By Foday Moriba Conteh

Leone Rock Metal Group (LRMG) has once again solidified its role as a key stakeholder in the development of Sierra Leone football by signing a sponsorship agreement with the Sierra Leone Premier League Board (SLPLB). On Friday, November 22, 2024, a ceremony at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Freetown marked the announcement of a $150,000 sponsorship package for the 2024/2025 Leone Rock Premier League season. This commitment underscores LRMG's dedication to elevating football in Sierra Leone while promoting unity and fostering local talent.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Mohamed S. Daffae, LRMG’s Human Resource Director, highlighted the company's vision for Sierra Leone football. He emphasized that the sponsorship goes beyond financial support, representing a profound commitment to nurturing young talents, strengthening the league and positioning it as a beacon of excellence across Africa.

“This moment is not just about a signing,” Mohamed S. Daffae remarked. “It is a testament to our shared vision and passion for football in Sierra Leone. Leone Rock is committed to building on the extraordinary talent, electrifying matches and the passionate fan base we witnessed last season.”

Mohamed S. Daffae extended gratitude to the Ministry of Sports, the National Sports Authority (NSA) and the Government for their ongoing efforts to foster a conducive environment for private-public partnerships. He praised the pivotal role of these stakeholders in advancing the growth of football, emphasizing their significance in the league’s continued success.

“To the players, you are the stars that make this league shine. To the coaches, staff and organizers, your dedication keeps this dream alive. And to the fans, your unwavering support is the heartbeat of this league,” he concluded.

Emmanuel Saffa Abdulai, Executive Director of the NSA, described the sponsorship deal as a historic milestone for Sierra Leone’s football. "This is the most significant private sector investment in Sierra Leone’s football history,” he asserted, highlighting the Government’s previous efforts to fund the league while calling for increased private sector participation.

“Football is a multi-billion-dollar industry globally and to reap similar rewards, we must invest heavily,” Emmanuel Saffa Abdulai stated. He further commended Leone Rock for stepping up to fill a critical gap, urging other private sector players to follow suit.

Emmanuel Saffa Abdulai also called for reforms in the management of the Premier League to ensure sustainability and professionalism. He stressed the importance of restructuring the league to emulate successful models like the English Premier League, which operates as a self-sufficient corporate entity.

“The Premier League must be restructured to generate revenue and thrive independently,” he stated. Emmanuel Saffa Abdulai also announced plans to establish a Sports Development Fund aimed at attracting additional private sector investment into sports.

Thomas Daddy Brima, President of the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA), expressed optimism about the future of football under this new partnership. He highlighted the unprecedented nature of Leone Rock’s sponsorship, describing it as a giant leap for Sierra Leone football.

“Leone Rock is setting a pace that others should emulate,” Thomas Daddy Brima maintained. “Their commitment is an example of how corporate entities can support the development of sports.”

Thomas Daddy Brima  also reflected on Sierra Leone’s failure to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), emphasizing the need for unity and collaboration among stakeholders to improve the country’s football landscape. He urged the SLFA and other stakeholders to ensure professionalism and deliver value to Leone Rock, noting the potential for future sponsorship growth.

“If we give Leone Rock the visibility they need, this $150,000 sponsorship could grow to $500,000 in just two years,” he projected.

Salim Sillah, Chief Technical Officer of Leone Rock Metal Group, emphasized the importance of accountability and transparency in the league's operations. He urged the Premier League Board to prioritize detailed closure reports, explaining that these reports are essential for evaluating the impact of investments and guiding future sponsorship decisions.

“This Premier League sponsorship is an opportunity for Leone Rock to contribute to the nation’s development through football,” Salim Sillah stated. “Football transcends politics, race, gender and religion, uniting people in shared moments of joy.”

Salim Sillah also called for improved financial management and operational transparency to attract even greater investments in the future. He concluded by reaffirming Leone Rock’s commitment to supporting the league, with hopes of transforming it into a regional powerhouse.

