By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) has joined the global community in calling for stronger protection of journalists and an end to impunity for crimes committed against members of the Press. The call was made in a press release dated November 3, 2025, marking the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists performing their duty of informing the public and holding power to account.

This year’s global theme: “Chat GBV: Raising Awareness on AI-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence Against Women Journalists,” resonates strongly in Sierra Leone, where journalists, particularly women, continue to face harassment, intimidation and online abuse for account.

SLAJ commended the Government of Sierra Leone for the 2020 repeal of the Criminal and Seditious Libel Laws, describing it as a landmark victory for democracy and press freedom. The Association also recognized ongoing Government efforts to strengthen free speech through reforms spearheaded by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education and the Office of the Attorney General and Minister of Justice.

Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Alpha Sesay Esq., reaffirmed the Government’s stance on media freedom, stating: “A free press is crucial to sustaining our peace and strengthening our democracy. Subjecting journalists to unlawful attacks or using draconian laws to stifle them is an attack on press freedom. That is why we will review existing laws and enact new ones that protect journalists and press freedom in Sierra Leone.”

SLAJ reiterated its advocacy for the review of Section 44 of the Cyber Security and Crime Act 2021, citing potential threats to freedom of expression. The Association also appealed to President Dr. Julius Maada Bio to withhold assent to the recently passed Counter Terrorism Act until all concerns raised by the media and civil society are addressed.

In addition, SLAJ is actively engaged in the Constitutional Review Process, calling for the inclusion of a new Chapter 12, a standalone constitutional provision guaranteeing freedom of expression, press freedom and communication rights.

The Association further noted progress made through collaboration with the security sector. Following the repeal of criminal libel, SLAJ and security institutions, including the Office of National Security (ONS), Sierra Leone Police (SLP), Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) and Sierra Leone Correctional Service (SLCS), signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in 2022 to strengthen relations between journalists and law enforcement.

Inspector General of Police, William Fayia Sellu, reaffirmed the SLP’s commitment to press freedom, instructing that all cases involving journalists should be referred to the Independent Media Commission (IMC) or handled as civil matters rather than criminal prosecutions.

“The Sierra Leone Police remains committed to protecting journalists and ensuring that no journalist is unlawfully detained or intimidated for doing their job,” IGP William Fayia Sellu said. “Our partnership with SLAJ is built on mutual respect for the law and a shared goal of promoting peace, accountability and democracy.”

SLAJ also highlighted joint efforts with the Media Reform Coordinating Group (MRCG) to develop a National Policy on the Safety and Security of Journalists and to establish a National Multi-Stakeholder Coordinating Committee that will monitor journalist safety cases and promote accountability.

Together with MRCG, SLAJ publishes the annual Press Freedom Report, documenting violations, progress and trends in Sierra Leone’s media environment. The Association has also conducted nationwide training in ethical journalism, digital security, gender-sensitive reporting and fact-checking to enhance professionalism within the media.

Despite those strides, SLAJ expressed deep concern that impunity for crimes against journalists persists. The Association therefore urged:

- Law enforcement agencies to investigate all attacks against journalists and bring perpetrators to justice.

- The Judiciary to expedite cases involving crimes against journalists.

- The Government to implement protection mechanisms, especially during elections and crises.

- Media owners and editors to prioritize staff safety, welfare and ethical standards.

SLAJ President, Alhaji Manika Kamara, reaffirmed the Association’s resolve: “As we mark this global day, we remember our fallen colleagues and recommit ourselves to the fight against impunity. No journalist should be attacked, arrested or silenced for doing their job. We call on all stakeholders, Government, security agencies, civil society and the public, to stand with us in defending media freedom and protecting those who speak truth to power.”

