Diplomatic relations between Sierra Leone and the Republic of Guinea received renewed attention on Monday, 5 October 2026, when the Speaker of the Parliament of Sierra Leone, Rt. Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas, engaged Guinean President, His Excellency General Mamadi Doumbouya, in discussions aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation, parliamentary diplomacy and regional development.

The engagement took place in Conakry following the official State Opening of the 10th Legislature of the 5th Republic of Guinea, an important national occasion attended by senior Government officials, parliamentary leaders, diplomats and other distinguished personalities.

Rt. Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas travelled to Guinea at the head of a high-level parliamentary delegation following an invitation from the Speaker of the Guinean National Assembly, Hon. Dr. Dansa Kourouma. His participation underscored Sierra Leone's commitment to maintaining strong diplomatic and institutional relations with its neighbouring country.

During his meeting with President Mamadi Doumbouya, the Sierra Leonean Speaker conveyed warm greetings and goodwill messages from His Excellency President Brigadier (Rtd.) Dr. Julius Maada Bio, the Government and people of Sierra Leone.

He congratulated the Guinean leader on his recent election and acknowledged his leadership during the country's political transition. Speaker Thomas expressed optimism that continued engagement between the two countries would create additional opportunities for cooperation in governance, economic development, peacebuilding and regional integration.

The discussions reflected the longstanding relationship between Sierra Leone and Guinea, two neighbouring countries whose people share deep historical, cultural, linguistic and family connections.

Speaker Thomas described those connections as an important foundation for stronger diplomatic engagement, stressing that the friendship between both nations extends beyond geographical boundaries and formal government relations.

He reaffirmed the readiness of Sierra Leone's Parliament to strengthen its working relationship with the Guinean National Assembly through institutional exchanges, legislative cooperation and sustained dialogue on issues affecting both countries.

Earlier, while addressing the State Opening ceremony, Speaker Thomas delivered a goodwill message on behalf of President Julius Maada Bio, the Parliament and people of Sierra Leone, congratulating Guinea on the commencement of its new legislative chapter.

He also extended congratulations to Hon. Dr. Dansa Kourouma on his election as Speaker of the National Assembly and commended the Guinean people on their recent independence anniversary celebrations.

Expressing appreciation for the hospitality extended to his delegation, Speaker Thomas said the warm reception demonstrated the mutual respect and enduring friendship that have characterised relations between Sierra Leone and Guinea over the years.

He emphasised that the historic parliamentary occasion represented more than the formal commencement of legislative business, describing it as an opportunity to renew commitments to democratic governance, national unity and effective representation.

Drawing attention to the close cultural connections between both countries, the Speaker cited familiar family names, including Dumbuya, Kondeh, Turay, Jalloh, Bah and Sheku, as examples of the shared identities that unite communities across the border.

According to him, such similarities demonstrate that Sierra Leoneans and Guineans have longstanding social and cultural bonds that should continue to inspire cooperation at the governmental and parliamentary levels.

Turning to the responsibilities of lawmakers, Speaker Thomas emphasized that Parliament remains central to democratic governance because it provides a platform through which citizens' concerns are represented, laws are enacted and public institutions are held accountable.

He encouraged parliamentarians to place national development and the welfare of citizens above political differences, noting that effective legislative leadership requires commitment, tolerance, constructive dialogue and respect for democratic principles.

The Speaker further observed that lasting peace and prosperity depend on continuous efforts to strengthen institutions, protect fundamental rights and ensure that governance systems respond to the needs of ordinary citizens.

He particularly highlighted the importance of protecting vulnerable populations and ensuring that legislative decisions contribute meaningfully to social justice, accountability and inclusive development.

Addressing broader regional concerns, Speaker Thomas identified economic transformation, insecurity, climate change and sustainable development as major challenges requiring coordinated responses from neighbouring countries.

He maintained that no country could effectively address such challenges independently, stressing the importance of stronger partnerships, information-sharing and collective action among West African nations.

Against that background, he called for expanded parliamentary cooperation between Sierra Leone and Guinea, particularly through regular exchanges between parliamentary committees, the sharing of legislative experiences and stronger institutional relationships.

The proposed collaboration, he explained, would enable lawmakers from both countries to learn from one another, improve legislative practices and contribute to policies that support regional stability and economic progress.

Speaker Thomas also underscored the importance of parliamentary diplomacy in advancing regional integration, arguing that closer legislative engagement could complement existing government-to-government relations and strengthen West Africa's collective voice internationally.

He encouraged both legislative institutions to explore practical opportunities for cooperation that would deliver tangible benefits to citizens, including improved governance, stronger democratic institutions and greater regional solidarity.

The Sierra Leonean Speaker praised the Guinean National Assembly for its commitment to democratic governance and expressed hope that its new legislative term would be characterized by productive deliberations, responsible leadership and a shared determination to advance national development.

He assured his Guinean counterpart that the Parliament of Sierra Leone remained committed to sustaining friendship, mutual respect and constructive cooperation between the two institutions.

The meeting with President Mamadi Doumbouya, together with Speaker Thomas's participation in the State Opening, highlighted the continuing importance of parliamentary engagement in strengthening relations between the two Mano River Union neighbours.

Both countries maintain significant historical and socioeconomic connections, making cooperation on governance, trade, security and regional development particularly important to their shared interests.

The visit also provided an opportunity to reinforce Sierra Leone's commitment to peaceful coexistence, diplomatic engagement and closer collaboration with neighbouring states.

Concluding his address, Speaker Thomas expressed confidence in the future of Sierra Leone–Guinea relations and called for continued unity in pursuing common development objectives.

“On behalf of the Parliament of Sierra Leone, I pledge our continued friendship and partnership. May our two nations walk hand in hand toward a future of peace, prosperity and shared progress,” he declared.

He ended with a message celebrating the parliamentary institutions of both countries and the broader aspiration for African unity, reaffirming his belief that stronger cooperation between Sierra Leone and Guinea would contribute to peace, democratic consolidation and sustainable development across the sub-region. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/65274

 

The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), Government of Sierra Leone and local authorities have broken ground for the construction of a new complementary food processing facility at Makarie Village in Bombali District, marking another major step towards tackling child malnutrition while strengthening local agricultural value chains.

The facility is being established under the Strengthened Agricultural Value-chain through Infant Nutrition for Growth (SAVING) Project, a four-year initiative principally financed by the European Union with a contribution of €11.5 million and implemented by WFP in partnership with the Government of Sierra Leone.

Once operational, the facility will support the local production of safe, affordable and fortified complementary foods for children aged six to 23 months, while creating sustainable market opportunities for smallholder farmers and women-led enterprises.

The facility is expected to process approximately 200 metric tonnes of nutritious food annually and will be equipped with automated packaging systems, food-safety infrastructure, off-grid solar power and solar-powered water facilities.

More than 25,000 people, including over 8,000 farmers, are expected to benefit from the SAVING Project, which combines improved nutrition with agricultural production, local processing and economic opportunities.

Welcoming the initiative, Paramount Chief of Makarie Chiefdom, PC Bai Makarie Nkolo II, expressed appreciation for the decision to establish the facility in his chiefdom and assured WFP and its partners of his full support for the successful implementation of the project.

Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Chief Agriculture Officer Professor Abdulai Jalloh highlighted WFP's support to processing mills across Sierra Leone and said the new facility would create reliable market opportunities for smallholder farmers.

He stressed that improving nutrition among children is central to building a healthier and more productive population, noting that feeding Sierra Leone must include ensuring that its children receive nutritious food during the critical early stages of development.

Mayor of Makeni City Council, Abubakarr Kamara, encouraged residents to embrace the project and take advantage of the opportunities it will create. He said the investment would promote greater economic inclusion while generating employment opportunities, particularly for young people.

WFP Representative and Country Director Andrew Odero said the project is designed to address challenges surrounding access to nutritious and affordable complementary foods for young children.

“This is the history of Nyam Nyam pap,” Andrew Odero said, explaining that the groundbreaking builds on an approach that has already been tested through existing community-based facilities.

“We are breaking ground not for an idea that has never been tried, but rather building on what has already been started. This new facility was designed along the lessons learnt from the four existing facilities,” he added.

The SAVING Project will build on community-based complementary food production initiatives in Pujehun, Moyamba and Kambia districts, while supporting the production and commercialization of fortified foods through women-led enterprises.

By linking nutritious crop production by smallholder farmers with improved infant and young child feeding practices and local food processing, the project seeks to establish a more resilient and nutrition-sensitive food system.

