases than many other lawyers,’ she said. ‘Also, they are punctual and do not ask for adjournment which is partly responsible for delays in the courts.’

Ms. Carlton-Hanciles said the Board’s Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Service has been a huge success.  ‘Seven thousand seven hundred and ninety-four (7,794) persons benefited from the Alternative Dispute Resolution services since it was introduced in March 2016,’ she said. ‘We have resolve disputes of a non-criminal natures between individuals, groups and communities around the country. Our staff have been to remote areas of the country to resolve disputes and have contributed immensely to peace and security.’

Ms. Carlton-Hanciles said four thousand six hundred and sixty-one (4,661) pupils from schools around the country benefited from the Board’s legal education programme which is geared towards ensuring that they are educated on the mandate of the Board, how the justice delivery system works, issues of rule of law and human rights. ‘Our legal education programme is conducted through outreach,’ she said. ‘We have visited most of the secondary schools in the provincial headquarters towns and many in the Western Urban.’

She added that outreach events have been held in communities around the country. She disclosed that over seven thousand people have benefited from the programme and therefore have become knowledgeable on how the justice system works.

Ms. Carlton-Hanciles said calls from civil society to provide support to former prison inmates including clients of the Board who are struggling to either gain acceptance or make a living following their return into mainstream society resulted in the development of the Reintegration Programme. She thanked the National Farmers Association for providing jobs to thirty former clients of the Board. She acknowledged the efforts of authorities at the Connaught Hospital for providing free medical to sick Board clients at the time of their release.

Ms. Carlton-Hanciles said the Board had very successful meetings with hundred and five Legal Aid Services providers in the country. ‘We met with them in Freetown and the regional headquarters towns in December and will be building on the successes to increase access to justice delivery around the country. ‘

Ms. Carlton-Hanciles said the Board had done a lot in strengthening justice delivery at community level. She noted that the Board has secured office space for the Citizens Advisory Bureau in ten Wards in the Western Area. ‘I must salute the Councilors and other stakeholders for making this possible in their Wards.’

According to Ms. Carlton-Hanciles the Bureaus will be the first port of call for members of the community who have law and order issues and minor disputes. They will have an Alternative Dispute Resolution component which will be responsible for mediating  matters that are not of a criminal nature such as family, maintenance and land issues, evictions, debts, industrial disputes, employer and employee disputes  and community level problems.  In addition, they will have an employment unit to advice and provide information on job opportunities. ‘It is important to note that the Bureaus will not have legal powers to enforce their decision,’ she said.

Ms. Carlton-Hanciles thanked the Open Society Initiative for West Africa (OSIWA) for funding thirty-five Paralegals. This has increased the number of Paralegals with the Board to forty-four. She noted that the Paralegals will be a much needed addition in monitoring the justice delivery especially at community level.

SLBL LAUNCHES PRE-PAYMENT AND PRE-HARVEST TRAINING FOR SORGHUM FARMERS

*SLBL Launches Pre-payment And Pre-harvest Training for Sorghum farmers*‼

*By Ranger*

Sierra Leone Brewery Limited (SLBL) on Wednesday 11th January 2017 launched a Pre-payment and Pre-harvest training program for sorghum farmers in Sierra Leone.

Speaking at the occasion at the company’s Wellington Industrial Estate headquarters, the brewery’s new Managing Director, *Daaf Van Tilburg*, said the day signified a renewed commitment and solidifies *SLBL, HEINEKEN* International and *EUCORD*’s (European Cooperative for Rural Development) demonstrated commitment to growing with the country and partnering with key stakeholders for growth and development.

Mr. Tilburg noted that the company’s launching of the 100% sorghum beer in December 2016 was a game changer to ensure that SLBL creates more opportunities for local farmers by increasing the use of sorghum in their production with multiplier effects on farmers and farmers’ incomes; investing in state-of-the-art machine (Mash Filter) which will help SLBL in its endeavors to use more sorghum.

Since the project started in 2005, Mr. Tilburg said SLBL was proud to state that it has significantly improved the livelihoods of over 10, 000 farmers and over 85, 000 farm families all over the country.