As Sierra Leone joins the rest of the world in commemorating the day, SLAJ renews its pledge to defend press freedom, safeguard journalists and promote ethical journalism; working toward a future where all media professionals operate in safety, dignity and independence. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/no-journalist-should-be-silenced-slaj-leads-national-call-against-impunity-as-the-world-marks-international-day-to-end-impunity-for-crimes-against-journalists/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a significant demonstration of accountability and transparency, the Commissioner of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), Francis Ben Kaifala Esq., on Monday, 3rd November 2025, presented the Commission’s 2024 Annual Report to His Excellency, President Brigadier (Rtd.) Dr. Julius Maada Bio, at a brief but formal ceremony held at State House in Freetown.

The event marked the seventh consecutive year that the ACC has submitted its Annual Report to the President, in line with Section 19(1) of the Anti-Corruption Act No. 12 of 2008 as amended in 2019, which mandates the Commission to provide an annual account of its activities, progress and challenges.

Presenting the report, Commissioner Francis Ben Kaifala outlined significant accomplishments during the year under review. These include the crafting of a new National Anti-Corruption Strategy, achieving a 91 percent compliance rate in asset declarations and recovering over Twenty-Two Million (New) Leones (Le 22,000,000.00) from corruption-related cases.

He commended President Bio for his unwavering leadership and political will in supporting the anti-corruption drive, noting that such commitment has yielded tangible progress in restoring integrity and public confidence in governance.

“Your Excellency, I must commend you for your steadfast support and leadership in the fight against corruption. The progress we have achieved under your administration is unprecedented and we remain determined to sustain these gains,” Commissioner Francis Ben Kaifala stated.

Deputy Commissioner Augustine Foday Ngobie emphasized that the presentation of the Annual Report is not just a statutory requirement but a demonstration of transparency and accountability in governance.

“We are here again, as required by law, to present our annual report, a reflection of the progress, challenges and resilience of the ACC over the years. This is evidence of our continued dedication to building a corruption-free Sierra Leone,” Augustine Foday Ngobie noted.

He explained that the 2024 Report provides a comprehensive overview of the Commission’s work, including investigations, prosecutions, preventive actions, public education, and institutional reforms.

Receiving the report, President Julius Maada Bio congratulated the ACC leadership and staff for their diligence, professionalism, and integrity in the execution of their duties. He described the fight against corruption as one of Sierra Leone’s strongest governance achievements, noting that the country continues to receive international recognition for its steady progress.

“Let me express my deep appreciation to the Commissioner and the entire ACC team for your remarkable work. You have made corruption in Sierra Leone not only unfashionable but also risky and dangerous. That is a major victory for good governance,” President Bio stated.

The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the ACC and other accountability institutions to strengthen the country’s governance systems.

“It is a difficult task, but I am proud of your resilience and results. My Government will continue to provide the necessary political and financial support to ensure that the fight against corruption remains strong and uncompromising,” he pledged.

Commissioner Francis Ben Kaifala highlighted that the year 2024 marked the 25th Anniversary of the establishment of the Anti-Corruption Commission; a period that symbolizes Sierra Leone’s collective journey toward integrity and justice.

“As we commemorate 25 years of the ACC, this report reflects how far we have come as a nation in making corruption a high-risk and unrewarding enterprise. Sierra Leone will never again be defined by corruption,” Francis Ben Kaifala reaffirmed.

The 2024 Annual Report, which is publicly accessible on the ACC’s website, showcases Sierra Leone’s continued progress in governance and institutional accountability, reinforcing the Government’s commitment to transparency, integrity and reform.

The full 2024 Annual Report of the Anti-Corruption Commission is available for public access on the Commission’s official website via the link: https://www.anticorruption.gov.sl/slides/slide/annual-report-2024-acc-508. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/acc-marks-25-years-of-integrity-presents-2024-report-to-president-bio/

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Freetown’s culinary landscape has taken a remarkable leap forward with the emergence of Lǒr Restaurant, a fine-dining destination that masterfully blends Sierra Leonean authenticity with international sophistication. Nestled along the scenic Peninsular Highway in Juba, the restaurant has quickly become one of the most sought-after venues for both locals and visitors, setting a new benchmark for taste, style and service.