Following the groundbreaking ceremony, participants toured the proposed construction site and received presentations on the planned production process, food-safety systems, solar energy installations and water infrastructure.

Farmer organisations also showcased nutritious crops expected to supply the processing value chain, while health workers and Mother Support Groups demonstrated appropriate infant and young child feeding practices and the use of locally produced complementary foods.

The Makarie Infant Food Processing Facility is expected to strengthen Sierra Leone's broader efforts to reduce malnutrition, improve local food systems and expand economic opportunities for rural communities, particularly women and smallholder farmers.

Beyond improving access to locally produced nutritious food for children, the facility is also expected to create a stronger link between agriculture, nutrition and rural livelihoods, ensuring that local farmers benefit from increased demand for the crops required to produce fortified complementary foods. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/65266

 

Statistics Sierra Leone (Stats SL) has taken another major step towards conducting a credible, efficient and fully digital 2026 Population and Housing Census (PHC) following the receipt of 25,000 branded tablets, power banks and protective tablet cases.

The equipment was officially received on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, as preparations intensify for the nationwide census enumeration scheduled to begin in December.

The latest consignment adds to the 4,000 tablets received in 2025 for the national cartographic mapping exercise, further strengthening Stats SL’s technological capacity ahead of the main data-collection exercise.

The procurement of the 25,000 tablets and accompanying accessories was fully funded by the Government of Sierra Leone as part of its commitment to providing the resources required for the successful implementation of the 2026 Census and strengthening the country’s national statistical system.

The arrival of the equipment marks a significant milestone in preparations for a fully digital census. The tablets will serve as the primary devices for electronic data collection, allowing census personnel to capture, validate and transmit information directly from the field.

The digital approach is expected to improve the efficiency, accuracy and timeliness of the census process while significantly reducing dependence on paper questionnaires and manual data entry.

Built-in validation checks on the devices are also expected to strengthen data quality by helping enumerators and supervisors identify and address errors or inconsistencies during the enumeration process.

Speaking during the official receipt of the equipment, Chief Technical Adviser for the 2026 Census, Dr. Colins Opiyo; Director of Communication and Public Relations, Samuel Ansumana; and Officer-in-Charge of Operations and Logistics, Moses Johnson, described the arrival of the tablets as an important milestone in the technical and operational preparations for the census.

They noted that the devices will play a central role in the digital data-collection process and enable field personnel to collect, validate and transmit information more efficiently.

Stats SL reaffirmed its commitment to delivering a credible, accurate, reliable and inclusive 2026 Population and Housing Census that reflects the realities of people and communities across Sierra Leone.

The institution said it continues to strengthen its systems, processes, technology and technical preparations to ensure that the census meets the required standards of quality and integrity. Reliable census data will be critical to national planning, policy formulation, resource allocation and evidence-based decision-making.

Stats SL also called on members of the public to support the exercise by providing accurate information, cooperating with census personnel and ensuring that every household and individual is properly counted.

According to the institution, the success of the 2026 Census will depend largely on the active participation and cooperation of citizens and residents across the country.

Census Night is scheduled for December 1, 2026, while nationwide counting will begin on December 2, 2026. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/65265

 

Sierra Leone and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia are exploring broader cooperation in technology, information, culture and investment following talks between Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, and Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador to Sierra Leone, His Excellency Saud Al-Musa’ed.

During a courtesy visit to the Royal Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Freetown, Minister Chernor Bah and Ambassador Al-Musa’ed discussed ways of building on the longstanding relationship between the two countries and opening new opportunities for mutually beneficial partnerships.

Minister Chernor Bah thanked Saudi Arabia for its continued friendship and support to Sierra Leone, noting the Kingdom’s contribution to various development initiatives over the years.

Looking beyond existing cooperation, the Minister said Sierra Leone is interested in developing stronger partnerships with Saudi Arabia in areas that could contribute directly to national development, particularly emerging technologies, cultural exchange and investment.

Artificial Intelligence was among the areas highlighted during the discussions. Minister Chernor Bah Bah pointed to Saudi Arabia’s growing capabilities in AI and other advanced technologies, saying Sierra Leone could benefit from closer engagement, knowledge sharing and cooperation in the sector.

He also proposed greater cultural collaboration between the two countries through the Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation (SLBC). Under such cooperation, stories highlighting Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage, including Islamic and non-Islamic aspects of Saudi society, could be shared with audiences in Sierra Leone.

According to the Minister, increased cultural exchanges would give citizens of both countries a better understanding of each other and help strengthen people-to-people relations alongside existing diplomatic ties.

To provide a more structured foundation for future collaboration, Minister Chernor Bah proposed discussions on a possible Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Information and Civic Education and the Saudi Embassy.

Such an agreement, he said, could identify specific areas of cooperation and establish a framework through which joint initiatives could be pursued on a sustained basis.

Investment also featured prominently in the talks, with Minister Chernor Bah drawing attention to opportunities available in Sierra Leone and encouraging stronger engagement with Saudi investors. He said increased Saudi investment could support economic growth and contribute to the country’s wider development aspirations.

Minister Chernor Bah also recognized Ambassador Al-Musa’ed’s historic role as the first resident Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Sierra Leone, commending his efforts to deepen diplomatic engagement between Freetown and Riyadh.

Ambassador Saud Al-Musa’ed welcomed the Minister’s visit and reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s commitment to maintaining and strengthening its relationship with Sierra Leone.

He acknowledged the longstanding friendship between the two nations and expressed the Kingdom’s readiness to continue working with Sierra Leone in areas of shared interest.

The Ambassador also recognized the role of the Ministry of Information and Civic Education in promoting national development, public information and citizen engagement.

Both officials agreed to maintain regular consultations as they explore practical opportunities for cooperation in information, cultural exchange, technology, investment and other areas of mutual interest.

The discussions signal an effort by Sierra Leone and Saudi Arabia to broaden their relationship beyond traditional diplomatic cooperation towards partnerships in sectors increasingly important to economic growth, technological development and stronger ties between their peoples. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/65260

 

Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mohamed Rado Swaray, has outlined Sierra Leone’s foreign policy priorities during his maiden Diplomatic Briefing, reaffirming the Government’s commitment to economic diplomacy, multilateralism, peace, stronger international partnerships and the protection of Sierra Leoneans abroad.

The diplomatic engagement, held on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at the Foreign Service Academy, brought together members of the Diplomatic and Consular Corps, Heads of International Organisations, Government officials, staff of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, as well as selected representatives from the media and civil society.

Following the briefing, the Minister hosted a cocktail reception aimed at strengthening relations between Sierra Leone and its international partners while providing an opportunity for further interaction among members of the diplomatic community and Government officials.

Delivering his maiden Diplomatic Briefing since assuming office, Minister Mohamed Rahman Swaray said the engagement provided an important platform to present the direction and priorities of Sierra Leone’s foreign policy.

According to him, the country’s diplomatic engagement will be anchored in the national development agenda and guided by a central principle that “Sierra Leone’s diplomacy must deliver for Sierra Leone.”

He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to pursuing purposeful economic diplomacy designed to attract investment, strengthen bilateral and multilateral partnerships and ensure that Sierra Leone’s international engagements contribute meaningfully to national development.

The Minister also highlighted the protection and welfare of Sierra Leoneans abroad, deeper engagement with the country’s diaspora and the development of a modern and professional Foreign Service as key priorities under his leadership.

He further stressed that international cooperation must support Sierra Leone’s aspirations for peace, security, investment and sustainable national development.

Sierra Leone, he noted, remains committed to multilateralism and the promotion of peace while working closely with its international partners to address shared challenges and pursue opportunities that advance the country’s interests.

The cocktail reception that followed the diplomatic briefing provided an informal setting for Government officials, diplomats, representatives of international organisations and other invited guests to strengthen existing relationships and explore opportunities for deeper cooperation.

Special attention was also given to showcasing Sierra Leone’s culture, hospitality and national identity. The setting at the Foreign Service Academy was prepared to reflect the country’s dignity, warmth and pride, underscoring the importance of how Sierra Leone presents itself to the international community.

Minister Mohamed Rahman Swaray emphasized that diplomacy goes beyond formal meetings and negotiations, noting that the manner in which Sierra Leone presents its culture, values and national identity to the world remains an important component of international engagement.

He said the reception offered another opportunity to deepen the bonds of friendship and partnership between Sierra Leone and members of the international community.

Looking ahead, the Minister pledged that Sierra Leone’s engagement with the international community would remain confident, principled and strategic, while being firmly rooted in the national interest.