He furthered that the pre-payment and pre-harvest program was to deliver in 2017, 1,200 metric tons of sorghum to SLBL; compared to 358 metric tons in 2016, which he said is a huge increase.

To meet the 2017 target, SLBL has already signed and received contracts from 55 nucleus farmers from 12 districts to supply specific quantities of sorghum to brewery.

*“On that note,” Mr. Tilburg announced, “The sum of LE215, 000,000 will be issued today to 17 farmers as pre-payment for their expected deliveries of sorghum to be made to the brewery in 2017.”*

He added that the project will also renew *SLBL*’s to increase per hectare yield through training on improved agronomic practices with Sierra Leone Agricultural Research Institute *(SLARI).*

The MD designate. He added that *SLBL*’s ambition to nation-building cannot be over emphasized as its their vision to ensure empowerment of local farmers and reinvigoration of the country’s post-Ebola economic recovery.

Mr. Tilburg emphasized that it is *HEINEKEN's* ambition and vision to source at least 60% of its raw materials from within the African continent by 2020.

Through local sourcing, *HEINEKEN* has already improved the livelihoods of more than 100, 000 farmer families across Africa. This fits well into the Local Content Policy of the government’s Agenda for Prosperity.

The program started with the arrival of participants and safety induction. This was followed by breakfast, opening prayers, introduction of the *CREATE* Team and farmers, opening remarks by the Project Coordinator, pre-harvest training by SLARI and quality control and SLBL requirements.

SLBL’s Corporate Affairs Manager, Albert Ojo Collier introduced the new MD and translated a summary of his speech into Krio for the local farmers.

Chairman of the Sierra Leone Sorgum Farmers Association, Denis Jusu who chaired the program spoke on behalf of the sorghum farmers. This was followed by the handing over of cheques to the farmers.
‼‼

LT-Gen. (Rtd) SO Williams Laid to Rest

*Lt. Gen. (Rtd) SO Williams Laid to Rest*‼

*By Ranger*

Hundreds of people drawn from all walks of life, today January 8th 2017, joined the rank and file of Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) to observe the inter-faith funeral service for the late Lt.Gen. (Rtd) Samuel Omarr Williams who was allegedly killed at his home at devil Hole on December 22, 2016. He was 62.

It could be recalled that prior to his death, the late Lt. Gen. SO Williams was one of the longest serving Chief of Defence Staff. He clocked close to four years as CDS before he retired and was replaced by the current CDS Lt. Gen. John E. Milton.

Present at the well-attended funeral ceremony which took place at the Wilberforce Barracks Hockey Pitch in Freetown were members of his family and close relatives, the rank and file from RSLAF, Sierra Leone Police (SLP), Sierra Leone Correctional Service, Deputy Defence Minister, Former D/Defence Minister, Joe Blell and scores of friends, a cross-section of the media, among several others After initial prayers and the reading from the Old and New Testament, there were words of consolation read by Padre AOL Toronka, followed by tributes read by Chief of Defence Staff, Lt. Gen. John E. Milton. He rendered flowery words about the late senior military officer. He recalled that the late Lt. Gen. SO Williams was the first officer in the RSLAF to have been decorated with the title of Lieutenant General. He added that the late Lt. Gen. SO Williams is also the first retired high ranking military officer to have been brutally killed in the manner he was and promised that no stone would be left unturned to uncover his assailants.

Also making a tribute was Col. (Rtd) Bashiru Conteh. He informed his audience that the late Lt. Gen. SO Williams served the RSLAF for thirty-nine years, four of those in the capacity of Chief of Defence Staff, rising from an acting capacity to full CDS. He gave glowing tribute to the late Lt. Gen. S.O. Williams, citing his humility, discipline, encouragement, accessibility and always ready to serve by example. He also called on the police and other relevant authorities not to relent until the murderers of the late man are found and punished. Tributes were also given by his two sons one of whom almost broke down while making his tribute.

The homily and final prayers were done by Bishop Dr. Mike Peper. This was followed by Muslim prayers led by the Forces Chief Imam after which internment at the Military War Graves formed the climax of the event. A 21 gun salute was given in his honor.

*‼May his soul rest in peace.*