At Lǒr Restaurant, dining transcends the ordinary, it becomes an experience. The menu is a global journey that takes guests from the delicate artistry of Japanese sushi and Italian pasta to the rich aromas of Lebanese and Indian cuisine, all while celebrating Sierra Leone’s own vibrant culinary heritage. Each dish is a carefully curated masterpiece, prepared by a team of internationally trained chefs who combine creativity, precision and passion to satisfy even the most discerning palates.

The restaurant’s modern and elegant design complements its culinary excellence. With floor-to-ceiling glass panels, ambient lighting and breathtaking ocean views, Lǒr creates an atmosphere that is both intimate and sophisticated; ideal for romantic dinners, business meetings or family celebrations. Its rooftop terrace overlooking the Atlantic Ocean has become a favorite spot for sunset diners and photo enthusiasts alike, offering one of Freetown’s most picturesque dining experiences.

Beyond its menu, Lǒr stands out for its exceptional service standards. The staff is professionally trained to provide attentive yet unobtrusive service, ensuring every guest feels valued. From table service to private dining, guests are treated with warmth and respect that reflect the establishment’s commitment to world-class hospitality.

Adding to the convenience, Lǒr accepts both digital and card payments; including Visa and Mastercard, alongside cash, a rarity among local restaurants. It also offers ample parking and valet services, underscoring its focus on guest comfort and accessibility.

Open daily from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM on weekdays and until 12:15 AM on weekends, Lǒr caters to both early breakfast enthusiasts and late-night diners who seek a refined meal in an ambient setting.

Whether for breakfast, brunch, dinner or a celebratory evening, Lǒr Restaurant continues to redefine what fine dining means in Sierra Leone. Its seamless blend of local flavor and international standard, combined with its luxurious setting and outstanding service, makes it more than a restaurant; it’s a lifestyle statement and a symbol of Freetown’s growing cosmopolitan identity.

📍 Address: Peninsular Highway, Juba, Freetown


📞 Phone: +232 90 002000


💳 Payment Options: Cash, Visa, Mastercard


🍽️ Cuisine: Italian, Japanese, Lebanese, Indian, International


🕘 Hours: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM (Weekdays), until 12:15 AM (Weekends)

Lǒr Restaurant – Where Fine Dining Meets the Atlantic Horizon. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/lor-restaurant-raises-the-bar-for-hospitality-and-fine-dining-in-west-africa/

A groundbreaking decision hailed as a victory for justice and environmental protection has seen the Court of Appeals overturn a previous High Court ruling in the case of MAPO versus Koidu Limited, marking a major milestone in Sierra Leone’s legal and human rights landscape.

The announcement was made during a press conference held at the Labour Congress Hall in Freetown on Thursday, October 31, 2025, drawing widespread celebration from activists, legal practitioners and community representatives.

The appellate court’s ruling reaffirmed that communities affected by environmental degradation and human rights abuses have the right to be heard and to seek redress in court a decision that legal experts say will reshape accountability in Sierra Leone’s extractive industry.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Benedict Jalloh Esq., a prominent human rights lawyer and environmental advocate, described the judgment as “a turning point in Sierra Leone’s pursuit of justice.” He highlighted the long and difficult legal battle, which began in 2005, as an emblem of perseverance and the collective demand for fairness by mining-affected communities.

“This ruling is a landmark moment for access to justice,” Dr. Benedict Jalloh said. “The Court of Appeal has affirmed that where there is a wrong, there must be a right. No citizen is too poor to seek justice.”

Dr. Benedict Jalloh explained that many multinational mining companies have historically shielded themselves through complex foreign corporate structures, making it difficult for victims to pursue compensation or hold them accountable for pollution and displacement.

“For years, we have watched wealth leave our land while our people remain poor, polluted and powerless,” he said. “This judgment reminds us that the struggle for fairness is not over; it has just entered a new phase.”