The maiden Diplomatic Briefing and cocktail reception marked another step in the Minister’s efforts to strengthen Sierra Leone’s diplomatic relations and position the country’s foreign policy as an instrument for investment, international cooperation and sustainable development. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/65259

 

Sierra Leone is moving closer to a significant improvement in electricity generation as construction of the Nant Power Project at Kissy in Freetown advances, with work reportedly reaching 68 percent completion. The 108-megawatt gas-powered facility is scheduled to begin supplying electricity to the national grid in March 2027, raising expectations of improved power availability for households, businesses and industries, particularly within the Western Area.

The major energy investment, valued at approximately US$418 million, is among the country's most ambitious electricity infrastructure developments in recent years. It forms part of broader efforts by the Government of Sierra Leone, under President Julius Maada Bio, to address persistent electricity shortages, strengthen national energy security and create a more favourable environment for economic development.

Once fully operational, the facility is expected to make a substantial contribution to the country's electricity generation capacity. Its modern gas-to-power technology is intended to provide a more dependable source of electricity, helping to reduce the frequent interruptions that have affected commercial activities and the daily lives of citizens.

The United States International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) has played an important role in supporting the development, with financing and political-risk support reported at approximately US$412 million. The involvement of the American development finance institution highlights the importance of international investment partnerships in addressing Sierra Leone's longstanding energy challenges.

For many years, unreliable electricity has remained a serious obstacle to business expansion and industrial productivity across Sierra Leone. Companies, manufacturing establishments, hotels, hospitals and other essential service providers frequently depend on expensive generators to maintain their operations, significantly increasing production and operational costs.

The anticipated completion of the Nant Power Project could help ease some of these difficulties by increasing the availability of electricity and reducing pressure on existing generation facilities. Improved power reliability would also provide businesses with greater confidence to expand their operations, invest in modern equipment and create additional employment opportunities.

Small and medium-sized enterprises are among those expected to benefit from improved electricity services. Businesses involved in welding, refrigeration, food processing, printing, tailoring and other commercial activities depend heavily on a consistent power supply to operate efficiently and remain competitive.

Similarly, reliable electricity could support the expansion of industries such as agriculture, mining, manufacturing, tourism and information technology, all of which have considerable potential to contribute to Sierra Leone's economic transformation.

The project also supports the Government's wider ambition to expand electricity access throughout the country. Under Sierra Leone's 2026 National Energy Compact, authorities are targeting an increase in electricity access from approximately 36 percent to 78 percent by 2030.

Achieving this objective will require substantial investment not only in electricity generation but also in transmission networks, distribution facilities and other supporting infrastructure capable of delivering power to communities across the country.

Energy sector observers have consistently maintained that increasing electricity production alone will not completely resolve Sierra Leone's power challenges. They emphasize the importance of improving the national transmission and distribution system to ensure that additional electricity reaches consumers efficiently and reliably.

The World Bank has similarly identified weaknesses in electricity infrastructure as major constraints on economic development, stressing the need for coordinated investments that strengthen generation, transmission and distribution capacity.

Against this background, the Nant Power Project is widely regarded as an important opportunity to strengthen Sierra Leone's energy sector and encourage further private-sector participation in electricity development.

Its successful completion could also help position Freetown as a more attractive destination for commercial and industrial investment, particularly for companies seeking a dependable electricity supply before establishing or expanding operations.

Beyond the immediate benefits to the Western Area, the development could contribute to national economic growth by supporting increased productivity, business confidence and employment creation.

The project is also expected to complement the Government's efforts to promote cleaner and more efficient energy infrastructure, although the facility will continue to rely on natural gas as its primary fuel source.

With the March 2027 commissioning target approaching, attention will increasingly focus on the remaining construction activities, technical testing and arrangements for connecting the facility to the national electricity network.

Successful delivery within the projected timeframe would represent an important infrastructure achievement for President Julius Maada Bio's administration, which has identified energy development as a priority for economic growth and improved public services.

However, the ultimate success of the investment will depend on whether the additional generation capacity results in consistent electricity supply, affordable services and measurable improvements in the lives of ordinary Sierra Leoneans.

As construction progresses towards completion, the Nant Power Project represents a major opportunity for Sierra Leone to address one of its most persistent development challenges and establish a stronger foundation for industrialization, private investment and sustainable economic growth. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/65255

West Africa's economic future depends on how well we turn ambition into sustainable livelihoods. Yet for decades, we have tended to talk about economic opportunity in fairly narrow terms.

Study hard. Get qualifications. Find a good job. Build a career.

It remains a perfectly valid aspiration. But across West Africa, it cannot be the only route we prepare people for.

Our region is young, ambitious and increasingly connected. Every year, millions of young people enter working age with expectations that are fundamentally different from those of the generation before them. Women are seeking greater economic independence. Technology is lowering some barriers to participation while creating entirely new forms of work.

Yet the formal economy cannot absorb everyone who wants, or needs, to participate in it. In a July 2024 article, the World Bank reported that six million young people enter the labour force each year across Western and Central Africa, while only about half a million new jobs are created.

The question we therefore need to ask is not simply: How do we create more jobs?

It is also: How do we widen the number of legitimate, responsible pathways through which people can participate in the economy?

Economic participation is bigger than employment

A healthy economy needs salaried employees. It needs large companies and public institutions. It needs engineers, teachers, doctors, bankers and civil servants.

But it also needs small traders, independent professionals, farmers, creators, artisans, technology entrepreneurs, family businesses, consultants, distributors and people providing services within their communities.

Many West Africans already earn their livelihoods in these ways.

For some, these livelihoods are a deliberate choice; for others, they reflect limited alternatives. Our focus should be on helping people move from informal and vulnerable economic activity towards more productive, skilled and secure participation.

That requires a broader definition of entrepreneurship.

Not every entrepreneur will build a technology unicorn or raise millions of dollars in venture capital. Most never will.

Entrepreneurship can begin much more simply: identifying a need, providing a product or service, finding customers, managing income and expenses, and gradually building something sustainable.

For someone who has never had access to formal employment, even that first step can be significant. But starting a business is only the beginning. Access to customers, suitable finance and practical support helps determine whether it can become a sustainable livelihood. More predictable trade policies aligned with the African Continental Free Trade Area could also help smaller businesses reach wider markets, as the World Bank has highlighted.

Opportunity must be responsible

Expanding access to entrepreneurship cannot mean lowering the standards around it.

As more people search online for ways to earn additional income, the distinction between a genuine economic opportunity and an unrealistic promise becomes increasingly important.

No legitimate form of entrepreneurship guarantees success.

Income depends on many factors: effort, capability, demand, competition, experience and timing. Anyone entering an entrepreneurial activity deserves to understand clearly what is required, what it costs, where the risks lie and how income is generated.

Businesses also have a responsibility to address exaggerated income claims and misleading offers made by those representing them. Clear information and accessible complaints procedures should be part of every opportunity.

Entrepreneurship should expand people's choices, not exploit their aspirations.

Governments, businesses, civil society and law-enforcement agencies therefore have a shared interest in creating environments where legitimate opportunities can grow while fraudulent ones become harder to operate.

Skills may matter as much as capital

When entrepreneurship is discussed, the conversation often begins with access to finance.

Financing matters, but someone starting a small business also needs to understand customers, communicate effectively, manage cash flow, use digital tools, negotiate, solve problems and build trust.

These capabilities remain valuable even when a particular venture does not succeed.

Selling responsibly can strengthen communication. Managing customers develops service skills. Tracking income and expenses builds financial discipline and helps people distinguish revenue from profit. Building networks develops relationship skills. Using social platforms for business can build digital capability.

We should therefore think beyond simply creating entrepreneurs and focus on creating economically capable individuals.

People may move between employment, entrepreneurship and independent work several times during their lives. The skills developed in one setting can travel with them into the next.

Women need pathways designed around reality

Across our region, women participate extensively in commerce and informal enterprise, yet their economic potential remains constrained by unequal access to finance, networks, technology, training and, in many cases, time. The need to widen participation is particularly evident among young women. ILOSTAT's May 2026 analysis, using 2022 data, found that the employment-to-population ratio for women aged 15 to 29 in Senegal was just 22.5 per cent.

Economic models that offer greater flexibility can help widen participation. But flexibility alone is not empowerment.

Women also need skills, financial literacy, digital tools, mentoring and credible business networks. Training schedules and delivery should recognise care responsibilities. The opportunities available to them must also be transparent and financially viable.

If entrepreneurship is to contribute meaningfully to women's economic participation, we should look beyond how many women start businesses and ask whether those businesses strengthen their skills, income security and economic independence.