The keynote address by Minister of Sports, Augusta James Teima underscored the Government’s commitment to sports as a vital driver of national development. She expressed gratitude to Leone Rock Metal Group for their continued investment and highlighted football's potential to inspire unity, foster youth engagement and create job opportunities.

“Sport is life. It is not just recreation but a pillar of national development,” Minister Augusta James Teima declared. She reassured stakeholders that the Government is deeply investing in creating opportunities through sports, with a focus on job creation and human capital development.

Augusta James Teima also acknowledged the challenges facing Sierra Leone football, including the recent AFCON qualification disappointment. However, she called for optimism and renewed efforts to achieve greater milestones such as qualifying for the FIFA World Cup.

“We must rise above setbacks. Together, we can achieve remarkable feats,” she urged, emphasizing the need for constructive criticism and collaboration among all stakeholders.

The ceremony highlighted the transformative potential of the Leone Rock sponsorship, not only for football but for Sierra Leone as a whole. It underscored the importance of partnerships between the private sector, Government and football stakeholders in advancing the sport.

Leone Rock Metal Group’s $150,000 sponsorship for the 2024/2025 Premier League season is more than just financial backing; it is a commitment to fostering unity, professionalism and excellence in Sierra Leone football. As the new season approaches, stakeholders are optimistic that this partnership will inspire growth, generate opportunities and position the Premier League as a source of national pride and international recognition. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/leone-rock-unveils-150000-sponsorship-for-2024-2025-premier-league-season/

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo 

The Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs, in collaboration with its partners, held a Press Conference on Friday, November 22, 2024, at its office on Big Waterloo Street, Freetown, to unveil plans for their upcoming 16 Days of Activism campaign, which will run from November 25 to December 10, 2024. The campaign, aligning with international observances such as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women on November 25 and International Human Rights Day on December 10, aims to raise awareness about the ongoing issue of gender-based violence and its devastating impact on women and girls.

This year’s campaign is centered on a country-specific theme: "Unite to End Violence Against Women and Girls" The initiative, which will engage various sectors of society, emphasizes the importance of gender equality and the struggle to end violence against women since the landmark 1995 Beijing Declaration.

The 16 Days of Activism will feature a series of activities aimed at educating the public, empowering women and girls and fostering community engagement. Among the key events announced at the Press Conference is the launch of the Real Man campaign, which seeks to involve men and boys in the fight against gender-based violence. The campaign will promote positive masculinity and social responsibility through speeches, performances and discussions. Government officials, development partners, UN agencies and various stakeholders will be part of the event.

Other planned activities include media campaigns to spread awareness about the Beijing Declaration and the different forms of violence against women, as well as community outreach programs to empower local populations with knowledge about their rights, available resources and reporting mechanisms. Sensitization programs will be conducted in schools and universities, focusing on promoting respect, consent and healthy relationships among young people. A float parade, featuring participants dressed in themed attire and carrying banners will be held to showcase messages of solidarity against gender-based violence.

During the Press Conference, Dr. Isata Mahoi the Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs addressed the ongoing challenge of sexual and gender-based violence in Sierra Leone. She underscored the persistence of violence, including sexual violence and domestic abuse, which often leads to fatalities. Citing specific cases, the Minister highlighted the severity of the issue and called for urgent action.

She emphasized the need for a collective response to address this crisis, involving partners, parents and communities. She acknowledged that while women and girls are disproportionately affected by gender-based violence, young boys and men also suffer from domestic and sexual violence. The Ministry, she explained, is working with the Judiciary and Police to ensure justice for survivors and is committed to strengthening legal frameworks and support systems.

The Minister also spoke about ongoing legislative efforts, including the review of the Child Rights Act and amendments to the 2019 Sexual Offenses Act, aimed at closing legal gaps. In addition, she stressed the importance of enforcing laws to prohibit child marriage and protect children from abuse.

Dr. Isata Mahoi also discussed the Ministry’s efforts to develop and implement strategies that align with the third generation of the National Action Plan for the Implementation of the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security. She called for greater collaboration among national and international partners, particularly in the context of the forthcoming 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration.