The MAPO (Mining Affected Persons Organisation) case against Koidu Limited, a subsidiary of the Octea Group, centered on allegations of environmental damage, forced relocations  and violations of the rights of residents in the Kono District. The group, representing hundreds of families, had sought redress for loss of farmland, contamination of water sources and destruction of livelihoods caused by years of blasting and mining operations.

In his statement, Tamba Prince Boima, Chairman of MAPO, hailed the ruling as a triumph for ordinary Sierra Leoneans whose voices have too often been silenced.

“Our people have suffered for too long,” Tamba Prince Boima said passionately. “This victory is not just for lawyers; it is for every farmer, every fisherman, every mother and every child who dreams of a better future.”

He emphasized that the ruling should serve as a wake-up call for both Government regulators and mining companies to prioritize transparency, accountability and community welfare in all extractive operations.

“Accountability is not optional, justice is not negotiable and development must be for all,” he asserted. “The Government must ensure that companies operating in Sierra Leone respect both the people and the environment.”

The event attracted representatives from Civil Society Organizations, human rights groups, journalists and community stakeholders from across the country. Participants hailed the judgment as a step toward closing the long-standing justice gap between multinational corporations and the communities that host their operations.

Speakers at the event also called on the Ministry of Mines and Mineral Resources and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to enforce stricter compliance with environmental and human rights standards, warning that impunity within the mining sector continues to fuel inequality and poverty.

In his closing remarks, Dr. Benedict Jalloh commended the judiciary, particularly the Chief Justice and the panel of appeal judges, for what he described as “their courage and fairness in upholding the rule of law.”

“This ruling restores hope in our justice system,” he said. “But true justice must go beyond the courtroom. It must reach the people who live with the consequences of environmental abuse every day.”

Dr. Benedict Jalloh concluded by urging continued collaboration between communities, civil society and the legal fraternity to ensure that the ruling translates into tangible change on the ground.

“Let us build a Sierra Leone where justice is not a privilege but a right, where our natural resources benefit our people and where our children inherit a nation rooted in fairness, dignity and opportunity,” he affirmed.

The Court of Appeals’ decision in the MAPO vs. Koidu Limited case is widely viewed as a precedent-setting judgment; one that strengthens environmental governance, reinforces the rights of affected communities and signals a new era of corporate accountability in Sierra Leone’s mining industry. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/court-of-appeals-overturns-high-court-ruling-in-landmark-human-rights-case-mapo-vs-koidu-limited/

By Foday Moriba Conteh

UK-based Sierra Leonean philanthropist, Catherine Okrafo-Smart (née Aubee) ,is set to commission the newly completed Peninsula Education Project Institute on Thursday, November 6, 2025, in what is being hailed as a major milestone in her decade-long mission to combat illiteracy and empower communities along the Peninsula.

Founded in 2015, the Peninsula Education Programme (PEP) began as a modest adult literacy project with two classrooms built from Catherine Okrafo-Smart’s personal savings and pension funds. That humble effort grew into a state-of-the-art educational and vocational training centre featuring a community hall and six vocational skills workshops all fully financed by her personal resources and charitable support from partners in the United Kingdom.

Speaking exclusively to this medium ahead of the commissioning ceremony, Mrs. Catherine Okrafo-Smart reflected on her journey of purpose and perseverance.

“When I retired in 2014, I knew I wanted to give back to my homeland by addressing the high illiteracy rate,” she said. “Every brick, every structure here was built from my own resources and faith in God. I believe that education is the foundation for independence, dignity and sustainable development.”

She expressed gratitude to her daughter Rachel, her London Anglican Church community and the Board of Trustees including Dr. Nemata Majeks-Walker, Ambassador Ebun Aforo, Jenneh Amara-Bangali and Olagbemide Brainerd for their guidance and commitment. She also commended the YSLEEP Charity for donating a water well that now benefits the institute and the wider community.

In preparation for the commissioning, a high-powered delegation from the Board, led by Dr. Nemata Majeks-Walker, paid a courtesy visit to the Chief Minister, Dr. Moinina David Sengeh, who played a key role in supporting the project’s early development during his tenure as Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education.