Digital access changes the possibilities

Technology is lowering some barriers to economic activity. BCEAO, the Central Bank of West African States, reports that merchant acceptance points for electronic money in the West African Economic and Monetary Union increased from approximately 1.75 million in 2023 to 3.71 million in 2024. This growth in payment acceptance locations shows the expansion of infrastructure for digital commerce, although a single business may account for more than one acceptance point.

A smartphone can now provide access to customers, payments, education, logistics, financial services and markets that were difficult for small entrepreneurs to reach a generation ago. Artificial intelligence could extend these possibilities further.

A small business owner can increasingly access tools for translation, marketing, design, customer service, bookkeeping and research. Their usefulness depends on affordability, relevant skills and checking the accuracy of what they produce.

But connectivity alone is not enough. People also need the skills to use technology productively. Entrepreneurship programmes should therefore teach not only how to start a business, but how to operate in an increasingly digital marketplace.

We need an ecosystem, not a single solution

There is no single model that will solve West Africa's employment challenge.

Formal employment, vocational training, small-business development, agriculture, technology startups, creative industries, independent professional work, social enterprise and responsible direct selling can all contribute.

The real objective should be to build an ecosystem in which people have more credible choices.

Governments can create enabling regulation and infrastructure. Educational institutions can equip young people with adaptable skills. Financial institutions can improve access to responsible capital. Businesses can create platforms for participation and invest in training. Civil society and the media can help people distinguish genuine opportunities from fraudulent ones.

Those of us in the private sector must also accept that inclusion comes with responsibility. At QNET, our FinGreen programme focuses on financial literacy through education and training, particularly for young adults and communities with limited access to resources. Its purpose reflects the broader need to help people make informed financial decisions. Training, however, must never be presented as a guarantee of income.

Opening a door is not enough. We must be clear about what lies behind it.

West Africa does not lack ambition. Spend time in Dakar, Accra, Abidjan, Lagos or Lomé and you encounter it everywhere — in markets, small businesses, technology hubs, university campuses and digital platforms.

Our challenge is to turn more of that ambition into sustainable economic participation. That begins by moving beyond the assumption that everyone must follow the same economic path, while continuing to invest in good jobs.

A resilient economy is one in which people have several legitimate opportunities, the skills to make them productive and the knowledge to choose among them. That is how West Africa can turn more of its ambition into lasting economic progress.

About the Author

Cherif Sarr is Regional General Manager for Central and West Africa at QNET, an international direct selling company specialising in wellness and lifestyle products. He oversees the company’s growth across the region, with a focus on social commerce and expanding responsible microentrepreneurship opportunities in emerging economies. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/65252

Sierra Leone’s President, His Excellency Dr. Julius Maada Bio, has joined forces with prominent Nigerian businessman and Chairman of Heirs Holdings, Tony O. Elumelu, to strengthen private sector participation in West Africa’s economic development, with particular emphasis on attracting investment, expanding industrial production and creating employment opportunities across the sub-region.

The renewed commitment emerged from a high-level meeting held in Lagos, Nigeria, ahead of the inaugural West Africa Integration and Investment Summit (WAIIS), scheduled to take place in Sierra Leone from 17 to 18 November 2026.

According to a press release issued on Wednesday, 7 October 2026, the engagement brought together influential business executives, investors and representatives of major financial institutions to examine practical measures for accelerating regional economic integration and unlocking investment opportunities.

President Bio, who is the immediate past Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, attended the inaugural physical meeting of the WAIIS Private Sector Advisory Board, hosted by Tony Elumelu.

The discussions concentrated on four major sectors considered essential to West Africa’s economic transformation: energy trade and industrialization, strategic minerals, agribusiness and digital transformation.

Addressing participants, President Bio emphasized that West Africa possesses enormous economic resources and a consumer market exceeding 400 million people. However, he maintained that the region must move beyond recognizing its potential and begin implementing practical initiatives capable of delivering measurable economic benefits.

He explained that stronger collaboration between Governments, private investors and financial institutions would help establish competitive industries, improve cross-border trade and create sustainable employment opportunities, particularly for young people.

“We are partners in execution; let us transform ideas into partnerships, partnerships into investments and investments into lasting prosperity for our continent,” President Bio declared.

The Sierra Leonean leader further challenged business executives to consider regional integration as an opportunity to develop productive enterprises rather than merely a subject for policy discussions.

“But potential is not prosperity. Our task is to convert these advantages into productive enterprises, competitive industries, regional value chains, jobs and wealth,” he stated.

President Bio also outlined his expectations for the forthcoming summit, explaining that it should provide a practical platform for connecting investors with commercially viable projects and identifying solutions to challenges that have historically discouraged investment within the region.

He urged members of the Advisory Board to begin engaging potential investors, examining financing requirements and identifying policy interventions necessary to transform proposed investments into operational businesses.

Tony Elumelu, who co-chairs the summit alongside President Bio, welcomed the Sierra Leonean leader’s commitment to placing private enterprise at the centre of West Africa’s development strategy.

He stressed that African businesses must increasingly collaborate across national boundaries, combining financial resources, technical expertise and commercial experience to establish industries capable of competing internationally.

Tony Elumelu indicated his readiness to work with major financial institutions, including the Africa Finance Corporation, African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), United Bank for Africa (UBA) and Ecobank, to mobilize investment for priority development projects.

His position reflects his longstanding advocacy for Africapitalism, an economic philosophy that encourages African private sector investment in strategic industries as a means of generating economic growth and improving livelihoods.

According to Tony Elumelu, West Africa already possesses many of the resources required to achieve meaningful prosperity, but greater determination and cooperation are needed to translate those advantages into economic progress.

“This is consistent with our aspirations to create jobs for our young people,” he said, adding, “We have all it takes to be prosperous.”

However, the Nigerian businessman cautioned that private sector investment cannot flourish without supportive Government policies and a predictable business environment.

He called on political leaders to strengthen regulatory systems, guarantee policy consistency and improve security to encourage businesses and financial institutions to undertake long-term investments.

“Governments must provide the policy certainty, regulatory efficiency and security required to give investors the confidence to commit capital for the long term,” Tony Elumelu emphasized.

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who also participated in the engagement, highlighted the importance of industrial expansion and the unrestricted movement of goods and services in achieving meaningful economic integration.

He maintained that West African Governments have a responsibility to establish favourable conditions that would enable businesses to operate efficiently across borders, attract investment and expand production.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu further observed that regional economic cooperation would remain limited unless political commitments were supported by practical policies that address obstacles confronting investors and businesses.

The meeting also reinforced the importance of strengthening regional value chains, particularly in agriculture, mineral processing, energy infrastructure and technology.

Participants recognized that greater cooperation in those sectors could reduce dependence on imported products, promote local manufacturing and improve the region’s competitiveness in international markets.

With the inaugural summit approaching, President Bio encouraged Advisory Board members to intensify preparations by identifying investment-ready projects, engaging prospective financiers and addressing outstanding challenges that could delay implementation.

He emphasized that the success of the initiative should ultimately be measured by the investments secured, businesses established and employment opportunities generated across participating countries.

The West Africa Integration and Investment Summit will be hosted at the Julius Maada Bio International Conference Centre in Lungi, Sierra Leone, on 17 and 18 November 2026.

The two-day gathering is expected to attract Heads of State, senior Government officials, international investors, financial institutions and leading business executives to discuss investment opportunities and strengthen economic partnerships.

The Private Sector Advisory Board includes several prominent African business and financial leaders, among them Aliko Dangote, Group President and Chief Executive of Dangote Group; Apostle Folorunso Alakija, Executive Vice Chairman of FA Limited; Samuel Dossou-Aworet, Founding Chairman of Petrolin Group and Dr. George Elombi, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Afreximbank.

Other members include Abdul Samad Rabiu, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of BUA Group; Wale Tinubu, Group Chief Executive of Oando PLC; Samaila Zubairu, President and Chief Executive Officer of Africa Finance Corporation; Alain Ebobissé, Chief Executive Officer of Africa50; and Jean-Claude Kassi Brou, Governor of the Central Bank of West African States.

The Board also includes Paulo Gomes, Founder and Chairman of Orango Investment Corporation; Professor Benedict Okey Oramah, Chairman of Africa Trading Minerals; and Habib Yérim Sow, Group Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Teyliom Group.

The involvement of these business leaders and financial institutions is expected to strengthen efforts to attract investment into major development projects while encouraging greater cooperation between the public and private sectors.

For Sierra Leone, hosting the summit represents an opportunity to position the country as an important destination for regional investment discussions and economic partnerships.