The Minister also noted the urgent need for the passage of the Child Rights Bill, which seeks to protect children from abuse, including cyberbullying and trafficking. The bill, which is expected to be passed by December 2024, will help safeguard children under the age of 18. She urged all stakeholders to work together to ensure the bill's passage and to create a safe environment for children in Sierra Leone.

Usu Mallya, Senior Advisor Policy and Strategic Planning Officer at UN Women, also spoke at the Press Conference, emphasizing the global significance of the 16 Days of Activism. With the theme: "Unite to End Violence Against Women and Girls," she reflected on the impact of the Beijing Declaration and the continued prevalence of gender-based violence worldwide. She highlighted alarming statistics, such as one in three women experiencing physical or sexual violence and noted that Sub-Saharan Africa, including Sierra Leone, has some of the highest rates of gender-based violence.

The UN Women Senior Advisor Policy and Strategic Planning Officer  urged Governments, organizations and communities to revisit their commitments to addressing gender-based violence and to strengthen efforts to tackle systemic inequalities and harmful social norms. She stressed the importance of equitable laws, collaboration with international partners and the active involvement of communities in promoting gender equality and ensuring the safety and well-being of women and girls.

Through this initiative, the Ministry aims to build a safer and more inclusive environment for women and children, with a focus on strengthening support systems for survivors and eliminating the root causes of violence. The campaign is expected to significantly contribute to the ongoing fight to end gender-based violence in Sierra Leone.

  https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/dr-isata-mahoi-reveals-plans-for-16-days-of-activism-against-gender-based-violence/

By Alvin Kef (Ranger)

Residents of Congo and Pawpaw Village in Hastings convened a Press Conference on Saturday, November 16, 2024, at the Hastings Community Field to voice their grievances over ongoing intimidation allegedly orchestrated by the Ministry of Lands, certain military officers and their two Members of Parliament, Hon. Beatrice Iyamide Langley and Hon. John Sartty Kargbo.

The villagers, led by community elder Mr. Turay, expressed deep frustration over a decade-long battle to retain ownership of their ancestral lands. While they acknowledged the strides made under the leadership of His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, they decried what they see as unjust actions by the Ministry of Lands.

According to Mr. Turay, the dispute has persisted for over 20 years, during which the communities have sought justice through multiple legal channels. He recounted how the matter initially reached Magistrate Hanna Bonnie, who ruled in favor of the Congo and Pawpaw communities after seven months of court proceedings. However, the dispute escalated when military personnel and other parties appealed the ruling at the High Court under Justice George Benneh. After over a year of deliberation, the High Court again ruled in favor of the communities.

Despite these legal victories, Mr. Turay lamented that some military personnel have disregarded the court rulings. He alleged that the military has continued its encroachments, even resorting to intimidation and violence. One incident involved an elderly woman, Madam Davis, who was reportedly assaulted by military officers, prompting the matter to be raised in Parliament.

Mr. Turay detailed how the issue was brought before the fifth Parliament, where the Committees on Lands and Defense, chaired by Sahr E. Juana and Quintin Salia-Konneh respectively, conducted thorough investigations. Community members provided documents and evidence, including proof of their village's existence since 1819, historical buildings, plantations and graves over a century old.

After verifying the evidence, Parliament recommended that the military seek an amicable resolution with the villagers. Despite Parliament granting the military a two-week window to negotiate, Mr. Turay said no such discussions took place. The fifth Parliament ultimately issued findings and recommendations, which were to be reviewed in a meeting chaired by the Speaker of Parliament.

Under the current sixth Parliament, chaired by Hon. Rogers for the Defense Committee and Hon. Quintin Salia-Konneh for the Lands Committee, an implementation letter was issued, affirming the findings of the fifth Parliament. Mr. Turay stated that the community remains patient and law-abiding, awaiting the final resolution of the matter.

“We are not taking the law into our own hands,” Mr. Turay emphasized. “We trust in the process and hope that the authorities will uphold justice and respect our ancestral rights.”