The Chief Minister, who will deliver the Keynote Address at Thursday’s commissioning, described Mrs. Okrafo-Smart’s contribution as a “powerful demonstration of radical inclusion and citizen-led development.”

“Catherine’s story is one of vision, sacrifice and national pride,” he said. “Her work shows how one person’s determination can transform entire communities.”

The commissioning ceremony is expected to attract Government officials, community leaders, educators and residents from across the Peninsula. The new institute will serve as a hub for adult literacy, vocational training and community development, providing free education and practical skills that promote self-reliance and economic growth.

Mrs. Okrafo-Smart concluded by urging others to join the cause:

“Please sponsor a learner. Help someone gain a skill, transform their lives and contribute to a stronger Sierra Leone. Together, we can build a nation where education is truly for all.” https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/uk-based-philanthropist-catherine-okrafo-smart-to-commission-new-peninsula-education-project-institute/

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a bold move toward bridging Sierra Leone’s digital divide, Orange Sierra Leone on Friday, 31st October 2025, commissioned a new network site in Mathonkra, Tene Chiefdom, Tonkolili District, a region that had long struggled with poor communication access. The launch stands as a powerful testament to the company’s continued commitment to digital inclusion, rural connectivity and national development.

Despite difficult terrain and poor road infrastructure, Orange Sierra Leone’s Chief Executive Officer, Sekou Amadou Bah, led his team through the challenging route to personally oversee the commissioning. His presence in Mathonkra underscored the company’s resolve to connect even the most remote communities to reliable and high-speed mobile services.

Welcoming the guests, the Paramount Chief of Tene Chiefdom praised Orange Sierra Leone for being the first telecommunications company to bring reliable connectivity to the area. He recalled the hardship residents faced, often walking miles or climbing hills just to make phone calls.

“This is a day of joy for the people of Mathonkra and the entire Tene Chiefdom,” he declared. “For too long, we lived in silence unable to communicate with our loved ones or conduct business. Today, Orange has brought us closer to the rest of the country.”

The Chief described the new site as a transformative development that would boost access to education, healthcare and livelihood opportunities. He also called on residents to protect the site from vandalism and ensure it remains a community asset for generations to come.

Also addressing the gathering, Hon. Daniel Fornah, Member of Parliament for Tonkolili District, lauded Orange Sierra Leone for prioritizing inclusivity in its service delivery. Drawing on his 18 years of experience in the telecommunications industry, Hon. Daniel Fornah described the project as “a remarkable step in breaking the long-standing digital isolation of Tonkolili.”

“For many years, companies viewed Tonkolili as unviable for telecommunications investment,” he said. “Today, Orange has proven that narrative wrong.”

He explained that the site’s launch would not only connect communities but also serve as a catalyst for economic growth and employment creation. “Connectivity expands opportunity; it empowers businesses, strengthens education and improves health outcomes,” he noted.

The MP further commended the Minister of Communication, Technology and Innovation, Madam Salima Bah, for her visionary leadership in steering national ICT expansion. He reaffirmed his commitment to support initiatives that promote digital inclusion across Tonkolili District and beyond.

In his remarks, CEO Sekou Amadou Bah described the launch as “a major milestone in Orange’s journey to connect and empower every community across Sierra Leone.”

He thanked the Government of Sierra Leone, the National Telecommunications Authority (NaTCA) and the Ministry of Communications, Technology and Innovation for their steadfast support in implementing the company’s deep-rural network expansion strategy.

“This launch is more than an expansion of our mobile network; it is about creating access: access to education, business opportunities and a better quality of life for all,” Sekou Amadou Bah said.

According to the CEO, the new network site will provide faster internet speeds and stronger connectivity to thousands across Tonkolili, including areas such as Magburaka, Bumbuna, Mile 91 and Yele. He emphasized that digital connectivity empowers youth, facilitates financial inclusion and drives innovation and entrepreneurship.