The initiative also places President Bio at the forefront of efforts to promote stronger economic cooperation among West African countries, with the ultimate objective of transforming the region’s natural resources, human capital and entrepreneurial potential into sustainable industries, increased trade and improved living standards.

As preparations continue for the November gathering, attention will increasingly focus on whether the commitments emerging from Lagos can translate into concrete investments and projects capable of delivering lasting economic benefits for West Africa. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/65249

Sierra Leone’s construction industry is set to benefit from improved cement accessibility and distribution as ROCKCEM (SL) Ltd advances an ambitious expansion programme backed by an estimated US$60 million investment in cement processing, modern infrastructure, transportation and nationwide supply.

The investment represents a significant step in the company’s efforts to establish RC BRAND CEM II 42.5 R Cement as a competitive product in the local construction market while addressing some of the transportation and supply challenges affecting contractors, retailers, wholesalers and individual builders, particularly those operating outside Freetown.

One of the major developments under the expansion programme is the establishment of a modern cement warehouse at Sumbuya in Songo, which is scheduled to commence operations in November 2026. The facility is expected to serve as an important distribution centre, making cement more accessible to customers travelling from different parts of the country.

For years, transporting construction materials from Freetown to provincial communities has presented financial and logistical difficulties for many businesses and individual customers. Long journeys, rising fuel prices, transportation charges and toll-gate expenses frequently increase the overall cost of construction materials before they reach their final destinations.

ROCKCEM intends to address some of these challenges by allowing customers to purchase and collect RC BRAND 42.5 R Cement directly from its Songo warehouse once the facility becomes operational.

The arrangement is expected to benefit wholesalers and retailers supplying provincial markets, as well as contractors undertaking housing developments, road construction and other infrastructure projects. Instead of making lengthy journeys into Freetown, customers will have an alternative collection point that could help reduce transportation expenses and improve delivery efficiency.

Another anticipated advantage is the potential reduction in toll-gate costs. Depending on their locations and transportation routes, some customers collecting cement from Songo may only need to pass through the Masiaka Toll Gate, thereby avoiding additional expenses associated with travelling further towards the capital.

Beyond the warehouse project, ROCKCEM is investing heavily in transportation infrastructure to ensure that its cement reaches customers more efficiently. The company has assembled approximately 50 vehicles to strengthen its distribution operations and support deliveries to different parts of Sierra Leone.

The expanded transport fleet is expected to improve the movement of cement between production facilities, warehouses, distributors and construction sites, helping the company respond more effectively to growing market demand.

Another major component of the investment is a modern cement grinding mill designed to produce more than 60,000 bags of cement daily, with each bag weighing 50 kilograms. The facility forms part of ROCKCEM’s broader industrial development strategy, which includes cement processing, packaging, warehousing and distribution.

The company’s estimated investment has increased to approximately US$60 million, reflecting rising global equipment and construction costs, inflationary pressures and the expansion of its original operational plans.

The scale of the investment also highlights the company’s intention to establish a stronger long-term presence in Sierra Leone’s industrial and construction sectors.

Apart from improving cement availability, the expansion has the potential to create employment and business opportunities in transportation, mechanical engineering, equipment maintenance, warehouse management, distribution and other related services.

At the centre of ROCKCEM’s commercial strategy is its flagship RC BRAND CEM II 42.5 R Cement, which the company promotes as a quality construction material developed to provide strength, durability and consistent performance.

The product is being marketed to contractors, property developers, building-material dealers and individual customers seeking dependable cement for residential, commercial and infrastructure development.

With demand for construction materials continuing across Sierra Leone, ROCKCEM believes that combining product quality with efficient distribution will strengthen its competitiveness and improve customer confidence.

The company is also placing considerable emphasis on customer convenience, recognizing that access to building materials at the right time and location is essential for completing construction projects without unnecessary delays.

Its Songo warehouse is therefore expected to become an important link between ROCKCEM’s operations in Freetown and customers in provincial communities, supporting the company’s ambition to establish a more responsive nationwide distribution network.

ROCKCEM maintains that its expansion is not limited to increasing cement sales but also involves contributing to Sierra Leone’s industrial development through infrastructure investment, local processing capacity, improved logistics and opportunities for supporting businesses.

As preparations continue for the November 2026 opening of the Songo facility, the company is positioning itself to serve a wider customer base while strengthening the availability of RC BRAND 42.5 R Cement in the national market.

With approximately US$60 million committed to its expansion programme, a fleet of about 50 vehicles and a high-capacity cement grinding facility, ROCKCEM is seeking to establish a stronger position in Sierra Leone’s cement industry while supporting the country’s growing construction needs.

The company continues to promote its flagship product under the slogan “RC BRAND 42.5 R Cement — Build Stronger. Build to Last.”

ROCKCEM (SL) Ltd operates from its head office at 13B Bai Bureh Road, Texaco, Old Road, Freetown. Customers, contractors, retailers and wholesalers seeking information about RC BRAND 42.5 R Cement, purchases or deliveries can contact the company on +232-72-111111. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/65245

All People’s Congress (APC) Flagbearer Aspirant Dr. Ibrahim Bangura has called for a fair and impartial determination of the constitutional issues surrounding Sierra Leone’s Constitution of Sierra Leone (Amendment) Bill, 2025, saying the matter has implications not only for the present generation but also for generations to come.

Dr. Ibrahim Bangura made the remarks on Wednesday, 7 October 2026, as the Supreme Court commenced proceedings concerning challenges to the parliamentary passage of the Constitutional Amendment Bill.

He described the matter as highly important, stressing that the constitutional questions before the Court should not be viewed merely through the lens of current political circumstances or electoral considerations.

According to him, constitutional amendment is a matter of national importance that must be approached with the long-term interests of Sierra Leone and its citizens in mind.

“The Constitution Amendment Bill matter is an issue that should be addressed not just for this generation but for the next,” Dr. Ibrahim Bangura said.

He argued that a constitution should be developed and amended primarily in the interest of the country and its people, rather than to serve the convenience of a particular election or political moment.

“A constitution is developed in the best interest of the country and its people,” he said, adding that constitutional provisions should be designed in a manner that allows both present and future generations to benefit from them.

Dr. Ibrahim Bangura further described the Constitution as a fundamental instrument for protecting the rights and dignity of citizens, and expressed hope that the Supreme Court proceedings would be conducted fairly.

“A constitution is the principal promoter of the rights and dignity of all citizens in a country,” he said.

He therefore appealed for an outcome that citizens across the country could accept as serving the national interest.

“I pray and hope that the Supreme Court hearing on the matter will be as fair as possible and there will be an outcome every citizen will be proud of and that will serve the best interest of the country,” Dr. Ibrahim Bangura said.

Dr. Ibrahim Bangura’s comments come as the Supreme Court considers a cluster of cases arising from Parliament’s handling and passage of the Constitutional Amendment Bill.

The proceedings are before a five-member panel headed by Chief Justice Komba Kamanda. Three related matters, S.C. No. 8/2026, S.C. No. 9/2026 and S.C. No. 11/2026, are before the Court.

The cases relate to the parliamentary process surrounding the Bill and the Speaker’s ruling of 10 August 2026, which became a central point of the subsequent legal challenge.

The immediate proceedings have included preliminary and procedural applications. On Wednesday, the Court dismissed an objection to an application seeking to consolidate the related cases, allowing the consolidation application to proceed.

The Institute for Legal Research and Advocacy for Justice (ILRAJ) has also been granted permission to participate in the proceedings as amicus curiae, or “friend of the court.” The organisation said its participation is intended to assist the Court with independent legal analysis rather than support either the APC or the Sierra Leone People’s Party.

At the centre of the constitutional controversy is Section 108(2)(b) of the 1991 Constitution, which provides that a Bill seeking to alter the Constitution must receive, at its second and third readings, the votes of not less than two-thirds of the Members of Parliament.

The dispute includes questions over the meaning and application of the phrase “two-thirds of the Members of Parliament”, including whether the constitutional threshold should be calculated against the entire membership of Parliament or members present and voting at the relevant sitting.

The controversy intensified after Parliament passed the Bill on 10 August 2026. Reports indicate that the Speaker had ruled on the interpretation of the parliamentary voting procedure before the Bill was passed. President Julius Maada Bio subsequently withheld assent and referred the constitutional questions to the Supreme Court following a petition from the Institute for Governance Reform.

The APC has challenged the parliamentary process, arguing that the constitutional requirement for a two-thirds majority was not satisfied. The party's position followed the withdrawal of its MPs during the parliamentary proceedings.

However, these competing interpretations are now before the Supreme Court for determination.