The community’s decision to hold the Press Conference was fueled by a desire to draw President Bio’s attention to their plight. “We called the media to make our voices heard and to ensure His Excellency is aware of what we are enduring,” said Mr. Turay.

As the Congo and Pawpaw communities await action from the authorities, they remain hopeful that justice will ultimately prevail, safeguarding their heritage and ancestral lands. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/congo-and-pawpaw-communities-call-on-president-bio-to-intervene-in-land-grievances/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a remarkable humanitarian effort, 168 stranded Sierra Leonean migrant workers have been safely repatriated from Lebanon. This operation, a collaborative initiative led by the Sierra Leone Consulate in Lebanon and the International Organization for Migration (IOM), concluded successfully on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, as the migrants departed from Rafic Hariri International Airport in Beirut bound for Freetown.

This latest repatriation follows an earlier batch of Sierra Leoneans who returned home on November 5, 2024. Both efforts were driven by the pressing need to evacuate citizens impacted by the ongoing Israeli incursion into Lebanon, which left many foreign workers vulnerable and displaced.

In response to the conflict, the Sierra Leone Consulate, in partnership with IOM and the Sierra Leonean Community Committee in Lebanon, swiftly mobilized resources to assist affected nationals. Temporary shelters were arranged on the outskirts of Beirut to shield the migrants from the escalating violence. Beyond safety, the Consulate ensured that these individuals had access to critical support, including food, healthcare, and secure accommodation.

The well-coordinated evacuation was made possible through the collective efforts of the Lebanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and financial backing from the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The returning migrants expressed profound gratitude for the assistance they received during their time of need. Kadiatu, one of the repatriates, shared her relief and joy, saying, “I felt out of hope in the shelter, and now I can’t express how happy I am. Truly, there is no place like home.”

The migrants also paid tribute to the late Sierra Leonean Consul in Lebanon, Pa Hashim Hussein Hashim, who passed away in September 2024. Remembered as a compassionate leader and father figure, his efforts to protect and support Sierra Leoneans during his tenure were lauded by the returnees.

Upon their arrival in Freetown, the returnees were welcomed by an IOM team, marking the end of a harrowing ordeal. This operation is part of IOM’s ongoing mission to assist migrants displaced by the conflict in Lebanon.

In addition to the Sierra Leoneans, IOM recently facilitated the return of migrants to other countries, including 40 to Kenya, six to Bangladesh, and two to Togo. IOM estimates that over 24,750 migrants have been displaced by the conflict in Lebanon, with many requiring urgent humanitarian assistance such as shelter, food, and medical care.

Mathieu Luciano, Head of IOM Lebanon, commended the collaboration, stating, “IOM is proud to support these migrants in their most difficult moments to return home safely and with dignity. We continue to work with partners to arrange more return flights for vulnerable migrants in Lebanon.”

The crisis in Lebanon has highlighted longstanding vulnerabilities faced by migrant workers, particularly domestic workers. Many of them, predominantly women, have endured exploitation and lack of legal protections. The ongoing hostilities exacerbated these issues, with some migrants abandoned by employers or confined to unsafe conditions.

The Sierra Leone Consulate in Lebanon, alongside IOM, remains unwavering in its dedication to the well-being of Sierra Leoneans abroad. This repatriation effort stands as a testament to the Consulate’s proactive approach to safeguarding its citizens and underscores the importance of international cooperation in addressing humanitarian crises.

While the return of these 168 individuals is a significant milestone, it also serves as a reminder of the challenges that displaced migrants continue to face. The Consulate and its partners are committed to providing ongoing support and advocating for the protection of vulnerable Sierra Leoneans in conflict zones.

  https://bit.ly/4fDIoom

By Mrs Zainab Musa Tarawally

In the annals of Sierra Leone’s political history, the name Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally stands out as a towering figure whose contributions to the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) and the restoration of democracy are both profound and enduring. From his early days as a young activist to his strategic leadership in national politics, Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally's story is one of unwavering commitment, resilience and sacrifice.