Highlighting the company’s progress, Sekou Amadou Bah revealed that Orange Sierra Leone operates over 616 sites nationwide, 70% of which are powered by green energy solutions in line with Orange Group’s global net-zero carbon emissions goal by 2040.

“In 2025 alone, we have built 40 new sites,” he disclosed. “We’ve invested over US$50 million to modernize our network, ensuring all sites are 4G-enabled and 5G-ready. This is a testament to our confidence in Sierra Leone’s digital future.”

He reaffirmed Orange’s position as a development partner committed to supporting Government efforts to build a connected, inclusive and sustainable economy.

“Together, we are building more than a network; we are building bridges of opportunity that connect people and communities,” Sekou Amadou Bah maintain.

In his closing remarks, CEO Sekou Amadou Bah extended appreciation to the people of Tonkolili for their warm reception and partnership.

“Long live the people of Tonkolili District, and long live our beloved Sierra Leone. Una tenki!” he declared, drawing loud applause from the crowd.

Delivering the keynote address, Madam Salima Bah, Minister of Communication, Technology and Innovation, reiterated the Government’s unwavering commitment to expanding digital access nationwide. She emphasized that communication is no longer a privilege, but a basic human right, essential to education, innovation and development.

“Connectivity should not be for a few privileged people in urban areas,” Minister Salima Bah stated. “Every Sierra Leonean, regardless of location or income, deserves the right to communicate and access information.”

She applauded the local leadership of Mathonkra for supporting the project and urged communities to take ownership of the new infrastructure.

“This site is a major investment worth thousands of dollars,” she said. “If you protect it, the company will reinvest and expand more. When they profit, they pay taxes and create jobs; that’s how national growth happens.”

Minister Salima Bah linked the initiative to President Julius Maada Bio’s digital inclusion agenda, launched in 2018, which seeks to ensure that every chiefdom in Sierra Leone has reliable mobile and internet access.

“This Government believes that communication drives education, business and development,” she noted. “When our people are connected, our nation moves forward.”

The Minister highlighted that the launch represents a long-term investment in human capital; improving access to online education, e-health services and digital finance for residents. She also announced that her Ministry plans to expand such projects, including ICT training, digital literacy programs and the installation of technology-equipped schools and health centers in underserved communities.

“Mathonkra is just the beginning,” she added. “We will continue to partner with the private sector to ensure that no community is left behind in the digital revolution.”

The event, which drew a large turnout of community elders, youth groups, local leaders and company officials, was filled with excitement and hope. Residents expressed gratitude for the life-changing project, describing it as a step toward inclusion and modernization.

The ceremony culminated in the official activation of the new network site, symbolizing the start of a new era for Mathonkra and the surrounding areas. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/orange-sl-expands-network-coverage-with-new-site-launch-in-mathonkra-tonkolili-district/

By Ing. Dr. Albert Forde, Director-General, Sierra Leone Railways Development and Regulatory Authority (SLRDRA)

The first article of my railway series provided an in-depth background on the development and closure of our former national railway infrastructure. The second article provided a justification why Sierra Leone needs a national railway system. It also highlighted the strategic relevance and urgency, and some of the expected benefits of a national railway system, particularly in the agriculture sector. For instance, the article highlighted the relevance of a national railway system in the implementation of the “Feed Salone” strategy, through the efficient and reliable transport of agricultural products from farms to domestic and international markets. This, the article highlighted, would facilitate trade between Sierra Leone and its neighboring countries, Guinea and Liberia. And it is in this spirit of facilitating trade and transport of people between member states that the ECOWAS has developed the Regional Infrastructure Masterplan, which includes a regional railway masterplan. The railway network of the ECOWAS regional infrastructure masterplan is shown in the map. The key aim of the regional railway masterplan is to link all capital cities of member states by rail. This article, therefore, provides a detailed information on the regional railway masterplan, including the factors contributing to the lack of development of railways in the region.