For Dr. Ibrahim Bangura, the significance of the matter extends beyond the immediate disagreement between political parties.

His remarks place emphasis on the broader constitutional principle that amendments to the country's supreme law should be considered from the perspective of national institutions, citizens' rights and future generations.

His comments also come at a time when the Supreme Court has yet to make a substantive determination on whether Parliament complied with the constitutional requirements for passing the Amendment Bill.

The Court has so far been dealing with procedural matters surrounding the cases, including the participation of the Attorney-General and ILRAJ and the proposed consolidation of the related proceedings.

The substantive questions including whether the constitutional two-thirds requirement was satisfied, whether the parliamentary procedure complied with Section 108 and whether the Bill was validly passed remain for judicial determination.

Dr. Ibrahim Bangura’s appeal for fairness therefore comes against the backdrop of a constitutional dispute that could establish an important judicial precedent on how Sierra Leone’s Constitution may be amended in the future.

For now, the final determination rests with the Supreme Court, as the country awaits judicial clarity on the constitutional questions surrounding the 2025 Amendment Bill. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/65244

Orange Sierra Leone officially launched Customer Service Week 2026 on Monday, 5th October 2026, under the theme “Going the Extra Mile!”, reaffirming its commitment to delivering exceptional customer service, strengthening customer relationships and promoting a culture of excellence across its operations. The official launch, held at the Orange Digital Centre, Hill Station, Freetown, brought together employees, customers, regulators and business partners to celebrate the importance of quality service and recognize the contributions of those working to improve customer satisfaction.

Throughout the weeklong celebration, Orange Sierra Leone organized a series of activities aimed at appreciating dedicated employees, engaging customers and strengthening partnerships with key stakeholders. The initiative also provided an opportunity for the telecommunications company to reinforce its commitment to responsiveness, innovation and customer-focused service delivery.

Delivering the welcome address, Agnes M. Songa of Orange Sierra Leone’s Human Resources Department described the week as an opportunity to appreciate employees, strengthen relationships and celebrate the people whose daily efforts support the company’s operations.

“This week is entirely about you. You are the heartbeat of this company, the human face of our brand and you are the heroes who turn complex challenges into seamless solutions,” she said.

She also recognized customers as an important part of Orange’s growth, saying their feedback challenges the company to improve and innovate. She encouraged employees to recognize colleagues, share success stories and reflect on their contribution to the organization’s achievements.

Chief Executive Officer of Orange Sierra Leone, Aïcha Touré, challenged employees to put customers at the centre of every decision and interaction, stressing that the company exists because of the people it serves.

“Customers don’t see our organization, our departments or our processes. They see Orange,” Aïcha Touré said.

She explained that customers judge the company through their overall experience. When the network works, services are easy to use and concerns are addressed promptly, customers associate those positive experiences with Orange. Likewise, service failures are viewed as a reflection of the company.

Aïcha Touré described the campaign “My Customer, My Boss” as more than a slogan, saying it should become a mindset across the organization. She stressed that customer service is the responsibility of every employee, regardless of department.

“Whether you work in technology, finance, HR, sales, IT, marketing, legal or any other function, you contribute to the customer experience,” she said.

She identified faster responses, simpler processes, careful listening, problem-solving and taking ownership of customer concerns until they are resolved as practical ways of going the extra mile.

“Being here for good means being there for our customers, listening to them, keeping our promises and constantly challenging ourselves to do better,” she said.

Director of Customer Experience, David Mansaray, said customer experience is often created through small gestures that make customers feel valued, heard and understood.

“Most of that work happens silently, without much recognition. Today, it gives us an opportunity to celebrate those individuals, to tell them that we see you, we appreciate you and we thank you,” he said.

He emphasized that customer service remains fundamentally about people serving people, despite the increasing role of technology and automated systems. He called for a culture of care in which employees listen to customers and continuously seek better ways of serving them.

He said the week should therefore be used not only to celebrate achievements but also to identify areas requiring improvement. Employees, he noted, should carry the lessons from the campaign into their daily responsibilities and remain committed to resolving customer concerns with urgency and professionalism. The celebrations are also expected to strengthen relationships among employees and stakeholders, creating opportunities for dialogue and shared learning. By bringing together teams, customers, regulators and partners, Orange Sierra Leone is seeking to reinforce a customer-focused culture in which service quality, responsiveness and trust remain central to the company’s relationship with the public.

Director General of the Financial Intelligence Agency, David Borbor, used the occasion to highlight safe mobile money usage and stronger financial crime prevention.

David Borbor said mobile money has transformed Sierra Leone’s financial system by making it easier to send and receive money, pay bills and access financial services. However, he warned that the same systems can be exploited by fraudsters and criminals.

He explained that mobile money operators are reporting entities under the country’s anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing framework and are expected to report suspicious activities to the FIA.

David Borbor also warned about scams involving WhatsApp and mobile money, where criminals may compromise accounts, send emergency requests to contacts and move funds rapidly through several wallets.

He emphasized the importance of Know Your Customer (KYC) requirements, saying reliable customer information can make it harder for criminals to conceal their identities and assist authorities in tracing suspicious activity.

He urged customers to protect their PINs, avoid sharing confidential information, independently verify requests for money and report suspected fraud quickly, noting that early reporting can improve opportunities to trace funds and prevent further movement.

“The message is not that you should not use mobile money. The message is: use it, trust it, but use it safely,” Borbor said.

Director of Cybersecurity Resilience at the National Cybersecurity Coordination Centre, Richmond Redwood-Sawyerr, said the Customer Service Week theme also applies to cybersecurity, where going the extra mile requires organizations to prepare beyond routine expectations.

He said telecommunications companies such as Orange are critical to Sierra Leone’s digital economy because businesses and citizens depend on networks for communications, data and digital services.

“When your networks are secure, our digital economy is secure. When they are attacked, everything, from businesses to public services,is affected,” he said.

Redwood-Sawyerr called for stronger information-sharing between telecommunications operators and the NC3, including indicators of compromise, attack patterns and emerging threats.

He urged operators to maintain designated cybersecurity contacts, documented escalation procedures and tested incident-response plans, emphasizing that the first hours after a cyber incident can significantly influence its outcome.

“Our goal is a response that is fast, joined-up and not improvised,” he said.

He encouraged joint simulation exercises and stronger collaboration, stressing that compliance should be treated as a minimum while genuine resilience should remain the standard.

“Going the extra mile means acting before we are asked, sharing before we are compelled, and preparing before we are tested,” he said.

Director of Regulatory Administration at the National Communications Authority, Smart Ibrahim Kokofele, assured Orange and other telecommunications stakeholders that the regulator was prepared to go beyond its conventional responsibilities in supporting the industry and protecting consumers.

Smart Ibrahim Kokofele said NaTCA had planned nationwide engagements aimed at providing additional guidance to consumers and invited Orange to participate.

He identified quality of service, network coverage and affordability as three major factors influencing customer choice and the competitiveness of telecommunications operators.

He acknowledged that disagreements between regulators and operators can occur, but called for constructive engagement and solutions that protect consumers while allowing telecommunications businesses to operate sustainably. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/65236

The Ministry of Communication, Technology and Innovation (MoCTI) has received a significant boost following a ruling by the Independent Procurement Review Panel (IPRP) dismissing a complaint filed by Tiwai Memory Masters Ltd (TMM) over the technical evaluation of bids under the Sierra Leone Digital Transformation Project.

The decision, delivered on Tuesday, 6 October 2026, upheld the 88.86 percent technical score awarded to TMM during the procurement process for the supply, installation, implementation and support of Government Wide Area Networks (GWAN) and Government Local Area Networks (GLANs) across Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).

The procurement forms part of a World Bank-funded initiative intended to strengthen Sierra Leone’s digital infrastructure, improve Government connectivity and support the modernization of public service delivery.

TMM had challenged the technical evaluation after conducting its own assessment and concluding that its proposal deserved approximately 96 percent rather than the 88.86 percent awarded by the Evaluation Committee. The company maintained that the procuring entity had not sufficiently justified the deductions made during the assessment and subsequently referred the matter to the IPRP for an independent determination.

However, following a detailed examination of documentary evidence, technical submissions and oral arguments presented by both parties, the Panel concluded that the evaluation was conducted in accordance with the established criteria contained in the Request for Proposals (RFP).

“The mark allocated to the Complainant was fair and correct, taking into account all the arithmetic calculations and the evaluation process carried out,” the Panel stated in its ruling.

According to the decision, the deductions were supported by identifiable weaknesses and inconsistencies in TMM’s technical submission rather than any arbitrary decision by the Evaluation Committee.