Hailing from a family that played a pivotal role in founding the SLPP, Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally demonstrated an early affinity for politics. Alongside notable compatriots like Foday Fofanah, Dixon M. Rogers, Mohamed Swarray and Hon. Foday Rado Yokie, he was part of the youth brigade that championed the re-establishment of multiparty democracy in Sierra Leone in 1991. His efforts, in collaboration with prominent organizations such as Tegloma and the SLPP North America chapter, were instrumental in reviving the party’s influence and laying the groundwork for the SLPP's return to power in 1996.

During the turbulent years of Sierra Leone’s civil unrest, Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally stood steadfast. As a young generation leader, he accompanied the late President Ahmad Tejan Kabbah into exile, became a founding member of the sanction monitoring team and worked tirelessly to restore democracy. Partnering with ECOMOG forces and the Civil Defence Forces (CDF), he played a crucial role in reinstating the SLPP Government.

Elected as a Parliamentarian in 2002, Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally was an influential member of the SLPP’s Strategic Planning Committee, which secured a resounding victory for the party, winning over 70% of the votes. His visionary leadership was evident when he chaired the SLPP working group tasked with assessing the party’s chances in the 2007 presidential election. It was Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally who foresaw the need for a dynamic leader and successfully introduced Rtd. Brigadier Julius Maada Bio to the SLPP as a fitting presidential candidate. Despite facing internal opposition and personal setbacks, including the removal of his parliamentary symbol, he remained committed to the party’s cause.

Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally’s political acumen extended beyond party lines. His friendship with Ernest Bai Koroma (EBK), rooted in their families' shared history, positioned him as a strategic bridge between the SLPP and other political factions. This relationship enabled him to protect SLPP interests during challenging times, notably dismantling threats from the PMDC and restoring SLPP dominance in its southeastern stronghold.

As a grassroots leader, Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally spearheaded numerous development projects in the southeast, including the rehabilitation of Njala University, improved township roads and enhanced water supply systems. His efforts also extended to securing the release of CDF members detained by the International Criminal Court, demonstrating his commitment to justice and reconciliation.

Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally's unwavering dedication to the SLPP was evident during pivotal moments in the party's history. In the lead-up to the 2018 elections, he sacrificed personal ambitions and ministerial opportunities to ensure the party’s return to power. His financial contributions, exceeding $1 million and strategic alliances with smaller political parties were critical in securing victory during the runoff election.

In 2023, Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally once again rose to the occasion, mobilizing over $1.5 million and leading nationwide campaigns to bolster SLPP’s position. Remarkably, he sought no political appointment, focusing solely on the party's success.

Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally’s life is a testament to selfless service, unwavering loyalty and visionary leadership. As a formidable figure in Sierra Leone’s political landscape, his legacy inspires future generations to prioritize national unity and collective progress over personal gain.

As Sierra Leone continues its journey toward sustained democracy and development, the contributions of leaders like Hon. Tarawally serve as a powerful reminder of the impact of dedication and strategic foresight. https://bit.ly/3ZiM88W

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a continued effort to promote tax compliance and strengthen relationships with the business community, the National Revenue Authority (NRA) organized a series of taxpayer engagements aimed at fostering cooperation and enhancing compliance.

On November 19, 2024, the NRA held a meeting with Large Taxpayers, bringing together representatives from businesses with an annual turnover of Five Million New Leones and above. The session, led by Commissioner General Mrs. Jeneba J. Bangura, marked the beginning of a three-day initiative targeting different taxpayer categories, including Medium Taxpayers and Tax Advisors in subsequent days.

Speaking at the event, Mrs. Bangura emphasized the importance of the gathering in recognizing taxpayers’ contributions, addressing their concerns, and promoting a culture of compliance. She highlighted recent reforms within the Authority that have been positively received by development partners and civil society groups.

“This engagement is an opportunity to express our gratitude to taxpayers, hear their concerns, and work together to ensure compliance,” she stated, underscoring the critical role of transparency and accountability in building a healthy tax environment.