The ECOWAS Commission, in the past decade, has worked closely with Member States in the development of roadmaps to guide the evolution of the railway sector. In this regard, the ECOWAS railway master plan was published in 2016. The plan provides a basis for the railway sectorial plan of the ECOWAS Regional Infrastructure Master Plan that was validated by Heads of States and Governments in December of 2021. The plan proposes an integrated network that doubles the existing capacity from 10,188 km to approximately 21,610 km. A key benefit of a fully implemented regional railway masterplan is that it will ensure access to landlocked countries and inland areas, thereby unlocking productivity by providing access to a reliable integrated transport system. According to the regional railway masterplan, the Dakar-Bamako and Abidjan-Ouagadougou rail corridors are projected to require a capacity increase from 10 million to over 20 million metric tonnes by 2040. It is stated that this level of traffic would justify the construction of a modern railway or the complete and total rehabilitation of all the existing tracks. It is further stated that new rail connections will be required by new ports as well as by major port expansions. The corridors where this approach is most applicable are the Lomé-Ouagadougou-Niamey, Abidjan-Ouagadougou and Tema -Ouagadougou corridors.

A 2016 railway study completed by the ECOWAS PPDU( Project Preparation and Development Unit) brought to attention the fact that the only existing regional connections that remained were the Dakar – Bamako (formerly transrail), and the Abidjan – Ouagadougou – Kaya link (Sitarail), which is a part of the Boucle Ferroviaire linking to the 1,542km Cotonou – Niamey – Ouagadougou rail line. Other operational lines identified include, national connections of Guinea Conakry – Kankan (650km), Liberia’s Buchanan – Sanniquellie (240km), Ghana’s Tema – Kumasi/Tarkwa (600km), Togo’s Lomé – Blitta (267km), and Nigeria’s Lagos – Kano (1343km). The combined effect of deteriorating or absent regional railway infrastructure and interconnections among Member States has been identified as a structural impediment to the free movement of people and goods, hobbling the economic resilience and productivity of the region, as well as contributing to the abysmal operational performance of railways in Africa. The railway study, therefore, recommended the facilitation of regular discussions among railway experts drawn from Member States and the ECOWAS Commission to iron out long-term harmonization of regulatory issues and align regulatory, technical, and operational standards to minimize the potential of the development of a rail network that lacks interoperability.

In addition, the lack of uniform standards is considered a significant challenge in the region; as the metric gauge lines are mostly used in French countries, while the cape and standard gauge are predominant in English speaking countries. Another structural factor contributing to the lack of development of railways in the region is the overwhelming focus of national transport sector plans on road transport infrastructure alone. A key reason cited as evidence is that roads can be easily constructed, operated, and maintained. Rail transport infrastructure, on the other hand, requires careful planning, hands-on operation, and maintenance. It should be noted that while investments in road transport are crucial, overall, a multi-modal transport system offers far reaching benefits that cannot be met by road transport exclusively. Therefore, ECOWAS transport policy makers have the responsibility to ensure a systematic development of all transport modes including railway, river, and air transport to support regional commerce and integration.

To conclude, while railway connections within the ECOWAS sub-region are underdeveloped, there are several ongoing regional and national projects to develop modernized and interconnected networks, with the aim of linking landlocked countries to seaports, such as the Ghana(Tema)-Burkina Faso(Ouagadougou) railway. There are other projects being planned to create an extensive network across member states. The focus of these initiatives is to create jobs, improve connectivity for trade and transport of people, and to enhance economic integration within the ECOWAS sub-region. To ensure our national railway masterplan aligns with the ECOWAS regional railway masterplan, there are proposed lines that connect Freetown to both Conakry and Monrovia; and proposed lines to Bamako(Mali) from the Port of Freetown and a proposed port at Sulima, in the Southern region. Furthermore, our railway regulatory and operational framework will be developed to align with the regional frameworks. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/the-ecowas-regional-railway-masterplan/