During the proceedings, the Respondent presented several technical deficiencies that influenced the company's final score. These included inconsistencies in vendor terminology and proposed equipment models, inadequate security and high-availability arrangements, insufficient differentiation between network requirements for small, medium and large institutions, and limited device-level architectural information.

The evaluation also identified shortcomings in the proposed regional metro-network design, particularly concerning geographical coverage, network resilience and the availability of backup arrangements necessary to maintain reliable connectivity.

One of the major concerns highlighted during the review involved the proposed fibre-optic network coverage. According to the Respondent, TMM proposed approximately 61.4 kilometres of fibre infrastructure against the 208 kilometres specified in the procurement requirements.

The Panel was further informed that Port Loko was omitted from the company's proposed regional metro-network design, while provisions for network redundancy and failover mechanisms were considered inadequate.

Additional concerns involved conflicting technical specifications, missing information and sections of the submission reportedly containing material associated with other vendors or projects.

Despite these deficiencies, the Evaluation Committee did not disqualify TMM from the procurement exercise. Instead, it awarded marks for areas where the company demonstrated technical competence while applying deductions to components that failed to fully satisfy the prescribed requirements.

The IPRP determined that this approach was consistent with the evaluation framework and found no sufficient basis to overturn the technical score.

Beyond the scoring dispute, the Panel raised a separate and serious concern regarding information contained in the curriculum vitae of Rashid Abu, who was presented as one of TMM's personnel.

According to the ruling, the company indicated that Rashid Abu had been employed by TMM for the preceding ten years. However, the Panel established that he was working for the Central Bank of Sierra Leone, raising questions about the accuracy of the employment information submitted.

“We found that Rashid Abu working for the Central Bank of Sierra Leone cannot at the same time be in a full-time employment with the Complainant,” the Panel stated.

The Panel described the representation as “tantamount to fraud” and directed that such conduct should cease immediately.

The finding represents a serious criticism of the information presented in TMM's bid, although the Panel's observation should be distinguished from a criminal conviction or a separate judicial determination of fraud.

The proceedings also attracted criticism from the Panel concerning the conduct of TMM representative Mohamed Alpheus Turay.

The IPRP expressed dissatisfaction with remarks it considered derogatory towards the Respondent and members of the Panel. It consequently cautioned Mohamed Turay against repeating such conduct and emphasized that its determination was guided strictly by the evidence, oral submissions and applicable procurement laws.

After considering the competing arguments, the Panel dismissed TMM's complaint and confirmed that the technical score of 88.86 out of 100 was properly awarded.

The ruling represents a significant outcome for MoCTI and the Sierra Leone Digital Transformation Project, particularly because the central allegation concerning the fairness of the technical evaluation was not upheld by the independent review body.

Importantly, the Panel ordered the immediate lifting of any suspension imposed on the procurement process as a consequence of the complaint.

It further directed the procuring entity to proceed with the opening of financial proposals and subsequent procurement procedures in accordance with the Request for Proposals and relevant regulations.

Notwithstanding the dismissal of its complaint, TMM remains eligible to participate in the next stage of the procurement process, meaning the ruling does not automatically exclude the company from further consideration.

The decision also does not constitute a final contract award, as the remaining procurement procedures must still be completed in compliance with the applicable requirements.

The Panel underscored the national importance of the World Bank-funded digital transformation initiative and expressed concern that procurement disputes should not unnecessarily obstruct a project intended to improve Sierra Leone's technological capacity and public sector connectivity.

The planned Government Wide Area and Local Area Networks are expected to support more efficient communication between public institutions, strengthen digital service delivery and provide essential infrastructure for the Government's broader technological modernization agenda.

With the complaint dismissed and the suspension lifted, the procurement process can now advance towards its next phase.

The IPRP's ruling has therefore strengthened MoCTI's position in the disputed technical evaluation while reaffirming the importance of transparency, compliance and evidence-based assessment in public procurement.

For the Sierra Leone Digital Transformation Project, the decision removes a major procedural obstacle and provides an opportunity for the implementation process to move forward, subject to the remaining procurement requirements. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/65237

A constitutional matter before Sierra Leone’s Supreme Court took a dramatic turn on Thursday, October 8, 2026, when the Chief Justice and President of the Supreme Court, Honourable Justice Komba Kamanda, ordered prominent lawyer and former Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara, popularly known as JFK, to be taken to Pademba Road Prison following a contempt of court ruling.

Lead Counsel for the All People’s Congress (APC), Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara (JFK), has been charged with contempt of court after he refused to comply with an order to withdraw a statement made during Wednesday’s proceedings.

Chief Justice Komba Kamanda ordered JFK to remove his wig and enter the dock after he declined to retract a statement.

The Court subsequently charged him with contempt.

Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara, who is representing the main opposition All People’s Congress (APC) in the ongoing constitutional proceedings, was ordered to remain in prison until Tuesday, October 13, 2026, despite tendering an apology to the Chief Justice and the Supreme Court over comments made during the previous day’s hearing.

The development followed a disagreement between the Chief Justice and the APC lawyer during proceedings on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, concerning documents submitted by the Attorney-General’s Office in the constitutional matter.

During the hearing, Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara reportedly challenged the procedural handling of the case, arguing that certain essential documents, including a Statement of Case, had not been properly filed by the Attorney-General’s Office.

The exchange subsequently developed into a confrontation over courtroom conduct, with the Chief Justice expressing serious concern about remarks attributed to the lawyer.

When proceedings resumed on Thursday, Chief Justice Komba Kamanda raised the issue and described some of the comments made during Wednesday’s sitting as “very, very degrading” towards the President of the Supreme Court.

The Chief Justice reportedly explained that he had deliberately avoided interrupting the previous day’s proceedings but considered it necessary to address the matter after becoming aware of a subsequent media interview in which Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara allegedly defended his conduct as acceptable within Sierra Leone’s adversarial legal system.

Justice Kamanda reminded counsel of the importance of maintaining respect for the judiciary, stressing that the Supreme Court is an independent institution established to uphold the Constitution and administer justice rather than serve as a platform for political confrontation.

He subsequently directed Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara to publicly apologize for his conduct or face contempt proceedings, including the possibility of restrictions on his appearance before the Supreme Court.

In response, the former Attorney-General tendered an apology to the Chief Justice and the Supreme Court, explaining that his actions had been motivated by his professional responsibility to defend his client and uphold the Constitution.

Despite the apology, the Chief Justice adjourned proceedings for approximately 15 minutes to allow the Court to consider the matter and determine its response.

Upon resumption, Justice Komba Kamanda delivered a ruling on the contempt issue and ordered Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara to remove his lawyer’s wig and enter the dock before later directing that he be escorted to Pademba Road Prison, where he was to remain until Tuesday.

The decision came despite the apology offered by the APC lawyer, making the proceedings a significant development in the ongoing constitutional matter.

As he was being escorted away, Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara reportedly turned towards fellow legal practitioners and declared, “Members of the Bar, I will be back.”

His remarks marked a dramatic conclusion to proceedings that had initially centred on constitutional arguments and procedural questions concerning documents filed before the Supreme Court.

The incident has also brought renewed attention to the relationship between the authority of the judiciary and the responsibility of legal practitioners to represent their clients vigorously while observing established standards of courtroom conduct.

Under Sierra Leone’s legal system, courts possess powers to address conduct considered contemptuous, particularly where such conduct is deemed to undermine judicial authority or interfere with the administration of justice. At the same time, lawyers are expected to advance their clients’ cases independently and within the boundaries of professional ethics and courtroom procedure.

The ruling represents a significant development for the APC’s legal representation in the constitutional proceedings, although its immediate implications for the continuation of the case remain unclear.

Further developments are expected when the matter returns before the Supreme Court, including clarification of Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara’s legal position and the next steps in the constitutional proceedings. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/65233

 

The Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA) has concluded a pre-bid meeting and site visit for the proposed reconstruction of the 97-kilometre Magburaka-Bumbuna-Sambaia Bendugu Road, a strategic infrastructure project expected to improve connectivity, stimulate economic growth and enhance access to essential services across Tonkolili District.

The engagement, held along the Azzolini Highway in Magburaka, brought together representatives of the Tonkolili District Council, Leone Rock Metal Group, Kingho Mining Company, prospective contractors, the National Public Procurement Authority (NPPA), civil society organisations and other key stakeholders.

The exercise formed part of the procurement process and provided prospective bidders with firsthand knowledge of the project corridor, enabling them to assess existing site conditions before preparing and submitting their bids.