Mrs. Bangura reaffirmed the NRA’s commitment to collaboration, noting that partnerships with taxpayers are essential for sustainable economic growth and effective revenue mobilization.

The following day, November 20, 2024, the NRA hosted a stakeholder engagement with Medium Taxpayers—businesses with annual turnovers ranging from One Hundred Thousand to Five Million New Leones. This second session focused on addressing compliance challenges, discussing the implications of the 2023 and 2024 Finance Acts, and fostering open communication between the NRA and Medium Taxpayers.

During her address, Mrs. Bangura acknowledged the significant contributions of Medium Taxpayers to the nation’s economy and outlined the Authority’s ongoing reforms to simplify tax administration and improve taxpayer education. She assured attendees that “there will be no new taxes in 2025, but we will focus on improving compliance.”

The interactive session provided a platform for taxpayers to share their concerns, discuss challenges, and propose improvements to the tax system. Responding to these inputs, Mrs. Bangura reiterated the NRA’s commitment to building a transparent and cooperative relationship with taxpayers.

“This engagement is a significant step towards building a culture of cooperation. A strong partnership with Medium Taxpayers is essential for driving economic growth and improving compliance rates,” she concluded.

These engagements reflect the NRA’s dedication to creating an inclusive and supportive tax environment. By fostering open communication and addressing taxpayer concerns, the Authority aims to strengthen compliance, enhance revenue collection, and contribute to Sierra Leone’s economic development. https://bit.ly/3Ol3snC

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a continued effort to promote tax compliance and strengthen relationships with the business community, the National Revenue Authority (NRA) organized a series of taxpayer engagements aimed at fostering cooperation and enhancing compliance.

On November 19, 2024, the NRA held a meeting with Large Taxpayers, bringing together representatives from businesses with an annual turnover of Five Million New Leones and above. The session, led by Commissioner General Mrs. Jeneba J. Bangura, marked the beginning of a three-day initiative targeting different taxpayer categories, including Medium Taxpayers and Tax Advisors in subsequent days.

Speaking at the event, Mrs. Bangura emphasized the importance of the gathering in recognizing taxpayers’ contributions, addressing their concerns, and promoting a culture of compliance. She highlighted recent reforms within the Authority that have been positively received by development partners and civil society groups.

“This engagement is an opportunity to express our gratitude to taxpayers, hear their concerns, and work together to ensure compliance,” she stated, underscoring the critical role of transparency and accountability in building a healthy tax environment.

Mrs. Bangura reaffirmed the NRA’s commitment to collaboration, noting that partnerships with taxpayers are essential for sustainable economic growth and effective revenue mobilization.

The following day, November 20, 2024, the NRA hosted a stakeholder engagement with Medium Taxpayers—businesses with annual turnovers ranging from One Hundred Thousand to Five Million New Leones. This second session focused on addressing compliance challenges, discussing the implications of the 2023 and 2024 Finance Acts, and fostering open communication between the NRA and Medium Taxpayers.

During her address, Mrs. Bangura acknowledged the significant contributions of Medium Taxpayers to the nation’s economy and outlined the Authority’s ongoing reforms to simplify tax administration and improve taxpayer education. She assured attendees that “there will be no new taxes in 2025, but we will focus on improving compliance.”

The interactive session provided a platform for taxpayers to share their concerns, discuss challenges, and propose improvements to the tax system. Responding to these inputs, Mrs. Bangura reiterated the NRA’s commitment to building a transparent and cooperative relationship with taxpayers.

“This engagement is a significant step towards building a culture of cooperation. A strong partnership with Medium Taxpayers is essential for driving economic growth and improving compliance rates,” she concluded.

These engagements reflect the NRA’s dedication to creating an inclusive and supportive tax environment. By fostering open communication and addressing taxpayer concerns, the Authority aims to strengthen compliance, enhance revenue collection, and contribute to Sierra Leone’s economic development. https://bit.ly/3Ol3snC