Addressing participants, SLRA Director General, Ing. Alfred Jalil Momodu, said the site visit was intended to give prospective contractors an opportunity to examine the road alignment, terrain, pavement conditions, drainage systems, watercourses and other factors likely to influence construction methods, project costs and implementation risks.

He underscored the critical role of road infrastructure in national development, noting that despite the growing demand for improved road networks, financial resources for road construction and maintenance remain constrained globally.

“Meaningful national development cannot be achieved without adequate road infrastructure,” Ing. Alfred Jalil Momodu stated.

He explained that improved roads facilitate economic growth, expand access to markets, strengthen healthcare and educational services and promote greater social integration.

The Director General highlighted the Government of Sierra Leone’s efforts to address infrastructure financing challenges through innovative funding mechanisms, including public-private partnerships. He cited the collaboration involving the Government of Sierra Leone, Kingho Mining Company (SL) Limited and other mining companies, implemented in line with directives from the Ministry of Finance.

According to him, the financing arrangement for the Magburaka-Bumbuna-Sambaia Bendugu Road Project will ensure the efficient use of available resources while delivering long-term benefits to communities along the corridor.

Ing. Alfred Jalil Momodu assured stakeholders that SLRA would enforce all engineering, environmental and quality standards throughout the implementation of the project.

He further emphasised that the pre-bid site visit forms a critical part of a transparent and competitive procurement process, allowing contractors to assess prevailing site conditions, identify potential technical challenges and submit realistic and responsive bids.

“The Authority remains committed to transparency, accountability and fairness. The most responsive and compliant bidder will be awarded the contract,” he said.

The SLRA Director General also disclosed that several critical sections of the road have already been identified as priority intervention areas and assured stakeholders that the Authority would closely monitor progress to prevent unnecessary delays.

Representing the Ministry of Finance, Senior Economist and Public Finance Expert, Joseph Fatoma, described the project as a model for sustainable infrastructure financing in Sierra Leone.

He noted that significant progress has already been made in preparing the documentation required for implementation, adding that the public-private financing arrangement has generated considerable national interest, with several institutions exploring similar partnership models for future development projects.

According to Joseph Fatoma, the Government is determined to ensure the timely delivery of the project, whose successful implementation could serve as a benchmark for future infrastructure investments across Sierra Leone.

Chairperson of the Tonkolili District Council, Madam Yabom Sesay, described the paving of the road as a long-awaited dream for the district and pledged the Council’s full support throughout its implementation.

She noted that local authorities had spent more than 14 years engaging various mining companies to support the construction of the road but had achieved limited success. She therefore commended the Government and its partners for taking steps to transform the long-standing vision into reality.

Madam Yabom Sesay highlighted the road’s importance to education, healthcare, commerce and social development, particularly its potential to improve access for students and communities currently affected by poor road conditions.

“This is a project that will define our district’s development journey, and we will ensure it is delivered to the highest standards,” she stated.

Speaking on behalf of Leone Rock Metal Group, Community Affairs Manager, Alusine Abulia Sesay, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting national development through strategic infrastructure investments. He also introduced two Kingho subcontractors, China Railway First Group and China Railway No. 10 Group, who participated in the exercise.

He said Leone Rock Metal Group’s involvement demonstrates its commitment to improving infrastructure and livelihoods within its operational communities, adding that Tonkolili District has benefited significantly from the company’s corporate social responsibility initiatives.

Alusine Abulia Sesay further noted that Leone Rock Metal Group and Kingho Mining Company are setting a positive example for private-sector participation in national development and expressed confidence that the road project could be completed within the stipulated 24-month timeframe.

Project Coordinator, Dr. Ing. Phodie Musa Kamara, who is also Deputy Director of Trunk Roads, assured stakeholders that the road would be constructed to ensure durability, safety and environmental sustainability.

He stated that upon completion, the project would significantly reduce travel time, lower vehicle operating costs and improve access to markets, public services, educational institutions and economic opportunities for communities across Tonkolili District.

Dr. Ing. Phodie Musa Kamara added that the successful delivery of the project would depend on sound engineering practices, adequate contractor mobilisation, effective project management, stakeholder coordination and an unwavering commitment to quality, safety and timely completion.

Representatives of the National Public Procurement Authority reminded prospective bidders that all submissions must meet established procurement requirements, including technical competence, financial capacity, climate resilience considerations and adequate capital resources.

The NPPA stressed that strict compliance with procurement regulations would play a decisive role in the evaluation and selection process.

Civil society representative, Charles Mambu, welcomed the project, describing it as a historic intervention aimed at addressing one of Tonkolili District’s most pressing infrastructure challenges.

While commending the Government for initiating the project, Charles Mambu also called for future attention to the Mile 91 road corridor. He praised the financing model being adopted for the project, noting that inadequate funding is often responsible for delays in the implementation of major infrastructure projects.

He announced that civil society organisations would actively monitor implementation to promote transparency, quality delivery and value for money.

The 97-kilometre Magburaka-Bumbuna-Sambaia Bendugu Road Project is expected to serve as a major catalyst for economic growth and regional integration, while strengthening transportation links between mining, agricultural and commercial communities within Tonkolili District and beyond. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/65213

The National Revenue Authority (NRA) has commenced engagements with sector heads and key stakeholders at the Jendema Border Crossing Point as preparations continue for the go-live of the ASYCUDA World system in customs operations.

The engagement is aimed at strengthening cooperation among security agencies and other stakeholders, supporting the transformation of customs operations, facilitating legitimate trade and enhancing revenue mobilisation for national development.

Speaking during the engagement on October 5, 2026, at the Jendema Border Crossing Point in Sorogbema Chiefdom, Pujehun District, the NRA Customs Manager at Jendema, Munjiru I. I. Kallon, said cooperation among security agencies and community leaders had remained strong since the NRA commenced operations at the border.

Munjiru I. I. Kallon explained that with the introduction of ASYCUDA World, three customs regimes—Import, Export and Transit—will be processed automatically, marking a significant shift from manual procedures towards a more efficient and technology-driven customs operation.

He said the engagement was an important step in informing security agencies and other stakeholders about the rollout of ASYCUDA World and securing their cooperation to ensure the smooth implementation of the system at the border.

Munjiru I. I. Kallon also highlighted several developments at the Jendema Border Crossing Point, including the recruitment of six local staff members in support of the host community, the expected deployment of other commercial banks to strengthen accountability and the deployment of the border post’s first female staff member, Mrs. Kumba S. Kallon.

He expressed appreciation to the Senior Management of the National Revenue Authority for providing a new vehicle and office facility to support operations at the border.

Munjiru I. I. Kallon reaffirmed the National Revenue Authority’s commitment to its core mandate and to building a legacy of modernisation and improved service delivery.

Giving a technical presentation on the system, Philip Dumbuya, Supervisor at the ASYCUDA Unit within the Customs Services Department, said ASYCUDA World supports infrastructure development by strengthening customs revenue collection, which remains a major source of government funding.

He added that trade data generated by ASYCUDA provides the Government with important information to analyse the types of goods entering the country and support informed economic planning and decision-making.

Philip Dumbuya disclosed that ASYCUDA is used in more than 90 countries. He explained that in Sierra Leone, ASYCUDA++ was introduced at the Queen Elizabeth II Quay in 2009 and went live in 2010 before being upgraded to the web-based ASYCUDA World system in 2017.

He said ASYCUDA World supports faster customs clearance, maintains an audit trail for between 10 and 15 years and incorporates robust security features to safeguard customs transactions and information.

Philip Dumbuya further noted that the Directorate of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) engaged professional hackers to conduct a security assessment of the system as part of efforts to test its security and resilience.

According to him, the system connects relevant agencies through dedicated modules and automatically routes information according to the functions and responsibilities of each agency. Its implementation requires software installation, role-based training and basic equipment such as printers and scanners for document processing.

He further explained that the ASYCUDA World dashboard displays the various stages of import and export processes, allowing users to monitor transactions and track the progress of customs procedures.

Philip Dumbuya said the system is designed to be efficient and accessible from different locations, while its data is supported by backup energy sources at server facilities. It also provides real-time information, supports revenue collection and records user activities, thereby enhancing transparency and accountability within customs operations.

Under ASYCUDA World, declarations are entered through a self-assessment process, which improves data accuracy compared with manual processing. The system also uses risk-based selection to identify consignments that require examination.

The planned go-live of ASYCUDA World at the Jendema Border Crossing Point is expected to further modernise customs operations, improve efficiency, facilitate legitimate trade and strengthen revenue mobilisation at one of Sierra Leone’s border crossing points. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/65210